The Workshop: A Tale of Edible Delights by Danieller123

Chapter 1 "Sweet Smiles and Hot Coffee"

No my darling, I can't stand to sleep aloneNo sweetheart, in the darkto
call my ownYou're my own, you're my own, I can sing itI can groan But
that darkness is a stranger and I amlonely, lonely, lonely... alone.-Bat for
Lashes


Wednesday 9:05 A.M.
Crotch rot. My fucking restaurant smelled like God damned crotch rot.
"Emmett, care to tell me what hell reeks?" I walked in and slung my bag
over the bar top.
Fuck, I just made my way in I was already wanting to start popping caps
in people's asses.
"Um, this room," his nose scrunched and I heard a slight gag come from
his throat.
"Yeah, I fucking figured that out all by myself, genius. Tell me again why
I pay you two hundred fifty-grand, plus bonuses every year?" I pushed
past his big ass giving him an evil glare and sought out where the foul
odor was coming from.
"The sewage is backed up. I have a call in to a plumber, but the guy is
taking forever," he held out a business card to me with his cell phone.
"Um, I'm sorry Emmett, are you're fucking fingers and ear drums not
working? You want me to call the guy for you?" I paused outside of the
ladies room that was responsible for this stink.
"You're scarier than me," he chuckled.
"You out rank me by over two hundred pounds, I seriously doubt that.
Plus, it's your fucking job, asshole. Now either make the damn call to
Jose or Juan or whatever the fuck the little brown man who is sure to
show up here's name is," I pushed the door open, "or get to shoveling the
shit yourself. Your pick." I let go of the door walked back out to the
front room to see a tall, tanned man walking in.
"We're not open yet, as you can see by the sign on the door," my hand
motioned in irritation as I stepped up on the platform behind the bar to
retrieve my bag.
"Yes, I know that. I actually have an interview here at nine thirty." His
voice was something of one of those 'Late Night-2A.M.-Feeling Lonely?-
Call-1-900' varieties.
I glanced up to the mirror behind the bar to see him in the reflection.
Well Hello.
Butterbean perked up instantly.
Standing on the other side of the bar was the DNA every woman
searched her entire life to find. It wore a well ironed, white button down
shirt and freshly pressed, khaki colored pants. Its hair was bronzed
beautiful from the sun, as was its caramel skin.
I felt a few kernels of Jiffy Pop burst down below If ya' feel me.
"I'm Edward. I know I'm a little early, but I figured punctuality wouldn't
be marked against me," he held out a hand to me that was decorated
with a bright, beautifully inked flower.
"Isabella Swan," I stepped forward and shook his hand, bathing the
kernels now in butter.
"It's nice to meet you Isabella. I'm sorry for arriving so early. I will
happily sit here while you tend to your business; no hurry," he smiled a
heart fluttering smile as he shook my hand in his.
I was weak in the knees, feeling the urge to lean over the counter and go
into hair flipping-fluttery eye-girl mode with a side dish of 'Here's my
vagina kind Sir, take you what you like.' His smile turned smug as he took
in my ogling, and I receded back into my usual bitch mode.
"You're here to interview for the sous chef position, yes?" I pulled back
my hand and spun back around for my bag, retrieving his file.
"Yes, Isabella."
"Excuse me?" I placed my hand on my chest facing him.
"I said yes?" He asked confused.
"You will address me by my last name and my last name only.
Understand, Edward?" Taking a step forward I kept my eyes on him,
making sure to punctuate that I was in control here, not him.
"I'm sorry, Miss Swan, of course," he dipped his head in apology.
"Now, since you are here to cook," I laid his file on the counter and kept
my eyes on it, although I wasn't reading. I was examining his other hand
that was on the bar top, which also bared another inked flower, "I
suggest you get your ass in the kitchen, which I am sure is in disarray,
and cook me a sunny side up egg, two slices of bacon, a side of potatoes
and one seared scallop. I want a hot cup of coffee and you only have
until the start of your interview, which is in fifteen minutes. The boss
does not like burnt bacon or late interviewees," I spun back around with
his file, lifting my bag and proceeding to trot off.
"Sugar and cream, Miss Swan?" He called after me.
I simply nodded, not implying how many or what percent. He did not prod
any further as I backed my way into the hall to my office, giving him one
last look. He was heading off towards the back with a smug smile on his
face.
We shall see.
Sitting in my office I was completely screwed.
All I could do was fantasize about Mr. Perfect DNA cooking my breakfast
down the hall. I took a long pull of air, trying to see if I could get any
sampling of what was to come, but gagged on the wretched stank air
that was still flooding the place.
"Emmett!" I pressed the intercom button on my phone to chirp his and
bellowed through it.
Thirty seconds later he came knocking at the door.
"Where's Javier or fucking Jesus, to fix my damn toilets?" I rustled
through the papers as he sat down in the seat across from me.
"Relax; I have it all taken care of. I found this other guy from Black's
Plumbing. He's already here working on it. Real nice dude too."
"As long as it gets fixed I really don't care if he is the biggest dick on
the planet," I waved my hand and then went back to signing the endless
stack of invoices.
"Everything will be cool B, don't worry. We never have an opening go off
without a hitch."
"Yeah," I rolled my eyes, but knew he was right.
"So did my baby brother come in yet?" He tossed down his clipboard on
my desk.
"Your brother?" I raised my eyes from my paperwork.
"Yeah, I told him to come and interview for the sous chef job," he smiled.
"What's his name?" I asked nervously, already knowing the answer.
"Edward, good looking, just like me," he winked.
"Fuck Emmett," I tossed down my pen and leaned back in my chair.
"What? He's really good. Seriously, that kid's got more talent in his left
nut than I have in my whole body."
I somehow believed that.
"I cannot hire him when you are the manager of the restaurant he would
be working at, especially not as my Sous Chef," I ran my hand through
my hair, biting to my bottom lip in irritation.
"You know I'm all pro B. Plus, you will be here and you know I am
terrified of you," He chuckled, "just give the kid a chance. That's all I'm
asking for," he gave me his best puppy dogs and I groaned.
"Get out," I waved my hand completely frustrated.
I needed this like a fucking hole in the head.
"Thanks B," He rose from his chair, knowing he won the battle with a big
toothy grin on his goofy face.
As he opened the door, I saw Edward holding up his hand preparing to
knock. I glanced at the digital clock on the wall.
Lucky bastard, two minutes early.
"Oh, hey bro. I was just talking to B about you," he pointed his thumb at
me.
"Emmett!" I scolded.
"Sorry, I'm leaving," he chuckled, "ooh, is that bacon?" He picked up a
piece from the plate Edward was holding and I thought Mr. Perfect was
going to commit a violent crime right here before me.
"Damn bro, this is some good shit," he patted his back and strolled out
the door.
"Sit," I huffed, rolling my chair back up to the desk.
"I am sorry about that. It was very rude. I can make another"
"Edward, you have thirty two seconds," I glanced up to the clock.
"Sorry. Here you are Miss Swan," he placed the plate before me and I
cleared my face of any expression.
"Tell me about yourself," I examined over my food as I unrolled my
cutlery. Damn, it looked pretty promising.
"Well, I am twenty two. I have lived here for most of my life"
"Edward," I cut him off and took a sip at my coffee. Damn that was
perfect too.
"I don't need a bed time story. I want to know about you. What makes
you tick, what drives you, what inspires you- What makes you paint your
hands with flower tattoos. You know- the good stuff," I placed a bite of
potato in my mouth.
Ah, seasoned perfectly, he even added the little red peppers I love.
"Alright," he chuckled once, "I started cooking four years ago when I had
my baby girl, Nessie. Her mother was attending cooking school with me,
but wanted to add on pastry to her study course so I opted to stay with
our baby and I pretty much dropped out of school."
"I thought you said you started cooking four years ago?" I cut through
my egg, scraping the knife along the plate in a harsh screech.
Didn't jump, good boy.
"I taught myself, Miss Swan. I spent all of my time at home learning,
perfecting my craft," he smiled proudly and darted his eyes to my plate
once.
"Why not go back to school now? Your wife must have graduated, have a
job even?" I took another sip of my delicious coffee.
"Jessica and I aren't married Miss Swan. We aren't even together
anymore. She cheated on me when she was bartending over at Newton's
down the road. She works over at that new joint now though, Cocoa
Channel's," he laughed once humorlessly, "yeah, but I still have my baby
girl so I can only work or got to school, my daughter enjoys a roof over
her head, so," he shrugged once, smiling a small crooked grin at me.
This man was going to be the death of me.
"Having a four year old requires a lot of time Edward. I do not allow my
employees; especially ones with a high ranking that are a vital part of my
business being a success, to allow their personal lives to over ride their
work. As my Sous Chef you would be required to work a minimum of
twelve hours per shift, and that's on a good day. I don't see how that
would work for you," I shook my head and slid a bite of bacon that was
perfectly crisp in my mouth.
"Miss Swan, I assure you I love my daughter more than anything, but I
take my work very seriously. My family helps me out a great deal and I
fully understand what this job entails. I know I'm young, and I'm sure
the fact that Emmet- my bacon stealing brother is the reason I am
sitting here right now. But I will work harder than any other employee
you have here. Emmet included," he nodded sincerely and patiently
waiting for my reply.
I debated silently in my head for what must have been three long
excruciating moments for Edward. I asked him to make me breakfast
foods because if you cannot cook an egg, you are pretty much useless in
my book. Cooking an egg however, was one of the hardest things to do
well. I would need to borrow endless hand and toes to be able to count
the exact amount of applicants I have tossed out of here because they
failed this test. Edward didn't just get my eggs right though, he also
managed to make me one of best cups of coffee I have ever had. Better
than my own even- and fuck- I knew what I liked.
"How did you know how many cream and sugars to put in my coffee
Edward?" I tipped my cup to him and took a sip.
"Well, I know you're a very busy woman so I figured you needed at least
three spoonfuls of sugar to keep your energy up, and you have a very,
excuse me if I'm out of line here, but you have a very svelte figure, so I
figured you used skim, but then rethought that because obviously a
woman of your stature doesn't skimp on anything. So I opted for the fat
free half and half, knowing it would give the proper consistency, while
omitting the fat from the equation, plus," he took a deep breath and let
it out hard. His hand reached inside of his pocket as he tilted to his side,
"I brought extra of each, just in case," he held out his palm filled with
single serving milks and sugars.
Even a Splenda was tossed in the mix.
I tried to keep my face composed, but failed as a small smile began to
spread. My eyes looked down from his back to my plate and I began
cutting off another piece of egg.
"Come in tomorrow morning. You will be helping Emmett set up all day.
This place only has two days to be ready for our Grand Opening. You will
address him as Mr. Cullen, not Emmett, not bro, not dude. He is your boss
from the time you clock in to the time you walk out that door. I will be
here in the evening and we will start to go over the menu. I suggest you
get that family of yours to watch your child," I placed a bite in my
mouth and went back to my paper signing. Edward remained in his seat.
Good boy.
"You may go now," I waved my hand and took and took the last sip of
coffee.
"Thank you Miss Swan," He rose from his chair, but walked forward, not
backwards. I looked up in surprise to see him palming my mug.
"May I get you a refill?" He smiled crookedly at me. There goes that
damn butterbean again.
"This time Edward," I looked back to my work to hide the smile on my
face, "use full fat."
"Yes Miss Swan," he chuckled once.
"Edward," I looked up as he palmed the door handle, "I don't do dishes,"
I nodded at my plate.
"I'm sorry, I didn't think you were finished," his face was hurt as he
came back across to clear my spot. He thought I didn't like it. I placed
my hand over his, settling the plate back down.
"Your eggs are perfect, the bacon could have drained a little longer, but
the texture was excellent. The scallop's color is beautiful, but I detest
eating them regardless of how good they are. I appreciated you using the
red peppers in the hash, it was risky considering I didn't order them that
way, but it worked- although I prefer my own recipe," I released his
hand and he resumed the clearing, wearing a proud smile on his face.
"Thank you Miss Swan. I hope to learn that recipe someday," he smiled
sweetly at me.
"Buy my cook book," I laughed, going back to my work.
After I hired my new bartender, some real cool cat named Jasper Hale
with a wicked hairdo and bangin' body, I made sure to clear a spot in my
schedule for Angela. She was my head waitress in my New York
restaurant. When she heard I was opening a place in Miami, excuse me,
warm, sun-shiny Miami that was loading with as she calls 'Fuckhot guys',
she decided her life needed a change. I was happy she was following me
here. We had become pretty close over the years and I knew I could
trust her. It would be comforting to have an old face here among all the
newbies.
Even though the nice little Indian fella had fixed our plumbing issues, we
still had the stink going on. It was now late in the afternoon, almost
heading into the evening hours and my stomach was in dire need of
nourishment. I had been doing nothing but tossing down mugs full of
reheated coffee all day. I knew better than to do it, but I didn't have
time for anything else. When I felt as though the inner lining of my
stomach may start eating itself, I finally pulled away from my desk and
grabbed my purse.
"Goin' for food!" I hollered walking past Emmett as he adjusted the
lights from the ladder he was on.
"Okay Boss Lady," he chuckled, "it's about time. I was going to come
knocking to see if you were still alive in there."
"Well maybe if I had a general manager who was worth a shit," I teased,
backing out the door.
"I'll remember that when I'm sending you my shit filled shoes," he lifted
a boot towards me that was plastered with exactly that.
I cringed backing out, not even able to yell at him for keeping them on.
Shitter problems were things I could not handle. That would coincide with
vomit, pee or any other bodily fluids for that matter.
As soon as I was out the door I took a deep breath, loving the fresh
salty air that was sweeping through the settling sky. My eyes settled on
the first sandwich board sign that I saw, across the street. They had a
similar menu to what I was about to be serving and I needed to try them
out. Of course, everyone knew who I was, so I couldn't exactly just walk
on in there and take a seat. When you have two Michelin stars under
your belt and ten of the top restaurants across the globe, people tend to
know who you are.
I crept inside the place next door and was immediately stunned at the
warm chocolate aroma that was flooded inside.
Why couldn't I own this joint?
I looked around to see a long brown counter stretched out taking up one
half of the small caf style restaurant, while seating took up the rest. I
walked in a little further and smiled at the gourmet delights filling up
the long case. There were confections as far as the eye could see.
I was in heaven.
"Hey! Welcome to Cocoa Chanel's! I'm Alice, how may I help you?" A small
little girl with long black hair which bared hot pink streaks came
bouncing up to the counter. She had on cute little black framed glasses
and a playful apron that said:
'Just like the clothes only tastier.'
"Hi Alice, I'm Bella," I gave a small wave and she held her hand over the
counter for mine.
"Oh, I know who you are, no need to explain," she nodded happily,
shaking my hands rapidly. I chuckled at her excitement.
"Then perhaps you could do me a favor?"
"Sure, you want a free slice of the mud pie, don't you?" she leaned in,
lowering her voice and gave a devilish grin to me.
"No, hun. I will pay for my purchases here, but I was wondering if you
could sneak across to the place next to yours and buy me a fish
sandwich?"
"A sandwich?" She wrinkled her nose.
"Yes, I need to umsample the menu," I winked.
"Ohhh! You want to spy on your competition!" She said excitedly.
Thankfully there were not too many patrons.
"Discretion is key," I chuckled.
"Alice, what the hell are you yelling about?" A tall leggy blonde came
out from the back, stirring a large bowl of something goopy and delicious
looking. What I used to refer to as 'break up food'.
"Look!" Alice squeaked, pointing at me like I was two headed sea serpent.
"Christ Alice," the blonde wiped her hand on her apron, letting the bowl
rest on her hip as she extended a hand to me. "Rose, I own this place.
Sorry about my friend here. She gets all Perez Hilton when she seems a
celeb," she gave a weak smile and went back to her stirring.
"No harm done. So Alice, can you help?" I reached for some money from
my bag and held it to her.
"Sure!!" She snatched the twenty from my hand and all but jumped over
the counter.
"Where the hell are you going? We have customers!" Rose called.
"I'm the Secret Squirrel Rose!! She waved the money raced out the door.
I laughed and Rose just shrugged, resting the bowl down on the counter.
"So you want to try a cookie or something while you wait?" She walked
over to the case and tugged a paper from the box.
"I'm fine."
"Please, it would be an honor to have you sample my creations," she held
out the cookie to me, but then pulled it back quickly, "unless you're too
damn good or something?"
"No, no. I just don't want you to think I am trying to a get a free ride,"
I held out my hand.
"Don't worry, I've given up a lot more for a lot less sister," She chuckled,
placing the cookie down into my palm.
"You aren't the only one girl," I mumbled, taking a bite of cookie.
"Oh, yeah care to"
"Fuck you! She's my daughter too asshole!!" A girl came busting the door
screaming into her hot pink cell phone. "I don't give a fuck what your
mother says!" She continued as the patrons stared.
"I can't believe I ever gave you pussy!" She snapped her phone closed
and shoved it in her purse as she strolled past where I was standing.
"Problems with the man again?" Rose raised her brows as the girl came
around the counter.
I was shocked to see her so calm. I would fucking castrate one of my
employees for that little stunt.
"He is such a dick!" She continued to fume as she tied an apron around
her waist and clipped a name tag to it.
Jessica.
This was Edward's baby mama? I looked to the header above the menu
again.
Yep sure as shit says Cocoa Chanel's.
"How is the cookie?" Rose asked.
"Oh, umit's wonderful," I nodded, still trying figure out this scene
before me.
"Think he has a right to her just because his fucking father is a lawyer!"
"Jess," Rose warned.
"Sorry," she tossed her hands in the air and they fell hard against her
legs.
"No I mean, Jess.look," Rose faced her towards the window.
Edward was no less than ten steps from the door and he looked mad as
hell.
"You fucking keyed my car?! Seriously, Jessica?!" He was so angry when
he came up to counter he didn't notice me standing to his right.
"I want to see my daughter!" Rose held her back from him.
"And you think that is going to happen by doing immature bullshit like
keying my fucking car?" He had calmed down now considerably, resting
his palms on the counter top.
"Oh, go get daddy to buy you a new one!"
"You and I both know I don't use his money!" He pointed more angrily at
her. This was obviously a sweet spot for him. He was impossibly hotter
when he was angry.
Down Butterbean, down girl.
"Yeah, except for when you are trying to keep my daughter from me! She
isn't even yours you know!"
"Knock that shit off Jess. We both know she's fucking mine. This shit is
so fucking old. And how is telling me that my daughter is not mine making
me look bad and you look good anyhow?" He leaned against the counter
and he finally saw my bag resting there.
He closed his eyes and jaw clenched tight as he shook his head.
"I'm sorry BellaMiss Swan," he corrected, looking over to me.
"No please, continue on. This is way better than watching Emmett fixing
light bulbs," I smiled.
"Saaandwiiich!" Alice sang behind me and set down the bag on the
counter with a handful of crumpled change.
I opened up the bag and box quickly. Damn it smelled good. I pulled out
the steamy goodness and took a small nibble.
"So tell me Edward, is this show available everyday or will I need to
purchase tickets in the future?" I took a bigger bite.
"Oh this is an everyday performance," he glared at Jessica, "the location
changes often though." He gave me an impish smile as he looked back to
me again.
"So what, is this the bitch you're fucking?" Jessica eyed me up and down
as I took a bigger bite of fish goodness.
"This is my boss Jessica," his jaw became tight again.
"No shit! Edward works for Isabella Swan?" Rose looked down to her wide
eyed.
"You're lying. She would never hire you, Edward. You didn't even go to
school, unlike me," she tossed her hair back and gave him a wicked grin.
"Actually I just hired Edward this morning. He is my new Sous Chef for
my restaurant, The Workshop. We are opening up on Friday night, right
across the street," I pointed.
"A Sous Chef?" They said in unison.
"Yes, not that I have to explain myself to anyone," I did a little hair
tossing of my own, "but Edward impressed me this morning, so I hired
him," I allowed one of my shoulders to bob.
"Edward hasn't even worked a drive through at McDonald's," Jessica
growled.
"Well that's too bad for fucking McDonald's," I took another bite of food
and I could see the small smile playing on Edward's lips.
It wasn't smug though, he wasn't gloating or anything. It was the same
smile I saw when I told him I liked his food. He felt proud.
"Now, if you two are done having your showdown," I paused looking to
Edward and he nodded softly, "I want a dozen of those delicious fucking
cookies you just fed me," I smiled at Rose, wiping my mouth clean.
"Yes Ma'am. Coming right up," she chuckled.
"Want to try one of my cookies?" Jessica tipped on her toes over Roses
head trying to see me.
"What kind are they?"
"Well, I'm working on this really awesome flavor that has like, vanilla and
I want to try this thing I saw on Rachel Ray, she was putting"
"Stop right fucking there," I held my hand, "you get your ideas from
TVRachel Ray no less?" I had to retrain myself from snorting.
"Yeah, she's sort of my idol," she giggled.
"You have got to be fucking kidding me?" I said keeping my voice low.
"I like her hair," she nodded, twisting a lock of her own and began to
daze off.
"You should be fucking arrested," I pointed to Edward as Rose rang up
my cookies snickering.
"Why?" He looked over to me a little shocked and amused.
"You replicated this fucking ditz," I nodded towards her.
"I will have you refrain from using such blasphemy against my daughter,"
he held up a hand, but his face was playful.
"Here ya' go," Rose handed me the bag over.
"What do I owe you?" I reached for my bag.
"Oh, were all good here. Just take him with you," she smiled and turned
away from the cash wrap.
"Be sure to get some overtime in Jess. I'll be sending you the bill for my
car," Edward pushed off the counter and held the door for me as we
exited.
As soon as we were outside I busted into laughter and reached inside my
bag for a smoke. This shit was better than afternoon alone with Jerry
and all his midgets, trannies and drags.
"That's funny?" Edward ran a nervous hand through his hair.
"Made my fucking day," I laughed, lighting up my cig.
"I thought you were going to fire me," he laughed once.
"Why, because you one upon a time, you stuck your dick in the Wicked
Witch of the West?"
"My mother would like that name," he chuckled, sticking his hands in his
pockets.
"Seriously, how did you ever end up with that evil wretch?" I puffed on
my stogie.
"She wasn't always like that," he shrugged.
"Here," I held out my cigarette to him.
"I don't smoke Miss Swan."
"Bella," I still held my cigarette to him.
"Excuse me?"
"I'm not your boss out here Edward. Right now, we're just two people
standing on the sidewalk smoking a cancer stick together. Plus, the Swan
shit makes me feels old," I insisted that he take my smoke.
"Thanks," he took a hit and then passed it back.
"Choke and I will call you a pussy," I teased.
"I said I didn't smoke, not that I haven't," he blew out the smoke and
laughed looking towards his feet.
"So which one is yours?" I looked out to the street.
"The black Volvo," he nodded to the car parked behind the one in front
of me.
"Ugh, she did a fucking number," I shook my head and passed him back
the cigarette as I walked towards it.
"Yeah, my father is going to freak out," he puffed on the cigarette,
smoking it to the head.
"He's really a lawyer? Emmett never told me that," I fixed my hair in the
tinted window reflection.
"Yeah. We don't really like to go around tooting our own horns ya' know?
Emmett and I have always made our own way," he dropped the smoke to
the ground, putting it out with his foot and then tossing it in the
receptacle before him.
"That's good. It shows you have character," I smiled at him, "not that
the tattoos don't do that," I chuckled, nodding towards his art that
peeked out from his shirt collar.
"Yeah, I guess I should have worn something today that covered it up
better huh?" He fumbled with his clothing.
"No way," I slung my bag over my arm and smiled at him as I began my
walk back across the street, "this is Miami baby- where all the sexy
people live!" I hollered now across the street and he laughed at me as
the people eating along the sidewalk caf's cheered in agreement.
I was really starting to like it here.
Thursday 9 P.M.
I walked in to find very loud music playing inside of my restaurant.
It was good though, it meant Emmett was actually working and not
running his mouth. His selection was actually pretty good too. He usually
opted for Gangsta rap when I was not around. I was glad Fitty was
nowhere to be found talking bout his bitches and hoes. Instead I was
treated to a nice song by Kings of Leon.
Use Somebody.
Oh, I wish I had someone to use. Damn, how long had it been now, almost
a year?
"Em!" I hollered, not seeing anyone in the front.
"Back here B!" He bellowed from the back somewhere.
"Oh. Hello Miss Swan," I stopped dead in my tracks as Edwardno-no-
no.black tank top wearing Edward with a lot of artwork and muscles
showing Edward, came from the back carrying five racks of water glasses
in his hands.
"Edward, that is not appropriate work attire," my mouth said the words
and my butterbean gave me the finger.
"Oh," he set the racks down on the table top and wiped the sweat from
his face with his shirt front, "I'm sorry, I had a shirt on over this but it
got hot. I'll put it back on," he nodded and went to retrieve his clothes.
"No," I paused, and he looked at me confused, "you're right. You're
working hard, so just," I waved with my hand and just walked passed
him towards my office, trying to gather myself.
He is our employee Butterbean. He is our God damned employee. A hot
employee yes, but it is still wrong. Well I'm sorry butter bean. Mamma
will get out the old double Excell's tonight alright? Down girl!
I quickly set down all of my things and pulled out Edward's uniform from
my bag.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
I looked up to see Edward standing at my door, still wearing his black
tank. My mouth couldn't seem to figure out how to work.
"May I talk to you for a moment?" He asked softly.
"Sure," I managed to get out.
"I wanted to give you this. It's sort of a thank you for yesterday. I
appreciated what you said to Jessica about me," he held out a small light
blue box that was wrapped with a pretty brown bow.
"Edward, that is very kind, but I cannot take presents from you-
especially when they come from things that happen outside of work," I
fumbled with the uniform on desk.
"It's just some baked goods," he held it out to me and his face screamed
a painful plea.
"Thank you," I took them from him, but that didn't seem to satisfy him.
Of course not, he would want me to try them, just as I would want
someone to try mine.
"Would you like one?" I asked, pulling the bow.
"Sure," he smiled small, almost shyly.
"Emmett!!! Freeeee foooood!!!" I bellowed as I tossed the lid on my desk
and Edward chuckled.
I held the box out to him.
"No, no. They are yours, you get first choice," he chuckled, nodding his
head at the box.
"Hmm," I poked around finally pulling out one that looked chucky, yet
chocolately.
"Good pick," he affirmed, smiling and plucking his own out of the box.
"What kind is it?" I took a bite.
"Like you don't know," he chuckled, taking a bite of his.
"MmmI taste oatmeal,." I chewed, "and Chocolate."
"Keep going," his face was bright with intrigue as he absentmindedly took
another bite of his.
"And, coconut?" I chewed more.
"You got them all," he chuckled popping the last bit in.
"That was delicious. Did you make them?" I already knew this. I was just
asking for fucks sake.
"Yes, of course," he nodded happily.
See?
"Someone say free food?" Emmett came in breathing hard and covered in
sweat.
"What the fuck are you doing out there?" I asked.
"Putting a restaurant together B- what else?" He wiped his face on his
shirt and reached in to the box grabbing a handful of cookies.
"Leave some for Miss Swan, Mr. Cullen," Edward glared at him.
"Will you please make him stop with that shit B?" He shoved another
cookie in his mouth.
"No."
"I don't call you Miss Swan. Why the hell does Edward, my brother, have
to call me Mr. Cullen? I feel like my pops B!" He whined.
"Do me a favor Emmett. Go outside and read the name on the front of
this building and tell me what it says."
"B," he protested.
"Uh ah!" I held up my hand and waved him on.
"Damn it," he grumbled, shoving the other cookies in his mouth as he
exited.
"It really doesn't bother me," Edward shrugged.
"Of course it does, I told you to do something that is utterly ridiculous
and you should loath me for it," I was serious but Edward chuckled
lightly.
"I don't think anything you say is ridiculous," he smiled.
"The Workshop," Emmett grumbled as he walked past my door.
"Thanks pump-kin!" I called in a teasing manner.
"You're welcome Miss Swan!" He called back.
"Alright while all of this is fun and everything, we have work to do," I
rose from my seat and picked up Edward's uniform.
"Absolutely," he rose from his seat and covered the cookies back up.
"Follow me," I walked around the desk and Edward grabbed the door for
me before I reached it.
It's just a door Butterbean.
He followed silently behind me and I was glad, it allowed me to collect
my thoughts. Once we reached the kitchen, it was time to lay down the
law.
"Alright, first things first; this is my kitchen. It will be organized and
ran the way I decide and plan. My standards are like no other. I expect
them to be upheld at all times. That means washing down the kitchen
twice a day."
"Washing does not mean a simple swipe of a dirty wet rag over the tops
of the counters. We clean every last little nook and cranny, including the
stoves and the insides of the refrigeration systems. I expect to be able
to walk into this kitchen at any time during the day and find it in
perfect condition. This is the hub of the ship, if it goes down it all goes
down," I walked around to the other side of the steel table and plopped
down his Chef's coats.
"These are yours. I expect them to always be pressed and spot free. If
something stains, it does not mean you come crying to me for a new one,
it means you are being a dirty cook and I think I already explained the
issues of that to you." I handed over a coat to him.
"Here are your aprons. There are more in the linen closet, or there will
be as soon as Emmett receives the order. This is your time card. Angela
or Emmet will show you all about that fun little thing later on," Edward
smiled as he took it from my hands.
"Now, I think we have established the basics," I began to pull off my
hoodie and grabbed for one of the coats, "time to get down to the nitty
gritty," I slid my arms into my Chef's coat and began to button up.
Edward followed my lead.
"Where can I start Miss Swan?" He looped his head through the apron
and holy mother, if he didn't look downright sexy in his little chef coat.
I know! Mama is being a baaaaad girl, Butterbean.
"Edward, in here, I am not Bella, I am not Miss Swan, I am Chef. You will
address me by that title and that title only. Understand?" I gave him a
look that showed I meant business.
"Yes Chef."
I was happy with Edward's ability in the kitchen. He was very detailed
and organized, my two top pet peeves. He studied what I did and
followed in my tracks, sometimes and it pained me to fucking say it-
but he did things even better than me. I, of course, did not let him know
that.
My menu for this restaurant was laid back, just like the atmosphere of
Miami. It had a sexy flare though and reflecting the glamor of this town.
I was proud to offer this food and happy to be cooking it along side my
new partner.
"Um, Chef?" He called looking to me, "how do you want these plated?" He
looked down to the pan of brown buttered shrimp with sage.
"We're going to do it like this," I scooted beside him and he held the pan
for me while I scooped them out and placed them over a fresh bed of
lemon infused jasmine rice with a side of grilled veggies.
"I like the tails to always face this way. If you ever see a waitperson
taking them and they face the plate any other way, you have to correct
them. It may seem petty, but these are the details that get you noticed
in this industry, Edward. It doesn't matter if you are making corn dogs or
fucking Filet Mignon, you have to do each thing with the utmost care and
quality. It's all in the details," I scooped out the last one and laid it out
across the bed.
"May I sauce?" He asked hand out for the spoon.
"Yes," I smiled and handed it to him.
His face was pure concentration as he ladled a perfect amount of the
sauce over the shrimp, drizzling the last bit up high in the air with his
hand over his head.
"Let me guess, you like Mario Batali?" I reached up for the spoon.
"He is quite impressive, but I was just trying to push my luck with you,"
his face reddened a little as he chuckled softly.
"That is not a wise thing to do, Edward," I pointed the spoon at him and
then set it down in the empty pan.
"What is next Chef Bella?"
"We eat," I smiled, picking up the plates, but he stopped me.
"Let me, please," he slid his hands under the plates and taking them from
me, "where to?"
"Let's dine from the Chef's Table, shall we?" I motioned towards the
table Emmet had finally gotten into the kitchen. This was a signature at
all my restaurants. I never opened one without offering this to my
guests.
"So people really pay to sit in the kitchen?" He asked setting down the
plates.
"Yes, quite a lot, in fact," I grinned, unbuttoning my coat.
"May I?" He pointed towards his own.
"Fuck yes, I am sweating balls in here, I'm sure you really are,
considering you have the proper equipment," I chuckled.
"I suppose it do."
Did Edward just blush? I think he fucking blushed!
"Oh, speaking of balls," I unraveled my silverware, "we go commando in
this kitchen," I speared a shrimp and popped it in.
Mmm, delicious.
"Even the girls?" He quirked an eyebrow.
"Everyone," I grinned.
"May I ask why?" He speared a shrimp and I watched as he smiled in
delight once he began chewing.
"Chafing," I said taking a forkful of rice this time.
"Chafing?" He chuckled harder.
"Yeah, it can get up two hundred degrees in here sometimes Edward. You
will sweat in places that you didn't even fucking know you had pores in.
So, you know, chafing- especially the guys. I strongly advise letting your
laundry dry on the line if ya' know whatta mean," I chuckled.
"I never knew that," he laughed back, "so how many others will be
working in the kitchen?" He got up from his seat and walked to the small
fridge.
"Me, you and then six others will rotate throughout the week. I am going
to give you off on Monday's and Tuesday's, since it is usually slow, but
sometimes we will host events on Tuesday nights like drink specials and
shit, so you might have to work," I shrugged and watched as Edward
poured us each glass of ice water.
His back was to me and I couldn't help but to ogle a little of the art
that was showing from his back where the skimpy tank didn't cover.
"What does all of that mean?" I asked, causing him to turn towards me.
"What does what mean?" He picked up the glasses and walked towards
the table.
"Your ink," I grabbed my glass from his hand as he took his seat. He took
a long drink of water and cleared his throat before he spoke.
"Different things," he brushed his hand over his shoulder, running it down
his arm.
"This one is my baby girl," he twisted his arm, revealing a smiling little
girl with curls on the inside of his bicep.
"She is so pretty. You should have that on the outside," I teased,
pointing to the exposed part of his muscular arm.
"I have to keep her close to my heart," he shook his head and took
another drink of water before he began to eat his food again.
He seemed very shy about his words, keeping his head down and I felt a
little intrusive about my prodding.
"I always wanted to get one. I was never brave enough though," I
mumbled, poking around my plate.
"What would you get?" He asked, lifting his eyes back to mine.
"I'm not sure. I like your flowers, maybe something like that," I
shrugged, taking a small bite.
"You don't put something on your body that is going to permanently mark
you for life without thinking it through. It's a part of you," his eyes
stayed on mine and a part of me wanted to look away, but another part
of me got lost inside of the deep blue.
"I'll remember that," I said softly nodding to him.
Friday 1 AM
"Everything is all cleaned up Miss Swan," Edward ducked his head inside
my door.
"Oh, come here in a sec," I reached down into my bottom desk drawer.
"This is yours Edward," I handed him over the plastic credit card; "you
can make petty cash purchases on it up to fifteen hundred dollars. It will
deduct whatever you spend automatically from your checks. Speaking of
which," I slid his contract in front of him and clicked the pen, "it's time
for you to sign your life away to me," I grinned.
"Sure you just want it in ink?" He teased, clicking the pen again.
I stared at him, sitting there in his blank tank top.ink? Yeah, Mama and
Butterbean definitely wanted ink.
"Ink and a picture," I smiled, toying with my digital camera in my hands
making him blush bright red, "sorry, everyone has to do it, even me."
"Where does that get displayed?" Edward chuckled, signing his name to
the paperwork.
"On billboards, gossip magazines, porno websites," he looked up to me
and I laughed.
"Kidding, kidding. We post them behind the bar. The people need to know
who's feeding them," I shrugged, giving a light smile.
"Do I have to smile?" He handed the papers and pen back over.
"Not if you don't want to, but I think it looks better of you do. No one
wants to think there is a disgruntled man back there making their
Tapas," I chuckled.
"Alright, fine. Where do you want me Herb Rittz?" He chuckled.
"Let's go out into the lounge, the lighting is better."
I rose from my seat and led him out into the lounge, resting him against
the wall that had a nice luminous glow from the overhead lighting Emmet
had orchestrated so beautifully.
"Button up porn star," I chuckled flipping on my camera.
He buttoned the top clasp on his chef's coat and I snapped the picture
while he was still laughing from my joke.
"You didn't even let me pose," he whined.
"It's looks fab. Trust me," I held the camera behind my back.
"Ohh! You guys taken pics? I want to get in on that," Emmett posed his
best playgirl pose for me and I snapped away, wooing him as he struck a
pose.
"Beat that little brother," he smirked at Edward.
"Never," Edward chuckled, blushing slightly from Emmett's crude display.
"Let me take of you guys," Emmett held out his hand I tossed it to him.
"This will be like Batman and Robin," he chuckled holding the camera up.
"Take off the damn jacket," I ordered and he obliged, looking bashful as
ever.
"Say Emmett's gotta big dong!"
Edward and I laughed together at his perverted joke and He snapped a
photo of us.
"Ah, look at that! This was my true calling!" Emmett held out the camera
for me to see and I nodded in approval.
"Alright, enough fun with my camera. Edward has a tiny person at home
that I'm sure would love to get a good night kiss from her daddy," I
looked to my watch as I yawned, "although at this point, you'll most
likely be making her breakfast before that ever happens," I chuckled.
"It's alright. My mother came down with her on my break and we had
dinner together," he pulled his phone from his pocket and flipped up the
screen, I assumed checking for calls.
"Well, you're free to go. You did a great job. Get your schedule from
Emmett," I tapped Em on the shoulder as I strolled towards my office.
"Good night Miss Swan," he called over his shoulder, I just simply smiled.
Friday 1:34 A.M.
I could hear Emmett and Edward talking and laughing as he gave him his
schedule and went over the score of some game they didn't get to see
but was playing over the radio system. I realized then, I liked hearing
Edward laugh. His laugh reminded me of his smile though and I couldn't
help but to turn my camera back on and scroll to the picture of Edward
and myself.
We looked happy together.
Friday 1:55 A.M.
I loaded the picture onto my computer and tapped impatiently against
the desk as I waited for it to load.
Picture Processed.
I double clicked it and the image of us lit up my entire screen.
Butterbean was thudding again taking in all of Edward's tattoos and man
beauty. Yeah, that's what he was, man-pretty.
Down girl.
I printed out all of the pictures and dug through my drawer for some
tacks. Walking back out into the dining area, Emmett said his good-byes
to me and left through the front door locking me inside. All alone. After
I hung the pictures and stared at them for a bit, I pulled a marker from
the drawer at the cash and scribbled out a welcoming for Edward along
the bottom of our picture together.
Edward Cullen was inducted into our Workshop family today. I wanted to
make him cry, but found that his smile was much better than tears. As
you can see, it was also infectious .Welcome to our family Flower Child.
-B
Friday 5:21 A.M.
I finally walked out of work to go back to my hotel. The lock made a
loud sound against the quiet night and I hurried to my car. I was always
last to leave and always alone. I would have been angry about not having
a residence here yet, but I knew my procrastination was due to the fact
that I hated being by myself. Hotel family was good family. They always
made your bed and left you mints on your pillow. It seemed like a cruel
twist of fate when success was part of your life. I had so much on the
outside, yet I yearned for so much more on the inside. I had no one to
share it with. The working was a sickness though. I knew if I wasn't going
strong day and night, the loneliness would creep in, yet working 24/7 was
the exact problem for the solitude. It was a no win situation.
Friday 6:55 A.M..
I crawled into my bed, plucking the single mint off the pillow and slipping
it into my mouth.
Well Butterbean, it's just you and me girl.
I closed my eyes and smiled when I saw Edward's smile behind them. My
hands trailed down into my pajama bottoms and I gave Butterbean a, 'hey
how you doin', to which she replied, 'Not good sister, not good at all.'
I rubbed my fingers against myself and thought about Edward, crying at
the end when I was left with only a wet pair of panties and a cold
desolate bed.
Friday 7:25 A.M.
I cried myself to sleep. Alone.





Chapter 2 "Bonding and a New Beginning"


Edward
I was sure she must have hated me.
Emmett warned me before I went in that she was a tough cookie. I
wasn't fully prepared though for just how tough. I had not even been in
her presence for five minutes before I was being scolded for simply
calling her by her name.
I wanted to run away, but I needed this job. My reserves were running
low and I was not about to ask Carlisle, my father, for a loan. I was a
man and I had to take care of myself and my daughter. It was bad
enough I had to use him as my lawyer in my custody case. Risking losing
Ness, though, was something I wouldn't do. Carlisle was the best lawyer
in Miami. I didn't care if it made me look less than a man to use him,
there was no way she was going to stay with Jessica.
Hell would freeze over first and make me king.
It's not that Jess was a bad mother. She just wasn't the most
responsible person. Plus, she floated in and out of Nessie's life, never
knowing when she would gain interest again and come back. I hated that.
My girl deserved a devoted mother. How you could look into her innocent
blue eyes and not want to remain lost in them forever, I had no clue.
The rest of the day, as well as the next one, were pretty good though.
At least I didn't get my ass fired, anyhow.
It was now an hour before I was due to work. This would be my first real
shift and I was nervous as hell, not to mention, running late thanks to
Nessie's stubborn attitude this morning towards taking a number two.
I hated potty training.
"Ness, are you done yet baby?" I called standing outside the door.
"Go way," she whined.
"Daddy has to go to work baby girl. You have to hurry."
"Go way!" She whined louder.
"Alright but you have two minutes then we have to go, poop or no poop,"
I chuckled, walking towards the kitchen and grabbing up her things so I
could drop her at my mother's.
I was thankful my parents were so helpful. The thought of leaving her
with a sitter made me want to vomit. I was still trying to figure out
what the hell I was going to do when they went on vacation in a few
weeks. Normally they would just take Ness with them, but this was their
anniversary.
Which meant - no kids allowed.
"I done!" She called, giving me the okay to come in and help her clean
up.
Yes, hated potty training.
"Awre you gonna eat wif me and Gamma night Daddy?" She asked holding
onto my shoulders as I pulled her bottoms back up, kneeling in front of
her.
"Probably not baby. Daddy is working late," I plucked a wipe from her
diaper bag to clean her face. She still had syrup from the pancakes this
morning.
"I don't wike Gamma food. It's yucky," She wrinkled her nose, making me
chuckle.
"Sorry Ness. Daddy made you breakfast though, remember?" I tossed the
wipe in the trash and scooped her up, placing her on the counter.
"Hands," she cupped them towards me and I pumped a glob of
antibacterial soap into her palms.
"Wawer," she giggled, knowing what came next.
"Scrub," she obeyed, rubbing her little hands together and lighting up my
world with her sweet giggle.
She loved our little game as much as I did.
"All keen," she held up to me.
"You have to rinse," I nodded towards the water.
"Oops," she giggled harder and I held her as she tilted towards the
faucet.
"Now keen," she held them up and I kissed her wet palms before I dried
them on the towel.
"Let's go baby," I scooped her up on my hip and grabbed the diaper bag
from the floor.
"Downt foget teddy!" She reached out for the ratty old bear on the
couch as we passed.
"Sorry, Daddy forgot him last night didn't I?" I cringed, thinking back to
my call on the way home with my mother last night and her telling me
about Ness crying the whole night without him.
"S'kay Daddy," she rubbed her hand on my cheek and leaned her head
down on my shoulder.
"Daddy won't forget again, I promise," I tilted my head and gave her a
kiss on her chubby cheek.
"There's my favorite granddaughter!" Carlisle held out his arms for her as
soon as the door opened.
"Pop-pop!" She leaned for him and he took her from my arms, twirling her
around in the foyer.
"Easy, she had a lot of sugar this morning," I set down her bag on the
bench against the wall.
"Feeling guilty this morning, son?" He smiled with Nessie's head tucked
into the crook of his neck.
"You have no idea," I chuckled.
"Sweets don't make up for working late, Edward. I should know, I
practically wrote the book," he smiled again and kissed Ness' head.
"Hey honey," my mother, Esme, came in and planted a kiss on my cheek
before she reached for Ness.
"Not uh uh. I didn't get to see my bunny rabbit last night," he swung her
out of my mother's direction.
I chuckled at his nickname for her, 'Bunny Rabbit', since she had two
front teeth that were much more prominent than the others. I only hoped
it wouldn't someday give her a complex.
"I have to get going," I walked forward to give Ness a kiss.
"No!" She twisted her body my way and almost fell out of Carlisle's arms
before I caught her.
"I have to go to work, Ness. Daddy will come get you in the morning," I
tried to pry her arms from my neck, but she was using her death grip on
me.
"Come on sweetheart, Grandma wants to play in the pool," Esme winked
at me and tried to pull her away.
"No! Want Daddy!" She cried and dug her little nails into my skin.
"Go to Grandma, please," I reached back and pried one hand away.
"No!" She began to cry harder, flooding her little eyes with tears and
her chubby cheeks reddened.
"Come on sweetie, it's alright," my mother took her as she screamed and
slapped against her in protest.
"It will be alright," she whispered to me and turned around hushing
Nessie in her arms.
I started to freak out, running a hand through my hair and caught a
glimpse of her face as Esme rocked her. It broke my heart as she cried
and sniffled, calling my name over and over.
"I'll see you later, baby. I love you," I kissed the top of her head and
practically ran from the house before I could scoop her back up and stop
the pain she was feeling.
The same pain I was feeling.
Bella POV
Friday 9:45 am
I gulped down a cup of coffee in the hotel dining room as I ate my
breakfast. Don't ask me why, but I fucking loved hotel omelets. I knew
that they weren't made from real eggs and didn't even deserve to be
considered omelets, but the damn things were fucking tasty as hell and
super fluffy. Plus, they were laced with cheddar cheese and everything
was better with cheese. If you didn't think that shit, you were clearly a
commy-rat-bastard. Period.
The breakfast attendant, a woman named Mrs. Cope, came over and set a
fresh huddle of coffee on my table to my pleasure. She must have been
at least ninety years old, full of wrinkles and limping slightly as she
hobbled off, but she wore an honest smile and made sure to greet every
person who came into the lounge. I couldn't help but to envision that
being me someday, which made me fucking laugh and cry at the time. At
this rate, that is surely where I was headed though. I could just see the
VH1 special now.
Except I don't think I would be fucking smiling like she was.
I would probably curse and have a cane, poking the fuckers I didn't like
with it and ordering them about; telling them to stop stealing the
condiment packets and not take so many damn napkins.
Damn napkin thieves piss me off.
I mean, did they have no clue how much expense it put on a business
when they did shit like that? This wasn't like taking pens from a bank;
nobody got the free advertisement that the pen held when you left it
behind somewhere. A dirty napkin was just that, a dirty fucking napkin.
No one cared about where the fuck it came from, unless you were the
owner footing the bill.
Pouring another cup of coffee, I added all the fixings, knowing that I
would need as much caffeine as possible. Knowing only had about two
hours of sleep in my system- if you could call tossing and turning sleep
that is.
My eyes were burning from being dry and tired. I didn't even attempt to
put on makeup this morning. My hair was tied back so tight it was
literally, the only thing, besides the Joe, keeping my lids open. I must
have looked liked some deranged fucking Asian woman, or one of those
'plastic surgery gone wrong' 20/20/Dateline/Barbara Walters type of
specials.
Like I fucking cared.
I had bigger things to worry about today. It was the grand opening for
The Workshop, my first restaurant in Miami, and there was a boat load
of shit to do still.
I hurried through the last few bites of my breakfast and finished off
another cup of coffee before plucking a 'to-go' cup from the bar and
leaving a nice tip with Mrs. Cope; both for her great service and also for
the cup. See? I wasn't a hypocrite napkin stealer- or 'to-go' cup, in this
case - even though the fucker was complimentary.
Friday 10:48 A.M.
I saw Edward strolling along the sidewalk as I pulled up and parked
along the curb. He looked like hell. Edward's hair was in serious disarray,
like he had been up all night fucking his brains out-which, I really hoped
was not the case. His face looked too pissed off for that though and his
eyes were even red- almost like he had been crying.
"Hey Flower Child," I called, climbing out from my car and resting my bag
on the hood.
"Good morning Bella," he gave a light wave my way, but no smile.
"You look like hell," I chuckled.
"Rough morning," he said simply, shrugging once.
"I was thinking more like rough night," I winked, motioning towards his
hair.
It finally got a smile out of him as he put two and two together.
"Not even close," he chuckled.
"No? I thought women swooned over the whole 'single father' thing. You
know, like taking a cute puppy to park to pick up chicks. Pretty much like
putting a "Free-Dick-Rides" sign on your forehead?" I teased.
"I would never use my daughter to pick up girls and I can assure you, she
is the only female in my life," he winked my way, giving that frigg'n
crooked smile that Butterbean loved, but it faded quickly.
"I take it she isn't adjusting well to you working?" I rustled with my
keys, trying to find the right one for the front door.
"She cried this morning when I dropped her off at my mom's," he looked
down to his feet and I imagined that she wasn't the only one,
remembering his red eyes.
"Sorry," I said, not knowing what else to offer.
"She'll get used to it," he shrugged, still looking down.
"Well you know tonight is group bonding night, right?" I held the door
open and he followed me inside.
"Group bonding?" He asked.
"Yep," I flipped on the lights and strolled to the back where the kitchen
was
"What is that?" He stood at the register by the bar and slid his time
card through as he asked.
"Come in my office when you're done and I'll explain," I unlocked the
door and walked inside.
I flipped on my monitor and wiggled the mouse, bringing the screen to
life. Forty five new messages flashed on my phone screen. Fuck, Emmett
better arrive soon. This day, was going to be the day from hell. Edward
came walking into my office and I motioned toward the chair as I waited
for the voice mail to connect.
I opened up my in-box and began to answer the emails, stating all of my
frustrations aloud and saw Edward's lips twitch when the words
'motherfucking knob gobbler' came out as I listened to my gay manager,
Laurent, from my Las Vegas location, go on about his date the night
prior.
Well, he was.
I finally hung up the phone, not hearing any major emergencies and
decided to let Emmett handle them, only writing down the things I
needed to know for checking up on him later.
"So," I tapped a stack of papers and stapled them together, "every
Friday night is what I have so lovingly termed 'Fucking Friday Family
Night'. The entire staff, even the busboys, come out and we hang
together," I folded my hands down on my desk and Edward's face looked
somewhat worried and confused as he thought through my words.
"Before or after work?" He asked, nervously.
Oh, the kid. Right.
"Before. Don't worry. You can bring your daughter, your mom, your
girlfriend, or your dog - whatever. It's not called 'family night' for
nothing," I smiled.
"Oh," he seemed to cheer up some, "Where is it going to be held?"
"Tonight we're going to Tropical Greens, but it changes every week," I
shrugged.
"Miniature golf?" He smiled.
"What did you expect - me to ask you to bring your daughter to a titty
bar or something?" I teased.
"You just don't seem like the type to eat cheap pizza and swing a golf
club, unless, of course, it would be to hit someone," he teased right back,
biting his lower lipand Butterbean fucking punched me in my left ovary.
"I have watchedfuck, I couldn't even tell you how many managers and
owners take their staff out for happy hours and to nightclubs in an
attempt to 'be cool' or earn their respect somehow. That isn't what the
purpose of this shit is. Not to mention, the only thing that gets
accomplished by getting drunk with the people you work with is finding
out how many shots of Jager makes them puke and who is the slut of the
company.
"I don't give a rat's ass about who you all fuck and if I see any of you
puke in my presence, I would be soon to follow - then, of course, kick
your ass," I waved my hand getting back to the point.
"Anyhow the point is, I think it's important to have a close group working
here. Tell me, what else makes you closer to someone than chasing down
their lost kid or digging them out of a pit of colorful balls?" I grinned.
"Plus, if you have the patience and skill to make a shot through a clown's
pie hole while there is horrid carnival music playing and the fucker
laughing at you, chances are, you can put up with working for me," I
chuckled.
"I see. That sounds like fun. I'm happy I can bring Ness. She had me
contemplating quitting after this morning," Edward's hands ran through
his hair as he disagreed. "Well maybe you can hold Family Night over her
head every week as bait for her to make it through the week without
you," I smiled.
"My father always did that - being a lawyer, you know. It doesn't work
as well you think," he smiled small.
"There's no couch in my office for a reason Edward," I looked back to my
computer screen, trying hard not let his puppy dog eyes wither me down.
The less I knew - the better.
"I know. I wasn't trying to go there, just explaining," he shrugged.
"I have some things in here to do before we start anything in the
kitchen. I need you to take this," I handed a list to him, "And make sure
everything on it is done in the kitchen. We're leaving at three for
Tropical Greens, so you have until then. I'll be there in a bit to check on
you," I went back to typing.
"Would you like some coffee?" He asked on his way out.
"Absofuckinglutely."
"Full fat?" I heard the smile in his tone.
"Full fat," I affirmed.
Damn man after my own heart.
Friday 12:37 P.M.
"Emmett?" I held down the button on my intercom calling for him.
"Yo, B," he buzzed back.
"Don't ever say 'yo' in response to me, please," I buzzed back.
"Sorry, your Royal Highness, what may I do for you this fine day?"
"A simple 'Yes, Bella' will work just fine, wise ass."
"Yes, Bella?" His voice was irritated.
"Can you run across the street to get some muffins and rolls, oh and one
of those cookies they have. The blonde girl knows which one if you tell
her it's for me."
"What am I your bitch boy now? Make Edward do it."
"Edward's fucking psycho baby mamma works there, plus, I told you to do
it," I was getting really pissed with him.
I know he had a lot to do but fuck; I was in charge here, not him. I was
planning on sharing the fucking muffins with him, not to mention, make
some delicious BLT's out of the rolls - something I sure as fuck didn't
have time for today, but was doing to be nice. I'm sure their stomach
linings would appreciate my gesture.
"Fine," he groaned.
"Thanks, Pump-kin," I pushed back from the desk and made my way to
the door, seeking out the kitchen.
I passed Emmett in the hall and he gave me an evil stare as he pushed
past me. I smiled at him and winked, which only made him roll his eyes
and grumble something under his breath. He was like the older brother I
never had. I loved him dearly, despite the fact that he was such a pain
in the ass sometimes.
I'm sure he felt the same way about me though.
Pushing the kitchen door open, I saw Edward standing at one of the steel
tables separating the cooking utensils just as the list described. He
looked cute - lips pursed and deep in concentration, like he was being
asked to decipher the code to a chemical compound or some shit. I
chuckled lightly at him as I made my way in and he looked up to me,
smiling.
"Something funny?" He asked, holding my gaze.
"No, just thinking," I shrugged.
"I'm almost done, just this and then I'm off to tackle the box of frying
pans."
"Good, you can help me make lunch then," I opened the fridge and began
to pull out the ingredients as Edward eyed me.
"BLT's?" He asked, quirking a brow.
"And to think, you didn't even go to culinary school," I teased.
"You're missing the eggs," he nodded towards the items I set on the
table.
"Perhaps you don't understand what the B, L and T stand for."
"It's just something my mother used to do," he shrugged.
"An egg?"
"Yep, fried on top," he smiled.
"Your mother sounds like my kind of woman," I turned back to the fridge
to grab some eggs and Edward chuckled.
"She's actually not a very good cook, but she could make a mean BLT," he
nodded.
I began searching for a pan and Edward came to my aid, passing me one
from the box at his side - except
"I thought I told you about my dish washing disability," I pointed to the
pan as he held it to me.
"I was just making sure it was an alright size for you," he smiled.
"It's fine. Now, get to washing," I waited until he was turned around to
smile.
"We don't have any bread in here, at least I did not find any," he called
over his shoulder.
"I know. I sent Em across the street for some rollsshit!"
"What's wrong?" He spun around quickly, "Did you cut yourself?"
"No. I should have told him to order the fucking bread for tonight. Fuck
mother fucking fuck!" I walked over to the phone on the wall.
"Emmett said that phone doesn't work. He's number three on the speed
key," he held out his cell to me.
"Thanks," I flipped it open and held down the button until it connected.
I'll be damn if his phone didn't smell good. Normally other people's shit
grossed me out, especially phones. I mean, you put your greasy face and
germ filled mouth against it for Christ sake. Edward's phone however,
smelled of only good manliness and sex cologne. I would fucking lick his
phone if he weren't standing here, staring at me.
"Yo Ed, what up? Bella on your fucking nerves yet or what? Fuck, she's
driving me crazy today."
I was having one of those Kill Bill moments where the room goes red and
the music blares, signaling that some serious ass kicking was about to
commence.
"This. Is. Not. Fucking. Edward. Ape. Dick," my jaw clenched and I was
already thinking of my apology for when my death grip was sure to crush
Edward's phone.
"Bel-la?" His voice was barely audible.
"I will destroy you when you get back here, but right now, make sure to
get the fucking bread for tonight's service and make it fast. I'm fucking
timing you. You have ten minutes. Tick-tock, tick-tock," I snapped his
phone closed, but it buzzed, causing me to flip it back up.
I went to yell back into it, thinking it was Em, but I paused seeing a
picture of a little girl on the screen. I put my hand over my mouth to
stop the obscenities that were begging to leap forward.
"I think it's your daughter," I held the phone to him.
"Ness?" He smiled, but eyed me, questioning if this was alright.
"Go ahead," I waved my hand at him and went back to making
sandwiches.
If I was going to lose control of my staff, I might as well do it
thoroughly.
"Oh, mom it's you," he laughed, walking back over to the station with the
clean pan in his hands, setting it down on the stove for me.
I eavesdropped as I laid the bacon down into the pan. Edward propped
his phone on his shoulder and held it there with his cheek as he began
slicing the tomatoes.
"I actually wanted you to bring Nessie here before three so I could take
her with me to a group event at Tropical Greens. You and Dad can come
too if you like," he waited for her response and then laughed.
"I know. He hates golf," he laughed harder.
"Yeah, just drop her off at quarter 'til but, you'll have to pick her up
again before work though, is that alright?" He waited for her response
and smiled.
"Of course. I appreciate you doing that. Thanks," he passed me the
cutting tray of tomatoes and reached for the lettuce.
"Mom, I have to go, I'm working. Alright fine, real quick though," there
was a small wait and then his face smiled brilliantly.
"Hey baby girlyeah I miss you too," he slammed the lettuce down,
breaking the core.
Ah, I loved a man who knew how to properly open a head of lettuce.
"I can't sing you the Snuggy Bear song now, honey," he laughed and I
quirked an eyebrow towards him, holding out my hand for the phone.
He hesitated and then gave it over to me, biting his lip with a very
nervous look on his face.
"Nessie?"
"Who's diss?" She asked.
"This is your new Auntie Bella."
"Hi!" She said excitedly.
I guess this is why they have that whole 'don't except candy from
strangers rule'. Kids sure where friendly to people they don't know.
"So, Auntie Bella was wondering if she could hear how the Snuggy Bear
song goes," I grinned at Edward as his cheeks flushed.
I listened to her sing the song and Edward began to smile, hearing the
faint hum of her from the other end of the phone. He looked very torn
between wanting to sing along and running to hide.
"Want Daddy to sing it with you?" I giggled looking at him and he
reached quickly for the phone, ripping it from my hands.
"Daddy has to go Ness. I'll see you later honey, love you," he snapped
the phone closed and narrowed his eyes at me.
"You do realize you just made me hang up on my daughter, right?"
"You could have just sung along," I chuckled, flipping the bacon over.
"Or just sliced off my balls and handed them over to you. I might be
playing Mr. Mom and all, but I still have a firm grip on my manhood,
thank you," he tucked his phone back into his pocket.
"You really sing that song to her?" I looked over at him as he began to
separate the lettuce again.
"It helps her sleep," he shrugged, defensively.
"I think it's cute," I said smiling at him. He finally tilted his head
towards me and I nodded at him.
"You know that you are going to have to let her call you 'Aunty Bella'
tonight don't you?"
"That's alright," I chuckled once.
"What I mean is, when you say stuff to a little kid, they take it to
heart. I don't like people using her as a way to get to me Bella," his face
was completely serious and I could feel the tension mound.
"I'm sorry, Edward. I wasn't trying to hurt her or anything. It was all in
good fun."
"While I know that and you might know that, she doesn't. She's only four
years old. Right now she's probably crying to my mother that I just hung
up on her while she was singing her song to her new Auntie Bella and my
mother is wondering who the hell that is," he ran a nervous hand through
his hair.
"Well maybe you should call her back," I offered.
"No, in truth, I never should have answered it in the first place," he
walked over to the sink to rinse the lettuce.
Thankfully, Angela walked in and broke up the tension.
"Bella!" She squealed, running over to me.
"Hey girl!" I held out my arms to her.
"Damn I missed you," she held me at arm's length, smiling.
"Me too. I'm so glad you're here."
"Well, it smells good. What are you making?" she peeked over my
shoulder towards the bacon.
"Edward and I were making BLT's."
"Edward?" She asked.
"Yes, my new sous chef," I waved toward him as he walked our way with
the bowl of washed lettuce.
"Oh. Um, hi Edward."
Did Angela just fan girl on me? Fuck, she did. Damn.
"Hi Angela," he wiped his wet hand on his apron and held it out to her.
"Hi Edward," she said again, fucking blushing this time.
"Angela is my head waitress," I interrupted her drooling and put my hand
on her shoulder, requesting silently that she 'step away from the fresh
man meat'.
"Angie!!" Emmett tossed down the bags in his hands and swept her up
into a bear hug as she ran towards him.
"Teddy Bear!" she giggled as he lifted her up off the ground.
"Damn girl, you get better looking every time I see you!" He pulled back
and smiled at her.
"So this is the girl Emmett has been crushing on?" Edward whispered over
to me, tilting his head towards mine.
"What? He has?"
"You didn't know?" He chuckled.
"Fuck no," I looked back them as they stared into each other face.
"Emmett! Put Angela down. You have shit to do, starting with my
apology," my hands hugged my hips.
"I'm sorry that I thought it was Edward answering Edward's phone," he
glared at his brother.
"I'm dead fucking serious Emmett!"
"Alright, damn. I'm sorry I said you we're being a bitch. I know today is
stressful and I shouldn't have been talking crap behind your back."
"And?"
"Andyou're the best boss ever," he grumbled.
"Much better," I grabbed up one of the bags from the table and took it
over to where the rest of the lunch fixings were.
"Take Angela and show her around while we get lunch going."
"Sure thing, come on kid," he held out his arm to her and she clung to it
as they exited.
"Will you start frying the eggs while I assemble these please?" I asked
Edward.
"Yes Chef," he smiled.
"I can't believe Emmett is crushing on Angela. This restaurant is turning
into a fucking Jerry episode faster than I can keep up with."
"So I take it you don't endorse in house dating?" Edward chuckled.
"No fucking way, especially not when it comes to management. The
waiters and shit I could really care less as long as they keep the drama
out of here, but I expect anyone with authority to know better," I
topped my last sammy with the bacon and plated them up, waiting for
the eggs.
"Well, Emmett is too afraid to ask her out anyhow, so I'm sure you have
nothing to worry about," he set an egg on top of one of the sandwiches
as I held the tray.
"Speaking of remaining professional, I am sorry about before. The truth is
that as your boss I shouldn't have allowed you to take a personal call in
here. It wasn't your fault."
"I'm an adult, I know better," he shrugged, slipping another egg on a new
sandwich.
"Regardless, I didn't mean to upset you or your little girl. I guess when
you don't have kids you don't really think about stuff like that," I set
the tray down and topped the two sammy's that were complete.
"It's fine. I tend to overreact when it comes to Ness anyhow. Natural
instinct to protect your young I guess," he smiled.
"Truce?" I held a sandwich to him.
"Truce," he took it and tapped it against mine before we each took a
bite.
"Holymovverofgawd," I said wiping my chin of runny yolk.
"Goodhuh?" He mumbled back with his own yolk running down.
"Fwuckyay!" I laughed before swallowing.
"I told you," he wiped his chin and then reached over to my face, wiping
away the yolk.
"I guess I should have warned you about the mess though," he chuckled.
"That's alright. I'm assuming you do a lot of this sort of thing," I
laughed, pointing towards him wiping my face like a child.
"True," he smiled back.
"Maybe we should eat at the table," I picked up the tray and carried it
over with him following me.
"Do you want me to call Emmett and Angela?" He asked.
"Nah, he'll come when he smells it. He's like a bear," I took a seat and
Edward slid in across from me.
I watched as Edward took another big bite and smiled. I loved watching
him eat. He was so manly - gulping down large mouthfuls and barely
coming up for air. It was so animalistic. Sure, some might be grossed out
by this, but I fucking cooked for a living; seeing a man devour what I set
before him was the best form of flattery I could receive.
Plus, he did a lot of lip licking, which had Butterbean thumping away like
that furry little fucker from Bambi.
Friday 2:30 P.M.
I stood out back having my afternoon smoke as I waited for the rest of
the staff to arrive. I loved bonding time. For a few hours, it made me
feel like I had a family; like I was just any old Jane. The celeb status
bullshit went away and I was almost like a kid again.
"Hey, can I bum one of those?" Edward poked his head out the door and
I smiled at him.
"Thought you didn't smoke Flower Child?"
"You're a bad influence on me," he shrugged, coming the rest of the way
out.
"Here," I handed him over my half smoked stick.
"Plus, my nerves are shot to hell," he took a long pull of smoke and
passed it back.
"You'll be fine," I chuckled, taking a puff and passing it back.
"I hope so," he took another puff and then tipped it to me asking if I
wanted the last hit to which I declined.
"I'm gonna use the restroom before we go," he flicked the cigarette
away.
"Try not to puke," I teased as he ducked back inside.
I licked my lips and smiled, tasting both the menthol from the cigarette
and Edward's sweet saliva on my lips. Smoking is bad for your health my
ass. I was feeling pretty fucking good right now.
"Take this!" I turned back to see to big blue eyes with chubby cheeks
staring back at me.
"What?" I asked as Emmett shoved her into my arms.
"I have to check in the vendor before we go and I can't find him," he
turned back around and I raced in after him.
"What the hell do I do with this thing?!" I held her out in front of me
like she was a ticking time bomb.
"That thing is my daughter," Edward was walking towards me with his
arms out.
"Daddy!" She wiggled and he grabbed her up before I dropped her.
"Hey baby girl," he kissed her forehead and she smiled wide at him, like
he was the one who had fame attached to him.
"Sorry, Emmett just flung her at me and ran off."
"It's alright. Ness, this is Auntie Bella. Bella, this is Renesmee," he smiled
proudly as he stared at her and she coiled shyly against him.
"Hi Renesmee," I stuck out my hand towards her, but it was more like a
witch curling her fingers as the germ factor came into play for me and I
cringed slightly, taking them back.
"She isn't going to bite you," Edward chuckled.
"I know, but that thing is probably covered in germs and I have real
issues germs, as I'm sure you already know."
"Do you mind not referring to my daughter as that thing?"
"I meant her hand."
"I don't wav gurms," she huddled against Edward, hiding in his neck.
"Of course you do baby. You're loaded with them," he pretended to pluck
something from her hair, "See, there's one right here," he pretended to
eat it and she raised her head, giggling at him.
"There's another one," he plunked another and ate it too.
"Bella would you like one? They are really quite tasty," he held his
fingers out to me and winked.
"Sure, but only if they taste good," I chuckled, taking the fake germs
from him.
"Oh, they do. Nessie germs are the best tasting germs ever," he nuzzled
her neck and she squealed against him.
"Well, if you say so," I pretended to eat mine, "Mmm, those are good. I
might have to put them on the menu," I smiled at her and she giggled
back to me.
"Weely?!" She asked surprised and I remembered what Edward said
earlier about children taking what you say to heart.
"Um, actually now that I think about it," Edward gave me a nervous look,
but he had nothing to fear, "I don't think your daddy would like sharing
your germs, because he seems to like them a lot. Maybe we could have a
Nessie dessert on the menu though? What is your favorite sweet, hun?"
"Um" She scrunched her face as she thought and Edward whispered in
her ear.
"Apool pie," Edward whispered in her ear again.
"Wif vanyella ouce keem," she smiled.
"That's pretty yummy," I smiled back at her and Edward kissed her
chubby cheek.
"Ready to go Flower Child?" I asked him, glad that I dodged a bullet.
"Yup. Ness?"
"Wets Go!" She bounced in his arms and he chuckled again.
"Want to ride with me?" I asked.
"Oh, um, I should probably take my car. I already have her car seat and
everything in it."
"Oh," I nodded.
"You can ride with me if you want?" He offered.
"Peeeze?" Nessie reached out towards me.
"Uh, we could still take my car. I even have a DVD player so she can
watch a movie in the head rests. We'll just swap her car seat."
"Don't like not being in charge do you?" He grinned.
"I just want to make up for earlier," I lied.
"Is that so? What type of movies do you have that would be suitable for
a four year old?" He challenged.
"For your information, Finding Nemo happens to be one of my favorite
movies of all time."
"Nemo!!" Nessie yelled.
"Ah, looks like she wants to ride with me," I grinned, pushing out through
the front door.
"Nemo? You have watched Finding Nemo?" He pulled his keys from his
pocket and disabled the alarm on his car.
"Yes. Why does that surprise you?" I unlocked my own car, walking
towards it.
"I just couldn't picture you watching an animated film about clown fish,"
he chuckled as we crossed the street.
"It is not about clown fish. It is about perseverance and overcoming
obstacles. Shit, you really think Dori was just talking about swimming,
Flower Child?"
"You said bad word!" Nessie covered her mouth.
"Sorry kid," We went our separate ways to our cars and I opened the
driver's side door to climb in.
My car was pretty clean, except for a few a papers in the driver's side
seat. Tucked them under the visor, I made sure to clear the seats before
I started the engine. I revved the engine a few times, knowing it was
way too hot for Edward's little girl to sit in the back. Once it was a
cooler, I made sure to pop in Nemo for her. I was glad I had changed
clothes before we left, wearing a pair of Capri style jeans and a light
grey tank top now with flip flops. I would have been sweating like a
whore in church otherwise.
Edward came walking towards the car with the car seat in one hand and
Nessie in the other, with a bag slung over his shoulder. Traveling with
children sure looked like a lot of trouble. I climbed out of the car and
walked around to the other side, opening the back door and reaching my
hand out for hers, to which she skipped happily over and grabbed.
"Thanks," Edward smiled and began to place the car seat inside.
I watched in amazement as he figured out how to get that thing
strapped in. There was no way I would ever make it as a parent, not that
my ovaries were getting any type of workout anyhow. How the heck did
he know all this stuff? He was all of twenty two and Christ that meant
he had this girl when he was only like eighteen. Babies having babies.
Now, we were on the God damned Maury show. Lord knows, he had the
right baby mamma picked out.
Friday 4:35 P.M.
I mopped the floor with his ass.
Actually I mopped the floor with all of their asses. I was the queen of
air hockey and yeah, they could all go suck it.
"I told you not to play Bella in air hockey," Emmett laughed as he
grabbed for a slice of pizza.
"So I've learned," Edward smiled, cutting up a slice with Nessie on his
lap.
"Bella always liked beating the boys," Angela winked as she took a seat
next to Emmett.
"Yeah well, Bella can't help it. It's the only man on woman action she
gets," Emmett chuckled and I slapped him playfully.
"Do you mind?" Edward looked down to Ness, who was paying more
attention to her pizza than us.
"You're too over protective, you know that?" Emmett took a bite of his
pizza leaning towards Edward.
"Yeah, I do," Edward smiled back, feeding a bite to Ness then taking one
for him.
"She's gotta learn to be independent someday."
"Hey, hey. This is supposed to be a bonding night. Leave your brother
bashing for some other time," I plopped down another piece of pizza on
Emmett's plate.
"Thank you, Bella," Edward smiled at me and I winked back at him.
"Can Nessie come play with us?" One of the waiter's boys came up
tugging on Edward's arm.
"Want to go play, Ness?" He tilted his head and asked and she shook her
head shyly at him.
"It's alright, he is a nice boy," he smiled at her but she clung harder to
him.
"Come on Ness! Let Uncle Emmett show you how to bury a boy in the ball
pit," Emmett stood up and held out his arms for her.
"So much for independence," Edward smiled handing her over.
"I'm her Uncle. It's my job to keep the perverts off."
"He's all but seven years old Em'," Edward snickered.
"Yeah, well I was seven once and I know what I was thinking about. It
damn sure wasn't G.I. Joe," he hoisted Nessie up on his shoulders and
reached for Angela with his other hand.
"Two hands Emmett, two hands!" Edward freaked.
"Calm down, damn. You're going to get grey hair before your twenty five,
kid," Emmett chuckled and took off with Nessie and Angela toward the
infamous ball pit.
"He's right you know," I snickered.
"You're gonna pick on me too?"
"I'm not picking, but you do need to relax. She's just playing with other
kids," I smiled.
"It scares her."
"Playing with other kids?"
"She sort of had a bad experience a year ago," his jaw tightened as he
poked at his pizza.
"What happened?" I asked softly, turning my body to face him.
"Jess was supposed to watch her while I was working my shift, and she
got called in to work at the bar. When I got to her house that night
after my shift ended, no one was home and I freaked out thinking
something had happened to her. When I called Jess, she told me she
dropped her off at the neighbor's house. I wanted to fucking kill her. I
mean she didn't call my parents; she just left her with some lady next
door. When I went there, Ness was huddled in the corner crying and a
few of the kids were picking on her. The lady wasn't even watching
them," he stabbed angrily at his pizza with the fork and I assumed he
was picturing either his ex's face or the kids who were picking on his
daughter.
"Shit. That's fucked up Edward. I'm surprised Jessica is still breathing. If
I were in your shoes, I'd have her ass buried under a field of corn
somewhere as the steaming bowl readied its self on the stove."
"Believe me, it weren't for Emmett that night, she would have been," he
tossed down his fork and clasped his hands in his lap.
"Emmett is still right though. I know it sucks to see her scared, but she
needs to see that she can have fun with kids too."
"I know. I just wish I could get my heart to catch up with my brain," he
smiled crookedly at me.
"It will."
Friday 5:12 P.M.
Edward and I walked back into the restaurant while he waited for his
mother to pick up Nessie. As I walked passed the bar, I saw his picture
and got an idea for something I promised earlier.
"I'll be right back," I told him as I strolled towards my office.
Once inside I grabbed up my camera and made my way back out to the
bar where Edward had seated Nessie and she looked a midget on the bar
stool.
"Why don't you sit her on the bar top?" I clicked on my camera.
"What are you doing?" He eyed me carefully.
"Well, if the dessert on my menu is going to be approved by your
daughter, then I need a picture as proof," I smiled.
"Shouldn't she get some type of royalties out of this deal?" Edward
teased as he sat her on the bar's counter top.
"Don't worry. I'll make sure to take care of her," I winked.
"Smile for Bella, baby," he held her waist, but moved his head to the
side so I could snap just her.
"Say best apple pie ever," I chuckled, getting ready to click at the first
sign of teeth.
"Bessappolpieevur," she giggled and I snapped.
"Now if I could just get her to sign this contract," I teased.
"Get away from my daughter before you corrupt her," he chuckled,
picking her back up into his arms.
I walked around to the back of the bar and grabbed a marker scribbling
out:
Our Apple Pie was voted 'best ever' by Miss Nessie Cullen. I'm mean -
look at this face, would it lie?
I drew an arrow up to her face and then slid it over to her.
"Sign your name sweetie," I held the marker to her and Edward helped
her scribble out her name.
I tacked the picture up next to his and I caught his eye scrunching as he
was trying to read what I wrote the night before. He smiled once he did
and then looked to me. I just shrugged and took off towards the back.
Friday 5:45 P.M.
Bounce. Bounce. Bounce. Bounce.
I flipped on that fucking song as loud as it would go. Sure, it was a little
cheesy and truthfully, Mariah Carey irritated the holy fuck out of me,
but I liked it anyhow and I needed a good song right now to wake my ass
up. I would have popped in Linkin Park and played my usual Faint or some
shit like that, but I smashed the fucker last week when it kept skipping
in my damn car's CD player.
Cheap Chinese bullshit.
We had fifteen minutes to go before we opened, and I was in the kitchen
chopping my heart out and making sure everything was in good order.
Edward walked in and I saw a smile on his face when he took in the song
I was playing. He stood on the opposite side of the steel table and
started on his duties. I was in the zone as the music relaxed me and I
faded into the rhythm of it, blocking everything out - until the bitch
starting singing the hook again.
If you inked up thug'n that's what I like
Okay, Edward was far from a thug, but he had serious ink going under
that jacket. Fucking butterbean made sure to remind me of that shit as
soon as she heard the word come out of the little songbird's mouth. I was
then, of course, thinking about him in the fucking black tank from last
night and yeah, you know what? Edward would make a hot fucking inked
up thug.
There, I said it.
"Time B," Emmett held the door open and gave me the signal that all the
staff members were ready.
"Coming," I clicked off the song and told Edward to follow me.
I walked into the dining room and then behind the bar to address the
staff. My speeches were not the norm and I saw Emmett trying to hold
his composure as he knew what was to come. I took a deep breath and
closed my eyes.
"Fucking mother fucking hell on a God damned donkey dick with extra
cheese on the side! Fuck!"
There were several snickers, a lot more gasps, one 'holy shit' and of
course Emmett and Edward's distinct laughter.
"You're next, give it all you got," I pointed to a skinny kid down in front
named Ben.
"Um, what?" He asked nervously.
"Tonight is going to be the worst fucking night of your life. I suggest
getting it all out now, kid," I pointed to him again.
"Uh," he tugged at his collar and looked around nervously.
I walked around from the bar and leaned towards the kid.
"I ordered extra sauce! My fucking mash is cold! This table is fucking
dirty! I said Diet coke! What are you fucking retarded!? I want to see a
manager! I'm not paying for this shit! This is dry! I need extra napkins!
Got any more ketchup?! What's taking so long?!"
"Stop! Fucking stop! Shit!" He covered his ears and cringed back from me.
"That's what you're gonna face tonight kid. Care to scream some
obscenities now or would you rather just fucking implode?" I rested my
hands on my hips and he lowered his hands.
He took a few deep breathes while he gathered courage.
"Get your own fucking napkins biiiiitch!" He tipped on his toes in my face
and I fucking laughed, throwing my head back.
"Well, done," I patted his shoulder and stepped back, leaning on the bar.
"Next," I nodded to Angela who I knew would not disappoint.
"If you fucking monkey cock sucking mother fuckers keep putting in
entrees before fucking apps I swear to Mary fucking Christ, I will
castrate each and every lame playboy jerking off mother of fuck one of
you!"
Oh, but she wasn't done.
"And to the kitchen," she pointed towards Edward, "Fuck me on times
tonight and I will be sure to cut holes in your fucking cheffie's so
everyone can see what shriveled little dicks and pussies you have. Bella,
in particular, because we all know hers is dry as the fucking desert!"
A loud round of applause took hold and I had to give it to her, she
burned me good.
"Flower Child?" I grinned, not knowing if Mr. Perfect was up to the
challenge.
"I've dealt with the mother of my child for the last four fucking years. I
think I've used up my best material," he grinned.
"Fine, Emmett?" I started pass him, a little disappointed that he wouldn't
play.
"I didn't say I wasn't going to participate," Edward interrupted.
Or maybe he was.
"Go on then," I smiled.
"I think I'd like to give everyone a name," he looked to the front of the
line where Ben stood.
"I know you will be the first to fuck me over tonight. You have shaky
hands and you're going to ruin my fucking plating, which is going to really
piss me off. You're officially fucking Weeble Wobbles," he pointed and I
covered my mouth laughing as he moved along.
"You're going to be bitchy to the customers, it is written all over your
face which means they are going to take it out on the food, which is
going to back us up, so you're officially Queen of the Kitchen Fuck," he
kept going.
"You're just too obvious so I'll let you slide for now," he passed up the
shy looking guy, turning to Angela, "You're obviously gunning for us and I
swear if my fucking pants end up with holes in them I will not hesitate to
use extreme force in retaliationI'm talking no holds barred
AngelaSorry, I mean, Knob Gobbler," he grinned leaning in to her.
"Knob Gobbler?!" She placed her hand on her chest in faux horror.
"Yeah, because if you cut a hole in my fucking cheffies, that is exactly
what you're going be doing," he gave her a look that made my thoughts
from earlier about him being an inked up thug come to life.
I was in utter fan girl mode.
"I'm done," he shrugged casually, looking back towards me.
"What about me?" I asked smiling.
"You let my daughter pick out dessert for the menu; you're safe - for
now," he winked.
"Emmett?"
Friday 9:45 P.M.
I snuck out back for a quick smoke, putting Edward in charge of the
kitchen. I needed a fucking break. Coffee wasn't doing shit for me and I
was fading fast now that the rush was dying down. I knew Edward must
have been hurting too, having been here with me all day, but I had to
take a break first. I knew my limit and I was at the edge. The high from
the cigarette woke me up a little, but it also increased the dizziness
which was already bad from not sleeping the night before. I stumbled on
my way back in, but steadied myself before anyone could notice.
There was a kid at the pass arguing with Edward and I stayed out of
view, watching. It was some cocky kid Emmett hired. I didn't care for him
too much, but apparently he impressed Emmett. After observing him
disrespecting Edward though, I decided that Emmett better get a higher
standard for the hiring process.
"Well the lady wants it fried," he pushed the plate towards Edward.
"We don't fry fucking steaks, Eric," Flower Child leaned on the pass,
towering over shrimpy Eric.
"She's our customer and that's what she wants," he leaned towards
Edward.
"Well I'd like to wake up to a blow job every morning and not a four
year old with shitting issues, but we don't always get what we want now,
do we? So, take your fucking plate off my pass and tell the bitch if she
wants fried beef to check out fucking McDonald's," Edward held his
ground and that was good.
I knew that because after spending endless sleepless nights watching The
Dog Whisperer marathon on Animal Planet, Cesar had shown me that the
leader of the pack never leaves first.
Unless you want to get bit on the ass that is.
"Fine!" Eric huffed, pushing off the pass and walking back out to the
dining room.
"Well done," I applauded, coming out of the shadows.
"Sorry," Edward said looking over at me.
"For what?"
"Not handling that better."
"You handled it perfectly. We don't lower our fucking standards for
anyone. I don't give a shit if it's the Pope out there wanting a fried
steak. I'd tell him to go suck it too. You would make Cesar proud," I
smiled.
"Who?"
"Never mind," I chuckled.
"Did you get a chance to smoke? You weren't gone very long," he looked
at me concerned.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Go, it's your turn," I pulled my smokes from my apron
and offered him one.
"My mother's going to kill me if she smells this on me," he chuckled,
pulling one from the pack.
"Still afraid of mommy, Edward?" I teased.
"You have no idea," he backed out the door, smiling.
Saturday 12:39 A.M.
The kitchen was finally closed, but the bar was not. I pulled off my chef
coat and left Edward giving orders to the boys as they cleaned up from
service. Mamma needed a drink.
"Hey boss," Jasper gave me a wave over the bar top and I strolled into
the one seat at the end that was free.
"Hey Jazzis it okay if I call you Jazz?"
"Sure darling. I don't mind," he winked.
"How is it going tonight?" I asked.
"It's great, having fun, making great tips - enjoying the scenery," he
winked at me again. "Good, just remember to wear a raincoat if you go
home with any of the ladies, alright?" I teased.
"Sure thing darling. What can I get you Miss Bella?"
"Wine. Red. Sweet," I rested my head against my palm and he chuckled
softly.
"Yes ma' dear. Coming right up," he backed up from the bar and searched
for my wine.
He was odd, but I liked him. His words were so old and gentlemanly,
despite his black mo' hawk and rocker clothes he wore. The ladies seemed
to like him though and he moved well behind the bar. I was pretty sure
he was a good pick for this place.
"Here you go darling," he set down my wine and quickly moved on to the
next customer, who I recognized as Alice from the bakery across the
street.
I was going to say hello, but she seemed rather engrossed in her
conversation with Jasper, so I picked up my glass and strolled back to
the kitchen to see what Edward was up to.
He was nowhere to be found though.
I noticed the back door was propped open and I figured he was probably
out there, so I went snooping. He smiled at me as he held his phone to his
ear and then pulled it away, pressing a key and held it up to mine. It
was Nessie and she was saying that she had a lot of fun today with
Daddy and Auntie Bella.
And that she thought I was pretty.
He laughed and pulled it back, clicking it off and tucking it back into his
pocket.
"She's just got moved up my list of favorite people," I smiled, taking a
swig of wine.
"She's pretty good at that," he smiled back, sitting on a stack of pallets
that were beside the door and groaned.
"Tired?" I walked over and took a seat beside him.
"A little," he looked up to the sky.
"Smoke?" I held out a cigarette to him with the lighter.
"Sure, why not. If I'm going to get my ass handed to me I might as well
get as much pleasure out of it as possible, right?" He put in his lips and
lit the end.
"Wine?" I tipped the glass to him.
"No, I have a long drive up to my folks," he took a long pull of smoke and
handed it to me.
"So what do you think? Hate the job yet?" I took a puff and passed it
back to him.
"No. I like it, I just have to get used to the long days," he took a drag,
but held on to it this time, bringing his legs up on the pallet and hugging
them with his arms.
"It will get better," I rubbed a hand on his back, and what was supposed
to be a simple gesture felt like a lot more as I coursed my hand over his
muscular body. Butterbean went into overdrive.
He closed his eyes and groaned a little as I dug a little deeper, applying
pressure to the knots in his neck. I wasn't sure what the fuck I was
doing, surely I did not give my fucking employees massages, but I couldn't
stop myself. It was like a fucking magnetic force was pulling me in, and I
couldn't recoil. Edward took another drag of the cigarette, keeping his
eyes closed and allowing me to grind my fingers into his neck.
"Better?" I asked in a voice I didn't know. It was low and
fuckingseductive?
"Mmm, much," he raised his head up and I pulled my hand back as he
passed me the cigarette and I took it with a shaky hand.
"You look exhausted," he said looking at my face, intently.
"I didn't get very good sleep very night," I shrugged.
"You can't even talk Bella," he chuckled once.
"What?"
"That sentence made no sense. I seriously doubt a few sips of wine are
what's causing it."
"I'm fine," I shook my head and the motion made the outside world start
to move in a way I knew it shouldn't.
"Bella," he grabbed my arms and steadied me as I swayed.
"Okay, maybe I'm a little fucked up," I giggled.
"You shouldn't drive home," he let one arm remain around my waist,
slightly propping me up against his body.
His nice warm, good smelling body.
"I might as well just sleep in my office," I chuckled.
"No, I'll take you home," he rubbed my arm with his hand.
"It's alright, Angela or someone can do it. You're tired too. Plus you have
the kid, remember?" I looked to him and my vision was improving.
There were now two Edwards.
"She's in bed dreaming happily. An extra twenty minutes or so won't hurt.
Plus, you'll have to wait for Angela to close up. We're already done," he
flicked the cigarette away and slid off the pallets, keeping one hand on
me and then turned around to reach for me, pulling me down to him.
He kept one hand on my waist as we walked back inside and helped me
into my office, sitting me down into the chair. That was all I remembered
before I was being lifted up into warm arms.
Saturday 1:25 A.M.
I woke up to the sound of a dinging bell.
I was moving, but couldn't feel my legs. My eyes blinked open as I forced
myself to see what the hell was going on.
"Shh, go back to sleep," I heard clicking and looked up to seeEdward?
What the fuck was I doing with Edward? I tilted my head forward and
saw that he was in front of a door.
My door.
"What are you doing?" I croaked.
"You fell asleep," he pushed the key card in and kicked the door open.
"I did?" I looked up to him and he was smiling down at me.
"Yeah, in your office before I came for you," he sat me down on the bed
and then set my purse next to me.
"How did you know I was staying here?" I looked around nervously.
Edward wasn't some creepy stalker was he? I tried to think of the
defense course I took while living in New York.
You smash the nose into the brain or go for the balls.
I eyed his nuts.
"I didn't, but Emmett did. I had to go through your purse to find your
key though, considering I no idea which room was yours. You should know
the front desk does a wonderful job at keeping that a secret," he
grinned.
"Good to know," I looked around awkwardly, having Edward standing in
my room and not so sure what to do about that.
I knew what I wanted to do, but obviously that wasn't going to happen.
"You should get some rest," he walked over and clicked off one of the
lights housekeeping always keeps on.
"Edward?" I called, knowing I only had seconds before he would be gone.
"Yes, Bella?" He turned back to me.
"Will you just stay until I fall asleep?" It was an odd request, and I
panicked thinking he would surely laugh at me or run.
"Of course," he shrugged, walking over to a small chair.
"Thanks," I debated then whether or not to change my clothes. I opted
not to, both for the fact that it would be awkward, and the fact that I
was just way too fucking tired.
I pulled down the covers and crawled underneath as sleep called out to
me, the pillow begging to have my head lay on it. I felt him before I saw
him. Edward was at the foot of the bed, pulling up the covers and took
one of my feet into his hands.
"You're just like my daughter when she's sleepy; crawling into bed with
your shoes on," he tugged one of my shoes off and tossed it down, giving
a light massage to the bottom of my foot that felt heavenly. He repeated
his movements on the other foot and remained sitting on the edge of the
bed as I began to drift off.
"Goodnight Bella," was the last thing I heard him say.
1:35 A.M.
I was tucked in, sleeping soundly with Edward sitting on my bed. Not
alone for the first time years.












Chapter 3: "The Challenge"
Edward
XXX
It was the massage.
I had been debating in my head all day if Bella had been throwing me
signals. I saw the way she stole peeks at me from the corner of her eye,
the picture behind the counter that claimed her to like my smile and the
fact that she smiled all wide and bright at my daughter- but it was the
massage that solidified my suspicions.
So now here I was, driving away from her hotel with her scent all over
me and the memory of her warm body in my arms. I felt dirty, like when
my mother caught me jerking it to her JC Penny catalog's Junior Miss
section was I was twelve.
It had been way too damn long since a female other than my child or my
mother had touched me. Feeling Bella's delicate hands working the kinks
in my neck and back was like relighting a fire I had forgotten was even
able to burn.
It shocked the shit out of me though.
Did she not just tell me a few hours earlier that she didn't condone in
house dating- making sure to point out that it was especially not
tolerated among those with authority? I was her sous Chef and she was
my boss, surly that was about as high up the authority ladder one could
get, yes?
Bella was my boss. I could not be allowing these feelings to come to life.
When I say these feelings, I mean the shit I had been feeling for the
past two days, not whatever the hell was going on her head- even
though, that was definitely something to consider.
There were so many levels of screwed going on here I would need to
borrow fingers to count. Not only did I work for her, making a romantic
relationship highly inappropriate, but I really did need this job and took
it very seriously. The most important factor however was that I simply
didn't just go around humping and dumping. I was a father and Ness came
first and foremost in my world- which meant that I didn't.
Cum that is.
Unless I was alone in the shower, but that was about it.
Jessica brought a new man into her life like she was changing underwear,
which irritated me to no end. It was hard enough on Ness that we were
separated, did she really have to make it worse by allowing her vagina to
be a rotating door?
I didn't want Ness to grow up thinking that type of behavior was
acceptable. Nor did I want her to think she was ever second fiddle to
anything in my life.
She was number one- period.
My dick would just have to suffer until it inevitably fell off.
Which I'm sure would be about any day now.
I put the Volvo in park once I reached my parent's house and performed
my best interpretation of a hunch back as I made my way up to the front
door. Man, was I super sore and hella tired. I had no idea how I was
going to be able to get up in the morning, not mention get through the
next two nights.
I knocked on the front door softly, knowing better than to ring the bell
and wake up Ness. My body leaned against the wall as I waited for
someone to answer and I wondered why I just didn't use my damn key.
Oh yeah, because I had an extreme fear of catching Carlisle and Esme
getting there sex on.
Again.
"Hey honey. Come in," my mother tugged on my arm and gave me a kiss
on the cheek as I crossed the threshold.
"How is she?" I paid no attention to where I tossed down my dirty chef
coat in my attempt to get to the staircase.
"She's fine. Sleeping sound," Esme wrapped an arm around me as we
walked, but she moved away quickly.
"What?" I looked down to her.
"You stink," She chuckled.
"Sorry, hot kitchen ya' know," I smiled.
"Why don't you take a shower and stay here tonight? You look spent. I
don't want you driving with my grand baby so tired."
"That doesn't sound like a bad idea, plus leaving in the morning will be a
lot easier."
I was not a fan of spending any more time than necessary at my folks,
but I was super tired and risking driving home that way with Ness wasn't
even an option. I would just have to suck it up and put on my big boy
pants.
"There are fresh towels in your bathroom. I put them there this
afternoon. You looked tired when I dropped Nessie off to you," Esme
rubbed my cheek lovingly.
"I don't live here anymore, mom. I don't have a bathroom." She would
never allow herself to admit this fact.
"It will always be your bathroom Edward. Matter of fact, someday this
will all be yours."
See what I mean?
"You sound like a member of the God Father or something," I chuckled
walking past her, making my way up the stairs.
Almost there baby girl.
"Wake up that baby and I will be sure to show you my little friend," she
warned, giving her best Al Pacino.
My mother was much scarier though.
***
I cracked open Nessie's door slowly, being careful not to let it creak. She
was only illuminated by a soft nightlight that spun shadows of dancing
fairies around the room. My baby looked precious, sleeping with her little
hands tucked under her chubby cheeks while her little pink lips pouted
out.
I walked silently over to her and kneeled by her face, pulling her covers
up higher around her and planting a feather light kiss to both her
forehead and cheek. It was like she always knew when I was in her
presence though, no matter how quiet I was. Her long lashes fluttered
like butterfly wings as she smiled a sleepy happy face at me, before her
hands found their way to my face.
"Stay sleeping baby. Daddy just wanted to say goodnight." I kissed her
face again, breathing in her sweet warmth that told my aching body to
shut it.
She was worth the pain.
"We go home?" She whispered.
"Not tonight, daddy is staying here with you." Her fingers rubbed
through my hair as I leaned my face against hers.
"You seep hewer?" Here voice went up an octave.
"Yes, but you have to go back to sleep, or grandma will spank Daddy." I
chuckled softly.
"I want you to seep hewer." She patted her bed.
"I will, but daddy has to take a shower first. " I leaned away and gave
her a kiss.
"Kay, but den you come back, whight?" Her eyes looked trustfully up into
mine.
"Then I come back, promise." I punctuated my words with one last kiss to
her face.
***
It was always an odd feeling whenever I was back in my old room at my
parent's house. So much messed up crap had happened here. Nessie's bed
might have been too small for me to be comfortable in, but it was a hell
of lot better than spending the night alone in my own.
I hated this room.
After I quickly gathered some clothing I kept here for the unexpected
overnight stays- such as tonight- I made my way to the bathroom
adjacent to Ness's room and tossed them down on the counter top.
I opened the top left drawer to the vanity, retrieving the remote control
for the flat screen my mother so brilliantly had installed inside of the
shower wall.
Yeah, you heard me right.
I flipped it on to ESPN and began to strip down as I listened to
recapping of games I missed, cursing when I heard Emmet's team had
won.
Again.
There goes that twenty bucks.
I made sure to roll out the bathmat Esme stored in the closet because
she thought it was, as she says, 'too ugly for words' before I turned on
the water. If I dared to assault my mother's Italian tiles with evil wet
footprints, she would surly have my ass. I'm pretty surprised she didn't
say anything about the smoking. I did smell rather foul though, maybe
she didn't notice due to the B.O.
The room started to fog and I flipped on the ventilator switch so I could
get a clear view of the TV as I stepped through the glass shower doors.
The hot water from the rain shower over head felt heavenly as it ran its
course over my body, awakening and soothing my sore muscles at the
same time. I cupped some water in my palms and brought it to my face,
rubbing briskly against my cheeks that felt in need of shaving. I would
remedy that in the morning though. Tonight, I just wanted to be clean,
jerk off and go to sleep.
Working on the clean part, I grabbed for bar of soap and began to lather
it up in my hands. As I washed, I began to laugh, thinking to myself
about how Bella would no doubt throw a fit if she knew I was the type
who started with my feet. She would probably go a rant about how your
face would smell like your ass if you didn't start there first. Of course
thinking Bella made me move quickly through the remainder of my
washing and hurry along to the jerking off part. I raised the volume on
the TV slightly, being careful to not wake up Ness, since her room was
only next door. My back leaned against the wall facing the screen and I
imagined Bella was bent in front of me.
No wait.
What did I say tonight? I wanted a blow job.
Right. Blow Job.
Bella was on the opposite side of the shower sitting on the tiled seat
below the flat screen. Her long leg was propped up exposing her sweet
center to me as she allowed her fingers to play with herself. Her long
chestnut colored hair looked black from being wet and clung to her face
and along her body like a spider web wrapping itself along her moist
form.
"You like touching yourself in front of me, don't you?" I asked her as I
began stroking my cock.
"Yes Chef," She moaned back to me, allowing to of her fingers to slip in
and out of her.
"Come over here," I commanded, stroking harder.
Bella walked over to me, keeping her caramel eyes on mine. She wrapped
her fingers around my neck and started her same massage from earlier.
My hand cupped under the swell of her breast and I imagined what
licking her taut nipple would be like.
Probably as sweet as how she tasted on the filter of her cigarettes she
shared with me.
I stroked harder, allowing my palm to slide over the head of my cock and
then run along my length.
"On your knees," I released her from my hand and she obeyed, sliding her
hands down my chest until she reached where I wanted her.
"Take it all," She obeyed once again, placing me in her mouth and not
stopping until I hit the back of her throat.
"Mmm, so good Bella," I stroked harder as she fucked me with her
mouth.
She was good, too good. This wasn't going to take long. I thought about
her smell and how good her hands felt on me tonight. The way she
laughed and how her pants clung to her ass like a second skin at our
group bonding session. Her lips and how she slowly licked the foamy
topping from around the ring of her mug this morning
"I'm. Gonna. Come." I gave one last stroke and shuddered, coming down
Bella's throat.
"Edward?"
Fuck.
"Who are you talking to?" My mother called from outside the door.
I took a deep breath to steady myself as I came back to reality. The
score was flashing on the flat screen and no sexy Bella sat under it or
before me.
"No one mom. It's just the TV."
I walked back under the stream and began to rinse myself off, giving one
last peek to the empty bench where my fantasy started.
No one.
~~*~~
I climbed into Ness's bed to find her still awake. My arms encircled her
as she crawled across my chest, nuzzling her head down into my neck. I
let my fingers rake softly through her delicate curls, resting my head
gently against hers.
"Wuv you daddy," She whispered and kissed softly to my neck while her
little hand patted my cheek.
"Love you too baby. Sweet dreams," I grabbed her hand into mine and
allowed her tiny fingers to rest on my lips while I tried to drift off to
sleep.
"Daddy?"
"Yes baby?"
"Bewwa is petty."
"Yes she is honey. Go to sleep," I chuckled softly.
"Es she gonna pay wif us timowwoah?" Her head tried to lift from my
neck, but I held her against me, knowing what game she was up to.
"Renessme go to sleep. We can talk about Bella in the morning." I
started to hum the lullaby that always worked for putting her to bed.
"Kay," She sighed.
I pulled the covers up, covering them over her and trapping all of her
warmth inside. She began to snore softly and I felt her go limp against
my chest. My lips mouthed a small prayer of protection for her and I
kissed her head again before I closed my eyes and allowed myself to
drift off into my own dreams.
~~*~~
"Wake UP!"
There was a thirty two pound miniature human jumping on my chest.
"Daddy's sleeping Ness." I tried to grab her but she was all fired up and
my eyes couldn't pry themselves apart to find her.
"Wake up Daddy!" She bounced harder against me and I bit my lip to
keep myself from cursing when she accidentally hit me in the nuts.
"Renessmee Cullen! I told you not to wake up your father!" My mother
scolded her and Ness stopped dead in her tracks.
"It's alright," I wrapped a protective arm around my baby and she coiled
around me.
Nut hits or not, she was my girl and I knew all too well how scary my
mother could be when she was on the war path.
"Don't think you're father is going to save you young lady. You get your
behind down stairs and do as I said. I didn't make breakfast for nothing,"
I could practically feel my mother pointing.
I finally opened my eyes and saw Ness looking wide eyed at my mother as
she remained frozen in her place beside me. Her little nails were digging
into my arm and I chuckled lightly at the stand off that was present
before me.
Untilmy mother turned her death stare my way.
"Listen to Grandma Ness. Daddy will be down soon," I kissed her cheek
and scooted her forward.
She slid off the bed in her famous Nessie style and ran quickly past my
mother like she was fleeing for her life. My mother came over and took a
seat down on the bed next to me.
"You're spoiling her," She huffed, crossing her arms.
"I told her to listen to you," I argued back.
"I mean this," She motioned over the bed.
"Mom, I never get to see her anymore. Don't give me shit about sleeping
in her bed, please." I sat up, now fully awake and already annoyed.
This is exactly why I don't like coming home.
"That child is completely dependent on you Edward. She screamed and
cried for two hours yesterday after you left."
"What do you want me to do? Push her away every time she reaches for
me? I'm her fucking father"
"Watch your language," She slapped my arm hard.
"She's just a little girl," My voice betrayed me as I sighed in a defeated
tone.
"That doesn't mean she gets whatever she wants."
My ears perked as she said the words that would defeat her.
"Says the woman who spent forty grand decorating her bedroom," I
grinned looking around.
My mother had spent the last year redoing Nessie's 'big girl' room. The
flooring was imported and I'm sure made out of some rare tree no one
has ever heard of before. The white rugs splayed out across it were
made from Chinchilla fur and the pink curtains were designed by some
Italian dude that apparently liked to use symbols instead of an actual
name. Her small bed was wrought iron and the bunnies on the posts were
designed specifically for my father's nickname 'Bunny Rabbit' he had given
Ness.
Spoil her?
I lived in a two bedroom apartment that housed a dirty lazy boy and
dcor from Target. The only time Ness was ever spoiled was when she
was in the presence of her grandparents. Was she serious?
Her face told me that she knew she had no fight on this topic. Sure, I
was an over protective fool at times, alright- all the time- but I was only
trying to be a good father to Ness. She knew that. Giving a hard sigh,
she let it go.
Of course, she had to still get in her kicks.
"I washed your uniform. Do not leave your dirty clothes on my bathroom
floor again." She went to push off the bed, but I hooked an arm around
her neck, pulling her back to me and kissed her cheek.
"Thanks mommy," I teased.
"Yeah, yeah," She blushed and made her way off the bed.
I rolled back down into the pillows feeling pretty good about winning
that little round. It wasn't often that I had the upper hand in a fight
with either of my parents. A small smile played on my lips as I closed my
eyes and tried to enjoy the last bit of rest I would get for the day.
"Oh, Edward" I opened my eyes as I tilted my head to look at her. "If
I ever smell cigarettes on you again, I will find that old belt of mine."
Shit.
Bella.
*
7:55 A.M.
I was a happy little fish.
My tiny blue body wiggled through the water effortlessly and the entire
ocean floor sparkled of shiny gems and jewels. One at the bottom was
ringing a happy melody. I swam down to it and realized it was also
vibrating.
"Hellllloooo?" I sang into the phone.
"Bella?" Ooh, it had a nice voice.
"Yes?" I replied back in my best fishy tone.
Oooh, look. A bubble.
"Are you awake?" The nice voice asked.
"Of course, I don't swim in my sleep silly," I chuckled.
"You're swimming?" The nice voice chuckled back.
"Yes, there are a lot of shiny objects. I'm trying to catch the blue one."
That little blue one was hard to grab- considering I had fucking fins and
all.
"Bella, what the hell are you talking about? Did you start drinking again
after I left last night?"
Huh?
I looked around my fishy world and it suddenly was becoming very bright.
Oh, bright light was no good.
"Bella? Are you alright?"
Fucking Edward?
"Fucking Edward?" I croaked.
"Is that a yes?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. I was justfucking dreaming or something." I sat up in
bed and looked around.
Damn it. I wasn't in the ocean after all.
"Sounds like you have very interesting dreams," He chuckled.
"Was there a reason why you were interrupting them?"
"I just wanted to make sure you were up. I didn't set an alarm or
anything after I left."
"Oh, right." I suddenly felt very stupid.
"So, what type of fish were you?" He chuckled and I could here Nessie in
the background asking him where the fish was, creating a whole new
world of fuckdom for me.
"A blue one," I admitted.
"You really have a thing for Dori don't you?" He chuckled harder.
"Screw off Edward." I scooted off the bed and made my way to the
bathroom at my bladder's urgent request.
"Do you mind talking to Nessie? She always wanted to speak to Dori." He
teased.
"Sure, put her on. Be warned though, Dori is not a morning person."
"Be nice."
I heard him call to his daughter and after a brief moment, a very out of
breath little person came over the speaker in my ear.
"Bewwa?" She panted.
"Hey sugar. How are you?" I bounced on my feet, dying to pee. There was
no way I could do that with Edward or his kid on the phone though.
"Bewwa are you gonna pay wif us today?"
"Um, I don't think so honey. Aunty Bella has a lot of work to do." My
bladder was begging me for attention.
"Wif Daddy?"
"Yes, with your daddy." I couldn't help but smile as I thought about
that.
"Do you smoke Bewwa?"
What?
"What?"
"Sorry" Edward chuckled, taking back the phone. "She over heard my
mom this morning."
"You told your mother I smoked?"
"No, she was threatening to beat me with a belt if I ever showed up
smelling like one again," He laughed once.
"Damn Edward, who knew your mom was all Jane Bondage and shit." I
teased.
"I was a rather evil child," He chuckled.
"Um, Flower Child, can you hold on a second?"
"Yeah, sure."
I tossed the phone on the floor and rushed into the bathroom, sliding my
pants down and sighing loudly as my bladder finally found relief. After I
did my thang I picked the phone back up and
"So um, did you hang around while I was sleeping and take camera phone
pics? Because you know, I will hunt you down and skin you alive."
"Don't worry, I left before you had the chance to say anything past
'Edward is the king of my world' in your sleep."
No, I didn't.did I? Fuck, it was a possibility.
"Get bent."
"I'm just kidding. You passed out pretty quick, so I didn't stay long. You
looked too comfy and I was contemplating curling up next to you."
Come again?
"I've taken self defense classes you know. I could jam a man's nose into
his brain."
"Which is exactly why I left," He chuckled.
"So, are you ready for the challenge today Flower Child?"
"Challenge?"
"Yeah, Saturday is challenge day."
"Do you always have themes for your days?"
"Of course. I am a highly prepared woman Edward."
"So, what is the challenge today Bella?"
"You'll find out soon enough." I clicked off the phone and giggled, like
the complete effing moron Flower Child had turned me into.
After a quick shower, shaving of the legs and hair brushing- I made my
way down stairs, grabbing only a coffee from the bar. I didn't need
breakfast today- because it was Challenge Saturday.
~*~*~*~
9:23 A.M.
Edward was already in the kitchen when I came in. He smiled up at me
and I smiled back at him. He looked like a rock star today- eyes shining
bright and hair perfectly ruffled in his signature disarray. The sleeves on
his chef jacket were pushed up revealing the ink on his lower arms and
the top button was undone showing a little more art.
"Morning Flower Child." I set my bags down on the counter across from
him.
"Morning Chef," he smiled back.
"I'm hungry. Feed me." I hoped up on the table with my back to him.
"Is this the challenge?" He asked.
"No, this is the challenge" I held up the bag. "But I would like to
torture you first by making you cook me breakfast." I tilted back and
grinned at him.
"I actually enjoy cooking breakfast for you," he grinned back.
Down butterbean.
"This goes a lot better if you just do what I say Flower Child."
"Yes Chef," he chuckled and spun around to the fridge.
"So may I make whatever I wish?" He ducked his head into the fridge
scanning it for food.
"Yes you may." I hopped down and grabbed up my bag, moving over to
the steel table far away from his.
Edward began to cook my breakfast and I peeked over at him as I set
out all of my items. Fuck me- he was cute when he cooked. Holding his
bottom lip in between his teeth almost the entire time, but his face was
confident and in full concentration.
It smelled fucking delicious too.
"Ready for a hearty breakfast Chef?" He called over to me after several
minutes passed.
I laid a towel over my station, hiding what was to come and walked over
to the Chef's Table meeting Flower Child there.
"Looks good." I took a seat and watched as he smiled before turning
away.
He had made me an omelet and as I cut into it I found a delicious spinach
and portabella mushroom filling And because Edward was made up of
the perfect DNA, he also stuffed it with Feta cheese.
I was officially fan fucking number one on Team Edward.
"Coffee." He set down my mug and I did my best to tell him to sit while
my mouth was stuffed full of eggy goodness.
"Fucking delish," I stated before shoveling more into my pie hole.
"Do you need anything else?" He asked softly.
"No." I shook my head as I wiped my mouth and prepared to lay out my
plans.
"We're going to do something today that I do with all my sous chef's
Edward. It is going to be difficult, but if you use your mouth properly, it
should be pretty easy for you to pass."
I waited for it.
Edward fucking blinked and then broke out into a red blush.
Perfect.
"Pervert," I chuckled.
"What are we doing?" He asked back shyly.
"Taste testing."
"Oh."
"Blindfolded," I grinned.
"Oh."
"It is important that you have a strong pallet Edward, more so- that you
know how to taste properly." I took another bite.
"Properly?"
"You'll see. I'm going to finish eating first. I think there are some pans
with your name on them and a cup that needs refilling." I nodded to my
empty coffee cup.
"Yes Chef," he smiled climbing from his seat and grabbed up my mug.
9:45 A.M
I finished off my omelet and second cup of coffee Edward brought me. I
wanted to lick the plate clean, but avoided embarrassing myself and
simply handed it over to him when I was done.
After Edward cleaned up breakfast, I called him back over to my station.
I took a seat on the table and grabbed the blindfold from my bag as he
stood before me.
"Ready for this?" I wiggled the blind fold in front of him.
"You're not going to feed me eyeballs or intestines right?"
"Fuck no. Didn't I explain my issues with vomit already?"
"Sorry Chef," he chuckled.
"Now, before I start," I placed the blindfold down on my leg, "I want to
show you the difference between eating and tasting." I picked up the
chocolate bar from the table and broke off a chunk.
"Pinch you nose closed." He eyed me questioningly at first, but then
obeyed.
"Open." I held the chocolate to his mouth and he allowed me to slip
inside.
"Now chew." He began to chew on his chocolate and I counted off in my
head until I got to ten.
"Now let go and breathe in through your nose, but close your eyes."
Flower child obeyed and I watched as his face registered what I was
trying to show him.
"See the difference?" He nodded to me and I watched him as he
remained with his eyed closed.
"Why does that make a difference?" He asked after he swallowed.
"It's all in your senses Edward. You eat first with your eyes, but that
can be very misleading. If you cut off your connection to food by sight,
you have to rely on your sense of smell, once you eliminate that, all you
have left is your taste buds and they are what count the most. It's sort
of like, starting out at the G-spot and working your way into the make
out session," I laughed lightly.
Edward peeked one eye open.
"You didn't get me off," he teased.
"I wasn't trying," I picked up the blindfold and put it over his eyes,
"Yet."
"Now, I'm scared," he chuckled.
"Don't be." I pulled him forward with my legs, purposely trying to
distract him.
Only it was fucking back firing on me and butterbean purred in my
Victoria's. I took a deep breath and then reached over to remove the
towel covering the items underneath.
"Open up." Edward's opened his mouth and I popped the first test inside.
"What is it?" I asked watching him chew.
"Orange?"
"Very good." I picked up the next and asked him to open.
"This one is harder." I popped it inside of his mouth and I watched as he
remembered to hold his breathe while he chewed.
Good boy.
"What is it Flower Child?" My eyes focused intently on his lips.
"Water chestnut?"
Damn, he was better than I thought.
"Very good. Would you like water before the next one?"
"Please," he nodded.
"Too bad," I grinned and he chuckled shaking his head at me.
"Just kidding," I pressed the bottle to his lips and he took a sip from it.
"Ready for the next one?" I asked.
"Yes Chef," he nodded.
"Open up then." He smiled this time for some reason before he opened his
mouth.
"Feeling lucky about this one Edward?"
"I'm trying not to end with blue balls," he chuckled.
Oh my dearif only.
I popped it in his mouth and he chewed thoughtfully.
"Steak?" He asked.
"What cut?"
"Um," he chewed further.
"Come on Flower Child. Blue balls will be rather uncomfortable to deal
with all day."
Please get it right. I know you can.
"New York strip?"
"You may spooge now Flower Child," I lifted his blindfold off and smiled
at him as he tried to regain his focus.
"I really got it right?" He asked surprised.
"What can I say? You're a man who knows his meat."
***
10:25 A.M.
After Edward passed the first challenge I decided it was time to turn up
the heat a little. This challenge wasn't going to test Edward though. I
was doing this to boost his confidence. He needed to see that just
because he did not have schooling or proper training under his belt- it did
not make him any less of a Chef. This would inevitably come into play at
some point for him and I needed a strong confident Chef to lead this
staff when I handed over if- I handed over the reins to him some day.
It was a delicate balance though, because if he failed, it would back fire
on me- solidifying his fears for sure.
I gathered up a trio of cooks from the surrounding restaurants and came
walking through the doors with them in tow. Edward looked up from his
prepping duties questioningly at me.
"Time for challenge number two, Flower Child." I paused on the opposite
side of the table and watched as his eyes trailed behind me, looking at
our guests.
"Edward, these fine folks cook in the restaurants surrounding ours, so
technically, they are our competition." I turned around to walk towards
the group.
"Would you all mind telling us a little about yourselves, please?" I waved
in between the group and Edward.
The slender girl on the end started first.
"I am Kate, the Executive Chef of Tulips. I have been cooking for twelve
years." She waved towards the dark haired man next to her.
"Hola, I am Executive Chef Eleazar. My place is Luna Nueva and I have
twenty five years of experience." He nodded to the last person on his
right.
"Hello, Edward." She paused, waiting for him to acknowledge her. Edward
nodded and she continued. "I am the executive Chef of Denali's. I have
over ten years of experience under my belt. My name is Tanya and I'd be
happy to answer any other questions you may have later." She let her
lips stay on the 'R' in the 'later', eyeing Edward suggestively.
No butterbean, we cannot punch her in the face.
"As you can see Flower Child, all of these people are highly trained and
well qualified. Your task this round will be to prepare an entre for
them. You may use any of the ingredients we have in our kitchen. Our
guest judges will rate them at the end and decide if it is worthy of going
on the menu for tonight's service. Understand?"
"Yes Chef," he nodded.
"Good. You have one hour, starting now." I turned away from him and
escorted our guests out into the dining area.
They all took their seats at the long grouping of tables Angela had
prepped for me. It looked stunning. Angela had a real flare for table
dcor and flower arranging. She knocked this out of the park and the
impression it was making on the guests was written all over their faces. I
grinned internally, knowing that none of their places looked half as good
as mine. I would need to remember to add a bonus into Ang's pay this
week.
"So, Bella, how did you find Edward?" Tanya propped her elbow up on the
table and leaned her face into her palm staring at me.
"He actually found me." I said simply, taking a drink of water.
"I wasn't aware that you hired from the outside."
Oh, so she read my bio. Great- reason number two hundred and forty five
why Bella is socially awkward- preconceived notions and false information.
"He came highly recommended," I shrugged, holding my water goblet in
between my palms.
Angela brought a basket of sweet rolls as well as a round of mimosas to
our table. Tanya leaned in closer to me as Eleazor and Kate began
chatting over their bread and drinks.
"Please tell me you're getting up on that." She whispered my way.
"Up on what?" I whispered back, taking a nibble of bread.
"Your fuckhot sous chef."
Was I the only person on the planet who didn't know guys were now
considered 'fuckhot'? Was that even a word?
"He is my employee," I shook my head.
"So you're not screwing him?" She took a swig of her mimosa and brushed
her strawberry blonde hair back.
"No."
"So then you won't mind if I do?"
I spit my drink all over the front of my place setting.
"Is something wrong with the mimosa?" Angela began wiping my shirt and
her face looked worried.
"No, I justchoked." I took the napkin from her and excused myself to
the ladies room.
What. The. Fuck.
Tanya wanted to bang Edward? My Edward? Oh, who was I kidding? Of
course she did. Who wouldn't want to? My heart began to race thinking
about it. What if he wanted to bang her?
Shit.
After I cleaned up my shirt and composed myself, I made my way back to
the table to see that everyone's dishes had started to arrive. I took my
seat and smiled, seeing that his food looked damn good.
Flower Child came out from the back with the last plate in his hands. His
hair was in serious disarray now, even more tragic than usual and his skin
gleamed from all the sweating. I heard Tanya groan next to me and I
fought down the urge to pounce her like a mountain Puma.
"For you Miss Swan," he smiled as he placed his creation in front of me
and I felt butterbean give Tanya the finger.
"Thank you Edward," I smiled back, giving him a little wink and loved the
faint blush it produced on his cheeks.
"You're welcome," he nodded.
"Can you please explain your dish?" I gave him the floor.
Edward folded his hand behind his back and cleared his throat. He looked
a little shy, yet proud all the same time as he began to explain what he
had created.
"Chef, I have prepared a rustic crispy lemon salmon resting on a spring
onion mash and garnished with roasted cherry tomatoes."
"Thank you. We will eat and then I'll call you in later."
Edward dipped his head and turned to go back into the kitchen while we
dined. My mouth was watering and I was so happy to see the other's
smiling down at there plates as they prepared to eat his food. Not only
would they be judging Edward, but I knew my judgment was also on the
table. I hired him after all.
Mostly though, I was proud that Flower Child had paid attention to the
sign outside for tonight's dinner that explained our special rustic weekend
menu. He was paying attention to the details like I told him to.
His food was delicious. The fish well seasoned and I could tell from the
score marks on top that his hands were careful when he ran the blade
cleanly through each cut. It was also moist and cooked to perfection. The
mash was a delicious balance of simplicity and bold flavor as the green
spring onions gave an extra punch to the lightness of the potato. It was a
good match with fatty lemony fish.
"You have a quite a talented young man in this chef. Where did he
train?" Eleazor asked as he slid a forkful of mash into his mouth.
"He never attended school," I took a sip of water in between bites.
"You must be joking? He has a lot of talent here, especially for someone
so young," Eleazor appraised his plate again.
"I agree. This extremely clean and well balanced." Kate added.
"I know. He could use a little refining, but he has all the tools. I think
within a year or two he could be quite a force in this industry." I slid
another bite into my mouth and made sure to chew slowly, savoring every
second.
"You know, I offer classes at my place. I could help train him." Tanya
offered.
"No!"
Damn it butterbean.
"I mean, I am training him here. Thank you for offering though, Tanya," I
waved Angela over.
"Sure," she chuckled, giving me the eye before taking a bite.
Yeah, she saw right through us butterbean.
"Yes Bella?" Angela stopped at my side.
"Can you ask Edward to come back out here please?"
"Yes Ma'am," she smiled.
We all were about done with our food and Angela began clearing our
spots once she returned with Edward- who looked very nervous.
I smiled at him.
"Take a seat." I waved my hand to my left.
"Thank you." he sat down beside me and I swear I could hear his heart
about to beat out of his chest.
"Eleazar, would you like to begin?" I clasped my hands together and
rested them on the table top.
"Mr. Edward, your fish was cooked perfectly. I found it to be very
flavorful and moist. The mash went well too. I think it was a well
balanced dish," he smiled at Edward appreciatively.
"Thank you, Sir," Edward tipped his head towards him.
"Would you put that dish on your menu Eleazar?" I asked.
"Absolutely," he smiled.
"Kate?" I moved along.
"I loved it. It was warm and hearty. The fish was cooked beautifully and
I loved that the mash was kept fresh and light by adding in the spring
onions."
"Thank you, Kate," Edward's heart began to slow down now, hearing that
they were enjoying his food.
"Would you put this on your menu?"
"Yes, I would," Kate nodded.
"Tanya?" I tried to look passed her so I didn't see the way she was
eyeing him, slowly undressing my poor Edward with her eyes.
"I thought the fish was succulent and loved the way the lemon puckered
against my lips. The crispy skin was a good choice, giving a rough contrast
to the delicate, tender pink flesh. I found the mash to be warm and
fulfilling in my mouth. It was utter perfection." She let her eyes trail
over his body and I saw Edward's Adam's apple bob in his throat.
So he found her sexy. Damn.
"Would you put it on your menu?" I hoped no one heard the irritation in
my voice.
"I would be more than willingly to put Edward's perfection on anything of
mine." She winked over at him and I was glad my leg didn't connect with
hers under the table when butterbean made me try and kick her.
"Well thank all of you for coming," I scooted back my chair and tossed
my napkin on the table.
"It was a pleasure to have cooked for you all," Edward stood up next to
me.
"Angela, would mind showing our guests out?" I wanted to get that
woman away from Edward before she could pull him any further into her
trap.
I saw her hand come across the table toward him, probably just for a
shake, but I didn't care. I stepped in front of Edward and blocked her.
"Go clean up the kitchen," I ordered.
"Yes Chef," he nodded and thankfully only gave one last wave of his hand
to them before he turned to go back into the safety that was my
kitchen.
"Thank you all again, you are welcome to my restaurant anytime and I
look forward to dining in yours as well." After they all gave me half
hearted smiles, I turned and walked back to the kitchen.
Ben must have slipped in through the back door. He stood there talking
with Edward and helping him clear off the steel tables from the food he
had prepared. This was the first time I noticed how clean of a cook
Edward was. There were very few things to be washed and that made me
smile. It was one more rule he was paying attention to.
"Ben will finish up here with the rest of the boys when they arrive
shortly. Why don't you use the restroom and change your clothes. We
have a little road trip to go on." I leaned my hand on the table and
watched as Edward's face scrunched.
"Road trip?" He asked.
"Yes, I want to take you a market I found. Introduce you to some of the
vendors. I'll meet you out front when you're ready."
12:22 P.M.
I smoked a cigarette out front while I waited for Flower Child to meet
me. The warm air and sun felt good on my face. I stood there and let
the rays invade my senses while I closed my eyes and soaked it in. We
were so close to the ocean I could hear the waves softly crashing and
the faint screams of children playing. As I opened my eyes back up, I
glanced around, taking in all of the activity around me. Alice was across
the street, standing out front of her own place and I recognized a mo
hawk next to her that was no doubt belonging to Jasper. Her high
pitched giggle floated across the way and I couldn't help but smile as it
reached my ears.
Good for them.
My eyes trailed away from them and down across the caf tables
dawning the sidewalk. Couple after couple sat eating either a sandwich or
sipping on a cool beverage under the warm afternoon sun and it my heart
wonder if that would ever be me. Could I just be able to lounge so freely
with some one and enjoy their company? Not worry about what
preconceived notions they had or the fact that I had a sack of bricks on
my shoulders weighing me down. They all seemed so happy and I imagined
it had nothing to even do with the conversations they were holding. No, it
probably had to do with the way the man in the white linen shirt brushed
a tendril of curl back from his love's face. The strolling a lady did, with
a man I assumed must have been her husband by the way he helped her
across the street and eyed the other man who ogled her angrily. The ice
cream the people in front of Luigi's were sharing and the hand holding
couple number four was doing.
Details, it was always in the details.
"Bella?"
I spun around to see Flower Child standing behind me in a tight, black
shirt.
He looked super sexy. The fabric of the tee clung to his muscular form
and his washed out denim jeans sat low on his hips, revealing just the
slightest bit of his black underwear band as he walked towards me. His
hair was still messy as hell, but somehow, that looked worked for him. It
was something only Edward could pull off- anyone else would have looked
like a deranged Easter bunny or borderline homeless.
"You alright Bella?" He ducked his head down to meet my gaze.
"Um, yeah. I was just people watching." I brought the cigarette back to
my lips and then offered it to him.
"I better not," the side of his mouth twitched.
"Is your mother really that terrifying?" I rolled my eyes at him.
"You have no idea. Believe me, when she threatens you with a belt,
especially a belt she has used on you as a child, you do as she says to
avoid said belt." He smiled crookedly at me.
"Your mother beat you?"
"Yes, but I deserved it," he chuckled.
"Well we have about fifteen blocks to walk. Start telling me why." I
flicked down the smoke and began to walk towards the market.
"My first good beating was when I was about twelve." Edward came
around to the opposite side of me, near the road.
His hand rested on my bare shoulder and I was a little caught off guard
by this until I realized what he was doing. He was treating me like a
child, protecting me from the roadside and the people riding their bikes.
"I'm not four you know," I chuckled, pointing at his hand.
"Sorry, I'm a creature of habit I suppose," he smiled, but kept his hand
in place.
"So why did your mother beat you?" I asked, letting go of the hand
issue.
"I stole a bike," he smiled proudly.
"You stole a bike?" I asked surprised.
"YuP," he grinned.
"Why did you steal a bike?" I chuckled, trying to picture what twelve
year old Edward would look like.
"I wanted a bike, why else?" He chuckled harder.
"I thought your dad was a lawyer? Could he not afford to buy you a
bike?"
"Bella, that part of the story would take longer than twelve blocks to
explain."
"Alright fine, let's talk about something else." I rounded the corner and
felt Edward's hand slide a little further down, resting now in between my
shoulder blades.
"I have a question," he said.
"Go on."
"Who taught you?" He looked over to me and I almost tripped when he
licked his bottom lip.
"Um. My father."
"Really?"
"Yeah, he had a diner where I grew up."
We were now in front of the outdoor market and I picked up a wicker
basket from the pile.
"So you never went to school?" Edward took the basket as I passed it to
him and I picked up another one for myself.
"Nope," I smiled at him and walked ahead, picking up a bouquet of
flowers and sniffing them.
"Your father must have been pretty damn good." I looked back to
Edward and his face was painted in amazement.
"He was, but I didn't learn everything I know from him. He gave me the
basics, but I had to figure out the rest for myself."
"I can't believe you didn't go to school," he shook his head, smiling small
at me.
"You want to know something Edward." I walked around a stand of fresh
produce. "Some of the worst chefs- and I use that term loosely here-
that I've hired were all kid's who came from some hoytie toytie big
named school somewhere. They did nothing but work in big fancy kitchens
that were equipped with only the best and most of them I bet never even
broke a sweat. I learned to cook on a busted gas top that would only
work if you kicked the damn thing into oblivion with my father screaming
at me the entire time. I was the only girl in every brigade I ever worked
on and they made sure to let me know it."
I circled back around the stand, weaving my way through the aisles and
stopping at the cheese counter.
"I made it in this industry because I never took shit from anyone and I
love what I do. Those who fall short are the ones who think a fancy
chef's coat with your name embroidered on it and long list of credentials
is what gets you noticed- meanwhile their food tastes of nothing and
they soon find themselves cooking on a line at Chilli's or fucking slinging
burgers somewhere.
Do you know nine out of ten restaurants close within six months of being
open, Edward?" He shook his head at me with a deep look of
concentration on his face.
"Passion and truth over ride all else, so if you're in it for the fame and
glamour- you would have been better off taking drama classes and moving
to Hollywood." I picked up a ball of fresh mozzarella and bounced it in
my hands.
"The best food is simple food. Honest food. That is why we are here. All
of this produce is grown locally. This cheese" I bounced it in my hands.
"Was made by Claire." I nodded to the lady behind the glass. "Claire
has been making cheese since she was as young as your kid." I placed the
cheese in my basket.
"How do you know that?" He asked smiling at me.
"Because I talk with these people. You need to learn to make friends
with them. They are vital to the success of your business. Plus, you
should always know where your shit comes from." I moved along to the
butcher counter.
"Look at them. One is covered and the other one is good as new." I
nodded to the two burley men behind the glass who were cutting meat.
"The clean one is Felix. Demetri, the dirty one, is his brother. You are
only to buy meat from Felix." I moved along and heard Edward chuckle
softly as he followed.
"Have you ever purchased produce or meat directly from a farm Flower
Child?" I looked to him as he caught up with me.
"No," he shook his head.
"We will do that sometime next week then. It's a shame we aren't up
north. You'd like apple picking," I smiled at him.
"You go apple picking?"
"You've never had an apple until you've picked one off a tree yourself
Edward. Food has this funny way of tasting better when you had to work
for it." I rounded my way around the next aisle, coming back into
produce and tossed a few heirloom tomatoes in my basket.
"Smell," I held a mango up to his nose.
"That's wonderful,." he smiled appreciatively.
"I want to make some fresh sorbet for tonight." I held the mango to my
nose and smiled at its sweet fragrance.
"Just mangos?" He held up a handful of cherries from the pile and
smelled them.
"What would you like to make with it?" I asked and he held his hand of
cherries to my nose. He didn't answer me, just waited for my sniffer to
figure it out.
"Cherries would be delicious with the mango." I nodded.
"Are you really gonna put my food from earlier on the menu?" He asked,
biting his lips as he tucked the cherries in a bag.
"I said I would."
"But is it really good enough?" He bit harder to his lip.
"Did you not hear the three chefs who have almost forty years of
experience between them state that it was? As a matter of fact, I also
recall one of them stating she would put anything of yours on her menu,"
I chuckled as the last bit.
"Yeah, what was with her?" He shook his head, tying up the cherry bag.
"Has it really been that long Edward? You really need me to explain what
an 'eye fuck' is to you?" I grinned at him as his cheeks flushed slightly.
"I know what an 'eye fuck' is. I was just a little amazed by her
bluntness." He tossed the cherries in his basket and faced me.
"Yeah, because I am sure that doesn't happen all the time- not that guys
mind."
"I mind," he corrected.
"Sure you do," I chuckled.
"Bella," he waited for me to stop laughing and look at him.
"Tanya would be the epitome of why I don't date. Or fuck. Or whatever
you want to call it. I have a kid, your views on shit change when that
happens."
"Are you trying to tell me you haven't dated anyone since your baby
mamma?" I asked incredulously.
"I'm saying that four- almost five - years ago I would have taken
someone like Tanya home and fucked her six ways from Sunday. Today, I
can't even make myself want to be attracted to somebody like her."
His face looked pretty damn serious. Once I stopped replaying him say
'fucked six ways from Sunday' in my head, I was able to focus and
realize that Flower Child just revealed his sex life could be as bad, if not
possibly worse than mine- which was pretty fucking pathetic. I wouldn't
let him harbor on that shit though.
"So in other words, being a parent turned you gay? You know I have this
manager named Laurent in my Las Vegas location and you two would just
be perfect each other," I smiled teasingly at him.
Flower Child laughed at my joke, but I could see some dark rooted shit
lingering in his eyes. There was a sadness there I knew all too well. I
wanted to fucking rip it away and stomp it to the ground, but instead I
tossed a bag of organic apples in his basket and led him to the check
out.
4:45 P.M.
I saw Emmet and Flower Child chuckling at Angela and I as we did our
best Pink interpretation during prep.
I'm gonna show you tonight
I'm alright!
I'm just fine!
And you're a tool!
Sooooo so what
She and I giggled as we realized what fools we were being. It was
however an improvement on my previous song in which Emmet and I
showcased our ability to walk it-walk it out. That little shit actually got
me to enjoy that fucking thing I refuse to call a song. The lyrics were
entertaining though And Emmett looked good getting his ghetto on to it.
It made me fucking laugh.
In between our 'So you think you can dance' moment, we were actually
working. Edward was in charge of the pass tonight and I was merely
going to watch over. He needed to get his brigade under him. I wasn't
always going to be here and this was critical for him to master.
Truly the biggest challenge he would face today.
Ben floated between the front of the house and back, doing whatever I
needed him to. Tonight I needed him back here and as he entered I
wanted to laugh. Flower Child had been altering his own uniform by
rolling his sleeves up and leaving the top button open. This was something
I would have knifed my other Sous's for doing. It would have looked half
assed and disrespectful to their profession- on Edward however- it was
justright.
The ink showing on his form arms and the little peek on his neck made
him look a little scary- especially when you added that crazy hair to the
mix. Edward was a rather gentle person and I decided not to scold him
for wearing his uniform this way. He needed to look a little scary until he
grew balls big enough to really handle these people.
Plus- he just looked down right sexyer.
So what did this have to do with Ben? Well, you see Ben must have went
to bed last night praying to wake up as Flower Child, because he had his
sleeves pushed up the same way with the same top button undone. His
hair was even all fucked up- except, the kid looked like he was licking
light sockets, not up all night fucking his brains out.
"What do you think you're doing?" I leaned over Ben, giving him a dark
stare.
"Um, peeling shrimp?" He coward back slightly from me.
"I meant your uniform," I nodded to his attire.
"What? Edward does it too!" Ben pointed accusingly at Edward, just as I
expected him to.
"Edward is your boss, which gives him the authority to make these types
of important executive decisions." I hoped Edward heard the sarcasm in
my tone.
"Roll down your down damn sleeves and button your jacket, or go home,"
I commanded and turned around not allowing him to argue further.
Angela snickered lightly at me as I stood back next to her as she
continued shining the silverware for tonight.
"He's probably going to cry," she whispered.
"Probably," I smiled back, giving her a wink.
"You're evil," she chuckled.
"I can't have these people walking over Flower Child," I tossed my diced
mango into the bin.
"Why do you call him that?" She asked.
"His hands," I explained making her face scrunched in confusion.
"His flower tattoos? You haven't noticed them?"
"Oh. Is that what they are? Flowers? Never really looked close enough to
tell," she shrugged.
"Yeah, I think they are lotus flowers," I grabbed another mango and
began to cut it up, but stopped feeling Angela's eyes on me.
"Oh my gosh. You little tramp," she giggled.
"What?"
"You like Edward," \she accused in a hushed tone.
"What the hell makes you say that?"
"You eyed him long enough to know he has lotus flowers tattooed on his
hands."
"So? I have to look at his hands. He cooks for me for fucks sake," I
picked up my bowl and moved away from her.
I couldn't let her into my secret world of Edward fantasies. That was a
VIP membership that only butterbean and I had access to.
Walking towards the walk-in cooler, I saw Flower Child coming my way
and he smiled lightly. I however, stopped dead in my tracks and placed
my hands on my hips glaring at him.
How dare he.
"What?" He stood in front of me as I blocked his path.
"Do you think I talk just for the need to hear my own fucking voice or
something?"
"Excuse me?" He looked utterly perplexed.
"The fucking sleeves, Flower Child," I slapped my hand against my hip.
"I know. I rolled them down," he held out his arm as evidence.
"I didn't tell you."
He stared at me as though I had two heads.
I placed my hand on his chest and began pushing him back towards the
walk-in so the rest of the staff couldn't hear or see me scolding him. His
back was against the metal door now and I kept my hand in place, tipping
forward slightly to lean into his face.
"I told fucking Ben to roll down his sleeves and button up because he is
not adequate to you. He does not have the right to put himself on the
same level, nor should you allow him to. Now, by going back out there
with your sleeves rolled down, you are not only undermining yourself, but
you are undermining me as well. Understand?"
"Yes Chef," he nodded apologetically.
"Now, just for that- give me your fucking Chef's coat," I tugged on his
coat and then placed my hand on my hip.
Edward leaned off the door and began unbuttoning his coat. I wasn't sure
if this was a good idea or a bad idea, but butterbean told me to shut the
fuck up and stop over thinking shit as he undid his last button, revealing
that damn black tank top I loved.
"This is what you cook in tonight," I grabbed his jacket from his hands.
"When you figure out how to act like a real sous chef, you may have it
back. Understand?"
"Yes Chef."
"Good, now get your ass out there and try to do your fucking job."
"Yes Chef."
Edward walked past me and I turned around to watch him leave. It was
only then, when his jacket no longer covered the top half of his cheffies
that I realized Edward was in fact going commando, just like I told we
all did.
You know, I have to say, I loved to see Flower Child coming, but right
now, I damn sure was enjoying seeing him go.
Closing Time.
The night went well. Edward passed every challenge with the exception
of the damn sleeve rolling incident, but that was a minor slip in
comparison to the rest. I was sitting in my office staring at the computer
screen, waiting for the reports from the day to print out. I hated when
Emmet had the night off. He deserved it though. Poor guy had been
working three weeks straight. Everyone was gone, except the bar staff.
Normally I would stay and finish closing up, but not tonight. I had a very
important meeting to attend.
I packed up my things and waved my good byes as I exited through the
front. The night air was still warm and fragrant from the hot summer
day. The ocean breeze smelled so good at night. I inhaled deeply as I
made my way to the Lexus.
I tossed my bag on the passenger seat and reached back to the
compartment behind it for a bottle of water.
Why do I have water bottles in my car? Um, because you never know
when you might drive into a ditch and be stranded dying of thirst. Don't
fucking laugh- I knew a lady who actually had that happen to her. I
never traveled anywhere now without a bag of granola, bottled waters
and a clean pair of gotchies. I mean, fuck, you just never know what
might happen.
My eyes stopped on a purple creature sitting in my back seat.
Where the fuck did I pick up a Barney?
I looked around, making sure I was in the right fucking car until it
clicked.
Nessie.
She had been in my car yesterday when we had family bonding night. Did
she need this thing? He looked pretty used. I held him in my lap and
debated silently. I wasn't sure where Flower Child lived. Would he even
be there? His parents- he said that he had a long drive up to their place
last night. I looked to the clock- he must be there still or on his way
back. I knew where they lived since I always made sure to send to send
them a Christmas card, trying to be nice for Emmet's sake you know. I
never actually met them though. Well, if Flower Child wasn't there, I
could still drop it off. She would get it in the morning at least. I eyed
the clock again, knowing I was probably going to miss my meeting if I
went.
Fuck.
I pushed the keys in the ignition and sat the little purple fucker on the
dash.
"She better like you- I don't miss Man VS Food for anyone."
12:30 P.M.
I pulled up the long drive and was happy to see a few lights still on
inside the large house. Grabbing Barney off the dash, I also grabbed my
bag and then climbed out of the car. My stomach fluttered a little
walking up to the door when I saw Edward's car was in parked in front of
the garage. With a tentative hand I knocked softly on the door and
cringed as it sounded so loud against the quiet night.
Fuck, what if they were all sleeping?
My feet made a move to run back to my car, but I heard the door open
behind me and I paused, spinning around slowly.
"Bella?" A very shirtless Edward was standing at the door with his hair in
complete sex stance.
"Sorry. I." Fuck. Me. "I um," I held out the Barney since apparently my
mouth was utterly fucked by the sight of Flower Child.
"You drove all the way out here to give back Barney?" He reached out
and grabbed the stuffed animal, chuckling softly before he brought it up
to his face and smelled it once.
"I just didn't know if she needed it," I shrugged, swallowing hard.
"You know they have this great invention Bellait's called a cell phone,"
he teased, smirking at me.
"Um, yeah.I don't know why I didn't think of that."
Why didn't I think of that?
"That's alright," he chuckled. "Thanks for bringing him back. My mother
will appreciate the fact that she doesn't have to start tearing up the
second half the house tomorrow," he smiled.
"Sure," I nodded.
There was an awkward moment of silence and I shuffled from one foot to
the next, not sure what to do.
You returned the toy Bella, go home and maybe you can catch the last
twenty minutes of the show if you speed.
Good idea.
Owe.
Butterbean didn't like that idea.
"Well, um, I have an important meeting to get to, sogoodnight," I waved
once and turned on my heel to exit.
"What kind of a meeting do you attend at almost one in the morning
Bella?" I heard him chuckle and I turned around with one foot on the
step.
"A reality TV show sort of one."
"What show?" He leaned against the door frame smiling at me.
"Man VS Food."
Edward smiled wide at me and pushed the door open the rest of the way
with one hand.
"He just started on the four pound pancakes."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
1:30 P.M.
I was huddled up in an extremely comfortable corner of Edward's
mother's couch with a crushed velvet throw and bowl of popcorn.
Fucking bastard made perfect cheddar cheese popcorn.
And you know how I feel about cheese.
Flower Child was on the opposite side of the couch with one leg stretched
out and the other on the floor as we watched Adam consume something
dubbed 'The fiery death burger.' We both cringed at the same time when
he took his first bite and Edward covered his face laughing as the
challenge progressed and the man started sweating and groaning.
"Why do people do this to themselves?" He chuckled.
"Why do we watch people do this to themselves?" I popped a handful of
popcorn in my mouth.
"Because it's extremely entertaining, Bella," he sat up and leaned over to
scoop up a handful of pop corn.
"Or maybe we are just as fucked in the head as this guy," I chuckled.
"Would you ever be on one of these shows?" He shoved a handful of
cheddar cheese goodness into his mouth.
"Hell no. Food should not hurt," I picked through the bowl, trying to find
one of those semi popped kernels.
"I agree," he leaned back and I couldn't help but ogle him a little as he
remained only wearing a pair of sleeping pants with no shirt.
Edward looked my way and I tried to avert my eyes, but I knew I got
caught when I heard him muffle a laugh.
"It's alright. People don't do this to themselves without expecting people
to look," he reached for more popcorn.
"What does it all mean?" I looked back to him and allowed my eyes to
trail over the designs that painted his arms and chest.
"I told you, different things."
"Well, what does this one mean?" I pointed to a section along his bicep
that was a grouping of three black figures.
"It's meant for harmony among a grouping of people," he looked back
towards the TV.
"Which people?" I studied it, trying to figure it out.
"It doesn't matter, it isn't working," he laughed once humorlessly.
"Oh." I said softly, realizing it must have been for Jessica, Ness and
himself.
"What about this one?" I pointed to a new marking along his arm that
ran in circles, becoming larger as it made its way down his arm.
"It represents the past, present and future," Edward twisted his arm and
showed me the inscribing along the tender flesh leading up to his wrist.
"It changes in the place where it's found to be gone," I read aloud to
myself.
I studied it carefully with my eyes and then allowed my index finger to
trail over the elegant black writing. I could feel Edward's eyes on me and
his body stiffened slightly as my fingers traced the letters.
It changes in the place where it's found to be gone.
I looked up to Edward and his jaw was tight, but his face contemplative
as he looked back at me.
"Has it changed?" I asked softly.
"Maybe," his eyes watched my reaction carefully.
"That's the ultimate challenge isn't it?" I asked, knowing that he
understood what I meant.
"Anything that's worth having is a challenge, Bella," he brought his hand
up to my face and brushed his fingers gently along my cheek.
"It's like what you told me in the store today, about the apples."
"You were actually listening?" I laughed once.
"Of course, I listen to everything you say," his fingers found there way
into my hair and he began making small circles with his tips.
What is Mama doing Butterbean?
"What do the flowers mean?" I closed my eyes and reveled in his touch.
"It's too late to begin explaining those, Bell," I could feel his breath
closer to my face.
"Please?" I kept my eyes closed.
"Some other time," his lips brushed against my forehead and my eyes
fluttered open as I felt his weight disappear from the couch.
"You can stay here tonight if you want. The guest room is next to
Nessie's." He held out his hand to me.
"I should go," I shook my head and moved the popcorn bowl to the side
as I got up.
"Bell, it its late. Just stay." He kept his hand out for mine.
"I don't have anything here." I argued.
"I'll give you something to wear. Come on little coward," Flower Child
wiggled his fingers playfully at me and I couldn't deny his evil crooked
smile that had power over me and butterbean.
"Fine," I took his hand and tossed down the velvet throw.
We strolled in silence through the large house. Not even our feet made a
sound as we climbed the long staircase together. Edward paused at a
door I assumed was Nessie's by the fairy charm hanging on the handle. He
peaked in quickly and then closed it again with a small smile on his face.
He then led me into a large room that was extremely elegant and had a
bed which made my hotel digs look like the equivalent of a card board
box. I wondered if his mother was up for renting this thing out.
"I'll grab you something from my room to sleep in. Be right back," he let
go of my hand and exited the room.
I sat down on the bed and wondered how the hell I got here. Edward's
lips where on my forehead tonight, his hand in mine and now- fuck- I was
sitting on the guest bed in his parents house preparing to spend the
night.
I needed to get my shit together.
The door pushed open and I looked up to see Edward coming back in with
clothes in his hands.
"Here. They'll be big on you, but it's just to sleep in, so it will probably
be comfy," he smiled and handed them over to me.
"Thanks," I reached out for them and he took a step back.
"Um, there is a bathroom through that door, it connects to Nessie's room,
so if you need something, just knock."
"Is Nessie gonna help me?" I teased.
"No..I " He stopped and smiled down at his feet.
"You?"
"I sleep in there with her," Edward kept his face to the ground and I
imagined if the lamp was on, I would be able to see the blush that no
doubt was on his cheeks.
"Well don't worry. I won't come knocking."
"Alright," he nodded. His feet took a few steps back and then he turned
walking towards the door.
"Good night, Bell," he gripped the door handle and looked back to me.
"Night."
As soon as the door latched I fell back on the bed, hitting my head hard
against the mattress. I took a deep breath and then sat back up to
remove my shirt. I tossed it down on the floor and unfolded the pile
Edward gave me, slipping his tee shirt over my head and butterbean
smiled when she smelled his scent. The fabric was super soft and I could
tell it was old from its thinness. For fear of sending butterbean into
maximum overdrive, I left his bottoms off.
I crawled up the bed and pulled down the multiple layers of covers and
sheets, sliding underneath them and realizing that the bed smelled like
Edward too. It must be his mom's laundry soap or something. That made
me laugh- did she still do his laundry then? I could somehow see that.
My arms slid under the pillows and I hugged them close to my head as I
snuggled down into the soft bed and tried to drift away.
3 A.M.
I woke up from my third dream about Edward in a hot sweaty pant. This
time he had been taking me from behind. He spanked, pulled hair and
talked dirty. He was my favorite out of all the Edward's I dreamed about
tonight- although French speaking Edward was a pretty close tie.
I crawled out from the covers and tip toed my way into the bathroom,
not bothering with the light switch. The nightlight above the vanity was
bright enough for me to find my way around. I made my way to the sink
and turned on the water, brining a handful up to my face and washing
away the sweat. Next was my neck. I lifted my hair up and allowed the
cool water from my palm to run down my back. It made goose bumps rise
on my flesh and my nipples pebbled against the sheer fabric of his tee,
which I could now see in the mirrors reflection was extremely see
through- thanks to both the water and the fact that it was so worn out.
There was a towel on the end of the vanity and I walked over to it after
I turned the handle on the faucet off. As my hand reached for the
towel, the latch on the door next to the vanity clicked and before my
mind could think what to do, it opened.
Flower Child paused as he stepped through and saw me standing
practically right in front of him wearing nothing but his wet, see
through shirt.
He blinked quickly and tried to speak, but no words came out. His eyes
trailed over my body and he swallowed hard as he appraised me. My
heart was thumping hard and Butterbean thudded painfully between my
legs watching him licking his lower lip as his eyes came slowly back up to
mine.
Edward's eyes were hungry, troubled and scared. His breathing picked up
and I could see the debate raging in his mind. The same debate I was
having in my own I'm sure.
He moved forward, walking slowly towards me and my feet traveled
backwards in sync with his. My back finally hit the wall and his hands
came forward, resting on my hips. Edward paused for a moment keeping
his eyes on my wet shirt as he lean in and rested his forehead against
mine.
"What are we doing Bell?" He whispered in a desperate tone against my
lips.
"I don't know." My hands traveled up his strong arms, up over the
muscles of his shoulders and then into the back of his hair.
His hands slid down from my hips and he tucked his fingers under the
hem of my shirt. I closed my eyes to the sensation of his tips trialing
along my ribs moving up towards my breasts. I felt like a live wire as his
heated trail ignited a feeling I haven't felt in so long. My hands slid
down his neck and over the muscles of his shoulders again, but this time
in reverse as they glided their way down the ink of his chest and to his
hard stomach.
"You have to be quiet," Edward whispered in my ear and I nodded against
his neck.
His lips brushed along my neck as he pulled my panties down allowing
them to fall to the floor. I stepped out of them and Edward hoisted me
up onto his hips. I expected him to fuck me against the wall, but instead,
he walked back to the guest room with me in his arms, locking the door
behind him after he entered.
He sat me down on the edge of the bed and I slid back slowly into the
center, watching him as followed me. His eyes stayed on mine and I was
suddenly very nervous. It had been so long since I was with someone.
What if I couldn't remember how to do this?
It's not just like riding a bike butterbean- shut up.
Edward reached out his arm and rested his strong hand on the small of
my back, pulling me towards him as he settled himself over me. It was
then I realized he still had his bottoms on. His lips found my neck again
and I moaned as he sucked the tender skin below my ear. I tried to push
his pants down with my feet, but it was a lot harder to fucking do then
it looked. Edward chuckled lightly into my neck before he helped me out.
Sitting up on his heels knees he untied the string of his bottoms and slid
his pants down. It was too fucking dark though and I couldn't see
anything.
But fuck, I could feeland it felt fucking magnificent.
His hard cock rested against my bareness as he lowered himself back
down over me and continued with his kissing assault of my neck. I
wondered if he was stalling. Surly my neck couldn't be that great-
definitely not better than my pussy- could it?
I lifted my hips trying to signal to him that I could give a shit less about
the tender shit and just wanted him inside me already. He groaned into
the crook of my neck and rocked his hips against me, sliding his hardness
over my wet center.
Your welcome Butterbean. Mama is trying.
I wrapped my legs around his waist, locking my feet together and
trapping him right where I wanted him. The head of his cock was at my
entrance and he leaned his forehead against mine as he started to push
in slightly.
Holy fuck, Butterbean What. Are. We. Doing.
My whole body tensed, bracing for when he would finally push forward
and fill me completely. His hand that was cupping my head tightened,
pulling my hair into his fist. His other hand fisted the comforter beside
my head and I tried to press him down using my legs, but he was too
strong. He took a deep breath and then I felt a little more of him slide
inside of me. The head of his cock wasn't even all the way in and I was
already so close to being over the edge- somehow the anticipation and his
slowness was making this better, even though my body was begging for
him to slam into me. My nails dug into his biceps and he groaned in
response as I clawed my way up into his hair, dragging my nails along his
hard skin.
That did him in.
Edward finally let go of the covers he was fisting and I watched as his
palm slid forward, allowing him to finally sink into me. His hand gripped
almost painfully to my hair, but it felt good mixed with the pain of him
being submerged inside me. He spread me wide open with his girth and I
panted into his shoulder that was now just under my chin as he remained
unmoving inside of me. I couldn't find it in myself to mind though. He felt
so right, so complete, so perfect. If he didn't move for the rest of the
night I could careless.
As my brain caught up with my body, I realized that it had been a long
time for him too- he was probably pretty ready to just fucking spooge
and call it a night. I tried to remain still and not allow that to happen.
My hands massaged the soft hair at the base of his head then slid down
over the smooth planes of his back. I continued making the circuit, trying
to calm him down and get him to focus on this new sensation. He finally
pulled out slightly and then slowly- I mean fucking slowly- slid back in.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
I fucking froze. So Did Edward.
"Daddy?"






Chapter 4 "Good Fortune"
Edward
XXX
She slept like a rock.
If I had a wagon full of ice cream and a spoon with her name on it, I
wouldn't be able to wake up Ness from her slumber. There could be
ponies, clowns and people doing acrobatics in her room and she would
remain sleeping.
My dick enters the first piece of pussy I've had in almost two years
and suddenly she is suffering from fucking insomnia.
Of course.
"Shh." I whispered into Bella's ear and planted a kiss into her sweet
neck.
"Go back to bed Ness." I said softly over my shoulder, keeping my place
inside of Bella's warm body.
"But Daddy."
"I said go-to-sleep Renesmee." My voice was stern in hopes that she
would listen to me.
I waited to hear her feet retreat, but no sound came.
Fuck.
My wood instantly went down for the count. There was no way I could
have sex with Bella while my four-year-old was on the opposite side of
the door.
"Motherfucker." I grumbled into her neck and slid out slowly from her,
instantly hating my life when my body no longer joined with hers.
"I'm sorry." I kissed her forehead and tried to see her face, but the
room was too dark.
I brought my hand up to her cheek to try and feel her reaction and she
nodded into my hand. I kissed Bella's forehead again and then slid back
from her, allowing my feet to hit the floor and righted my pants that
were around my thighs. My dick screamed obscenities at me as I made my
way back through the door, leading into the bathroom, and sure as shit,
there sat Ness on the floor holding her knees.
"I told you to go to bed." I held my hand for her and she reached up to
take it, pulling herself off the floor.
"Bad dweam." She sniffled and I couldn't find it in me to scold her any
further.
I lifted Ness into my arms and rocked her as I made my way back to her
room. She clung to me, but there was no way I was going to stay in her
bed. I was still hosting a semi and I am pretty sure sleeping with a hard
on next to my daughter was way too many shades of wrong to even
count.
Not to mention the blue balls that were sure to follow.
I sang to her until she fell asleep and then exited her room after placing
one last kiss on her face. Somehow this night went from being one of the
best night's I've had in years to the worst possible scenario imaginable.
Not only was I not sleeping with Bella, but now I couldn't even hide out
in the safety of Ness's bed. Nope, tonight I was back in my own dreaded
room - alone.
With blue balls.
Fuck me.
~*~*~*~*~*~*
I woke up in a tight ball, muscles sore and my dick giving me the finger
for the cock block last night.
This wasn't exactly the best way to start out a day.
The worst part though, was that I would have to face Bella. I wasn't
sure if she would be pissed that I left, or pissed that I actually tried to
have sex with her. She seemed willing though, very willing. Repeatedly,
she had warned me about her ability to kill a man by jamming his nose
into his brain, so I am just making an educated guess here - that if she
wasn't enjoying my cock inside of her, she would have impaled me.
I reached up and rubbed my hand over my nose.
Nope, all was good.
Still, she couldn't be very happy about being left high and dryso to
speak. I'm pretty sure one way or another, I was going to be yelled at.
Hopefully she wouldn't fire my ass. I mean, I did put my dick in her.
Surly that constitutes a big 'no no' in the description of fraternization
between employees. Yes?
I was surprised that Ness didn't wake me up this morning. She was
usually the first thing I saw. Maybe I scared her last night by leaving?
Shit, did she think I was angry with her? My legs moved quickly down the
hall to her bedroom, but I paused when I heard her sweet giggle coming
from downstairs. I was about to start my way down the steps, but I
stopped, realizing I had some serious morning wood going on.
After I took care of my pajama tenting in the restroom, I made my way
to the kitchen to seeBella cooking breakfast?
With my mother and Ness?
"Wook! Daddy is up!" Nessie bounced in her stool at the kitchen island
pointing to me.
Bella looked up from the island's stovetop, where she was preparing
pancakes and smiled at me. I noticed she had changed back into her
clothes from the day prior, which was good. I didn't want to have to
explain to my mother why Bella was walking around in my old Ninja
Turtles shirt. The turtles had completely faded off, but I still knew it
was the one.
"Bewwa made pincakes." She held out her fork to me, smiling.
"I see that honey." I smiled back at her and tried to keep my eyes off
Bella.
"Bella was kind enough to drop Barney off this morning for Ness." My
mother placed a cup of coffee in front of me before she sat down at the
other stool.
"She left it in my car when we drove together for family night. I had to
run an errand up this way this morning, so I figured I'd drop it by." Bella
smiled at me as she slid a pancake down onto a plate and when my
mother was distracted by Ness making a mess, she winked at me.
"That was very nice of Bella. Did you say thank you?" I looked to Ness
and she nodded with her mouth full of food.
"So, do you normally come into people's homes in the morning and start
cooking breakfast?" I teased.
"Edward." My mother scolded me, but I ignored her.
"Your kid was hungry and asked me to make her pancakes. Apparently
her father had a rough night last night and was neglecting her by
sleeping in." She grinned, flipping down another flapjack and slid the
plate over to me.
"Bewwa's pincakes are bettawre den your pincakes Daddy."
They all laughed at me in sync - like the three she-devils they all were.
"I'm sure they are, honey." I reached for the maple syrup and tried not
to pay attention to the huge grin that was on Bella's face.
"Would you like coffee Bella?" My mother offered.
"No, I need to get going actually. Today's going to be a clusterfuck."
"You say bad words!" Ness pointed.
Bella smiled, laying down the spatula in the pan and wiped her hands on a
towel before she leaned against the island facing Ness - who was looking
wide eyed up at her.
"Here's the thing kid. Your Aunty Bella curses - a lot. She has to deal
with a lot of jerks everyday, so she can't really help it."
"Wike daddy?" Ness asked, and I had to put my hand over my mouth to
keep from laughing.
"No, not like Daddy. Your daddy isn't a jerk." Bella smiled looking into
Ness's big baby blues.
"Gamma says dose words are bad." Ness shook her head, sending her
curls bouncing.
"Your Grandma is right. You shouldn't curse, kid. It makes you seem less
intelligent than you are. Thankfully everyone knows that I am genius, so
Aunty Bella gets to say bad words. Plus, I am small, so they make me a
lot scarier." She winked with a grin spreading across her face.
Ness giggled as she listened to Bella and I had no idea if she understood
anything she was talking about, but Bella smiled back at her and then
looked over to me.
"See, she totally gets me." She chuckled.
I couldn't help but to find the extra sparkle in Bella's eyes even more
beautiful this morning. Her hair was slightly messy from not being
brushed and her clothes were rumpled and not their usual crisp pressed
fashion, yet she looked more beautiful than ever. Maybe it was the fact
that she was smiling at Ness and feeding her, maybe it was the fact that
we connected somehow last night, or maybe it was just her - just Bella.
I averted my eyes from hers and placed them on Ness after I felt my
mother's discomfort from the silent signals Bella and I were throwing at
one another.
The way Ness kept her eyes on Bella pulled at my heartstrings. She had
no idea that Bella was a famous world-renowned chef, yet she eyed her
like she was someone to be idolized. Her eyes barely looked to her plate
as she shoved big mouthfuls of Bella's delicious pancakes that, yes were
better than mine - into her mouth.
"Good morning."
"Pop Pop!" Nessie squealed, seeing my father walk into the room.
"There is my Bunny Rabbit." Carlisle walked in and kissed the side of
Nessie's face as he passed.
"Bewwa made pincakes." She held up her fork to him, just like she had to
me.
She was very proud of Bella's pancakes.
Carlisle looked up trying to figure out who Bella was. His eyes stopped on
her once he caught sight of her standing at the stove before him.
"Hi, I'm Bella." She held out her hand smiling at him.
"Nice to meet you Bella, I am Carlisle." He shook her hand, but I could
see his face still a little confused.
"Bella is my boss. Emmett's too." I said in an irritated tone. You would
think after years of Emmet working for Bella he would know this.
"Oh, oh yes, of course. We always enjoyed your Christmas cards." He
smiled half-heartedly at Bella and I rolled my eyes.
"No one enjoys my Christmas cards Mr. Cullen." She chuckled.
"Oh, of course we do Bella." My mother chimed in making it worse.
"No seriously, I try really hard to make sure no enjoys them so I can get
out of writing them every year. Last year, I didn't sign them myself. I
made one of my bus boys do it for me."
I laughed out loud, knowing this was probably true and my mother gave
me a dark look.
"Is Sanna coming?" Nessie asked and I chuckled harder.
"No honey. Not for a while." I reached over and wiped her mouth free of
syrup.
"Um, would you like some pancakes Mr. Cullen? I didn't make enough;
sorry I didn't know you were here."
"Pancakes would be great." My father sat down and reached for the
paper, but my mother hit his hand.
"Bella, I am sure you are very busy. You don't need to do that." My
mother stood up and I saw my father's face fall when he realized he may
have to eat my mother's pancakes.
"It's fine. It will only take a second." Bella flipped the gas back on and
started mixing another batch of batter.
"So, is my son giving you any trouble Bella?" He opened the paper as he
began to talk to her.
"No, not really." She looked at me from under her lashes as she cracked
an egg into the bowl. A small grin came across her lips as she looked
back down.
"Well, I imagine there cannot be too much trouble to get into being a
cook." He licked his thumb and turned the page.
"A Chef." She corrected.
"Excuse me?" He looked up to her from his paper.
"Edward is a chef, not a cook." Her eyes stayed on him as she corrected
him.
"I didn't realize there was a difference." He chuckled, but Bella's face
remained serious.
"Chef translates into the word Chief, as in a leader of something that is
worthy enough to need someone to be in command of it. A Chief is
trusted, respected and more intelligent then the rest. The leader of an
Indian tribe is a Chief. The head of a police department is a Chief. The
leader of a restaurant is a Chief. A cook is someone you give your order
to over a speaker through the window of your car, or someone who loads
their house with cook books they never use"
My mother sunk down into her seat as Bella eyed the shelf in Esme's
kitchen that was packed full of said cook books.
"But wants to make it look like they do." Her eyes squinted before she
looked away from him and went back to stirring the batter.
"I didn't mean" Carlisle tried back tracking.
"Yes you did." She looked back to him and I saw my father swallow as
she stared him down.
"Well, I apologize."
"I'm not the one you owe an apology too." Bella looked back to her
batter and began pouring some down into the pan.
"Pop Pop's in twuble." I looked to Ness and she was looking wide-eyed at
Carlisle.
And just like that, the tension left the room and we all chuckled at her
expression. I picked her up into my arms and kissed her cheeks, razzing a
bit into her neck and making her laugh. Bella slid the plate to Carlisle
and he rested his hand over hers, preventing her from getting away.
"You would make a great defense attorney." He winked and then released
her, smiling down at his pancakes.
Bella just snickered at him and turned the stove off, removing the pan
from the heat and walked towards where I was standing with Ness.
"I'll leave the pans to you Flower Child." She patted my shoulder and
gave Ness a light pinch of her cheek as she walked by.
"Bewwa goes bye bye?"
"Yes, honey. Bella and Daddy have to go to work." I followed Bella
towards the front door.
"I go too?" She asked.
"No baby, you're going to stay here with Grandma."
"But I want to go wif Bewwa." She looked to Bella, who was holding the
handle of the front door.
"You can't honey." I kissed her cheek and braced for the tears that I
knew where coming.
"Peese?" She began to sniffle.
"Ness, what did we talk about? You have to be a big girl, remember?" I
rocked her in my arms and she rubbed her eye with a chubby fist trying
to lock in her tears.
She leaned away from me and let her fingers play with the art on my
chest as she tried to calm herself. I could see her struggle and watched
as she tried her hardest not to cry, giving small sniffles in between her
deep breathes. It was an odd mixture of pride and pain as my little girl
matured before my eyes. She was trying so hard.
"Shecancome." Bella said quickly.
I looked over to her and Ness's face whipped around at the same time.
Bella's face was pained and she kept her eyes on Ness as her hand
gripped the door handle firmly. Bella's eyes finally trailed over to mine
and I questioned her silently, wondering what the hell she was thinking.
"I have mostly office work to do today. She can stay with me." She
swallowed hard.
"Bella"
"I go wif Bewwa?" Ness looked to me and I cursed Bella into the fiery
pits of hell as she made me into the bad guy that would now have to
break my baby's heart by saying no.
"Yes, you can come with me. Go get on your shoes." Bella tugged the
door open and walked out, almost slamming it behind her as she exited.
Nessie wiggled to get free from my arms and I mechanically placed her
on the ground as I tried to figure out what the hell just happened. Her
little feet took off at lightning speed and I walked to the front door to
ask Bella what the hell she was doing.
Bella was sitting on the porch steps smoking a cigarette and I walked
forward to take a seat beside her. She took longer drags than normal
and her face looked a mixture of pissed off and nervous. Her hands shook
slightly as she brought the smoke up to her lips. After a moment of
silence, she finally looked over to me.
"She was going to cry." She looked shrugged and took another long drag
off her smoke.
"She always cries Bella. It's what four year olds do best." I chuckled
softly.
"Well I couldn't take it." She shook her head frustrated and flicked the
ash of her cigarette.
"How am I supposed to work with Ness there today?" I leaned against my
knees looking over to her.
"I told you, I'll watch her. Seriously, I only have a shit load of
paperwork. How hard could it be?" She shrugged.
I started to laugh and my laughter turned into hysterics as I began to
think of all the first years I went through with Ness as a new dad. My
back laid against the porch as I recounted.
"Oh Bella, you have no idea what you're in for." My laughter came in
small spasms as I looked up to her.
"Please, I think if I put up with grown ass men giving me a hard time, I
can deal with your pip squeak." She flicked away her smoke and I sat
back up.
"Pip squeak isn't as angelic as she looks."
~*~*~*
Bella POV
7:02 A.M.
I stood outside the front door of Edward's parent's house preparing to
give a great performance. I thought about leaving, but I didn't want
Flower Child to think I was pissed about the late night dicking and have
him pull a no show today. Last night wasI am not even sure. His kid
knocked on the door and interrupted our moment. I could feel Edward's
irritation in his hands and sweet kisses as he tried to apologize to me
before he left. I was a little surprised that he actually did though. I
mean, it's not like she walked into the room. He could have kept going,
but of course, Edward being Edward, he put her before his own needs.
After the moment was over and I was once again alone, I couldn't believe
that I actually allowed it to happen. I mean, his dick was in me. Like, in
me - in me. Edward's dick.
What the hell was I thinking?
A woman I presumed to be Edward's mother answered the door and I
smiled sweetly to her confused face. After I introduced myself and
explained what I was doing here, she asked me in and I was greeted with
a big leg hugging from Nessie.
After I picked her up into my arms, she told me I was pretty and then
asked me to make her pancakes. Since she swooned me first, I agreed.
My heart skipped a beat when I heard the word 'daddy' come out of her
mouth and I tried to keep my eyes down, but one look at Edward walking
into the kitchen still wearing only his PJ bottom's with messed up hair
from sleeping and I had to smile. I wondered if he always ate breakfast
this way - shirtless, sleepy-eyed and slightly cranky looking.
He seemed a little uncomfortable and I tried to break the tension by
teasing him about the night before. His mother was throwing him a look
as he stared at me that made me understand why he found this woman so
scary. I tried to focus on the pancakes, but couldn't help but to take
peeks at him as he watched his daughter eating with a big goofy grin on
his face - like Nessie was all that Flower Child could see.
Edward's father was a total ass-hat.
I wanted to spit in his pancakes for the comment he made about Edward
being a cook; like he worked at fucking McDonald's or something. Did
that man have any clue of who I was and what a big deal it was for
Edward to hold the type of position he did? I probably should have kept
my mouth shut, but something about his dismissive attitude towards
Flower Child made me all mama bear 'esque.
After the awkward Chef vs. Cook tutorial, I tried to get my ass out the
door before I could make another scene. Edward followed me to the door
having a debate with Nessie in his arms and there was something about
the way she said my name that made my heart sting. She looked at him
with pleading eyes as he explained that we would have to leave and she
would have to stay. Edward explained to her in such a calm loving tone
how he wanted her to be a big girl and not cry. I watched as she traced
the ink on his chest and tried to live up to his expectation.
She just seemed so little in his big, strong arms. I knew all too well how
she was feeling in that moment of having to try and be grown up, when
really you just want to cry and let go of the pain building in your chest.
Only two tiny tears fell from her eyes and she rubbed them away
quickly, trying to hide them from Edward. His face was patient and
almost prideful as he watched her and a part of me bled for him too.
My mouth blurted out the words before I thought them through - and
fuck- now I was driving with a four year old in the backseat of my car to
work. I was seriously loosing my mind and the firm grip I once had on my
life.
How did this happen?
Flower Child stayed behind to get dressed and I was now on my own with
her. I hoped I didn't fuck up before he got here. I talked a lot of shit,
but the truth is that being alone with this little person scared the
bajesus out of me. I didn't know anything about kids. What if she fucking
choked or fell or something? What was wrong with Edward for handing
me over his kid anyhow? Surely he must have known I was child retarded,
yes?
Nessie held onto my hand as we crossed the street and I made her stand
in front of me as I opened the door to let us in. Emmett wouldn't be in
until noon, so I locked the door behind us once we entered. After I
flipped on some lights, I led us into my office and sat Ness down in a
seat across from me at my desk.
"You like music Pip Squeak?" I asked.
She nodded shyly to me and I smiled back at her. It was amazing how
much she looked like Edward this way. Sitting down at my desk, I pulled
up the playlist on my desktop and clicked on an old Tom Tom Club song
for her. I figured it was better than System of a Down or fucking 50
Cent.
She bobbed happily in her seat and I took out a notebook for her to
draw in, frowning when I realized I only had pens and pencils. I thought
about giving her the sharpie, but the smell was really strong and I didn't
need Edward pissed at me for getting his kid high off marker fumes. I
passed her the pad and pencil and she smiled, thanking me as she took
them into her little hands.
Once Ness was occupied I picked up the phone and jotted down the
messages on the voicemail. One of them was a call from a client of mine
that I knew well. My first catering job event I ever landed was for a
man named Aro. He was getting married and booked me as his caterer,
even though I was pretty much unknown at the time. Aro was a big
named socialite and he helped put me on the map big time. His daughter
Jane was now getting married and he wanted me to cater the event. I
cringed slightly; I wasn't really into the catering jobs anymore. This was
Aro though, I owed it to him, so with a belly full of reservations, I dialed
him and agreed to it.
The date was only three days away and I cursed silently in my head as I
scrambled to arrange the last minute event. His little daughter, Jane was
spoiled and got whatever she wanted, and apparently, she wanted an NFL
player - and to be married to him sooner, rather than later.
I'm sure it had nothing to do with being knocked up.
Knock. Knock.
"Daddy!" Nessie smiled leaning back in her chair as she saw Edward poke
his head through my door. I was still on the phone trying to arrange for
linens, so I simply smiled at him.
He placed a finger over his lips for her to be quiet and then leaned
forward and planted a kiss on her cheek before he kneeled beside her
and handed her a real coloring book with crayons from a small book bag.
Edward whispered something in her ear and she nodded to him. He kissed
her again and I saw him mouth that he loved her before he gave one final
kiss and then rose to his feet to exit.
As I held the phone I watched as Nessie flipped through her coloring
book until she found a picture she wanted to color. Her little face
scrunched in concentration as she picked her colors and my heart skipped
happily when I saw her bite her little bottom lip, looking every bit as
adorable as Edward when he did the same thing. It amazed me how
bonded they were, that they could not only look alike and share silent
conversations with each other through only their eyes, but also that they
mimicked each other without even probably knowing they did. It was the
most precious thing I had ever been a witness to.
11:45 A.M.
Emmett had taken Nessie out for a walk to stretch her legs since he was
early, and I knew that this was probably the only time I would get to
have the conversation I was dreading with Flower Child. I wasn't too keen
on having at work, but it needed to be said already.
I scooted back from the desk and walked with a fluttery stomach
towards the kitchen where I knew he would be doing his prep.
Butterbean smiled as we walked in to find him cooking in the same tight
white tee from this morning, since I still had his chef's coat in my office.
He glanced up at me once, but then looked down and my stomach
plummeted into the depths of my stomach as I realized he knew what
was coming.
I rested my hands down on the steel table he was working on as I stood
across from him. He continued chopping and I guessed it was to be able
to avoid looking at me. I didn't want to start with the heavy shit first, so
I decided to discuss the next few days ahead.
"Umwe will be catering a wedding on Wednesday. Normally I would have
just told them to go fuck themselves, but this is for someone who helped
me a lot when I was first started out, so we have to do it. It doesn't
give us a lot of time and the next few days will be complete and utter
hell. I'll have to bring in some help from my other places to get it done. I
don't want you to feel like it is because you're not good enough or
something. It's just a lot to do and I need someone who can watch over
this place while we are at the event." I explained.
"I understand." He nodded, keeping his eyes down as he kept working.
"Edward," I took a deep breath. "We need to talk about last night." I
waited for him to stop what he was doing and look at me.
He placed his knife down and looked nervously up to me.
"I'm sorry Bella." He said softly, watching my face carefully.
"About which part? Doing it? Or your kid cock blocking you?" I snickered
lightly on the end.
"Are we being completely honest here?" He asked and I nodded at him.
"Both." His mouth turned up into crooked smile and I had to look down to
avoid smiling back at him. Once I regained my composure I raised my eyes
back up to his and tried to show him the serious side of me -
unfortunately, it was also a very vulnerable place. I had to be honest
with him though.
"Edward, I don't do stuff like that." My voice stayed low as I gathered
the courage to make my omission.
"I don't eitherthat's why I am sorry." He kept his eyes locked on mine
and my heart fluttered a little on his words as I realized what he was
saying.
He wasn't sorry that it happened- just that he acted outside of his
normal circle of being responsible. Like me.
"Yeah, well, I probably should have warned you."
"Warned me? About what?" He asked.
"You fed me cheese after midnight. I'm kind of like one of those
Gremlins, except I don't want to go around tearing up the town in search
of Gizmo. I just start trying to nail my employees." I grinned; Flower
Child's cheeks flushed as he chuckled looking down to his table and shook
his head at me.
"I'll try to remember that." He chuckled harder, running a hand through
his messy hair. "Does this mean you're not going to fire me?" He asked,
starting to chop again.
"No way, you're not getting off that easy." I reached over and picked up
a stick of carrot to nibble.
"Are you trying to funny?" He looked up to me with narrowed eyes.
"Ohsorry" I chuckled, realizing what the fuck I just said.
"That's alright." He laughed one.
"So, getting back to this wedding fiasco, you know this means you are not
getting your days off right?"
"Yeah." He grumbled.
"At least you'll make good overtime plus bonuses. Catering gigs pay
double and Aro tips well." I took a bite of my carrot stick, walking over
beside him.
"Why do you pay double?" He glanced over to me as he worked.
"Because catering events, especially wedding catering events, are a huge
pain in the ass." I rolled my eyes thinking about it and took another bite
of carrot.
"Why is it so last minute?" He asked, picking up his cutting board and
walking to the large stockpot.
"Aro's daughter Jane got knocked up by some NFL player." I chuckled
and grabbed another carrot before he dumped them all in.
Edward scraped his vegetables into the pot, darting his eyes back and
forth between me and what he was doing.
"What?" I asked.
"Nothing." He looked back to the pot.
"Tell me."
"I just think it's a little rude to judge someone, especially when they are
trying to right their wrongs." He set the cutting board down and picked
up a spoon.
"Nessie isn't something you did wrong Flower Child. I'm not judging Jane,
either. I just think it's funny that daddy's little princess made a boo
boo." I chuckled.
"Well at least she is woman enough to fix it." He began to stir the pot
and I watched as the resentment flooded his face.
"You should be happy you didn't marry that wretch. At least now when
you become rich and famous, she won't be able to get half of your shit."
I teased, trying to make him feel better.
"Somehow I don't think that will translate the same ways to my
daughter."
"Come on Flower Child, don't get all Emo on me. You're doing a good job
with Ness. I see how she looks at you. She's happy." I reached over and
took the spoon from him so I could give it a taste.
I dipped the spoon down into the pot and brought a sip up to my lips. It
was missing something. I dipped it back down into the pot and blew on it
once before holding it to Edward's mouth. He slurped it and his brow
furrowed.
Good boy.
He licked his lips, which made butterbean perk up finally from her state
of depression and then reached for some spice from the shelf.
Coriander...I knew it.
"Thanks for bringing Ness here today. You didn't have to do that." He
said as he added the missing component.
"It's not big deal. Although Aro through a major wrench in my plans to
sneak off after lunch with her to the beach. Damn it." I grumbled and
Edward smiled as he stirred.
"She loves the beach."
"Me too, though you would never know it looking at my pale ass." I
looked down to my arms that were ghostly.
"It looks pretty good to me." His lips came up into a smirk as he looked
down into the pot.
Down girl. Down girl. Down. Girl.
"Edward." I warned.
"Sorry, but you opened the door for me to walk through." He brought
another sip of the stock up to his lips and slurped.
"Let me taste it too." I leaned in as he brought a spoonful to my lips and
I smiled at the delectable flavor it now had.
A dribble of stock ran down my chin though and before I could wipe it
away, the pad of Edward's thumb was there catching it. He casually
brought his thumb back to his mouth and sucked it away, turning back to
the pot and continued stirring. Butterbean thumped painfully in between
my legs and the urge to just fucking grab him by the front of his shirt
and fuck him senseless on the steel top table raged throughout my being.
My eyes trailed over his body, starting at his jaw and working my way
down until I reached the bulge in the front of his pants. I remembered
how he felt inside of me last night, the way he filled me so completely
and how his neck smelled as my face pressed into it.
Fucking hell I wanted this man.
"Nessie! Girl, get your butt back here!" I snapped out of my ogling to see
Emmett chasing Ness into the kitchen.
Edward spun around and grabbed her up into his arms, biting her neck
playfully and then continued to stir while he held her on his hip with one
arm.
"Sorry...she escaped. Those little legs move a lot faster than you think."
Emmett rustled her hair as he passed by and she giggled at him.
"It's alright. It's time for lunch anyhow." Edward kissed her cheek and
then grabbed the lid for the stockpot to cover it up.
"Is Bewwa gonna have wunch wif us?" Edward whispered into her ear and
she giggled.
"Bewwa, can you have wunch wif me and daddy?" She leaned her face
against his chest shyly and her blue eyes begged me to say yes.
"Sure Squeaky." I tickled her belly and she leaned forward for me to
take her.
I couldn't quite master the one armed thing that was easy for Edward to
do. She might have only been about thirty pounds, but hell, that was like
a quarter of my own weight, so I held her in sort of a straddle like way.
Her arms wrapped around my neck and her little legs locked around my
waist. I looked down to her and laughed.
"You look like a monkey." I chuckled.
"No monkey. Gampa says I'm a bunny wabbit."
"Why a bunny rabbit?" I laughed as we walked towards my office.
She smiled her teeth at me and I laughed putting two and two together.
"Well right now, you look like a monkey." I pushed the door to my office
open and grabbed my bag from my desk. As I turned around, I saw
Edward staring at me as he leaned against the doorframe. He quickly
smoothed out his expression and swallowed hard before he reached his
arms out and tried to take Nessie.
"I want Bewwa." She clung harder to my neck.
"You're too heavy for Bella." He pulled her away and she went into his
arms without further argument.
"Where would you like to go?" He asked looking over to me.
"I want ouce keem." Nessie piped in.
"I wasn't asking you." He razzed in her neck and she giggled.
"We could go over to Denail's." I teased.
"No thanks."
12:36 P.M.
We had decided on a nice little caf that had a full view of the ocean.
Edward ordered a grilled chicken breast with this really delish looking
rice that was seasoned with lime, black beans and fresh cilantro. I
ordered the house specialty, which was also one of my favorite dishes of
all time, Paella. There is nothing better than eating seafood on the
ocean. It gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. Since we were
within walking distance, I ordered a glass of sangria as well.
After arguing with Flower Child that ordering Mac-N-Cheese off the kids
menu was an utter insult to Ness's ability to enjoy a meal that was void
of artificial colors and shit, he allowed me to order her a nice plate of
grilled chicken fingers along with a side of broccoli spears that he swore
she wouldn't eat, but I gave him the finger when she wasn't looking and
he left me alone. I also ordered a fresh fruit plate for us all to share
while we waited for our food.
I watched as Ness's chubby cheeks threatened to burst from how she
over stuffed them with grapes and pineapple chucks. She had juice
running down her chin and looked perfectly content about that fact.
"You're getting more on you then you are putting in your mouth." I
chuckled, wiping her chin.
"You need to swallow in between bites, love. You're making daddy
nervous." He pushed her hair back and she held up a grape to him.
"Thank you baby." He took the grape from her with his teeth and then
kissed her fingers.
I know..swoon butterbeanfucking swoon.
"Bewwa." She held a grape up for me.
"I don't do grapes kid, unless they are crushed and in a wine glass." Her
little face scrunched in confusion.
"Sawberry?" She held up a berry to me.
"Strawberries are my favorite." I held out my hand but she wasn't having
any of that.
"I do it." She stretched her arm out to me and I smiled at her, leaning in
and taking it from her little fingers with my mouth.
"Thanks Squeaky." I chuckled and she clapped happily before she
reached into the plate and grabbed a chuck of pineapple for her own pie
hole.
My cell phone rang and I reached down for my bag, bringing it up to my
lap and dug into the side pocket for it. I cringed when I saw the caller
ID.
"Hello James." I may have rolled my eyes.
"Isabella. My love. It has been too long, darling."
"Don't call me that please." I picked up my sangria and took a long swig.
"But you are." He crooned in his voice that he knew used to drive me
over the edge.
"Can we keep this on a professional level please?" I took another swig,
finishing off my glass and looked around for the damn water.
"Sure Darling, however you want it." He chuckled darkly.
"Listen, I have a big event on Wednesday. I need to pull a few of you, so
you need to make arrangements to be out of your place for a few days. I
want you to come and work at the Miami location since I am taking the
Sous Chef with me."
"Pulling a newbie to an event?"
"Shut up and just do as I say please. Emmett will be in touch with the
remainder of the deets. Got it?" The waiter finally came over to deliver
our food and I shook my glass at him to signal for a refill.
"I am so glad I will get to see you Isabella. I have missed you so much."
"I'm sure you have." I clicked off the phone and shoved it back into my
purse, mumbling under my breath.
"Everything alright?" Edward asked, looking at me a little bit concerned.
"Yeah. He just gets on my nerves." I placed my napkin in lap and
appraised my food, making sure all was in order, then looked over to
Edward and Ness's plates.
"May we begin?" He asked, smiling crookedly at me.
"Shut it Edward. I don't make fun of your overprotective crap, don't
make fun of my anal crap." I cringed on the last part, thinking of how
badly it sounded and Edward chuckled.
"I don't think that is very appropriate table conversation Bell." He
teased, giving me a wink.
I rolled my eyes at him and started in on my food. My nose leaned into
my fork and smelled it first to make sure it was alright. Seafood was a
tricky thing. I don't care if we were on the ocean or not, I knew better
than to assume it was fresh. If I had one dollar for every time someone
tried to poison me with rancid seafood, I would be the Bill Gates of
fucking taste testing. Being poisoned with fish, especially shellfish was
not something you wanted. It could actually kill you and if I was going to
die from food, I would much rather go in the fashion of being drowned in
something from the cocoa God's.
The food smelled good, better than good, actually. I gave a little nibble
and once I rolled it around a little along my taste buds, I shoved a fork
full in. It was actually quite tasty and cooked well. Not the best I ever
had, but hey, this was Miami, not fucking Spain.
As I chewed, I looked over to Nessie who was fisting a chicken tender
and chomping it like it was a piece of beef jerky. I was almost jealous of
her and how she could dive in to her food without fear of judgment.
Flower Child was watching Ness too as he chewed on his food and his
expression was highly amused. Clearly he was enjoying watching her eat
as much as I was.
"Can I get you folks anything else?" The waiter came back and poured
Edward a refill on his sweet tea.
"I'm fine." Edward said in between bites.
"Could you bring me some honey please? And some extra napkins." I
chuckled, looking at Nessie.
"Yes ma'am." He nodded and then walked off.
"What are you putting honey on?" Flower Child asked before he took
another bite.
"You'll see." I grinned and popped a bite of rice into my mouth.
The waiter came back and set down the napkins along with a few single
serving honey tubs. I set down my fork and reached for one, feeling
Edward's eyes on me as I worked. I pulled back the foil from one of the
tubs and set it down on the table in between Ness and I.
"May I have one?" I asked her pointing to the untouched broccoli spears.
She nodded to me and watched as I picked up a spear and dipped it in
the honey, then took a big bite and hummed happily, making the sound a
little more dramatic than was required for eating fucking broccoli.
"That's yummy." I smiled at her and watched as her eyes sparkled at my
revelation.
She grabbed a spear with her chubby palm and dunked it in the honey
before she took a big bite. She hummed and her little face lit up as she
chewed. I looked back to Edward and his face was painted in both
amusement and surprise as he watched her pick up a second one and
repeated the same thing.
I looked back to my food and smiled as I finished eating, happy that she
was enjoying eating a nourishing meal and not some yellow shit from a
box.
5:58 P.M.
Emmett and I were arranging the traveling details and scheduling for the
out-of-town staff I needed to fly in. He was sitting on the opposite side
of my office with his laptop on my desk as we went back and forth with
details. This was such a clusterfuck; I was so tense and ready to just
punch something. Thankfully, Esme had picked up Nessie and taken her
home for the day.
"Soare you going to be alright with James being here? I can get
Laurent to come in instead." Emmett offered.
"No, James is better than Laurent. I don't want to have to worry about
anything while I am gone." I stopped typing and rubbed my fingers
against my temples.
"BCan I ask something that is very much none of my business, but feel
the need to ask - like I am going to just jump out of my fucking skin if I
don't?" Emmett's hands fisted tightly as he looked towards me.
"Uhsure."
"What the fuck is going on with you and my brother?" He blurted out.
"What are you"
"Don't start that innocent shit with me B, " He sat back in his seat and
laughed a little. "My dad saw your car parked at their house."
"I was bringing"
"All night." He grinned, cutting off my lie.
"He did?" I asked nervously.
"Uh huh." He nodded.
"Shit." I sunk down into my chair.
"Are you and Edward like," He made circle with his one hand a shoved his
index finger in and out of it, like the fucking two year old he is.
"I refuse to answer questions that you cannot even have the balls to
formulate into words."
"Are you guys fucking?" He clarified.
"No. Yes. No." I leaned back forward and cupped my forehead.
"I know it has been a long time and shitbut you either are fucking or
you are not fucking Bella. There is not an in between fucking." He
chuckled.
"We sort of," I swallowed. "We kind of had a little moment last night.
I was only going to drop off Ness's toy and then next thing I knew I was
on the couch watching Man VS Food, then I was sleeping in the guest
room and before I knew it, your brother's dick was in me."
"So then you are fucking." He concluded.
"We wereuntil Nessie woke up and knocked on the door. It never went
passed a second pump." I laid my head on the desk and Emmet boomed
with laughter.
"Shut up." I mumbled against the papers.
"Awe, B. You and Edward are pathetic, you know that?" He chuckled.
"Emmett, I don't know what's wrong with me. Edward is my Sous Chef. I
shouldn't be doing this shit with him." I sat up and slouched in my seat.
"Do you like him?"
"I let him put his dick in me, what do you think?" I asked, sarcastically.
"I've put my dick a lot of girls I didn't like B." He grinned.
"It's complicated." I shook my head.
"No it isn't. You either like the kid or you don't." He shrugged.
"And what if I do? He works for me; he has a kida kid that is too cute
for fucking words, but a kid nonetheless. I don't date my employees and I
sure as fuck am not the motherly type."
"You're over thinking this B. Besides, If Edward is dicking you, he
probably has a serious crush going on himself." He chuckled.
"What the hell makes you say that?"
"The fact that he hasn't dicked anyone in a very long time." He smiled.
"Ugh." I slid back down into my seat and my head throbbed harder.
"Edward is a good kid, B. I am not just saying that shit because he is my
brother either. I mean it. I know this shit scares you, but there's nothing
scary about Edward."
"Are you fucking kidding me? Edward is the scariest thing I have ever
met in my life." I laughed once, humorlessly.
"What I mean is, he wouldn't hurt you like those other assholes. You've
seen how he is with Ness. He cherishes the people he loves."
"Okay now you can go fuck off, talking about love and shit in my office."
I sat back up and he laughed at me.
"I'm serious. Just don't over think it Bella." He went back to typing on
his laptop and I stared at my computer screen.
Butterbean was doing the Macarena in my underpants at Emmett's words
and the pain in my head increased to a new level.
"You aren't just telling me this shit because you think it will give you a
free pass with Angela, right?"
"How did youI'm gonna kick Edward's ass." He chuckled.
"Cause you know that shit doesn't fly with me. I am still the boss around
here you know, regardless of whose dick I am jumping on."
"Don't worry. I have found a new brand of heroin, B." He grinned wide.
"Who?" I sat forward resting my arms over the desk.
"The blonde that owns Cocoa Chanel's. I have a date with her this week."
He smiled like a kid on Christmas morning.
"No shit? Rose?"
"Yeah, Rose." He sighed saying her name and I chuckled at him.
Sitting back in my seat, I started to think about the fact that both Rose
and Alice had managed to land two of the men in my place. Did cocoa
beans have a way of making a man fall in love with you? I typed it into
Google and decided to investigate.
9:43 P.M.
I was listening to the soothing sounds of the rainforest playing over the
speaker of my computer as I tried to close my eyes for a bit and let go
of the stress. I could hear chatter and clinking of plates from the dining
room and I was happy that the restaurant was doing well. Edward was on
the pass again tonight since I had to deal with all of this last minute
wedding shit. I had not even seen him since our lunch this afternoon and
I felt bad about ditching him, but something told me he would be alright.
Leaning forward I started to clean up my desk of all the scattered
papers. I tucked the print outs of the airline schedules into a yellow
folder and then filed them into the bottom drawer. I tossed the pencils
and pens back into the cup and my heart stopped when I picked up the
notebook from earlier that I allowed Nessie to use. She had drawn a
picture of stick figures.
One with big Messy hair and happy face - Edward.
A little girl with curls and happy face holding onto the messy haired
guy's hand- Her.
And a longhaired girl with a happy face that held the little girl's hand-
me.
This is how she saw us in her little mind- United and happy.
My chest ached at the thought and I was so lost in the moment, I didn't
hear Edward come in.
"What's wrong?" I looked up to see him closing the door.
"Nothing." I wiped away the tears that I didn't know were in my eyes
quickly.
"You're crying Bell." He walked around the desk towards me and rested
his butt on the edge, bringing a hand to my face.
"It's just this headache." I lied, sitting up and resting the notebook on
the desk with the picture side down.
"You should go home if you don't feel good." He rubbed his index finger
over my cheek.
"There's too much to do. I'll be alright." I shook my head and tried to
look back to the screen, wanting to avert his eyes, but he cupped my chin
in his palm and brought my eyes back to his.
"Get up." He said softly.
I scrunched my brows at him, wondering what he was trying to do and he
chuckled at me.
"Get up." He said again and I listened this time, rising from my chair.
He leaned off the desk and took a seat in my leather chair, pulling me
down onto his lap. Edward brushed my long forward, sweeping it over my
shoulder. His strong hands found the tight muscles along my neck and he
began massaging them, forming circles with his thumbs as he worked the
tension away. I melted into his touch and hummed a little at how good he
felt as he loosed the knots.
His fingers made their way up into the hair at the nape of my neck and
he held me steady with his free hand on my waist. The small circles of
his thumb and knuckle of his index fingers were working wonders on the
back of my head as he inched his way up. I could feel the thudding start
to subside in my temples, but a new one was forming in between my legs
as butterbean tried to tell me how much she liked it when Edward
touched us.
"Does that feel better?" His warm breath tickled against my exposed skin
that my skimpy camisole didn't cover.
"Mmm." I purred, unable to form a coherent thought as he continued his
massage.
"Thank you for being so great with Ness today. You have no idea how
much it means to me." His fingers slowed and his hand on my waist moved
to my arm, rubbing softly. I tilted my head back to look at him, turning
my body slightly more in his direction.
"EdwardI um," I swallowed, trying to think of how to say this. "I
really like Nessie and everything, but I.I don't want her to get too
attached to me." I looked to his face and Edward's expression saddened.
"It's justI don't know how long I'll be here. I travel a lot and I don't
want to hurt her when I leave."
Hurt meI don't want to hurt me.
"She's already attached to you Bell."
"I know...I'm sorryI just" I looked down, unable to truly convey my
feelings.
"It's changed for you, too. Hasn't it?" He rubbed my arm with his hand
and I looked back up into his eyes, remembering our conversation from
last night.
"It can't." I whispered.
"Why not Bell?" His lips came down on my shoulder top once as his arms
tightened around me.
"It just can't." I closed my eyes, feeling his lips come into the crook of
my neck.
"I think it canif you want it bad enough." He skimmed along my neck
with his nose, stopping below my ear and planted an open mouthed kiss to
the tender skin below my lobe.
I melted into his embrace as he held me with his strong arms, caging me
in like he was barring me from escaping. Edward's lips trailed across my
jaw and he brought one hand up to my face, trying to pull my lips to his
as his palm rested on my cheek.
"I can't fall for you, Edward. This isn't right." I shook against his hand,
but he held me firm.
"Then why does it feel so right, Bell?" He rubbed his face along mine.
"Why do you feel so right?" He kissed the sensitive skin in the corner of
my mouth sending poor butterbean into overdrive, allowing her to
overtake the intelligent part of my brain.
I let my lips slide over his and Edward brought his other hand into my
hair as he pulled my face into his harder. The position was all wrong
though and my neck strained to be able to reach him. I swiveled myself
in his lap and allowed my knees to rest on the sides of his thighs. They
were mashed painfully in between his legs and the leather seat, but as
Flower Child's hands palmed my ass, I forgot all about even having knees.
His warm tongue found its way into my mouth and slid slowly over mine,
like he was savoring my flavor, just as I was savoring his. My hands
fisted his white tee and pulled him into me, deepening our kiss and he
gripped my ass harder in his hands in response. Edward's lips moved from
my mouth to my cheek and he slowly made his way down my neck, leaving
a heated trail of open-mouthed kisses in his path. My hand found there
way into his messy hair. I fisted his locks hard as he slid his hands up
under the back of my camisole. Flower Child splayed his hot hands
against my slick flesh, forcing me to lean forward into him, putting my
cleavage right in his face.
The roughness of his prickly stubble felt good against my soft skin as he
slid his face down my body until he reached the V my cleavage formed;
sliding his tongue in between it and finishing it off with a kiss. His mouth
felt heavenly, making butterbean work double time as she soaked my
panties. I wanted his mouth back on mine though. My head leaned
forward and recaptured his lips, to which he pulled me into the chair,
leaning all the way back and held me to him with all his might.
I rocked my hips against him, needing some type of friction for before I
spontaneously combusted and he groaned into my mouth in response. I
could feel the bulge in his pants and butterbean screamed at me for it.
My hands loosened from his hair and slid down over his hard chest to the
top of his pants. I thanked the sex God's up above that cheffies only
have an elastic band.
Buttons would have been a real bitch right now.
Edward lifted his hips as I put my weight on my knees allowing my hands
to pull his pants to his thighs. He reached under my skirt and slid my
panties to the slide, rolling his thumb once over butterbean and she gave
him a warm reception.
My nails gripped into his hair as I lowered my self over his hard length
and Edward gripped my ass firmly, almost painfully, but as GaGa says 'if
isn't rough it isn't fun.'
Edward groaned into my neck as I lifted my hips and slid back down his
length. I tried to keep my pace slow, knowing that he needed it that
way, but his hands moved from my ass to my hips and he pushed me a
little faster and harder against him, forming a rhythm that was pushing
me over the edge as butterbean slid against the lower part of his abs as
I rode him and he held me tight to his body allowing no space in between
us.
"I'm gonna" My muscles clenched around him and he thrust harder
inside of me.
"Fuck." He groaned, giving me three hard thrusts and felt him release
inside of my pussy.
I fell against his shoulder and his arms held me tight as he rubbed his
hand over my back. Amid the sounds of the rainforest playing over the
speakers, Edward and I panted hard, trying to slow our breathing and
come back down from our high. I didn't feel any of the remorse I braced
for, sure that after it was said and done, I would be. It never came
though. One of Flower Child's hands moved up into my hair and he
massaged gently against my scalp.
His head nuzzled into mine and I turned to face him. He placed a kiss to
my lips and I lifted my head so I could gain better access to him,
allowing my tongue to find his again. Edward's hands framed the sides of
my face and he kissed me deeply, as though he were trying to show me
what I meant to him.
"Hey Bella"
I pulled back from him instantly and my heart thudded as I saw Angela
gaping at us, with her mouth hanging to her feet as she stood in the
doorway.
"Sorry." She closed the door quickly and I remained staring at it long
after she was gone. until I heard Flower Child start to laugh.
"What is it with you and doors?" I slapped him playfully and he grabbed
my arms, bringing me back towards him.
"She doesn't know." He kissed my chin. "You can't see anything. She
probably just thinks we were making out." He looked down to his lap and
I followed his eyes, realizing he was right. My skirt fanned out over his
lap and you would have no idea that his dick was still inside of me.
"Only you and I know Bell." He whispered and his hands brushed my hair
away from my face.
"It has to stay that way." I looked in his eyes and tried to will him to
understand the importance of this.
"I know. It will." He leaned forward and kissed me once.
"You need to go back to work before they wonder what happened to you
- and before your boss decides to fire you for fucking around on company
time."
"Interesting choice of words." He smirked and kissed my cheek.
"What did you come in here for anyway?"
"I honestly don't even remember." He chuckled and his hands lifted me
slowly from his lap. He kept his eyes on mine as he pulled himself from
me, but my own rolled a little into the back of my head at the feeling.
Fuck, was he still hard?
I tried to move, but my legs were locked in place from being crushed into
the sides of the chair.
"I'm stuck."
Edward chuckled at me and lifted me up as he stood. I cringed as I tried
to stretch my legs out and force them to stand. He kept one hand on me
making sure I didn't fall and righted his pants with the other.
And fuck, he was still hard.
I adjusted my panties back into place and caught the smirk on Edward's
face as he watched, but I rolled my eyes at him and sat back down at
my desk. Flower Child planted a kiss on top of my head as I tried to shut
off the damn rainforest sounds and then found his way to the door.
"Edward?" I reached over and grabbed the notebook, ripping off the
picture. He turned around and looked at me questioningly.
"Here." I held out the page to him.
"What's this?" He asked, walking forward to take it.
"Nessie drew it earlier." He took it from my hands and I watched, as he
looked it over. His face smiled as he registered who all the people were
and then he looked up to me.
"I guess it's changed for her too."

2:30 A.M.
I was finally crawling into bed.
This day seemed so much longer than others. I didn't even get to say
good night to Edward since I was too much of a coward to leave my
office and face Angela. He never came back in either, hopefully because
he was obeying my rules that no one was allowed to know about us and
not because he was avoiding me.
After I placed my mint in my mouth, I turned off the tableside lamp and
snuggled down into the bed. I immediately felt my body start to slip into
my dreams, but was awaken by the sound of my phone beeping, signaling
that I had a text message. With a groan I sat back up and flipped on
the light before making my way across the room to grab it from the small
round table. I walked back over to the bed as my sleepy eyes fidgeted
with the keys to find the right buttons. I was back in the bed and
settled down under the covers as I clicked the button to open the
message.
My heart thudded hard as I saw the name of sender.
Flower Child
I scrolled down and read the message:
Are you awake, Bell?
I hit the reply key and typed:
Are you stalking me? :)
I tried to imagine him laughing as he read it. Was he wearing his PJ
bottoms without a shirt? Mmm, butterbean liked that thought. A minute
later my phone beeped back and I opened the text.
No, I like my nose bone too much. :)
I typed back:
I like your bone too. ;p
I giggled against my pillow and my stomach fluttered waiting for his
response. And waited.and waitedand waited. Was that the wrong
thing to say? I thought a man would like to hear that you liked his bone?
Finally it beeped back.
Sorry, you made drop my phone. You owe me a new faceplate. :(
I chuckled hard, rolling to my back and texted him back.
Sorry... So what did you want Flower Child? Not that I don't mind talking
about your bone, but it is passed 2A.M. :)
I waited for his text, but instead my phone rang. I pressed the key and
opened my mouth to greet him, but he started talking first.
"I couldn't sleep. I was hoping you could tell me a story."
"You're the one with a kid. I don't know any bedtime tales Flower Child."
I rolled to my side and flipped off the light.
"Tell me about your father, when he was teaching you."
"Where are you right now?" I asked, trying to imagine what he looked
like on the other end.
"I'm lying in bed in my apartment. Ness is curled up next to me, snoring."
He chuckled a little on the end.
"What are you wearing?"
"I'm in bed with my daughter Bell. What do you think I am wearing?" He
chuckled.
"I'm hoping it's the PJ bottoms." I chuckled.
"PJ bottoms do it for you, huh?"
"On you they do." I smiled to myself thinking back to how he looked in
them.
"Are you trying to avoid my request?" He laughed.
"Yup." I chuckled.
"Please?" He asked.
"What do want to know?" I sighed.
"Anything."
I paused, trying to think back to something I would like to share. Edward
remained quiet on the other end I loved hearing his faint breathing in the
speaker. My mind imagined him laying in bed with his PJ bottoms on and
shirtless. He was probably stroking Ness's hair watching her sleep with
that same look of adoration on his face he always had whenever she was
near him.
"Bell? Did you fall asleep honey?"
"No. I was just trying to think."
"You can go to sleep if you want. I know you're tired."
"I'm fine. UmMy dad's name was Charlie, but everyone called him Chuck,
except for my mother Renee, she called him Chunk, since he had a fat
stomach."
Edward chuckled softly into the phone causing me to smile. I rolled over
to my side and snuggled down further into the bed.
"He named his restaurant after me La Bella Vita."
"The good life." Edward said softly.
"Very good Flower Child." I chuckled.
"Where was it located?" He asked.
"In our hometown. Good old Forks, Washington. It is still there and he
still cooks everyday."
"I've never heard of Forks."
"It's just a small town, nothing to really write home about, except for
the best mushroom ravioli and tiramisu of course." I chuckled.
"Why doesn't your father get a bigger place? In a bigger city, like you?"
"He likes his hometown. He has a connection with those people, plus, it's
kind of late in the game for him to start in on that venture, you know?" I
yawned and fought my eyes to stay open.
"Did he ever want to?" Edward asked and imagined Ness must have
moved, because now I could hear her snoring in the phone.
"He'll never admit itbut I think he did."
"What stopped him?" He asked.
"Me."
"I don't understand." He said softly.
"I think you understand more than anyone." I whispered.
"It's not your fault Bell- and in truth, if we are talking about my
feelings and how I react as father, your father doesn't blame you either.
I would give up anything happily for Ness and never hold it against her.
That is the purpose of my life Bell, to live for her."
"Well Ness is lucky then." I felt the tears start to build in my eyes.
"I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sorry."
"I'm fine. It's just late, can we talk tomorrow?"
"Sure honey."
"Alright, goodnight."
"Bell?"
"Mmm?"
"I'm wearing the PJ bottoms- except these have the Cocoa Puff's dude
on them."
I snorted into the phone.
"Why the fuck do you have pants with the Cocoa Puff's bird on them?" I
chuckled.
"Because I'm coo-coo for cocoa puffs, why else?"
"You're so stupid." I laughed.
"Emmett bought them as a joke for my birthday last year. Apparently
making fun of someone's lack of a sex life is humorous to him, no matter
the occasion."
"You got laid tonight, so why are you wearing them?"
"Ness likes them and I told you, it's all for her. No matter how
humiliating it might be." He chuckled.
"You didn't have to admit wearing them to me though." I argued.
"Yeah, wellI like it when both of my girls are happy."
Calm down butterbean, you're gonna blow a gasket. He didn't mean it like
that.
Did he?
"Get some sleep Bell. I'll see you in the morning."
"Night Flower child."
I kept my phone to my ear and smiled when he didn't hang up first. With
a bit of hesitation, I hit the end button and tossed it on the bedside
table. It beeped two seconds later and I laughed as I reached for it.
Don't forget my faceplate. :)

Edward POV
Monday- We had sex in the back of the Volvo when the dinner rushed
ended.
Tuesday- had sex in the walk-in, I got a hand job in her office and then
we had sex in the back of her Lexus; which was much better than the
Volvo. It was bigger since it was an SUV and it had no child seat in the
back that jabbed you in the ass.
Wednesday aka today- She was a complete and total mess, which
equaled no sex. Not even a hand job or grab of the nutsnothing. I was
officially cut off.
Today was the event for her friend Aro, which meant that Bella was in
complete bitch mode. She yelled, screamed and threatened more lives by
noon than I thought possible.
I loved it.
She was sexy when she was ordering people about. Plus her hair was in
complete disarray from all the stress and it reminded me of she looked
last night after the backseat fucking we did. I couldn't help the small
smile that was constantly on my face as I stole peeks of her. We were
working out of some fancy hotel about fifty miles away from the
restaurant. The kitchen was huge and I looked around in awe at all the
equipment it held. Our kitchen was nice too, but this was one for the
record books. They could feed a small country from it easily.
"Edward, I need you to help me with arranging the walk-in." Bella
walked passed me in a hurry as she gave her orders.
YEEEESSSSS!!!
I was never so happy to be sprinting my way to a walk in. Bella was like
my new drug. I swear, I was addicted to this girl. I literally, could not
get enough of her.
She was balancing herself on a stack of produce boxes as she reached up
to rearrange a shelf above her head as I entered.
"Hand me the trays from over there and then start sorting out all of
that shit someone dumped." She ordered.
NOOOOOOO!!!
We were actually going to work? And not have sex?
I walked over to the shelf and picked up the tray she requested, handing
to her. She reached out to grab it and lost her footing a little as the
boxes sunk in under her weight. I held her steady by placing my hands on
her hips.
"Thanks." She smiled.
"Sure. I was going for a little lower, but here is good too." I smirked,
gripping her hips harder.
Bella placed the tray on the shelf and then turned into my arms, placing
her hands on my shoulders and leaned her lips to my ear.
"As much as I would love to fuck you right now, I don't have time." She
kissed the side of my neck and my dick strained against the front of my
pants. "Later." She kissed my neck again and I grabbed her face into my
hand as she leaned away, pulling her back down into my lips.
She chuckled into our kiss and locked her arms around my neck as my
own tightened around her tiny waist.
"You're not going to change my mind." She whispered, pulling back.
I was going to answer her back, but my eyes caught the glimpse of
someone's head through the walk-in window.
"Incoming." I pulled her arms down and she spun back around as I freed
her from mine.
"There you are." A man with dirty blonde hair entered and smiled at
Bella.
"Hi James." She said lamely and I instantly felt the energy in the walk-
in change.
"I have your Hor E'dourves." He winked at her and I brought my hands
back up to her hips and she tried to climb down.
"You could have just dropped them off with Laurent." She stood in front
of me with her hands on her hips facing him.
"I wanted to see you." He reached forward and took her hands into his;
bringing one up to his lips and kissed her knuckles.
"Well, now you have." She ripped her hands away from him.
"Don't be like that Isabella. You know it only turns me on more." He
winked again.
I was really getting tired of this asshole and all his winking.
"Get back to work, James." She ordered.
"Aren't you going to introduce me to your friend?" He looked my way and
appraised me with his eyes, sizing me up.
"This is Edward Cullen. He is my sous chef at The Workshop." She waved
my way.
"Hi Edward, I am James, the Executive Chef of Bella's New York
location." He held out his hand to me.
"Nice to meet you James." I reached out for his hand and he gripped
mine firmly into his. I gave him a harder squeeze back though, sending
him a message not to fuck with me and he chuckled once as he pulled his
hand back.
I didn't miss the way he flexed it after wards.
"Don't let her scare you off, Edward. Isabella is tough on the outside,
but quite soft on the inside."
"Get back to work James before I fucking fire your ass."
"Oh darling," He took a few steps forward and leaned into her ear,
whispering something I couldn't hear.
"Get out." She said softly, crossing her arms defensively over her chest.
"See you all later then." He winked again and backed his way out the
door.
Bella remained staring at the door after he left and I tried to figure out
what the hell had happened between them. Bella obviously didn't like him
or the fact the he touched her...why?
"Are you alright honey?" I rubbed her back and she coiled away from my
touch.
"Don't call me that." She spun around and placed her hands on her hips.
"I am your boss Edward. I am not your honey, your baby or whatever
other sweet little pet names you want to come up with. I'm pretty sure I
explained all of this to you the first day, didn't I?"
"I'm not him Bell." I shook my head, staring into her eyes.
"This isn't about James. This is about you. Don't put your screw up's on
someone else's shoulders."
"I'm not. If you want me to call you Miss Swan, Chef or the Queen of
fucking Miami I don't really care Bell. I just want you."
"That is exactly what I mean. It's all a joke to you. I'm just some big
fucking joke to you." Her eyes started to tear.
"No you're not." I reached for her but she stepped back.
"The Queen of Miami. You're making fun of me and my request for you to
address me as your authority figure, because you don't see me that way.
I'm just some girl that you fuck now in the backseat of your car." She
swatted away her tears as she stepped back away from me, but I
grabbed her arm and pulled her into me.
"No you are not Bell. I didn't mean it that way." I hugged her to me and
kissed the top of her head as my hand rubbed circles on her back.
"I don't know what happened with you and that guy Bella, but I am not
him. I promise. I respect you. I wouldn't be with you other wise. I
wouldn't let my daughter be around you if I didn't think you worthy." I
pulled her face away from my shirt and cupped her cheeks in my hands
as I kissed her wet lips.
"We need to get back to work." She sniffled, trying to wiggle free from
my arms, but I brought her face back up to mine.
"Yes, Miss Swan." I kissed her left cheek.
"Miss Swan." I kissed her right cheek.
"Miss Swan." I kissed her chin.
"Miss Swan." I kissed her forehead and she finally chuckled as my lips
trailed down her face and into her neck as I continued to whisper her
name against her skin.
"Now you're just being a shit." She shoved against me and I let her go,
but helped her back up the boxes and held her hips.
"Will you do me a favor?" She asked.
"Anything." I kissed the side of her arm.
"Will you just promise me that you won't start anything with James? He
likes to cause trouble and I don't need any of that shit with him,
alright?" She looked down to me.
"I promise." I nodded, giving another kiss to her arm.
"Thank you." She leaned down and kissed my lips once, but I pulled her
into my arms and she chuckled at me as we kissed and I pulled her down
off the boxes into my arms.
"This is exactly why dating your co-workers doesn't work." She chuckled.
"Is it later yet?" I asked in between kisses.
"Edward, we have to work. No humping until after the event." She kissed
me again.
"I don't hump." I smirked.
"I've had sex with you, believe me, you hump." She giggled.
"You try being graceful with a car seat jammed up your ass." I chuckled
into her neck.
"Ooh baby, I love it when you talk dirty." She teased.
"Do you?" I bit into her neck.
"Edward please, I'm serious. No sex in the walk-in." She hit against me
and I let her go from my arms.
"Later, I promise."
~*~*~*~
"Bella, we need to have more people serving cake."
"Yes Jane."
"And clearing plates."
"Yes Jane."
"And I need to make sure that my bridesmaids that get those little gift
boxes and everyone knows about the picture out front."
"Yes Jane."
Poor Bella was being hounded by a four-foot tall girl that looked like an
evil Little Red Riding Hood. She seemed to be handling it well, though. It
was rather odd to watch her taking orders from someone. It was
something I wasn't used to. This whole event surprised me though. I
never knew getting married was so complicated. The fact that Bella was
able to orchestrate all of this in a matter of days blew my mind. She was
nothing short of amazing. I was in true awe of her today.
"Where the fuck is that little fairy dude who's in charge?!" Bella
slammed down her clipboard on the table and blew a string of hair from
her face.
"Need a drink yet, B?" Emmett bit his lip to keep from laughing.
"No. If I start drinking now, I won't be able to stop."
"Bel-la!" A very unstraight man came in singing Bella's name.
By 'unstraight', I of course mean flaming homosexual.
"There you are Billy. Jane wants everyone to sign some damn photo out
front and my team will need another five minutes to clear down before
you can begin the garter toss so" Bella went out of the kitchen rolling
off her list to Billy.
"I am so glad I am not her." Emmett chuckled.
"Is it always like this?" I piled up the chaffing dishes and brought them
over to the sink for washing.
"This one actually isn't that badyet. Our last gig like this we ended up
pulling the drunken groomsmen from the bushes and I had to fight
someone's Grandfather off Bella after he wouldn't take no for an
answer." He chuckled.
"An answer to what?" I lifted an eyebrow.
"To marry him, jerkoff." He tossed a wet rag at me.
I flipped on the switch for the hot water and pumped some soap into the
large basin tub to begin washing. I could feel Emmett's eyes on me and I
looked over to him questioningly.
"Never see man wash dishes Emmett?"
"It's not that. I know about you and Bella." He turned his body around
and flipped on the other faucet to the sink.
"You do?"
"Yeah, she kind of told me, well actually, Dad kind of told me." He
chuckled.
"Dad? How the fuck does Dad know?" I began scrubbing one of the pots,
hard.
"He saw her car parked overnight. Bella told me about what happened,
though."
"Is that all she told you?" I kept my eyes on my washing.
"Is there something else to tell?" He leaned over towards me.
"Are you gonna keep your damn mouth shut?" I looked over towards him
and stopped my washing.
"Of course. You and B are my family."
"We kind of hooked up the other night." I confessed.
"Well it's about fucking time." He patted me on the back, hard.
"And the night after that. Several times." I couldn't help but to grin.
"Well damn, Edward. When you climb back on the horse, you tell that
bitch to giddy up, don't you?" He chuckled.
"Shut the fuck up." I looked around to make sure no one heard.
"Sorry. Seriously though, you better be good to B. I don't want to have
to kill you." He grinned.
"I'm not gonna hurt her Emmett." I picked the pot back up and started
scrubbing again.
"So why Bella anyway? What's so special about her?"
"I don't know Emmett. The way she is with Nessie. The way she is with
me, just everything. I don't know how to describe it." I shrugged.
"So this is more than a sex thing for you?"
"Of course. If I wanted a random piece of ass I wouldn't have been
torturing my dick for the last two years."
"You know Bella isn't staying right? She's only here until you learn your
shit and then she's bouncing."
"I know."
"So what then?"
"I'll figure that out when the time comes Em. I don't know."
~*~*~*
"All the single ladies please report to the dance floor!"
I watched from the back of the ballroom as he DJ gathered the single
woman for the bouquet toss. I heard Bella protesting when the ladies
tried to pull her up to the dance floor and then Jane grabbed the mic
from the DJ booth and walked up to the floor with a hand on her hip.
"Bella Swan, do not make me drag you up here, girl! Did you all like the
food tonight?" Jane held the microphone out and everyone cheered. "Y'all
give it up for my chef and friend Bella Swan then!" She waved Bella to
come up and after she rolled her eyes and shook her head Bella walked
up to the dance floor with the other girls and Jane hugged her as the
crowd cheered.
The DJ started to play 'all the single ladies' and Bella laughed and
whispered back and forth to one of the girls as they waited for the bride
to toss the flowers.
"Three..two.." Jane tossed her bouquet and Bella ducked, allowing one
of the tall blondes next to her to grab it.
I laughed as she ran back through the crowd toward the kitchen and the
blonde who caught the bouquet chased after her.
"Heidi, get that damn thing away from me!" Bella chuckled standing next
to me and Emmett.
"Oh, come on Bella, don't you want to get married?!" The blonde shook it
in her face and Bella hid behind me.
"No! Go away!" She chuckled, gripping the sides of my chef's coat.
"Fine." Heidi winked at me and then turned back to the dance floor.
"Is she gone?" Bella mumbled against my jacket.
"Yes. You can come out now." I reached back for her.
"Let's go washes dishes." She grabbed my hand and pulled me into the
kitchen with her as Emmett followed.
There wasn't too much left to do since I left the rest of the crew in
charge of the clean up. Bella, of course, wasn't happy unless she was
doing something though, so she followed the guys outside to watch them
load up the box truck with the rentals and tell them how to pack it up.
"Anyone have a smoke?" She asked and one of the guys dug a cigarette
out of his apron for her.
"Thanks." He lit the end of it and she took a long drag with her eyes
closed.
"Fuck, I needed that." She blew the smoke out and held it to me. "Come
on Flower Child, mommy isn't going to find out tonight." She teased.
"I suppose not." I took it from her hands and brought it up to my lips,
loving how her cherry lip-gloss tasted on the filter.
Bella licked her lips as she watched me take a drag and I could see
something playful in her eye as I passed it back to her.
"What?" I asked keeping my eyes on hers.
"Nothing." She giggled and turned back around to watch the guys.
My brows furrowed as I tried to figure out what was up with her, but I
was at a loss and turned around to go back inside to retrieve another
round of equipment for the guys. I wanted out of here. The faster that
happened, the faster I would be where I wanted to be.
Inside of Bella.
I was filling the spaces in the wine rack tray with the clean glasses from
the dishwasher when I heard Bella's voice from behind talking to man. I
spun around to see a member of the wedding party trapping her in a
corner of the kitchen in between the icemaker and the wall.
"I said just one dance, come on." He leaned in closer to her.
"I am working, I'm sorry but I can't dance with you." She tried to get by
him, but he held out his arm and would not let her pass.
"Come on, baby." He leaned in closer and I started to walk over towards
her.
He had her pressed all the way up against the wall by the time I got
there and fisted the back of his collar pulling him away.
"She said no." I stood in front of Bella and he came forward towards me
with an angry expression on his face.
"Edward it's fine. Just go back to what you were doing please." She
pushed me from behind, but I kept my eyes on the guy.
"It's fine, really." She smiled at me and then turned to the man.
"There's a great party out there. You should go back to it." She smiled
sweetly at him and turned to walk away, but he grabbed her arm.
Bella spun around quickly and grabbed a handful of his nuts in one hand
and then gripped his collar with the other, bringing his ear to her lips.
"This" She squeezed his balls harder. "Will be the only time tonight I
am touching your ball sack. So I suggest you do yourself a favor asshole,
and go back out to the party and have a good time before I decide to rip
them off and shove them down your fucking throat. Understand?"
He groaned painfully and she released her hold, spinning around quickly
and walked passed me. Emmett was applauding on the other side of the
kitchen and I had to chuckle at the man as he passed, cupping his poor
balls.
"I'll take that drink now Emmett."
~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*
As soon as the door to our hotel room closed, I grabbed Bella from behind
and pulled her to me, kissing her neck as I unbuttoned her white blouse
and we walked towards the bathroom together. The back of her head
leaned on my shoulder and I brought my lips to hers, kissing her deeply
as we stumbled through the hotel suite. When the last button was
undone, I pulled her shirt down from her shoulders and spun her around
to hoist her up on my hips; carrying her the rest of the way to the
shower. The door knocked loudly against the wall as I kicked it open with
my foot and Bella chuckled into our kiss at my hastiness.
"In a hurry to do something, Flower Child?" She giggled, tightening her
arms around my neck.
"Yes. You." I sat her down on the vanity so I could turn on the water
and take off the rest of our clothes without ruining the hotel room any
further.
Bella chuckled at me and pulled me back into her with her long legs. Her
fingers hooked under the hem of my shirt, tickling my sides and making
goose bumps rise as she pulled it over my head. Her hands landed gently
on my chest and she traced over the markings of the tattoos gently with
her tips.
Bella's feet pushed down the cheffies I was still wearing and she moaned
looking down at my erect cock. I tucked my hands under her hair, lacing
my fingers behind her head and brought her lips to mine, tilting her head
back so I could kiss her deeply with my tongue. She reached behind her
and unhooked her lilac lacy bra. My hands slid down her neck to her
shoulders and pushed the satin straps down, revealing her perfect
breasts. I continued the slide and allowed my palms to coast over the
swell of her tits, resting them there and groaning into her mouth at how
good she felt under my hands.
My cock throbbed with the need to be inside of her and I let go of her
chest to focus on getting her bottoms off. She had on a long black skirt,
so thankfully it wasn't too difficult other than the fact that it was tight
as hell and hard to pull down. She made it up for it by wearing a barely
there lacy black thong underneath, which was easily discarded to the
floor.
I rested my hand on the small of her back and her ass cheeks screeched
against the countertop as I slid her to the edge. Bella wrapped her legs
around my waist and I teased her a little, rubbing my cock along her wet
slit before I slid slowly into her warmth.
"Fuck, Edward." She fisted my hair into hands, pressing my face into the
crook of her neck.
Bella's legs tightened around my waist and my cock swelled inside of her,
making her pussy clench around me. My lips kissed along her neck, licking
and giving small bites to her tender skin and she moaned into my shoulder
in response. I remembered her words from earlier and I wondered if she
was being truthful when she said she like dirty talk.
"You pussy is so fucking tight, Bella. So fucking sweet and tight." I bit
into her neck and she screamed out in pleasure.
"Sweetest pussy ever." I pumped her harder as I held her skin in
between my teeth and she dug her nails into my scalp.
"You like it when I hit right there, don't you?" I thrust hard into her,
hitting her special spot.
"Right there." She moaned and I thrust again harder.
"Right there?"
"Fuck. Right there." Her pussy tightened and I thrust even harder into
her making her cry out in pleasure.
"Right there?" I pumped frantically into her, slamming harder and harder
each time.
"Right there. Right there. Right therefuck..I." Her words caught in
her throat and her walls clenched down on my cock as I pounded into
her.
"Can I come with you Bella?" I groaned into her ear.
"Fuck. Yes. Come with me." She held my hair painfully into her fists as
she cried out her plea.
"I'm gonna fill your pussy so good, Bella. You want me to fill you?" I
tipped her back a little so I could fuck deeper inside of her.
"Yes. Please." She panted against my lips as my forehead pressed against
hers.
"Here it comes, baby. I'm gonna fill up that tight pussy so good." Bella
clenched around me as I thrust harder and spilled myself inside of her.
My arms held her tight to me as both of our orgasms swept over us and
she panted hard into my shoulder. I was afraid I was hurting her with
how tight I held her to me, but she only tightened her hold in response,
telling me that it was alright. I just wanted to crawl inside of her and
never leave. She felt so perfect in my arms and around my body - like
she should have always been here.
"Are you alright, baby?" I whispered, but she gave no response. "Bell?" I
smoothed my hands over her hair, but she still remained silent, only
rubbing her hands over my back. "Did I kill you?" I chuckled, leaning my
head into hers.
"Mmm hmm." She hummed into my neck, causing me to laugh harder.
"You weren't lying about the dirty talk," I teased.
"Mmm." Her arms tightened around my neck.
"Would you like to shower now?" I rocked her in my arms and she nodded
against my neck.
"You have to stand up you know." I chuckled and she leaned away from
me sighing as she looked to my chest.
I laughed at her expression that looked an odd mixture of pleased, tired
and slightly drugged. Her eyelids drooped slightly and she held onto me
as we made our way into the shower. She leaned against me as I started
to wash her with the soap and I gave her small kisses along the side of
her face.
"You did a really good job tonight, Bell. I don't know how you hold all of
that shit together so well." I spun her around so I could wash her hair.
"It was the staff. I just yell at people and tell them what to do." She
chuckled.
"It was you," I cupped her face in one hand and rubbed my other hand
along her cheek. "I am proud of you Bell." I allowed my hand to course
over her cheek and kept my eyes on hers.
"Thanks." She said softly.
I brought her lips to mine and tried to show her how I felt, kissing her
slowly and with only what I felt for her in my heart. Lust already had
its stage tonight. I just wanted Bella to know that she meant more to me
than that.
"My turn," She pulled away from me and picked up the bar of soap from
the dish. "Turn around Flower Child." I spun around so she could wash my
back.
Bella's small hands felt good as she coursed them over my muscles slowly,
making some sort of figure eight along my back with her washing.
"You have a nice ass." She smacked it once with her hand and then
started kneading my cheeks.
"The feeling is mutual." I tilted my head back and wiggled my brows at
her.
"You have a nice everything though." She sighed and I felt her cheek
rest against my back.
Her hands started kneading into my muscles as she worked her way up
and I palmed the wall to gain better footing against her pressure.
"Sore?" She asked softly.
"A little." Her thumbs made perfect massaging circles into all the right
places and I hummed in pleasure as she loosed the knots.
"You feel so good Bella."
"The feeling is mutual." She repeated back to me, chuckling softly.
I turned around and placed a kiss on her forehead as she kept washing,
working on my chest now. Her eyes trailed over my artwork and I could
see her trying to decipher what it all meant, just as she had asked me
several times before. I brought her hand up to the black ink that
symbolized the sun and held it there.
"This one is true."
"Which one?" She lifted her hand to see.
"The sun. It is symbolic of good fortune." I explained, watching her face.
"Has it brought you good fortune?" She looked up into my eyes, smiling.
"It was raining for almost a week straight, then, the day that Emmett
told me about the position at your place, I woke up to find the sun out,
finally. It hasn't rained one day since then." I brought her hand up to my
face and kissed her palm.
"You are my good fortune Bella, the sunshine in my life."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
2:34 A.M.
Edward's strong arms held me to him as he snored softly beside me. I
watched his face and how peaceful he looked as my fingers brushed
gently through his messy hair. We made love again tonight after we
climbed in bed and it was all I could do to not shake him right now and
wake him up for more. It was becoming an addiction. I wanted him all the
time. It was as if I was no longer complete with out him; like he made up
the better half of me that only existed if he did. How I ever lived
without him before I didn't know. Maybe that was just it though, I
wasn't really living. I was alive for sure, but being alive and living your
life are two totally different things.
I leaned in and kissed his warm lips as he slept and his arms tightened
around me, pulling me closer to him. My hand traveled along the strong
muscles of his arm and then to his chest, sliding down his hard stomach.
Flower Child stirred in his sleep and I kept my hand moving until I
reached his cock and it twitched as I took it into my hands. I pumped
him twice and leaned into his mouth again, kissing his sleepy lips. He
rocked his hips into my hand and started to move his lips against mine as
he began to wake. I pulled myself to him using the back of his neck and
hitched my leg over his hip, using my hand that was on his cock to slide
him inside of me.
"Bella." He whispered against my lips.
I used my arms that were around his neck to slid up and down his length,
but it was too hard to do being on our sides. Edward rolled me on my
back, keeping our bodies joined and sunk himself down fully inside of me,
hitting the spot Butterbean and I loved.
His movements were slower than before in the bathroom, but he felt just
as good, if not somehow better. There was so much care and tenderness
in his touch, even when he was rough he was gentle, careful with me.
I told Edward three days prior that I couldn't fall for him, but the truth
is that I didn't know how not to fall for him. He made it all too easy.
Now here I was, passed two in the morning, making love to Edward wide
awake and living my life for the first time.
He was right about the sun. Miami was full of it and I had nothing but
good fortune since I came here; still though, it seemed like a storm was
looming overhead.
****










Chapter 5 "Sweet and Sour"
Edward.
XXX
There was some type of stand off going on.
Nessie was sitting on Bella's desk, facing her, with her little legs dangling
and Bella staring at her intently as she chewed. I was watching from the
doorway and neither of them seemed to notice that I existed.
Ness and I were only here today because I needed to pick up my check
and drop her off with Jessica so she could spend her usual Friday night
with her mom. Bella was nice enough to allow me tonight off, since I
worked my scheduled days off due to the whole last-minute wedding
fiasco.
Of course, the second my feet stepped through the front door of the
restaurant, Ness wiggled like a worm to get free and went running into
Bella's office. I used that opportunity to take a piss and then Emmett
stopped me in the hall to make a bet on the game this week. After I laid
down the twenty I owed him from the previous game, I walked back
towards Bella's office and that now brings us to back the stand off.
Bella brought a banana to her mouth and took a big bite to which I saw
Ness' arm move in the same motion and then Bella took another bite
without swallowing and then Ness repeated her same movement again.
Bella took another bite and tried to chew but her mouth was stuffed full
and she began to laugh before holding a hand over Ness's arm and
stopping her from taking another bite.
"What are you doing to my child?" I smiled.
Bella leaned back in her chair laughing silently with her cheeks stuffed
and Ness turned her face around to me, revealing her cheeks were just
as bad. Bella finally swallowed enough to formulate a sentence.
"No more bites." She giggled, covering her hand over Ness' banana. "You
have to chew and swallow first."
Bella took another bite of her banana and then set it down the desk,
bringing her eyes up to me as she chewed.
"I think your daughter might be part ape." She chuckled.
"What are guys doing?" I sat on the edge of Bella's desk and watched as
Ness finally swallowed her mouthful.
"Training her for her teen years, what else?" Bella picked up her banana
again and ate it suggestively.
"That isn't even close to being funny."
"Apparently" She sighed and took another bite. "Your daughter has a
little competitive streak in her. She thought she could eat a banana
faster than me." Bella smiled looking back at Ness.
"Is that so?" I looked back to Ness who was smiling wide at Bella.
"Bewwa's mouf es biggawer." She giggled.
"You got that right, kid." Bella winked.
"Well, as much fun as this all is.It's time to go see Mommy, Ness." I
reached over for her but she cowered away.
"I no wanna go to Mommy. I wanna stay wif Bewwa." She reached her
arms forward for Bella.
"Bella is not your playmate, Ness. She has grown up things to do. Don't
you miss Mommy?"
"No!" She folded her little arms over her chest.
"Be nice Renessmee. Mommy misses you and she would be very hurt if you
didn't go see her tonight." I reached my arms out for her, but she held
her ground.
Bella looked between Ness and me with a worried expression on her face.
"Squeaky?" Bella put her hand under Ness' chin and lifted her little face
up to look at her. "Your daddy is right. You need to go with your mommy
tonight. We can play when you come back to daddy though, okay?"
"But I wanna pay now." She sniffled.
"I'm sure your mommy has fun games to play. Plus, Aunty Bella can't play
now. I have to work ,honey."
"But mommys no fun. See es on de phone all da time." She sniffled
harder and Bella pulled her into her lap, hugging Ness to her chest.
"Emmett." Bella buzzed him on the phone.
"Yeah B?"
"Can you come to my office, please?" She starting rocking Nessie and I
started getting worried.
Even if Bella was alright with watching Ness, it didn't matter. I had to
allow Jessica to see her tonight; not because I had some big warm fuzzy
heart, but because the State of Florida ordered me to. Emmett came
through the door before I could speak up and he paused, looking around
at the awkward situation.
"Give me your cell phone." Bella reached out one hand and held Ness with
the other.
"What? Why?" He asked, reaching for it.
"Just give it to me." She held her hand out further.
"Fine." He grumbled and passed to her.
Bella flipped it open and began pressing a series of buttons before she
snapped it closed and leaned down to Ness.
"Squeaky?" Bella tilted Ness forward and brought her chin up with her
free hand.
"Here, take Uncle Emmett's phone. When you get bored, you just press
this button, number 1 for Daddy. Then number two is for Uncle Emmet.
Okay?"
"Whewre Bewwa?" Ness asked taking the phone.
"You can't call me squeaky. I have work, remember? You can talk to
daddy or Uncle Emmet though, okay?"
"Kay." Ness sighed.
"Good girl." Bella hugged her and kissed the top of her head. "Now go to
daddy." Bella nodded towards me and I reached forward to pick her up.
Ness averted my arms though, and reached out to give Bella a kiss on her
cheek first, then hugged her arms around her neck.
"Miss you Bewaa." She said softly.
Bella chuckled softly and than hugged Ness back.
"Go to daddy, alright?" She pushed Ness away and moved her towards me
while keeping her eyes down.
I wanted to give Bella a kiss, but I didn't want to do it in front of Ness.
The last thing I needed was Jessica hearing through my four-year-old
that I was making out with my boss.
"I'll see you later Bella." I picked up Ness' bag from the chair, but Bella
kept her face down as I walked passed Em, who gave a knock on the
shoulder as I exited.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I walked across the street to Cocoa Chanel's to meet Jessica. I could see
her from the window, sitting at one of the empty tables. She was
watching through the window and smiled when she saw me walking over
with Nessie. I was glad she was actually here tonight. Might have killed
her if she pulled her disappearing act again.
"Look, baby. There's mommy." I pointed across the street as we crossed
the road and Ness bounced happily in my arms.
Jessica came outside and greeted us, but I kept walking towards the
door as she tried to reach for her.
"Give her to me, Edward." She tugged on my sleeve, but I pushed passed
her and went inside.
"We need to talk first." I hoisted Ness to my other side, out of her
reach.
"Talk about what?" She asked angrily.
"Sit." I pulled out a seat for her at one of tables near the window.
"Don't tell me what to do." She took a seat across from me.
"Can we just be civil for like, three minutes please?" I sat down Ness on
my leg and placed a menu in her hands to keep her occupied.
"What do you want Edward?" She sighed.
"We need to make arrangements for when Carlisle and Esme leave next
week. I only have Monday and Tuesdays off, if I actually get them off,
so we have to figure out how to divide our time to watch Ness."
"We'll get a sitter." She shrugged.
"No, we won't. She is our child Jessica. We will take care of her. I am
not leaving her with a stranger."
"You are so paranoid, you know that?" She rolled her eyes and flipped
back her dirty blonde hair.
"I don't want to fight with you." I shook my head and pulled the menu
from Ness' mouth.
"Well, I only have one day off this week. I don't see how that is
supposed to work."
"You'll have to talk with Rose. I'll talk with Bella and see what we can
arrange for this week so our schedules coincide."
"Bewwa?" Ness perked up.
"Shh. Mommy and Daddy are talking, honey." I put my finger over my
lips.
"How does she know Bella?" Jessica narrowed her eyes at me.
"We have this thing every Friday at work. All of the staff goes out with
their family for some type of group bonding thing. Bella was there
obviously." I looked down to Ness and pleaded with my eyes for her to
keep her sweet lips closed about the other encounters.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
After Jess took Nessie for the evening, I made my way back inside of
Cocoa Chanel's.
Rose gave me a dirty look as I made my way up to the counter, but Alice
smiled cheerfully over the top of the book she was reading. I always
liked Alice. Out of all of Jessica's friends, she was my favorite. She could
always talk us both down from the ledge when our tempers got the best
of us and we wanted to kill each other. I appreciated her level
headedness throughout the fuckdom that was Jess and Edward.
"Hey Baby Daddy." She giggled.
"Hey Alice." I smiled.
"I saw you make nice. It was very impressive." She winked.
"It was civil, Alice, I don't have it in me to be nice anymore."
"Well, it was better than the usual screamfest. Nessie looks fabulous, by
the way. I liked her dress." She smiled, resting her book down.
"Thank you. My mother picked it out. I'll be sure to pass it along." I
eyed the row of chocolate brownies in the case.
"So, what are you looking for?" She inquired.
"Um, I wanted to bring my mother something. To say thank you, you
know, for watching Ness." I lied.
"Oh, well, how about some fudge? Rose made some fresh today." She
tugged a paper from the box.
"Yeah, that's good. Do you have any of those cookies Rose made the other
day? The black and white ones?" I walked a little further down the case
searching for them.
"We're all sold out, sorry. I made some mocha bars earlier, you should
try some." She pointed to the display.
"I'll take a few of those." I nodded.
"Anything else?"
"Can I have a macchiato too, please? Two actuallyno waitthree."
"Long night ahead?" She teased.
"No, I want to drop one off to Emmett, but I don't want to rude to Bella
so I better bring her one too. The other of course is all mine." I smiled.
'Trying to earn brownie points with your boss?" She giggled as she
started making the espresso.
"You don't see me buying brownies, do you?" I winked.
"Ha. Ha." She rolled her eyes at me as she foamed the milk.
"So what is it like anyhow, working for a celebrity chef?" Alice topped
the cup and sat it down on the counter, then turned to make the second
one.
"It's interesting." I took the lid off and walked to the condiment stand
to add more sugar, knowing Bella would not like the small amount Alice
added.
"I heard she was really mean. One of the guys who works part time for
us says that he used to know a busser from her place up north and she
used to make people cry. They all they have this nickname for her, too."
She giggled.
"What nickname?" I turned around and walked back to the counter with
my cup.
"They call her Bruella." She laughed as she placed the third cup down on
the counter and began ringing up my bill.
"Bruella?" I asked.
"Yeah, you know like 'Cruella' and 'Bella' combined?"
"I see." The anger surged inside of me that anyone would think Bella was
adequate to a puppy-snatching wench.
"Well, it will be thirty five forty two. Sorry, but Jess revoked my right
to offer you a discount, Rose too." She grinned.
"That's alright. I'm surprised she doesn't make you charge me double." I
laughed reaching for my wallet.
"I did actually." She chuckled.
I passed her my card and she paused, looking at it oddly.
"What? Is it expired?" I held my hand out to take it back.
"No, I just didn't know you got your own line of credit when you worked
for a famous chef." She turned the card around and wiggled it at me.
"Oh, that's the petty cash card. Sorry" I dug out my ATM card. "Use
this." I swapped with her.
"How much can you charge on that thing?" She swiped my bankcard
through the machine.
"Like fifteen hundred or something." I shrugged.
"Seriously?" She placed the receipt down for me to sign.
"Yeah. It's only for emergencies though, I think. It gets taken out of my
check if I use it." I handed her back the top copy and picked up my
bags.
"Well that's cool. I think I would have to have an emergency everyday.
Good thing we don't get those." She giggled, sliding the slip in the
drawer.
"I'll probably never use it." I shrugged. "Well thanks, Alice. Hey, maybe
you should come over and eat sometime." I offered.
"I already have. That hot bartender of yours treated me the other night.
It was really good." She smiled with a slight nod.
"You and Jasper huh?" I smiled back, pushing my way out the door.
Alice leaned against the counter and rested her chin in her hands looking
at me, smiling wide.
"What can I say? I am a sucker for man with a mohawk."
*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~
I dropped off Emmett's macchiato along with a few squares of fudge and
a mocha bar. After I explained to him what the fuck a macchiato was, I
made my way to Bella's office.
Onlyshe wasn't there.
The kitchen.
I turned around and made my way down the skinny hall leading to the
place I knew I would find Bella. Tipping up on my toes, I peered in and
stole a peek at her through the window before I entered. She was at the
pass, yelling at poor Ben about something. I still had to laugh, thinking
back to the day she scolded him for dressing like me. My laughter came
to a close as though as I remembered the fact that she had stripped me
of my Chef's coat for undermining her.
Bella gave it back for the event the other night, but then became an
Indian giver when she demanded I leave it in her office Thursday night,
saying I had not earned it back for use in The Workshop yet. I wondered
how long she would make me suffer and what exactly I would have to do
in order to right my wrong.
I leaned away from the door and it occurred to me that perhaps, this
wasn't the best place for offering Bella sweets and coffee. Surley it
would seem odd to the rest of the staff if I went strolling in with a box
of fudge and mocha bars for Bell. She didn't usually keep her cell phone
on her in the kitchen, so that option was out.
The tickets.
I walked back out to the dining room to find Emmett. He was trying to
smooth over an order with an older couple who were complaining about
their wait. As he exited the table, I pulled him to the side and started
digging in his apron for the ticket pad.
"Oh yeah. A little lower, princess." He rocked his hips against me.
"You're a fag." I pulled my arm back and pushed him away as he tried to
grind on me.
"What the hell are you doing?" He asked looking over my shoulder.
"Give this to Bella." I tore off the page and put it in his hand.
"Can I read it?" He chuckled.
"No. Fuck you. Just give it to her." I walked passed him and made my
through the dining room and out the door.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
8:32 P.M.
Fuck, I did not want to be at work.
Edward had the night off; was completely kid free and here I was,
slinging fucking Risottos and not being fucked six ways from Sunday by
Flower Child on every surface of his damn apartment like I have been
dreaming about since the call the other night.
Ben was driving me up the wall and I swear, if he messed up a side of
veg one more time, I was going to shove the hot plate up his ass
sideways.
While the veg was still on it.
Two of my tables had sent back their entrees, which is something that
never fucking happens and now I see Emmett walking in with a ticket in
his hands - that I am sure must be another re-fire. My foot kicked the
fucking trash bins behind me, sending them to the floor. I screamed out
loud before turning around and facing him.
"Fuck off Emmett!" I held my hands up to him, unable to take anymore
shit tonight.
"I think you want this one." He reached it out to me.
"I said, Fuck. Off!" I turned back around and eyed Ben and the veg with
a murderous stare.
"Seriously Bella, this one is from a VIP. I think you better take a look.
He had a special request from the Chef, Bell." I spun around and stared
at him like he was retarded.
"Seriously." He winked at me.
Did I look like I was in the mood for games?
I reached out and snatched the ticket from him, already prepared to
scream, because the fucking thing was folded in half. Why would someone
fold over a ticket!? What an insane part of the universe was I now living
in!?
I unfolded it and began to read, fully prepared to murder Emmett the
second my eyes finished the last word and then.
The room stilled, my rage subsided and the universe was once again a
happy place that did not involve hot plates being shoved up anyone's ass.
1 -Bella Swan served rare and sizzling hot.
(In my Volvo)
I looked up to Emmett and couldn't keep the goofy grin from my face.
"Can you watch the pass for a minuteor two?" I asked.
"Yeah sure." He chuckled.
I pulled my apron from over my head and tossed it on the crates as I
exited through the back door. Unbuttoning my jacket, I flung it on top of
the palettes and sprinted towards the front of the building. I saw
Edward's car parked a few spaces down from me on the same side of the
street as The Workshop. He didn't see me as I hurried to his car and I
was thankful the door was open when I went for the handle. Plopping
down inside, I was greeting by the soft sounds of Mute Math and Edward
smiling over to me.
"That was faster than ordering a pizza." He chuckled.
"It was very clever of you; I almost killed Emmett though." I smiled.
"Why?" He raised one eyebrow at me.
"I thought he was bringing me a re-fire." I pulled the tie from my hair
and sat back into the seat.
"I thought you might need this." He passed me a paper cup that looked
very much like it housed coffee.
"Coffee?" I smiled.
"A macchiato. I have sweets too, but I am not so sure I want to give
them away for free." He winked.
"You're going to make me trade you my vagina for." I peered into the
box. "Fudge?" I chuckled.
"I'd settle for a kiss." He shrugged, giving me that damn crooked smile of
his.
"Sounds like a fair trade." I leaned over and met him halfway.
Edward's hand palmed the side of my face and held me to his lips. I
could taste his coffee and sweets he must have stole on his tongue as he
swirled it slowly against mine; I chuckled softly against his lips.
"I take it you already sampled them?" I leaned away and licked my lips
smiling at him.
"I had to make sure they were Bella-worthy." He grinned.
"They look great. Are they from Rose's place?" I picked up a piece of
fudge.
"Yeah, I bought some after Jessica took Nessie."
His words brought the image of her sad face back into my mind and I
looked down chewing on my fudge as my fingers fidgeted with the lid to
my coffee.
"Thank you for what you did Bell." His hand came over to my face and
he tucked the curtain my hair made in between us over my shoulder.
"You're so good with her." Flower Child's fingers brushed along my cheek.
"I don't think you should bring her around me anymore Edward." I shoved
the last bit of fudge into my mouth and took a sip of the hot macchiato,
appreciating that he must have added extra sugar.
"Why?" His fingers fell from my face and he slumped back into his seat.
"She's getting too attached. What you and I choose to do is one thing,
but I don't think it's fair to put Nessie through it. I'm going to be leaving
soon Edward and then what?" He had a doleful expression on his face as
I peered at him, making my heart burn in my chest.
"How soon?" He asked softly, keeping his eyes to his hands as they
fidgeted in his lap.
"That sort of depends on you." I took another sip of coffee, keeping my
eyes on him.
"Figures" He laughed once humorlessly. "Get to sign my own death
warrant so to speak."
"Yeah well, you don't even have a chef's coat right now. It will probably
take forever for me to train your punk ass." I grinned at him and he
finally looked up to me.
"Maybe next week I'll try to loose the pants too." He winked.
Butterbean thought Flower Child was a genius.
"I don't think we would get very much work done." I reached for his
hand and laced my fingers with his.
"Speaking of work, I need to talk to talk to you about something." He
turned to face me, bending one leg on his seat and resting our locked
hands on his knee.
"Next week's schedule is going to be a little hard for me. My parents are
leaving for Europe, it's their anniversary and I'm on my own with Ness. I
talked with Jessica tonight and she is supposed to coordinate with me,
but she is about as reliable as a fifty cent pair of underwear." His thumb
rubbed against my palm as he waited for my response.
"Edward." I turned my body to mimic his. "Regardless of how I feel
about you and NessI can't give you special treatment. I have a business
to run and I need you to be there. You can't get special privileges; it
isn't fair to the others who don't." I rubbed his knuckles with my thumb.
"I know." He brought my hand up to his face. "I wasn't asking for
any." He kissed the back of my hand. "I just wanted to explain." He
kissed it again.
"I'm not trying to be insensitive. I just have to be fair." I allowed my
hand to rub his cheek.
"I know. I'll figure it out." He rolled his face into my hand and kissed my
palm.
"UghI have to get back inside before the place falls apart. I left
Emmet on the pass, so I'm sure I'll have to comp most of the meals once I
go back in." I sighed.
"I'm sorry." Edward chuckled.
"Thank you for the sweets"I leaned across the console and met his lips
once. "The fudge too." I grinned, kissing him once more and Flower Child
pulled me in, kissing me harder.
"Will you come over to my place after work? Spend the night with me,
please?" He asked, in between kisses.
"You want me to stay at your place?" I asked, smiling against his lips.
"Nessie is gone and I hate sleeping alone." He kissed my cheek and
butterbean did a back flip. "Plus, I have a great pair of Toucan Sam pj
bottoms that I would love to model for you." He chuckled.
"You really know how to make a girl swoon a girl, Flower Child." I teased.
"And Egyptian cotton sheets that would love to meet you after I took
them off." He added with a wink.
"That's more like it." I kissed his lips once more and then leaned away
before I decided going back to work was a really shitty idea.
"Call me and I'll pick you up." He said.
"What are you going to do for the rest of the night?" I chugged the rest
of my macchiato as he answered.
"I have a recipe to work on." He grinned.
"What recipe?"
"Can't tell you." He shook his head with a vexing expression on his face.
"Spill it, Flower Child."
"No, can't tell you, sorry." He continued to tease.
I smacked him playfully and he chuckled.
"Fine. Be that way. I'll see you later." I reached for the door handle and
his hands palmed the back of my neck pulling me back towards him.
Edward had a hard time letting go of things.
I was just glad that thing - happened to be me.
10:33 P.M.
"You wanted to see me?" Angela poked her head in my door.
"Come in, take a seat." I closed the files on my desk and folded my
hands together as she sat down.
"We haven't really talked much this week with everything going on. I
know that you walked in a little bit of an awkward scene the other night
and I wanted to apologize for that. It was inappropriate and it won't
happen again." I said, sincerely.
"Bella, it is fine. I should be apologizing, I should have knocked."
"No. It shouldn't have been happening in the first place; it is my fault
Angela."
"So.why was it?" She asked, nervously.
"It's not important, just know that I am sorry and it won't happen
again."
"You can trust me Bella. Whatever is going on with you and Edward is
goodI think. I mean - he seems nice. I'm happy for you. If that is what
is going on." She smiled, timidly.
"He is nice. I appreciate your loyalty too, but I don't want to talk about
it here. Alright?"
"Alright." She nodded.
"I have another favor to ask also."
"Sure."
"How did you find a nanny for your kids when you came back to work?"
"Oh, um, well my ex sort of did it. He used an agency he found online, I
think." She explained.
"They have those?" I eyed the computer.
"Yeah, just type 'nanny' into a search engine and it will pull up all these
agencies. They have certifications and everything. It is pretty safe. They
even provide background checks and stuffoh my gosh." She covered her
mouth.
"What?" I looked back to her.
"Bella are you.?" She raised her brows to me.
"Fuck no!" I yelled.
"Then why are you looking up nannies?" She giggled.
"It's for a friend." I rolled my eyes.
"Oh. Sorry." She chuckled.
"It's alright. Are we good?"
"Yeah, we are good. Hey, you should come by my new place this weekend.
I finally have everything moved in; it looks really good. I'm right on the
ocean in a nice little condo." She stood from her chair.
"Sure, text me the address later. I'll stop by sometime." I smiled.
"You can bring Edward if you want." She grinned.
"Angela?"
"Yes?" She chuckled.
"Get out."

Edward POV
I was back at my apartment watching intently as the bubbles started to
rise.
Alton said to only stir ten times to ensure maximum bubbleage. I stirred
ten and half because I wasn't sure if the first stir was a complete stir
and figured I needed to give it a little half stir in order to get it
perfect.
The bubbles were bubbling, so I figured I must have done something
right.
I had fresh vanilla beans in the mix; cinnamon, honey and one ripened
mashed banana, but allowed a few chucks to linger in order to give a nice
texture. Checking the underside, I lifted an edge to find the perfect
golden color and with a simple flick of the wrist, I flipped that sucker
perfectly.
After two minutes, I slid it on to a plate and topped it with some extra
slices of fresh banana, a dash more of cinnamon and nutmeg, then a
drizzle of honey. One scoop of my homemade French vanilla Ice cream
later and I was in perfect pancake heaven.
I so had Bella's ass.
As I took a seat on the sofa with my dessert pancakes, I rested the
plate on the arm of the couch and ripped open my mail. The first was a
letter from some culinary school I would never attend. The second and
third were bills and then I finally came across my paycheck that I had
thrown into the mix on my way up to my apartment.
I ripped the top of the envelope and pulled out its contents. There were
a few papers for filing direct deposits in the front, to which I saved for
later use. It was much more convenient that having to worry about going
to the bank. The next was a general welcome letter from Bella that I am
sure some expensive writer concocted. I smiled and tossed it down on the
coffee table as well. The next was actually my paycheck and I smiled at
that too, seeing a very satisfying figure that made the previous bills
seem not so scary any longer. There was a paper behind it and I pulled it
forward to see another check made out to.Renessmee Cullen?
I did a double take.
Sure as shit, it said her name and was made to pay out the sum of nine
hundred, thirty two dollars and twenty five cents.
Why the hell was Bella paying my child?
I flipped through the rest of the papers, but there was nothing attached
that said anything, so I tossed it down on the coffee table for later
discussion. Picking up my plate, I took a bite of my delicious pancakes
and smiled thinking of how pissed Bella was going to be when I served
her some this evening.
I had this in the bag.
Bella POV
12:25 A.M.
I snuck out the back door like a criminal as I made my get away to
Edward's car.
Flower Child was parked on the opposite side of the dumpsters, sitting on
the hood playing with his keys. He looked up as he heard the door close
and slid off the hood, smiling at me as he closed the distance between
us. A wicked twinkle came into his eye and as he reached me, he ducked
down and flipped me over his shoulder.
"This is not swoonerific, Edward." I chuckled as he carried me off.
"Who said I was trying to be?" He spanked me once on my ass and then
rubbed his hand over it.
Butterbean was really loving him right now.
I decided he needed a taste of his own medicine though. My hands slid
down the back of his pants and I gripped his underwear in my fists,
jerking it up hard.
"Now you're going to get it." He pulled down my cheffies and spanked me
harder.
"Edward!" I slapped him and tugged his underwear harder.
"Easy, you're mashing the boys." He chuckled, putting me on my feet next
to the car door.
I righted my cheffies and gave him an evil stare as he opened the door
for me. My only enjoyment came when I watched him pulling his
underwear from his ass as he walked around the car to his side.
"I think you busted one of my nutsand not in the way I like." He
chuckled, getting in.
"I told you I was lethal. It's not very nice to man handle a lady." I
grinned.
"I was just trying to get you to my Egyptian cotton faster." He grinned
back, turning the ignition over.
"Well in that case, I might be inclined to forgive you." I reached for my
seat belt and buckled in.
"How was your night honey?" Flower Child reached over and took my hand
in his, bringing it to his lips.
"It was alright. I think I might fire Ben though."
"How come?" He shifted, keeping our hands joined and butterbean smiled
up at me.
"He's just too inexperienced. The kid can't even cook vegetables. I need
someone who can float between the front and back. He's useless to me."
I sighed.
"I think you just intimidate him." He kissed my hand again.
"Even more reason to fire him." I chuckled.
"He works fine when he's with me-; perfect veg every time." He winked.
"Even more reason for me not to give you back your chef's coat - Non
fearing brigade." I teased.
"People don't have to fear you to respect you Bell. You don't have to be
a scary tiger all the time. It's alright for people to know that you can be
a sweet kitten too; like I do." He smiled.
"Shut up." I chuckled and looked towards the window.
"It's true. Ben is a good kid, you just scare the hell out of him." He
laughed.
"I'm not going to baby anyone. You know what they say 'If you can't
stand the heat." I waved towards him.
"Get out of the kitchen,' yes, I know. Just give him a little more time.
He'll come around." He kissed my hand again and the released it, reaching
up to his visor for something.
"Do you know anything about this?" He flipped on the overhead light as
we approached the red light.
I took the paper and looked it over; laughing as I remembered the day I
made the call and had to explain to Gianna in accounting why I wanted a
four-year-old on my payroll.
"It's Ness's royalties." I handed it back to him and flipped off the
overhead light as we started to drive again.
"Royalties for what?" He asked, making a left hand turn.
"For her apple pie ala mode sales." I chuckled.
Flower child looked over questioningly at me with an amused expression
on his face.
"I told you I would take care of her - that kid sells more pie with her
face than I ever thought imaginable. You should look into putting her
commercials." I grinned.
"I was just kidding about giving her royalties." He put the car in park
and I looked around to see what his building looked like.
"Well I wasn't. Seriously, I have never sold as much dessert in any other
restaurant. Angela even told me people call it Nessie pie, not apple pie.
It's rather cute, unless it's a dirty old man ordering, of course." I
grinned.
"That was extremely heart warming - until you got to the dirty old man
part. I would like to request that you remove her picture, please."
"I'm just kidding Flower Child." I popped my door and climbed out,
wanting to see the inside of his place already.
Edward came around the car and took my hand as we walked through the
lot leading up to the entrance of his apartment building. It was a tall
structure, like most of the buildings in Miami, but not nearly as big as
the rest. There was an old couple walking out the double doors and
Edward held the door for the lady who was struggling to open it for her
husband who walked with a cane.
"You're always such a good boy Edward." She patted his cheek as she
walked by.
"You're up late tonight, Mrs. Banner." He smiled.
"Bob wanted to go for a walk. He just loves to look at the stars." She
looked back to her husband, lovingly.
"That's how I got her to fall in love with me; took her to see the big
dipper." The old man chuckled and I had to bite my lip from laughing too
hard at his unintended double infliction.
Or was it?
"I see you have a lady friend tonight other than your sweet pea." Mrs.
Banner winked.
"This is Bella. I'm planning on showing her the big dipper too." He winked
at Mr. Banner, who gave Edward the thumbs up and for the first time in
my life, I felt the need to fucking blush.
"It's nice to meet you, Bella. You're a lucky lady, getting Edward to show
you the big dipper. He's such a nice a boy." She patted Edward again and
I thought I was going to implode from the amount of laughter I was
holding in.
"Well, you kids have fun. Don't stay up too late. And give that baby a
kiss for me would you?" Mrs. Banner grabbed her husband's free hand
and started off down the walkway.
"Sure thing Mrs. Banner. Be safe on your walk please." Flower Child
called.
She waved to him and strolled off down the path with her hubby. I
turned to Edward and slapped the holy fuck out of him.
"What?" Edward backed up from me laughing as I swatted him down the
hall to the elevator.
"You just told the crypt keeper that you're going to fuck me!" I swatted
him again, chuckling.
"I was talking about the stars, love. It's not my fault you have a dirty
mind." He held up his hands, laughing.
"Good, because I would hate to think you are a liar on top of being a
pervert." I teased.
"What did I lie about?" He took my hand and pulled me into the elevator,
hitting the number nine button.
"Having a big dipper." I made an evil face at him.
Edward walked towards me, backing me into the elevator rail and palmed
the wall next to my head with one hand. His index finger started at my
collarbone and worked its way down my chest, running over my breast
and across my ribs until he reached the indentation of my belly button.
"I'm pretty sure your sweet spot is somewhere very near here," He
leaned his lips to my ear. "And we both know I can reach that just
fine, so I am pretty sure it's just the right size." He bit into the side of
my neck and continued his trailing finger down my stomach until he
reached the waistband of my cheffies. Dipping his fingers down into my
panties, he swirled butterbean with his index and middle fingertips.
"But since you claim to not be getting pleasure from my cock, perhaps
tonight we can explore other avenues." He licked below my ear and
sucked my lobe into his mouth. I groaned as butterbean thudded and he
sank his fingers inside of me.
My eyes caught sight of the digital numbers overhead and I could see his
floor was approaching.
"Edward. The door." I whispered and he released me, pulling his fingers
from my warmth and kissing my forehead as he moved away.
I watched as he placed the fingers he had inside of me into his mouth
and closed his eyes, breathing in just like I taught him to and - holy fuck
- if he didn't smile afterwards.
Butterbean was officially doing her touchdown dance in my Edward
soaked panties.
1:02 A.M.
I was laughing hysterically as Flower Child bent his knees so he was eye
level with the griddle.
This man was insane and possibly more competitive than me; which was
saying a whole shit load of a lot. He smiled as the bubbles started to
form and I laughed harder, seeing him look so proud of his creation.
What a tool. I mean seriously, they were just pancakes.
I twirled around in his kitchen as his flapjacks did their thing and
snooped through his cabinets. He had a lot of fun gizmos and I was
utterly impressed by how clean it was. Edward raised his brows as he
caught me running my finger along the back splash inspecting it for
grease, but I just shrugged that shit off and kept snooping.
His top drawer had a cool pair of scissors that were shaped like a parrot,
mismatched forks and a collection of child-sized silverware that made my
heart do a happy dance. The drawer below that had a collection of
silicone bakeware and when I came across the one that was molded into
little gingerbread men with their arms bitten off - I officially knew I
met my soul mate.
The fridge was a goldmine of fun finds. He had each little drawer labeled
and delegated a certain task. The bottom ones held mostly foods for
Nessie and I wanted to hand him my vagina when I saw each little snack
had a note written on it for her. These must have been foods she took
with her to his parent's house when he was at work and he couldn't eat
lunch with her.
Oh, but the mother load was located in the door to the fridge. I thought
I had died and gone to heaven. Edward freaking Cullen had a condiment
gun!
Loaded with a combination of both ketchup and mustard.
"I love you."
Edward spun around and raised his brows to me. I held out the gun and
he threw his head back in laughter.
"I so freakin' love you." I turned back around replaced the gun in the
door, closing the fridge.
"If you think that is impressive, you should check out my monkey egg
separator." He chuckled, lifting the pancake from the griddle and sliding
it on to a plate.
"Are we still talking kitchen gadgets?" I chuckled.
Edward reached up over his head and pulled down something that looked
like a coffee mug. He passed it over to me and I laughed figuring out
what it was.
"Yes, the yolk seeps out of his nose. Nessie loves it. My mother however,
thinks that it is the most vile creation of all time." He smiled.
"This is awesome." I laughed staring at the odd monkey man and trying
to picture the egg running from his nostrils.
"If you're done snooping through my kitchen, I would like to feed you a
pancake that is sure to put yours to shame and earn back my street cred
with my daughter." He set the plate down and pulled out a chair for me.
"You're talking a lot of shit Flower Child. Hope your walk is as good as
your talk." I took my seat and looked over his plate.
"Ice cream?" I raised an eyebrow.
"It's homemade, so it counts." He pointed at me.
I did say he was my soul mate, right?
"Alright, well here goes nothing." I cut off a hunk and shoved it in my
pie hole.
I closed my eyes trying to detect all the components and also so I
couldn't see the stupid look on Flower Child's face as he watched me. It
was good, I'll give him that. Better than mine however?
"So?" He asked as I swallowed.
"You want the truth?"
"Of course." I could see his eyes trying desperately to read my face.
"It's good, but it's not better than mine." I chuckled.
"What makes your better?" He leaned his chin into his palm and watched
me with a smile on his face.
"Fifteen years of experience." I smiled taking another bite.
"I knew how to make pancakes when I was nine." He argued.
"Flower Child, you are twenty two and still don't know how to make
pancakes." I teased.
"But I had maximum Bubbleage?" He pouted out his bottom lip and I
couldn't help but smile at him.
"I think I would like to meet your Egyptian cotton now." I set down my
fork and Edward's face perked up.
"Right this way." He held out his hand and tugged me out of my seat.
My eye caught a glimpse of the bookcase as we walked towards the hall
and I paused, seeing my face staring back at me.
"What the hell is this?" I tugged it out from the shelf.
"Your cookbook." He shrugged.
"I see that Flower Child. Why the fuck do you have my cookbook?" I
chuckled, putting it back into its place.
"So I can jerk off to the pictures of you, of course." He teased and I
swatted him in stomach as he pulled me along.
Edward's bedroom was clean and very plain, only decorated with a few
pictures of his family and Nessie. A small chair was in the corner with a
blanket and teddy bear thrown on it which, I assumed he used to read
to her or something at night. His bed was wicker and the white bedding
matched the flowing white curtains dawning the sliding glass doors
leading out to his balcony. A pair of black slippers were near his bed and
I tried to imagine how he looked wearing them in the morning.
Edward's arms captured me from behind and his lips trailed soft kisses
along my shoulder top.
"Bell, I give you" He waved his arm forward. "Egyptian cotton." He
snickered.
I laughed and plopped down on the bed, laying back and holding out my
arms to him. Flower Child slid in next to me and tucked a pillow under his
head before he pulled me towards him.
"Can we open the doors?" I asked.
"If you would like them open I can." He replied and I nodded to him.
Flower Child climbed out of bed and pulled back the curtains, unlocking
the sliding doors and slid them open. The curtains were sheer and since
the room was dark, you could almost see the moon. The warm ocean air
filtered in, bringing the soft sounds of crashing of waves along with it.
Edward walked back towards the bed and took a seat, but paused with
his back to me as he pulled open a drawer on the bedside table. I heard
him close it and then he laid back down with me, revealing it was a
remote as he pressed it towards the stereo in the corner of the room -
bringing a soft melody to life against the sounds of the beach.
Edward cradled me to his body, whispering the soft lyrics of the song
against my face as he caressed my cheek.
Everyone has their obsession
Consuming thoughts - consuming time
They hold high their prized possession
That defines the meaning of their lives
You are mine
I pressed my lips into his and got lost somewhere inside of his strong
arms as they wrapped around me, binding me to him and making the lyrics
come to life. He was claiming me slowly but surley with each smile, laugh
and kiss; the simple look in his eye and the way he said my name. The
emotions erupted from my eyes and I panted hard into his mouth as I
wept what I felt for him in my heart. He held me tighter in response and
I clung to him with all my might; trying to just pull him somewhere inside
of my soul and never let him go.
Even though, I knew someday I would have to.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Edward POV
I felt her tears run along my cheeks and I tried to hold her tighter to
keep her from breaking - like I was literally trying to hold Bella
together. She clung to me with all the strength she had and I rolled her
to her back so I could smother her with my being - trap her down below
me and let her feel everything that was coursing through my mind, body
and soul.
I never had anyone make me feel like this before.
Bella was completely new and foreign to me yet I felt as though I had
always known her. I didn't even know how it was possible to feel so
strongly about someone you just met, but it was. All I had to do was look
into her caramel eyes to know it to be true.
My lips sunk into the crook of her neck and my hands framed her face as
she lie beneath me. Her hands slid down my back and gripped the fabric
of my shirt, bringing it up over my head. I leaned away from her and
rested on my heels so I could pull it free. Bella's hands ghosted over my
chest and she pulled herself up using the waistband of my jeans as I
straddled her legs. She rested her palms on my back and brought her lips
to my chest, kissing over the artwork that it displayed.
"To prevent evil from entering." I whispered as her lips met the black ink
representing a tribal tortoise shell.
Her lips coursed next to the face marked with a shark's teeth and her
eyes looked up to mine as she sucked my skin into her mouth.
"For strength and protection when you struggle." I whispered looking into
her eyes and my hands cradled the back of her head as she slid her
tongue over my skin and moved along the next section of the ink.
"I'm thinking of naming that one Bella." I chuckled softly as her mouth
paused over the great eye.
"Why?" She brought her lips back and rested her chin against my
abdomen as she looked up to me.
"It's meant for intimidation." I grinned down to her and she smiled back
up at me.
Her hands slid up my back and over my shoulders, running down my arms
and joining with my hands that cupped her head. Bella laced her fingers
with mine and brought our joined hands forward, facing my hands
towards me.
"Tell me about the flowers." She whispered up to me, her chin still
resting on my stomach.
"Not tonight love." I shook my head at her; resting her hands on my
shoulders as I laid back on top of her again.
"Why not?" Her hands framed my face and I could see her eyes trying to
search my own.
"Because tonight is supposed to be a good night." I leaned my lips into
hers and quieted her questioning with my kiss.
The ocean waves played against the soft sounds of the song from the
speakers as I slowly kissed my way down the continent of Bella's body.
Even over her clothes she felt heavenly against my lips. My fingers
wanted to feel her though. I pushed the soft fabric of her tank top up
over her ribs and allowed my lips to suck the soft flesh above her belly
button, moving down until I reached the band of her cheffies. My fingers
moved in sync with my lips and I slid them under her back and pulled her
pants over her luscious cheeks, not stopping until they were down her
legs and being tossed to my bedroom floor.
The warm ocean air blew through the sheer fabric of the curtains and I
could taste the salty air on Bella's skin as I continued my path
downward, making good on my words from earlier in the elevator. I knew
she was just joshing me about my size, as I was well aware of the
pleasure I brought her, but the truth was that I was dying for another
taste of her. The small sample I received in the elevator would not
satisfy the craving that I had and I wasn't going to stop until I was fully
submerged in her sweetness.
My tongue swept over her wet slit ever so lightly, causing her to clench
her fingers tightly into my hair. I kept my hands splayed over her ribs so
I could feel the change in her breathing. She felt so small under me, so
delicate. I gave a feather light kiss to the flesh right above her swollen
clit and after I felt her sigh, I took her bud into my mouth and sucked
softly on her sensitive skin. Bella sucked in a ragged breath as I held her
in my mouth and I allowed my hands to massage over her warm body;
palming her breasts and holding them as I slowly released her from my
lips.
"Edward." She whispered softly and began coursing her fingers through
my hair as I ran my tongue over her clit slowly, savoring how sweet she
was.
Bella's feet rubbed along my back as I continued my slow kissing assault
on her sweet pussy and I moved one of my hands under her ass cheek to
gain better access to the place I desired most. She tilted slightly to her
side, forming an L shape with her legs that gave me the perfect position
for being able to pleasure her the way I wanted to. I pushed her long
leg back, resting my palm on the back of her thigh and gave one long,
slow lick all the way up her slit, lapping up all of her sweet arousal on
my tongue. Bella's body tensed and her nails dug into my biceps as I gave
her a second lick that was just as slow. She tried to wiggle free as I
took her clit into my mouth again, rolling it along my tongue, but I held
her tighter in my grasp; barring her from escaping.
Her foot rubbed harder against my back and she began to use it as
leverage to move against my tongue the way she desired. I held my place
there and allowed her to grind herself into my mouth. It was the sexiest
fucking thing to watch. I gave small kisses to her sweet center as she
moved herself over me and she clenched the muscles of my arm harder,
as her climax neared.
She had me hard as a fucking rock as I watched her gyrate her hips like
a belly dancer, moving her pussy up and down my tongue. I could already
feel my boxers soaking with precum- which meant I was probably going to
bust the minute my dick touched her. I moved my hand from her leg and
reached under my body as she continued to ride my tongue and was able
to free my dick from my jeans. I lifted her higher with my hand under
ass, and her feet came down onto the mattress. I started to stroke my
cock as I kept my eyes on her face and watched as she bit her lower lip
between her teeth as her orgasm teetered on the edge.
I lowered my hand slightly from under her ass, allowing my thumb to dip
in and out of her wet hole and she cried out in pleasure as she finally
came in my mouth. My hand stroked harder against my cock as I watched
her pant and come down from her high. Bella's eyes fluttered open and
she kept them on me as I gave small kisses to her swollen pussy, loving
how she tasted in my mouth.
"Come here." She whispered wiggling out of my grasp.
I let go of my cock and slid my arm out from under as I sat back on my
heels. Bella sat forward and slid herself under me slightly; picking up my
hand and placing it back over my hard on.
"I like watching you." She kissed the backside of my hand and looked up
to me as I held my cock again.
Her eyes stayed on mine as I looked down to her and I began stroking
myself again. Bella's eyes darted from my hand to my face as she
whispered dirty shit to me; placing kisses on my hand as she did.
"You're gonna make me fucking come, Bella." I groaned as I felt myself
approach the threshold of my orgasm.
"Let me taste you." She whispered up to me, keeping her eyes on mine.
I cupped her chin with my free hand held the head of my cock to her
open lips. My eyes watched as I spurted three long streams into Bella's
mouth. She closed her lips around my head and I released her chin,
smoothing my hands over her hair. She laid back against the mattress as
she closed her eyes and I could see her throat bob as she swallowed my
cum. I lowered myself back down over her and she wrapped her legs
around my waist as her arms came around my neck.
"You're so sexy, love." I kissed her forehead and trailed down her nose
until I reached her lips.
"I want you." She whispered against my lips and grinded against me using
her legs around my body.
"I want you." My words were inflicted with more than one meaning, but I
gave her what she was requesting and slid myself inside of her, feeling
like all of my world was once again perfect the moment my body joined
with hers.
"I was wrong Edward." Her fingertips pressed into my scalp as I rocked
slowly in and out from her.
"About what, baby?" I kissed her lips once as I watched her.
"About falling for you." I heard her breath catch in her throat as I
thrust a little harder inside of her.
"I am. I have." She pulled my face to hers and held me there as I
slowed my movement slightly.
"I figured out what you are, Bella. You want to know?" I whispered
against her lips and I felt her nod against me.
"You're an angel." I kissed her and could feel her lips smile against mine.
"I'm too naughty to be an angel." She bit my lower lip softly between
her teeth.
I thrust harder into her, hitting the spot within her that I knew she
loved and she bit me harder, digging her nail into the skin of my back
and instantly making my cock swell inside of her.
"That's the best kind."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I was spooned with Bella in bed after we made love, kissing her smooth
shoulder and holding her warm body in my arms tightly when it happened.
Her stomach growled - loudly.
"Didn't you eat tonight, Angel?" I chuckled.
"Not really. I was too busy yelling at people and delivering myself into
customer's Volvo's." She giggled back.
"What can I make you?" I propped myself up onto my elbow and she
rolled onto her back, facing me.
"I want a burger- A big cheesy burger." She smiled.
"I recall being told not to feed you cheese after midnight." I laughed
leaning down to kiss her face.
"I think it's a little too late for that. Now, move your ass and make me a
burger." She pushed against me and I chuckled at her command.
"Yes Ma'am." I got up from the bed and walked to my dresser.
"Can I have something too?" She asked.
"I think I just gave you something." I tilted my head back and waggled
my brows at her.
"I meant a shirt, stupid." She shook her head at me as she sat up,
hugging the covers to her.
I dug out a pair of dark blue pajama bottoms and white tee for Bella.
Since I gave her sex and a good tongue licking, I figured I would leave
the Toucan Sam's for another night and chose a regular pair of black
drawstrings for myself, but because she let me come in her mouth, I
decided to go shirtless.
"Here baby." I tossed the clothing next to her on the bed and watched
happily as she changed into them before me.
"What are you staring at Flower Child? You have burgers to make." She
pushed against me, ushering me down the hall and back into the kitchen.
"You know this is my kitchen. I don't think you should be ordering me
about in it."
"It doesn't matter where we are Flower Child, you're always my bitch."
She slapped my ass and walked to the fridge.
"Is that so?" I stepped behind her, hugging her hips as she dug a
package of meat out.
"Yup. She who has the vagina - rules the world." She chuckled, turning
around with an armful of ingredients.
"Mmm, don't know that I could argue with that." I smiled, taking some of
the items from her.
I set the items down on the counter and Bella placed hers next to me,
before riffling through my cabinets and digging out a bowl for mixing.
She reached for the packet of meat, but I stopped her and raised an
eyebrow.
"I thought you wanted me to make you a burger?"
"I was just going to mix it up." She shrugged, going to reach for it again.
"You're a complete and total control freak, you know that?" I chuckled.
"Maybe I just a want a good burger. We know you can't be trusted with
simple pancakes, how am I supposed to trust you to handle something as
complex as meat?" She teased.
"I think I just spent the last two hours showing you that I perfectly
capable of handling meat. Let. Go. Of. The. Ground. Sirloin." I tugged it
from her hands and she chuckled at me, holding up her hands, finally
backing off.
"Can I at least slice the onion?" She asked.
"Yes, you may." I handed her over the onion and she dug out a cutting
board from the bottom cabinet.
I walked back over to the fridge and pulled out my secret ingredients
that she didn't know about. Her eyes were watching me as I walked back
over to my spot, but I ignored her, smiling internally at how it must be
torturing her not to know what I was doing.
"What is all of that?" She asked with a worried expression that made me
laugh out loud this time.
"Tut, tut, tut. The onion." I pointed.
She bit her lip and I could see the debate raging in her eyes as I
squirted some Sweet Baby Ray's and Worcestershire sauce down into the
meat mixture, followed by a dash of paprika, salt and pepper.
I thought her eyes were going to pop out her head when I added the
leftover coffee from this morning.
"What. The Hell. Are. You. Doing?" She gaped at me, like, fucking gaped
at me.
"Making you a delicious burger - shut it." I began mixing it up with my
hands and shook my head at how ridiculous this all was.
Like I would feed her a plate of shit.
Bella finished with her onion and assembled plates for us, complete with
buns and toppings. I washed my hands off at the sink after I formed the
patties and grabbed a spatula from the drawer.
"Let's cook on the patio. I have a hibachi we can use." I grabbed the
uncooked burgers and she took our plates, following me out the doors.
Bella took a seat in one of the wicker chairs and I was glad she was
actually going to let me just cook without interruption. I went back
inside as I waited for the coals to heat and pulled a couple of Coronas
from the fridge; slicing up a lime and slid slices down into the necks.
"Here Angel Bella." I set one of the beers down next to her on the table
and took a seat beside her.
"To orgasms." She tipped her bottle to me.
"And cheese." I chuckled, clinking my bottle against hers.
Bella laughed as she poked the lime down into the bottle and took a
swing. I stood back up and slid our burgers on the grill. As I waited for
them to be ready for turning, I watched Bella slide down into her seat
and smile slightly as she looked out into the night, towards the beach.
She looked content sitting here on my porch, Corona in hand and snuggled
down into my chair wearing my pajamas.
I only wished somehow I could keep here - for forever.
Bella POV
6:45 A.M.
I rolled over to see Flower Child was gone.
This did not sit well with Butterbean.
His side of the bed was even all tucked up nicely, like he tried to make
the bed with me in it or some shit. I sat up and rubbed my eyes, trying
to shake the sleep from them. My belly was still super full from the
3A.M. feeding Edward gave me of his weird, yet delish fucking burgers.
I may have to institute a burger night in his honor at the restaurant. If I
made him sling them in his PJ bottoms, I would have a goldmine on my
hands and possibly be able to retire before I was thirty.
I backlogged that shit for further thought.
Climbing to my feet, I gave a good stretch and grabbed my bag off the
floor as I made my way through the sliding doors out to the porch. I
pulled a smoke from my bag and sunk down into Flower Child's awesome
wicker chairs that were oober comfy.
His mommy must have picked them out.
My cell phone was blinking and I flipped it open to see the text icon
flashing. I pressed the inbox key and scrolled down to find Flower Child's
name.
Sorry- Jess called - had to pick up Ness. Didn't want to wake you up. B
back soon.
~E
This really bothered me. What on earth could have happened to Jessica
before seven in the damn morning that would require Edward to have to
pick up his four-year-old child? I hit the reply key to text back.
What's wrong? Is she alright?
I took three long drags of my smoke as I waiting for his response and my
phone finally beeped back.
I'll tell you when I get home. Be there soon. She's fine. :)
I took one last drag from my smoke and then pitched it inside of my beer
bottle from last night, before I picked the other one and carried them
off with our paper plates to the kitchen to dispose of them. We were
both so sleepy after we ate, we ignored the mess and Edward carried me
off to bed. The last thing I remembered was feeling his lips on my
forehead. Standing in his kitchen now, I was debating weather or not
waiting for him was such a good idea. I said last night I didn't want to
involve Ness into our relationship, seeing her this morning, at their home,
would only be going against that.
Would he be upset if I left though?
Probably.
I couldn't stay though. Walking back to his room, I quickly changed into
my clothes and made a mad dash for the door, hoping that he wouldn't
see me as I made my escape. I wasn't sure how far Jessica's place was,
but I am assuming it couldn't be very far since she worked in the same
area as Flower Child.
As I made my way to the elevator, I saw the same old couple from last
night and blushed when the old man winked at me after appraising my
wrinkled clothes. I would have to give Flower Child a good punch to the
gut later. Once the doors opened and revealed the lobby, I was happy to
find it desolate and quickly made my way to the street, where I came to
a screeching stop - because I didn't have my fucking car.
Damn it butterbean.
There was a young kid across the street running a rag over his Mustang
convertible and I crossed over smiling at him. He looked up from his
buffing and appraised me with his eyes, smiling wide and I gave a wink
back.
"Want to make a quick G, kid?"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*
7:34 A.M.
Once I was inside of my hotel suite, I dropped my bag and sat on the
bed with my phone. Scrolling down the list I stopped on Edward's name
and clicked through to the text screen.
Sexy Flower Child- Not trying to ditch u- just didn't want Ness to see
me in ur PJ's :). BTWI stole the monkey. Pls don't call the cops.
-B
I was hoping humor would relieve him of any doubt he might be feeling
once he entered and found me gone - I fully intended on stealing the
monkey the second I saw it though. He looked much better in my little
kitchenette. My phone beeped back and I clicked on his message.
Hump me - dump me and then you steal my monkey. To think I made
sweet love to you and called you my angel. :(
I fell back on my bed, laughing, relieved that he was not upset and
utterly enjoying him playing along.
I told you I was not worthy of angel praise. I'm a very bad girl Edward.
Baaaad. *grins*
He beeped me back, quickly.
Then I believe a spanking is in order. Do you prefer the left cheek or the
right?
Butterbean was blowing sweet kisses to the stolen monkey egg separator.
Surprise me.
I tossed down the phone on the bed and made my way to the bathroom
to get changed. As I stripped out of my clothes from the previous night,
I couldn't help but to look at myself in the mirror and smile at the sight
before me. She looked like a different woman. The light was back in her
eyes and she glowed.
Simply, glowed.

EPOV
I pulled up to Jessica's house and practically ran to the door, full of
worry about what was wrong. All Jessica told me was that she needed
my help and then hung up the phone. My hand banged on the door and it
was all I could do not to just kick the damn thing in as I waited. The
latch turned and I pushed the door open as I saw the knob turn.
"What the heck do you want?" Rose barked at me as I pushed my way
passed her, making my way inside.
"Where is Nessie?" I looked around anxiously, but only saw her toys
scattered about Jessica's messy living room floor.
"Sleeping asshole. It's five thirty in the morning." She shot me a dark
look and tightened the tie on her black robe as she closed the door.
"There you are." Jessica came from the hallway and all it took was one
look at her face to know she was up to no good.
"What did you call me for Jess?" I put my hands on my hips and faced
her.
"I told you, I need your help with something." She plopped down on the
sofa and it was then I saw the bottle of wine in her hand.
"You're drinking, at five in the morning with my daughter here? Seriously
Jessica?" I walked over towards her and reached for the bottle, but she
held it to her chest and tried to kick me.
"Back off Edward! Ness is asleep and Rose was watching her. I need my
free time too, you know." She took a long swig and then set it down on
the coffee table.
"You have our child one day a week, Jessica. I think you have a lot of
free time on your hands." I reached down and started grabbing up Ness'
toys from the floor.
"Well exuuuuuse me for having a life. Friday's are Mike's only nights off."
She grinned at me, knowing that she burned me when she said his name.
I walked over towards her as she laid back against the couch and pinned
her in between the cushions and my face as I towered over her.
"You can hurt me all you want, Jess. I don't really care. Just don't bring
our daughter into it. You have one night of responsibility, I suggest you
try a little harder to keep your pussy in your pants and pay a little more
attention to the needs of your four-year-old child who needs her mother
to be a mother and not the town whore."
She slapped me, just like I knew she would.
"Does that make you feel better? Hit me all you want to Jessica, get it
all out. I have plenty of time." I held my place over her and she stared
at me until she knew she wasn't going to win.
"I'm taking Ness." I pushed off the couch, but she fisted the side of my
shirt and I turned back to her as she stood up.
"I know all about your little credit card Edward."
"What credit card?" I pulled her hand from my clothing as I made my
way towards Ness' room.
"The one Rose saw you hand Alice yesterday at the bakery." She grabbed
my shirt again and I stopped walking, not wanting to wake up Ness with
the new argument that was sure to come.
"It's not a credit card. It's a petty cash card." I explained.
"I want it." She held out her hand to me and I scrunched my brows
staring at it.
"Are you out of your fucking mind Jess? Why would I give you money?"
"Nessie needs things." She went for the cheap shot, but her tactics were
useless.
"What does she need? I'd be more than happy to buy it for her." I
waited, but she gave no response as she stared at me glassy eyed.
I shook my head and turned around, but she grabbed on to my shirt again
tugged me towards her. I went to grab for her hands, but she threw
herself towards me and wrapped her arms around my neck, trying to pull
me into her face.
"What the fuck are you doing Jessica?!" I tugged her arms as I turned
my head to the side, trying to avoid her lips.
"I want you to fuck me. I miss you." Her nails dug into my scalp and she
tightened her hold.
"Let me go, Jessica." I kept my head turned to the side and pushed on
her shoulders.
I was more than strong enough to be to pry a measly hundred pound girl
from me, but the way she had herself locked around me, I didn't want to
hurt her, nor did I want to piss her off and have her start shouting in
the hallway to Ness' room.
"I don't want to hurt you Jessica. Let me go, please." I pulled on her
arms again, and she let go, but only to move them to my pants and
started tugging and trying to undo them.
"Stop!" I pushed her lightly, but she stumbled from her drunken state
and her back hit against the wall, knocking one of the framed glass
pictures to the floor.
"What the hell do you think you are doing Cullen?!" Rose yelled walking
towards us.
"Stay out of this Rosalie." I walked toward Ness' room and pushed the
door open.
The faster I got out of here the fucking better. Ness rubbed her little
eyes and sat up as I walked towards her. My arms came out and lifted
her right from the bed and sat her on my hip as I grabbed up the rest of
her things from around the room and made my way to the door, shushing
Ness on my shoulder and trying to keep her asleep by gently rocking her.
"You just fucking wait, Edward! You wait until she's mine!" Jessica
followed me towards the door and I felt Ness' head lift, but I shifted
her into my arms and cradled her face to me as I slammed the door
behind us and made my way out of her apartment. Thankfully, I only had
two staircases to climb down to reach my car.
Ness stayed asleep as I strapped her in. I tucked her little blanket
around her and propped her teddy in between her head and the car seat
so she wouldn't slump uncomfortably on the drive home.
I hoped someday Ness would forgive me for having given her a mother
who was so neglectful and selfish.
Once I was finally back inside of my apartment and had Nessie tucked
away in her bed, sleeping sound, I made my way back to my room in
search of Bella. I expected her to still be asleep, seeing that we only
went to bed a few hours ago. It never ceased to amaze me how your life
could go from being perfect one minute, to complete and utter turmoil
the next.
I paused at the foot of the bed, seeing it fully made and turned back
around to poke my head into the bathroom Ness and I shared, thinking
perhaps Bella was showering.
She wasn't.
I walked back into my bedroom and sat down on the edge of the bed,
picking up a pillow she used and held it to my face, wondering how much
worse this day could get.
It didn't take me long to find out.

Bella POV
10:45 A.M.
I called Flower Child five times within the last hour.
All of my nails at this point were bitten off and I was seriously
considering double clicking on a new window and bringing up a youtube vid
on how to jam a man's nose into his brain as a refresher course.
If he thought he was able to come trotting on in at any time of his
choosing just because he fed me awesome burgers last night and gave my
pussy the best tongue lashing of all time, then he had a few things to
learn about Isabella Swan.
Butterbean laughed at me as I thought that shit, but I slapped her down
and focused on what his punishment would be.
Not only was he now seriously late, but he was also not in my office
spanking me, like he should have been - like I was waiting all morning for
him to be doing.
My irritation flared and I picked up the phone again to this time leave a
message that was sure to scare him into getting his sweet lil ass here.
Knock Knock.
"Hey B." Emmet came walking in and I held up my finger to him as
Edward's voice-mail picked up.
"If you're calling Edward, he's not going to pick up." He hit the
disconnect button on the phone.
"Where is he?" I shook the phone at him before he released the button
and I set it back in the cradle.
"He was arrested."
What?!
"What?! Are you trying to be funny? Because that shit is not funny." I
started at him disbelievingly.
"No, I'm not kidding. Jess had him arrested." He sat on the edge of my
desk and I could see the rage building in his eyes.
"Why the fuck did she do that for?" I sat back in my chair and felt a
little of my own anger flare up.
"She said he hit her." He looked down to his hands as he fisted them
tightly.
"Did he?"
"No Bella! How the fuck could you even think that?!" He tossed his hands
up angrily.
"Because if Jessica was my baby mama, I'd want to fucking hit her.
Matter of fact, I do want to hit her. Not only did she steal Flower Child
away from me this morning and rob me of waking him up to the
magnificent fucking blow job I had planned outbut now I don't have a
fucking Sous Chef for tonight!" My hands hit the desk hard and my cup
holder bounced to the floor.
"Carlisle is at the jail now trying to get him released. He thinks he'll be
out by tonight, but they have to go through the whole process and
.fuck! Why was Edward so stupid to go there!?" He hit his leg hard with
his fist.
"He said Jess called him to pick up Ness, but it was like really early in
the morning." I explained.
"He knows better than to fucking do that shit! This is exactly why he is
to always drop her off at Jess's work!"
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"Carlisle told him to always meet her in a public place so she can't pull
something like this. All someone has to do here is just fucking say that
they were assaulted and you get arrested, B. He may as well have just
hit her, because at least then he would have gotten some enjoyment out
of the ass raping he's going to get." He laughed once, humorlessly.
"It's his word versus hers though. I don't see how anyone could side with
either of them." I shrugged.
"No, you see that's where this shit gets even better B. You know my
little Rosebud from across the way?" He pointed his thumb towards the
door.
"Yeah, what about her?"
"She's Jess's roomy. Yeah, you fucking heard me right. The woman of my
dreams is my brother's crazy ex girlfriend's roommate." He rubbed his
head against his palm in irritation.
"Shit. So she is siding with Jessica? Can't you talk with her Emmett?"
"I did. She said she saw Edward push Jess into the wall. I know the kid
wouldn't do that though!" He pushed off my desk and started to pace
back and forth.
"Sometimes anger gets the best of us Em." I said softly.
"He. Didn't. Do. It." He said through clenched teeth.
"Alright, fine. I believe you. Look, is there anything I can do? Because if
not, I have a service to get prepping for." I pushed back from my desk
and rose from my seat.
"No, I'll let you know when I hear something." He fisted the doorknob
and exited, giving the door a light slam on the way out.
I felt really bad for anyone who decided to give Emmett or myself shit
tonight.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
7:34 P.M.
Still not having heard from Edward, I decided to take out all my
frustrations on a plate of overcooked risotto, sending it smashing to the
floor and cursing Ben loudly for doing it.
9:55 P.M.
It was the wait staff's turn and I sent a nice blonde haired girl out
crying with a shirt splattered in lamb sauce for giving me tickets that
were not legible.
11:23 P.M.
I smoked three cigarettes in a row and downed a shot of Morgan from
the bar.
12:55 A.M.
I was staring aimlessly at my computer screen as my hand palmed my
phone, waiting for it to beep or ring or just fucking do something that
would signal Flower Child was alright and a free bird.
He was much too pretty for jail. Edward would be married by morning if
he stayed there any longer. I thought about asking Emmett for his
father's number, but decided that maybe it was better to just wait for
Flower Child to contact me. I didn't want to complicate things any
further for him.
I started to type out my reply to someone's request for me to attend a
charity benefit when I heard my doorknob click.
Finally.
"Hey Killer." I smiled up to him, but he offered no sweet smiles in return
as he walked in and closed the door softly behind him.
Edward looked beaten down, like someone just killed his puppy or told
him Santa Claus wasn't real. He sat down silently and leaned his elbows
on my desk, rubbing his palm against his forehead.
"I'm sorry Bella." He said softly.
"It's alright Flower Child. I'm not mad at you or anythingactually, that
isn't true. I am mad at you. You were supposed to be spanking me, not
your ex." I teased.
"I didn't hit her." He shook his head angrily and finally looked at me.
"I know. I was just teasing." I reached for his hand, but he pulled back
and placed them in his lap.
"This isn't funny Bella." He picked angrily to a thread on his jeans. "I'm
going to loose Ness over this shit." His jaw clenched and I could see him
fighting back tears from his eyes.
"What are you talking about?"
"I was fucking arrested for assault Bella. Carlisle says the judge will
probably order me to take anger management classes and if Jess decides
to go through with this shit, Lord only knows what else. I seriously doubt
that the judge who going to rule on our custody case in the next few
months will look at that very favorably."
"You're a good father Edward, this is just."
"None of that shit matters Bella!" He shook his head staring at me and I
could see his blue eyes darken as the rage built within them.
"What do you talk about all the time? Details right? Well guess what
Bella, you are not the only one who pays attention to details and these
details have me by the fucking balls. Do you have any idea how hard it is
for a father to gain custody of his child? They always side with the
mother. The only thing I had going for me was the fact that Carlisle is a
highly respected figure in his profession and now none of that shit
matters! It's all black and white Bella. They don't care if Ness is with me
ninety nine percent of the time or that everything she has ever owned
was bought by either me or my parents or that I rock her to sleep at
night or kiss her boo boo's when she's hurt.
I'm a sixty-five-page file in stack of thousands and right now, my fucking
file says that I assaulted the mother of my child in front of my child.
Tell me, if you were the judge Isabella, who would you give custody to,
the guy who hit the mother, or the mother who got hit by the guy?"
He was right. And I had no words to offer him.
"See? I lose." He stood from his seat and turned towards the door, but I
scooted back quickly from my chair and grabbed his shirt before he
reached turned the knob.
"Flower Child!" I pulled him towards me by his arm, but he remained
standing in his tense stance with his hand fisting the handle.
"I'm sorry." I wrapped my arms around his neck and cupped my hand
behind his head, pulling his face to my shoulder.
"I'm going to lose her Bella." He whispered into my shoulder as his arms
finally snaked around my waist.
He hugged me to him hard and I could feel all of his anguish and
frustration as he did. His tears ran down my neck and I held tighter on
to him in response, trying to ease his hurt away with the gentle circles
my hands made over his back and neck.
"No you won't. We'll figure it out, alright? Together.we'll figure it out
together."
1 P.M. Sunday
I saw Jessica climb from her car and walk towards Cocoa Chanel's back
door. I was leaned against the wall smoking a cigarette as she walked
towards me and smiled. I gave her a small smile back and took one last
drag from my smoke before flicking it to the ground and leaned off the
wall, closing the distance between us.
Her hair fisted tightly in my hands and she screamed out in protest as I
dug my nails into her scalp, holding her ear to my lips and I spoke
through clenched teeth.
"Listen to me you little bitch. I know people that know how to dismember
a fucking body and own big fucking meat grinders to hide the evidence.
You ever fuck with Flower Child or his kid again and I will introduce you
to my friends. You understand?!"
That is how my meeting with her played out in my head anyhow.
The truth is that I was sitting at my desk, trying desperately to hold my
shit together and not tear her limb from limb as she walked in smiling at
me. Flower Child had no clue that I was doing this, since I sent him off in
search of some ingredient he would never be able to find in a market
located in the continental U.S. this afternoon.
He explained to me last night that this was all over some ridiculous petty
cash card and after I simmered down from not being able to believe
someone would cause so much trouble over a fucking credit line, I was
able to use the sane part of my brain that told me this was a good thing.
Jessica was interested in money - I had a lot of that shit - but I knew it
would take a little more convincing to get her to drop the charges on
Flower Child. That was fine, I had connections too, and thankfully, Rachel
Ray's fat ass owed me one, big time.
*****









Chapter 6: "Getting Dirty"
~Bella POV ~
1:11 P.M.
It was a good ass thing Edward knew how to lick the motherfuck, out of
a pussy.
My pussy, in particular.
Jessica was in my office, sitting across from me, smacking her gum like a
cow chewing its fucking cud. She was wearing some type of perfume that
made me nauseous, - reeking of cotton candy or something utterly sweet
and sickening. Not that I have any aversion to cotton candy, because that
shit is bookoo delish, but I want to eat it a fucking carnival, not smell
some tramp wearing it in my damn office. Her index finger, that dawned
a hot pink painted fingernail twirled around a long strand of her blonde
hair as she stared at me, with starry eyed.
Fuck- Flower Child owed me a good tongue bathing for this shit.
"Let's get right to the point, shall we?" I clasped my hands over my desk
and sat nice and tall in my seat. My brain did a mental countdown,
waiting for her to be good and alert, not to mention a little uneasy as
she sat there, waiting for me to speak again. I smiled sweetly as though
she were my good buddy sitting here and not some dopey bitch I wanted
to pummel.
"I understand you and Edward had a slight incident the other evening
and I wanted to first, extend my apologies to you and second, see how
we might be able to arrange having this mess cleared up." I smiled and
waited. The bait was sitting and all she had to do was say the words I
knew would come next.
"There is nothing to clear up. Edward is going to pay for hitting me and
that's all there is to it." She rolled her eyes and smacked her gum again,
but that was good, she was doing exactly what I predicted she would.
"Jessmay I call you Jess?" I didn't wait for her to answer. "I could
care less about what happens to you and Edward on your own time, I am
a very busy woman as you know." I smiled coy again. "But you see,
Edward missed dinner service last evening and that is not acceptable. I
need my sous chef here when he is scheduled to be, it is imperative to my
business's success and I am a woman who is all about success. You can
understand that, can't you?" I once again, did not allow her to answer.
"This little thing that happened" I laughed once trying to mock the
severity of the situation. "Let's just use it to our advantage to gain
what we both need out of it, alright?" This time I did pause and watched
as her eyes lit up at my key word- 'gain'.
It was equivalent to waving a cheeseburger in front of a starving man.
"Gain?" She asked, quirking a painted on eyebrow to me.
Right now, you are probably asking yourselves if I am a mind reader. The
answer is no, although that would be awesome. The truth folks - is that I
just do a lot of fucking people watching and have had to handle way too
many assholes in my life. You'll realize everyone fits into a stereo type, if
you studied them long enough. Jessica was a fucking gold digger and now
I would pull out my old rhetoric that was designed to be the fire
extinguisher to her money grubbing flames.
"I need Edward to work here- I am willing to trade for that." I leaned
my elbow against the armrest and clasped my hands down into my lap.
It was the same way all of my attorneys sat as they made their deals. It
showed somehow that you were cool as a cucumber yet, uber serious and
in control. Plus, I was wearing as much jewelry today as I could throw on
without being mistaken for Jah Jah Gabor. When I sat back like this, you
could see it all. It was my other unspoken method of intimidation.
"Trade what?" She slid forward in her sit, practically being called into
my trance as she appraised the five carat diamond ring I was toying
against my thumb.
"I believe you said, you appreciated the work of Mrs. Ray, last time we
spoke, yes? I happen to know her." I shrugged once with a slight roll of
my eyes like it was nothing to me- because it fucking wasn't. Rachel Ray
was as interesting to me as watching fucking paint dry. "She has an
opening on her daytime show for a pastry positionsomeone to make
treats for the audience and such." I wiggled my fingers like I was
playing a puppet and watched as she followed the shimmering lights that
flickered, like a fish to a shiny lure.
Swim to mamma fishy. Swim. To. Mamma.
"I could. Work for. Rachel Raaaaay?" Her eyes grew wide and I had to
fight with every part of my being not to snort at her dumb ass.
"If you drop your charges against - EdwardI will make the call for
you." I nodded once.
"I don't know, I meanThis is kind of serious. I'm fighting him for my kid.
This is like a really good thing I have against him." She shook her head
thinking, picking up a piece of her hair and twirling it again.
"JessAre you really going to pass up an opportunity of a life time for a
manEdward no less? I mean, come on" I leaned forward and ducked
my head as though I had some great secret to share. "Edward?" I
snickered at his name, trying to pull her into my trap. "Plus, who really
wants to sit around with kids all day. I mean, they cry, scream, shit their
pantsUgh, I don't even want to think about how much dick you must
miss out on, toting that little germ bag around with you." I shook my
head as I leaned back into my chair, scoffing at the very idea of having a
child. Though, in reality, I was seeing Ness's sweet little face in my mind
and smiling inside, knowing this was all for her and Flower Child.
"It does suck having to stay in on Friday nights." She rolled her eyes and
crossed hers arms over her chest.
"See? Wouldn't you much rather stick it to Edward by working for a big
TV show, while he stays home with the rug rat?" I winked at her and
began shuffling papers on my desk.
"Yeahyeah you know, you're right. I mean, why should he get to have a
life? I'm young too. Plus, I went to school. I should be working for the
best, not some crummy little place in Miami."
"We have an accord then?" I nodded.
"What is that? Like a car?" Her face scrunched and I just fucking gaped
at her for a minute, amazed that the girl was even smart enough to
figure out how to make it to work every day without getting lost or
needing some type of assistance for the mentally handicapped.
No offense to any of you physically or mentally challenged folks out
there- but damn.
"Silly me, I mean, we are cool right? You work for Ray and I don't have
any problems with Edward, yes?" I held out my hand to her and cringed
knowing she may actually touch it.
"Yeah, we're cool." She rested her clammy palm on mine and I felt Mrs.
Cope's fluffy omelet from breakfast, curdle up in my throat.
"Wow. Rachel Ray!" She looked up to the ceiling and it was then that I
noticed, all dopey girls stare up at the ceiling when they experienced a
moment of either revelation or elation.
I back logged that shit for later analysis.
"Well, I better get to making that call. Just do me a favor Jess." I
leaned on my desk and she finally took her damn eyes off her magical
world of somewhere up there to look at me. "Don't mention this to
EdwardI mean" I had to dig deep- fucking deep- for these words.
"Rachel is such a biggercelebritythanme and I don't want him getting
jealous. It would really hurt my feelings." I pouted dramatically at her
and she giggled.
"Are you kidding?! I have to rub this in his face!" She squealed.
"Oh, you can, all you want. I just mean, don't tell him I pulled the
strings for you- Our lil' secret, M'kay?" I winked and she giggled and
then nodded, like the twelve year old nimrod she was.
"Kay. You better get going so I can make that call." I felt like my
intellect was being severely damaged as I continued with my 'baby
speak.' I picked up the phone and she nodded happily at the fake smile I
offered.
"Kay. Buh bye." She cooed, ducking out the door.
As soon as the latched clicked I fell back to my chair and kicked the
underside of my desk in frustration. In my life, I had experienced third
degree burns, the slicing of my index finger's tip off, and hot grease
splatter to the vaginal area.
None of that shit came anywhere near the amount of pain I had just
experienced, being in the same room with Flower Child's ex for the past
thirty minutes.
I decided to allow him a slide on the pussy licking and Butterbean gave
me a thumbs up with full understanding, that Flower Child needed a blow
job way worse they we needed tongue lashing. Poor bastard was stuck
dealing with that wench for another fourteen years.
Leaning forward in my chair, I double clicked on a new window, bringing
up my Google search engine and type in 'Best blow job of all time.'
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
EPOV
I stood there staring at a shelf full of jars, without really seeing any of
them. My mind was a million miles away- well actually, it was only about
thirty miles away.
All I could think about was Ness. What her face would look like the day
Jess packed up her Toyota with all of her things and I gave her, that
last kiss before I would see her on my one day of supervised visitation
that Carlisle, was all too happy to throw in my face during our nice little
family chat last night.
She would cry, ask Jessica when she was going to see me and Jess would
probably be the insensitive little bitch that she is and tell her to 'shut
up' or 'go play'.
Jessica would never leave a nightlight on for her so she could find her
way to the potty, if she woke up during the night. The fridge wouldn't
have its own Nessie drawer, that she knew she could go to at anytime
and find something to eat. There would be no story time at night or
Snuggy Bear songs.
When Ness cried that she wanted shampoo, Jessica wouldn't know what
she really meant was that she wanted Shamu, as in the big fucking whale
at Sea World that Nessie loved to go see with me, every summer when
my grandparents came to visit.
Ness would be surrounded by chaos and clutter, lost in a sea somewhere
in Jessica's messy apartment, as she sat on the couch and swapped spit
with that fucking looser Mike from the bar. I could imagine the day Ness
came back into my arms and called Mike her daddy instead of me,
because Jessica was fucked up enough to teach her to do some shit like
that for spite.
My hands started to tremble and I had to put the jar back on the shelf,
in order to keep myself from dropping it. The scared little girl that I
remembered cowering in the corner, of Jess's neighbor's house when she
ditched her that day, was at the forefront of my mind and I couldn't
take it any longer. I dropped the basket from my hands, sending all the
contents from the list Bella had assigned me, to the floor with a loud
thud and clinking of glass soda bottles.
I didn't even know what the hell I was doing here.
My life was falling apart and here I was shopping for imported sugar
water and being Bella's little gopher bitch. Half of this shit on her list
wasn't even available and if I knew that- she knew it too. Did she get
some sort of demented pleasure out of torturing me? Shit, I knew I was
her employee, but really, did she have to be doing this degrading mind
fuck to me right now? Was prepping alone in the kitchen too much to ask
for? I was still fucking working for Christ sake. Why couldn't she just
get off my back for once!
I paused at the customer service desk and purchased a pack of smokes,
not really giving a shit if my mother caught me or not. Fuck it. What did
it all matter anyhow? I had played by the rules, did everything I was
supposed to, and got nowhere but kicked in the fun bag.
I tossed the grocery bag into the receptacle, outside of the automatic
doors as I left, cursing at why the hell someone would give you a damn
bag for a simple pack of cigarettes and a lighter. Was I some kind of
tool who couldn't manage to carry two small items at once?
Fuck.
Lighting my cigarette, I paused briefly and smiled internally as the first
drag filled my lungs and I felt the nicotine give that first buzz of
dizziness, that always felt so good when you have gone without a smoke
for a while.
What was I going to tell Bella when I arrived with no groceries? Um, how
about to go fuck herself for sending me on a wild goose chase when she
knew perfectly well, that you cannot buy sharks fin or the other twenty
outlawed ingredients on her ridiculous list. Oh, and actually, to double
fuck herself for thinking that I was dumb enough to not know that shit.
Because I did.
I saw Jess standing across the way, as I came within a few feet of my
restaurants doors, talking with Mike in front of Cocoa Chanel's. Her eyes
met with mine and a small grin spread across her face as she stared at
me. I gave her the finger and kept walking, tugging open the door with
one hand and flicking the cigarette to the road side with the other.
On any other day, I would have stomped the cherry with my shoe and
tossed it in the bin, but not today.
Fuck today- fuck every day for that matter.
Bella was in the dining room, giving instruction to some Indian looking guy
that was eyeing her ass into oblivion as I entered. Once again, any other
day, I would have given a shit. She smiled at me as she held her clip
board to her chest, but I kept moving passed her and offered nothing in
return, except my silent thoughts about her damn list.
Emmett called out to me, asking me something about a football game as I
passed him at the end of the bar, but I just pushed the double doors to
the kitchen open and ignored him too.
Like I gave a rat's ass about football right now.
My daughter is going to be ripped away from me and he wants to talk to
me about footballBella wants to send me out to hunt down fucking quail
eggs and Jess is smiling wide, grinding her ass against Mike for all the
world to see.
Fuck them all.
Bella POV
~*~*~*~*~*
3:13 P.M
After I finished up with Jake, the building maintenance man, I strolled
my way back towards the kitchen to make nice with Flower Child. He was
clearly not amused by my list. I wasn't going to tell him the truth
though. It was better that he thought I was a bitch, then him knowing
that I interfered with his personal matters.
I was used to be being a bitch, good at it too.
He didn't look up as I entered like he normally would have, giving me a
crooked grin. Butterbean frowned. She didn't like seeing him so sad. I
walked my way around the steel table and set my clip board down; next
to the vegetables he was prepping. I wanted to wrap my arms around
him, but there were two other kids in the kitchen doing prep also, so I
just smiled at him as I watched him peeling the carrots quickly and
skillfully.
"Ben, can you get the oven on the convection side preheated to four
hundred please?" Flower Child called out to him, glancing up once.
"Sure thing man." Ben called back.
I waiting for the correction, but none came.
"Edward?" I looked up to him and glanced back at Ben, trying to motion
to him with my eyes for the correction.
"What Bella?" He sounded irritated and his eyes stayed on his task. I
also did not miss that he addressed me as Bella, not Chef.
"He called you man." I said softly, turning so my back was facing Ben's
direction, blocking out the conversation with Edward and I.
"What would you like me to do? Ask him to address me as chef?" He
asked, his brows stitched together and his jaw clenched tightly.
"Yes." I nodded.
"Well that would be kind of hard to do- seeing how I am not even
allowed to wear my Chef's coat in the kitchen, - don't you think Bella?
Maybe if we were cooking in your office, then I could ask him to do that,
since that is where my fucking coat is." He finally looked over to me, but
kept peeling his carrots as he held my gaze.
"Do not insult me in my kitchen. I am still your boss."
"Bossbaby sitterring leader.head puppeteerI like that one best.
Head puppeteer." He nodded and focused his eyes back on his peeling.
"My office. Now." I held my hand over his peeling and he tossed it down,
stalking out before me as he made his way through the double doors. He
pushed passed them and didn't even hold them for me as I walked behind
him.
Once we reached my office, he plopped down into his seat, slouching with
his feet spread wide. I fought the urge to slap him in the back of the
head, as I walked around to my seat. I knew he needed a minute to calm
down and in truth, so did I. If I started having this conversation right
away, I was going to lose it with him and say things that I didn't really
mean, you know, like to get the fuck out and not come back.
Butterbean would never forgive me.
My hands settled the clipboard down on my desk and pulled the keyboard
forward from its tray, after I clicked on my email and started reading it
over, not really seeing any of it. Once a few moments passed, I leaned
my elbows on my desk and looked towards him. Edward's face was still
hardened and he flexed his jaw as he ground his teeth. My eyes traveled
down to his fingers that were picking with a thread on his pants and it
was then I noticed he hadn't changed clothes from last night.
His hair would have never given him away, since it was always a messy
nest that looked of complete bed head goodness, but he had on the same
black tee shirt and pants with the same thread he played with last night
in my office. I would like to say his expression was the same too, but it
wasn't, it was darker. Flower Child was sinking, being consumed by the
sea of fear and trouble that was crashing over him. This didn't boast well
for him. If he wanted to be a restaurant owner someday, he would need
to get over that shit. Pouting about your problems is no way to handle
them. You need to grab that motherfucker buy the horns and take him
head onor pay him off.
That always works too.
"I want to know what is going on with you." I held up a hand as soon as
his face looked up angrily at me. "Let me rephrase that. I want to know
why you are acting like a complete and total shit to me for no reason."
"Reason- I'll give you about twenty five reasons." He dug into his pocket
and pulled my list out, tossing the crumbled ball onto my desk.
"You're pissed about a list and your stupid chef jacket?" I grabbed the
balled up paper and tossed it in the trash can.
"NoI'm not pissed, because if I were pissed, that would mean I give a
fuck." His eyes flared as he stared intently at me.
"Stop with the melodramatic bullshit, Edward. It really grates my ass.
However, if you didn't give a fuck, you wouldn't have come in my office.
As a matter of fact, you wouldn't have come back at all." I moved back
to my typing and I allowed my words to simmer in his mind, letting him
know that I saw right through his ass.
"You're right." He nodded.
Told you.
"What am I doing here?" He rose from his seat.
Maybe not. Shit.
"You walk out that door Flower Child and your ass is gone. Don't even
think that I am fucking bluffing." I glared at him as he palmed the knob.
"I can't be here, Bella." His voice was gravely and deep as he closed his
eyes and clenched his jaw tightly.
"Well that is too fucking bad. The other night I told you I wasn't trying
to be insensitive, well guess what Flower Child, right now I am going to
extremely insensitive to you.
Running away just because shit gets thick is not a way to solve anything.
So sit your pussy ass down and shut the fuck up while I teach you
something." I kept my eyes on him as he released the door knob and took
his seat again. His eyes remained down, but mine were planted firmly on
his soured faced, as he hung his head and started picking with the damn
thread again.
"If you cannot handle dealing with this shit and working at the same
time, you may as well just throw in the towel now, because it doesn't get
any easier. You are going to miss birthdays, holidays, have people sue you
left and right and pretty much have an attorney on speed dial. Your lil'
baby mamma and all her corrupt mindfuckeriness, will be a welcomed part
of your life after you deal with all the other shit.
You walk in here thinking that you are the only one with shit on your
plate. Everyone has a plateful Flower Child, starting with me and running
right down to the bussers.
You know what happens when I walk in with all my shit and decide to
take it out on everyone else though? Decide not to give a fuck and not do
my job? Your brother Emmett doesn't get a paycheck, Angela's kids don't
get fed, your kid doesn't get fed and my business gets flushed down the
fucking toilet. It's my job to give a shit and I find it highly insulting that
you don't think it is yours.
You want to be pissed over an article of clothing, then you apparently
weren't listening to me when I told you that fancy little chef coats
didn't matter. I am pretty sure you were sitting right there when I
explained to your father the difference between a cook and a chef and
defined a chef as someone who leads, but I don't remember saying shit
about what you were wearing in order to do it. I do however, remember
making you sign a contract that stated you were being hired as my Sous
Chef and would comply with all the duties required.
You have two options at this point. You can either suck it up and grow a
pair or give me your fucking time card. Contrary to your thinking, I am
not a babysitter and I don't have time for fucking games.
There are one thousand three hundred and fifteen other people who work
for me, one's that I could be paying attention to right now, other than
you, and." I pulled open my bottom drawer and slammed the heavy file
on my desk.
"Over five hundred applications for your fucking job- in the state of
Florida alone. I refuse to beg your ass to stay and work a job you don't
give a fuck about, when there are thousands who would love to fill your
shoes and could, very easily. I am going to answer this email" I pointed
to my screen. "You have until I press send to make up your mind."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
EPOV
She handed me my perfectly sculpted, tan ass.
And I deserved it.
All it took was hearing her say how if she didn't do her job, Angela's kids
wouldn't get fed, to snap me out of my fucking selfish mood. The huge
yellow folder on her desk filled with applications was helping a lot too.
I never really thought about it this way before. Bella made everything
seem so easy for her, like it was just a nice smooth wave she rode every
day. It never occurred to me the amount of pressure she had on a daily
basis. I thought having one mouth to feed was a big responsibility, shit,
Bella had.how many did she just say, thousands? Not to mention their
mortgages, rent, light bills.shit. All of these people depended on her for
lively hood, their families lively hood- survival.
Yet, she walked in here every day with her head high, shoulders back and
faced it head on. Sure, she didn't always were a big happy smile while
she did it, but she never gave up and let anyone down. In fact, she only
pushed us all harder to force us to improve ourselveskind of like she
was doing right now with me.
She could have just told me to fuck off, obviously I deserved it, but more
than that- she had the ability to. Anyone of those applicants would
happily race right down here, if she picked up the phone and decided to
call them. She didn't need me, but that wasn't her motivation behind
showing me the stack- she wanted me to know that she cared, that she
gave a fuck.
"I'm sorry." I said, finally looking up to her as she continued to type on
her keyboard.
"That is not an apology Flower Child." She shook her head as she
continued to type.
"I am sorry for disrespecting you and not being professional. It was
disruptive to the rest of the staff and it won't happen again." I toyed
with the thread of my jeans as I waited for her reply.
"You know this means I have to punish you, right?" Her face was serious
as she glanced over to me once, before continuing her typing.
"Yes, Miss. Swan." I made sure to address her properly in hopes that it
would not mean a harsh punishment.
"It says right here" She tilted her monitor to me slightly. "That
tomorrow is supposed to only reach a high of seventy nine with clear
skies. You know what that means?" She crossed her arms over the desk
top and faced me as I gave shook my head.
"Where would you like to go on a seventy nine degree day, with clear
skies while living in Miami, Flower Child?" She asked.
"The beach." I replied with a nod.
"So would everyone else, which means we have a great opportunity to
capitalize on making extra money tomorrow and I am all about that shit."
She sat back in her seat and pushed away slightly from the desk,
reaching down to the copy machine and handing me a flyer from the tray.
"The number one mistake all new business owners make Flower Child, is
assuming just because your doors are open, you will have customers. I
cannot even begin to tell you how wrong that is. When I opened my first
restaurant in New York, I was one little fish in a very big fucking sea of
sharks. Every day, I stood my happy little ass on the platform of the
subway station with a tray of food and offered it to as many commuters
as I could get my hands on.
It packed my dining room night after night and when they saw that my
food was good and consistent, it kept them coming back. If I never did
that, I probably would have closed my doors within three months of being
open, or less." Bella took a deep breath and let out a hard sigh. Her eyes
were on mine and I could see a glimmer of playfulness in them as she
began speaking again.
"My original idea for this was to actually reward you and put your weird,
yet fucking delish, burgers on the weekend menu. You however, fucked
that up by being a dick, so now it is your punishment. I want this place
packed tomorrow and I don't really give a shit if it's your day off or not,
you are going to go down on the beach with your beefy ass brother and
sling burgers in your bathing suit." She sat forward again, crossing her
arms over the desk top and leaned in towards me.
"You need to be really; really glad that you are good in bed, because
that is the only thing preventing me from making you stand out there in a
fucking banana hammock. I will permit you to wear board shorts instead."
Her brow lifted and a slight smile came across her lips as she served me
another slice of my ass.
"That sounds fair, Miss. Swan." I nodded.
"No, it isn't fair, Flower Child. That is what makes it a punishment."
"Of course, Miss. Swan." I dipped my head in apology.
"And Edward, if you ever disrespect me like that again, I will fire your
ass." She was perfectly serious, all playfulness had faded from her eyes
and I knew this wasn't a warning, it was the truth.
"Yes, Miss. Swan, it won't." I waited, knowing she was to tell me when I
was allowed to leave.
"Get the fuck out of my office." She looked back to her computer and
started typing again.
"Thank you." I rose from my seat, thankful that I was allowed to leave
and even more thankful that I still had a job.
"Don't thank me. Just prove to me that you want to be here."
I paused with my hand on the metal knob and turned to face her again,
but as my mouth opened to reply, my phone rang and I fumbled down into
my pocket to retrieve it. Bella glanced over at me once and I debated
about answering, but it was Carlisle and if he was calling me at work, it
must have been important.
"Carlisle?" I used his name, hoping that Bella would understand why I
was answering. She continued with her typing after glancing over to me
again.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
Fucking mother of fucking shit.
His dad was calling himwhile he was in my office. I wasn't ready to give
my "I don't know" performance yet. It was only a few hours ago that
Jessica left my office, not even enough time to come up with a good
excuse for why she would be dropping the charges. Crap. He looked
relieved though, more than relieved actually. He was kind of sparkling a
little- like my fucking diamond ring or something. I heard a series of 'uh
huh's' and 'alright's' before he said his good bye and stared at his phone
for a long minute with an unbelieving look on his face.
"What?" I asked looking at my screen, unable to keep the excitement
from showing in my eyes, that would surely give my scheming ass away.
"Jess dropped the charges." He whispered. I glance up from under my
lashes and my heart skipped a beat when I saw a smile spread across his
angelic face.
"See, you acted like a jackass for no reason." I shrugged and went back
to typing.
"This doesn't make any sense though. Why would she do that?" I wasn't
sure if he was asking me or himself. His eyes remained on his closed cell
phone and his brows stitched together as he was deep in thought.
"Maybe she felt bad." I offered as I typed 'ROTFLMAO' on the blank
screen.
Flower Child snorted possibly the loudest snort of all time fucking snorts.
"I don't know, Edward." I chuckled as my shoulders shrugged and I faced
my computer again. "Just be glad she did, who really cares what her
motivation behind it is." I smiled on the inside as I finally began to type
my email to the head of some bread company, thanking him for the free
bagels we received this morning.
He stood there, staring at me with a serious debate raging behind his
baby blues. Now, I wasn't one for throwing someone under the bus, but
there was no way I was going to allow him to know that I was the reason
Jessica was dropping her charges. With a hard sigh, I opened my pie hole
and offered the only explanation that would get me out of the hot seat.
"Emmet is dating Rosalie, maybe he talked to her."
Flower Child's brows became one as he gawked at me with his mouth
slightly ajar, like he wanted to say something, but couldn't. I knew
telling him about Emmett and Rose was a serious knife to the back, but I
hoped Em's brotherly devotion would over shadow the need he would feel
to kill me.
"Go back to work Flower Child. We can talk after service, alright?" I
chuckled.
He snapped out his daze and nodded to me as he made his way out the
door. With a heavy sigh and slight shake of my head, I slid my chair over
to the reach for the phone, pressing down on the number 5 key so I could
handle my newest problem.
"Emmet, can you come into my office please?"
*~*~*~*~~*~*
5:45 P.M.
"Listen up everyone." I called the room to order as I entered the dining
room and stood behind the bar.
"Since Flower Child fucked up our Friday Fucking Family Fun Night,
tonight we are all going to attend moonlight madness over at Big Balls
Bowling. Now, I'll have you all know that not only do I suck at bowling,
but I also hate bowling.
I do however, love and appreciate anyone who would dare name their
business something as vile as Big Balls, even if the name is complete
relation to their business's purpose, so we are going." Everyone broke into
laughter and I held up a hand.
"Alright seriously, we are going and I don't want to hear shit from any of
you, especially those who are responsible for the screw up in the first
place." I eyed Flower Child and gave him an evil smile.
"Secondly, this meeting will not host any cursing at each other tonight,
sad - I know. I would like to read something however that I found
earlier today and it resonated with me. If you laugh, I will punch you in
the stomach or knee you in the balls." I held up the paper to my face
after the laughter quieted down and began reading.
"The truth of the matter is that there's nothing you can't accomplish if -
One, you clearly decide what it is that you're absolutely committed to
achieving. Two, you're willing to take massive action. Three, you notice
what's working or not, and Four, you continue to change your approach
until you achieve what you want - using whatever life gives you along the
way." I looked out to them and waited for someone to smart mouth me.
"Who wrote that?" Flower Child asked, nodding towards the paper as he
leaned back in his chair, sucking his bottom lip in between his teeth and
scrunching his brows as he looked at me.
Looking sexy as hell as he did it. Down girl.
"Anthony Robbins." I replied.
"I liked it." He nodded, giving me a wink and butterbean winked right
back at him.
"Thank you. Does anyone have anything they would like to add before we
begin tonight?" I looked around and Flower Child was the only who raised
his hand.
"Go ahead." I nodded to him and Edward scooted his chair back, but
remained sitting as he eyed Ben angrily, before turning to the rest of the
staff.
"Weeble Wobbles fucked the fish by sticking it in the freezer instead of
the fridge, so don't push it tonight. I added a chicken special to the
menu to make up for it, check the board and ask me if you have any
questions after the meeting. I'd appreciate it if you would all thank Ben
for his genius thinking, since I'm sure your tips will be terrific tonight
when you have to explain that a restaurant on the ocean has no fish on
the menu." Edward leaned back in his chair and I was utterly speechless.
Not only did he grow a pair, but he grew a King Kong sized pair. Insulting
Ben, adding shit to my menu without my authorization and publicly
humiliating the kid to boot.
I should threaten his job more often.
I stared at Flower Child as he looked back to me and his message was
written clear across his face.
He was trying to show me he wanted to be here.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
9:45 P.M.
We're screaming like demons, swinging from the ceilingI got a fist full of
fifties, tequila just hit meOoooohhhhhWe got no class, no taste, no shirt,
and shit facedWe got'em lined up, shot down, firing back straight crown
That shit was turned up as loud as my poor little kitchen radio would go.
I was so happy to actually be cooking alongside Flower Child again. It
seemed like it had been too long since we were both here together. Ever
since he started, it was like an onslaught of shit had slid my way and my
focus was thrown off big time. He didn't even do his challenges yesterday
because of the whole 'being thrown in jail' issue. I would have to make
that up. The challenges were a must for his advancement, plus, I was
just really eager to feed him blindfolded again.
I was on the pass tonight and he was helping me dress plates. I wanted
him close to me and not off cooking, something that I already knew he
could do. This was not the weakness in his ability, leading was. Also, his
plating needed a little refining and I needed to see how to tweak that.
The objective here was not to turn Edward into me, but to help him find
the better part of himself. He already had the gift, he just need to it
pulled from within him.
As I set the last plate down on my tray, I saw Emmett walking through
the doors with a frustrated look on his face. He shook his head and I saw
Flower Child look up to him with his brow furrowed.
"Fuck kid, your little home boy really screwed me tonight with this fish
shit. I'm getting my ass reamed out there." Emmett tossed down the
ticket and leaned on the steel top.
"Would you like to trade spots with me Em, because if you're standing
back here all night, you'll sweat your ass right off, eliminating the
reaming issue?" Edward glared at him as he shook up a bottle of
vinaigrette to dress his plate.
"Sorry, it just sucks." Emmett leaned off the pass and took the tray
once Flower Child set his dressed plate on top.
"Fucking pain in the ass." Edward grumbled under his breath and I smiled
as I began plating his special.
"Taste this." I held the spoon to his lips and he leaned over from his
plating, taking a test.
"Salty...." He cringed and then spit behind him in the trash bin. "As
fuck." He finished.
"That's your boy." I chuckled, referencing Ben.
"This kid is going to be the death of me tonight." He ran a hand through
his hair and tossed his spoon angrily in the pan on the pass.
"Weeble Wobbles!" He yelled and curled his fingers at Ben. Flower Child
spun back around and grabbed a plate from the stack with one hand
while picking up my pan with the other. He slid the chicken breast with
over salted sauce onto it in one quick movement and then turned to face
Ben.
"Here you go asshole. Enjoy your fucking dinner." He hit the edge of the
plate against Ben's chest and nodded towards the empty Chef's table.
"But I"
"No fucking but's. If you think it's worthy of being fed to fucking
customers then I think you should be fine eating yourself." Edward
pointed to the table and Ben begrudgingly walked his way over there.
"Royce, jump on his station and Bree you cover his. You have to watch
your veg though too, hun. Get one of the girls from the front to jump on
if you get bogged down, alright?" Edward spun back around and fell right
back into place with what he was doing before, not skipping a beat.
I kept my eyes down and just smiled internally at his progress. He was
doing exactly what he should be doing, leading. A part of me couldn't
help but to think back to that day with Nessie at Flower Child's parent's
house. The way he looked at her as she tried to be a big girl. It was the
same way I was feeling right now about Edward- happy that he was
growing, but sad that it also meant he was growing in a way that would
mean he wouldn't need me soon.
It was an odd mixture of pride and pain and I had no clue how to process
that shit. I peeked at him through my peripherals at the same time he
was peeking at me and we both smiled, chuckling softly at ourselves.
I told Flower Child earlier that sulking was no way to handle your
problems and I meant that shit, so instead of being a big baby and crying
over the fact that I would someday have to give him up, I decided to
enjoy my time here with him while it lasted. After Bree dropped off her
garnish for plating, I slid my way under Edward's arm as he worked. He
lifted up and allowed me to stand in between him and the pass. His hands
stilled for a moment as my ass slid against his front and butterbean
smiled when she felt him through his thin cheffies.
"Watch." I looked at him over my shoulder and grinned.
I started to assemble the plate and Edward leaned against the pass, with
his palms lying flat over the hot metal top, which allowed no space in
between the steel counter and where I stood. He was also now fully
flushed against me and I stopped momentarily to register the fact that
he was hard and grinding it right into the back of my right ass cheek.
His small chuckle in my ear let me know he was well aware of that fact.
I ground back into him as I spooned the veg onto the plate and heard the
low 'fuck' that escaped his lips.
Serves you right buddy.
Flower Child leaned his head into the crook of my neck, but said nothing.
His warm breath fanned the side of my face as he watched me and his
cheek just barely grazed against mine. It was all I could do to not tilt
my head and take him in, taste him and fuck him into oblivion, right here
on the pass. He smelled of sweat and cigarettes and his usual
Edwardliness, that I could never quite decipher the exact fragrance and
it was playing havoc on butterbean as she thudding between my legs.
Right now, I was really regretting the fact that I had gone commando.
My whole plan was back firing on me as I felt the heat of my arousal
course its way down my thigh and I shifted uncomfortably, which only
made things worse, because now Edward's hard on was right in between
my cheeks.
"What the fuck are you trying to do to me Bella?" He groaned into my
hair, I watched his hands turn into fists on the steel top.
"What the fuck are you trying to do to me?" I shot back, glancing over
my shoulder at him and he smiled, biting his bottom lip, before leaning
into my ear.
"You're not the one who has to walk around with a tent in the front of
your cheffies." He whispered and I tilted my head back to face him,
wanting more than anything to just lean into his perfect lips as mine
brushed lightly over them.
"I'm not wearing underwear either you know." I lifted my gaze from his
lips to his eyes and the desire flaring in them was too intense.
I dipped back under his arm and shoved the plate that caused all the
trouble onto the black tray. My eyes traveled back over to him as he
started to work on the new pan, Royce brought up to the pass and I
smiled when he shifted his pants and wiped the sweat from his forehead
with the back of his hand.
Butterbean was still thumping her heart out though and I knew tonight
couldn't possibly go by fast enough. I glanced up to the clock and cringed
knowing that I still had at least four hours to go before I get jump
Flower Child's bones.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
12:22 A.M.
"Weeble Wobbles! You're on dish duties tonight since you were the
kitchen donkey and that includes my fucking dishes too. As you can see, I
made sure to use more than fucking necessary, just for you buddy."
Edward tapped hard on Ben's small shoulder and I had to laugh.
"If you need help finding the dish soap, I'll be outside having a smoke."
Flower Child grinned at Ben as he backed his way out the back door.
I glance around to make sure they were all busy before I slid my way
out the door following him. Edward was sitting on top of our pallet stack,
lighting the end of his cigarette as he held his cell up to his ear. He
glanced over to me as I closed the door and held his smoke out to me
while he pressed a key on his phone. I walked over to him and took the
cigarette from his fingers, planning on sitting next to him, but he pulled
me down into his lap with his free hand and held me there with a strong
arm.
"Does this lady sound nice to you?" He pressed a key on his phone and
held the speaker to my ear. It was a woman named Emily and she was
leaving a message for him regarding babysitting Nessie.
"I didn't know you could judge someone's character based on a voice,
Flower Child." I took another pull of smoke and passed it back to him.
"Shit." He closed the phone and tossed it to his side, bringing the
cigarette back up to his lips and released the smoke hard from his
nostrils.
"You should let me interview her. I can make anyone sing like a canary
Flower Child. If she has ever even thought about doing harm to a kid, I
would find out." I tilted my head back to him and grinned.
"Somehow I believe that Bell." He leaned in and kissed me once. "That
doesn't really help me right now though. Esme and Carlsile leave at six
A.M. I doubt she will want to do an interview sometime in between now
and then." Edward took another drag and then passed it to me.
"Well I could talk to her in the morning then. Have her meet you here,
you know, before you go out to sling burgers half naked." I chuckled,
passing him back the cigarette.
"Alright, but if you scare her off, you're stuck with Ness for the day."
He flicked the cigarette across the lot and wrapped his arms tighter
around me, resting his chin on my shoulder.
"Can I tell you something?" I said softly, leaning my head against his.
"Mmm." He nodded.
"You did really well tonight."
"I'm sorry?" He leaned in further.
"I said you did really good job tonight." I repeated.
"Could youcould you say that a little louderbecause I'm sorry I
thought, I mean it can't be, but I am pretty damn sure you just said I
did a good job?" He teased, cupping his ear with his hand as he leaned
into me.
"Don't make me take it back." I slapped him playfully.
"We should probably go back inside." He kissed my head and I nodded in
agreement as I went to stand.
"I said probably, not that I wanted to." He pulled me down with him as
he rolled down to his back.
"Flower Child, we cannot make out" He cut me off with his lips and I
chuckled into our kiss.
I knew making out with Edward on a stack of pallets, in the back of the
parking lot to my restaurant was many shades of wrong and highly risky,
but as his tongue swirled with mine and his strong hand palmed the swell
of my breast, I had to listen to butterbean's plea to let him to do his
thing and shut the fuck up.
*~*~*~*~*~*~
12:56 A.M.
I hated bowling. With a passion I hated bowling.
My fingers were fisted tightly as I made my way up to the ball return,
to take my turn. Not only did I hate bowling because I sucked at it, but
more so, because I had to stick my fingers down into those three little
holes and not know whose crummy fingers were in there last. I looked
around and cringed when the guy in the next lane over, scratched his ass
before he picked up his ball.
I wanted to fucking hurl.
"Fuck thisI'm going to the bar." I tossed up my hands and started to
retreat to which everyone groaned and I gave them the finger.
"What's wrong?" Edward chuckled as followed behind me with Emmet and
a few others.
"Are you kidding me? There is no way I am sticking my fingers in one of
those germ holes. I don't know what the fuck I was thinking coming
here." I pushed the door to the bar area open and made my way up to
the line of stools.
"Captain and coke." I waved my fingers and the bar tender gave me a
nod.
"Uh ohB starts slamming CC's and we might need to hold her back from
the karaoke machine." He laughed, nodding to the stage behind us.
"It was one time Emmett and I was on a little more than just rum and
coke if I remember correctly." I wiggled my finger at him.
"Oh, that is so gross, don't even remind me." He held up a hand to me.
"What happened?" Flower Child chuckled, taking my hand into his.
"I sliced off my finger tip and Emmett had to dig it out of the pancetta
so they could reattach it." I chuckled, watching both of their faces
grimace at the same time.
"I was on some pain killers and apparently when I mix those with large
amounts of rum, I feel like fucking singing Micheal Jackson songs in
public." I took a sip of my drink and laid down a nice tip for the
bartender.
"Is that the worst injury you have ever had?" Edward asked, laying down
his own money for his beer.
"No, my worst injury was when I let James stick his dick in me."
Edward choked on his beer and I laughed as Emmett patted him on the
back and tried to clean up his own that he razzed a little.
"Sorry." I tipped my drink to him and then took a long sip.
"So what happened?" He set his drink down and toyed with it in his
hands, spinning the bottle around and averting my eyes.
"It's a long story." I shook my head.
"They have quite a few frames to go Bella." He picked up his beer and
leaned back in his seat taking a sip.
"I know, but this isn't really the right place." I looked around with my
eyes and regretted that I even allowed the words to slip out in the first
place.
"Hey, stop with all the whispering over here." Emmet leaned in between
Edward and I, giving me a wink out of the corner of his eye.
"I think we should play a round." He nodded to the pool table.
"You guys go ahead. I'm not in the mood tonight." I took the last swig of
my drink and scooted back from the bar.
"Where you going B?" Emmet called.
"Smoke." I pushed the doors to the bar open and made my back through
the lounge, happy not to hear Edward's feet trailing behind. I am sure
that was due to Emmett telling him not to. He knew when I wanted to
just be left alone.
Now was definitely one of those times.
How stupid was I to have let that shit out of the bag, especially to
Edward of all people? Like he needed to know about me screwing James?
Sure, he wasn't my damn boyfriend or anything, but this shit hit just a
little too close to home for my fucking comfort.
I sat on the cement ledge in front of the bowling alley and puffed away
on my stooge, trying to figure out how the hell my life had become so
damn complicated- Bribing women to take jobs at the Rachel Ray show,
sleeping with my sous chef, babysitting children and airing out my dirty
laundry in public. Somehow Flower Child had managed to completely flip
my nice neatly stacked world upside down. I slid off the wall and flicked
my cigarette to the curb as I dug for my keys, but before I could find
them, I felt a warm hand palm my hip and matching lips at my cheek.
"I'm sorry Angel. I didn't mean to upset you." He murmured into my ear
as his other hand rubbed gently on my arm. My whole being lit up as the
soothing bass of his voice and warm breathe tickled against my delicate
skin. It must have been eighty three degrees out tonight, yet I felt a
shiver creep over my flesh as his strong hands coursed over me.
"It's alright. I'm tired anyway, I should go home." I finally found my keys
and stepped out of his grasp, but he reached out and curled his fingers
around my arm, preventing me from leaving as he held me at arm's
length.
"Don't leave Bella. You were having a good time. Just come back inside."
"I said I'm tired." I shook my head.
"Then come home with me. Let me take care of you." He tugged a little
on my arm, trying to pull me in to his damn trap of good smelling
manliness, but I held my ground.
"I have a lot of paper work to catch up on. I need to go home." I lied.
The paper work could wait. The paperwork could always wait.
"At two in the morning, Bella?" He rolled his eyes slightly and tried to
tug me again.
"I'm just not in the mood tonight, alright?" I pulled my arm back and his
face contorted as though I had slapped him.
"I wasn't asking you to come over so I could." He stopped as a few
members of our restaurant came giggling passed, waving their goodbyes.
"You know that wasn't what I was asking." His eyes flared at his stared
at me and I could see him biting the inside of his cheek.
"I just want to be alone." I looked down from his eyes, unable to see the
disappointment in them.
"Whatever happened to not running, Angel? You called me a pussy for
running away today, is that what you are going to do? Run away from
me?"
Fucking hell, butterbean.
"I'm not running." I looked up to his face and gave the best mask I could
muster, trying to get him to believe my lie.
"Then come home with me." He held out his hand and I wanted to kick
myself for finding the one man on the planet who not only listened to the
shit I said, but also used it against me.
I wasn't even sure at this point if Edward were real, or human. I rolled
my eyes at him and let out a hard sigh before I took his hand and
allowed him to lead me to his Volvo, dragging me back once again into my
life of messy stacks and the unknown.
*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~
1:45 A.M.
The hot water was streaming my down my back, somehow, floating over
Flower Child's broad shoulders and creating a waterfall for my body as
he held me from behind in his small shower. He wasn't hard, or grinding
up on me, he was just holding me tightly in his strong arms and humming
softly against the side of my head, as his lips trailed over my wet
shoulder.
"What is that song?" I tilted my head into his as he rested his chin on
my shoulder.
"It's something my Grandmother used to sing when I was little. I hum it
to Ness when she can't sleep." He lifted his chin and began kissing my
shoulder again.
"Is she still alive?" I asked softly as I tilted my head back, finding the
side of his jaw and kissed his scratchy face.
"Yeah, she's still alive, my grandfather too. You know they have been
married for almost fifty five years?" He chuckled softly.
"Really? Holy crap, what did they do, get hitched when they were
twelve?" I teased.
"My Grandmother, Elizabeth, she was eighteen and my grandfather,
Edward SR., he was twenty." He smiled.
"You were named after your grandfather?"
"Thankfully, it would have been shitty growing up with a name like
Carlisle." He laughed.
"Why didn't your father give you his name?"
"Bella that is just one of the hundreds of things I do not know about my
father."
"You guys really don't get along that well, do you?"
"We get along fine. He just doesn't always agree with everything that I
say or do." He rested his chin back onto my shoulder.
"I'm just guessing here, but I would wager Nessie is a big part of that?"
"That would be the biggest." He agreed.
His voice was soft and sad as he made his omission, his chin resting on my
shoulder like it held the weight of the world when the words left his
mouth. I could feel his burden, his guilt and maybe even a little
bitterness towards his father.
I turned around and wrapped my arms around his waist, flushing his
stomach to mine and allowed my lips to search the tender skin under his
ear. His hold tightened around me and I kept my mouth moving until I
found his warm, perfect lips, trying to pull Flower Child inside of me and
lighten his load a little with the distraction.
I tilted my head back to allow him better access and he took the
advantage, sliding himself further inside of my mouth and assaulting me in
the sweetest way with his talented tongue. I grinded against the
hardness that was growing on him, trying to distract him further, but his
hands stilled me.
"This isn't why I asked you here, Angel." He breathed against my lips, his
forehead pressed to mine.
"I know, but I want you." I leaned back in and he kissed me lightly, but
then receded.
"If you want to make love, then let's make love in bed. Not here. Just let
me take care of you here, alright?" His lips pressed into mine once and he
did not allow me to answer as he spun me around and began washing my
hair.
"I appreciate all the pampering, but when you are done, I need to shave
my legs if you don't mind." I had wicked thoughts in my mind that
wanted to ease away all the tension and seriousness he was holding onto
tonight.
"I don't mind if you're stubbly." He chuckled softly, tilting my head back
to rinse away the suds.
"No, no, Flower Child. This is all for me. You see, there is no way I am
missing watching you and Emmett slinging burgers on the beach tomorrow,
therefore, I must shave the ladies." I tilted my head back to grin at him
and he chuckled right along with me.
See butterbean, we are good at making Flower Child happy.
*~*~*~*~
5:45 A.M.
I was warm and comfy and loving the smell of Edward's bed. There was
just one problem- his ass was no longer in it. I was starting to get really
tired of waking up to not finding him here. Did I fart in my sleep or
something? I would die if I found out I had been hot boxing his ass-
Cause that would just be downright rude, not to mention gross. I sat up
and looked around to the room that was still dark, rubbing at my sleepy
eyes and trying to see something- anything, but was not able to.
"I'm right here, just trying to get Ness back to sleep." He said softly and
I assumed he was rocking her in his chair.
"What time is it?" I croaked, my voice full of sleep as I curled against
his empty space.
"Just before six, love. Go back to sleep. I'll join you soon." I heard him
start to hum her song and I knew that there was no way he would be
able to get back to sleep if he sat up rocking her, plus, I wanted him
here, not way over there.
"Just bring her here." I sat up and fumbled about the floor for clothes,
finding what I presumed to be his PJ bottoms and my tank top.
I felt Edward's weight back on the bed and I snuggled my way back
down, feeling a small hand and I picked it up to kiss it softly. Nessie was
curled up in a ball in between Flower Child and I, but her head was half
way on my pillow and I felt his fingers against mine and I started to run
my fingers through her curls. He chuckled softly and then resumed his
humming.
"She would come in handy in the winter." I whispered with a low chuckle.
"I know. She puts off a lot of heat." He whispered back in a humored
toned.
"Are all kids like this?" I snuggled in closer and Edward did too, allowing
his arm that wasn't covering Ness to slide under my neck, so that he
cradled my head in the crook of his arm.
"I don't know. Something tries to make me believe everything Ness does is
one of a kind, so" He snickered lightly and I leaned in to kiss his
sweetness. Lord help us butterbean. Edward let out a hard sigh as our
kiss ended and his arm under my head bent in a way that pulled me to
him. His chin rested against my head as he tucked me under him and my
head leaned on Ness's in response.
His humming began again and it wasn't long after that I felt myself drift
back into my dreams, only this time, reality was actually my dream and
my unconsciousness was the lack luster part of my life.
**~*~*~*~*~*~
8:35 A.M.
There was someone breathing really hard in my face.
I blinked once.
Twice.
Three times.
"Can we wake-up daddy, Bewwa?" She whispered in her best conspirators
tone. I peered over to see Edward still sleeping soundly, looking like a
golden angel as the early morning sunlight bathed his bare chest and
face, highlighting all of the red tones in his messy hair.
"Let's let him sleep, okay? Are you hungry?" I whispered back, pulling her
towards me.
"Pincakes?" She smiled and I had to smile back, knowing that she still
remembered the day I made them for her. I was never going to let
Flower Child live that shit down, but I decided against making them
again. This kid needed some nutrition, not to mention, I was not in the
mood for pancakes. My ass had to shimmy into a bikini this morning.
There was no way I was eating those damn things.
"Come on." I pulled her with me from the bed and settled her down on
her feet, before I leaned back and pulled the covers over Edward and
gave him a kiss on his face. He stirred lightly, but remained asleep as I
leaned away and tugged Ness along with me to the kitchen.
With my hand that wasn't covering my morning yawn; I reached for the
coffee pot as Ness settled herself in front of the TV and pressed the on
button. It amazed me that someone so small knew how to operate a
television. This did not sit well with me for some reason. If she knew how
to work a TV, this must mean she watches a lot of it, right? I back
logged that shit for further discussion with Edward, cause that shit just
wasn't kosher.
After I got my coffee going, I took out some eggs and the other items I
would need, happy that Flower Child always had a well stocked fridge. I
also poked around his kitchen a little more and smiled once again at how
organized it all was. If it were my kitchen, I would have it set up the
same way.
"Ness?" I called softly, trying to keep it down and not wake up Edward.
She perked up and paddled her little feet my way, tugging on my pajama
bottoms after she entered. I picked her up and sat her on the empty
space of the counter.
"Would you like to help me make breakfast?" I asked and she nodded
happily.
"Okay, I'll break the eggs and you stir, alright?" I handed her the mini
whisk I found and she smiled as she took it into her hands.
"What's dis?" She asked pointing to the bowl.
"We are making a frittata, Squeaky." I moved her hand, trying to show
her how to beat the eggs before I cracked a new one.
"Feeta" She giggled half way through, not able to pronounce the word.
"Say, free."
"Fee."
"No, fRee." I squeezed her cheeks with my free hand as I cracked the
egg in my other against the glass bowl.
"Free." She giggled.
"Ta." I let go of her cheeks.
"Ta." She said perfectly.
"Ta." I finished.
"Ta." She giggled.
"See. You said it. Now you have to say it all together though." I stopped
cracking and she looked to me as I watched her.
"Feetata." She was too darn cute.
"You have to say the R Squeaky." I smiled at her, trying to encourage
her and brought my hand back to her cheeks as I said it with her.
"Ffffrrrrreetata." I showed her.
"Frreeetata." She smiled wide and I leaned and kissed her forehead
proudly.
"That was very good baby."
"Daddy!" She wiggled and about fell off the counter, but thankfully I
was able to still her in time with my shaky hands from being startled
myself. I had no clue Flower Child was watching and I felt a little
embarrassed that he was.
"Morning." He leaned in and kissed my cheek once before he gave Ness
one as well.
"You were supposed to be sleeping." I started to crack the eggs and Ness
went back to her whisking duties.
"I smelled coffee." He smiled reaching into the cupboard for two mugs. I
appraised him quickly with my eyes and was glad to see he was only
wearing the bottoms I loved.
"Daddy we make frrrreetata." Ness kept her eyes on the bowl, taking her
work seriously as she whisked for me.
"That's a very grown up thing to make honey." He smiled at her and
rubbed her cheeks as he made his way over to the fridge to find milk for
our coffees.
"I see your nanny never showed." I began dicing the onion as he made his
way back over, standing in front of Ness as he set down his coffee along
with mine.
"She had some sort of emergency last night. My mother told me when she
dropped off Ness this morning." He stirred in the sugar and slid the cup
to me.
"Here, Angel." His lips found the side of my head as I diced and
butterbean gave him a big thank you.
"I guess you're stuck with me today, Squeaky." I winked at her and she
whipped her head up from her whisking.
"I go wif Bewwa?" She looked up to Edward wide eyed and I had to smile
at how excited she seemed, to spend a day with me. It wasn't often that
someone felt this way. Usually the idea of spending a day with me was
something I either had to pay someone to do or demand someone do. It
was never, ever a welcomed matter.
"You go with me and daddy and Uncle Emmett- To the beach." I grinned
at Edward and he smiled back at me.
"Da beach!" She bounced happily and Edward chuckled at her enthusiasm
before he lifted her off the counter and sat her on his hip.
"Hey, she has duties." I pointed the knife to the bowl.
"She's a little young to work a knife." He argued, sipping his coffee with
his free hand.
"That is why she was going to stir." I trotted off down to the hall and
retrieved the step stool I saw last time I was here from the bathroom.
"Which reminds me" I placed the stool in front of the stove and pulled
Ness from his arms to place her on it. "How much TV do you let her
watch?" I readied the pan and passed Ness a wooden spoon as I added
the diced onions.
"Not that much, why?" He held her hand and helped her stir as she
peered over the top of the pan.
"Really, because I would assume that if a four year old knows how to
turn on a TV, that must mean she does a lot of TV watching." I
challenged, to which Flower Child gave me a dirty look.
"I didn't realize you were an expert on four year olds."
"I happen to be highly intelligent Edward. The art of putting two and
two together comes very naturally to me." The sarcasm was thick in my
response and he smiled despite himself.
"I wike cooking daddy." She tilted her head back against Edward's bare
stomach and smiled.
"Do you?" He lifted his brows, smiling back at her.
"Yup." She nodded once and then went back to her stirring.
"Amazing what kids find out they like when there face isn't planted on
the front of a TV screen." I teased, smiling at him ruefully.
"Maybe she just wants to be like her daddy." He smiled back.
"I hope not. It would be nice if one Cullen in this kitchen knew how to
cook." I smiled, looking back down to my potatoes as I diced them into
perfect cubes.
I felt Edward's hand brush under my hair and run its way up to the nape
of my neck, awakening every nerve ending on my body with his touch. He
cupped the back of my head and the magnetic force his lips had over
mine, made me tilt back to meet his silent request for them. This kiss
was seriously inappropriate to perform in front of Flower Child's kid and
to be honest, shocked the fuck out of me, but butterbean was lovingly
every minute of it and I couldn't find it in me to be responsible and pull
away.
The kiss wasn't just sensual though, it was powerful, strong and laced
full of emotions that were foreign to me, yet strangely familiar at the
same time. His lips pulled back before we could slip too far out of hand
and he pulled my face into the crook of his neck as he whispered against
my hair.
"You're too beautiful, you know that?" He kissed my hair and held my
head against him as a hard knock on the door sounded.
"That's probably Emmett." He released me and chugged the remainder of
his coffee before turning his attention to the door.
I looked down to Nessie after I managed to peel my eyes away from
Edward's bare back walking away from me and she giggled slightly before
she went back to stirring. I chuckled lightly myself, feeling slightly
embarrassed that she saw us being so intimate. Emmett's loud mouth
snapped me out of it though and I made my way towards the fridge in
search of cheese. After I found a nice block of cheddar and a container
of orange juice, I closed the door and went to turn back to Ness, but
was stopped dead in my tracks as I stared at the front of the fridge. I
had not seen it this morning with my sleepy eyes, but sure as shit, there
it was.
Flower Child had hung the picture Nessie drew in my office.
Of us.
*~*~*~*~
9:27 A.M.
We all sat happily around the table as we enjoyed our breakfast. Not
only was I treated to watching Edward scarf down my famous onion and
potato cheddar cheesy frittata, but I also had Emmett to take in this
morning as well. These Cullen boys were something else. They sure could
eat. Ness looked happy too, feeding forkfuls of her eggs to Edward in
between her own bites and butterbean smiled wide the entire time she
watch them interact so sweetly. Sometimes I swear it was like they were
in there own happy little world and a part of me was very envious, but
more so, honored that I was allowed a peek inside.
"So B, I heard through the grapevine that your pops was going to be at
the convention this year." Emmet eyed me as he picked up his OJ and
took a sip.
"He is?" I asked surprised.
"Yeah, Sue called me the other day all cheery and crap over it. I guess
he's speaking at one of the presentations."
"It's so nice to be in the loop Em." I said sarcastically as I stabbed my
eggs angrily.
"Sorry, I just figured I'd warn you." He shrugged.
"I guess at this point I should expect it. I mean my mother got remarried
and didn't bother to tell me, so Charlie speaking at the convention
shouldn't come as much of a shocker." I shook my head and went for my
coffee.
"Your parents are divorced?" Edward asked.
"Obviously Flower Child, unless you need me to explain the definition
behind adding 're' to the word before you use it."
"I mean, I just assumed they were still together. You never said anything
about them being divorced." He kept his eyes on mine as he thought
through something in his mind.
"Pop pop and gamma awre davowsed" Nessie said, making Edward whip his
head to her.
"Who told you that?" He asked.
"Mommy." She said, poking at her eggs.
"Pop pop and Grandma are not divorced, honey." Edward said, keeping his
eyes on her and she looked back up to him.
"Das what mommy says." She shook her head.
"Well mommy is wrong, sweetheart." He thumbed her cheek and I could
see the anger and hurt in his face, even though he was trying to conceal
it from her. Ness simply shrugged and went back to eating her eggs.
Emmett exchanged looks of irritation with Edward before they both went
back to eating. I heard Flower Child mumbling something into his mug as
he brought his coffee up to his lips and shook his head, obviously very
displeased with Jessica's ability to keep her pie hole shut.
I wondered why she would say that though. His parents obviously were
not divorced. Hell, they were on their anniversary trip right now to
fucking Europe for Christ's sake. I knew the girl was all for hitting below
the belt, but where the hell did something like that fit into this whole
mess?
I entered it into my long list of shit I had back logged for later analysis
and decided to enjoy my breakfast with my boys.and girl.
*~*~*~*~*
EPOV
Why Bella thought this was punishment I had no clue.
I was on the beach, cooking, with her, Ness and Emmet- feeding burgers
to women in G-string bikinis.
Was she crazy?
If this were my job for the rest of my life, I would die a happy man.
We had an area along the boardwalk set up for our free cooking show
and give away. Ness was sitting on top of Emmett's shoulders as she
passed out flyers to the people passing by. Bella was being assaulted by
the men as they gawked and flirted with her, but she seemed to handle
herself well. Actually, she looked quite comfortable and I wasn't so sure
how I felt about that shit. A few times she even flirted back a little. I
had to wonder if she was doing it on purpose to make me jealous. When a
groups of girls, who looked a little older than Bella came walking by, I
smiled wide at them, giving the signature expression each Cullen man had
perfected and they of course stopped instantly, grinning wide back.
"What do you have there?" One of the girls who had long dark hair and
blue eyes asked. Her voice was thick with a Spanish accent and I decided
to pull out my extra weapon here, seeing Bella looking at us from the
corner of my eye.
"Habla usted espaol?"
Do you speak Spanish?
"Si." She smiled brightly.
"cmo te llamas?
What is your name?
"Kate." She smiled.
"Mi nombre es Edward."
My name is Edward.
Le apetece una hamburguesa?
Would you like a burger?
"Si Eduardo." She said appraising me with her eyes, as her palms leaned
against the table top.
"Aqu tienes a Kate, una hamburguesa, slo para usted." I gave her a
wink as I handed it over.
Here you go Kate, one burger, just for you.
"Muchas gracias" She blew a kiss and continued on down the board walk
with her friends. I smiled internally as I watched Bella shoot daggers at
her as she strolled on by.
Bella looked back to me and I winked at her, trying to let her know that
I was just getting even and she narrowed her eyes at me before she
made her way over to my stand.
"So since when do you speak all Antonio Sabatto JR on me?" She teased.
"I live in Miami, Bella. It's pretty much my first language at this point."
I flipped my burgers and smiled at her.
"Well how about next time you decide to woo a girl with it, you make
sure to mention eating at our fucking restaurant. I'm not out here giving
away food out of the goodness of my heart Flower Child."
"Em gave her a flyer." I shrugged.
"It's not the same as lip service." She shook her head in irritation. I sat
down my spatula and brushed her hair over to her other shoulder, so that
I could test out her theory.
"Es que tan ngel? Tal vez ms tarde esta noche, te ofrezco mi servicio
de labio entonces."
Is that so angel? Perhaps later on tonight, I will offer you my lip service
then.
I gave a light kiss to her ear and felt her shiver against my bare chest
as I pressed into her. "Tal vez, te ofrezco todos mis servicios."
Perhaps, I will offer you all of my services.
"Fuck Edward." She whispered and rolled her eyes a little before pushing
me away. I chuckled softly at her and went back to my burgers as a new
group of people came up.
Who the fuck knew taking Spanish in high school would finally pay off?
I couldn't wait for tonight.
*~*~*~*~*~*~
I watched as Bella allowed Nessie to bury her legs and feet in the sand,
now that our food giveaway was over. Emmett was back at the
restaurant making all the arrangements for tonight and Bella caved when
Nessie asked to go for a swim.
It never ceased to amaze me at how easily Ness could get her way.
Watching the two of them interact was beyond intriguing. The way Bella
handled Ness was so natural and tugged at my insides like nothing else
ever had. Other than my mother and grandmother, I had never seen a
woman be this way with Ness. It was different somehow with Bella,
maybe because she wasn't my family. I wasn't sure. It made me
ridiculously fucking happy though and even more so, scared out of my
mind.
Ness was crazy about Bella and all I could do was hear the conversation
we had not too many nights back in the Volvo about the day she would
leave and how it would hurt my baby. It was true. How could I keep her
away though? She gravitated towards Bella like a bee to honey and if I
said the same wasn't true for Bella to Ness, I would be lying.
I had seen women throughout my single years try and crawl their way
into my world by using Ness. They would smile all sweetly at her and put
on a good show, but the truth is that I saw through all that shit. It was
the money, my parent's role in our community. They were no better than
Jessica.
Watching Bella this morning, when she didn't know I was there, she acted
no different towards Ness, unless of course it was impossibly sweeter
somehow. Trying to teach her how to pronounce frittata correctly and
having her up on the counter cooking along side of her instead of allowing
her to watch cartoons, it stole my fucking heart.
Her chastising me for allowing her to watch TV was only icing on the cake
and when Ness smiled at Bella after she teased me about wanting her to
be a good cook someday, it was all I could do to resist carrying her off
to my bedroom and making the sweetest of love to her pussy with my
fucking tongue.
I would have to remedy that later on tonight.
And I would.
While speaking fucking Spanish to her.
*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
4:25 P.M.
Knock. Knock.
"Em said you wanted to see me?"
"Come in Flower Child." I rolled the chair at my side out for him.
"What's going on?" He asked as he took a seat at my right.
"Nanny interview." I laid a fresh pad of paper and pen on his lap and
then tapped my own papers against the desk. Edward went to open his
mouth to say something, but stopped as a new knock on the door sounded
and I called them in.
"Hi, my name is Leah, I'm supposed to be meeting with Edward for the
nanny position." A girl with long dark hair and big black eyes smiled
sweetly as she peered in.
"Come in Leah, take a seat." I answered, folding my hands over the desk
top.
"This is Edward, I'm Bella. Nessie, Edward's daughter is sort of like my
niece, so I'll be asking you questions as well." I appraised her with my
eyes and saw that she had a small tattoo on her wrist as she shook
Edward's hand. The need to fuck with this girl was all too great. For one,
she was going to be watching Edward's daughter and I needed to make
her squirm. Number two, I just really loved making Flower Child
uncomfortable.
"You didn't get that in prison did you?" I nodded to her wrist as she took
her seat again.
"No ma'am. It is my family's crest." She lifted her arm towards me.
"Like a symbol?"
"Yes." She smiled.
"Like the mob or something? Gang sign? Are you with the crips or the
bloods?" I arched an eye brow and saw Flower Child bite his lip to keep
from laughing.
"I'm not in a gang. It is just my tribe." She chuckled softly.
"So you perform odd rituals and shit? Is sacrificing children part of your
culture? Is that why you are here?" I knew I was being ridiculous and
highly insulting, but that was the whole point.
"I am here because I love children. I used to teach on my reservation,
but all of my boys have grown up. Here are my qualifications." She
passed me a folder, but I ignored it and kept my eyes on her. Flower
Child reached out and took it from her hands.
"As you can see I taught in public school for a few years, but I have to
admit, it wasn't really for me. I prefer more hands on teaching with the
children. There were too many in those classes." She explained.
"So you are afraid of there being witnesses." I accused.
"Bella, I know that finding a nanny for your niece must be hard, I could
never imagine doing that for my boys, buy I assure you, I would never
harm a child. You can contact any of my former employers and personal
references. I have nothing to hide." She folded her hands in her lap and
waited patiently for me to reply.
"What does your tattoo mean?" Edward asked as he thumbed through the
papers in her folder.
"It is symbolic of our culture. Quileute's have been thought to have been
protected by wolves throughout our existence." She held out her arm for
him and he looked up from his reading so he could appraise it.
"Why on the wrist?" He asked.
"For me, a woman, it is on my wrist to show that I have been claimed.
For the men, they place it on their chest."
"Why on the chest?" He asked, narrowing his eyes as he observed the
black ink showcasing a tribal wolf with its face masked by a long tail.
"It is close to their hearts, just like their ladies." She smiled.
"I understand." He nodded, lifting his sleeve to show her the ink of
Nessie's sweet face.
"You have a black rose by her." She pushed his sleeve a little higher.
"Is this before or after she was marked here?" Her eyes bore into Flower
Childs as she asked.
"Before, but it was meant for her."
"This was not welcomed, yes?" She allowed her fingers to trace along
Nessie's face and I could see Edward's jaw tighten before replied.
"It has been hard on my family." He nodded softly. Leah's eyes studied
his and then she released his arm for her hands, sliding back into her
seat.
"You should have a dream catcher placed around her, banding those
spirits from entering. Get rid of the rose, it bares no place in a child's
life." She said softly.
Leah wanted to protect Flower Child's child and suddenly I felt no more
need to grill her or insult the women. Edward looked back down to her
folder and I could see the emotions running ramped on his face as he
tried to pull himself together from the charged exchange. I looked back
to Leah and she seemed cool as a cucumber, yet still wore a look of
concern on her face as she studied him carefully. I was all about someone
wanting to protect not only Ness, but also Edward.
I had never hired someone based off of a tattoo, but apparently, I had a
serious weak spot for people who sported them lately.
***
After we hired Leah, Flower Child and I were in my office going over the
specials for this evening's menu. We had a fully booked house thanks to
our burger giveaway on the beach earlier and I was happy to have
Edward's food featured on our menu- Even if it was just a burger. Doing
the simple things right, that is what my father always used to say and it
was true. Any chef worth there snot would tell you that.
I watched as he held his bottom lips in his teeth and wrote out the
paper menu for the meeting this evening, with a fierce look of
concentration on his face, mouthing some of the words as he wrote them.
I wanted to fucking bite him.
Focus butterbean.
Thankfully his cell phones ringing snapped me out of my ogling. Edward
looked to me before he answered and I waved him on, knowing he was
probably freaking out thinking something had happened to Ness already.
His face fell as he greeted the person on the other line, with a slight roll
of his eyes as he went back to writing out his menu while he listened. I
started to type again on the computer, organizing the upcoming
convention that we attended every year. I couldn't wait to go this time,
with Flower Child. He would have so much
"What?!" He said loudly. My eyes snapped up to look at him as he tossed
down his pencil and stared at me with a murderous gaze. His blue eyes
simmered and threatened to burst from the heat burning beneath them.
I asked him 'what?' with my eyes, but his face only grew more angered as
he held the phone listening.
"What do you mean you're moving to New York?!"
Fuck.
Jessica.
*****









Chapter 7: "Dreams and Reality"

EPOV
I am moving to NY
What?!
I said I am moving to New York, dickhead.
What do you mean you are moving to New York?!
I mean, I am packing my fucking bags and moving to New York! Shit, are
you deaf?
Bella was staring at me as I continued to have my conversation with Jess
and I knew this was not the place.
"I need to call you back later. I cannot have this conversation right
now."
"Don't you want to know why?" She asked.
"Yes, but I am working Jessica. I will call you back later."
"But I" I closed the phone unable to hear what she was going to say,
knowing that if I did, I would probably lose my mind.
"What happened?" Bella asked.
"Jessica said she is moving to New York." I tossed down my phone on her
desk.
"Did she say why?"
"No, I hung up before she had a chance. Shit, why the hell is she doing
this? I mean what kind of a mother" I stopped dead in my tracks and
took a deep breath. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't be talking about this now." I
picked up my pencil again and went back to writing out the menu for the
staff.
"It's alright. Um, do you have to go or something?" She asked and I
whipped my head up to look at her.
"No. I mean, I should probably call Carlisle or something, but it will have
to wait."
"Why would you need to call Carlisle?" Her face scrunched in confusion.
"Our case is still pending, so I don't know how this all works. If Jess is
moving to New York, I don't know what that means for Ness. I mean,
what if she wins custody? Can she do that? Can she take her there?" I
ran a hand through my hair, - the same hand that was dying to call my
father and ask the hundred questions bubbling up in my mind.
"Can that happen?" She asked nervously.
"I don't know. I'm not sure what the law is for this. Maybe that's why
she dropped the charges, she knows something I don't. Fuck." I rubbed
my face in frustration.
"Well maybe you should call your father then." Bella tossed my phone
back at me and made her way around the desk and out the door.
Shit, was she pissed at me again?
I swear, if I didn't have better luck in my next life, I was going to
demand a refund.

Xxxx
Bella POV
5:30 P.M.
Shit, what did I do?
It never occurred to me that this could happen. Fuck. What if it did?
I made my way out through the front door and bummed a smoke from a
by passer. I knew my intentions were good, but hell, I made a big mess.
Would a judge really grant that wretch custody though? Something told
me it was doubtful, but still the possibility I suppose was there.
Fuck it, if it came down to it, I would figure out a way to fix that shit
too, especially since I was the one who fucked it up.
I flicked the half smoked cigarette to the curb and made my way back
inside, seeing everyone already gathered for the meeting, even Flower
Child. This made me happy and sad all at the same time. The harder the
boy tried, the more it hurt and felt good, playing havoc on my heart and
emotional well being. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster lately that no
one had control over, especially me.
I brushed my hair back from my face and made my way behind the bar.
Edward gave me his sweet smile of encouragement and I smiled back
lightly in return, unable to resist his natural charm that always seemed
to make everything alright. If I was the sun in Flower Child's mind, then
what was his smile in mine? I don't know that there was a planet big or
bright enough to compare to it.
"I would like to make this short and sweet, just like Emmett's one night
stands." I gave him a wink and he held a thumbs up to me. "Tonight is
going to be very busy, thanks to Emmett & Flower Child's half naked
bodies, let's give them a big thank you please." I waved towards my boys.
"Thank you!" The staff said in unison. Emmett of course ate it up and
Flower Child just kept his eyes on me, not paying attention to the hoots
and hollers and joking of the crowd.
"Alright, settle down. Flower Child has written out the menu for you all,
please take a look at it and ask us if you have any questions. Now,
without further ado" I cleared my throat.
"Weeble Wobbles if you fuck us on anything tonight, I will string you up
by your chicken sized balls to the overhang outside and let Flower Child
use you as a piata. Understand fuckwad?" I eyed him and he nodded at
me nervously.
"Good. Anyone else have anything?" I looked out to the crowd and Flower
Child raised his hand with an amused expression on his face.
"Yes Flower Child?"
"A stick of pepperoni." He said seriously.
"What?" I chuckled.
"I will use a stick of pepperoni to beat the candy of you Weeble
Wobbles." He explained.
"I would prefer if you used one of the whole fish." I tried to keep the
smile off my face as Ben sunk down into his seat.
"Of course, what was I thinking? Fish leaves a much bigger welt than
Pepperoni." He agreed, keeping with his serious expression.
"And getting the stink off is next to impossible, especially when it bursts
open and the guts seep into your clothes." I added.
"No, he won't be wearing clothes, so it won't be a problem." He shook his
head, keeping his eyes on Ben.
I was really starting to love this new version of Flower Child.
****
EPOV
I was so glad the night was over. Leah dropped Ness off a few minutes
after Bella and I walked through the door and while she was showering, I
settled my sleepy girl into her bed. After I was sure she was fast asleep,
I readied my room for Bella, setting out a few small candles I managed
to dig out of a drawer and fluffed the pillows into a comfortable position
against the head board. I even added a few from the couch. I wished I
had wine or something to offer her, but I didn't really drink much living
alone, other than the couple beers I would keep for when Em came over
to watch a game.
Funny thing about working in a restaurant, you never really eat. Sounds
weird, I know, but the truth is that you do a lot of tasting without
actually ever consuming any of it. Plus, you are usually too busy to even
think about your own stomach while you are feeding others. The second
you cleaned up and settled in though, you felt the pain of your stomach
trying to gnaw at itself. After being on your feet all day cooking, the
last you want to do is start all over in your own home, but I knew Bella
would be just as hungry as I was, so I dug through the kitchen and
decided to make us something simple, yet delicious and filling.
Penne pasta with pan roasted tomatoes and sweet basil.
I was happy that Bella had introduced me to the open market near The
Workshop. It was one of my favorite places to purchase groceries now.
They had beautiful yellow, red and even purple tomatoes this week when
I shopped. I wasn't even aware purple tomatoes existed, but apparently,
they do. I quartered them up and tossed them into hot pan with olive oil,
before I readied the boiling water on the stove for the pasta.
"What are you doing?" I felt Bella's arm wrap around my waist and I
lifted my own to tuck her underneath.
"Aren't you hungry?" I asked, tipping my head to her damp hair as I
stirred with my free hand.
"Starving, I can finish up, go take a shower." She reached for the spoon
and I was going to argue, but the truth was that if I didn't shower now,
by the time I ate and had a full belly, I wasn't going to want to
afterwards. And if I didn't shower, I wasn't going to be able to have sex
with Bella, like I very much intended on, so I allowed her to have the
wooden spoon and scooted my happy ass towards the bathroom.

XXX
Bella had made a small picnic on my bedroom floor when I entered. The
sliding doors were open and the music played softly amid the dim light of
the candles. She smiled up at me and appraised my body, smiling wider
when she saw I was only wearing my black boxer briefs.
"Good choice." She winked, patting a pillow for me to sit.
"As is this." I waved over her makeshift eating area along the wooden
floor.
"Yeah well, we both eat like pigs, so I figured this was better than the
bed and I am too damn tired to prop myself up at the table." She passed
me my bowl and slouched back against the pillow wall she created
against the foot of my bed frame.
"Me too." I mimicked her position and tipped my fork to her.
"What are we toasting?" she giggled, holding her fork to mine.
"Mm, see through tank tops." I appraised my white tank top she was
wearing, which looked more like a dress on her, as I gave a wink.
"I would like to toast to Hanes then." she winked back, eyeing my
underwear.
"Uh, Calvin Klein." I corrected, rolling my eyes dramatically.
"Oh, ex-cuse me." She giggled, before tapping her fork to mine.
"It's all my mother's fault." I chuckled, before taking a forkful of pasta.
"Why is that?" she asked taking her own mouthful.
"She has a need, like most women, to purchase expensive underwear. I
personally don't understand it, but it makes her happy so, whatever." I
shrugged and took another bite.
"Your mommy still buys you underwear Flower Child?" she teased, picking
up her ice water for a sip.
"Every Christmas." I nodded with a light chuckle.
"Do you and Esme get along then, better than you and your dad?" she
asked.
"I guess. She understands more I suppose."
"How so?" Bella sat her bowl in her lap and toyed with her food as she
waited for my reply.
"Um," I wiped my mouth with a paper napkin and set my own bowl down.
"After Esme had me, she had a miscarriage, so I think she understands
what losing a child is like. She's more sympathetic."
"I'm sorry." She shook her head lightly. "You haven't lost Ness though,
you aren't going to either."
"Let's hope." I picked my bowl back up and started to eat.
"Can I ask you about what Leah said earlier, about the rose?"
"I already explained it." I mumbled with my mouth full.
"You said you got it before Ness's face was there, but that you got it for
her. I don't understand what that means. Actually, I don't even
understand what the rose means to be honest." She looked down to her
dish and took a small bite.
"I got the rose inked after Ness was born. Having a child as a teenager
wasn't something my parents were very pleased with me about. I never
thought about it the way Leah explained it to me tonight though. A black
rose is meant for struggle and negative shit, she is right, I should get rid
of it." I set my bowl down to my side, now finished and reached for my
water.
"Can I ask something else?"
"Trying to unravel all my dirty secrets tonight, angel?" I teased, smiling
at her as I sat my water glass down.
"Maybe." She grinned back.
"Go on." I leaned my head back on the pillow as she spoke.
"How long were you and Jessica together?"
"Before or after we had Ness?"
"Beforeand after." She smiled.
"The first time I saw Jessica I was sixteen. She was a cheerleader in our
high school and I swear to fucking Christ, the hottest girl I had ever laid
eyes on. Of course, I wasn't alone in that thought process." I chuckled.
"Every guy wanted her and she wouldn't give any of us the time of day."
I laughed again and Bella snuggled down next to me as she listened. "So,
when Carlisle was on a trip out of town one week, I stole his prized
possession in an effort to woo her."
"What was that?" She asked as her eyes danced in amusement.
"His Austin Martin Vanquish." I laughed.
"No shit." Bella covered her mouth and chuckled.
"Yup. I stole it and that was all it took. I guess I should have known,
you know?" I chuckled.
"Yes, you should have." She leaned her head on the pillow beside me and
I turned to face her, taking her hand into mine.
"The back seat of the Vanquish got the best three minutes of its life
that day." I chuckled, kissing her hand and she laughed with me.
"Glad to know your skills have improved. I bet your father was pissed
when he found out you stole his car."
"Not as pissed as he was when he found out I knocked up a girl in the
back seat of his stolen car." I laughed.
"Waithold the fucking phone Flower Child. You knocked up Jess on the
first time you had sex with her, seriously?" She asked not believing.
"Seriously." I confirmed, kissing her hand again.
"Shit."
"What?" I chuckled.
"I didn't know you had super sperm. Seriously, you need to keep that shit
away from me." She pointed to my crotch.
"What are you talking about?" I shook my head as I chuckled at her.
"I am talking about the fact that you're the first guy I have slept with
in over a year and quite obviously that means I am not on birth control.
We haven't exactly been being very responsible in our quest to fuck the
holy shit out of each other."
"How very romantic, angel."
"I'm serious, Edward."
"I know." I sighed. "You're right. We should be more careful." I kissed
her hand again and watched her face carefully.
"Sorry, it's justI'm usually better about stuff like this. Truthfully,
you're the only guy I have ever been withlike that."
"I'm sorry too. I should have asked."
"I think you did." She grinned.
"That's not what I meant. I meant I should have asked if you were on
birth control. Or maybe just learned from my previous mistake and
fucking wrapped it up."
"Ness is not a mistake Flower Child." She rubbed my cheek, scooting
closer to me.
"I know, but you know what I am saying." I leaned down and kissed her
cheek.
Bella sighed, closing her eyes as her face rested under mine. I watched
her, the way her face seemed to change as all her silent questions
lingered in her mind and her brows scrunched into a small V. I wanted
nothing more than to smooth it all away with more answers, but enough
about my inner demons had been spoken of tonight. I slid my arm under
her and allowed her neck to rest in the crook of my arm. My lips brushed
her cheek once and traveled lightly over her satin skin until I reached
her ear.
"Angel de Besos?" I whispered, allowing my lips to graze the outer shell
of her ear.
Lip service angel?
Her lips turned up into a small smile and a low chuckle vibrated in her
chest against mine.
I took that as a yes.
"Let's climb in bed." I kissed her ear and released her from my grasp,
but as she made her way up, her lower half- her very naked lower half-
was eye level to my face and I stilled her with my hands.
"What? I thought you wanted to get in bed?" she tugged my hands from
her hips but I shook my head at herwell actually, I shook my head at
her pussy.
Because that is where my eyes were firmly planted.
God bless motherfucking chafing and the rule to not wear underwear in
the kitchen, because that meant after Bella showered, she had no
underwear to put on.
And didn't bother to steal a pair of mine.
Amen.
Her hands fell hard on my shoulders as I pulled her roughly into me and
she chuckled softly as she steadied herself. My thumbs glided over her
soft stomach as I slid the bottom of her borrowed white tank up,
allowing my hands to fist the bundled fabric against the small of her
back. She was silky smooth and perfectly bare before me, making a low
moan of appreciation and need for her hum low in my chest as I gave a
light nibble to the space below her hip bone. Bella moaned loudly in
response and I had to chuckle softly at how difficult it was going to be,
once I actually hit much more sensitive areas, to keep her quiet. I was
not in the mood for blue balls tonight, which is exactly what would
happen if Nessie woke up.
"You have to be quiet, angel." I whispered, giving another small kiss
under her belly button.
No sound, good girl.
I kissed my way across her belly, making my way to her other hip bone
and gave an open mouthed kiss to the small beauty mark she had on the
inside of her thigh. Her fingernails dug deep into the skin on my shoulders
and I did it again just to push her further, knowing where she was aching
for me to really kiss.
And so was I.
"Aqu mismo, ngel?"" I gave a feather light kiss right above her clit and
she shook her head softly, a small smile playing on her lips knowing I was
teasing her.
Right here angel?
"Aqu?" I kissed the joining area of her leg to her sweet spot.
Here?
"Fuck." She whispered, dragging her nails into my scalp and fisting the
hair at the nape of my neck.
"te gusta aqui?"
You like it here?
I lightly ran the tip of my tongue from the bottom of her entrance, all
the way up her wet slit, stopping at her swollen clit and suckled it softly
it my mouth.
"Fuck Edward." she groaned and I spanked her once, pulling my lips away.
"Quedate callada." I scolded.
Be quiet.
She giggled in my arms and I returned back to my task at hand, bringing
her body back to my mouth and releasing my hold on her shirt so I could
palm her ass cheeks that were just fucking begging to be palmed.
I flicked my tongue lightly over her bud and felt her fingers grip
painfully into my hair, but she made no noise. My right hand slid over the
silky skin of her bottom and then to her hip, before I removed my mouth
again and replaced it with my thumb, rubbing small delicate circles over
her swollen hood and dipped my index finger inside of her. I watched as
my fingers played with her and my cock throbbed painfully, begging me
for her body, but I wanted to pleasure her first. Her positioning wasn't
quite right though.
I slid my left hand away from her ass and gripped the back of her knee,
bringing it up to stand on the outside of my hip, then repeated the same
movement with her right leg, so that she was now spread wide in front of
me. Her hands moved from my shoulders to the bottom foot board of the
bed and I spread her with my fingers, tasting her again. Bella's panted
breathing and the crashing of the ocean waves were the only sounds that
filled the dead of the night inside of my room and it was playing havoc
on my body as my need for her grew with every new lick and nibble I
gave.
My fingers curled around the back of her calf, bringing her knee to rest
on my chest and I dipped my digits back inside of her, wanting nothing
more than to have her come. I kissed her clit continuously as I worked
my fingers, trying to find where the place she loved was. As soon as her
breathing hitched, I smiled internally.
"I think I found it, angel." I whispered, stroking the place within her
that drove her mad. "Right here, isn't it?" I stroked harder while my
mouth sucked her in again.
"Right there." She whispered. "Right. There." She panted harder and I
felt as her walls came crashing down around my fingers. Her legs
trembled and I used my free arm to hold her to me so she wouldn't fall.
Bella's body slumped against me her breathing slowed and I slowly
lowered her down into my lap, bringing her lips to mine.
"My turn." She whispered, running her hands down my bare chest and
tucking her warm fingers into the band of my underwear.
I lifted my hips, allowing her to pull them free from my body. Bella held
out her hands for me, signaling that she wanted me to stand up. Was this
pay back? She led me to the bed and took a seat on the edge of the
mattress, allowing her legs to dangle free as she positioned me in front
of her. Fuck, it is payback.
Of the sweetest mother fucking kind.
One of her hands rested on my abs as she gripped me in her other hand
gave it a little lick to the wet tip.
"Fuck." I groaned, to which she spanked me just like I had her.
"Quedate callado." She spanked me again and giggled before she took me
back into her mouth, all-the-fucking-way.
Fuck she owned me.
I brushed her hair back from her face, wanting not to miss a single
fucking second of watching her. The room was fairly dark now, only one
of the candles was lit, since the ocean air blowing in capped the flames
on the others. I could see her though and she looked like the angel I
called her, in the warm glow of the light. I kept my eyes on hers and she
held my gaze as she pleasured me, slow and oh so mother fucking good.
My hand pulled the one she had on my stomach, to my face and I kissed
her palm, trying to show her what she was doing to me, since I couldn't
verbalize passed the low hum I gave every time her tongue swept over
the head of my cock.
The urge to pull her away and push her to her back so I could bury
myself deep within her was all to present, but I knew I couldn't do that
shit, since we just talked about being careful and I didn't have shit for
fucking protection in my apartment. I would have to rectify that
tomorrow, but for now
Bella pulled her mouth away and re positioned herself on the bed, sitting
up on her knees. Her hand stayed on my cock as she stroked me and she
placed her warm cherry lips on my jaw.
"I want you." she whispered, kissing her way towards my mouth.
"I want you too, but I don't have anything, angel." I whispered back
against her lips.
"It's alright, just pull out." She gripped my hair and kissed me harder.
"That isn't protection Bella." My dick gave me the finger as she tried to
pull me down to her and I didn't allow her.
"It's not the right time for me. Nothing will happen."
I didn't know exactly what the fuck that meant, but as she let go of my
neck and laid herself down on her back, spread wide before me, I
couldn't fucking argue with whatever logic she was trying to use.
If any at all.
I pulled her to edge of the bed using her legs and rested my palm beside
her head, while using the other to guide myself into her. Once I was fully
submerged, she wrapped her legs around my waist and pulled me in
deeper, locking her feet around me and I lowered myself over her,
leaning on my forearms so I could look at the beauty her face held.
"So perfect, Bella." I whispered against her lips, keeping my rhythm slow
and savoring every slide my body made within hers.
She hummed against my lips and I slid my arms under her head, allowing
my forearms to prop her face closer to mine. I kissed her chin as she laid
her head back into my open palms, moving along her jaw until I reached
her ear.
"So perfect." I whispered again, rocking harder inside of her and she
wrapped her arms around my neck tighter, pulling my face into the crook
of her neck.
My lips traveled over the length of her neck, leaving a trail of wet kisses
in its path as I made my way down to her collar bone. My arms lifted her
from the bed and I held her to me while staying inside of her, changing
our position and laying on my back with her in my arms as she straddled
me.
Bella POV
1:23 A.M.
Edward was bathed in the dim light of the candle on the nightstand,
looking like something from a fictional tale underneath me as I sat up and
looked down to him- covered in ink, slick with sweat and his blue eyes
shimmering as he stared back at me.
Fuckingfieryhell, this man was Godly.
He pulled me down to him, placing my face into the crook of his neck,
just as I had done to him. I inhaled his scent, fresh and clean from the
shower and only smelling his essence with no trace of the night we spent
in the kitchen together. I kissed into the side of his neck and his arms
tightened around me in response. He allowed me to work myself on him,
holding me securely, but not controlling the movement. I worked slowly,
loving how he felt every time I slid down his length and he stretched and
filled me with his body. I was teasing him, sliding up his length until only
his tip was still inside of me and then lingered there, making him wait.
"Fuck Bella. You're killing me." He whispered, sliding his hands into mine
and lacing our fingers.
He rested his arms beside his head like book ends, locking our hands. His
legs locked over mine, stretching them out along his and then locked his
feet around my ankles. My body was flat as a board against him, which
meant butterbean was getting a serious rub down as he started to move
his body into mine. The sensation was too intense as he thrust himself
into me and the new position made sure I felt every inch of him along the
walls of my pussy as he drove deeper.
"Come for me angel." He whispered, rocking harder and sinking himself
deep inside of me.
"Edward." I panted as I felt my body light on fire at the intensity of my
orgasm taking hold.
"Come for me." He whispered again.
His body responded to mine tightening around him and I could feel his
thrust grow more furious before he pulled himself from me and released
onto my backside. A part of me wished that he hadn't pulled out, Edward
coming inside of me was the greatest sensation my body has ever known.
The part of my brain that will still working however, knew better. He
panted hard under me and my body fell limp against him, completely
succumbing to the after effect the two powerful orgasms had over my
body. Edward brought our right hands to his lips and kissed my fingers
several times before he tilted his head into mine and found my lips.
"Fuck Bella." He laid his head back down and sighed loudly, closing his
eyes.
"Already did that." I chuckled softly, bringing my lips into the crook of
his neck and he chuckled once, resting his head to mine.
The last candle blew out on the night stand as a strong gust of wind
blew through the open sliding doors, - marking another end to another
perfect night. After we cleaned ourselves up, we made our way back into
the bed, Edward after me of course, because he left to check on Nessie
one last time. His bedroom was dark and I could only feel when his
weight was on the bed as he crept back in. Edward's body spooned
against mine and held me tight, planting small kisses to my bare shoulder
and then he let out one last sigh before I felt his head rest against the
back of my pillow.
As I started to drift into my dreams, the sound of hard rain filled the
room and I couldn't help the chill I felt run down my back and follow me
into my unconsciousness, turning my dreams, into nightmares.
XXX
6:44 A.M.
Finally, fucking finally, I woke up with Flower Child still next to me.
So maybe I wasn't hot boxing him after all. I felt good about that.
He was on his back on his side of the bed and I wiggled my way towards
him, laying across his bare, perfectly tanned chest and curled up to his
side. Edward's arms hugged me tightly to him and he tilted his head
against mine. I was almost back to sleep, when the evil ringing of his cell
phone sounded. He shot up from his sleep; - knocking around the items on
the night stand and sending something, - I guess the candle, - to the
floor in his quest to answer it. Once he did, he slid back down and held
me again with his free arm.
"What?" He rasped in an irritated tone. There was a brief pause and I
could hear a man on the other end.
"Sorry, but shit it is early here and I just fell asleep likeyeah I know
Carlisle, I said I'm sorry." He kissed the top of my head and slid out from
under me. I frowned into the darkness as he fumbled around the floor for
his clothes.
"Can you hold on a second?" He asked. I felt him lean back on the bed
and his lips brushed against my forehead once, before his fingers stroked
my cheek.
"Go back to sleep, angel." He kissed me again.
"Is everything alright?" I whispered.
"Yes, but we are on different times, so I have to talk to him before it
gets too late there." He kissed me again and I laid my head back down
on the pillow.
He picked the phone back up and I felt as he lifted off the bed making
his way to the door. The soft clicking of the latch was the last sound I
heard before I fell back to sleep.
Once again, - alone in Flower Child's fucking bed.
Xx
8:22 A.M.
The sound of thunder rattling against the windows woke me from my final
hour of sleep. I blinked my eyes rapidly, trying to see if Flower Child had
closed the sliding doors, surely the rain would have been blowing in by
the way it was crashing down against the window above the bed. As I sat
up I saw Edward sitting on the edge of the bed facing the closed doors
in question. He was leaning his elbows to his knees, staring out as at the
waves as they crashed violently against the shoreline. It was a wall of
white and grey as I peered out over his shoulder and the thunder
clapped again in the sky, causing me to jump a little.
I scooted my way behind him, settling my legs on the outside of his and
wrapping my arms around his neck as my lips found the perfect
indentation between his shoulder blades. His body was stiff and he didn't
acknowledge my presence as I expected him to, his eyes just remained on
the rainstorm outside.
"I didn't know we were supposed to have a hurricane." I chuckled softly,
planting another kiss to his back.
"It's just an early morning storm, it should pass over quickly." He said
softly.
"I'm surprised it hasn't woken up Ness. It's so loud. I could never sleep
through storms when I was a kid." I rubbed my face along his back,
taking in his warm and fragrance.
"It did, she's with Leah though. She just picked her up a little while
ago." He explained.
"Oh, why so early?" I asked surprised. He tilted his head towards me and
I loosened my hold around him so that he could turn his body slightly.
"I have some things to take care of this morning at the courthouse." He
lowered his gaze momentarily and his jaw tightened as he spoke again.
"Bella I have to ask you something and I need you to be completely
honest with me."
"Go on." I nodded.
"Did you have anything to do with Jessica moving to New York?"
Shit.
"Why would you ask that?"
"Because Carlisle's office received her new paperwork for court this
morning and it lists her new employer as Rachel Ray. There's only person
I know that could make that happen- and it damn sure isn't Jessica."
"Why would I get Jessica a job with Rachel Ray?" I shook my head,
trying desperately to avert his initial question.
"That is exactly what I have been trying to figure out sitting here." He
held his gaze firmly on my face, waiting.
"I might have mentioned it to her." I shrugged innocently.
"Might have? I asked you for honesty Isabella."
"Alright, fine. I did mention it to her." I shrugged again.
"Mentioning a job to her and her getting the job are two very different
things, Bella."
Hell, so Flower Child's father's profession must have rubbed off on him
throughout the years. He was good at this questioning shit. If he didn't
make it as a chef, he definitely had a back up.
"She was going to take your kid Flower Child." I explained.
"Can I take that as a yes?" He said angrily.
"Did I offer her the job at Rays? Yes. Did I force her to take it? No.
She did that all on her own." I scooted away from him and swatted the
covers away angrily as I searched for my clothes.
"She never would have had the idea if you didn't plant it in her head
Bella." he argued.

"You're right." I pulled my shirt over my head and paused. "She would
have instead made sure you had a nice warm spot next to Bubba the ass
banger and laughed off happily into the night with your sweet little
daughter in tow." I climbed from the bed and finally fucking found my
pants.
Arguing in the nude was not a comfortable thing to do.
"So now my daughter gets to grow up without a mother at all. Is that
your great solution?"
"Sounds like a much better alternative to me." I nodded, plopping back
down on the bed.
"That isn't your decision to make. She is my daughter Bella and what you
just did was" He shook his head. "I don't even have words."
"Exactly what needed to happen to keep your kid with you and out of
the hands of that wretch." I added for him.
"That isn't your decision." He repeated.
"Well, what do you want me to do Edward? Say I'm sorry? Because I'm
not. Not at all actually."
"Just" He shook his head and held up a hand to me. "Just get out
Bella."
"Edward don't be"
"I said- Get. Out."
His words slapped me in the face and I immediately felt the stinging in
my chest as I saw all the seriousness his face held. It was a version of
him I had only seen once, the night he sat in my office after being
released from jail and talked about losing his daughter. My eyes started
to water and I had to turn away so he wouldn't see me cry as I gathered
my things from the floor. I had never meant to hurt him or Nessie, in
fact, I was only trying to prevent that very thing.
Why couldn't he see that?
Everything that I had been trying so hard all these years to avoid came
crashing down around me and the hurt grew into anger as I plucked my
cell from the bedside table and stared down at his pillow that laughed at
me. One man had already put me in this compromise, how stupid I had
been to allow another.
"Whatever. This is way too much work just to be able to fuck someone
anyhow." I snatched my purse up and started off towards the door, but
his hand hooked around my arm and pulled me back to him.
"Is that all this is to you?" He asked angrily.
"What do you think it is Edward? Some God damned fairy tale where the
prince woos the princess? There is no happy ending here, no matter what
the fuck happens. You need a serious dose of reality, you know that?" I
ripped my arm back from him and gave him a light shove.
"Is reality being able to manipulate everyone's life around you Bella?
Control everything?"
"Reality," I stepped in closer. "Is realizing that in less than six months I
will have moved on and you will still be right here. This is one drop in the
ocean to me. Reality is that I have my life planned out in years, not
weeks and none of it includes you and if you think it does, than you are
living in some god damned fantasy and perhaps should lay off the Disney
channel." I stepped back.
"Twenty six minutes and thirty two seconds, Edward." I said.
"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?"
"That is the reality of how long it took your precious Jessica to decide
that baking fucking hownies or townies or whatever the fuck little stupid
name Rachel Ray uses for brownies, is more important than the kid you
guys have. That she would rather spend her evenings withwhat the fuck
is that guy's name she cheated on you with? Mike? Yeah, Mike, she would
rather be with him on a Friday night than Nessie." I walked my way
toward the door and tugged it open.
"Fucking reality Edward, is that sometimes to defeat a monster, you have
to fucking become one." I slammed the door behind me and hurried my
steps to the elevator, pressing the button rapidly, but it took too long.
The tears overflowed and I searched for the sign to the steps, seeing it a
few feet away and made my way towards them. I tugged open the heavy
metal door and stepped quickly down the first flight before my legs
collapsed under me and my vision was too blurry to see anything. I
slumped against the railing and sobbed hard, unable to breathe. The
sound of the rain grew more intense and it and my tears was all I was
left with.
Alone once again.
*~*~*~*~~*~*~*
9:55
9:56
9:57
9:58
9:59

10:33
10:55
10:59
I think I made tea.
12:33
1:13
I watched an old episode of The Real Housewives and laughed at how
stupid these bitches were.
2:23
I ate something I ordered from room service. Chocolate cakeI think.
4:55
I finally got dressed and washed my face, not looking at all in the mirror
and slung my backpack over my shoulder, making my way out the door.
5:30
I swallowed hard and got out of my car, thankful that FlowerEdward,
that Edward, had the day off.
After our staff meeting I sat for the remaining few minutes in my office
and tried to pull shit my together. I changed the screensaver on my
computer from the picture of Nessie on the bar top the first day I met
her to some stupid random thing I found that had a fucking watermelon
or something on it. I don't know- it was the first thing I found.
"Hey B?" Emmett poked his head in and I hummed my reply with my head
down on my desk.
"You alright?" He asked and I heard the door click closed.
"Mm, never better." I mumbled.
"Really, cause you look like hell?"
"Thanks."
"Edward told me what happened, Bella, so cut the shit and talk to me."
He pulled his chair next to mine and rubbed his big hand on my back.
"I don't want to talk about it. I have service soon." I sat up and wiped
away the tears that had fallen.
"Can you just tell me why?"
"Why what?"
"Why would you do something like that?" He shook his head, looking every
bit like Edward did.
"Great, so you are pissed at me too?"
"No, I am curious. That's some pretty heavy shit to do for someone. Why
would you risk it Bella?"
"What do you mean, risk what?"
"Jess could have used that shit against you, went to a reporter or
something. They pay big money for stories like this you know? Plus, you
sort of screwed things up with Edward."
"Sort of?" I rolled my eyes.
"He'll get over it. Edward is just protective over Ness and he doesn't like
people interfering. He has good reason too, but that's not my shit to
tell."
"It doesn't even matter. Actually, it's better this way."
"You know you don't really believe that."
"It is going to happen anyhow, so what difference does the timing make?"
I shrugged.
"Because you now you care about Edward and Ness, just like he cares
about you."
"Which is exactly why this is a good thing. The longer it goes on, the
harder it is going to be.
"It doesn't need to end like this though Bella. Just because you might
not always be able to be this close to one another, that doesn't mean it
has to end." He argued.
"I think you are perfectly aware at how well I handle long distance
relationships Emmett. Allow me to hold up Charlie and Renee as exhibits
A and B."
"Edward isn't Charlie. He would try. If you wanted to try, he would try
too, Bella."
"Well I don't want to try Emmett. I'm tired of trying. What I would like
to do, is get my ass in the kitchen and run my fucking restaurant, so if
you'll excuse me." I rose from my chair and scooted passed his as he
stood up behind me.
"I'm here if you want to talk B. you know that right?" he gripped the
handle before I could and waited for me to answer.
"I know. You're the only one who ever is Emmett. The only one."
Xx
7:47 P.M.
I leaned against the wall and smoked my cigarette while staring holes
into the stack of palettes, replaying all my previous evenings on them.
9:23
10:12
12:43
1:02
2:33
Are tired enough to go home yet butterbean?
My eyes answered for her and I finally pushed off the desk and stopped
delaying the inevitable. I tried not to think about how quiet it was
outside when I left and how familiar, yet wrong this all felt to be
creeping back to my hotel alone. The sheets were cold and gave me goose
bumps as I slid underneath them. The mint that was usually sweet tasted
of only a reminder of how pathetic my life was.
My life without Flower Child.
3:10 A.M.
I wondered what he was doing. If he were asleep and even if he were
thinking of me, as I was thinking about him. My chest stung at that
thought, so I gave up wondering and tried to get comfortable, but was
unable to find any type of position that would cradle my body the way
his arms did. The sheets only smelled of generic soap and disinfectant
spray, and no matter how long I laid here, they were never warm. I
missed his body heat, Nessie's body heat and how comforting it was to
sleep surrounded by those you hold higher than all the rest.
4:45 A.M.
I carried a hot cup of cocoa from the bar downstairs up into my room and
sipped it on the balcony staring out into the night.
5:21 A.M.
I tried to find the humor in my favorite Slapchop infomercial, but failed.
Not even Vince could help tonight.
6:57 A.M.
I gave up completely and decided to put on my workout clothes and take
out my frustrations on the treadmill in the hotel gym. A guy offered me
a bottle of water and smiled at me, checking me out with his eyes and I
gave him the finger, then returned to my room.
8:22 A.M.
I ate Mrs. Cope's fake omelets and cursed silently that today, they
actually did taste like fake omelets. They were also out of To-Go cups. I
left a shitty tip.
9:12 A.M.
I pulled up to work and swallowed hard seeing Edward's car parked along
the roadside. Emmett's car was parked behind his and I was glad that he
must have already been inside. I didn't need the whole awkward walk to
the front door shit this morning.
"Hey B." Emmett smiled up to me from behind the bar as he took
inventory upon my entrance.
"Hey Em." I smiled back slightly and hurried my way into my office,
hoping to avoid a run in with Edward.
I was actually not surprised that he showed up. I knew he needed the
job and I also figured Emmett probably had a lot to do with it as well.
Dealing with this situation was not something I wanted to do though. A
part of me wished he would have just quit. I was scared that he might
use this against me to get away with shit, like fucking James. I knew
better than to get myself into this situation again and cursed internally
at the mess I had created.
After an hour of delaying, I finally gathered up enough courage to go to
the kitchen and face him. I made sure to wear something very formal
today and powerful looking. I only wanted him to see me as his boss and
nothing more. My black pants were pressed perfectly and just barely
hung over my black pointed heels. The white shirt was also pressed to
perfection and I made sure to have one of the ladies in the hotel roll up
my sleeves three quarters of the way up my arm so that my diamond
bracelets would not be hidden. I slipped on a tight fitting pin striped
black vest over it and then added some additional jewelry to compliment
it.
I sure as hell looked a lot more powerful than I felt though.
The butterflies were fluttering at a nauseating rate as I took one last
deep breath and pushed my way through the kitchen doors. I had left
instructions last night that I wanted him to work on a dish this morning
to make up for his missed challenges. He was to recreate something I had
on my menu, using only a picture I had left. His hand stilled momentarily
as I entered, but otherwise, kept working.
"Morning." I said simply, taking the first step.
"Good Morning." He replied back, lifting his eyes to mine and appraised
me quickly before going back to his work.
"We have a meeting at noon regarding the convention for this year. So
you will either have to take your break earlier or later than usual. We're
eating over at some place Emmett booked, so you don't have to take a
break if you don't want to, since we'll be eating lunch, but I understand
if you have things to take care of other than eating, so I just wanted to
let you know." I paused, feeling really stupid.
"Did that make any sense?" I asked, arching an eyebrow and he chuckled
once then replied.
"I understand." He nodded. "I don't have anything to do though, so other
than a smoke break, I'll probably opt not to leave." He went back to his
stirring and I peered over into the pot.
"That's all wrong, just so you know." I teased.
"It's sort of difficult to cook based off just a photo." He shot back.
"Really? That's funny. Never gave me any trouble at all." I made a face
at him and could see the smile he was trying to hold in as he kept
stirring.
"You might want to start over, because while winning challenges gets you
great prizes, losing them gets you great punishments." I grinned and left
him with that final thought as I made my way out the kitchen.
As soon as I walked back into my office I leaned my back to the door
and allowed the tears to escape my eyes. I hated having to hide myself
from him. The mask was something I had learned, mastered even, but it
felt all wrong around Edward. Fuck, I didn't want to hide around him. It
was like everything in my being called out to him, searched for him and
wanted nothing more than to just submerged somewhere within his being.
Like he was home, - the home I always wanted and never had.
I sniffled and wiped away my tears, taking a few settling breaths and
blew out hard through my lips, before I walked forward and took a seat
behind the desk again. I had a meeting with a very important person in a
few minutes and I needed to pull my shit together so I could do my job.
Xxx
EPOV
I almost came in my pants.
Fucking hell, Bella looked good as shit today. My eyes stayed planted
firmly on her ass as she made her way around the counter to my side to
tell me about breaks today. As she leaned close, looking into the pot I
was working on, I caught the floral fragrance of her sweet smelling skin
and instantly was hard as stone.
Was she trying to mess with me?
A part of me wanted to believe she was and be angry over it, but
another part of me, - a much lower part of me, - wanted to play right
back and get over being mad at her. I couldn't though. What she did hit
too many old wounds that still hadn't healed for me and crossed the line.
There was one thing I wouldn't tolerate and that was someone hurting
Nessie, which is exactly what this would do.
Xxx
When my challenge meal was complete, I walked out into the dining area
to serve her. Bella was talking with a well dressed man at one of the two
top tables and I set her food down in front of her and went to turn and
leave, but she grabbed my arm and pulled me, stopping me as she kept
her conversation going.
"Sit." She ordered.
I pulled a chair up from the table next to us and took a seat at her side
as she instructed. They kept their conversation going and I felt a little
out of place as I waited to see why the hell she had asked me to stay.
She held out a book to me while she talked and sipped on a glass of
wine. I took it into my hands and flipped through the first few pages
before I realized why this man was so important and why Bella never
took her eyes off of him.
He was the dude who awarded the stars.
I sat up straighter in my seat.
"So Miss Swan, I look very much forward to seeing your presentation this
year and I cannot wait to come back to your place here and hopefully
give this a little of the honors your other places have received." He
smiled at Bella and reached out for her hand as they stood.
"As do I, Sir." She smiled back at him and they did the little rich people
kisses on the cheek thing that I always laughed at Esme for.
"Emmett, can you show our friend to the door please?"
"Absolutely Miss. Swan." He nodded formally at her and I smiled
internally at his fakeness.
After the man made his way through the door she took her seat again
and unraveled the silverware from her cloth napkin without saying a
word. I watched as she compiled a perfect bite of the dish I had
recreated for her and brought it to her lip for a taste, loving how she let
the fork slide slowly out of her mouth.
"You know who that was?" she asked finally, taking a sip of water.
"The Michelin guy, right?" I leaned my elbows on the table top and
clasped my hands together under my chin as I watched her take another
small bite.
"Yes," she answered, placing her fork down and wiped her mouth. "Do you
know why I didn't introduce you?"
"Not really." I shook my head.
"I didn't introduce you because he wouldn't have cared. You sitting here
however, next to me silently, he is definitely intrigued." She smiled coyly.
"Probably dialing every contact he has wanting to know who the mystery
man in Bella swan's restaurant is." She chuckled.
"How do you know that?" I asked skeptically.
"Edward, everyone always tries to push things on these people. They kiss
their asses so hard I am surprised they don't have brown lips. Me not
trying to push you on him, but quite obviously showing him that you exist
is like waving KFC's extra crispy recipe in front of a house wife. He is
dying to know, trust me."
"Why does it matter anyhow? I mean, why does it matter right now?"
"Because you work for me and I would like this place to have a star, like
my others." She said softly, the V coming between her brows and I
wondered why. She almost looked sad, like I insulted her or something,
but I couldn't figure out why.
"Anyhow, umthis is fine, so you can take it away. I have to get back to
work." She scooted from her seat and walked off quickly towards her
office.
"You're an idiot." I looked over to Em behind the bar and he shook his
head at me.
"What did I do?"
"She was trying to be nice to you, asshole." He said.
"I was just curious why she would want the guy to know about me while
I was just a sous chef. I wasn't trying to be a dick."
"Apparently you don't have to try very hard lately. It seems to be
coming to you very naturally."
"You have something to say Em?" I stood up and started to clear the
table.

"Yeah, I don't like people treating B like shit."
"Amazing. You're picking Bella over your niece?"
"No, I love Ness and fuck you for saying that, but you and I both know
that Bella wasn't trying to hurt Renesmee. You're just hung up on five
year old bullshit with dad that you can't let go of."
"Shut up Emmett. You don't even know what the hell you're talking
about."
"Don't' I? You really honestly believe that Bella was trying to hurt Ness
by, - what, keeping you out of jail and out of trouble? Right Edward, -
that would really be the worst case scenario in this situation. You know,
your daughter getting to stay with you and not that crazy whore she
unfortunately has to call her mother."
"How would you feel Emmett? If you were in my shoes and someone went
behind your back and did something that would affect the life of your
child for her entire life? Oh wait, you can't answer that, because you
don't have a fucking child, so why don't you just mind your own damn
business and let me handle things my way." I stalked off to the kitchen
and tossed the dishes into the sink, pissed that now my own brother
couldn't even understand my view on this.
*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
12:02 P.M.
The tension at the lunch was thick, except, it wasn't between Edward
and I as it should have been. He and Emmett kept shooting smartass
remarks back and forth and it had me seriously confused and worried.
Angela was shifting uncomfortably in her seat and I couldn't take it any
longer.
"What's going on?" I asked finally, motioning between them with my fork.
"Nothing, Edward is just a dick." Emmett said angrily.
"Thank you Captain Obvious, but I meant why is there all this tension
between you two?" I waited for their response, but none came.
"Angela, I left a few things on the front seat of my car. Would you mind
running out to get them for me, please?" I dug out my keys and she took
them.
"Sure." She looked around the table confused, but got up anyhow to
make her way out to my car. I waited for her to be gone before I began
speaking again.
"What the hell is wrong with the two of you?" I asked.
"I told you." Emmett said, glaring at Edward.
"Cut the shit Emmett, just fucking say it." I tossed down my fork in
frustration.
"I'm pissed that Edward is being dick to you. Is that better?"
"This shit is about me?" I scoffed.
"Fucking. A. Alright, you two dipshit's listen to me. While I am all kinds
of fucking honored and filled with warm fuzzies that you always try to
protect me, and make me your make believe little sister Emmett, the
truth is that I am not. Edward however is your brother and I refuse to
let you two fight over something as stupid as me. I don't care what shit
happens when we are off the clock, but once we are on it, we all check
our baggage at the door from now on. Got it?" I looked between them
and they each nodded softly.
"Good, now fucking kiss and make up before Angela gets back. " I waved
between them, but they didn't move.
"I'm serious. Kiss. And fucking, Make. Up." I stared at Emmett and he
rolled his eyes at me before holding out his fist to Edward, to which he
knocked half heartedly.
"Much better." I nodded, resuming my lunch.
Angela came back over to the table and handed me the papers I asked
for. I set them on the seat next to me, not really needing them and
decided to cut into the silence by starting the meeting.
*~~*~~*~~*
EPOV
Bella stopped eating again and cleared her throat. I looked up to her
from my food and our eyes locked momentarily before she looked off to
Emmett.
It hurt, I'll admit it.
I wasn't enjoying keeping myself from her or being upset with her. It was
killing me in fact. All afternoon I could smell the faint scent of her that
lingered in the kitchen. Last night was even worse as I laid in bed and
smelled her all around me, but had no Bella to hold on to. I slept like
shit and it put me in a pissy mood today.
Okay, an even pissy-er mood than I already was in.
"So," she took a deep breath and smiled at Emmett with that playful
glimmer in her eyes that I loved. "Emmett will you please explain to the
All Star Chef's Convention virgin at the table what exactly a ASC
convention is?" She held her hand to Emmett like a microphone and he
chuckled at her as he played along.
"Well, an ASCC is where only the biggest and best chef's come together
annually and try to show there asses off." He teased.
"And?" she held the fake mic back to him.
"And, Bella reigns supreme every year." He winked.
"And?" she waved him on chuckling.
"And, We all love going because we get to do nothing but eat and eat
and fucking eat all week long." She giggled at him and applauded
happily.
"Exactly. Sooo, this year," she rubbed her hands together. "The
convention will be in." she paused grinning. "Ha-wa-iii!" she squealed
happily, throwing her head back in her seat.
"Serious?" Emmett smiled at her as she slid back up into her seat.
"Yup. So get out your grass skirts, cause we have an entire week to get
our aloha on." She chuckled as she swirled her hips in her seat.
I smiled internally seeing her look so happy, but in truth, it also bothered
the hell out of me. It made me feel like her words to me were the truth
and not the spite I hoped them to be. Telling me that what had
happened between us was just sex and nothing more fucking burned.
Bella was the first person I allowed into my life in years in this way and
for her to just shrug her shoulders and act like it was nothing to her
when I knew, could feel, that it was something more only pissed me off
more. After she left that day, I knew that she was probably just saying
it because she was angry, but seeing her laugh and giggle now was
making me rethink that shit on a serious level. Maybe she was right.
I was living in a fantasy.
Xxx
I took my usual seat upfront in our circle for the staff meeting before
service. Bella came in shortly after everyone had filed in and I didn't
miss her stumble as she made her way up to the bar. She looked liked
the first night I worked beside her, tired and worn down. Did she have as
hard of time sleeping last night as I did? By the looks of her, she did.
"So, umNext week, Emmett, Angela Edward and I will all be at the
convention. My Executive Chef, James from New York, will be here to
watch over the entire restaurant. You all worked with him a few weeks
back. I expect you to treat him," she swallowed hard and paused for a
moment looking down. "I expect you all to treat him with respect and
just like you would myself or Edward. That's all I have. Anyone have
anything to share before we begin?" She looked out to us and I raised my
hand.
"Edward?" She nodded, looking passed me.
"I just wanted to remind everyone to please pay attention to the board
for eighty sixes. We slipped up the past few nights and the special is
pretty limited in quantities tonight, so you need to pull it from the menu
when we you see it eighty sixed."
"Anyone else?" no one spoke up and she nodded. "Let's get to work
please." She stepped down from the bar and walked slowly towards the
back. I followed behind watching her steps and saw when she stumble
again before entering the kitchen, this time I caught her waist though
and righted her.
"Are you alright Bella?" I tilted my head to look at her as I kept my
hands on her hips.
"I'm fine." She shrugged wiggling to get free.
"You don't look fine." I argued, keeping her in place.
"Will you please let me go?" she pushed on my hands and I released her.
She walked off, calling the kitchen to order, ignoring my concern and I
followed her command, stepping behind the pass and trying not to give a
shit, but I did. Seeing her like this worried me and hurt my heart. I
wasn't sure what to do to resolve that feeling though.
Xxxx
"Daddy misses you too honey." I told Ness while she talked to me on my
cell during my smoke break.
The dinner rush was over and I wanted to call to make sure she was
alright since today was a long one for her. She seemed to be adjusting
well to Leah though and I was happy for that.
"Sleep well Ness. I love you, sweetheart." As I hung up the phone I
heard the door close and looked back to see Bella lighting a smoke. She
leaned against the door and I averted my eyes, staring out into the
desolate parking lot as she took a drag.
I wanted to call her over and talk to her.
I wanted to call her over and have her sit on my lap with my arms
around her.
I wanted to call her over and kiss the holy hell out of her.
But I did none of those things.
I just kept my eyes forward and continued to smoke, hating myself for
being so rude and yeah, alright, the dick Emmett said I was. Just
because I wasn't going to be involved romantically with Bella didn't mean
that I had to be mean to her. I turned my head to speak to her, but she
had already flicked her cigarette and started making her way back
inside.
"Shit." I muttered to myself, flicking my finished smoke to the lot and
slid off the palettes to follow.
She wasn't in the kitchen when I went back inside and Emmett eyed my
angrily as he scooped a tray off the pass and made his way out the door.
I knew that if I went to her, it would only make it worse and besides,
there was now no one to man the kitchen.
At least that was my rationalization and I was sticking to it.
Xxxx
I knocked softly on her office door at the end of the evening to turn in
my supply order she left on her list for me this morning.
"Come in." She said softly.
I stepped inside, closing the door behind me gently. She didn't look up
from her screen as she typed and I debated briefly whether or not to
sit. I chose to stand, unsure of if she would want to talk about this here
and in truth, I wasn't so sure I was ready to talk about it tonight.
"Did you need something?" She asked finally, looking towards me.
"Oh, um, I have my supply order you requested." I lifted the paper and
stepped forward to hand it to her.
"You need to give it to Emmett, not to me." She shook her head and went
back to typing.
"Oh, sorry." I picked the paper back up and stepped back, pausing when
my eye caught the smeared mascara under her eye.
Had she been crying?
Because of me?
"Did you need something else?" she asked looking to me.
Yes, you.
"Um, no." I stepped back and palmed the metal door knob, comparing the
coldness it held to the same way my heart felt right now. "Goodnight
Bella, get some sleep tonight, please." I said softly, before making my
way out the door.
Xxxx
Ness was fast asleep as Leah carried her in and placed her in my arms.
She didn't stir once as I carried her to her room and set her in her bed.
Leah stood in the kitchen looking at the fridge as I made my way back
in.
"This is beautiful." She pointed to the picture and I felt the pain in my
heart burn as I looked at the drawing.
"It was." I said softly.
"This was her mother?" she asked, pointing to Bella, assuming wrong.
"No. Just someone special to Ness."
"And you?" she eyed me.
"Yes." I said softly, looking at the brown color Ness drew for Bella's hair.
"This was the woman in your office the other day?" She guessed.
"You're really starting to freak me out Leah." I chuckled softly.
"Sorry, "She laughed "I'm just perceptive." She smiled.
"I'd say." I smiled back.
"Well, I'm sure you will work it out. If she is special enough to get this
reaction out of your Nessie," she pointed to the picture "then she must
be worth keeping around. Children are very perceptive too, Edward."
"She just um," I swallowed hard, running a hand through my hair. "She
really betrayed me, - my trust." I said softly.
"May I ask how?"
"It's a long story."
"I have time if you would like to tell." She encouraged.
"Well um, the short version would be, Ness's mother and I are fighting
for custody and she lied and said that I hit her, but I didn't. I was
arrested though and when I was released, I told Bella about being scared
that Ness would be given to Jessica, Ness's mom. She sort of, paid her off
so she would drop the charges and now she is taking a job in New York
and I don't know Leah, it's just" I rubbed my forehead frustrated. "I
just don't understand why the hell she would do this behind my back
when she knows how much I love Ness and after I tried to show her that
I cared for her. It just really hurts after so long of being on my guard
to finally let someone in and" I shook my head, looking down to my
feet.
"Feel uncomfortable trusting someone." She finished.
"That's just it Leah, I did trust her and she used it against me."
"I don't really think that's true. I think you are afraid to trust her. It
sounds like she had good intention, but went about it the wrong way. Her
caring I think is what scares you the most, because you are too used to
being on your own with your daughter. That day when you both
interviewed me, she took charge and tried to scare me away. I knew she
was not a mean person, just trying to protect her family. I ask you, what
would you have done if the situation were reversed, if it were Bella being
charged falsely and her baby being taken away? What would you have
done, Edward?"
"I'm not sure. I never really thought about it that way." I shrugged.
"Well then maybe you should. There is always a compromise if you care
enough to find it. Bella seems like she means a lot to your girl too. She
spoke of her this evening. - apparently she really enjoys her cooking and
thinks she has a pretty smile." Leah said smiling at me.
"She does." I agreed staring at the coloring on my fridge.
"I'll see you tomorrow morning, Edward. Have a good evening." She said
tugging open the door.
"Goodnight." I replied, keeping my eyes on the drawing.
A compromise.
I wasn't so sure what that would mean, but I knew Leah was probably
right. I locked the front door and made my way back to my room,
grabbing a beer on my way and settled myself down into bed with it as I
stared at the ceiling. The scent of Bella assaulted me again and I made a
mental note to wash my bedding tomorrow morning before work. It only
made my need for her grow more intense. I wondered what she was doing
right now.
Would she still be working?
Yes, probably.
No, definitely.
XXXX
The rest of the week pretty much went like this:
I said something stupid and pissed off Bella.
Bella wore something sexy and pissed me off, made my dick hard and I
went home to jerk it after work.
I did something, pissed Bella off and Emmett hated me for the rest of
the day.
Bella wore something sexy, I got pissed, jerked it and then hated eating
alone in my apartment and wished she was fucking sitting on my patio
eating a burger and cursing at how fucking weird it was.
Wash, rinse, repeat.
Today was our day to leave for the convention and I was kinds of fucked
up. Not only did I have all this shit with Bella on my plate, but I also
hated leaving Ness for so long. I was glad that Carlisle and Esme were
home and she would be with them though. Even as nice and capable as
Leah had been proving herself to be, I wouldn't want to leave Ness with
her for a week.
The flight was pretty long and I slept through most of it. When I woke,
it was early morning and the warm rays of the rising sun were beaming in
through the windows. I looked across the aisle to Bella and she was
curled up in a ball in her seat sleeping. Her skin glowed in the warm light
and I couldn't help but to think back to our last night together in my
room and how closely it resembled how she looked in the dim candle light.
Like an angel.
My eyes stayed on her and I thought again about Leah's words to me and
I tried for the remainder of the flight to think of a way to let her in,
while keeping her at bay. It seemed impossible and I was too scared to
even think of what might happen if she didn't want the same thing. All
week long Ness bugged me about Bella and I was running out of excuses.
It wasn't just for Ness's sake though.
I wanted her too.
Xxxx
After the flight ended, we all collected our baggage and I laughed as
Emmett scooped up Bella and sat her on top of the cart as he pushed
their bags through the terminal. Several members of the media were
there and wanted to talk to Bella, but she declined and climbed into the
awaiting limo outside. As I slid in next to Emmett I saw a little Asian boy
next to Bella on the opposite side. He said something to her in Chinese
and she giggled looking back at me.
"This is Eric, Edward- Edward, Eric." She chuckled motioning between us.
"Eric is my publicist and apparently, - fucking in love with you." She
chuckled harder.
"Nice to meet you Eric, I feel honored." I reached out and shook his hand
and he winked at me, to which Emmett fucking laughed.
Hard.
"Nice to meet you Edward." He winked again; I fucking elbowed Emmett
hard in the gut to prevent any further laughter.
He turned to Bella and started rambling on at top speed about everything
she had planned for the day. Shit, I was exhausted just listening to him.
My name came in a few times and I cringed, knowing that meant I
obviously wasn't going to be able to just go and collapse in my room like I
was dreaming about.
Once we arrived at the hotel, Emmett checked us in, passing around all
the keys to us with a schedule for the events and a woman welcomed
each of us with a traditional lei. After we were given the agenda for the
day, we had an hour to ourselves and then were due downstairs in the
dining room for lunch. I made my way with the others up to my room and
watched as Bella strolled passed me with her things to the door a few
numbers down from mine.
The suit was quite nice. It had all the traditional things every hotel room
had though, - tacky bedspread, furniture and curtains along with the
remote that was attached to the TV. I always laughed at that, like you
couldn't just rip it off or something if you wanted to steal it.
I took a nice hot shower in the restroom, trying to wake up and soothe
the sore muscles I had from sitting on the plane so long. It seemed to
work and I felt a lot better as I made my way into the room and
changed quickly into a pair of cargo shorts and a white tee. I was
actually glad that we were eating. I was pretty hungry now and hurried
my way out the door. Bella was closing her door as I exited and she
looked over at the sound of my door closing.
"You can't wear that." She smiled looking at me. I appraised her clothes
and saw that she was wearing something much fancierand pretty
fucking sexy.
I kept eyeing her as she walked towards me. She had on a black dress
that barely covered anything. The hem stopped level with the beauty mar
on her thigh that I had kissed that last night we were together and her
tits were mashed together creating the same delicious cleavage that I
had taken into my mouth the first night I had her in her office. My
fucking dick strained against the tightness of my boxer briefs and I was
happy they were the tight ones Esme loved to buy me and I usually
always cursed for hugging my nuts too tight, because right now, they
were the only thing keeping my shit in check.
"I thought we were eating lunch?" I asked.
"We are, - with very important people." She smiled.
"What the fuck am I supposed to wear?" I sighed hard.
"Show me your suitcase." She rolled her eyes and waved her arm towards
my door.
I turned around and unlocked my door again, holding it open for her to
enter under my arm. She strolled inside and my cock strained further,
knowing that with two little fucking words I could have her, - right now,
- on my bed, before lunch.
I showed her my mother fucking suitcase.
She dug through my neat piles, making a huge mess and I am sure the
smile on face was because she did it on purpose. I laughed once at her as
I watched and she finally turned to face me, tossing a pair of black
pants and a charcoal grey button down with a black tie.
I pulled my shirt over my head and she rolled her eyes.
"Seriously?"
"What? Do you want me to change in the bathroom, Bella?" I did a little
eye rolling of my own.
"Whatever, just hurry, we're going to be late." She leaned back on the
dresser and I turned around as I slid my shorts off and tried to hide my
raging boner from her.
"You're mother must have really perverted thoughts about you." she
chuckled.
"What the hell makes you say that?" I asked pulling on the black dress
pants.
"Did you not see your underwear when you put them on?" She laughed
harder.
"Does that mean you are having perverted thoughts about me?" A swell
of hope grew in my chest as the words blurted out.
"Just because I think you're a dick doesn't mean I can't find you sexy."
"I'm not trying to be a dick." I slid my arm through the first sleeve and
my heart thumped rapidly knowing that we were about to have the
discussion I was avoiding like the plague.
"I know." She said softly. I finished buttoning up my shirt and she
walked beside me, picking up the tie from the bed and I turned towards
her as she brought it around my neck. Her eyes stayed on her task, but I
kept mine on her face, trying still to find the compromise.
"You look really nice." I said softly and she lifted her gaze to mine
looking surprised.
"Thanks." She said softly then lowered her eyes again as she fixed my
tie.
"You're cleavage is driving me insane, however." I looked down to her tits
and then back to her face and she smiled wickedly at me.
"Good." she tightened my tie so that it choked me and spun around,
walking towards the door as I readjusted it.
And then my pants.
*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
1:15 P.M.
Fucking hell on a God damned pogo stick.
I stood there watching Edward's muscular ass that was protesting against
the stretchy white fabric of his underwear as he changed clothes and
butterbean begged, I mean, motherfucking begged my ass to just run,
jump and land spread eagle on the bed for him to do what he wished
with us.
I was dying, aching painfully for him and then he just had to go and let
his guard down a little and tell me that he wasn't trying to be a be a
dick to me. It wasn't helping my need to give myself over to him and like
a moron, I walked closer, grabbing up his tie and thinking for some
deranged reason that putting it on him would it make it better.
It fucking didn't.
His warm breath was on my face and I could feel his eyes boring holes
into me as he watched me dressing him. I had to practically cross my
legs to get butterbean to shut her damn mouth and then he fucking
drove her over the edge by gawking at my fucking tits and telling me
that I was turning him on.
I couldn't help but to smile though, because that was the only
motherfucking reason I allowed Eric to mash my girls into this dress. I
sure as shit didn't wear water bra's and fuck me pumps for the old men
who would be joining us for lunch. If I started fucking Edward now
though, it would only mess up the rest of the trip though. Besides, I was
still a little pissed at him, not enough to not fuck him if the right
opportunity presented its self, but enough to know better that now was
not that time.
A jolt of electricity shot through me as he took my hand and looped it
through his arm walking towards the elevator, but butterbean frowned
when he let go of us once we were inside. It was silent, but not awkward
inside like it should have been. I watched the lights as they counted
down the floors and smiled when I caught Edward in the reflection
appraising me again.
As the last ding sounded and the doors opened, I stepped out, embarking
on a new chapter in my life, happy that even though he wasn't mine, I
could share it with Edward and that it was all new for him too.
"Welcome to the All Star Chef Convention of '09, Edward."
****










Chapter 8: "Broken Hearts"

EPOV
I took her arm walking to the elevator and felt her tremble under my
touch. My heart skipped and I wondered why this would provoke such a
reaction from her. Clearly, I was being a gentleman- at least, I thought
so. Did she not? I dropped her arm once we reached the inside, trying to
gauge her reaction by looking at her in the reflection of the steel walls,
but my eyes betrayed me as I trailed them down her curvy frame. She
noted my ogling with a faint smile, but otherwise, left it alone. The
silence was killing me. I wanted to say something, but my mind couldn't
find any words. The bell tolled and Bella stepped out quickly, looking
back towards me as I exited behind her.
"Welcome to the All Star Chef Convention of '09, Edward." She smiled,
walking forward into a large ballroom setting.
I stayed quiet, trying to soak in all that was going on around us. There
were booths as far as the eye could see, with every type of vendor
imaginable, displaying every type of kitchen product you could think of.
Bella seemed to know her way around well, walking quickly, a little
uninterested in everything. I trailed behind, trying to appreciate each
booth we passed, until she grabbed my hand and pulled me along.
"You have all week, Edward. Trust me," she chuckled, tugging me towards
a different section. Bella walked us through a set of large doors and
paused when we reached an old man standing at a podium.
"Good afternoon Miss Swan, how are you today?" He smiled sweetly.
"Hi Harry. I'm fine, Sir. Thank you for asking. Has our party arrived yet?"
she asked.
"Most of the members have checked in. You will be at table ten, upfront
this year. May I escort you?" He asked waving one arm forward.
"No, I'm good. I know this place like the back of my hand, but thank
you," she smiled, pulling me along with her, as we looped through the
endless rows of round tables until we reached ours.
There was an older man I didn't recognize sitting there and he wore a
scowl on his face, looking utterly bored and pissed to be here. Beside him
sat another man I did not know, who was chatting with Emmett. My
brother seemed to know him, as they were joking and laughing upon our
arrival.
"Hey B." Emmett waved and rose from his chair after spotting us standing
there.
"Where are we sitting?" Bella asked, looking around nervously at the
table.
"You're next to G and Edward's on your right." He pointed to the space a
few chairs from his. I went to move, but looked back seeing Bella
standing frozen like a statue.
"Hi Charlie," she finally said, looking to the man next to Emmett. He
looked her over quickly, scowling as he did.
"Hello Isabella," Charlie said, looking down to his napkin on his lap,
fidgeting nervously.
"It's nice to see you," she said swallowing hard, twirling a lock of hair
around her finger and then glancing once to Emmett.
"So this is Bella's new sous chef I was telling you about. He also happens
to be my little brother." Emmett smiled, breaking the awkward tension.
"Chuck, this is Edward," he motioned toward me and I leaned my hand in
to take his.
"Nice to meet you, Edward," he said, shaking my hand.
"You as well, Sir." I let go of his hand and stepped back.
"Charlie, you give your daughter a hard time and I will have to knock
your fucking block off. Understand?" The bored man spoke up, revealing
he had a thick English accent. He rolled his eyes at Charlie, who I now
knew was Bella's father and then looked to Bella, winking at her.
"How is young Swan?" He smiled.
"I'm good. Edward," she turned to me, but kept her eyes on the man.
"This is Marco Pierre White. Don't bother shaking his hand, because he
really doesn't give a shit who you are," she chuckled.
"She's take'n the piss out of me." He waved her off and stretched over
for my hand, staring at the inked flower as I took his.
"All the young ones these days with this shit all over themselves. Tell me
young man, do you have any respect for your profession?" He held onto
my hand and stared me dead in the eye.
"Now he's taking the piss out of you." Bella broke our hands and replaced
it with hers. "You're just jealous because you're too fucking old to be
sexy anymore." She made a face at him and walked us to our seats.
"That's why I have always liked you young Swan." He tapped his finger to
her, "You have bigger bullocks then any man I ever met. You better
watch yours." He looked back to me and I wanted to laugh.
Ah, if he only knew how much Bella had already done to my bullocks.
I nodded at him and took my seat next to hers. Bella seemed very
uncomfortable and I guessed it was because of her father. Emmett
exchanged a glance with her and then went back to talking to Charlie.
Angela and Eric came over next, taking their seats to my right and Eric
fucking winked at me again. I would have to remember to fly low on the
gaydar today. He looked over to Bella and said something in Chinese that
made her giggle, then looked back to me and eyed my crotch once before
he turned to Angela.
"What is that all about?" I whispered to Bella.
"I told you, he is in love," she chuckled, batting her lashes at me.
"I don't play on that team," I said through clenched teeth.
"Relax Edward," she chuckled "He isn't going to grab your funbag or
anything- although, I would love to see your face if he did," she grinned.
I went to answer her back, but was cut off by the waitress reaching for
my water goblet. She smiled at me and appraised me quickly with her
eyes before she set my drink back down and moved on to Bella. She was
attractive, very attractive, yet her ogling did very little for me. There
was only one person I wanted to have eyes for me like that, and she was
planted firmly at my left.
Too bad I couldn't do anything about it.
I took a sip of my water, wishing it were something a little stronger and
then sat back in my seat, hoping for the time to fly by. I was tired, a
little cranky from the flight, and wanting to just go veg out for a bit.
"I ordered for you when we had to fill out our choice cards. I hope you
don't mind," Bella said to me as the waitress set my plate down.
"What is it?" I asked, placing my napkin over my lap.
"This is what the Hawaiian's call 'Butter Fish'. It is wrapped in the
traditional leaves with pork belly alongside it. They steam it for several
hours and when you open it, it all falls apart it is so tender." She leaned
into my ear and whispered. "This is as close to getting an orgasm out of
me this week as you're going to get." She pulled back and began digging
into her dish as I gaped at her.
What the fuck did that mean?
"Mm," Bella hummed next to me, taking a bite and I followed suit. Fuck,
it smelled delicious. I dove in, taking a perfect bite of the fish and
tender pork belly with a little of the juices it sat in.
I think I fucking came. She wasn't kidding, it was delicious.
"I told you," Bella chuckled, looking over to me as I hummed.
"It's incredible, really." I took another bite and she smiled, going back to
her food.
"Sorry I'm late." A man with blonde hair that I recognized immediately
came walking up to our table.
"Gordy!" Bella wiped her mouth and rose from her seat.
"How are you dahling?" He asked, wrapping an arm around her, smiling
wide.
"I'm perfect." She hugged him and he kissed her left cheek, then the
right, thenher mouth?
Bella was on that type of level with Gordon Ramsey?
Wait, wasn't he married?
What the hell
"I've missed you so much." She pinched his cheek and he rolled his eyes
at her.
"I think I could think of better things for you to pinch," he teased,
backing away from her and appraising her at arm's length. "Blooooody
hell." He shook his head and then looked to Charlie. "You donkey, you let
your daughter walk around like this?" He teased.
"Be nice." Bella hit him playfully and then pulled away, returning to her
seat.
"Well, well, well. Who do we have here this year?" He looked around the
table as he took his seat between Em and Bella. "I know your big ass."
He hit Emmett and then shook his hand.
"I think you know everyone except Edward, Bella's new number two."
Emmett unfortunately put the spotlight back on me. As much as I wanted
to meet Gordon Ramsey, there was a plate of fucking delicious food in
front of me I wanted to consume more.
"Hello young man." Bella leaned back as he reached for my hand.
"Nice to meet you, Sir." I shook his hand.
"Good firm grip, that's always a good sign," he nodded sitting back into
his chair.
"That's because he is my brother," Emmett teased.
"Fuck me, you're related to this guy?" Gordon asked, patting Em on the
back once.
"It can have its advantages." I looked to Bella once and then went back
to my eating.
Xxx
After our main dish, we were served a Hawaiian dessert called haupia,
which was also fucking awesome and left me debating whether going back
to Miami was a good idea. The pudding was so damn creamy and had the
best coconut flavor I have ever come across. I would definitely need to
learn how to make this shit. I could just see Ness smacking her little lips
now.
"What's funny?" Bella asked, looking to me as she took a spoonful of
haupia into her mouth. That distracted me for a moment, and her lip
licking didn't help either.
"Edward?" She chuckled.
"Um, I was just thinking that Ness would like this." I shook my head,
going back to my bowl.
"It's easy to make, the key is stirring constantly," she explained.
"You know how to make it?" I asked, taking a bite.
"Yup, I even taught Gordon." She winked his way and he blew a kiss back
to her.
Seriously, where the fuck was his wife?
Bella seemed as eager as I was to leave lunch as I walked with her back
up to our hotel suites. Eric wanted us down in a few hours for some press
junket and I was glad that meant I would get to relax for awhile. We
were silent in the elevator again, but I decided this time I was going to
talk. I wasn't sure if it was the right timing for my questions, but my
curiosity got the best of me.
"So, you didn't really say much to your father," I stated, hoping she
would take the bait."Yeah um," she tucked a strand of hair behind her
ear, "We just aren't really that close. Long distance, you know?" She
nodded.
"Not really." I shook my head, leaning my palms against the metal railing.
"If I didn't talk to Ness, it would be pretty hard."
"Well I already told you, Nessie is lucky to have that type of father."
She shrugged and crossed her arms over her chest, looking up at the
numbers as they climbed.
"I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to upset you." I wanted to reach for her, but
my body wouldn't get in line with my heart.
"It's alright," she said softly. The doors opened and she stepped out
ahead of me, heading straight towards her hotel suite.
"What are you going to do until we leave later on?" I asked, looking
towards her as I shoved the key card into my door.
"Work, what else?" She dug through her bag trying to find her key.
"Not going to head down to the beach?" I propped the door open with my
foot.
"This isn't a vacation for me Flow-Edward." She pulled the key from her
bag and fumbled to slide it into the slot.
"Can't always be all work and no play Bella." I watched her as she
finally got the key in and unlocked her door.
"I don't feel like playing." She shook her head and stepped inside of her
door, closing it behind her.
I entered my room and took a seat on the edge of the bed, not really
sure of what to make of all of Bella's words. Was she just upset because
her father was here? Or did I do something wrong? Did she think I was
insinuating something by what I said? I wasn't. I just meant that she
shouldn't lock herself up in her room all alone, working. She should have
fun, enjoy her stay. I let out a frustrated sigh and tugged at my tie,
loosening it, and then climbed to my feet.
Screw it, if Bella wanted to be a party pooper and wallow the entire
time, then let her. I wasn't going to though. There was a beautiful beach
below and I had every intention of taking advantage of it. Once I was
changed into my board shorts and a tank, I stepped outside of my door
and made my way to the elevator. As I entered the lobby, I spotted
Bella chatting to a well dressed man, laughing andflirting? She twirled
her hair around her finger, looking at him with a huge smile on her face,
laughing ridiculously at his words.
So much for not wanting to play.
I shook my head and walked towards the exit doors, seeing Emmett at
the front desk, and he stopped me.
"Hey, will you wait for me? I'm about done here." He asked.
"Yeah, sure." I wandered over to the lounge and took a seat at the bar,
ordering a beer while I waited for Emmett.
Bella's laughter filtered through the lobby and I turned slightly in my
seat to see her. She was still talking with the same man and he now had
his hand on her shoulder. I about spit my beer when he reached for a
strand of her hair and brushed it back behind her ear, allowing his
fingers to graze over her cheek lightly.
"Beautiful, isn't she?" I looked over to see Angela a couple seats down.
"Um, who?" I played dumb.
"Bella." she rolled her eyes, not believing me. "I'm surprised she's talking
with Ken though. He has always wanted to get her in his magazine and
she always turns him down." She picked up her glass and moved towards
me, taking the seat beside mine.
"Who is Ken?" I asked, looking back to Bella and the man.
"The man she is talking with. He's the CEO of Food & Wine Magazine,"
Angela said.
"Why wouldn't she want to be in that?" I asked surprised.
"She thinks it's pretentious. Bella doesn't like false accolades. Your
daughter telling her she likes her pancakes is probably more of a reward
to Bella than any article his magazine would publish." She picked up her
drink and took a sip.
"She told you Nessie liked her pancakes?"
"And that they were better than yours." She chuckled lightly.
"They are." I smiled, looking back to my beer a little amazed that
Bella had even spoken of Ness to Angela.
That was good thing, right?
"What else did she say?" I asked nervously, picking at the cocktail
napkin under my glass.
"That she thinks you're nice," she smiled, placing her drink back down,
"And that she thinks your tattoos are lotus flowers." She glanced down
to my hands and her expression became more serious as she looked back
up to me.
"They are," I nodded.
"May I say something Edward? It may not be any of my business, but I
just feel like it should be said."
"Sure," I shrugged.
"I've known Bella for a long time. I've seen her go through a lot, and vice
versa. She has a lot of success and could have anything in this whole
world that she wants, but you know what I have never seen?" She asked,
holding my gaze and I shook my head no in response.
"Her happy, like really happy."
"She looks pretty happy right now." I glanced once over my shoulder and
then sat forward, taking a sip of beer.
"No, she doesn't," she disagreed. "She looks like she always does. Like all
that is holding her together is this image people have. I may have lied a
little, I have seen her happy, truly happy. It was when you started
working with us."
"She's probably just happy she's in Miami and not germ-infested New
York." I tried to beat down the swelling of hope in my chest and deny
her words.
"No, it's you. Look at her," she nodded their way. "She's nervous, I know
that because number one, she isn't drinking anything. She's holding it, but
not drinking, because Bella has this huge fear of spilling it on herself or
choking. Then there's the hair twirling. It's her nervous habit and she
always does it when she is uncomfortable. Her laugh isn't even right, it's
all a show. And look at him. He's just eating it up." She rolled her eyes
and then turned back to me.
"Bella doesn't get nervous," I argued again.
"Sure she does. She's human isn't she?" Angela shot back.
"Anyhow, my point is that Bella doesn't look like that when she's with
you." She took the last swallow of her drink and then set it down,
reaching for her purse.
"Then what does she look like, Angela?" I sighed.
"I told you, happy." She rose from her seat and stared past me. I felt a
heavy hand on my shoulder and turned back to see Emmett.
"Ready to go?" he asked.
"Yeah." I signed the slip the bartender had left and slid it back to her
before I rose from my seat.
As we exited, I glanced back at Bella. Her eyes caught mine and she
smiled at me before I noticed her appraising my form. The man kept on
talking, but she paid him no mind and brought the wine glass to her
mouth, taking a slow sip as her eyes trailed back up to mine.
Smiling once more.
Xxx
"Why do we live in Miami?" Emmett chuckled, as we sat along the sand,
looking towards the crystal clear water.
"I was thinking the same thing earlier eating haupia," I replied, hugging
my arms around my knees.
"You should see the ass around here, man. I was getting the rental car
earlier and these two fine ass Hawaiian chicks went strolling by in
thongs. I think I put a dent in the driver's side door as I leaned on it,"
he chuckled.
"I didn't know two inch dicks could do that, Em," I teased.
"Ha-fucking-ha. I'm serious though, you need to bang a few of these
girls, they do amazing shit with their hips you know, from all that a-lo-
ha-ing." He swirled his hips in his place, mockingly.
"Maybe," I shrugged.
"Ah hell, we're not back to this mopey dopey shit are we? You know, I
have a theory about you." He tapped his finger towards me.
"A theory about what?" I scoffed.
"Why you and B didn't work out," he clarified.
"Yeah me too, because she tried to pay off the mother of my child, thank
you double O asshole."
"Nah, nah, nah. That shit isn't over Bella and you know it. Not like that
anyhow," he shook his head.
"Then what is it over Emmett? I would love to hear this great theory you
have," I motioned him on.
"I think that you were just scared 'cause B is the first girl you've been
with, like that, since Jess. You tried to take care of Jessica and the
baby and she only shit on you, still shits on you, and when Bella tried to
show you that she cared, it freaked you out," he explained seriously.
"Why is it so damn hard for everyone to just see that what Bella did was
wrong?" I was officially getting pissed.
"Because everyone sees Jess for what she is except you. Now, I'm sorry
Edward, but I agree with Bella here. Maybe not the way she went about
it, but definitely what she did."
"Taking Jessica away from Nessie? Her mother?" I raised my voice.
"When are you going to realize that Jessica is not a mother Edward? No
matter how much it might hurt Ness to grow up without one, I am pretty
fucking sure growing up with the one she has will hurt even more," he
argued.
"You know, I'm a little fucking tired of everyone telling me how to raise
my child." I rose to my feet and began walking off.
"Well that's just too bad," he followed behind and gave a light shove to
my shoulder, "Because that is what family does." He shoved again. "We
make sure we don't let one another make stupid fucking mistakes. We
look out for each other." He shoved again and I turned around to face
him.
"Are you done?" I clenched my fists and a wicked gleam flickered in his
eye.
"No way, princess." He drove at me, lifting me over his shoulder and flung
me into the ocean.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Bella POV
3:57 P.M.
I returned to my room after I saw Edward make his way out the lobby
with Emmett. They were wearing their bathing suits and I wondered if
earlier, Edward was trying to invite me to go with them, but didn't know
how. Walking to my balcony, I opened the doors and breathed in the
warm ocean air. Lunch was so difficult. Not only did I have Edward to
deal with, but also Charlie. I could feel his eyes on me the whole time
and I was dying to just get the whole thing over with. It had been years
since I had spoken to him and it was strange. He looked so much
different, yet still the same. His moustache was still prominent on his
face and I couldn't help but to think standing there looking at him of
how it used to tickle my cheek when he kissed my face as a child.
Leaning over the balcony, I lit a cigarette and looked out to the ocean
view, taking a drag. I could see Emmett and Edward down below and I
smiled watching them sitting along the beach. They seemed to be arguing
over something and Edward rose from his space, walking away from Em.
He chased behind him, shoving Edward as he did and I stood up straight,
a little worried about what was going on. Edward spun around to face
him and I could see his fists balled, like he was going to hit him, but then
Emmett flew at Edward like a football player, tossing him over his
shoulder flinging him into the ocean.
I laughed so hard my belly hurt.
My feet skipped back into my hotel room and I flipped the lid open on my
suitcase, pulling my bathing suit out and decided that I needed to see
this up close and personal.
Xxx
EPOV
My head surfaced and I saw Emmett throwing his head back in laughter,
holding his Belly. I wiped the water away from my face and drove back
at him, hoisting him up on my shoulder, only the motherfucker was too
damn big and we both fell back into the ocean at the same time. As we
surface, he pushed against me, still laughing and I gave him the finger.
"Pussy," he laughed, walking back towards the shore.
"I could kick your ass if I wanted to, believe me." I shoved him once and
he stumbled slightly.
"I'd like to see that." I looked up to see Bella walking towards us, in a
very skimpy little black bikini, making my dick twitch.
"Well, looky-looky. If it isn't the workaholic herself, what's the matter
sunshine? Did you get tired of Ken already?" Emmett chuckled, wrapping
his arm over her shoulders.
"I hate that asshole," Bella chuckled.
"So what's up with him anyhow?" He asked, waving her to sit at the
grouping of beach chairs the hotel offered on the shoreline.
"He wants Flower...Edward to attend the Food and Wine Classic in Aspen.
The catch is that I have to attend too and I'm not so sure if I want to."
She leaned back into her seat and a smile played on her lips. I noticed
this was the second time she started to call me by her nickname she gave
me, but stopped herself. My mind raced with why, and then I realized
she hadn't called me Flower Child since the day I kicked her out.

"Why Edward?" Emmett asked.
"He's heard things," she chuckled, closing her eyes as she laid back.
"What kind of things?" I asked, sitting on the chair next to hers, facing
towards her.
"Good things." She opened her eyes and looked at me more seriously.
"From who?" I asked. She looked at me for a long minute, but then
turned her attention to Emmett, who was shaking his head at me.
"So, I want to go out for dinner tonight. Convention food gets boring if
you eat it all week, plus, the menu tonight is dull." she said to him.
"You know I'm down. Name the place," he replied.
"I want some real food, like some local shit. We get our asses kissed all
week and while I enjoy that," she chuckled, "I want to be able to just
wander in somewhere in my bikini and pig out. Ya' know?"
"This is why if we're both not married by thirty," he held his fist out to
her, "You and me are getting hitched B," he knocked his big fist to hers.
"In leather," she added, chuckling lightly.
"Definitely," he smiled, leaning back into his chair.
"Now that is something I would love to see," I laughed once.
"What?" He asked.
"You and Bella getting married in leather in front of mom," I teased.
"Hey, our mother has a freaky side, you just don't know about it," he
chuckled back.
"Oh I think he does," Bella chimed in.
"Come again? You know something I don't?" he asked her.
"Your mom apparently likes to buy Edward sexy underwear." She giggled.
"She buys them for you too?" He looked towards me. "Damn, she said
that she only did that shit for me." He sucked his teeth, shaking his
head.
"Okay, how do I get in on this whole free underwear fetish your mother
has? Because I would really enjoy someone giving me free underwear."
Bella asked in a playful tone, making my cock twitch again.
"Don't worry B, I got you this Christmas," he winked.
"I don't like red," she chuckled. He opened his mouth to reply, but then
looked passed her and scowled.
"Shit, here comes Eric," he said.
"Yeah, I was supposed to meet him like an hour ago, but got side-tracked
when I saw you toss Edward into the ocean." She sat up chuckling.
"What the hell were you two fighting over anyhow?" She looked between
us and waited.
"Just brother shit," he said, giving a light smile.
"Well can you do me a favor and refrain from injuring him until after we
leave? I don't want to have to have interviews in the ER please." She
stood up from her seat.
"Like Emmett could really kick my ass," I scoffed.
"I have seen Emmett kick a man's ass before, Edward. I might debate
that," she said, giving Em a purposeful look.
"See you later B," he winked.
She smiled at him and turned back towards the hotel, meeting Eric half
way as he started rambling off at the mouth. I faced Emmett and tried
to figure out what the hell all of that shit meant, but came up blank.
"You kicked someone's ass for Bella?" I asked.
"It was a long time ago." He shrugged.
"Who's?" "It doesn't matter Edward, but I told you, I don't like people
treating Bella like shit." He rose from his chair and I followed.
"Was it that asshole from New York, James?" I asked, knowing this was
the only person I had ever seen make Bella upset.
"I told you, it doesn't matter." He shook his head as we walked through
the hotel lobby doors.
"Like hell it doesn't. You want Bella and I to be able to work this shit
out, then help me. Tell me about James." I pressed the button to the
elevator angrily.
"You see that is part of your problem right there. You don't talk to each
other about shit. It pisses you off when B goes behind your back, why
should I allow you to go behind hers?" We stepped inside and he hit the
button to his floor.
"Because she won't talk to me about it. Whatever happened to family
helping each other out?" I went for the low blow out of desperation.
"I am doing just that, because it would hurt Bella if I told you. You want
to know," the doors opened for his floor and he stepped out, "Then ask
her." The doors closed and I couldn't get another word in.
Xxx
Bella POV
6:29:P.M.
Edward came around the corner from the elevator hallway, looking
smashing as he walked towards the ballroom entrance. His white dress
shirt clung to him like a second skin, accentuating every last bulge of his
strong arms. The long sleeves were pushed up to his elbows and his black
tie hung loosely, but looked neat as it tucked itself behind his black pin
striped vest. When my eyes trailed down to his black pants, butterbean
started thumping frantically as she tried to imagine what Edward would
feel like if she could rub herself up against the corduroy fabric of them.
I gulped as he ran a nervous hand through his perfectly tousled hair,
looking around for me.
Fuck. Me. Running.
I waved my hand towards him and his face lit up seeing me. His eyes
appraised me carefully and he gave butterbean a warm fuzzy when he
licked his bottom lip.
"Well don't you look spiffy," I teased, tucking his tie in a little, not
because it needed to be, but just because I wanted to fucking touch it.
"Thank you, I was trying not to mess up twice in the same day." He
smiled. "You look very nice as well." He held my gaze this time, not ogling
me like before only this made me feel a lot more exposed than him
staring at my tits for some reason.
"Thank you. Um, we should get going," I nodded forward and started off
towards the press area.
EPOV
"So what are we doing anyway?" I asked, tucking my hands into my
pockets, because they felt the need to hold Bella's, and that shit just
wasn't allowed.
"I'm going to answer the same boring questions I have already answered
a thousand times before and you are going to sit there looking pretty at
my side," she grinned.
"I'll try to do my best," I chuckled back.
"You won't have to try too hard," she sighed. "Eric should be meeting us
here soon. He got held up with someone from The Food Network." We
stopped in front of a vendor booth.
"Would you like a sample of some really delish fucking pastries? I've
tried all of them except those two," she pointed, "And I would really like
to leave here being able to say that I tried them all."
"Sure," I chuckled lightly at her. Bella asked the man for one of the two
she had not tried and passed me one.
"This one is called a Hazelnut Craquant. It has chocolate praline craquant
and creamy hazelnut mousse, then they top it with a hand-combed
velvety chocolate and sit it on top of two different types of chocolate
sponge cake," she explained.
"You're making me hard," I teased and she chuckled at me.
"In that case, we'll only try this one for now. You might die of you try
the other one," she chuckled and brought a bite to her mouth, but I
stopped her.
"You are totally averting your duties to give praise before you eat." I
narrowed my eyes at her and her face scrunched in confusion.
"I personally would like to toast to the spawn of Satan, because he
clearly was the creator of this sinful confection," I explained and her
face lit up in recognition.
"I would have to toast to the same." She tipped her plate to mine and
then we each took a mouthful.
"Motheroffuck," we both mumbled in unison loudly, causing the people
around us to stare. Bella giggled with her mouth full then pulled me
away from the booth.
"Maybe it's best if we enjoy this over here," she laughed once, sitting us
down in a small grouping of chairs away from the crowd.
"Okay, I think I was wrong. It wasn't Satan. It was God, because this
shit is heavenly." I took another mouthful and Bella chuckled.
"I would have to agree." She took another bite and hummed happily as
she chewed.
As I slid another bite into my mouth, I felt my cell buzzing in my pocket
and tilted to one side to dig it out. I flipped the lid and saw it was from
Leah's house, so I answered it immediately.
'Hello Leah," I answered.
"Not Weah, Ness." I smiled hearing her sweet voice.
"Who's Ness?" I teased.
"Da-dee," she whined.
"Who's daddy?" I set my plate to the empty chair beside me and leaned
forward on my knees, trying to imagine her face as she laughed at my
joke.
"S'not funny," she giggled.
"What are you doing baby?" I asked.
"Pay'n," she sighed.
"Playing what sweetheart?" Hide and seek if I had to guess, she loved
that game now. I loved it too, except for when she hid and I couldn't
find her. It never ceased to amaze me the spaces a child could crawl
into. Perhaps I should tell Leah not to play that game with her. She lived
near lots of woods and that couldn't be a very good thing when it came
to my daughter being an expert hider.
"Nuffing. Awre you wif Bewwa?" She asked, and I cringed.
"No sweetheart." I hated lying to her, but now wasn't the time for this.
"Why not?" She asked sadly.
"I'm just not Ness." I saw Eric walking towards us and I knew our time
was up. "Ness, daddy has to go back to work. Can I call you later, love?"
"Yeah," she said sadly, leaving a little piece of my heart broken.
"Alright honey, daddy will call you before you go to sleep. I promise,
okay?"
"Kay daddy. I Wuv you."
"I love you too baby and I miss you, very much." Very much.
"Kay. Bye daddy."
"Bye baby." I waited for her to disconnect and then closed the phone,
sliding it back into my pocket and looked up to see Eric before us, smiling
wide as he checked me out.
"Ready to go play?" He asked, reaching for my hand. I arched an
eyebrow at it and then glared up at him, trying to tell him I was not
fucking playing that shit. I rose from my seat and expected to see Bella
laughing at my side, but instead she looked kind of sad sitting in her seat
still.
"Are you coming Bella?" I held out my hand to her.
"Yeah, um, sorry I was just thinking." She waved her hand in front of her
face and then took mine as she rose from her seat.
With her other hand she tossed her plate into the trash and I noticed
that she didn't finish eating more than I did. I let go of her and reached
down to pick up mine from the chair, tossing it into the trash too. Looking
back to her, I recognized the look on her face. It was the same way she
always looked whenever she told me she didn't want Ness becoming
attached to her. Was that what was bothering her? Hearing me on the
phone with her? Did she miss Ness too?
Shit.
I sighed hard and walked forward, following my future husband Eric to
our destination. Bella walked beside me, greeting some of the people as
they recognized her. She smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes, she was
putting on her show Angela described to me earlier. It was the first time
I realized how different Bella acted around all of these people than she
did around me. They all smiled back at her, and I saw them whisper all
giddy after she walked passed, happy that they got to meet a celebrity,
I assumed. There was something unraveling in all of this for me and I
wanted to wrap Bella in my arms as I finally figured out why she didn't
care about the glamorous parts of our job. Bella always strived for things
that were real, honest and in this moment, she was anything but.
Xxx
Inside the press area, I sat beside Bella during interview after interview
and I understood what she meant about answering the same questions
over and over again. I wasn't even talking and I was tired, I could only
imagine how she felt. She held on like a champ though and smiled sweetly
as each new reporter came in to speak to her. About half way through,
Gordon made his way through the curtain and she smiled up at him as he
took a seat beside her on the couch we were both on.
"Oh! Could I get both of you to do this together?" The reporter asked
excitedly.
"Bloody hell. Don't say shit like that to me, you make me think naughty
things about this girl." He teased and Bella hit him playfully.
"Like you could handle me," she narrowed her eyes at him and he
whispered something in her ear, making her laugh loudly. Bella then
leaned into him and whispered something back.
"Fuck me, bloody hell. You have a back room here?" He asked the
reporter and she gulped loudly.
Tanya, Tatiana, Tanna? I knew his wife's name was something like that.
"Uh, maybe we should get this interviewing going." Bella chuckled.
"You can't run for forever dahling," he winked and then looked forward
to the reporter.
"Let's start with how you two know each other," The lady began.
Yes, lets. And next, ask where his damn wife is.
"Bella worked for me at London,when she first came to New York,"
Gordon explained.
"It was my first real job outside of my father's diner. I was only
eighteen and Gordon scared the shit out of me," she chuckled.
"So did you always want to be a chef?" The lady asked Bella.
"I think I always wanted to cook, but not necessarily as a chef. I never
really understood what that meant," she looked to Gordon, "Until
someone taught me," she smiled.
"What would you be if you were not a chef, ever consider any other
career paths?"
"Uh," Bella chuckled. "Not really. I guess when you grow up in a
restaurant as a kid you just assume that that is where you will end up.
Most people who have a family-owned business like that end up passing it
on to their kids, and then they pass it on to their kids. So I guess that's
what I thought growing up," Bella shrugged.
"Obviously that didn't happen. You have ten of the most popular
restaurants in the world, only second fiddle to the man beside you. What
made you strive for that type of goal rather than, as you say, keeping it
in the family?" The lady asked.
"Well, to me it is in my family. Without my father I would have never
been given the opportunity to do what I dreamed, so I attribute any and
all of my success to that," she nodded.
"Good girl," Gordon said softly, rubbing Bella's back gently.
"Do you think you two will ever collaborate?" She motioned between
them.
"Um," Bella looked nervously at Gordon and he nodded her on. "Actually,
we are working on a project right now. Well, Gordon is mentoring me
anyhow on something I am opening next."
"Really?! What is it?" The lady asked, leaning forward in her seat.
"It is going to be my new restaurant, but with a totally different
experience than anything I have done before." Bella's eyes lit up as she
spoke.
"What is called? Tell me about it," the lady egged her on.
"It's tentatively called Invoke, but we haven't even cleared the blue
prints on it yet. The basic concept is that I wanted to create a place
where my diners could get the experience of what their senses do when
they are used properly. It's something that is very interesting to me and
I wanted to be able to share it with others."
"To invoke the senses," the lady quoted.
"Exactly. Gordon is the only person I have ever met who really
understands this concept, and I am really excited to have him on board."
Bella looked to him and smiled.
"Well it sounds amazing. Is there a timeline on it and location yet?" She
asked.
"We are looking in Canada, because there is a lot of good opportunity
there. I just opened my Miami location, so it probably will be a while
before anything solid gets going, but hopefully we will break ground by
year's end."
And with that, my fucking heart died a little more. It was like solidifying
all of my worst fears. Her words came rushing back to me from my
apartment that day. Reality is that I have my life planned out in years,
not weeks and none of it includes you and if you think it does, then you
are living in some god damned fantasy. It was all true. Bella had a life
that didn't include me, Ness or us being together. She would be in
another country for Christ's sake. I don't know what the fuck I had been
thinking. I was so stupid.
The interviewer was wrapping up and I rose from my seat, walking to the
exit, knowing this was all finally over. I started off towards the ballroom
area, wanting to go back up to my room. I knew we had dinner plans
tonight, but I didn't care. I was emotionally drained from all the flip-
flopping and just needed to get away.
"Edward," Bella called from behind, but I kept on walking, pretending I
didn't hear her. I prayed the elevator doors would be open and of course,
they weren't. I pressed the button fervently, hoping like hell that Bella
wouldn't catch up to me before it did.
Since God hates me, they of course didn't.
"Hey, what's wrong? I was calling you?" she panted walking up beside me.
"Sorry, I just don't feel like going out tonight." I pressed the button
again.
"Are you sick?" She asked, looking over my face with a concerned
expression.
"I think it's just jet-lag." Finally the doors opened and I stepped inside.
"Do you want me to bring you back something?" She asked outside of the
doors.
"No, I'm fine. Have a good time." I leaned back against the railing and
the doors closed before she could say anything else.
Xxx
Bella POV
10:22 P.M.
Dinner totally sucked without Edward. I wasn't sure what was wrong with
him. He didn't look sick, but I guess he could have been not feeling well
after the long plane ride. After all, he didn't travel like we all we're
used to doing. I decided to go against my better judgment and ordered
him some food anyhow. If he didn't want it, he could toss it, but I
wanted him to have something that wasn't from room service; and maybe
a little part of me wanted to show him that I cared whether or not he
was well.
Actually, a big part of me, but I was still on baby steps with that shit.
I made my way up to our floor, riding the elevator solo, and stepped out
as the doors opened. The butterflies started to flutter a little as I made
my way towards his door. I swallowed hard and lifted my hand to knock,
but paused, hearing voices on the other side. My ear leaned in and my
heart pounded in my chest as I deciphered the voices to not be voices,
but rather sounds. Okay, more like grunts. Sex grunts. A women moaning-
very loud-, moans that only a very talented Edward could produce from a
woman. I almost dropped the bag of food as it all registered.
Edward was having sex with a girl, a girl that wasn't me and didn't
fucking want to go out to dinner tonight. Was this planned? Did he meet
her somewhere around here and ask her on a date or something? I walked
quickly down the hall, not really knowing where the hell I was going as I
passed my door. My chest heaved as the tears started to flow and I felt
like the whole world was crashing down on me. My vision was blurry from
the tears and I didn't see him until I felt myself bumping into his large
form.
"B? What's wrong? What happened? Are you okay?" He asked rapidly,
pulling me into the protection of his strong arms, and I sobbed harder.
Emmett pulled back from me, seeing the food still in my hands and shook
his head.
"What did he do?" He asked angrily, but I couldn't form the words. My
sobs only broke harder and he pulled me back to him, lifting me in his
arms, and carried me to my door.
Emmett dug my key from my purse and slid it into the handle, opening
the door and carrying me inside, closing it behind him with his foot. He
sat me down on the bed and I slumped slightly, still unable to stop
crying.
"Tell me," he said, kneeling before me, brushing my hair away from my
face.
"I just," I sniffled and swatted away the tears from my cheeks, hating
that anyone could break me so easily. "I just push everyone away
Emmett- Edward, my father, everyone," I sniffled.
"That isn't true Bella." He caught my new tears on his thumb and wiped
them away.
"He wouldn't even look at me Em," I shook my head.
"Edward?" He quirked an eyebrow in surprise at me.
"No, Charlie. He wouldn't even look at me. I'm his daughter, I haven't
seen him in over, fuck, I can't even remember how many years, and he
didn't look at me. It's like I don't even exist to him anymore." My tears
began to run once more.
"Bella is this about Charlie or Edward? I need to know who's ass needs a
kickin'," he chuckled once, trying to lighten the mood the way he always
does, but it was of no use to me right now.
"Both. They are one in the same. I pushed them both away and now your
brother is doing some girl in his hotel room and"
"He is?" Emmett asked in shock.
"Yes, and by the sounds of it- really well." I sniffled harder, trying to
block the image from my mind.
"That's good Bella," he nodded.
"What?"
"I told him to," he nodded again.
"Why the fuck would you do that?" I kicked him hard in his chest.
"Easy," he grabbed my foot. "He needs to B. He needs to see that he
fucked up. Trust me, I know Edward. One ride on someone else's monkey
and he will be begging for you to take him back," he smiled.
"I don't want Edward riding anyone else's monkey. I want him riding my
monkey and my monkey alone, Emmett." I tried to kick him again, but the
fucker was too damn strong.
"The kid hasn't done the type of serious shit you and he are getting into
before B. He needs to just fuckingbe free, like a kid. Edward has been
stuck being a dad since he was seventeen Bella. That's a lot of fucking
growing up to do awful fast, don't you think?" I hated that Emmett was
making a whole shitload of sense right now.
"So what, I am supposed to watch as he fucks himself into oblivion?" I
scoffed.
"No trust me- he won't make it past tonight. I'm pretty sure that he will
be knocking on my door any second now wanting to kick my ass for even
suggesting he do it," he chuckled.
"I still don't think you are right. He's pissed at me for this shit with
Ness. You know tonight she called him and I could hear her asking him
about me and he fucking lied to her Em. Told her that he wasn't with me,
like I was too dirty for her to even talk to over the phone or something."
My tears started to well again and my shaky hands wiped them clear.
"You know Edward wants to know about the shit with James," he said.
"What the fuck does that have to do with anything?" I stared at him
like he was on the Jessica mentally handicapped list.
"It has everything to do with it, because I told Edward, just like I'm
about to tell you, that I am not the fucking person who needs to explain
these things to you guys. You are both adults and you need to start
fucking talking to each other." He stood up and strolled towards the
restroom, returning with a handful of tissues and held them to me. I took
them from his hand and stood up in front of him, wrapping my arms
around his thick waist.
"Thank you," I sighed against his solid chest.
"You know I got you B. You're my family. Fuck Charlie. You're my family
Bella." He hugged me tighter in his grasp and I knew his words were
true. It still burned me that my father ignored my existence, but I felt
comforted in Emmett's embrace.
"I'm sorry that I told Edward to fuck a Hawaiian girl," he said with a
light chuckle as his meaty hands coursed over my back.
"That's alright." I ran my wet nose all over his shirt, leaving a disgusting
snot trail all over it and looked up grinning at him. "We're even now."
After Emmett left, I walked over to the small round table and pulled off
a sticky note from the hotel stationary.
Meet me on the rooftop.
-B
Opening my door, I took a deep breath and tip-toed my way to Edward's
hotel room, trying like hell to block out any noises I might hear. I quickly
stuck it to his door and then ran back to my room. I took a shower
quickly, wanting to wash all of my sorrows down the drain and then
changed into a comfortable pair of sweatpants that said 'sweet' on the
ass cheeks and a black hoodie with cherries on it to match. As I exited
the door, I glanced down the hall and saw that my sticky note had been
removed.
My stomach did a major flip-flop and I prayed that he would be there.
*************









Chapter 9: "Lotus Flowers"

EPOV
I was having some type of out-of-body experience. It was like another
creature lived inside of me and was driving me to make all of my
movements. The girl, Veronica no wait, Vanessanowell, whatever the
fuck her name was was riding me like no one's business and I should
have been fucking loving it. Any normal man would be. She was beautiful,
voluptuous and the type of chick you would see on the cover of a
magazine. Her long, curly, fire red hair bounced as she worked herself on
me, and her tanned skin glistened in the dim light of the hotel room.
She had been riding me for a good forty five minutes and I was a little
surprised that she was still going strong and not utterly frustrated by
my dick's stubbornness. It wasn't that I didn't want to cum, I just
fucking couldn't. It was all wrong. I didn't want this girl, I was just
trying to test Emmett's genius theory and see if this shit was true. Vicky,
Vera, whatever, was downstairs at the bar and all too willing to follow
me back to my room.
It was amazing what a simple smile could get you these days.
"Don't you like it?" she asked, sitting up on me.
"Yeah baby. Keep going," I lied.
"I'm a little tired," she chuckled, sighing hard trying to catch her
breath.
"Sorry." I sat forward held her, maneuvering us so I was on top.
"Do you like someone to talk dirty?" She asked.
"No, just be quiet." I lied again, knowing that if I heard her, there was
no fucking way I was going to get off. Only one voice would do that, and
it damn sure wasn't the girl whose name I couldn't remember.
I closed my eyes, not wanting to see her, but just feel, imagining that it
was who I desired. Her scent was all wrong though, and her body didn't
hug mine like Bella's as if she and I were a perfect fit. My mind
imagined those last few nights with her. How pleasant she felt under my
touch, her warm body, and how delectable she tasted when I kissed her
sweet mouth that always had the faint taste of her cherry lip gloss. I
hummed at the image of her panting under me, whispering my name as my
forehead leaned to hers, and the way her nails dug into my
"Shit," I came hard and the girl squealed out in pleasure as I assumed
she came with me. I normally would have waited, reveled in the moment,
and if I was with Bella, kissed her face, her lips and told her how good
she felt. My mouth made no move to speak such sweetness, and I
instantly retracted from her, pulling the condom free from my dick,
tossing it in the wastebasket next to the bed.
"You better get going," I said softly, picking up a bottle of water from
the bedside table and taking a long swig.
"Well that was romantic," she scoffed, sliding off the bed to retrieve her
clothing from the floor.
"I wasn't going for romance when I picked you up an hour ago in the
hotel bar, sweetheart," I took another swig of water and set it down,
clearing my throat and then looked around for my own clothing.
"Screw you!" She grabbed up her bag and headed for the door.
"Already there Valery," I said sarcastically.
"It's Victoria, asshole," she tugged open the door and I wanted to
fucking laugh.
I wasn't even close.
My eyes saw a paper fall to the floor as she swung the door open and I
climbed to my feet to retrieve it, shutting the door behind her as she
exited. It was a note from Bellato meet her on the roof? There was
something about this request that made me laugh. The image of old
gangster movies flooded my mind and I couldn't help but to think of Bella
wanting to see my ass hanging over a rooftop, pleading for my life. Once
that image died out, I wondered what she really wanted. When did she
even put this on my door any
Fuck. Me.
She had to have done it while I was in herewith fucking Victoria
while I was fucking Victoria. Could she have heard that shit? The girl
was pretty damn loud, so survey says, yes. I made my way into the
bathroom, cleaning myself up quickly and then threw on a pair of cargo
shorts and a white tee before I headed out the door. My head started to
spin with all the possibilities, and I couldn't help but to travel back into
my previous thoughts of Bella wanting to toss me off the roof if she
heard what was happening behind the door when she left her note.
I looked around nervously as I walked across the rooftop, searching for
her, but not seeing anyone. Did she change her mind? I decided to wait a
few minutes, if she didn't show up I would just go find her. I'm sure
Emmett or Eric would know where she was. If it came down to it, I could
call or text her, I still had her cell number and that would work.
Fuck, now I'm rambling.
Where is she?
My hand ran nervously through my hair as I paced the top of the
building, trying to get my mind to slow down, until I heard the metal
entrance door close. I looked back to see Bella wearing a black hoodie
with matching sweat pants. Her hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail,
with the length of it resting over her shoulder. She looked down and
walked towards me, while fidgeting with a strand of her locks, confirming
that she was just as nervous as I was.
Bella usually didn't wear very much make up, but as she approached I
noticed she wasn't wearing any, looking freshly showered. As the salty air
swirled, I caught her essence and breathed it in greedily, loving how
floral and feminine her fragrance was. I liked her like this, bare and
vulnerable looking, like she had nothing to hide.
"Hi," she said shyly, glancing up once at me through her thick lashes.
"Hi," I repeated her words, unsure of what else to say.
"Um, I know this is a little awkward, being up here, but I just wanted
some even-ground to play on," she continued to fidget with her hair and
it really bugged the shit out of me. Not only was it contradicting how she
looked honest and open, but I also just didn't want to be that guy she
felt she needed to tote an image for.
"Stop," I pulled her hand away from her hair, taking it into mine and she
looked nervously at me. "It's just you and me up here, Bella. There isn't
anything to be nervous over." I pulled her along to an area that had been
set up with a small lounge area. We sat on the long wicker bench and I
kept her hand in mine, rubbing small circle with my thumb along her
delicate skin.
"So what's on your mind," I began, keeping my eyes on our locked hands,
hoping she would feel comforted by the gesture.
"Uh," she swallowed and I felt her hand tighten a little around my own.
"I just think that we need to talk about what happened, how we left
things," she said softly.
"I agree," I nodded, rubbing harder against her knuckles.
"You're still mad at me," she stated.
"Not mad, Bella disappointed. You betrayed my trust in you and that
isn't something I offer up very easily, especially when it involves Ness."
"I know, but I wasn't trying to," she shook her head softly, looking at
me.
"That really isn't an apology," I repeated her words back to her that she
had once said to me, hoping she would see that I wanted to be equal to
her in this moment. In my life away from work, she had no right to over
throw my authority over my personal matters.
"I'm not going to say I'm sorry Edward. You can be mad at me for forever
if you like, but I am not going to say that I'm sorry Nessie is with you
and not Jessica," she said softly.
"You were wrong, Bella. Why can't you just admit that?" I shook my
head, still looking at our hands.
"Because I don't think that I was. Alright, fuck that, it isn't entirely
true. I am sorry for going behind your back, because I told you that
night in my office that we would figure it out together, but I am not
sorry about the outcome, no matter how we arrived at it."
"You're that stubborn?" I finally glanced up to her, needing to see her
eyes.
"No, I'm not. I am just being truthful to you about how I feel."
I sighed and leaned back in my seat, letting go of her hand, and placing
it on my leg. I didn't want to fight with her, but she was making that
very difficult right now. The fact was that after everything that
happened, she still couldn't see the error of her ways and to me that was
a big neon sign flashing 'this is going to happen again'.
"I'm sorry for what I said to you too. It's not true. If it was, I wouldn't
be sitting here right now. I would be watching Man Vs Food, huddled up
with a big fucking bowl of Cheerios from room service," she smiled lightly
and I looked back to her.
"Are you trying to dazzle your way out of giving me a real apology with
cuteness?" I narrowed my eyes at her and bit softly on my bottom lip.
"That depends, is it working?" she quirked a playful eyebrow at me.
Yes.
"No." I shook my head and she smiled, knowing I was a sack of lying shit.
Only, I wasn't lying completely. I was upset over her not saying she was
sorry, highly, but I was willing to work on that if she would trade war
stories with me.
"Tell me about James," I picked up her hand again and tilted towards
her, leaning back into my chair again.
"Why do you care so much about that?"
"Because I want to know and since you won't give me an apology, you are
going to give me a story. Even playing ground, remember?" I looked
around to the roof, using her own tactics against her.
"And if I don't?"
"Then I guess were done here." I gave my best poker face.
"Who's blackmailing who again?" She teased.
"Take it or leave it," I shrugged.
"You know, it scares me a little when you're like this," she made a face
at me and huffed, causing me to chuckle lightly.
"I'll take that as a compliment coming from you. Now stop trying to avoid
the topic and spill it."
Bella took in a deep breath, sighing hard afterwards, and pushed her
ponytail back. She curled her legs up under her and faced my way, still
allowing me to hold her precious hand. Her eyes stayed down, looking at
her finger as she traced the lotus flower tattoo on my hand with her
thumb.
"James and I used todate. Well, if you consider dating as someone who
shows up on your door step so he can fuck you rottenwhen he actually
remembered that you existed that is."
"So he was your boyfriend," I stated.
"No, he was my sous chef," she looked up to me and nodded at my doleful
expression. "See, this is why I didn't want to tell you," she lowered her
gaze again and sighed.
"So what happened?" I asked, but my mind already was drawing
conclusions.
"It wasn't just sex to me, you know. I was young and extremely naive.
Riley's, my New York restaurant, was my first time on my own. When I
met James, he was just so talented and handsome. Charming. He had
good credentials too, worked for some pretty big names. I was pretty
enamored and I wanted that. The way I looked at him, I think I wanted
him to look at me like that too," Bella swallowed and tucked a piece of
her hair back behind her ear as she thought for a moment.
"I was impulsive and really didn't think about what I was doing until it
was too late. The short version of this story, and believe me, you'll thank
me for saving you the details, is that James happens to have video tape
of my stupidity and if I ever fire him or do anything to piss him off, he'll
use it against me to get his way."
"Like a sex tape?" I asked arching an eyebrow, a little fucking amazed
that Bella would go there.
"I didn't have a fucking Paris Hilton green-eyed moment, but yeah. There
are cameras everywhere in the restaurant and like I said, I was
impulsive. Emmett kicked his ass when he found out trying to get it
back from him but not even a three day stay in the hospital swayed
him. I think he likes torturing me with it you know? He gets some sort of
sick thrill out of scaring me."
"And you think I would do that to you?" I lifted her chin to look at me.
"You don't understand Edward. You are only in the beginning stages of
this. I get a file sent to me every single day, listing all of the new
people who have filed law suits against me. Even if I'm not responsible, I
still have to pay most of those people, simply because I just don't have
the time to make a court appearance every time someone files one.
Everyone gets a piece of me Edward. The shit with James haunts me
everyday and I wonder which day he will actually pull that card and toss
it down. So yeah, I'm a little on my fucking guard."
I nodded, understanding exactly what she was saying and how she felt.
It was the same way that I felt about Ness. I could see her eyes getting
a little teary and she looked down, trying to hide as the tears fell
softly, landing on her wrists as they lay in her lap. My chest burned
knowing how hard all of this must be for her. Not only to have revealed
it to me, but also having to deal with it everyday. If I ever saw James
again, he would be sure to get another extended stay in the ER, if not
worse.
"I'm sorry Bella," I said softly. My hand reached up and brushed lightly
over her cheek, lifting the heavy curtain of her hair away from her face.
She remained quiet, only taking my hand into both of hers. I watched her
carefully as her thumbs rubbed over the back of my hand, along the
inked flower, making the little V come between her brows.
"Will you tell me about this please?" She asked softly, keeping her eyes
down.
"It's too late tonight Bella."
"I don't think I'm going to bed anytime soon," she shook her head.
"Not tonight," I stuck to my guns, not wanting to get into anymore drama
this evening. She huffed and looked up to me, with an angry expression
on her face.
"Will you tell me about the girl in your room then?"
Mother of fucking hell.
"What girl?" I asked innocently.
Emmett taught me at young age that there was only one way out of a
situation like this Deny, deny, deny.
"The whale I heard riding your disco stick. Don't lie to me Edward, no
porno they offer in the hotel sounds like that."
"How do you know?" I arched an eyebrow at her.
"I've spent a lot of time on my own. Butterbean doesn't appreciate it
when I neglect her."
"Who?" I chuckled.
"No one, just answer my question."
"You name your" My eyes trailed down.
"Yes, now stop avoiding the question."
How did she expect me to answer her after that? Bella revealed the
name of her pussy and I am just supposed to go back into the previous
topic? Oh hell to the no.
"Which part?" I nodded towards her
"What?"
"Which part is named that? Like the whole state or just the city?" I bit
my bottom lip and looked back up to her with a playful expression.
"If by city you mean my little man in the boat, then yeah, that's
butterbean. Now, Answer. My fucking. Question."
"Shit. First of all, that information could have come in handy about three
mother fucking weeks ago," I chuckled. "Second, yeah I was with a girl.
It was all Emmett's fault and I am going to kick him in his funbag first
time I see him. Third, she rode me for forever and I couldn't get
offwell that isn't entirely true. I did get off, but only because I closed
my eyes and imagined it was you and not some skanky red head."
Why the fuck did I just say that?
I looked up to her, trying to gauge her reaction, expecting her to laugh,
or slap the holy fuck out of me. She didn't do either. Instead, her mouth
opened, but then closed, like she wanted to say something smart, but
couldn't.
"I um," she shook her head lightly and a small smile came across her
face. "I don't know if I should feel honored or appalled by that Edward,"
she laughed once.
"Probably a little of both, but don't worry, it won't happen again." My
dick frowned at those words.
"You imagining me when you're with other girls or admitting to doing it?"
"Sex all together. I think a vow of celibacy is in order. It would
eliminate a lot of fucking hassle."
"You know, I think I am with you on that," she chuckled lightly and fell
back against the seat, sighing loudly.
"Can I ask something serious, Bella?" I leaned forward on my knees,
playing with my hands.
"Sure," she said from behind.
"What do you want? I mean, between us. Where are we?" My heart
started to pick up the pace and I held my breath, unsure and scared as
hell of what she was going to say.
"Edward," she sat forward next to me, bringing her knees up to her chest
as she leaned her head down, looking at me. "I care about you, I do.
Nessie too. While I am sorry for saying what I did, there is also some
truth in the rest. I am leaving."
"I know, believe me, but what happens in the meantime?" I looked over to
her, still rubbing my hands together at the nervous tension.
"You know, Emmett has been like my family. He's pretty much the only
family, or true friend that I really have. That's all I have to offer you
Edward, friendship. I'm not good at long distance relationships, but we're
sort of in this for the long haul since you work for me and I would like to
be able to think of you in the same regard that I think of Emmett."
"I'm not so sure I like that idea," I teased.
"You know what I mean. It's not the same, because obviously I have no
desire to hump your brother, thank motherfucking God, but it is all I can
do. Plus, you deserve to have someone who is there, Nessie too."
I thought over her words, looking at her as she stared back and me. I
took in her hair and how it flowed over her shoulder as she crossed her
arms over her knees. Her face was so innocent looking, her eyes so deep
and thoughtful in this moment. She wasn't hiding. She was being Bella,
the real Bella.
My hand lifted to her cheek, brushing lightly over it once and then moved
to her neck, pulling her towards me. I sensed her hesitation, but she
allowed me to pull her towards me. My lips found the warm, tender skin
of her temple and kissed it softly, moving along to her cheek and once
more at the line of her jaw. I finally allowed my head to rest against the
side of hers and breathed in her sweet floral fragrance, allowing it to
smother the flames of desire that were burning inside of me.
After I drank enough of her down, I allowed her head to rest in the
crook of my neck, while my hand, behind her back, tugged the tie free
from her hair, spilling it free. My hand combed through her damp locks as
I stared out into the night sky that seemed so close to us, as if you
could just reach right out and grab any star of your choosing.
"It's beautiful here," I said softly.
"I know," she sighed, maneuvering slightly so that she could face her
head towards the sky.
"Can we have dinner tomorrow night?" I asked.
"I was planning on it," she chuckled.
"I mean you and me, so we can talk some more." My fingers continued to
roam through her tresses and I picked up her other hand, allowing her
palm to rest against my own.
"Will you tell me about the flower tattoos?"
"Is it a deal breaker?" I laughed once.
"Absofuckinglutely," she giggled.
"Then yes. I'll tell you about them," I nodded against her head.
"Then yes, I will have dinner with you," she concluded.
We sat there like that, huddled close, for an undetermined amount of
time. It could have been hours for all I knew. I just wanted to hold her
for awhile, before I had to let her go and not be able to again. Bella
started to fall limp in my embrace and as much as I would have loved to
have allowed her to sleep in my arms, I knew doing it on the top of our
hotel building was not the place. I shook her arm slightly, preventing her
from drifting too far off and she awoke.
"It's late, we should go," she rasped, sitting up.
I gave no words, for words were failing me right now as we walked back
to the metal door that would inevitably seal the ending of our short-lived
romance. The kiss of death, some may call it. That is how I felt walking
through it, like a part of me was left behind on an old withered wicker
bench. All of the magic faded away as we entered the elevator and the
silence was deafening. The bell tolled louder than it seemed it should
have, but maybe that was due to the dead-air among us. Bella stepped
out and I walked her to her door, waiting for her to unlock it. She
paused after she slid the key inside and then turned back to face me
with the door slightly ajar.
"Um, I won't be at breakfast in the morning. I have a meeting, so I won't
see you until after my speech tomorrow."
"You're giving a speech?" This surprised me, for I was completely unaware
that we were even attending a speech. Perhaps I should have looked over
the schedule instead of searching for trampy redheads.
"Yes, I do every year. It is supposed to be like a mentoring thing for the
new chefs. Kind of like, explaining how you made it."
"Oh," I nodded.
"So um, I will see you then," she hesitated opening the door and my hand
impulsively reached for her hand, not ready to let her go. She spun to
face me and I brought her hand up to my face, kissing the back of it
softly.
"Goodnight, Bell." I gave her another kiss on the hand and then released
her, beginning to head off to my room.
"Edward?" She called.
"Yes?" I turned back around to face her, only a few steps away.
"Would you stay with me tonight?" she asked, causing my throat to gulp
loudly.
"I don't think that is a good idea." My dick screamed 'traitor!!!' as I
spoke the evil words that would keep us from Bella's butterbean.
"I'm not talking about sex. I justI sleep better when your there," she
looked down shyly at her feet and my voice had no sound. Her hand
waved in front of her and she looked back to her door.
"Never mind, that was stupid. I'll see you tomorrow," she began to walk
inside of her room and I stepped quickly back to where I was.
"Bella, wait. It's not stupid, you justsurprised me." She looked back
towards me. "I'll give you a few minutes to get situated, alright?" She
nodded at me. "Alright." I stepped back, walking towards my room.
After I entered my room and closed the door, I leaned against it and
banged my head several times lightly. I must be a fucking masochist or
some shit. Not only did I agree to only be friends with Bella, but now I
was going to being lying in her bed, right fucking next to her and not be
able to do shit about it. When I get back to Miami, I am sitting my
mother down and having a serious talk with her, because obviously, she
dropped me on my head a lot as a baby and I deserve some fucking
answers and apologies for that shit.
Jerking off was key. There was no way I would be able to lay there and
not be hard. She would be warm and soft and smelling of her sweet Bella
self. The covers would trap the fragrance in, probably already smelling
heavenly as she has been sleeping in them every night already. Fuck
what would she wear? What should I wear? Ugh. This was a bad idea. My
dick was already hard just thinking about what was about to happen.
Yes, jerking off was key.
~*~
BPOV
1:29 A.M.
The damn words just blurted out.
As the ties between us severed, my chest sank, caving in on itself and
even though I knew it was the right thing to do, it felt nothing but
wrong. I knew he felt it too, I felt it in his touch, saw it in his dim blue
eyes. I asked him to stay because I needed him here. It was the only
way I would make it through the night without withering down to dust.
As I changed, I wondered if he was as nervous as me right now. Resisting
Edward would be a great feat, one that I had already failed miserably
and repeatedly. I knew he would make it easier, be the gentleman he
always was, but damn it, that only made me want him more. I made sure
to remain dressed in my sweatpants, only removing my hoodie, and even
left my bra on under my tank top. The door was propped open slightly,
since I left the lock latched backwards, preventing it from closing. I
wanted to already be in bed and waiting, it would be less awkward. I
flipped on the TV, so the silence wouldn't be an issue and then slid down
into the bed, loving that soon, the cold sheets, would be quite warm
thanks to Edward. After turning the bedside lap off, the room was only
illuminated by the light from the screen. I sat forward in the center of
the bed, not wanting to lie down. It just seemed morecasual.
I heard the door, but didn't look as he entered, not wanting to make him
feel awkward as he walked towards me, as I'm sure I would if the roles
were reversed. He silently made his way over and sat on the edge of the
bed, resting one leg on the mattress.
"What are you watching?" He asked, looking towards the screen.
"PBS has old Julia Child shows on at this hour," I raised the volume a
notch and finally looked over to him. I smiled, seeing that he still had on
his same clothes, confirming that he must have been just as scared to
change down into thin pajama bottoms, just like me.
"I never really liked her show. My mother used to watch it occasionally
when I was a kid. Could never understand what she was saying," he
chuckled lightly.
"That's half the fun of watching it, Edward."
I scooted back further into the bed, leaning against the pillows. Edward
remained where he was and I tugged on the covers he was sitting on top
of. He looked back to me and I smiled, trying to silently request that he
move his ass and get under them with me. Edward smiled back lightly and
scooted back, lifting his hips, while getting under the blanket. His foot
grazed my leg on the way down and I had to bite my inner cheek to keep
from humming.
Really? A foot butterbean?
He sighed, lying back against the pillows and I sunk down a little further,
trying to get comfortable. It wasn't working though. He wasn't close
enough. I wiggled my way closer, trying not to make it seem obvious, but
apparently, Edward wanted the same thing, because as I inched my way
towards him, he inched his way towards me. I wanted to laugh, but I
held it in.
Edward did not.
"Just come here Bella. I'm not going to molest you, I promise. Unless, you
want me to, then I'm all for it." He stretched out his arm, opening his
body up for mine to spoon into his side. I said nothing in return, having no
real comeback for once. The truth was yes, of course I wanted him to
molest me. Badly. The ugly truth was that we were now just friends and
he couldn't.
I curled into his side and yawned, comforted by how good he felt and
how easily Edward could always relax me with his touch, even if he was
the reason for the tension to begin with. His warm fragrance assaulted
me in the sweetest of ways and I rolled further into him, allowing my
arm to cross over his chest and hugged myself to him. I could feel his
fingers playing through my hair and then his head tilted on mine as he
began humming that old familiar song his grandmother sang.
Somewhere in between Julia's Chicken La Cordon Blu and Edward's twenty
fifth passing of his fingers through my locks, I drifted into my dreams.
*~*~*
EPOV
Warm.
I was so damn warm.
A blanket of flowers surrounded me in a field and they were all I could
smell as I laid upon the lush green grass. Bella was at my left, lying
there looking at me as the sun played through the clouds and smiled. Her
delicate fingers reached for my face, tracing lightly over my skin and she
stared at me with a wicked expression.
"Ever make love in a meadow, Flower Child?" She asked, licking her sweet
bottom pout.
"No my angel, but I would love to. With you" I rolled over her quickly,
trapping her beneath my body and she giggled at my actions.
"What if a bear comes?" She chuckled.
"We'll call for Emmett. He could take down a bear," I said playfully.
My lips went to hers, sucking softly at her cherry pout. She hummed at
our joining mouths and wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling me in
harder. My tongue danced at the entrance of her mouth, teasing, tasting,
tempting. Bella's tongue swept out and touched mine once before she
pulled back.
"We shouldn't be doing this," she shook her head.
"Yes we should. There is no other way Bella." I leaned into her lips again,
but she moved her head.
"But what about the baby?" she asked, shaking her head.
"There is no baby. There is just you and me, angel." I leaned back into
her lips and this time she allowed me.
I kissed her greedily this time, trying to keep her mouth busy and not
allow her to push me away. This field was too perfect not to be able to
savor her in it. When she was finally out of breath, as was I, I traveled
my lips lower, down her sweet neck and into the hollow of her throat,
sucking softly at her tender skin. She tasted like heaven and sin all
wrapped up into one. The inner beast within me took over and all I
wanted in this moment was to claim this woman as my own. I bit softly
into her skin, nibbling her as I made my way down, reaching the valley
between her breasts, and allowed my tongue to taste her delectable
warm skin once more. She hummed in pleasure as I kept my trail of open-
mouthed kisses coursing down her naked form cause yeah, in dreams,
the girl is already nude until I reached her belly button. I bit softly
under it and she arched her back, giggling a dark shade at my
playfulness.
I kissed her there, to make up for my teasing and continued on down,
only placing feather light kisses along her bare pussy and thighs, teasing
still. My lips made the same course back up, but I went slower this time,
wanting her to be pulsing for me between her legs, just as my cock was
pulsing for her.
"I love you Bella," I whispered over her lips, before kissing her roughly.
"Mm," she hummed against my mouth, pulling me down into her and
tipping her head back to allow my tongue better access.
My hips rocked, gliding over the hot arousal between her legs and the tip
of my cock slid its way in, not needing any further guidance. She gasped,
closing her eyes and I felt her feet on my back, raising her legs higher to
allow me full entrance into her. I slid forward, watching her face, and
didn't stop until the base of my body was fully flushed to hers. Bella's
breath stuck in her throat as I slid out and thrust harder into her,
knocking her back into the floor of forest around us. I pumped again, just
as firm and she cried out, gripping my hair into her hands.
"You belong to me, Bella," I thrust again.
"You," she panted.
"Me. You. Belong. To just. Me." I pumped her harder, making sure to
punctuate my words with each thrust.
"You. Just Edward. Only Edward," she panted harder and I could feel
her coming undone.
"I want to give you a baby Bella," I whispered against her neck as I
drove myself harder.
"Yes. Please." Her voice was breathless as I felt her contract around my
cock, bringing my orgasm to life and I came hard inside of her, holding
my place there, until I knew I had no more to give. I kissed her lovingly
on her lips quickly, still out of breathe and then moved to her cheek. As
I looked down to her, her eyes opened and she smiled at me.
"Don't ever leave me, Bella," I whispered.
"Where am I gonna go?" She chuckled.
I rolled to my side, pulling her against me and enjoyed the last few
minutes of the warm sun as it showed itself again from behind the cloud
bank. The breeze swept up the aromatic flowers and filled my airways,
consuming me with its power. It was so Bella.
Flowers, she smelled just liked the flowers in the meadow.
"Just don't leave."
~*~
BPOV
I woke up the next morning before Edward. I had trouble wiggling free
from his arms he was holding me so tightly to him. It was a fight I
welcomed though. This was the first night of real sleep I had since the
last time I slept in the same bed with Flower Child.
Flower Child.
I quietly strolled off to the bathroom and showered quickly, trying to not
wake him up. It was way too damn early, but I had no choice. Duty calls
and all that good shit. This afternoon I had to give a speech about how I
became successful. I was already bored with the thought, but I still
wanted to prepare. Some pretty big names were speaking, including
Gordon, and I wanted to make a good impression.
I wouldn't have time to change in between my rehearsal and the
presentation. So I decided on a pair of black dress pants and a blue low-
slung top because I was sure the only way a room full of young boys from
catering college would listen was if I showed a little boobage.
The only part about my speech that bugged me was that I was going to
be after Charlie. It left me feeling a little uneasy because I had no clue
what he was going to say. He was asked to attend as part of the most
popular diner owners group. I was worried that he would feel they only
asked him because of me. That wasn't true. Charlie's diner was awesome.
His food flawless. Comfort delights at their best. I was proud to call
him my father and fuck that little bitch interviewer for saying that
fucked up shit last night.
I wanted to knife her ass.
As I walked back into the main room, Edward had his back towards me,
still sleeping. I took in how muscular he was, every little line defined
perfectly, and butterbean bounced happily at his sexy shoulders that
housed my two favorite muscles.
Okaysecond and thirdbut what the fuck ever.
I walked slowly over to him and sat softly on the space behind where he
laid. My arm leaned over him and I placed a soft kiss on his shoulder. He
didn't stir and I just sat there for a moment looking at him. His face was
always first. So much like a boy buried inside of a man. My fingers moved
to his hair and I brushed a few fallen strands from his forehead back
into the rest of his messy hair, keeping my fingers moving lightly through
it. I sighed softly, knowing that this beautiful man could never be mine,
and placed one more kiss to his shoulder before I stood up.
Good bye, Flower Child.
Four words had never burned so much.
~*~
EPOV
I sat in my seat, dying to see what Bella would have to say in her
speech. Her father, Charlie, had just finished up. It was alright, rather
dull really. Nothing I couldn't gather from reading a book or just common
sense. I knew Bella would not disappoint though.
She never did.
"Hey, sorry I'm late," Emmett took his seat beside me.
"Where the hell have you been? I called you like five times."
"Sorry, got hung up," he shrugged innocently, too innocently.
"Hung up on what? Hawaiian tail?"
"No, not Hawaiian, Miami-an," he chuckled.
"What?"
"Rose is here," he smiled.
"Fuck. What the hell is she doing here?"
"Same thing as us dummy. Checking out the convention." He shook his
head and looked forward as the announcer came forth on the stage.
"Speaking of Hawaiian ass, I owe you an ass kickin," I whispered to him.
"Yeah, B told me. Don't worry, she already beat you to it. I have her size
six imprint on my chest to prove it. You have any idea how hard that shit
was to explain to Rose?" He rubbed over the spot Bella must have kicked.
"When did you talk to Bella?"
"Last night. Shh, here she comes," he pointed forward.
"Ladies and gentleman, our next speaker is someone who you should
already know if you are here. At the age of twenty six, she has already
been awarded three Michelin stars, one of which she obtained at the age
of twenty, the youngest person to ever have been awarded one. She now
has ten locations worldwide, her latest being sunny Miami Florida. Please
give a warm welcome to Isabella Swan." The woman waved her arm
towards the stage entrance.
The music sounded and the entire crowd erupted into applause, hoots and
hollers. Emmett was all too eager to whistle loudly at her, and when
Gordon Ramsey stood to honor her, so did everyone else. Bella smiled and
waved, walking on stage. She looked confident and cool, not at all how I
would have looked having to speak in front of a few thousand people. I
was already in awe, even if her speech was total shit not that it could
be.
"Thank you," she said, stopping in the center of the stage with the mic in
her hand. The room quieted down and she began.
"I had a whole speech planned out for you all, even woke up early this
morning and went to rehearsal like the looser I am," she chuckled and so
did the audience. "But um, I have to say that I think it's pretty much
shit, so I am not going to talk about what I wrote. The truth is that you
all come here year after year and we all pretty much say the same thing
to the newcomers. I have to admit, I was thinking a lot about newcomers
when I was in rehearsal this morning," she paused. "And uh, I don't think
anyone wants to hear about how I stood on a stupid train station 'cause
Gordon taught me to," the crowd laughed. "Or that I pretty much have
no life because my business is my life. So I'll tell you a story you will
actually remember when you leave here this year, instead." She kicked
off her high heels and the crowd cheered again as she took a swig of
water from a bottle off her stage table.
"Ready?" She waved them on, and of course they cheered.
"This story is actually meant to save the last speech as well. A little
something my restaurant manager calls a double whammy, but what the
fuck ever," she laughed.
"That's right B!" Emmett hollered.
"Charlie Swan is my dad and while he sucks at speaking in public, he is
actually quite a good chef." She paced the stage walking slowly. "I grew
up cooking in his diner and when I was about twelve years old I saw
something that would forever change my world. Like most chefs, my dad
taunted his employees. No, he didn't call them donkeys" She chuckled
with the crowd as the spotlight found Gordon. "And he didn't make them
sling burgers in there bathing suits. No, he used physical force and mind
fuckery, you see, he was smart." She tapped her temple jokingly.
"They used to have a small section in his diner where the pizza was
made, when they still made pizza that is, and my dad would hire the
guys from the local football team to work there. Sort of, work for food,
homeless man contracting. I have always loved that idea and lemme tell
you, if OSHA still allowed it, I would totally being doing it." The audience
cheered again.
"Anyhow, since they were football players, all the girls used to love to
come in and watch the hunky guys make the pizza at the counter. The
guys of course loved that. My father however, didnot." She faced
forward in the center of the stage.
"He would come up beside the boys, and when one of them was flirting
with a girl, and not working, my dad, Charlie would step on their toes,"
she mimicked his movements. "And grind his heavy boot into the poor kid's
foot. The girls, of course, had no idea what my father was doing, and
Charlie would smile sweetly at them and ask about school and other
random things, all the while, smooshing the shit out of the poor boy's
toes." The crowd was laughing steadily at her story and acting.
"A boy named Tyler Crowley used to work with us. And one day, Tyler
thought he was going to outsmart my father. He came in the back where
I was cooking and said, "Bella Bella! You have to come here!" I followed
him out towards the front and he stopped me at the doorway
saying,"Watch" and then strolled forward, taking his usual place at the
pizza station. I sat myself down on an empty sauce bucket," she
pretended to sit down and stare out into an imaginary pizza area, "And I
waitedAnd waitedAnd waited," she chuckled, "Until finally, my dad
spotted Tyler talking to a girl. His face smiled and I watched him as he
went for Tyler. Charlie's foot came down as normal, only his brows
scrunched and he looked confused. Tyler turned to face him and beamed
at whatever magical creation he had put in his boot. My dad just smiled
back and walked out of the station quietly. It was then I decided I
wanted to marry Tyler Crowley." Bella took another sip of water as the
crowd cheered.
"I walked over to Tyler and asked him what he did. He told me he
borrowed his dad's steel toed boots and as he was relaying the story to
me again I saw his eyes grow wide with horror. As I spun," she made the
movement, "I turned to see a huge industrial sized mop, soaked to the
gills, come flying passed me," she waved her hand in front of her face,
pretending to follow it with her eyes, "And smacked Tyler, Right. In. The.
Face."
"Poor Tyler went flying across the floor, knocking his head into the
bottom of the counter. I wanted to go to him.but I was like in shock
you know?" She chuckled. "I mean, you just don't see that shit every
day. As I turned though, to look at my father and ask him if he was
crazy, he simply tapped the bottom of the wooden handle to the floor
with a satisfied smile on his face and walked out." She took another sip
of water as the crowd cheered.
Bella stared out into the audience and her expression became serious. I
could see her scanning the room for her father, but he had not returned
to where I saw him sitting before his speech.
"My whole point of sharing this story with you is that, I didn't need to
attend some fancy school to learn what I know or to become successful. I
simply paid attention to what was going on around me, and when my
father thought it was funny to tell me I didn't add a spice to something
I knew I did and hid the shaker so I looked like a liar, he was really just
teaching me to trust myself and not let other people determine my
thoughts. He taught me a lot of lessons like that, and anyone who thinks
that my success has nothing to do with it, doesn't deserve to be asking
me questions.
Those are the things you need to look out for in the business newcomers,
the business itself." She set her mic down and bowed to them before she
waved her way off the stage. They honored her with a standing ovation
and I smiled, knowing I was right.
Bella damn sure didn't disappoint.
~*~
BPOV
1:44 P.M.
I stepped off stage and took a big deep breath. The story may have been
funny, but telling it was the hardest thing I had ever done. I looked into
the audience in search of my father, but saw his seat empty. Before I
could wonder if he had heard it, I stepped around the corner and saw
him leaning against the stairwell. My heart jumped into my throat and I
swallowed down all the butterflies that were trying to flutter free. He
didn't say anything, just stood there looking at my feet with his hands in
the pockets of his jeans. He never did like dressing up. My mother would
blow a gasket if she saw that he was wearing jeans and an overcoat to
an event like this. He even had a flannel shirt on under it. I almost
wanted to laugh, not because it was funny, but because it was so just
soCharlie.
"Hi dad," I said softly. Charlie kept his eyes down and didn't greet me in
return. Was he upset that I told that story? I was trying to reconnect
with him. I wanted him to know that I still remembered, that I still
cared, despite my absence.
"They seemed to like your story," I tried again.
"You told the story Bella. Not me," he grumbled.
"It was about you though," I argued. He didn't debate back, just kept
his foot moving nervously along the floor, rubbing against a scuff mark.
His signature for when he was uncomfortable. I always used to see him
do this when he and Renee would argue. I needed to say something.
If I left here today with a simple 'goodbye' things would never change. I
was so tired of being the black sheep. Charlie wasn't going to take the
step that needed to be taken and after all, why should he? He was not
the one who messed things up, or forgot to call home. He didn't forget to
return invites to Thanksgiving dinner or not show up on Christmas. No,
this was all on me. With a deep breath, I breathed in the air that would
be the first heartfelt words I had spoken to my father in years.
"I just wanted you to know that I didn't forget about you, dad. I know
that's what you think, but it's not the truth. It's justone day turned
into two and.everyone always wants something you know. I'm just one
person and I can't please everyone all the time, but I'm just trying." I
stopped my rambling to keep my tears at bay, as I felt them flood within
my eyes. I was saying all the wrong things. It wasn't his fault. These
were just excuses.
"I just wanted you to know. Okay?" I waited for him to respond, but he
didn't. I felt so stupid and exposed standing here. He still didn't move
and I had no more heartfelt confessions I felt like sharing with someone
who wouldn't even look at me.
"That's it isn't? You think that I forgot, that I don't care, right? Well
you're wrong Charlie. You are so fucking wrong." I swatted away the
tears as they fell.
"I don't know what you want me to be, because I thought it was this,
and obviously I was dead wrong. You can't even look at me anymore.
That's how ashamed you are of me. Well, I'm sorry. I tried and I'm
sorry." I began walking down the hall and he made no move to stop me or
say anything. As I lifted my head to see where I was headed, I spotted
Emmett and Edward. Edward looked down, trying to look like he hadn't
just heard what I said, but Emmett held my gaze. He already knew all of
this shit and understood what was happening. His big arms came out for
me as I passed, but I shook my head at him and brushed him off.
"It's fine. Let's just go to our next stop please." I kept walking...Beating
back the hurt, and carried on.
I had a job to do here and it wasn't to fall apart at the seams because
my father didn't know how to except a damn apology.
~*~
EPOV
I was washed and ready for my dinner with Bella. She let me pick, since
I was the one who asked, and with a little help from the hotel concierge,
I was able to arrange a nice table for two at a place nearby. It looked
wonderful in the brochure, even a spot on the outdoor patio that
overlooked the ocean from the cliff side. Actually, it seemed a little too
romantic to be honest, for two people who just deemed themselves mere
friends, but the menu had the level of food I knew Bella would
appreciate.
I threw on a white button-down dress shirt and simple black tie with
matching black sacks. The restaurant was a little fancy, so I knew I had
to wear a jacket, even though I detested the idea, but rules were rules.
She was going to meet me in the lobby downstairs and even though I was
a little early, I decided to leave anyway. It would feel a lot more
comfortable to be there first, rather than having to do the awkward
walking in shit, like last night.
Mm, last night, where do I even begin with that one?
The dream I had, seemed so real. I could feel her, touch her, smell her.
When I woke she had gone, but she lingered all around me. I swear, I
could still feel her kisses on my lips and the warm trail of her finger tips
along my skin where she touched. Telling dream Bella that I loved her
and wanted to give her a child threw me for a major fucking loop,
however. Did I want more children? Sure, someday. Did I want Bella?
Absolutely. But love her? I didn't even know herhow could I?
Was my subconscious trying to tell me something that my defenses
wouldn't allow?
I wasn't sure, and to be honest, not so positive that I wanted to know.
I sat in the bar lounge, ordering a beer, and glanced to my watch, seeing
that I still had a little while until she would show up. There was a game
on the flat screen over head and I stared at it, pretending to watch, but
my mind was still all wrapped around the dream with Bella in the
meadow. As it replayed itself for the millionth time, I caught the fact
that when I told her I loved her, she never said it back to me.
Maybe dreams were closer to reality than I thought.
The alcohol tasted especially bitter as I took another long sip, trying to
clear my mind from all the fuckery, because I knew I would have to
explain to her about the lotus flower at dinner and that wasn't helping
matters. It wasn't that I didn't think she could understand because
clearly she had some family issues of her own going on, as I saw earlier
today. Bella's father standing there not even acknowledging her words
was some difficult shit to watch. Emmett pulled me back when I started
to walk towards her, knowing already, I guessed, that she wouldn't want
to be babied in that way. I couldn't really relate to his feelings towards
Bella. There wasn't really anything I could think of that would ever cause
me to treat my daughter in that manner, but then again, I knew all too
well that fathers can be especially stubborn if they chose. Let's just say,
when you looked up the word in the dictionary, I am surprised that
Carlisle's face wasn't shown next to the definition. It was his stubborn
behavior that was the reason for
"Mike! Over here!"
I whipped my head around, hearing an all too familiar voice, and fucking
groaned possibly the loudest groan of all time seeing who else but
fucking Jessica with none other than that looser Mike Newton. What the
fuck was she doing here? She spotted me as she made her way with him
up to the bar and raised an eyebrow to me. I turned back around in my
chair, not wanting to talk to her and lifted the glass back up to my lips.
"What are you, stalking me?" She asked, plopping down in the seat two
chairs down from mine.
"I could ask the same thing," I replied.
"Please, why would I want to stalk you? I dumped you," she grabbed
Mike's arm as he walked up to meet her. "Remember?" She eyed me,
rubbing his arm with an evil grin.
"First of all, you didn't dump me. You fucked around on me, like the slut
you are, and then I tossed your shit into the street and kicked you the
fuck out of my apartment." Eat that bitch.
"You know Edward" she began, but stopped, staring past me. "Bella!"
she squealed hopping up from her seat. My eyes followed her and I saw
Bella a few feet behind me, looking really, really pissed.
Because Jessica was fucking hugging her.
"Get. Off," she pried her away. "What the fuck do you think you are
doing?" Bella asked angrily.
"Saying hi," Jessica waved at her and smiled all wide, like she really
thought Bella was her friend.
"Let's get something straight Jessicunt. You, number one, are never to
touch me. Two, I don't like you. And three, you just fucking wrinkled me
and that pisses me off." Bella walked past her towards me, shaking her
head in irritation as Jessica followed behind.
"But, you helped me?" she whined.
"No bitch, I helped Edward. It's not my fault you're too damn stupid not
to have seen that coming from a mile away. Actually it was only like two
feet away, but what the fuck ever." Bella paused at my side, leaning on
the bar to order a drink.
"But, but, but." Jessica stuttered.
"But nothing. I wouldn't piss on you if your ass was on fire." Bella laid
down her money for the bartender and took a long swig of her Captain
and coke. Then ordered a shot of Patron.
"Come on baby, let's just go alright?" Mike tugged at Jessica's arm as
she stared at Bella.
"Holy fuck. Are you Mike? Like the Mike?" Bella looked him up and down
and laughed once, then took another swig.
"You know," she tapped her finger to Jessica. "You really are as dumb as
I thought. You traded this," she glanced over to me, appraising me with
her eyes. "For that?" She looked back at Mike and his face contorted.
"He has a small penis," Jessica shot back. Bella's lips pursed as she
looked at Jess, her face becoming more serious as she thought of her
reply.
"Let me tell you something little girl," she spoke slowly and softly to her
as she leaned in closer. "In my kitchen, my staff goes commando under
our cheffies that happen to be rather see through so I know there is
nothing wrong with Edward's dick size." She leaned in closer to Jessica
and whispered again in her ear. "There is nothing small about Edward.
You're just too fucking stupid to see that truth." She leaned back and
took the last swig of her drink, slamming it down loudly.
"Let's go," she said to me, keeping her eyes on Jessica.
I placed my hand on the small her back as we exited, and kept my focus
on her, not wanting to see anymore of Jess or Newton tonight. It wasn't
until then that I saw what she was wearing. Bella had on a lovely white
dress, making a vast contrast in color to her dark hair, slightly curled on
the ends, and her tanned skin. She was quite stunning. Once we were
outside the hotel doors, I stepped to her side, not feeling like we needed
to hide so much, being around Jessica. I finally looked at her, like really
looked at her, for the first time tonight. Her face was shimmering, a soft
pallet of natural bronzed colors, and her signature cherry lips gloss that
I loved the taste of.
"Sorry about that. She just really pisses me off. I don't know how the
fuck you deal with her." She riffled through her small clutch, trying to
find a smoke.
"My interactions are not much better, as you have seen firsthand," I
chuckled.
"She grates my ass like fucking pecorino, I swear." She lit her smoke and
I laughed at her comparison Jessica being the hard stinky cheese.
Ah, if she only tasted as good.
"Here, if I smoke this whole thing I'll get light-headed. I'm so fucking
hungry." She held the smoke out to me as we waiting for our car.
"Didn't you eat today?" I asked, taking the cigarette from her.
"I didn't have time. There was too much to do. I stole someone's fucking
cheese plate while I waiting to give my speech, but that was about it."
"You should have told me. We could have just gotten something closer,
faster." I passed her back the cigarette, but she shook her head against
it.
"It's alright. I don't mind." She looked to me for the first time. Her eyes
trailed over me slowly and she laughed once.
"What?" I looked down making sure my fly was up because that shit
would be embarrassing.
"I just" she shook her head laughing lightly. "Never mind." The limo
pulled up to the curb and we climbed inside. I made sure to look down
again at my clothing once inside, but still couldn't see anything wrong.

The view from our table was amazing. We were perched on a Cliffside
overlooking the sea, illuminated only by the early moon showing its face
and the soft candle light from the lanterns around us. Way too fucking
romantic for friends. Bella seemed happy about my choice, as she made
her way to her seat. Her eyes danced excitedly in the glow of the warm
light, and I smiled at how it seemed to bring back my old sentiments
about her once again. An angel. Dressed in white and looking completely
like just that.
"Know what you're ordering?" I asked, glancing over my menu.
"Um, I'm rather partial to the roasted suckling pig I think, but there's no
way I can eat it by myself."
"I was thinking that too. Want to share?"
"I was going to force you against your will, you know that right?" She
smiled.
"Of course," I smiled back, looking at the menu still.
"To be nice, I'll let you pick the sides." She sat back in her seat and
sipped her wine. I stole a peak of her from the corner of my eye and
smiled internally as it registered to me that not only was Bella sipping
her drink, but that she was wearing a white dress while sipping her drink.
Around me. She was comfortable again. With me.
The waiter came by and I gave him our order, not having asked Bella if
she liked the sides or not, nor did she seem too interested in them to
care. We both sat quietly for a few moments, just appreciating the view.
I was glad that it felt like all of the tension between us had subsided. It
felt almost like it used to. Easy, freeing. I didn't mind her silence in this
moment. It was just pleasant to be with each other without having to
feel the need to speak just to fill up the dead-air. The fact was, there
was no dead-air in this moment. It was alive and electric around us,
playing on the soft melody of the outdoor band, thumping soundly in my
heart, as though we were connected here in this moment. The waiter
dropped off a basket of sweet rolls and I slid it towards Bella, knowing
that she was starving.
"Thanks," she said softly. Bella picked up a roll and plucked off a bite,
placing it in her mouth. I took my bread and placed it on my plate, then
wrapped up the rest with the cloth surrounding it so that it stayed
warm.
"So, I liked your speech. It was really good. I was almost asleep until
you came out," I smiled, taking a bite.
"Thank, but I think it was stupid. It apparently pissed my father off."
"Why would he be angry?"
"I don't know, but he looked angry. It's the same way he always was
whenever he and my mom would fight over something. All closed off." She
changed from her plucking of bread, to taking bites directly from the roll
and tossed it down in frustration.
"Did your parents fight a lot?" I asked.
"They sure as fuck didn't agree on much, let's put it that way."
"When did they get divorced?" I pulled another roll from the basket and
ripped it in half, placing the bigger half on her plate.
"I was just a kid. Like three or four," she shrugged. That hit home for
me, since she was about as old as Ness.
"How did you feel? I mean, did you know? Like, did it make sense to you
why they weren't together?"
"Is this about me, or Ness?" she smiled lightly, seeing through my cryptic
questions.
"You, but I would be lying if I said it didn't hit a little close to home."
"Well how old was Ness? When you and Jessicunt separated?" she smiled.
"I'm sorry are you calling her Jessi cunt?" I could have sworn that was
what she was saying, but it sounded awful close. Perhaps it was just my
brain's wishful thinking.
"Yes," She giggled. I opened my mouth to say something, but I was still a
little amazed at how fucking funny that nickname was. AND that Jessica
probably didn't know Bella was calling her it when she did earlier. My
mouth opened and closed several times to tell her what I wanted to say,
but there were too many funny possibilities. The funniest being
"If you're ever around my mother" I tapped my finger to her smiling.
"I'll be sure to call your baby mamma Jessicunt for her amusement," she
chuckled.
"Thank you." I chuckled back.
Xxx
We ate the entire suckling pig well, everything but the eyes and brain,
because that was just fucking gross. Bella sat back in her seat rubbing
her belly dramatically as she hummed from her fullness, because after
we ate the pig, we also both consumed a bowl of haupia, for dessert.
"Better?" I asked, looking at her.
"Mm. I can now die a happen woman." She closed her eyes and nodded.
"Ready for bed now?" I teased.
"Mm," she hummed.
"Speaking of which, how did you sleep last night?" I was a little nervous
to ask, but felt the need.
"Great." She opened her eyes and looked at me, still rubbing her stomach
softly. "You snored though," she giggled.
Well, at least I wasn't dry humping your leg, because yeah, I was having
sex dreams about you, Bella. Sex dreams in which I told you that I loved
you and then attempted to impregnate you.
"Did I?" I asked with false surprise.
"Just a little," she smiled. "How did you sleep?"
"Perfect, but you have really cold feet. Really cold feet that like to rub
on my legs to get warm." I teased. She had done it previous nights, but I
honestly had no clue if she did it last night.
"Sorry," she chuckled, sighing at the end. "Speaking of cold feet, if I
didn't know better, I would think you had some of your own, since we
have been here for almost two hours and you have yet to bring up
anything of a lotus flower tattoo variety."
"I was just saving the best for last." The worst, I wanted to enjoy my
meal.
"Well, I think you're out of time," she said as the waiter dropped off the
check.
"You have to ask," I teased, reaching for the bill at the same time she
did, and I gave her an evil eye. She receded thankfully without argument
and allowed me to keep my balls intact.
"What are the flower tattoos for?" She sighed, rolling her eyes. I messed
around with the bill first, making her wait, also, trying to figure out
where to begin. After I slid the money into the black book, I turned to
her and picked up her hand into mind, needing to feel her touch as I
explained.
"Do you remember the breakfast we had with Emmett in my apartment?"
"Yes," she nodded.
"Then you remember Ness saying that my parents were divorced?"
"Yeah."
"Well they aren't, but up until two years ago, they were legally
separated. Something else I guess Jess feels the need to throw in my
face by telling Neesie, but anyhow, they separated." I looked down to
her hand in mine.
"Why?" She asked softly.
"They had a lot of problems when jess got pregnant. Carlisle had one
view of things and Esme had an entirely different set."
"Like what?"
"That's a different story," I shook my head.
"I thought you wanted to come here to talk, Edward?"
"I do and right now we are talking about tattoos." I looked to her and
she nodded in understanding.
"Do you know how a lotus flower grows, Bella?"
"No, not really."
"They start at the bottom of the pond, where all the dirt and muck is.
As they grow, they gravitate towards the sunlight, rising to the surface,
and bloom into something beautiful. This one was for my parents, because
when they went through all of that shit, shit that people shouldn't be
able to get past it was so fucked up, they managed to turn something
ugly into something beautiful."
"And the other?" she asked, tracing her fingers over my inked hand.
"It's for Renesmee, because I would like to hope that after all the shit
that she has to go through, fuck, has already gone through, that she
turns into something really beautiful too." Bella looked up to me and
cupped my chin in her hand.
"She already is," she said softly, caressing my face.
"I know," I nodded in agreement.
"But I understand what you are saying," she added, taking her hand from
my face.
"So that's the story behind the flowers," I shrugged feeling rather
exposed at the moment and wanting to shift gears. This was the simplest
version of this story and still left me feeling uneasy.
"It was a very beautiful story, Edward. Almost as beautiful as the person
telling it." My eyes flickered up to hers, surprised at her words and I
laughed once.
"Men are not beautiful Bella."
"Some are," she argued.
"I don't think I would like to be considered beautiful," I chuckled.
"Well too bad, because that is how I consider you," she shrugged.
"Can we talk about something else? I'm feeling like Eric should be popping
up any moment here," I teased.
"What would you like to talk about?" She chuckled, reaching for her
water.
"I am highly curious to know what the fuck Jess is doing in Hawaii."
"I had nothing to do with that shit," she held up a hand.
"That wasn't what I was saying," I rolled my eyes.
"She's probably here with Ray's group- officially making me hate her even
more."
"Rachel or Jess?"
"Both."
~*~
Bella and I walked back up to our rooms together, pausing when we
reached her door. The night had gone so well. It was the first time in a
really long time, if ever, that I had this type of night. I knew it wasn't
supposed to be a date, but out of all the ones I've ever had, it definitely
reigned supreme and fuck didn't even involve sex.
"I'm afraid we won't be able to have a sleepover tonight," she said,
propping the door open on her foot.
"Snoring bothered you that much?" I teased.
"No," she chuckled. "I have to be in rehearsal in about an hour and won't
get back until you are knee deep in fucking snores." She smiled.
"Rehearsal for what?" I asked as she stepped inside.
"Food Porn," she grinned and closed the door.
Food Porn? What the fuck was Food Porn?
****











Chapter 10 "Flames of Desire"

EPOV
I tossed. I turned. I slept like shit.
My cell's alarm went off at 7 a.m. and I didn't even need it to, because
my happy ass was already awake. Sleeping without Bella was not fun. I
wore the same shirt I had on the previous night, trying to get her smell
around me, but it failed. It was not enough. I needed to feel her, be
able touch her, wanted to hold her.
As I dressed today, I felt very grumpy. My dick frowned at me and I
frowned right back at it. Although, it wasn't just my dick that missed
Bella, it was my heart too. I'd be a motherfucking liar from hell if I said
it didn't. Cause it did.
As I made my way down to breakfast, I met Emmett in the hallway to
the dining room. He threw his arm around me, smiling a little too fucking
cheery for only being seven thirty in the damn morning.
"Edward! My baby brother! How the hell are you this fine day?" He
smiled wide, walking way too fast.
"What the fuck happy, little cheery bird crawled up your big ass this
morning?" I knocked his arm off and scowled at him.
"TweetyRose," he chuckled.
"Ugh." I shook my head and tried to pretend my brother wasn't fucking
around with my arch enemy's best friend.
"What? You're supposed to be happy for me," he swung his arm back over
my shoulder.
"Rose is a bitch."
"Naw man. She's cool. I know you guys don't get along and shit, but she's
cool, Edward."
"Cool? What part about her was cool when she sided with Jess and got
my ass thrown in jail?" I arched an eyebrow at him and his face fell.
"I know, that shit bugs me and I don't want you to be pissed at me for
doing her, but she is um" he looked down nervously, shaking head.
"What?"
"She's just" he paused again.
"What?!" I asked, completely irritated by his inability to form a complete
sentence. He still said nothing, but just looked at me with an expression I
knew all too well.
"Oh, go fuck off." I held my hand up to him and began to walk faster.
"What?" He gave chase.
"Fucking Rosalie Hale? You're falling for God damned Rosalie, Em?" I was
completely disgusted.
"Sorry man, it justfucking happened," he shrugged as we approached
the breakfast buffet.
"Yeah, kind of like shit does," I shot back.
"Hey, I don't knock you. A little support here would be nice. I'm thinking
of letting her meet mom when we get back home." He picked up a plate
and then handed one to me.
"I can't even believe your ass right now," I shook my head and went for a
massive pile of bacon.
"Muffin?" He asked, smiling, holding one up.
"No, and stop trying to kiss my ass. It isn't going to work." I skipped
past him in line and he chuckled.
After I piled on some scrambled eggs and grabbed a fresh fruit plate, I
made sure to get coffee. Jerking off might have been key two nights ago,
but coffee was key today. As I took my seat, I saw Bella walk in. She
didn't notice me among the sea of people that crowded the dining room,
but I definitely saw her. She was impossible to miss. My eyes roamed
over, taking in all her beauty and perfection. Her hair was bone straight
today, making it appear longer than normal, when it curled on the ends.
My dick twitched as I eyed her skin tight jeans and white top. Fuck,
what was it about white that drove me crazy? Oh right- the angel shit.
Every last male turned his head as she strolled in, but Bella seemed
oblivious. Amazing how there was an entire room full of women, who were
dressed not only a lot skimpier, but also a lot fancier- yet Bella could
manage to be the star attraction with a simple pair of washed out denim
jeans and a feminine white top. She finally spotted me and smiled,
maneuvering through the crowd.
"Hey," she smiled, taking a seat at my side. I wanted to groan as she
swept her hair over her left shoulder, fanning her sweet fragrance my
way.
"Morning." I looked down to my food and tried to focus.
"Where's Emmett?" She asked.
"I don't know. Probably looking for TweetyRose," I stabbed my eggs
angrily.
"What? Who?" She chuckled.
"Fucking Rosalie," I huffed, taking a bite.
"She's here too?"
"Apparently." I picked up my cup of coffee for a sip, but paused, looking
at her empty place setting.
"Aren't you eating?" I asked, nodding to the empty space.
"Not this morning. I have to shimmy my ass into a size two."
"Are you not a size two?" I smiled crookedly at her.
"Nice try FlowerEdward. But flattery will get you nowhere." She
smiled.
"Does fitting into a size two have to do with this Food Porn business?" I
asked, licking my bottom lip.
"Maybe," she grinned.
"You're not going to divulge any info here are you?" I shook my head.
"Nope." She let the P pop.
"You're evil. Dirty and evil," I chuckled, taking a long sip of coffee.
"I told you so." She smiled, holding my full gaze with her big brown eyes.
That night came crashing back to me instantly and I had to look away. It
was too much.
"Well anyhow, I wanted to come down and show you something."
Excitement flickered in her eye and I set my fork down to give her my
undivided attention.
"Go ahead," I nodded.
Bella smiled wide then turned around in her seat. Her fingers curled
under the hem at the back of her shirt, lifting it up and revealing
"Jesusmotherfuckingchrist Bella. Is that real? It looks fucking real.
Please God, tell me it's not fucking real." I thought my eyes would pop
out of my head.
"Relax," she chuckled. "It's only henna."
"When the fuck did you do this? Why the fuck did you do this?" I pulled
up the back of her shirt more, to see more of the design. My dick did a
lot more than just twitch.
"Last night. Some girl was getting it done for her act in the competition
today and the artist asked me if she could do something on me, so I said
yes." Her shoulder bobbed once.
"How far up did she go?" I was still in fucking shock, staring at the
beautiful black design on her back.
"Pretty much all the way and then," she turned forward and swept her
hair back with one hand, tugging down the collar of her shirt with the
other. "To here, around my neck. Maybe a little boobage too, but I'm not
showing you that," she smiled.
"Mm hmm." I licked my bottom lip, looking at the art around her neck
and trying like hell to picture what the boobage shit looked liked.
"It's pretty, right?" She asked. I finally looked back up to her eyes.
They were full of hope and maybe a little shyness. She kind of looked
like Ness when she wanted my approval of something something she felt
proud of.
"Yes," I nodded. "Very pretty." Just like you Bella. Her eyes sparkled at
my words and she smiled before she looked away, stealing a piece of fruit
from my plate.
"So, how long does it last?" I asked, going back to eating.
"Like a week or something," she shrugged.
"How long did it take to do?"
"An hour or so." She stole my coffee and took a sip.
"What is Food Porn?" I tried to trick her.
"Nice try, Edward." She of course, saw right though me.
.
We were sitting in the first row of the large auditorium. There were
different stage areas set up, defining each set. I saw the one marked
Food Porn with a massive poster, hosting a lady licking a spoon in the
most suggestive way. This was what Bella was participating in? I was not
going to fucking make it if that was the case.
Food, sex and Bella I was royally screwed.
The other sets were marked with various posters, none of which seemed
nearly as intriguing as Bella's. Angela sat on my left and Emmett was
with Rose a few spaces down. I shook my head and looked forward,
completely irritated with him and not believing that out of all the people
he could have gotten his panties in a wad for, he chose Rose.
"Hey baby daddy." I looked to my right to see Alice taking a seat,
smiling.
"You're here too?" I asked surprised.
"Yeah, Rose dragged me. Her mom was nice enough to watch the shop so
we could both attend this year. I got left behind last time," she
explained.
"Is this your first time?" I asked.
"To this one. I have been to others though," she nodded, sitting her bag
down at her feet.
"Do you know what this is all about?" I pointed to the sign.
"Oh" she chuckled. "Yeah, I saw one once."
"What is it?"
"Bella's act. She does like this 'performance' with cooking."
"What kind of performance?" I asked arching a brow.
"Like, to the beat of a song, but it usually gets pretty steamyhence the
name," she smiled. "The one I saw involved bananas and chocolate sauce.
The guy she picked from the audience was pretty happy about that," she
grinned.
"She takes a dude on stage?" I did not like where this was going.
"Yeah, Rose said one year they had to have him removed because he
wouldn't leave Bella alone afterwards," she chuckled.
I opened my mouth to ask something else, but the lights dimmed and she
faced forward. The room quieted down and a video came on the large
screen ahead. It showed an intro to the convention and then went into
clips explaining our presentation. Evidently, this was where Bella had
'reigned supreme' as Emmett said during our lunch in Miami, because she
was the winner three years in a row. Her show was called "Food Porn"
and they showed several clips of the past shows.
I was highly intrigued as was my dick.
"Ladies and gentlemen, here for her fourth consecutive year, please help
me welcome the reigning champion of Amazing Acts with Food, Miss
Isabella Swan and her showcase, the one and only, Foooood Porrrrrrn!"
The music began, a slow, haunting song that I had heard before, but this
wasn't some pop princess bullshit. It was slower, sexier. The stage was
super dark, only illuminated by a small flame on what looked to be a long
steel table. Several burners ran down its length. Bella appeared from the
dark shadow and I fucking gulped, seeing her wearing some type of sexy
chef fuckery, that didn't leave a whole lot to the imagination. It was like
a chef's coat, but turned almost into a dress of sorts. I could see a lot
of the henna tattoo on her neck and cleavage cause she was showing a
lot of that shit and my dick swelled in my pants, making me shift in my
seat. I was glad that I had on baggy jeans today tight fitting dress
pants would suck right now.
She was setting up pans on the two middle burners and began cooking to
the speed of the song. Every crashing of the drum cymbals in the music,
she would raise the flame to the burners quickly, keeping the rhythm. It
was electric, erotic and fucking with me. Her hands moved quickly and I
tried to pay attention to the immense skill she was showing amid all the
sexy shit. She chopped at the speed of lighting, tossing whatever she was
cooking in pans in sync to the music. As the cymbals crashed again, she
tossed a shot of liquor against the flame, causing it to ignite. I wondered
if this was part of what she had described during her interview when she
spoke of Invoke. If this was any testament to what she was going to
perform at that new location, she would surely have success on her
hands, for my senses were definitely all fucking alert and tingling.
As the food cooked on the stovetop, the song slowed a bit and she came
slowly around the hot steel table to the front. Bella walked the length
of the table, one finger pointed out, slightly facing down and I assumed
this was when she was going to choose her victim. I didn't look to see
anyone along our row, I just watched her. Bella's eyes were slightly
narrowed as she played the crowd of hopefuls. Her eyes met mine and
she of course, pointed and curled her fingers at fucking me.
I followed her up to the stage, cursing in my head as I did, and my dick
told me to shut my damn mouth and just enjoy that she was going to be
touching us. As I climbed on stage, she stood several feet away, looking
at me pensively. Her hands instructed me to remove my shirt and I
wanted to fucking groan. She was dirty.
Evil. And. Fucking. Dirty.
The crowd was cheering in response to her silent demand as I pulled my
shirt over my head, and she looked back slyly at the audience with a
wicked gleam in her eye nodding in agreement to their whistles at my
half naked form. She instructed me again with her finger to follow her
behind the table and I did, watching her barely covered ass the entire
time.
She spun around and stopped me with her finger tips on my bare chest
when I was where she wanted me. My body instantly came to life at her
touch, making all my nerves stand on end. Bella slid in front of me,
pressing her ass right into my hard-on. Her delicate finger dipped into
the pan on the stove top and she looked over her shoulder to me, holding
it towards my mouth. I opened up for her and she slowly slid her digit
inside, revealing that it was warm caramel sauce. Her eyes watched my
mouth and she bit her lower lip. I wanted to fuck back with her, since
she was apparently getting a lot of pleasure out of doing it to me, so I
bit her finger and didn't let her pull it away. She tugged, but I held onto
it and she grinned looking at me. With one last bit of pressure, I finally
allowed her to slowly slide it free. She watched as I licked my lips and
smiled wickedly.
Bella then slid her hair to the side, revealing the side of her neck that
was not inked with the henna tattoo. Her finger dipped back into the pan
and she spread a long slide of caramel sauce along the smooth skin of her
neck down to her collar bone. I watched as it ran down her cleavage and
the crowd whistled loudly. Her hand reached back and pulled my head
down, signaling for me to do something about it.
This was turning out to be a very fun game.
I grabbed her hips and pulled her back to me as she tilted her head to
the side. My lips leaned down and my tongue swept out, meeting the top
of her collar bone and running the tip of my tongue along its length,
slowly making my way up her neck until I reached under her lobe. The
crowd appreciated my ability to get it all in one lick and apparently, so
did Bella. Her hum of pleasure vibrated against my chest as she leaned
into me. I of course, was the only one who could hear her over the
blaring music.
She then swept her hair to the other side and repeated the same
movements with the sauce. I had to be careful this time, because some of
it was in the path of the henna and I did not want that shit in my
mouth. I lapped up most of the sauce and the crowd cheered just as
appreciatively as before. The music picked back up the pace, firing off
loud drum beats and powerful cymbals once again. Bella slid all of the
cookware off the burners in sync with the beat quickly then swept her
finger once more through the hot pan. She spun around quickly as the
finale of the music hit and slid it into my mouth, pulling it out too quickly
for me to be able to play this time. The music stopped at the same time
the lights went black making us invisible to the crowd as the curtain
closed on our section of the stage.
Bella's body was flushed to mine, my hard-on right up against her front.
I couldn't see her, but I felt her warm breath in my face and then her
hand on the back of my neck. She pulled me down into her, roughly
bringing my lips to hers. I kissed her back, just as rough, just as
greedily. My whole body succumbed to my overwhelming need for her. It
wasn't just fucking lust, it was sheer greed. I wanted to consume this
woman.
All of her.
My hands slid under her hair, fisting her long chestnut locks, and tipped
her head back, allowing me to kiss her the way I intended. Her hands
became trapped in between our bodies, her hot palms splayed on my
inked chest. The other act had begun and the music for it was playing
loud, drowning out our heavy breathing and lustful pants of desire.
"We have to stop," she panted against my lips, pulling back.
"I want you Bella." I stopped her with my hands, brining her back to my
lips. She allowed me to kiss her again, but then pulled back once more.
"That's why we need to stop. We always do this," she shook her head as
she breathed hard, swallowing and trying to catch her breath.
I was tired of this shit. I wanted her and she wanted me. What was so
fucking difficult about that?
"Bella, I want you and you want me. What is so fucking difficult about
that?" Shit. It's hard to think when all the blood in your brain was now
in your pants.
"This is how everything got messed up. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have pulled
you up here. I'm sorry." She shook her head and I cupped her face into
my palms.
"I'm not sorry Bella," I whispered against her lips. "I'll never be sorry
that I was with you or for what we had together. Have together." I
pulled her face back up to mine and kissed her softer this time, trying to
show her that it wasn't all just lust for me. I cared for her and wanted
her in every way, not just this way.
She allowed me to show her, kissing me back just as tenderly, and fuck
maybe trying to show me too. I held her small frame in my arms, wanting
for all the world to just be able to keep her prisoner here for forever. I
knew that was not possible though. I moved my lips to her chin and then
jaw as my air ran out, traveling them up along her face. She breathed
just as breathlessly as I did and curled into my embrace, allowing me to
hold her and not just trap her in my arms. My chin rested against her
temple and I sighed hard.
"Fuck. That was sexy," I chuckled once.
"I can honestly say I don't really give a shit if I win this year or not,"
she chuckled back.
"I'm sure you will." I pulled back and tried to find her mouth in the
darkness.
My lips begged for another taste and I leaned my head in to take hers.
She allowed me to have her and I took full advantage of her weakness,
sliding my tongue into her mouth again, but still kissing her slowly. My
hands slid down the incline of her back, pressing my fingertips against
her spine and trailing them down over the slope of her ass. Bella hummed
against my lips and pressed into me, grinding herself into my hard-on. My
hands on her ass guided her further into me and she groaned at the same
time I did from the friction. I didn't hear shit, but thankfully, Bella did.
"We need to stop," she pressed against me and spun around. I saw the
lights flick on and the announcer from earlier came through the curtain.
Bella went to step forward towards her, but I stopped her. She looked
back questioningly at me over her shoulder and I nodded down to the
tent in my pants. She smiled lightly and stepped in line to conceal said
boner from the lady's eyesight.
"Isabella! What an amazing display you put on this year!" She cooed.
"Thanks," Bella nodded.
"We are going to be announcing the winners soon. Just wanted to pop in
and say hi!" She waved and backed her way out of the curtain as Bella
waved.
Damn cock blockers.
Bella, of course, won the competition.
..
After the show, Bella returned to her room to change and then was to
meet us downstairs for lunch. I returned for a quick change too, seeing
as how someone ran off with my fucking shirt bastards, I really liked
that shirt. Today's lunch was casual, so I was only going to throw on a
simple tee, or something, with my jeans. My phone beeped as I was about
to slide the drawer open for one. I dug into my pocket to retrieve it and
when I saw the message, my brow furrowed.
I need help. Come quick.
-B
My brain quickly raced through the million different possible scenarios
which could warrant a message like that. Before I could settle on one,
my feet were already making their way out the door and to Bella's room.
I was having one of those moments like when Ness would start crying or
screaming out of nowhere from another room in my apartment and I had
no clue why. My heart raced as I stood before her door, and as my hand
lifted to knock, I paused, seeing it was open, just like she left it the
other night, with the latch turned backwards. My hand apprehensively
pushed it open a bit, and I just barely peered in. Bella was sprawled out
across the bed, belly side down, with her arms dangling off the edge.
"Is that you?" She mumbled into the covers with her head down.
"What's wrong?" I pushed past the door and walked over to her quickly.
"I can't move," she chuckled, still facing down.
"What?" I kneeled down beside her head and she lifted her face to look
at me.
"Food Porn training kicked my ass...well my shoulders and back anyhow,"
she smiled and then put her head back down. "I can't move," she
chuckled again.
"What do you need me for?" I asked nervously and a little fucking
confused.
"A massage. You give good hand," she chuckled harder.
"Oh," I smiled.
"Actually, Emmett would have been a better choice, but he wouldn't come
help me. Too busy with his TweetyRose."
"So you're saying I'm the default massager? Like, not as good, but will
make do huh?" I climbed to my feet and sat beside her on the bed.
"No. I am saying that it would be more prudent for me to have chosen
Emmett, because I don't get the warm fuzzies down below when he rubs
his grubby hands all over me," she huffed.
This was an open invite for some teasing. I was so RSVPing for this party.
"Warm fuzzies, is that what happens to butterbean?" I trailed one finger
down her spine and she snapped her head up to face me.
"You do not have my permission to address her formally, just so you
know."
"I believe I have already addressed her quite formally, Bella." My dick
twitched as I smiled smugly at the memory.
"Just get on with the massage Edward. I'm starving and would like to
attend lunch sometime this year." She was so damn cute when she was
flustered and angry.
"Take off your shirt." I instructed.
"What?"
"If you want a proper massage, then take off your shirt." She looked at
me like she was going to show me how to jam a man's nose into his brain.
"You'll be lying on your belly. I'm not going to see anything or fucking
grope you. It is no different from what a professional would do." She
stared at me for a long minute, debating, but then huffed and sat up on
her knees.
"Look away," she pointed. I listened and turned away from her, feeling
her move next to me, and wanted to laugh. I had Bella's pussy in my
mouth for Christ's sake she was really afraid of me seeing a little tit
action?
"Alright," she said.
I looked back to her. She was laying face down with her arms crossed
under her chin. Our bodies mimicked each other, as we both were only
donning a pair of jeans and missing our top. I took a steady breath and
reached my hand to carefully sweep her long, chestnut hair away from
her back. As my fingers brushed her bare skin, she shivered slightly and I
felt goose bumps rise on her flesh. I swept her hair over her shoulder
and now had a full view of the henna tattoo along her back. It mostly
worked its way up the center, the largest part being at the bottom of
her back. I studied it carefully with my eyes, trying to figure out its
intricacy. It was quite lovely and looked amazing on her delicate skin.
"What made the artist choose this design for you?" I asked, looking down
to the black pattern.
"She said it was for good luck."
"Do you like it?" I asked, maneuvering so that I could straddle myself
over her legs, for better leverage.
"It's pretty," she said simply.
"Does it make you think anymore about getting one a real one?" My
thumbs pressed into her skin softly, along the lower part of her back.
"Yeah, but I don't think I'd want one that big," she chuckled.
"You would die if you got something like this your first time," I agreed,
chuckling lightly in return.
"Does it really hurt that much?" She asked.
"Um," my hands started to work a little harder, finding all the knots and
kinks. "I personally don't mind it it's kind of like a good pain. Most
people don't like, or can't handle tattoos along the spin though. It's
painful. I don't have one there, so I couldn't tell you how it feels from
personal experience."
"Did any of yours hurt?" She asked, turning her face so that her cheek
lay on her arms.
"The shit on the inside of the arms hurt, 'cause the skin there is really
sensitive. The outlining is tolerable, but when they start shading the shit
in, it's a little uncomfortable."
"Hmmwhere is a good spot that doesn't hurt?" She chuckled.
"Um," I chuckled myself trying to think of an answer. "I'm really not
sure. It is a needle going into your skin Bella," I teased.
"Well, where do you prefer it then on a girl?" She asked. I opened my
mouth to speak, but then it hit me. Was she asking me because she
wanted to know where I would want one on her? Hmm
"I'm rather partial to tattoos on feet or wrists on girls, but both of
those places hurt like a motherfucker."
"Really?" She asked surprised.
"Yeah, it is very sensitive skin."
"No, I mean the feet part," she chuckled.
"Ohyeah.what's wrong with that?" I moved my hands to her shoulders,
and she closed her eyes as I eased away the knots in her neck with my
thumbs.
"Nothing, I just expected you to say something a little more risqu," she
sighed softly.
"Like what? Tramp stamps and tit tats?" I teased.
"Maybe," she smiled, still keeping her eyes closed. Shit, what if she
"So you know, I hate fucking tramp stamps. They disgust me. And tit
tattoos are like a fucking Tom Hanks movie only one out of every ten
you see are worth the five bucks you pay," I explained.
Bella chuckled hard and I removed one hand from her back, allowing it to
palm the space beside her arm on the bed. I rested most of my weight
there, needing to lean forward and not wanting to crush her under me.
My hand that was still on her started to work its way down her back,
using the butt of my palm in a circular motion to get any missed knots.
She hummed and tucked her arms under her chest. My hand stilled for a
moment as she caught me a little off-guard with something that should
not have been so erotic.
"Sorry, did I mess you up?" She moved her arms back under her face and
leaned her head back down, flashing me a little tit action accidently as
she did it.
"Um, you're fine," I shook my head and tried to continue.
"I could fall asleep like this. You know if you decide you hate the
restaurant business, you could totally become a masseuse," her lips smiled
as her eyes closed.
"I don't like touching random people. I have no idea how those people do
it." It's only you BellaI like touching you.
"I would have to agree with that. Hand shaking is like a major feat in my
book." She chuckled.
"Do you feel any better?" I asked softly, only lightly running my hand
over her bare skin.
"Mm hmm," she nodded, still keeping her eyes closed.
I kept my hand moving over her back, making a circle pattern with my
palm laying flat. My eyes watched her face and she once again moved
her arms under her chest, sighing as she did.
"Does it feel good?" I asked softly, leaning a little lower to her face, my
left hand still supporting my weight.
"Mm," she hummed contently.
Fuck.
"We're going to be late for lunch." I said, leaning closer.
Stop me now Bella.
"Mm hmm," she hummed again.
Fuckingfuck.
"And everyone is going to wonder where we are," I added, closer.so
close.
You're final chance Bella.
"Mm hmm," she hummed and arched her shoulder up towards where my
mouth was headed.
Fuckfuckingfuck.
I kissed her shoulder once, soft and slow, letting my lips suck softly to
her warm skin. She didn't freak out or back away, so I was apparently
not reading the signs wrong. In fact, she fucking hummed again and tilted
her head to allow me in further. This time I went for the crook of her
neck, giving her an open mouthed kiss and then moved my way up towards
her ear as my hand on her back came to rest on the other side of her.
"If you don't want this Bella, you better say so now. I don't do blue balls
twice in one day," I whispered in her ear, punctuating my meaning by
giving her another wet kiss on the neck.
She moved, and I wanted to recall my words, thinking she was changing
her mind. I leaned away, resting on my knees still over her. She twisted
under me, turning so she was now on her back facing me. She said
nothing, but just pulled me towards her, using the front of my waistband.
I fell back on my palms, resting them on either side of her head. Her
small hands traveled up to my neck and she gripped the hair at the nape
of my neck into her fist, pulling me down. She gave me soft kisses that
were tender and not at all what I was expecting.
"When we get back to Miami," she whispered in between kisses, "We'll
work on the friends shit." She kissed me a little more hastily. "But for
now," she kissed me again, wrapping her legs around me and forcing me
down on her, "I just want you like this."
I was not about to argue with that shit.
Her lips parted under mine, and I gave into my need for her. My tongue
slid into her mouth, gliding gently over hers. I tilted my head to the side,
taking her mouth into mine deeper, and lowered myself down onto my
forearms, imprisoning her under me right where I wanted her.
Our kiss was slow and sensual. Not at all hasty and how it should have
been with the amount of pent-up desire that lied within me. My hands
framed her face and I thumbed her cheeks lovingly as I kissed her. We
went slow, pausing as we became breathless, and I leaned my forehead to
hers, panting with desire, wishing like hell that I didn't need air. Her lips
let me know when she was ready for more and brought me back in. When
she pulled back again and I caught my breath first, I pulled her back in,
trading off the roles. My bare chest was flushed to hers hard on soft,
inked flesh upon a clean pallet of bronzed beauty, only becoming one in
the same through need and desire and the craving we both shared.
My lips moved down her chin, to the line of her jaw, creating a heated
trail of opened-mouth kisses to her collar bone. My hands slid from her
face under her shoulders, and then followed the slick flesh along her spin
until I had two luscious Bella ass cheeks in my palms. I kept my face
buried in her neck kissing, nibbling, fucking loving her panting in my
ear. Her legs tightened around my waist, grinding herself into me, and I
squeezed her ass firmly in my hands in response to how good she felt. I
loved her ass I was definitely an ass man. Tits were good too, but ass
was much better. Especially right nowBella's sweet assin my hands.
Much fucking better.
Not that I had any intention of skimping the tits.
Her tits were good, perfect. Yes, let's move on to the tits.
My lips slid down her slick flesh, over her collar bone, not stopping until I
reached my destination. I opened my mouth for her taut nipple, sucking it
softly into my mouth and then releasing it only to take it back once
more.
Then twice.
Three times.
She moaned on the fourth.
Clawed my shoulders on the fifth, and that's when I lost my shit.
I sat back on my knees, unbuttoning her jeans and reached behind me to
tug them down her legs. Bella undid my jeans as I pulled hers off. I slid
my way off the bed, removing them along with my boxer briefs in one
clean slide. As I climbed back onto the bed, Bella held my gaze as her
lips parted, and she leaned back on her elbows, spread before me. I
stroked my cock once as I reclaimed my position on top of her. She laid
flat on her back, running her hands up my inked arms as I dipped the
head of my cock inside of her slowly. Her eyes closed and she held her
breath, but I watched her face, wanting to see her expression as I
entered her.
I went slow, savoring every nerve that became alive as my body joined
with hers. Her warmth and wet surrounded me, sheathing my length with
her desire and arousal. The base of my body hit with hers and she finally
let go of her breath, sighing my name in response. My eyes closed
momentarily to the feeling, trying to calm my senses that were awake
and alive to every sensation. I had just entered her and already was
almost over the edge.
"Come here baby." Her hands were around my neck, pressing my forehead
into hers. "Take your time," she whispered against my lips, sensing my
tension. I held my place within her, lowering my lips back to hers and
kissed her gently as my body became acclimated to hers.
"Mm," I hummed, moving slowly out of her and sliding back in just the
same.
I kept my forehead to hers, needing to be as close to her as possible. My
body rocked a little faster and my fists gripped the bed sheet firmly as
she tried to undo me with her tight walls.
"So good Edwardso fucking good." her hands slid up into my hair and I
lowered my face into her neck, tasting her warm skin with my mouth
again. Bella's cell phone began to ring, vibrating loudly against our hushed
panting and murmured words. Four rings shrilled until it finally went to
voice mail.
"How many times?" I asked, thrusting harder.
"Howmanytimeswhat?" she whispered quickly before she held her breath,
waiting for me to do it again.
"How many times do you think they will call looking for us?" I made sure
to slide slower this time, but knocked her ass into the bed with the
force. She gasped and only shook her head to reply.
"Whatever number you guess" I repeated the same movement, "Is going
to be the amount of times I make you cum, Bella." This time I made sure
to slide my hand under her ass and lift her so I could hit the spot within
her she craved.
"Three," she breathed. I hit it again and she dug her nails into my neck.
"Fourdefinitely four," she changed her mind.
I leaned off her, resting myself on my knees and left hand. I pulled her
closer to me, resting her legs over mine so the back of hers thighs rested
on the top of mine. The position angled her back, allowing me to hit deep
within her and I used my right hand on her clit. My thumb rolled her
swollen bud gently and she tensed as I drove harder, making sure to hit
her spot every time my body slammed into hers.
"Right there, Bella?" I rubbed her clit harder, using the same words that
always produced her orgasms before.
"Right there, baby. Right there," she panted. I gave her three good
thrusts and pinched her clit gently, holding it between my fingers as she
came around me. I held completely fucking still, trying not to lose my
shit, and just let her have the moment.
"That's one," I whispered after she started breathing again. The phone
rang again, in perfect timing, and I pulled myself from her, needing to
change positions. I guided her up with my hands, turning her in front of
me. She leaned down on her hands and it was then that I realized, I
never had her like this before.
My hand ran over her ass cheek and I allowed my thumb to run along her
center. She bucked slightly as I rubbed once to her sensitive clit and
leaned my lips down to her skin, placing a soft kiss to the apple of her
cheek. The back of my hand slid down the inside of her thigh, pushing her
legs further apart and I kissed my way along her backside until I
reached the valley in between. My tongue flicked out, lightly tracing over
her wet center.
"Edward," she moaned, clutching to the sheets with her fists. I repeated
the same thing, licking her just as slowly, until I reached the beginning
of her back and finished with an open-mouth kiss. On my third pass, I
palmed her pussy and dipped my thumb inside of her.
"Fuckfuckfuck," she cried out, panting hard with her head bowed in
between her shoulders.
"Two," I kissed her backside again and then hovered over her, needing to
be inside her again.
I slid back slowly into her, loving how she always felt new every time.
Her body stretched around me, constricting with the aftermath of the
first two orgasms. My hand reached under her, rubbing gently at her clit,
knowing that she was extremely sensitive. My finger swirled slowly,
trying to keep her right where she was and heighten her senses all at
the same time. I pushed forward again, rocking a little harder, flicking
her bud as I entered her fully.
"Do you want number three Bella?" I whispered before kissing the back
of her neck.
"Yes," she panted.
"Right now?" I mounted her, knowing I would have to hit deep to get a
third orgasm out of her.
"Yes," she cried out. I used my hand that was under her to pull Bella's
left leg out further, opening her up wide for me. She leaned her head
down onto her hands, arching her back towards me, and closed her eyes.
I of course, watched her.
"Right here?" I fucked her deep in our new position.
"Fuck yes," she moaned.
"More?" I waited for her answer, staying deep inside of her.
"More," she pleaded. The phone rang again and I counted that off as the
third, in my head. I pulled out from her and gave her another good pump,
stretching her as I pressed the base of my body into hers, pressing the
limits of how much of me I could fit into her.
"More?" I asked again, holding still.
"More please more Edward," she panted. I pulled out slower, sliding
back in faster. She cried out and I swirled my fingers against her clit.
"EdwardEdwardEdward," her voice trailed out as her breath caught in
her throat, and her third orgasm took hold.
I pulled out, panting myself, and swallowed hard, trying not to cum. My
fingers kept her orgasm alive and as soon as I knew I was alright, I slid
back into her. My hands pulled her up, flushing her back to my chest,
and I wrapped my arms around her, holding her tight in my grasp. The
phone sounded again, somehow seeming much more desperate than before
maybe it was just because I was dying to cum, but I wasn't sure. I
pressed my lips into the crook of her neck, trying to be gentle with her,
knowing she had to be close to her breaking point. The back of her head
leaned against my shoulder and she held onto my forearms as I held her
to me. As I traveled up her sweet neck, she tilted her head, meeting my
lips, and I kissed her soundly. My thrusts were slow, moving in sync to
our kiss.
"Come with me this time Bella," I whispered against her lips. I loosened
my hold on her as her breathing became more labored, and palmed her
breasts in my hands, trying to stimulate her upper body this time.
"Mm," she hummed, leaning her head back to my shoulder. "Right there,"
she whispered, tilting her head to look at me.
"Right here?" I pumped a little faster, squeezing her tits firmer in my
hands.
"Right there, Edward. Right there," she panted, closing her eyes. The
phone rang and I drove harder, holding her to me with my hands full of
her tits.
"Come for me baby," she whispered before her breath caught, signaling
her fourth climax.
"Fuck." I pulled her into me hard each time as I spurted three long
streams inside of her. I knew it was fucking wrong. I knew I should have
fucking pulled out, or not done this at all, but I just couldn't find it in
me to care cause she felt so fucking good around me.
So perfect and justfucking right.
"Four." I wrapped her back in my arms and held her to me, kissing the
side of her head several times before I took a deep breath, trying to
settle myself.
The phone rang again and we both chuckled lightly. Bella hummed in my
arms and tilted her head to mine, kissing my jaw with her sweet lips. I
cupped one hand to her face and kissed her back on her forehead before
I released her.
"Go to the restroom, sweetheart." I pulled out from her slowly and she
gripped my arm as I did.
"Shit." She moved quickly from the bed to skip to the bathroom.
I fell down into the bed, completely drained, letting out a hard sigh, and
closed my eyes for a moment, trying to refocus. I heard Bella in the
bathroom, turning the water on, and I assumed she was showering. Her
cell phone sounded again and I reached over to the side table to grab it.
As I flipped it open, I saw it was Emmett, just as I suspected.
"What?" I said, irritated.
"Ohuh, where are you? Where is B? You guys were supposed to.."
"I know. Sorry. We are just talking alright?" I lied.
"You can't talk at lunch?" Sometimes he was so dense.
"No, we can't. Just go without us. We'll get something later." Like room
service.
"Alright, well can I talk to Bwait, why are you answering Bella's
phone?"
"Em, I am assuming you are standing amongst people who know nothing
about the shit that Bella and I have together, yes?"
"Uh, yeah."
"Well then maybe you should save your inquisition for when we are
alone," I said pointedly.
"Oh, yeah...right. Sorry. Well anyhow. Tell B to call me. Alright?"
"Yeah sure." I flipped the phone closed and tossed it back on the table,
then slid down into the bed, closing my eyes once more.
I must have dozed off, because the next thing I felt was Bella sliding
under my arm as I lay on my side. Her fragrance crept inside of my
airways, causing me to hum at how pleasurable she smelled and felt
against me freshly washed and warm.
"Hi," she said softly, placing a small kiss to my lips.
"Hi," I replied, kissing her back.
"I didn't mean to wake you, sorry," she said, kissing me again.
"I didn't mean to fall asleep," I teased.
"It's alright. You deserved it," she chuckled lightly, resting her head into
my chest.
"Emmett called while you were in the shower. I told him I had you folded
like a pretzel and you couldn't come to the phone." Her head shot up and
I laughed.
"Kidding, of course. I told him we were talking and to fuck off." I kissed
her head and she relaxed back into me.
"That was definitely the best conversation we have ever had," she
chuckled.
"Think so?" I stroked her damp hair with my fingers.
"Mm." she curled into me further.
"Are you hungry? Before you said you were starving," I asked.
"Yes, but I don't want to move," she sighed.
"We can call room service," I kissed her head lightly.
"Mm, can we just lay here quiet for a minute?" She asked softly.
"Sure."
I hugged her and allowed my head to rest atop hers. She melted into me,
sighing hard, and I placed one last kiss to my neck before I felt her fall
limp. My hand nestled under her damp hair and I allowed my finger tips
to rub small circles into her scalp. She felt so small and delicate and
warm and perfect. I yawned once and let out a long sigh, feeling
completely content and falling right back into my own dreams.
.
"You knowyou were supposed to be helping me get rid of the sore
muscles, not bring on more," Bella whined as we walked to a local eatery
just a few blocks down from our hotel, once we woke up from nap time.
"Want me to carry you?" I held out my arms.
"No," she grumbled. "I'll just have to deal with looking like I have a pole
jammed up my ass."
I fucking snorted at her.
"You have such eloquence about you sometimes, Bella, it amazes me." I
took her hand and walked across the street with her, being careful of
cars. Some A-hole in a minivan had just almost hit a bicycle rider the
block before, running a red, and I wasn't taking any chances.
"You have this real need to treat me like a child, don't you?" She raised
our hands as we crossed.
"No, I'm pretty sure the last hour proved who your daddy was Bella." I
winked at her and she gaped at me. "Ah, where's the paparazzi when you
need one. You being speechless is definitely a Kodak moment." I tugged
the door open and she punched me hard as she walked inside.
We ordered our food. Teriyaki beef sandwiches with pineapple rice on the
side and some drinks. There was a small grouping of tables in the corner
we chose to sit in, Bella sliding into the booth before me and demanding I
sit on her left. She apparently had issues with sitting alone on a booth
bench. That was fine it let me be closer to her.
"So," she wiped her mouth and reached for her drink. "What did Em want
when he called?"
"He wanted to talk to you about something," I shrugged taking a bite.
"I should call," she pulled her bag to her lap and searched out her
phone.
I ate while she dialed him and noticed a group of young girls eyeing me
from the table to our left. They looked away giggling as I caught them
and I shook my head at their immaturity, and went back to my food.
"Finejust give it to him Emmett. NoI really don't care, its fucking
money. Make my life easy why don't you." Bella took an angry bite and
tossed it down.
"I have to go Em, just listen to me please." She flipped her phone down
and tossed it on the table.
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"It's nothing," she shook her head and reached for her food.
"Talk to me Bella. We're supposed to be doing that shit, remember?" I
asked softly, looking towards her.
"It's just James. It's no big deal."
"I think anything that has to do with James after what you told me is a
pretty big deal sweetheart."
"He just asks for a bigger payroll sometime for the staff, that's all. Its
favoritism, but not as bad as what he could ask for." She took a bite and
leaned back wiping her mouth.
"Why does he need a bigger pay roll?" I asked
"I don't know Edward 'cause maybe he fucking sucks at time
management," she huffed.
"I'm sorryI shouldn't be getting mad at you. I'm notIt's just" She
shook her head.
"He grates your ass," I teased, trying to lighten her mood. It worked a
little, as she gave me a faint smile.
"Those chicks are checking you out." She smiled wider, looking at them
from across the room.
"I see that." I took a long sip of my drink as she stared at them.
"You should go and give them your autograph," she chuckled, looking back
to her food.
"Yeah, I'll get right on that," I said sarcastically.
"Can I ask something Bella?" She nodded at me as she ate her food. "If
James has shit on youwhy don't you get shit on James even out the
score, you know?"
"Like what Edward? What could compare to what he has?"
"Call his bluff. You said he uses it for fear see if he'll really do it. He's
on the tape too you know. Chances are he won't be too keen on showing
his ass all over the TV and internet."
"Edward, he would not only get rich off selling the tape, but he would
also be considered some type of legend having nailed me in my
restaurant. Shit doesn't work the same way for women as it does for
men. I would be the slut and he would be the man."
"What if he is just bluffing though? How do you even know he has a
tape? Maybe it's all a lie," I shrugged.
"I don't think he's lying and I don't think he's bluffing. I'm perfectly fine
to not find out if he is too."
"Number one, you are not fine with this. Number two, what about the
other thing I said?"
"What other thing?"
"Evening out the score, having shit on him, Bella. I'm sure he has some
type of dirty skeletons in his closet."
"I don't know," she shook her head and looked away.
"Bell." I waited for her to look back towards me. "Whatever happened to
becoming a monster to take down one, love?" I tucked her hair back and
rubbed her cheek as I held her gaze.
"I don't know that I am that big of a monster, Edward."
"Well maybe it takes a couple of monsters," I smiled crookedly at her.
"You're not a monster either. Your punk ass doesn't even know how to
deal with your ditzy baby mamma," she smiled teasingly.
I leaned in to kiss her but was stopped as I watched her brow furrow,
looking past me. I looked back to see two of the giggle girls from the
table across the room coming our way. I groaned internally and of course,
Bella laughed in amusement out loud. They couldn't have been more than
18 or 19 years old.
"Hi!" one of the tall blondes said, pausing at our table.
"Hi," I said back lamely.
"So um, my name is Kimber and this is Shayla," she said.
"I really like your tattoos," the other girl cooed. Bella was shaking next
to me, sliding down in her seat and trying not to laugh. I pinched her
under the table and she kicked me.
"Thanks," I chuckled.
"Did they hurt?" Kimber asked.
"No, not really." Bella poked me in my side and I grabbed her hand,
holding it over my crotch. Kimber's eyes about popped out of her head.
"So, do you go to school around here?" Shayla asked.
"No honey. I am long past school days. I don't live here either." Bella
was now trying to wiggle her hand free, but I held her tight.
"Do you guys mind? Me and my brother are trying to have dinner," Bella
said irritated, scooting closer to me.
"Ohhe is your brother?" Shayla's eyes widened, thinking Bella was not
my girlfriend.
"Yeah, my baby brother. Measly eighteen years old," she smiled at the
girls.
"Really?" They said in unison.
"Yeah. Bella is my sister. We are very close," I rubbed her hand on my
crotch and they both looked down, mouths gaping wide open.
"Really close," Bella whispered, playing along finally. She then leaned
over and ran her finger down my face, pulling my chin towards her. I
played along, trying to hide the smirk on my face and kissed her full on
French kiss style.
The girls didn't say goodbye, they simply backed away slowly as Bella
climbed into my lap and we had a nice When Harry Met Sally moment.
The only thing missing was someone saying, 'I'll have what she's having.'
No one wanted this shit.
Bella pulled away still sitting on my lap and chuckled as she wiped her
mouth, as I may have put a little more umph into the kiss than needed.
Okay fuck it, I did do that shit. My arms wrapped around her waist and
Bella's hands held onto my neck, her ass slightly sitting on the table, as
booths were not made for this type of fuckery.
"Shouldn't you want to be all up on some young blonde poon Edward?"
She teased.
"Should? Probably. Do I want to be? No, not in the least," I shook my
head.
"How come? I thought you had a thing for blondesspecially young ones?"
She whispered, leaning in closer, still teasing.
"I've grown wiser with age Bella," I leaned my lips to her ear. "I prefer
brunettes with sexy henna tattoos." She chuckled and I kissed her cheek,
leaning back.
"Speaking of tattoos, are you still getting this one fixed?" She asked,
tracing her fingers over the black rose.
"I'm planning on it, yes," I nodded.
"When?" She asked.
"I'm not sure. I have to wait for the guy who usually works on me to
come back to Miami. He is in LA right now, for the next few weeks
actually," I explained.
"Oh," she nodded. "Can I go when you do it? Like to watch."
"I guess. It takes a while, especially this fuckery, because he will have
to cover it up."
"That's alright. I just want to see how it's done." She slid out of my hold
and back to her seat.
"Ready to go Bell?" I collected our trash and slid out.
"Yup." She followed me out and I heard her chuckle behind me. I looked
back to her after I tossed our trash to see what was funny. She was still
looking at the same group of girl and a wicked gleam cam into her eye.
"I think I'll have you carry me now."

I was full and tired after our food. Bella and I sloshed our way back up
to our hotel room, choosing my suite this time, and plopped down into bed
to watch a movie. As she crawled under the covers, I debated, but knew
I had to call Ness. It was almost her bedtime and I couldn't stall on that
shit just because Bella was here. I sat back against the pillows with her
by my side, sunken down into the bed watching as I dialed.
"Sorry, I have to call Ness and say goodnight," I explained as I dialed.
"Sure, of course," she nodded, looking back towards the screen.
My mother picked up on the third ring and I could hear irritation in her
tone.
"Hey mom. What's wrong?" I asked.
"Nothing honey. Just having issues with the remodeling," she sighed.
"Sorry, you should know how that goes by now though, yes?" I teased.
"Haha Edward. How is Hawaii?" She asked, probably changing topics so I
couldn't pick on her any longer.
"It's fine, quite beautiful actually," I smiled looking down to Bella, but
she didn't see me.
"That is great dear."
"Yeah. Can I talk to Ness, I know it's almost bedtime, sorry for calling so
late."
"You're fine. She's wide awake. You're father took her for ice cream and
she is bouncing off the walls full of sugar."
"Mah," I whined. He knew I hated that shit.
"I know, I know. I already yelled at him. Trust me." She held the phone
away and called for Ness.
"Papa?" She panted into the phone, completely out of breath.
"Hi sweetheart," I smiled.
"Daddy!" She squealed.
"What are you doing baby? You sound very winded."
"Pwaying wif pop pop."
"What are you playing?" My father did not like to play, I couldn't even
guess what it was.
"Sheckers," she giggled.
"Checkers? That isn't a game that makes you run out of breath
sweetheart," I chuckled, sliding down a little into bed.
"I know but" she swallowed and took a deep breath, "I was in da udder
room and gamma said you was on da phone."
"Oh. So you ran just for me?" I chuckled.
"Yup," she said proud.
"Thank you baby. Daddy will bring you back something nice alright?"
"Mm'k. Daddy?"
"Yes sweetheart."
"When do you com back? I misses you," she sniffled.
"I leave tomorrow morning baby. So tomorrow night, when you are
sleeping, daddy will surprise you and be there, okay?"
"I can't seep."
"Why not honey?"
"Becawse, you not dewre."
"I will be tomorrow Ness. I promise, but it's like with Santa, you have to
sleep so I will come, okay?"
"And bing pesants?"
"Yes sweetheart, I'll bring you presents," I chuckled.
"Kay den daddy."
"Let me talk to grandma before you hang up honey. I love you."
"Wuv you papa." She passed the phone to my mother and I heard her
feet take off again.
"Edward?" My mother asked picking back up.
"I'm going to kill dad."
"Goodnight Edward," she said irritated.
"Wait, I really wanted to say something."
"Go on."
"Thank you for watching Ness. I'll be home really late so please make
sure she tries to sleep."
"Sure honey, I'll make sure to tie her down to the bed."
"I'm serious."
"Me too," she chuckled.
"Mah," I whined again.
"Good night Ed-ward."
"Night," I grumbled, flipping my phone closed. I tossed it aside and slid
down into bed, wrapping my arm around Bella's shoulder.
"What are we watching?" I asked.
"UmI'm not sure. I was just flipping channels." She shook her head and
I stared at her, knowing something was off.
"What is wrong Bella?"
"Nothing. Why would something be wrong?" She kept her face forwards,
still flipping.
"Because number one you're not looking at me when you answer, and
number two, you just passed Man Vs Food three times in a row." I
grabbed the remote control from her and tossed it aside.
"What is it?" My fingers turned her chin towards me. Her expression was
pensive, but she took a deep breath and spoke.
"Why did you lie the other night to Ness?" She asked nervously.
"Lie about what?"
"About being with me," she looked down and I released her chin. My
heart broke as I realized what she was asking, and I took her chin back
into my hand.
"Bella, I only lied because we were working and still pretty angry at
each other. I wasn't trying to hurt you though. I just didn't want to say
yes to her and make you feel obligated to talk to her when she inevitably
asked me two seconds after the word left my mouth."
"Oh," she said softly, with a slight nod.
"What did you think?"
"I just didn't know," she shrugged. "Can we watch Man Vs Food now?"
She eyed the remote.
"Sure." I flipped the channel back and snuggled next to her, fully
prepared to watch Adam take down a super-stuffed, seven pound
sandwich.
I wasn't sure what the next day would bring us. We would leave in the
morning, head back to Miami, and attempt to be mere friends, leaving our
romance behind us here in Hawaii for good. My arms held her a little
closer and I breathed in her scent like it was the last time I ever would.
Because something in my heart just told me it probably would be.









Chapter 11 "Angel Standing By"

Bella POV
7:35 am
I plotted. I planned. I schemed. I fucking hit the jackpot.
The truth was that I did call Emmett first. He fucking blew me off for
that cunt Rose though and I was left with only plan B. I was all headed
for the fucking downstairs spa for some serious R & R, when butterbean
punched me in the fucking head and told me to 'back the fuck up.'
Edward was four doors down, had perfectly good hands, and that
motherfucker was so going to give me some good shoulder rubbing. Then
of course, butterbean told me to 'fucking think that shit through' and
don't settle on just a fucking shoulder rub. No.
We wanted full on hand-on-body action.
Edward's hands his perfect hands.
Fuck and Yes.
I came. I saw. He conquered.
Did I say- fuck and yes, already?
Mm.
Right now, I could feel his lips on my forehead as we lay together. I
knew I wasn't dreaming because I could also feel his hard-on pressed into
my bare leg, and there was no way that fucking thing wasn't real. Plus,
if I was dreaming, I wouldn't be simply laying here thinking about
Edward's peen I would be all up on that peen.
"I know you're awake," he whispered in a musical tone. "I can see the
smile on your lips." He found those lips before I could speak.
"We need to get up," my stupid mouth said against his.
"This will only take a minute or two," he teased, chuckling softly. "I
promise." Edward reclaimed my lips once again.
Something told me nothing that involved Edward, his lips or this bed,
would only take a minute or two.
Fuck it. That was butterbean by the way.
Edward climbed to his knees, still keeping our kiss alive, and positioned
himself over me. His strong hand slid under my back and pulled me under
him roughly. I loved this side of Edward he was putting me in my damn
place.
And oh what a place to be under Edward, in the bed, about to get our
sexy on.
We were still nude from our 2am romp yeah, we got down like that
and his hard-on was now flush up against my bareness. He wasted no
time, nor did he need to, because I was more than ready for him. I knew
for sure I would regret this later on when I was walking around bow-
legged as a motherfucker, but did I care? Fuck no. This was my last
chance at being with him before the 'no entry' sign went up.
Edward slid into me gently. I sighed at the feeling. How perfect he
always felt. How perfect he always made me feel. My eyes closed, and I
held my breath until he slid out, trying to keep myself constricted around
him. I wanted him to feel perfect while inside of me too. Edward leaned
down onto his forearms, framing the sides of my face, and his fingers
found mine. We were joined in every facet fingers, hands, hearts, body,
mind and soul.
Like I said perfect.
His playfulness withered away as his fingers tightened around mine. I
opened my eyes to see his face and was surprised at the contemplative
expression he wore. Edward's thrusts were slow, gentle. His eyes watched
me carefully and I couldn't look away. There was so much depth in the
cool blue of them, all of his silent thoughts that I wanted so badly to
uncover.
"Bella?" he whispered.
"Mm?"
"Are you alright sweetheart?" he stopped moving.
"I'm fine," I replied, confused.
"You're crying," he shook his head. "Does it hurt?" he tried to pull away
from me, but I locked my legs around him.
"No." I shook my head and closed my eyes. I didn't realize I had been
crying. It didn't hurt.
"Then why are you crying?" Edward's hands palmed the spaces beside my
head, looking down to me.
"I don't know, but it doesn't hurt. Please." I wrapped my hands around
his neck, trying to pull him down to me.
"Are you sad to leave?" he asked, starting to move again, slowly.
"A little," I breathed, still keeping my eyes closed.
"Me too," he whispered, leaning down to kiss me.
Edward put his weight on his left forearm, using his right hand to caress
my face as he kissed me lovingly. I asked him silently with my legs to go
harder and he complied. His mouth stayed on mine, even when he stopped
kissing me to breathe. It was tender and sweet. It reminded me of our
earlier days together and the feeling burned in my chest. All I could see
was the last few weeks flash under my lids as my body begged for more
of him. It was like every part of me knew he would go away and didn't
want to let go. I clung to Edward and kissed him forcefully. He returned
the gesture and stopped his thrusting as I started to cry harder.
"I'm sorryI just" My words trailed off, trying to stop my sobbing and
he scooped me up into his arms, leaning back on his heels.
"It's alright," Edward whispered, smoothing his hand over my hair as he
held me.
Edward rocked me gently, humming softly until my sobs ran out. He didn't
ask me why I was crying again. I think he just knew felt what I was
feeling. There was no argument on the matter though. We both knew
that ending our romantic relationship was going to happen that it
needed to happen.
"You're wounding my ego Bell." He kissed my head and leaned back to
look at me. "I've never had a woman cry during sex before," he smiled,
trying to lift my mood, I assumed.
"Sorry," I laughed once, humorlessly.
"I'm just teasing." He thumbed my wet face then kissed my forehead
before he pulled me back against his chest.
"We need to get ready or we are going to miss our flight." I leaned away
from him unwillingly, but it was the truth. "I still need to pack." I slid
from the bed, fumbling around to find my clothes.
"Here," he tossed me my underwear and shirt he found.
"Want to shower here?" he asked, climbing to his feet. Butterbean
cursed at me for crying and not fucking the holy hell out of him as she
stared at his hot naked body.
"I need to go back to my room," I shook my head, and his face fell as I
pulled my jeans back on.
"Bella," he called, as I walked passed him. I turned around, and he
walked towards me, closing the distance between us.
"We're good, right?" he asked. "What I mean is, you're not going to walk
out that door and regret what happened. Are you?"
"No." I simply said. He nodded and leaned in to kiss my forehead once.
"Me either." His hand found my cheek and his stare that broke me before
was back on, and in full effect.
"Edward, the only part about this shit that I regret" I swallowed hard,
"Is that I have to walk out that door at all."
8:55 am
As I walked down into the lobby, Edward was talking with Alice, whom I
recognized from the bakery in Miami. They seemed to be getting along
quite well, laughing as they exchanged words. I expected to feel jealous,
but it didn't come. It just didn't seem like a flirtatious interaction
almost like they were brother and sister like me and Emmett. That
made me happy actually. It was good to see that not everyone in
Jessica's little ho circle was out to get Edward.
The lobby area was pretty crowded with everyone trying to check out
this morning, which was way too damn claustrophobic for my happy ass. I
scooted towards the entrance doors to get a smoke in, knowing it would
be hours before I could again. Edward gave me a smile as I passed him
and then went back to his chatting with Alice. Good boy. As I stepped
out to the curb and tapped a cigarette from the pack, I smelt the
familiar pipe that always haunted me as a child. Looking to my right, I
saw Charlie puffing away on his signature stink pipe. His eyes caught mine
and I expected him to look away, but he didn't.
"That shit will give you cancer, kid," he said, nodding to my cigarette.
"Look who's talking." I brought my smoke up to my lips and lit the end.
"Yeah, guess you're right," he chuckled once, taking a puff. "So, where
you headed off to when you leave today? Feeding the King of England?"
he teased.
"Did you get laid by a gang bang of Hawaiians last night or something?
Why are you so damn chipper this morning?"
"Forget it." He looked back to the ground and I wanted to punch myself.
"I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to be a bitch. I just.am."
"No you're not Bella," he mumbled, still keeping his eyes on the ground.
"Miami. I'm going back to Miami," I answered his original question.
"What's there?" He looked up from the ground finally, taking a puff, and
held my gaze.
"My new place. The Workshop." I took a long drag from my cigarette and
blew the smoke out hard.
"How is that going?"
"Alright. I have a new sous chef. He is really inexperienced, but good."
Damn good.
"The kid the big guy introduced me to, right?" So he was paying
attention. Amazing.
"Yeah, Edward."
"He seems to have a big smile for you. You better watch out for him,"
Charlie said.
"Are you getting all fatherly on me, Charlie?" I teased.
"No, when he steps out of line" he took a puff from his pipe, "That's
when I'll get all fatherly on you," he winked.
I was taken aback by his words. What changed? This was not the same
man who had just basically written me off a few days prior. My words
stuck in my throat and I could only stand there, puffing away smoking.
"Ready to bounce B?" Emmett's voice startled me and I spun around to
see him and the others coming out of the lobby doors.
"Yeah," I nodded as I dropped my smoked cigarette to the ground,
smashing it with my foot.
"Cool. I'll get your bags and shit. Be right back," Emmett said, returning
inside.
Edward walked passed him, with Alice on his side. She smiled at me and
said hello. I greeted her back and then she said her goodbye to Edward
before finding Rosalie. I turned back around and saw Charlie walking
towards me. Edward stood by my side and I felt his hand lightly rub my
shoulder once in a comforting gesture.
"Looks like you're off kid," Charlie said, pausing in front of me.
"Aren't you leaving today too, dad?" I asked.
"No, Sue is coming up. Our late honeymoon and all that." He scratched
the back of his head chuckling. He must have forgotten again.
"Oh. Well that's nice. Tell her I said hello."
"I will," he nodded. "Would be nice if you told her every now and then,
Bella. she misses you."
"I know. I miss her also."
"Time to get this show on the road!" Emmett bellowed, tapping Edward's
shoulder hard as he strolled by.
"Well, I'll see you, dad. Come by Miami some time. I'd be happy to show
you what the sun looks like," I teased.
"You never did like Forks," he chuckled once, looking nervous, like he
wasn't sure what to do how to say goodbye.
"Bye Charlie." I did it for him, hitting him lightly on his chest as I
passed.
"Bells?" he called, stepping back towards me. "You keep givin' those boys
hell, kid." He lightly slapped my cheek once, like he used to when I was a
kid, and then looked to Edward.
"I ever see you lick anything off my daughter again and you will have a
meat locker down in Washington with your name on it." He pointed at him
and I chuckled.
"Dad," I shook my head at him.
"Go catch your plane," he winked at me and looked away.
Edward threw his arm over my shoulder and walked with me to our
awaiting limo. As we climbed inside, I sighed, sliding into my seat and
couldn't help the smile from creeping on my lips. Emmett was inside
already waiting for us. He handed me a glass of champagne and smiled.
"To Hawaii," he said, lifting his glass to me.
"No, to Miami," I corrected, looking around the limo at all the faces of
the people who made this trip a success.
"That is true," Emmett said, resting his glass back down to pour the
others each a glass, handing Edward the last.
"To Miami," he said, winking at me this time, glass raised.
"To Miami." I tapped my glass to his and took a small sip, toasting to our
new life ahead, in Miami.
11:22 am
Edward was watching a movie next to me on the plane ride home, an old
Adam Sandler movie "The Wedding Singer". I laughed with him as Rosie,
little old lady scooped the meatballs into Adam's palms as payment for
singing lessons. I pulled one of Edward's ear buds free to speak to him.
"Ever notice we like watching shit with guys named Adam?"
"It does seem to be a rather popular name in our TV viewing world," he
agreed, smiling.
"Can I use your shoulder as a head rest? My fucking neck hurts."
"Need a massage, do you?" I saw his lips twitch as he tried to watch the
screen.
"I have no plans on being a member of the Mile High Club, thank you." I
poked the corner of his mouth with my index finger and he laughed at my
words then took my hand into his.
"Yes, you can use my shoulder if you wish," he said, answering my original
question.
"Then slouch down motherfucker. You're too tall." I readied my pillow as
he shook his head at me.
"You know, you should be nicer to me." Edward slid down into his seat,
resting one arm behind his head. "Not too many people would offer you
their shoulder."
"And no one did hence the demanding of said shoulder." I hit my mini
pillow into him and got comfy.
It wasn't long after I rested my head down that I fell asleep, only to
have woken up in a different city. We had to connect in Las Vegas, and I
was glad. This meant I could visit my other restaurant and I was happy
the others could come too. Once we all gathered in the terminal, I
grabbed Emmett's arm to inform him of my plans.
"Our connecting flight isn't for a few hours, so I want to go over to
Twilight and have dinner. Make a call to Laurent and make that happen,"
I instructed.
"Already did," he said smugly.
"Well it's about fucking time you did something right." I teased back. He
laughed as we walked together through the airport.
Edward was having his ear talked off by some girl at the McDonald's
counter. Apparently giving a person their fucking French fries and taking
their money was not an easy task for ditzy teenage girls. He looked
rather tortured by it though, so I thought it was pretty damn funny. As
he made his way back over towards us, I started to giggle uncontrollably
and he knew exactly why.
"Shut it." Edward said, pointing at my face.
"Can I have some fries sexy tattooed man?" I teased, batting my big
brown eyes at him, full on 'Puss in Boots' style.
"No." He held them away from me, but I could see the smile playing on
his lips.
"Give me a fucking fry Edward." I grabbed his shirt, but he shook his
head no.
"Don't make me kick you. I am not opposed to violence when it comes to
getting my way, especially when my way leads to fucking French fries." I
held my foot up to him and cocked my eyebrow challenging him.
"They aren't even real potatoes, you know," he teased and then held
them down to me.
"Uh, that's why they taste so fucking good Edward, duuuh." I grabbed a
handful and smiled at him.
"That was not the answer I would have expected from you." Edward said,
walking with me as we made our way to the exit.
"It's just how the laws of humanity work Edward. Our body's always
want what our minds know we shouldn't have." I gave him a meaningful
look and he held his fries back to me, not commenting further on my
cryptic bullshit.
6:34pm
"Four motherfucking assistant chefs not in uniform, a tray of seafood
gone bad, and fucking dirty counters! What the fuck is going on up in this
bitch, Laurent?!" I was going to kill him. As I gave Edward a tour of our
Las Vegas location, Twilight, I was utterly embarrassed. This was not how
to show Edward the ways of running a restaurant. No wonder Laurent's
sales were down.
"You have thirty motherfucking seconds to get to explaining yourself
before I fucking kick you in the funbag and drop your ass like a bad
habit, Laurent!" I was practically nose to nose with him, shouting in his
face.
"It just.I.He would" Laurent stuttered.
"Iwhowhat" I mocked him and then pushed him away from me,
pulling the tray of rotten seafood from under the counter.
"This shit, motherfucker, is about a grand worth of the ocean's finest.
Since you have no reason for why it has gone to waste, you'll be paying
for it. Emily is out of uniform. Which means she has technically not been
working since she's clocked in, because I am pretty fucking sure that nice
set of rules, that I spent a few thousand dollars paying someone to
compile into a nice reference book for my managers as well as staff,
explained that if you are not in proper uniform attire, you are not to
attend work. Basically Laurent, you just got yourself a nice hefty fine my
friend. I also haven't missed that you have been going over your allotted
hours I check that shit. I know you all think I don't, but I fucking do,
with a fine-toothed comb, asshole. Your bussers have averaged three
hours of overtime each week for the past two months. That shit is coming
out of your pay too and you can kiss your fucking bonus tata as well." I
stared at him as his eyes flared. That was a soft spot for him.
"Want to fucking tell me off don't you?" I was back in his face, waiting
for the words I knew would never come. He knew better. "Go fuck off
and clean my kitchen." I pushed him away and turned around to see
Edward trying very hard not to laugh.
"Oh don't even, Edward. You will get your ass reamed someday too." I
grabbed a fistful of his shirt and tugged him along with me, exiting the
kitchen.
"May I ask something?" Edward said, as we approached our awaiting
table.
"Sure," I replied, taking my seat.
"How do you name your restaurants? What makes you choose the names?"
He picked up the menu and his eyes roamed over the gold lettering of
Twilight on the cover.
"Um," I took a sip of water, thinking of an answer and then spoke. "Well,
Riley's was my first. It was my Grandfather's name. Then this was next,
it was justsomething that came to me one night, watching the sun set.
Las Vegas has some of the most beautiful sunsets I've ever seen." I took
another sip of water and settled it down.
"And The Workshop?" Edward asked, watching me carefully with his eyes
in the way that always made me feel so exposed.
"It was the name of Charlie's diner when I was a kid. When he first
bought it, that's what the old owner used to call it."
"But what does that have to do with Miami? I don't understand."
"I guess I just wanted something that was more laid back, but still a
little refined," I shrugged.
"What's your favorite?" he asked as the bread was delivered to the
table.
"My favorite what?" I asked, reaching for the basket, checking under the
cloth to make sure the baskets were clean.
"Restaurant," he replied, as I placed a roll on his plate.
"I'm not sure. They all mean something different. Probably New York or
Paris, if I had to choose."
"Hmm," Edward's brows scrunched, looking down to his roll.
"What?"
"I didn't think you would say New York."
"The restaurant is fine. I also happen to love New York. It's just like me
it never sleeps." I smiled, taking a bite of bread.
"I see. You know I have never been there. Africa, most of Europe, Japan-
seen them all. New York, never," he smiled.
"Really? Waityou have been to Africa?" My brows scrunched looking at
him in surprise.
"My parents liked to travel a lot when Emmett and I were kids. Every
summer we went somewhere new," he explained.
"No shit. What the fuck is Africa like?" I picked up my glass of wine,
smiling that I never had to ask for shit in my restaurant. The servers
just knew what to bring me.
"It's hot," he chuckled.
"No shit Sherlock."
"I'm just kidding. Well, it is hotbut it is also beautiful. A little scary
when you're ten and surrounded by shit that can eat you, but other than
that, beautiful." He picked up his water goblet and took a sip.
"Did you like Japan?" I asked, having been there myself, by myself and
never being able to talk to anyone about it before.
"I did. I was like, fourteen I think, so I could appreciate it a little more.
Some of the history didn't quite affect me the way it would today though
I'm sure. I mostly just enjoyed eating," he smiled.
"Fuck Edward, I'm twenty six and my goal is always to enjoy the food
above all else. It's in our genes, you better just get used to that shit."
"Have you been?" he asked.
"Several times." I nodded. "I help Gordon run Conrad, so I have to go
every six months or so."
"Really?" he asked surprised.
"Yeah, I have a tour coming up in a few weeks actually. Which reminds
me, I am hiring a new sous chef when we get back to Miami. You need to
start working with someone. I should have been training them the same
time as you, but I didn't think you would last honestly." Our food finally
arrived, Emmett having ordered for us ahead of time. We were dining
'family style' tonight. Everyone sampling a little of everything my menu
offered. Edward looked confused as I passed him the salad bowl.
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"I just didn't know you decided to promote me." He took the bowl and
passed it along, not taking any for himself.
"I didn't. I just said you needed to work with someone. If I decide to
promote you, then you will need a number two and I don't have time to
train somebody after I make that choice. Plus," I passed him the bowl of
handmade ravioli, which he took a generous portion of. Good boy "I
like being able to hold having someone else over your head. Make you
sweat a little," I teased. Edward paused after he speared a ravioli, and
settled his fork down on the plate. Turning his head, he looked deep into
my eyes.
"And you think you don't already?" Edward held my gaze and I swallowed
hard as he brought butterbean to life with the intensity of his eyes.
We cannot fuck him in the bathroom. We cannot fuck him in the
bathroom.
"Regardless, you need a number two." I looked back to my food and tried
to focus. He, apparently, was having none of that. He leaned over and
brushed my hair back to whisper in my ear.
"You are aware that we are not on Miami soil, yes?"
"Edward," I said in a warning tone, glancing to the other members of our
table.
"They don't give a shit Bella. Look at them." He glanced around and I
followed Edward's eyes. He was right. They were all wrapped up in their
own conversations and eating.
"There is only one thing at this table I wantand it isn't the fucking
ravioli," Edward whispered again, and I shivered at his words.
My officeI could totally fuck him in my office
"My office." I slid back from the table and climbed to my feet. No one
noticed. I didn't look back to see if he was following me or not, I could
just sense that he was.
Was this shit risky? Hell motherfucking yes. Did I care? Hell
motherfucking no.
I felt him before I even got a chance to spin around and close the door
behind me. Edward's hands we're on my hips pulling me into him from
behind. His lips found my neck and began an assault of nibbling and
kissing until he reached my jaw. Butterbean was flying at a thousand
miles per hour, and to drive her even more insane, he slid his hands over
my hips, down the lower part of my belly and then pressed his fingers
over the hill she resided on in between my legs.
I fell forward, palming my desk and he bent over with me, still keeping
his lips to my neck. Edward's left foot slid my own out further, spreading
my legs as he held me. I felt his hands move back over the same path
they traveled, but this time in reverse, not stopping until he reached the
hem of my white sundress.
"Bella, you, in fucking white," he leaned over me whispering, "Drives me
insane." Edward reached under my dress, sliding my panties slowly down
my legs. His fingers rubbed along my slick skin as I heard him undoing his
pants with his free hand.
"Please," I pleaded in a whisper. Edward dipped his long middle finger
inside of me and I ached with desire for more, arching my back towards
him, asking silently. Edward pumped his finger slowly, teasing me, knowing
he was driving me crazy.
"Esto es mio" This is mine. Fuck he was bringing back the Spanish shit to
tease me.
I moaned at his words and he added a second finger. His thumb found
Butterbean, and began playing with her, swirling her slowly as he fucked
me with his perfect digits.
"Edward, please," I pleaded again.
"Recuerda, la gente nos puede escuchar," Remember, people are listening,
he whispered, removing his fingers.
"Please," I whispered again, just barely audible. Edward complied with
my final request. I felt the heavy head of his cock on my entrance, but
he paused.
"Right here?" he asked, his words that always drove me crazy for some
reason.
"Fuck yes," I panted.
I arched my back further, wanting to feel him deep inside of me. Edward
slid slowly, inching his way in, palms splayed on the desk on either side of
me like bookends. Oh, we were so going to have a happy ending. The base
of his body hit mine and he groaned. I bit my bottom lip, trying to be
quiet and not have my employees find out that I was fucking one of their
own in my God damned office right now. He pumped harder the second
time, even harder on the third, and I had to fight hard to keep the
moans in my throat in place. Shit, he felt fucking good. Edward's right
arm hooked underneath me, across my breasts and his hand gripped the
crook of my neck as he fucked me harder.
"Fuckyouregonnamakemecum," I panted as he drove harder, slamming
into me.
"Cum with me Bella," he whispered as he grabbed hold of me with both
of his strong arms.
"Fuck," was the last word I could speak as my orgasm took over.
Fucking Las Vegas.We came, we saw, Edward conquered once again.
.
EPOV
After dinner and the random fucking that, by the way, was
motherfucking spectacular we finally made our way back to the airport
for our final flight back home. Bella sat with Emmett this time, one row
ahead and to the right of me and Angela. They were going over the
payroll for this week and some other items that had fallen behind due to
our trip out of town. I realized, sitting here, hearing Bella laughing with
Emmett and teasing him, how much I loved their relationship. Emmett
never really talked about work much over the years. We usually only saw
each other on holidays and shit, but the topic never really came up. If
anyone did ask, he usually gave some generic answer and moved on. Kind
of like, the same answers I gave my parents about shit now. We just
didn't really talk about shit like that. Maybe it was my mother Esme's
old rule for my dad that didn't allow him to bring to his work home
because it irritated her. I wasn't sure though.
Emmett never really said much about Bella though and watching them
now, I couldn't understand why not. You could tell by how he acted
towards her that she meant something great to him. Even the way he
looked at her sometimes, you just saw his love for her in his eye. It was
the same way he looked when he stared at Renesmee at times slightly
in awe and highly amused.
"Is this alright?" I looked over to see Angela pointing at the small screen
overhead.
"Oh, yeah, that's fine. I'll probably sleep the rest of the way anyhow." I
patted my stomach, "Ravioli." And hot office sex.
"Ah," she nodded with a smile on her face. "Bella's ravioli's are the
best."
"Yes, they are." You should try her doggy style.
"So, are you nervous?" she asked.
"About?"
"About heading the restaurant being in charge when she leaves,"
Angela explained.
"Oh, um, a little." Bella leavingyes, nerves out the wazoo on that one.
"I guess you will get your first taste of what it's like soon huh? I heard
Emmett arranging her plans for her Japan trip to Ramsey's restaurant."
"Yeah, she mentioned that. How long does she usually stay for?" I asked
nervously.
"A week, sometimes two. It depends on what Gordon asks for when she
goes I guess. You know, that's a pretty big honor him asking her to do
that," she nodded.
"I would think so," I agreed.
"Edward, can I ask you something?" she looked passed me as she spoke.
"Sure."
"Does your brother like me?" I realized she was looking at Emmett.
"Um, I don't know. I never asked," I lied.
"Then I guess, he never told," she said sadly, looking away.
"Emmett isn't really the one woman kind of guy Angela. I don't think you
really want to go there," I shook my head, looking at her.
"Maybe I could change that," she argued.
"I think it's pretty hard to change people hun."
"Ha. Says the man who changed Isabella Swan," she laughed.
"I didn't change Bella. She is very much the same." Perfect.
"That's funny, because you see, tonight at dinner, Bella didn't once send
back her food or spend the entire time griping about every little
imperfection. She instead sat with you, fully engrossed in whatever you
all were talking about." She smiled smugly.
"Well maybe I'm just a good conversationalist."
"You are, as I am enjoying my conversation with you very much. However,
I know Bella and I am saying right now she has a serious case of the
warm fuzzies for one Edward Anthony Cullen."
"How the fuck do you know my middle name?" I asked surprised.
"Because you're all that woman ever talks about. I had to spend the
entire rehearsal night for Food Porn hearing about how great it is that
your middle name is Anthony. You know, before you came along, I actually
had a friend who would discuss a random hot guy and how lonely we
were. Now, I am just the loser with no one and Bella has the hot random
guy with an awesome middle name," she huffed.
"Are you done?" I teased.
"Sorryitjust sucks." She sat back in her seat and closed her eyes.
"Angela?" She opened her eyes and looked over to me.
"You're not a loser. And if we are trading stories of having to hear
people crushing on you behind our backs, you may consider having a talk
with Weeble Wobbles," I winked.
"Ben likes me?" she asked surprised.
"Loves, would be a better description Angela Carolyn Webber," I
smiled.
"He really talks about me?" she asked shyly.
"All the time. I haven't told Bella yet, but you would be the reason why
he gets the veg wrong and fucks up so much. Ben struggles to pay
attention when in the presence ofwhat was the way he said it?...His
'Fairy Tale Princess'," I winked again and she blushed, looking forward in
her seat slightly flattered, and I am sure embarrassed but in a good
way.
"Is Edward swooning you?" Bella teased, sitting across from us in the
other set of seats.
"Nojustits nothing," she shook her head, still flustered.
"Well, that's too bad. You could use some swooning." Bella kicked her
with her foot playfully.
"Yeah," Angela smiled at her.
"Actually, I was just telling Angela about Weeble Wobbles' love and
adoration for her," I explained, looking at Bella.
"Eww, Ben?" Bella scoffed.
"So sorry we can't all have the front cover of GQ fawning over us,"
Angela grumbled, waving her hand over me.
"First of all, Edward doesn't fawn all over me. Second, he could never be
on GQ magazine, 'cause he's too fucking tatted up. Third, I wasn't trying
to insult you. I just thought there was a certainteddy bear esque sort
of man in your sights," Bella nodded towards Emmett, who was typing
away on his laptop.
"Well certain teddy bear sort of men seem to only like tall blondes with
fat asses," Angela spat.
"Rosalie? Oh, please. He will pump, hump and dump her by noon. Thank
fucking God too," Bella said.
"Actually, he is taking her to meet my parents," I chimed in.
"What?!" they both yelled.
"That's what he said," I held up my hands.
"Edward you cannot let that happen," Bella said angrily.
"What do you want me to do? He's an adult and he doesn't get in my
business so I don't get in his."
"What a nightmare," Bella grumbled.
I just laughed and turned my attention back to the movie playing
overhead, as did Angela. Bella stayed in her seat, gazing out the window
and then slid over further to the seat closest to the glass. I looked back
to her again and she faced me at the same time, smiling as she did, and
pointed her finger to the window.
"Twilight."

The last two hours of our flight were a struggle. I was super tired, but
highly uncomfortable. Angela passed out on my left and Bella was dozing
off across from me. I tried to pay attention to the movie, but every time
I found interest, Bella's head would slide down as she nodded off and her
discomfort was now causing me to be even more awake. I slid over to the
seat next to hers and lifted up the middle arm rest.
"Come here." I said softly, pulling her towards me. She mumbled
something incoherent and shook her head.
"I have a lap with your name on it." I patted my leg and she whipped her
head up, looking at me with a sour expression. I waggled my brows to
tease her further and she puckered her face more.
"Just lay down Bella," I laughed, looking at her scrunched face.
She slumped down into my lap, curling up in a ball. The long chestnut
locks of her hair cascaded out across my legs and laid out along the seat.
I pulled Bella's small blanket over her and swept a few fallen strands of
hair from her face.
"You know what you look like?" I whispered, raking my fingers through
her hair.
"Mm?"
"A cat," I snickered. She made an annoyed sound and I laughed harder.
"That is actually a very good analogy for you I think," I said.
"What the heck are you babbling about?" She said, irritated, turning to
lay on her back facing me.
"I said you remind me of a cat."
"How the fuck do I remind you of a cat? If this is a pussy joke you can
just shut up right now," she pointed at me and I captured her hand into
mine.
"It's not a pussy joke. You remind me of a cat's personality. They always
walk around like they don't want anything to do with you, but in
truththey would really love a good ass spanking and chin scratch," I
laughed.
"I don't enjoy having my chin scratched," she said with a vexing
expression on her face.
"You also act a lot tougher than you really are," I caressed her cheek
with the back of my fingers. "A kitten, who thinks she's a tiger."
"Is this the type of fuckery you woke me up for? I was knee deep in
dreams about being drizzled with honey in places I'd rather not
describe." She flopped back over, curling up again.
"See, my angry little kitty," I petted her hair mockingly.
"Shut up," she sighed hard, and I started to caress her cheek again,
inching my way towards her chin.
"You scratch my chin Edward and I will bite your ballsack," she warned.
I laughed, covering my mouth to mask the sound.
"Angry little kitty," I repeated again, resting my head against the seat
and closing my eyes.
The next time I opened them, we were back in Miami.
***
It was about three in the morning when I finally arrived at my parents'
house. My mother greeted me at the door and after a quick hello, I made
my way to Ness' room. She, of course, was wide awake.
"You were supposed to be sleeping," I whispered, entering her room.
"Daddy," she smiled, sitting up in bed and wiggled her way down, running
towards me.
"I told you Daddy would be home tonight, baby." I picked her up and
hugged her tight in my arms.
"Missed you," she clung to my neck as I walked with her to the bed.
"I missed you too, love." I laid down in the bed with her in my arms,
kissing her all over her face.
"Pesants?" she asked wide-eyed.
"Sweetheart it is too late for presents." I kissed her nose and her little
face fell slightly.
"Alright, maybe I have one," I teased, tilting to the side to retrieve it
from my pocket. Ness sat up, her little hands splayed on my chest,
waiting eagerly. How adorable my baby was.
"Here you go sweetheart." I held it out and she cupped her hands for me
to place it inside.
"Seasell," she smiled.
"A seashell from Hawaii baby. I found it just for you. Do you know why?"
I thumbed her chubby cheek while I waited for her to guess, but she
shook her head no.
"Because it is beautiful and one of a kind, just like my sweet daughter."
Her eyes looked up to me and danced with happiness.
"Wuv you daddy." Ness rocked forward, wrapping her little arms around
my neck and I held her to me, breathing in her sweet warmth.
"I love you too baby. Daddy loves you so much." I kissed her hair and
held her head in my palm. "I'm sorry Daddy is gone so much honey. I'm
just trying to work hard so I can give you all the things you deserve." I
kissed her again. "You deserve even more than that Ness. You know
that?" She nodded against me and I kissed her once more.
"So kay Daddy." Her little hand rubbed my cheek and I scooped her into
my arms, cradling her so I could look at her face.
"You're growing too fast. Could you stop doing that please?" I teased.
"Silly Daddy." She kept her hands on my face and I kissed her little
palms.
"Do you know that you are the most precious thing in the whole world to
me Renesmee?" I rocked her, looking in her big blue eyes.
"Yeah," she said softly.
"And that I would do anything for you?"
"Yeah," she nodded, still playing with my face.
"You know that every second Daddy is gone, I think about you." I kissed
her hands again.
"Me too," she said, pointing at herself.
"You think about you too." I raised my brows and she giggled.
"Nowah, I tink about Daddy," she pointed to my face.
"Oooh," I nodded and giggled again. "I feel very special then, having a
sweet Renesmee thinking about me. It is an honor." I leaned down to kiss
her face and she puckered her lips. I kissed her once and then she
reached her hands out, framing my face.
"You awre specil Daddy," she whispered.
My heart ballooned at her words, swelling bigger than I thought possible.
Her eyes held so much innocence, yet maturity for such a little person.
She was growing up too fast.
"Thank you sweetheart," I kissed her again. "I must have learned it from
you." Reaching over to the night table I flicked off the fairy nightlight,
allowing the room to go dark.
"Time for sleep baby." My lips kissed her head again and I tried to move
her to the space beside me, but she wiggled so that her belly lay against
me, shoving her face into the crook of my neck.
"Night Daddy," she whispered, giving me her signature kiss, and rested
her palm on my cheek.
"Good night, my love. Sweet dreams."
***
"Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!" Ness was bouncing on my chest, trying her
damndest to wake me up.
"Baby?" I rasped, trying to pry my eyes open.
"Bewwa here! Bewwa here!" She bounced harder.
"What? Where?" I blinked fervently, finally seeing Ness in front of my
face.
"Wif Gamma," she pointed to the door and I assumed she must have been
downstairs.
"What are they doing?" I asked her, sitting up and placed her beside me.
"Tawlking," she said, sliding off the bed after I stood up.
"Let's go say hello." She took my hand and walked with me downstairs.
I heard Bella talking with my mother as we came down the steps and she
looked up as Ness and I approached the kitchen entry. My mom was
pouring her a cup of coffee and Bella was picking at a muffin, sitting at
the kitchen island.
"Bewwa!" Ness raced over to her and Bella smiled, wiping her hands on a
napkin before she reached for her.
"Hi Squeaky," she pulled her into her lap and Ness hugged her tightly.
"Wewre did you go?" I knew what Ness meant, but Bella didn't.
"We were in Hawaii Squeaks." Bella reached for her cup and took a sip.
"Dat was a wong time," Ness said, roaming her eyes over Bella, like she
was trying to remember. Her little hands reached for Bella's long hair
and she sniffed it once.
"Sawberries," she giggled, lifting Bella's hair to her face, showing her.
"Yes Squeaky, it's my shampoo. Hotels like for people to smell like fruit,"
Bella smiled, tickling Ness' cheek.
"Petty," Renesmee held her hand to Bella's face and stared at her.
"Thanks Squeaky. I would be prettier though if your Daddy didn't have
my bag of make-up." She looked up to me finally.
"Hmm?"
"Our luggage must have been swapped. We have the same bag and I
didn't even read the tag before I grabbed it. I would have just called
and told you to bring it in this morning, but I need my notes and
shstuff, for my meeting this morning."
"Oh. I didn't even bring it in last night." I raked my hand through my
hair and took a seat at the island as Esme poured me a cup of coffee.
"Thanks mah." She patted my back and smiled.
"Bewwa wook." Ness reached into her pocket and produced the seashell
from last night.
"Wow, where did you get that?" Bella asked.
"Daddy. Is fom da beach." She held it out to Bella.
"That is very pretty. You know" Bella leaned down to her face and
whispered, "If daddy will get my luggage, I can give you what I brought
you from Hawaii."
"Mo pesants?" Ness whispered back.
"More presents. I'm not cheap like your father either," she teased,
looking over Ness' head at me.
"I'm not cheap. I got her something too. Several somethings for that
matter." I climbed to my feet to go retrieve my bag from the Volvo.
"Renesmee, your pop pop is waiting for you at the pool honey. Why don't
you go get ready while Daddy is getting Bella's bag," I heard my mother
say as I exited.
"Kay." Hearing her little feet paddle across the floor, I looked back to
see her climbing the steps at warp speed before I pulled my keys off the
hook at the front door.
"Oh Edward!" My mother called.
"Yeah?" I hollered back.
"Your darling Jessica is on the phone."
"Fuck," I muttered, walking back into the room for the receiver.
"Play nice." Esme said, handing me the phone.
"Mm Hmm." I held the phone to my chest to block out what I was about
to say.
"I think you have something to say to my mother." I pointed to Bella and
her face scrunched in confusion. I held the phone up and wiggled it at
her.
"Oh." Bella began to laugh, covering her mouth. I nodded at her and
walked out of the kitchen again. The sounds of my mother laughing
filtered throughout the house and I laughed myself, answering the phone,
knowing my mother now knew Jessica's nickname.
"Hello?" I said, still laughing.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing, my mother. What's going on?" I tugged open the front door and
walked my way towards the Volvo.
"You're not Ness's father." She said.
"What?"
"I'm ordering the court to make you take a paternity test. I don't think
she is yours."
"I hope you are kidding. We both know she is mine Jessica. What hair is
up your ass now?" I hit the alarm button on my key ring to pop the
trunk.
"I'm serious. I was with another guy you know the day before I fucked
you. It could be his."
"You get some type of sick pleasure out of this don't you? Well you know
what Jess, I really don't care what the fuck you say. Ness is mine. You
want me to take a fucking test, fine. I'll piss in a cup, shit in a barrel,
whatever makes you happy sweetheart." I clicked off the phone and
tossed it angrily across the driveway. It shattered in a thousand little
pieces and I cursed, knowing my mother was going to kill me.
After I pulled the suitcase from the trunk, I slammed the lid hard and
walked back to the house. Bella was still sitting with Esme in the kitchen
and Esme knew as soon as she looked at me that I was pissed.
"What now?" she asked.
"I owe you a new phone." I said, sitting Bella's bag down by her feet.
"What Edward?" Esme asked again.
"I fucking broke it. I know you like it, I'm sorry. I'll buy you a new one,
alright?" I said, still pissed off.
"I'm not talking about the stupid phone, Son. I'm talking about the little
whore. What did she say?" Esme put her hands on her hips, waiting. I
looked away from her though, knowing that I needed to address Bella
with this issue, not my mother.
BPOV
8:12 am
"I need to take a longer lunch today if that's alright," Edward said.
"Why?" I asked confused.
"I need to go down to the hospital. Take some tests," he explained.
"What kind of tests?" Esme and I asked at the same time.
"Jess is demanding the court order a paternity test. I figured it best to
beat her to the punch." I could see the anger in his face causing my
thoughts to turn evil.
I hate this bitch. I hate this bitch. I. Hate. This. Bitch.
"You know, I know this guy Edward. He owns a big farm out in Texas,
raises cattle. When some of the cows get sick and need to be destroyed,
he has a big meat grinder, like the size of a train car. You push the cow
into it, and its body bones and all get ground into a paste. They
usually add it to like dog food and shit. I'm just say'n," I shrugged,
giving him a pointed look.
"I'll keep that in mind when my cheek is being swabbed," he nodded,
looking down to the marble island countertop.
"Edward," I said softly and he looked back up.
"Squeaky has your eyes, looks just like you, right down to the cute lip
biting bullshit you both do. She's yours," I nodded slightly and held his
gaze.
"I know. Jess is trying to piss me offand it's working."
"STD's," I said.
"Excuse me?" he said, arching a perfect brow.
"STD's. I was watching a 4am rerun of Judge Judy last night and there
was this divorced couple on there arguing over the paternity of their
kids. The lady made her ex take like four tests because each one came
out with a large enough variable for retake, so the guy got pissed and
demanded that she take an STD test, just for spite. I don't know what
the law is in Miami, but I guess, where those people lived, you are
allowed to demand a test if you think it constitutes a risk to your child.
AgainI'm just say'n," I held up my hand innocently and then turned
back to my bag to get out Ness' present, idea firmly implanted into
Edward's head.
"I see," he simply said.
"So, where is Squeaks? I have her souvenir," I held up the box to him.
"Didn't she come down yet?" he asked, looking between Esme and myself.
"I didn't see her. Maybe your father caught her on the way down," Esme
said.
"Mah," Edward scoffed, turning to exit.
"Ness?" He called out.
No answer.
"Renesmee?" he said again, pausing by the steps.
No answer.
I saw Esme press the intercom on the wall.
"Carlise?" she called.
"Yes dear?" he buzzed back
"Is Nessie with you?" she asked.
"No. I thought she was with you." he said.
"Fuck Mom," Edward yelled, hearing Carlisle.
"I'm sorry, I'm sure she's fine. Just calm down." She walked out of the
kitchen and towards the stairs. I stood up from my seat and walked
towards Edward as he looked out the back patio doors, grumbling under
his breath.
"Edward, maybe she followed you outside and you didn't see her. You
were mad at Jessica, maybe you just didn't hear her." I walked towards
the front door and he followed.
We both looked around, calling out her name, but saw nothing. I started
to panic, and my worry only made Edward freak out even more. We
looked under the cars, the bushes, asked the neighbor standing in his
yard if he'd seen her but nothing.
The Cullen's house was huge, she could have been anywhere. Edward took
one side of the yard and I took the other, meeting around back, and
Edward stopped dead in his tracks when I saw him. He bent down and
picked up a soaked teddy bear in his hands, then turned back to face the
pool. We both saw her at the same time and ran. Renessmee must not
have been there when he looked out earlier, but now right now she
was. Edward jumped in, sloshing his way towards her quickly and lifted
Ness up into his arms. I kneeled at the side of the pool and reached for
her as he held his daughter's lifeless little body to me. Edward climbed
out he took her back from me, lying her on the ground to begin CPR, but
I stopped him.
EPOV.
"No!" Bella shouted. "You are too strong Edward! You will hurt her! Let
me do it." I held up my hands and allowed her in. Bella placed her head
to her chest and listened. I freaked watching as she began to work,
pumping slowly on her tiny chest and then breathing a small pass of air
into her little mouth."Come on sweetheart," she whispered against her
blue lips. "Breathe for me Ness."
Bella stayed calm, counting her compressions in a whisper and then
breathing gently with her hands cupping Ness's face. I was praying,
pleading with God for him not do this to me.
To us. To her. Not my baby.
"Oh my God Edward!" My mother screamed, running over to us.
"Go call 911!" I yelled back at her, pushing her away from me.
"She's gonna be fine," Bella whispered. "Breathe Squeaks." She kept
working. I held Ness's little hand in mine and rubbed her little fingers,
trying to do something and not feel so God damned useless.
On Bella's last compression, Ness started to choke, and Bella rolled her
to her side, patting her back. I reached for her, but Bella held her hand
out, stopping me.
"Just give her a second." Bella let Ness lean on her forearm, and brushed
her wet hair back from her face.
"It's alright sweetheart. You're fine. You're fine," Bella said soothingly,
kissing the top of Ness' head. Renesmee started to cry and Bella scooped
her up, handing her over to me finally.
"Daddy's here baby. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry." I held her to me,
covering the side of her face in kisses as she cried.
The EMT's arrived and I had to pass her over to them so they could
check her vitals and make sure she was alright. They said she was fine,
but I wanted to make sure, so we took her to the hospital so they could
run some tests.
Bella and I drove together, Esme and Carlisle followed behind. Bella
called Emmet to let him know she wouldn't be there for a while and
asked James to stay to cover for the prep I wasn't doing. Once the
doctor took Ness in, Bella pulled me along with her outside.
"Fucking hell," she fumbled around in her purse, pulling out a smoke and
lighting it with a shaky hand. Bella took a long drag and then passed it
to me.
"Feel free to smoke that fucker all by yourself," she said, reaching in her
purse for another.
"My fucking father" I grumbled, taking a drag.
"It was an accident Edward. Don't be pissed at him," she said, lighting
her smoke.
"If he would have been watching her like he was supposed to, it wouldn't
have happened."
"There were three other adults in the house. None of us were watching
her," she countered.
"Doesn't fucking matter." I took another drag and closed my eyes as I
blew the smoke out hard.
We stood in silence for the remainder of the time, smoking. Bella finished
hers first, tossing it down to the ground and stomping it with her foot.
As she turned to go back inside, I grabbed her arm, preventing her from
doing so. After I flicked my cigarette to the ground, I pulled her to me,
hugging her tightly in my arms.
"Thank you Bella," I kissed once to her hair. "You fucking saved my little
girl," I whispered, holding her tighter.
"I'm just glad she's alright." Her arms wound around my waist and
hugged me back, smoothing her palms over my back soothingly.
"Me fucking too," I said. She let me hold her for a minute and then I
released her, but brought my hands up to frame her face.
"I knew you were an angel." I kissed her forehead once, keeping my lips
to her skin for a long moment before I leaned my head against hers.
"Let's go inside," she said, lacing her fingers with mine.
We made our way back in and I fucking groaned seeing Jessica walking
towards us, up the hall.
BPOV
"Well, well, well. Look at Mr. Perfect Father and how he fucked up
today." Jess walked up to Edward and placed her hands on her hips,
giving him the smuggest fucking look of all time.
That. Was. IT.
Not today bitch. Not. Fucking. Today.
I pushed Edward aside, fisting a handful of Jessica's blonde hair at the
nape of her neck, and forced her to walk backwards to the row of chairs
at the end of the hall. Her legs hit the back of the plastic seat and I
pushed her down, still holding tight to her locks.
"You listen to me cunt rag," I spoke softly, but firm. "You're mouth is
about to write a check your ass can't afford. Think that it's fucking
funny to taunt Edward because he can't do shit about it? Well guess
what? I can. I know how much money it costs to get my ass out of a
little assault charge. It's about 1.7 million dollars. Been there, done that,
bitch. I would happily pay triple the amount for the beating I would love
to give your ass, so unless you want the nice nurse over there," I twisted
her head towards the nurse behind the desk, using her hair fisted in my
hands, "To add a name that starts with a J and ends with whatever
stupid fucking last name you have, to the list of new patients on her
chart, I suggest you keep your fucking mouth shut. Do not speak to
Edward. Do not look at Edward. Don't even think his fucking name. As a
matter of fact, don't think of anyone's name that even begins with the
letter E, just to be fucking safe. Sit right here and be a good little
Jessicunt, just like mamma told you to, got it bitch?" I tugged her hair
hard once more and then backed away.
"I'm going to get a coffee. Anyone want something?" I asked pointing
towards the cafeteria hallway as I passed the Cullens.
I of course, didn't wait for a fucking reply.
EPOV.
"If you don't marry her, I will disown you as my son," my mother
whispered over to me after seeing Bella's wrath she placed upon Jessica.
"Let's go get a coffee with her," she patted my arm and I shook my head
no. "Edward, Ness will be fine. You need to eat something and get a little
caffeine in your body."
"Fine," I huffed.
Esme took my hand and walked with me silently towards the cafeteria.
Jessica lowered her gaze as I passed and I wanted to fucking be happy
about that shit, but there was nothing except my little girl being alright
that would produce such an emotion from me right now.
Bella was sitting in an orange chair with her feet propped up on another,
in front of a television screen next to some old lady in a wheel chair, as
we entered the cafeteria. They were watching some soap opera bullshit
and Bella was laughing and pointing with her as they ate a bag of
Cheetos Bella had in her lap.
"I'll get us something to eat," Esme said.
"Yeah," I replied absentmindedly, keeping my eyes on Bella.
"Be right back," she walked off to get our food and I went over to where
Bella was sitting.
"So you see, that douche cheated on him and got pregnant with the other
guy's baby, only it wasn't his baby, it was the ghost's baby," Bella
explained the show to the lady.
"Damn kids these days," The old woman shook her head, crunching on a
Cheeto.
"The fucked up thing, Mary, is that the dude really loves her. He's a
good catch too. I'd fuck him silly if I were in this soap. Mm," Bella
shoved a Cheeto in her mouth.
"Me too," The old lady agreed, reaching for Bella's snacks.
"Corrupting the elderly?" I whispered, sitting down next to her.
"Please, this bitch is dirtier than me," Bella laughed.
"Oh, who is this fella?" Mary asked, elbowing Bella.
"This is Edward. Be nice to him, I'm not afraid to kick a lady in a
wheelchair," Bella laughed, reaching for another cheesie.
"I would never be mean to someone so dashing," Mary winked at me. "Is
this your husband?" she asked Bella.
"No, Edward is just someone I fuck silly," Bella winked backed at her.
"Oh, lucky girl," she patted Bella's arm and they giggled together.
"Only you Bella could find the one person in the hospital as filthy minded
as you are," I sighed.
"Edward is my employee actually. I offered him a really good benefits
package and in turn, he offered me his," she continued to tease.
"That's a good trade," Mary agreed, giggling.
"His little girl almost drowned today though and he is all kinds of fucked
up about it, so really, I'm just saying this to embarrass the holy fuck out
of him and get his mind off that shit." Bella held up the bag of Cheetos
to me.
"Cheesie?" she asked, giving me a pointed look.
"Thanks." I reached for one, and she smiled.
"I better go sit with my mother. She would be highly offended at the
content of this conversation." I shoved the Cheeto in my mouth and got
up.
"Care if I come? I would love to see a little interaction between you and
your mother. Something just has funny written all over it," Bella smiled
teasingly.
"Sure," I held my hand out for her.
"See ya later Mary. Remember, when you're riding that old fart's dick up
on 3rd, you have to squeeze with all your might to keep that old peen
going. Alright?"
"Got it," Mary gave her the thumbs up and I had to fucking laugh, just
as I'm sure Bella intended for me to.
"Sweet lady," Bella nodded as we walked to our table, tossing the
wrapper in the trash.
"Why do I have this vision of that being you at her age?" I wrapped an
arm around her shoulder as we walked. Bella just laughed and took her
seat once we reached the table.
"Oh, hello Bella. I'm sorry, I didn't know what to get you, dear. What
would you like?" My mother asked, rising from her seat.
"Oh no, I'm good. For one, I am just going to steal Edward's cookie," she
reached over and took my chocolate chip cookie from the tray. "Number
two, I am just here to observe the fuckery of your relationship," Bella
took a big bite and smiled at me.
"Charming," I teased, wiping a bit of cookie from her mouth.
"So Bella, how is your restaurant doing? Edward never tells me anything."
My mother glared at me and I rolled my eyes at her. Here it comes.
"It's good. We just placed in the top three percent actually." Bella took
a bite of cookie and then reached for my coffee.
"Is that good?" My mother asked, buttering her roll.
"It's pretty amazing actually. Especially for just opening up. The man
from the Michelin guide is eyeing us actually."
"Who?" Esme asked.
"And you wonder why I tell you nothing," I mumbled, shoving a bite of
sandwich in my mouth.
"It's like the highest award you can get for owning a restaurant," Bella
explained.
"Oh, I see. Do you have many of those then?" Esme asked.
"Three. They just gave me one for my place in California actually. When
we were in Hawaii."
"I wondered about that," I said.
"You did?" Bella asked surprised.
"Yeah, I heard them say three when they announced you for the
newcomers speech and wondered why. I remembered you saying you had
two," I explained, taking back my coffee from her.
"When the hell did I tell you that?" Bella asked scrunching her brows,
with a little amusement playing on her face. I thought for a moment,
pausing with the cup to my lips, trying to remember.
"I think it was the first night I worked for you." I took a sip and she
stared at me.
"What?" I asked.
"Remind me to give you your fucking chef coat back," she sighed, shaking
her head and then took another bite of cookie.
"Did the two of you have fun in Hawaii?" Esme asked.
"I had a good time. Did you Edward?" Bella smiled smugly.
"I had a great time. My room happened to have a very nice view," I
winked at her.
"Mine too," she winked back at me.
"So other than having sex, what did the two of you do?" Esme asked
casually, taking a bite of her bread.
I was glad I didn't have anything in my mouth because I would have
either spat it on the table or choked on it. Bella was not so lucky. She
choked on her bite of cookie and I patted her back, sliding her my mug
of coffee to wash it down.
"Sorry, but I just thought it was important to let you all know I'm not
deaf, dumb and blind," Esme said with a slight smile on her face.
"Bella and I are just friends, mother," I explained.
"Sure you are," she winked at me, taking a bite of her salad.
"Actually, I am in love with Edward. Even having his love child, but he
has informed me that he is gay and asked me to abort the baby." This
time it was my mother's turn to choke.
"That is not funny, for so many, many reasons Bella." I patted my
mother's back trying to help her out.
"Touch," my mother chuckled as she caught her breath.
"To answer your original question," Bella set her cookie down and wiped
her hands clean. "We ate some delicious desserts, fucking awesome
roasted swine and then Edward licked caramel sauce off me at my Food
Porn shown, causing us to win. All in all, not a bad way to spend five
days," Bella smiled.
"I don't even want to know," my mother held up her hand and then went
back to eating. Bella opened her mouth to begin speaking, but paused,
looking passed me. I turned to see what had her attention. It was the
doctor. I rose quickly from my chair to meet him as he approached.
"Mr. Cullen? Are you Renesmee's father?" he asked.
"Yes, she is my daughter," I replied, nodding.
"Will you come with me, please?" he asked, motioning towards the door.
"Is she alright?" I asked following him, glancing back once to see my
mother and Bella behind me.
"She is fine, but I would rather talk in my office." He faced forward and
kept walking.
"Honey?" Esme caught up to me and took my hand.
"He wants to talk in his office." I looked down to her and she nodded.
The doctor paused at his door, holding it open for us, and Bella waited
against the wall in the hallway. I looked at her questioningly, but her
face was down, not meeting my gaze.
"Bell?" I called, pausing in the doorway.
She looked up to me and I raised my brows, waving my hand forward for
her to join us. Her face looked a little surprised, but she leaned off the
wall, following us in. Jessica was already inside and taking up one of the
two seats. I let my mother have the other one and stood with Bella next
to Esme.
"What the fuck is she doing here?" Jessica asked angrily.
"She is here because she saved our daughter's life, so just shut the fuck
up because this isn't about how much you hate me. Let the fucking doctor
speak." I looked to him and he took a deep breath before he said
anything.
"You're daughter is fine. All of her tests came back in good order. Her
health is perfect," he nodded.
"Then what?" Bella asked nervously.
"Renesmee seems to be experiencing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. It is
quite common and nothing to worry over, but I need to go over some of
the symptoms with you. She will probably be withdrawn, clingy, shadow
you around the house not wanting to be alone. Renesmee might also have
nightmares or sudden panic attacks if her memory is triggered about the
event.
"It is important for her to remain very relaxed and comforted over the
next few days, even weeks. I would also advise that you talk with her
openly about what happened and explain it to her, so she can understand.
It may help her to get over some of the fear.
"I am going to send each of you home with information regarding PTSD.
Do you have any questions on what we have covered so far?" My mind
raced and there were too many questions and concerns floating around.
He took our silence as a 'no' and moved on.
"I also need to ask questions regarding this accident. It is protocol." He
opened a folder and clicked his pen.
"With whom does Renesmee live with fulltime?" the doctor asked.
"Me, Sir," I answered.
"In your own home, or in your home with you and your parents?"
"My home."
"Where did today's accident occur?"
"My parent's home," I answered.
"Whom was responsible for watching Renesmee?"
I opened my mouth to speak, but Bella cut me off.
"I was," Bella said. I looked over at her questioningly, but she kept her
eyes on my mother. "Esme asked me to watch her while she went to the
restroom and I wasn't paying attention. It was my fault."
"Is that true Mrs. Cullen?" the doctor asked, looking back to Esme.
"Yes Sir. It was stupid of me to do, but yes Sir."
"Who found Renesmee in the pool?" he asked.
"I did," I answered.
"Where were you Mr. Cullen when Renesmee was missing?"
"I was getting items from my car. We just got back from a trip out of
town. I was bringing in luggage and when I came inside and asked for
Ness, we realized she was missing and I saw her teddy bear on the
patio.then her" I trailed off at the image in my mind of her floating
on the water.
"And did you perform CPR Mr. Cullen?"
"No, Bella did."
"Is that true Bella?" he asked as he continued to write.
"I'm sorry, but shouldn't we be doing this with your father here or
something?" Bella said, looking to me.
"No one is being charged Bella," the doctor answered for me. "I just
need to know what happened."
"Yeah, so when you turn over that nice piece of paper there to the court,
you can string Edward and his parents by the balls and her douche of a
mother looks like God damned mother of the year all because one stupid
fucking accident happened. No thanks Doc. We're done here," she
grabbed my hand and tugged me towards the door.
"If you want answers from me I suggest you call my lawyer. If you want
Edward to answer your questions, then I suggest you call his father. He
is in the waiting room, so unless you have any other information about
Squeaky, we are leaving." She waited for him to answer and he simply
held out a folder to me.
"This has all the information regarding PTSD in it. Call if you have any
questions. The nurse will go over at-home treatment and symptoms you
will need to look out for over the next 24 hours." I took the folder and
thanked him before leaving his office with Bella.
"I'm sorry," Bella looked to me as we walked down the hall. My mother
stayed behind, talking to Jess and the doctor.
"I probably should have cut you off sooner, but it just sort of hit me
halfway through," she said.
"Yeah, me too," I paused at the end of the hall with her.
"Why did you lie though? You were with me Bella, not Ness."
"If they think that your parents were being irresponsible with Ness, that
might go against you in court. It's one of your stronger arguments against
Jessica. I'm nobody to the court. If they think it's me then fuck it, they
think it's me. What are they gonna do? I have no rights to take away,"
Bella shrugged.
"That's true I guess."
"Come on, let's go find Squeaky," she tugged my hand down the hall.
We found Ness' room. She was huddled in the middle of the bed and my
heart broke when she saw me and didn't move, but just looked like a
little statue, frozen solid. I hoped the sight of Bella would perk her up,
but it didn't.
"Hi sweetheart." I sat down next to her and then scooped her up into my
arms. She said nothing. I cradled her to my chest, rocking her gently as I
kissed her head repeatedly.
"Bella is here baby. She came just for you," I whispered in her ear.
Nothing.
Renesmee's arms clung to my neck and she buried her face there. It
reminded me of when she had a bad dream and I started to hum softly,
trying and sooth away her fears with the familiar sound. One little hand
came down and she turned her head to face me as she started sucking on
her thumb. It had been a while since Ness did this, but if it helped her
to relax, I wasn't going to argue with it. Bella took the papers from the
nurse and after we were given full instruction, we left. I didn't see
Jessica again and she never said goodbye or came to see if Ness was
alright.
Something happened in that moment for me.
As Bella climbed into the passenger's side of the Volvo, she turned around
in her seat and reached out her hand to Ness, lovingly stroking my
daughter's face. Ness watched her, still sucking her thumb and sighed
hard before closing her eyes. The entire way home, Bella sat that way.
Turned around, no seat belt on, watching my daughter, and making sure
she was alright. Comforting Ness with her touch.
It was then, on the drive home, I fell in love with Bella.














Chapter 12 "Chicken Soup for the Soul"
Legs and arms entwinedGently caressingYour shoulder as my
pillowSyncopated breaths so softDrifting to sleep Skin on skinVanilla and
caramelBodies warming each other Curled like spoons Wrapped in your
embraceA nuzzle to the neckSweet slumber Just you and I
BPOV
11:02 am
Holy fuck.
Edward's kid almost died.
I. Thought. I. Was. Going. To. Pass. Out.
Thankfully, I didn't. If it weren't for the fact that I had to remain in
control everyday during some rather fucked up situations in my kitchen
you know like people chopping their fingers off, lighting shit on fire and
the occasional customer choking on something I would not have been
able to hold myself together.
My brain went into instant emergency crisis mode everything else was
lost to the depths of who the fuck knows where it just went away.
Nothing else mattered for me in that moment except one thing; saving
Renesmee.
Edward was panicked and if I allowed him to perform CPR on her, he
would not have had the restraint needed to save her. Ness' little chest
would have been crushed under his power, and he would have only done
more harm than good. Again my brain screamed out to me, and I pushed
him aside. Hearing Edward's mother scream out in terror only made things
worse and I tried to keep him calm by telling him she was fine, but with
every pump, she continued to go blue, and inside I was a dying right
along with her.
Thank- Fucking- GOD, I have good ass karma. I knew feeding the
homeless and sharing my motherfucking recipe for crepes with Ramsey
would come in handy someday 'cause Renesmee fucking lived.
Anytime someone needs to know how much sugar goes into fucking pastry
products or help crossing the street I am so there, full on 'willing to
help a brother out' style.
Seeing Nessie's little face when we opened the door to her room was
heartbreaking. She looked so damn lost and confused. I was so used to
seeing her all hyper and chatty. It really fucked with me, and I knew
that if it was fucking with me it was definitely fucking with Edward.
I gave his ass the week off. He needed it and in truth, I knew Edward
would be useless to me anyway. As he should be. If my kid had almost
died, I sure as hell wouldn't be thinking about fucking prep or service.
The new kid I hired started this week anyhow and I needed to be able to
focus on him.
The truth is that I lied to Edward when I told him I wasn't sure about
promoting him. I was going to. There was no reason not to. Edward was
only lacking in one area leading and he was already making strides in
that category. It was only a matter of time before he mastered that shit
too. A few more rounds with his baby mamma wench face Jessica and
he would definitely snap out of the nice guy act. I'm pretty fucking
shocked that he's managed to keep it going this long.
Knock Knock.
"Hey Bella." Edward poked his head through my office door and I smiled.
"Hey yourself. Come on in." I went back to typing as he entered, afraid
that I would feel the need to pounce him like a mountain puma. It had
been about three days since I last saw Edward.
"So what's up? How is Squeaks?" I asked typing, glancing up only once to
quickly look him over. His eyes had dark circles under them and his
clothes were a little ratty- not his usual well put together self. This
wasn't good.
"She's alright. Well actually, not really. I had to take her to the doctor
yesterday."
"What's wrong?" My head shot up from the screen to look at him.
"She has a slight ear infection, from all the water. It's nothing serious,
but it's just one more thing to add to the shit pile, you know?" Edward
gnawed on his lip, bouncing his leg anxiously as he spoke.
"Shit, yeah. Besides that, how is she? Emmett said she hasn't been
sleeping?"
"She isn't .The first night I thought it was because of what happened,
but now I just think it is because she's sick. When Ness was smaller, she
used to have ear infections all the time and could never sleep. Kids get
really pissy when they're sick, you know? I'm hoping it's just that." His
lips said the words, but there was something different happening in his
eyes, I could see it.
"There's something else, isn't there?" I asked softly. He looked up to me,
from under his lashes, biting at the side of his thumb with a tentative
expression.
"She hasn't said anything since that day. Not one word." Edward's jaw
flexed and he swallowed hard, looking down from my eyes. He almost
looked like he was trying not to cry.
"Have you spoken to the doctor?" I asked.
"Yeah. He says she'll come around when she's ready." He shrugged one
shoulder and I knew that answer wasn't what he was looking for. It sure
as shit wouldn't have been the one I would have wanted if it were my kid
playing mute.
"Well maybe you just need to listen to him. Or maybeyou should see a
specialist or something."
He opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted by someone knocking
on my door.
"Fuck," I muttered. "Sorry, just let me get rid of this asshole." I said to
Edward. He waved me off and then I turned my attention to the door,
"Come in."
"Hey B. Sorry to interrupt, but the new kid is here for his training and I
don't know what to do with him. Hey man." Emmett held out his hand and
Edward knocked fists with him lamely.
"Shit, um, tell him to make my happy ass lunch. I'm starving like a
motherfucker up in here. Don't tell him it's for me though," I instructed.
"Alright. Anything specific?" Emmett asked.
"No, let him surprise me. I'm sure it will be more disappointing that way,"
I said sarcastically, going back to emails.
"Aww, give the kid a chance B. I saw his cred's, La Cordon Blu, damn,"
Emmet said, impressed.
"Yeah because that means he will probably be making me fucking seared
scallops or some other stupid fucking dish I have had twelve million other
damn times." I looked up to Emmett to say the next part, but really, I
was speaking to Edward. "You know what Em? I am not interested in his
fucking cred's. I am interested in his ability to run a kitchen and listen
to instruction. I already have talent and creativity in this place, the only
thing missing is a number two who is going to have the back of that
person. Understand?"
"Yeah B."
"Good. Now be a useful little General Manager and do as I asked," I
wiggled my fingers at him in a belittling manner for him to exit.
"Yes Ma'am," he smiled at me and gave a wink, knowing I had just paid
Edward a compliment, as he exited my office.
"Sorry, I should let you get back to work," Edward said, beginning to
stand.
"Actually, would you stay? Or could you stay? I'd like for you to meet
this kid and try whatever stupid, lame ass dish he comes up with."
"Um," he looked to his watch, "Yeah, I still have time."
"Oh, I'm sorry, did you have to be somewhere?"
"My mother is coming to meet me for lunch with Ness. She took her to
get a haircut at some salon a few doors down, Shampoo's and Shave's or
some shit," he explained.
"Oh," I giggled, typing out my email to a Mr. Dickward and snickering at
his name. Who the hell's last name is Dickward? "Cheating on me with
some other place, are you?" I teased.
"We're not open for lunch," he countered, smiling slightly.
"I'm just kidding. This should only take a few minutes anyhow, seeing how
scallops cook in under ten," I smiled teasingly.
"He might surprise you," Edward shrugged.
"I think I am at my quota this year on shit surprising me, Edward," I
smiled, typing away on the keyboard.
"So, may I ask something?" he said.
"Sure."
"How did it go with James this week? I don't mean to bring it up, but I'm
just curious." I lifted my eyes to him, but Edward's were down, toying
with the fabric of his shirt.
"It was fine. He only stayed for a few hours. No troublefor once." He
nodded at my words and then I went back to typing.
"Speaking of trouble, I got a nice law suit filed against me this week.
From one" I looked over to the papers on my left, "Jessica Fucking
Stanley.I knew she had a stupid last name," I laughed.
"She's fucking suing you? For what?" Edward asked angrily.
"Relax, it's no big deal. I eat bitches like Jessicunt for breakfast,
darling. This should be fun actually," I smiled widely.
"I don't think there is anything fun or funny about this Bella."
"Really? I do. Actually, I am a little amazedand let down to be
honest."
"At what?"
"I assaulted your lovely in front of a hospital full of witnesses. I was
expecting her to call the five-0. A measly lawsuit is a bit of a letdown. I
was all about being handcuffed." I waggled my brows at him.
"How can you take this in stride Bella? She's now bringing you into our
land of fuckery. That isn't really a place you want to live, trust me."
"She didn't bring me into this shit. I brought this on myself when I pulled
the fuck out of her hair. I knew she was going to do it, Edward. I'm not
stupid. You know what? This is actually a good thing." I scooted my chair
back and reached for the fax machine.
"How the fuck do you figure that?" he asked.
"Look at this." I handed him over the paper faxed from my lawyer this
morning.
"She is requestingwell her attorney's are demanding that I pay her
three hundred large. Number one, that is like a clearance special,
considering I was willing to pay like six mil to punk her ass.
"Number two, you know I am not a fucking law grad or anything, but I
am pretty fucking sure that when you have your court date, your father
will be nice enough to bring up the fact that she had a decent chunk of
change thrown her way, and I am really God damned positive that she
will have no receipts to show that any of it was spent on her daughter.
"Now, I might be jumping the fucking gun here and shit, but I am
assuming you have a nice bank account set up for Ness, right?"
"Yeah, for like college and shit. Why?"
"Maybe because Jessica having a quarter of a million dollars thrown to
her and no such savings for her daughter to speak of will boast just a
little higher for your argument over hers." I held his gaze and could see
the wheels turning.
"Ever heard of the saying 'Revenge proves its own executioner?'" I asked.
"Yes," he nodded.
"That's how you should feel about Jessica. The truth, Edward, is that you
don't have to fight to take her down. She will inevitably cause her own
doom through greed and cheap tactics. My father used to tell me all the
time, when boys picked on me for being a girl, 'Success would be the best
revenge,' and that shit is in the motherfucking truth." I pointed at him
and then turned back to my computer monitor.
"You know that you amaze me Bella. You're always positive, no matter
whatI was wrong calling you a catyou are that tough."
"Edward, if I let every petty little thing that goes wrong on a daily basis
get to me, I wouldn't get my ass out of bed in the morning. You need to
learn that shit. Plus, this might actually be the one court hearing I will
attend this yearand enjoy," I smiled evilly.
"You're paying her? Why not just fight it?"
"I can't fight it. There are cameras all over the fucking place and, in
truth, I'm fucking shocked it isn't all over TV. Besides, I already told
you, I expected it when I did it. It's just fucking money Edward. I make
it, I spend it. Whatever, it was worth the look on her face and knowing
she doesn't have the balls to call the cops on me. I'd do it again in a
fucking heartbeat, and then some." I hit send on my email and moved on
to the next.
A knock on the door interrupted us and I groaned before I replied for
them to enter.
"Oh, hey, come on in." I motioned for him with my hand to sit next to
Edward.
"Thanks Miss Swan," the new kid said, taking his seat.
"You know, me having the food in front of me," I pointed with both of my
index fingers to the space on my desk, "Works a lot better."
"Oh, right. Sorry." He stood up and I saw the smile playing on Edward's
lips before he covered his mouth.
"Fuck," I mumbled looking down at my plate. "I would say being right all
the time sucks," I looked up at Edward, "But it really doesn't." I smiled
teasingly and then held out the plate of seared fucking scallops to him
with a fork.
"Seth, this is Edward. He's a huge food critic, totally judging you right
now, and you should know Edward fucking hates seared scallops." I
looked at Seth and he gulped loudly.
"Why did you make scallops?" Edward asked, playing along as he cut off
a bite with the edge of his fork.
"I thought Miss Swan would enjoy them," Seth Replied.
"And how did you know Miss Swan wanted this food?" Edward asked,
taking a bite.
"Mr. Cullen told me to make her something," Seth replied.
"Mm hmm," Edward said, chewing as he thought, looking at Seth. "What
would you have cooked if you didn't know it was for her?" Edward asked
after he swallowed.
"Um, I'm not sure," Seth replied, wiping his forehead with the back of his
chef coat sleeve. Edward stared at him thoughtfully before he spoke.
"How much money did you pay to attend La Cordon Blu?" he asked.
"Um, I'm not sure, my parents paid for it," Seth answered with a shrug.
"That's what I thought," Edward nodded, still looking at him, almost,
sizing him up.
Butterbean blinked her eyes and smiled at this side of Edward. He was
quite sexy.
"Seth?" I called. He hesitated, still holding Edward's gaze, but eventually
broke free.
"I am totally busting your balls about Edward being a food critic.
Actually, that isn't really true, because as the executive chef of my
restaurant," I looked to Edward once, then back to Seth, "That is his
exact duty. However, he would also be your boss if I hired youand right
now, I don't think he is very impressed." I looked back to Edward.
"I'm not," Edward agreed shaking his head.
"So I suggest you go back to the kitchen and try again. This time, check
your fucking cred's at the door and try to put some fucking soul into
what you're doing 'cause in Edward's and my world, there's no room for
heartless wretches, got it?" Like Jessica Stanley or lazy ass sous chefs
who will bring us down.
"Yes Ma'am," he nodded and stood from his chair to face the door, but
Edward grabbed the back of his coat, pulling Seth back towards him.
"Bella doesn't do dishes," he held out the plate to Seth, "And neither do
I."
Butterbean was officially doing the motherfucking backstroke in my Hanes
pool.
"Yes, Sir." Seth took the plate and Edward shook his head as the kid
exited my office.
"You need to leave," I said.
"I know, I'm going to be late. Pretty surprised my mom hasn't called
yet," he said getting up from his seat.
"No, what I mean is, you need to leave because if you don'tI'm going to
be forced to hump you on my desk, which will royally fuck up my
schedule for the day, and cause you not be able to meet your mother at
all for lunch," I typed angrily as I explained.
"By the way..." I scooted my chair away from my desk, reaching behind
me on the book shelf and then rolled forward, "Here's your fucking chef
coat." I tossed it to him and he caught it.
I looked back to my computer screen and waiting to hear the sound of
the door open and close as he exited, but didn't. Instead, Edward walked
over to my desk and crouched down at my side. I looked at him, slightly
confused and he spun my chair so that I was facing him. Edward took my
hand into his and rubbed gently at my fingers as he looked at them.
"I don't really know how to say this, and the words 'thank you' really
don't seem to do my feeling justice here, but" he kissed my fingers
lightly with his warm lips, "Thank you." Edward looked up to me from
under his long dark lashes, his blue eyes smoldering full of emotion.
"For what?" I breathed.
"For everything," he kissed my fingers again, longer this time.
"I just don't want you to think of me in the same way you think of that
asshole, James, Bella. I'm not trying to take advantage of you and I know
that if I were anyone else, my ass would have been fired a long time ago
for the shit you have dealt with. I don't want that weighing on you,
because I would never do that to you, Angel. I care far too much about
you. Just treat me like you would treat everyone else." His face was
serious and sad. Almost pleading. It broke my fucking heart as he kissed
my hand, still kneeling at my side.
"You're not everyone else, Edward. So I can't fucking treat you that
way." I cupped his chin into my free hand and he looked up to me.
"You're daughter almost died a few days ago. This isn't calling out of
work faking to be sick so you can play at the beach or some shit. It's
real, and the only thing that matters to me right now is that Ness is
alright and that you are alright. The rest can all be replaced Edward,
like I said it's just fucking money. I can't replace you or Ness though,
so take the week and when you come back, just come back to me a
hundred percent, alright?"
"Alright," he nodded, then kissed my hand once more.
"And fucking bring Squeaky by when you're done cheating on me with
some other fucking restaurant. Some food would be nice too considering
my fucking sous chef, or now fucking executive chef is completely
ditching me this week and leaving me to have a fucking moron from an
expensive ass cooking college to serve me stupid sea scallops. Not that I
don't appreciate the loss in weight from lack of eating." I held up my
hand and Edward smiled at my rant.
"Doing more of that shit would help too." I poked the side of his smiling
lips and he looked down shyly, then captured my hand once more.
"Why don't you just come with us? My mother would love to see you."
"I would like to, but I have Seth here and a slew of shit to get done for
tonight's service. No sous chef, remember?" I teased, poking him again.
"It's only an hour. If the kid can't handle peeling vegetables and shit
then he doesn't deserve to be here." Edward kissed my hand again and
butterbean pleaded for me to either let him have her or agree to go to
lunch. Since fucking him would screw up both our days, I chose lunch.
"I guessI'll have to bring my laptop and email the entire time thoughI
am so fucking far behind it isn't even funny. As much as I love going to
the conventions and shit, it always screws me up." I rolled back from my
desk and Edward stood.
"That's fine. No one will mind," he shrugged.
"And you just gave me even more work to do now," I added, grabbing up
my things.
"How is that?"
"I have to make arrangements for you to have a fucking office here.Mr.
Executive Chef."
***
11:47 am
Edward and I walked to the caf to meet Esme. It was only a few blocks
and I needed to the fresh air after being cooped up all morning. It was a
nice warm day, as were all days in Miami, and it felt good to have the
sun on my face and ocean breeze through my hair.
Edward carried my laptop bag and held my hand with his free one as we
walked, but surprisingly it didn't feel romantic, no, it just felt.natural.
I was comforted by the gesture, just like I would have been if it were
Emmett or Angela for that matter. That sort of made me happy
knowing that I could just enjoy Edward's company without wanting to
bone him. Not that I didn't but I'm just saying, it showed I liked him
for more than his spectacular bedroom skills. That's all.
Esme smiled as we approached the caf. She had Nessie sitting on her lap
along the bench, outside the entrance. I watched Ness' face for her
reaction, but none came. She was still lost somewhere inside herself. My
hand squeezed Edward's tighter as we approached to greet them, and I
tried to put on my brave face so Nessie wouldn't feel the stress she
probably picked from Edward. It couldn't have been helping and I would
need to talk to him about it later.
"Hi Squeaks," I leaned down and cupped her face in my palm, planting a
kiss on her forehead. She reached out for me, pouting out her lips like
she was about to cry when I pulled away, so I took her from Esme's lap
into my arms. She clung to me with all her might and hid her face into
the crook of my neck.
"It's alright, I'm not going anywhere." I kissed her little shoulder and
rocked her a little.
"Hi Bella," Esme smiled, leaning in to do the rich people greeting.
"Hey Esme," I kissed her back on her cheek.
"Ready to go in?" Edward asked facing me, eyes firmly planted on Ness. I
nodded yes to him and we made our way inside.
Esme walked ahead of us up to the podium and Edward wrapped his arm
around me as I carried Ness, rubbing softly at my shoulder. The host
showed us our table and Edward sat beside me with Esme sitting across
from us. He reached for Ness, but she wouldn't let go, making an
irritated noise as he tried to pull her away.
"It's alright," I said to him.
"You said you have to work," he argued, trying to coax her into letting
go.
"Well you have fingers, so I suggest you open the damn thing and type
what I tell you, because there is no way she is letting go without a fight
and I cannot tell you how much it would annoy me if a child screamed in
my restaurant." I looked around to all the afternoon diners, not wanting
to upset someone else's eatery.
"Alright." He pulled my laptop out and flipped it open, bringing the
screen to life.
"Just open the bottom window and then click on the first file," I
instructed.
"Good afternoon folks. My name is Ken, I'll be your server, what can I
get for you today?" The waiter turned to Esme first.
"I'll just have a sweet iced tea to start please," she answered, looking at
her menu.
"Very good, and for you Miss?" he turned to me.
"I'll have the same."
"And for your daughter?" he asked, looking at Ness.
"Um," it sort of baffled me as he said it, thinking Ness was my child,
"Apple juice is fine." I answered, looking away, feeling like the entire
table was now facing me.
"And for you Sir?" he moved on to Edward.
"Same," he replied simply and I could feel him boring holes into me as I
looked down at Ness.
"Perfect. I'll have those drinks right out to you." The waiter excused
himself, and I finally glanced up to see Esme looking at me with a huge
smile on her face, then looked back to her menu.
"What now?" Edward asked, pointing to the laptop screen.
"Open the next email in the list. It should be from a vendor. This is good
actually, you'll have to learn how to do this anyhow, so it will be one last
thing I have to show you when you take shit over." Ness finally released
me from her death grip and looked over to Edward. He paused, smiling at
her and then rubbed her cheek. She coward back from him, giving him a
stinky face as she shoved her fingers in her mouth and he chuckled.
"You don't like Daddy today, do you?" he asked. She shook her head no
and he laughed again. "It was the yucky medicine wasn't it? I'm sorry
sweetheart." He went to rub her cheek again and she turned her head
away.
"Looks like you're on the shit list," I smiled at him.
"I usually am when it comes to women," he shrugged, laughing lightly.
"So, what is this I hear about you taking over? Esme asked.
"I promoted Edward. He's going to be my executive chef," I explained,
lowering my nose to sniff Ness's head. I don't know what it was about
this kid, but her head always smelled fucking great.
"Oh, Edward never told me that?" she said surprised.
"It just fucking happened less than hour ago, mom."
"Watch your language," Esme pointed at him.
"Sorry," he said, holding up one hand.
"This is wonderful news. We should have a barbecue this weekend, to
celebrate." Esme said.
"Yeah, 'cause I'm sure Dad will think it is awesome that I have worked
for Bella for less than two months and already got promoted," Edward
said sarcastically.
"You're father is proud of you."
"Mm hmm. What do you want me to tell this guy?" Edward pointed back
to the screen and ignored his mother. "He is offering whole chickens on
special for the next three months and if you become a client you
receive"
"The next two months free," I cut him off. "Delete it and go to the
next," I waved him on.
"Charity event in June," he said..
"Next"
"Charity event in July," he chuckled.
"Next."
"Um" He looked closer at the screen. "Recap video from the
convention."
"Oh, click on that shit. I can't wait." I sat forward and called Esme over
to watch. Nessie turned towards the screen and sucked her thumb as the
video started, leaning her head on my chest.
The music started and I began laughing, seeing my stupid face appear
first, blowing a kiss at the camera with my lips covered in chocolate.
Damn chocolate fountains in all their chocolate heavenly goodness. Nessie
giggled a little watching.
"Is that funny?" I asked looking down to her and she nodded, keeping her
eyes on the screen.
They showed some of the others, including Ramsey and Marco. I smiled at
how dashing they both looked side by side. What I wouldn't give to be
the meat in that sandwich. Mm.
As the video played the parts of Food Porn, I covered Ness' eyes so she
wouldn't see her father licking caramel sauce off my fucking neck and
Esme took full liberty to not only smack Edward, but also cover her own
eyes too. They of course, showed Edward stripping off his shirt and
whoever did the editing on this damn thing did a marvelous ass job,
because they showed it overand over.and over.slower and slower
each time.
"You see why we won?" I teased Esme, nudging her arm.
"I think I spent ten years in the wrong profession," she winked back at
me, returning to her seat as the video ended.
"That was sexy. Save that shit please. I might need it for a rainy day," I
waggled my brows at Edward and he laughed as he moved on to the next
email.
The waiter returned with our drinks and I held Ness' kiddy cup to her.
She picked it up and started drinking, still leaning her head to my chest.
I held her a little tighter and sighed hard, knowing that she was
probably hurting in ways she didn't know how to express to us. Ways she
couldn't understand in her little mind. My head leaned to hers and I
whispered against her hair as she drank.
"It's stinky being sick huh, kiddo? I don't like it either." I kissed her
head once and then leaned back down. "You can take your time
sweetheart. I know you're in there somewhere. You'll come out when
you're ready." I kissed her again and then rested my chin on her head,
looking back to the laptop, sighing hard again.
"Are you all ready to order?" Ken, our waiter asked, beginning again with
Esme.
"Yes. I will have the turkey club sandwich, hold the onions please." Esme
handed him back the menu.
"And for you Miss?" He turned to me.
"Um," I paused, not having looked at the menu. "What are you having?" I
asked Edward.
"French dip and onion soup. What I always get," Edward smiled.
"That sounds good. I'll have that too."
"It's hard to eat soup with a monkey around your neck," Edward laughed.
"Well whatever, order something for me then," I rolled my eyes, knowing
the waiter was probably really irritated with our inability to choose a
simple meal.
"I'll have the French dip and onion soup, my pesky wife here" he teased,
pointing to me, "Will probably do a lot better with chicken fingers."
"Chicken fingers? I made you the executive chef of my restaurant and
you pick out chicken fingers for me? I am not spending my lunch wrapped
up like a damn mamma ape so you can enjoy a fabulous ass sandwich and
I get lame ass chicken fingers. You are so feeding me some of your soup
and sandwich when it arrives." I pointed angrily at him.
"Run away now Ken," Edward held up the menus to him. "Trust me,"
Edward nodded once, with a smile on his lips and Ken obeyed.
When our food finally arrived, Edward fed me bites of his delish fucking
sandwich with a huge smile on his face as I held Nessie still. He even
double dipped it for me both in the au jus and then onion soup like I
asked him too. Ness nibbled on a chicken finger from my plate, even
sharing a bite with me, but still remained quiet sitting in my lap.
"So Bella, does your family live here?" Esme asked, leaning in to take a
bite of her sandwich.
"Oh, no. My father lives in Washington. He has a diner there. My mother
lives in Phoenix," I explained, opening my mouth back up for Edward's
sandwich, and pointing at my mouth. He laughed and doubled dipped it
for me before holding it to my lips.
"Phoenix," Esme wiped her mouth. "That's a beautiful place. I always
loved it there."
"Oh, you have been?"
"Several times. Edward's father and I met in Chicago and after we were
married I always bothered him to travel to the warmer weather. I hate
snow, which is partly why we moved out here to Miami."
"You and my mother would get a long fabulously," I snickered.
"Not a fan of the cold either?" Esme hedged.
"Nope, practically divorced my father over it," I laughed once.
"I'm sorry dear."
"No, it's fine. I'm just teasing. She's remarried now anyhow. Some
baseball player dude," I shrugged.
"Your mom is married to a baseball player?" Edward asked excitedly.
"It's nobody good. Don't get your panties in a wad."
"Does your father have many restaurants like you do?" Esme inquired.
"No, just the one," I answered, leaning over to take another bite of
sandwich Edward was offering me.
"So it's sort of in your genes then?" she smiled.
"I guess. My grandfather owned the diner before my dad, so maybe," I
nodded.
"I thought you said Charlie bought the diner?" Edward asked.
"He did. From my grandfather."
"Why did he have to buy it?"
"Because it was for sale," I laughed.
"You're going to make me play twenty questions here aren't you?" he
sighed hard.
"I like to see you work baby," I winked at him and opened my mouth for
more food, but Nessie started crying loudly and I turned my attention
back to her.
"What's wrong sweetheart?" I tilted my head down to look at her and
she screamed even louder. "Squeaks?" I tried to lift her head up, but she
pushed her face into my chest and wailed again. I looked over to Edward,
not knowing what to do and he reached out for her, taking her into his
arms.
"It's alright." He held her, rubbing her back soothingly.
"What's wrong?" I asked him, but he just shook his head and kept
shushing her softly.
"Take her outside," Esme said to him.
"Sorry." He rose from his seat and made his way out the door with her
still crying loudly.
"Poor baby," Esme said, sighing hard.
"What happened?" I asked her.
"She's just having a hard time. Edward even harder," she frowned.
"I know. I can see it weighing on him."
"Today was the first day I've seen him smile since the morning it
happened," Esme said, sliding over to claim his chair next to me.
"He'll be alright. Ness too. She just needs time," I offered her.
"It's just everything Bella. That poor kid, both of them, have such a
heavy load. I look at my son sometimes and wonder how it is that he
grew up to be so strong." She shook her head, looking at me.
"He obviously had good examples." I patted her hand and she smiled.
"I might be out of line here, Bella, but I just want you to know, you
mean a great deal to Edward. Ness too. I have never seen her be so
enamored with anyone before, other than her father that is. I am happy
he has you. You've been good for him. He's different better somehow."
"They means a lot to me as well and believe me, they make me better
too," I smiled.
"That's good dear."
We paid for our food and met Edward outside. He was on the bench with
Nessie, rocking her as she slept in his arms. I said my good bye's to him
and kissed her on her head before I left. Walking back to The Workshop
by myself, I stopped off at the outdoor market to pick up some fresh
ingredients I wanted to add to tonight's menu, only it wasn't for the
restaurant's menu, it was for a lost little girl who needed a comfort food
hug.
1:02 am
After I sent the staff home, I spent my time starting to make the
remainder of the food I wanted to bring to Edward's house for Ness. He
probably wasn't able to make it out to grocery shop, and in truth, didn't
have time to cook anyhow, having a sick kid on his hands. I made sure to
get the soup going earlier, as it needed time to simmer and capture all
the nutrition and flavor of the chicken and vegetables. I also made a few
jars of homemade mixed berry jam, pancake batter, 'cause the
motherfucker didn't know how to do that shit right a lasagna with
fresh pasta noodles, and a peach pie for dessert or breakfast, whichever
they chose. It should keep him stocked for a few days, and lessen his
load a little.
When everything was done, I wrapped it up and stuck it back in the
fridge with big ass labels on it explaining that I would knife anyone,
ESPECIALLY EMMETT, if they touched it.
Back in my hotel suite, I laid in bed and wondered what Edward was
doing right now. If Nessie was alright and if she was sleeping. The
curiosity won out and I picked up my cell to text him.
Just wanted to make sure you and the Squeaks were OK. U missed me
yelling the kid 2night. It was epic.
-B
I chewed on my finger while I waited for him to buzz back, if he would
buzz back, and smiled when he did.
I'm sorry. I wish I could have seen it. I would call you so you could tell
me, but The Squeaks is fast asleep, FINALLY. :)
I miss you.
-E
My heart thudded at two things. One, him using my nickname for Ness
and two, him saying he missed me.
I called him a motherfucking cum guzzler who couldn't find his head
unless his ass was attached to it. THEN threw chicken at him.
I miss you tooyour penis more.but you too. :)
I shook with anticipation as I waited for him to buzz back. It took a long
time and I hoped it was because he was laughing hard at my text.
You kill me Bella. I am SO fucking sorry I missed that. My penis says he
misses you too, BTW. Me more, but him too. He sends a big 'hey how ya
doin' to Butterbean.
I rolled on the bed laughing into the mattress.
Butterbean would like to know his name.
Who's?
Your peen's stupid.
My peen is not stupid.
No his name, moron!
I waited, dying to know his pecker's name.
He doesn't have one.
I groaned, knowing he was lying. All men named their peens.
You're a douche. I told you mine.
I'm sorry, don't have one. Please, feel free to call him what you wish-
even though, technically you aren't allowed to see him anymore. :(
I frowned at that shit too. Who the fuck came up with that rule
anyhow? Oh yeah, stupid me!
I'd like to call him LT Dan, if that's alright?
LOL- WTF would you call him that?
Because he is like LT Dan from Forest Gump- crippled and unable to fuck.
I am going to bed now. Oh, wait, I'm going to hang myself first.
Say goodnight to LT Dan for me, will ya? ;)
F U BELLA! Oh wait, can't do that NE more! *slaps forehead*
I laughed until my belly hurt.
Night Edward. Thanks for the laugh. I'll make it up to you tomorrow.
Promise I have a nice gooey peach pie with your name all over it.
I look forward to putting my face in your peach pie Bella. Good night
Angel.
Me too Edward me too.

9:30 am
I packed up my car, once I arrived to the restaurant, full of all the food
I was bringing to Edward's apartment. Emmett helped with most of it and
smiled all wide and giddy like an idiot while doing so. I couldn't really
knock him though Edward never really had anyone take care of him, so
I suppose from his brother's point of view, it must have been nice to see
someone doing so.
It sure as shit felt good doing it.
I stopped in at Cocoa Chanel's to grab a few muffins and rolls for the
jam I made. Baked goods were not something I was very talented at.
Surprised? You shouldn't be. Baking and cooking are two very different
things. Making pies and shit, I can handle. Bread and other fuckery such
as that, I cannot not.
"Hi Bella!" Alice waved all cheery.
"Hey Al. How's it going?"
"Great. Beautiful day today huh?" She pointed towards the window in the
front of the shop.
"It is," I nodded.
"So, what brings you in today?" she asked, leaning on the counter, making
her long dark locks fall over her shoulders.
"I just need some muffins and rolls. It's for berry jam."
"Oh, are you offering breakfast now?" she asked.
"No, this is for personal eating," I smiled, picking up a sample of cookie
from the counter top.
"Want me to pick them out?" Alice asked, plucking a paper tissue from
the box.
"Sure, I trust you."
As she leaned down to the case, the bell sounded on the door, causing me
to turn around. I fucking groaned, seeing Jessica walking in, smiling all
damn smug and shit as she approached the counter.
"I do believe I have a restraining order filed on you," she said in her
bitch tone.
"I do believe I was here first," I countered.
"I work here," she said.
"You work for Rachel Ray dummy." I pointed at her, wanting to slap the
fucking taste out of her mouth.
"I am still employed here though. Until next week, so technically, you are
at my job. Stalking me for all I know," she looked me up and down.
"I am just buying damn rolls and muffins, this has nothing to do with you,
so back off before it does have something to do with you," I warned,
then turned back to face the counter.
"You're fucking him aren't you?" she said, leaning into my ear.
"Back the fuck off me Jessica. I am not Edward, I will fuck you up," I
looked over my shoulder and her face was only an inch from mine.
"Do it. I would love to drain your bank account honey," she challenged.
"This is your last chance," I warned.
"I said. Do. It-ah." I spun around to clock her, but someone pulled me
back and I didn't get the chance.
"Knock it off Jess," Rose said, holding me back.
"She started it!" Jessica pointed at me, and I tried to kick her, but
missed.
"And I'm finishing it. Go get your paycheck and leave," Rose instructed,
letting me go.
"Fine," Jessica huffed, glaring at me as she passed.
"Are you alright?" Rose asked me.
"I'm fine. Woulda been a lot better if you let me punch her in her ugly
fucking face."
"That wouldn't have bowed well for you," Rose said, handing over my bag
of bread to me.
"I think I know what's good for me," I spat, tossing down a twenty on
the counter.
"You're money is no good here," She tossed it back at me. "Just take
what you ordered and let that be the last time I see you. Tell Emmett to
get your dinner rolls somewhere else too."
"Excuse me?" I said.
"You heard me. I don't need this fucking drama in my work place." Rose
leaned on the counter, glaring at me.
"What the fuck ever," I tossed down the bag of bread and walked out.
Fuck her and her fucking bread. It wasn't that good anyhow. Okay, yes it
was, but I didn't want it, regardless. I climbed in my car and stopped at
a different bakery on my way to Edward's, no longer in my chipper
fucking mood as before. Once I arrived at Edward's apartment and
parked, I texted Emmett and told him TweetyRose was a TweetyBitch
and to find us a new bread vendor.
As I walked up to Edward's front entrance doors to the building, the nice
old couple, The Banner's, were on their way out and Mrs. Banner was kind
enough to hold the door for me. I gave her a jar of jam and a couple
rolls for the road. They said they were on their way to the park nearby,
and thanked me for giving them something to nibble once they arrived. I
teased back and apologized that they would have to use their fingers to
scoop the jam from the jar. The Banner's just laughed and went along
their merry way.
I settled some of the bags down once I reached Edward's door and
knocked lightly, hoping I wasn't disturbing them. It was still morning and
I knew he got to bed late with her. For all I knew they were still
sleeping. Before my mind could wander too far off into the 'what ifs'
category, he answered.
"Bella?" he smiled, slightly surprised.
"I told you, I had pie." I held it out to him and he laughed.
"I never doubted you, but I didn't think it would be delivered this early."
He leaned on the door as his eyes roamed over me.
"Sorry, you weren't sleeping were you?"
"No, Ness still is though," he replied.
"Oh, do you want me to go? I don't want to"
"No, no don't go. Please." He held open the door and waved me in.
"Those are for you," I nodded down to the bags as I stepped in.
"What's all this?" he asked, picking them up.
"I figured you could use some comfort food. I'm sure shopping with a
crying four-year-old isn't fun." I set the pie down on the counter and
looked up to him as he placed the bags next to it.
"You didn't have to do that, but thank you," Edward said.
"There's soup in there for Squeaks too. You should feed her some, it
might make her feel better." I reached in and started pulling out the
items.
"I will, when she wakes up." Edward took the containers from me as I
passed them over and he walked them to the fridge.
"Are you hungry? I have jam and muffins?" I turned to look at him.
"Well actually I had a grilled cheese going on," he pointed to the stove.
"Well actually" I tossed the jam back into the back with the rolls.
"You better have two going on," I held up my fingers to him. "And if you
really loved me, would make fries to boot," I teased, sitting my happy ass
down at his table.
"Yes, ma'am. It's the least I could do since you made me soup and " he
peered into the last container, "Motherfucking lasagna," he sighed
happily.
"Noodles made with these puppies right here," I wiggled my fingers at
him and he groaned happily, turning to the fridge.
I laughed at him, and when he closed the door I saw that the picture
Nessie drew of the three of us was still hanging on there. Edward went
back to making a second sandwich for me and I glanced around, realizing
this was the first time I had been back in his place since our fight that
day. It looked the same, just a little messier. Nothing too bad though. A
basket of laundry on the sofa and some of Ness' toys along the floor by
the TV. I also noticed there were fresh flowers in a vase on the table in
front of me with a note from his mother attached, telling Edward she
loved him and Ness. I smiled at the gesture and looked back to Edward
as he cooked.
"Would you like good old Wonderbread or something gourmet, Angel?" he
asked, back turned to me, as he lowered the fries into the countertop
FryDaddy.
"Um, the rolls I brought would be fine. I don't really do white bread
well," I shrugged.
"No? Why not?" Edward asked, looking to me as he pulled a roll from the
bag.
"Just don't. I don't think it's the gluten or anything, because other shit
doesn't bother me, but every time I eat white bread I just get a stomach
ache." I scrunched my face looking at him.
"Weird," he said, tying the bag back up. "Hey, did Rose get new bags?"
He held it up to me.
"No, I was kicked out of Rose's place," I huffed, rolling my eyes.
"What? Why?"
"Apparently I can't go too far these days without running into that little
scuntbag ex of yours."
"What happened?" he looked at me worried.
"She wanted me to hit her, I wanted to hit her and then Rose threw me
out for trying to hit her. Thenbanned us from using the bakery for our
bread orders." I sucked my teeth, shaking my head.
"What the fuck?" Edward tossed his hands up and turned around.
"Exactly my thoughts on the matter, Edward."
"Jess will be gone by the week's end so you won't have any more trouble,
promise," he said, cooking with his back to me.
"It's all good. I just wanted to get one good punch in though. Just one."
I balled my fist trying to imagine it and Edward laughed once, shaking his
head as he plated up the sandwiches.
"Here you go killer." He placed my grilled cheese in front of me and I
looked up to him.
"Urm, where are my fucking fries?" I made a circle motion with my finger
to the plate.
"It's coming, its coming," he walked back to the stove.
"I've heard that before," I teased, to which he snorted loudly.
I picked up my sandwich for a bite, but paused, seeing Ness come
stumbling down the hall looking super groggy as she rubbed her eyes.
Edward didn't see her as he worked to finish cooking and I got up to get
her. She put her thumb in her mouth and reached out her arm to me with
the other. I scooped her up, holding her tight in my arms and walked
back over to the table with her in my lap. Ness leaned her head down on
my shoulder and I could hear her sucking on her thumb in my ear,
breathing through her little nose. I reveled in how warm and fragrant
she was for a moment, placing a kiss to the crook of her neck before I
took a bite of my food. She leaned off me, hearing me eat and looked at
my plate.
"Are you hungry?" I asked, thumbing her cheek. She nodded yes and I
went to get up, but Edward's hand was on my shoulder stopping me.
"Let me have her," he reached out to me and I tried to pass her over,
but she held on.
"Renesmee, you need to let Bella eat, please. Come to Daddy. You can
visit with her when she is finished." He reached for her again and this
time she complied. He carried her with him back over to the stove and I
took another bite of my sandwich. I saw him pull the container of soup I
brought from the fridge, and he whispered something in her ear as he
walked to the stove with it in his hands. Ness nodded against him and he
kissed her forehead, whispering once more into her ear.
"Bella do you want ketchup with your fries?" he asked, looking back to
me.
"Um, sure," I answered, looking back to my plate.
After Edward carried Ness back over to the table, and settled her into
the booster seat, he brought over the rest of his food along with hers,
then Edward sat down the fries and I laughed.
"You didn't have to get all fancy on me Edward. Frozen crinkle fries
would have been fine." I plucked one of his hand-cut waffle fries from
the plate and nibbled on it. Mm, perfect.
"Maybe I'm just trying to show you that I really love you," he held my
gaze, lifting his eyebrow slightly.
He must have been joking...right?
"Um," I looked down, unable to hold his gaze, "Can I have her spoon?" I
held out my hand, needing the distraction.
"I'll feed her, just eat." He pushed the plate of fries to me and turned
his attention to her.
"I came here to help and so far you have cooked for me and I have done
nothing, soplease." I held out my hand again and this time he gave in.
"Thank you," he said and then began eating.
I helped Ness with her food. She slurped her noodles and looked pretty
happy smacking her lips as she ate. Edward smiled as he watched her and
I did too. It was good to see them both so happy.
"Is Bella's soup good sweetheart?" Edward asked, thumbing her cheek.
She nodded yes, looking at him, and he smiled again, resting his chin into
his palm after he finished eating. Ness consumed her whole bowl, and I
finished off the fries. Edward stood up to started cleaning, but I stopped
him.
"I have like," I looked to the clock on the stove, "An hour before I have
to get back to work, so if I were you, I would use that time to shower"
I reached up to his stubbly face and smiled, rubbing his cheek, "And
shave."
"Are you telling me I look like a homeless person?" he laughed.
"No. You smell too good to be homeless. But I'm sure you would like a
shower regardless," I shrugged, turning around to pull Ness from her
seat.
"Would you like to help me Squeaks?" I asked and she nodded, holding
out her hands to me. "Alright, here you go," I handed her the empty
paper plates from our sandwiches and she carried them off to the
kitchen.
Edward smiled at her and then rubbed my cheek once before he walked
off towards the hall to his bedroom. As he showered, I finished cleaning
and then folded his laundry on the couch, while Ness showed me all the
wonderful ways of messing up my neat piles. It was a good thing she was
cute.
After the laundry was done, I placed it back into the basket and carried
it off to his room and set it on the bed. I then took it back off the bed,
made his bed, and then put it back on top of the covers again, picking up
a few dirty socks along the way. Ness was behind me, tugging on my leg
and I looked down to her. She pointed at Edward's bed and I picked her
up and sat her on it, taking a seat next to her.
It felt weird, being on his bed, but I wasn't sure if she was trying to tell
me she was tired or what. He was still in the bathroom, and I couldn't
ask him, so I just followed her hand gestures. Ness crawled up to the top
of the bed and patted the pillow as she laid down. Did she remember me
sleeping here? Is that what she wanted? My eyes welled a little with
tears, and I gave in to her silent request. My head rested next to hers
and I let her play with my hair in her free hand as she sucked on her
thumb with the other.
I closed my eyes, trying to not let her see my tears and breathed in her
scent, wishing like hell I could always carry it with me because not only
did she smell like Edward, but she also smelled like fucking happiness too.
That sounds convoluted, I know, but the fucking truth is that she did.
Her fragrance, fucking happiness. Period. Whatever the sunshine would
smile like, that's what I felt when I breathed Ness in.
The bed weighed down next to me and I rolled back to see Edward
taking a seat, looking very refreshed from his shower. He placed his
finger over his lips and then nodded to Ness, who I looked over to see
was sleeping sound, curled up against me. I rested my head back down
and watched her sleeping face as she snored softly.
Edward's lips brushed my cheek and he spooned the place behind me,
resting his chin into the crook of my neck. His fingers found mine under
the pillow and he laced them with his own, resting his other hand over me
and on Renesmee's tiny back.
"She loves you Bella. You know that?" he whispered in my ear.
"I love her too, Edward." I whispered, keeping my eyes on her face.
"Thank you," he kissed my neck and sighed hard.
We must have all fallen back to sleep because the next sound I heard
was my phone ringing loudly throughout his small apartment. I tried to
move quickly without disturbing Ness. She stayed asleep and Edward sat
up with me, allowing me off the bed. I found my phone in my purse on
the table and told Emmett to fucking shut up and go away. He then told
me Seth was there and I fucking groaned, knowing I had to go back to
work and couldn't have nappy time anymore. As I hung up, Edward was
leaning on the wall in the hallway and I held the phone up before shoving
it back in my purse.
"I have to go. Seth is waiting for me," I yawned and slung my bag over
my shoulder.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to let you fall asleep." Edward pushed off the wall
and walked over towards me.
"It's alright. Trust me, there are two things I will never argue with A
good nap and good food. You gave me both," I smiled.
"You deserved both," Edward pulled me into his arms, hugging me
goodbye.
"I hope Squeaky feels better." I closed my eyes and tried to breathe in
a little of Edward for the road.
"She will. Thank you for helping. You didn't have to fold my laundry you
know." Edward leaned away, but kept his arms around me, locking his
fingers behind my back.
"Are you kidding? I got to see at least ten different pairs of those pervy
underwear Esme buys you. That was payment in itself," I smiled
teasingly.
"Speaking of my mothershe wants you to come to the barbeque she is
demanding to have this weekend. Since you are the reason for her doing
so, I think you are obligated to say yes." He smiled crookedly at me and
fucking butterbean held up a big sign that said 'fucking RSVP yes bitch'.
"You just want me to come so the food won't suck," I poked him in the
chest playfully.
"You don't have to cook. My father is quite good on the grill actually,"
Edward smiled.
"Mm hmm, I do believe I'll be the judge of that."
"Does that mean you will come?" he asked.
"Sure, why not. Free food, I'm all about it." Edward released me and I
walked towards the door.
"Bella?" he called out as I palmed the handle.
"Hmm?" I faced him and he stepped forward, taking my hand into his.
"Thank you for taking such good care of us." He kissed my hand sweetly
several times.
I brought my free hand up to his now smooth cheek and thumbed it
gently, causing him to meet my gaze.
"Thank you for letting me."
***











Chapter 13 "Illusions of Grandeur"
Sometimes love can be magical, but sometimes magic
is just an illusion.

BPOV
9:22 am
Three layers or fourThree layers or four? Fuck itwe'll do four.
I was making my famous and highly exclusive fucking orange crme,
with fresh cherry preserve, triple layer trifle, that was topped with
spiced motherfucking pears and freshly made whipped cream, for the
barbeque at Esme's this afternoon. I figured showing up with dessert
wasn't a bad thing. I mean, people did that shit, right? Normal people?
Maybe I should go with three layers.Four looks like I'm fucking showing
off
Stick my ass in a room full of suits who have egos the size of Mt. fucking
Rushmore, I am all about it and cool as a cucumber. Put my ass at a
simple weekend get together, I am a nervous bumbling fool. There was no
hiding here and I hated small talk. Edward's family seemed nice, don't
get me wrong, his mother Esme was like a fucking doll and shit, but being
subjected to an entire day of having to be 'normal' was a little much.
I made sure to sit the cherries that perched atop the whipped cream
peaks a little askew and not as perfect as I would have normally. It
bugged the holy fuck out of me, but it looked a little sloppy like this and
maybe they wouldn't think I was trying to one-up them cause I fucking
wasn't. I just wanted to be nice. Besides, it was my Gran's recipe and not
something on my menu since it was sacred to me kind of like the
motherfucking Cullens.
Well, two of them anyway.
EPOV
I held Ness as we showered. It wasn't the easiest thing to do, but she
was having a bad day and wouldn't let go of me. We used to do this all
the time when she was a baby, so it wasn't new to me, but a four year
old and a infant are entirely two different things to manage while trying
to wash your hair. At least, she was helping me out right now. I kept my
eyes closed and she seemed to think it was funny when the suds ran over
my face. Stepping back, I rinsed before the soap could burn my eyes and
she moved her little hands through my hair.
"Alright sweetheart, you have to sit on the toilet so Daddy can finish,
please." I kissed her cheek and she thankfully let go of me as I pulled
curtain back. After she was wrapped up nice and tight in a towel, I
closed the curtain again and raised the temperature of the water a little
hotter, since my skin wasn't as sensitive as Ness' and I liked a rather hot
shower.
"Bella is coming to Grandma's this afternoon, Sweetheart. Aren't you
excited?" I asked, stripping off my swimsuit bottoms.
What? You thought I would shower in the nude with my four-year-old
daughter?
Perverts.
Ness said nothing.
I peeked out of the shower curtain to make sure she was still sitting on
the toilet she was, with her fingers in her mouth and her little feet
hanging over the edge, wiggling. I closed the curtain again and began to
wash the places I couldn't before. It was a quiet week around my house,
with the exception of Bella visiting which we will get to in a minute
and Ness crying.
Number one Bella makes awesome fucking lasagna. If I weren't banned
from her butterbean, I would be giving said butterbean the licking of its
motherfucking life, everyday, for the rest of her life.
Number two She told me she loved my child. Now, I don't really have
words to describe how that shit feels, but imagine the thing you want
most in the world and someone delivering it to you with a big fucking bow
wrapped around it, and you would be pretty fucking close.
I knew Ness loved Bella. She pointed to her picture on the fridge every
morning and then to herself, right over her heart, telling me so in her
own little way. My lips told Bella that I loved her, but she assumed I
was only playing along with her words from earlier when she asked me to
make her fries; though, there was something there when I said it. I
wasn't stupid. A faint glimmer of hope sparkled, before she could mask it
and ask for Ness' spoon.
Did she want me to love her? I wasn't sure. Did I want to love her?
Fuck yeah, I did.
"All done Sweet Pea." I turned off the water and reached my arm out
for a towel from the bar. After I was wrapped up good, I drew back the
curtain and Ness looked up to me, still playing with her fingers in her
mouth.
"Are your teeth hurting?" I tried to pull her hand away, but she cowered
back. "Ness, let Daddy see, please." I kneeled down and managed to pull
her hand free. Everything seemed fine, but she went right back to
gnawing away on her fingers.
"If something hurts, tell Daddy please." I thumbed her cheek, but she
said nothing.
The silence was killing me. Renesmee always talked, too much sometimes.
This shit was freaking me out. I know everyone kept saying to let her be
and she would speak when she was ready, but those people weren't her
fucking father who knew better than to believe that standard lie. This
was my baby and she was tethered around my heart as though we both
shared the same life force. I wasn't a fucking big enough fool to believe
that my talkative four year old was 'just fine' when she said not one
damn word in the past week. Not to mention, she was also spacey as shit
and stared off most of the time not paying attention to what was
happening. This was not her usual temperament by far and if one more
fucking person told me 'it was fine' I was about to lose my shit.
"Pink or purple?" I held up two different shirts to her and she looked
away, not interested. "We'll go with pink," I said, pretty much to myself.
After I dressed her and dried her curly hair, I carried her into my room
and sat her down on the bed so I could find my own clothes. She curled
up against the pillows, sucking on her thumb with one hand and rubbed
the pillow with her other. Ness' eyes roamed over the white fabric and
she moved her hand the same way she did that day when Bella laid there
the same way she touched her face.
Ness closed her eyes and sighed hard. I stepped into the space of my
closet and changed quickly into my jeans and white button-down Oxford.
My mother would kill me if I showed up to any event wearing shorts and
a screen tee, so this was a nice compromise of both style and comfort.
I sat gently on the bed after I changed, watching my baby girl as she
slept. I hoped she was having only sweet dreams and not nightmares like
over the past few nights. My lips kissed her delicate, baby fine hairs at
the top of her head and as I leaned against the pillow to rest with her;
she whispered her first little word in her sleep.
"Bewwa."
BPOV
11:22 am
I was a little nervous about leaving Seth in charge without supervising
him. Emmett would also be gone and so that meant only Angela was in
charge. I would be back by dinner service time, but I did not feel good
about leaving them alone until I returned. At least Edward would be back
by Monday and shit would return to normal, and I could have a fucking
day off.
Maybe.
"So Angela, you have to make sure they have all of this done by 2pm or
they will never have enough time to"
"Bella!" she cut me off, holding me by the shoulders. "It's fine, please.
Go away," she chuckled at the end.
"Sorry, it just scares the holy fuck out of me. Not that I don't think you
are able to do thisit's just me being stupid." I closed my eyes and
sighed hard.
"Go have fun Bella. Everything here is fine." Angela rubbed my arms and
I opened my eyes, finally.
"Thanks. Call me if you need anything, alright?"
"I will. Tell Edward I said hi and uh.Thanks," she looked down shyly as
she smiled.
"For what?"
"Ben and I went on a date last night," she blushed.
"You did? What the fuck Ang? Why didn't you tell me?" I hoisted my bag
up on my shoulder and walked towards the door.
"I wasn't sure if you would be angry," Angela replied, following me to the
door.
"As long as you guys don't bring your drama here, it's fine." I tugged the
door open and she waved to me as I made my way out.
Now I aint say'n she's a gold diggerbut she aint mess'n with no broke
Edward's text tone sounded from the passenger seat. As soon as I
reached the first red light, I dug through my bag to retrieve it and my
heart stopped when I clicked on the inbox to read what he sent.
Ness fell asleep against your pillow on my bed. Mumbled 'Bewwa" in her
sleep. Your name has never sounded so good.
-E
My eyes started to water and I had to rest the phone back on the seat
to clear my vision. As soon as I came to the next red light, I texted him
back.
You just made my fucking day. I'll see you guys soon.
-Bella
He didn't text me back and I drove the rest of the way thinking about
what he told me. I could imagine Ness, curled up, just like the other day
and how Edward's face must have smiled and breathed a sigh of relief
hearing her speak, even if it was just in her dreams. When I arrived at
the Cullen's, I parked along the long drive and fixed my make-up before I
climbed out. Walking over to the passenger's side, I unbuckled the
cardboard box that had the trifle sitting in it like a trifle car seat
and picked it up.
After I closed the car door with my foot, I walked up towards the house
and saw Edward heading my way across the well-manicured grass. Ness
was on his hip and he had a beer in his other hand. I smiled at him and
tried to keep butterbean calm as she roamed over his dark jeans and
crumpled white button-down. Edward could work the motherfuck out of a
white shirt and jeans that was for damn sure.
His damn sex hair was the last straw for butterbean though she
officially needed a diaper change.
"Hey," I said, stopping in front of him.
"Hi Angel." Edward leaned in and kissed my cheek once. The beer on his
breath fanned my face and it didn't fucking help butterbean's resolve
any. I turned my attention to Ness to try to calm my damn clit down.
"Well don't you look pretty in pink, Squeaky," I smiled at her and Ness
gave a small smile back, leaning against Edward's chest. "But then again,
you're always pretty." I kissed her chubby cheek and she giggled.
"What is that?" Edward asked, looking down to the box is my hands. I
grinned at him and reached up on my toes, leaning my face into the crook
of his mother of fuck this man smelled good neck.
"Triple layer, yellow cake trifle with fresh cherry preserve and hand-
whipped whipped cream" I leaned in even closer to his ear and
whispered, "With spiced pears on top." Edward groaned at my description
and I leaned away smiling at how much fucking fun it was to tease him.
Edward's eyes then roamed over me carefully, slowly.
"You look very beautiful," he said, still looking me over, causing my heart
to thump as he finally rested his smoldering eyes upon mine. I was hoping
when I picked out a simple navy sundress it was just appropriate. Edward
telling me I was beautiful was just
"You look very handsome yourself," I smiled and we began heading back
towards the house.
Once inside I saw Emmett and Esme in the kitchen. She was smacking his
hand as he tried to steal olives from the salad bowl. Ness laughed again,
seeing Emmett get scolded and it warmed my heart to hear and see her
being so lively. Edward was smiling too and that officially put me in a
good mood.
"Hey B," Emmett said, stealing one last olive when Esme's back was
turned.
"Hey Olive Stealer," I teased.
"Emmett!" Esme spun around and slapped him again. "I told you to stop
that."
"Thanks a lot Bella," he gave me a sour face and sat down at one of the
stools along the kitchen island.
"Um, I brought trifle." I rested it down on the counter and Esme wiped
her hands as she leaned in to hug me.
"Thank you Dear. Carlisle forgot our dessert at the store." She pulled
back and looked at it. "So this will be perfect. It looks amazing."
"Holy crap!" Emmett rose from his seat again, looking down at the trifle.
"Is that Gran's?" he asked.
"Yep."
"Shit Bella." He licked his lips and I could see the debate raging in his
eyes.
"You put your damn fingers in my dessert and I will gut you like a fish,
Em," I warned, pointing at him.
"Come on! Just one cherry," he whined, giving me his big teddy bear eyes.
"Fine, but just one." I couldn't help but smile at him.
"Oh yeah!" Emmett rubbed his hand together and licked his lips, leaning
over to steal a cherry as I lifted the cling wrap from the top.
"To Grandma Swan, may she rest in peace, where ever her sweet trifle
and apple making soul may lie." He tipped the cherry to me I laughed at
his tribute as he stuck it in his mouth, humming happily as he chewed.
"Indeed," I said softly.
"Why don't you get Bella a drink?" Esme said to Emmett.
"Sure thing. Whatchu want B? We got beer," he walked his way to the
fridge. "Um, some girly wine shit," he looked inside as he spoke, "and
some really girly wine shit Edward made with fucking," he picked up the
pitcher and looked at it, "fruit and shit floating in it."
"That would be called sangria, nimrod," Edward explained, shaking his
head.
"You made sangria?" I asked, surprised.
"With these puppies right here," he wiggled his hand to me, just like I
did about the lasagna I had made for him.
"Does that mean you want some?" Emmett asked, still holding the
pitcher.
"Sangria is perfect," I replied with a nod.
Edward set Nessie on the island counter in front of him and handed her a
piece of cheese from the platter Esme had out. She watched me as she
nibbled on it and Emmett handed me my drink. The phone rang and
Edward's mother answered then turned to me.
"How do you like your steak, Bella?" she asked.
"Pink in the middle," I replied, knowing that people usually fucked up if
you said it any other way.
"Just like Edward," Emmett joked, nudging Edward's arm.
"Don't be crude," Esme scolded and then replied my answer over the
phone, to whom I assumed was Carlisle.
"So, who is at the restaurant?" Edward asked, holding out the cheese
platter to me.
"Seth and Angela until I get back. I'm sure it will be a fucking
nightmare." I watched Ness, waiting for her reaction to my cursing, but
none came.
The doorbell rang and Emmett took off to answer it. Nessie wiggled
pointing that she wanted to follow him and Edward lowered her to the
ground, watching as she ran off behind Emmett. Edward turned back to
me as Esme carried a tray out of the patio doors.
"How is your sangria?" he asked.
"Fine," I replied, looking down to it, swirling the wine as I held the glass.
"Edward?" I looked up to him, wanting to take advantage of our alone
time.
"Hmm?" he leaned against the counter.
"Have you talked to anyone about Squeaky?"
"Yeah, they all tell me the same thing, she's fine." I could hear the
irritation in his voice.
"I'm worried," I said.
"Yeah, me too." He looked up to me through his long lashes and his eyes
were somber. I set my glass down on the counter and wrapped one arm
around him. Edward leaned off the counter and returned my gesture,
holding me in his arms. My head rested on his hard chest, with his chin on
my forehead.
"I was reading about kids with PTSD last night, " I began, "and they
were saying that in cases like Ness, where they are really young, you
should use like flash cards and shit to communicate. It makes sense.
Maybe we should try it."
"Do you think there is something wrong, Bella? Like really wrong with
her?" he asked, quietly.
"No, but I don't think just letting her come around is the answer either."
I leaned off of him a bit to look at his face. "Squeaks needs to be able
to communicate what is happening in her mind. I can only imagine how
confused she must feel, but probably has no idea how to explain it to us.
The shit with her fingers and thumb suckingit's all part of it."
"You think so?" Edward asked.
"It's like, a way for her to calm herself, or comfort herself. I also think
you need to try, and I know this is a stupid thing to say, but you need to
try and just act normal around her. If you're stressed out Edward, she's
going to be stressed out too." I fingered the buttons on his shirt as I
explained.
"Well, Jessica leaving this week isn't going to help that," he said.
"I know. I'm sorry. It will be alright though." I looked back up to him
and he thumbed my cheek gently before cupping my face in his hands.
Edward leaned down and I thought he was going to kiss me, but he
leaned his lips to my ear and whispered.
"Your lasagna was fucking delicious," he snickered lightly and kissed my
cheek. I giggled back at him and went to say something in return but was
cut off.
"Well isn't this shit cozy," a familiar voice sounded, and Edward groaned.
"Fuck," he mumbled, releasing me from his hold.
"No wonder you've moved up the ladder so fast." Rosalie stood in the
doorway, staring at us with her arms crossed.
"You know what Rosalie?" I stepped back from Edward, but kept my hand
on his chest. "You need to get a fucking life." I picked up my sangria
with my free hand to take a sip. She smiled smug as she walked towards
me, hand on her hips.
"I'm not Jessica, Bella. You don't scare me."
"As much as I would love to get into this shit with you, I hardly think
this is the place. And just so we are perfectly fucking clear, since
apparently your eyes have skewed vision lately, Emmett has worked for
me for years meaning the Cullens are like family to me. Whatever you
think you fucking saw just now you didn't. Edward is my friend and he
has some serious shit going on, so just back the fuck off." I picked up my
glass again and took a sip.
"Leave Bella alone Rosalie," Edward said and then turned his back to her,
walking towards the fridge.
"Or what? Gonna slap me around a little, Edward?" He paused and
laughed once humorlessly as he closed the door to the refrigerator.
"You and I both know," he turned around and tapped his finger at her,
"that isn't what fucking happened. Why the fuck you cover for Jessica, I
will never understand." Edward stared at her and Rose stepped forward.
"She's my friend."
"And that gives her the right to be a shit mother and get away with it?"
Edward held up his hand shrugging his shoulders as he asked.
"Sometimes being a mother just doesn't come naturally to some, Edward."
"Apparently."
"Oh go fuck yourself. Jessica doesn't have the resources you have, you
know." She stepped closer to him.
"Like what? A fucking brain?" He retaliated and I couldn't help the
fucking loud ass snort that escaped. Thankfully, they ignored me.
"Like rich parents and fucking"
"Oh, don't fucking even!" Edward held up a hand, not trying to hear her
shit. "When Jessica fucking told me she was pregnant, the first
motherfucking thing I did was get a job and I took care of her fucking
ass by myself. Where you two get this shit from, that my mother and
father were responsible for any of that shit, escapes my fucking brain's
capacity of reasoning." Edward grabbed his beer from the counter and
drank a long sip.
"You still have them for support," Rosalie argued, crossing her arms.
"And she fucking had me and decided that wasn't good enough, so what
would you like me to do about that Rose? Buy her a fucking house and
support her financially just because we have a kid together? How
about" He leaned into her face, and tilted his beer to the side, "Fuck
no." I may have giggled a little on that one.
"You could help her out more. She needs someone."
"She's got someone. Mike's her man, not me. If our daughter needs
something, I fucking take care of her. Jess is not my fucking problem
anymore. She decided that when Mike's dick entered her herpes filled
pussy." And with that, I fucking lost my shit and had to leave the room,
but fucking listened from the hallway.
"You're a fucking asshole," Rose said.
"If the contest here, Rose, is being an asshole who takes care of his kid,
versus being a dirty whore with an itchy vagina who can't even fucking
call to see if our daughter, WHO ALMOST FUCKING DIED less than five
days ago, is alright," he paused and then I heard the clinking of the beer
bottle hitting the trash I imagined he gulped that fucker down, "then
I'll take being the asshole any day." Edward walked out of the kitchen
and into the hallway where I was.
"You ready for fucking steak or what, Angel?" Edward didn't let me
reply, he just took my hand and pulled me along to the patio doors.
"Edward?" I said, walking with him.
"Hmm?" He pushed the doors open and allowed me to step out first.
"I fucking heart you." I spun around, still holding his hand to face him as
he stepped out behind me. Edward laughed a somewhat frustrated sound
and then shook his head as we walked to our seats.
I noticed a gate and many, many plants had been placed around the pool
area. That was good, definitely didn't want a repeat on that shit. It
being blocked out of Ness' sight was a good thing too. Emmett came
through the door with Rose, who still looked pissed off by the burn she
just received.
"Here, I changed her." Emmett handed Ness to Edward.
"What do you mean you changed her?" Edward eyed him as he took Ness.
"El accidente," Emmett chuckled.
"Are you alright Baby?" Edward looked down to her, but she ignored him
and reached for the plate on the table.
"It was just pee man. No need to flip out," Emmett said.
"I'm not flipping" Edward stopped, as he fucking started flipping out,
and sighed. I reached over to him and rubbed his earlobe.
"Whoosahhh whoosahhh," I giggled.
"Rubbing something lower would be much better," Edward teased.
"Don't I know it," I waggled my brows at him and he laughed.
"Yeah, you two are totally fucking," Rose spat.
"Hey! Don't say shstuff like that in front my four year old," Edward
glared at her and she just flipped her blonde hair back, ignoring him.
"Do you kids want any other type of sauce for your steaks?" Esme asked,
placing the fifth bottle of sauce down on the table.
"Mom, why the hell do you have twenty bottles of steak sauce?" Edward
laughed.
"Why do you have twenty different white button-down shirts? It just
makes us both happy, Dear." She smiled wryly at him, "And speaking of
clothing, Bella, Honey, you look very nice. I meant to mention that
earlier. I like your headband, don't really see girls these days wearing
them anymore."
"Oh," I said, unsure if that was a compliment or no,t and Rose snickered
her damn bitch lips at me.
"What I mean is," Esme glared a little at her and then turned to me,
"it's rare that you see a woman your age look so lady-like. I'm a little
tired of the hip hugging pants and booby shirts. It's quite refreshing to
just see someone sofeminine." She smiled sweetly at me and then
turned to face the table again.
"AND don't even think I didn't notice neither of you boys mentioned how
fabulous your mother looks today" Esme waved her hand over her blue
sundress "This is new."
"You look nice Mom," Edward and Emmett said lamely and she sucked her
teeth, rolling her eyes at them. She started to return to her seat, but
Edward grabbed her by the waist and pulled her back
"The blue in your dress, Mother, is almost as beautiful as your blue
eyes." He reached up and cupped her face in his palm, "Almost."
Butterbean was dead. She died on this day.
A moment of silence, please.
Thank you.
"Ass kisser," Emmett huffed.
"This is the type of romance you can expect out of dream man over
there," Edward shot back, looking at Rose as he kicked Emmett's leg with
his foot.
"Sorry that took so long. I kept getting interrupted with the silly
phone." Carlisle sat the platter of steaks down and I almost lost my shit.
He cooked them at the same time? AND let them sit. Fuck me. I tried to
breathe.
"Dad, you totally killed the steaks," Edward said to my fucking
satisfaction.
"I think I know how to cook a steak, thank you," Carlisle said, grabbing
the salad bowl.
"Yeah? Which one is mid rare, because they all look pretty grey to me?"
He pointed to the plate and looked at Carlisle.
"I'm sorry, I didn't see a sign that said 'Edward's Kitchen' when I walked
in here this afternoon," Carlisle shot back.
"Enough," Esme interrupted. "Just take a piece of meat and stop your
griping, Son."
"So Rosalie, what do you do?" Carlisle changed the topic.
"I own a bakery," Rose smiled at him.
"Oh, another food person," he nodded.
"Well I just have the one place. Try to stay grounded, you know." She
glanced once at me and then down to her plate.
What the fuck?
"Yes, well, that sounds like a good plan." This was quickly becoming the
bash Bella show.
"Bella was just given an award Carlisle. For," Esme looked up to me as
she cut her steak. "What was the name dear?"
"A Michelin star," I shrugged, not really wanting to talk about this shit.
"Yes, that's right. It is a very prestigious award," Esme smiled sweetly,
but her efforts were lost. No one fucking cared about that shit and it
was making me highly uncomfortable.
"What is the criteria for winning one?" Carlisle asked me, in almosta
challenging way?
"Um," I placed my fork down and wiped my mouth with the little sailboat
printed linen napkin from my lap, "it's based on a number of things."
Please fucking drop it.
"As in? I am sure we can all follow along Bella." He cut his steak still
keeping my gaze.
Yep, the fucker was challenging me.
"It's sort of a long list of things, but you pretty much have to be perfect
in a way." As soon as the fucking words left my mouth I cringed.
Fucking word vomit bullshit.
"I mean the restaurant, the restaurant has to be to their standards,
which are perfect." I tried to back track, but it didn't seem to move him
any.
"We know that Dear," Esme smiled at me, and I looked back down to my
food.
"Yeah, Bella has three, Dad," Emmett said. "That means we are triple
perfect," he smiled and winked at me.
"Three? I thought you said they were hard to come by?" Carlisle
challenged me again.
"They are Carlisle," Edward spoke up this time, dropping his fork to his
plate, allowing it to clatter hard against the ceramic. "Bella is the
youngest person to have ever received three, the only other person who
has more than her is double her age and oh, by the," Edward covered
Ness' ears, "fucking way, that happens to be Gordon fucking Ramsey, who
asks Bella to oversee his restaurants because he holds her in such high
ass mother of fuck regard." He uncovered her ears. "So stop it." He
picked up his fork and held a bite of food to Ness' mouth, keeping his
eyes on his father.
"So."Emmett began, "catch any of that Marlins game?" Emmett picked
up his beer, looking at Edward.
"I'll pay you on Friday," Edward grinned.
"Still holding out on the Diamondbacks, eh?" Emmett smiled, taking a sip
of his beer.
"You like the Diamondbacks?" I asked him.
"That was the first baseball game I ever went to as a kid, on our family
vacation one year."
"Edward is extremely loyal to them, all because he caught a stupid ball,"
Emmett laughed.
"Hmm." I looked back down to my food.
"What?" Edward asked.
"Phil is on that team."
"Who's Phil? Wait, like your stepdad? You're step dad is Phil Mesoftlee?"
Edward asked, surprised.
"That name!" Emmett boomed in laughter. "It fucking kills me every
time!" He held his belly, tossing his head back.
"You are such a child." I shook my head at him and then turned to
Edward. "Yes, that is my step father."
"In that case," Edward laughed, reaching for his beer. "You owe my ass
twenty bucks."
"Shh," Nessie hit his mouth and Edward laughed, trying to hold his beer
in. She giggled at him and did it again. "Ass," He said again and she did
the same thing, laughing harder.
"Normally, I would scold you for speaking so fowl to my grandbaby," Esme
looked over to them, resting her chin in her hands, "but a bad word has
never been so good to hear."
1:44 pm
I helped Esme serve the trifle and bring it out to the table, although, at
this point, I felt like dumping it in the trash not in the mood to hear
anymore shit about myself. That of course didn't happen. We brought out
the dessert, which, by the way, was served on these kickass plates with
a big fat rat in the middle of the design. It was sort of cool that she
could surprise me. Emmett was served first and all but inhaled the
ceramic plate it sat upon.
"Do you always eat like this?" Rose asked him.
"Yep," he said with a mouth full.
"It's gross." She rolled her eyes and Emmett leaned in, puckering his lips
out and she cowered back. Ness giggled again as he tried to kiss her and
she swatted him away.
"I bet she's fun in bed," I mumbled sarcastically under my breath.
Edward snickered beside me and we shared a glance no else noticed.
"Bella, this is wonderful, thank you for bringing it," Esme said.
"Sure," I smiled as I took a bite.
"Actually, there's a little too much whipped cream," Rose said, moving a
sweep of her cream aside.
"Uhyou talking about me eating like a pig," Emmett began, "is one thing
Babygirl. You talking about Gran's trifle" he took her plate away and
placed it in front of him, "is another." Emmett scooped up a big bite and
shoved it in his mouth.
"I just don't like whipped cream. I didn't say I didn't want it," Rose
tugged her plate back.
"How do you own a bakery and not like whipped cream? Are you a
Commy?" I asked arching an eyebrow.
"No, I just get tired of shit I have had a million times over," Rose said,
bringing a spoon to her mouth.
"You know, this might be the one and only time I will ever agree with you
Rosalie. We should like, have a moment of silence or something," I sighed
hard and a few people laughed.
"Rose is revoking her ban on us from the bakery by the way," Emmett
said.
"Oh yeah, why is that?" I asked lamely.
"I got skills," Emmett sucked his spoon suggestively as he ate his bite of
cherry and yellow cake goodness.
"You just totally desecrated Gran's trifle," I shook my head at him.
Edward was feeding Ness in his lap, but apparently it wasn't fast enough
because she made a very disgruntled noise, as he took his own bite, and
bounced with anticipation for her own. Ah, if only Gran could see. Esme
handed Edward her spoon from across the table and he passed it to Ness
so she could eat with him. The spoon was a little hard for her to handle,
as it was five times her size and clinked against her tiny teeth as she
tried to take a mouthful. She had no qualms with whipped cream.
Which is why I loved her and fucking hated Rosalie.
"Good, isn't Shortcake?" Emmett asked Ness, winking at her. She nodded
at him and Edward looked questioningly at him.
"I haven't heard you say that in a long time."
"I was trying to come up with a more grown-up name, but I just can't.
She's Shortcake and that's all there is to it." Emmett's low laugh
vibrated against his beer bottle as he leaned back in his chair, taking a
sip.
"Why is she Shortcake?" I asked Em, smiling at this name I never heard.
"Because she's sweet and vibrant and heavenly, just like shortcake,"
Emmett nodded once, looking at me.
"You know, I have worked with you, for what? Like fucking seven years or
some shit Em?"
"Yeah?"
"That is the first time in seven years I have ever heard you describe a
dish appropriately," I grinned at him and he winked at me then looked
back to Ness.
"I know."
EPOV
My mother served us coffee in the living room area. Well, one of the
living rooms anyhow. The one we were allowed to enter, because it was
kid-friendly and didn't house too many expensive heirlooms.
Emmett had already taken off to go back to The Workshop. I was glad,
not only because that meant Rose was gone, but also because I knew
Bella might relax a little if he was there watching over things. As Esme
went to lay Ness down for her nap, I watched Bella walk around the
room, looking at all the pictures as she sipped her coffee.
"I am totally snooping through this whole room, just so you know," she
teased.
"I am totally staring at your ass, just so you know," I sat back on the
sofa and she looked over her shoulder to me with a sour expression.
I laughed and kept on ogling her as she looked back to the mantle full of
photographs. It wasn't my fault. She was the one who decided to wear
the dress that showed how long and silky her legs were. Of course,
looking at her legs made me look at her ass, and looking at her ass made
my dick twitch. We all know how I feel about that thing, please don't
make me describe it to you again, for I am not allowed sex anymore,
please and fucking thank you.
She really did look beautiful though, my mother's description of Bella
being perfect. Watching her long chestnut locks sway as she sashayed
around the room, I trailed my eyes down, taking in how she arched her
neck and set her shoulders straight. Bella's demeanor was strong,
confident and yes - feminine.
"Was this you?" Bella asked, holding a small-framed picture in her free
hand.
"Yes," Esme answered for me as she entered.
My mother walked over to Bella and took it from her hands, pulling her
along to the couch across from where I was lounging. Esme looked over
the picture thoughtfully before she spoke and I could see the pride in
her face as she stared at it.
"I love both of my boys very much and equally, mind you, but there was
always something special about Edward." Esme glanced over to me and I
averted her gaze, taking a sip of my coffee.
"He was a very sweet little boy. Renesmee and he acted very similar,"
Esme said to Bella. "Edward used to walk with me in our gardenwell the
garden we used to have, anyway, when he was small. He'd help me pick
the flowers and vegetables. Maybe that's where his love of food comes
frombut anyhow" I cut Esme off.
"You just always have to bring this up, don't you?" I laughed, knowing
what she was about to say. "I was six Mom. It's time to get over it," I
teased.
"Shh, I'm telling a story." She looked back to Bella and I laid down on
the couch, resting my mug on the table.
"Coaster please, Dear," Esme pointed to the table.
"Yeah, yeah, just tell your story Mrs. Victim," I teased back, sliding a
coaster under the mug, and sunk back into the pillows.
"One day, we were in the garden and I was picking these lovely
wildflowers that bloomed from who knows where," Esme flipped up her
hand and I closed my eyes, thinking back to the day as she described it.
"Edward walked up to me with a huge handful of these precious purple
wildflowers and says, 'Here Mom, flowers.' I was so touched. I mean, can
you imagine, Bella? This man," I opened my eyes as she motioned towards
me with her hand, "being this big," Esme held her hand to the floor at
my six-year-old height, "and handing his mother flowers with those big
blue eyes?" Bella smiled as she listened to Esme, and I watched her face
for the rest of the story, loving the excitement and intrigue that lay
within it.
"As I took the flowers into my hand, I was going to lean down and kiss
my sweet boy for being so thoughtful and then," Esme looked at me with
a scowl and I started laughing at her bitterness, "he punched me in the
stomach." Bella busted into laughter, covering her mouth as Esme said
the last line.
"Why" Bella tried to ask but she was laughing too hard. "Why would
you do you that?" she asked, still giggling.
"I was SIX!" I exclaimed, laughing.
"Thankfully, he has become much more of a gentleman since then," Esme
teased, looking at Bella. My father came into the room, pausing at the
door way and we all looked to him.
"May I speak with you for a moment Bella?" Carlisle asked.
"We're having coffee dear," Esme answered for her, in a warning tone.
"It'll only take a second," Carlisle motioned with his hand leading out to
the other room.
Bella looked at him, her brows scrunching together, but then rested her
mug down and rose from her seat to follow him. There was a nervous
feeling in the pit of my stomach. My father had not been very nice to
Bella this afternoon and I had no idea what he could want with her, the
only common thread among the three of us was all the shit with Jessica.
"What is he doing?" I asked Esme after they were gone.
"I'm not exactly sure Honey. I'm sure it has something to do with Bella's
involvement in your case though."
"He can't wait for some other time? She isn't here to be questioned." I
sat up feeling very frustrated.
"It must be important." She shrugged.
I stood up and walked back to the kitchen to get more coffee, grabbing
Esme's cup as well. The trifle was still sitting on the kitchen island and I
placed some cling wrap back over it then set it in the fridge. I never met
Gran, but I loved her. Her trifle recipe was fucking awesome. The baby
monitor was in the charger on the countertop next to the phone and I
raised it up, listening to make sure Ness was still asleep, but was
interrupted by the sounds of Bella's heels coming down the wooden
staircase. I set the monitor back in the cradle and walked out to meet
her, instantly becoming angry when I saw her face.
"What happened?" I asked, following behind her towards the door.
"It's nothing. I have to go to the restaurant though. Give Squeaks a kiss
for me okay?" she said quickly, grabbing her things from the bench as she
tried to exit. I grabbed her arm and she looked up at me.
"Bella, don't leave. What did he say?"
"I told you, nothing. I have to go to work Edward, play time is over." She
pulled her arm back and slung her bag over her shoulder.
"Angel?" I called as she tugged open the door. Bella spun around and I
stepped forward, cupping her face into my hands.
"He isn't right, whatever my father said, he isn't right. Never is." I
leaned my lips to her forehead, kissing her softly. I'm sorry.
"There's a first time for everything," she whispered and leaned away.
"See you Monday." She tugged open the door and stepped out, closing it
softly behind her. I turned around and saw Esme standing at the
stairwell, with a very sad and worried expression on her gentle face.
"Don't," she shook her head, pleading with me, knowing how pissed I was,
but I ignored her and stalked towards the steps that would lead to my
father's office. "Edward!" she grabbed my arm, trying to stop me.
"He has no fucking right!" I pointed towards the second floor.
"I know, but Ness is sleeping and if you start yelling at your father she
is going to wake up scared." She tried to grab my other arm, but I
pushed passed her.
"Then I won't yell." I held up my hands as I climbed the steps.
As soon as I reached his office and opened the door, my plan for not
yelling seemed to go away.
"What the fuck?!" I yelled, closing his door louder than I had planned to.
"Do not curse in my office." Carlisle kept his head down, focused on his
paperwork.
"Have you not learned? Have we not almost lost everything simply
because you can't butt out of my life?" I walked forward and leaned on
his desk once I reached it.
"Butt out? I am sorry Edward," he set down his pen and looked up to me.
"I believed it was my duty as your lawyer to be very much in your
business."
"Not my personal business," I shook my head, wanting to smash his face
as he looked at me, void of emotion.
"You seem to have a hard time separating the two lately," he countered.
"Don't even act like you have any place to judge me. I haven't done
anything wrong." My palms clenched and the desire to hit him grew.
"Your little girlfriend, boss, whatever she is, did do something wrong,"
Carlisle leaned back in his chair, hands clasped across his chest.
"Like what?!" I asked angrily.
"Bella's interference into your case is causing me a lot of unneeded stress
for one. I have no idea what she is going to do at any given time and it is
making me play a very dangerous game with her. Actually, it is making
you play a very dangerous game, considering this is your child we are
fighting for. Perhaps if you started thinking with your upper body,
instead of your lower body, we wouldn't have such problems. That was
how this whole mess began in the first place, as I recall."
"I'm not even sleeping with Bella for one. And two, do not call Renesmee
a mess." I leaned further over the desk, towering over him. Dad or not, I
will fuck you up.
"I was referring to Jessica, not my Granddaughter."
"Bella was just trying,"
"To help. Yes, she said that," he finished for me.
"She cares about Ness," I simmered down a little. Very little.
"Then she should stay out of your affairs. It is only making things
worse."
"I don't see how that is true. Bella is the reason I have any chance for
getting Ness. For countless reasons," I argued.
"Like what Edward? Being a chef? Getting a promotion because you're
screwing your boss?" he scoffed.
"I already told you" he cut me off again.
"She was here the entire night only a few days after you began working
there. Think I am stupid?" He started getting angry, standing up from his
seat. "Right under my God damned roof while your child sleeps in the
next room? Knock up another whore, under my roof and you can forget
about your inheritance." He pointed angrily at me and I lost my shit.
"Inheritance?!" I yelled. "You think I give a shit about your
motherfucking money?! I have never taken a fucking cent from you!" We
were in each other's faces, only the desk separating us.
"In that case, I'll send you my legal fees. Or wait, perhaps I should send
them to your sugar mamma?"
"Fuck you Dad!" I knocked all the papers off his desk in one long hard
sweeping motion with my left hand. "Fuck. You." My mother was in the
doorway and I tried not see the tears in her eyes, but failed as I leaned
in to kiss her goodbye.
"I'll see youI need to get out of here though," I waved my hand as I
leaned away and tried to simmer down the anger. She followed me as I
walked to Ness' room.
"Just let her stay," she said, grabbing my arm.
"I'm not coming back here in the morning. She can stay with Leah." I
pulled my arm free, but she stepped in front of me.
"Don't do that Edward. Don't take her away from us. She has already
been through too much," Esme started to cry. "Please. Plus, you're too
angry to drive with her. I don't even want you to drive alone." She
sobbed harder and reached out to hug me.
"Don't fucking cry Mah," I sucked my teeth, sighing hard, and held her to
me.
"I just hate this," she sobbed against my chest.
"I know, but I tried and he just doesn't get it, Mom. He just doesn't get
it." I kissed her head and she nodded against me.
"We just want to protect you, because we love you." She leaned away
and rubbed her soft fingers to my face.
"I love you too, but I am not staying here and I'm not bringing Ness back
here in the morning. She's fine with Leah. I'll have her watch her at my
place so it will be fine. Ness loves Leah. You can come see her whenever
you want. You know that," I kissed her head again. "But I am not coming
back to his house again." I gently pushed her away and walked to Ness'
room.
She was still asleep and I carefully picked her up in my arms, resting her
face into the crook of my neck. My hands rubbed gently over her warm
back and I reached down for the throw blanket that rested on the chair
in her room, wrapping it over her as I walked out. Esme stood outside of
the doorway and leaned in to kiss her goodbye, then turned to me.
"Bella is lovely and I am proud of you Edward. I have always been proud
of you." Her eyes watered and I just nodded, leaning in to kiss her
cheek.
"I love you Mom. I'll call you later." I kissed Esme's cheek again and
walked passed her, to the stairwell.
After I reached my car outside, and had Ness placed safely into her car
seat, I climbed into the driver's side and sighed hard, trying to refocus. I
thought about stopping at work and apologizing to Bella, but Ness was
sleeping and I didn't want to involve her anyhow. Leaning to the side, I
pulled my cell from my pocket and flipped it open, searching for Bella's
name. After I clicked on Angel, I thumbed the text feature and typed
out a quick message.
I fucking heart you too.
-E
.
When I arrived home, I placed Ness into her bed and let her nap while I
cleaned up around my apartment. The need to keep myself busy was
huge. If Ness weren't here, I probably would have just gone into work.
I made sure to call Leah and tell her I would need her on a full time
basis from now on, and she was all too happy. Then I started thinking
about the shit Bella said about helping Ness with flashcards.
Sitting down at the computer, I looked up a few different things about
Ness' condition and also found a forum where other parents talked about
similar experiences. It was sort of nice to know I wasn't so alone.
Speaking of which, I checked my phone again and Bella still hadn't
responded. Service should have been starting by now, so maybe she didn't
get it. I debated whether or not to leave a second text for a moment,
not sure if that was too much. Maybe something to just let her know
that I didn't think of her like Carlisle did. Something to void out his
words to her that I didn't even need to hear to know what they were;
for I had already heard them once before in my life.
Scrolling once again through the list, I selected her name and I typed my
message on the key pad.
TY 4 telling me about flashcards- just finished reading about it and
found a good forum to talk on. It was a big help. Hope your night is going
well. I'm sorry that *I* am not there to help *you*, Angel.
-E
After I chatted back and forth with a few others parents about PTSD, I
started to look up lawyers in the area. It would be a little tricky, since
number one most of them knew my father, and also, even though I
was now making a good salary, lawyers were still a hell of fucking
expensive. Carlisle however, could take his fucking credentials and shove
them up his ass. If I had to take a second or third job, I didn't fucking
care. I wasn't going to ask him for help, ever again.
There were a few good choices, but nothing I could really do about it
until morning. Sundays were not the day to go around calling places of
business. Ness was still sleeping soundly, so I decided to lay on the couch
for a bit to think while it was quiet.
Looking around my small apartment, all of my worst fears came crashing
down upon me as I tried to view myself objectively from a judge's point
of view. Here I was, dropping my lawyer/father, which screamed family
troubles. I lived in a cramped, rented space which screamed unstable and
I had no schooling or real education of any kind.
Sure, having Bella as my boss was good, but the reality was that I only
had being employed full-time under my belt for two months. That was
hardly anything to write home about. Someone selling you a used car
would laugh at it if they saw it on your fucking application. Jessica not
only was in school, but also worked longer, holding down her job for
years, compared to my measly months. Her promotion to unknowing eyes
would seem fitting and mine would look questionable.
Under my care, Ness had almost drowned, and under hers, she had a
clean record, and a best friend to testify that I placed my hands upon
the mother of my child while she was tending to her, and I had no one to
say otherwise. Sitting up, I walked back over to the computer and
reopened the search engine, typing in 'houses for sale, Miami Florida.'
It wasn't much, but it was a start.
BPOV
8:45 am Monday
I sat in my office and waited eagerly for the clock to toll nine, knowing
that Edward would come walking in. I missed having him here. As much as
his father pissed me off yesterday with his stupid fucking lecture, it
wasn't Edward's fault and yeah, okay, maybe his Dad was right about
some shit. Maybe I did butt in a little too much, but fuck, what would he
prefer? Someone like Jessica who treated his son like shit? Fuck that
mess.
I heard keys in the door and my heart picked up its pace. It was
probably just Emmett, but I was still full of anticipation anyhow. Would
he come early? Did he want to be here that much? Maybe he was trying
to make up for being gone. My door was slightly open and I decided to
holler out, not able to take the wondering any longer.
"Emmett?" I called out.
"Just me Bell." I heard the smooth bass of Edward's voice and smiled
wide.
"What are you doing out there?" Clocking in. I already knew, but just
wanted to hear him again.
"Clocking in," he replied.
See?
"I'll meet you in the kitchen in a second, I'm just trying to buy a new
phone online." I glared at my screen, wishing the fucking thing would
move faster as it accepted my payment.
"What happened to your phone?" His voice was closer; I started to sweat
a little.
"I dropped it last night and it broke." I threw the motherfucker out the
window when I got no reception on my drive home from his parent's house.
"So," he opened my door and I swear I expected to hear fucking angels
and shit singing, "you didn't get my messages?" he asked, looking a little
sad.
"No. Why? What happened?" I asked, worried.
"Nothing, I just wanted to let you know I looked up the flashcards.
That's all," he shrugged, but something lingered in his eyes before he
averted my gaze. The sound of approval from my payment going through
distracted me from asking him what was wrong.
"Thank God." I closed out of the window on the computer and climbed to
my feet. Edward allowed me to pass first and then followed me to the
kitchen.
As we both started prepping for service, I filled him in on all the details
and things he missed, griping about Seth and telling him what he needed
to work on with the kid. Edward fell right back into his old role and I
sighed contently at how fucking wonderful it felt with him here.
At some point in the day, his demeanor changed. Edward kept looking all
fucking smiley and shit as he kept glancing up at me through his long
'fuck me' lashes. I tried to focus on the fucking pasta salad, but Edward
was distracting my ass too badly. I finally gave up and looked at him.
"What the fuck is so funny?" I asked. He snickered and kept working,
glancing up once to look around the kitchen.
"Jessica has an STD," he tried not to smile, but failed miserably.
"What?" I held my hand over my mouth, laughing.
"Someone ordered her to take a test and sure as fuck, she has fucking
herpes." He did laugh this time, still assembling the pasta salad.
"Ugh, that is fucking gross, Wait, when the fuck did she get the herpes?"
I asked nervously, arching a brow at him.
"It wasn't fucking from me," Edward held his hand over his chest. "I am
clean as a motherfucking whistle Sweetheart," he said pointedly.
"When the hell did you find this out anyhow?" I asked.
"I got a call last week," he popped a cherry tomato in his mouth and
shrugged. "I wanted to bring it up, but you know, shit was happening."
Wasn't it always? Like NOW for instance
"Ugh, as much as I would LOVE to keep talking about this, I need to
leave you for a bit. Seth should be here, so get him going on what we
talked about earlier before you leave for lunch, okay?"
"Yeah sure," he nodded as he kept working on the pasta salad.
Last night, I had thought long and hard about all of the things that
happened, and decided that some of the words Edward's father spoke to
me were truer than I wanted to believe. The fact was that, I was
butting into his life too much. Not that I was going stop helping him, but
I was perhaps avoiding some of my own issues the most important of
course being, the shit with James.
One of my lawyers knew this guy he thought he could help. I had emailed
him last week and today he was finally arriving. I waited patiently in my
office, going through emails, before a man's head popped through my
door, not even knocking first.
He walked into my office and grinned. I was taken aback by how manly
and fucking smug he was. Damn, was that a gun? This motherfucker
wasn't playing around. I liked that. This was good. If someone was going
to take down a monster, this was the fucking guy I wanted.
Leather wearing, gun toting, smug looking, hot ass motherfucker.
He handed me his card as he took a seat in my office, on my desk mind
you. Normally, I would have kicked him in the balls, but something told
me, this man wouldn't have fucking cared. And really, neither did I for
some reason. I looked over his paper card in my hand, rolling along with
my fingers as I read it over.
Dick For Hire
Butterbean just found a new friend.
EPOV
It felt amazing to tell Bella about Jessica's STD. I wanted to at the
barbeque, even mentioning it to Rose during our fucking argument, but
shit got sidetracked. Plus, talking about herpes at a family gathering,
probably not the best thing to do. No matter how fucking funny that shit
is. Karma, gotta love it.
One thing did suck however.
Bella never got my fucking secret 'I love you' in her text message last
night. Well, it was kind of good in a way though. After work closed down
last night, Em popped his head in my house for a quick beer, having
spoken to my mother and knowing shit had hit the fan with my father
again. I told him I was worried about Bella and that she hadn't returned
my calls. After I explained what I wrote, he called me a douche and
gave me his theory.
"I'm telling you right now Edward, if you tell her that you love her, you
will freak B the fuck out."
"How is telling someone that you love them considered a bad thing?" I
asked.
"How is someone protecting you from bitches like Jessica a bad thing?"
Emmett countered. "You have issues, just like B has issues. I have known
her a long ass time and I am telling you, she is already freaked out
enough without you going and saying some shit about loving her."
"Bella told me she loves Renesmee," I shot back.
"She...." he stopped for a second, stumped. "She did?"
"Yeah. While we were all lying in bed together, cuddled up. Didn't even
fucking hesitate."
"Well shit, Edward." Emmett rubbed his head, "You didn't fucking tell me
that."
I laughed at him then, but thinking about it now, maybe he was right.
BPOV
2:01 pm
"I have two seats you know," I motioned with my hand to the chairs on
the other side of my desk.
He just kept grinning at me, as his eyes roamed over me. My body
instantly flushed with heat and desire. It was weird, like he had a spell
over me or some shit. I tried to look away, but couldn't. His green eyes
smoldered, reminding me of the intensity I usually felt when Edward
looked at me this way, only...this guy's eyes were burning holes into me,
like he could literally set me on fire if he chose.
He laughed a little before he spoke.
"I don't plan to be here that fucking long if it's all the same to you. I
just need to know what the fuck you want, who you want it from, and
where they're located. The rest..." the lil' fucker winked at me, "I'll
handle myself."
"A good private eye, an employee of mine and fucking New York," I smiled
smugly at him and he groaned a little. Oh, did I surprise Iron Man? He
picked up on my smug shit I was toting and cupped my face in his rough
hand.
"Well I hate to disappoint you, but you got yourself a grade A, pride of
the pack, top of the fucking line private eye." He leaned in and
whispered in my ear, "The rest of that shit is a dime a fucking dozen
lady." The leather of his jacket grazed my nipple as he leaned away and
butterbean said 'Thank you kind Sir'.
"What's the employee's name, and where in New York am I headed?
Travel is extra by the way," he said as he wiggled his fuck me eyebrows.
"Unless you're coming with, then I might be inclined to go Dutch."
"His name is James," I began to reply, but he fucking snorted and I
looked at him in question. "Do you have a problem with that?" I asked.
He cleared his throat and gave me a very serious look all of a sudden.
"No... no, go right ahead," he waved me on and then crossed his arms
against his chest. Something lingered there, reminded me of Ramsey, for
some reason, when we would have business meetings in the early days I
spent working for him and The Suits used to try and intimidate him. Ah,
there it was, this guy was not impressed. What did he want me to say?
Fucking Bubba or something?
"This is a very sensitive issue as he happens to have some really sensitive
shit on me. I happen to be a very well known public figure and need to
keep this shit on the DL. Since you claim to be a really good dick..." I
eyed him and watched as his lips turned up a little at the corners, "I
would imagine that you already knew that however. Here is all you need
to know," I handed him the packet I already assembled with James's
personal file and my restaurant, Riley's, information. "I expect this all to
be given back to me when your job is complete.
He began rifling through the information I'd given him, as though
committing it to memory.
"Please understand here Mr. Dickward, money is no object to me, well
actually...it is only that, an object - so whatever fee you require will be
paid in full and on time. I just want this fucker taken down." I scooted
back from my desk and stood up - leaning in towards him a little. Mr.
Dickward looked up at me without lifting his head, only raising his green
eyes to meet my own.
Time for you to meet your Mamma, fucker.
"As far as going with you is concerned, if you are really as good as you
say - I would imagine that means you are perfectly capable of flying
solo. Not that I don't appreciate the offer and shit." I allowed my finger
to graze the gun on his hip, arching an eyebrow at him.
Before he began to speak, Edward popped his head in the door and stared
at us.
"Pretty fucking aggressive wouldn't you say?" Mr. Dickward asked, eyeing
Edward, then looking back into my eyes. His free hand slowly reached out
and rested over mine as I touched his holstered gun.
"I don't let just anyone stroke my gun, if you know what I mean," he
smiled, cocking an eyebrow at me.
Butterbean smiled right back.
"I'm sure you have a great comeback there, Sweet Tits, but hold that
fucking thought a sec." Dickward looked back over at Edward and
furrowed his brow, "Do I fucking know you?" he asked.
Edward cocked his head to the side, reminding me of this dog we had
when I was a child and you asked him if he had to go pee, before he
answered.
"I usually don't hang around dudes who wear leather," Edward's brow
lifted and he looked questioningly at my PI's attire.
"What's the matter, can't you fucking afford it?" he smirked.
"I just don't do leather ass chaps while singing the YMCA, if you know
what I'm saying." Edward adjusted Lt. Dan and I fucking balled my fist
to keep from hurling over the desk and raping him on site.
Butterbean stared at both of them here in the small, cramped space of
my office. Her little face all scrunched in wonder and confusion. Edward
stood in his black tank top, tattoos showing on his bulging muscles, sex
hair in full effect with his lip in between his teeth. She THEN looked to
Mr. Dickward and took in all his leather-wearing, gun toting goodness and
wondered what it would be like to be sandwiched in between the two.
A manwich. Fuck me. I wanted to be in a manwich.
I finally came back to my senses enough to form a question.
"Um, what did you need, Babe?" I asked Edward.
"Yeah, kid, the adults are a little busy talking business and shit, if you
don't mind," Dickward scooted in a little closer, even putting his strong
hand on my hip, tugging me a little closer to him, trying to taunt Edward
I assumed.
Fuck, he smelled like sin.
And leather.
AndPatron?
Butterbean thumped.
"Business...hmm," Edward mused, then looked back to me, answering my
question. "I wanted you to know I'm taking the full hour for lunch. I have
to meet someone about a house."
"You're moving?" I asked, surprised.
"I'm looking for a house to buy, yeah. I think it looks more stable and
shit for court," Edward explained.
"That makes sense," I agreed. Edward nodded, backing out of my office,
but paused with his hand on the handle, looking back at Mr. Dickward. I
knew him well enough to know he was up to no good.
"By the way, last time Bella brought me in here for business, I got to sit
in her chair, not the desk. And my dick..." he turned and said over his
shoulder, "got to sit in her vagina."
Mr. Dickward cocked an eyebrow as Edward left and turned to me, "I'll
be right back, Sweet Tits," he said, laying the folder I'd given him on the
desk and following Edward out.
When he came back, he had a shit-eating grin on his face while eye
fucking me with those god damn demanding emerald green eyes of his.
Dickward picked up the folder from my desk and tipped it to me before
turning for the door again.
"I'll get on this, shouldn't take long, I'll call you from New York." He
tugged the door open and I scattered to try and follow him out.
"What did you say to my Edward, fucker?" I demanded.
He stopped and looked all fucking innocent and shit at me. "Oh...
nothing... I just told the kid there that maybe if he'd fucked you good
enough, you might not be eyeing my gun like you wanted me to play
Where's Waldo under the sheets with you."
"I do not want to play anything with you, number one. Number two DICK
- Edward fucks me all good and proper like. For someone who is intuitive,
you sure as shit got that dead wrong." I reached out to grab the folder
from his hand. "Maybe I should be looking for someone more qualified."
He didn't allow me to take the papers as I tugged on them, instead, he
took my hand and tugged me into him, whispering in my ear.
"You might wanna go reassure the blue-eyed wonder out there that your
pussy is safe with me. I try not to fuck with women who are already in
love with other men. It tends to get me knee deep into shit I really don't
fucking need right now." His laughter vibrated through his chest, sending
the waves along my body as he held me to him.
"I'm not in love with him," I rolled my eyes, but he couldn't see.
Dickward leaned back, looking at me, evaluating my face with his expert
eyes.
"Oh yes you fucking are. It's written all over you, Sweet Tits. From your
pouty little lips, to your "please fuck me" eyes..." He reached back to my
face and thumbed my jaw. "To the blush that showed up the minute he
popped his cocky fucking head though your office door and saw us
standing a little too close, and don't think I missed you calling him 'MY
Edward', just now."
As he stepped back, he winked once more and strolled off, he wasn't
winking at me. I spun around and saw Edward standing just a few feet
away, having watched and heard what just transpired.
"Good luck with that shit, Kid." The PI was winking at fucking Edward.
Damn, stupid Dick.











Chapter 14 "Making love."
EPOV
I forgot my damn keys in the kitchen.
That little fucking twat, leather wearing, ass in Bella's office distracted
me as I was trying to head out with his stupid rant about how I needed
to satisfy her better and shit.
Now, I am not one to get into a pissing match, but I made sure to inform
him, having a women cum four times in a one-hour period while calling out
my name, seems to tell me that I am or was doing my job well.
As I walked back out into the dining room, Bella was yelling and following
the guy as he exited. I tensed, getting a little worried that he might
have done something to her.
Not that Bella yelling at someone was out of the norm and shit.
"I do not want to play anything with you, number one. Number two DICK
Edward fucks me all good and proper like. For someone who is intuitive,
you sure as shit got that dead wrong." She reached out to grab the
folder from his hand. "Maybe I should be looking for someone more
qualified."
This was about where I began to lose my shit.
He saw me standing a few feet behind them, allowing me to catch a look
in his eye I knew all too well. It was the same look Ness had when she
was about to do something she knew was wrong, but still felt the need to
push my buttons.
The leather wearing twat pulled Bella into him and held my gaze,
smirking slightly as he watched me. I could only see his lips moving near
her ear, though, as he spoke softly to Bella.
But fuck I could hear her angry reply.
"I'm not in love with him," she argued, causing my heart to sink just a
fucking little.
Okay, a lot.
Not only was it what she said, but how the fuck she said it, like the
sheer idea was utterly ridiculous to her. Like it wasn't even a
possibility.
The man leaned off her, and looked at Bella with a look of disbelief as he
retorted. This time, I could hear him.
"Oh yes you fucking are. It's written all over you, Sweet Tits. From your
pouty little lips, to your "please fuck me" eyes..." He reached back to
her face and thumbed Bella's jaw, "To the blush that showed up the
minute he popped his cocky fucking head though your office door and saw
us standing a little too close and don't think I missed you calling him 'MY
Edward', just now."
As he stepped back, he winked once more and strolled off, only he wasn't
winking at Bella though.
He fucking winked at me.
I knew Leather Man was all about the YMCA.
"Good luck with that shit, Kid." He exited The Workshop and I looked
back to Bella, who had an expression that would halt traffic on her face.
Caught with your hand in the cookie jar and all of that shit.
Did that mean he was right about what he just said to her?
"I thought you were going to lunch?" she asked finally, snapping me out
of my thoughts.
"I am. Forgot my keys." I began walking forward and Bella looked down
to her feet, and I saw the little V come between her brows.
"Who the fuck was that guy anyhow?" I asked, pausing at her side.
"The guy I hired to follow James," she said quietly.
"Like a detective?" I asked surprised.
"Yeah. He is supposed to be really good," she shrugged and finally looked
back up to me.
"He seems like an ass," I argued.
"Yeah well, I would imagine catching scumbags like James everyday for a
living would put most people in a rather shit mood."
"I guess so. Well anyhow, I'm going." I started to walk again and I saw
her turn out of my peripherals, almost like Bella was going to stop me, or
say something.
But she didn't.
Bella POV
2:16 pm
My heart broke looking at Edward's angels face after I spun around and
saw him. He must have heard me say to the PI that I didn't love him.
What a bitch I must have sounded like. Seriously, what the hell was
wrong with me?
I wanted to say something, but I mean, what the hell was I to say
really? 'Sorry that you just heard me yell to the whole g'damned world
that I don't love you, even though there is no real reason for me not to.'
Right.
So, I allowed Edward to leave. Just like the bitch I was.
3:45 pm
I was knee deep in fucking plans since we were coming upon Fourth of
July weekend. Being on the beachside was golden, because it meant we
would be getting serious bookings since the fireworks display was
launched from a ship out on the ocean.
Fireworks, ah, how I loved them so.
Normally, I wasn't really one for the holidays shit, since it was usually
the time when I played Mrs. Failey Mcfailstein, but something was just so
magical about the Fourth of July to me. Maybe it had to do with my
memories as a child running around the neighborhood with sparklers while
everyone cooked outside, and the air weighed heavily in the delicious
aromas of summer, burgers and barbeque sauce, and chlorinated pool
water.
Those would have been my summers in phoenix anyhow.
Forks was a Debbie Downer for the summer time affairs. Fucking rain. The
one thing that I always did enjoy about Forks was the winters, because
no matter how much having frozen toes sucks, a white Christmas, is a
right Christmas. Plus, Charlie always made me his famous baked apples
with cinnamon and sugar and hand-shaved, dark chocolate hot cocoa with
Gran's home-made marshmallows floating on top, like a little marshmallow
cap on the mug.
Ah, those were the days.
Now, I sit here planning a mind fuck of a weekend, debating how to
rearrange the menu and make all this shit work out, all while wanting to
pull my fucking hair from its roots. Still, seeing fireworks this weekend
would be awesomeif I get to see them of course.
The other cool thing that was happening was that I had managed to book
Marinas Trench to play inside of The Workshop. How fucking awesome,
right? I mean, was I the shit, or what? Okay, enough gloating, but
seriously, this was a good thing. Having celebs tote your shit, was fucking
priceless. The 'sheeple' would flock like, well, fucking sheep.
Our place was doing awesome, don't get wrong, but there was always
room for improvement. When you stop trying shit, you stop achieving shit.
Plain and fucking simple. The more I could leave behind in my wake for
Edward the better too, ya feel me? It would make his job a hundred
times easier and lessen my worry about leaving him to deal with all this
fuckery once I was not here to hold his hand every day.
Speaking of Edward, I needed to get my ass back in the kitchen.
Pushing off the desk, I rolled my chair back and stood up. After I
changed out of my office clothes and into my cheffies, I walked my
happy ass to the kitchen. As I entered, I saw Edward showing Seth
something about plating, and smiled, standing in the door way of the
swinging doors to watch him.
Edward's face was patient and focused on watching Seth as he tried to
mimic what he was just shown. I felt very proud and, to be honest,
envious of how Edward handled him. Patience was not something I had
left after years of training hopeless fools. Seth wasn't hopeless, but he
wouldn't have been someone I probably would have spent anytime
grooming into being anything past a sous chef. He would never be an
executive, that was for damn sure.
Edward had a way about him though, the way he trained people. It was a
good balance of patience and not taking shit from them when they tried
to get one over on him. He was smart enough to recognize the bullshit.
I finally pushed my way in, and Edward looked up to me through his
lashes, not moving his head. His tattooed hands rested on the steel top,
making all of his weight shift forward, which then made his fuckawesome
shoulders look even more fuckawesome by the way he was leaning.
Okay Butterbean, we are strong, we can do this. Breath, just breathe
girl.
"Nice to see you looking professional again," I teased, eyeing his newly
reacquired chef coat.
"I would say the same to you, but" Edward eyed my screen tee in
question.
"Read," I pointed to my shirt and waited for his heart warming laughter.
Just so you know, my shirt had a cartoon drawing of a field that had
donkeys buried up to their necks and a cow in the middle of the fuckery
stating, 'I'm surrounded by Ass-holes.'
It was a birthday present one year from Ramsey. Gotta love him.
"Fucking shit." Edward laughed, holding his forehead in his palm.
"Now you see. Plus, it's my fucking kitchen and I get to set the dress
code. Deal with it." I smiled wryly and then got down to business, "This
weekend, as you know, is The Fourth of July, so we are going to be
fucking swamped. I have some menu changes and we'll need to go over
them later after the rush or something. Also, you should invite your folks
down, it will be fun and in truth, probably the only way you'll get to see
Squeaks." I reached for a piece of cheese he had cubed on the cutting
board.
"Yeah, I don't think that is going to happen. I'll ask Leah to come down
with her though. She loves fireworks." He went back to working on his
mac-n-cheese with truffles.
"What do you mean? What happened?" I asked.
"I don't want to get into it right now Bellchef," he corrected, eyeing
Seth staring at us. "And you should be focusing on your fucking risotto
asshole. Not what the big kids are talking about," Edward pointed to
Seth's pan. "You need to learn that shit 'cause I have no plans on getting
them sent back to me tonight. Got it?"
"Um" Seth looked back to his pan and nodded."
"That wasn't a yes asshole," Edward cocked his head to the side, staring
down at Seth. I smiled, facing Edward so only he could see, but held in
my laughter that would have blown the seriousness Edward was toting.
"Yes," Seth said.
"This is getting fucking painful Seth," Edward sighed hard and waited,
still eyeing him.
"Yeschef?" Seth replied, looking nervous.
"Ding, fucking ding. We have a winner. Now, if we can just fucking get a
risotto out of your ass that doesn't taste like ass, you might be able to
get off my list of people I'd like to slap a nickname onto. You don't want
to hear the one I have for you, trust me."
Dear Edward,
When you spank an employee all good and proper like, you make me swell
to holy fuck and the desire to bum rush you, take you down to the floor
and fuck your brains out, is just all too much. You pwn me on the daily.
Love,
Butterbean.
"So, not that it is any of my business, but why aren't you wearing your
coat? Just curious," Edward shrugged, looking back to me.
"You should ask your little pyro friend there," I nodded to Seth.
"What the fuck did you do to her chef coat?" Edward asked, unable to
completely mask his amusement.
"It was an accident," Seth held up his hands and I laughed.
"Edward," I began, wanting to school fucking Seth on why Edward was his
boss, "what would you do if a pan caught fire?"
"Smother the fucker. Why?" Edward looked back and forth between me
and Seth with an eyebrow arched.
"Just wanted to see how much common fucking sense you got for free," I
looked over at Seth, "and how little our friend Seth failed to receive
from his fancy shmancy school. That's all," I winked.
"You set her on fire?" Edward whipped his head towards Seth, finally
putting two and two together.
"It was an accident!" Seth repeated as he held up his hands again and
took a step back from Edward.
I laughed.
"That could have been one hell of an accident." Edward took a step
towards him and his whole demeanor changed, becoming more serious as
he grabbed the back of Seth's coat. "Let's learn something special here
today, alright?" He tugged Seth with him, practically dragging the poor
kid along towards the fire extinguisher mounted on the wall.
"This here, genius, is what you use if you're stupid and start a fi-yer."
Edward tugged him along again, walking back to the stove. "If you are
here," Edward tipped him a little bit towards the burner, "and something
catches fi-yer," he reached down, pulling a tray out from the shelf with
his free hand, "you take any of these things, called a fucking tray, and
do this," Edward sat the tray on top of the pan Seth had his way over
cooked risotto in.
"And if you ever," he tugged Seth towards him a little, putting his face
closer to his own, "harm Bella again, or put her in harm's way, not only
will I kick your ass, but you will also be looking for a new job. The only
reason why she didn't fire you, I am sure, is because I wasn't here last
week to pick up the slack.
"So, not only did you fuck up, but you fucked up royally, because you
just made me feel really fucking guilty for that shit. As tough as I know
Bella was on you last week, it will be nothing compared to the shit storm
you have coming now." Edward released Seth's coat and grabbed the
risotto from the stove top, dumping it in the trash and then tossed the
pan into the sink.
"You have ten fucking minutes to make a proper risotto before you
become my kitchen bitch, Seth." Edward hopped up on the steel-top
table, looking over at Seth, who was white as a ghost, and waited, but
Seth was frozen in place.
"Um," I began, looking at Seth. "I would advise you to get going on that
shit, 'cause, he looks pretty serious about making you his bitch," I nodded
and Seth snapped to life, searching for a new pan under the counter.
I looked back to Edward and tapped my finger over my chest, mouthing
to him the same words from the barbeque.
I fucking heart you.
Only this time, he mouthed it back to me. Even added a wink on the end.
Dear Edward,
Forgive my owner, for she knows not what she does. If it were left up to
me, I would smother you with my love on the daily. You still pwn me.
Hard, and in ways that shouldn't be legal.
Love,
Butterbean- your number one fan.
5:45 pm.
Before the restaurant opened, I called out meeting to order. Today's was
going to be fun. I had plans for Edward. He wasn't here last week, so I
never announced that he was going to be the executive chef of The
Workshop. Only Emmett knew.
"So, to begin, I have something that I would like to read." I looked to
the paper, but in truth, I didn't need to. The words were burned into my
mind, as I had read them and dedicated my life to them being true.
"This is a list of things, ten things actually, that Gordon lives and
breathes by. It is also the standards I expect out of anyone who works
for me and certainly, the criteria I use to promote someone." I glanced
to Edward once, before I looked back to the paper.
"The list is as follows. Loving what you do, keeping people informed,
leading by example, maintaining a high standard, remember the power of
emotion, the simple approach is often the best," I paused and smiled at
Edward teasingly for the next one, "appearance matters." He smirked at
me and I looked back to the list.
"Celebrate your achievements," I looked back up to him again, "care for
others," I paused on that one, holding his gaze for a moment and then
looked back to the rest of the staff. "And lastly, recognizing the
contribution of others." The paper crinkled in my hands as I folding it
back up, without looking to it.
"There was something Gordon told me once when I first started out, and
it always stuck with me, because it is true. I was going to quit six weeks
into working for him, because he was such a damn prick, and even though
my father was never easy on me, there was just nothing like a good
Ramsey ass handing.
"I did something, I don't remember what it was, but it pissed him off and
he yelled at me so hard that I wanted to either cry or fucking knock him
out. I decided quitting was better and tossed him my fucking coat during
service, telling him to go fuck himself, before I stomped off.
"He followed me out, cursing and screaming as I went, but as I rounded
the corner, out of the view of the rest of the staff, he grabbed my arm
and tugged me to him, telling me, 'I expose my staff by really dropping
them in at the deep end. It's sink or swim. If they sink they are going to
drop down in division, and if they swim, they're going to go on and become
successful.'
"His face was serious and I finally understood why he rode me so hard. It
was because he wanted me to push to be better, because he believed in
me. I don't have shit on Ramsey, but I think you all understand the
meaning of his words, and that is why you stick around to put up with my
bullshit. One of you however, understands on a level that deserves
recognition. I've employed a lot of sous chefs, who then turned out to be
executives, and each time, I had to talk them down from quitting, just
like Ramsey did to me.
"Edward is the only one who never has though," I looked to him. "So
either, he's completely fucking crazy," I smiled, "or just really fucking
smart. Since I decided to make him the executive chef of The Workshop,
I would hope it's a little of both, because you are going to definitely
need to be in order to maintain some form of sanity amid all the shit," I
smiled at him.
"So the long and short here is that fucking Edward is the exec chef ,
worthy of fucking standards Gordon set up, and you all should be really
fucking lucky to have him, because as you saw last week," I eyed Seth,
"people like Edward don't just fucking grow on trees." I leaned back
against the bar, folding my arms over my chest. "That's all I've got.
Anyone else?"
Edward of course, raised his hand.
"Go on," I nodded to him.
"I just wanted to let you know that I find your shirt highly offensive,"
he smirked. "And also," Edward turned to face the staff, "Seth's kitchen
name," he pointed at him, "is Jenna Jameson."
"Why Jenna Jameson?" Emmett asked Edward.
"Urban dictionary defines her as 'a professional cocksucker,' so I feel it is
appropriate for the type of night Seth is about to have."
8:45 pm.
Edward and I worked the pass tonight side-by-side, and I couldn't help
but to smile as I glanced at him from the corner of my eye. His sleeves
were pushed up on his chef jacket how he always wore them, with the
top button undone, showing his little peek-a-boo of art on his chest. The
focus he had tonight was incredible, and I felt really good about my
choice to make him the leader of this place.
Edward was born to be a leader.
I passed him the risotto and smiled, biting my lip to keep my laugh in,
knowing he would be pissed in about
"What the fuck?!" he huffed, hitting his fist hard against the steel top
of the pass.
"Your boyorgirl?" I chuckled, shaking up the vinegrette to dress my
dish.
"Jenna!" He spun around, and held out the overcooked risotto.
Seth came over to Edward, head slightly bowed, like a puppy who knew
he just pissed on the run. I almost felt bad. Almost.
"You are going to be like a stuffed Thanksgiving turkey tonight, fucker,"
Edward grabbed a clean spoon from the bin and shoved both it and the
risotto bowl at Seth.
"Every time you fuck up, you're gonna eat it." Edward pointed to floor,
"Since we have guests tonight," he nodded at the chef's table where four
diners were dining, "you have to eat it here." Edward held his ground and
I could see the debate raging in Seth's face.
He wanted to tell Edward to go fuck off, I just knew it. I mean, who
wouldn't want to? He just told the kid to eat on the floor. The
anticipation for what Seth would choose was vibrating inside of me. The
other members of staff were watching too as I glanced, around and the
people at the chef's table were snickering, enjoying a nice show with
their dinner.
Seth huffed once, but then plopped to the floor and listened to Edward.
Our guests applauded lightly and Edward turned to them.
"He'll do it again in about fifteen minutes, trust me. Tonight folks, you'll
get your money's worth." Edward picked up his the dish I dressed and set
it on the tray for Angela to carry out.
"What the fuck is this?" I asked Edward as I read a new ticket. He
leaned over and squinted, trying to decode the fucking messy ass writing.
"Good fucking question," he grabbed it from me and looked up to Emmett
as he came in.
"Hey Em, what is this fuckery?" Edward waived the ticket at him and
Emmett took it into his hands.
"Good fucking question," Emmett laughed, stating the same thing as
Edward.
"Em," I called, "how about you tell the little fuckers to remember what
the fuck they learned in first grade, and write a ticket we can actually
read." I leaned over the pass and Emmett lowered himself towards me,
putting his face near mine.
"Say pleeeeease," he teased.
"I am not in the fucking mood Em. You and your pleeeeeease can go
pleeeeeease fuck off," I pointed to the door, and Edward laughed, placing
a dish onto the tray.
"You know you love me B," Emmett leaned in and kissed my sweaty cheek
dramatically. I pushed him away, and he smacked his lips.
"Mm, kitchen sweat, nice. You taste like fucking," he thought a moment,
"peanut oil with a little hint of Bella," he laughed and picked up the
tray.
"I said fuck off." I tried not to laugh at him, but failed.
"Edward you ever tasted Bella? She's tastes pretty fucking good.
Seriously, you should have a lick," Emmett waggled his brows as he
backed out of the kitchen, and the spoon I threw at him missed.
"Shitty fucking aim. I swear, the next time he comes in here, I am
throwing something that is sure not to miss his ass."
"How about overcooked risotto, since I am up to my fucking elbows in it,"
Edward teased.
"Risotto would be good. It tends to fly in many directions when flung
properly, so it would definitely connect with him on some level," I smiled
at Edward.
"Thrown many risottos have you?" he smiled back at me.
"Too many to count, Edward. Too many to count." I placed my dish up on
the tray at the same time as Edward, and he leaned in a little after
looking over his shoulder once.
"For the record, you taste better than good. You taste perfect." I looked
over to him and he raised his eyebrows once, nodding slightly.
"What exactly does perfection taste like Edward?"
"Like," he leaned in a little closer, reaching across the pass for something
on my side. "strawberries," his lips were right at my jaw as he reached
for the spoon he didn't need. "And sunshine," his lips brushed lightly
against my skin as he leaned back, spoon in hand, but remained close to
me, bringing a taste of sauce up to his lips. "And caramel," he said after
he tasted the sauce. Edward then ladled a spoon of it for me, bringing it
up to my lips.
"What does perfection taste like to you, Chef?" he asked, as I opened my
mouth for the sauce, only taking a small sip off the spoon.
"Hmm." My eyes trailed down, looking over all his perfection and then
back up slowly. "To me," I leaned over this time, grazing his crotch with
my hip as I reached for his bottle of dressing I didn't need. "Perfection
tastes like," I looked up to him as I leaned back slightly.. My lips were
right under his jaw, unable to touch him since I was shorter. "Dessert
pancakes with vanilla ice cream," my hip may have grazed him again.
"Coffee with the perfect amounts of sugar and cream," this time I
definitely grazed him. "And cinnamon Red Hots," I smirked, because that
was definitely what the little shit was eating several times before I had
kissed him in our previous encounters.
Edward's low laughter vibrated through him, sending small waves of
desire through me. I leaned away, knowing we were about to cross the
line, and tried to focus on the plating again. He looked down to the floor
where Seth was sitting and sighed hard.
"Get back on your station Jenna," Edward ordered.
And just like that, we fell back into the groove of what we were doing
before our small confessions.
11:27 pm
I was going over the reports in my office, hoping to get the fuck out of
here early tonight. Not only was Man vs Food on in an hour, but I was
also dead ass tired. Edward came in and I showed him how to start doing
some of the paper work. It wouldn't be a major part of his job, but he
should know it just in case.
Of course, he caught on right away and I was over the moon that I at
least had one employee that didn't make me feel like pulling my hair out.
Not that I didn't want some hair pulling to happen around him, if you
know what I'm sayin'. But I digress.
"May I ask for a favor?" Edward asked as he finished the last report.
"Sure." I sat back in my seat, looking at him as he faced me.
"Do you think it would be alright if we had a small party here for Ness
this weekend? I'm not asking for time off or anything, but I just wanted
to do something here for her."
"Party for what, babe?" I smiled.
"It's her birthday," he said quietly.
"It fucking is?! Why didn't you tell me that shit earlier?!" I kicked him,
and he laughed.
"The original plan was to have something on Monday, my day off, with my
parents. That shit isn't going to happen though." Edward looked back to
the computer, toying with the mouse.
"Why? What the fuck is going on, Edward? Please don't tell me you're
fighting with them over the shit that happened at the barbeque." I
narrowed my eyes at him, watching his angel's face as he tried to mask
what he was feeling.
He was a shitty ass liar though.
"It's just my father. We aren't speaking, but it isn't because of you. I'm
just tired of his shit."
"What happened?" I pressed.
"Carlisle just likes sticking his nose where it doesn't belong and for some
reason, still thinks I'm the same irresponsible, seventeen-year-old that
knocked up a girl in the back of his rich Daddy's car." Yep, the anger was
no longer masked. He was officially turning red.
"He's just trying to look out for you."
"Well he can look out for someone else because I don't want his help.
Never needed it before, and I fucking sure as shit don't need it now." His
expression hardened, and that delicate balance he usually had of looking
like an innocent boy mixed with the heavy burdened man faded away,
only leaving the weighed down man in its path.
"Edward, you need his help. I know it fucking sucks, but you need
Carlisle's help if you are going to have any chance at keeping Squeaky," I
argued, sitting forward so I could touch his knee.
"I already found a new lawyer, Bella. I'm meeting with him tomorrow."
"That is a really stupid idea. You are thinking here on emotion and not
logic. That's a dangerous thing to do considering what's at stake." I
placed my other hand over his knee and he looked at me.
"Bellaplease," he held up a hand to me. "I have everyone telling me
what the fuck to do and, while I hold your opinion a little higher than
the rest, I don't need it right now. I just want to do this on my own." He
picked up one of my hands and held it in his palm.
"I'm going to let you off the hook tonight, but only because Adam is on in
less than forty-five minutes, and I can see it is going to take at least
double that amount of time for you to see what an idiot you are being.
"Don't think I'm letting this shit go though and when we do fight about
it, be prepared to eat a lot of fucking crow, because you will be begging
your father to take you back. Count on that shit." I stood up and leaned
over to flip off the monitor on the computer.
Edward just laughed a little at my rant, but otherwise left it alone. I
grabbed my things and he unbuttoned his chef coat, taking it off as he
followed me out. Seth was in charge of the kitchen clean-up tonight,
since he was Edward's kitchen bitch. I would have let Edward go home
early anyhow, but this was a much better excuse.
"Why don't you come over to watch Adam try and have a heart attack?"
Edward asked as we exited through the back door of the kitchen to the
back lot. "I went grocery shopping this morning before work, so I have
plenty of snacks."
"If you're trying to seduce me with food Edward, you better start naming
specifics," I teased. He took my hand as we walked towards my car,
thinking about what he would say.
"There's parmesan cheese and garlic kettle chips," he announced.
"You've got my attention. Go on."
"And I might have also purchased all the proper fixings to make a pizza
for a certain angelic friend of mine. I also might have already made the
dough last night so it would be ready for making said pizza this evening,"
he smiled his crooked cupid dagger at me.
"Would said pizza have mushrooms and flat sausage versus those icky
little balls of sausage?" I asked, pausing at my car door.
"It would. And for dessert, I also may have acquired a new eight ounce
box of Red Hots," Edward waggled his brows at me and I laughed.
"Hmm, homemade pizza with flat sausage and mushrooms PLUS Red Hots
for dessert? You may have a winning combinations on your hands there,
Babe." I tapped his chest once and he captured my hand as he laughed.
"See you in a few then." He kissed my hand and then released me to
walk towards his car.
Dear Edward,
I really hope in a way that your pizza sucks, even though it probably
won't, but I hope it does. 'Cause if you can do one more thing that makes
my ass inflate like a fucking balloon, I will surely spontaneously combust.
Yours Truly,
Butterbean, the very lonely clit of Isabella Swan.
EPOV
I entered my home to find Leah reading on the couch, a cup of tea
resting on the coffee table. She looked up to me and smiled, then placed
her book down and picked up her tea.
"The water is still hot, would you like a cup?" Leah made her way
towards the kitchen as she asked.
"No, I'm fine. Bella is coming over in a few minutes and if she sees me
sipping on tea, she will walk straight through that door and question my
manhood." I smiled at her and she rested her cup ion the counter.
"So you all have made up? That is nice," she said with a nod.
"We're working on being friends," I shrugged, walking to the fridge to
retrieve my dough.
"Friends is good. Baby steps, you know?" She came around to the other
side of the counter and watched as I plopped down the dough from its
little dough bucket.
"Yeah, it's sort of nice in a way, I guess." I walked to the pantry to grab
the flour so I could dust the countertop and roll out the dough. "How
was Squeaky?" I asked.
"Who?" she giggled.
"Oh, Ness."
"She was fine. I tried to teach her some of the alphabet, and then we
made some mini burgers for dinner. I hope you don't mind, but I used
your little patio grill." Leah walked over to the counter and paused at
my side.
"That's fine, I told you mi casa es su casa," I smiled at her. A light knock
on the door sounded, and I looked over my shoulder, then to Leah.
"Do you mind opening the door for Bella? I'm a little white," I held up my
floured hands to her and she nodded.
"No problem. I need to be on my way anyhow. You two have a good time."
She gave me a little hug with her arm around my shoulder and then made
her way to the door.
Leah greeted Bella, and welcomed her in before she left for the night. I
was wiping my hands, and heading for the fridge to retrieve the toppings
I chopped up the night prior, when Bella entered the room, looking
freshly showered and in new clothes. She was wearing a pair of faded
jeans that were tattered with holes and rips, and a sung fitting white
tee. Her face was bare, still slightly dewy, and only had on a light coat
of her lips gloss on her pout.
Perfection.
"The remote is," I looked over to the living room, "somewhere over
there," I laughed, not having a clue as to its whereabouts. "Make
yourself comfy."
To my surprise, she listened. I finished up with the pizza and popped it in
the oven. After I cleaned up the mess I made, I grabbed a couple of
beers from the fridge and walked over to her in the living room where
she made a nice cozy place for herself on the couch.
"Here angel, I'm gonna go check on Ness real fast before the show comes
on." I passed her the beer and set mine on the coffee table.
"Mind if I come?" she asked.
"Sure." She set her beer down and I offered Bella my hand to help her
off the couch.
She walked behind me as I crept silently down the skinny hall to Ness'
room. I made sure to open the door slowly so it wouldn't creak, and
smiled when I saw Leah had her all tucked in with the nightlight on.
Bella's hand remained in mine as we stepped into Ness' room, walking
towards her bed. I leaned over my baby and rested my palm on the
mattress so I could give her cheek a kiss. Her eyes fluttered open a
little, and I cringed, hoping she would go back to sleep.
"Shh, I'm just giving you a good night kiss," I whispered, planting another
kiss to her face.
"Bewwa?" she whispered, trying to lift her head to see. My heart jumped
to my throat, hearing her speak finally. Bella stepped forward, kneeling
down in front of me at Ness's bedside.
"Shh, you have to sleep. I just wanted to see you," Bella whispered,
cupping her hand to Nessie's cheek.
"Stay hewre," Ness whispered, reaching out her hand to Bella's face.
"Okay, but you have to close your eyes and go back to sleep."
"Kay." Ness looked back up to me and reached for my face with her
hands, puckering her little lips. I leaned in and kissed her once.
"Goodnight sweetheart. I love you," I kissed her face again.
"Wuv you Pappa," she whispered and closed her eyes. My face rested
gently on hers as I thanked God silently for her words. The relief I felt
in hearing her speak ballooned inside of my chest and I sighed hard,
letting go of all the stress finally as I moved my face from hers.
I heard the timer go off in the kitchen, and left Bella alone in the room
with Nessie as I went to tend to it. Pulling the pizza from the oven, I
heard the show start in the living room. As I started to pull out some
plates from the cabinet, Bella came into the kitchen.
"Squeaks is sleeping again," she smiled, opening the drawer for the pizza
cutter, I assumed.
"She's also speaking again. I wonder why." I took the cutter from Bella's
hands once she found it in the drawer.
"Did Leah do flashcards with her, today?" Bella asked.
"I did them with her this morning, before I came to work." I rolled the
cutter through the circle of heaven, dividing up the slices.
"How did it go?" she asked, picking off a bite of sausage.
"She pointed to some. Mostly the ones with a sad face," I explained..
"Well maybe it triggered something in her," Bella shrugged, helping me
lift a slice to her plate then passing me the other one.
"Or maybe it's just you." I set the pizza down and sucked the sauce off
my thumb before I looked at her. "Every time she thinks about you or
sees you, Bella, she says something."
"I was the first person she saw when she" Bella stopped, closing her
eyes to the thought. "You know," she shook her head and then looked
back to me. "So maybe it's just like a mental image or something. A relief
of some sort."
I reached for the dishrag and wiped my hands clean as her words rolled
around inside of my head. Looking back to Bella, I cupped her delicate
face into my hands, looking into her caramel eyes.
"You are not a relief of some sort, Angel. You are a relief of great
proportions."
BPOV
1:45 am
I was as stuffed as Adam after he consumed five bowls of flaming hot
chili. Damn, Edward's pizza was fuckgood. Yeah, not just good, but
fuckgood. The crust was perfect, sauce impeccable and toppings crisp yet
tender, as they should be.
He laughed as he watched me rub my overloaded stomach and slouch
down on his couch, whining about how full I was.
"You don't look like you're in any condition to drive, Bella." He leaned
back against the arm rest, stretching his legs over mine.
"Fuck, I'm in pain," I whined, burying my face into the pillows.
"Maybe you should stay here," he chuckled.
"Ugh. I don't think I have a choice. My ass isn't going anywhere. You're
apartment could catch fire and I would lay right here," I patted the
pillow over my head.
"Want me to carry you to bed?" I felt his legs move back as he sat up.
"You know Bella, I'm a little disappointed in you actually." He pulled the
pillow from my face and I looked at him like he was stupid.
"Why?"
"You didn't even save room for Red Hots. Now I have to carry you and
your pot belly to bed, knowing that all my efforts to swoon you were
lost. I feel rather bitter about that actually," he sighed dramatically
and shook his head.
"Shut up and just carry me to your fuckawesome-Egyptian-cotton-
goodness, please."
"I guess I could. I mean technically we are going against some rules here,
seeing as how we are just friends, but I guess Lt. Dan and I can make an
exception, seeing as how you are in no condition to get rowdy." He slid
his arms under me.
"Shut up," I repeated in a defeated tone. Edward lifted me easily into
his strong arms and I held on to his neck, resting my head on his
shoulder.
"Ugh, you smell like food," I whined. "It's making me nauseous. The
swaying isn't helping either."
"I didn't know you were such a pizza lightweight. Let me repeat,
disappointed," he whispered the last word in a teasing manner.
"Are we almost there?" I whined.
"Yes." As he said the words, I felt the covers under me as he laid me
down onto the bed.
"I'm gonna take a shower, so I won't cause you to vomit in my bed."
Edward kissed my cheek and walked off to his bathroom.
The next thing I knew, he was laying down in bed next to me, placing a
kiss on my cheek again. I rolled over to face him and breathed in his
clean scent.
"Much better," I mumbled.
"Go to sleep Bella." He tucked the covers around me and kissed me again
on my face. This time, my forehead was blessed with his lips.
"You still heart me?" I asked, falling into my unconsciousness.
"More than ever," Edward whispered.
I felt his fingertips caressing my skin as lightly as the wings of a moth,
forming a path from the apple of my cheek to my jaw. He repeated the
movements over and over, forming a soothing circuit, and hummed softly
to me.
"I still heart you too," I whispered and then slipped into my dreams of
chubby cheeked Squeaky, fireworks and crazy men named Adam, eating
fiery bowls of chili.
8:32 am
I woke up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and something sweet.
Muffins, if I had to guess.
As I entered the kitchen I was welcomed by a smiley faced Renesmee
sitting on the counter top, helping Edward make waffles.
Damn, I was wrong.
She had a handful of blueberries, and after Edward spooned the batter
onto the waffle iron, he helped her drop the berries on top before he
closed the lid.
"Morning," he said with a smile.
"You know, if Seth doesn't work out, you could always employ Squeaks," I
smiled.
"She probably could make a better risotto," he laughed, thumbing her
cheek.
"We make pinkcakes, Bewwa," she pointed to the waffle iron.
"No, baby these are waffles, remember?" Edward said.
"Ohwe," she laughed, looking at him, then looked back to me. "We make
waffoos."
"With blueberries," Edward added.
"Wif booberries." Ness held one out to show me.
"Those are my favorite kind." I took the fruit from her hand with my
lips, and she smiled watching me eat it then reached for another, shoving
it toward Edward.
"Thank you, sweetheart." He kissed her little hand and then went back
to tending to the waffles.
I poured myself a cup of coffee as he worked and refilled Edward's cup
as well. After he had all of the waffles stacked up, I helped him bring
the rest of the items to the table, as well as plates and silverware. Ness
sat in his lap eating bites of his food with her hands, and filling her
cheeks to maximum capacity. The waffles were good even though I was
still feeling stuffed to the gills from all the dough I had last night.
"So, do you mind if I rearrange the stuff for Squeaks' you know what?" I
asked him.
"Do I mind? No. But you don't have to do that. I know you have a lot
going on this week, Angel."
"It's fine. I just want to get the cake and stuff, without her annoying
father getting on my case about paying for stuff. That's all," I smiled
wryly at him.
"Fine, I guess I could give you authority over the cake. If ponies and
scary clowns show up, however, I will have to revoke your rights," he
smiled back at me, taking a bite of his food.
"Just so you know, clowns scare the holy F out of me and I had a bad
experience with horses as a child."
"Like what?" he asked, looking amused.
"There was this pony named Little Johnny at this fair my mother would
bring me to every summer when I visited her. He liked to do a lot more
pooping than riding, let's just put it that way."
"I don't want to know." Edward laughed hard at my words, shaking his
head.
"I would like for you to invite your parents though, both of them." I took
a bite of food and watched as his chewing slowed, hearing my request.
"I wasn't going to exclude them from her you know what. I just didn't
want to have it at my father's house."
"I understand," I nodded and went back to eating my breakfast.
11:55 am
I got the call I had expected from Ramsey about my trip to his Japan
location, Conrad. I wasn't looking forward to going, honestly. There was
so much damn shit to do here and the thought of leaving Edward to tend
to it, all while having this shit with his family and Squeaks on his plate,
was just unbearable.
It had to be done though. The show must go on and all that shit.
I wasn't really sure how to go about doing this though. If Edward was
right and I was the reason for Squeaks coming out of her state of dazed
and confused, then leaving was sure to be a bad thing. I needed to figure
out how to break this to her in a way that would be comforting.
As I scrolled over the images set before me of all things Japan, Tokyo in
particular, I saw this little cute fucker called 'Hello kitty' and smiled. I
opened a new tab and typed the character into the search engine.
Apparently, this was all the rage in Japan.
I had to admit, the little shit was cute as fuck.
Scrolling along further, I found out that Hello Kitty has a lot of friends.
One in particular, named Badtz Maru. He reminded me of Edward, with
his little spiky hairs and the disgruntled look on his face. I bookmarked
the page and decided that this was the way I could tell Squeaks about
going to Japan.
This would have to be fun for her to imagine, like going on a Badtz Maru
treasure find.
I only hoped, she liked the little fucker.
Putting the party plans together, I ordered the cute little plates and
napkins along with some balloons and other shit. Nothing that would make
Edward crap his pants too bad. I would still need to get her something,
but I would have to put that on hold.
My meeting with Jake the maintenance guy was in five minutes, and I had
to scoot my ass out of here to meet him. They were going to be building
on Edward's office to the wall adjacent to mine, and I needed to make
sure it would be up to code.
Two hours after that huge debacle was over, I went back into my office
to try, once again, to resume my plans for Squeaks' birthday, and my
other pile of shit I had going on.
New York City, 2:00 lunch time, Dickward waits for James inside of his
Crown Victoria rental car, feeling very pissy.
I sat there, outside the New York Restaurant, waiting for my perp to
show his face again. If today went at all like yesterday did, he wouldn't
come out 'till after dark. I had a long ass wait ahead of me.
But like I've mentioned. I'm a patient motherfucker.
I looked at my watch, stretching my long legs and cracking my back.
After 2:00. I decided it was probably past the lunch rush at Sweet Tits'
restaurant down in Miami, so I called her up to give her the lowdown so
far on her case.
I had to laugh to myself while I dialed the number, thinking about the
look on her face the other day when I advised her she was in love with
the kid as I tried to roll the fucking window down manually on the piece
of shit Crown Vic I was renting.
You tell me how the fuck these rental agencies get away with renting a
fucking piece of shit car that doesn't even have god damn automatic
windows?
Sweet Tits answered her phone, a little per-fucking-snickety if you ask
me.
Probably pissed that the kid hasn't fucked her "good and proper" since
their last office chair "dick in her vagina" episode.
I snickered, but just a little. I swear.
2:15 pm Miami, Bella's office
The phone rang in my office, beeping twice after each ring signaling
that Emmett had put the call straight through to me. I glanced over,
eying the caller ID.
Unknown.
Hmmm... Who the fuck could that be? Well, fuck, Em put the call
through, so it must have been important. It better have been anyhow, I
was knee deep in fucking research for Squeaks' birthday party, AND
rearranging my travel plans for fucking Japan. I put my order for Ness'
Badtz Maru birthday cake on hold a second and picked up the receiver to
answer the call.
"This better be important whoever the fuck you are you just
interrupted a very important business decision." I sighed hard waiting to
be furious as soon as a fucking telemarketer's voice came over trying to
sell me shit. They were tricky fuckers and, no doubt, would have fooled
Emmett's ass.
A man's snicker sounded though the phone and I heard him mumble, "Such
a little hell-fire." He laughed again and then spoke directly to me, "I
don't fucking waste anything, Sweet Tits, trust me." Ah, shit, it was the
Dick.
"I am assuming you have good news, 'cause if you had bad news, you
would be avoiding me like the fucking plague and shit." I waited, eyeing
the Hello Kitty & Friend's cake on my screen.
Back in the Crown Victoria.....
Settling back into the seat in my piece of shit rental, I relaxed while the
New Yorkers walked by in their big fucking hurries giving me dirty looks
for taking up space on their precious god damn turf as I watched my
perp exit the restaurant with another employee talking to him about
fucking pastries and shit no doubt. The perp went back inside, and the
employee walked down the street.
I had to give Sweet Tits her props, she didn't run any god damn run of
the mill places. These fuckers were top of the line restaurants complete
with four star sous chefs and fucking maitre des and shit.
"Sweet Tits, don't you know that assuming only makes an ASS out of U
and ME?" I laughed at her, because she made this really fucked up sound
on the other end of the phone, like she was gurgling or something. It
could have been growling though. Growling was more her style, but when
I thought about Sweet Tits growling it made my dick twitch, so I went
with gurgling.
"But you're actually right to assume. Just this once. I gotta hand it to
your asshat employee, my friend. He covers his tracks pretty well. People
don't fucking suspect his ass of anything but being a dick. Unfortunately
for him though, I know my fucking shit."
I could practically hear her on the other end of the line tapping her
foot, biting her nails. Some shit like that no doubt.
Normally I'd drag this part out, fuck with her a little, but something
about this woman said "warning all smart ass motherfuckers, I will cut
off your balls and feed them a la cart to my patrons if you fuck with
me" Plus she sounded about as stressed as I do on any given day, so I
started to give her the skinny, no holds barred.
"Leaves for work, 6am, yada yada yada... Nothing too obviously out of
the norm. He got a few calls throughout the day, and some texts that
led me to believe he didn't want anyone to know about them. That shit
raised a flag."
"Oh yeah smartee? How'd ya draw that conclusion wise guy?" I had to
smile at her ass.
Sweet Tits was making my dick all kinds of fucking anxious with all her
crass shit. Fuck I loved a woman with a smart mouth.
And a nice ass.
I had to admit, it was a good god damn thing she had that nice ass,
because smart mouths without any of the extra perks are a fucking turn-
off like watching porno with your grandma.
Not that I've ever done that shit.
"Because of the way he looked around to make sure no one was watching
him when he checked his phone. I'm sure you can identify with secrecy,
Sweet Tits," I said sarcastically. Something told me not a lot of people
knew about her and The Kid. Hell, she didn't even seem to really know
about her and The Kid.
"Wow, I am paying you fucking twenty large to report back that James,
The Asshat, is making calls on his cell phone? Well guess what Dick
Tracy, I already knew he was an asshat. Perhaps you would like to offer
me up something a little bit juicer and worth my fucking time and
money," she huffed.
I rolled my eyes. She clearly woke up on the wrong god damn side of the
universe this morning. I mean, what the fuck does she think? I'm a
fucking rookie at this shit?
This is where I decided, fuck it, I can be a smart ass too, she apparently
gets off on this shit. Hell, no wonder The Kid is so fucking possessive of
her. I wouldn't want anyone fucking touching her ass either if she was
mine. If I was into her that is.
Which I'm fucking not.
I have enough shit to deal with back home, and I don't do long god damn
distance relationships. If I ever really dealt with them at all that is.
Anyway, back to My Little Hell-Fire
"Yeah, because twenty large is really gonna give me a nice profit after
air fare to fucking New York City, hotel stay and rental car. Not to
mention gas. Seriously Sweet Tits, do you have any fucking idea what
they charge for a god damn glass of Coke up here?"
I had to cover the phone while I stifled a laugh.
Wait for it.
"Actually I do, seeing as how I own a fucking restaurant there! A
restaurant that you are supposed to be fucking watching...You know, I am
getting really annoyed and highly fucking worried about your capability
to complete the task at hand. Was I supposed to hire a fucking hand-
holder for you or some shit I didn't know about?!"
Nicely done my little hell-fire.
I laughed internally, she really was fun. But now I just needed to give
her some fucking information before she actually did reach through the
phone and throttle my ass.
Although... that could make for a very interesting encounter.
"Okay Sweet Tits, my bad," I said, smiling.
God, I was gonna fucking miss her when this case was over. Not too many
chicks, or dudes for that matter, gave me a run for my money, but damn
the Little Hell-Fire was good.
"Here's the skinny. He left his cozy, high priced, overly fucking secure
condo, around 10:30pm, went back to the restaurant, where he then met
a girl out back and made out for what felt like a fucking hour, then they
headed inside..." she cut me off.
"Still waiting for the fucking bell to 'Ding-Ding' here asshole. Thirty
fucking seconds until you can kiss your twenty grand tata and pay for
your damn ticket back to wherever the fuck you came from." I could
hear her counting off the fucking seconds in a faint whisper.
Jesus, interrupt much? I wonder if the kid ever gets his dick into the
sweetness before she tells him how, when, where, and for how fucking
long every god damn time.
"Well consider your bell dinged Sweet Tits, because the girl was
underage."
Wait for it again.
2:13 pm - Highly fucking annoyed by The Dick
"James' little girlfriends always look underage. I really hope you've got
something a little more solid than just him swapping spit with some Miley
Cyrus wannabe."
Although it could have actually been her. On my last trip to Riley's, I
saw her there with her dad. Let me just say, those two look a little too
fucking close for comfort. The Dick snickered again, pulling me out of my
perverted Miley-loving-on-her-redneck-daddy thought.
"So, the evidence, Dick?" Better not fucking be Miley.....
"You mean besides the fact that she doesn't know how to give a fucking
blow job to save her life? I mean seriously, he was lucky she didn't run
away screaming when he pulled his dick out. The look on her face when
she saw his pre-cum was fucking priceless. You woulda thought she'd
never seen that shit before. Hell she probably hadn't."
My mouth opened, then closed.
Then opened.
Then closed.
Did The Dick just say Miley Cyrus was giving James a fucking, sucky
sucky goodtime?
No Bella, you said Miley, he said underage girl.
Shit, this is why it wasn't a good idea to skip meals and starve yourself
all day, only living off of coffee.
Really good ass Edwardly coffee, but still....
Dickward was growing impatient on the other end of the line....
Silence.
OK, maybe that was a little too much information.
"So, you had to watch that fuckery?" Sweet Tits finally asked, sounding
a little bit fucking....sorry for me?
"Only until my dinner started coming back up, which wasn't long. And I
got photos." Great fucking photos.
"Look here , I don't really want to know how many inches she can take
before her gag-reflex kicks the fuck in, but how the hell do you know
she's underage just by watching her suck him off?"
There's my smarmy little friend, back from the world of shock and awe.
"Well, I followed them into the restaurant all stealthy like see. Then I
slipped her ID out of her wallet, which she very fucking irresponsibly
left sitting on the god damn hostess stand I might add snapped a pic
of it with my cell phone, and sent it to a fuckawesome computer genius
friend of mine who ran a background check on her and bam... information
highway... She's definitely fifteen. Not even close to the legal age limit
in New York or any fucking where else you might wanna visit. Except
maybe Utah ."
2:17 pm holding my hand over my mouth to keep from laughing and letting
the Dick know he's a little bit fucking funny..
Did he just fucking say Utah? Okay...he fucking redeemed himself a little
there.
Just a little.
His new info was a little intriguing, I must admit. If James was fucking
around with underage girls, this shit was heavy.
Too bad I cut off sex with Edward, cause right now, he was really
deserving some for the fucking advice he gave me to do this shit.
Back in New York, Dickward smiled at hearing his Little Hell-Fire's
laughter
I smiled. She laughed out loud at that shit, even though, I wanted to
believe she was trying to hide it.
I can't blame her. I'm a funny motherfucker when I wanna be.
A fucking street vendor ran up to my piece of shit rental just then, and
wanted to know if I wanted my fucking windshields washed. I put my
hand over the phone and told him where to shove his shamwow when
Sweet Tits asked another question.
"So, any news on the other thing? The tape I asked you for. While it's all
good and shit that James is being a pervert and begging for handcuffs
with that type of fuckery, it still doesn't alleviate my nausea from
knowing he's got me on tape riding him like a fucking bucking bronco."
I laughed through my nose, trying really fucking hard not to let her know
that picturing her riding this jackass was not only fucking hilarious to me,
but disturbing all at the same time.
I did furrow my brow once I was done getting over the visual of Sweet
Tits in the nude, because that video problem was pissing me off. I sighed
as I answered her, "Not yet, his condo has fairly high fucking tech
security in place. That doesn't mean I can't work around it, it'll just take
me a little longer to figure it out. I'm heading there in a few to check it
out before asshat gets off of work, and I'm planning on checking out his
office at the restaurant too. Too many people there today though. I'll
get to it after closing." Then I added, "Shall I give the po-po your
number to call you if they catch me breaking and entering?"
"Why the fuck would you have them call me? I am paying you to do your
job, so just fucking do it. And if you do your job correctly, you shouldn't
get caught, now should you, ?"
She had a fucking point. There really isn't a god damn police department
around that can get the jump on me.
"Touch my friend. I'll call again when I have the tape. Oh, and Sweet
Tits?"
"Make it fast here Dick Tracy, I don't get paid to sit around and twiddle
my fucking twat all day like you."
"I'll ignore that insult to my integrity Sweet Tits, because I'm sure you're
having a hard fucking time dealing with the fact that you've got this
dickless wonder running around with a sex tape of you....but you need to
understand something, and let me make this very clear for you... When I
twiddle someone's twat, as you like to put it, it sure as hell isn't gonna
be fast, if you know what I mean..." I gave her a minute to digest what I
had just said and then added, "I just wanted to know if you'd fucking
told The Kid yet."
2:23 pm Wanting to stomp the fuck out of Mr. Dickward
"There is nothing to tell there Ace. Sorry to burst your fucking bubble.
He's my family and shit, so yeah, I look out for The Kid, as you say, but
that's all. And while we are making shit clear, I should inform you that I
don't give a rat's ass about you twiddling anyone's twat; however, if what
you said was true, I would assume you would spend a lot less time in
watch cars looking for said dickless wonders, and a lot more time with
your face in said twat...if you know what I am sayin'." I waited for his
reaction.
This guy was a tough cookie, I'll give him that. What he didn't know
however, is that I have dealt with my father yelling at me from the age
of six, Gordon up in my face countless times calling me a fucking donkey,
and stupid men like stupid fucking James.
Set. Game. Match. Motherfucker.
Back in New York....
Was she seriously questioning my ability to get a woman off with my
fucking tongue?
"Ouch. You cut me deep there Sweet Tits, but unfortunately, making
women cum several times a night doesn't pay as well as my day job. So
for now, I'm just gonna have to spend MY precious fucking time getting
YOUR fucking SEX tape back for you so you can get this asswipe out of
your face and maybe.... JUST MAYBE.... then you can face your demons
and tell The Kid you love him. And you do fucking love him Sweet Tits,
whether you decide to admit it out loud or not... this "family" bullshit
might fly with the people you surround yourself with down there, but not
with me."
"You can just go fuc...." I cut her off.
"Shut your pie hole for a god damn minute Sweet Tits, and think about
what's gonna happen when The Kid finally gives the fuck up and moves on
to someone else. Are you really gonna be okay with him putting his dick
into someone else's pussy? 'Cause I'm thinking that wouldn't fly too well
with you."
Where the fuck that shit came from I have no idea. It's not like I give a
shit if she ends up with this guy or not. Something about those two,
though, just made me wanna lock them both up in a tiny room together,
spread peanut butter all over both of them, and watch the god damn
show.
"It's fucking complicated and truthfully, none of your damn business. Why
the fuck do you care so much anyhow?"
Good question. The truth was, Sweet Tits was growing on me. Aside from
the fact that she was completely sexy in every god damn way you could
imagine, she also practically fucking challenged me to get her to admit
her feelings. It was like a case, and I was planning to crack that shit
wide open.
"I'm sure I can keep up Sweet Tits... and to answer your question, I
might be a dick, but I'm also a god damn romantic, call me Clark
motherfucking Gable. And besides, I hate to see a perfectly good set of
legs go to waste because of a stubborn ass attitude. Are you fucking
afraid The Kid doesn't love you back or some shit like that? Cause news
flash, he's gone for your ass."
2:33 pm back in my office
"You don't even know Edward," I scoffed.
Who the hell did this lil pecker think he was?
"I didn't realize you were God damned the Dick Tracy of Dr. Phil fuckery
by the way. Watch Oprah on your days off there Mr. Dick?" I snickered,
but in truth, I was thinking over his words carefully.
I knew Edward cared about me, I wasn't totally fucking blind. What the
hell did 'gone for your ass' mean in man verbage?
Back in the crown Victoria
I laughed.
"Defensive much Sweet Tits? First of all, Dr. Phil is a fucking idiot and
Oprah's got nothin' on me. Secondly, I'm a god damn private eye honey. I
notice things, and you're not smart enough, or covert enough, to get your
obvious shit passed me. But hey, if you don't wanna come clean with me
and fucking say it, who am I to judge your ass... but if you decide you
wanna let it all out just so you can fucking get it out there, you have my
number. I'll call you soon about the tape; you can at least count on that
shit."
I didn't wait for her reaction. I hung up on her ass. Let her stew a while
on that, maybe she'd make the right decision, but then again, she is a
stubborn fucking woman. I'm surprised The Kid hasn't strangled her yet.
BPOV
Wednesday was a really dull and boring day. It rained for most of the
afternoon and customers stayed away. The only highlight was Edward
telling Seth AKA Jenna, to go find him a left-handed frying pan and Seth
was actually stupid enough to do it.
Thursday was a little bit busier and Jake started the first bit of
construction on Edward's office. I was able to order him a nice manly
desk mad of mahogany and a super comfy seat, not that his ass would
get to spend a lot of time in it.
On Friday, I was bum rushed with last minute details, and all of the out-
of-towners were starting to file in for the holiday weekend. Edward
picked up a lot of the slack and was very good about checking in with me
to make sure all our bases were covered. We didn't have time for our
Friday Fun Family Fucking Night.
That sucked, but we had the whole weekend I guess.
By Saturday morning, the town was buzzing, and I was happy no storms
were forecasted for the day. Rain on holidays sucked balls. Period. The
band had shown up early and Emmett helped out with rearranging the
seating in the restaurant to accompany their equipment.
Today was a little bit fucking bittersweet however.
Jessica, the cunt from hell, was supposed to leave.
Yeah, on her kids birthday.
Like I said, cunt from hell.
I let Edward come in a little bit late today, since he had the bitch face
to deal with, and also so he could spend a little time with Ness
afterwards. Everything for her party was in order, and I had the chef's
table decorated just for her so she could sit in here and watch Edward
tonight, if she wanted to, with his family. My other mission with that, of
course, was to have his asshat of a father in here so he could see that
Edward was good at his job.
The cake arrived around noon right along with Edward, and he smiled
looking at it, sitting on the bar top, surrounded by balloons and other
girly stuff Angela placed around it.
"Why did you choose this?" He pointed to the big ass Badtz Maru that
was sculpted out of cake and fondant.
"Because he happened to number one, look like you, and number two,
come from Japan," I explained.
"I remind you of a black little creepy guy with a yellow mouth?" Edward
pointed to his face, arching an eyebrow.
"His hair reminds me of your crazy shit, and his smushy face," I
scrunched Edward's cheeks together in my hands, "reminds me of when
you look pissed," I laughed. He removed my hands, but held them.
"And what about Japan?" he asked.
"We'll talk about it later. No time right now. Where is she anyhow?" I
started to walk towards the kitchen and he followed, letting go of my
hands.
"I left her with Esme. She wanted to take her shopping for a dress or
something," he shrugged as we entered the kitchen.
"How did it go with Mrs. Herpes?"
"Couldn't tell you, she never showed up." He looked at me and I could
see the rage boiling behind his eyes.
"You have got to be fucking kidding me."
"I wish, Bella. I wish." Edward walked around to the other side of the
steel table and tossed down his chef coat he was holding. As he leaned
on the pass, he noticed the decorated chef table.
"Did you do that?" he asked, looking over to me.
"Angela helped me. I just thought Squeaks might get a kick out of
watching you work. Maybe your parents too. Although," I stepped closer
to him, "I guess that means you have to watch your language," I smiled
playfully.
Edward smiled back at me, something very strong brooding in his blue
eyes as he did. A wave of heat crept over me as his eyes searched mine,
looking at me in that way which made me feel so exposed to him. A faint
pulse throbbed in between my legs and the magnetic pull I felt to him
coursed through me.
"Thank you," he said simply, finally looking away.
I knew from Edward's eyes how deep those two words were though. How
much my actions and reactions towards his daughter meant to him. That
little douche bag mother of hers would not steal away either of their
happiness today. And oh, what a day it was to host such a thought.
Independence Day.
5:45pm
I could hear the music playing in the dining room. We opened early today
to be able to accommodate all of the bookings we had. The dining room
was packed full, and we were already getting slammed with orders.
Edward was excellent on the pass, delegating perfectly and not allowing
the rush to intimidate him. That made me breathe a lot easier.
Esme and Carlisle came in with Squeaky and took a seat at the chef's
table. Edward went over and held her for a bit and then returned to the
station with their food order. I made sure to stay on the staff's asses
and get it right. The point here was to prove to his parents, well his dad,
that Edward was good at what he did, and I wasn't going to allow them
to fuck it up.
When it was time for them to eat, I allowed Edward to join them and
worked the pass with Seth, enjoying watching Ness as she smiled and
tried to feed Edward bites of her food.
Squeaks was a tough kid. She would be alright. I just knew it.
EPOV
"How is everything going honey?" Esme asked as she started in on her
food.
"Good, busy but good." I tried to keep my eyes on Ness and not look at
my father.
"This was very nice of Bella to invite us here. I saw her cake out there,
Emmett said she picked it out?" My mom took a bite of her food and I
watched to see her reaction before she answered. I had cooked for her
before, this was nothing new. I just wanted to see her eat Bella's
recipes. She hummed happily pointing to her dish.
"Very good," she managed to get out.
"Yes, Bella ordered the cake. It's a little odd, but I guess it has
something to do with her idea of how to tell," I pointed to Ness' head,
"about going to Japan."
"Bella cannot take her out of the country," Carlisle interjected.
"She isn't," I sighed hard and looked to him finally, pointing at Bella so
Ness couldn't see. "She is going there and didn't want," I nodded back to
Ness, "to be upset when she went."
"I don't really understand the logic, but alright." My father went back
to eating and I dropped it.
"Is there a band here every night like this?" Esme asked.
"No, it was just for tonight, to set the mood I suppose." I wiped Ness'
mouth and helped her as she reached for her my water.
"Well it is just wonderful honey."
"Oh, for fucks sake!" Bella yelled out, and my mother whipped around to
look at her. "Unless you want me to shove those up your ass sideways,
Jenna, I suggest you take them back to whatever part of planet 'out
your God damned mind' you got them from and do it again, asshole!" Bella
kicked the trash can as she shoved the plate of scallops back at him.
"Fuck!" she kicked it again and Nessie giggled, causing my mother to turn
back around in her seat.
"Fiesty, isn't she?" Esme smiled.
"That would be one way to put it," I snickered.
"Is it always like this?" Esme asked nervously.
"No," I smiled. "Sometimes she throws stuff too."
BPOV
8:23 pm
We all gathered out front and Emmett got everyone in the restaurant to
sing happy birthday to Squeaky. She, of course, coiled into Edward, hiding
her shy little face. The cake was a hit. She seemed to really like Badtz
Maru, which was hella cool, even pointing out that his hair looked like
Edward's which earned her extra points in my book.
We went to the back to open presents, the first, of course, being from
Edward. He bought her some toy I never heard of, but I guess she
wanted because she seemed over the moon when he unwrapped it for her.
Something told me there were more presents waiting at home. I was
pretty sure about that.
Emmett gave her a custom made jersey of some team he loved, in pink,
with her name on the back. Well actually, it said Shortcake.
Esme and Carlisle had already given their gifts earlier so I wasn't sure
what they were.
For my gift, I was a little nervous. Edward had asked me not to go crazy
with stuff, and up until this point, I hadn't. This gift was a little
extravagant, but I wanted her to have it. As I handed over the small box
to Edward, I could see his eyes narrowing, trying to figure it out. Ness
took it from his hand and started scratching at paper to open it, but
couldn't.
"Let me see, sweetheart." As he pulled the bow, Edward took the little
tag off the ribbon and read it aloud. "Five carats, for a very special five
year old." He eyed me warily, and I nodded him on.
"Kitty!" Ness pointed to the box as he opened it. "Wook!" She turned to
Edward.
"I see Sweetheart." He pulled the diamond encrusted Hello Kitty
necklace from the box and held it in his palm.
"It's a locket. The little cat face opens," I explained.
"Petty," Squeaky said, touching it with her finger.
"Well, it looks like you're in trouble son," Esme said.
"Why is that?" Edward asked, fastening it around Ness's neck.
"You're girl likes diamonds," she laughed.
"It's kind of in her DNA," He shot back, to which she slapped him
playfully.
"What do you say to Bella, love?" Edward whispered down to Renesmee.
"Tank you." Squeaky reached out for me and I pulled her in my lap,
hugging her back.
"You're welcome sweetheart." I kissed her cheek and she pulled back
from me, placing one hand on my face.
"Petty wike Bewwa," she pointed to her other hand to the necklace.
"Diamonds are pretty honey, but they are special too, you know why?" I
asked her, and she shook her head, staring at me with her big blue eyes,
looking every bit like Edward.
"Diamonds are special because they are rare. Kind of like cute little
pudgies named Squeaks," I poked her fat stomach.
"Top it, Bewwa," she giggled, pushing my hand away.
"Hey!" Angela called, poking her head in through the doors of the
kitchen. "Fireworks are about to begin."
"You ready to watch?" I asked Squeaky, and she nodded happily.
Emmett took her from my arms, hoisting her up onto his huge shoulders to
Edward's disapproval. I took Edward's hand as we walked through the
corded dining room out to the sidewalk, and then strolled along until we
reached the shoreline.
The beach was packed full of people and I had to elbow a lot of old
farts and small children to get a good spot, but we made it. Ness
remained up on Emmett's shoulders so she could see, and Edward stood by
my side with his parents lost somewhere back in the crowd.
Most of the members of the staff had gathered outdoors, seeing as how
all of the businesses were empty right now with everyone heading to
watch this show. You could hear the music playing on the ship that was
cast out on the sea. It was the prelude to the show, and the air was
buzzing with excitement while we all waited for it to begin.
As the time drew nearer, the electricity rose to a new height, and more
people had gathered, crowding the beach further. They started playing
the Star Spangled Banner, and a few people started to sing alongThen
moreAnd then some more. As I looked around, the crowd looked so
beautiful. Husbands hugging their wives close, kids sitting on shoulders,
like Ness was and couples cuddled up with blankets, anxious to watch
something special happen.
As the song came to the finale, the people began to countdown from ten,
and as they approached one, kissing commenced among loud cheers and
the booms of the fireworks over head, making their first marking on the
fallen night sky.
The sight was breathtaking.
I looked back to find Ness, wanting to see her little face, but I caught
Edward's eyes first. They sparkled in the fiery blaze of the lights
bursting over us and he smiled something that fairy tales were written of
as he looked back at me.
Lost in the moment of love and celebration and elation, he reached out
and cupped my face into his hand, holding my gaze. I knew what he was
going to do and there was no fight in me to prevent it. I didn't want to
fight. I wanted this.
Him. I wanted him.
If my staff saw, fuck it.
I didn't care.
Edward pulled me towards him, and I fucking fell into his embrace,
meeting his warm lips, and allowing him to have me. My hands fisted his
chef jacket, and I pulled myself to his body, trying to stand my ground
on the sinking sand beneath my feet. His hands moved from my face to
my wrists, pulling my hands away and placing them around his neck for
better support as he wrapped his arms around my waist.
The warm cinnamon of his mouth tasted heavenly on mine, and his tongue
slid slowly, but passionately, as he kissed me deeply. I could feel his
heart race against mine. The low hum vibrating from his lips in pleasure.
We were lost in our own little world as the fireworks kept booming, and I
didn't want to let go, but I was out of air.
As our lips separated, Edward rested his forehead to mine. Panting hard
against my face, as I was in his, our breaths became intertwined as we
tried to slow our emotions. But it was impossible.
There was too much flooding through me in this moment. I couldn't slow
down. I couldn't deny it any longer. This man was the air. My air. My
Edward. My everything. I tipped up on my toes and pressed back into his
lips, savoring his top pout, and loving how my bottom lip fit so perfectly
between his. I kissed him again until I was breathless, and had no other
choice then to pull back.
Edward smiled and brought his arms around my shoulders, hugging me to
him. I wrapped my arms around his warm body, feeling all of his muscular
form under the sheer fabric of his chef coat. Tilting my head to the side,
I looked out to the sea, and watched the fireworks as they boomed.
Edward sighed hard, and I felt a small bit of laughter vibrate from inside
him. He looked down to me, resting his forehead back on mine once again
as he looked into my eyes.
"Happy Fourth of July, Angel," he whispered.
I stared back at him, seeing all that I ever craved looking back at me
through blue windows of clarity; trust and love. I kissed his perfect lips
once more, still holding his gaze, wanting him to feel everything that I
felt for him in this moment on the beach, under the stars, and amid all of
these people; even if they weren't paying us any attention.
"Happy Fourth of July, Flower Child."










Chapter 15: Lesson In Love
Epov
It was Nessie's birthday, but I felt as though I was the one being given
the ultimate gift tonight.
Bella looked so beautiful, smiling at me as the sky lit up over our heads
with fireworks. Everyone around us formed a barricade of love and
happiness, making the inability to touch her, to share that same joy with
her, this woman I was so enamored and in love with, seem just wrong.
Something in Bella's eyes changed as she looked at me. My hands moved
on pure desire and need as I reached out for her delicate face to kiss
her. As I pulled her to my lips, it happened.
Bella let go.
I kissed her soundly, trying to convey with my body what my voice wasn't
prepared to speak yet. She slipped under my grasp, sinking into the sand
and that shit just wasn't allowed. Nothing would interrupt this moment.
The fucking waves could crash over us and I would have managed to hold
her to me and not break our kiss.
Her small hands clung to my neck, and I wrapped her in my prison of
flesh, holding her petite frame to my own. Bella's heart beat in sync with
mine, her mouth moved and tongue swirled with the same passion and
greed that I had burning inside of me. Our breaths exchanged as our lips
parted, and before I could recapture my air supply, she cut me off,
placing her mouth back upon mine to my delight. She could have my air,
my body, my everything.
Fuck she was everything.
Finally pulling back, Bella rested her head on my chest and looked back
out to the ocean. I caught a glimpse of Emmett from behind Bella, and he
was getting Ness to give me a thumbs-up. I had to laughand then
abruptly look away, because knowing my very fragile child was just a
witness to me making out with Bella on the beachside was not something
I wanted to think about.
Stillkissing Bella was pure fucking pleasure.
I looked back down to her, resting my forehead upon hers and looking
into her caramel eyes of heaven. Bella was radiant. Alive, and like I just
gave her the greatest gift of all time except, it was the other way
around. I was the prize winner in this scenario. She loved my child, went
out of her way to take care of me and all my fucked up shit, and she
believed in me. The words that I wanted to speak were not right for this
moment, no matter how fitting they would have been for how I was
feeling. I chose simpler words that would not disturb what had just
transpired, but rather capitalized on what a special day this turned out
to be.
"Happy Fourth of July, Angel," I whispered down to her beautiful face.
She looked back at me, but Bella wasn't just looking, she was showing.
The emotion that lay within those brown depths of wonder became vivid
and alive. I saw her, the real her. All masks taken off and left who the
fuck knew where.
Who cared I had my Bella back.
"Happy Fourth of July, Flower Child," she whispered softly, holding my
gaze.
My heart ballooned at her words, confirming everything I saw in her
eyes, and how so easily, with just one silly nickname, she told me all that
was playing within her. I hugged Bella in my arms again and watched as
the remainder of the show played out.
We walked back to the restaurant after the fireworks ended. Most of
the crowd had made their way back in as well. The bar was overloaded
with customers, and Emmett helped Jasper keep up with the demand,
passing Ness back to me from his arms. I could see she was getting tired,
and I rested her head in the crook of my neck, rocking her as we made
our way back to the kitchen.
Ness fell asleep in no time and my mother pulled her car around the back
of the restaurant so I could place her in the car seat. After she was all
tucked in, I kissed her sleeping face and whispered my last happy
birthday in her ear before my mother took her home.
Esme would be dropping her off at my house in the morning so I wouldn't
have to deal with going to my father's house; which made me feel
extremely fucking happy. Carlisle was still being a dick and I had no
desire to see him any more than need be.
The rush had pretty much died out in the kitchen. The only real crowd
that remained was the people getting drunk at the bar. Seth was once
again in charge of clean-up since he was still my kitchen bitch. After I
clocked out, I sat at the bar for a drink, chatting with Emmett in
between his customers.
"Hey you," a tiny hand tapped my back and I looked back to see Alice.
"Hey yourself," I smiled.
"Drinking on the job," she teased.
"No, I'm done. Just taking a breather and watching my brother make an
ass out of himself." I looked to Em who was trying hard to do impress a
group of girls with his, as he says, 'mad skills' behind the bar.
"Oh," she nodded, seeing him act the fool.
"Would you like my chair?" I got up, allowing her to have my seat, since
there were no others available.
"Thanks." Alice sat down and waved to Jasper, our full time bartender.
"So how is that going?" I asked, nodding to Jasper.
"Good. I like him a lot," Alice smiled, but there was something brooding in
her green eyes as she looked at him.
"Like," I mused, looking at her from the corner of my eye.
"Okay, love is probably a better word, but it's still early on, ya know?"
"Yeah. I do." I brought my beer to my lips and took a sip.
"So, Jess left today," she said, eyeing me cautiously.
"Yes, I know that too."
"Edward, may I tell you something?" Alice asked, reaching over and
touching my arm lightly with her tiny fingers. I looked over to her,
waiting for her words.
"I know Jess is my friend and stuff, or at least used to be, but anyhow,
I just want you to know that I don't agree with her at all. While I am
all for backing up my friends, the stuff she does with your little Ness,
that just doesn't fly with me." Alice shook her head and I saw the
sadness in her eyes.
""You've always been fair to me Alice," I nodded.
"I guess what I am trying to say here is that, I know she is going to
fight dirty to try and take Renesmee away. If you need someone to help
you out, I am here."
"You would do that? You would testify against Jess?" I asked surprised,
setting my beer down on the bar top.
"I would be a character witness for you, if you needed one. I know she's
gonna probably have Rose speak about what supposedly happened in her
apartment the day you guys fought. So if you need someone to say
otherwise, I'm available," Alice winked at me, and I'll be damned if my
jaw didn't drop just a little.
"Not that I am opposed to this at all, but just out of fucking curiosity,
why the hell would you do that for me?" I asked.
"Number one, I know that you are a good dad to Nessie. You treat her
like gold and I have NEVER seen you do anything but care for her."
"And number two?"
"Number two, Jessica gave Rachel Ray my fucking recipe for my
grandmother's peanut butter cookies, and I officially fucking want to
destroy her." Alice smiled wryly, and I had to laugh.
"So you're using me as revenge?" I teased.
"It's both, like I said," she winked again.
"You know most people would just sue." I wiggled my empty beer at
Emmett from across the bar, asking him for another.
"Yeah well, this kills two birds with one stone." Alice looked back to the
bar as Jasper came over finally, carrying my beer he stole from Emmett.
"Buttercup." He reached out and grabbed her hand, encapsulating it in
both of his, and brought it up to his lips, kissing along Alice's fingers and
up her arms until she stopped him.
"You just like to see me blush, now don't you?" she batted her eyes at
him and he smiled at her, then puckered his lips for a kiss.
I looked away, not wanting to watch their intimate moment. Bella caught
my eye as she stood next to a table of well dressed patrons, mostly
male. Her hand rested on the back of the youngest looking one's chair as
she talked. One of the gentlemen passed her a business card, giving her a
look I knew all too well, and then pulled her down as she shook his hand,
whispering something in her ear. He was flirting, trying no doubt to woo
her, and win her affection with his flashy Rolex and expensive suit.
If he only knew, she could careless about that shit.
As Bella made her exit from the table, she saw me looking at her and
then eyed the bar, taking in all that was happening, and walked my way.
I kept my eyes on Bella as I sipped my beer, but could see how everyone
around her turned their heads as she passed. A few people stuck their
hands out to say hello and regard the food, and she smiled and thanked
them for dining with us.
"I should have made you stay on the clock," she teased, eyeing the busy
bar.
"They've got it. You know, Emmett has 'mad skills," I laughed once, taking
a sip of my beer.
"Mm, yes. I see," she said sarcastically, watching him still trying to
impress the ladies.
"Edward?!" I spun around, hearing a familiar voice call my name.
"Holy fuck, Lauren?" I said surprised.
"Edward!" She reached out and hugged me, and I wrapped my free arm
around her shoulders.
"What are you doing here?" I asked, smiling as she leaned back.
"I just got back home. My mother said Marinas Trench was playing here,
and you know my love for them," Lauren smiled and I roamed my eyes
over her face trying to rememorize her.
"What are you doing here?" she asked.
"I work here."
"Really? Wow. This is kind of," she looked around, "a really nice place,"
she chuckled.
"What are you trying to say?" I teased, cocking an eyebrow.
"Nothing silly," she laid her hands against the black fabric of my tank
top. "I just didn't know that you were going to get all richy rich on me
once I left."
"A lot of shit changed since you left, Lauren." I took a sip of beer.
"For me too." She pulled down the collar of her tee shirt, revealing some
new ink.
"What is it?" I asked, unable to tell because there wasn't enough
showing.
"A fairy," she smiled seductively at me, knowing that her tattoo shit
used to drive me crazy.
"Nice," I nodded nonchalantly.
"It covers my whole arm and part of my back. An artist at a convention I
went to did it. It's really bad ass."
"I'm not quite sure fairies can be bad ass, but I believe you." I took
another sip of beer and she stepped closer to me.
"There used to be a day when you would just ask to see for yourself you
know," she whispered.
I went to reply, but all of a sudden, I felt a sharp pain in my left arm. I
looked down to see Bella's nails digging into my skin as she stared holes
into Lauren. I laughed. Ha, she was jealous.
"Lauren, this is Bella. Bella, Lauren," I motioned between them with my
beer in hand.
"Hi, um nice to meet you, Bella," Lauren said, sounding a little confused
by my introduction.
"Bella is my friend," I set my beer down. And the love of my life. "And
my boss."
"Oh," Lauren nodded, looking very satisfied by my description. "How is
Nessie?"
"She's fine. Today was her birthday actually," I replied.
"How old is she now?"
"Five."
"Wow, seems like just yesterday she was born."
"Tell me about it," I laughed once.
"I miss seeing her. She was so darn cute. Like her Daddy." Lauren smiled
coyly, trying again to get me to fall into her trap. This line was muddied
though. It only made me remember why I remained single all this time.
"You should go catch the last set, Lauren. I think the band is about to
head out. Almost closing time." I turned back towards the bar and set
my empty beer bottle down.
"Oh, yeah. Well, um, it was nice to see you again. You should come by my
mom's house for a visit sometime. She misses the treats you used to
bring."
"Yeah, sure. I will," I lied. Lauren saw through me, knowing it was a
bullshit answer, and the light dimmed in her hazel eyes.
"Alright, well bye Edward." She looked at me like she was expecting a
hug or something more significant than a measly, 'see ya later,' but I had
no warm goodbyes or promises to offer. As those things were already
owned by the person to my left.
"Bye Lauren." I looked down the bar top as she walked off, and didn't
look back again.
"Wow Edward, you just totally passed up a booty call," Bella teased.
"She isn't a booty call. Lauren was just a family friend."
"I bet. I know how you and your friends roll." The sarcasm was thick in
her voice, and I looked over to her with a look of disapproval.
"Sorry," she said as soon as she looked at me. "I should get going. It's
late." Bella pushed off the bar and turned to leave but I reached for her
arm, pulling her back.
"You know, Ness is with my parents tonight," I began.
"You've got some pretty big ones you know that, Edward? I mean, you
turn down fairy woman and then think, what? That I'm going to be the
sub or something?"
Is that what the fuck she
"Is that what the fuck you think?" I scoffed. "You know." I stopped
and looked down, not being able to believe that she could honestly be so
blind. "Never mind then," I let go of her hand headed for the door.
"Edward wait," I heard her behind me as we stepped out onto the
sidewalk, and I turned around.
"What is wrong with you Bella? How could you say that shit after what
just happened?" I waved towards the beach with my hand.
"I'm sorry. I justI'm sorry," she said.
"Yeah, whatever, it's fine." I turned again, not wanting to hear anymore
of her shit.
"What were you going to say?" Bella asked, causing me to pause again.
"I was going to suggest going back to the beach," I turned around to
face her, "before you tarnished what was a very nice idea in my mind."
Bella's expression softened, finally understanding my motives. You know, I
loved this woman to death, but sometimes she really pissed me off with
this 'defence wall against the world' shit she toted.
"A walk on the beach? Are you trying to have a match-dot-com moment
with me Edward?" I knew she was just teasing, but I wasn't in the mood.
"Like I said, never mind." I stepped off the curb, fully intent on leaving.
Bella grabbed the back of my shirt, not allowing that to happen, and
stepped in front of me.
"I was just teasing. Don't be all pissy with me. I figured you would have
known by now that that's just my thing," she shrugged.
"I'm more than aware Bella, and while I find it humorous most of the
time, now isn't one of them. Not everything has to be a big fucking joke,
you know. Maybe I was just too hopeful an hour ago, seeing that there
was a real Isabella Swan in there," I captured her chin in between my
thumb and index finger, trying to get her to finally see my point as I
looked into her eyes.
"It was a pretty nice moment for that girl. She should try having more of
them." I held her gaze and watched as she tried to hide from me, but I
didn't allow it, still holding her chin and forcing her to look at me,
knowing that if I didn't she would recoil and probably stomp off.
"I said I was sorry," Bella said quietly, trying to avert my eyes, looking
at all the other places on my face but there.
"Let's try this again, shall we?" Bella looked at me finally as I spoke.
"Bella Swan, would you like to go to the fucking beach with me, Edward
Cullen. There will be no fucking, molesting, or titty grabs. There happens
to be stars," I tilted her face towards the sky and could see the smile
finally playing on her lips, "that will be more than enough to hold my
interest while we walk on said beach. Yes? Or no?" I tilted her head
back towards me.
"If there are no titty grabs or molesting, I'm not so sure I want to go."
She tucked her lips into her mouth, trying not to smile.
"You are fucking hopeless, you know that?"
"Mmm hmm," she nodded, still keeping her lips tucked in.
"Yes, or no?" I closed my eyes, trying not to find her cute, because she
fucking had this way of making me insane and fucking loving her all at
the same time.
"Yes."
"Fucking finally. Thank you." I dropped my hand from her face and bent
at the knees slightly, hoisting her up on my shoulder, fully intending on
spanking the holy fuck out of her as I made my way to the beachside
again.
"Edward , please!" She was laughing as I carried her, begging me to put
her down, but there was no way that shit was going to happen.
"Think it's funny to be a smartass huh?" I spanked her hard.
"Stop! You're making me fucking dizzy," she whined, still laughing.
"You need to be taught a lesson Bella. This is all for your own good, I
promise." I spanked her twice more, trying to not lose my balance as I
made my way down the part of the sidewalk that sloped into a hill. The
street was still a little busy with patrons from the other businesses, and
they laughed, seeing our show as I carried her.
"All of you people suck, just so you know. Poor woman gets abused in
public, and you all do nothing to help!" Bella shouted as I walked past a
group of bystanders.
They laughed at her and I swear I felt Bella lift her hand and give them
the finger. I just knew it.
As we finally approached the beachside, I walked a little slower, my
hand now rubbing the spots on her ass that I spanked as I carried her
along still on my shoulder.
"Edward, seriously, while I am enjoying the ass rubbing, you're making me
want to hurl with the motion, not to mention, your fucking shoulder is
now embedded in my G'damn gut. Please let me down."
"Promise to be good?"
"Yes, fuck, please." I stopped walking and lowered her to the ground,
regretting it as soon as I did.
Bella kicked my leg hard, and then proceeded to slap the holy shit out of
me, cursing and calling me every name you could imagine. Well actually,
that wasn't true, considering most of the names didn't exist in the English
language.
I started jogging backwards, trying to dodge her sissy punches and
smacks, laughing at how pissed off she was. That of course, only made
her more pissed, which then, only made me laugh harder.
As she tried to hit me again, I grabbed her hand, tugging her hard into
me, and then held her tightly in my grasp, imprisoning her small frame in
my arms, not allowing her to wiggle free. Bella's back was flushed against
my chest and I leaned my chin on her shoulder, pressing my lips towards
the crook of her neck.
"If I let you go, are you going to stop trying to kick my ass?" I asked,
trying not to laugh.
"No!" she huffed, still trying to wiggle away.
"Bella, you are not stronger than me, Love. Your efforts are useless," I
teased, knowing it would enrage her more, and sure as shit, she tried to
get out of my hold again.
"While I love your determination, Angel, it's like I said you can't
defeat me. I am going to let you go and this time, if you try to hit me, I
am going to pick you up and toss you in the ocean"
"No, no, no! Please don't!" she cut me off. "I'm fucking terrified of the
ocean, please don't," she begged, all playfulness gone. I loosened my hold
slightly, intrigued by her terror.
"Why are you afraid of the ocean?" I asked.
"It just scares me, especially at night. I'm sorry, just don't fucking throw
me in, please." She was seriously afraid.
"I won't," I kissed the side of her face, holding her tightly again. "I
promise," I kissed her again. "But you know, there's nothing really to
fear."
"Yeah, except being eaten by a fucking shark!"
"You've just watched too many Hollywood movies. They aren't as scary, or
evil as they are portrayed. Besides, they aren't feeding in the shallows
this time of year," I explained, planting another kiss on her jaw.
"Says fucking Captain Jack Sparrow over here, Love," she lowered her
voice, trying to mock my name I called her with her weak Jack Sparrow
impersonation.
"I grew up here for most of my life, Bella. I just know this shit."
"Well, that's all fine and dandy, but I am perfectly happy staying right
here on the sand thank you." She tilted her head towards me a little,
finally meeting my eyes.
"You don't trust me, do you?" I asked.
"I don't trust Mother Nature and her creatures with sharp fucking
TEETH," she leaned in a little towards my face as she spoke.
"So you DO trust me then?" I pressed.
"I wouldn't have put you in charge of my business if I didn't trust you
Flower Child," Bella rested her head back against my shoulder.
"Then let's go for a swim."
"What? No," she shook her head, and I let her go. Bella turned around to
face me and I smiled, pulling off my shirt, challenging her.
"I'm going in, so either you're coming in too, or standing on the beach all
alone." I took off my left shoe, then my right, and she just looked at me
nervously.
"Edward, I seriously cannot go in there. And you are not leaving me on
this beach alone for fucks sake. A G'damn crackhead will rape me or
something." Bella looked around, and I could see her panic, but I wasn't
letting this shit go.
She never would if it were the other way around.
"Yup. Going in." I stripped off my bottoms, only leaving my boxer briefs
on happy that I had changed into my real clothes, and wasn't wearing
just my cheffies, because that would have left my ass naked as a
motherfucker.
"Flower Child, please do not leave me standing here in the fucking dark
to be raped by a crackhead. Please," she begged, her small fists balled
at her sides.
"You could always go back to the mainland. It's up to you, but me," I
walked towards the water, "I'm going this way." The water started to
slosh against my feet as I moved forward.
"Ugh! I hate your ass!" she yelled. "I fucking hate you, Flower Child!" I
turned around and looked at her as I backed my way in. Bella pulled off
her left shoe and threw it down angrily at the sand.
"Hate. You." She stared at me, pulling off her other shoe and threw it
down hard.
"Fuck, at least wait for me, Jerkoff!" she yelled, pulling off her tank top
quickly.
I was in up to my waist as she began taking off her jeans, trying to walk
and remove them at the same time; which wasn't working in her favor at
all. I had to fight hard not laugh.
Bella finally got down to her bra and panties, and I had to fucking
swallow hard at the sight of her stripped down. She stepped quickly, but
cautiously, through the water, trying to make her way to me.
"You are so going to get your ass kicked for this fuckery. Just so you
know." She was close to me and I reached out for her hands.
"You're just being a big baby, Bella." I fell backwards, tugging her with
me as I did.
"Can we just stay right here?" Bella tried to pull my hands towards her,
not allowing me to swim backwards, but I was stronger than her. I
brought her hands around my neck and she held on.
"The point, is to trust me, remember?" I swam a little further back and
she clung to me, wrapping her legs around my waist.
"I do trust you, but fuck Edward, I hate this," Bella started to panic
again.
"You really think I would let a shark eat you Bella?" I asked with a light
laugh.
"If a fucking shark wants to eat me, or us for that matter Edward, I
seriously don't think you have a choice. Unless you are fucking Superman
and forgot to tell me," she made a face at me.
"Just relax please, Angel. Nothing is going to happen." I wrapped my
arms around her, holding her to me, and was really sorry when I did,
because Lt. Dan fucking loved a half naked Bella straddling my lap.
"I'm trying," she said quietly, looking down.
"Bell?" I called, causing her to look up. "Look at the moon, Love," I
nodded towards the sky, trying to divert her attention from the deep
water we were floating into.
Bella gazed up, looking at the night sky, finally calming down and not
realizing that we were now in the water up to our chests. My feet still
touched the soft sand of the ocean floor, and as I watched Bella looking
at the moon, her face full of wonder, all of the same emotions that
flooded me earlier this evening came rushing back in.
"See? It's not so bad, right?" I moved my hands, bringing them up
towards her face and swept her long, wet hair off her shoulders.
"The sky is beautiful, but the water is still scary as fuck." Bella looked
back at me, tightening her grip on my neck a little.
"Not just the sky," I said, appraising her face with my eyes.
"What?" she asked.
"You said the sky was beautiful, and I am trying to argue that it isn't
the only thing that is." I allowed my eyes to rest on hers, trying to get
her to see the way she effected me, quite literally.
Bella's eyes searched my own then moved to my face, appraising my
expression. There was something serious running through her mind, and I
could feel the electricity building as we floated in the water. A wave of
heat crept over my flesh igniting my desire to touch her as it washed
over me. I tried to fight against it, not knowing if that shit was allowed.
My dick had other plans, of course, and hardened as all my thoughts of
what I could be doing to her invaded my mind.
Bella's fingers curled against the nape of my neck in response, no doubt
feeling my hard-on against her private area through her thin panties. Her
breathing grew a little harder and she rested her eyes on my lips.
"You know, if you kissed me, I would be okay with that shit right now,"
she whispered, finally looking into my eyes.
"I don't think a kiss is all I would like to do Bella." I trailed my eyes
down to her lips and then back up to her eyes, which still watched mine.
"That shit would be alright too," she panted, scraping her nails against
my scalp.
I looked back down to her lips, wanting like hell to kiss them again, but I
had to restrain the desire I had, because if I fucking acted on it, I
would crush her into me and hurt her with the force of what I felt.
Slowly, I moved in, already parting my lips in preparation for her mouth.
Bella's lips fell open to receive them and she panted harder as I drew
nearer, fisting the hair on the back of my head. My tongue met hers
before our lips did. My hands reaching under the veil of her long wet
locks to cup the back of her head. Bella's mouth burned mine with the
heat of the intensity that bloomed once we were joined. I groaned in
pleasure against her mouth, and she pulled me in harder to her using my
hair.
My fingers splayed against the back of her head, then retracted, fisting
her thick hair and using it to tilt her head back so I could kiss her
deeply. Bella's legs tightened around my waist, grinding my hard dick
against her center, and she whimpered into my mouth at the sensation,
making me even harder.
My lips moved to her chin, needing to breathe, but were unable to move
from her flesh that I craved with all my desire. Trailing along her jaw, I
made my way down her neck, not really giving a shit about the bitter
salt water on my lips from her wet skin.
Bella tilted her head back, still holding onto my neck, and allowed me to
kiss my way down her throat. My hands slid out from her hair and down
her shoulders to her sides, and then to her waist. I held her in my hands,
lifting her up a little higher to allow my mouth to travel between her
breasts.
"Edward, please," she breathed, grinding against me, and I bit her skin
lightly at the sensation.
My hands found their way back up to her bra straps, pulling them down a
little roughly, and then unclasped the fucking thing, pulling it from her
body, and tossing it into the black water. Bella's mouth moved to my jaw,
kissing hungrily towards my ear as she released her legs from my waist,
allowing me to pull her panties down. As soon as they where free
floating somewhere with her damn bra I tugged down my own boxer
briefs, and flung them into the depths of the sea.
Whoever the hell fished these waters would surely furrow their brows
like a motherfucker when they netted that shit.
I pulled her back to me, making the water slosh over my bare chest from
the force I used, and her arms came back around my neck. I should have
been slower, kissed her more, and fucking devoted myself to worshiping
her naked perfection longer, but the need was too great.
Bella's pussy slid down my hardened length quickly, her slickness
sheathing my cock in its warmth, making my world immediately complete
once we were joined back together again. The temperature of the water
had nothing on the heat inside of her tight body. I hugged my hands to
her hips, pulling her up and sliding her back down again until I was buried
deep inside of her, stretching her opening with my girth. Bella tightened
her legs to try and take more of me in, pressing until my balls hit her
ass, filling her completely.
"I needed you so much Edward," Bella's arms tightened around my neck,
her cheek pressed against mine as she whispered.
"You've got me, Love," I thrust into her again, holding her as tightly as I
could without hurting her. "You've got me."
Bella moved her hips in sync with mine, tightening herself around me as
her inner muscles flexed, constricting and relaxing all that right times.
She whispered into my ear sweet melodies of the pleasure I was bringing
her, telling me how she wanted it, and I obeyed, wanting to give her
nothing less than that.
Being in love with Bella made this all different somehow. I didn't need to
whisper dirty shit to her, or try and get her off four times. I just
fucking needed to be with her, like this; being inside of my love, and
having her clinging to me with all her might while my name resounded
from her lips in a hushed whisper.
That was the homerun in this game.
Bella wanted me.
My cock pulsed with the desire to fill her, throbbing almost painfully in
need of release as I pumped her slowly, but hard. Her arousal was all
around me, allowing me to slide easily in and out of her. Bella's head
tilted back as I began to thrust faster, approaching the point of no
return, and I placed my lips upon the salty skin of her neck again,
groaning faint words against her flesh.
Her hands, gripped painfully to my hair, pulling her face back to mine as
she leaned her forehead against my own.
"Say it please," Bella panted against my open lips.
I thought for a moment, almost saying the three words at the forefront
of my mind before her words clicked.
Bella wanted to cum.
She needed my magic question.
I was about to ask her, but decided to change it from a question to a
statement, already knowing where she liked it best. Sliding my hands
back up to her face, I held her in my palms as my fingertips touched the
hair at the back of her head.
My hips rocked into her hard, hitting her special spot deep within her and
she whimpered, proving my theory right.
"My beautiful," I fucked her again.
"Beautiful," I fucked her harder.
"Angel." Thrusting harder this time, her breathing caught in her throat.
"Likes it right," I hit deep within her.
"Fucking," I let my balls slap against her ass I fucked her so hard.
"Edwardpleasecuminmefuck," she moaned in a faint whisper.
"There." I slammed into her once more, triggering my own release and
buried myself deep inside of her, wanting to give her all that she and
fuck, I desired.
"Fuuuck Bella," I sighed hard, closing my eyes, allowing the euphoria of
my orgasm to wash over me.
We waded in the water quietly for a few moments as our breathing
slowed. I held her to me, coursing my hands over her bare back as Bella's
head rested on my shoulder. She felt limp and light as a feather in my
arms, and for a moment, I wondered if she fell asleep.
"Is the ocean still scary, Angel?" I smiled, kissing her bare shoulder.
"Mm hmm," she hummed against my skin, but then lifted her head from
my shoulder, looking at my face. "But that doesn't mean I don't trust
you," she leaned in and kissed my lips, framing my face in her hands.
"I missed you Bella," I whispered against her swollen lips. "I missed being
with you like this." My forehead leaned to hers, kissing her in small
pecks.
"I know, me too. I think I'm going to change your name," she said.
"To what? Please don't insult my penis right now, he feels rather proud."
"I'm not taking about his," she grinded against me, "name. I'm talking
about your name."
"What is my new name then, Angel?" I kissed her lips again.
"Problem Child," she snickered.
"I didn't know I was."
"You are. Every time I think I have defeated you, you rear your ugly
head again, seducing me with fucking pizza, and damn moonlight fuckery
on the beach. You are evil Edward, you know that?" she raised her brows
to me, and I kissed her again, loving her playfulness.
"It's your own fault, Angel. If you weren't so desirable, then it would be
easy for me to be a dick to you, but it just isn't."
"See? That shit right there is what I am talking about. Stupid swooning
bastard," she shook her head dramatically as she sighed.
"Are you ready to go back to the shore, Love?" I kissed her cheek. "I
think my balls have shrivelled to raisins," I laughed, rocking my hips
against her.
"Ready when you are, Mr. Tug Boat." She leaned her head to my
shoulder, telling me she had no plans on swimming on her own.
Once we made it on the shore, I picked up my shirt, glad that it was still
there, along with our other clothing. Bella wasn't joking when she talked
about the crackhead fuckery; they sure as hell were around. I was
actually pretty damn surprised our shit wasn't gone.
"Come here, Baby," I held up my shirt as she moved towards me.
I made sure to stand in front of her, blocking her from the view of any
creeps that might be hiding in the shadows trying to steal a peak. It was
bad enough they probably saw us fucking just minutes ago. Using my
shirt, I dried her wet body so she could change back into her clothes.
After she was dry I rung out her hair and then reached down for her
tank top.
"Turn around, Love." Bella spun around to face me and I scrunched her
shirt in my hands, readying it for her head and arms to slide through.
Once her shirt was on, I helped her step into her jeans, and then started
to dry myself, but she stopped me.
"Oh, no. I'll do this thank you," she smiled teasingly at me as she took
my shirt from my hands, making sure to dry as slowly as she could.
I smiled at her playfulness as she wiggled her brows at me, moving to my
nether regions.
"You kill me, you know that?" she said, drying Lt. Dan.
"He isn't speaking to you right now," I teased.
"Good, because I wasn't speaking to him. I was talking to you, silly," she
looked back up to me.
"How do I kill you, Love?" I cupped her face into my hand, lifting her
chin up.
"Your body, it's fucking insane." Her hands slid down my chest as she
dried what was already dry with my shirt.
"That feeling is very mutual, Sweetheart," I kissed her lips, taking my
shirt from her hands.
After I was back in my shorts, I laid my wet shirt over my shoulder and
walked with Bella hand-in-hand towards the mainland.
"Edward?"
"Yes, Love?"
"I'm taking tomorrow off, but I still want to work on some of the shit
you missed when you were gone. You know, like challenges," Bella looked
up to me with a smirk on her face.
"Alright."
"Tomorrow won't be challenge day, but I do want to do something we
talked about when you first started. You remember when I said you
needed to buy from farmers?" she asked.
"Yes," I nodded. "Well, I want to do that. Your useless brother was
actually supposed to find you a supplier weeks ago, but fucking failed. I
will be talking about that shit more when he is there to hear my feelings
on the matter, trust me, but for now we are going to visit a farm I found
in the morning. Seems pretty promising."
"That sounds good, Bella." We reached my car, and I paused at the door,
not knowing if she would want to go with me or not.
"I want to bring Squeaks too if that's alright? I think it would be good
for her to go, to learn," Bella said.
"Of course, Squeaks would love that." I touched Bella's cheek with my
free hand, "Will you stay with me tonight, Angel?" I asked softly. She
nodded at me, and I walked her around to the other side of the Volvo,
opening the passenger door for her. As I climbed into my side, she
slapped her palm into her forehead.
"Fuck. I forgot my purse inside." Bella looked passed me through my
window towards The Workshop. "I can't fucking go in there looking like
'The Little Whore That Could,' though." She looked at me, "And you will
definitely be a dead giveaway," Bella eyed my bare upper body.
"Em's still here," I nodded towards his car. "Want me to call him?"
"Yeah, please," she nodded.
After Emmett delivered Bella's bag, and gave us both shit for fucking on
the beach since it was apparently obvious I headed towards my
apartment. Bella checked her messages, and leaned back into her seat,
yawning.
"Babe?" she looked over towards me.
"Mm?"
"Can we get junk food? I'm hungry," Bella asked, going back to her
messages.
"I have food at home, remember?" I stopped at the red light and looked
over to her as I waiting for her reply, but she didn't answer me.
"Bell?" I reached over, and brushed her hair back, causing her to look up
at me.
"Oh, yeah, sure." She looked back down to her phone as it buzzed in her
hands, and the little V between her brows formed.
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"That PI is calling," she looked up to me nervously.
"Answer it," I said, motioning towards her phone.
"I'm too scared," she shook her head, and I reached for it before he had
a chance to hang up.
I fucking laughed as his voice came over, singing along to some fruity
tune.
Whatta homo.
***
While Bella and Edward were Shmexing in the ocean, Dickward was
crackin skulls and kicking asses in New York.
Dickward POV
I fucking hate New York, especially around the holidays. Nothing against
the people, but the goddamn buildings are so tall they block the sun, and
I always feel like I'm in the middle of that fucking SciFi movie with Bruce
Willis and Milla Jovovich where she's the fifth element or some shit like
that.
After another few hours of watching employees come and go, and the
subject only popping his head out long enough for a breath of fresh air
every once in a while, I got out of the piece of shit Crown Vic and
stretched my legs, grabbed some coffee, and decided I was fucking
hungry as shit.
I had eaten at Riley's yesterday while I watched Asshat, so I wasn't
going back there. He'd probably get fucking suspicious and think I was
stalking his ass or something.
Which would be annoying, if I wasn't actually stalking his ass.
I decided to walk it, and maybe grab a fucking sub or something, when I
was stopped by some street fucking vendor shoving some goddamn awful
smelling shit in my face, yelling, "Falafel! Falafel!" at me.
"What the fucking shit is that shit dude? Get it out of my face."
Whatever it was, it smelled like ass. I tried pushing him off of me, but
he just kept coming back. Like a bad goddamn case of the shits after
drinking too much fucking beer when you're celebrating graduating at the
top of your class in sharp shooting.
"Falafel! Falafel! You try!" he screamed again, and I was fucking this
close to pulling my Colt out right there and putting a goddamn bullet in
his head just to shut his ass up.
Luckily, an overly obese man decided he wanted the Fala-whatever, and I
was set free to wander further into the fuckery of the streets of New
York City.
I passed about five more vendors trying to sell me anything from wallets
to chaps. Part of me actually debated buying a pair of those so I could
wear them when I got back to Miami just to fuck with The Kid, but I
reigned that notion in because chaps are just not my fucking slice of pie
if ya know what I mean.
I was goddamn exhausted by the time I got my sub and headed back to
the piece of shit rental. I swear to fucking god I'd take a homeless
person sleeping on the Mall back in DC over this shit any day.
The rest of the day proved to be fairly disappointing. The next couple of
days actually. Asshat didn't go home after work that night like I'd
thought he would. Instead, he shacked up with some woman who
definitely was NOT the fifteen-year-old from the night before. I
watched him long enough to realize he wasn't leaving the villa she lived
in, and then headed back to his condo to stake it out and see where an
opportunity would arise for me to get up to his place.
And an opportunity would arise my friends, they always do, no matter
how fucking tight security is.
Plus I figured, worst case scenario, I'd pay an employee off to let me in.
I also took some of the free time he'd allotted me to get a couple of
copies of the pics developed locally that I'd taken of him and the fifteen
year old. Sweet Tits might decide not to hold that shit over his head, but
I'd be keeping a copy of those fuckers for my own personal version of
torment in case he decided to try any shit with her again.
The more I scoped his place thinking about the shit this guy was into
with the underage girl and basically making Sweet Tit's life fucking hell
the more I decided, just thieving the fucking tape wasn't gonna be
good enough for me. I was in need of some quality one-on-one time with
Asshat. So I'd wait him out, and make sure he met yours truly with a
bang.
You know, in honor of the fourth of fucking July and shit.
I got my wish, on the very day our Nation's independence was claimed,
and I thought about how fucking appropriate that shit was because I was
about to claim Sweet Tit's independence from Asshat in such a way that
he'd be lucky to have anyone sucking anything of his anytime in the near
goddamn future.
I had plenty of time to check Asshat's condo out before he left work for
the night, and the scouting I'd been doing had paid off. I knew how I'd
be getting in.
The hard part was getting passed all the fucking security his building
had. Not impossible, mind you, just a pain in the ass.
First I'd have to jam the outside cameras so there'd be no trace of yours
truly wandering around. I found two at the front lobby doors, and one at
the back of the building where the staff entrance was. I hit up the staff
entrance. Mainly because if I had tried to fuck with the shit in the
front, a whole hell of a lot of people would see me, and that would just
defeat the fucking purpose.
I looked at my watch. Six fifteen. He'd probably be leaving around eight
again, so that left me a couple of hours to check it out.
I grabbed a pen out of the glove compartment of the Crown Vic, taking it
with me to the back of the building, and waited for some of the staff to
enter and leave me alone in the alleyway. Then I jammed the pen into
the circuits for the camera, and disconnected the wires. No one would
notice that shit, and even if they did, it was more than likely they
wouldn't give a shit since employees generally dislike being fucking
watched all the goddamn time anyway.
I grabbed a coat off of one of the hooks in the hallway as I entered and
put it on. It looked like one of those doorman coats, complete with the
fucking fringes and shit on the shoulders of it. I felt like an idiot, but
hey, if it helped me blend in, then hooo-rah.
I already knew what floor and condo number Asshat lived in since I'd
snapped a pic of his ID last night too so I jumped on the service
elevator and headed up to the top floor.
Nothin' like living large, ey Dick-weed?
Does anyone happen to know why elevators have the worst fucking music
in the history of the world, by the way? I mean seriously, is this shit
supposed to relax us or make us wanna gouge our eyes out with an ice
pick?
I was happy as a motherfucker to get off the elevator, and managed to
help myself to some fucking bottled water that was in a basket on the
top floor hallway that led to the Asshat's condo.
After very easily picking his lock I let myself in and shook off the
doorman's coat, throwing it over one of the barstools that sat at the
kitchen island in the middle of the room.
Asshat lived pretty nicely. I eyed his CD collection and pulled one out
that had the Kings of Leon plastered on the front, popped it into his
player and started up the music.
Hey, I work better when there's some goddamn good music playing, it
helps me concentrate.
Besides, I had to get the muzak version of that fucking Pina Colada song
out of my head that was playing in the elevator.
I made my way through the condo, peeking through drawers, checking
under beds, making sure I didn't disturb anything..
Too obvious. This fucker isn't gonna leave shit out in the open.
I checked in the pantry, the bathroom, the bedroom, and then I saw
what I thought looked pretty fucking odd for a condo that belonged to
the GM of a five fucking-star restaurant.
It was a painting. But it wasn't the fact that it was a fucking painting
that disturbed my ass. It was the fact that is was one of those paintings
of a really fat dude cooking pasta and whatnot. You know, like the ones
you see at Bed Bath and Beyond and shit?
Not that I've fucking shopped there.
It was supposed to be an Italian impressionist type thing I'm sure, but if
I turned it over, I'd be willing to bet my payday on this job that it was
fucking made in China or some shit like that.
I pulled the painting down, and sure as shit, it was a wall safe. And sure
as shit, made in China.
Pay up motherfuckers.
Goddamn it all to hell, I am a genius.
I didn't have the tools with me that I needed to break that shit open, so
I decided to wait for Mr. Statutory Rapist to come home and have him do
it. I knew he'd come here before going back out.
Gotta get all gussied up for the fifteen-year- old you know how hard
they are to impress.
I shook my head at the thought of the fifteen-year-old again. As much
as I joked about the shit that happened last night, in reality it had been
all I could do to stop myself from pulling her off of his dick, and giving
her a good goddamn talking to.
I left the painting on the floor, leaned up against the wall underneath
the safe, and checked his liquor cabinet for some Patron. Not that I was
surprised, but I was still a little fucking pissed that he didn't have any.
Instead I had to settle for some fucking Grey Goose shit.
While I waited, my phone buzzed and when I checked it, I saw a text
from Sweet Tits.
It read, "Why haven't I fucking heard from you yet Dick?"
I laughed. She was not a very patient motherfucker. Not that I could
blame her. Someone hanging shit over your head like this was not like
taking a stroll in Central Park or anything. Plus she was dealing with all
that fuckery with The Kid too.
I smiled as I typed out a message back to her.
"Anxious for some quality conversation Sweet Tits? Settle down. Soon."
It wasn't long after that, that I heard the key in the door, so I turned
off the lights and waited in Asshat's big comfy La-Z-Boy for him quietly.
Colt in my lap, cocked and ready. No sexual innuendos intended my
friends. That shit's just funny all by itself.
He didn't bother turning any lights on when he threw his keys down.
When he got to the living area, he opened up his drapes that covered the
big ass sliding glass door, and let the city and street lights filter in,
throwing a soft glow throughout the room.
"How ya doin', Asshat?" I said.
He jumped and threw himself up against the wall opposite me, hands up in
the air, screaming like a baby, "Don't hurt me! Don't hurt me! Oh god
what do you want, I'll give you anything just please don't hurt me!"
It was truly hard not to laugh at his sorry ass, my friends, but I
managed to keep a straight face.
"You have something I'm interested in, and I'm here to take it from you."
I raised my gun so that it pointed at him nonchalantly, fully aware of the
fact that I wasn't planning on using it but he didn't know that.
"Wwawhat do you want?" he asked
"A tape."
"A what?"
I got up, because I really didn't fucking like this guy, and he was really
annoying the shit out of me with his scaredy cat shit. "I said a
fucking tape, ass-wipe." I walked over to him, choking him against the
wall with my forearm, and holding the gun up to his cheek. Then I tried
out some Al Pacino on his ass, "Ann lemmee introduce you to my lil'
frien."
Yeah, still sucksI really gotta stop trying to do Pacino.
There were no bullets in the gun people. Seriously. I'm not an idiot.
"Wwwhat tape?" He stuttered. What, did he have tapes on more than
one person? 'Cause that shit's not right.
"A very specific tape. One with certain sexual deeds being performed on
it?"
His eyebrows furrowed and he suddenly became a little less scared and a
little more agitated.
"I don't" he swallowed. "I don't know what the fuck you're talking
about."
I smirked at him, because the wordplay just never escapes me. "Wrong
answer Asshat. I know you've got it, and I know it's here." That was
really just a guess, but an educated guess, I didn't think he'd be stupid
enough to keep it at the restaurant. "Now where's the goddamn tape
bitch, or do I need to hurt you for it?"
Please say I need to hurt you for it.
"Fuck you."
YES!
I pulled my gun away from his face and shoved it into the back of my
jeans, dragged him away from the wall, opened his sliders and took him
out to the balcony, then threw him over, holding him by his legs, so he
was bent backwards onto the outside of the railing.
The fireworks had started, and I gotta admit, fucking New York puts on
some fuck-awesome shit.
"OH HOLY MOTHER OF FUCK PLEASE DON'T DROP ME! PLEASE!" he
screamed.
This was such a standard scare tactic that I learned back at the
Academy. I'm really still surprised when people actually think you're
gonna fucking drop them from a balcony.
"You're gonna open that fucking safe of yours in there my little piss in
the pants, and you're gonna show me where the fucking tape is. And if
it's not there, I'm dragging your ass back to your restaurant from the
back of my piece of shit Crown Vic that's downstairs waiting, and we're
gonna look for it there, got it?"
"YES! YES! I got it! PPPlease just let me up! SHIT!"
I pulled him back up and grabbed him by the shirt collar, throwing him
into the living area again and up to where the safe was.
He very shakily turned the dial to the right, then left, then right again,
and I heard the click as he turned the handle and opened it up.
I eyed the contents. "How many fucking sex tapes do you have dick-
wad?" There had to be a minimum of ten fucking tapes in there. It made
me wonder how many other people he was screwing over for money and
favors.
He didn't answer me, so I threw him out of the way and searched
through the tapes for the one I needed. "Riley's," was all that was
written on the side of it.
I pushed Asshat down into his La-Z-Boy recliner and said, "Have a seat,"
keeping my Colt pointed at him the whole time. I walked over to his TV
and pushed the VCR tape into the slot. I turned the TV on and pressed
play.
Hey, I needed to make sure it was really her tape, right?
As the scene on the video started to play, I furrowed my eyebrows and
crossed my arms. The woman on the screen stripped slowly and
deliberately, as the dickhead sat watching her, spread-eagle and naked.
He was sitting on a stainless steel counter that was clearly the kitchen
of Sweet Tit's restaurant, waiting for her to do all the goddamn work
which pissed me off already.
Not only is that just wrong, but it's fucking unsanitary too.
She slinked up to him like a panther, and did some shit to his dick that I
personally don't think I'd ever seen before. Then my head tilted just a
little bit as she climbed up and around him, and did this one move that I
distinctly thought to myself, had to fucking hurt.
I cringed. A little.
Then she stood up and practically jumped onto his dick, straddling him,
bouncing up and down on his cock like she was riding one of those fucking
huge ass bouncy balls kids used to get and ride around all over the
goddamn place.
Okay, weird comparison my bad.
That's when I noticed it. Although the body was roughly the same size as
Sweet Tits, and the hair was the right color, that wasn't fucking Sweet
Tits on that tape. Amply named, the tits on this woman were not right,
and her ass was too big. Unless Sweet Tits had lost a lot of fucking
weight since this was done.
I looked over at the jackass sitting in his La-Z-Boy and scowled. "Who is
that?" I asked him. He shook his head. "It's just some bitch I was
screwing around with you know having fun? Why do you want it?"
"Let's just say I had a little discussion with the Lord, and he's not
fucking happy with the games you've been playing with people's lives,
Asshat."
He didn't have shit on Sweet Tits. Holy fucking shit was she gonna have
his head on a platter when she found this shit out.
"What?" he asked, a little hysterically.
"Tell me somethin' Asshat, do you always tape your casual fucks without
them knowing it, and then hold it over their fucking heads?" I was really
fucking piss ass furious with this dick.
He kinda did this shy guy shrug thing like I would think it was funny or
some shit like that and that's when I fucking lost it.
"You've been fucking with Swe. People for how fucking long and you
can't even answer my goddamn question properly? You FUCK!" I stalked
over to him, and pulled him to stand up by his throat, choking him.
"You just became King of The Assholes in my jungle, you know that?
People like you treat people like fucking shit because you can't do
anything on your own, so you need to torment them to get aheadwell
guess the fuck what, your ride just abandoned your ass."
He tried to pull away from me, but I just pulled him back and punched
him in the goddamn face, throwing him onto the floor with a bloodied lip
as he yelled, "Fuck! You dick! I have a fucking date in an hour!"
A fucking date!
I kicked him in the nuts for that one, and he bent forward, holding what
was left of his balls in his hands.
"You mean with the fifteen-year-old?" I laughed. "Newsflash for you pal.
now you're the one who's got shit that's gonna be hanging over him. I got
pictures of you and your little girlfriend last night doing some pretty
nasty things at the restaurant." I made a mocking disapproval look at him
as his face became one of shock and horror at the thought of someone
getting one over on him.
"I don't think her daddy is gonna be all that happy when he finds out his
little girl's been sucking the big wig restaurant show-off's limp dick do
you?"
I bent at the knees so I was down at his level to tell him the rest.
"You breathe a word of my visit here tonight? And I'll have you locked up
so fast you wouldn't have time to change your shorts after shitting in
them. You date another underage girl and I find out about it? I'll have
some friends of mine on the police force up here pay you a visit and
teach you some fucking values."
He swallowed uncomfortably.
I bent a little closer to him. "You give my friend a hard time after
tonight. At all. Even a cockeyed look in her general direction? I pay you
another visit, and next time?" I cocked an eyebrow at him, "People won't
recognize you after I'm done. Got it ass-fuck?"
He held his hand to his bloody lip and nodded. That's all I was getting
out of him, and I was okay with that. As long as he understood.
I took the rest of the tapes out of his safe and smashed them to bits,
tearing the tape out and shoving it all into his stainless steel trash can.
Then set it on fire as he just sat there watching me. I put Sweet Tit's
tape in my jacket pocket.
"That's private fucking property you knowyou can't justtake it."
Was he fucking kidding me?
It was then that I suddenly realized that this guy wasn't just a jackass,
he was a stupid jackass. I pulled my gun out of my jeans and cocked it
for show, and he jumped a little as I walked over to him and clocked him
on the back of his neck. Hard enough to knock him out, but not enough to
kill him unfortunately.
"That's for fucking buying crap artwork Asshat!" I said as I left, knowing
he was out cold and didn't hear a goddamn word I said. "Night, night my
friend. Don't do anything I wouldn't do."
I rode the service elevator back down to the bottom floor and goddamn
if that Pina Colada song didn't get stuck in my fucking head again.
Stupid goddamn elevator muzak.
When I got in the piece of shit Crown Vic, I slid into the driver's seat,
and dialed Sweet Tits while I started her up and headed for the airport.
While I was waiting for her to answer, I had to slap myself for humming
that fucking song.
"If you like makin' love at midnight"
"Are you seriously singing Rupert Holmes?" The voice on the other end
laughed. Only, it wasn't Sweet Tits. I could almost handle her hearing me
sing that shit. No, it was The Kid.
Shit.
This is where it goes into SE POV(so you know- it's about 1 am at this
point)
"Kid. How's it hangin'? Any luck with that dick in the vagina thing?"
"Actually," I snickered, and wanted to answer him back truthfully, but
Bella was looking at me...and something told me that if I said that shit,
my ban on planet Butterbean would be put back into full effect. Instead,
I decided to put him in the fucking hot seat.
"Don't talk about Bella's vagina asshole." That did it, she gaped and
reached for the phone, but I pulled back, capturing her hand in mine, and
shook my head at her. The light turned green and I began to drive again,
letting go of her so I could shift and shit...
"You're interrupting some serious quality time here, Rupert Rump Shaker.
Why don't you get on with why you are calling Bella at this ungodly
hour."
"First of all kid, you're the one who advised me of the vagina situation in
the first place, remember? Secondly, if I didn't hear it in your voice kid,
I'd say that was a negative on the luck, but since Sweet Tits is probably
sitting right there, and you don't seem to be the guy to kiss and tell, I'll
just say congratulations. She IS sitting right there, correct? Eying you?
Maybe biting on that bottom lip of hers, wanting to know what the fuck
the dick is saying to her lobster?"
"First of all, the words 'dick' and lobster' shouldn't be put into the same
G'damn sentence." I shifted my gears as we got onto a faster road.
"Secondly, what the fuck do you mean I am her lobster? Is this like some
stupid P.I. lingo I am missing out on?" I saw Bella turn her head in my
direction as she flipped through my stations, giving me a look that would
translate into, 'What fucking planet have you gone to, and what did you
do with Edward?'
The dick on the other end laughed. He must have been in on some private
joke I wasn't privy to...
"Listen kid, I've been on outings where both dick and lobster were used
quite often in the same sentence, trust me, they belong together. And by
the way, it doesn't take a fucking P.I. to see what the fuck is going on
sometimes...if you get my meaning kid. Which I'm pretty fucking sure you
do."
"For the love of sweet baby Jesus on a fat-free Pringle, would you just
get to the point and stop with all the 'if you knows', cause obviously
and I'm fucking sorry here Leather Twat but I don't." I held the phone
out, and looked at it, making sure I was still talking to the dick and not
some fucking reject from the Jerry Lewis telethon or some shit.
"First of all, don't diss the leather kid. And Jesus, settle down. No need
to overdose on those fat-free Pringles. Which by the way, are made up
of nothing but sodium, which is bad for brain cells, which might explain
why you don't GET, that when I say lobster, I mean soul mate. Fuck,
don't you people watch the goddamn discovery channel?"
"I do actually, seeing as how I have a five-year-old daughter with whom
I do not allow to watch fucking shit that rots her brain. However, I cook
fucking seafood, not watch it fuck on TV. Now, once again, the point
Leather Twat?" I called him that shit again, feeling fully confident that
it was a major soft spot for him.
I mean, you know the gays and their leather. It's like me trying to take
Ness' Snuggy Bear away. She would just fucking cry and break into little
shattered pieces.
He didn't say anything else about it though. He just laughed through his
nose and said, "OK kid, you win. Clearly you're in a bad place right now
and can't handle this shit any more than Sweet Tits. Why don't you be a
good boy, and report in for me, that I got her fucking tape."
"You did? He actually had one?"Bella whipped her head my direction and
I put the car in park, finally pulling into my parking space at my building.
"Wait, how the fuck did you get it? Did you have to kick his ass, because
you better have kicked his ass? Gay or not Dick, you better have kicked
his ass...He isn't that big of a dude, I think you could have taken him,
even with the leather jacket."
The dick sounded like he was trying to stifle a laugh and sound
professional at the same time when he said, "Now kid, I try really hard
to be civilized about shit when I work... but just for the record, does
hanging him over his top floor condo balcony railing while fucking
fireworks are going off constitute kicking his ass?"
"I think it would constitute a pissing of the pants. Ass kicking? No, that
doesn't sound like what I would do to the douche." I sat back in my seat,
reaching again for Bella's hand that was tapping nervously on her leg as
she listened to my conversation.
"Douche? Seriously. Who uses that word still? That was just a preview
kid. Don't worry, he won't be looking pretty for the girls anytime soon,
and his balls won't be working properly for a while, if they ever did. I
don't even know if he'll be conscious for work tomorrow...tell Sweets Tits
I'm sorry about that by the way."
"Fuck, you didn't kill him did you? Not that I am entirely opposed to that
idea, Leather Twat, but I just don't want my, lobster," I looked over to
Bella and smiled, "getting in trouble for such fuckery."
"Shit no kid, he doesn't even know Sweet Tits had either of her beautiful,
petite little hands involved in this fuckery. Not to mention, I don't need a
goddamn murder on my shoulders. I just... knocked him out cold. He'll be
fine tomorrow," he laughed. "Well, as fine as he can be. And maybe a
little fucking nicer. You know Asshat had like ten fucking tapes in his
vault? Who knows who the fuck else he's been pulling this shit with."
"Ten? Who else was on them? Or wait," I tilted to the side, hoping Bella
wouldn't hear. "Were they all my lobster?" I whispered, hoping to high
hell his reply would be a loud ass fucking no.
He sounded like he was talking to a parking attendant on the other end,
and was highly agitated, which wasn't abnormal, this guy seemed to
always be pissed off.
"Sorry about that kid... fuck no, they all had different names on
them...." then he mumbled something that sounded like "not that it
matters". He cleared his throat before continuing, "They're destroyed
regardless, the only one I kept was Sweet Tits."
"Dick, just so you know, if you watch that fuckery, being gay will be the
last of your fucking troubles. Understand?"
He laughed again, like there was that inside joke I wasn't privy to again.
"Kid, you could learn a thing or two from this tape, trust me. And I've
got news for ya. It's my motherfucking job to watch
fuckery...authenticity is key. What if her name was on the wrong
goddamn tape and I didn't check to make sure? That's irresponsibility on
my part, and that's just not my fucking style."
I started to say something else but he cut me off before I could get it
out, "I get it, kid. You don't like sharing Sweet Tits with anyone, but try
to think of me as a caring individual, trying to ensure that your lobster,
aka Sweet Tits, doesn't have to deal with this piece of shit, ever again.
Which reminds me, tell her I've got hard copies for her of the underage
dick-sucking fest too."
There was an underage dick-sucking fest going on? No wonder Esme never
wanted to visit New York with us as children.
"Alright, I get it. It's your job. Could you just do me a favor and stop
calling her Sweet Tits though? Not that they aren't," I looked over to
Bella and waggled my brows, "but it is just fucking disrespectful."
If he said it in my presence, I might lose my shit and have to bust out
my size fifteens on his ass. Quite literally.
I could almost hear him smirking on the other end of the line. "Getting a
little sensitive on me there kid? Yeah, okay, I can oblige you that, but
you gotta do something for me."
"I don't gotta do shit, but what might you have in mind. If it's for Bella,
I might be for it." I would do anything for her, of course, but he didn't
need to know that shit.
I still had my fun-bag fully intact and planned on keeping it that way.
"I might have to disagree with you on that one sport... but I digress." I
rolled my eyes, what the fuck did that mean? "When you and Sweet... I
mean, Bella, finally get your shit together, and you tie the knot, get
hitched, jump the shark, whatever the fuck you wanna call it, slap an
invitation to that fuckery in the mail to me, because I would hate to miss
that shit. The way you two communicate, that's gonna make for one
interesting fucking vow recital."
What the fuck was that supposed to mean?
"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?"
"You know, marriage? It's when two people fucking love each other and
wanna spend the rest of their goddamn lives doing nothing but playing
dick in the box with each other? You have to see this coming right?
You're not THAT big of an idiot. Catch up with the rest of us, kid."
"We aren't even..." I looked over to Bella, "hold on there Leather Twat."
I held the phone to my chest, blocking out my words.
"Angel, why don't you go on up. He's got the tape and is on his way back
I presume. I just need to set his ass straight, and then I'll come up and
join you." I handed her my keys and then made sure to allow the dick to
hear the next part.
"If you're not spread-eagle on my Egyptian cotton 1200-count when I get
up there, me and Butterbean may have to have a discussion." Bella knew
and appreciated my type of conversation very much thank you. She
climbed from the car, practically running up towards the entrance doors,
and I laughed lightly, placing the phone back up to my face.
"Dick?"
"I'm here kid. And can I just say, if you make Swe...Bella wait for that
shit, I might just need to kick your ass when I see you. And who the fuck
is Butterbean?"
"Never had a girl name her clit for you? Oh that's right..." I began to
laugh, continuing my gay bashing.
"Typically I do the naming kid. But I wouldn't want you to understand
taking control, you clearly aren't in the habit of that with Sw...with
Bella. Although, you did just send her running up to your place so we
could have alone time. Did you have something you wanted to say?"
"Ha, well aren't you funny? For the record, I've already fucked Bella
good and proper tonight. This is what we, in my industry call, a palette
cleanser. It is what you eat in between meals to ready you for the next
course. Bella tastes like fucking strawberries by the way, simply
delicious." I let the bait sit a moment before I continued.
"What I am trying to get at here Dicky, is that in less than five minutes,
my Bella will be showered, shaved and ready for the full dining
experience, and you, my poor leather wearing friend, will be sitting
around twiddling your own dick, jerking it to those pics you took of the
underage girl."
"Wow...you know for a straight guy, you sure do a lot of gay bashing kid.
Homophobic much? And since we're making things clear now? You need to
understand that if you fucking refer to me, or my jacket as gay again?
You'll be having a discussion with more than just Butterbean, catch my
drift? I can ignore your ass most of the time, because I can see you're
just in fucking love and all twisted up over your shit with Bella, but
you're crossing a line you don't wanna cross my friend."
I'd pushed his buttons one time too many I guess, he was completely
losing his shit. I tried not to laugh, but noticed a change in his tone. He
got a little serious on me.
"And those pics of the underage girl? The ones you think I need to wack
off to? Which is just disturbing in its own right...Those are what's gonna
give YOUR Bella the sweet smelling satis-fuckin-faction of knowing that
Asshat won't be bothering her anymore...and she'll always remember
where the fuck she got them from, and it ain't from some damn platter
carrying, dinner cooking sous chef, I'll tell ya that right now. Comprende?
Kid?"
"So...you think that while I am sucking, swirling and licking Bella's clit,
she is seriously going to be thinking about you? How about this, fucker. If
any other name other than mine escapes her lips, I'll give you my fucking
inheritance; which is enough to buy a small country, or private island
somewhere. This way, when your jerkin' it to illegal porn, you have a nice
private plot for doing so. Now if you will excuse me, kind sir, I have a
fucking pussy to lick." I closed the phone and opened my car door,
feeling completely agitated by this little punk fucker.
He better have gotten the right tape and set James straight, because if
he didn't I was going to have to take matters into my own hands. Quite
literally.
As I finally made my way into my apartment, I walked quickly to my
room, stripping off my shorts as I went. As soon as I pushed the door
open, I laughed.
Bella was curled up like a cat on my bed, sleeping soundly.
I quietly walked over to her, lifting her into my arms, and tucking her
under the covers.
"Sleep well, Angel," I kissed her head and sighed, making my way to my
side of the bed.
Alright, so maybe the dick wasn't so bad after all. I mean he caught
James' ass, got Bella's tape back, and now she was sleeping soundly
because of it.
I thought about letting off the shit with his jacket because he really
seemed quite attached to it. I could get my digs in other ways. Like
knowing, in the morning, I would have my lobster and he would still just
be a stupid dick.
BPOV
6:59 am
I woke up to Flower Child snoring in my G'damn ear.
"Ewww," I whined, pushing him away from my face, still way too tired to
wake up.
He snuggled closer though, putting his damn pig snorting sounds in my ear
again. Fuck, this was not a side of him I wanted. I mean, if it was like 2
hours from now, this shit might be cute, but right now, while my happy
ass was trying to soak in the last thirty minutes of sleep I had left, it
was not fucking cute.
At all.
"Flower Child, shut up!" I slapped him and felt him flinch. He grumbled
and rolled over the other way with his back facing me. Butterbean
instantly hit me back and I rolled to my side, hugging my arm over his hip
bone and resting my cheek on his sexy ass mother of fuck good smelling
back.
"No, you didn't want any," he grumbled, pushing my arm away.
"I'm trying to spoon, Edward. Let the spoon happen please." I put my arm
back over him and felt his laughter vibrate against me.
"Sorry, but you were snoring like a fucking character from a kid's movie."
"Babe the pig?" he guessed.
"Mmm hmm." I tightened my hold on him and kissed his back, loving how
he smelled and felt.
"I'm sorry. I usually don't snoreI think?" he laughed.
"That's the first time I've ever heard you. It's alright, but shut up and
let me sleep my allotted time please. Egyptian cotton and I were having
a moment." I rested my face to his back and he lifted my hand to his
lips, kissing my fingers as his only reply.
Before I was able to fall back to sleep, a light knock on the door
sounded and Edward grumbled, getting up to answer it. I could hear Esme
and Nessie, and the next thing I knew, I was seeing Squeaks flying
through the door which was no good, seeing as how I was naked as
fuck.
"Bewwa!" she came bouncing on the bed, crawling up quickly before I had
a chance to get clothes on. I held the sheet up over me, hoping she
wouldn't notice.
"Renesmee Cullen," Edward appeared in the door. "Bella was sleeping.
That was very rude. Come out here." His tone was disapproving and she
looked at him sadly.
"But Bewwa hwere." She sunk down into the bed and rubbed her eyes
like she was going to cry.
"Bella is taking us to a fun place today, to see animals, but if you don't
come out here we can't go. Come on, Love." Edward held out his hand,
and she slid down from the bed, tottering over to him with her little
purple sneakers.
Edward scooped her up, closing the door behind him, and I flopped back
down into the bed, feeling relieved to have dodged a bullet.
7:45 am
"Can we wake her up yet?" I heard a little person saying against my
face. I peeped one eye open and saw Squeaks staring over me. Rolling
onto my back I looked up, opening both of my eyes to see Edward's stupid
face looking at me too.
"What the fuck are you guys doing?" I asked, feeling highly self
conscious.
"Can we go now Bewwa?" I looked back to Squeaks, and her little face
was full of hope.
"Bewwa needs to shower first short stuff." I looked back to Edward,
pulling him down to me by his tee shirt to whisper in his ear.
"You know I happen to be very naked under here." I looked down to the
sheets and he pressed his lips to my ear to whisper back.
"I am very aware." He kissed me and then leaned away. "Come on, Baby.
Let's give Bella some privacy so she can get dressed okay?" He leaned
over and picked her up, setting her on the floor.
"Wait for Daddy on the couch. I need to talk to Bella a second." She
nodded at him and made her way out.
"Flower" he cut me off with his lips and I laughed into his hasty kiss.
Edward started to trial his way down my chin, kissing my neck as he
dragged the sheets down with his fingers to reveal the places he desired.
"Edward, Squeaks is so going to come in here and see this fuckery. You
know, you do have bad karma with doors and shit."
He ignored me, still making his way down until he reached his fanbase
headquarters. Edward planted a soft kiss to Butterbean and whispered
something I couldn't distinguish.
"I can't hear you," I tilted my head forward to see him better.
"Shh, I wasn't talking to you," he teased, looking up at me, and I laughed
at him, putting my head back down to the mattress.
"You know, she happens to be very unhappy with you," he said, rubbing
his thumb over Butterbean.
"Yeah, well, she happens to be very happy with you, and if you don't quit
that shit, we are never going to make it to the farm, which would be"
he stopped my rant with his mouth back on his number one fan.
"Fuck Edward," I breathed out, feeling his tongue lightly playing to
Butterbean's desire.
His lips kissed, sucking softly at my sensitive flesh several times lightly. I
had to bite my inner cheek to keep my damn voice down, knowing Ness
was only down the fucking hall. What was he trying to do to me?
"Your pussy Bella," he sucked my clit again, "is so fucking sexy." He
licked this time, one long slow sweep, flicking lightly on my swollen bean
at the end.
"You're officially fucking torturing me, just so you know," I whispered,
closing my eyes.
"And just so you know," he crawled up my body, causing me to open my
eyes, "Leah will be here in" I heard Nessie squeal from the next room,
welcoming Leah as she entered. "So we have a few minutes," he grinned.
"Why is Leah here?" I asked.
"Bella," he sighed hard. "Do you really want to discuss why Leah is
here?" He reached his hand in between my legs, sinking his fingers inside
of me. "Or take advantage of our few minutes of alone time together?"
Edward didn't allow me to answer, placing his perfect lips on mine as he
fucked me with his fingers.
He came to rest on his side, and I coiled into him, putting my foot on his
hip while he pumped his digits slowly in and out of me. I hummed against
his mouth, panting hard into his face when he hit just the right spot. My
hand rubbed him through his clothes, feeling his hard-on, and he kissed
me deeper in response, dancing his tongue along mine.
"What would you like, Love?" Edward whispered against my lips.
"You," I panted.
"Here?" He slid his middle finger in, curling it along my G-spot as he did.
"Mmm," I hummed, trying not to let the, 'fucking yes!' spring forth from
my lips. Seeing as how that would be sure to give us away.
"That's where I want it to, Angel. Right" he pumped his finger again,
swirling my clit with his thumb. "Here." Edward kissed me as he added a
second finger and I bit his bottom lip to keep from moaning.
Edward removed his fingers, sitting up to pull his shirt free, then
removed his shorts to which I was glad to see he was all commando like.
His Yule log sprang free, and I wanted to fucking start singing 'Oh Holy
Night' or some shit, even though it was clearly daytime. Mother of FUCK
was my man hung like a fucking stallion.
No wonder he impregnated Jessicunt on the first time. His tip probably
kissed her fucking ovaries.
Edward rested back in between my legs, spreading my lips with his
fingers as the head of his cock pushed into me. I pulled him down to me
with my hand around his neck, and he rested over me, framing my face
with his hands as he entered.
"Morning, Angel," he whispered against my lips, pushing in further until
his body was fully submerged into mine.
"This is much better than snoring in the ear." I closed my eyes, unable to
take his beauty and fucking all at the same time..
"I would wager it is." He thrust harder, hitting my spot that he had a
fucking map to, like the shit you get at Disney with a big fucking star on
it stating, 'You are here.'
"Kiss me," I whispered, needing to feel his mouth back on mine and also
needing to be able to keep my fucking mouth occupied so I wouldn't blow
our cover.
Edward rocked his hips harder, 'putting the dent in the bed' as Mike
LOWree would say from Bad Boys. His balls hit against my ass as he
fucked me all good and proper like, but then he slowed, staving off his
orgasm I presumed.
"Fuck, I don't want to cum yet," he whispered. "You're making that very
difficult, Bella."
Edward's warm lips were on my chin, kissing me hungrily as he made his
way into hollow of my throat.
"Flower Child, please," I begged breathlessly, wanting him to cum,
knowing it would trigger my own release.
He was teetering on the edge and taking me with him as he pumped
slower, brewing a storm in the pit of my stomach that wanted badly to
erupt. Edward's strong arms encircled my face and shoulders, surrounding
me under him.
"Flower Child, please just fuck me. I need to" his mouth cut me off
again as he moved faster, harder at my request. I felt him swell, and the
sweat we gathered between our bodies slid his skin against my clit in the
most delightful of ways, igniting my orgasm. I felt him start to pull back,
and I stopped him with my legs, knowing that it would end if he did.
"Please, I need to feel you," I pleaded, trapping him inside of me.
"Fuck." He thrust harder, kissing fervently at my cheek. "If anything
ever happened, I swear to fuck I would take care of you Bella," he
panted in a rush against my skin.
"I know," I whispered.
"That's all I want to do is take care of you." Edward kissed my cheek
the same way again as he slammed into me, finally cumming inside me
hard.
Edward's lips rested against my cheek, kissing softly in between his heavy
breathes and swallows. I ran my fingers through his tousled hair, loving
how soft and silky his locks felt against my hands.
He finally rolled to his side, sighing hard, and placed his arm over me as I
remained on my back. I could hear the TV on in the other room, and Leah
playing with Ness. I looked over to Edward. His eyes were closed with his
jaw a little tight. His expression left me a little confused, but he started
to speak before I could voice my concern.
"Bell?" he called, looking over to me.
"Mm?" "I think the Dick was right," he smiled slightly.
"About what?" I asked, rolling to my side to look at him better. Edward
rolled onto his side as well, looking me in my eyes as he pulled me closer,
finally resting his palm against my cheek.
"You're my lobster."
Xxx
Since Edward and I had sexy time this morning, we weren't able to eat
breakfast. So I was fucking starving by the time we arrived to the farm,
and glad as fuck they had all types of shit to eat there since they
grew motherfucking food.
As we walked through the barn stables, I carried Squeaky, sharing an
apple with her. It wasn't as good as the ones from up north, seeing as
how in Florida they were grown on a fucking vine. And I don't know why,
but for some reason that shit fucked with my mental ability to enjoy it
as much as I should have. It wasn't a shitty apple by any means, but you
know, apples don't fucking grow on vines. Okay well obviously they can,
but it just isn't as God intended, that's all I'm sayin'.
"Wook Bewwa howsies," Squeaks pointed to a beautiful black horse
behind the stall door.
"His name is," I read the sign and laughed, "Edward." Squeaks laughed
with me.
"Don't even start on the Mr. Ed Jokes or I will have to inflict pain upon
both of you." Edward eyed Nessie and picked her up playfully into his
arms to bite her tummy.
"Maybe I should rename Squeaks to Wilber," I teased.
"I said no jokes," Edward pointed at me before he walked toward the
horse for Ness to see better.
"Can I touch it?" Squeeks pointed to the horse he nodded her on.
"Careful, if this Edward is anything like your daddy, he might spit." I
tucked my lips in trying not to smile as I looked at Edward, the man.
"That is just not a joke you say in front of delicate ears, my Love,"
Edward's hand palmed my cheek and I saw the desire in his eyes to
laugh, but he held it in.
"He soft Pappa," Squeaks said touching his nose.
"He's very pretty isn't he?" Leah asked.
FYI, I found out Leah was tagging along today since she was supposed to
watch Squeaks anyhow. I told him she didn't have to, but Leah seemed
like she was all about the trip to the farm and also Edward wanted to
see how she interacted with his daughter, so I didn't argue.
"Do you know what kind of horse he is?" Leah asked and Squeaky shook
her head. "He is a Friesian. Very beautiful creature," Leah pet the horse
softly and Ness watched, mimicking her.
Watching Leah, I realized that she was a very old soul, or a very rare
soul. The way she was with Squeaks was so gentle and focused. It made
me feel a little self conscious actually, like maybe, I wasn't the best
influence. I watched Edward as he observed her behavior too and I could
tell from his expression that he was in awe as well.
At least it was one less thing for him to worry over.
Farmer Bill, showed us his green house and all of the produce the farm
had to offer, allowing us to sample bites and taste what we pleased. This
was the true highlight of what I did for a living. It was the 'backstage'
for my world and the living foods were the celebrities.
Squeaky loved all of the animals, petting most of them. She was afraid of
the peacocks, but hell, who wasn't? The sheep were her favorite and I
managed to get a sweet ass pic of her with a baby lamb named 'spud'
that was wept only a few weeks back. It was awesome.
As we got towards the end of out trip, I asked Leah to take Ness off and
show her the chicken coups so she would be occupied from the fuckery I
was about to introduce Flower Child too. This shit wasn't for the faint of
heart, but needed to be taught.
I never looked forward to doing it, but knew I had to.
The sign on the metal door read "Keep out Employees Only". That was
where we were headed though. As I reached for the handle, a faint
finger print was smeared on the metal frame, in a faded red crust. Blood.
I looked back to Edward and his expression was confused looking.
"If you're going to puke, Flower Child," I tugged open the heavy metal
door, "Then please puke outside."
We stepped inside and the old funk I remembered places like this
smelling like came flooding into my airways. I had been to places like this
a million times before, but it always fucking hit me just as hard every
time. The smell was rank, putrid. The smell of death. That stench was
appropriate though, for that was Edward's lesson today.
How to deal with death.








Chapter 16 "Lesson in Death"

"What are we doing?" Edward asked as we entered the large steel
building with Farmer Bill.
"Lesson time," I said simply.
The door slammed loudly behind us and farmer Bill slid the latch over,
locking us in. I watched as Edward looked around and his expression
changed, finally realizing what we were about to witness.
"Like I said, if you have to puke, puke outside please," I nodded back
towards the door.
"You're going to make me kill something?" he asked, sounding repulsed by
the idea.
"No, seeing as how you are not trained for such fuckery. You are,
however, an executive chef, and as one, you need to see how all that
fancy food gets to your fancy kitchen."
Farmer Bill walked ahead of us as we paused only a few feet inside.
After a few seconds, I heard him calling to the boys, and you could hear
the door at the other end of the building being opened, allowing the loud
shrieks of the pigs to echo in. I knew this was going to be difficult for
him to watch, so it needed to be very technical, because that is exactly
what it was. This was how shit really worked and what most people took
for granted.
"They'll bring them in through there," I pointing towards the small door
in the metal wall which sort of resembled a doggy door, only bigger. "One
of the workers will then put them up on the table." I nodded to the
steel table that had two walls on either side, kind of like a vice grip.
The first pig came through the door, and the worker waiting on the other
side picked him up, placing him just as I said.
"Why does it have a red spot?" Edward asked quietly.
"It's to let them know which ones are ready, or the gender. It varies
place to place. It's usually one of those two though." I kept my eyes
forward so I could explain to him what we were watching.
I chose pigs for Flower Child because it was a good medium between
shock and reality, but without sending him too far over the edge. Cows
were much more difficult to watch because those fuckers always seemed
to know when it was there D-day. They kicked like fuck and fought hard.
Don't get me wrong, I didn't like to watch anything die. But watching the
cows truly fucks me up every time. Those beasts have heart, let's put it
that way.
Chickens were a little too easy. Not that they didn't matter or anything,
but most of the work was done by a machine; and in truth, they really
didn't offer up too much of a showing. In other countries maybe they
would have, but here in the US, it was much too civilized and very
'hands-off'.
"They are going to stun him. If you have to look away, then look away,
but I would rather you didn't." I looked back to Edward, needing to
gauge how he was feeling.
"Bella, why are you making me watch this shit?" He sounded a little
angry, that was good, he should be angry. I was making him do something
that was highly fucking uncomfortable without asking him for permission
to do so.
"If you want to be an executive chef, then you need to understand this."
I stood my ground, pushing Bella who 'loved' Flower Child away and only
acting as Bella who was Edward's boss.
"By watching them kill a pig? What the fuck is that supposed to teach
me?" He was really mad now.
"Just watch." I looked back forward and almost thought he would leave,
but Edward didn't.
You could hear the loud squeals still from the other side of the wall, and
it only made what was about to happen even worse. The worker, Jose, I
read on his blue name patch, placed the two metal wands to the pigs
temples, and the pig fell instantly in his place. Edward's hand went over
his mouth, and his eyes closed briefly but then reopened.
I knew he wouldn't puke though. It was the shock of seeing it all happen.
Like, you know you should probably not allow it to happen, but have no
choice. It was perfectly natural for him to feel that way. Fuck, I have
seen this shit hundreds of times, and I still feel like that.
"Is he dead?" Edward asked, still holding his hand over his mouth.
"Not yet. They say they are, but I'm not stupid." As I said it, the pig
twitched as Jose then chained his leg and pressed a red button, hoisting
the pig up into the air. Jose pressed another button and the pig began to
move along to the next section.
"This is where you might puke," I warned.
Edward's eyes closed again for a brief moment as he saw where the pig
was headed. The tile wall to the 'stall' was still covered in blood from
the pig before it. This part was always hard for me, so I could only
imagine how Edward was feeling. I knew he was strong, but like I said,
this shit wasn't for the faint of heart.
The worker in the stall poked a sharp blade into the pigs throat, allowing
the blood to drain free, and Edward whispered something I couldn't
distinguish against his hand. Once the pig was drained, it was moved
along to the next phase.
"This part isn't as bad. The water scolds the skin and then it will move
along to have all the hairs removed." I walked down the line, needing to
follow the production as it happened.
"Once the hair is removed, it will be butchered. Everyone does it
differently, depending on the size of the place. This farm is still what
they would consider a 'family farm' so the methods are a little bit more
traditional, doing most of the work by hand. If you went to a 'pig farm'
that was commercially owned, they would use a lot more equipment." I
stepped to the area where they began butchering the meat, standing
behind the yellow line on the ground because I didn't want to have to
wear one of the smocks required by The Board of Health. Behind the
yellow line was my friend.
"Why are they marking it?" Edward asked.
I looked over to him and he seemed more relaxed, but still held his fist
to his chin as he watched.
"It shows the next person, someone who is less skilled and of the younger
generation, which cuts of meat are which on its body."
The butcher explained each piece as he broke it down, and finally Edward
started to relax a little, listening to this part of the lesson. That was,
until the next pig came in and squealed loudly, thrashing hard as Jose
tried to put it up on the table.
"We'll pick up ours at the front," I said to the butcher, and took Flower
Child's hand into mine as I walked out of the building with him the same
way we came in.
The last sound I heard before the door closed behind us was the
thumping of the dead animal falling to the steel table.
Edward pulled his hand away angrily as we stepped outside, walking
quickly away from me. I had a feeling he would act that way; it was only
natural. When you have someone take you out of your comfort zone,
forcing you to watch something so disturbing to such innocent eyes, it
was the only reaction one would have.
"Edward, come back here," I called, stopping in my place, not allowing
him to dictate where this conversation took place. He paused and turned
around to face me a few steps ahead.
"That shit was not right Bella," Edward pointed angrily at my face.
"It is what happens. You like pork, yes?" I asked, placing my hands on my
hips.
"I don't need to see it being killed to know that that is what happens. I
get it, alright?"
"No, you don't." I stepped towards him, pausing when I was almost
touching his chest.
"Edward, I'm not trying to be a heartless bitch here. That shit fucking
fucks with me hard even though I have seen animals being slaughtered
more times than I have fucking watched Dirty Dancing; and lemme tell
you, that is a whole shitload of a lot."
"Then what the fuck is the great lesson here Bella? Please, enlighten me
with your genius." He lowered his face towards mine trying to piss me off
with his sarcasm, but it was useless.
I already knew his every move. All of my sous chefs and executive chef
went through this training, and all of them always had the same damn
reaction. Like I said, it was natural.
"Do you remember when we were in Las Vegas , Flower Child?"
"Yes," he nodded.
"Then you remember all the seafood Laurent was wasting?"
"Yes." I could see his eyes roaming mine, trying to figure out what I was
about to say.
"You know, it wasn't because of the money that pissed me off about him
having to trash all of the spoiled food. Not that it didn't, but that wasn't
the main reason. Tell me something," I placed my hand on his chin, softly
nudging him to look back at the building we came from. "After what you
saw in there, would you or wouldn't you think twice about tossing
precious ingredients into the trash, babe?"
"Those creatures," I turned his face back to me, "deserve to be treated
with respect. They are food, yes, but just because we believe that is
their purpose does not give us the right to toss them in the bin just
because you can fill out your fancy little order form, and get more.
Nothing, pisses me off more."
Edward's eyes finally simmered down, finally realizing my true intention.
My hand slid from his chin to his chest and rested there. I could feel his
heart beating, and I counted five of them in my head before I spoke.
"Picking up plastic-wrapped packages at the market isn't what being a
chef, a good chef no fuck that, a great chef is about. Most chefs
have their own animals raised for slaughter so they can dictate the
animals' diets; therefore, improving the flavor and quality of the proteins
they use. I would be considered one of those people, and that is why we
need to find a farm Flower Child.
"There is more to cooking then just cooking, and that is what I am trying
to teach you. I think you are smart enough to understand that, yes?"
Edward looked at me, trying to think of what to say. His heart beat
three times before his expression changed, softening, and he nodded his
answer.
"Good. Then let's go find Squeaks and work on a more PG-rated part of
this lesson, shall we?" I held up my hand to him, asking him silently to
take it, and to trust me.
"Yeah," Edward said softly and then took my hand into his.
"Babe," I placed my other hand back on his cheek again, "you did really
well. I'm proud of you." I held his gaze, needing him to know that I
fucking was.
That shit wasn't easy and he did it like a fucking champ. Not that I ever
doubted him. Edward took my hand from his cheek and brought it to his
lips, kissing it softly, and simply smiled.
"Let's go find Squeaks," he said, and I had to laugh a little at how her
nickname sounded from his lips.
I rather liked it.
We walked hand-in-hand through the grass that mostly resembled hay
from being withered down from people stomping through it so often. You
could see the tire marks from trackers and other farm equipment too,
and I'm sure it did nothing to help matters.
Leah was in the chicken coop with Renesmee, helping her to gather some
eggs, and showing her how to steal them from under the bird without
them getting angry. I was a little afraid, knowing from experience how
nasty those little fuckers could get. Don't get me wrong, I totally
understood their anger.
If someone lifted my feathered ass and tried to take one of my precious
eggs, I too would be rather miffed.
"Pappa wook," Squeaks held up the egg to him, and Edward kneeled down
to see it better.
"Now you have to sit on it," he teased.
"Nowah." Ness shook her head at him and Edward wrapped his arms
around her, kissing her pudgy cheek.
Ah, how I loved these two.
"Bewwa wook," she held it out for my approval.
"That's great Squeaks, but we need like a hundred more to fill our
order." I kneeled down next to Edward and pulled her towards me,
leaning my lips to her ear. "Maybe your Daddy can help us, but you have
to show him how." I kissed her cheek and she giggled, and then looked to
Edward.
"I need hewlp, Daddy." She held the egg up to him again.
"I think I can be of service if perhaps I am given a kiss from a sweet
little girl." Edward tapped his finger to his cheek, but Ness wasn't having
that. She framed his face in her little hands and kissed his nose, to
Edward's amusement.
"Hmm," he turned towards me, "I think I could use one more." This time
he puckered his lips.
"You better be a really good egg picker, seeing how hugely you are being
paid." I leaned over and kissed him once on his perfect lips then pulled
back.
"Well the payment is more than fair." Edward picked up Nessie and then
gave me his hand helping me up to my feet.
"What am I chopped liver?" Leah teased.
"As much as I would love to take you up on the offer Leah, I'm afraid I
don't mess around with married women. Too many horror stories from
Emmett, I'm afraid." Flower Child smiled, laughing lightly.
"I see," Leah nodded, going back to her egg hunting.
Edward tilted his head down, placing his lips near my ear as we walked
to the next coop with Ness on his hip. "Nor would I want a kiss on the
lips from anyone but my lobster." Edward's lips brushed my cheek for a
light kiss.
"Babe? Not that I am against you calling me a lobster, but can I just ask
what it's all about? I don't get it." I looked to him, and the magic sort of
faded a little from his eyes, but then turned slightly amused.
"It's just to be funny. You know, food humor," he smiled but I could tell
he was lying.
I dropped it, not really wanting to know what secret lied there. Fuck it.
With a tongue like a snake, a body of a Greek God, and personality so
sweet you could fucking open a candy shop, who the hell cared what he
called me.
I'd be his lobster, his damn ironing board. Fuck, the man could call me his
fucking gonad for all I cared.
The woman working in the coop handed me a wire basket for our eggs,
and I asked her for a few more so we could each collect some. Squeaks
had to rest hers on the floor when it was getting too heavy, and we were
up to filling about seven baskets at this point. It was nice. Relaxing and
highly enjoyable being here with the them. Even Leah.
" Bell," Edward said quietly, tapping my shoulder as I reached under for
the last egg to fill my basket. I looked over to him and he pointed a few
feet away. I looked over to see Ness sitting on the ground, holding one of
the baby chicks in her hands. She was talking to him, having a whispered
conversation, lost in her own little world.
"I swear to fuck Edward," I looked at him, "you have the cutest kid of
all time." The look on his face was breathtaking as he kept his eyes on
her, smiling just slightly with his mouth, for all the happiness laid in his
eyes.
"You ever think about it?" he asked, still watching her.
"Think about what?" I roamed my eyes over his face, not wanting to go
back to reaching under chicken asses.
"Having children," Edward replied.
"Um, have I thought about it? Sure, everyone has, I think." At this point,
the need to go back to looking at chicken asses came back.
"I mean, do you ever think you will want to?" I saw his head turn from
the corner of my eye, and tried to stay focused on my egg picking.
"I don't know, Flower Child," I shook my head. "I'm not really made for
that sort of thing."
"I would beg to differ."
"Okay, let me rephrase," I looked back to him. "My lifestyle isn't made
for that sort of thing."
"You can change your lifestyle. People do it every day," he smiled
slightly, and as cute as he was, I wasn't about to let his hot air into my
balloon.
"Edward, as cute as you are, I am not having your love child. So forget
it," I teased, making a face at him.
"I wasn't asking you to. What makes you think I'd want you to have my
kid? Probably come out cursing and hitting people. No thank you," he
teased back, shaking his head like he was horrified by the idea. "But if
I'm being serious, I wouldn't want another child right now," Edward said,
looking back to Ness .
"Really? I would think you were the type who'd want like a whole shoe
filled with them," I laughed, causing him to look back at me.
"Angel, do you not see the amount of shit I go through on a daily basis?
You really think I could manage having more than one of Squeaks running
around?"
"Well, that's true, I guess," I sighed. "But you are a good father, just so
you know." I leaned in and kissed his cheek. Edward's arms snaked around
my waist, pulling me into him.
"And just so you know, you are a good Aunt, who will hopefully make
some kid a very wonderful mother someday." He kissed me on my lips, and
then laughed, pulling away.
I followed his gaze and saw that the chick had flown atop of Nessie's
head, and she was trying to swat him off, running around the coop as
Leah gave chase.
"You see?" Edward laughed.
And I really did.
Dickward POV
I headed straight to Sweet Tits' restaurant after my flight, figured she'd
want this shit over and done with ASAP. Hell, I know I did.
What? Just because The Kid told me to stop calling her that doesn't
mean I'm not gonna think it for Christ's sake.
Fucking red-eye flights from New York to Miami suck, by the way.
I was tired as shit and not in the mood for another pissing match with
the kid. Although it's not like he didn't have the right to defend his
territory...But it was fun, none the less. And anyway, I liked this kid, he
had spunk.
And clearly cared about Sweet Tits.
A cute little number walked up to me as soon as I entered The Workshop,
and I raised a single eyebrow as she sauntered over to me with purpose.
"We're not open yet, Sir, can I help you?" She not only was cute, but
sweet. Maybe I'll call her Sweet Tits the Second, even though her
nametag clearly read, Angela.
"I'm pretty sure you could, little one," I said eyeing her up and down
once, "but I'm actually here to see Swuh, Bella Swan. It's business.
She's kind of expecting me." I winked at her and she blushed like crazy,
showing a perfect set of teeth.
"Well, um, Bella's not back yet, but if you want, you can have a seat and
wait for her. Can Iumget you anything?" She kinda did this thing with
her hair that made my dick twitch, I'm not gonna lie. The Kid hadn't
actually been too far off last night insinuating my sexual depravity for
the time being. It'd been too Goddamn long for my taste.
"Coffee, if it's good. If not, I'll take a shot of Patron Silver." I smiled
eyeing the nice bar setup in Sweet Tits' place.
"The coffee here is actually the best around. I'll be happy to bring you
some, as the bartender would kill me for serving someone before opening.
Cream and sugar for your coffee, Sir?"
"Just cream, thanks," I replied.
OK, calling her Sweet Tits the Second might be a little bit forward
there, Ace.
I picked a table that looked semi comfortable and kicked my feet up on
the chair sitting across from me, crossing my ankles. When the cute little
hostess came over with my coffee, she sat down with her own cup to my
fucking delight and surprise.
I momentarily re-thought that Sweet Tits the Second shit.
"I'm Angela, by the way," Cutie put her hand out to shake mine and I
took it gladly into my own.
Soft like a baby's bottom.
Fuck, it has been way too long when you're getting off on a simple
handshake from a pretty lady.
Angela looked a little put off that I didn't offer up a name on my end,
but she didn't really need to know it, so I didn't make to give up the
goods on it.
By the way, the coffee in Sweet Tits' place...definitely a winner, my
friends. It alone made my dick twitch, and I wasn't even thinking about
anyone's tits while sipping on it.
The coffee, that is.
Bella POV.
1:45 pm.
As we entered The Workshop, I saw a familiar face taking up residence in
my restaurant.
Not only was the creep taking up space, but he was also smudging my
fucking cane chairs that cost fucking three hundred dollars a pop.
"Hey dick-hole, what is with you and chairs?" I knocked his feet off the
seat, and then looked at Angela disapprovingly.
"How about we do something called work. You know, that thing I pay you
for Ang?" I took a seat in the chair I'd kicked the fucker's feet off of,
and he smiled a smirk that was all too familiar.
I swear, sometimes this 'lil shit reminded me way too much of Flower
Child.
Dickward nodded to me and then eyed Edward.
"How's it goin' Butterbean?" I heard a noise from behind me, and knew it
was Edward. The dick just smiled and said, "What? You said I couldn't
call her Sweet Tits."
"Bella's name isn't Butterbean you fuc" Edward paused, trying not to
curse with Squeaky in his arms. "Watch your mouth around my kid. How
about we all go on a first name basis, and leave the pet names to the
wayside? Fair enough there...whatever the hell your name is?" Edward's
brows scrunched as he took a seat next to me, placing Squeaky on his
lap.
"So," Dickward looked back to me, "what do you want first, photos, video,
or info?"
"Pichures?" Squeaks said, looking at the dick. Her eyes were full of
wonder and curiosity, staring at the new person.
He made eye-contact with her, and then took a pen and small pad of
paper out of his jacket's inner pocket. Dickward leaned across the table
and slid them over to Ness .
"Wanna draw kid?"
Squeaks looked to Edward, seeing if it was okay to take something from
the strange guy trying to give her things.
"It's alright Sweetheart," Edward nodded her on, then looked up to
Dickward.
"I didn't know you were such a softy," he smiled, despite his efforts not
to.
"Don't get your panties all up in a bunch, kid. After all, who am I to
ignore a beautiful face?" Dickward winked at Squeaks. "So, is she
likeyou know?" He asked, without actually asking, if she was ours.
"No. This was all Edward, stealing his Daddy's car as a young rebel." I
smiled, taking Edward's hand under the table.
"Pop pop has petty cawrs," Ness said as she drew.
Dickward made an approving face toward Edward. "Nice kid. I have to
say," he nodded toward Squeaky, and I was afraid he was about to say
something that would get his face punched. But instead he told him,
"Excellent work."
I felt a little warmth growing in my heart for this fucker.
"So what kind of car was it?" he asked Edward.
"Aston Martin Vanquish. An older one though, not like the stuff that's
out today. No one would probably even be impressed by it now; especially
since the DBS came out but, whatever. It served its purpose at the
time," Edward shrugged, kissing the top of Squeaky's head.
The dick's face went all blank and shit as his mouth fell open, and I
wondered what the fuck was wrong with him. Maybe the creamer in his
coffee was bad? I looked over to Angela and scowled.
I swear if she
"Are you fucking kidding me?" Dickward looked at Squeaky and furrowed
his brow. "Sorry kid. Don't repeat that," he looked back to Edward,
practically bursting with excitement like he'd just gotten everything he'd
ever wanted for Christmas.
"Tell me you're not talking about the '02 model. Because if you're talking
about the '02 model I'm gonna fu....I'm gonna bust a G.D. you know what.
Does your old man still have it?"
"Um, yeah. Locked up tight in his garage in fear of a repeater," Edward
laughed, resting his cheek on Squeaky's head as she doodled in Dickward's
pad. "Never drives it anymore though. So what the hell is the point, you
know?"
This seemed to piss The Dick off. "What the hell is the...?" he laughed
hysterically, raking his hand through his hair. "Kid, do you have any idea
how much that car is worth today?" Dickward shook his head and
repeated it one more time. "What's the point...indeed."
"It's no wonder you're so cute little girl. You were conceived in one of
the World's finest vehicles," he pointed at Squeaks. "You tell your Dad to
save that car, and when you're old enough, you claim it as your own, got
it?"
"Pop Pop kiwll Daddy if he touches cawrs." Ness leaned across the table
shaking her head at him, in challenge. Edward brought his fist to his
mouth, hiding his laughter as did I. Before The P.I. got a chance to
speak, Nessie looked down to his hip, pointing to his gun.
"Whats dat?" she asked.
"Sweetheart, why don't you find Uncle Emmett over there? I think it is
time for a nap." Edward kissed her head and set her down, allowing her
to run to Em.
"Well, I'm sure you are hungry, being trapped on a plane with shitty
airplane food for hours. I know I could eat. Edward, babe, would you
mind making us a little something, please?" I asked.
"How could you even think about eating after what we saw on the farm
today?" he made a disgusted noise and Dickward laughed, looking very
intrigued by our conversation.
"Hold the phone. The Kid here's gonna cook something?" He looked over to
Edward. "You're not gonna spit in my food are ya' Kid? And please tell me
it won't be some fucking Middle Eastern dish, 'cause some street vendor
up in New York shoved something in my face while I was there that
ruined that shit for me for the rest of my life." Dickward held up his
hand.
"Falafel?" Edward and I said at the same time and laughed.
"You've heard of that shit? Fuck, tell me you don't serve that monstrosity
here."
"Do I have a fucking sign on my door that says $5.99 All You Can Eat, ?
No, of course not. And for the record, Edward is the executive chef, and
double for the fucking record, can cook pretty damn good. So, you should
feel quite honored to be fed his food, especially since I was going to
comp your damn meal and beverage." I looked back to him with a soured
expression and then slid him a menu.
"Whatever you like Dick Tracy, go hog wild."
"Maybe he should give up the goods first. I usually don't put out until I
see what's on the table. If you know what I'm sayin' there, Elvis?"
Edward smiled.
"Hmm. Maybe you'd like me to put some chaps on after all, huh Kid?" he
laughed. "I'll tell ya what, surprise me." Dickward slid the menu back to
me. "Since he's the executive chef and all, whatever he cooks up is gonna
be pretty fucking fine with me, I'm sure."
The P.I. pulled a manila envelope out of his jacket, and slapped it on the
table, eyeing Edward, then slid some pictures out. I couldn't stop my
mouth from gaping open at the sight of James' dick hanging out, and some
little girl looking at it like it was a real live snake about to strike her.
Edward covered him mouth, laughing.
"Good enough, Kid?" Dickward asked.
"I have no words," Edward covered his face, laughing hard into his hands.
"I have some fucking words!" I yelled swiping one of the pictures off the
table and bringing it up to my face, recognizing the girl.
I climbed to my feet, pushing the chair back with my foot and fucking
climbed over the table, landing in Dickward's lap and planting kisses all
over his sexy ass fucking face.Mother fucker hit the jackpot!
The Dick started grabbing my neck like he wanted something.
His dick was also grinding into Butterbean, but you know what? That was
all fine and dandy with my ass. I was grinding her right back on him, and
he groaned.
"Dickward? I am not going to kiss you on the mouth," I pulled his hand
down and put it on my tit, "but feel free to squeeze to your heart's
desire. You totally deserve it."
"Um" Edward started to speak up but I turned to face him, cutting him
off.
"Trust me Babe, you will not be offended by this in a second, just let him
get his feel on and then I will explain." I looked back to Dickward.
"Grind, squeeze whatever. You have thirty seconds to go nuts there
Mister P.I."
He looked highly confused.
"Do you know who this fucking is?!" I held up the picture to his face,
waving it like it was the little fucking freedom flag I had been looking
for all my life. Dickward pulled his face back and looked at me like I'd
completely lost my mind.
"I know it's a fifteen-year-old un-experienced cock sucker, other than
that, no clue," Dickward shook his head.
"THIS," I held the pic closer to his face, "is Rhodes Ramsey, as in,
Gordon fuck me Ramsey's DAUGHTER!"
"Is she okay?" Dickward looked over to Edward again for some help and
pointed at me.
"Dickward! This is my damn mentor's and one of the scariest mother
fuckers in this world's daughter! Ramsey would KILL James if he
fucking knew about this shit! Hell, I want to kill him, and she isn't even
my daughter!" I leaned over and kissed him again. This time, it was on
the fucking mouth.
And okay yeah...maybe I used a little tongue too.
Fuck, he deserved it. So why not?
He was taken aback a little with the tongue, I guess, and when I pulled
away he stared straight into my eyes and made a face like he was some
kind of animal or something.
"Sweet Tits, if you do that shit one more time, Kid or no Kid, I'm
throwing you face first over that table right there and molesting your
ass," Dickward warned.
"Down boy," I giggled, wiping my mouth.
"What the fuck, Bell ?" Edward said, looking at me with his hands raised.
"Edward, you're supposed to be bringing food, remember?"
"Uh, you honestly expect me...to go into the kitchen," he waved his hand
in the direction of the kitchen doors, "and fucking cook for the man that
just had his tongue in your mouth?" He cocked an eyebrow at me.
"I am sorry, when did I stop being your boss?" I glared at him, and he
didn't take that too well, making a stink-face at me.
The Dick's eyebrows shot up, and I felt him tense underneath me.
"To think I licked you all good and proper like this morning when I could
have been shoving my face into French toast or some other breakfast shit
instead." Edward stood up from his chair, stalking off towards the
kitchen.
"Sorry, I don't normally throw myself at men like that, promise, but this
shit," I picked up the other pics, "is fucking priceless. Sorry I doubted
youand called you Dick Tracy. The titty grabbing made up for it though,
right?" I smiled coyly at the P.I.
Our bread arrived to the table before he had a chance to answer. I
unwrapped the basket, placing a piece on his plate.
"So," I took a bite from mine, "tell me about what happened with
Asshat."
He gobbled up a piece of bread, humming while he ate it.
"Asshat's not gonna be giving you shit anymore, or anyone with any luck.
I promise Sweet Tits. Especially now that you know WHO he was giving
dick sucking lessons to. And, I have something to show you."
Flower Child came back out into the dining room with Seth following him
carrying a tray with our food. He took a seat next to me, eyeing
Dickward as he did. Seth paused at the table, waiting for instruction.
"The left is for Bella." Edward eyed me, giving me his 'I can see through
your G'damned soul' eyes. "The right is for him," Edward nodded at
Dickward.
"You know, I really want to eat this shit, 'cause as much as I hate to
admit it, the food does look fucking good Kid, but I also need to get
movin'. Shit to do, ya know?"
Edward then interrupted, teasing Dickward with his ability to bring even
the strongest man to his knees with his food fuckery.
"It's a Ravioli of roasted tiger prawn, baby artichokes, and fennel cream
shellfish bisque," Edward said, looking pretty fucking smug about it. I
dipped my finger in, taking a taste, and hummed at how delicious it was.
Fuck, Butterbean was begging to be allowed back on Team Edward, and
looking at him, he fucking knew it.
Smug bastard.
Pwning me with his fuckgood ass food.
As much as I loved that gun Dickward toted, food fuckery was always
number one.
"Seriously, you should eat this, and then lick the fucking bowl not leaving
anything behind it's so fucking delish." I looked back to Dickward.
The Dick gave Edward a look and took the bowl. "Um, thanks." He took a
bite, and you would've thought he was having a fucking food orgasm.
Mmhmm, know how you feel buddy.
"Fuck, Kid, you made this shit? This isn't fucking ravioli, this is like...
FUCKING fantastic ravioli."
Edward's smirk was something that should have made the fucking heavens
part, and God himself come down and say, "Yes, my child, I created you
and then destroyed the mold, for such perfection will never ever be able
to be duplicated again. Now go forth and plant many seeds," and then
the Dickward ordered us out of the dining area.
"Now, Sweet.... Bella, where's the closest fucking VCR in this place?"
"My office." I stood up nervously, not knowing what the hell was going
on.
I mean, he said he had the tape, I mean THE tape, MY tape. So was he
planning on showing that shit?
What in jumping Jesus, Batman?
Wasn't it bad enough that I needed to hire a private investigator to
retrieve my vintage raunchy ways caught on tape, and then pretty much
molested him in front of my part-time boyfriend, slash, guy I love to
fuck, slash, might possibly be over the fucking moon for?
"Um, Dick? Why do you need a VCR?" I asked nervously.
He took another bite of ravioli as he made his way back down the hall to
my office. When he finished chewing, he called over his shoulder, "All in
good time my friend, all in good time."
His 'lil punk ass took a seat in my damn chair, resting his feet on the
desk and his bowl against his chest, as he passed over the tape for
review. I popped it in the VCR player security used for shit, like if we
got robbed.
Or fucked employees in the back room.
My heart was about to beat out of my body. The only distraction was the
slurping sounds the P.I. was making as he ate his damn food.
"Enjoying that are you?" Edward said, looking at him, a little amused.
"Kid, I might have to wrap you up in a plastic baggie, and take you home
with me just so I can eat this fuck-awesome shit for the rest of my
Goddamn life." He picked up the remote control and pressed play.
"Since I am trying not to make jokes about your sexual orientation, I will
remain silent on that, except for saying thank you for saying you liked
the food, that is." Edward turned his attention to the T.V.
The first thing that came up on the video was James' naked body, and I
tensed.
"Viffiz where Ah gah weally fuffin piffed wif hiz pnk assfff," The Dick
said, and I had no fucking idea what he'd just said because he'd said it
with a mouth full of fucking ravioli.
"Is that?" Edward's eyebrow raised as he stared wide-eyed at the
screen.
Dickward paused it when a women started stripping for James, then he
pressed another button, causing the video to move forward in slow
motion.
"Ya see how he's just fucking sitting there? Like it's her Goddamn job to
please HIS ass?" Dickward said, before shoving another bite of food into
his mouth. Some fell on his leather jacket, and he bent his head down,
trying to lick it off like a cat cleaning its paws.
See Butterbean? We aren't the only ones who get pwned by Edward's
delish fucking food.
"Please God," Edward closed his eyes and whispered some type of fucking
prayer. Probably the same one I was saying. One of his eyes peeked open
slightly, looking at the screen after his lips stopped moving.
The Dick took another bite of his ravioli, telling Edward again how fuck-
awesome it was, and I about lost my shit with him.
"Yeah, Dick, we know, Edward's food pwns your damn tweeter. Is there a
point to this fuckery? Or is this just your version of a gang bang?"
He laughed and put the bowl down, and then pressed play so that the
video resumed its normal pace. I had to fucking look away. There was no
possible way I could see my ass on this tape.
"Woah, woah, woah." I looked back at Edward as he held his hand in
front of his face, blocking out the image before him.
"No, Kid seriously, this part is sort of impressive," Dickward laughed,
perking Edward's curiosity, and he lowered his hand.
The women on film did a move that would put those tiny little girls who
fit their asses in suitcases in freak-show acts to shame.
"Fuck," Edward and Dickward both said at the same damn time, tilting
their stupid man heads sideways all wide-eyed. I slapped Edward, and he
gave me a look of apology.
"I already saw this shit, and that still disturbs me," Dickward said,
shaking his head and then tilting his bowl to his lips to sip the last bit of
the bisque.
"I'm glad you two are having so much fucking fun at my expense but..."
"Is that what I think it is?" Edward asked, forcing me to look at the
screen again. There was a girl on there, putting a strap-on on and
preparing to do James in his....
"Sure as shit Kid," Dickward snickered, smacking his lips, and letting out
a low burp.
"I didn't know you had a freaky side, Angel," Edward teased and I hit
him.
"That motherfucker never had a tape of me? Are you serious? There was
a fucking tape of HIM getting a rubber dick in his damn pooper, and I
was the one panicking all this time?
"After I get back from fucking Japan, I am so flying my ass to New York
and slapping the holy shit out of him, then, considering making a huge
change in my Food Porn show next year at the convention with this
G'damned tape!"
"In a word. Yes." Dickward was still cringing from the fuckery on the
T.V., and he suddenly picked up the remote and pressed "stop".
"He definitely never had a tape of your fine ass, unfortunately for me.
Not that I didn't get a good idea of what's under all that," he waved his
hands at me, "in the dining room, but you know, it's always fun to the get
the full picture," Dickward winked.
"So," he said, licking the remnants of the bowl.
Let me tell you, he cleaned that fucker and set it pretty fucking gingerly
on the desk, then looked at Edward and me and clapped his hands
together, smiling a sort of half cocked smile.
"That, my friends, is all I have to fucking say about THAT."
"Dickward? Just so you know, I feel the need to rape you right now, but
since I have already gotten myself into enough trouble with that shit," I
looked to Edward and he nodded with a 'ya think?' expression at me, "I
will refrain from doing such fuckery.
"Please know that I am extremely grateful, and you fucking did an
amazing job. If you open that drawer underneath those meaty legs of
yours," I nodded down to my desk, "you will see an envelope with your
payment. And as soon as your pretty ass moves away from my desk, I
would be more than happy to toss you a bonus if you give me your bank
account deets for a money-wire transfer."
Dickward cocked an eyebrow at me, smirking like he was considering the
rape, but then seemed to change his mind.
"See? A few days with me, and you're already making good choices and
shit. I'm proud." He stood up when he continued, like he was giving a
fucking lecture or something.
"And just so YOU know, Miss Swan, if I didn't have a fucking mortgage to
pay on my office back home, and a court-ordered fine to pay for some,"
he waved his hand in the air, "shit, I might actually refuse your payment,
'cause honestly? This case was just a little too much fucking fun to be
called work," he winked.
"As far as a bonus goes though," he continued, shaking his head at me,
"not interested. Put it toward something useful like shipping The Kid here
up to DC every once in a while to cook my ass something." He slapped
Edward's shoulder a little harder than need be.
"Well, if you change your mind, you know my number," I lied.
Fuck that, he was getting the damn bonus. I would figure out his bank
account deets, shouldn't be too difficult.
"As far as food goes, I'm not so sure I like the idea of you and Edward
together."
Lies! All lies Butterbean. We like this idea very much as long as we get
to be in the fucking middle of the manwich.
"But maybe I can send you a nice care package," I winked at him.
Edward POV
What a fucking day so far.
From the slaughter to the family shit with Bella and my kid to talking
about having babiesand don't even get me started on the fucking
Leather Twat.
Okay, maybe he wasn't a twat, 'cause he did get Bella's tape, and showed
her that it wasn't actually her on it at all. PLUS, he got pictures of
James doing Ramsey's daughter, which.I don't even have words for. It
was fucking amazing though.
After I cooked up some of the pork chops in a nice orange mojo for Bella
and Squeaks, I brought the food out to the dining room to join them for
a late lunch. Ness was sitting in Bella's lap, watching something on her
laptop.
"You see? That is a cartoon. Bugs Bunny was the man, and I don't care
how many billions of dollars that Square dude makes, he will never top
Bugs Bunny," Bella said, looking down to Ness .
"He's bunny wabbit," Ness smiled up at Bella, showing her the two teeth
which earned her that nickname.
"I know, see, all bunny rabbits are the best." Bella's head rested against
Nessie's as she wrapped one arm around her then closed the lid of her
laptop getting ready to eat.
"Daddy we watch Bugs."
"I heard that sweetheart." I cut off a piece of pork and stretched it
over to her open lips. Nessie chewed appreciatively, and then opened for
more.
"Feel a little bit better about the pigs now don't you?" Bella teased,
seeing me smile at Nessie's reaction to the food.
"No comment." I cut off a bite for myself and then another for Ness .
Bella flipped back open her laptop halfway through eating her food, and
starting typing away before pulling Ness into her lap again.
"You see that?" she asked her.
"Kitty," Ness pointed to the screen.
"Yup, that's kitty. Hello Kitty. You know where she lives?" Bella glanced
up once to me and then back to Ness as she shook her head no, still
looking at the screen.
"Hello Kitty lives here," Bella clicked on something.
"Ohh, petty." Squeaky pointed.
"It is very pretty. Those are called apple blossom trees and they grow
all over Japan, where Hello Kitty lives." Bella leaned her head against
Nessie's as she stared at the screen.
I could see the sadness in Bella's eyes as she thought and fuck if it
didn't make me sad too. Sighing hard, Bella lifted her head and clicked
on something else. Nessie's face lit up instantly.
"You see that?" Bella smiled, pointing to the screen. "That's where all
the Hello Kittys are. It's called Sanrio, and in a few days, Squeaks, I'm
gonna go there." She leaned into Ness 's ear and whispered something I
couldn't hear, but it made her giggle.
"Alright?" Bella asked her, and Ness nodded, smiling at the screen. I
imagined she must have promised her most of what she was looking at.
"But there's one more thing, okay?" Bella lifted Ness , turning her around
in her lap to face her. "You have to promise to take good care of your
Daddy too. That means no matter how crappy his pancakes are, or how
much you miss mine, you have to smile and make him smile too, okay? I'm
putting you in charge here, and I know it's a really big task, but I think
you can do it, right?" she asked. Ness nodded to Bella, and I smiled at
the knocking of my pancakes.
She just always had to go there.
"When you come back?" Ness asked, fingering Bella's long locks, lifting a
handful to her face to sniff it.
"Here," Bella reached for a paper on the table. "I'll be gone this many
days, and then on this day," Bella pointed to the squares on the paper
she drew with the days of the week on it, "I'll come back."
"Wif dah kitties?" Ness whispered.
"With all the kitties," Bella nodded. "So that's why tonight, we are
having a slumber party."
"Wif kitties?" Ness asked excitedly.
"With kitties. And junk food, lots of junk food. I hope you're also a fan
of Patrick Swayze, 'cause we are so watching him get his dance on." Bella
looked over her head to me, smiling wryly.
"I think Dirty Dancing is a little too, well, dirty for my five-year-old,
Bell."
"Oh please, I was watching it when I was four. Banging guys named
Johnny by six. Get over it Edward. Your little girl's becoming a woman,
face it."
"I think it's time for you to leave, please. I have a wonderful selection of
DVD's at my apartment for my daughter, feel free to use them while you
are there."
"Party pooper," Bella laughed, sliding out from the booth. "Can you put
my laptop back in my office, please? My hands are a little full here."
"Sure, Angel." I stood up, giving Ness a kiss goodbye. "Be good for Bella
okay?" I kissed her again. "I love you, have fun."
"Wuv you Pappa." Ness kissed me back and then I went to kiss Bella, but
she looked down biting her lip.
"What?" I felt my face, thinking maybe there was food there, but then
heard some of the staff entering the dining room, and got it.
"Sorry," I said, and then just rubbed her arm lightly. "I'll make up for it
later, promise." I leaned in and kissed Ness ' cheek again, then put my
lips to her tiny ear. "Give that to Bella for me, okay?" I whispered.
Nessie giggled, and then kissed Bella's cheek, making Bella smile in
return.
It was the least I could do after everything she had done for mefor us.
Xxx
The night was long and quite sucky without Bella, honestly, but I
managed. As I drove home, I tried to imagine what Bella and Ness might
have done tonight. For some reason the vision of them all cuddled up on
the couch, with the throw Grandma Cullen made me as a child, wouldn't
fade from my mind. I could see Ness lying there on Bella's chest,
watching intently as Johnny.oh fuck, I really hope she didn't let her
watch that shit. I stopped thinking about the slumber party, and focused
on my drive.
If in the morning my daughter has new dance moves, I might have to hurt
Bella.
Just a little.
As I pulled up to my building, I parked behind Bella's Lexus. Once I was
out of my car, I walked over to hers to retrieve my key that she hid
next to her front tire, so I didn't have to knock and wake up Ness. In a
way, I hoped Bella was sleeping too. She needed rest, and I was really
not wanting to walk in and see her on the computer working, or in my
fucking kitchen rearranging shit because it would have been just like
her to go there.
Did I care, or was I scared to let Bella be all alone in my place?
No, I had nothing to hide. Like I said, the worst thing that would
probably happen was walking in on her scouring the sinks, or fucking
straightening all my canned goods. They needed a little straightening, in
truth, so if she did it, fuck it that was cool with me.
I opened the door as quietly as I could, and sure enough, the smell of
something fucking delicious hit my nose. Of course she would have cooked
something. Walking in, I pulled off my shirt, tossing it on the back of the
chair at my dining table, and then pulled off of my shoes, leaving them,
and my socks, in a nice trail as I entered the kitchen.
Hey, it was still my house. I could do what I pleased with my dirty socks
and shoes.
Sitting on the stove, was a plate wrapped in cling-wrap, with a little
note on top. I picked it up and opened the folded paper seeing Nessie's
scribbled handwriting inside. She spelled all her words wrong and it only
made it more endearing to read. It was a little menu with what was on
my plate.
In English that an adult mastered, it would have read, "Pot roast with
gravy and mashed potatoes. Chocolate chip cookies for Dessert."
In my five-year-old's version of the English language, it read, "potsrost
mastatos soklet sip kukes."
I liked her version much better.
" Bell ?" I called softly, placing the plate into the oven.
She didn't answer, and I walked into the living room too look around a
little. The couch pillows were all fluffed nicely and set up like they
never were, because, hello, I live with a child, and am a man who doesn't
fucking fluff pillows. The smell of some type of lemon shit was there too,
and I saw a scented thing on my coffee table, that wasn't there before.
Was Bella trying to say my place stank?
The dirty socks and shoes seemed to be eyeing me.
Sure as shit, the Dirty Dancing DVD was on top of the TV, no doubt, left
out on purpose to annoy me. All of Ness ' toys were gathered up in the
appropriate bins and looked all neat and tidy along the wall. My timer
for my dinner buzzed and I went back to the kitchen to retrieve it.
Pulling it from the oven, the aroma wafted forth, stunning me with its
brilliancy. It was like smelling Fall on a plate as the sage and clove she
no doubt used hit my nostrils.
Fucking fantastic.
After I set my plate on the counter, I grabbed a beer from the fridge
and fucking smiled, seeing that Ness had a new sippy cup on the shelf.
Apparently, Bella wasn't taking this Hello Kitty lightly. It was genius
though, I'll give her that. I stood as I ate, grabbing the bills from the
pile that rested atop the fridge.
I'm a man, remember? We don't have fucking folders and shit for that
stuff.
In between bites of Bella's delicious fucking pot roast and mashed
potatoes, I paid off my credit card bill, and also electric, and two months
in advance for cable. Having a job that paid well was nice as fuck, that's
for sure.
After I finished eating, I walked towards my room and peeked in to see
Bella sleeping soundly in my bed.
How I love you Bella.
I closed the door, not quite ready to go in. A shower was needed first. I
didn't want her to be tagging my ass with one of those lemon things too.
After I showered, and was good and clean, I walked to my room wrapped
in my towel, trying to be as quiet as possible as I searched in the dark
for a pair of boxers, and then climbed into bed. Bella stirred slightly as I
curled myself against her back, holding her to me.
"Johnny" she whispered, arching back into me.
"You better be joking," I whispered back.
Her laughter vibrated against me and I bit her shoulder, causing her to
squeal a little. Bella wiggled free from my arms, turning to face me and
pressed her face under my chin.
"Did you eat?" she asked, then kissed my neck.
"I did, love. It was fucking delicious. Thank you."
"You're welcome, Babe." She nuzzled further into my neck, sighing hard.
"How was Ness ?" I asked, smoothing my hand over her silk hair.
"Perfect. She loves to cook, you know. Mashed potatoes got owned by a
five-year-old," Bella giggled.
"I wish I could have seen it, Angel," I leaned my lips to kiss the top of
her hair.
"I took a few pictures. They're uploaded onto your desktop." Bella
yawned and I rubbed her back soothingly, trying to get her back to
sleep.
"Get some sleep, love," I kissed her again.
"Night Babe," Bella's warm lips were against my neck, kissing softly,
making her words pierce right through me in the most delectable way.
I love you Bella.
"Good night," I whispered, unable to convey what I really wanted to tell
her.
It was only about thirty minutes into my sleep when I heard my phone
buzzing on my bed-side table.
"Fuck," I muttered, rolling to my side, Bella still hanging onto me in her
sleep as I did. My hand fumbled to find the phone in the dark. Once I
felt its familiar shape, I rolled back over and flipped it open with my
thumb, then brought it to my ear.
"What?" I said, highly fucking annoyed.
"Edward, hey man, sorry," Emmett began. "Are you awake?"
"No, not fucking really, what?" I asked again.
"Like I said, sorry, but it's Dad," he passed, waiting for me to wake the
fuck up, I assumed.
"What about him?" I asked.
"He had a heart attack tonight," Emmett said quietly.
"What?" I almost shot right up, but Bella's weight held me down.
"He's alright and shit, but Mom and I are at the hospital, and I thought
you should know. It's cool if you don't want to come down, like I said, I
just wanted you to know."
"Fuck Emmett, I'm not a complete asshole you know? I'll be there in a
few minutes." I flipped the phone closed and shook Bella's shoulder
slightly.
"Angel? Are you awake Bella?" I asked softly.
"Mmm?" she groaned.
"I have to go down to the hospital, Carlisle had a heart attack."
"Huh?" she lifted her head, rubbing her eyes. "Is he ok?" Her hand tried
to find my face and I captured it, kissing it softly.
"Emmett says yes, but I still need to go."
"Do you want me to go with you?" Bella sat up beside me.
"Just stay here with Ness, okay?"
"Yeah, of course. Fuck, Edward I'm so sorry," her hand found my face and
she pulled herself to me, hugging me tightly.
"It's alright, don't get upset, love. Go to sleep, alright?" I rubbed her
back and tried to comfort her into thinking I was fine, but truthfully, I
was not.
In my mind I was freaking the fuck out and needing to get out of here.
"Alright," she said softly, pulling back, and then kissed me a few times on
my lips. "Call me and let me know what's going on, okay?"
"I will, sweetheart." I kissed Bella's forehead, and slid out of bed to
walk to the closet for some clothes.
Xxx
Driving to the hospital seemed to be taking way to long. It was only like
a ten minute drive, but the seconds slowed, barely moving as my
speedometer clocked in way over the fucking speed limit.
Once I finally arrived, I dialled Emmett so he could tell me where the
hell he was, and then eventually after getting lost in the fucking halls a
million times, found him and my mother.
"Oh Edward," Esme hugged me hard, crying.
"Mah, Dad is fine. Don't freak Edward out," Emmett said, looking highly
annoyed as he sat in the waiting room chair.
"I'm just so happy you came," Esme pulled back and looked at me.
"Just because I'm pissed off at Dad, that doesn't mean I don't love him,"
I wiped Esme's tears away with my thumb, and she smiled slightly.
"I know Dear, but I'm happy none the less."
"How is he doing?" I asked, pulling her to take a seat in the chair next
to Emmett.
"He is alright, but they are running some tests to make sure," Esme said,
holding my hand in hers.
"You want coffee or something? You look fucking tired?" Emmett asked
me, leaning forward to see passed Esme.
"Yeah, sure," I answered, not really giving a shit about how tired I felt.
But Emmett looked like he was at the brink of dealing with my mother's
emotional breakdown, so I gave him an out.
"Oh, honey, you just worked didn't you? I'm so sorry. You can go back
home if you"
"Mah, you need to relax before they pull up a bed next to Dad's for
you," I hugged her into my arm, trying to get her to calm the fuck down.
"I'm sorry," she sighed.
"It's alright, just relax," I rested my head to hers and tried to comfort
her.
"Who is with the baby?" she asked.
"Bella."
"What a sweet girl, to stay with her after working all night." Esme took
my hand into hers.
"No, she didn't work tonight. Bella and Ness had a slumber party," I
laughed lightly.
"Oh, how nice. What for?" Esme asked.
"Bella's leaving for Japan in a few days, she wanted to spend some time
with her," I explained.
" Japan? For what? Is Bella leaving?" Esme pulled back, and her
expression seemed worried.
"Just for a week. She has to check up on Gordon's restaurant, so she was
just trying to break the news easy to Ness, you know? The last time
Bella wasn't around, Ness took it kind of hard and with all"
"Last time?" she interrupted.
"Yeah, when we had a" I paused in confusion, but then realized maybe
she didn't know. "Dad or Em never told you?"
"Told me what Dear?"
"What Bella did? About Jess?" The more I spoke, the more confused her
face grew. "Bella helped Jess get the job in New York."
"She did?" Esme asked surprised. "Why?"
"So Jessica would drop the charges against me." Esme stared at me for a
long minute while it sunk in.
"That is a very heavy thing to do for someone, Son. Why would you have
stopped speaking though?"
"Mah, she bribed Jessica into moving to another state behind my back. Do
I really need to explain that shit further?"
"I understand, but"
"I know her intentions were good," I held up my hand, already having
heard that way too many times.
"Yes, but also," Esme held my hand and her expression changed, warming
as she looked into my tired eyes, "maybe Bella was trying to show you
that she cared for you. It's quite obvious to me, I see it in her eyes, but
I know you might not because you have this wall built around you, Son. I
understand why you do, because as a mother, I have the same one for MY
boys," she smiled, "but, as that mother, I am telling you that girl is in
deep with you and my grandbaby."
"I know," I sighed. "Me fucking too."
"Edward," Esme began.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to curse," I shook my head.
"I wasn't going to scold you," she laughed. "I was going to say EDWARD,
it is alright to be in love." Esme's delicate fingers touched my cheek in
only a way a mother could, caressing lovingly, the same way I might do to
Ness .
"She's leaving. Not now, but soon probably. I don't know what to do
about that. Em says not to tell her. He thinks it will scare her off, but
I'm just trying figure out how much more 'off' I could scare her, seeing
as how she's leaving anyhow." I laughed once, rubbing my face with my
free hand.
"Yes, because your darling brother, and his love for loose women, knows
so much about relationships," Esme teased.
"He knows Bella," I argued.
"And so do you. In ways I'm sure Emmett doesn't, or else we might be on
that Jerry Springer television show," Esme laughed.
"It still won't change anything. Bella will still leave, so what's the point,"
I shrugged.
"Edward, what happened tonight with your father, it opened my eyes to
something. If he would have," Esme looked down for a moment. "If he
would have died tonight, I would have never forgiven myself, and YOU
would have never forgiven yourself. We both have said things, that yes,
maybe we feel in our hearts, but the truth is that we are all family, and
should not allow that to come between us to the point of not speaking to
each other.
"If you love Bella, then you need to tell her, because regardless of what
she does with that information, it is hers to rightfully know, and it is
yours to rightfully tell. If Bella went away tomorrow and you never told
her, how would you feel knowing that she never heard those special
words? Or knew that she meant so much to you?"
"What if she doesn't feel the same, Mom?" I asked.
"Does it matter?"
"No," I replied, even though, I really did want Bella to feel the same.
"Then there is your answer. You don't love someone in hopes that they
will love you back. You just love them in hopes that they will know they
are loved. Yes?"
"Yeah," I nodded.
Emmett came in and handed me my coffee, which tasted like ass. I set it
on the small table to my left and picked up a magazine to read, but my
mother stopped me.
"Go home. You are way too tired and there is no real reason for you to
be here. I'll call you when we hear something," Esme rubbed my shoulder.
"I'm fine, Mom."
"No, you're not, and if you think that your father will be upset that you
left, you are wrong. I will tell him I made you leave, just as I will tell
him I made your brother leave."
"You're not going to stay here alone." I looked at her like she was crazy.
"I'm a big girl and if you want me not to worry then I need you boys to
go home and sleep. The thought of you driving home tired is wreaking
havoc on this old woman's heart."
"Are you sure?" I asked.
"Yes. Go."
"Call me later, please." I leaned in and kissed her cheek. Esme hugged
her arms around my neck, palming the back of my head in her hand.
"I love you so much Edward. I know Bella does too. How could she not,
Son? How could she not." She hugged tighter before releasing me finally.
Emmett stayed for a little while longer after I left. I didn't want to
leave, but I knew my mother well enough to know it was better to listen
to her.
On many levels.
Once I was home, I came quietly through the door seeing Bella at the
computer desk, staring at the screen. She was only illuminated by the
glow from the monitor and looked over to me as I walked in. I could see
a mug on the desk and the smell of coffee filled the small space of my
apartment.
"I believe I asked you to sleep." I kicked off my shoes next to the door
and she turned to face me.
"I tried, but failed." Bella sat back in the chair, uncrossing her legs from
under her, and spun to face me.
"Drinking coffee usually doesn't help." I smoothed my hand over her hair
once I reached her, and then kissed the top of her head.
"How is your father?" she asked softly, looking up to me.
"Carlisle is fine. My mom is still there waiting for them to give test
results, but apparently he is ok." I kissed her head again. "Let's go back
to bed." I clicked the button on the monitor, shutting off the screen.
Bella stood up, going to grab her coffee but I stilled her hands.
"It can stay there until morning." I bent slightly, picking her up into my
arms and carried her towards the room.
My mother's words of wisdom rang in my ears, and the fucking need to
say something to this woman in my arms overwhelmed me. I sat in the
bed, leaning back with her still in my arms against the pillows. My left
hand pulled the warm blanket around her, and Bella slid her hands down
from my neck to my chest.
"You're going to be very uncomfortable sleeping in your clothes," she
yawned.
"I'm too tired to give a shit," I closed my eyes, feeling the day weigh
down heavily on me.
"Suit yourself." Her warm lips kissed along my jaw, moving slowly along
my face, and fuck if she didn't kiss the tender skin right fucking
underneath my ear.
"Angel, I have no stamina to satisfy you the way you deserve right now,"
I whispered.
"I'm just saying goodnight." She kissed me again, sweeter this time, but
still fucking made my dick pulse. I leaned in, kissing her softly several
times.
"I still heart you, Bell," I whispered, causing her to smile against my lips.
"Me too, Flower Child." She kissed me again and then leaned her head
into the crook of my neck, nuzzling me before she sighed and repeated
her words.
"Me too."
BPOV
7:33 am
I was seriously enjoying Flower Child's shower.
It wasn't anything fancy, but he had all of these cool little mini bottles
of shit for Ness. And weird fucking sticky things on the wall which made
for good reading while one shaved their legs.
With his razor mind you cause I was growing balls like that.
I was all about using his shampoo and smelling the rest of the day like
Ness ' bubblegum body-wash. I mean, why the fuck not? How many days
in my life could I go around smelling like fucking bubblegum and get away
with it?
None, I tell you, none.
Flower Child was still sleeping soundly when I crept back into the room
and stole some clothes from his drawer 'cause yeah, I repeat, I was
growing balls like that. Sure, I had my own, but I was not about to cook
breakfast in shit I needed to wear for the rest of the day. Fate would
ensure I had grease of some sort on my shirt and that fuckery was not
allowed.
So, I grabbed a pair of huge ass boxers well, huge on me anyhow and
a football shirt of some sort that was all grey and shit, toting some
player I didn't fucking know, and got dressed. I also might have stolen a
pair of socks, just for shits and giggles.
And also, because they looked comfy and I didn't have any socks with me.
I checked on Ness, and she was still passed out too, in her bed. That was
kind of nice. Not that I didn't enjoy her company, but I needed a few
minutes to get myself situated in the kitchen and that was a little bit
hard to do when Squeaks was around. The fact that Edward managed to
do everything in his life with her around brought on a new type of
respect for him I never had before.
Yesterday, we went shopping for a little while after we left The
Workshop, and holy mother of God, was that shit hard to do with a little
person who did not understand that you don't have to touch every item in
a store.
It was a little bit crazy.
Thankfully, I am a very intelligent person with a sincere gift for
persuasion, and managed to buy her good behavior off with a new Hello
Kitty sippy-cup, and some cute ass clothes.
No seriously, little people clothes are cute as fuck.
I may have gone a little crazy actually. No, fuck that, I went really
crazy, and really hoped Flower Child wouldn't kill me, but shit, I could
not decide what NOT to buy.
Let's put it this way: cute kid + black credit card with no limit + fake
Aunt who likes to spend = bad, bad situation in the mall.
As I was pulling out the last ingredients from the fridge, the little
person I was speaking of came tottering out, looking ultra sleepy as she
rubbed her eyes.
"Hey Squeaks." I bent down to pick her up and she pretty much went
limp in my arms once I did. "Still sleepy?" She nodded yes and I rocked
her a little, walking back to her room.
"Leah will be here soon, why don't we get dressed, okay?" I set Ness on
her bed, and grabbed one of the outfits I purchased for her from her
newly vamped closet. She smiled at it as I sat next to her.
It had a cute little owl on the front and it said, "Like I give a hoot."
It made me giggle.
And made wish they had one in my size.
After she was dressed, I put her hair in little pig tails, and snapped in a
few of the cute butterfly clips she picked out; and wallah, a well
dressed five year old.
Was I living vicariously? Fuck yes.
Flower Child was on the couch and on his phone when we walked back out
into the main room. He smiled, seeing Nessie look cute, and furrowed his
brow as he read her shirt, but then laughed. She climbed onto his lap
and he passed the phone to her. She said hello to Edward's grandmother,
calling her 'Izzabit', and I remembered him telling me her name was
Elizabeth.
Giving them a little privacy, I began to cook breakfast, but still
eavesdropped, of course. Hey, don't judge me, you would have too. Flower
Child said his goodbyes after making a promise to have dinner with them
at some point this week, and I assumed they must have flown down due
to last night's happenings with Carlisle.
Strong arms found their way around my waist, and I smiled as lips
belonging to those arms found my cheek.
"My I ask something?" he said.
"Mmm hmm," I replied, still working on breakfast.
"Why is it that you felt the need to buy Squeaks clothes, but yet, you
stole mine?" He laughed a little.
"I did buy something, but figured it best to ruin yours and spare my
own." I tilted my head back, and smiled mockingly at him.
"I see. And am I correct to assume you are making latkes, since I see
you have dug out my mashed potatoes I was saving?"
"You ARE a man after my heart," I said dramatically, holding my hand
over my chest. "Calling them latkes and not that dirty word, pancakes," I
giggled.
"A women after my own, making them," He shot back.
"You like latkes then hmm?"
"Love, LOVE latkes," he kissed my head.
"With sour cream?"
"Mmm," he replied, moving his lips a little lower.
"And fresh chives?" I asked, making him groan, and the fucker bit my
shoulder fucking hard causing me to squeal.
"Easy, or you're not getting your latkes on this morning," I teased.
"Feel free to wear my clothes any time, any place Bella. As long as you
are cooking while doing so." Edward kissed my cheek, and then backed
off of me. That was good too because the kid was here, and I could just
fucking tackle him to the floor and do him all proper-like.
Even though, I really fucking wanted to.
"My grandparents are going to be in town this week. They invited me and
Ness to dinner. I was hoping you would come," he said.
"Yeah sure." I dropped the first cake onto the griddle, and then went for
a second.
"I'm going to make Ness some eggs for breakfast, would you like some?"
he asked, bending down to get a pan.
"Eggs sound great, as long as they're scrambled," I replied.
Fucker kissed my leg, causing me to fuck up my second latke.
"Um, I believe I said no funny business, Mr." I looked down to him and he
did it again. "I am not afraid to spank a grown ass man with a spatula."
Edward laughed and stood back up, resting the pan down on the stove,
and I just couldn't resist. As he reached to turn the knob on, I fucking
did it, swatting him hard on his ass.
"Mother" he started to curse, and I laughed.
"You just wait Bella." Edward tapped his finger at me, and I grabbed it,
bringing it to my mouth, and kissed his hand.
"It was too tempting. I couldn't resist beating you in your kitchen." I
smiled at him and he raised an eyebrow at me.
"Tempting?" Edward leaned in, and I knew he was up to no good. His lips
hovered over mine as he wound his arms around my waist, pulling me to
him.
"You, my love, are tempting," he whispered. "If Ness wasn't here, I would
be more than happy to show you how so." Flower Child kissed me softly
at first, building up the heat slowly, and not even the smell of my poor
latkes burning could tear me away from his perfect lips.
However
"Squeaky," I whispered pulling back slightly to remind him.
"Latkes," he countered, snickering slightly as I pulled him back into my
lips.
A knock sounded at the door.
"Weah!" Nessie squealed, racing to the door.
"Le-ah," Edward and I said at the same time, laughing devilishly.
Edward gave one look to the door, only moving his eyes, and then looked
back to me as the sound of Leah's keys entered the lock. Before she
could make her way in, Edward reached over and flipped off the stove,
then hoisted me up onto his hips, carrying me towards his bedroom.
I wasn't sure how much money Flower Child paid Leah, but I was sure as
fuck in favor of her ass getting a damn raise.
Edward tossed me down on the bed and started his slow cat-like crawl
up my body. I shivered in anticipation as his lips kissed softly up my legs.
His nose grazed softly along my skin as he made his climb, forming a
warm trail along my skin that raised goose bumps.
"Stop teasing." I reached for his face and pulled him towards me. As
soon as Edward's lips met mine, a knock sounded loudly on his bedroom
door.
"Edward, I am sorry, but your cell phone is ringing," Leah said on the
other side.
"Motherfucker," Edward groaned, backing off of me.
He walked to the door, opening it so that Leah could hand him the phone,
and then closed it again. Walking to the bed, I watched him in all his
bare-chested perfection. Edward's navy blue pajama bottoms hung low on
hips, accentuating the dip in his mid section where the V began the
decent down to.
"Hey Mom," he sat on the bed facing away from me as he spoke, and I
sat up, knowing that the moment was gone.
I slid off the bed and righted my clothes, walking in front of Edward as
he carried on his conversation. My fingers brushed his face as I passed
him and he lightly kissed them once. Back in the kitchen, I started
making breakfast again. The latkes looked wonderful as I plated them,
complete with scrambled eggs for everyone's place-setting.
"Thank you, Bella," Leah said as she took a seat next to Nessie.
I took a seat across from her as she helped to feed Squeaks, tending to
her very lovingly. Even though I knew Leah was a good person to have in
her life, I still couldn't help the bit of jealousy I felt surging inside of
me as she acted motherly towards Ness. There was something there in
those gestures for me that perhaps showed some type of visual, or
glimpse, into the future for what was to come.
When I left, there would surely be someone taking over this role on a
permanent basis for Edward. Whomever he chose would sit right here
where I did, eating breakfast with him while he sat beside her in his PJ
bottoms, looking sexy, and staring at his daughter eating her food.
Her foodsomeone else's food.
Leah laughed as Ness got sour cream all over her face, and suddenly
Leah's tan dark skin became Lauren's orange unnaturally colored tattooed
skin. Her dark long locks transformed into the long blonde hair Lauren
had, and the bitten and chewed finger nails I saw on her fingers when
she touched Edward were now shoving bites of food into his daughter's
mouth.
It wouldn't be me that he played with in the kitchen and hoisted on his
hips to make love for breakfast, it would be hersome other girl.
My stomach curled in on itself, and the blood in my veins ran cold,
forming a sweat on my forehead.
"Are you alright, Bella?" It was Leah's voice, but Lauren's face looking at
me, asking, and I had to run to the restroom as the vomit rose in my
throat.
I just barely made it into the bathroom. My knees fell toward the toilet
and I heaved, sending the coffee I consumed from earlier that morning,
before Edward returned home, into the bowl. It fucking hurt like hell to
puke on a half empty stomach, that was for sure.
My head leaned onto the cool seat, and then I fucking felt sick again
thinking about how many asses might have sat on it. I pulled back, and
spat into the toilet the remainder of phlegm in my mouth.
Cute Cullen asses or not, asses were asses...and fucking asses were gross.
Say that five time fast.
" Bell?" A light tap on the door sounded as Edward called my name.
"I'm fine, just a second," I reached over and flushed, then climbed to my
feet.
As I rinsed my mouth, I looked in the mirror, trying to figure out who the
hell this person was looking back at me. How was it that less than a few
months ago all was nice and tidy in my life, and now, here I stood, puking
in some sex God's bathroom.
Okay, he was more than a sex God, but I digress.
The point is, shit was fucked up and I had no idea how to make it right
again.
There was no going back or carrying on. But what price was I willing to
pay, or could I pay, for allowing this charade to run wild much longer?
The level of love I had for both Edward and Squeaks was unreal, almost
painfully so. And the territorial claim? Oh fuck, don't even get me
started. You did she see me puke just by thinking about another woman
simply feeding his child, yes?
"Bella?" Edward called again, snapping me out of my thoughts. I dried my
mouth on the small hand towel and then unlocked the door, allowing him
in.
"What's wrong?" he asked, stepping inside and closing the door behind
him.
"I'm fine. I think it was just the coffee from last night."
"You look very pale." He cupped my face in one hand then pressed his
other to my forehead.
"Please don't play doctor. I already want to bang your brains out at
every minute of the day. The image of you as a doctor would fucking
make Butterbean explode," I whined.
"I'm sorry, just making sure there's no fever."
"Oh, shut up Edward, seriously. I cannot think about you as a doctor." I
pushed his hand away, and he laughed.
"Why don't you lay down for a bit and I'll bring you some food when you
feel up to it?" Edward kissed my forehead lightly.
"No, I'm fine really. Actually, I need to get going. Between the almost
sex and then puking, I am seriously fucking late."
Edward allowed me to pass, followed me as I gathered my belongings, and
then walked me to the main room. Leah eyed me with concern, but said
nothing.
"Bewwa wook," Squeaks tipped her empty plate up to me, showing me she
had eaten everything.
"That is wonderful, Sweetheart." I kissed her forehead, trying not to cry
as my previous thought again weighed down heavily on my mind.
"I'll be right back, Leah, just going to walk Bella to her car," Edward
explained.
"Me come too," Squeaks said, holding out her arms for him.
"No honey, you stay here. I'll be right back," Edward kissed her and she
lowered her arms, listening to him.
Edward held me as we rode the elevator down, and I stole peeks of how
we looked in the reflection the steel walls displayed. We lookedright.
His arms fit around me so perfectly, and if Ness was here, people would
no doubt assume she were ours; just as the waiter did that day in the
caf, and just as all the women did at the mall yesterday.
Looking at Squeaks, I could see how they could assume it too. My hair
resembled hers, dawning the same auburn tint and slight curl on the
ends. Our skin had almost the same coloring. Her eyes, they would assume
came from Edward if they saw us together, making us a family to
unknowing eyes.
My stomach rolled again, but I had nothing to give this time. I clung to
Edward's shirt, trying hard not to cry and finally, fucking finally, the
doors to the elevator opened and we were free to step out.
Edward kissed me and checked my forehead again for a temperature once
I reached my car. After his inspection was complete, he allowed me to
climb in and watched as I drove off. The last thing I saw in the
reflection was Edward standing in the street, looking sad and a little
confused watching me as I left.
Something told me, it wouldn't be the last time I'd see him look that
way.










Quote: Sir James M. Barrie
Chapter 17 "Lesson in Goodbyes"
If you have it [Love], you don't need to have anything else, and if you
don't have it, it doesn't matter much what else you have.
Bella POV
6:45 pm
I was so fucking happy The Workshop was now closed on Sundays.
Not that I was happy about not making the extra money, but fuck, having
a day off with no worries about that place was like getting a buy-one-
get-one-free special on cigarettes. Sure, I could afford the fuckers, but
who the hell doesn't love a deal?
Anyhow, I chose to close the restaurant on Sundays because traffic was
slow as fuck, and, in truth, cost me more money than we made to stay
open.
Nothing wrong with cutting your losses, as my father would say.
Right now, I was especially happy because that meant I could enjoy my
time at Edward's parents' house without having to keep track of time and
shit. Meeting his grandparents was a little scary because I didn't really
do the whole family scene well, as you know, but what the fuck ever.
Tonight was the last night I had left with Flower Child and Squeaks
before I went off to Japan, and I was going to love every minute of it. I
don't care how much of an asshat his father wanted to be to me, or if his
granny hated me; no one would take away my happy time.
I also had fucking tiramisu in hand and fuck...who doesn't love tiramisu?
Only commies I tell you. Only commies.
My hand knocked lightly on the wooden door to the Cullen's house. As I
waiting for someone to answer, I balanced the desserts in my free hand
and brushed my hair back with the other. It was a little humid out and I
cursed, thinking about how stupid it was not to tie my hair back in a
ponytail. I would for sure look like a poof ball come dinner time.
I hope Esme planned on eating inside because if we were out on the
patio
"Bella!" Esme held out her arms to me once she opened the door.
"Hi." I one armed hugged her, being careful with the dessert in my hand.
"Come on in, dear," Esme pulled back and waved me in.
"Don't you just look wonderful. Let me see, twirl, twirl," she laughed,
admiring my outfit.
I rather liked this woman.
"Those are just the cutest jeansand this topmy, my," she rested her
hands on her hips and shook her head.
"Thank you, you look very nice as well. I like the baubles. You're totally
ball'n Mamma Cullen. Seriously, makin' rappers jealous and shit." I threw
one arm over her shoulder and she giggled.
I was being for real though. This 'lil bitch has some serious rocks going
on. Why Edward worked for me, I had no clue. I would be hittin' up the
parents on the regular, and telling rude 'lil bitches, like me, to shove my
G'damn slaughterhouse fuckery up my ass.
"I am going to go find my grandbaby, and inform her that the person she
has waited all day to see is here," Esme smiled, looking at me as we
walked. "You go right in and make yourself comfortable, dear."
Esme walked towards the hallway, in search of Squeaks and I went
towards the kitchen, in need of having to refrigerate my heavenly Italian
dessert before it became a heavenly Italian dessert soup.
"Edward, if you mess up my pie crust, I will beat you right where you
stand, boy." I paused at the entry way of the kitchen, hearing Flower
Child being scolded.
"Grandma, I know how make a pie crust. No violence is necessary here,"
Edward laughed.
I peeked in, watching what was happening with Edward's back facing me.
A woman half his stature, with long silver locks, worked beside him. I
laughed silently as she kept swatting his hand every time he reached for
something she must not have approved of in her crust.
No wonder Edward put up with my fuckery.
"Your mamma did not raise you right, you know that?" His Grandmother,
Elizabeth, pushed him out of the way and took the pie crust matters into
her own hands.
"Suit yourself Grandma. I would rather be drinking and watching football
anyhow," Edward walked to the sink to rinse his hands.
I walked in, holding my finger over my mouth as Elizabeth looked up to
me. I set the dessert down on the counter quietly as he scrubbed his
hands, and just as I was about to pinch his sides, Squeaky ruined my
ninja-like stealth.
"Bewwa!"
Edward turned his head towards her, and saw me standing behind him.
"Were you trying to scare me?" he asked, highly amused.
"You're lucky I love you Squeaks," I reached down to pick her up.
"And my own Grandmother, in on the joke," Edward scowled at her, and
she laughed.
"I am trying to figure out how it is that you are the executive chef of a
million dollar establishment, yet cannot make pancakes or pie crust
Flower Child," I nodded to the island where Elizabeth worked the dough.
"It's not my fault some people are control freaks, and feel the need to
do everything themselves," he shot back.
"Junior Cullen," His Grandmother looked up to him, holding the rolling pin
in her hands," I am not too old to use this as a weapon. Nor are you too
old to receive a beating from one, understand?" she made a face at him.
"Yes, Grandma I know. You enjoy assault in the kitchenoh, which
reminds meGrandma this is Bella," Edward teased, cupping his hand to
my cheek.
"Hello, Bella. I have heard wonderful things about you. From both of my
grandsons. I'd shake your little hand there, but I'm rather floury,"
Elizabeth smiled.
"I'm not afraid of flour," I laughed and reached out to greet her
properly.
I mean, the women basically told Flower Child off three times in my
presence. How could I not?
"I know, as I also am aware of who you are," she winked.
"Oh?"
"Mmm hmm, don't be shy about that stuff honey. If I owned fine
eateries, I would wear a shirt everyday saying so."
"Uh-huh," I looked over to Flower Child as the wheels turned.
"Please don't give her ideas Grandma. She'll have me out on the
boardwalk with shit spray-painted on my body."
"That's not a bad idea," I pretended to muse. Even though, that really
WAS a good idea.
"Like I said," Edward motioned to me, looking at Elizabeth.
"Oh, like anyone wants to see you naked," she rolled her eyes, and I had
to laugh.
"Okay, why don't we talk about something other than nudity and violence
while my daughter is in the room," Edward tried to pull Ness from my
arms, but I slapped him, giving him a look that asked if he was crazy.
"I have had the pleasure of dining at your New York and Paris locations,
there little Missy. Worth every penny, I must say," Grandma Cullen said,
topping her pie.
"Thank you," I said, trying to mask how fucking truly happy that made
me.
"I hear you have something exciting happening in Canada soon? Uh, what
was it? In..." she waved her hand at me to finish her thought.
"Whistler," I said softly, not wanting to talk about this.
"Yes, Whistler. Beautiful place, very wise choice," Elizabeth nodded.
"I didn't know you picked out a location yet?" Edward said.
"I didn't," I looked over to him and I could see the wall being built back
up again. He thought I was doing shit behind his back, or not being
truthful.
"I don't always have a say in everything that happens. I sign the papers,
but I'm not a location scout, Edward. I'm a chef. Some dude that gets
paid millions of dollars picked a nice spot in a high traffic area. Not me."
"That man did a good job," Elizabeth interjected. "Whistler is going to
be huge after they host the winter Olympics. You'll be swamped for sure.
What's the name of that place anyhow?"
"Invoke, for now. It's still far off, so who knows. After it runs through a
hundred hands and shit, it could be called fucking 'Big Top Mountain,' or
'Hairy Bear Balls,' or whatever stupid name they think will draw in a
crowd."
"Bad word, Bewwa," Squeaks pointed to me.
"I know, but lawyers really get my panties in a wad, Squeaky." I shook
my head at her, and she laughed.
"Wats dat?" she pointed to the tiramisu still on the counter.
"Just one more thing I do better than your father," I teased.
"I'm going to go join Emmett for football in a non-Edward-bashing part of
the house. You all have fun." Edward started to walk away and I
grabbed hold of his shirt, following him.
"Nice meeting you," I smiled, calling over my shoulder to his Grandma.
Ness wiggled her way down as we walked towards the theatre room, and
we watched her run down the hall.
"She thinks it's funny to run and jump on Emmett. You would think after
the millionth time he would learn to cup his balls, but the stupid bastard
never does," Edward paused outside of the door. "Wait for it," he held
his hand up, tilting his head to the door.
"Holy!" Emmett's loud mouth sounded form the other side of the door,
and I fell into Edward laughing.
"I told you." Flower Child's arms went around me, and I hugged him back.
"I'm sorry about before," I said, holding him tighter as I breathed in his
heavenly scent.
"What are you talking about?" he shook his head, still holding onto me.
"The shit with the restaurant. I wasn't trying to hide anything from you
or whatever."
"It's alright," Edward kissed my bare shoulder and my grip on him grew.
"You smell and look wonderful, Angel." He kissed me again, gliding his
hands down my back until he reached my ass.
"Babe," I sighed, holding onto him tighter as he kissed his way into the
crook of my neck.
"Dinner won't be done for an hour," he whispered, moving his lips towards
my jaw.
I hummed, gripping the hairs on the back of his head as he made me walk
backwards into an unknown room. Edward's lips glided over mine as the
door closed behind him, and he kept walking forward.
My knees hit the back of something hard and we stumbled slightly, but
recovered. Edward hoisted me up and I heard piano keys fill the silence
as my ass came down on them.
I grabbed at his shirt, trying to undo all the buttons as fast as I could
with my shaky hands. The room was dark too, and I couldn't quite see
well enough to find them. Flower Child pulled my blouse over my head,
revealing the black lacy bra that I wore under it. His hands cupped my
breasts, mashing my cleavage together, and kissed the hills they formed
with his warm lips.
I finally got his shirt undone, and he pulled it free while I then worked
to unbutton his damn pants. I had to wonder why this man chose to wear
so many articles of clothing with G'damn buttons.
He stepped out of his pants, working to undo my belt and button on my
jeans, all the while kissing me with his cinnamon-flavored tongue in the
most delightful way.
Flower Child's strong arms hoisted me up again so he could pull my jeans
down. I kicked my heels free, and once my bottoms and panties were off,
he settled me back down, making the keys sound again.
I could tell from how the piano felt under me that it was older. The type
that you would see in little school houses and shit; with the high front
and made of wood or what the fuck ever. It sure as hell wasn't like the
Baby Grand under the stairwell of this house, let's put it that way.
My hand stroked his cock several times in my hand, shivering in
anticipation, knowing that what I held would be filling me in moments.
Edward brought my feet to rest on the piano keys, spreading my legs for
him, and I released him from my grasp.
"You know, I always hated the piano," he whispered.
Before I could respond, he pushed into me, resting his hands on the keys
beside my feet, and began to pump. I held onto his shoulders, trying not
to slip off the small ledge I sat on, and with every thrust the keys
sounded softly.
I prayed no one would hear, thinking a fucking ghost or some shit was in
this room pretending to be G'damn Beethoven.
Edward pulled my feet forward, wrapping them around his waist, and
held onto my hips as he continued to fuck me, hard and all proper-like.
My lips found his again, and I kissed him fervently, needing as much of
him as possible. His kisses were just as greedy, and he pumped me harder
and harder as the ire of our passion surged.
We were forming some sort of deranged orchestra of panting, piano
playing, and sounds of him slapping into my pussy with his cock.
It was sexy as fuck.
"EdwardI" I clenched onto his neck, feeling butterbean pulse as I
began to cum.
"Come for me, Angel," he groaned against my lips.
"Babe," I panted.
"I wanna feel you Bella," his hand gripped under my head as he fucked
me harder. "You feel so fucking good when you cum."
And that made me lose my shit.
My face fell into the crook of his neck, as I panted his name, over and
over, clutching to him with all my might as I came hard.
I felt him swell inside of me, and his hands came around to release my
legs from his waist, pushing me back slightly. I let him go and my back
fell against the wooden front of the piano.
"Fuck," he groaned, pulling out from me.
Edward came on the outside of my pussy, making me moan as his hot fluid
ran down over butterbean. His fingers captured his semen before it could
run further down my body and into a place that would make pulling out
completely pointless.
"Fuck," Flower Child repeated again, leaning his forehead to mine.
"Mmm," I hummed against his lips. It was silent for a few minutes as we
just kissed softly and tried to come back down.
"Edward?" I said softly.
"Yes, love?"
"The piano keys are jamming me in the ass." I tapped one and he
laughed.
"I'm jealous," he teased, but then helped me down.
"Can I ask something?" I reached down for my clothes, watching him as
he searched for his. "Why did you hate the piano?"
"Hmm?" he looked at me funny as we dressed.
"You said you hated the piano. Why?"
"Oh, my mother used to make me take lessons. I always hated it. I
wanted to play football, and she fucking signed me up for piano."
"So, you can play?" I pulled on my jeans, and watched as he tucked Lt.
Dan to the left of his.
Butterbean smiled.
"Yeah, but it's been a long time." He pulled his shirt back on, and I
helped him re-button it, now that my eyes had adjusted to the darkness,
seeing much better than before.
"You know, you just keep getting sexier, and I really must ask you to
stop doing that," I poked him as I finished the last button.
"You, my love," Flower Child cupped my face in his hands, "are sexy." He
kissed me softly once.
"And beautiful."
Kiss.
"And sweet."
Kiss.
"And funny."
Kiss.
"And."
Kiss.
"Perfect."
Kiss.
"Even though."
Kiss
"You have the mouth of a fucking truck driver," Edward laughed against
my lips, and kissed me again.
"Fucker," I slapped him playfully.
"Mmm, that's my girl." Edward picked me up, kissing me still as he
walked towards the door.
"You know what's funny though, Bell?" Edward set me down once we
reached the door.
"What?"
"My mother used to try and trick me into taking lessons by telling me it
would help me get a girl to like me," he laughed.
"How'd that work out for you, Edward?"
"Took a long time," he smiled, leaning into my lips. "But it happened."
8:05 pm.
Fucking-A.
Grandma Cullen could cook.
Apparently she was originally from the south, and holy sweet baby
cornbread people...she served us up all proper-like.
Rose was joining us once again, but thankfully, I already warned Emmett
earlier in the week, when I found out, that I would fucking deck her if
she started shit. It looked like he might have said something, because she
was totally ignoring me and Edward.
Which was perfect.
My plate was filled with fucking collard greens, sweet potatoes, fried
fish, and motherfucking cornbread.
This was all after I just banged Edward on his old piano.
How could things get any better?
Carlisle was joining us, out of the hospital now, but he stayed very quiet
in his seat, not really looking up or saying anything. Grandpa Cullen was a
looker, let me tell you. If this was a preview to what Edward would be
as an old dude, I would totally want to be next to his saggy ass in a
rocking chair someday.
Cullen men and women for that matter aged like a fine wine.
"Grandma, are you sure you don't want to move in with me?" Emmett
said, shoving a big forkful of potato in his mouth.
"What would your girlfriend there think? You shackin' up with an old
lady?" she teased.
"Wouldn't be the first time Grandma," Emmett waggled his brows, and
Rose slapped him.
"This is seriously fureally good," I said, licking my fork.
"Thank you, honey. Wait 'til you get to my peach pie. That isif Cullen
JR. there didn't mess up mah crust too bad."
"Grandma, I know how to make crust," Edward laughed, taking a sip of
his beer.
"Mmm hmm, well we'll have a table full of judges now won't wont we?"
she waved her fork around the table.
"Now you know why you have no affect on me," Edward said, looking at
me.
"I thought," I reached under the table, grabbing his thigh hard, "I did?"
"Oh," he reached under the table and moved my hand to his crotch.
Thank God no one could see.
"You do. I was referring to the yelling though." Edward turned back to
his food, and I grabbed his cock hard in my hand, making him bite his lip.
"I'll be sure to work on that," I let him go, and watched his lips smile at
my teasing.
"So Bella, are you leaving tonight or tomorrow, dear?" Esme asked.
"Tomorrow evening," I replied.
"Oh, night flight. Do you like those? I never did."
"It's all the same to me," I shrugged.
"Yeah, 'cause when you get to fly on Ramsey's personal plane, who the
hell cares what time it is," Emmett laughed.
"Well that is very nice of him," Esme smiled.
"It's the least Gordon could do, seeing as how he is completely
interrupting my life for five days," I said sarcastically, picking up my
wine.
"What exactly do you do there?" Elizabeth asked, bringing a forkful of
greens to her mouth.
"I have to just make sure everything is in order. Sometimes I train, but
this time it's pretty easy. General maintenance and all of that," I set my
wine down and went back to the food.
"Well, I think it is wonderful that Junior Cullen has such a great mentor
in his life. He needs someone to keep him in line. Do you know why?"
Grandma Cullen settled her fork down and leaned over the table a little,
pointing towards Edward.
"These Cullen men have been blessed with good looks and they think they
can get away with murder."
"Grandma, please don't start," Edward leaned his head into his hands,
laughing.
I guessed this was something they'd heard a few times before.
"Nah nah nah, listen," she waved her hand, and he looked at her, resting
his chin into his palm. "When you boys were little, and truly junior
Cullens, you had all the ladies eating right out of your palm. Bella," she
looked at me, "I am telling you, I could not go into a supermarket with
these two devils, and not have a line of women gathered around me
fawning over them. It made them have inflated heads as grown men.
Especially this one here," she pointed to Edward.
"How do you figure that?" Edward asked amused. "I haven't even ever
had a girlfriend," he argued.
"You just answered your own damn question there, Junior Cullen. Think
you are too good to settle with one. Need them all."
"You have no idea how wrong you are," Edward laughed and grabbed his
beer for a sip.
"Bella, seriously, if he tries to pull that crooked smile on you, then you
better slap him one. This one over here," she pointed to her husband. "He
taught them that. And it works." Grandma Cullen laughed and sure as
shit Edward SR. smiled all crooked and shit, just like Edward.
She leaned in and kissed him, and then laughed.
"You see? Gets a girl every time."
Edward POV
After dinner, I helped clear the table with my grandmother while
everyone else sat in the theatre room.
For the record, the pie was fucking perfect.
Even Bella said so.
"I have some words for you Junior Cullen," my grandmother said as I set
the dishes into the sink next to her.
"You always do," I hugged her shoulder with my arm as she washed.
"That woman, that Bella, she is divine." She looked over to me with her
eyebrow raised.
"I know," I nodded in agreement, and could see that wasn't all.
"There something going on there Junior Cullen? I know I'm an old lady
and all, but I don't think I have ever seen my boy here invite a pretty
lady to dinner before?"
"Bella's my boss, Grandma."
"She's been your brother's boss for quite a long time, and yet never
appeared at a dinner before." She wasn't letting this go.
"Grandma, it's complicated. We work together, and Bella travels a lot.
Throw in the Nessie factor and you have all kinds of trouble." I lowered
my arm and took the plate she washed to dry it.
"You love her?" she asked, tilting her head towards me.
"Yeah, I do," I set the plate down and reached for another.
"She love you?"
"I don't know. We haven't really gone there, Grandma." I dried the plate
and could feel her eyes boring into me.
"Well, there's only one way to find out now isn't there?" she nudged me
with her arm and I had to smile.
"Yeah, I suppose so." I set the plate down and reached for another.
"Why don't you go on in and join everyone else. I'm about done here."
She kissed my cheek and made me scoot.
I knew better than to disobey her, so I left to find the others. Passing
the same door from earlier, in the hall leading to the theatre room, the
thoughts came back into my mind of making love to Bella on the piano.
My cock pulsed thinking of how she felt, and how her words echoed in my
ears.
Fuck, she owned me.
As I entered the room, Bella was cuddled up in a corner of the long
sectional with Ness. My baby looked sleepy in her arms, and Bella had a
blanket from Ness' room draped over her. Emmett scooted over to allow
me to sit next to them, and Ness leaned forward, reaching for me once I
sat down.
"You sleepy baby?" She nodded against me, and I cradled her in my arms,
knowing there was no way she would sleep in her bed with everyone in
here.
Bella draped the blanket over her and tucked it under her chin.
"Kiss." Ness stretched out her arms to Bella, asking her for a good night
kiss. She leaned in and kissed her and then Ness reached up to me for
one of the same.
"Good night sweetheart. I love you," I kissed her and she told me she
loved me back.
It didn't take her long to fall asleep, and I turned my attention back to
the T.V. to see that Emmett was channel-surfing; which really drove me
nuts.
"Just pick a channel man," I said, tilting towards him.
"I'm trying, too much shit to choose from." He continued to flip.
"Oh! Stop there," Rose pointed to the screen.
"Friends? Seriously hun?" Emmett scoffed.
"Friends is my favorite show of all time," she stole the remote from him.
"This is one of the worst shows ever made, totally unrealistic and shit,"
Emmett argued.
"Hey, will you two shut up. I have never seen this show, and would like a
fucking clear mind going into it," Bella said, turning her attention back to
the screen.
As soon as the dialog began between the characters on the show, I
fucking cringed.
Pheobe: Hang in there it's gonna happen.
Ross: Now, how do you know that?
Pheobe: Because she's your lobster.
Chandler: Ohshe's going somewhere.
Pheobe: Come on! You guys it's a known fact that lobsters fall in love and
mate for life. You know, you can actually see old lobster couples walking
around their tank.
My whole G'damn body was frozen sitting next to Bella, fucking hearing
that fucking fuckery play in front of the whole G'damn room.
I didn't want to look at her, or for her to look at me.
I just wanted to dissa-fucking-pear.
Ness was a good distraction, and I looked down to her, pretending that
shit did not just happen. Rose was all giggley, and making baby talk to
Emmett about how he was her damn lobster, and I no longer wanted to
think of Bella as my lobster seeing Rose taint the fucking theory.
I felt Bella shift next to me, and my chest fucking tingled and my heart
pounded hard, not knowing what she was going to do. I thought she might
leave, seeing the light-hearted, yet, oh so heavy symbolism the stupid
lobster nickname held.
She didn't leave though.
Bella leaned against me, resting her head on my arm and sighed.
I wasn't sure what the fuck that meant, but I was happy as fuck she
stayed.
Finally gaining enough courage to look down at her, I did, and when her
eyes met mine, she fucking smiled and leaned in for a light kiss. I could
see it in her eyes, it was ok. She didn't mind that I considered her my
lobster. That I loved her and wanted to be with just her.
I suddenly felt the need to put Nessie to bed.
.
I wasn't sure how to do this. It needed to be comfortable for Bella, but
special somehow. I thought about going to the gazebo because the garden
looked beautiful at night under the moon, but that was sort of corny in a
way. Plus, my house was full of people, and I didn't want an interruption;
which always seemed to fucking happen to Bella and I.
Walking past my old bedroom door after I walked from Nessie's room, it
hit me. The one place in my life that I felt completely uncomfortable in,
and had no love for, would be the perfect place to reveal this to Bella.
I entered the room and looked around. The bed was littered with papers,
and some stuff my mother has boxed up. This room was so pathetic
looking and gloomy. How the fuck I grew up in it, I wasn't sure.
Clearing the bed, I made sure to also change the sheets, as they smelled
a little dusty. Anything that might be just a little too fucking
embarrassing, like old pictures or damn art projects, got tossed in the
closet too.
We didn't need to go there tonight.
My mother had a few candles in the bathroom, and I set one of them on
the bookcase shelf in my room and lit it. It wasn't too obvious or
anything. Not looking like I was trying to be romantic, which was good.
That would have felt awkward.
Bella was in the bathroom, and I waited for her against the balcony
railing. She came around the corner and smiled. I remained where I was,
leaning on my forearms, and looked to the floor below.
"Sightseeing?" she teased, standing next to me.
"Definitely," I replied, looking back to her, and allowing my eyes to trail
slowly over perfection.
"I've been warned about you Junior Cullen," she laughed, poking me with
her finger. "You can't swoon me quite so easily now."
"Then I guess I'll have to try harder, Angel," I leaned off the railing and
held my hand out to her.
Bella took it, and I pulled her along with me towards my old bedroom.
She didn't say anything, but I could see her from the corner of my eye,
looking at me. I opened the door and stepped in first, then allowed her
to pass me so I could close and lock the door.
"Is this where you were made?" Bella teased, looking around.
"Not technically," I said, making her laugh.
She looked around, eyeing my bookshelves and music collection as I took
off my shoes. I walked to my bed, sitting in the middle, and Bella
continued to read the titles of the things on the shelves. I wondered if
she were truly interested, or just stalling.
"I didn't know you liked music so much, or reading," she said softly,
fingering the bindings of the books.
"There really isn't much time for either anymore. Unless you count Dr.
Suess," I replied.
"You read all of these?" she asked, turning her head to look at me.
"Most of them, yeah, but I totally blame most of it on being in a strict
private school," I laughed.
"You went to private school?" Bella walked towards my bed and took a
seat on the edge.
"You really think my mother and father would send us to public school?
The fact that I am probably the only Cullen, in the history of Cullens,
who has not attended college and produced a degree, bugs the holy fuck
out of my father."
"You want to know something funny?" Bella asked.
"Of course," I replied, scooting a little closer.
"I never even graduated high school," Bella said, looking up at me
through her long lashes.
"Seriously?"
"Yup. I dropped out when I was sixteen. Worked in my dad's diner full-
time." Bella kicked off her heels, and brought her knees to her chest,
hugging them to her body.
"That's amazing," I said, staring at her.
"It's incredibly stupid," she argued.
"But you aren't. That's why it is amazing." I brushed her hair back and
she looked away shyly.
Just fucking say it, dummy.
"I was thinking of staying here with Ness tonight. Would you stay too,
Angel?"
"I don't know if your parents would like that very much," Bella shook her
head, looking back to me.
"Rose is staying here with Em. They don't care. We're all adults, Bell."
"I don't have any clothes," she argued.
"I do." I climbed from the bed and walked to the dresser. "Would you
like Batman, or fucking Superman?" I held up my old pajama bottoms to
her, and she fell back laughing.
"I hope there are pictures somewhere of that fuckery," Bella laughed.
"We'll go with Batman," I chose for her, and walked back over to the
bed.
"Will you be Superman?" she teased, pulling her shirt off. "Then we could
make a fort with the blanket and plot to take over the world," Bella
laughed, pulling my old PJ top over her head.
"Superman and Batman do not plot to take over the world, Angel. They
plot to save it," I rolled my eyes, huffing dramatically at her.
"Oh, excuuuuse me," she laughed.
I pulled off my shirt and tossed it to the floor as Bella slid off her
pants, and I tried not to fucking look at the sexy ass lace underwear she
had on, but fuck, I was a man and couldn't really help that shit.
I left my pants on, needing to stay focused on my mission here, and sat
beck on the bed, holding my arms open for her. Bella lay against me, and
traced her fingers over the art on my chest.
"What are you thinking about, love?" I asked, playing with her hair.
"Grandma Cullen's cornbread."
"You're lying in bed with me, half naked, and your thinking about my
grandmother's cornbread?" I chuckled.
"It was really good cornbread," she shrugged.
I lifted her chin so I could look at her, and knew if I didn't fucking say
it now, I never would.
"Bell?" I said softly, looking into her eyes that were only illuminated by
the faint glow of the candle.
"Mmm?"
"Have you ever been in love with someone?" As soon as the words left my
mouth, I felt the goose-pimples rise on my skin.
"No," she replied softly, her expression changing, for she was once again
hiding.
Don't leave me now Bella.
"Would you want to be?" I asked, trying to rephrase my question.
"I don't know, Flower Child. I try really hard not to think about that
stuff." Her breathing changed, becoming harder as the panic started to
set in. Bella's eyes danced around my face, trying to avoid my eyes that
were staring into hers.
Don't be scared Angel.
"What if someone was in love with you?" I thumbed her cheek, trying to
get her to look at me, but she wouldn't.
"I don't know," she whispered.
"What if I loved you?" That got her attention and she looked back up to
me. "What if I thought," I brushed my fingers over her face, "you were
incredibly special and precious, and was so fucking in love with you it
drove me crazy?" Bella said nothing, looking at me, and I was afraid she
would say she 'didn't know' again and cop out. So I gave her one, but one
of my choosing.
"Would you want me to tell you? Or would that scare you?" I held her
gaze, until she closed her eyes tightly.
"Everything about you scares me, Edward," she whispered, still holding
her eyes closed.
I could feel her tremble in my embrace, and I didn't want to be the one
to cause her this fear. I only wanted my words to comfort her, and fuck,
maybe make her a little happy that she had this effect on me.
I stroked her face, trying to get her to calm down, and leaned in to her
warm lips. The power in that kiss was electrifying. My heartbeat sped,
and Bella panted hard against my lips. I wasn't even really kissing her, as
our lips hovered over each other, barely making contact, but fuck, it was
so emotionally charged that it didn't even fucking matter.
"What if I just showed you then?" I whispered, kissing the corner of her
mouth. "Will you just let me show you, Bella?" I kissed her again, and
she clung to me, holding onto my neck with all her might as her lips came
back into mine.
I took that as a yes.
I cupped her face into my hands and kissed her softly, trying to make
good on my words. I wanted her to feel how much I loved her through my
touch. How precious her delicate skin was to me, and how fucking good
she felt against my lips.
As I kissed along her jaw, I rolled her to her side, still keeping my arm
tucked under her neck so that I could hold her face to mine. I took my
time, dedicating my attention to every part of her perfection.
I kissed the scar above her left eyebrow having no idea how it ended
up there, but back-logged it into my memory, wanting to ask later and
let her know it was a part of her that was imperfect, yet perfect.
To me.
Her bottom lip, that was bigger than her top, got special treatment as
well because I fucking loved it. And I sucked it softly, letting her know
how much I truly did before I moved on.
Her chin was next, and I placed small feather-light kisses to the small
dip it had from that previous bit of perfection called her bottom lip.
Moving down her body, I sat up on my knees and straddled myself over
her. My hands framed her face, and I leaned into her neck, kissing under
her jaw and then moving my lips back to her ear.
"I love you Bella," I whispered as my lips found the sensitive flesh under
her ear. "You're my angel, and I love you." I kissed her again and then
continued my decent.
My hands slid down over her chest, slowly drawing up her tee shirt and
revealing her luscious breasts. I dipped my head to her right nipple,
placing an open mouthed kiss to it.
"Edward," Bella breathed.
I kissed my way over to the left side, and repeated the same move.
"Perfection," I whispered against her skin, making my way back to the
other side.
Bella's hand gripped my hair tightly as I took my time, showing her how
much I loved her breasts. They fit easily into my hands, and I held them
there, kissing the cleavage that formed when I did.
"Babe," she whimpered, and my cock twitched hearing her call me that
shit.
I knew it was the real Bella, my Bella saying it, and no one else.
I released her from my hands and traveled lower, kissing each one of her
rib bones that showed, her navel, and then the space right above where
her panties began.
My hands pulled them down slowly, feeling the velvety skin of her silken
legs as I did. Once I reached her feet, I kissed the bottom of each, then
lowered my lips back down to her body.
Butterbean was first, and I kissed her softly several times, holding
Bella's thighs as she tried to close her legs to the intensity. I drew my
lips to the place where her leg joined her center, and she moaned a little
louder.
I came back to her sweet spot, kissing her clit again, and then a little
lower. I licked the side of her entrance, and she grabbed hold of my
hand that was on her breast, intertwining our fingers.
My free hand pushed her leg back, palming the underside of her thigh,
and bringing the lowest part of her to my mouth, I placed an open-
mouthed kiss over her entrance, licking her lightly.
Her grip on my hand tightened, and I repeated it again.
"You're gonna me cum baby," she panted, whimpering softly as I licked
her again.
"Cum, my love." I licked her again, and watched as her lips fell open,
crying out softly in hard pants as she came.
I removed myself from her momentarily to remove my jeans, and reached
to the bed-side table for a condom, wanting her to know that I loved her
enough to be fucking responsible, and not a G'damn animal, like before.
Kissing my way back up her body, I settled myself between her legs.
Bella drew me in with her legs, but pushed my chest away with her
hands. I sat back on my heels with only the head of my cock inside of
her, and she finally opened her eyes.
"I want to watch you. You're so beautiful," she whispered, roaming her
eyes over my naked body.
I gave her what she asked for, and leaned forward on my left hand, as I
cupped her ass into my right for a better angle. I slid into her slowly,
still trying to show her that I was making love to her, and not just
wanting to fuck, like earlier in the piano room.
She was tight, and wet, and warm, and fuck, watching me as I moved my
body into hers.
Bella's fingers gripped my shoulder, trying to pull me down on her, and I
let her, 'cause again, it was all for her.
"You always feel so good," she whispered along the skin of my neck.
Her body tightened around mine, and I closed my eyes briefly to the
sensation, wanting to stave it off. Bella's hands pulled my face to hers,
and she kissed my lips softly. Her feet came up higher along my back,
locking her ankles around me, and allowing me deeper inside of her.
"I want you to cum," she whispered, kissing me again.
I hit deeper, pressing my body as far as it could go without hurting her.
I felt all of her around me, and the same words I began with fell from
my lips again without any reason, or want, or need to stop staying them
ever.
"I love you Bella," I kissed her hard as I thrust harder. "I love you so
much."
"Me too, Edward," she breathed against my lips as I came hard. "Fuck,
me too."
I held my place there as I buried my face into her neck, breathing hard,
and fucking lived in that one little euphoric moment in my life that I had
to live for. Once the feeling simmered down, I pulled myself from her,
and tossed the condom to the waste basket, before rolling to my side.
Bella lay across my chest, and I allowed my hands to rake through her
hair, committing its silkiness and fragrance to my memory.
We laid there for a few minutes quietly, just enjoying each other. Her
soft lips kissed my chest several times as her fingers traced a pattern I
couldn't distinguish. I loved how it felt though. The candle still flickered
lightly, casting a soft warm glow to the room, and I watched all of the
shadows it played on the walls.
"I need a smoke," Bella sighed.
"Where's your purse?" I asked.
"It doesn't matter, I didn't get a chance to stop for some and I'm out,"
she sighed again.
"You know," I laughed once. "I bet if I searched my old drawers, I could
totally find a joint." I laughed again and she moved her head to look at
me.
"A bit of a stoner in your youth there, Flower Child?" she looked rather
amused.
"It was a phase," I shrugged.
"Well, Cheech, I suggest you look for it." Bella rolled to her back and
allowed me up.
"Pot-head," I teased, sliding off the bed.
I knew at some point I hid a joint or two somewhere in this room. The
fact that I was still breathing led me to believe Esme never found them
after I moved out. I checked my old desk drawer, but nothing was there,
except some porn I hid under an old dictionary.
"Ah," I said, finally finding one in the bottom drawer of my dresser.
I grabbed the lighter from the bookcase and walked back over to the
bed. Bella sat up, and I took a seat next to her on top of the pillows.
Thankfully the window was behind the bed. I unlatched the hook to push
it open, and the warm air of the night filtered in.
"It's probably too old to even fucking do anything other than make you
choke," I laughed, lighting the end.
I took a hit, and wanted to recant my previous statement.
"I take that back," I passed it to Bella, and she scooted closer to the
window, which put her closer to me..
"Did you ever get caught doing this as a kid?" Bella took a small hit and
held it in.
"I'm still alive aren't I?" I reached out for the joint and she laughed,
blowing the smoke out the window.
"I never did drugs growing up, you know that? Did you ever do anything
passed this fuckery?" Bella asked.
"No," I shook my head and passed it back to her. "Not that I couldn't
have, but no."
"What do you mean?" I watched her lips as she took a hit.
"I went to school with rich kids, Bell. I was a rich kid myself. Access to
shit is rather easy when you have money, as you know." I took the joint
back, and she nodded in understanding.
"Come here," I cupped her face into my hand and took a hit, bringing her
lips to mine.
Bella opened her mouth against mine and I blew the smoke lightly inside.
Her eyes closed as she held it in. My lips kissed her face as I brushed
her hair back over her bare shoulder.
"Better?" I whispered, still thumbing her cheek.
"Getting there," she smiled, barely opening her eyes.
"Bella you are high as fuck," I snickered, taking another hit.
"Can I have some?" she asked, leaning in towards me.
I cupped her face again, releasing the smoke into her mouth once more.
My fucking dick pulsed at how damn sexy that shit was. Apparently Bella
thought so too, 'cause she fucking moaned a little as she pulled back. I
tossed the rest of the joint out the window and slid my hands under her
ass, bringing her to my lap.
"I don't want to go tomorrow," Bella said softly, leaning her head to my
shoulder.
"You don't have to do anything you don't want to," I kissed her shoulder.
"Flower Child, you are supposed to help me down from the ledge, not tell
me how to leap forward."
"I'm sorry. Selfish desires and all of that stuff, Bell," I held her tighter
in my arms.
"Mmm hmm," she hummed.
"Are you ready for sleep?"
"I'm ready to ravage the fridge downstairs," Bella leaned away from me,
and I shook my head.
"Fucking munchies," I sighed, laughing lightly.
"Mm. You know, no one ever did eat my damn tiramisu."
"You brought tiramisu?" I asked surprised. "Why the hell didn't you say
so earlier?"
"I was enraptured in southern comfort food, babe. Italian delights were
nowhere in my thoughts." She climbed off my lap and slid off the bed.
I slid off too, and reached for my clothes from the floor, only bothering
to put my jeans back on. Bella put my Batman pajama top back on and
pulled on her jeans too. I took her hand as we walked down the staircase
towards the kitchen.
The house was pretty quiet, and I was glad to see the kitchen empty.
Bella pulled out the dessert from the fridge, and I grabbed plates and
spoons for us. She hopped up on the counter, and I handed her a large
spoon to scoop the tiramisu out from the dish.
"Here, babe," she handed me my bowl, and I kissed her to say my thanks.
I stood against the counter next to her as we ate. Bella's tiramisu, like
all of her other food, was fucking perfect. Sometimes, I wondered if
there wasn't anything she couldn't make.
"Edward, why did you steal a bike?" Bella asked, staring off into space
as she licked her spoon.
"What?"
"You said you stole a bike once. It was a long time ago. I wondered
why?" She was still staring off as I looked at her.
"Remind me to never offer you pot again, love," I laughed, looking back
to my bowl.
"I'm not that fucked up. I just want to know about the bike, stupid," she
hit me with her spoon, splattering tiramisu on my shoulder.
"No food fights in my mother's kitchen, please," I looked over my
shoulder to her.
"Sorry," Bella leaned forward and licked it off. "Still waiting to hear
about the bike."
"Keep licking shit off of me, and I might just tell you," I teased.
"You're insatiable, you know that?"
"It's not entirely my fault," I looked her over, and she smiled shyly, then
went back to eating.
"I stole the bike," I sighed hard, not really wanting to talk about this
shit, but fuck, what was left to hide at this point. "Because my father
promised me he would buy me one for my birthday, and he didn't."
"So you were like rebelling or some shit?" Bella asked, bringing her spoon
to her mouth.
"Sort of. I guess I wanted to prove to him that I didn't need him to help
me get shit."
"You haven't changed much, babe," Bella smiled, holding the back of the
spoon to her lips.
"Neither has he," I shot back.
"So, why didn't he buy you the bike? Were you like, in trouble or
something?"
"No, he just forgot." I looked back to my bowl, but no longer felt very
hungry.
"But it was your birthday? Your father forgot your birthday?" Bella said
softly.
"Exactly," I pushed off the counter and tossed my bowl into the sink.
I washed my hands and then the bowl, and fuck, Bella was still staring at
me, and I knew she wasn't letting this go. After I dried it, I set it in the
dish-rack and turned to her.
"I fucking bugged Carlisle for this stupid bike I wanted, and he told me
that if I kept my grades up and didn't miss any of my chores, he would
buy it for me for my birthday. My grades were fucking perfect. I even
did extra credit, and asked my mother to make the teachers cookies and
shit to stay on their good side.
"Every last stupid little chore he had on his G'damn list was done on time
to his satisfaction, but on my fucking birthday, there was no bike. Not
only was there no bike, but he didn't even come home that night.
"When he did come home the next morning, all of the fucking decorations
were still up in the house, and he actually had to ask my mother what
they were for. So yeah, he forgot." I turned back around, feeling pissed
off as all hell having to rethink that shit, and put the dessert back into
the fridge.
"I think your father just upgraded from asshat to a motherfucking asshat
in my book, Edward." Bella hopped down from the counter and set her
dish in the sink.
"Are you ready for bed, Bella?" I asked, not wanting to talk anymore
about my childhood bullshit.
"Yeah. I think I need a lift back to the room though," she closed her
eyes and leaned against the counter.
"Come on," I hoisted her up into my arms to carry her back to my room.
"Edward?"
"Yes, love?" I said, walking up the steps with her.
"You're mother's house has too many stairs," she shook her head against
my shoulder.
"Don't say that in front of her please. She has been bugging my father
for an elevator for months."
"Really?" she asked.
"Yes, really."
"Hmm."
"What?" I asked, wondering what she was up to.
"Nothing," she lied.
I knew she was up to no good.
Once we reached my room, I sat her down gently on the bed, and helped
Bella tug off her jeans, before taking off my own. She curled up in my
bed like a cat, and I spooned behind her, holding her securely in my
arms. My chin rested against her shoulder, and I breathed in all her
beauty and fragrance.
"I love you, Angel," I whispered, kissing her head softly.
"Me too, babe," Bella said softly, sending a small jolt of electric
happiness through my chest as she snuggled closer to me.
Bella's three words weren't the same as mine, but yet, they were just as
powerful.
"You know, you didn't do any challenges today Flower Child," she
mumbled.
"On the contrary, I believe today was the biggest challenge of all," I
kissed her hair again, hoping she would understand what I meant and
thankfully, she did.
"I supposed it was."
Bella POV
8:45 am
..
You see those dots?
DO YOU?!
That was my fucking heart flat lining as Edward's eyes bore into mine,
telling me with his stupid perfect mouth that he loved me.
And you fuckers! You fuckers knew it and left me out there to suffer.
What the hell people?
Fuck, he was adorable.
And fuck again, too damn swoon-worthy for my health.
Seriously I thought my heart was going to jump out of my chest and
start doing the G'damn Achey Breaky people!
Shit, I told the fucker I loved him too.
Okay, well, not really, but fuck, well yeah I did. They weren't the same
fucking words, but Edward knew what the fuck I meant. I felt it in his
touch, and none of that sad puppy shit lingered in his eyes, so I knew
that he knew.
Fucking stupid grandfather of his, teaching him all that fuckery with
pwning a girl.
G'damn Cullens.
I kissed his damn good Edwardly-smelling-ass-neck as I woke up, and he
held me tighter, kissing me in response; even though he was barely
awake. Today was going to suck. The next five days, truthfully. I was not
looking forward to this shit.
AT ALL.
"Hungry. Need food," I whined.
"You're not even awake," Edward's laughter vibrated against my chest as
he held me to him.
"Mmm hmm. Want food. Need food," I pushed against him.
"Can't we just sleep for like five more minutes?"
"Flower Child. Feed," I pushed him hard. "Me," I pushed him again.
"You're really lucky I love the shit out of you Bella." He rolled to his
back and looked highly annoyed with me as he climbed out of bed. "By
the way," he pulled on his pants, "you sound like the damn plant from
Little Shop of Horrors."
"Feeeed me Syemore! Feeeed me now!" I laughed, rolling back into the
bed.
"Exactly," he tossed me my clothes, and I sat up to get dressed.
After we were changed, we walked into the kitchen, and I instantly
regretted my existence, seeing Rose look me up and down.
"Long night?" she asked, giving me her bitch face.
"Actually," I sat down in the stool across from her, "after dinner I gave
blow jobs to every male member of the Cullen family. Gramps is rather
difficult to get off, and I am really quite tired." I stared at her, and I
could see the shock hit her eyes.
"Would you like coffee then, Bella?" Esme asked, not skipping a beat.
Did I say I loved her?
"Please," I replied, still looking at Rose.
Fucking say something bitch, just fucking say it.
"So, um, I was wondering something about your orders?" Rose asked.
"What about them?" I said lamely as Esme sat my coffee down, even
kissing my hair as she did.
"Well, I was thinking that maybe if you added some of our pastries to
your dessert menu, I could cut you a deal."
"I don't know. Submit the paperwork and I'll look it over." I shrugged.
"I'm trying to be nice to you," Rose scoffed.
"No, you're trying to use my business as a promotional front for your own
under the guise of a bargain." I set my spoon down and looked at her.
"And I wasn't fucking born yesterday." I held her gaze and she fought to
say something, but came up blank.
"Rose, if you want your fucking food on my menu, or my fucking respect,
don't bullshit me. Just fucking ask me for what you want. Secondly, don't
think because Emmett is your man that I am going to say yes." I picked
up my coffee and took a sip.
"Fine," she huffed. "If I cut your cost by ten percent, would you add a
selection of our pastries to your damn menu?"
"Twenty," I countered, looking down to my mug.
"Twelve."
"I said twenty Rosalie because I fucking meant twenty. I'm not the
fucking Price is Right dude. There's no wheel here, or fucking Plinko
game. Twenty is the offer. If you are really that stupid that you can't
see that giving up twenty percent of my cost, in exchange for being
featured on the dessert menu, is a fair deal, then you are justwell
fucking stupid." I waved my hand and went for my coffee again.
"Twenty percent is cutting my profit by half, Bella."
"And adding you to my menu will increase your profit by sixty percent," I
took a sip and swallowed, "minimum." I set the coffee down and could see
the green money hamster doing fucking laps in her head.
"How do you know?" she eyed me.
"Fuckin A." I smacked my head, "I'm not going to take you to business
school. You either say yes or no."
"Maybe I should write up a contract for the two of you," Carlisle
interjected.
"Maybe you should stay out of it. Number one, no contracts are being
made here other than verbal ones, and number two, I happen to have a
very capable legal team." I looked back to Rose.
"I was just trying to help and make it fair," Carlisle said, causing me to
look back to him.
"Fair? Let me tell you about fair, since apparently neither of you two
numbskulls know anything about what the hell you are saying. While you
simply propose a deal to me," I pointed to Rose, "you don't consider how
much shit you are putting on my plate. Not only do I need to figure out
menu selections to incorporate your fuckery into my fuckery, but I also
will have to pile even more shit onto the huge heap of shit Flower Child
already has on his pile.
"Fair? Ha. Fair my ass, lady. I should be getting that shit at cost. That
would be fair. I have no time for this shit this week, so unless you're
gonna put on your big girl panties and deal up, take the fucking thing off
the table and leave me and my fucking coffee alone," I shook my head,
taking a sip.
I was NOT taking anyone's shit this morning.
"By the way," I turned to Esme, "a fucking elevator would be an awesome
addition in this house, and do wonders for the value if you ever sold it."
There, NOW shit was fair.
Fucker.
That shit with Flower Child pissed me off. I could see how hurt he was in
his face last night, even though he tried really hard to hide it. I swear,
if his father hadn't just had a damn heart attack, I'd be ripp'n him a big
one right now.
Okay, a bigger one than I was already ripping.
"Eggs," Flower Child set my plate down, giving me a look of warning.
"Thaaaank-you-Pump-kiiin," I said, smiling wryly at him.
"Mo'nin all!" Grandma Cullen sang, coming in with a handful of flowers,
and Grandpa Cullen on her arm. "How is my favorite family this mo'nin?"
she laughed.
Looked to me like Grandma Cullen got her groove on last night.
Mmm hmm, I said it.
"You look pretty smiley this morning," I said, unable to shut my damn
mouth.
"Well, honey I tell you. This here man might be old, but he still knows
how to keep a lady satisfied."
Knew it! I fucking knew it!
"Grandma!" Edward and Emmett said at the same time.
"What? I was talking about these here flowers," she held up the bouquet
in her hands. "Perverts." She scoffed.
"Yeah, perverts." I shook my head, and she winked at me.
"Pappa wook!" Ness came running in behind them holding up a grouping of
flowers to him.
"Those are beautiful baby. Now go hand them to Grandma Esme, and
punch her in the stomach so she'll get off my case," he teased.
"Edward," Esme warned.
"I'm just kidding honey," he leaned over and picked her up, whispering
something in her ear.
"Bewwa hewre," Squeaks held them out to me and I had to fucking blush
just a little, knowing that Edward told her to do that shit.
I took her from Edward's lap, ignoring my food, and kissed her in the
crook of her neck, which I knew tickled like a motherfucker, 'cause
Edward did that shit all the time. Ness squealed, laughing hard, and I
tickled her more, until she was asking me to stop in hysterical giggles.
"Teach you to conspire against me with your father," I smiled, leaning in
to kiss her again.
"Can," she swallowed and took a deep breath, "you hewlp me do's dis?"
Squeaks pointed to her hair.
"Will you help me do mine?" I laughed, pointed to the tangled mess I had
going on.
"Yup," she nodded.
"You see," I looked to Rose, "a five year old can close a deal better than
you."
EPOV
I walked in to Ness ' room, and saw Bella sitting on the floor with her.
There was a mirror, I recognized, propped up against the wall in front of
them, and Ness was holding the blow dryer to Bella's hair as Bella talked
loudly on her cell phone.
It sounded like she was on the phone with Gordon since the words Japan
and fuck came up every two minutes.
I took a seat on Ness ' bed to watch this interaction.
Bella and Ness that is, not Bella and Gordon.
My daughter waved the blow dryer in front of her as Bella raked her
fingers through her hair, all the while chatting away on the phone. Ness
never took her eyes off Bella to look at me sitting there, she just stared
at her, lost somewhere in the magic that was Isabella Swan.
Bella never saw me sitting there either. After she hung up the phone, she
took the blow dryer from Ness, and started blowing her curly hair,
making good on her deal to do Ness' hair.
Once her hair was dry, Bella grabbed some type of girl shit hair product
out of her purse and rubbed some in her palms, smoothing it over Ness'
hair.
"Was dat?" Ness asked, watching Bella in the reflection of the mirror.
"Johnathon Anton's Finest, Squeeks."
"Whos dat?"
"A famous hair dresser that I would no doubt leave your father for,"
Bella laughed.
"Smells petty," Ness smiled, pointed to the mirror. "Wike Bewwa."
"At twenty bucks an ounce, Squeaks, it better," Bella said smiling. "So,
you want a ponytail, a head-band, or clips?"
"Bof," Ness nodded once.
"Let's go with clips Squeaks, I am not that talented," Bella laughed,
reaching into a bin my mother kept Ness' hair stuff in.
"Bewwa?"
"Yeah, babe," Bella answered, brushing Ness' baby fine hair straight.
"Why did mommy go?"
My fucking heart jumped into my throat at the same time Bella's hand
stopped brushing Ness' hair.
"She got a job honey," Bella said looking at Ness in the reflection.
"Wike Pappa?"
"Sort of," Bella said softly and I wasn't sure if this was where I should
interject or not.
It wasn't Bella's job to explain this to her, but at the same time, I didn't
want Ness to stop asking. She might clam up on me again, and she needed
to know about this. She needed to ask if it was bothering her.
"She come back?" Ness looked down, playing with her toes.
"I don't know honey."
"Mommy doesn't wike me," Nessie said softly.
"That is not true," Bella cupped her hand under Ness' chin and tilted her
head up.
"There is nothing about you not to like. You are beautiful, and sweet, and
loving, and you're not ever allowed to think anything else, understand?"
Bella said and Ness nodded to her.
I wanted to knock Jessica the fuck out.
"Will you be my mommy, Bewwa?" Ness leaned against Bella's chest, and
Bella hugged her arms around her tightly.
"I wish I could sweetheart." Bella kissed her head lightly, "I wish I
could." They sat there like that for a few minutes as Bella rocked my
daughter softly.
"My mommy left too Ness. I know how you feel, honey. It sucks, and
sometimes mommies don't even deserve to be considered mommies. But you
know what? We got lucky, and got to have good daddies. So it's okay
that our mommies suck major ass," Bella sniffled.
"Plus, you have a really awesome fake aunt. So seriously, your mommy
being gone, it's no big deal, 'cause I'll always be your aunt who loves you
more than anything. And you'll always be my Squeaky. Okay?"
"Kay," Ness sighed.
"Okay," Bella kissed Nessie's head again, and then released her, wiping
her face free from tears.
"Can I has dis one?" Ness held up a clip to Bella, and she laughed.
"Sure," Bella went back to doing her hair.
I snuck out of the room, not wanting Bella to know that I saw what
happened. I wasn't really sure why, but it just kind of felt wrong for
spying on something so intimate between them.
.
Bella drove with me back to The Workshop.
We had things to go over before she left tonight, and I was driving her
to airport, anyhow. I could see her sadness as she stared out the window
of the Volvo, biting on her lip. She kept her thoughts to herself though,
and I didn't want to ask.
Once we arrived to the restaurant, she walked silently with me to her
office. I pulled up a seat next to hers so she could go over all of the
reports and shit with me, as well as a slew of other shit.
After Bella explained everything, short of how the world was created, to
me, she allowed me to go to the kitchen and start prep for this evening.
My mind was a little on overload, and the work was actually quite good.
Keeping my hands busy, and focusing on a physical task, was helping to
keep my shit together.
After Seth came in, I gave him the rundown for what was going on, and
then his instructions for the hour I would be gone to take Bella to the
airport. I hoped he could handle it.
Emmett called our meeting to order at 5:45 since Bella was still freaking
out over shit in her office, and I couldn't help but fucking look around
and think about how this was what it would look like in a few months
when Bella was gone.
I tried to pay attention to Em, but my mind wandered, not really
interested in hearing him go over fucking numbers and statistics. I
wanted fucking Bella cursing and making fun of people. Hell, even her
standing there poking fun at me, or making me squirm...whatever.
It just wasn't fucking right without her.
None of this, none of this was fucking right without Bella.
My stomach tied itself into a tight knot as I walked back to the kitchen
to begin service. I felt like kicking something or fucking hitting someone.
If Seth fucked up tonight, I felt really sorry for his ass.
The restaurant was busy as fuck tonight, of course, and it only made my
irritation grow further.
Bella came in around seven and walked around, checking shit out, but said
nothing before slipping out the back door. I tried to focus on what the
fuck I was doing, but that damn propped open exit door that led to Bella
was staring me down, begging me to walk through it.
"You're on the pass, Seth. DON'T fuck it up," I tossed down my towel and
stepped out from behind the steel table.
Bella was sitting on our palettes smoking when I stepped outside. She
didn't look at me, and I wondered why as I took a seat next to her. Bella
passed me her cigarette, still looking forward, and I took it from her.
"I'm sorry," she said softly.
"For what?" I asked, brining the cigarette to my lips.
"For the shit with Jessica," her voice broke, and I saw tears stream down
her cheeks.
"We're over all of that, Angel," I shook my head.
"No, I never said I was sorry, and that was incredibly selfish. I just," she
closed her eyes, shaking her head. "I just saw you sitting there that
night andthe way you looked Edward," she opened her eyes, but still
looked forward as more tears fell.
"You broke my heart, and even though I didn't know whyI just wanted
to protect youand Squeaks. That day, when Jessica came to my office
and sat there, she was so fucking wrapped up in her own world and just
gaveshe just fucking gave Ness away," she sniffled again, and swatted
away tears from her right cheek.
"Now fucking Squeaks thinks she's not worthy of Jessica. Likelike
fucking Jessica is anyone anyway." Bella closed her eyes again and I
tossed the cigarette away so I could hold her.
"It's not your fault Bella," I hugged her in my arms, kissing her head.
"Jessica fucking sucks as a mother, and it's not your fault. I don't blame
you, and I am not mad at you. I heard what you said to Ness this
morning, and I haven't ever loved you more than in that moment,
sweetheart." I kissed her head again, closing my eyes, with her wrapped
in my arms.
"I meant what I said. I promise," Bella whispered.
"I don't understand."
"That I'll always be there for her, even though I won't always be here.
You know what I mean though, right?" she asked.
"Of course, Angel. That's why we love you."
"Me too," Bella kissed my neck, and I was about to kiss her back, when
fucking Seth came out and interrupted our moment.
Bella sat straight up and turned away as I faced Seth, giving him the
look of death.
"What do you want fucker?" I asked, fucking annoyed.
"Um, I ran out of something, and people are asking for it," Seth pointed
nervously towards the kitchen, and I sighed hard.
"Can you count to eighty-six Seth?" I asked.
"Uh, yeah," he nodded.
"Good, 'cause your ass is running eighty-six times around this building.
And then you can come back and explain to me what the purpose of
having an 'eighty-six' board in the fucking kitchen is," I twirled my
finger, signalling for him to start.
I heard Bella laughing next to me.
"Oh, and while you're at it, you can go fuck off down on the pier, and
bring me back eighty-six fucking reservations for tomorrow night." Seth
began to run, and I called out to him again.
"And after that, you can bring me fucking eighty-six phone numbers from
the gay bar down the street, all autographed to you, fucker."
Bella fell to her side laughing hard against the pallet.
"Eighty-six gay numbers," Bella laughed harder. "Oh, my fuck. That shit
is good."
"Fucker interrupted a special moment," I leaned over and kissed Bella's
cheek.
"That he did," she sat up and wiped her eyes.
"You see this right here, Bella," I cupped her face into my hands. "This is
the only way you should ever look," I kissed Bella's forehead. "Happy."
~XXX~
I stood with Bella as they loaded her luggage, which surprisingly wasn't
very much, onto Ramsey's private plane.
My head, was going a million miles an hour as the clock ticked down to
my final seconds with her.
My arms, could not have held her any tighter.
My lips, could not have kissed her enough.
My heart, couldn't possibly ache anymore than it already did.
My eyes, would never be able to capture all of her beauty, and remember
it in such a way that did her justice.
"I'll miss you," she whispered into the crook of my neck.
"Just please be careful, and call me as soon as you get there, no matter
what time it is," I kissed her head again.
"I will, babe."
"We're ready to board when you are, Miss Swan," the attendant said,
walking passed us.
"I have to go," Bella pulled back from me, and I captured her face into
my hands, pulling her to my lips.
"I love you, Angel," I whispered before kissing her again.
"Me too, babe," Bella kissed me once more, and then I let her go.
She didn't look back as she climbed inside, and that was good. I wanted
my last vision of her to be Bella accepting my love, and returning the
same sentiments.
As the plane door closed and locked, I walked towards the way we
entered, and pulled my cell from my pocket. I thumbed through until I
found the only name on the list that mattered, and clicked the text icon
to leave her with one last message.
Be safe. I love you.








Chapter 18 "Single Serving"

BPOV
3:45 am
Fucking Brad Pitt. Fucking hotel movies. Am I not in G'damned Japan? Is
there not some movie on that isn't fucking all Americano and shit?
I flipped angrily through the channels in my hotel room. That stupid
movie, with stupid Brad Pitt was the only thing on that held any interest
for me, and I hated him more for it. I mean, I did not want to hear
about single-serving anythings right now.
It was all true though.
As a person who traveled a lot, I could totally relate.
Okay, well actually it was the other dude, whose name I didn't know,
saying all the single-serving fuckery, but I digress.
The point is, his shit about how everything you get when you travel is
served up in a single-sized form, is totally motherfucking true and ultra
depressing.
From the damn little baggy of peanuts on the plane to the damn mini
tube of toothpaste in the hotel bathroom, it was nonstop.
Mini shampoos were not cute to me unless they belonged to a mini
person.like Squeaky.
Ugh.
I tossed the remote to my side, and rolled over in bed to bury my face in
the white pillows that smelled like the same disinfectant spray every
hotel smelled like.
Amazing.
I eyed my phone and debated.
It had only been a few hours since I last talked to Flower Child. Would
he think I was crazy if I called him again? Especially if all I had to say
was that Fight Club was getting on my nerves?
He said to call him whenever you wanted or neededand that he loved
youand that he missed you...
As I reached for the phone, it rang and I smiled, thinking it was him. I
didn't even bother to look at the caller ID as I answered. I mean, who
else would it be?
"Hey babe," I said, smiling all girly and shit.
"Babe? I didn't realize we had that sort of relationship, Missy."
Fuck, it was Gordon.
Of course.
"I thought you were someone else, like, someone you have taken me away
from for 5 motherfucking days," I sunk down further into the bed.
"So sorry. I thought you rather enjoyed Tokyo?"
"I enjoy getting fucked all proper-like Gordy, AND sleeping in a bed that
doesn't smell like G'damn Lysol Headquarters."
"Well, I'm sorry I can't help with the first," he laughed. "But if you like,
I can have the fucking housekeeping staff refrain from using harsh
chemicals on your linens, darling."
"No, I'm just being a twat. What's up?"
He went on to explain what he needed from my 'inspection' tomorrow, and
made small-talk about bullshit. Normally, I enjoyed talking to Ramsey,
but not right now. I just wanted to talk to Flower Child or fucking
Squeaky. Hell, I'd settle for Emmett.
I just wanted a motherfucking Cullen voice damn it.
After I hung up the phone, I took a shower and then came back to
'attempt' to go back to bed. I, of course, failed and fucking tossed and
turned. I was going to feel like real shit today. Jet lagged, tired,
grumpy, and not all freshly fucked oh yeah, today would not be the
day to fuck with me.
For this Bella Swan was what well organized staff, and fucking successful
businesses were made of.
Not that other girl, who got fucking owned by stupid, crooked-smiling
bastards who made good ass pie crust, and burgers, and fucking pizza,
and all that other shit Edward owned my ass with.
Edward
I grabbed the phone and hit the fucking key to his number, not giving a
shit if he thought I was crazy. I mean, fuck, didn't he already?
It rang four times and went to voice mail.
Fuck.
There was no way I was going to get any sleep. I climbed out of bed
again and walked to the large windows of my room, overlooking the city
below. This hotel, Conrad, sat 37 floors overlooking the Tokyo Shiodome
area. It was fucking breathtaking, but here, alone, pointless.
The lights painted a colorful picture below against the dark night. It was
cold outside, only registering about 30 degree, and the chilly air steamed
against the warm light bulbs. I wanted so badly for Flower Child to be
able to see it.
Walking back over to my suitcase, I pulled out my digital camera and
clicked it on. After I turned off all the lights in my room, I snapped some
pictures, and then went back to my suitcase for some warm clothes.
Once my clothes were on and I was bundled up, I made my way out into
the hotel to snoop around. I photographed the long hallway and all of the
elegant art along the walls. Inside the actual restaurant, I took pictures
of the dining room. The fireplace area was always my favorite. The glass
case lined the lower portion of the wall along the room. I lay on the
carpet and snapped a few shots of it.
Next was the kitchen, and then the large chandelier hanging over the
VIP table. The view from here was amazing as well, as it sat on the
highest floor, so I took some extra picture of that as well. I just wanted
Edward to be able to see it all, to be able to envision it in his mind by
looking at these.
There was more though.
I made my way down to the lobby and exited the hotel. The air was
seriously fucking cold, and I instantly started to shiver as I walked
along. Even though it was late, the street was still buzzing with people.
Vendors lined the roadside, selling all types of food and souvenirs. There
was a cute, pink stuffed-bunny on one of the stands, and I stopped to
buy it for Squeaks.
A different vendor had t-shirts, and I had to laugh looking at one that
said, "I'm huge in Japan". It instantly made me think of Emmett, for
various reasons, and I purchased it for him. For my staff, I bought
various things, mostly cheesy shit, but I still had not found anything for
Flower Child.
I decided to just settle on taking the pictures tonight.
There were some vending machines gathered in the center of the plaza,
and I snapped some pictures of them, knowing he would think a vending
machine containing gourmet food would be funny.
There was something there in that, wasn't there?
I mean, who else could I send a picture of a fucking vending machine to,
and have them understand what the fuck I meant?
No one
The Sanrio store was nearby and I walked to it, wanting to take a
picture for Ness too. Edward said she was doing alright, which was good
to hear, but I still wanted her to know that I was being truthful. That
day when she sat on my lap in The Workshop, I whispered in her ear that
I would bring her back all of Hello Kitty's friends when I arrived.
I, of course, whispered it so Edward wouldn't hear and freak out.
After I finished taking my pictures, I walked back to my hotel, grabbing
some type of spring roll thing from a street vendor on my way. It was
quite delicious if I do say so. Usually, most street-cart food was.
Earlier in the day, when I was in Gordon's restaurant, I had taken
pictures of the food and the chefs for Edward. He would love how
beautiful the dishes looked, and the creativity, as he too was very
creative.
Thoughtful. That is what I like best about Edward's food, I think. It is
thoughtful.
Back in my room, I loaded up the pictures onto my laptop, and then
emailed them off to him. I looked over at my phone, still sitting on the
bedside table, and smiled, seeing it flashing. I flipped open the lid and
smiled again, seeing a text from him.
Angel, sorry I missed your call. If you are still awake, call me back.
I love you
- E
I started to text him back.
Go to my office and check your email, babe. BTW, spring rolls at 3am
pwnd me.
I love
My finger lingered over the next letter nervously.
It wasn't that I was being a big baby and couldn't say it. It was
justwell okay people, level with me here. You have watched that
fuckery of a movie Ghost with damn Patrick Swayze and shit, right?
I have a PS love affair, yes, I know.
Anyhow, my point is that you know how he tells Demi "ditto" when she
says she loves him? Well folks, I'm having a Ghost sort of moment with
this shit. I mean, when he told Demi that saying ditto was more
important to him 'cause everyone says I love you, I totally understood
the man.
Me telling Flower Child 'me too' was MY ditto.
When he made love to me that night in his old bedroom, I could feel the
depth of what he felt. The power. The tenderness.justall of it. It
matched how I felt on every level. So yeah, I said fucking me too,
because I wanted him to know that everything he felt, I fucking did too.
And that shit was more than a simple I love you.
I erased my text and started over.
It's okay. I left you some pics in an email. You can use my office to look
at them when you get a chance. I miss you babe.
Show Squeaky the Sanrio store and let her know I'll be there in a few
hours when they open. :D
Me too babe Lobsters for life :D
-Bella
I sat down on my bed and sighed. A few minutes later he texted me
back.
Check your email, Angel.
I laughed and walked back over to my laptop. He replied to my email.
You have been quite busy I see.
Fucking sushi in a vending machine? Seriously? LOL.
The restaurant looks beautiful, though, I have seen something that would
surely surpass it. It is about 5'1", long brown hair, and has a really
delicious looking ass.
Oh, and really fucking exquisite caramel-colored eyes.
Squeaks has you close to her heart, tucked away in the Hello Kitty
locket.
Get some sleep, Angel. Thank you for the pictures, you made my day.
I love you,
Edward
P.S. No more walking around the streets at 3 am please (don't lie to me
either, cause I saw the time on the pics, my lovely). If something happens
to my lobster, I'll be a very lonely man for the remainder of my
existence. Seeing as how you said 'for life'. :)
And I attached something for you to sleep to. It is an 'updated' version
of Grandma Cullen's lullaby.
I laughed at him. Fucking fatherly bastard.
Adorable fatherly bastardbut still
Going back to his last line, I looked to the link he attached and clicked
on it. A soft melody began to play, and I was a little in shock at how
close it really did sound to the song Edward hummed to me.
I never heard the lyrics before though, and once I did, I fucking got all
teary eyed and shit. My heart seriously burned in my chest, and I had to
lean my head on the table to listen to it. My eyes closed, and I just
fucking saw Flower Child, and nothing else under my lids.
It was his face smiling at me with all his charm.
I thought back to Edward sitting that first week with Nessie in the caf
along the beachside. The way he looked at her, the love he had in his
eyes. I needed to see her too though, so I remembered the way she
looked that day in his arms, as she played with the art on his chest when
he told her she couldn't come with us.
She wanted to cry
I lifted my laptop from the table and walked with it over to my bed. It
took the place Edward would have laid in if this were his bed, and I hit
the button to replay the song again. I wanted to fall asleep with him in
my head.
As the lyrics drowned me into me dreams, I pictured the way Edward's
lips felt on my skin as he kissed me in his bed, and the way his hands felt
on my body as he showed me his love.
Wasn't hard to fall.it was a wrecking ball..watch your hands move
along my facethey trace all the lines of liftit isn't hard to love your
scars'cause that's everywhere you've beenI am yoursand I know that
you're mineyou're worth waiting forbe my only...
EPOV
Ness slept in my bed the night Bella left and the night after that as
well. I didn't argue with it. I was happy she wanted to sleep here. If I
was alone, I would just be thinking about Bella, and smelling her
abandoned fragrance in my bed. Ness slept on her side, and I couldn't
help but to think that maybe she was doing it because she smelled Bella
in the spot.
Normally she would sleep on my chest for most of the night, but the last
two nights she was having none of that.
This morning after breaking, I wanted to talk to her about everything
that was happening. I felt like it was needed. Talking to her was hard
though, because I wasn't sure how much she could really understand.
I mean, what do I say?
'I'm sorry your mother is a cunt?'
Right.
"Ness , come here baby," I laid on the couch, and held out my arms for
her.
She came tottering over and I lifted her onto my stomach, encircling my
arms around her. I took a minute to look at her face and appreciate how
beautiful she was. Amazing, how small and light she felt, yet, she was
growing up so fast. The length of her hair caught my eye, and I brought
one hand up to twirl one of her curls around my finger.
"We watch Bugs?" She pointed to the T.V., wanting to watch the Bugs
Bunny DVD Bella bought her.
"In a minute, sweetheart. Daddy wants to tell you something, okay?"
"Kay," she looked at me, and I swallowed hard, trying to hold my shit
together.
"Daddy isn't very good at this, but I'm going to try 'cause I think it is
important, baby." I lifted her up and rolled to my side, cradling her in
my arm so she would feel secure.
"Renesmee, when you were born, that was the happiest day of Daddy's
life. You were so small," I brought her fingers up to my lips, "and I was
so scared."
"Why?" she asked.
"Because I knew how delicate you were, and that it would be very hard
to keep you safe." I closed my eyes as my head tilted to hers, kissing her
baby-fine hair. "And I'm sorry Ness." I fought hard to hold back what
was bubbling up inside of me.
My point was not to upset her, but I couldn't help the raw emotions that
surged forth when I thought about all the shit that had happened.
Renesmee's face in the mirror from the other day when she asked Bella
why Jessica went away was at the forefront of my mind, and played
against the image of her as that small baby on the day she was born. I
remembered it vividly, as it was the most important day I had ever
experienced.
She just gave Ness away
And she really fucking did.
And it really fucking hurt my baby.
"I made a promise that day to you that nothing would ever hurt you, and
I failed Ness. I'm so sorry." I held in the tears that wanted to fall free,
and tried to subside the burning in my chest. My daughter needs someone
to be strong for her, and I needed to be that person. "I'll try harder, I
promise." I kissed her head and held my lips there.
"I know Mommy is gone baby and that must hurt. I want you to talk to
Daddy if you feel sad or mad, or anything at all. Remember the
flashcards we did?" I waited, and she nodded 'yes' to me. "If you need
to draw, or color a picture for Daddy to show me, then that is okay. Just
like the flashcards, okay?"
"Kay Daddy."
"Do you want to talk to me about anything right now? Daddy will listen if
you do," I tucked a curl behind her ear as I waited.
"Whens Bewwa come back?" she asked.
"I showed you on the calendar this morning, baby, remember?"
"Oh."
"And I showed you the pictures she sent us, so you know she's getting
lots of Hello Kitty's, right?"
"Yup." That made her smile.
"Ness ? You have to understand something honey." I cupped my hand to
her cheek, needing her to look at me. "Bella loves you very much, and I
know that you love Bella too, but honey, Bella has to work. So because
we love her very much, we have to let her to do that. Because when you
love someone, you have to let them do the things that make them happy,
and cooking makes Bella very happy. So we have to let her, since we love
her so much. Alright?"
"Awight," she nodded.
"That's a good girl, a very big girl too," I smiled lightly.
"Daddy wuvs Bewwa too?" she pointed to the locket Bella gave her that I
put a picture of Bella in the other night.
"Daddy loves Bella very much honey. But you know what?"
"What?"
"I still love you more. There's no one I'll ever love more than my Ness." I
tickled her and she laughed. "And no one will ever be as beautiful," I
tickled her more, pulling her onto my chest as I rolled to my back again.
"And no one's laugh will ever make me so happy." I kissed her face as my
arms wrapped over her.
"I miss Bewwa," she said and made me laugh.
"What about Daddy? I'm starting to feel like chopped liver here," I
teased.
"You hewere," she shook her head.
"Always, baby," I kissed her head. "Daddy will always be here. Promise."
A knock on the door sounded, letting me know Leah was here, and also,
that my day was about to begin.
Two down, three to go
..
"So, I told the bitch, listen, just because you don't eat meat, doesn't
mean you can't toss a salad!" Emmett laughed, telling the same fucking
joke I had heard a million times before to Seth.
"If you don't mind Em, we are trying to fucking work here," I pushed
passed him, and he scowled at me.
"Lighten up. B isn't here to put your balls in a jar, dude."
"I'm sorry Emmett, I didn't realize Bella not being here was an excuse to
fuck off," I stared back at him and he shook his head at me.
"Fine, fine. Have fun with Mr. Stick-in-the-ass," he said to Seth,
motioning towards me, and walked out of the kitchen.
Seth laughed, going back to his prep.
I stepped out from behind the table, walking towards the doors. Emmett
was in the dining room, reading over the reservations book with Angela. I
waited for him to finish and then walked over to him, hitting the book he
was holding lightly.
"Can I help you?" he asked, looking up to me.
"I don't appreciate the shit you just pulled."
"We're just joking Edward, get a laugh meter man," Emmett looked back
down to the book.
"I'm not talking to you as your brother, Emmett."
"You're gonna start throwing your weight around?" he looked back up to
me, closing the book.
"No, but I would appreciate it if you didn't talk down to me in front of
people I'm supposed to be in charge of. That little fucker already thinks
he's all high and mighty, and you insulting me in front of him, only makes
it worse," I explained.
"It's only a joke," he stood his ground.
"And how would you feel if one of the waiters did it to you?" I
countered.
"B makes fun of you all the time. Never see you cry about it then," he
smirked.
"Bella is my boss, so she has that right. Technically I'm your boss, which
gives you no such authority. In fact, if I was to start 'throwing my
weight around', as you say, I could technically reprimand you for doing
so," I tried to keep a straight face, but the thought of reprimanding
Emmett was just too fucking funny.
"Oh, I'd like to see that," he stood up taller, coming around the podium
towards me.
We had one of those moments, like in an old Clint Eastwood film. His eyes
narrowed as did mine, and I saw his hand twitch, trying to guess my next
move. We stared each other down, and just as I thought he might back
off, he came at me. But I was too fucking quick and hoisted his big ass
over my shoulder.
"I told you that I could fucking take you, asshole," I moved towards the
door, fully prepared to toss him in the street, or worse.
"Edward, put me down, man. You're only going to make the beating I've
got planned worse."
"You sound scared," I laughed, pushing my way through the door.
"Put. Me. Doooww.."
Before he could finish, I listened to him, tossing him over my shoulder
into the fucking flowerbed that lined the building. A table of outside
diners, attractive girls Emmett would have no doubt hit on, laughed as I
turned around. Two of them eyed me, then turned back to Emmett and
giggled at him covered in dirt.
"Have a nice day, asshole," I ran back inside and locked the door,
laughing to myself.
"Nice, Bella would be proud," Angela laughed, having seen our display
from behind the bar.
"Thanks," I smiled, walking passed her back into the kitchen.
As I entered the kitchen, I saw Emmett coming in through the back door
and I raised an eyebrow at him, glancing once to Seth. Emmett backed
down, but I knew it wasn't over.
He would try to get me back, no doubt.
"Seth, you're on bread duty. Now," I pointed my thumb towards the door.
"Get me a cookie, bitch." Emmett said.
"Yeah and I'll give that bitch of yours, the blonde, a kiss too," Seth said.
I looked at Emmet with an expression that clearly read; 'I fucking told
you so.'
"You don't want to be saying that shit little man," Emmett walked
towards him. "You're job is to get the bread and my fucking cookie. The
smart mouth shit, is reserved for the BIG kids. There's only two in this
place and one of them is not you. Now go, before I decide to dunk you
into the fucking sink and see how long it takes your flesh to separate
from the bone when I turn that bitch onto the scalding setting." Emmett
pointed towards the doors.
Seth ran more than walked out of the kitchen.
I couldn't blame him though. Emmett was at least five times his size. And
lemme tell you, as someone who has experience being burned on more
than one occasion by the hot water setting on a professional kitchen sink,
that shit was no fun.
"Sorry," Emmett said turning back to face me.
"I just don't need that fucker running his mouth. I'm also not trying to
kiss Bella's ass, you know. I'm just trying to prove to her that I am
capable of what she put me in charge to do." I leaned against the steel
table.
"I get it, really." Emmett came around the table and started doing the
prep Seth left.
"So, how is that shit going anyway? Bella being your girlfriend, that is,"
he smiled.
"She's not my girlfriend," I wish. "But it's going good."
"Yeah? I'm glad. Seriously." Emmett hit my shoulder once.
"I told her I loved her," I said softly, looking down at the carrots I was
peeling.
"You did? How'd that go? What did B say? Holy shit, you still have your
fun-bag?" Emmett brought his fist to his mouth laughing.
"She said she loved me too." I may have smirked a little.
"B said that?! Our B? Bella? Bella Swan?"
"Yes, fucker," I gave him a dirty look.
"So, you said, 'Oh Bella Swan I love you' and she fucking said, 'Oh Edward
Cullen, I love you too!'" he pretended to hold someone's face in his hands,
and tongue said imaginary person.
"Sort of, but there was a lot more tongue involved," I laughed.
"What do you mean sort of? Either you said it, or you didn't, Edward," he
waved his hand at me.
"I said 'I-love-you'," I explained like he was my five year old.
"And-then-what-did-B-say?" he egged me on like I was retarded.
"She said 'me too'," I said going back to peeling.
"Me too? She said the words, 'me too'?" he asked.
"That's what I said didn't I?" I looked over to him, feeling rather
annoyed.
"But she didn't actually say 'I love you Edward'. Did I get that right?"
"Don't do that," I shook my head at him.
"Do what?"
"Take my 'me too' away. Can't I just fucking have my 'me too', please?
Without you shitting all over it?"
"I'm sorry," Emmett smiled, holding up his hand. "I'm sure it was a very
significant 'me too'."
"It wasfucker," I laughed lightly.
"Well, at least B didn't fucking kill you, or run away, or do any of the
other shit I swore she would do. So that's good, man," he hit my back.
"Yeah."
"Hey, so this weekend I was thinking about having a family thing at the
beach since we're closed on Sundays now. You wanna do that shit?" he
asked.
"Sure, but I don't know if Ness will be alright with that. The water shit,"
I clarified.
"Hmm, that's true. I didn't think of that. Well, maybe we could just go
to that park they have up the road. Water-free," he smiled. "They have
grills and shit, so we can have a cook-out there."
"That's a good idea," I nodded, beginning to chop the carrots.
"And maybe you and Dad can kiss and make up," he suggested.
"Not until he apologies to Bella."
"He could have died Edward," Emmett said softly.
"I could die at any minute myself Em. Do you see him picking up the
phone to call me? No. Don't try that guilt trip bullshit on me. It doesn't
work."
"I just think it would be nice if you two could get along," he replied.
"Oh, I'm with you on that, but it isn't going to happen Em. We just
don'tgo together."
"Will you at least try?" he asked, sounding very frustrated.
"Been doing that for twenty-three years Emmett."
Seth came back into the kitchen and the conversation ended. I looked
over all of the items he brought back, and was surprised he actually got
it right. There was even an extra cookie for me, which was nice, but also
creepy in a way.
I tried to just think it was because perhaps he feared me too.
"You need to stay later than usual tonight, Seth." I said.
"How come?"
"We're doing a deep cleaning so when Bella comes back she doesn't nail
our asses to wall." And so she sees that I care.
"Man, that woman is crazy. I mean, I'd fuck her silly, don't get me
wrong, but she is a fucking loon," he laughed, stirring his pot of stock.
"What the fuck did you just say?" The anger rose up in my chest. I had
to grip the steel table, as I stared at him, to keep from doing something
else with my hands.
"I said Bella's hot, but fucking crazy," he shrugged, looking at me like
that was a normal thing to say. "I mean, don't you think so?"
"No, I fucking don't." I walked closer to him, pushing up one of my
sleeves. "Have you ever been to prison Seth?"
"Uh, no," he shook his head, laughing once.
"I have. You see this here?" I pointed to the ink on my arm. "I got that
one there."
"What did you go to prison for?" he asked, looking back and forth
between my arm and my face.
"Killing a stupid motherfucker who talked shit about his boss," I stared
his ass right in the eye with that lie. "If I were you," I pushed my sleeve
back down, "I wouldn't do it again."
Bella POV
Wednesday
I walked around the Sanrio store, trying to find the perfect toys to bring
home for Squeaks.
There were so many to choose from. I walked around nervously, though I
wasn't sure why. I mean, they were just kid's toys. What was there to
be nervous about? A Hello Kitty dressed up like a lobster caught my eye
and I wanted to laugh.
How perfect.
I put it in my basket, but it wasn't for Squeaks.
The shop keeper's eyes were on me, watching. I could feel it. She knew I
had money; a tourist who could not decide what to buy. This did not help
the butterflies that were flapping around in my belly at all. If she came
over and asked to assist me it would suck. I hated refusing help because
I knew it made the employee look bad, but at the same time, I hated
being followed around.
Shit, why am I so overworked today?
Lack of dick, my lonely butterbean chimed in.
"You are such a dirty whore Butterbean, I swear. Three days, barely,
without Edward, and you are already driving me insane," I said aloud.
Speak for yourself.
"Don't start with me! I own you. We can last three fucking days
without-fucking-Edward!" I stared down at my crotch.and that's when
the sales lady just had to approach me.
"You okay?" she asked timidly.
Yes, just arguing with my clit. You know us silly Americans!
"I'm fine. Just looking for a gift for my" I stopped short, not knowing
what the fuck I was about to say.
"Daughter?" she guessed.
"Yeah. No, no, not MY daughtermy friend's daughter. She is really
special to me though. Like, I'm sort of her aunt, even though," I leaned
on a pile of stuffed animals, "she wants me to be her mom. I can't do
that though, 'cause you see, I'm moving, and if I move, she will think I am
abandoning her. She, Squeaks, has this mother, Jessica, and she's a real
cunt, lemme tell you.
"This bitch left her fucking kid to go work for Rachel Ray, I mean who
does that?! Anyhow, so, Squeaks, she wants me to be her mom and I
really want to be her fucking mom, because she really deserves to have a
really good mom and her dad is so fucking good and sweet and he works
for me and he tries so hard but I just feel like I'm messing everything up
and now I have to buy her toys and I just don't know which one is right,"
I was fucking bawling like a baby at this point, sobbing as I curled up
into the bin filled with Hello Kittys in the middle of the damn store.
"Do you like this one?" I held up the lobster to her, sniffling, and she
nodded. "Me too," I sniffled again, wiping my nose on a Chococat. "He
calls me his lobster," I sniffled harder.
"Who?" the very confused woman asked.
"Edward. Squeaks' Daddy. He said I was his lobster," I cried harder.
"Ah, Friends," she pointed and nodded.
"Fuck, even you get it. I am sooooo stuuuupid," I started to sob again,
curling into the fetal position as I hugged all the stuffed animals.
"Tea?" she asked, trying to get me to sit up.
I nodded to her, sitting in the fucking bin of toys. She smiled and walked
to the back of the store. People were staring at me and I scowled.
"What?! Never seen a woman break down before?!" I flailed my arms like
the crazy person I was.
"Tea." The woman returned and handed me a cup.
"Get your ass in this bin," I said to her. She looked around nervously.
"I'm planning on buying half of your store. The least you could do is
fucking climb in here with me and fucking pretend like you understand
what the fuck is going on."
She looked around again, and just as I was about to climb out and tell
her to forget it, she called for a few of the other girls to join us. All of
a sudden, I was huddled up in the fucking Sanrio store, telling three
strange Japanese women about all my troubles.
In a damn bin of toys.
EPOV
Tonight was long, and I didn't hear from Bella much. The time difference
was really making it harder to keep in contact. I called her a few times,
but she didn't answer. I was afraid to wake her up, since in Japan, it
would have been time for bed.
After the kitchen was cleaned down, I made my way to Bella's office,
needing to finish off the reports she had asked me to keep track of for
training purposes. I hated using her office, but my office was still under
construction, so I had little choice. I was afraid I would mess something
up on her computer or some shit. She was always so meticulous about her
things, and I didn't want to let her down or piss her off by fucking things
up.
As I waited for the computer to load, I stared at the desktop screen,
reading all of the names of the icons. One in particular, caught my eye.
Invoke.
Against my better judgment, I opened the folder. It revealed a series of
documents and saved files for the restaurant. One of the links was to an
actual website though, so I double-clicked it. A very expensive looking
webpage for the restaurant came up. The logo's colors were rich hues of
gold and silver, against black, with a burnt orange accent.
"2010"
That was the date across the bottom of the logo.
Bella said years, but sure as shit, that number said 2010, as in, fucking
months from now.
I knew Bella was leaving in a few months, but I figured that was only for
travel and shit. I didn't know that this place was OPENING in months.
Hell, didn't they just find the location? Okay, well it could be at the END
of 2010, which would be like a year and a half, right?
My fucking head hurt.
I closed the folder, and got back to work.
Once the reports I needed printed out, I filed them appropriately in the
folder she had showed me. The damn number still raged inside my head
as I sat there staring at her computer desktop.
There had to be a way to keep her.
I knew that she wouldn't stay here with me, it just wasn't a possibility,
but all that shit was just geography. That didn't mean we still couldn't
be together.
Make a list, I heard my mother say in my head. Her old advice for when
you couldn't figure out a solution to a problem. Taking the notepad on
Bella's desk, that was exactly what I did. It was divided into three
columns.
Why we CAN'T be together.
Why we SHOULD be together.
And (my favorite)...
How we COULD be together.
Can't:
Privacy/secrecy
Travel/long distance
Working relationship vs. personal relationship
Ness
Should:
We love each other
I need her
I hope she needs me
Ness loves her
She loves Ness
I can't live without Bella
Lasagna
Could:

This one was much harder. I had to think about it.
Knock knock.
"Yeah," I looked up to see Emmett poking his head through the door.
"Yo, Lauren is here asking for you," he said.
"Fuck," I sat forward. "Can you just tell her I left or am busy or some
shit?"
"I thought you liked Lauren?" he asked.
"I just can't deal with that shit right now, Em. Please?"
"Dude, you know I hate lying," Emmett shook his head, giving me a
disapproving look.
"Fine," I sighed, tossing down the pad on Bella's desk.
I walked out into the dining room and saw Lauren with a group of friends
by the bar. Now, don't get me wrong, Lauren was a nice, and good
looking, girl, but she just wasn't MY kind of girl.
Especially now.
Lauren's mother was Esme's friend, so we sort of 'grew up' together. I
knew she always liked me, and for a while when we were younger, and
all I ever thought with was my dick I liked her too.
After Jessica and I had Renesmee, and then broke up, I started hanging
out with Lauren again. It wasn't romantic for me though; I just wanted a
friend. But Lauren still had feelings beyond that towards me, and she
tried using Ness to get to me. She'd buy her shit, and try to act all
smiley towards her, but I knew her true intentions.
She wanted me.
"Edward!" Lauren held out her arms as I approached, and I looked away
to Jasper who was shaking his head. I guessed they must have been
drunk and giving him quite a time.
"What's going on?" I said casually, avoiding her arms and walking around
to the other side of the bar.
"I've been looking for you all night. I wanted to show you my friends,"
she waved to the girls to her right.
"Hi," I said with a weak smile.
"This is my bestest friend in the whole world," she waved at me again,
"Edward Cullen." Lauren's hand fell onto my cheek, and I laughed
uncomfortably as I tried to move away.
"Hi Edward. I'm Penelope, but you can call me Penny." She held out her
hand, and I arched an eyebrow at her in question. "I won't bite," she
giggled.
"I might," I said, backing away from them, grabbing a beer from the bin.
"Lauren says you have some nice tattoos hiding under there," Penny
pointed to me.
"She's right," I took a sip of my beer and leaned against the back of the
bar.
"Can we see?" one of the other girls asked.
I walked towards where they were sitting again, and set my beer down.
My hand pushed the short sleeve of my white tee up to reveal the ink on
my arm. One of the other girls reached their hands out and touched it,
as though it weren't real or some shit.
I backed away before I was molested any further.
"Show them the evil eye," Lauren laughed, tugging on the front of my
shirt.
"Lauren, I work here. I'm not getting undressed." I picked my beer back
up and took a swig.
The other reason being that I named that fucking tattoo after Bella, and
she was not on display ladies and gentlemen.
"Was there a reason you wanted to see me other than my tattoos
Lauren?"
"Actually," she leaned forward, "I wanted to ask if you all were hiring?"
"Change your mind about law?" I teased.
"No, but I have bills out the ass. I could really use some extra cash. I'll
do anything. Waitress, buss, whatever," she shrugged.
"I'd like to help, but I don't think we are hiring right now. Besides, I
don't do the hiring, Bella does." I brought my beer back to my lips.
"Well can't you talk to her? Ask for a favor or something? I mean, she's
a girl Edward, and you are very charming," Lauren smiled all drunk and
stupid at me.
I assumedshe thought she was being sexy.
"Yeah, I'll see what I can do," I lied. "I need to go. We still have a lot
of work to do tonight. I'll catch you later Lauren." I reached in my
pocket and tossed down my money on the bar.
Technically I was off the clock, since Bella had not allotted time for this
extra cleaning and shit, but Lauren didn't need to know that. And the
cleaning HAD to be done. I just knew Bella would be all over my ass when
she got back.
And I was not about to fail her.
BPOV
After my breakdown in the damn toy store, I decided to fucking chill out
for a bit. I wasn't due at the restaurant for a few hours, so I went off
in search of Edward's souvenir. There were a few shops that looked
interesting, but I found nothing. I picked up a cool little trinket for his
mother, but still nothing for Edward.
One of the stores had a lot of cool cooking items and stuff. I grabbed
several things I thought he might like, but still it just felt likestuff.
This left me feeling a little shitty. I mean, how could I bring back
something of significance for everyone else, except the one person I
wanted to the most; Edward.
Feeling defeated, I walked through the streets. There was a nice area
towards the end to rest so I stopped there and set down my bags.
Leaning on the wall, I looked out and sighed hard.
Edward I miss youI wish I knew what you were doing, and whatever it
isI wish I could be there doing it with you.
I dug through my bag and pulled out a cigarette to smoke. Once it was
lit, I closed my eyes and tried to just revel in the dizzy feeling it gave.
I could hear music playing from somewhere, and I tried to just hear that
and nothing else. It was so noisy on the street, but I could hear the
music perfectly. It was soft and soothing, and I smoked my entire
cigarette listening to it with my eyes closed.
As I finished, I stomped out the cigarette and then tossed the filter in
my bag. Finally seeing that the music was coming from a large building to
my left, I smiled. Not at the building, though, but at the water behind it.
There was a lake, or something that resembled a lake a fucking vast
body of water, let's put it that way and holy mother of fuck, it was
beautiful, and filled with flowers as far as the eye could see.
Not just any flowers though...
Lotus Flowers.
I kneeled down immediately and grabbed my phone from my purse. I
snapped a few pictures, happy as fuck that I had a good quality camera
phone, and then sent them to Edward's. I dialed him next, biting on my
finger as I waited for him to answer. My heart was racing as I waited,
like I had the best news ever or something. The excitement in me was
fucking ridiculous.
"Angel," he said simply, answering the phone.
"Holy mother of fuck, Flower Child! Did you see the picture I just sent
you?" I was fucking bouncing like an idiot as I talked, still facing the
water.
"No, hold on," he said, and I heard him pressing buttons on the phone. I
heard him laugh and then sigh before he replied, "That looks beautiful,
Bella."
"It is and listen," I held out the phone towards the building. "Can you
hear it?"
"Not really," he said.
"Shit, hold on." I put the top of the phone in my mouth and picked up my
bags so I could move over to the steps.
The building looked like a church, or temple or some shit. I wasn't sure
what it was. As I sat on the steps I saw a sign that translated into
'Museum of Flowers'. The music was being performed by a local artist,
and my mouth dropped a little when I read the name of the song on the
sign.
"Can you hear it now?" I asked him again, holding the phone out slightly,
still able to hear him.
"I can. Where are you?" he asked in an amused tone.
"I was just walking, and I stopped for a smoke. Then I saw this lake, or
whatever, and it was so beautiful, filled with all these flowers. When I
realized what they were, I wanted you to see. You know what this song
is called?"
"No baby, what is it called?" his voice sounded very touched.
"The Lotus Flower Opens Everywhere," I said softly, smiling to myself,
thinking of my own lotus flower.
"That is beautiful, Angel. I'm glad you are having a good time."
"I'm not actually. Well, this was a nice surprise, but other than that it's
just"
"Work?" he laughed lightly.
"Well, yes, but mostly I just miss you." I wiped my eyes, feeling wetness
build there.
"I miss you too, love. A lot. And just so you know, Seth might be dead
when you get back. You still have the number of that guy with the meat
grinder, yes?" Edward laughed at the end.
"What happened?" I asked, slightly concerned.
"He's just getting on my nerves. The kid can't listen for shit."
"So fire him," I said seriously. "I made you the boss for a reason, Flower
Child. If he's not up to par then cut him loose. There are plenty of other
people to choose from. You can hire whomever you like, you know? You
don't have to ask me."
I felt bad. This was my fault. I still had not gone over his official duties,
or even given him a new contract.
"I'll be back in a few days babe. We can sort it all out then, alright?
It's my fault, I'm sorry," I said.
"Don't be sorry. I should be sorry. You have enough to deal with without
me whining to you from thousands of miles away. It's alright really. I'm
just being an ass about it."
"No you're not," I began, looking out into the street again. "Flower Child,
if something bothers you, I want to know. It's my job, and it doesn't
matter how far away I am. It's still my job. And it IS my fault, because
when I promoted you, we should have gone over all of this fuckery. Just,
put up with him until I get back, and then we'll fix it together, alright?"
"Alright, Bell. You know what though?" he asked.
"What babe?"
"I still love you," Edward said. I could tell he was smiling.
"Mmm. Me too, babe," I sighed. "What are you doing right now? Besides
talking to me, like, where are you?"
"I'm just lying on the couch in my apartment, writing something," he said.
"What are you writing?" I couldn't imagine what it could be.
"A plan," Flower Child replied.
"A plan for what? And don't say Seth's demise," I laughed.
"No. It's quite the opposite actually. I'm writing a plan for life, not
death," he explained.
"What's on the paper?" I asked curiously.
"Your name," he purred.
"And what is next to my name?" I smiled while asking.
"Reasons," he said simply.
"For?" I pressed.
"A lot of things. We'll talk about it when you come back. I promise."
"Babe! That is not fair," I whined. "I am sitting on the steps of some
damn place," I laughed, "fucking serenading your ass with songs and
pictures of damn lotus flowers, and you hold out on me? That is just not
right Edward. Not right at all," I shook my head as if he could see.
"I'm sorry," he laughed, obviously amused by my rant. "How about if I
told you your name was placed under a column of things I needed to have
in my life. Would that make you feel better?"
"Maybe," I lied. It made me fucking giddy like a school girl.
"Well, that's all I can offer you, my love. I'm sorry. This is something we
must discuss when I can have you here in front of me, and I can see your
beautiful face, smell your sweet fragrance, and touch.fucking every
part of you," he laughed. "I can't pick just one there. Sorry," Edward
laughed again, sending goose-bumps all over my body from his words.
"Is that your romantic way of telling me you're horny?"
"Mmm, yes, but no," he chuckled.
"Wanna have phone sex?" I teased, trying to sound sexy.
"Sure, you go first, though," Edward replied.
"What are you wearing?"
"Is that the best you have? I'm a little disappointed. Sponge Bob was
naughtier than that on today's episode," he teased.
"Ugh, I'm warming up to it, and fuck, I can't see you so I need a visual
Flower Child."
"Alright, alright. I'm sorry," he sighed. "I'm wearing underwear and
that's it. Black," he said.
"Mmm. Nice visual," I grinned to myself, picturing it. "Boxers or briefs?"
I asked, needing more.
"Boxer-briefs. You know I don't wear nut huggers," he stated matter-of-
factly. "What are you wearing, love?"
"I want you to touch yourself while I tell you. Can you do that for me,
babe?" I asked, lowering my voice.
"You're getting much better at this, Bell."
"Is that a yes?" I wanted to hear him say it.
"Yes, I am more than willing. Although, I should probably walk to my
room so Ness won't wake up and catch me."
"In that case, make sure to lose the undies on your way," I bit my finger
trying to imagine it. I could hear his bedroom door close, and I started
getting a little excited.
I had never done this before.
"Alright, go ahead, Angel. I'm ready for you." Mmm, Butterbean liked this
side of Edward.
"I'm wearing," I looked out to the street, trying to find someone dressed
sexier than me. My attire was rather boring. I needed inspiration. "Black
boots that go up to my thigh."
"Do they have spiky heels?" he asked, making me bite my lip to keep from
laughing.
"Yes, they do babe," I replied, looking for more inspiration.
"Go on," his voice was a little hoarse.
"Black tights on my legs, because it is very cold here. Very bad for the
nipples. They're practically always standing at attention. It's all I can do
notto just rub them all day to keep them warm. Maybe you could help me
with that?" I don't know where that came from, but fuck, even I turned
me on.
"Mmm, I think I could. If I were there, I would definitely have them in
my mouth, keeping them very, very warm, Bella. Can you keep telling me
about your clothes? Lt. Dan rather likes your outfit so far."
"Next is a denim mini skirt. That's why I have on tights, to keep my legs
warm. It is very short. When I was digging for my phone earlier, I bent
over, and I think I flashed some people my panties by accident. I'm such
a naughty girl, Edward. When I come home, you might want to spank me
for being so bad."
"I might. What kind of panties are they? I'll need to know, so I can
determine your punishment. Perhaps you didn't show much if they are
conservative." I could so tell he was beating his meat, and fuck, that
turned me on.
"They are pretty, see-through, white, and sheer. Not a thong, but those
kind that just barely cover your ass cheeks. You know which kind, right?"
I asked, knowing those were his favorite.
"I know which kind, Angel. That is very naughty. You will get a very good
spanking for that."
"Will you bend me over your knee?" I asked, praying he would say yes.
"Yes, right over my knee, and then when I spank you, you will tell me
how sorry you are and promise not to ever do it again. I'm going to spank
you until my hand print is there Isabella. And when I am done, you will
not be able to sit without feeling me on you."
Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck
fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck
fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck
fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck
fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck
fuck fuck.
Butterbean was vibrating, like fucking begging me for a rub.
I looked around, only seeing the open doors to the museum behind me.
"Edward? Can you hold on a sec?"
"Maybe?" he said slightly amused and definitely confused.
I picked up my bags and rushed in, looking around for a spot to hide
myself. There was a room on the second floor and I locked myself inside.
Once my hands were free of the bags, I shimmied down my jeans to my
knees, and then sat on the rug in the middle of the floor.
"Okay, sorry." I laid my head down and tried to catch my breath.
"What the fuck are you doing?" he asked, laughing.
"I needed someprivacy." I rested my hand over Butterbean. I still had
my panties on, not wanting to getmessy.
"Bella are you being naughty with me?" his voice was laced with sex, and
driving me mad.
"Mm hmm. Three days for me too you know," I reminded him.
"Of course, love. Tell me what you are doing." The bass of his voice
vibrated against the phone, making me swallow hard.
"I'm pretending I'm with you in your bed. And my hand is your hand."
"What is my hand doing?" he asked, and I could tell he was pulling his
pudda again.
"Rubbing circles on Butterbean over my naughty girl panties." I closed my
eyes, trying to think it really WAS his hand and not my own.
"I wish I could kiss her, and tell her how much I love her. Does she miss
me?" he asked.
"Very much. She was begging for you earlier today." I rubbed myself
harder as I thought of him hovering over me, palming my pussy in his
large hand.
"Can you feel me touching you, love? Can you feel where my fingers have
touched you?" he rasped.
"Mmm. I feel you babe. I can feel you," I said softly, rubbing myself the
way he would have.
"I feel you too Bella. Your scent is all around me. I love how you feel,
how you smell." His breath was hard on his last words, and I rubbed
harder, knowing he was getting closer to his release.
"Tell me what you want when I come home," I panted.
"I decided that I am going to fuck you in the kitchen. Right on the
fucking pass. I am going to put your fucking legs over my shoulders and
fuck you so good Bella. You will never, ever look at the pass the same
way after I fuck you on it."
"Mmm." I could barely hold the phone as I felt myself teetering on the
edge.
"And then, I'm going to fuck you again at my apartment. I'm going to
bend you over the fucking arm of the couch, and fuck you from behind.
You remember how that feels? How deep I can fuck you like that,
Angel?"
"EdwardI." I dropped the fucking phone next to my head as I panted
and rubbed frantically over my center, cumming hard.
"Bella," I heard him groan faintly from the phone by my ear.
"Cum for me baby," I panted, hoping he could hear.
He did. And.he did.
After I caught my breath, and regained my sanity, I picked the phone
back up.
"Edward?" I said softly.
"Mmmmmmm?" he replied, sounding completely satisfied.
"That was sexy," I sighed.
"Go to work happy now Bella," he snickered.
"I will," I smiled.
"I love you Bella. Soooo much," he sounded drunk.
"Me too, babe. For life," I giggled, teasing him about the lobster stuff.
"Goodnight sweetheart. Two days Bell," Edward reminded me.
"Night Flower Child. Sweet dreams."
10:22 pm
I finished my walk-through with Ramsey, and sighed in relief that he was
happy, for once.
"Did you get to the paper work like I wanted?" Gordon asked.
"Yes. It is all correct. A few minor errors, but I corrected them," I
explained. He looked at me and I rolled my eyes, "AND I explained the
proper way to the person who fucked it up."
"Good. Let's sit and have a drink, shall we?" Gordon showed me to a
private table in the back, staying out of the spotlight as diners where
still enjoying their food.
"So, little missy, tell me how everything is going." He sat back in his
chair, but paid attention.
"Everything is good. Busy, but that's good, right?"
"Absolutely. How is the new place? I heard you have some eyes watching
you." Gordon took a sip of his drink.
"It's going really great. I found my executive chef, and he's really
wonderful. The same guy you met at the convention."
"Edward," he said with a nod.
"Yes, Edward," I smiled slightly, happy that he remembered.
"Rather young for an exec, no?" he asked, tilting his head a little.
"He is, but hell G, I wasopeningmy third restaurant by his age. So who
am I to use that as a basis?" I took a sip of my wine, slowly, savoring the
flavor.
"True. He is getting some eyes too you know? I have heard people asking
about him." Gordon leaned forward again, cupping his drink.
"I know. Believe me. They email me offers for shit every day. Edward's
not ready for that though. He is still too naive, too innocent. I won't
expose him to that shit yet."
"Grown a mamma bear streak have you?" he teased.
"For him. Edward is special. I don't want them corrupting him. He could
be quite good, if they leave him alone."
"I see. Well, if this Edward has as good of a head on his shoulders as you
think, it should be easy for him to avoid. How is the other thing going?
With Invoke? We haven't talked much about it lately." A server set down
a small plate of cheese for us and we each took a piece.
"They found a place in Whistler," I shrugged, taking a bite.
"Well seem a little excited for Christ sake. I thought this was your
dream? Where did that excited little girl go who came bouncing into my
office asking for my help?" he smiled, biting a nibble of cheese.
"It's gotten complicated G." I looked down to my wine.
"How? You had a dream, you got your dream. I don't see the problem."
I looked up to him, willing myself to say the words. I knew Ramsey would
never tell anyone or hold it against me, but I still felt like a girl who was
about to let her father down.
"It's umEdward isn't just my exec." I gave him a meaningful look.
"Shit. You didn't?" he asked, giving me a 'fuck me' sort of look.
And not in the good way.
"I couldn't help it Gord. I tried, I really fucking tried, but I justI just
fucking love him. Way too much. And now" I shook my head, feeling it
start to hurt.
"You don't want Whistler," he said taking my hand into his.
"I do, that's the problem. I wish I didn't. I wish I could just say 'fuck it'
and stay in fucking Miami, and be happy doing the occasional check-in
like with my other places. But I can't G, I just fucking can't." I closed
my eyes, feeling tears build.
Gordon got up and took the seat beside me, wrapping his arm around my
shoulder. He remained silent for a long minute, and I calmed myself
down. He handed me a handkerchief from his jacket and I wiped my face
clear of tears.
"How do you do it?" I asked. "How do you balance both? Work, and Tana
and the kids? How does it work G?"
"It's not easy Bella. Not at all. But if you want something badly enough
even two or three or four or five, or however fucking many things you
make it work somehow. You just have to try and the people in your life
have to want those things too. You need to have a clear understanding.
That goes for everything.
"Think of it like our businesses, Bella. When you hire someone, you are
asking them to do a certain job, and if they like the description and pay,
then they agree to it. That doesn't mean they are always compliant and
love every minute of the job, but you work on the issues and roll with it.
Yes?"
"Yeah," I nodded.
"Well, it's the same for this situation. If he can see what you have laid
out on the table, and he is alright with it, then I would ask to see what
he is offering. If you like it, and both sides agree, you have a deal. Yes?"
"Yes."
"There, not so hard now is it?" Gordon rustled my hair a little, smiling
down to me.
"Edward has a little girl. Ness, she's five. I'm scared that she won't
understand. Her mom left, and she looks at me like I'm her mother now.
It's not that I don't want to be, but what kind of mother can I offer to
be for her when most of my life I will be absent from hers?" I started to
tear up again.
"The children are the food. And you know how I feel about food," Gordon
laughed lightly.
"Quality over quantity. I know." I wiped my nose with his hanky.
"So there is your answer. My children don't get very much of my time,
but when they do, it is valuable. They know I love them, and Tana, of
course, makes up for all the shit I miss. It's teamwork, darling. Like
anything else." He gave my shoulder a good squeeze.
"Thanks," I nodded, wiping my face again.
"Tell you what, this place is fine. So unless you would rather stay
which I, of course, wouldn't mind at all , you may leave early. You
obviously have ones at home missing you, as well as a business, and I
wouldn't want to be the person being hated for such things," he laughed,
scooting from the table.
"Are you sure?" I looked at him as I climbed to my feet.
"Yes, darling. Go home. What did you say to me the other night? You
needed to be?" he knew what I said, he just wanted me to say it again.
Bastard.
"Fucked good and proper-like." I closed my eyes, laughing lightly.
"That was it," he snapped his fingers. "Go home and do that. You look
like you could use a good shagging," he teased.
"Gord?" I walked around the table and wrapped my arms around his
waist as we walked. Gordon hugged my shoulders with his arm.
"Darling?" he replied.
"I love you dearly, you know that?"
"Are you making moves on me, Bella?" he looked down to me with a vexing
expression.
"Ugh, like I find Brits sexy." I pushed him away. "Blonde, tall and lanky
as a mo-fo. No, G," I pressed the button on the elevator. "I like my men
tanned, covered in tattoos, and built like a Greek God." I stepped inside.
"Those bloody tattoos. My daughter keeps asking for one." He leaned
against the railing as he stepped in.
"Rhodes?" I asked nervously.
"No, Joanne. Ever since she moved to New York, she's been on the celly
everyday"
"Wait. Jo is in New York? Not Rhodes?" I asked nervously.
"Mmm, she's attending some theatre school. Wants to be an actress," he
rolled his eyes.
"So where is Rhodes?"
"She's in London still, with her mum," Gordon nodded.
"Never went for a visit or anything?" I asked.
"No, I would never take her there. She's far too innocent. Nothing like
Joanne. You know what kind of trouble a young girl could get into in a
city like that?" he laughed.
"Yeah."
Well this shit was fucking crazy.
NEWSFLASH: Rhodes has a twin Bella may not have considered.
Fucking looked like Rhodes to me.
This was still okay. I mean Jo was still underage, but Rhodes was
Ramsey's baby. Like literally should be sewn to his hip. Jo, she
waswelllet's just say it wouldn't take Ramsey by surprise as much.
The girl was a little bit of trouble for her age. That was for sure.
I was smart enough not to drop this bomb on Ramsey in person. No, I
would simply mail the pics off to him. His wrath was not something I
wanted any part of.
Poor Jo.
I almost felt bad for the girl.but you know.you shouldn't be 15 and
sucking cock.
I'm sorry, you just shouldn't.
EPOV
Thursday
I was highly fucking pissed, and worried, and frustrated. All day long I
had not heard from Bella. All of my calls went straight to voicemail. And
I tried, I really fucking tried, to figure out why she was pissed off at
me.
Our last conversation left off with me and her both cumming, so what the
fuck?
What was there to be mad about?
My other thoughts, which I did not want to think about, were that
perhaps something happened to her. Fuck, the girl was alone in another
fucking country, and liked to go for 3 a.m. strolls.
The possibility was there.
I tried to reach her at Ramsey's, but no one knew anything, and said the
last time they saw her was last night with him. Surely, he would have
made sure she got into her taxi, or limo, or whatever, safely, right?
Fuck!
I was sitting in her office, waiting for the reports to print out, and
debating what to do. Emmett told me to relax and that she was fine, but
I knew better. My chest was burning, and a tight knot lay in the pit of
my stomach.
Please call me, Angel. Please be okay.
My face fell into my hands, and I took a deep breath trying to calm the
fuck down, but it was no use. I rubbed my hands over my face, thinking
of what to do next...
But I couldn't think of anything.
It was seriously late at this point, and I'm sure Leah was extremely
pissed at me for making her wait. I clicked off the computer screen, and
made my way out of Bella's office.
Once I arrived home, my legs practically dragged themselves up to the
front entrance of my building. This week was rough, not only physically,
but emotionally. I felt weak and extremely run down. The only part of
this week that was a relief was how Ness reacted towards Bella being
gone. She took this all a lot better than I thought. Of course, she was
being promised gifts and shit, so maybe that was why.
I had to laugh at myself as I thought of how her mind must be working
around all of this.
My hand reached into my pocket once I reached my door, and I jingled
the right key into my fingers, unlocking it. Something was off as soon as I
entered. Number one, Leah was not anywhere to be seen. Number two,
there was music playing in the back part of my apartment.
"Leah?" I said softly, stepping in further.
I laid my things over the chair and walked towards the hallway. The
music was coming from my room, and I almost started to panic, thinking
Leah was in there. I wasn't quite sure what the fuck that would be
about.
Fuck.
Hesitantly, I pushed the door to my room open, praying I wasn't going to
find Leah spread-eagle on my bed or some shit. She was a very beautiful
woman, but fuck, that would just be wrong on so many levels.
Soft candlelight hit my eyes first, and as the door opened fully, I saw
her.
Not Leah though, Bella.
She was here.
She was home.
Bella was home.








Chapter: 19 "Stay with Me"
EPOV
"Make love to me Edward," Bella's lips whispered before she kissed under
my ear.
"I was planning on it." I brushed her hair away from her face and leaned
my lips toward her cheek.
She still felt dewy from the shower. The fragrance of my soap lingered
on Bella's velvety skin, and I reveled in the fact that I could claim her in
so many ways. Surely, if any other man smelled my Bella right now, they
would know she belonged to me; for they would pick up on the masculine
fragrance she carried.
Seeing Bella sitting on my bed tonight when I came home was the
greatest fucking gift.
I tried not to man-handle her and just use my mouth to express how
much I missed her and loved her and wanted her, but after spending the
thirty minutes with her in the shower, I could no longer use just words.
My hands traveled down her face to her shoulder where my lips tasted
her again, and kissed all the way down until I reached her belly. Her skin
felt so soft and undiscovered, unlike anything I had ever felt before;
even though I had touched Bella so many times.
Still, she felt all new, every time.
"I love you," I whispered, making my way towards Butterbean.
Bella's fingers intertwined with mine then she placed my fingers upon her
warm lips, kissing softly as I did my own kissing down below.
I spread her gently with my free hand so I could taste her fully. She
was as sweet as ever, and my mouth begged for more than sweet kisses
to her flesh. I swept my tongue out and lightly licked her entrance,
causing a hushed moan to escape from her lips.
We had to be quiet, with Ness sleeping just on the other side of the hall,
so I didn't pleasure her the way I wanted to. There would be plenty of
time for that tomorrow.
And the next day, and the next, and the next
"Baby, please," she whispered, trying to pull my face up to hers.
I obliged, crawling back up to her lips, kissing her soundly. My cock
begged for Bella's body, and I was not about to deny him any longer.
Four days was long enough. As I kissed her, my hand fumbled with the
drawer on the bedside table, trying to find a condom without looking.
My lips turned up into a smile, feeling the gift I had for Bella in the
drawer. That was for a little later though. For now, I found the condom
and slipped it on, wanting and needing only to be inside of my love.
I rocked slowly into her, feeling every inch of how tight and wet and
ready she was for me. Only me. Bella shoved her hands into my hair,
fisting it tightly as her lips parted, letting out a heavy sigh.
"Did you miss me, Angel?" I asked, rocking into her again.
"So much," she breathed against my lips, then kissed my chin.
"You still love me?" I opened my eyes to see her.
"Always," she whispered, looking into my eyes.
"I love you too, Bella."
My eyes stayed on hers as I thrust harder, knocking the air out in hard
pants from Bella's lips with each one. Her warm breath fanned my face,
and I could taste her on my tongue. Looking into her face, I saw
everything I wanted, everything I craved, and as I thrust one last time,
cumming hard with her, I just fucking knew there was never going to be
anyone to replace Bella.
"Sleep, love," I whispered as she curled into my side.
Bella rubbed her fingers over my chest where my heart, that beat for
her, lay. She kissed my skin there once and then sighed. I reached my
hand over and tried to retrieve the box from the side-table. She leaned
off me a little and looked up to me curiously as I pulled it out.
"This is for you," I laid it on my chest next to her face.
"What is it?" She looked up curiously at me and maybea little scared?
"That's what 'opening' is for, love," I teased, giving her a crooked grin.
"Mmm." She propped herself up on her elbow and took it into her hands.
I watched her face carefully as she opened it, and was happy when she
smiled, looking at the topaz heart necklace. Bella looked back up to me,
and I sat up a little, taking the box from her.
"It was my grandmother's. She gave it to Esme, and then Esme gave it to
me, for Ness; but since she already has diamonds taking up residence on
her neck," I laughed, unhooking the necklace, "I figured I'd give it to
you."
Bella smiled and sat up, turning around so I could put it on her. She held
her hair up, and I smiled, without her seeing, as I locked the clasp,
allowing the gold chain to rest on her skin. The light from the candle
shimmered against it, and it looked wonderful against her tanned skin.
"It's beautiful," she pinched the heart between her fingers and leaned
against me. "Thank you, Flower Child." Her head tilted up to kiss my lips
and I gave her a silent 'you're welcome'.

The next morning, I awoke to find Bella gone, and that shit did not make
me happy.
Rolling over in bed, I grumbled my frustrations into the pillow, but
stopped as I saw a stuffed animal looking at me from Bella's space.
"Fucking shit," I laughed, picking it up.
It was a damn Hello Kitty dressed up like a lobster.
There was a note under it, and I rolled onto my back, sitting Hello Kitty
on my stomach, to read it.
Flower Child,
I left to get dressed. I have some serious investigating to do today in my
restaurant, and some major asses to kick if this punk ass executive chef
of mine didn't do his job. So, you understand right?
Squeaks doesn't know I'm here either, so keep your pie hole shut. If you
ruin my surprise, I'll knife you.
Love, Bella
I put my hand over my face, laughing. Only Bella could make such fowl
language sound somewhat romantic.
As I climbed from the bed, I set the lobster kitty on my bed-side table
and smiled again, knowing what Bella was thinking about while she was
away.
.
I heard her before I saw her and hit Seth's arm, giving him the evil eye
and letting him know to fucking stay in line. Bella came in behind Emmett,
talking to him about the day's agenda. Without even glancing over to me,
she walked to the corner and changed the song on the playlist, turning it
up loud...
To a fucking song titled, 'Goodbye'. I wanted to laugh.
She was fucking with me.
Nah nah nah nah, nah nah nah nah, hey hey hey, gooooood-bye.
Funny, Bella.
I kept working, but watched her as she dropped to her knees in front of
the stoves; looking underneath for food, I'm sure. Emmett was still
talking to her, and she kept saying, 'uh huh,' like she was paying
attention; somehow, I had a feeling this was all planned out.
Emmett never acted so put-together or organized.
Bella stood up, fixing her black dress pants, and opened the door to the
oven, running her finger along the seal to check for grease.
Not gonna find anything Bella. Sorry, my love.
I smiled internally.
"Could you get me a chair from the dining room?" she said to Seth. He
nodded, and went to retrieve it.
Bella kept on looking around the kitchen, stopping next at the
refrigerators and checking all of the seals on those too. But, again, she
wouldn't find anything.
All of the food was organized by date, rotated properly, and labeled. We
cleaned everything down with bleach, and it was fucking spotless. No
stains, no odors. She wasn't finding shit.
"Here," Seth set the chair in the kitchen, and I held my hand up to him
as Bella's back faced me. "Uh, Chef," he recovered.
"Fuck off Seth." Bella pulled the chair over to the steel top table, and I
fucking bit my tongue as she climbed up. Thankfully, Emmett stood next
to her, making sure she didn't fall.
Her hand felt around the ventilation hood, and I was really happy I
listened to Em about having them cleaned.
After she was satisfied, Bella climbed down and started talking to
Emmett again, still not addressing, or looking at me. I knew what her
game was, though; she wanted me to be pissing myself, thinking she was
not happy as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Emmett was in the middle of explaining something, when his world
suddenly took a turn for the worst.
"What the fuck is that?!" Bella pointed towards the chef's table.
"What?" he asked, turning to face it.
"THAT!" I she roared, stepping closer to the table.
I saw Emmett turn like five different fucking hues. They ranged from 'Oh
shit' red to 'I'm fucking dead' green.
"I knew there was something fucking wrong with that shit!" Bella yelled.
"Ever since we opened, I have been fucking staring at that damn thing
every day trying to figure it out! Emmett! You fucking installed it
BACKWARDS you ape DICK!" she slapped him hard.
"Sorry," he shook his head.
"Sorry?! Sorry?! I have had fucking 'made in Korea' sticking out for the
last THREE," she hit him again, "G'damn," she hit him again, "MONTHS!"
she kicked him this time.
"Sorry," he said again.
"You say sorry one more time, asshole, and we are going to have that
moment in fucking Pulp Fiction where Samuel shoots the fucker for saying
'what,' Emmett!" Bella's hands were on her hips, glaring at him.
My poor brother looked like a puppy who just got scolded by his beloved
owner. I felt so G'damn giddy watching him take a good beating. And
ever so thankful it wasn't me.
I was NEVER going to let him live this shit down.
I looked around for cameras, hoping it was on tape.
"FIX. IT." Bella walked back over to the chair and pulled it over towards
the chef's table. "Flower Child," she called without looking to me.
Uh oh.
"Yes, Chef?" I replied, not feeling so G'damn cocky anymore.
"Go get a chair from the damn dining room and take a seat over here,"
Bella said, watching Emmett as he came back in the kitchen with a
toolbox.
"Yes, Chef." I did as she said, unsure of her reasoning.
When I came back in, Bella had a notebook in her hands, and was flipping
through it angrily as she watched Emmett. I sat down beside her, and
she still didn't look over to me.
"I had plans on going over this fuckery with you in my office like a
G'damn professional and shit, but since Emmett has proven he can't do
anything unless he gets fucking adult supervision," she looked over to me,
licking her fingers, and turned the page, "we're doing it here." She made
a face and looked back down to the notebook, then handed it to me.
"Read," Bella said simply.
I started to read, seeing that it was a list of all the duties I was
responsible for as the executive chef.
"Tell me something Flower Child, you see babysitting anywhere on that
list?" she asked, looking at Emmett.
"No, Chef," I replied, glancing at her once, then went back to reading.
"How about keeping track of the general manager's fuck ups? That
anywhere on there?" Bella was not letting this go easily.
"No, Chef."
"I could be wrong here Flower Child, but just double check the list for
me to make sure, will you? Is there anything on that paper that says you,
as the executive chef, should rely on the support and coordination of the
general manager?"
"Yes, Chef, there is," I replied and Bella took back the notebook, flipping
to a new page.
"You know what I have figured out, Emmett?" she asked, handing me back
the notebook again. "I'm kind of stupid, you know that?" Bella said, and
he knew better than to reply.
"I mean, here I am fucking checking for dust bunnies and shit in Flower
Child's kitchen, meanwhile, there's a fucking chef's table installed
incorrectly, and showing our asses for all the world to see."
Bella pointed to a section on the notebook, "Read." She remained quiet
this time, simply crossing her legs and folding her arms over her chest, as
I read silently. "Go on to the next page," Bella instructed, and I did.
Again she was silent, allowing me to read. This part was about policy and
procedures. I wasn't sure why she had me reading all of this. Would
there be a quiz or something? I tried to pay attention and not think
about what Emmett was doing.
"So this is what I figured out Emmett," Bella said with false excitement.
"I know what happened," she tapped her finger towards him, but he kept
working. "It's like in that movie Twins, with fucking Danny Devito and
Arnold Schwarzenegger. When they go searching for their biological
mother, and the doctor tells them that when they were made in the
damn test tubey thing, Arnold got all the brains and the fucking body
and good shit, and then poor little Danny Devito got the crap left over.
That's what happened with you and Flower Child! He is the Arnold, and
you are the damn Danny."
I tried my hardest not to laugh, and I could see Emmett getting pissed
as he finally got the bench unbolted from the floor.
"Aren't you happy you are the Arnold?" she looked over to me finally, and
I could see the wicked gleam in her eye.
"Yes, Chef," I couldn't help but smirk a little.
"Me too," Bella said with a wink, before she looked back to Emmett.
I had to fucking smile at her sly way of telling me she loved me, without
actually saying it.
Emmett finally got the table back in place, but Bella was not finished
handing him his ass, by far. She dismissed me from my seat and then
proceeded to go on for the next fifteen minutes to Emmett about what a
fuck up he was, and how what did she say? he'made her want to
gouge her eyes out because that would be less painful than dealing with
him'.
Yes, I think that was it.
Bella finally took a seat at the chef's table, now that it was installed
properly, and went on for another fifteen minutes about how nice it was
to sit at, even making all of the staff take a rest here and there just to
fuck with Emmett more.
He was highly annoyed by this point.
"Oh, pumpkin?" Bella asked as she typed away on her laptop, still sitting
at the table.
"Yes, Bella?" Emmett paused, sounding mega defeated.
"Could you run across the street there and get me a cookie? I'm feeling a
little hungry, and I think a cookie would be perfect."
"Yes, Bella." He started to leave, and I saw her smile.
"Oh, wait, I think I want a coffee too. Iced, please. Extra sugar," she
added.
"Yes, Bella." I could really hear his irritation now. Emmett was almost
out the door when she stopped him again.
"Oh, and you might want to see if Edward would like a cookie as well,"
Bella stopped typing and looked up to Emmett, smiling innocently.
She knew that he hated having to be the bitch boy; especially when she
was now making him MY bitch boy.
"Would you like a cookie, Edward?" Emmett asked, clenching his fists.
"White chocolate chip with walnuts," I replied, nodding.
"Got it," Emmett looked to Bella and she said nothing.
I could see he was nervous about walking away again, but he started to,
and sure enough, she stopped him once more.
"He might want a coffee too. You better ask him what kind, and not just
assume that he wants an iced coffee, like me. 'Cause you know, Edward
might be in a hot latte sort of mood, not a chilled beverage sort of mood.
Ormaybe a chi tea?" She stared at him, knowing she was breaking him
down.
"Edwa-" she cut him off.
"Although, he is working really hard back here, and it is rather hot in
the kitchen. Emmett, I know you don't know this, but usually when people
do this thing called work, they tend to heat up and even sweat
sometimes. So yeah, maybe he wants a chilled beverage to," she
dramatically waved her hands over herself, "cool him down. But you
know...you better ask Flower Child, just to be sure," she smiled, nodding
at him, challenging him to start speaking again.
I knew better than to say anything.
Bella wanted to fuck with him.
"Edward," he said, taking a deep breath, and looked over to me. "Would
you like an iced coffee?" Emmett looked up at the ceiling as he waited
for a response, and I couldn't help but think he was asking God for help
out of this fuckery.
"Sure, iced coffee sounds great. With caramel sauce though. And some of
that stuff on top, what's it called, Bella?" I played along, looking back to
her.
"Nutmeg?" she smiled.
"Yeah that. Nutmeg." I looked back to Emmett and grinned.
The backdoor buzzed, and Emmett looked at it, debating whether or not
to answer it. It was usually his job, but Bella just asked him to get us
coffee, and I'm sure he didn't want to piss her off again.
"Oh, that would be Edward's desk, I'm sure," Bella said, looking at
Emmett.
He blew hard out through his mouth and walked to the door to answer it.
Sure enough, there was a large box containing the desk for my office,
and as Emmett helped the Fed-Ex guy in with it, I saw Bella grin again,
looking at me.
She was up to no good.
"I want to make sure it doesn't have any scratches. Can you open it up
Fed-Ex dude?" Bella said, sliding out from her seat.
"Yes ma'am." He pulled out his box cutter and started to open the box.
"Wow, you look pretty sweaty. It's hot out there today isn't it?" Bella
said, watching him.
"It's a scorcher," he replied, smiling at her.
"I bet you could use a chilled beverage, couldn't you?" Bella smiled
wider, and I had to put my hand over my mouth to hide my laughter.
"That sounds great." The Fed-Ex dude looked at Bella like she was Santa
Clause.
"Emmett, you better ask," Bella looked at the worker's name tag, "Quil
what kind of beverage he wants." Bella patted her fingers on Emmett's
shoulder, smiling ruefully up at him.
I had never been so G'damn turned on in my life.
My eyes looked over to the pass, and fuck if my dick didn't twitch.
BPOV
1:15 pm
My toes were happy.
"A little lower," I said in a tone as if he was licking my bean.
Edward laughed, but followed instruction.
Damn Flower Child. He gave good ass mother of fuck foot massages.
I sat back in my desk chair and just purred as the 'ooohs' and 'aaahs'
hummed from my lips. Originally I asked him in here so I could go over
his new contract and a host of other shit I had on my list. But fuck, he
offered up a foot rubbing, and I was not about to deny my tootsies that
shit.
Thankfully, I could multitask like nobody's business.
"So Flower Child, listen. I want to go over this fuckery with you being
the exec, but before we do that, I think we should talk about the bigger
shit we're putting off." I watched him as his hands slowed, and he looked
up at me with those 'fuck me' lashes.
"Like what?" He watched me as he continued to rub my feet in his lap.
"The shit with your father. Well, the shit with your custody case as a
whole actually."
"I'm not asking Carlisle to take me back as his client, Bell. It's just not
going to happen. Besides, I already have a new lawyer," Edward looked
back down to my feet.
"Babe," I pulled my feet back and sat up, but he still looked down.
"Edward," I called again, cupping his chin in my hand, and he finally
lifted his eyes to meet mine.
"Just listen, alright. I'm not asking you to fucking grovel or beg him to
take you back, 'cause you know what I would say if someone ever told me
to do that," I smiled lightly.
"Yeah, to fuck themselves," he stated without amusement.
"Exactly. What I think you should do what I would do is keep the
new lawyer, but also hire Carlisle back, in addition." I lowered my hand
down from his chin, sliding my fingers under his that were lying on his
leg.
"Bella, I can't afford Carlisle. I can barely afford this new guy, Jenks,"
Edward shook his head as he looked at me.
"Well you can work out a payment arrangement or something. I think
that is fair. And also, it sends a message to Carlisle. Yes you want his
help, but you are not afraid to go to someone else if he oversteps his
boundaries. It's more professional if you pay him for his services. You
need him Edward. You know that, so why argue?" I rested my head on his
shoulder as he thought about what I said.
"What if he doesn't want to take me back?" Edward asked, resting his
head against mine.
"He will. The reason this all started was because he was trying to
protect you and Ness. Just remember that. Babe," I lifted my head to
look at him, still resting my chin on his shoulder, "you know what I like
about you?" I watched as his lips began to turn up into a grin. "Besides
that, perv," I giggled.
"What, Angel?"
"How mature you are for someone so young. I think it's quite admirable."
I kissed his shoulder and the rested my chin back down on it. "But babe,
you are still a kid in a lot of ways too. In woman years, I already have
seven years on you. Plus, as a dude, you are negative, like, five years.
Add in the four years in actual age difference between us, and that
makes me," I laughed counting in my head, "sixteen years older than
you." I laughed harder, and Edward shook his head, laughing once. "As
the old wise lady, you should totally be listening to me." I wrapped my
arms around his shoulders.
"Alright, fine. I'll ask Carlisle to be my lawyer, but I'm warning you, if he
starts shit...I'm done." Edward turned in my arms and kissed me once.
"Deal." I let him go and faced my desk again, "And babe?"
"Mmm?" He sounded like he was expecting me to say something smartass.
"The restaurant looks really good." I looked over to him and leaned in,
"Thank you." I kissed him lightly and then turned back to the paperwork
we needed to address.
"Can you sit on the other side of the desk now?" I nodded to the empty
space across from me.
"Yes, Miss Swan," Edward replied, and I smiled internally that he
realized why I was asking him to do that.
"Here is your new contract, Flower Child," I slid the paper across to him.
"You already read the policy earlier. Most of that fuckery is the same in
this, but I suggest you read it anyhow, just so you know what the fuck
you are signing." I shuffled the papers on my desk, organizing my stacks
while he read it over, or fucking pretended to I wasn't sure.
Once he looked up to me, I stopped what I was doing and reached for a
pen.
"Any questions?" I asked.
"When do I get to fire Seth?" he asked, fighting a smile.
"You really want him gone that bad? Tell me, what don't you like?" I
flipped to a clean sheet of paper in my notebook and waited.
"I just think he doesn't fit in well here."
"Flower Child, I have to call him in my office and explain to him why we
are firing him. I need specifics. What did he do that directly affects the
policy and procedures?" I waited again as he thought.
"He is neglectful of the safety policy, for one," Edward raised an
eyebrow at me and then shook his head. "Seth also likes to disrespect
people in authority, and neglect his duties."
"Like?" I asked as I wrote what he said on the paper.
"Emmett asked him to get him something from the bakery, and he talked
back to him, calling Rose a bitch, or something, and then he" Edward
stopped mid sentence, looking down.
"He what?" I asked, pausing my pen.
"Seth said something about you." Edward looked back up to me, and I
was about to ask what but he started speaking again, "I may not have
handled that well."
"Well he's breathing and has all of his limbs, so I'm guessing it wasn't
that bad," I laughed once. "But I'm assuming this reprimanding was more
personal that professional, yes?" Edward nodded at me, looking very
regretful.
"What did he say?" I asked, knowing Edward was probably not going to
give me the details of what HE said to Seth.
"He said that you were crazy, but he would still love to fuck you...'cause
he thinks you're hot," Edward's jaw clenched tightly at the end of his
words.
"He said that in front of you?" I asked, surprised, and Edward nodded.
"And he is still breathing and has his limbs? Some fierce fucking
protector you are," I teased, shaking my head as I looked back to the
paper.
"Actually, if we are going to go there," Edward said, sitting forward a
little in his chair. "When Seth talked shit about Rose to Emmett, he only
offered to scald the flesh off Seth's bones. I, however, offered death.
So, that should say something."
"That you hold me higher than a skank? I've never been so honored," I
put my hand over my heart and laughed, making Edward smile. "Okay,
let's be serious here for a sec. I need to address these things with him,
but you have to be there too since it is now your job. I'm only doing this
with you because you haven't done it before. In the future, though, it
will be yours to do alone. Understand?"
"I do," he replied with a nod.
"Alright. So, anything else? Before you once again sign your life away?" I
clicked the pen and held it out to him.
"Bella," Edward took the pen from my hand and started to sign his name.
A small smile played on his lips as he looked up and handed me back the
pen and paperwork.
"I have already signed my life away to you."
5:45 pm
"SoSome of you, who have previously worked for me, know what happens
after I return from a trip," I announced at the beginning of our staff
meeting.
"Job SWAP!" Emmett bellowed.
"Yeah, job swap," I laughed. "Jasper," I pointed my finger to the iPod
Home behind him.
The music started, and I looked at Edward grinning as the lyrics started
to play.
Have a baby by mebabybe a millionaire
"Oh, I'm sorry, that's not right. Can you go to the next one, Jasper?" I
laughed, and Edward bit his bottom lip, shaking his head at me.
Ah, I loved fucking him.
I mean, fucking WITH him.
The next song I programmed came on and it wasn't any better, but at
least it wasn't fucking with Edward.
"Alright, so here's the deal, for those of you who are virgins to my
warped sense of appreciation," I grabbed the fish bowl from the bar top.
"To say my thanks, and also to perform a fucking exercise I firmly
believe in, management gets to swap job roles tonight. Emmett," I called
him up first.
"Come on Bus Boy!" he rubbed his hands together, hoping for that
position.
Everyone always wanted to be the busser, or fucking anything that
wasn't management for that matter.
"Dammit!" Emmett cursed with a light laugh as he read what he pulled
out.
"What is it?" I motioned for him to read.
"Fucking Executive Chef!" he stomped the ground once.
"That means Edward is up next," I laughed, holding the bowl out to him.
"I'm guessing I want busser," Edward smiled, looking at Emmett as he
stuck his hand in the bowl.
"What is it?" I asked him as he pulled a paper out and read it.
"Head Waitress," he laughed.
"Are you sure?" I took the paper and tossed it back into the bowl,
digging for the one I wanted him to grab.
"HEY! You're fucking cheating Bella!" Emmett pointed at me.
"Yeah," I pulled out the right one and handed it to Edward. "Fucking sue
me," I laughed. "What does that one say?" I pointed to the paper in
Edward's hands.
"General Manager," Edward shook his head.
"Much better," I smiled. "Now you and Em can understand each other's
pain and agony." I walked over to Angela and let her reach in. "Read it
babygirl," I wrapped my arm around her shoulder, dancing slightly to the
music.
"Bella," she said, giving a fist pump to the air.
"Yeeeeesssssss!" I celebrated my victory of getting out of being myself.
"I am sooooooo the busser!" I pointed at Emmett, laughing, knowing he
hated me right now.
"Every time!" he crinkled his paper and threw it to the floor.
"Hey Emmett! I'm in Miami bitch!" I sang along to the song, laughing hard
as the tears ran down my face.
"I hate you Bella," Emmett shook his head, walking away.
"Get to work," I said, and then jumped on Em's big ass back, singing in
his ear.
"Drink all day, play all night, let's get it poppin'. I'm in Miami bitch."
"Get off me, Bella," Emmett laughed, trying to shake me free.
"We have a song, you know that Em?" I hopped down now that we were
in the kitchen.
"Yeah, what's that, B?" He walked over to Flower Child's station and
paused, staring at me as I clicked on the playlist in the back.
He smiled as the song came on, and I knew he wanted to be mad at me
for all the fuckery I pulled earlier in the day with the coffees and
telling him I wanted to gouge my eyeballs out. But deep down, he loved
me, and had to fucking smile.
I grabbed his shirtfront as I walked back over to him and did my most
dramatic interpretation of Pink that I could muster.
"I forgot to say aloud, how beautiful you really are to me! I can't be
without. You're my perfect little punching bag! And I need you! I'm
sorry!" I buried my face into his huge chest and felt him laughing as I
pretended to beg and cry. "Please, please don't leave me!"
"You're out of your fucking mind, B," he laughed harder, wrapping his
arms around me.
"Please, please, don't leave me." I kept my act going, only I had to
fucking laugh too at how silly this was.
"I love you too," Emmett squeezed me hard, but I didn't let go.
"Are you sure?" I mumbled into his shirt.
"Yes, B. Will you let me go, please. I have shit to do, and the general
manager is giving me a creepy stare." Emmett's chest rumbled with
laughter.
"Stupid managers," I grumbled, letting go of Emmett. "Always trying to
enforce the rules and shit," I shook my head walking past Edward.
"Don't make me reprimand you Bella," Edward said, turning to face me as
I backed out of the kitchen. "Alonein my office," he raised on eyebrow
as he set his clipboard down on the pass.
The pass
"I'm going to put your legs over my shoulders and fuck you so good. You
will never look at the pass the same way again."
"Stupid, stupid managers," I said with fierce defiance exiting the kitchen.
It was going to be a long night.
EPOV
I saw Bella as I entered the kitchen towards the end of the dinner rush.
Her back was to me, and she was loading up her dishes into the machine
for washing. It was strange seeing her look so happy doing this job. She
was dancing and singing a little to the song that was on, and seriously,
she looked motherfucking happy.
Didn't she hate doing dishes?
What was this all about?
"Here you go!" she sang, placing a clean pile of plates on the pass for
Angela and Emmett.
"I fucking hate working the pass," Emmett grumbled to her.
"Really? Is it, like, HARD WORK?" Bella said, smiling at him, then looked
to me.
"I'm sure Flower Child would LOVE to switch back with you, wouldn't you
Flower Child?"
"Not really, no. I'm having a great time," I smiled back, playing along
with her.
"Awe, too bad Em," she patted his shoulder.
"Just take your food and go fuck off, Edward," Emmett said, going to
place the last dish on the tray for me.
"That is not food," I held out my hand, staring at the burnt fish. "That
isn't even dog food."
"See, good general manager," Bella pointed to me, teasing Emmett.
"Go fuck off and do your dishes Bella," he ordered.
"Yes, Chef," Bella giggled, going back to her tasks. "You know," Bella
called from across the kitchen, "I wish I could do this every night. I
think I might just sell everything and become a bus girl."
I laughed at her, thinking she must have lost her mind.
"I mean," she looked back to us, "I could clock in at after two in the
afternoon, put in my six or eight hours, and then clock the fuck out and
go home." She placed some dishes in the rack, "Or to a fucking bar, and
then take home some random hot dude, fuck his brains out, and then,"
she added more dishes, "fucking sleep in peace. No worries, just drinking,
sleeping, and fucking. That's sounds lovely, doesn't it?"
"What about STD's? Or getting knocked up?" Angela asked, turning to
face her.
"Condoms, and fucking birth control," Bella's waved her off.
"Love?" Angela asked next, dressing a plate of chicken.
"I would be fucking on a nightly basis Angela! Who needs love?" Bella
rolled her eyes, sticking more dishes in the rack.
"Everyone needs love Bella," Angela argued, sitting the corrected plate of
fish on my tray.
"Fine," Bella sighed. "I guess I'll just fucking stay the owner and deal
with all the bullshit so I can keep love. I mean, dammit!" she tossed her
rag to the counter. "I was really wanting to be a busser and get my
nightly fuck on!"
I picked up my tray and laughed at her silliness, but something told me
there was more in that pretend temper tantrum than just her fooling
around.
Bella was trying to say something.
Aboutus?
BPOV
1:15 am
Edward and I were trying so hard not to laugh as we placed all the Hello
Kittys around Squeaks' bed as she slept.
Fuck, I had like five suitcases full of the fuckers.
Flower Child held up the one that was dressed like a doughnut and lost
it, falling to his side on the floor, laughing silently into the carpet. I
crawled over to him and held my hand over his mouth.
"Pappa?" I heard Squeaks whisper, and I stared right at him, holding him
down so she wouldn't see him.
When I heard her snoring again, I moved my hand and hit him lightly.
"Shut up," I whispered and backed off him to finish piling them up around
her bed.
By the time we were done, it looked like a fucking Sanrio store exploded
in her room.
Edward and I snuck out, closing the door quietly behind us. As I turned
back to face him, he lifted me over his shoulder and started off toward
his room.
Butterbean, I think this means we are going to be fucked all proper-like.
I hope so sister, I really hope so, she replied.
Edward tossed me on his bed and then quickly pulled off his shirt. I
scooted back and he followed, trying to watch me in the dark room. His
hands knocked my legs apart as I stopped in the center of the bed, and
he quickly pulled my pants free.
Oh yes Butterbean, we are going to get fucked so, so, so, so, so good.
"Turn around," he commanded in a whisper, placing a kiss to my knee.
I obeyed, getting on all fours. Flower Child's weight disappeared from the
bed for a moment, and I heard him unzipping his pants from behind. When
the sound of them hitting the floor hit my ears, I breathed a little
harder.
So good.
His hands were on my shoulders next, pulling me to him, and then he
lifted my shirt over my head. I could feel his warm chest against my
back as he held me close to him, planting small kisses along my shoulder.
A heated trail was left from his fingertips as he slid the straps of my
bra down, and then unhooked it. My breasts were cupped by his hands
and he massaged them gently, but firmly, as he kissed along my jaw,
softly biting the skin closest to my ear.
"I can't fuck you over the couch like I want, but here," one of Edward's
hands slid down my front, sliding one finger into my wet folds, "in my
bed, I am going to fuck you the way I would have on the couch." He
rubbed my clit harder with his fingers, "Down," he whispered, guiding me
forward onto my palms.
I was already panting hard without him even really touching me yet. My
body tensed as I felt his fingers again, but this time from behind as he
slid his middle finger inside of me. My whole center pulsed with desire
for him.
"Mmm," Edward hummed, fucking me slowly with his finger.
I felt his lips on my back as he added a second finger, then swirled
butterbean with his thumb as he did. Flower Child's lips then made their
way in between my cheeks, kissing his way down until he reached my
pussy.
He removed his fingers and palmed my ass cheeks, spreading me for him. I
bowed my head, feeling like I was already ready to cum, and just when I
thought I couldn't take anymore, he gave me more, licking from the
bottom of my pussy all the way up to the small of my back.
"Edward," I moaned, almost in a cry.
His lips kissed all the way up my back, and then Edward swept my hair
over my shoulder, kissing his way into my neck. I arched my body under
him as he came to mount himself over me, gently resting his weight on
me.
Fuck, I wanted him.
"Do you remember what I said, Angel?" he whispered, grinding his cock
against my ass.
"Yes," I panted.
"Are you ready?" he asked, and I answered him by pushing my ass
against him, teasing him back.
"Mm Mm, you have to spread wider than that. I said I was going to fuck
you deep, Angel. You lied when you said you remembered. Now when I
spank you, I will have to add on extra."
Fucking hell, Butterbean.
My arousal dripped from my body as I spread my legs wider for him,
opening myself up entirely for Edward to enter me as he wished.
"Much better," he kissed my neck again.
Flower Child began to push into me, and I fisted the sheets with all my
might as he filled me with his thick cock. I panted hard as he pulled out
and thrust into me with force.
He was not playing around here, folks.
"Here?" Edward asked, stopping inside of me, halfway.
"No," I answered, and he pushed further.
"Here?"
"No," I moaned softly, and he slid the rest of the way in, holding his
place deep inside of me.
"Here?" he asked, knowing that was exactly where I wanted him.
"Fuck yes," I grinded myself into him, and he bit down hard on my
shoulder.
We weren't evening fucking at this point. I felt like one of those wild
animals you see on the fucking Discovery Channel during mating season.
All I needed now was a fucking cameraman and a creepy voice explaining
what was going on.
"More," I begged and he obliged, pounding into me.
His hips slapped into my ass cheeks, and I felt Edward's hot breath
against my ear. I could feel the orgasm building with each thrust, and
just as I was about to fall over, he fucking stopped.
"Not yet," he pulled himself from me, and I blinked rapidly, wondering
why the fuck not. "I had plans for the couch and it didn't end like that,
so," his lips kissed my back, "not yet."
Edward moved off of me and scooped the pillows into a pile, shoving them
under me. I was kind of in a teeter-totter position now. He rubbed his
hand over my ass, lightly caressing me as a feather, causing goose bumps
to rise all over my body.
"On the couch, Angel, you would have been bent over the armrest. Kind
of like this." His fingers found their way back to my pussy, and he
started to swirl his thumb into my wetness.
Edward moved his thumb over my second hole, circling the moisture of my
arousal around it. I felt his middle finger next along my spin, lightly
running its way down until it was in between my cheeks, and he stopped
at my first entrance.
"Do you trust me Bella?" he asked, still keeping his finger there.
"Yes," I whispered.
"May I have you here?" he pressed his finger inside of me slowly, and I
squeezed my eyes shut.
Could he?
That was a good question.
Fuck, it felt good, but shit, this was just his finger.
I mean, his dick was like.huge.
"Yes," Butterbean answered for me.
Edward removed his fingers, lowering his lips, and licked over the place of
his desire. It felt so fucking good, but I was nervous as hell. I never had
sex like this before. Had he? Shit. I tensed, waiting for when he would
do it.
I felt his fingers rubbing against me again, teasing my entrance. He
dipped one back inside of me again, then another, sometimes switching on
and off. My pussy throbbed with desire for him to be back inside of me. I
felt his other hand start to rub my clit, and the drunken state I was
under washed over me. I fell right off the edge he had me teetering on
as his fingers then pushed into my pussy and ass at the same time. As my
mouth started to chant his name, his cock came back inside of me while
he continued to fuck my ass hard with his fingers.
"Fuck, fuck, Edward, fuck," I panted against the sheets, hoping to mask
my cries from Ness sleeping across the hall.
He kept fucking me hard, causing my voice to catch in my throat from the
intensity of the orgasm he produced.
"So," he slammed into me.
"Fucking," harder this time.
"Good," he groaned, cumming as far inside of me as he could go.
Butterbean held up a nice "10", in complete and total agreement.
EPOV
I woke up with Bella lying across my chest.
Glancing at the clock, I saw that it was around 7:30, her normal time for
waking up, and knew that Ness would probably be up soon too.
I groaned at the thought of having to move, but did it anyway.
When Ness woke up, she would be excited seeing all of the toys Bella
brought back, and no doubt know that Bella was here.
"Angel," I rocked her gently as I sat back down on the bed with some of
my pajamas for her.
"Go way," she grumbled, burying her face into the pillow.
I kind of felt bad. I mean, it was sort of my fault she was so tired. I
smiled to myself thinking about last night. Fucking hell, she was going to
let me do her in the ass.
Don't look at me like that.
Every man wants to do his girl in the ass. Did I do it though? No, I
didn't.
Why?
Because no girl wants to be fucked in the ass, I'm not stupid. They either
do it because they want to please their man, or because they are total
fucking sluts like Jessica.
Bella is not a slut, obviously, so she was only going to do it to please me.
That shit would hurt, though, and I was not about to hurt my angel. I
just wanted to see if she trusted me, and fuck, she did.
"Sweet Bella, you have to put on clothes before my child catches you in
the nude for the second time," I snickered, kissing her head.
"Fine," she sucked her teeth and sat up. I smiled at her as she kept her
eyes closed, sticking out her arms for me to dress her.
"I thought you hated it when I treated you like a child?" I teased.
She only grunted, and then fell back down to the pillow.
"Need the lower half. I'm pretty sure I can wake up that part of you," I
pulled the covers back and lowered my lips down to her body, but she
knocked my face away, hard.
"You're very feisty for it being so early." I backed off and just slid my
pajama pants on her.
After I dressed myself, I climbed back into bed with her and tried to
fall back to sleep for a bit. I was halfway into my dream about covering
Bella with chocolate sauce when 30 pounds of miniature human jumped on
my back.
"Daddy!" she shook my shoulder hard, and I felt one of the stuffed
animals hitting my face as I spooned Bella. "DADDY!" Ness said louder,
right in my fucking ear.
"Ness," I rolled back slightly and squinted at the bright light, trying to
see her.
"WOOK!" she held up one of the toys, and I tried to smile at her
excitement.
"Shh, honey Bella's sleeping." I pulled her into me, but she wiggled free,
crawling over me and then onto Bella.
"Bewwa wake up!" Ness bounced in front of her, shaking her arm.
"Squeaky." Bella tried to find her with her hand as she kept her eyes
closed.
"Wake up," Ness laid down by Bella, whispering softly to her.
I had definitely been replaced as the favorite.
"Did you get the kitties?" Bella whispered, pulling Ness into her arms.
"I wike dis one," Ness held up the Hello Kitty dressed like a chef.
"Me too sweetheart. It looks like your daddy right?" Bella laughed again.
"Mmm hmm," Ness giggled with her.
"Did you miss me?" Bella asked sleepily, holding Ness tighter.
"Yup. You misses me?"
"Of course, Squeaks. I had no one to tell me I was pretty for five days,"
Bella nuzzled her nose against Ness' face, making her laugh.
"You stay wif me now?" Nessie asked in a hopeful tone.
"I'll stay for now."
After we all climbed out of bed, Bella insisted on making breakfast,
saying that she owed Ness a good meal after she was stuck eating my
cooking all week. I wanted to remind her that she was now paying me
double my previous salary since she made me the executive chef of her
restaurant, but something told me to just let that sleeping dog lie.
"What's dis?" Ness asked, as Bella set down a bowl for her.
"This is Maizena. It's yummy, but hot. So be careful," Bella took a seat
next to her.
"I haven't had this since I was a little kid," I said, stirring the custard in
my bowl to cool it off.
"A kid? Who the hell made you Maizena?" she asked, blowing on her
bowl.
"A nanny Esme had when Emmett and I were little. So-phia," I said
smiling with a wiggle of my brows.
"I take it So-phia was pretty?"
"She was...words I cannot say at this table right now," I laughed, sliding
a spoonful of custard in my mouth.
"Flower Child, you're about to lose the rights to your Maizena," Bella
warned.
"You asked," I shrugged, taking another bite.
"It's yummy," Squeaks said, trying to bring a spoonful to her mouth.
"Yes, it is honey," I reached over and wiped her mouth that was covered.
She scowled at me, giving me a look that said 'I was saving that for
later'.
"Bet its better than So-phia's," Bella said, giving me a dirty look.
"It is, Angel. Much. And I happy to be much more fond of the chef." I
reached across the table and cupped her chin.
"Screw off Flower Child," she laughed, knocking my hand away.
"Bewwa can we pay today?"
"Bella has to work today sweetheart, but we can"
"No!" Ness knocked her bowl hard, spilling it over.
"Renesmee," I said in a surprised tone. "That was not very nice. You need
to apologize to Bella," I sat her bowl up, and reached for some napkins.
"No." Ness crossed her arms and looked down.
"Renesmee Cullen, you are going to find yourself in timeout if you don't
knock it off," I reached over and tried to lift her chin, but she moved
her face away. "What did we talk about? Being a big girl and letting
Bella work, right?" I waited but she said nothing, and didn't move.
"I'm not going anywhere, Squeaks. I'm just going with daddy to work. It's
not far, remember?" Bella said softly, touching her hair.
"I-don't-want-you-to-go," Ness started to cry this little weepy sound
that broke my heart.
Bella reached over and picked her up into her lap. Ness cried harder as
Bella rocked her gently, patting her back. Fuck, I should have known this
was going to happen. I didn't know what to do though. How else could I
explain this to her?
"Squeaks, please don't cry. I have to work honey. I'm sorry. Believe me,"
Bella laughed once," I would much rather stay here with you and play all
day. That's not how being an adult works, though."
"You and daddy aways go way," Ness cried. "Wike mommy."
Bella's eyes closed tightly, cringing right along with me at my daughter's
words. That fucking hurt worse than her cries.
She thought I was the same as Jessica.
"That's not true, Squeaky," Bella whispered.
"Yes it is!" Ness wiggled to get free, and Bella let her go, putting her
down.
Ness ran to her room, and I stared after her, trying to figure out what
the fuck to do. When I looked over to Bella I could see that she was
hurt, and no doubt blaming herself for what just happened.
"It's not your fault, Bella," I said getting up from my seat.
I walked over to her and kissed her head once, brushing my fingers over
her cheek before I went to my bedroom to retrieve my cell phone.
There was only one person who knew how to deal with this shit.
"You have been avoiding me," she answered after the second ring.
Great, even my mother was going to give me shit today.

My mother ended up coming over to watch Ness today.
Bella didn't say anything else to her, not wanting to make it worse, and
just left after my call to Esme. I was worried. I didn't want Bella feeling
bad about being a part of Ness' life. She had no reason to.
Esme assured me they would both be alright.
I made my way into the restaurant and clocked in, hoping the rest of the
day would be better. Bella's office door was closed, and I shook my head,
knowing that she was probably sulking AKA hiding.
From me.
As I began prep, I thought of the list I had created a few days ago, and
tried to come up with a reason for how to keep Bella with me.
"Yo," Emmett ducked his head into the kitchen, "B wants to see you."
Shit.
I rubbed my face briskly as I walked to her office, already having a
shitty day and not really wanting to hear what I knew she was going to
say.
"Hey," I said entering her office.
"We have to do Seth's written warning. He'll be in soon, and I want to
show it to you before he gets here." She held out the paper to me, and I
walked forward, taking it out of her hands.
As I sat in the seat across from her, I looked at her face while she
clicked on emails, doing her work. She had been crying, no doubt. Her
eyes were puffy, and I could see the little bit of red on the tip of her
nose.
"You have to sign the bottom when you're done, if it is all correct," she
said looking to me again.
"Yeah," I looked down to the paper, not wanting to upset her again.
It was quiet for a few minutes as I tried to focus on reading the form,
and Bella continued to work. I barely heard her when she started to
speak, her voice was so low. I looked up and she was staring at her
monitor with tears coming down her face.
"She's right. I'm no different."
I stood up and walked over to her side of the desk. Kneeling down, I spun
her chair to face me and cupped her face into my hands.
"That isn't true Bella. You are nothing like Jessica," I thumbed away her
tears.
"I bought her all of that stuff thinking it would make up for not being
around," she sniffled, shaking her head.
"Baby, she thinks I'm like Jessica too. That's what Nessie said with her
own lips. What am I supposed to? Stop working? She's afraid because of
what happened with Jessica. She can't see the difference yet, but I
think, with time, she will. She'll see that we're not going anywhere." I
leaned in and kissed her chin.
"I am Flower Child. I am going somewhere. You forget that?"
"Belladon't." I stopped, seeing in her eyes what she was about to say.
"Don't say or don't do what I think you are going to. Just.don't.
Please," I looked in her teary eyes and begged with my own for her not
to say it.
"It's the only fair thing to do Edward," Bella whispered. "It will hurt a
lot less than"
"No, it won't. Not to anyone. If you leave now Bella, or want to break off
what we have, you are only fooling yourself into thinking it is better. It's
not better." I tried to stay calm but this shit was really pissing me off.
"What am I supposed to do? Gordon says to fucking lay it all on the line
and spell it out for you. Well you know what Edward? Here's how this
shit works," she swiped away her tears angrily. "I love you and I love
your daughter, and in fucking," she turned back to her computer and
pointed, "3 months, all of that shit goes away. I am leaving in three
months Edward. The proof is right there," she pointed and hit the screen
with her finger again. "Still want to think it's all sunshine and fucking
butterflies?"
"It doesn't matter to me Bella. If you want it to work, then it will work.
And Ness will understand. If you don't want us, then just say you don't
want us. But don't fucking use leaving as an excuse to hide."
"I'm not," she cried, shaking her head fiercely.
I reached up and brought her head down to mine, pressing her forehead
to my own, and closed my eyes.
"Then just stay with me, Bella. Stay with me."
BPOV
10:15 am
The date laughed at me.
Mocking the voicemail I received this morning, of which, sent my world
swirling into a downward spiral.
I stared at Flower Child as he read over Seth's warning, and fucking
sobbed, knowing it meant his world was going to be turned upside down
even more than it already had.
How fucking stupid I was.
I tried to get the words to come out of my mouth, but they just
wouldn't. Edward was getting angry and defensive as he argued with me
about leaving, and it only made me cry harder.
Just fucking say it.
I couldn't. I just fucking couldn't.
I wasn't even sure what the fuck we we're arguing about at the this
point, but I just kept my mouth moving, without saying what really
needed to be said. Like; 'Edward, shut up, you're going to be a '
My stomach churned as I looked into his blue eyes, pleading with me to
stay.
Yes stay.
There was a small voice inside of my head making the same plea, but it
wasn't my voice alone this time.
Fuck. How fifteen minutes changed so much.
10:00 am
Miss Swan, this is Dr. Pattinson. We have your results back from your
Avian Flu testing. You will be happy to know that you have tested
negative, and have nothing to fear. We hope you enjoyed your stay in
Japan. My wife and I always loved going this time of year. I have some
other results to share with you as well. It seems that you are expecting.
Your blood test shows you have an increase in HGC
I dropped the phone, unable to hear the rest.
"Yo, B? You want a muffin?" Emmett popped his head in and asked.
"Edward," I breathed, closing my eyes.
"You want me to get him?" he asked, and I nodded, trying not to fucking
pass out.
Oh my God.
Oh my God.
Oh my God.
Oh my God.
Oh my God.
Oh my
"Hey," Edward said softly as he walked in.
I fought back the tears and the panic and the overwhelming need I felt
to be held in his arms.
Shit. Pull it together woman! FocusSethrightdiscipline.
Discipline? Ha. What did I know about that?
Here I was carrying Edward's love Child like any other slut. Like fucking
Just wike mommy
Yeah, just like fucking Jessica.
"She's Right. I'm no different."









Chapter 20 "Phantasmagoria"
These streets will make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you.
BPOV
2:37 pm
The streets were dark and glossy, wet from the late night rain.
I ran for shelter, already feeling chilly from the sprinkles that fell on me
as I tried to find cover. The cool air was filled with all types of aromas.
Some were sweet, some were savory. I remembered the first time I ever
smelled a slice of that pizza from Pecc's Italian caf.
Fuck, that stuff was where it was at.
I ate it leaning up against the brick wall outside, just like all of the
other patrons who weren't lucky enough to get a table inside, because
the place was too packed with people.
Those were the days.
I was eighteen, on my own, highly fucking nervous, and scared and
excited to be so.
New York, my first home away from home.
First slice of pizza that wasn't Charlie's.
First time I ever let go and just fucking was.me.
Bella.
Riley's was built on fucking hopes and dreams. It never should have
happened from a statistics point-of-view. I was predicted to fail, and
fucking would have if I didn't dig deep and go balls to the wall, like
Gordon fucking taught me.
I chose New York because I fucking read one time, "If you can make it
there, you can make it anywhere." Well fuck, I wanted to make it. BAD.
Being from Forks was like being a shark in a fishbowl.
This place, these streets, was made for fuckers like me.
I fucking dug in and took a big ass bite out of that apple, spitting the
seeds from my mouth, and fucking begging someone to spit back at me. I
was hungry, starved, and wanted to fucking prove myself this no-one,
this fucking little girl from a small town with no proper education or pot
to piss in to my father and mother, and every other person who looked
at me, and be able to tell them 'Go fuck yourself'.
Well hell, I made it.
I was fucking King Kong, atop of the fucking Empire State Building,
roaring to all the fuckers down below who wanted my head.
Come get it motherfuckers.
But they couldn't.
Not even Gordon.
I stared at the figures in front of me and smiled, seeing that I had
fucking owned every last man, every last woman, everyfucking
EVERYONE in G'damn New York. The hardest place to fucking climb to the
top of the food chain quite fucking literally.
Riley's was number fucking ONE.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to cry, celebrate, or fucking I don't know.
The feelings surging inside of me were ridiculous. Of course, that wasn't
the only thing inside of me, so maybe that shit had a lot to do with it
also.
"B?" I heard Emmett say through the intercom on the phone.
"Get your ass in here fucker," I replied, wanting to be able to show him
our numbers for the quarter.
"Aight," he said in his ghetto voice.
I laughed letting go of the button.
What a buffoon.
I loved him, though.
Emmett came in with a cup of coffee for me and set it down on my desk,
resting his own on his leg as he took a seat. I reached for mine, wanting
the warmth and caffeine, but as soon as the fucking liquid hit my lips, I
spat it back into the cup, coughing.
"Not enough sugar?" he asked, looking worried.
"Um, no it's just"
Fuck what do I say?
"I um, I'm giving up coffee andforgot."
"YOU, Isabella my middle name should be coffee Swan, has given up the
java?" he eyed me in disbelief.
"I just want to start eating better and shit. You know, a little self
improvement never hurts Em," I lied, pushing the cup away.
"Uh huh," he took a sip of his, still not believing my bullshit.
"Anyhow, I just wanted to tell you that Riley's fucking killed this
quarter. Look," I held out the paper to him and he leaned it to take it
from my hands.
"Shit B," he smiled, resting his mug on my desk.
"Fucking beat Gordon," I smiled proudly.
"Damn girl. This shit needs to be framed. No, screw that. This needs to
be put on a damn billboard. Come here," he stood up and came around my
desk.
Emmett wrapped me in a tight bear hug as I stood up, and I started to
laugh when my feet lifted off the floor.
"You deserve it B," he squeezed me tighter and I squealed.
"Em, can't breathe here."
"Sorry," he chuckled, letting me go.
As my feet hit the floor, I felt my stomach go the opposite direction. The
room spun a little, and I lost my balance.
"Shit, you okay?" Emmett held my arms to keep me from falling.
"Em," I closed my eyes shaking my head.
"What's wrong?" he pulled me in, sounding worried.
"I'm gonna" I turned my head, pulling free of his arms, and fell to my
knees.
Thankfully I grabbed the fucking wastebasket in time, and was able to
avoid puking on the floor.
"Shit," Emmett said, kneeling down behind me. "I'm sorry B. I didn't mean
to shake you up like that," Emmett's strong hand was on my back,
rubbing soothingly.
"It's okay," I kept my face over the trash, feeling like it wasn't over.
"Can I have a towel or something?"
"Sure, yeah, hold on." He climbed to his feet and walked out of my
office.
I sat down on my bottom, still leaning over the wastebasket, unsure if it
was over.
Fuck.
You little bugger.
Emmett came back in with a wet and dry rag for me. I felt like I needed
to lie down or something. So I did, propping my legs up on my chair, and
staying on the floor. Emmett squatted next to me, softly wiping my
forehead with the wet rag.
Such a teddy bear, this one. I must remember to be nicer to him.
"Better B?" he asked looking remorseful.
"It wasn't your fault, Emmett. I fucking just ate some bad shit or
something," I lied, not wanting him to feel guilty.
A knock at the door sounded, and I sat up quickly, not wanting to get
caught laid out like this. That was a bad fucking idea. My head swirled
again, making the room all topsy-turvey, and I fucking felt my stomach
constrict again, trying to purge the nonexistent food in my stomach.
"Fuck," I leaned forward and vomited again in the wastebasket as
Emmett held my hair.
"What the hell are you doing?" I heard of all people Flower child
say.
"B's trying to take guilt trips to a whole new level," Emmett teased.
"Shut up," I mumbled, keeping my face over the basket.
"Are you alright Bella?" I couldn't see him, but I felt his hands replace
Emmett's on my hair.
"I'll get her something to drink," Emmett said, getting up from his place.
"I'm fine. It's just this new diet," I lied to him too.
"New diet? Why the fuck are you on a diet?" Edward gathered my hair
back from my face, rubbing his one hand over my cheek.
"Trying to feel healthier," I said sarcastically, reaching for the rag next
to me.
"Here," Emmett leaned over the desk with a glass and handed it to
Edward.
"Drink this, baby," Edward handed me the cup and I sat back on my butt,
taking a small sip.
"I'm gonna go keep an eye on shit. Make sure that little fucker Seth
stays in line," Emmett leaned of the desk and made his way out of my
office.
My head leaned against the bottom drawer of my desk as I closed my
eyes, trying to make the nausea to go away. I felt weak and just like
sleeping. Edward's slender fingers were on my face stroking light as a
feather, and I tried to focus on that sensation, blocking out the churning
in my belly.
My belly
"Angel, come here," Edward pulled me gently into his lap.
I curled up against him, and he held me securely. I felt so safe here in
his embrace. Thebabyseemed to agree, because the rumbling inside of
me stopped, and all I felt was his love and comfort.
"Better?" Edward asked softly, smoothing his hand over my hair.
"Yeah," I said with a slight nod. "Thank you."
"Do you want me to bring you home?" Edward asked, holding me tighter.
"No, I'm fine. Can we just sit here for a second, please?"
"Sure," he leaned against the desk, tucking my head under his chin.
"We came in number one," I said softly.
"The Workshop?"
"No, Riley's. It's the number one restaurant in the country this quarter,"
I explained.
"Seriously? That's amazing, Bell," Edward's lips kissed my hair.
"Congratulations."
"I was six," I played with the fabric of his shirt as I started to tell him
my story, "when I first worked in Charlie's diner. My Grandpa would stop
in every morning, and I made him my special breakfast every day. You
know what it was?"
"Hmm.pancakes?" Edward chuckled.
"No," I laughed. "Not pancakes. I made him oatmeal with raisins. You
know Flower Child, to this day I cannot look at a fucking raisin without
thinking of my Grandpa Riley," I sighed, closing my eyes and seeing
Gramps' wrinkled face and bushy eyebrows.
"You named it after him," Edward said quietly.
"He used to eat the oatmeal with me every morning. I would tell him,
'Grandpa, someday I am going to be a famous cook', and he'd say to me,
'Bellaboo, you cannot be a cook'. When I asked him why, can you guess
what he said?" I looked up to Edward's face.
"I'm guessing he is the one who told you the difference between a cook
and a chef."
"You would be right, Flower Child," I smiled, happy that he remembered
what I told Carlisle the first time I met him.
"But you know what else?" I nuzzled into his neck.
"What, angel?" Edward held me tighter in his strong arms.
"He showed me this headline of an article he clipped from a paper one
day. It was from a Broadway show, and this actress, I can't remember
her name, was being featured with her quote on the headline. She said,
'If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere'. My Gramps gave it
to me, and I saved it, believing that it was true. I still have it. It's on
the wall in Riley's."
"You did, sweetheart," Edward kissed my forehead. "You made it."
"I want Invoke, Flower Child. I'm sorry that I do, but I just fucking do,"
I started to sob a little, hoping he could understand.
"And I want you to want it Bella. I want you to have what makes you
happy. Do I want you to leave? Fuck no, I don't. But do I want you to
give up your dreams for me? No, I don't want that either."
"I know," I took a deep breath. "Flower Child, I want you," I nuzzled
into him further, kissing his neck softly. "I fucking want you too. And
Squeaks. I love you both so much," I whispered against his skin.
"We're yours, angel. We're all yours." Edward's lips kissed into the crook
of my neck as he held me tight. "But Bella?"
"Mmm?"
"Will you show me?" he asked in a whisper.
"Show you what, babe?" I placed my palm over his heart, needing to feel
it beat against my hand.
"What it is all about. Invoke. I want to see your dreams."
"Flower Child," I leaned away, wanting to see his face. "Are you actually
asking me for challenges?" I laughed.
"If that's what it takes to see, then yes. I am," he nodded.
"You're a crazy motherfucker. You know that?" I palmed his cheek in my
hand.
"Mmm hmm. Takes one to know one." Edward kissed the tip of my nose,
and I laughed, falling back into him.
"Are you feeling better, Bell?" he asked, rubbing my back.
"I am. We should get back to work," I leaned away again, and Edward
helped me up slowly.
Thankfully, I felt alright, other than being tired, and sat back into my
chair. Edward kissed my head and set the glass of 7-Up down next to my
pencil cup-holder. I smiled up at him, and then looked back to the
screen. With a heavy sigh, I picked up where I left off, opening a new
email form.
Dear Gordon
EPOV
During service, Bella worked the pass with me.
I kept a watchful eye on her, making sure she looked well enough to be
in here. Earlier in the day, she scared the shit out of me when I saw her
throwing up in her office. She seemed alright now, though.
"Hurry the fuck up Seth!" Bella ordered, shaking her fucking head as she
shoved a pan back at him with burnt scallops in it. "Motherfucker" she
grumbled her frustrations under her breath.
"Yo, Bree, I need the fucking veg, hun," I curled my fingers at her, and
she nodded, trying to hurry up.
"What the fuck is with everyone tonight?!" Bella huffed. "Did you all eat
big fucking bowls of 'slow as shit' for breakfast or something today?
Come-the-fuck-ON!" Bella slammed her fist down on the pass, waiting for
food right along with me.
"Seriously," I shook my head with the same irritation.
"Hey B! You have a visitor!" Emmett bellowed, entering the kitchen.
"Who?" she asked.
"I don't know. He looks like he's got some serious fucking clout, though.
Rockin' a fucking iced out Chopard watch and shit."
"Is he a fucking rapper?" Bella scoffed, and I had to laugh.
"Naw, he looks like some big boss man or something. Nice suit and all
that," Emmett explained.
"What the fuck," Bella sighed, walking out from around the counter.
"Hey," I called after her, and she spun around. "You make sure his bag
ass goes with you," I nodded towards Emmett.
"Yes father," she smirked, but then it faded as she backed out of the
kitchen door, looking regretful.
I shook my head in confusion, but went back to work, yelling at the staff
to hurry up with the orders. Bella was only gone for a few minutes, and
when she came back in, she looked even more annoyed than before.
"What happened?" I asked as she walked back around the pass.
"Fucking parasite," she huffed, leaning on the pass.
"Who was that?"
"Sometimes, Flower Child, the more successful you are, the harder your
fucking life gets. And assholes roll up on your doorstep with their fat
G'damn wallets thinking they can just buy up everything that you have
fucking," Bella kicked the table hard, "worked your whole G'damn life
for, and think you are just a motherfucking," she kicked it again, "useless
tool who can be bought, like a pair of fucking used underwear or
something." Bella closed her eyes and fumed.
"He wanted to buy you?" I tried to joke.
"It's like me walking up to you and saying, 'Hey, you know, Edward, your
kid is really cute and seems really nice. You've done a good job raising
her. How much?' These people!" she kicked the counter again.
"He wants to buy The Workshop?" I asked.
"No. YOU. He wants to buy you. A whole fucking inbox full of people
want to buy YOU. I'm sick of it," Bella slammed her hands down on the
pass, and I stared at her.
"What are you talking about?" I stepped closer to her.
"All of my restaurants have accomplished execs and sous chefs, Edward.
What the fuck do you think I mean? They think because you are new
that they can like, get a fucking bargain or something. This isn't the
fucking NBA draft or some shit." Bella reached out for the pan Seth sat
down and immediately pulled her hand back cursing loudly.
"You cum guzzling twat!" Bella shook her hand and spun around to face
Seth. "Handles don't go over the fucking flame!" she kicked the table and
walked towards the sink.
I was getting really tired of this asshole hurting my girl.
"You alright, Bell?" I asked, glancing once at Seth.
Bella waved me off and continued rinsing her hand with cold water. I
knew better than to baby her, especially in front of the staff, so I kept
to my duties, making sure to keep a watchful eye on Seth's punk ass.
I was plating up my last dish on table 24's tickets when I heard Bella
scream again.
"SonofaBITCH!"
My head whipped instantly towards her and I fucking fumed, seeing her
holding her hand the same fucking hand he ALREADY burned once with
his stupidity.
Mother. Fucker.
I walked towards Seth and grabbed him by the fucking back of his
jacket, dragging his ass to the back door as he stumbled to keep up.
"Fuck off," I shoved him out the door and fucking slammed it closed.
Walking back over to the pass, I saw Bella at the sink, rinsing her hand
in the same place Seth burned her last time with the pan handle he
allowed to lay over the open flame, except now, she had tears in her
eyes from the pain.
That shit was like branding someone.
My face flushed with the anger I felt towards Seth, and it was all I
could do not to turn around and fucking go back out that door to kick
the fucking living shit out of his ass.
"Ben, please watch the pass," I instructed, walking towards Bella.
"Let me see, love," I said quietly, taking her burned hand into mine.
"Shit," I fumed seeing the blistering skin on her palm.
"Does it say 'Made in China'?" Bella closed her eyes, trying to joke, but I
knew she was in fucking pain.
"No. Here, hold it under the water. I'll get you ice." I released her and
walked to the ice chest, grabbing some in a clean rag, and then walked
back over to Bella. "Give me your hand, sweetheart," I held out my hand
for hers.
"Fuck," she cringed as I rubbed one of the ice cubes over her red skin.
"I'm sorry," I said, trying to be gentle with her. "You've had a really
shitty day, love."
"Yeah, tell me about it," she sniffled.
"Maybe you should take a break. Have a smoke." I pulled her along with
me towards the First Aid kit.
"No," Bella shook her head.
"You don't want a smoke?" I laughed, reaching into the kit in search of
ointment.
"I told you, I'm trying to do this new diet, healthy shit."
"What is this all about Bella? Not that I'm going to argue against you
giving up smoking and shit 'cause truthfully we should BOTH be doing
that but, I'm just curious as to what brought this on." I unscrewed the
cap to the ointment and rubbed a little on her hand.
"Shit, Flower Child!" she pulled back cringing again.
"I'm so sorry," I leaned my lips to her face and kissed her softly. "Fuck,
I'm sorry."
"It's fine. It just hurts like a mother fucker." She placed her hand back
into mine.
"Can we PLEASE fire Seth now?" I asked angrily as I lightly dabbed more
ointment on her hand.
"Oh, he's fucking gone. Let him try and get fucking unemployment out of
me. I'll give that fucking mobster dude that showed up here tonight
someone's ass to buy. Motherfucker."
"That's my girl," I smiled up at her anger.
.
Bella asked me at the end of the night to come back in the kitchen after
service was through. The bar closed up early since there was a big
concert down at the bandshell on the beachside, and we were pretty
dead.
As I entered the kitchen again, all the lights were off and only a low
flame on the stove remained lit. Bella was sitting on the pass, swinging
her legs, staring down at her feet. I walked in slowly, unsure of what
exactly she was planning on doing. I know I promised her sex on the pass,
but I didn't think it would be tonightif that was what she was after.
"What are we doing?" I asked, stopping once I reached her.
"You wanted to see Invoke, yes?" she asked, lifting her eyes to mine.
"Oh," I nodded realizing what she was about to do.
"Close your eyes," Bella said softly, and I obeyed.
"Take off your shirt," she said next, making me laugh a little.
"You are opening a restaurant, right?" I teased, peeking an eye at her.
"I'm trying to show you the point of this fuckery, Flower Child. Not what
I am going to do to a customer."
"I understand," I got serious and listened to her command again,
removing my shirt and keeping my eyes closed.
"Step forward," she said softly, and I did.
I felt something soft against my chest, almost tickling me. I tried to
focus on what it was and figure it out.
"What does this remind you of?" Bella asked, continuing to course the
unknown object over my skin.
"A feather?" I guessed.
"Food, Flower Child."
"Oh, um."
Soft...silkyBella's hair...but food?...fucksilkyhairsoft
"Corn silk?" I guessed, feeling completely stupid.
"Good guess," Bella said and the caressing disappeared. "Open."
I opened my mouth and felt Bella's finger on my lips, then something fell
inside.
"Chew." I obeyed, and tasted that it was raw corn. The caressing came
back and I chewed slower.
"Taste different?" she asked.
"Mmm hmm," I hummed, trying to avoid the hard-on in my pants.
Fucking Corn? Really, Lt. Dan?
"Why do you think that is?" Bella asked.
"'Cause I'm thinking about it more," I said.
"And?"
"Um, the silk sort of reminds me of things I love," I admitted, not
knowing if she would understand.
"Like what?" she sounded surprised by my answer. I leaned forward,
knowing where she was and stopped when I felt her face against mine.
"A certain angel's hair," I nuzzled into her locks with my nose and she
sighed, touching her fingers to my shoulders, lightly pushing me away.
"I was trying to show you a part of the vegetable that gets overlooked
because we usually throw it away. It is the softest part, the most
delicate," Bella explained.
"I can see that," I nodded, still keeping my eyes closed.
I started to smell something smoky all of a sudden, almost like hickory
chips. I tried to imagine barbequed foods, thinking that was coming next.
"I want you to taste this with the front of your tongue, and when I ask
you for the description, swallow and answer. Understand?" Bella was
close to my mouth as I felt her breath on my face when she asked. I
nodded my reply to her and waited. "Open," she said, touching something
to my lips.
Her finger dipped into my mouth, and I closed my lips around her finger.
She pulled it away quickly, and left me with something sweet to taste. I
tried to focus, but the scent of hickory was fucking with me.
"What do you taste?" she asked. I swallowed as she told me to, before I
replied.
"I know it's not barbeque sauce, but that's what I want to say."
"Open again," she said, touching my lips once more and gave me another
slide of the same sauce. "This time taste in the center of your mouth."
Bella instructed.
The smell of hickory faded, and I moved my tongue along the roof of my
mouth, trying to get a sense of what flavors were happening. Bella
dabbed something just under my nose and the hickory smell was replaced
by a familiar vanilla fragrance.
"What do you taste now?"
I swallowed and thought a minute, trying to figure out what the game
was.
"Flower Child, you're thinking too hard. I'm not trying to trick you, I'm
provoking something. There's no wrong answer." I felt her wipe away the
vanilla with her finger from my face.
"Strawberry," I replied honestly.
"Good. Now open again," Bella gave me a third taste of the same sauce
and I waited for her instruction. I felt her hands frame my face as she
whispered gently against my lips.
"Summer Light Thru the TreesSummer Light Spotted MeSummer Light
Palest GoldSummer Light Bright and Bold"
I felt Bella's hand slip down from my face, coursing over my arms as she
kept whispering the same poem to me. I still held the sauce in my mouth,
as she had not told me to swallow or to taste, and the flavor was
starting to come alive against my tongue as her words floated softly into
my ears. I was seeing the sun and how it felt to be a kid on that first
day of summer break when school was over.
"I saw Summer Light DescendSummer Light, Made Shadows BendSummer
Light, On An Emerald PondI Reached OutIt Touched My Palm"
Bella's thumbs pressed into my palms, making her words come to life as I
envisioned swimming on the lake at Grandma Cullen's house when I was
thirteen. I could see Emmett doing a canon-ball off the deck, and feel
how cool the water was against my flushed skin as I jumped in behind
him.
"Taste," Bella said softly, and I did, finally rolling the now warm sauce
along my tongue and connecting all of the elements. "Swallow, then, open
again Flower Child," she instructed, and I obeyed. A new flavor was in my
mouth, lighter and more delicate in flavor. "You may taste," Bella said
before going back to her whispered poem.
"Summer Light, It Fell Like PowderOr a Floating Incandescent
Feather Came Down, Like A Sheer, White Swan Summer Light Lifted
Wing-Like Arms."
And fuckit DID feel like that.
The previous sauce still lingered both bitterly and sweetly on my tongue,
mixing with this new lighter and airier food. Whipped Creamit was
definitely whipped cream.
She said nothing this time, just touched something new to my lips. I
swallowed and then opened for what she was feeding me now. This time,
it was bitter and crisp on the outside. The flavor brought all of the
others to life, though, and I focused again on her hushed words.

"So Sunrays Slanted Shone-Misty Summer Light-Beams, Embraced
MeWarm, Wonderful Summer Light Touch Me Tender, Solar-Might"
Bella's hands disappeared and she was quiet for a moment. I kept the
food in my mouth, not knowing what I was supposed to do. My mind
drifted back to everything she had given me, and everything those flavors
and words provoked, or invoked, in me.
I was a kid having summer time fun, and fuck.thinking about shit I
hadn't thought of in years. She did that with food? I wanted to laugh,
but held it in, feeling just a little bit of awe for my angel.
"What did you taste?" Bella asked softly, and I finally swallowed.
I had no clue what she was actually feeding me, but what I thought of
while she was doing it was very present in my mind. If I had to fucking
guess, that is what she was going for, anyway.
"Grandma Cullen's dessert she used to serve on the Fourth of July," I
kept my eyes closed as I replied.
I felt Bella's hands on my face again caressing softly. She pulled me
towards her, and her lips kissed mine several times gently, but hastily.
Stepping forward, I rested my hands on her hips, but still kept my eyes
closed, not having been told to open them.
"And Bella," I whispered, kissing her again, with a soft slide of my tongue
against hers. "Lots of Bella."
Her fingers slid from my face into my hair, pulling me roughly into her,
and kissing me more greedily. I moved my hands to the underside of her
jaw, cupping her face into my palms, and tilted Bella's face so I could
kiss her more deeply. A warm tingle ran its way over my skin as I felt
her tug harder on my hair and pant heavily against my lips.
She pulled back, resting her forehead to mine for a moment, and then
brought her lips back to my face, kissing next to my mouth, then my jaw,
and then back to my chin.
Her good hand fisted my hair as she held her lips to my cheek, whispering
softly, "I love you, Flower Child." She kissed along my face again, and my
hands on her hips tightened at her words and the intensity at which she
said them. "I love you so much." Her head fell onto my shoulder as she
clung to me.
"I love you too, angel. Just as much." I finally opened my eyes and pulled
her away to see her face.
"You never asked me," she said, looking at me.
"Asked you what?" I shook my head, cupping her face into my hands.
"Why I never told you about the assholes trying to shark you."
"Oh. I wasn't really thinking about it, I guess," I shrugged, not knowing
why the fuck she was bringing this up.
"They offered a lot for you, you know. A mean, like a shit load of
money," Bella looked over my face, avoiding my eyes.
"I see," I looked down, trying to seem like I was actually considering this
news. "Did they offer anything else?" I looked back up to her and
watched as her expression changed, growing somber.
"Um, like what?" she shook her head and looked back up to me.
"I don't know. Sneak peeks of future dining experiences? Make-out
sessions on the pass?" I moved my lips closer to her ear, "Making love on
Egyptian cotton?" I kissed her ear, "Or in the ocean?" I moved my lips
lower kissing along her neck. "Perhaps," I slid her forward, "being all
that I ever wanted or needed? Was any of that shit in the deals they
offered, Bella?" I kissed her shoulder, and she shook her head 'no'. "Then
why would I want to leave?"
"I just thought you would be mad at me. Wonder why I didn't tell you.
Aren't you curious?" she asked. I looked back up, laying my palms flat on
the steel-top as I held her gaze.
"You already told me," I gave a pointed look and watched as her face
understood that I understood.
She loved me. She wanted to protect me.
"Strawberry reduction laced with red current. Orange foam with vanilla,
and plain old fucking blueberries. I added the hickory smoke just to fuck
with you," she smirked a little.
"I was way wrong," I smiled back, laughing once.
"I told you there were no wrong answers, and actually, you were right.
All I wanted to do was show you what your senses could do to you if you
gave yourself over to them. Tell me, would it have tasted like that if we
were just sitting in the dining room eating normally?"
"No. Not at all."
"Exactly." Bella pulled my face back into hers, closing her eyes as her
forehead rested against mine. I kept my eyes open, watching her lips as
she spoke softly, "I've taught so many people, Flower Child, and it's all
stale air for me. Like being locked in a box. I like teaching you, though.
You're like fresh air," her lips pressed against mine softly as she
encircled her arms around my shoulders. "You make everything new
again."
My eyes fell closed as my lips pressed into hers, kissing her hastily. Bella
wrapped her legs around my waist, pulling me into her, and I felt her
warm palms against my chest. My body flushed with desire for her. The
feelings were overwhelming as they ballooned inside of my chest,
becoming so swollen I thought surely I could never be big enough, man
enough, justenough to fucking hold all of this love I had inside of me
for her.
The topaz heart I gave Bella fell against her bare chest as I pulled her
shirt free, and it shimmered against the light of the low flame burning on
the stove beside us. I placed a kiss to it, and then brought it around so
that the charm hung backwards against her shoulder blade, not wanting
to press it into her skin as I held her chest flush with mine.
Her neck, received two and a half month's worth of all the love I should
have been showing her all this time.
Her shoulder, was given five days worth of kisses that went missing when
she did.
Her breasts, were treasured as they should be with feather light kisses,
nibbles, and soft suckling as she arched her back, allowing me to love her
the way she should be loved.
The way she deserved to be loved.
I tugged her pants free, slowly sliding them down her silken legs, taking
my time to appreciate how sexy, and beautiful, and soft, and fucking
everything Bella was.
"Freesia," kisses to her ribs. "Strawberries," kisses to her navel as she
lay back. "Heaven," kisses to Butterbean and all her fucking sweetness.
Bella gasped as I swirled my tongue around her swollen bud, then suckled
her softly between my lips. I touched the tip of my tongue to her again
just barely licking over her sensitive skin. I felt her tense as my hands
rested on her stomach, and I moved my lips to her thighs, wanting to
draw out her pleasure.
My mouth moved along her creamy legs, lifting one in my hand to kiss the
underside. I kissed my way back into her center and flicked lightly over
her clit again, eliciting more sounds of pleasure from Bella's lips.
Her moans were making my dick hard-as-fuck, and I reached one of my
hands down to lower my pants. They fell to my ankles, and I kicked off
my shoes, then, stepped out of my cheffies.
Stroking my cock in my free hand, I brought my other down Bella's body
and ran my index finger along her moist folds, sliding it slowly inside of
her. I swirled my finger gently around inside of her body and watched as
she panted loudly, arching her back.
Mmm.
I removed my finger from her and brought it up to my lips, cleaning her
arousal from it in one long slide as I pulled it from my mouth. "You are so
sweet Bella," I whispered, lowering my lips back down to kiss her
stomach.
"Stop," Bella tensed under me, and I lifted my eyes to her face, keeping
my lips near her belly. "Stop," she repeated, sitting up quickly.
"What's wrong?" I asked, stepping back to let her up.
"Just" she looked around nervously, and then shook her head.
I stared at her, confused by her reaction. Did she fucking hear
something? I looked around trying to see what the fuck she was making
me stop for. My eyes paused when I noticed the camera in the corner
behind me.
She thinks
"Bella I'm not fucking James," I looked at her feeling pretty G'damn
offended by the notion that I would ever use this shit against her like
that asshole.
"I know, that's not whatfuck," her hand fell on my chest and she shook
her head. I lifted her face back up to look at me, and saw a serious
debate raging inside of her caramel pools.
"I thought you trusted me?" I touched her cheek with my fingers, and
she just nodded, biting softly to her lower lip. "Then trust me."
BPOV
Edward thought I didn't trust him.
My heart ripped at the seams, thinking that he assumed my reaction was
caused by the toxic existence of James in my life, and being caught on
tape having sex with him in a similar way.
But it was the baby.
Not him.
I wasn't sure if this was okay, and truthfully, it wasn't until his lips came
down softly that final time on my belly that I even thought about what
might happen. Edward was so gentle, though, and I knew he would never
hurt me.
Even when I gave him full allowance to have me the way he desired, he
chose not to, putting my body, my feelings, over his own.
"I trust you," I pulled his face to mine, kissing his lips. "I trust you."
My legs pulled him back into me, and without even needing to guide him
further, his body slid into mine effortlessly, making us complete once
more.
"I love you," he whispered, wrapping his arms around me as he pulled
himself back then slowly rocked into me again.
"Me too, Flower Child." I pressed my feet firmer against his ass, needing
to feel him deeper.
His skin felt warm and soft under my touch. Too soft for a man who was
so strong, I thought to myself. I made sure to show affection to every
inch of his artfully inked skin, paying special attention to the grouping of
three, knowing in my heart that those three could be replaced to
accompany this new life.
Only now, there needed to be a fourth.
Edward took my injured hand from his chest and brought it to his lips,
kissing over the area where I was burned earlier, and repeatedly
whispered that he loved me as he did so.
So gentle.
My eyes became wet with emotion as I brought my mouth back to Flower
Child's, and I kissed him with all of the love and trust I had in me for
him. This was nothing like that young girl, who didn't know any better, so
many years ago in my New York restaurant, with James.
I now knew what I was doing, and why I was doing it.
I loved Edward wholeheartedly, and I knew I felt how much he loved me
too.
His body swelled inside of mine as his trusts became more frantic. I
pulled my legs back, leaning onto my elbows, and resting my feet on his
shoulders. Edward's slender fingers wrapped around my ankles, sliding my
feet down a little so that they lay on his chest. He tilted his head to one
side and kissed my right foot, then to the left and kissed the other.
I kept my eyes on his as he looked back to me, pushing my knees against
my chest so he could hit the right spot.
And fuck, he did.
I moved my feet higher, sliding my heels over him and pulled Edward in
further until the back of my knees hinged over his broad shoulders.
I wanted to please him the way he pleased me tonight. Seeing him be
focused on what I was teaching him this evening stirred something inside
of me. I just adored him in those moments, beyond words. Edward was so
much like a boy sometimes. Yet, the level of maturity he honed was
incredible. A boy trapped in a man's body, in a way.
And fuck, what a body it was.
The steel table rumbled under me, flexing as the weight of us making
love on it gave its protest. I mean, shit, this thing WAS made for serving
food. Not getting your pussy pummelled.
Although the change was rather nice.
"I think since technically," I panted as he pumped harder, "you are still
on the clock," harder, "we should be going over work," harder, "related,"
shit was he trying to fuck me into shutting up? "items."
"Like," pump, "what?"
"Terms," I pulled him in harder this time, using my feet against his back.
"Kitchen terms."
"I know kitchen terms." He tapped the pass hard with his knuckles.
"FCS," he said, then placed his hand back on my leg. "Food," harder.
"Contact," harder. "Surfaces."
"On the hoof," I breathed hard as I tried a new term, thinking there was
no way in hell he knew this shit.
"Rare meat? Is that what you want?" Edward pulled me towards him,
skidding my elbows and sweaty skin on the steel top as he held my ass in
his hands since it no longer lay on the pass.
"Fuck. In the weeds. In the weeds," my voice was tremulous as he fucked
me harder, deeper, in our new position.
"You're giving new meanings to 'cluck and grunt'," he tantalized.
"Not a very nice way to treat your biscuit, Flower Child," I shot back,
hoping he knew the meaning.
My elbows gave out from under me and I rested my back down onto the
warm steel counter. His movements slowed, and I heard his sweaty palms
slide along the metal as he hovered over me.
"I would never," he kissed my lips once, "ever," twice, "hurt my heart,"
again. "Never."
"Refire," I closed my eyes and tried to fight off the smile I felt giving
way.
Edward moved slower this time, thumbing the sides of my face as he
kissed my lips softly, trying to convey the truth in his words. His slick
abs glided back and forth over Butterbean as he rocked inside of me,
pushing me towards the edge of my release again.
"Hold-time," I warned, trying to let him know that motherfucking time
was about to expire if he planned to cum with me. "Fuck. Edward.
Harder. Please."
"Echo?" he replied.
Damn he was good.
"Harder," I gripped his hair with my good hand as he obeyed.
"Ec-ho?"
Holy shit, I was being given a concentrated dose of Edwardly fucking
tonight.
"Ha-a-a-aharder," I pleaded, wanting nothing more than to fall into the
cloud of heaven he was ushering me towards.
Edward's blue eyes filled with an amorous gaze, watching me as I cried
out in ecstasy. My insides convulsed, clenching around his swollen member
as it became a firebrand deep in the pit of my.
"Edward. Baby. Slower." I pushed gently on his chest, trying to keep a
sane mind about my fragile state; even though I was very far away from
that place right now.
"Like this?" he changed pace, planting feather-light kisses between my
breasts.
"Just like that," I whispered as my hands coursed through his thick
locks.
"So motherfucking good Bella," he murmured against my heated lips. "So
good."
I closed my eyes, unable to fan the flames of this fever building inside of
me. It was more than just the sex though. It was fucking everything. I
was on the pass and being fucked all proper-like, but when I closed my
eyes the world seemed to be different.
It was now our foundation.
A phantasmagoria was being painted in my mind of how vastly my life was
being changed. Our livesour lives were being changed. I was no longer
just Bella Swan, his boss, and he was no longer Edward Cullen, my
employee.
We were literally bound together, for forever.
The colors bloomed under my lids, and I saw them fall like autumn leaves,
swirling and blending together until the picture was painted flawlessly,
leaving an artwork so breathtaking in its wake that it literally made me
gasp at the vision it bared.
We were a family.
II had a family.
"Baby" I pulled him in closer, kissing his lips, wanting to share my
elation; even though I still could not unlock the secret I carried.
"Cum with me, baby," he breathed against my mouth, thrusting harder
inside of me.
"Baby" The fever swept over me, igniting the ambers in my lower region.
"Bella," Edward thrust one last time, filling me with the physical part of
his love.
The same part that had joined us in this way now.
Edward pulled back slowly, pushing my feet down from his chest as he
did. His palms laid flat against the steel-top and he leaned over me,
planting a kiss between my brows. I opened my eyes to see his lips curl
up into a devilish grin.
"Eighty-six."
EPOV
"Go way gorms, iky, iky gorms, go wayyyy gorms."
I stood outside of my bathroom door, listening to Ness singing a new song
she created, feeling rather amused. The water was running, so I assumed
she was washing her hands. Not wanting to disturb her cuteness, I waited
patiently to use the bathroom and took a seat on the floor beside the
door.
"Go wayyyyyy gorms," Ness continued, and I laughed, leaning my head
against the wall.
After a few minutes, I heard the water turn off and then her start to
jingle the handle, trying to get out. I reached my hand up and turned
the knob for her, but stayed out of her view. Ness came out and stopped
dead in her tracks seeing me sitting there. She looked highly surprised
and blushed brightly.
"Daddy!" she whined, hitting her arm towards me.
"What?" I asked innocently.
"You was wisening," she ran into me, pushing me with her hands as she
laughed, and I pretended she knocked me over.
"I don't know what you are talking about," I held up my hands, and she
crawled on my chest, giggling.
"S'not funny," Ness shook her head, sending her long curly hair into my
face.
"I couldn't help it. You sounded so cute, Ness." I picked her up and sat
her on my chest.
"Gamma says no pying."
"What? We can't have pie?" I teased, tickling her.
"Nowah!' she knocked my hands away trying to get free. "Bewwa!" she
squealed.
"Bella's not going to help you. She's tied up and can't get free." I curled
Ness into my arm like a football and tickled her harder as she tried to
crawl away.
"Bew." she giggled, unable to finish her pleas for help. "Bewwa!"
I saw the door to my bedroom open and Bella looked down at us on the
floor, biting her lip with an eyebrow raised.
"What's. Going. On?" she asked slowly.
"Daddy" I tickled Ness harder, not letting her go. "Hewlp," she tried to
reach out her hand.
Bella kneeled down and tilted her head to the side, looking at Ness.
"And you thought I was going to help you? Oh, Squeaky," Bella shook her
head like she was going to join my team. "You were so right," Bella
smiled, leaning forward, and landed hard on my chest. "Run!" Bella pinned
me down and Ness made her getaway, stopping at the end of the hall to
laugh at me.
Traitor.
"You made a big mistake, Bella." I grabbed her arms and rolled her to
her back, pinning her down.
"Mmm, is this supposed to be a bad thing?" Bella wrapped her legs
around me, and I shook my head at her. "You know, you could have done
this in there," she nodded back towards my bedroom, waggling her brows
at me.
I lowered my lips to her neck and blew a fart sound into her neck, trying
to sober her up and get her out of the sexy morning mood she was in.
"Gross! Fuck, Flower Child," she wiggled, trying to get free.
"Language," I mumbled against her neck, and did it again.
"I'm gonna throw up if you keep doing that." Bella tried to get away
still, but I held her tighter, not letting her move, and of course, mouth-
farted into her neck again.
"I'm gonna throw up," she said and I did it once more. "No, seriously
Flower Child, I'm gonna throw up. Move!"
I backed off of her and she scrambled to the bathroom quickly. I heard
her vomit, and I instantly felt fucking horrible, thinking I really made her
sick from just making farting noises on her neck.
Who knew?
"Sweetheart, go turn on Bugs okay?" I looked back to Ness and she
listened, running off to the living room.
"Bell?" I knocked lightly on the door. "I'm sorry. Are you alright, angel?"
She didn't answer, and I heard her throw up again. The door wasn't
latched so I hesitantly pushed it open, hoping she wouldn't be pissed or
embarrassed that I was coming in.
"I'm sorry," I pulled the towel off the bar, and kneeled down behind her,
resting the towel in my lap and sweeping Bella's hair back.
"Ugh. Why does your body want to puke when there is nothing to puke?"
she grumbled with her face still in the bowl, making it echo.
"I didn't mean to make you sick. I was just playing," I kissed the back of
her head.
"You didn't. I'm fine." She reached up and flushed the toilet.
"Here," I pulled her back and wiped her mouth with the towel. "Maybe
we shouldn't go to the park today."
"I said I'm fine. Seriously, it's just from traveling. Happens every time."
She looked down, taking the towel from my hands.
"Bell, you threw up yesterday and said it was a new diet. Then today you
say it's from traveling. It's alright for the great Bella Swan to just
fucking rest, you know? Obviously, you need it. Unless you just enjoy
puking everyday and looking like a ghost," I brushed her hair back and
she looked up at me.
"Edward," she began, looking a little nervous as she said my name.
"DADDY!" Ness called loudly from the other room.
"Hold on Ness," I replied, turning my head toward the door and then
back to Bella.
"Just go, I'm fine." She started to get up and I stopped her.
"You're only allowed to do one of two things in my house right now.
Either take a shower, or lay down. No cooking breakfast, no playing
dress-up and definitely no sex. Understand?"
"Yeah," Bella laughed.
"Which are you choosing?" I asked, pulling her up to her feet.
"Shower," she sighed.
"Sit," I reached behind her and lowered the lid on the toilet and then
sat her down.
"DAAAAADEEEEEEEE!"
"Renesmee Cullen, what-do-you-want?" I asked, reaching inside of the
shower to turn on the water for Bella.
"Mote!" she called.
"It's in the couch somewhere," I called back.
"Can't find it!"
"Mother of God," I grumbled, and Bella laughed.
"Edward, just go help her. As sweet as you are, I can manage to turn the
water on myself."
"I wasn't concerned about the water," I made a face at her and she
narrowed her eyes at me. "Arms up," I grinned wiggling my fingers at
her.
"I thought you said no sex," she raised her arms up and I pulled her
pajama top over her head.
"I'm simply helping the woman I love get in the shower. Must everything
be a perversion?" I reached for her good hand and pulled her to her
feet. "You know," I started to pull her bottoms down. "I don't even find
you sexy. At all. You're too full of yourself, Bella. Seriously." I shook my
head, looking up at her as I slid her foot free from one pant leg, and she
smiled.
"I mean," I set her foot down, "it's not like you have cute feet or sexy
legs," I kissed her knee and then lifted her other foot, freeing it from
the pajama bottoms. "Or nice," my hands cupped her ass cheeks and I
kissed her thigh, "fucking..." I rested my nose below her navel and looked
at her bare body.
"Nice fucking what?" she asked.
"I have no idea," I laughed. "I totally forgot what the fuck I was
saying." I kissed her belly then moved lower, fully intending on saying
good morning to Butterbean.
"!!!"
"Cock-blocking son of a motherf" I grumbled climbing to my feet, and
Bella laughed, pushing me away.
"Serves you right," she stepped into the shower, and I reached back,
slapping her ass once before she climbed all the way in.
"Eee!" she squeaked, jumping slightly.
"Serves you right. And angel," I pulled the curtain back with my finger.
"You still have a boat load more of those to come."
BPOV
I was happy to see Ness looking much happier the past few days.
That last episode where she freaked out on me really fucking scared me.
Esme had advised Edward to take her to see a child therapist or
something, but he was against it. I didn't know why, and I really wanted
to ask, but if I had to guess, I would say it had a lot to do with him
feeling like he failed or something.
That's how I would feel, anyhow, if I were in his shoes.
Leah had actually come up with a good plan, going off the idea I had
when I left for Japan, and made Squeaks a calendar. She thought that if
Ness had a set schedule for when the people in her life would arrive and
leave, Squeaks might feel more secure in allowing us to do so.
Edward and I agreed to a set timeframe, making sure he would always be
home at the same time each night after service. Did I like this shit, from
a professional standpoint? No. Not at all. It made my life hell, and I
would never allow anyone else to get away with it. But fuck, what was I
going to do? Destroy Squeaks' childhood because I needed her father to
work according to my time and not hers?
I'm not THAT big of a bitch.
We walked up to the park hand-in-hand, until I saw fucking half of my
staff sitting along the picnic table, and let go of Edward, instantly
feeling like a damn traitor.
Sorry baby C.
Why the fuck were they here?
"Sorry, I didn't know they were coming. Emmett must have invited them,"
Edward sighed hard and gave me an apathetic look.
"It's alright," I lied, 'cause it most certainly fucking wasn't.
Great. Now I would have to fucking hide all afternoon and be on my
guard. Damn Emmett, what was he thinking? First chance I got, I was
going to fucking knee him in his stupid fun-bag.
"Awice!" Nessie wiggled from Edward's arms, and he put her down,
allowing her to run to Alice.
"Great, Rose brought reinforcements," I grumbled.
"Alice isn't speaking to Rose," Edward said, looking over to me as he
shoved his hands into his pockets.
"I thought they were friends?"
"Alice is going to testify on my behalf at the custody hearing. Rose isn't
too happy about that," he explained.
"When the fuck did this happen?" I asked, surprised.
"Fourth of July. I guess I was a little distracted that night, and forgot
to tell you," Edward smiled crookedly at me.
Baby Cullen waved to Daddy Edward, giving a big; 'yeah weren't we all
buddy.'
Alice smiled as we approached the gazebo. Squeaks was in her lap looking
at a necklace she had on, and then showed Alice the Hello Kitty one I
bought her.
"Wow, will you adopt me, Bella?" Alice teased, holding the locket in her
hands.
"Sorry, I'm at my quota for the year."
Quite fucking literally.
"Ness , honey, why don't we keep this tucked in so you don't lose it,"
Edward tucked her locket safely inside of her shirt. "The kitty is safer
there, okay?" he patted her head and then took a seat. I looked over to
him in question, but he just shook his head and looked towards the others
at the table.
Ben was talking with Angela and Emmett, who of course had Rosalie on
his knee. It was sort of awkward, seeing all of them being so natural and
comfortable. This whole damn day Edward and I were going to have to
watch every little thing we did and said. Yet, they all got to be free as
little birds.
No fair.
Got that right, kid.
"Gamma!" Ness pointed from Alice's lap, and I followed her finger to see
Edward's grandmother walking over to us with Gramps on her arm.
"They haven't gone back yet?" I asked Edward.
"No, they will be in town until after my court date. My grandmother
wanted to be here after what happened with Carlisle. She's worried
about the stress he's under."
"Have you talked to your father yet, Flower Child?"
"No, I will tonight," he looked over to me as I stared dubiously at him. "I
will, I promise," Edward assured me with a sweet smile.
"Alright," I leaned in to kiss him, but stopped when I saw Edward's eyes
flint towards the others.
I looked down, and when I looked back up I felt as though I was seeing
through different eyes. This girl that I pretended to be in front of these
people came back. I scowled as a bitter taste lurked in my mouth. I
hated the fucking hiding shit.
For fuck's sake, I was a grown ass woman, and here I sat, next to the
man I loved, carrying his baby, and couldn't even kiss him?!
I stood up and walked away, feeling extremely damned irritated.
The grass was crunching behind me, and I imagined Edward must have
been following me. As I turned to face him and tell him to leave me
alone, a girl I recognized from the restaurant was waving and calling his
name as she jogged towards him.
Flower Child looked towards her, and as she reached him, she wrapped
her arms tightly around his waist.
Lauren.
I remembered that was her name. She liked Edward, and tried to show
him her mother-of-skank tattoos. Kick her ass. "Oh, I want to. Trust
me," I said under my breath, rubbing my hand softly over my stomach.
See, even my child didn't like this woman.
I spun back around and continued to trot off. Yeah, that's right, I was
fucking trotting, like a damn horse that had been broken in. 'Cause I was.
Don't judge me. I might be stubborn, but I am not stupid. I know Flower
Child had changed me.
There was a swing on the east side, and I slumped down into the rubber
seat when I reached it. A little girl was swinging to my right, and I
glanced over at her. She smiled at me, showing me all her teeth, even
the two missing in the front, and I had to laugh, thinking Squeaky might
look like that someday.
"I'll give you twenty bucks if you go get me a frozen banana from the ice
cream dude," I said, reaching into in my bag for some cash.
"SURE!" The little kid hopped off the swing and plucked the twenty from
my hand before she raced off towards the ice cream truck.
I kicked my toes against the ground, looking down to the little peek of
skin showing on my belly where my shirt had risen. The tears welled
inside my eyes and I wiped them away quickly as the girl came running
back over, handing me my frozen banana popsicle.
"Thanks," I pulled down the wrapper and took a bite, cringing a little at
the coldness against my teeth. "See," I mumbled in a hushed tone,
"you're already making me fat." I looked down to my stomach again,
shaking my head.
"What?" the little girl asked.
"Not you, honey. I'm just talking to mymyself." I kicked the ground
again with my toes and started swinging a little.
Loud laughter filled the summer air, and I turned my head back to see
Lauren giggling like an idiot next to Flower Child. There was another
woman standing there too, as well as Esme. I assumed these were people
the Cullens were friends with. Edward didn't look very amused, but it
still bugged the hell out of me to see her being so flirtatious with him;
even if he didn't return the same feelings.
The sun felt warm against my face and hair, and I turned back around
again towards the rest of the park. There were families playing soccer
and cooking out. A man was playing Frisbee with his dog, and a small boy
watched him. He looked like a miniature version of the guy playing, and I
had to stop myself from trying to picture what a son of Edward's would
look like.
The image of him as that six-year-old little kid from the picture in
Esme's house popped into my head, and I almost laughed, thinking of how
adorable he was.
Even then.
Shit, if I had a boy, I was screwed.
Someone from behind gave me a hard push, knocking me out of my
daydream, and I gasped, until I heard him laugh loudly. Fucking Emmett.
He took a seat beside me and eyed my melting popsicle.
"Cheating on your diet?" Emmett teased, pushing out his legs to swing.
"Your way too heavy for this thing, Emmett. If it falls down I'm going to
kill you." I eyed the creaking chains as they protested his big ass
swinging from them.
"Nah," he shook his head, swinging harder. "These bad boys could swing
an elephant." He pushed harder, going higher now.
"You would be a good candidate to test that theory." I tossed my melted
banana and held onto the chains, not feeling hungry anymore.
"Yeah, yeah." Emmett slowed a little and looked over to me. "So, what's
up with you? Are you and Edward fighting or something?"
"No, I justEm why the hell did you invite everyone here today?"
"I wanted to have a nice family day," he shrugged, putting his feet to
the ground to slow down.
"I mean, why did you invite the staff here? It's hard enough for Edward
and I when Rosalie is in the picture, but shit, now Jasper, Ben, and
Angela too? What the hell are you trying to do to me?" My hands fell
hard into my lap as I stared at him.
"I'm sorry, B. I wasn't even thinking about it like that. Really." He
stopped swinging completely now and reached over for my hand.
"It's alright. I'm just so sick of all this, Em. We shouldn't have to hide.
It's just not fair," I sniffled, and my free hand moved to my stomach of
its own accord.
"So then don't. Nobody cares, B. And if they do, fuck 'em. You're the
boss, right?" Emmett's large hand hit softly to my chin.
"It's not that easy, Em, and you know it." I turned away from him,
looking back towards the park.
"Bewwa! Bewwa!" I looked back to see Squeaks running up to me with
Edward trailing behind her.
"Hey you," I lifted her up onto my lap, straddling her legs around me so
she was facing me.
"Gampa make dis fall down," she held up her barrette to me and I took
it from her hands.
"Those silly men. They just never understand how hard it is to be a
woman," I smiled at her, and she giggled as I began to sweep her hair
back.
"Food is ready," I felt Edward's hand on my shoulder as he made his
announcement.
"That's what I'm talking 'bout!" Emmett hopped up from the swing and
took Squeaks from my lap. "Ready to get your million dollar burger on
Shortcake?" he hoisted her up onto his shoulder in airplane mode.
"Wooo!" she held out her arms, and Edward smiled, seeing them 'fly'
away.
"Ready, angel?" Flower Child held his hand out to me and I took it.
"Who is making million dollar burgers?" I asked as we began walking back
towards the gazebo.
"My grandfather has more than crooked smiles up his sleeve," Edward
swung his arm over my shoulder and winked at me.
"I see. So this burger swooning ritual is passed on from generation to
generation?"
"Pretty much. Skipped over my dad, though. Actually, Emmett too. Does
that make me special?" Edward's lips fought a smile as he asked.
"No. Not at all," I shook my head teasingly. He pouted, jutting out his
bottom lip to me, and Butterbean told me to be nice to the man who gave
incredible orgasms...even if they did knock our happy ass up.
"This," I tapped my finger to the amber heart charm he gave me, "makes
you special."
His bottom lip pulled back, changing to a shy smile as he looked towards
his feet.
Did I just fucking swoon MR. Swoon himself?
Holy F-stick. I did!
Must be the Cullen genetics growing inside of me.
Oh yeah! Fist bump to Baby Cullen.
Edward and I took our seats, and I was sort of happy Squeaky was
sitting on Emmett's lap and not Flower Child's. It was good to see him be
able to just eat and not have to try and feed her at the same time.
We will not have this arrangement, just so you know. I tapped my finger
over my belly button, giving a silent warning to my mini-me. Mamma loves
food way too much. Sorry.
There was a nice spread going on here. Burgers, home-made potato salad,
mac-n-cheese, corn-on-the-cob, and fuck was that bread pudding? It
looked like fucking bread pudding. My stomach grumbled.
Oh, you are SO my child.
I reached for a burger and began assembling it with all the fixings first.
"I taught my grandsons how to make these burgers when they were
small," Gramps announced, holding up a burger.
"You have never made me burgers," Rosalie looked towards Emmett.
"Just because I work in a restaurant doesn't mean I can cook,
sweetness," Emmett smiled at her, taking a big bite of his food.
"Your Grandfather just said he taught you," she argued.
"I was a little kid. Shit, I don't remember what he taught me." Emmett
held his burger to Squeaky's lips and she took a nibble. "Ah, come on! You
can do better than that!" Emmett teased, and she opened wider, taking a
big bite.
"Em," Edward stared at him shaking his head.
"Relax," Emmett pointed at him, then, went back to eating.
"I should probably thank you then, Gramps. It's the one food Flower Child
can actually cook," my face crinkled into a vexing smile as I joked with
Edward Sr., knowing that would burn Edward Jr.
"See?" Rose smacked Emmett. "Edward has made Burgers for Bella!"
Yes, and that was AFTER wonderful orgasms.
"They are on our menu actually," I goaded further, eyeing up the
fucktabulous looking mac-n-cheese.
Oh please, mamma!
We are going there Baby Cullen, we are so going there. Never fear.
Mamma has this spread covered like white on rice.
"I've had them," Alice chimed in, nodding in agreement. "They are really
good."
"Just don't ask him to make you pancakes," I continued to taunt Edward,
knowing it bugged the fuck out of him.
"Or piecrust," Elizabeth added, making me laugh out loud.
"To think someone wants to shark you," I pinched Edward's cheek and he
swatted me away, looking highly annoyed by our picking on him.
"Bella?" Grandma Cullen was holding out a spoonful of potato salad to me
and I held out my plate for her.
"Thank you," I said, resting my plate back down.
"You're welcome honey. I am so happy you came today. Glad to see Junior
Cullen finally came to his senses and roped you in."
"Grandma," Edward said in a warning tone.
"What? Like Bella can't see you are over the moon for her? She's a bright
woman you know, Junior Cullen. Give her a little credit." She took her
seat and Edward glared at her, then, looked over to the rest of the
table that was staring at us.
"She's senile, very old and " Edward looked back to Elizabeth, "Grandma
did you forget your medication today?"
"Don't placate me boy," Elizabeth shook her head at him before going
back to her food.
"Well," Emmett began, "I personally love Bella." He raised his hand, "So
if Edward doesn't, or any of you don't, for that matter," Emmett swung
his fork around, "then that's fine, 'cause it just means I have more of her
to love. So there," Emmett made a face, causing everyone to laugh. His
face scrunched right afterwards, though, and I saw Rose whisper
something to him.
"And apparently, I am supposed to be saying something else here too." He
wiped his mouth and stood up, "I want to let everyone know that Edward
is no longer the only Cullen in this family who goes around knocking up
random woman," Rose hit him and he cringed.
"Sorry. What I meant to say, was that Rose and I are having a baby.
And getting married. And that I love her," he smiled jubilantly and then
reclaimed his seat.
Esme coughed on her drink, and I dropped my fork to my plate, gaping at
him as he got slaps on the back from Ben and Jasper. Alice hugged
Rosalie, and apparently their fucking feud was over. Squeaky reached out
her arms to Edward as more people came up to congratulate Emmett, and
Flower Child stood up to reach for her. I looked at him as he sat back
down, and tried to figure out why he wasn't saying anything to Emmett.
"No love from my own baby brother?" Emmett held up his hands facing
Edward.
"What would you like me to say, Emmett? 'Congratulations on screwing up
your life? I wish you and the woman who hates me, and plans on
testifying against me, all the best?' Get a fucking clue, Em," Edward
stood up and passed Squeaky over to me as he walked away from the
table.
I looked around and saw Lauren get up and follow Edward. No. Fucking.
Way. I stood up and passed Squeaky to Gramps. Edward was by the
restrooms, lighting up a smoke, and Lauren stood in front of him as I
approached. I ignored her, stepping in between her and Flower Child, and
hit his chest hard.
"What the fuck is wrong with you?" I asked angrily.
"He's going to fuck up his life, for damn," Edward took a drag and
breathed out hard, "Rosalie Hale?"
"That's his choice. I don't like it either, but you don't need to be an ass
about it," I rested my hands on my hips as I watched him.
"Edward is right, you know. I went to school with Rosalie, she's a real
bitch," Lauren said, stepping to Edward's right.
"I'm sorry, did I ask you? This is between Flower Child and I."
"WE were actually speaking first, until you so rudely interrupted,"
Lauren stepped closer to me and Baby Cullen said, 'do it mamma, knock
her lights out'.
Damn hormones, I tell ya.
"Lauren, is it? There is an entire park here filled with single fathers.
Why don't you go find one who actually wants to be bothered with your
lame attempts to throw your cooch like a G'damn member of the
Yankees."
"You don't even know me!"
"Stop!" Edward tossed down his smoke and grabbed my shoulder, glaring
at Lauren. "Just go back to the gazebo, Lauren. I need to talk to Bella
alone, please."
"So it's like that? You're gonna choose some girl you barely know over me
someone whom you have known almost your whole life?"
"This isn't a competition. I just need to talk to Bella," he said in a quiet
voice that I knew very well. He was trying not to be pissed. It was the
same way he talked to Squeaks.
"Fine," Lauren spun around and stomped off.
Edward watched as she left and then shook his head as he turned to
face me again. He stared at me for a moment, but then pulled me along
with him silently towards the same swings we were at earlier.
Edward sat down on the seat and then pulled one of my legs up, sliding it
around his waist. I smiled, seeing that he wanted me to sit on his lap in
the swing. I straddled him and wrapped my hands around his neck as he
moved his feet to rock us back and forth. My forehead rested against his
and I lightly kissed his lips.
"Bella," he said softly, looking troubled. "I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't be
mad at him. Emmett was supportive of me when I went through that, but
I just" he bit his lips and shook his head, staring at my mouth with
slanted eyes.
"It's hard to see him make the same mistakes you did," I guessed, and his
eyes met mine again.
"Yes, butI just can't believe he would do that to me. Fuck, he's my
brother Bella. My daughter, his niece, is in jeopardy because of what
Rose is going to say next week. This is the woman he is going to marry
and have a child with? Seriously?"
"You can't always help who you love, Edward," I said quietly. "Or what
happens when you do."
Apparently.
Shut up, Butterbean.
"I know," he nodded, closing his eyes.
Edward's hands tightened around my hips and his thumbs started rubbing
circles along my ribs. I swallowed hard, trying to hold down the intensity
of how that felt, knowing what lay right in between his fingers.
"I love you, Bella," he said softly, kissing my lips once. "Maybe I'm just
fucking jealous."
"Of what?"
"That Emmet gets to keep Rosalie," Flower Child opened his eyes and
brought his hand up to my face. "And that I don't get to keep you. That
I can't even kiss you or hold your hand without worrying what people will
think. Yet, Emmett can announce to the entire park that he is having a
child with Rose, and marrying her, and fuckingjust gets to keep her."
His lips were on my cheek, kissing softly as he held my face to his. I
could feel how much it hurt him, and fuck, knew the pain it caused me
too. My hands slid down his neck, to the front of his shirt, and I fisted
the fabric there as I kissed him back the same way.
"I'm yours, Flower Child," I kissed along his cheek and neck fervently.
"I'm yours."
I kissed my way back to his lips and pressed my fingertips against his
strong jaw. His mouth kissed greedily against mine, and I matched him,
giving Edward the same passion in return. My legs were being tortured,
though, as my hips pressed into the chains of the swing. I tried to block
it out, but it was killing me. I squeezed my legs against Edward's sides
and he groaned thinking I was trying to grind up on him.
What's the problem with that? Butterbean asked.
I did say my clit was a dirty whore, yes?
"Babe, the swing," I laughed, pulling back from his lips.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Edward wrapped his arms around my waist and stood up.
I held onto him and he laughed when I didn't let go.
"I'm sorry, little girl. Did you want a ride back to the gazebo?" he joked.
"Mmm hmm," I nodded.
"What about them?" Edward looked past me towards where everyone was
gathered.
"Flower Child, I would love for someone to smart mouth me right now.
Seriously, it would be epic. I still have some major comebacks in reserve
for that little scunt friend of yours I didn't get to use."
"I'm sorry about her," he said starting to walk. "She's just"
"A scunt?" I made a face at him, and he laughed.
"She's a nice girl, but just doesn't know how to take a hint well, I guess.
Be nice to her please. Her family and mine are close."
"Fine, but only because I love you. Other than that, she's a scunt in my
book," I smiled ruefully at him, and he kissed me once as we approached
the gazebo.
"Done having your temper tantrum?" Emmett said hitting his shoulder.
"Sorry," Edward put me down and pulled Emmett in for a 'manly' hug.
"Yeah yeah," Emmett pushed against him and then looked nervously at
me.
"Uh," Emmett scratched his head, "we need to talk B."
"About what?"
"Maybe we should go over there," he nodded towards the other gazebo
that was empty.
"I'm not pissed at you or anything," I said, looking between him and Rose.
"I know, but, it's kind of about work." He looked to Rose and then back
to me.
"Just fucking say it," I said, getting really annoyed.
"I'm quitting," he said quietly, looking at me with pitiful eyes.
I felt like someone punched me in my gut. All the air left my lungs and I
shook where I stood. It was warm outside, hot even, but I had chills, like
all the life had just been drained from my body.
"No!" I said, clenching my fists, staring at him.
"I have to B. I can't"
"No! You are not allowed," I shook my head so fast my vision blurred.
"You are NOT allowed! Rose is not going to shark you!" I said again,
feeling the panic set in.
"He's not yours! You don't own him!" Rose stepped forward, but Emmett
held out an arm, blocking her.
"B, I love you, you know I do, but"
"I'll pay you more. I'm sorry. I didn't mean all the shit I did or
said.just.please," I closed my eyes, feeling the world crushing me
down as I pleaded. "Emmett, please," I almost fell, but he caught me,
holding me to his chest.
He could not leave. Emmett was my fucking best friend. My damn light at
the end of the tunnel. Fuckingthe only person of succour in my life
when the shit got deep. He had ALWAYS been here with me.
He. Could. Not. Leave.
My legs felt like they would give way if he let me go. And that shit was
not just a fucking metaphor.
"Can we like" I felt his hand motion to the side as he asked Edward
and Rose to leave.
"B?"
"No," I cried. "No, you can't leave me. You can't leave me," my head
shook against his chest as I sobbed hard, almost unable to breathe.
"Bella, calm down. Listen to me, please." He waited for me to take a few
deep breaths before he spoke.
"I am going to have a baby, Bella. A family. I see what Edward goes
through with Shortcake, and fuck, I can't be that guy. I don't want Rose
and my kid to have to go through that either."
"I'll change your hours. We can work on it." My brain was working at a
rapid rate, grasping at straws and hoping I would pluck the right one.
"I'm leaving Bella. There's nothing you can do to sway me," his large
hands rubbed along my back as he spoke. "I have made my money. I can
support my family, and Rose has her place. I don't need to work."
"I need you, I need you to work!" I hit against his chest and looked up to
his face. "Fuck Emmett, don't leave me, please." I felt the tears run
down my face again. "I am too," I whispered.
"You are, what?" he asked, thumbing away my tears.
"Me and Edward," I glanced down and then back up.
"I'm not following you here, B," he looked at me like I was crazy. My
head fell against his chest and I sighed hard, still crying.
"I'm pregnant too," I barely whispered, and suddenly I was being jerked
back from his chest.
"YOU ARE?!" He exclaimed, staring at me like a G'damn kid on
Christmas...a fat kid at a buffet...a drunk at an open bar.
Take your damn pick.
"Shut up," I hit him in his chest. "Flower Child doesn't know!"
Emmett's mouth opened to say something, but his eyes moved, looking
behind me, and I followed his gaze. Edward was standing behind me,
looking at me with his brows scrunched.
"Flower Child doesn't know what?"
My stupid mouth wouldn't speak.
"That Bella and I are secretly in love," Emmett pulled me back into him,
covering for my ass with his spooniness.
I tilted my head back slightly, catching a glimpse of Flower Child's face
from the corner of my peripherals. His eyes were full of speculation,
trying to unravel the truth from the white lie Emmett told. Before his
mouth could open to prod further, I decided to turn the focus back on
Em.
"You know that I officially fucking hate you now, right?"
"I love you too Bella, and I am so glad you are happy for me and my
future wife," he smiled all wide and toothy at me, mocking my anger and
making me seriously want to punch him in the gonads.
I eyed them for a moment, debating, but the baby shook his little non-
existing head 'no'.
Apparently, the little grey face liked his or her traitor uncle.
"You better be glad I saw bread pudding over there. It's the only thing
preventing me from turning your dick into a vagina right now," I let him
go and walked towards the little heaven under the gazebo known as
Grandma Cullen's dessert.
I plopped myself down, feeling extremely shitty, tired, and just all
together worn the fuck out.
Flower Child took a seat to my right and Emmett rejoined Rosalie back
across the table from us. As I slopped down two huge spoonfuls of bread
pudding, I watched Emmett reach over and coo in Rose's ear, rubbing her
belly softly. A glorious smile spread across her stupid perfect face as she
tilted her head back onto his shoulder.
The rest of the table eyed them, looking just as jubilant. Angela leaned
in and gave a kiss to Ben, whispering something I couldn't hear against his
lips, and Alice and Jasper scooted closer to one another, sharing their
own bit of affection. Even Carlisle and Esme looked happy for them, and
that is probably what hurt the most.
I gave a secret glance to my right, seeing Edward's expression looking
dim as he eyed the same spectacle as me, and his words from the swing
rang in my ears like a loud bell tolling the hour upon us. The time wasn't
for us, though. It was for Emmett and Rose.
A small stinging sensation burned in the depths of my belly as I watched
Edward's eyes look to his father, seeing him congratulate his other son.
My throat burned, feeling desiccant as the words scraped and crawled
their way up, begging to be freed from my lips.
I reached down and took Flower Child's hand into mine, discretely holding
the back of it to my belly. He looked down at our hands and then to my
face, full of questions lurking behind his blue eyes. I simply leaned in and
kissed him, trying to communicate through my lips what my voice could
not say.
The gossiping and hushed snickers began immediately, like I knew they
would, and I heard everything. Angela's giggles, Alice's squeaky tone
whispering to Jasper to look at us, and even Grandma Cullen's, 'I told you
so'.
Fuck them.
That was me, not the baby.
I leaned away from him, but swung my legs over his sideways and
reached for my dessert again. My plastic spoon scooped up a big bite of
the confection, and I brought it up to Edward's mouth. He smiled at me
and then opened up, allowing me to feed him.
The gossiping finally came to a halt as everyone went back to their own
conversations and previous doings. Flower Child's arms encircled my waist
and I took my own bite of the dessert, then, fed him another.
My thoughts from the other night swept up into my mind once more as I
saw Squeaky sitting on Esme's lap, eyeing Edward and I with a small smile
on her precious pink lips. She would be my family too. My child, our child,
would be her sister, or brother.
"When you dream, Flower Child, do you dream in color?" I asked, still
keeping my eyes on Ness.
"Usually," he replied.
I looked back to him, trailing my eyes over the peek-a-boos of colourful
art that showed from around his collar and short sleeves. My hand
dropped the spoon to the plate and I turned to place it on the table.
Picking up his hand into mine, I laced our fingers together and thumbed
the vibrant ink of the lotus flower gently.
"So do I."




Chapter 21 "Tatu"

EPOV
Wednesday Morning.
I was sixteen years old.
As I stood across the school parking lot, waiting for my friends to meet
me, she appeared.
The long blonde locks of her hair waved in the wind like golden locks of
some type of fucking undiscovered goddess. I licked my lips, staring at
her, and she rolled her eyes, knowing the effect she had on every male
who attended that school.
Not even the famous Cullen smile worked on her.
That first day I saw her, I made a plan on how to woo Jessica, and when
the first opportunity presented itself, I grabbed that bitch up.
My father had been out of town on business that week, and I stole his
car, remembering that Jessica, my dream girl, had mentioned to one of
the boys about wanting to someday drive in a convertible. I laughed to
myself, then; thinking, I had this, her, in the bag. If she would be
impressed by some silly drop-top, then surely the Vanquish, my father's
quarter of a million dollar car, would do the trick.
Her pussy was mine.
I had worn my clothes that were usually reserved for Sunday morning
church; trying to match the level of sophistication and style the car had.
Also, it made me look older, and when you are a kid, that is always your
number one goal.
Especially when you are breaking the law.
The Vanquish roared to life as I started her up in the garage, and I
slowly babied my way out, backing up as slow as a motherfucker, trying
so damn hard not to hit anything in my path. My smile found its way into
the rear-view mirror, and I reminded myself what a fucking genius I was
for thinking of this shit.
They shouldn't call this car the Vanquish though, because that sounds too
much like vanish, and THAT was definitely not what was going to happen
when I drove up to school in it. The pussy would flock like a
motherfucking white cloud of seagulls to me.
These kids were rich, no doubt, but I was richer, by a long shot.
This was the proof.
I remembered calling Emmett the night before to tell him my plan. Funny
now, how that seemed, knowing he had been with Bella at that time,
opening her New York restaurant. If I had only known what I know now,
what I didn't know then, my life could have been so much fucking
different.
And fuck, maybe for her too.
Emmett had wished me well and told me not to call him if I ended up in
jail or worse. Ah, if that had only been the thing I got in trouble for. As
I pulled up to the lot, sure as shit, all the mouths gaped as the loud purr
of the beast that lay under the hood reared its angry head, and the sun
shined off the shiny black gloss of the paint.
I couldn't wait to see Stanley's face.
She wasn't in the lot that day, though, and I cursed, thinking that maybe
she was out sick or something. An opportunity like this wouldn't present
itself again, and I wasn't sure of any other way to get her into my
pantsor me into her pants.
Whatever.
I wanted that ass, and that's all I knew.
A group of kids who were dubbed 'the homely's' came up to me, drooling,
eyeing up the expensive car. I felt bad, I mean, it wasn't their fault they
were ugly. Bad genetics are a bitch. I was lucky I was blessed with good
ones. I didn't fucking walk around with that knowledge on my damn
shoulders, but fuck, I knew my grandpa was a pimp in his day and shit. I
looked just like him.
Plus, this girl Monica always called me Sexyward, which led me to believe
my shit didn't stink.
I was young. Forgive me for being so damn pigheaded, alright?
The kids asked me all about the car, and I prattled on about what little
information I knew, making up most of it and eyeing the lot for Jessica
the whole damn time; but she never showed.
Funny, how shit never changes, isn't it?
Only, if she hadn't shown thennoI can't even think that.
WON'T even think that.
I will never be sorry for Renesmee.
Never.
As the bell sounded, the lot cleared out as we all ushered towards our
respective classes. My mood was dim, not being able to get what I
desired. To think, I had to go the whole day looking like fucking Antonio
Banderes. Shit. Once again, I should have listened to Emmett and his
words of advice.
I slipped off my tie during the last class, letting it lay on my desk, and
read over my finished essay about fucking...hell I don't even remember
what it had been about. The bell sounded once more and I sighed hard,
collecting my things and thinking today was a total loss.
As I leaned down to grab my book-bag, a warm hand came to rest over
mine that remained on the desk. I looked up slowly and fucking gulped,
seeing Jessica smiling back at me.
"I heard you were the kid with the nice ride," she said.
"Um." I just nodded like the idiot I was.
"Funny, cause you see." She sat down on my desk, resting her feet on
my upper thighs as she spun to face me, and I couldn't keep my eyes off
her short flannel skirt that was riding up
Holy fucking shit, I almost came right there.
I was SUCH an amateur.
What was she saying?
I didn't fucking know. But I nodded yes again, and apparently that was
the answer she was looking for because the next thing I knew, I was
being led by the hand like a puppy on a short leash to the Vanquish;
which at this point, I was renaming The Genie.
'Cause mother of fucking all that was holy
I was getting my damn wish.
NowI was not a virginEmmett had made sure to get me my fair share
of pussy before he grew up and moved away. Having an older brother who
was in college when you are not, but lies and says you are, was the
motherfucking shit.
I loved him for that. Always.
One thing Emmett had always taught me, though, was to be fucking safe.
Of course, the one and only sole time I wasn't, I fucked up.
Jessica had said she was allergic to fucking latex or some shit like that,
and I didn't bother to probe further or even think about how the fuck
she knew that about herself. All I knew was that her skirt was hiked up,
her panties were down, and I was hard, horny, and ready to fucking fuck.
And that we did.
I seriously lasted for all of like three minutes, it was pathetic.
Who the fuck knew three minutes would change my entire life? Right?
Profound I tell you, so damn profound, that knowledge.
Carlisle knew I had taken his car because, little did I know, he had
markers in the garage for his tire placement, and when he came back in
town, he saw that they no longer matched up. Esme tried to cover for
me, but he knew better. My mother would never touch that car.
I was grounded, after being lectured for what seemed like hours, and, of
course, my brother called to razz me later on that night about my
fucking up. It wasn't until the end of the following month that Carlisle
was slamming the door loudly, waving a paper in my face as he fired off
questions at me.
I was fucking knee-deep in The Legend of Zelda, whacking off fucking
chickens with my sword, and he just comes in, shouting and asking me shit
I had no answers to. I thought my grades had slipped or something and
he was pissed about me failing, but as my brain starting to pay attention
to what his questions were, I fucking gasped, holding my hand over my
mouth and letting go of the video game controller.
He was asking me about fucking Jessica.
Because her parents had filed for me to legally give up my paternal
rights.
Rights that I didn't even know I had, because I didn't fucking know Jess
was pregnant.
We fought relentlessly, back and forth, as I tried to convince him that I
didn't know about her having a baby. Esme cried, sobbing hard against
him, and he finally backed off of me, trying to comfort my mother. I was
left only with the sound of the video game playing in the room as he
ushered her to the hall.
Jessica's parents had kicked her out after their request was denied, and
Carlisle and Esme were gracious enough to allow her to stay with us. It
was odd. I mean, I barely knew her, yet, I felt tied to this girl. My
heart broke, thinking of how badly I messed up her life in my quest to
simply get off that day.
To conquer heryes, I had definitely done that, hadn't I?
I knew she was extremely uncomfortable in my home, not really knowing
any of us, and I tried to make her feel better by sharing my things. I
had so much, and sheshe had nothing at that point.
There was this recipe my grandmother fed me when I was sick as a child.
Avgolemono; a Greek lemon soup. I made it for Jessica one night, hoping
that she would see I cared about what happened to her and for our
child. She hummed, eating it appreciatively, and thanked me. It was then
that she told me about how she wanted to be a cook and have her own
place someday.
I told her all about Emmett and how he worked for some big name chef,
even joking about stealing my father's car again so I could take her to
one of those restaurants Bella owned.
Again, funny how life smacks you in the face.
We started cooking together every night, and that was how we bonded. I
showed her how to fry fish and make Grandma Elizabeth's macaroni-and-
cheese, and she showed me how to make the red velvet cake to go with
it. That was the plan. To have Ness and then go to cooking school
together...and we did.until.
"So, I will need Isabella to sign a few things, as well. You need to have
her stop by, or I could call her if you'd like," Carlisle said, snapping me
out of my memories.
"Yeahno, I meanYeah, I'll tell her to come by. You don't have to call."
I sat forward and placed the framed picture of Ness back on his desk.
"Edward, you need to pay attention. This is serious. I am not talking to
hear the sound of my voice." He glared at me, tapping his pen once on
the papers stacked before him.
"You don't need to remind me of how serious or important this is, Carlisle.
The ulcer in my stomach reminds me of that, free of charge." I tipped
forward, reaching for my wallet so I could pay him for his time.
"Well isn't this handy," he said, glancing at the card as he took it from
my hand.
"Everyone gets one. Bella doesn't give me a petty cash card for my
extracurricular activities."
"Don't be crude in my office." He lifted his eyes to look at me once
before swiping my petty cash card through.
This shit was going to have me working all kinds of overtime I had no
time for.
"I wasn't. If I wanted to be crude, I would have said Bella doesn't give
me a petty cash card for fucking her." I made a face at him as I
slouched down into my chair.
"I'm adding an extra fifty dollars onto your bill for that remark. It will
double next time." He rested my copy down to sign, and I cursed under
my breath at him.
"Here," I slid it back to him and grabbed up my paperwork; trying to get
out of there as fast as possible as he handed the receipt of my payment
back to me.
"Nice to see you too, son," he said sarcastically as I made my way to the
door.
"You're not my father here, Carlisle," I waved the white paper receipt at
him as I backed out of his office. "You're just my fucking lawyer."
I waited until I reached the steps to laugh at my juvenile behavior,
knowing he hated it when I cursed. Fuck, let him charge me extra. It
wasn't like fifty dollars was going to make or break me at this point.
Esme called to me as I reached the bottom of the staircase, and I
walked into the kitchen to find her making fresh rolls. They actually
looked pretty good. I picked one up as she plated them, and fuck me,
they were good.
"Who are you, and what have you done with my mother? Secondly, will
you stay?" I asked smiling with a mouthful of hot bread.
"Rose taught me. She came over the other day and we 'bonded'," she
winked at me and went back to plating up her rolls.
"Why is everyone trying to torture me? I mean, when did it become okay
for someone to try and separate Renesmee from this family? I was pretty
fucking sure that we had that shit covered as 'not being alright' a long
ass fuck-"
"Son!" Esme scolded, knocking the roll out of my hand.
"I'm just saying," I leaned down and picked up my roll from the floor.
"Why can't you all see what is going to happen when Rose testifies?"
"I do, which is why I am trying to be nice to her." She gave me a
purposeful look, handing me a new roll. "Plus, she is having my grandchild,
and I am not going to shun her away."
"That's good thinking, because at least then, you will still have one in
reserve when the judge orders me to give up Renesmee."
"You can take your bad attitude out of my kitchen. When you have an
apology, you can speak to me again." She picked up her tray and walked
out of the room.
I cursed at myself, not meaning to have hurt her or pissed her off. It
was just the stress from what was happening this week with court that
had my fucking man-panties in a wad.
My stomach burned, causing a sharp pain in my side, from all the havoc
worrying and stressing out about this week was causing me. I held my
hand to it tenderly as I walked to the kitchen cabinet to retrieve some
Tums. I chewed those awful things like candy, and cringed as the
chalkiness slid down my throat slowly.
My phone chirped in my pocket, signaling that I had a message. When I
flipped it open, I saw Bella's angelic face looking back at me, and I
smiled. I thumbed through the prompts until I reached the picture she
sent and opened it to see Ness modeling a new dress with an attached
message that read:
Where are you daddy? We have been waiting and waiting and waiting..
I hit the reply key and apologized for the delay, letting Bella and her
know I would meet them at the mall, shortly.
Bella had been kind enough to watch her while I dealt with Carlisle and
all the custody shit. The calendar was working well for us this week, and
I made sure to be home on time every night. I knew it pissed Bella off
that I was leaving without all of my duties being done, and, in truth, it
pissed me off too; but there wasn't anything I could do about it, really. I
needed to be there for Ness.
She was my daughter and nothing was above her.
As I walked towards the door, I saw my mother sitting in the parlor,
staring out the window. She looked the same way she did when my father
and her would fight.
Lost.
I made my way over to her, kneeling in front of her cream colored chair
as I reached her. She looked down to me, and I took her delicate hand
into mine, placing a kiss of apology to the back of it for my behavior
earlier.
"I'm just scared mom," I said softly, rubbing my thumb along her fingers.
"I'm just really, really scared that I will lose Ness."
"Don't be." She lifted my face to look at her. "I want you to have
something." She reached back and unclasped the necklace she wore,
holding it out to me. "This always brought me good luck and reminded me
to have faith." I looked down into my palm to see the cross she had
always worn, for as long I could remember.
"Thanks mom." I leaned forward and kissed her cheek, then fastened it
around my neck, tucking it into my shirt. "I need to go, I'm late. Again,
I'm sorry for how I acted." I rose to my feet and she followed, lacing
her hand into mine as we walked to the door.
"Tell Bella I said 'hello', please. And to come by soon. I like being able to
really be nice to my son's girlfriend," she smiled sweetly at me.
"I will. I love you." I wrapped my arms around her and she squeezed me
back tightly.
"Pray. You must pray," she whispered.
"I will." I let her go and reached for the door.
She waved as I reached my car and climbed in. I gave her a wave in
return and backed out slowly, once again remembering my teenage years,
backing out of this same driveway. Only this time, my memories were
when I had backed out for good...
Jessica had been acting strange for a few days. She was only in the
middle of her first trimester, about 45 days. I had been asking her what
was wrong, thinking that maybe she was mad at me, or perhaps the kids
at school had been talking about her again. Our having a child was the
big gossip amongst our peers, and at that point, the school was even
trying to have Jessica thrown out, since it looked bad on them.
A few parents who were higher up the chain also threatened to pull out
their own kids if they allowed her to stay, and it was really eating at
me.
No one ever looked at me the way they did Jess, and it wasn't fair. I was
just as guilty, if not more so, yet, no one threatened to kick me out or
even gave me a dirty look.
It was all on her shoulders.
I tried to get her to talk to me, but she wouldn't, which was odd
because she always did.
Her parents had agreed to take her back in that week, and I wondered
why. But she only told me that they forgave her and wanted to be a part
of her life. I was happy for her, although I missed having her there when
she left.
I spent most of my time in the evening, after my school work was done,
researching baby stuff on the internet, not knowing what the fuck to
expect. I had eventually gotten a job at the grocery store nearby as a
bag boy to be able to buy the long list of things I wrote down in my
journal that I knew we would need.
Who knew babies needed so many things.
As I was cleaning my room one day, I found a few of Jessica's things
lying around. She had her own room here, but usually, after my parents
went to sleep, she would sneak into mine, allowing me to cuddle with her.
We would talk about baby names and where she wanted to move to when
he or she was born, as we didn't know what we were having at that
point.
So after finding her things, I placed them in my pocket, intending to
bring them to her after my Saturday shift at the grocery store.
When that day came, I did as I said, bringing her items to her house, but
when I arrived, Carlisle was coming out the front door with Jessica
following him to his car. I sat and watched from my own car as she
climbed inside.
He pulled out, driving down the road from her house, and I followed
behind him, being cautious to stay a good distance back and out of his
sight. He ended up pulling into a woman's clinic and I panicked, thinking
something was wrong with her.
I quickly climbed out of the car and called out to her, causing her to spin
around. Carlisle cursed loudly, telling me to get back in my car and go
home. I walked up to Jessica and took her hand as she started to cry.
Carlisle tried to pull me away and usher her in, but I fought him off and
tugged Jess along to my car, locking the doors once we were inside.
Meanwhile, Carlisle paced the lot, unable to gain access.
I asked her what the fuck she was doing here with Carlisle, and she
explained how he agreed to pay her parents a shit load of money if she
agreed to terminate her pregnancy. I fucking wanted to hurl and not
believe her, but the fucking proof was staring me right in the face as I
watched Carlisle continue to pace the empty parking lot. I had never
been so angry in all my life.
I started up my car and drove off, leaving my father standing there,
fully intending on never speaking to him again.
Jessica was crying the entire time, leaning up against her door, repeating
that she just wanted it to go away. A little piece of me started to hate
her too, realizing she was going to go through with what he asked.
My eyes weren't even watching the road as I drove, and I almost crashed
several times. Finally, I pulled over to the side of the highway and threw
the car into park. I hit the steering wheel hard with my hand and leaned
into my seat, wanting to use that same hand on my father's face and
never let up on him.
My only saving grace in this whole matter was the fact that I was going
to turn eighteen after Ness was born, and would be entitled to the first
portion of my inheritance. That was something Jess knew, and I used it to
my advantage, promising her that I would take care of her with it if she
agreed to keep the baby. I think I also promised to marry her and
shitbut at that pointI was just fucking promising and swearing any
and everything I could think of to get her to not go through with having
an abortion.
I mean, fucking Christ, we heard the baby's heart beating. Our baby, the
little life we created.
How in Jesus' name could she fucking just have it scraped, or sucked, or
whatever the hell they did, out of her?!
I went straight home after she promised to stay with me, and packed up
what little bit of shit I owned, outright, having purchased it from either
allowance money or my recent paychecks. Esme cried and begged me to
stay, even trying to scare me. She said she was going to report me as a
runaway, but I reminded her that my 18th birthday was soon
approaching, and I would leave anyhow.
That's what got the ball rolling for their divorce.
Thankfully, it never came to that, though.
Jess lived with me, in our small, cramped, little apartment, and when I
turned eighteen, I lied and stuck all of my first round of inheritance
money into an account for Ness; never giving Jessica a dime. She was too
far along at that point, though, and had Renesmee, hating me every day
for making her do so.
Which brings us to the present day, and why I am still the fucking thorn
in Jessica's side, and vice versa.
I found Bella in the mall, walking around a children's clothing store. Ness
was on the floor with a sales woman, trying on a few different pairs of
shoes, and I watched Bella as she looked at items along the shelving on
the wall.
"Those look a little small," I whispered in her ear as she picked up a pair
of baby booties.
"Shit!" she jumped, dropping the booties to the floor.
"Bad words Bewwa," Ness pointed at her and then saw me. "Pappa!" She
reached up and I kneeled down to her, picking up the baby booties and
handing them to Bella, then hugged Ness tightly.
"What are you wiggling out of Bella today, honey?"
"Chooze," she said, pointing to her feet.
"And how many have you tried on?" I asked, taking a seat next to her
and winking at the sales woman to excuse her from her duties as I took
over.
"Dis many," she held up two fingers to me.
"And how many has Bella tried on?" I slipped on her little pink shoe and
looked up at her.
"Dis many," she held up five fingers to me.
"I liked the ones with the lights under them best," Bella joked, making a
face at me.
"Papa, you buy chooze too?" she asked as I stood her up to see if she
could walk in them.
"Yes honey, Papa buys shoes too." I leaned in and kissed her face once,
but it wasn't enough as I thought of what the shoes would be for.
I hugged her to me, sitting her on top of my legs, and tucked her head
beneath my chin. The burning came back into my chest and stomach,
causing my face to scrunch in discomfort.
"Whass wong?" Ness leaned back and put her hand on my face, sensing
my tension under her.
"Daddy just feels yucky. That's all." I kissed her palm and set her back
on her feet.
"I'm gonna go pay," Bella said quietly, and I nodded to her as she went
passed, touching my arm with a gentle caress of her fingers.
After we stopped to get Ness a bite for a lunch, we went to find
something I could wear for court this week. Bella was helpful, not only
because she was here tending to Ness, but also because she helped me
put together an outfit that I would not have been able to do on my own.
Thankfully, Leah was kind enough to meet us at the mall and pick up
Ness so Bella and I could go to work, now that our shopping was done.
We drove separately, and when we both parked and climbed out, I
reached out for her hand. For the first time, we walked into our
restaurant, not giving a shit if anyone saw it.
Bella POV
Wednesday morning, 7:12 am.
"Swirling brimstone, clouded fire these are the things in which I
desiresad little girls with small red curls those are what the morning
dawnsyou can run and you can try to hide from what lies so close
inside.you can only scream and try to shout but know in your heart that
it is filled with doubt."
I was begging and pleading with the dark haired woman not to toss the
doll into the fire, but she just kept saying her rhythmic poem to me as
though none of my words meant anything to her. Her lips curled into an
evil grin as she dangled the small doll with red curls above the fiery pit.
"You have no truth within your soul, only know that of your cold bank
roll. Money is green and so thy envy, when I purge you from this, may
you no longer seek any. Pay attention to what lies in your heart, for
without it this thumping, you'll be nothing more than torn apart."
The woman's fingers opened, letting go of the doll, and allowed it to fall
free into the fire. I leaped forward, landing hard on the ground just an
inch away, and watched as the embers wafted from the doll's impact
after landing.
"No! No! No!" I scrambled, trying to crawl my way towards the pit, but
the harder I tried, the further away it seemed.
I looked to the woman, and she tossed her head back, laughing manically
at my efforts. My feet and legs kicked and crawled, but the fire was
being pulled away despite my efforts. I heard a little girl crying and my
heart thumped painfully in my chest as I saw Renesmee flickering through
the flames, standing on the other side.
"No! No! You can't take her!" I tried to pull with all my might against the
gravelly ground, digging my nails into the earth, and fighting with all I
could muster. But I was being dragged back by something much stronger.
BellaBella...Bella
"No! I have to help her! Renesmee! Renesmee!"
The woman stepped forward and held out her hand, smiling sweetly at
Ness . Squeaks' little hand came out, resting into the woman's. My face
flushed with anger and the woman's eyes flared, staring back at me as
she began to walk off with Ness.
"No! Don't go with her! Renesmee!"
My arms were bound, as were my legs, and I couldn't move. I started to
panic, seeing less and less of Squeaks. All I could hear was the evil
woman's laughter and Ness yelling for me as her image disappeared,
leaving me only with the flames of the fire.
"Renesmee!" I cried, still trying to move towards her, against my
restraints.
"Bella!"
"Renesmee." My head fell against the cold earth, and I sobbed, hearing
her call out for me.
My breaths were suffocating me as the flames flared, wafting smoke and
embers into my airway. The stench made me gag, and I tried to turn my
face away from it, but it only grew more intense.
"Bella! Bella!"
The ground rumbled under me as I felt my body shake violently, thinking
for sure this was the end. I would fall into the earth once it split, and I
would never be able to save Renesmee.
"Renesmee."
"Angel!"
My eyes shot open as I was rolled quickly to my back. I swallowed hard,
panting quickly, as all the imagery faded away, and all I had left was
Edward hovering over me.
Was I dead?
I blinked quickly, looking all around, seeing that I was in Edward's room.
The bright morning light burned my sensitive eyes and I cringed, placing a
hand over my face. It felt moist from sweat, and I took another deep
breath, trying to calm myself.
"It was just a dreamit was just a dream," I whispered to myself.
"Sounded more like a nightmare. Are you alright?" Edward's soothing
hands were on my face, and I looked back at him, lowering away my own
hand.
"Remind me never to eat burritos before bed again," I breathed out hard
and sat up, wiping my hair away from my sweaty face.
"Want to talk about it?" He scooted to my side and clasped his hands
around his ankles.
"No, once was enough. Thanks."
"Care for some breakfast then? Leah came early, insisted in making her
famous poached eggs with bacon."
"Bacon? That's what that horrid smell is." I lay back again, holding my
hand over my churning belly.
"Now bacon? I am not liking this new Bella who detests coffee, smoking,
and bacon. Next you will be giving up curse words and dying your hair
blonde, fully making yourself unattractive to me, all together."
"I would never be blonde. Fuck that. And double fuck you for saying you
don't find me attractive. That was rude." I shoved his arm and he
laughed.
"You see, I'm hard already."
Mother of all things butterbean related.
"That is something I will never give up," I pointed at him, and he
captured my hand into his, bringing it to rest over his heart as he lay
back with me.
"Edward?"
"Mmm?"
"Do you think Jessica will show up for court?" I asked, twirling a lock of
hair around my finger, pondering the possibilities.
"I know she will," he replied.
"How? She has always blown off everything else. Maybe"
"Rosalie told Emmett she spoke to her. She'll be there." His blue eyes
darkened as he looked over to me, reaffirming my nightmares. I rolled to
my side, touching my fingertips to his scruffy chin.
"Are you scared?" I watched him, trying to see the truth, knowing he
would try to put on a brave face and hide his real feelings.
"I have faith," he replied, which surprised me. "All I have is faith, Bella."
"Good. That's good." I stroked his face gently, wishing like hell that I
could hide him away from all the evil the world had to offer. "I have
faith too. Faith in you."
"I thought of something for you," he said softly.
"What?" I kept mouth on his skin, tasting the sweet and salty texture it
bared.
"You still wish to go with me to get a tattoo, yes?" He reached for my
hand, bringing my wrist to his lips. I tilted my head back and nodded
'yes' as my reply.
"A feather," he murmured against my skin.
"Feather?"
"I think a feather would be nice here," Edward's warm lips kissed the
tender skin of my arm again.
"Why a feather?"
"You said a chef was like a chief, and chiefs have feathers to show their
high position. I think it is appropriate." Our fingers intertwined as he
waited for my response.
"Don't you sort of think that is cheesy?" I asked, and he shook his head
'no', smiling that same fuck-me smile that brought me to my knees every
time.
"If you got a measuring cup or a spoon or some shit tattooed on you, that
would be cheesy, Bell. A feather is simplistic but purposeful, and
representative of what you really are. A leader."
"And what are you?" I pushed against him, rolled up onto my knees as he
lay back against the pillows. I kicked my leg over, coming to straddle him
as his hands rested on my hips.
Apparently, Lt. Dan liked this new position, as he was saying a big good
morning to Butterbean. She smiled happily and proceeded to pour him a
nice cup of coffee.
With extra cream and sugar.
"I'm just Edward," he said with a slight shake of his head.
"That's all?" I narrowed my eyes looking at him in speculation.
"Yeah, just Edward," he nodded.
"I like that answer." I leaned forward and kissed his lips lightly.
Edward's hands came to frame my face, gently brushing back my falling
hair so he could see me better. "When are we doing this, anyhow?" I
asked.
"Tomorrow. I think it would be futile for me to get the black rose undone
before court. Leah seems to agree. Plus, I have something else I am
thinking of."
"May I know the secret?" I asked in my best sultry tone. He pulled me in
closer, and Butterbean smiled at her win.
"It's no secret, for you know my adoration for you." His warm lips blessed
my neck with a soft suckling kiss. "But as you know, I much prefer to
show you, then to tell you."
Holy Butterbean on a G'damn Tuesday. She had her foot in full Thumper
mode. I swear, this man, he thrived on making my clit pulse like a dance
club on a Saturday night. Was that too many days of the week for you in
an analogy? Too bad, my thought process is screwed at this point. That's
all I have to offer you all.
Dear Butterbean,
Grind baby, grind.
Love,Bella.
My arms slid forward, under the pillow his head rested on, and fisted the
sheets tightly into my hands as my lips crashed into his. Warm, slender
fingers slid along my skin, running their course down my back, until they
reached the fabric of my borrowed Edward boxers. He slid his hands up
under the thin fabric, feeling his way along my cheeks, and squeezed me
tightly in his strong hands.
I rocked on top of him, grinding myself into his very present hard-on, and
getting a very pleased response from Butterbean for doing so. Edward
kept kneading my ass in his hands as our kiss grew in intensity. Our lips
smacked against each others, becoming the only noise in the quiet room. I
tasted his tongue against mine and loved how sweet his mouth was. The
wetness grew between my legs as I rubbed myself against him again,
eliciting a deep hum of pleasure from his throat.
His throat.
I moved my lips there, kissing my way down until I reached the lull in
between his collar bones. My tongue swirled inside of it and I was
rewarded with a moan from him once more.
I wasn't sure where I was going as I kissed my way down, but something
told me that I was on the right path as Edward's breathing grew more
frantic, and I felt his body tense from under me as I made my way down.
It occurred to me that I had only ever once given Edward head, and for
a brief moment, I had to wonder why. Surely, he deserved it. And I
definitely had no qualms about his peen being in my mouth.
My hands drew his boxers down as I seated myself in between his legs.
His engorged cock sprang free, bouncing once against the bottom of his
hard stomach, making a slight slapping sound.
His stomach.
The ripples caught my attention first, and I leaned in, taking small licks
of each perfect one. I moved next to the center line that divided them
and nibbled my way down, until my chin hit the tip of his cock.
"You're torturing me, just so you know," he rasped, sliding a hand through
my long locks to sweep them away from my face.
My only answer was biting him in the joining of his leg and pelvic bone.
He jumped a little, causing a dark chuckle to vibrate in my chest. I
stretched my arms, splaying my hands out along his chest as I kept my
mouth busy, planting more kisses and nibbles all around the area he
wanted my mouth the most. His cock bobbed several times as I hit the
right spots and I made sure to remember each one, wanting to be able to
do it againand againand again
"Bella," he thrust his hips towards my mouth, begging me to pleasure him.
I slid my tongue along his length, running my way up to the top, and
sucked ever so lightly on the end, sealing it off with a tiny kiss.
He really loved that shit.
I did it again.
And again.
And again.
"Fuck," he jerked me forward by my shoulders and threw me onto my
back, resting himself in between my legs. My head hung slightly over the
edge of the bed, and I fisted the mattress tightly with my fingers. "No
more teasing." He slid himself inside of me, spreading me wide open with
his girth. "Do you see what you do to me, Bella?"
"Mmm." I kept my eyes on his face as he watched me intently with his
smoldering blues.
"Fuck, you're beautiful." He tipped his forehead to mine and kissed my
lips as he continued to thrust harder.
"I love you, Edward." I moved my lips to his jaw and chin, kissing him
with the fierceness that he brought out of me with the level of desire he
elicited.
"I love you, baby." He moved his lips with the same vigor along my neck
and face, rocking harder and deeper inside of my body. "Do you feel how
much I love you when I'm inside of you?"
"Yes," I panted, feeling his words surge through me as I felt everything
that lay within my body.
Edward was inside of me in more ways than he knew.
"Edward?" A soft knock on the door sounded and Edward cursed lowly.
"Shh," he kissed my lips lightly, still moving himself. "Just be quiet."
"She's going to hear," I whispered.
"That's why you have to be quiet." An angelic smile spread across his lips
before he pressed them back into mine.
I wrapped myself around him, trying to hold every part of myself
together as he drove harder, knowing that Leah was probably well aware
of what the fuck we were doing on the other side of the door.
Apparently, being cock-blocked wasn't something Edward was going to put
up with anymore.
Butterbean gave a big nod of approval for that change in traits.
"I want you to cum with me, angel," his voice was strained as his pumps
came harder and faster.
Edward lifted his head, watching my face again as he fucked me. My lips
fell open when he hit the right spot, but I locked my voice away, only
letting out hard pants as I felt my orgasm build.
"Right there baby?" he hit it again and I panted harder as he watched
my mouth. "I want to cum inside of you so fucking bad."
"Please," my lips barely said the word, and he drove harder, sucking my
bottom lip in between his.
"You have to cum with me," he licked my bottom lip. "I need to feel
you."
"Edward," I clenched the mattress with all my might as he lit my body
on fire with his words.
"Good girl." I felt him swell inside of my swollen cunt, drawing out my
orgasm as he staved off his own for just a bit longer. "I love how you
feel on my cock when you cum, angel. So motherfucking" his voice stuck
in his throat, swapping out for a low hum as he thrust hard twice, spilling
himself inside of me.
I held my lips in between my teeth, trying so hard to hold down the
scream that wanted to escape. Edward's sweetness panted against my
face as he tried to catch his breath. He slid his hands under mine,
unlocking my death grip on the mattress, and laced our fingers together.
"I love you." He leaned in and kissed my lips softly, several times.
"Me too, babe." I squeezed my fingers around his tighter.
"A sleeve," he said softly.
"A sleeve?" I giggled, thinking he must have lost too much blood to the
brain.
"I'm getting a sleeve. Well, I'm going to cover my arm, the remainder of
the way, to a full sleeve. I guess that was a rather complicated way of
explaining, wasn't it?"
"I like your explanations. They're verydetailed," I giggled.
"Mmm." He leaned in and kissed me again. "I need to go see what Leah
wants, before she decides to quit." He pulled himself from me slowly, and
I closed my eyes to the sensitivity there.
"Go enjoy a shower, sweetheart. I'll save you some breakfast. Bacon-
free."
EPOV
Wednesday afternoon.
Later on in the day, after prep was underway, Bella came back into the
kitchen, smiling.
My hand kept stirring the sauce as she climbed onto the step-ladder and
started tapping a nail into the wall. I knew better than to ask what she
was doing. After the nail was in, she tore the paper from around the
object in her hands and then tossed it to the floor. I stopped stirring
and walked over, preparing to razz her about messy kitchen habits, but
stopped short when I saw the picture of my daughter in the center of
theclock?
"Bella," I laughed. "Why is Squeaks' face in a clock, in our kitchen?"
"I figured," she leaned on my shoulders for support as she climbed down
from the stool. "If you had a 'Squeaky clock' instead of a 'Workshop
clock' you would move your ass and get done faster." Bella's head tilted
back, giving me her signature smile for when she was screwing with me.
"You might be right," I caressed her cheek with my finger lightly.
"I usually am."
She had this look in her eye, a look that clearly made Lt. Dan ten shades
of horny as a motherfucker. I briefly wondered if Butterbean had a
magnet in Bella's panties, 'cause that little bud was pulling me to her like
a fucking bingo wand to clear a losing card on a Tuesday night.
I stepped closer, and Bella saw what I intended, backing up slowly, being
my little mouse that was going to try and run from the angry cat. But
oopsthere was a counter in her way.
"Darn counters," I pretended to be sympathetic towards her situation as
I lay my hands down on the steel-top, trapping her.
"Edward," she warned, looking over my shoulder to the rest of the
kitchen staff as they worked on prep for this evening.
"Mmm?" I pressed my luck, going in for the kill.
"Edward," she giggled a little, seeing that I wasn't backing down.
"I thought you loved me?" I teased, hovering my lips over hers.
"I do, very much."
I pressed into her lips and she allowed me to kiss her, but then pushed
gently against my chest, leaning back.
"But there's a place for physical love, and it's not here."
I raised an eyebrow at her.
"During business hours," she added with a smile.
"Fine, but I expect full on physical loving as soon as you reach my
apartment, this evening," I held my finger an inch from her lips giving my
order.
"I have a long night planned tonight, Flower Child, and unfortunately
none of it includes your apartment. As a matter of fact, I will totally be
giving myself to another man."
"Come again?"
"I have a meeting after service with Alec, my lawyer. We have to go over
all this fuckdom that is your baby mamma Jessicunt."
"Like what?" I sighed, closing my eyes, and my playful mood came to a
halt as the fire found its way back into my chest.
"Like, her suing me, for one, and how that might interrupt certain parts
of your custody case. Also, her lawyer has subpoenaed me for questioning
at your trial. I know Carlisle was planning on having me testify as a
character witness, but I am not sure what Jessica's lawyer will ask. I can
imagine, though."
"About us?" Oh, yeah, seriously hurting right now. Shit.
"Nowellyes. In a way. I think that he will probably bring up the shit
from Hawaii. I mean, you did lick fucking caramel sauce off me in front a
few thousand people. Which was really stupid now that I think about it.
And I'm sure he will want to question why it is you work here. Or HOW
you came to work here. This shit is going to get ugly, that's all I know."
"I'm sorry." So fucking sorry.
"Don't be. I'm not saying it because I'm upset or anything, I just don't
like having to defend myself to people; especially when those people are
trying to score a basket for the opposing team. TeamScuntbag."
"We should make shirts," I joked, trying to get the burning to subside as
I changed the subject. "We'll have to think of names for OUR team,
though."
"Hmmm" she thought. "How about Team Lt. Danor Team" She cupped
her hands to my neck and pulled me into her. "Team later-tonight-I'm-
going-to-sneak-into-your-apartment-and-suck-the-mother-fuck-out-of-
your"
"Hey Bella, where is the reservation book?"
Kill-kill-kill-da-white-maaan! Howard Stern's Mamma look-a-boo-doo-day
was ringing in my ears as Emmett interrupted the sexy shit Bella was
about to say.
And promise.
Fucker.
"Ignore him," I tapped my finger to my ear in hopes she would finish.
"Cahhhh," she giggled. "Fuck, I can't think of a word to tease you with."
"I have a word."
That made her snort.
"Emmett," she looked over my shoulder, still holding my neck. "Why the
fuck would I know where YOUR reservation book is?"
"I can't find it." He ran his meaty hand over his head in frustration.
"Awwww, pump-kin," Bella backed off me and walked to Emmett. "Are
you not paying attention because you are thinking of Tweetyrose?"
I liked Tweetybitch better.
"Don't start with me Bella. You know I only agreed to stay on because"
he paused, glancing once to me and then back to Bella. "I mean, to stay
until the baby was born. My babyyou know."
"Well of course Em. Who else's baby.idiot."
Weird.
Bella walked over to our new "makeshift" office space for the evening at
the Chef's table. Jake was finished with my office, except for paint, and
Bella had him repainting hers at the same time.
"Sit," she patted the seat for Emmett, and he obeyed.
I went back to my prep and listened as Bella explained the plans for the
week to Emmett. Thirty minutes later, she was telling him to go get his
own laptop so they could plan out her schedule for the next few weeks. I
guess she had traveling plans again. I sighed hard, not wanting to go
through that shit again. While he was gone, Bella clicked on the music
from her computer, like she always did when she worked. Emmett came
back dancing with his laptop in one hand, pretending to sing along. Bella
lifted her eyes to him and a huge smile spread across her cherry lips,
seeing him act the fool.
"By looking in her eeeeeeeeye. The only kinda girl I want, an independent
queen working for her throne I love her 'cause she got her own." He was
snapping his fingers, doing his best R&B singer dance impression.
Bella pressed her fist to her forehead, trying not to laugh as he rocked
his hips and scrunched his face, getting into the groove. The song
changed into an old 90's dance tune, and Bella lost it, watching him start
to do some type of 'robot'. She busted out in laughter, cupping her face
into her hand.
"Emmett, will you please sit the fuck down," she laughed.
"Everybody dance now," he swirled his hips as he 'hoola-hooped' his way
to his seat. "Fuck, this was the jam." Sitting next to Bella he shimmied
his chest at her, not letting up on his spooniness behavior.
"Stop," Bella's hand was on his chest as she rolled in laughter, turning
red in the face.
"Come on B, you know this was the shitwhat were you, like fucking five
or some shit?" he teased.
"This is why" she choked out, throwing her arms around his neck,
"youcan'tleave meeeeee." She was in hysterics as she tried to speak
through her giggles.
"Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease!!!! You have ruined me, Emmett!!!" She tossed her
head back, fisting the fabric of his shirt.
"Damnyour hair smells good," he leaned in and sniffed her, causing her
giggles to come back again.
"You see!" she slapped him playfully. "No one is going to tell me I smell
good eitheror dare to sniff me," she laughed. "They will THINK it, but
not SAY it. I so hate you." She sat back in her seat and sighed hard as
she wiped her eyes clear of the tears from her laughter.
"You wanna break up with me?" he jutted out his lip to her.
"Yes." Bella looked back to her computer and began typing again as he
whined like a puppy next to her. "Here, this is our break up song," she
hit a key on her keyboard hard and leaned back, looking at Emmett.
"To the left to the left, everything you own in a box to the left." She
pointed as she sang, and he laughed at her. "This is our last song,
Emmett. A damn heart-breaker. Are you happy now?"
"No it's not. We have a lot of songs to go B." Emmett palmed the back of
her head and pulled Bella towards him, planting a kiss to the side of her
face. "We have a lot of songs to go."
"I like this part right here," she turned it up louder.
You must not know 'bout me, you must not know 'bout me. I could have
another you in a minute. Matter fact he'll be here in a minute, baby. You
must not know 'bout me, you must not know 'bout me. I could have
another you by tomorrow. So don't you ever for a second get to thinkin',
you're irreplaceable.
"Who's gonna replace me? No one tears up a playlist like me, B."
"I know, you suck ass as a general managerbut at leastyou make me
laugh."
"Laughter is the best medicine."
"That's my whole point, Emmett," her head fell on his arm. "I can find
another general manager, but not another Emmett. You ruined me, like I
said. I'll never be able to say 'good job' to some other schmuck I hire,
'cause all I'm going to be thinking is, 'Fuck, I wish Emmett was dancing in
my kitchen like a fool'."
"Oh I'll still come in and dance. I fully intend on visiting Edward on a
nightly basis and sitting his ass down in a chair, grinding up on himYou
got any Pussy Cat Dolls on that list?" He waggled his brows, knowing I
could hear him.
"I'd like to see that," I said. "New born baby crying, full of shitty
diapers, alone with Rosalie, while you are down here stripping for me. I'm
going to start saving my one dollar bills now," I smiled, grinding some
fresh pepper into the pot.
"I'm going to be superdad, just so you know. I will dance circles around
you, Edward," he twirled his index finger looking at me. "Circles."
"How many times a night do you think you will have to feed this kid?" I
asked, knowing he had no damn clue.
"That's what Rose is for," he shrugged.
"Yeah, 'cause she's not going to be passed out and super tired or
anything. I think I still have bruises on my calf from being kicked out of
bed from Jess."
"Ugh, can we please not talk about you sleeping in the same bed as the
herpes queen?" Bella asked.
"Sorry," I laughed quietly. "My point is that you have no idea what the
hell you are talking about, or getting yourself into, Emmett. On both
accounts."
"Yeah well," Emmett jumped up from his seat and walked towards me,
"it's a good thing I have a little brother who does and can bail my ass
out of trouble." He slapped my back hard as he came around the counter.
"Isn't it?"
"Absolutely." I bumped my hand to his before I added, "But Renesmee
will always be the favorite grandchild. Just so you know."
"Ha ha. Have you seen these guns?" Emmett curled his arms, flexing his
big biceps.
"I sure as fuck hope you have a boy," Bella laughed. "That would be one
scary ass baby girl if it came out looking like you."
"I second that," I pointed in agreement with her.
"I can't help that I am dead sexy and super manly. It's not my fault
Edward's kid popped out looking all girly, even though Ness looks just like
him. When you have your baby, B, you better hope it's not a boy, 'cause
that will be the wimpiest looking dude of all time," he laughed hitting my
chest.
I stared at him like he was retarded. As I looked to Bella to make a
comment about my brother's stupidity, she was as white as a ghost,
staring him down. She looked like she was going to puke.
Puke
Holy motherofGod.
"Shit," Emmett muttered, translating that into a big fucking confirmation
of what he just eluded to.
"You are such an idiot," Bella shook her head angrily at him.
I couldn't move. I felt like there were boulders in my shoes holding me in
place as I tried to wrap my brain around his words, but there were too
many things flooding my thought process. The only thing I could think of
was one thing...
Bella waspregnant?
She got up from the table and pushed angrily out the back door as she
exited. The only thing that snapped me from my reverie was the loud
bang that sounded when the door came crashing closed behind her.
"Sorry," Emmett said quietly while rubbing my shoulder. "Go talk to her,
man."
Feeling numb, I took a deep breath and walked towards the door. Why
did this door always seem like it led to some type of dramatic event? I
eyed the red sign above it that read 'Exit' before I pushed the metal
bar. It seemed heavier tonight. As if, when I walked back through, I
would no longer be the same person as I was when I exited.
Bella was sitting on our same stack of pallets, and I instantly felt stupid
as I remembered us smoking here. But the other night, she declined to do
so. She gave up smokingand fucking lied to me about why. She
knewEmmett knewand Ididn't.
Fuck, who else knew?
Angela? My mother? Alice?
A bitter taste crept into my mouth as I tried to remain calm and
approach her with a clear mind.
Hear her out first. Don't make assumptions.
I took a seat, resting myself down gently behind her so that my left arm
touched her back. I brought it around her waist and rested my head
against the back of hers. A few minutes passed and she said nothing, so I
figured I needed to get the ball rolling.
"Is what he said true, Bella?" My voice felt like it echoed loudly against
the still air of the night; even though, I had barely whispered the words
to her. Bella hands clasped over my arm on her waist and she nodded
quickly.
I sucked my teeth as a hard sigh left my chest. I had fucking done it
again.
This time to Bella. My angel. The woman I loved more than anything.
"I'm sorry," her voice shook and I imagined she was trying not to cry.
"How long have you known?"
"Since I got back from Japan. I had to take a test to make sure I didn't
catch that fucking bird flu shit, and it showed up in my test results."
"That was a week ago."
"I know, I'm sorry," she sniffled.
"Stop saying that."
"What?"
"That you're sorry." I lowered my arm, sweeping my hand under legs, and
pulled her back onto my lap so I could hold her. "You don't have anything
to be sorry for." She tucked her head under my chin and I wiped her
tears away with my thumb.
I didI had things to be sorry for.
EverythingI had everything to be sorry for.
"Do you know how long? Like have you gone to a doctor or anything?"
"No, not yet. I have an appointment next week, though. I think thatI
think that if I count back, thoughit was the night in the ocean. The
Fourth of July," she whispered against the fabric of my shirt.
I remembered that night vividly in my mind, as it was one of the best
nights of my existence. A little piece of me rejoiced, knowing that at
least this time I made a child out of loving someone too much, and not
wanting to just fuck them into oblivion.
"Bella, you should have told me," I whispered back to her, hating that
she had been holding this in all week long.
"I know. I was just scared. Plus you have court this week, andI was
just trying not to burden you."
"Burden me? Bella you have been carrying this with you all week. It isn't
just your burden to bear. As I recall, both of us, created this together.
Yes?"
"Are" she looked up to my eyes. "Are you mad?"
"No, I'm not mad. I have nothing to be mad over. I just wish I could have
helped you. All this week you've beenI take that back, I am mad. I'm
mad at myself."
"For what?" she shook her head as her last tears spilled over the brim of
her eyes.
"Not being smart enough to see what was right in front of my face. And
for really not being smart enough to fucking know better than to act like
a fucking seventeen-year-old stupid kidagain. I fucked up, again," I
whispered the last words, mostly to myself, and shook my head as my
eyes shut. "That's why he fucking looks at Emmett like he does. I'm still
that same kid to Carlisle, because I AM still just like that fucking kid,
Bella."
"Flower Child," she touched her hands to my face making me look at her.
"You didn't do anything wrong, and if you did, then we both did. Two to
tango, and all that shit."
"Yeah, I think I've heard that once before." My jaw clenched, hearing my
mother's old rhetoric in my ears.
"I'm serious. I'm not mad or anything. In fact" Her eyes darted
nervously around my face, "I'm sort of happy. But I need you to be happy
too, because I don't really know how to do this unless you want this too."
"I'm not saying that." I pulled her into me, knowing exactly what the
fuck that meant. "That is not what I meant, Bella."
It was quiet for a few minutes as she lay in my arms. Bella's heartbeat
was the only sound I could hear and feel against me. The long, silky
strands of her hair slid easily through my fingers as I combed them
through her tresses. I looked down as she sighed, and saw her hands
clasped over her belly. I watched as her thumbs massaged there gently,
and reality finally fucking hit me.
"Bell, are we really having a baby?" My voice came out thicker than I
imagined, and her only reply was a nod of her head.
I had to ask again, just to make sure I wasn't imagining anything.
"We're really having a baby?"
She nodded again, more aggressively this time.
I fastened my arms more securely around her as my newfound euphoria
built within the walls of my chest. I was going to be father again.
Ness...was going to have a little brotheror sister.
Bellawas going to be a motherto my child.
We...were going to have a child.
A small bit of laughter vibrated through me as I realized Bella and Rose
were both going to be pregnant at the same time. Emmett and I would
have children the same age. They would all grow up together. I was going
to be an uncle and a fatherand
"What's funny?" Bella asked, tilting her head up.
"I'm just thinking about how crazy this all is." I rested my head gently
against hers. "And how it's fucking wonderful."
"You're not scared?"
"No, and you shouldn't be either." I kissed her face. "There's nothing to
be scared of. We'll be fine." I stroked her hair, trying to make her feel
the truth in my words.
"What about Invoke?" she asked quietly. "Thatdoesn't scare you?"
Yeah, of course it did, but fuck, it had always scared me. Bella would not
give up her dreams, though. Not for me. This was not going to be where I
went wrong with her, like Jessica. I loved her too much and would do
anything to make this right. She could have it all.
I would make sure of that.
"You can still have that, Bella. I told you I would take care of you. I
meant that." I kissed her again. "Besides, you're stuck with me now." I
looked down to her and smiled, "But you already knew that, since you
agreed to be my lobster. Remember?"
"I really hate you and all your stupid super sperm, just to let you know,
Flower Child."
There was my girl. She was ok. Wewe were going to be ok.
"If it's any consolation to you, I have a feeling pregnant Bella, will be
like a Godzilla Bella. Which means, I am going to be paying my dues over
the next nine months for inflicting my super sperm upon you."
"Did you just call me fucking Godzilla?" she made a face, looking up at
me.
"I think so, yeah," I nodded, trying to coax that fiery brand from her
that I loved so much.
"If you enjoy having your pecker fully intact, I wouldn't do it again."
There it was.
"I love you," I thumbed her cheek as I looked adoringly into her angry
eyes..
"I hate you. Like seriously. And our baby, it hates you too."
"Mmm, say that again."
"I hate you, Flower Child."
"No, the other part."
"Our baby hates you, too."
"The first part of that sentence. Say it again."
"Our baby?" she asked.
"Mmm hmm. That part," I leaned in and kissed her cherry lips. "I like
that part. Will you say it again please?"
The delicate wisps of her hair curled around my finger as I brushed it
back from her soft cheek, tucking it behind her ear so I could kiss her
there.
"Our baby," her lips murmured the words against my own cheek as I kept
my lips moving along her face.
"Again please." I kissed lower, pressing my lips into the crease of her
neck.
"Our baby," her voice grew thicker as I laid her down gently on the
wooden pallet, but still kept my arms surrounding her, securely. Her head
rested in the crook of my arm as I moved my lips back to her mouth.
"How is it possible that I love you more every day, angel?" I kissed her
with a fever that I had never felt before. "I love you so fucking much
right now."
I didn't let her respond.
My lips pressed into hers, making the fire that was growing inside of my
heart flare so immensely, I thought it may burst from the intensity. She
didn't need to say the words, though; I felt them in the way she
responded to my affection. My hand coursed over the silken skin of her
face, then to her breast, finally lying gently over her own heart. It beat
frantically under my palm, fluttering like wings of a bird about to take
flight.
Or perhaps, angel wings.
I pulled her hand to my face, planting kisses to her scared palm, and
then kissed each one of her precious fingers. As my kissing trailed over
her wrist, I had a vision of the feather that should lie there,
remembering my plans, for the following day, with her.
"This is where it all began, you know," I whispered against her awaiting
lips. "If you never gave me a massage that night, Bell, we might have
never been here right now."
"Is that all it took?" she laughed.
"I wanted you the first time you scolded me, Bella," I smiled back at
her.
"Is this our 'you had me at hello' moment, babe?"
"No, you had me at 'we're not open'," I kissed her lips. "And you really,
really had me when you helped with Ness, after the shit with her almost
drowning. Out of everyone, Bella, you're the only person who has ever
really loved her. Just her."
"Squeaky makes you a lot more attractive to my heart as well, babe. I'm
sorry I said our baby hates you. That was fucked up. It's just my stupid
mouth. It wants to run even more than usual, lately. Sorry."
"It's alright," I smiled at her erratic mood swings. "I love you just how
you are, angel."
"I think you have some sort of fetish for masochism or something. I mean,
first you get stuck with Jessicunt, and now you have me and all my
fuckery. Seriously, Flower Child, what the hell did your parents do to you
as a kid?" she teased, thumbing my cheeks.
I just leaned in and kissed her, trying to show her with my affection how
much she made my life better, not worse, and that she was nothing like
fucking Jessica's ass.
Her mouth was so sweet and eager on mine. I wanted to be loving with
her, but fuck, she was making that very hard as she tilted her head back
and gripped my hair, pulling me deeper into her mouth. My tongue slid
along hers quickly, darting in and out as our breathing grew heavy.
"Lower," she moved my face down to her neck and I began kissing along
its length, leaving a heated trail of wet kisses until I reached the fabric
of her shirt. My fingers quickly undid the first two buttons and I kissed
the hills of what little cleavage showed. Bella whimpered, quietly, and I
looked over my shoulder quickly to make sure the fucking back door was
shut, before I made my next move. After I unfastened a few more
buttons, I dipped my pointer finger into her bra-cup and pulled the
fabric down to reveal her breast. Bella's skin was warm as I surrounded
my lips around her, suckling softly to her nipple several times.
"Fuck, that is so good. You have no idea." She fisted my hair again, and I
looked up from under my lashes, wanting to see her face. Her eyes were
closed and she tucked her bottom lip between her teeth. The topaz heart
laid in the lull of her throat, and I smiled internally.
All mine.
"Babe," Bella whispered, pulling me out of my thoughts. "Do you have
your car keys on you?"
Good question. Did I?
I reached my hand to my pants and patted my pocket, feeling the hard
metal against the fabric.
"Yes." I pulled them free and jingled them at her.
"Where are you parked?"
I only hit the alarm button, making the lights flash, and she tilted her
head back, seeing the Volvo parked twenty feet away.
"We're going there," she said, sitting up.
"What for?" I asked, standing up and holding out my arms to her. She
pulled herself up, holding my hands, and grinned.
"I think now would be a good time to show me how to remove that
contraption you call a car seat from the back."
"Service is going to start. We have nine months to figure out how to do
that, Bella."
She sighed really hard.
"I really hope our child gets my fucking brains and not yours Flower
Child, 'cause obviously you were not gifted in the area of reading
between the lines. Let me spell this out for you, since you are being
extremely dense."
"I," she pointed to herself, "am a very hormonal, emotionally charged
mess, right now. You just fucking lit the end of the Bella sex fuse,
making out with me on the pallets, and now I would like you,"she poked
my chest, "to take me to your stupid shiny ass Volvo, and fuck the holy
ever living shit out of me. We need to remove the car seat because, as
we both know, that fucker gets in the way."
My mouth fell open, but no words came out. Funny how that happens
when woman start talking about have the holy shit fucked out of them,
isn't it?
"Flower Child!" she stomped her foot in irritation.
I blinked, coming back to life, and scooped her up, fully intending on
giving her what she demanded.
In my stupid, shiny ass Volvo.
Wednesday night
I could tell Bella was tired during the end of service, and demanded that
she go home, leaving me with clean-up. I called Nessie, letting her know
that Bella was coming home early, and that I would be there soon. I
knew she would be in bed by the time I got in, but still, I wanted to be
sure she didn't think I forgot, in case she woke up. Plus, Bella being
there to put her to sleep was a good bonus.
Thankfully everyone was on their game tonight and we managed to get
out at a decent hour.
I crept into my room once I got home, trying to be as quiet as I could,
and not disturb Bella. She had left my stereo on, playing an old CD I
hadn't heard in a very long time. There was also a candle lit on the
bedside table, and I made sure to backlog that into my memory so I
could yell at her tomorrow about it.
Okay, I wasn't going to yell, but you know what I mean.
I crawled into bed, spooning myself behind her. She instantly melted
against me, and I got immediate goose-bumps as her warm skin touched
my own. She was.
My hand ran over her, coursing its way up and feeling no sign of pajamas.
Nope. It was all Bella. I cupped her tit into my one hand, sliding my
other arm under her neck, and drew her nearer as my lips whispered in
her ear.
"Have I ever told you that you are the most perfect woman ever?" Her
laughter was deep and vibrated against me as I held her.
My nose skimmed along her soft mane, and I was assaulted in the most
delightful of ways as I breathed in, inhaling a long pull of her fragrant
hair that was reminiscent of a million flowers all gathered together to
create Bella's signature fragrance.
"Fuck, you smell good, too." My left hand slid down her body as I planted
kisses along her hair and bare shoulder. She tensed under me when I
placed my hand over her belly, and I instantly pulled back.
"Is that not okay?"
"It's fine," she reached for my hand, placing it over her stomach again.
"It justfeels strange."
"Strange, how?" I rubbed softly, planting small kisses to her face.
"It's just kind of intense. I like it, though." Her hands rested over mine
as I continued to work soft circles over her skin.
"Me too, sweetheart. I like this too," I said, giving a light squeeze to
what lay in my other hand.
"I thought you would." She tilted back to kiss me, but yawned instead.
"Sorry," she smiled, impishly.
"It's alright, sleep." I kissed her forehead and moved my hand from her
breast to her shoulder, cupping it into my palm.
My other hand remained on her stomach, tracing over her warm skin, as I
hummed herand my new babyto sleep.
Bella POV
Thursday 1:13 pm
He was smiling all cheeky at me as I sat back into the chair, waiting for
the tattoo dude to come back in.
"I'm not scared," I said, shaking my head as his smile grew wider.
"Flower Child, I have had parts of my body chopped off and reattached.
In nine months, I am going squeeze your watermelon-sized lovechild outta
my hooha. A little needle to the arm does nothing to me, just so you
know."
"Who said it was little?" the tattoo guy came back and tried to be
funny.
"Haha. Are you sure this isn't going to kill my child? You poison him or
her and I swear, your balls," I moved my finger over my throat, "gone,
dude."
"As long as you follow all of my aftercare instructions, all will be fine. I
assure you." He took a seat and started assembling his materials. "You're
set up over there Edward whenever you're ready." He nodded across the
room to the other station where Edward's friend was ready for his
session.
"Are you going to be"
"Fucking scram, Edward," I huffed, trying to kick him with my foot, but
tattoo dude was swabbing my arm, making that difficult.
He walked over to the other guy's station, and I watched him take a
seat, giving a manly pound of the fist as all guys did for some unknown
reason. His shirt came off, which was nice, and I got to stare at him as
his tattoo dude went over the placement, and other fuckery, with him.
"So, a feather, huh?" my tattoo dude snapped me out of my ogling.
"Yeah, he thinks it's symbolic, 'cause I'm a chef."
"Is that what you want?" he asked, holding his hand out for my arm.
"I was thinking something a little more significant or, fuck, artistic. I
mean, when this kid," I patted my belly, "grows up, I'm gonna have
fucking daddy Tattoo over there, and all I have is a damn feather?"
"What is significant to you? Having this baby?" he asked.
"Yes, well, my life as a whole, right now. Truthfully, tattoo dude, I am
feeling really fucking emotional right now, and am liable to tell you all
sorts of shit you don't wanna know, but seriously, my whole damn life has
been flipped upside down thanks to that fucker over there." I looked
back to Edward as he was already getting his arm tattooed. "Stupid sexy
ass bastard."
"Does that make you feel better or worse?"
"The cursing? Much better." I kept my eyes on Edward, watching as he
let the dude do his thing, and didn't seem bothered by the needle against
his skin.
"No, the changes in your life? Do you feel trapped now or more free?"
"Oh, uhmore free. I guess, I just feel like I am on a course I didn't
plan on, but, fucking shit, I love it now that I am." I reached over for
the water bottle, feeling thirsty as a motherfucker.
Probably from all the jibber jabber.
"I have an idea. Can you give me a few seconds to draw you up
something?"
"Yeah sure." I took a long swig of water as the dude spun around, facing
back towards his station's table.
I sat there and drank my water, watching Edward, again. He was
laughing about something with his tattoo dude, and I loved to see him
smile, knowing that this week was sucking hardcore for him. Every time
he cringed or rubbed his hand to his stomach, my chest hurt knowing that
this custody shit was making him physically ill.
I set my empty water back down and waited for the guy to finish,
resting back into my chair. I almost wanted to just go to sleep. The soft
hum of the tattoo gun from across the room was like a soothing lullaby
and I closed my eyes, for what I thought was a second, but hell, it could
have been days for all I knew.
A cold hand touched my arm and alerted me, making my eyes flutter
open.
"Ready?" the tattoo dude asked, holding up a drawing to me.
I sat up and looked it over, seeing a feather much bigger than the one he
originally intended. Also, this one had tiny blackbirds flying free from the
wisps the feather bore.
"I was thinking, we put this one on your upper arm here," he pointed to
the outside of my arm. He then curled the paper there to show me what
he meant. "And we can place a blackbird on your wrist and then several
small ones along your shoulder and back. What do you think of that?
Worthy enough to be on his level, baby mamma?"
"Tattoo dude, I will so never be on his level," I looked over to Edward as
he attempted to become a walking fucking canvas of art. "But yeah, I
love it."
It took over an hour for the guy to complete the tattoo. Honestly, it
fucking hurt, I'm not going to lie, but it wasn't unbearable, by any means.
In a way, it felt good, and I understood what the fuck Edward had
meant when he described it to me, that day in Hawaii.
Edward's sleeve took a little longer, seeing as how the dude had to cover
up the rose, and work in all the new fuckery he added. I sat over by him
after I was all saran-wrapped up, and he kept his eyes down, watching
the dude as he filled in the shadowing around the letters now inscribed
along his wrist. I tilted my head to read them, and was a little fucking
shocked when I saw the little blackbird there, too.
Ella vuela con sus alas
She flies by her own wings.
It was for me? Edward got a tattoo for me? I felt wetness grow in my
eyes, and I wiped it away quickly, before he could see. My hand found
his free one and I squeezed gently against his fingers, causing him to look
over at me, finally.
"Let me see," he nodded to my wrist, and I showed him.
"That's it?" He looked up at me, thinking that was all I had done.
"No, goofball." I tilted myself to the side so he could see my back, and
then I pointed to my arm that was covered in plastic.
"Oh, nice. I like what he did." His words made me feel giddy. I don't
know why, but something about Edward liking my effort did shit to me.
"You should see the one on my ass," I said, and the dude tattooing
stopped immediately as he started to laugh.
"Sorry," I said with a slight giggle, knowing he could have really fucked
up Flower Child's world.
I was silent for the remainder of the session, just watching as the guy
inked Edward's arm. When his tattoo was done, no skin showed any
longer. It was only a canvas of tribal patterns, mixed with elegant
letter-scrolling and colorful flowers leading down towards his lotus-
flowered hand.
It was beautiful.
EdwardEdward, was beautiful.
Friday 7:45 AM Court Day.
"You look very handsome. I would give you a kid. Oh wait" I tightened
his tie for him, and he laughed, knowing my joke before I finished.
"You look very beautiful, as well." He leaned in and kissed my lips.
"What is this?" I asked, felling something under my fingers as they lay
on his tie. Edward reached into his shirt and produced a chain with a
cross, then tucked it back inside.
"Esme gave it to me. For faith."
"I see," I nodded looking into his blue eyes.
"She thinks I should pray," he said.
"Have you?"
"I always do. Every night. Don't you?"
"Sometimes. I always mean to, but sometimes I forget."
"Maybe you should make up for it right now. I would hate to have to go
the rest of my life thinking you were the reason I didn't get to keep
Ness, you naughty angel you." He smiled, looking more like the angel than
I felt.
"I would be happy to pray with you." I held his hand in mine and waited.
"I don't pray aloud, so just close your eyes and say your own." His eyes
closed and I followed.
"How do I know what you're praying for?"
"You know what I am praying for, Bella," he said quietly.
I nodded against his head, starting to say my piece to God in hopes he
would hear and not allow our precious family to be separated.
8:56 am
The scunt-whore fucking herpes-filled bitch showed her stupid-ass ugly
bitch fucking face after all.
Was that enough expletives for you? I could keep going. The baby was
seriously feeding me some really good ones.
Later mamma.
I patted my tummy, letting my little baby Cullen know I heard 'it' loud
and clear.
Jessicunt looked at us, eyeing our position as I rubbed Edward's fingers
gently against mine. We were sitting on a wooden bench outside of the
court room, waiting. She sat on the other side of the hall, with her
scumbag lawyer, and I figured, just by looking at him, that he was going
to be a real son of a bitch.
I saw right through her, though, and she was not confident today.
That seemed like a plus, except, of course, for when Emmett came around
the corner with Rose, and Jessicunt flocked to her arms like the
scuntbird she was.
Birds
I looked down to Flower Child's hand in mine and smiled, seeing that our
blackbirds were touching each other on our arms.
Edward rolled his wrist, causing me to glance up at him, and he smiled
back at me, lifting our hands and showing me the ink I had not yet seen.
I love her.
He maneuvered our hands silently, showing me what he wanted, and as he
held my hand differently in his, the little blackbird on my wrist lay over
those letters, and I finally understood. He wanted to be able to always
tell me those words, no matter what.
The significance of that small gesture, us being able to just fucking hold
hands right now, was so powerful. The feelings overwhelmed me, and my
eyes watered from the intensity. Edward remained silent, bringing his
nimble fingers to my face as he wiped away the tears forming in the
corner of my eyes.
I looked back to Jessica, trying to beat back all of the urges I felt to
lean in and kiss Edward, knowing that this was not the time or place. He
needed to focus and not get caught up, being so foolish in the hallways
of a public building of importance.
Her eyes were dark and evil as she stared back at me. I saw everything
she felt as she stared us down. It was like a list of the seven deadly
sins. Jealousy, greed, wrath, pride, lust, gluttony, and sloth.
She was all of those things, and showed no sign of changing.
Did that mean we had God on our side?
I sure as hel-I hoped so.
Carlisle was eyeing us as I looked around the hallway of the courthouse.
His eyes were deadlocked on our hands, and I moved them towards my
belly, silently trying to tell him to go fuck himself, because he had no
idea just how very joined Edward and I now were.
Whatever happened between Jessica and Edward in the past had nothing
on what he and I had together.
This happiness was not ephemeral, we were going to last. I didn't look at
Jessica and see all of Flower Child's failures, or how badly we both had
messed up. I only saw the beauty our relationship bared. Our hands were
joined in a union that screamed out 'I love you! I love you! I love you!'
I squeezed my fingers tighter around his, saying it louder, and walked
through the door with him when we were called in.
Before Edward took his seat next to Carlisle, he turned back and brought
my wrist to his face, placing a warm kiss, that sent tingles along my skin,
to the black ink of the bird. As his hand dropped back down, he brushed
the back of his fingers along my belly. I watched his face intently, trying
to figure out what lurked behind those blue eyes that were so troubled
right now.
"Little bit," he said softly, tapping his finger gently to my navel.
Carlisle touched Flower Child's shoulder before I could ask him what that
meant. We were forced to take our seats after the judge entered, and I
sat down, feeling very anxious for this hearing to be over.
For many, many reasons.
We were all called to order, and the room grew extremely quiet. I swear
I could hear my damn baby's nonexistent eyes blinking. I prayed for
someone to break wind and cause a loud bout of laughter.
That would be classic.
The beginning of court was extremely boring, as they went through all of
the legal mumbo jumbo, and I almost fell asleep. During the second hour,
I had to puke twice, and then on the third, I was up to bat, being called
as the first character witness.
"Isabella Swan," her lawyer called, and I rose from my seat, putting the
mask back on and pulling up my imaginary big girl panties.
They wanted a show, then, oh my fuck, I would give them a show.
This lawyer, this court, had no clue what they were in for. He wasn't
going to break me. I was already broken. The joke was totally on him. My
rings clinked against the wooden ledge of the small box I sat in, and I
scooted forward so that I could speak clearly into the microphone.
I made them clink, purposely.
The same way Jessica had been intimidated by me that day in my office,
was the same design I was setting up right now for this fucker and the
judge. I was young, pretty and had seriously mother-of-fuck tight black
dress pants on.
Totally eyed my dumpster on my way up here.
I curled one finger around my long, chestnut locks and swept my hair
over my left shoulder, wanting to ensure that the judge got a good ass
glimpse of the rocks in my earlobe.
That would be distracting him in a moment.
"Can you state your name for the court, please?"
"Isabella Swan," I replied, looking him right in the eye.
"What is your relation to the parents in this case?"
"I'm Edward Cullen's employer."
"How long has he worked for you?"
"Almost four months," I waited for him to smile a little, thinking he had
something on Edward before I added, "but he worked an apprenticeship
for me before then."
That shocked the fuck out of him.
And apparently, Daddy C too.
"Did he?"
"Yes, sir."
"During what timeframe?"
"Three months before he started working for me."
"She is lying!" Jessica stood up and pointed at me.
"Young lady quiet yourself," the judge ordered.
"What location did this apprenticeship take place? I was certain you only
had one location here in Miami?"
"I do, but I know people who have restaurants here. It is not uncommon
for someone to train in another business."
"Which location?" he pressed.
"Brandon's over on Ocean Drive. They make fabulous peanut butter
cookies." I eyed Jessica, letting her know that Alice and I had a nice
conversation after the picnic last Sunday.
Killing two birds with one stone, as they say.
If birds were fucking scunts, of course.
"I don't have this in his file. There is no former employer listed as
Brandon's."
"That is because he wasn't employed there. Were you not listening?"
Lemme give you your first ass-handing, young squire.
"I said he worked an apprenticeship for me. That would mean no pay,
which means he was not hired by them, or put on the books. My lawyer
has all the paperwork you need if you would like to review my file on
Edward. It includes my summery of his apprenticeship.
"I would like to review those," the judge curled his fingers at Alec, who
held them for the clerk to retrieve.
After a few minutes of thumbing them through, he turned to me again.
"Why was this not submitted with the rest of the documentation?"
"I didn't think it came into play. I was under the impression I was here
to testify on behalf of Edward's character and work ethic, not my hiring
rituals."
"I would agree," the judge looked back to Mr. Dupri, "Let's hurry to the
point, shall we?"
"Yes, Your Honor. Isabella,"
"Bella."
"Excuse me?"
"I go by Bella. Not ISAbella."
I was totally just fucking with him. I could give a shit less.
"Miss Swan," ah yeah, he was getting agitated. "On what criteria, other
than Mr. Cullen's apprenticeship, was he hired? Mr. Cullen has no former
training, no schooling or degree in this field. Not even a job as a waiter
on his resume."
"Do you wear a hearing aid?"
"Excuse me?"
"DO-YOU-WEAR-"
"I heard you, Miss Swan. What is your point?"
"Your Honor," I faced him, "I have already explained to Mr. Dupri that
Edward worked as an apprentice. I am not sure what else he wants me to
say."
"I am trying to establish whether Mr. Cullen has this position based on
actual skill and talent, or if he managed to acquire this job because of
his older brother's connections, as he works for Miss Swan as well. The
reason being, Your Honor, is to figure out the stability of his work."
And just like that, the little maggot crawled right into my rotten apple I
had left out just for him.
"I hired Edward because he knew how to make eggs," I said seriously.
Crawl and wiggle motherfucker. Crawl. And. Wiggle.
"Eggs?"
"Yes, it is a proven fact that if someone can make eggs properly, they
can cook just about anything. I had interviewed five others before
Edward that same week, all of which gave me rubbery, burnt, brown
eggs. One of the idiots even came in wearing board shorts." I looked at
the judge, "I mean, who does that, right?"
Facing back towards Jessica's lawyer, I was ready to serve up my first
course of Bella Swan fuckery.
"The truth is, before the interview, I never knew that Edward had not
attended culinary school, or, truthfully, anything past his name. I never
read applications. My general manager does. Was Edward recommended
by Emmett, his brother? Yes. Was he hired based off of that? No.
"I am not in the business of doing bad business, Mr. Dupri. I believe I
even threatened Emmett's nether regions for even suggesting I hire a
member of his family. He has since properly knocked up his lil' baby
mamma." I nodded to them as I now spoke to the judge, "That's Rose.
You'll meet her later. She's being a bitch and will testify against
Edward."
"Objection, Your Honor!"
"Sustained. Miss Swan, please get to the point."
"If you let me finish" I gave Mr. Dupri some hang time, but he waved
me on, "I am trying to say that since Emmett has knocked up dear
Rosalie there, his balls are still fully intact. HENCE, Edward has skills,
and I am not sorry I hired him."
"Get back to the main question please," he was getting highly annoyed.
Go mamma go!
Thank you my darling. I patted my tummy, secretly.
"Anyhow, Edward made me breakfast, the same breakfast I ask all of my
potential sous chefs or executive chefs to make. It was perfect, so I
hired him." Her lawyer opened his mouth to speak, but I cut him off.
"So we are perfectly clear here, Mr. Dupri, I never know what someone's
experience level is until they are called in to the interview. The good
ones, the smart ones, just cook me what I ask for and keep their mouths
shut. I always have to pull information from them like a dentist with a
tooth.
"The others, the ones who have an application full of all those flashy
names and expensive schools, they start running off at the mouth, and
never even give me a chance to taste what they have placed before me.
You know why?"
I didn't wait for his response.
"Because they know their food tastes like shit. And so do I. Edward has
talent, skill, and discipline that I didn't have at his age. When I was
sixteen, I pissed off my father by dropping out of high school and
working full-time in his diner. He forgave me, though, when I made my
first million dollars and bought him a boat for Christmas."
I faced the judge again, "Real nice one, too. I don't fish or shit, but it
has all this built-in sonar fuckery that is seriously impressive and makes
me want to get my Gordon's fish sticks on."
I faced back towards the courtroom, "The point is, I am one of those
loser people you are referring to, and as you can see, ten restaurants,
three Michelin stars, and a really nice fucking boat laterI am just fine.
Stability?" I pushed up my suit sleeve and held up my hand to the room.
"Allow me to show you exhibit A of what cooking schools don't teach
their students, and why I would rather choose someone like Edward
rather than THIS loser who did this to me." I looked to the judge again,
"And this was AFTER three weeks of training, AND him setting me on
fire." I shoved down my sleeve and leaned forward, clasping my hands
back together as I gave Jessica's lawyer a murderous stare.
"Care to ask me anything else about my hiring criteria or Edward's
credentials?"
He thought for a long moment, placing his finger over his mouth before he
fired off a new round.
"Can you explain this to me?" He held up a picture of us during Food
Porn, just like I thought. It took me a minute to answer, and I had to
bite my tongue to keep from asking if I could have that copy; since it
was fucking hot.
Edward gave such good lickage.
"That would be a show I do for a well respected food convention." Fuck,
I wanted to laugh so bad.
"What is this show called?"
Fucker, you motherfucker.
It's okay baby C. Mamma has this well thought out.
"Food Porn. May I explain?" I looked to the judge and he nodded me on.
"It is called Food Porn because, in my industry, the term is dubbed as a
sarcastic term variously applied to a spectacular visual presentation of
cooking or eating; which is what we were doing."
I love you mamma.
Love you too baby C, love you too.
"By allowing your employees to lick" he looked closer at the picture.
"Caramel sauce," I smiled as I finished his sentence.
"Is that what you describe as a 'spectacular visual presentation', Miss
Swan?" he walked up showing the picture towards my face.
"We won, so apparently it was. What you haven't asked me about,
however, was the other twenty four activities on our agenda for that
week. Including press, a cooking tutorial, and food tasting 101. All of
which, Edward participated in. Fully clothed."
"How long was this event?" he asked.
"One week. Well five days, to be exact."
"Are these common? And, if so, mandatory for Mr. Cullen to attend?"
"Common? No. They happen only once a year. Mandatory? No. He could
have said no, but I encouraged him to attend so that he could have a
better understanding of our industry."
"And caramel sauce?" Ah, he wasn't letting this go.
"Your Honor," Carllsile interjected.
"Get to your point, Mr. Dupri," the judge ordered.
"Yes, Sir. Miss Swan, do you and Mr. Cullen have a relationship outside of
work?"
Fuck, this was the part Alec and I had debated over telling truthfully.
He left it up to me, and I fucking couldn't deny that Edward and I had a
romantic relationship. It was too well-known at this point. I sure as fuck
was going to try and steer that ship in the other direction first, though.
"Edward is like my family. As you stated, his older brother, Emmett,
works for me; has for many years. So yes, I am close to the Cullens."
"How would you describe your relationship with Edward, though?"
"I told you, he is like my family."
"And you allow your family members to lick caramel sauce off of you?"
"Your Honor," Carlisle interjected again.
"Mr. Dupri, if you bring up the word 'caramel' one more time, I will hold
you in contempt, understand?"
"Yes Sir. Let me rephrase. Do you and Edward have a romantic
relationship outside of work?"
He went straight for the jugular that time.
"That has nothing to do with this," I eyed him, trying to burn a hole
through his little pinhead.
"Answer my question, please."
"Tell me how it relates to this," I countered.
"Your Honor, I am asking this question because if custody is awarded to
Mr. Cullen then not only is my client's daughter going to be in jeopardy
of having a father whose job hangs in the balance of a relationship
possibly turning sour, but also, Miss Swan would be an active participant,
I assume, in Renesmee's life. I think that leaves some room for testimony
about her character, as well."
"I will allow it," the judge said. "Miss Swan, answer Mr. Dupri's question,
please."
"Yes," I answered, tasting the bitterness creep into my mouth.
"Is he your boyfriend?"
Good question. Fuck.
"I'm not sure."
"You don't know if you are his girlfriend?" he asked dubiously.
"That is what I said, isn't it?" I asked bitterly.
"Do you live together?"
"No."
"You have your own residence here in Miami, then?"
"No."
"Where do you reside then? Four Seasons, perhaps?"
"I sure as fuck don't live in a Holiday Inn Express," I smiled ruefully at
him.
"So you have no real residency?"
"Your Honor, my client is not on trial here," Alec stood up and spoke.
"I am trying to establish if she is the domestic partner of Mr. Cullen.
That is relevant, Your Honor," Mr Dupri argued.
"I will allow it."
"I travel a lot. So no, I can't take up permanent residence in every city I
open a location in," I replied.
"How many nights a week would you say, if any, that you stay overnight
in Mr. Cullen's home, where his child resides?"
"I'm not sure."
"Try to think," he scrunched his face, talking to me like I was a moron.
"Maybe a handful. It depends."
"A handful is five Miss Swan. Five, out of seven, days in the week.
Technically, by law standards, you are residing there."
"My client maintains permanent residence in New York and Arizona, Your
Honor. Mr. Dupri is taking advantage of the law's allowance," Alec
argued.
"Is this true, Miss Swan? Have you homes in New York and Arizona?" the
judge asked.
"Yes, Sir. I live the next lot over from my mother, Renee, and in New
York, I have a home in Manhattan."
"Next question, Mr. Dupri," the judge said in a warning tone.
"Has Renesmee ever been left in your care, Miss Swan?"
"Yes," I replied, and my heart sped, knowing what questions were going
to follow.
"Was she ever harmed, or did she have an accident while you cared for
her?"
"This is irrelevant, Your Honor," Carlisle interjected again. "Renesmee fell
into my family's swimming pool while Miss Swan was in our home, but she
was not the primary caregiver. It was deemed an accident. No charges
have been filed on this matter."
"Correction, Your Honor. My client filed charges against Miss Swan for
reckless endangerment of a child, as of yesterday," he waved the papers,
and I looked at Alec, wondering, what the fuck.
"I have not been served any legal documents on this matter, Your Honor,"
Alec stood and said.
"This is very last minute, Mr. Dupri. I will strike it from the record until
Miss Swan's lawyer can fully address this matter with his client."
The badgering was endless, and went on for another good forty-five
minutes. I felt severely exposed as I sat up there answering everything
from what activities I did with Ness when we were alone, to the time I
assaulted Jess in the hospital. Thankfully, the judge wouldn't allow that
either, seeing as how we had not gone to court for it yet.
Finally they were done with me, and I stepped down, making sure to
compliment the judge on his Armani tie, with a wink, before I did.
The court was called to a fifteen minute recess, and I used that time to
go to the ladies' room and sit under the hand dryer, trying to dry my pits
from all the sweat I had building there. Alice thankfully helped me out,
offering me up some baby powder she had in her purse. I didn't bother to
ask why.
"Shit that was brutal," I said stepping into the stall to pee.
I laid down massive amounts of toilet paper on the bowl, covering it up
for my ass cheeks to sit on, free of germs.
"I know. I didn't think he was going to ask half of that stuff," Alice said,
standing by the mirror, fixing her hair.
"I don't even want to think about what they will ask Edward," I flushed
the toilet with a T.P. covered finger, and then used the same one to
unlatch the handle on the stall.
I didn't have to wait long. As soon as I walked back into the lobby, we
were being ushered back in for round two.
Rose was up first and the bitch actually said she saw Edward push
Jessicunt into the wall. I eyed Emmett angrily, and he gave a look of
apology to me. I watched Edward shake his head as I sat behind him, and
could only imagine what he was feeling right now, seeing her lie so
blatantly before him.
Alice was next, and gave a good showing for him, even keeping up with
the charade about him working at her mother's bakery as my apprentice.
I felt a little better after she stepped down.
Jessica was up after that, and I wanted to fucking pound her face as she
sobbed and played the poor victim. A few times I saw Edward's hand go
to his face, and it looked like he was wiping tears away, but I was behind
him and couldn't see for sure.
My stomach churned, listening to her describe how Carlisle had once tried
to bribe her into having an abortion, and, 'ping', light bulbs fucking
flashed, alerting me to what the issue was in his relationship with his
father.
Poor Edward. He had suffered so much, so young. And now, here he was,
having it all put on display before us. I wanted nothing more than to
surround him in my arms and comfort his broken heart.
Edward was up next and I took a long deep breath, knowing this was
going to be the worst; yet, Esme sat next to me now, holding my hand.
She smiled, seeing my little blackbird on my wrist, and gave me a nice
squeeze before turning to watch Edward's testimony.
When Carlisle had run through his questioning, painting Edward as the
wonderful, responsible father he was, the scuntbag's attorney was up.
After all the boring shit like his name, age, and occupation Dupri
started in on the same questioning he asked me, and Edward was smart
enough to just give the same replies I had. His questions then went into
Edward's hours and schedule, trying to show that he left Ness with Leah
most of time during the day. Jessica had testified earlier that she would
be allowed to bring Ness with her to work, as Rachel Ray offered in-
house babysitting.
I wanted to say, 'cause she fucking needs to get new words for her
fucking recipes, but I kept my mouth shut.
This was steering Edward in a bad direction, though; even with his
argument that Ness would be starting school soon, which would take up
most of her daytime activities. After the schedule grilling, Dupri laid into
him about his housing, and compared the house Jessica now owned in New
York to Edward's small rented apartment.
Mr. Dupri never brought up the assault, not allowing Edward to explain
his version of the event, and I was surprised at first that Carlisle never
did, either. It angered me, thinking he had fucked up on that.
We had a long recess after Edward was finished, and we waiting back on
the bench, again. I asked Carlisle, reluctantly, about the assault, and he
said he didn't want to bring it up again as a reminder. Alec seemed to
agree with his choice, and I didn't question it further.
"I love you," I whispered into Edward's ear as we slumped against each
other on the bench, waiting for the verdict.
"As I love you, angel." He brought my hand to his lips, kissing me
tenderly.
"Edward? What did you mean before? When you touched" I casted my
eyes down, trying not to let anyone else hear my question.
"Little bit?" he asked, resting the back of his hand to my belly.
"Yes," I nodded.
"That's what I am naming" he looked down to his fingers, smiling shyly.
"Until we know what it is."
"Why that?" I asked, slightly amused but his choice.
"Because it makes you a little bit more of everything you are already."
His arm draped over me, pulling me against him. I tucked my head under
his chin and hugged him back, not giving a shit who saw.
"Beautiful, funny, angry," he laughed. "Just a little bit more, Bella."
My heart fluttered at his words, loving how they sounded, and, moreover,
loving how true it was. I was a little bit more, now. I had become so
much more, here with Edward. Little Bit tied us together, and our black
markings showed the symbolism of our hearts, but it was our love for one
another that truly connected us. That was the real lifelong inking.
Edward would always be marked on my heart, for forever.
After what seemed like just that long, we were finally called back inside,
and I gave one last good squeeze before I let him go, returning him to his
seat. The room grew eerily quiet and, once again, I prayed for a fart to
break loose.
None came, of course.
We all rose when the judge re-entered, and then sat after he did. He
took off his glasses and rested them in his hand, using them to gesture
when he spoke. My heart was in my throat, and I felt as though I would
surely pass out from the unknown.
"I have reviewed this case in its entirety, and have come to a decision. I
feel, given the testimony, history of this case, and information laid before
me, that it would be in the best interest of the child, Renesmee Cullen,
to be in the sole physical custody of her mother Jessica Ruth Stanley"
My whole body shook, and I felt like all the life drained instantly from
my body. Esme started sobbing beside me and I wanted to comfort her,
but I couldn't move. All I saw was Edward's head shaking vehemently,
and my arm wouldn't reach out to touch him. The tears ran effortless
down my cheeks, and it wasn't until I saw Edward and everyone around
me stand that I knew it was all over. Esme pushed past me, going to
Edward but he pushed her away and walked out of the courtroom ahead
of everyone else.
I forced my legs to move and walked to him, not seeing or feeling anyone
I pushed past until I reached him.
"Babe," I said grabbing his arm.
He didn't stop and I kept up with him, walking and following, not knowing
where the hell we were going until he stopped at the end of a stairwell.
The door slammed loudly behind us and he slumped down to the steps,
pulling me down with him.
I just held him against me, allowing him to cry and sob all of his anger,
and frustration, and strangled words that made no sense. I cried with
him, knowing that this meant I too had lost her, and our family that
never even got to be had suddenly just ripped apart at the seams.
2 Weeks later.
I plopped down on the couch, staring at him as he downed yet another
shot of somethingI didn't even know, at this point, what he was
drinking. He was chasing it with beer, and that's all I knew.
This was the new way of waking every morning since Ness left one week
ago. After the trial, the judge allowed Edward to keep her for one week
while Jessica made all the proper arrangements for her to live in New
York.
He has been fuckdrunk ever since.
"Coming to work today?" I asked, hitting the bottom of his beer bottle as
he took a sip, causing him to spill it. He grumbled something under his
breath and finished taking his swig.
"I take that as a 'no'. Edward, I'm not trying to be a bitch, 'cause fuck, I
miss..I miss her too, but you need to get your ass to work today. I'm
still your boss, and I need you to be there."
Here, I needed him to be here.
"Sure," he replied, waving the bottle at me. His eyes were heavily glazed
over and droopy.
I did not like this Edward.
"I'm going to fire your ass if you don't show up today. Seriously," I
shoved him, and he laughed stupidly at me.
"You know you're not the only one who is fucking hurting, and this is
really G'damn selfish of you. I loved Renes."
"Don't," he held up his palm to me, clenching his jaw tightly. "Please
don't say her name, Bella. Just don't say her name," he whispered,
lowering his hand and taking another long drink.
"I need you, Edward. This baby," I lowered his hand to my stomach. "This
baby, needs you."
"Go to work, Bella. You're going to be late." He pulled his hand back and
rested his beer on his chest as he closed his eyes.
"You better get your ass to work." I knocked the beer bottle off his
chest, and he didn't even flinch as it fell over, spilling inside of the
couch.
"You can fire me, Bella. I'll still love you," he slurred, smiling sloppily at
me as his eyes remained closed. "I'll still love you."
"I'll still love you, too, but if I have to fire you today, I will never
forgive you for that, Flower Child. So you better be there."
"Mmm." He rested down into the couch further as I climbed to my feet,
but he stopped me, pulling my hand back towards him. "Don't go. Stay."
"I have to go, Edward. I don't get to stay here and be drunk with you.
What do you need?"
"Just you," he mumbled.
"Well, you know where I'll be. Feel free to meet me there. Call Emmett
if you need a ride. I'm taking your car keys and if you show up looking
like an ass, I'm going to treat you appropriately."
He let go of my hand and rolled over, burying his face into the couch,
and I sighed hard, knowing that this was going to be hard snapping him
the fuck out of it. I stepped back towards him, resting down on the
couch and spooning behind him, hugging myself to him. My lips pressed
into his neck, and he kissed my fingers, gently.
"I like your tattoo, Bella," he said softly. "I'll try better to make mine
come true, again. I promise." He kissed by little blackbird, and I started
to cry, knowing he knew that it was hurting me to see him like this.
The smell of Squeaky lingered on the couch, and I sobbed harder, feeling
only the remaining ghosts of her in his apartment and the shell of a man,
who was once so whole, left in her wake.
If only such silly things like dream-catcher tattoos and tribal signs were
real, then maybe, just fucking MAYBE, we would not be here right now.
But they weren't, and wewe fucking were.
The only truth here was that Renesmee was gone, and with her went the
man I loved.









Chapter 22 Silently Screaming
EPOV
The words were coming out of his mouth, causing my whole world to go
dizzy, moving in a fast blur. It wasn't until I took a breath that I
realized it was me shaking my head against his decision
Bella's arms were holding me securely as we cried together in the
stairwell. Don't even ask me why or how I ended up there with her
because I couldn't tell you. All I knew was that I walked out of the
courtroom looking for Jessica and ended up there instead.
Jessica.
I jumped to my feet, slightly knocking over Bella and ran back up the
steps with a purpose. I needed to reach her before she left. As I
reentered the hallway of the building, she was standing with her lawyer,
and I strode quickly towards her, walking with all the anger and
bitterness and hate I had in my heart for this girl.
Earlier, when she testified, I actually felt somewhat sorry for her, even
causing a few fucking tears to fall. Not everything she said was true, and
yeah, she was fucking putting on a show, but the other shit she said was
true. And she was right, I fucked up her life.
Right now, though, with her all smiley-like and being congratulated on
taking away my sole fucking purpose for living, I had no sympathy.
No fucking heart lay here.
I was only what remained after she just ripped my damn heart out. I
would do, say, give anything.fucking ANYTHING to have Renesmee back.
Her ass was made to look like fucking mother of the year up on the
stand. While I was made to look as though having a good, solid job and
relationship with a successful woman was an abolishment.
I was screaming silently in my head the whole damn time Jessica's lawyer
was questioning me, wishing I could just let loose and say the truth. How
Jessica had taken her precious job in trade for my daughter, but, of
course, I couldn't do that unless I wanted to get Bella in trouble for
blackmail.
Then there was Newton. Ah, Mike Newton.
The Golden Child.
Well-known in Miami from his youth, playing football on the high school
team as an all-star, and his father, Mike Sr., owning several businesses
across the country that were highly successful.
Mike even owned his dad's bar now. So he was just a bright and shiny
object sitting up there, looking like a respectable businessman in his
designer suit. He was incredibly polite, not even getting angry when my
father questioned him about his previous DUI charge. I thought for sure
that shit would count for something, but since Jessica and he didn't 'live'
together, now not even living in the same state the judge wouldn't
allow it.
Jessica testified that they were just 'friends' from high school and,
again, I wanted to fucking scream.
He was the fucker who gave her the herpes for Christ sake.
Not that I could say that shit in court, either.
The black and white here was that I, Edward Cullen, was a person who
worked long hours, was never home with his child, and with the
testimony from another well-respected figure from Miami, Rosalie Hale
I hit Jessica.
Making matters worse, my dear Bella just had to point out that she was
Emmett's, my brother's, fianc. I mean, how does that shit look? My own
damn brother was on the other side of the courtroom loving on the girl
who just went against me.
To top it off, Bella was a workaholic, with no real form of stability,
cursed like a sailor on the stand, and didn't even know whether to call
me her man or not. Even without that shit from the drowning being on
the record, you can't honestly tell me it wasn't still in the back of the
judge's mind, right?
So add that to the profile of us as well.
Jessica had a great job, with a supportive boss who allowed her to bring
her child to work. A brand new spacious home, and a really sad sob story
about how she struggled to fucking get where she was in life, and how
much of a bastard I was for all the shit I put her through.
She never did anything for Ness, we all know that, but the truth is that
she never did anything on record either that would go against her. It's
like a credit report negative shit counts for more than anything else.
Doesn't really matter what the small margin of good says, the red is all
that matters.
When it came down to the drowning shit on her side, we couldn't say shit
about her not being around because of that stunt her lawyer pulled with
filing charges last minute on Bella. Which I am sure was what they
intended in the first place.
As soon as I was within a few feet of her, I could no longer contain the
screaming in my head.
"What do you want Jessica?! Just fucking tell me what you want and you
can have it!" I pushed her away from her lawyer without touching her. I
just kept stepping toward her, until she started backing up and was
against the wall.
"Mr. Cullen!" her lawyer yelled, grabbing my arm, but I was too strong,
too angry, and shook him off without even thinking or breaking my words.
"Money?! You want fucking money!? Here!" I pulled out my wallet and
shoved it at her but she didn't take it, simply letting it hit the ground
and looked at me wide-eyed. "My fucking inheritance? It's in an account
over on Fairview. Fucking Wayside Bank. Account number 777932356.
There's fucking over hundred grand in there! My pin number is Ness's
fucking birth date! Take it! Take it all! I don't care, but just don't
fucking take her!" A new arm, Emmett's I guessed by the strength, was
pulling me back again.
"Don't fucking take her Jessica! You can have whatever you want!" I
yelled as he pulled me away. I broke free of his arms, though, and
cowered back over her. "We'll go right now and you can have it. Just tell
me what you want and you can have it! Please!"
"What I want?" Jessica grabbed the front of my shirt, pulling me down
into her face and whispered in my ear. "I just got what I want. Now you
know how it feels to have everything taken away from you." She pushed
me hard and I stood there staring at her, wondering how fucking wrong it
really would be to fucking hit her.
I mean, if she was a man, I would have fucking hit her until my damn
hand could no longer liftbut fuckI wasn't an animaland couldn't
fucking hit a woman.
No matter how much of a cunt sucking whore she might be.
"Come on, Edward, before we get in trouble," Emmett pulled me hard
again, but I fucking pushed him back, getting him off of me.
"Fuck you Jessica! Fuck! You!" Emmett tried to pull me away one last
time and I gave him a hard shove again.
"Fuck you too! And your stupid, fucking cunt girlfriend! I can't fucking
wait," I shoved him again, "until the day she flips on you and you know
how it feels. You're a g'damn traitor Em! You're a G'damn traitor!" I was
seething, the rage was so fucking overwhelming as I hit him one last time
and then backed off, knowing that if I kept hitting him, I would be
sitting in fucking jail tonight for sure.
I somehow managed to make it to my car, but fuck me if I could figure
out how to unlock it. I pressed all of the keys on the alarm, not ever
once hitting the right one, and if I did, who fucking knew, 'cause I sure
as shit wasn't seeing or hearing anything at that point.
Red. All I saw was RED.
I kicked the door once, and fuck it felt good, so I did it again.
And again.
And again.
And again.
And.
A lot. I kicked it a lot.
"Edward," familiar hands touched my hips and I stopped, falling against
the car, and rested my body there, trying to contain the rage I felt.
Those hands on my hips belonged to Bella and I could not afford to hurt
her.
She was very close to that happening standing where she was, though. I
sobbed again, feeling her surround my waist with her arms and her head
on my back. The metal of the car was burning my face, being parked
under the sweltering Florida sun all morning and afternoon, but I didn't
fucking move.
Couldn't.
Couldn't fucking move.
When we finally arrived to my parents house later that afternoon, my
father called some of these 'experts' he knew on child custody cases, and
they started doing all this bullshit to try and appeal the case. I was just
signing my name when he told me to, but had no idea what he was saying.
All I could think of was how the fuck I was going to try and explain this
to my daughter.
She was so small, so fragile and had already been through so much. How
do you explain to a five-year-old child that you are no longer ALLOWED
to be in their life? I didn't even know how to explain it to myself.
Bella was with Ness, swinging on the back porch of my parent's house.
She hadn't said much since we left the courthouse, except that she would
watch her while I dealt with all of this bullshit Carlisle was going over
with me and my mother.
The judge not only had given rights to Jessica, but also awarded sole
physical custody, which meant that she had ALL the rights over Ness.
Even the medical shit. If something happened to my daughter, I had no
say unless the court would allow me to appeal whatever decision Jessica
made at the time.
Which apparently, did not usually happen.
And fuck me, what if there was no time for that shit?
What if likeit was an emergency? Life or death type shit.
Jessica? Fucking JESSICA was allowed to make that choice?!
The girl couldn't even fucking decide on what to wear in the morning
without asking me twenty two different times and this, THISwas the
person they chose to put in charge!?
Are you fucking kidding me?
Nono this was no joke.
Carlisle was back on the phone and I got up from the couch, unable to
deal with anymore fucking statutes or other technical crap he was
spouting off about. He was going to just do it all regardless of my
opinion, so why the fuck did I need to hear it anyhow.
"Here," Esme rested a glass in front of me while I leaned my head
against the kitchen cabinet.
"I don't think that's a very good idea," I picked up the glass anyhow, "If
I start drinking now Ma, chances are I am not going to stop."
"It's just one and to be quite honest," she clicked her own glass to mine,
"I hate drinking alone." She tipped hers to her mouth, taking a long swig.
"Cheers." I swallowed mine down in one shot and closed my eyes, resting
my head back against the cabinet.
"I'm sorry. I am so sorry, Son." She began to sob and I wanted to just
disappear. I couldn't listen to her cry, not right now. "I shouldn't have
been nice to Rose. You were right and I am so sorry." She cried harder
and I backed off the cabinet, surrounding her in my arms.
"I'm not mad at you. Emmett, yes. I want to fucking kill Em, but not you.
I don't blame you, Mom. Please don't fucking cry. I can't take it right
now." I rocked her back and forth slowly in my arms as she quieted
down.
"Pop-Pop! Pop-Pop! I have sumting fow you!" I tilted my head back to
see Ness looking around for my father. Esme backed off me, drying her
eyes, and walked out of the room so Ness wouldn't see her upset.
I took a steadying breath, trying to hold my shit together and not let
her see how fucked I was right now.
How fucked we were.
"Wose!" she went running off down the hall and I cursed, hearing Emmett
and his fucking traitor ass girlfriend coming in.
As I followed her, I could not contain the anger I felt. Rose sitting up on
the stand testifying that I harmed Jessica was the biggest fucking lie of
all time, not to mention, my own damn brother not speaking up to say shit
about it being the biggest knife in the back of all time. Those two, not
only deserved each other, but also a page in fucking Guinness World Book
of Records somewhere.
Rose leaned down and picked up Ness, kissing her cheek, and the fucking
beast inside of me roared, seeing her hands on my child, even if it was a
loving gesture.
"Put my daughter down," my voice was deep and fucking brooding with
the heat of anger. "Now."
"Go to your Daddy, sweetheart," she kept her eyes on me as she lowered
her back down. I watched her too, reaching for Ness, and picked her up
to rest on my hip.
"You have a lot of fucking nerve." I looked to Emmett, "Both of you."
"Edw-" Emmett started, but I held up a hand.
"Save it for someone who gives a shit." I turned around and walked away
before I could say anything in front of Ness that I shouldn't. "Where's
Bella, honey?"
"Bewwa on the poach. She is sad." It never ceased to amaze me how
much shit she saw through.
"Why don't we go make her happy," I bounced her once, trying to smile
and show her nothing was wrong.
"Kay." She smiled as we walked, but then reached out, pointing her hand
to something. "Fowers." She was pointing to a vase of flowers my mother
had on the table.
"You want to bring those to Bella?" I stopped when she nodded yes and
plucked one out of the vase. "Here, you give it to her." I handed it to
Ness, but she shook her head 'no'.
"You give it." Ness pointed to my arm where my new ink was. "Fowers
wike Papa's. Bewwa wuvs Papa."
"Papa loves Bella too, honey." I kissed her head and reached for the door
handle, resting the flower in between Ness and I to do so.
"Bewwa," Ness peeped, and Bella looked over her shoulder to us, smiling,
but it was forced.
I stepped around the swing and took a gentle seat beside her. Ness
wiggled her way in between us, resting each of her legs on ours, and
handed the flower from my mother's vase to Bella.
"I thought I was supposed to do it?" I touched her cheek and she looked
back to me shyly, placing her tiny fingers against her mouth and
shrugged.
"It's pretty, thanks Squeaks." Bella clipped off the end with her fingers
and tucked it into her hair, behind her ear.
"It's hot out here, why don't you come inside, angel?"
"I'm fine. I'm just watching the squirrels. They're trying to steal the bird
food." She pointed towards the feeders Esme had around the backyard.
"Stupid fucking squirrels," Bella huffed, "act like they own everything.
Can't the birds just have their food? I mean, they can go anywhere and
find something to eat. They have teeth and shit, and the birdsthe poor
birds have to hunt and peck for little morsels of food, and the stupid
effing squirrels just come along and take whatever they want, not caring
how it makes the damn birds feel!"
This was not about birds or squirrels.
"Ness, didn't you have something for Pop-Pop?" I asked, remembering
what she said when she first came inside.
"Wook," she opened her small palm, revealing a small rock. I looked over
my shoulder and saw my mother back in the kitchen.
"Why don't you go see if Grandma can help you find Pop-Pop. Okay?" I
set her down and she ran to the door, going inside.
I scooted closer to Bella and took her hand into mine.
"I'm guessing Jessica is the squirrel and I am the bird, yes?" I sighed.
"No, if Jessica was the squirrel, it wouldn't just be stealing the bird's
food. It would be laughing, and toting a stupid squirrel lawyer who makes
the bird look like an asshole even though the bird is anything but that.
Then, it would rip the bird's heart out, stomp it to the groundand
THENsteal its food." Her hand squeezed tightly around mine.
"It'll be alright, sweetheart." I lied, 'cause in no fucking way was this
shit alright, by any means.
"I'm sorry, Flower Child. I acted so stupidly. You're right, you know, I
take everything as a joke, even when it's not."
"What are you talking about?"
"In court. I walked in there thinking this was just like some stupid
lawsuit or something, that my clout was above anything, when in reality,
I had no clout. In fact, all I was, was a big fucking black mark on you."
"This is not your fault, Bella. I don't blame you."
"It is. And more importantly, even if they loved me, but hated you, they
would still be giving Ness to Jessica, and she would be moving to NEW
YORK, all because of me and my bright fucking ideas."
"This is between two people Bella, and you are not one of them. Jessica
was awarded full physical custody, so it doesn't matter if she lives next
door to me, or on the fucking moon, I still can't see Ness unless she says
so. Knock it off, because right now, I can't take any more bullshit." I
tipped her head into the crook of my neck and rubbed her cheek with my
thumb.
"It's just not fair," she sniffled. "It's so not fucking fair."
Amen.
I heard the door open again and I turned my head, thinking it was
Renesmee, but instead it was my father. I could tell from his doleful
expression, that he did not have good news.
"I need to see you in my office please, Son."
"What's wrong?" I asked immediately.
"I said to come to my office," Carlisle gave me a pointed look and then
ducked his head back inside, closing the door.
"Fuck me," I huffed, shaking my head.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Bella asked, looking over at me with
her caramel eyes that only bared a sparkle due to the wetness lying
within them.
"No, angel. Just stay with Ness, alright? I don't want fucking Rose
anywhere near her." I picked up Bella's hand and placed a kiss to the
back of it.
"She's here?" Bella asked.
"Yeah. With Emmett. I'll be right back." I kissed her again and climbed
to my feet, walking toward the door, and went inside.
Nessie was with Esme in the kitchen, sitting on the countertop eating
something, and smiled at me as I passed. I simply gave her a wink and
kept moving. Emmett and Rose were sitting on the couch in the parlor and
I gave them both a dirty ass look as I began my way up the steps to my
father's office.
Once I reached his office, I sat down in one of the stiff, leather chairs
and waited for him to address me. He was on the phone, agreeing and
speaking quietly to someone. All of my court papers were scattered about
his desk and a plate of food, I assumed my mother made him, was sitting
on the edge, untouched.
"Yes, thank you. I will. Have a good day," he hung up the phone and
wrote down something quickly on one of the papers, then looked up to me.
"You should eat your lunch," I said nodding to his untouched sandwich.
"Food can wait. And to be honest, I'm not that hungry." He leaned back
in his chair and rubbed his face briskly.
"What's going on?" My fingers rubbed against the leather arm of the
chair, waiting for him to answer. He sat forward again and leaned his
forearms on his desk. I looked up to him finally, and saw an expression
that scared the holy shit out of me.
"Son, you need to understand something here, alright? And Bunny Rabbit
is downstairs, so don't yell when I explain this to you," he waited and I
waved him on, nodding impatiently. "Edward, I have done everything I can
not to allow this to happen, please know that, and it is not with a
lawyer's voice that I say this to you, but just your father's. Renesmee is
my grandchild and I love her dearly and am fighting for her like a
grandfather would, only using the skills that I was given as a
professional, understand?"
"Just say it, Carlisle." My heart raced, and I braced myself, gripping the
arm of the chair.
"The judge wants Renesmee located by the end of next Friday. I tried to
get him to extend the date, but he is taking vacation and will not permit
me to hold onto her, given his ruling this afternoon, and that he wants to
be available for when the custody changes hands."
I was just staring at him, waiting for the punch line.
"That's one week, Son," Carlisle said nervously.
"I understand that Carlisle. I'm waiting for you to tell me you're joking."
My eyes stayed on his, my hope wishing for the seriousness in them to
falter.
"I am not."
But it didn't.
"My daughter, is being scheduled to live in another Goddamn state,
around some asshole's vacation time? Did I get that right?"
"That's how these things work. I told you when it all began, you are
nothing more to the courts than a file, Edward. I don't like it anymore
than you do, believe me, but that is how this all operates."
"So, I am supposed to pack up all of Ness's shit and just like,
fuckingfucking just send her packing in one week? Not even knowing
where the fuck she is going and what kind of house fucking Jessica has or
what kind of roomor Goddamn" I stopped, too freaked out by all the
unknowns.
I felt like you do after a long run; your breath is hard to catch and your
heart is pounding painfully in your chest, making your ears ring from the
pressure.
My body tensed and shook at the thoughts that flooded my mind. I
leaned forward and rested my elbows on my knees, cupping my head in
my hands. The disheveled hair atop my head hurt as I gripped it in
between my fingers, but nothing, NOTHING matched the agony I was
feeling in the walls of my chest and in the pit of my stomach.
"Fuck, Dad! What happened to appealing this? I thought that's what you
said we were going to do?" I rocked in my seat, closing my eyes and
tugged harder on my hair.
"The court is severely backed up, Edward. An appeal is going to take
about a year," he said softly.
A sob ripped through my chest, but no tears came this time. It was just
the last bit of fucking hope I had, leaving my body. A long string of curse
words left my mouth in a hushed rush and I jammed the butt of my
palms against my closed eyes.
"I'm sorry," Carlisle whispered. "I failed you, and I'm sorry."
"I have to get out of here," I stood up and looked down at his desk,
pausing momentarily. "Do I need to sign anymore shit, 'cause if not, I'm
leaving."
"I think you should leave Renesmee here tonight," he said, standing up,
and I looked at him as though he were insane. "Edward, not only are you
extremely upset, but you also need to prepare things. Bella won't be
attending work this evening, yes?"
"No, she closed the restaurant today."
"Then I suggest you have her help you prepare those things. Perhaps your
mother can help too. I will stay here with Renesmee and watch her,
taking care of the remaining paperwork. Then the rest of the week all of
your time and attention can be focused on her."
"What are you a fucking robot, Carlisle? You just go on autopilot and
formulate a plan? You are asking me"
"I know what I am asking you, and what I am saying. There's no need to
be rude, or cold, Edward. This affects the entire family, you know. We
all love Renesmee. I am simply trying to offer you the best way to
handle thisthis debauchery." His eyes flared, showing the first sign of
real emotion I had seen in my father's face in years.
"I'm sorry. That's not what I meant. I know it fucking hurts everyone.
I'm not trying to be a prick, but.but fuck." I brought my hand back up
to my face and rubbed my forehead, trying to get the throbbing to
subside.
"I know. She'll be safe here tonight though. Just go home with Bella.
Gather yourself and we will take her home in the morning." Carlisle
stepped out from around his desk and placed his hand on my shoulder.
We walked slowly towards the door and he patted me on the back once
as I exited. Rose and Emmett were gone from the couch, and I saw Bella
in the kitchen with Nessie and my mother. She was washing Nessie's
hands in the sink. I stopped on the last step and watched her.
Bella helped Ness rinse her hands off and then patted them dry on towel.
Ness tilted her head up to look at Bella and she laughed, seeing her
mouth covered in whatever my mother had been feeding her. Bella
dampened the towel under the water and then gently wiped my
daughter's mouth clean, placing a kiss on her pink lip afterwards, and
gathered her up into her arms.
Bella turned and saw me standing there watching their interaction. Her
face fell slightly, probably noting my doleful expression, and she hugged
Ness to her a bit tighter. I walked across the marble floor, leading to
the kitchen, and reached for my daughter. Bella handed her over and I
hugged them both to me. The only thing this entire day that had felt
right was this moment right here.
Having Bella, Little Bit and Ness, surrounded in my arms.
**
"Get drunk with me, Bella." I said, sitting on the couch, tipping back a
bottle of some hard shit I stole from Esme's house before we left.
"I'm pregnant, you fool. No drinking allowed," Bella said from the kitchen.
"Right. Baby. I'll have to drink for you then," I took a swig and Bella
shook her head at me, walking in the living room, taking a seat at my
side.
"Seriously, Flower Child? Just gonna down the bottle, eh?"
"Eh, indeed, angel. Eh, in-deed." I tipped it back again and slouched
down into the couch, resting my feet into her lap.
Bella tugged off my dress socks and tossed them to the floor while I
sipped away at my bottle ofwhatever the fuck I was drinking. It was
fucking gross and expensive, I can tell you that much.
"You do realize that this means I really love you, yes?" she asked,
beginning to massage my bare feet.
"I've given you foot rubs too," I countered.
"Yeah, but you don't have germ phobias. I'm actually touching your feet
that have been stuck inside of hot, sweaty shoes all day."
"It feels fucking fantastic if it's any consolation to you, angel," I winked
at her and took another swallow of the alcohol.
"I'll do it for you if you want me to," she said softly, looking at her
hands as they worked on my feet.
"Do what, Bell?"
"Pack her things," I barely heard the words come out of her mouth, and
she rubbed harder.
I had no answer to her statement. Those words couldn't exist for me
right now. The sheer thought of having to go inside of my daughter's room
and fucking pack her things, or even watch, or, fuck that, even KNOW
that Bella was doing it, would fucking kill me right now.
I ignored her, simply tipping back the bottle once more and closing my
eyes, wishing like hell that I could just fucking disappear.
She did end up packing her shit, later that night, while I was passed out
on the couch.
The next morning, Ness arrived, and I immediately regretted drinking so
much, as my fucking head throbbed, only feeling halfway there the whole
day. Bella left for work at her usual hour and Esme stayed with me,
cleaning up my house and shit, and just fucking driving me crazy mostly.
I was in a bad ass mood and didn't need to know that you need to change
the fucking air filters every three months, or suck out the lint from your
dryer, or any of the other bullshit she prattled on about.
I held Ness next to me on the couch and cuddled with her as we watched
Bugs Bunny, trying to enjoy her little laugh and way she interpreted
what the rabbit was doing when he tried to get away from Elmer Fudd.
My mother made us lunch, but I declined to eat, only getting up from the
couch to help feed Ness and then clean up afterwards. Esme went into
Ness' room at one point, to, I assume, pack more shit, and I decided to go
downstairs and spend some time with Ness outside, doing fun shit like
swinging on the damn swing-set the apartment complex had, and enjoying
some of the Miami sun.
She looked so happy and completely oblivious to what was happening, and
I wished I could keep her in that bubble, protecting her from the
realities of the world and how fucked up all of this was.
After her cheeks were flushed bright red from running around too much
and looked pretty spent, I scooped her up and went back inside.
Esme said she was going to head out to pick up dinner from somewhere, I
couldn't tell you, as I was not really paying attention, but she fucking
left. I gave Ness a bath and tried my damndest to avoid looking at the
suitcase that was sitting in her room when I went to get her clean
clothes.
We went back to the couch, waiting for Esme to return with food. I held
Ness close to me, cuddling up with her face close to mine. She felt warm
and sunny, fresh from her bubble bath and smelling of the afternoon sun
we played in earlier.
Innocent.
Delicate.
I pulled the throw from the back of the couch and covered her up when
she yawned. Then, clicking the TV off, I just fucking enjoyed the peace
and quiet now that my mother wasn't puttering about.
My lips rested against her warm face as she lay with her head in the
crook of my arm. I brushed my fingers gently over her chubby cheek and
appraised her face, committing it to memory.
Not that I could ever forget.
"I love you, Renesmee. Daddy loves you so much, baby." I couldn't contain
the depth of those words or the tears that escaped when I said them.
This shit with Ness was the only thing since I was a fucking kid that
ever made me cry in my life. I didn't want to do that in front of her, but
I couldn't fucking help it. I was just too goddamn broken lying here
knowing that in a few days, she would no longer be.
"No cwying, daddy. Why sad?" I wiped away my tears and tucked her
face under my chin, kissing the top of her head.
"It's alright, sweetheart. Daddy is just sad this week, because you're
going to go live with mommy, and I will miss you so much."
"Mommy?" she asked, trying to tilt her head back, but I held her there
so that she couldn't see my new tears that fell.
"Remember I told you how you were special, Ness?"
"Yeah."
"Well I was right, because you are so special that Mommy wants you to
live with her too. So that means Daddy has to share you, even though I
would love to keep you all to myself." I was officially lying my ass off,
but it needed to be said in order to not scare her.
This had to be viewed as a good, positive thing for her.
At least, that's what Bella said when I asked her how I was supposed to
explain it to her.
"I no want to go wif Mommy." She shook her head and my heart thudded
painfully in my chest, thinking that she was going to start crying too.
"Sweetheart, I need you to go see Mommy for a bit. Girls need their
mommy. I'm just a daddy, a boy, and I don't know everything about girls.
So Mommy is going to help me. Okay?" I kissed her hair and held her a
little tighter, hoping she would believe me.
"Kay," she sighed.
"I need you to be a big girl for daddy. It's a big favor to ask, but I need
you to be. Just like daddy has to be a big boy while you're there.
Alright?"
She nodded against me and I felt her yawn. I pulled the blanket up
around her, tucking her in as my arms enclosed over her small form,
keeping her safely wrapped up against me.
"Would it make your day if Daddy sang the Snuggy Bear song?" I asked,
knowing it had been forever since I had.
I hated that fucking song.
"Yup." She yawned again and I started to sing, hating every minute of it,
but fucking loved the sleepy laughter it produced from her.
My life, it was all for her, anyhow.

The rest of the week, I stayed home with Ness. Not really giving a shit if
that meant Bella would fire me. Not that she would have. Bella was more
than understanding, and at one point, contemplated just burning the
fucker down, joking that everything bad in my life had happened since
she opened it and hired me.
That of course, was both true and false all at the same time.
The restaurant remained fully intact, howeverafter she realized that
the insurance money wouldn't be worth the trouble.
I think her hormones were fucking with her, but whatever.
I brought Ness to the restaurant for dinner every night so she could see
Bella and vice versa. I felt like a douche, seeing Bella, my pregnant
girlfriend, working her ass off, and I was just sitting there eating with
Ness. But there wasn't much I could do about that shit, so I shoved it
down deep inside of me and fucking tried to pretend like it didn't exist.
What made it even worse was that Bella, as I, was not speaking to
Emmett.
She told him not to come in until she decided what to do with him, and
that surprised me, I have to admit. I mean, Emmett not only meant a lot
to Bella, but fuck, he was her general manager. Even though our
relationship Bella's and my relationship, that is had been taken to a
deep, personal level, she didn't mix business with pleasure.
I knew the suspension was due to him siding with Rosalie, so I was really
taken aback that she would bring their work relationship into the picture
and use it against him. He deserved it, though, so fuck him. I didn't feel
bad about it, not one little bit.
For Bella, though, that was different.
She was now working my job, his job, and fucking trying to take care of
herself in the first trimester of her pregnancy. It wasn't fair. Plus, she
had all this shit now with Invoke coming up, and it was just one piece of
shit piled on to a very high heap at this point.
My head felt as though it would fucking burst at any moment from all
the bullshit that was happening.
It reminded me of this one time when Ness was turning two, and my
mother made me help her decorate the house for Ness' birthday party. I
was in charge of putting up the streamers, since I was the tallest, and I
accidently dropped the pink ball of paper, only to watch it unravel
quickly across the marble floor, unable to catch it. That is how this shit
felt, like everything was just fucking unraveling faster than I could keep
up with.
We also had a new employee, Alice.
She quit Rose's bakery after all this shit happened, and Bella hired her,
in need of an expert bread maker, now that Rose was in the dogexcuse
me, cunt house.
Rightfully so.
My mother even came down in the evenings and helped out. There wasn't
much she could do, but she tried to make all the customers happy. Going
around and checking on people, pouring drinks and just being her warm,
charming self.
It was nice as hell of her to do, too.
FRIDAY.
I stood on the edge of the curb in front of The Workshop.
It was neutral territory.
We would have been doing this shit at my parent's house, but Carlisle
said it was too much OUR territory.
I knew Bella would be inside, fucking watching, no doubt, and that was
only making it worse. Only Esme and Carlisle stood by me now, along the
curb. Esme for support, and Carlisle, because he was my fucking lawyer.
Renesmee was in my arms while Jess and her lawyer, that dickhead Dupri,
loaded up Ness' things into her new car; a fucking Lexus.
Nice upgrade from the piece of shit Toyota she used to drive. The car I
bought I her, of course. And yeah, it was a piece of shit, but at the time,
that was all I could give her.
Yeah, me, the loser father and all that.
Do I sound bitter yet?
We had a nice time last night. By we, I mean, Bella, Ness and myself. It
wasn't anything unusual. Just ate dinner at home and watched a movie or
two; but it was just that in itself. It was normal, family-like, and fucking
highly enjoyable.
Bella tucked Ness into bed with me and cried as soon as I shut the door
behind us, leaving her room. As amazing as she was all week, working and
keeping shit in order, it had eaten at her, too. Bella was, of course, a
fucking pro at masking that shit, but I knew her too well and saw when
it faltered, like it did on Wednesday night.
There was a family eating dinner at the chef's table when I stopped in
the kitchen to say goodnight to her before I took off with Ness after we
ate. Bella was standing there watching them from behind the pass. It
took me a moment to realize what she was doing, alerting me only when a
single tear streamed from her eye.
A little girl was with her father and they were laughing as he joked and
played around with her.
She was thinking of me and Ness.
We both pretty much just lay in bed last night crying softly, trying to
comfort each other. A part of me wanted to keep Ness in bed with us,
but I knew that she shouldn't see two of the people who loved her most
falling apart at the seams.
I asked Ness to be a big girl, to be strong and, fuck, we needed to be
too.
For her.
Back at the curb now, I knew there was something I needed to do.
It was the biggest fucking swallow of pride I would ever to take, but,
again, it was for Ness' sake, so it had to be done. No part of me,
whatsoever, believed that it was right, or truthful, or fucking deserved
to be said to her, but I needed to have Jessica back in my deck of cards
and playing my game, not the other way around; even though that bitch
now held all the chips.
I kissed Ness several times on her face and then handed her to my
mother. With one last deep breath, I turned and fucking took the first
step that felt like my last.
"Can I please talk to you?" I said, shoving my hands into my pockets,
trying to seem as restrained as possible.
"My client has nothing to say to you, Mr. Cullen," Jessica's lawyer
answered for her.
"I'm not going to yell or get mad or anything. I just want to explain a
few things about Renesmee. Things that you should know. Please?" I
asked, looking at her again.
"Fine. What?" she asked irritated, closing the trunk lid to her car.
"I just want you to listen, alright? Don't be mad at me, and don't be
thinking of shit to say back. Just listen please." I kept my voice calm,
not wanting to provoke her.
"I'm not giving her back and I don't want your money Edward."
Fucking bitch couldn't listen for shit, but I kept my cool, watching Ness'
face on the reflection of Jessica's car windows as Esme held her behind
me.
"I know, like I said, just listen, please." I took a deep breath and just
fucking said what I needed to in order to try and salvage any chance of
being able to keep myself a part of Ness' life.
"There's a part of me, Jess, that no matter what, no matter how much
you hate me, or the shit we said to each other, I will always have a
place of gratitude in my heart for you. 'Cause Nessshe's the best thing
anyone ever gave to me. I love her, Jessica, more than anything, and the
only thing I am asking you is to justjust fucking see that. Just fucking
see how special she is and.and just love her. Please just love her." I
felt fucking deflated as my plea left my lips, and I was thankful when
she answered, some light actually meeting her eyes, making me think
perhaps she meant her words.
"I do."
"Good. That's good. I um" I pulled the paper from my pocket. "I made
this for you," I handed it, and she took it tentatively.
"What is this?" she unfolded the paper and looked back at me.
"It's a list of things that I thought maybe you should know, or have." I
replied, placing my hands back in my pockets and stepping back to where
I was.
She looked down to it and then back up to me dubiously.
"Broccoli? You made a list to let me know she eats broccoli?" she scoffed,
shaking her head at me.
"It's just stuff she does or has here, and when she goes to your home"
"You want it to be like her living with you?" She rolled her eyes.
"No, not like with melikelike it's her home. She's never been there
before and it's new to her, so she needs things to be the same. Familiar."
I could already see that she hadn't thought about this at all. She
thought Ness was like bringing home a new puppy or something. As long as
there were new chew toys and a fucking shiny collar, all was alright.
"And she'll probably ask for Bella, a lot. Don't get mad at her, though.
It's my fault, not hers, so don't get mad when she asks for her. You can
call me and yell at me if you want to, but don't get mad at her, alright?"
"Is that all?" she asked impatiently.
"Jessica, please don't shut me out. You can hate me all you like, I don't
blame you, 'cause you should hate me, but just don't shut me out of her
life. Let her call me and just fuckinglet me know she's alright. Please."
"Yeah, sure. We have to go. Our plane is going to leave without us. So"
she nodded towards Ness and held her hands out.
I wanted to fucking puke.
"Alright." I nodded and turned around, taking the last ten steps towards
Ness that felt more like a hundred.
Ever have that dream where you are sinking in quicksand? Or have had to
truck through mud? That would be what this feels like. Every step was a
conscious effort, I felt everything.
The heat of the sun.
The salty Miami air as it blew.
The weight and constriction in my chest.
The tears that were being held in, for I couldn't show her how close to
breaking I was.
I saw only one thing, however.
Renesmee.
"Let's go, baby." I picked her up from my mother's arms and hugged her
to me. My feet stopped and wouldn't let me turn around to walk back in
the other direction. She had never felt lighter in my arms and I knew
there was a part of her that knew this was a bad thing. It was the way
she clung to me, hiding her face into my neck.
"Ed-ward," Jessica called in irritation.
"I love you, Ness. Daddy loves you, and I'll come get you soon, I promise.
I promise." I whispered it into her ear and kissed her as many times as
my lips could before I heard Jessica calling my name again.
"Kitty," Ness said into my neck and I nodded at her.
"I'll keep kitty safe. I promise."
Bella had to take back her Hello Kitty necklace last night, knowing that
if Ness wore it to Jessica's house she would take it and probably pawn
the fucker. That thing was over five carats in diamonds which meant it
was fucking expensive as sin.
Bella replaced it with a kid's version that was like plastic or something,
and stuck my picture inside. I had the kitty on the same chain Esme gave
me with the cross, and yeah, maybe it was a little gay to where a Hello
Kitty as a dude, but fuck it was tucked inside of my shirt and no one saw
it. The point was that it was Ness' and I was fucking keeping it safe.
You don't like it, fucking suck my balls.
Ness started to cry as I tried to turn around and face Jessica, and there
was no way I could let her go. My arms hugged her tighter while I
fought with my mind to shut off and just work mechanically. I opened my
eyes and shook my head at my mother, who was also crying.
"I can't. I can't, Mom."
Esme stepped towards me, wiping her face and then pulled Ness from my
arms gently, hugging her to her own body. Ness cried harder, calling out
for me as she walked towards Jessica's car. I couldn't turn around and
see her like that. If I watched her face as she left, I would crumple
where I stood.
I couldn't crumple.
I needed to be able to be strong enough to get Ness back.
The door to the car closed, only leaving her muffled cries to be heard. I
then heard my mother behind me, yelling at Jessica, cursing her for being
so heartless, and threatening her that if anything happen to my
daughter, she would do the same harm to her.
I didn't hear when the car left, I just felt it.
Her presence, all that was good and purposeful in my life, was gone.
It was just fucking gone.
.
Monday.
Tuesday.
Wednesday.
Thursday..
Friday..
..
..
.
..

I was being a total ass and I knew it.
Did I care? No, not particularly. But I am sure the drinking had a lot to
do with that shit.
Bella seemed to always be gone. She was working and trying to fucking
go on with her life. Emmett was still on my shit list and I hadn't spoken
to him or about him since court. My mother would stop by during the day
sometimes and do my laundry, which was nice. I needed clean clothes,
especially when I spent most of my time laying on the couch in the same
ones daily.
Sarcasm? Yeah, I have that shit for days.
I hadn't heard from Jessica or Ness since she took her. I kept my phone
next to me, waiting, praying that her face would light up the screen. I
called everyday, trying to see if she would pick up her cell, but all I ever
got was a 'This number has been temporarily disconnected'.
Well, wasn't that just fucking peachy?
And appropriate if I do say so.
That is exactly how the fuck I felt right now disconnected.
I had no fucking idea what Ness was going through or if she was alright.
The drinkingthe drinkinghelped. When I was like really, REALLY
fucking drunk that is. Bella didn't say too much the first few days, just
let me be. By the end of the week, though, she was threatening to fire
me and shit and I told her it was alright.
Was I fired at this point?
I guessed so. I mean, it had been a fucking month since I worked.
Sleeping with the knocked up boss or not, that shit just wasn't kosher.
The biggest fuck up on my behalf, however, was not being there for Bella
and Little Bit. I missed her first doctor's appointment, laying there drunk
off my ass, and I knew she was pissed about it.
As she should be. That's a douche bag thing to do. I know it.
My body just wouldn't listen to my head, which was not at all fucking
listening to my heart.
I heard Bella talking with Esme one night, telling her that she hired this
new dude from some place in fucking Paris or some shit as the new sous
chef. I have to admit, it fucking hurt. I loved working with Bella, for
Bella, and loved my job quite honestly. That didn't mean he had my job,
since she had appointed me above that position, but still, maybe she
would promote that fucker and tell me to fuck off.
I wasn't sure, but too damn afraid to ask.
I sat there now, watching as she rushed around, trying to gather up all
of her things and go to work. She was on the phone, speaking in fucking
French to someone. About what, I couldn't tell you, 'cause shit, I don't
speak fucking French.
I suppose she lived here now, because there was a lot of shit here and
she slept here every night, but again, too afraid to ask, far too drunk to
care.
All I gave a shit about right now was Bella's pants.
Yep, her pants.
They were the same pants she wore that one time when we fought
towards the beginning of our relationship and, fuck me, I loved those
pants. They were black, tight as fuck and her ass looked good as shit in
them. If I weren't fucking fucked up, my dick would be hard as a
motherfucker looking at that shit.
"Bella," I called, but she kept talking on the phone, hustling around.
"Bella," I tried again, a little louder, but still she didn't hear me. "Bel-
la," I said louder, more irritated by her not being able to fucking put the
phone down for two seconds and hear me.
"Hold on," she lowered the phone and faced me. "What? I am trying to
talk to someone important," she whispered, looking pissed.
"I'm not important?" I whined, like the fucking little douche I had
become.
"Fuck," she huffed and brought the phone back up to her ear, ignoring my
drunken ass.
Again, rightfully so.
"Bella," I called louder, needing her to just fucking pay me a little damn
attention. The girl worked way too damn much. She needed to relax and
fucking sit down for two damn seconds.
"Yes, okay, thank you. You too, okay talk to you later. Bye." She hung up
and spun to face me.
Ah, shit.
"Flower Child, what the fuck is your problem?! Do you not see me on the
damn phone?!"
Rut Roe.
"I just want to talk to you," I said, holding out my arm as I laid back
into the couch.
"About what?" her expression softened minutely.
"Come here and I tell you." I curled my fingers at her and she hesitantly
walked over, still looking pretty pissed.
"Okay," she took a seat next to me, "what do you want to talk about?"
"Your pants," I chuckled, pulling her into me.
"My pants? Christ, are you drunk already?" she tried to pull away, but I
held her there.
"Don't be bitchy, just fucking lay here with me, please." I tried to pull
her to me, but she pushed away angrily.
"I can't lay here with you Edward. I have things to do. And fuck you for
calling me a bitch. You would be in a pissed off mood too if someone just
interrupted a call with a fucking potential investor, just to fucking
inquire about my stupid ass pants!" She stood up and adjusted said pants.
"You have a nice day lying around doing nothing. I'm going to bust my ass
for the next seventeen hours. See you later." She walked towards the
kitchen and grabbed up her things, then walked out the door, slamming it
loudly.
Well fuck her too.
I only wanted to touch her damn pants for a bit. Cut me some goddamn
slack, would ya?
Rolling over, I buried my face into the cushions again and begged
unconsciousness to find me. At this point, it was my only friend.

BPOV.
Flower Child's despondency was killing me.
The first week, I predicted, understood, why he was acting like a douche
waffle. The second week, still forgivable. By the third week, however, his
behavior was completely un-fucking-acceptable.
Mr. Cunt-Pickle missed our second appointment with the baby doc, and I
was officially getting ready to set fire to my Team Edward flag.
That first visit was so damn hard.
I sat in the waiting room, pretending to play with my phone, trying to not
pay attention to the other people in the room eyeing me, like I was a
fucking skid-mark whose loser boyfriend ran away from.
Thankfully, I didn't have to wait long and the nurse called me in. I
quickly changed into that horrid paper gown thing and waited. All I
wanted was Edward's hand, holding mine. That's all. Was that too much
to ask for?
Baby Cullen said 'no'.
I stared at the sign on the white walls of the tiny room that smelled like
disinfectant, reminding me of those horrible bed linens from my old hotel
room. What was it with that smell anyhow? It's like it fucking haunted
my ass.
Everywhere it found me, I was lonely.
There was a sign that had the progression of how a baby grows, and I
stared at, trying to determine where my own would be at if my math
were correct. I assumed Flower Child's punk-ass knocked me up on the
Fourth of July, which meant, now, I was a little over a month into my
pregnancy. Judging by the picture that meant Little Bit waslooking like
a fucking tadpole?
I laughed out loud thinking about it. For some reason, I was envisioning a
fully grown baby, just smaller.
Like motherfucking Thumbelina or some shit.
Anyhow, the doctor came in, poked, prodded, and groped my assokay,
not really, but you know what I'm sayingand the whole time I cursed
Edward for making me do this alone.
It wasn't fair. That little scunt-whore Jessica had him be there with her
when she was fucking pregnant with his kid, and I, the girl who loved him
dearly and tried to do all I could for his punk-ass, was left to fend for
myself.
Right now, you are probably thinking I'm an insensitive bitch for thinking
that way, seeing what he is going through, but I'm sorry, I miss the hell
out of that little girl too, yet, still have to get up in the morning and
fight the good fight.
I don't have the luxury of shutting any of that shit off and just
wallowing in my sorrow, or drinking them away. Sure, she wasn't my kid,
but you know what? I still loved her like she was, and felt the agony of
her absence from our lives. Add in what this kid inside of me was doing,
along with the fuckery of my businesses, and yeah, I was all kinds of
fucked up.
My main point of frustration and anger with Edward, though, was that he
was the only one who could fix any of this bullshit. I needed him to face
this head on and fight for her, for him, for us.
And he was just giving in and giving up.
Well, that shit, my friends, is not at all acceptable.
As I left the doctor's office that day, I called the only person I knew
who could help pull Edward's head out of his ass.
Charlie.
When I reached the Workshop, I sat down in my office and tried to
assemble my thoughts, knowing this was not going to be an easy sell. I
quickly jotted down some things on a piece of paper, not wanting to
forget all my main reasons for calling, then picked up the phone and
dialed him.
My heart raced with each ring, not knowing if he would pick up. On the
third ring, I heard him yelling to someone then he greeted me.
"Hi dad," I said nervously.
"Bella? Hey, baby. What's wrong? Are you okay?" I smiled at his
questions, relieved that he didn't seem angry with me, or resentful.
"No, I'm okay. I wanted to call you and talk, though. Actually, I wanted
to ask you something. It is sort of a really big favor, and I understand if
you can't, because I know you have duties and responsibilities"
"Just spit it out, Bella. What do you need?" he asked, sounding somewhat
amused.
"It's Edward. I need you to help him. Help me, help him." Fuck, I sounded
like Tom Cruise in Jerry McGuire.
"Who the heck is Edward?" he asked.
"Edward. You know, Edward, my sous chef. My." I stopped, realizing I
had never told Charlie about Edward. He only met him in Hawaii as my
employee. "Edward is the guy you met in Hawaii, Dad. He is mymymy
boyfriend." I mumbled the evil word.
"Boyfriend? That 'lil shit who licked caramel sauce off you? Bella," I
heard him sigh and I could imagine he was probably shaking his head like
he always did at my choices.
"Dad, he's a nice kid. Cut him a break. Anyhow, I need you to help out.
Would you come here?"
"What kind of help? If he's locked up or something, just call a bail
bondsman, sweetheart. Oh man, that's not it is it? He ain't a trouble-
maker is he?" Charlie grumbled.
"No. He's not in jail. Shit, why would you think that? You know what,
never mind. I don't want to know that answer. Listen, it is complicated,
but the long and the short of it is this. Edward has a kid, a real cute ass
kid too, and he just went through a custody hearing and fucking lost her.
Her mother is a complete psycho, to say the least, and so, well, I just
figured he needed to speak to another father or something. He's all
messed up, Dad, and I'm worried about him." I paused, allowing him to
absorb my words, hoping he would understand.
"Bella, doesn't he have a dad? I still don't understand why he would want
to talk to me. I don't even know the guy. What makes you think he'll
listen to a thing I have to say?"
"I don't know that. I am willing to try, though. And to answer you, yes,
he has a father, but it's complicated. Plus, you know what it feels like to
go through what he is feeling. Dad, I know I have screwed up and pretty
much ignored you for the last few years, but please, I am begging you. I
have so much shit going on and I need him to be alright. I have tried
everything I can think of and nothing is working and now I have this baby
to deal with and I have no one helping me out and I am just freaking "
"Baby? What baby? What the hell are you talking about Bella?"
Fucking Baby Cullen and your big ass mouth.
"Edward and I are having a baby," I closed my eyes, not believing that I
just said that to Charlie. I eyed the secondary line for a moment,
thinking that maybe I should call Edward and tell him to start packing,
be sure to grab his passport and haul ass somewhere far far away, but
Charlie interrupted.
"You'reBella your going to be a mom? You and this guy? IWhen?" he
sputtered.
"When what?" I asked.
"When are you having this baby?" he replied.
"I'm only about a month along. We just found out. But, Dad, that is what
I mean. I'm fucking freaking out. I need someone to help him snap out of
this shit. He's a good guy, he justhe's lost. His daughter was like his
life, you know? They just fucking took her awayI meanthey just like
took her," my voice broke, allowing a sob to break free.
"Bella, calm down, baby. Don't get upset. Listen," he sighed hard into the
phone, "I don't know what I can do for Edward, but if it will help you, I
will come. Justjust don't cry or nothing. Alright?"
"Yeah," I sniffled. "Thank you." I grabbed some Kleenex and blew my
nose hard, making Charlie laugh lightly on the other end before he
responded.
"You're welcome. But Bella, I'm going to warn you. I will not go easy on
this guy. I have no time, nor the patience, to play around. So while I feel
bad about his position and all, you need to understand that you are my
daughter first and foremost. And right now, I am seeing this guy as
someone who is hurting you, soI might have to hurt him too."
I laughed at him, feeling both amused and a little flattered by the fact
that my father still felt protective over me. I had been a real shitty
excuse for a daughter these past few years, and for him to do this for
me was huge.
"I understand, Dad. Thank you, again."
"Alright honey. Let me arrange some things here at home, and I'll see you
in a few days, alright?"
"Alright."
We hung up after I thanked him again and made plans for picking him up
when he arrived in a few days. After I wiped my face clear of tears, and
popped a mint 'cause I was craving the fuckers bad these days into
my mouth, I pushed away from my desk, ready to face the remainder of
my day.
Five hours down, twelve more to go.
EPOV
..
..
.
.

..
..

..
.


I woke up to the smell of something greasy.
My fucking head thumped as I rolled over to make sure my house wasn't
burning down. Not that I cared at this point, but fuck, Bella had her shit
here and I'm pretty sure that even if I died, she would figure out how to
make her way into hell and kick my ass for letting her stuff go up in
flames.
There was adude in my kitchen?
Wait
I blinked, trying to clear my vision.
Charlie?
Bella's dad? What was he doing here? In my house?
"Rise and shine, pumpkin," he said still keeping his eyes on the food he
was preparing.
So that's where Bella gets that shit from.
"What" I cleared my throat, as it felt like sand paper. "What are you
doing in my house? Waithow did you get in my house?" I stood up and
then realized very quickly, as the room swayed, it was bad idea.
"My daughter let me in before she went to work. You know, the place
that you, herboyfriend should be, too."
"So are you here to babysit me or something?" I scoffed.
"No. I am here to kick your ass for treating my daughter like shit. Since
you brought up babies however, I should readjust that to say, I am here
to kick your ass for treating my PREGNANT daughter like shit."
Fuck, she told him?
"Fuck, she told you?"
"Yeah, she told me a lot of things." He walked over to my table and set
down two plates. "I'll need to eat before I start performing any type of
torture or violence. Lucky for you, I'm a nice ass kicker, so I made you a
sandwich too. Sit," he pointed and then took a seat.
"I'm not hungry," I shook my head, feeling every last bit of thumping as I
did.
"I wasn't asking." He gave me the death stare again and I got up to my
feet, walking painfully over to the table.
"If you dunk it in ketchup, I might go easier on you," he passed me the
bottle of Heinz and I looked down to see he had made me a grilled
cheese sandwich.
"That's disgusting," I pushed the bottle away and he glared at me,
preparing to dunk his own. "Feel free, I'm just saying, it's not my thing."
I waved him on and he crinkled his face before taking a bite.
We chewed in silence for a moment, and I tried to figure out why
exactly Bella would ask her father to come here. Was he helping her out
at The Workshop? And why the fuck would she tell him I knocked her up?
That was a low blow. I mean, I never even met the guy, except for
fucking one time, and fuckthat was after he saw me lick caramel sauce
off of her.
Remind me to fucking never go anywhere near caramel sauce again by the
way. Sauce of the devil, I tell you.
Sauce. Of. The. Devil.
"Sucks, doesn't it?" Charlie said finally and I looked up to him as he
wiped his mouth, clearing his moustache of ketchup. "YeahI remember
when Bell's mamma came and took her. She was seven. Her mamma,
Renee, she was a hell-fire, I tell you. The woman drove me crazy. Always
scatter brained and getting into something. Couldn't even handle being a
waitress in my diner. I mean, hell, who can't take a simple order?"
Charlie picked up his coffee mug and took a long sip.
"Anyhow, she gave up Bells when she was about your girl's age, and then
when the kid turned seven, decided that she wanted back into her life.
That was after she disappeared for two of them. Woman didn't call the
kid on her dang birthday or nothin'. Shows up at MY door, saying she
wants to take Bells off to damn Arizona.
"Thankfully, she was agreeable to only taking her for the summer when
Bells was off from school. I remember that first time, when she had to
go. Bella cried, begged me not to make her, and dang near broke my
heart.
"Those couple weeks seemed like years. I told myself every summer, that
it would get better and I wouldn't worry as much, or miss her as much,
and you know what?" he paused waiting for me to answer.
"What?"
"It never did. And it won't. Edward, it is never going to feel better or
get better, so you just better get used to feeling like this all the time.
That hole, that big damn hole," he hit his knuckles into my chest, "it
never goes away. Because that's where that 'lil girl lives and breathes.
And when she's gone, that part of you goes away with her.
"The only solace you will ever feel is knowing that one day, she will grow
up and see that you loved her, make something great out of herself, and
then remember that out of everyone in the world she could have come
and asked for help from the highest paid shrink to that dang Oprah
Winfrey she chose only one person. Her daddy."
"Charlie, I appreciate what you're saying, but my daughtermy daughter,
doesn't get to come back." My skin flared, the only thing letting me know
I was still alive.
"You're missing the point, Son. I'm not talking about a solution here,
'cause I ain't a damn lawyer who knows about that stuff. I'm simply
talking about manning up and doing whatchu gotta do to make yourself
worthy of that little girl wanting to someday come back to you. You think
if you're littlewhat is her name?" he asked.
"Renesmee," I felt my lips move, but couldn't hear the words.
"Well if she comes back to you someday, and you're some damn drunk
sitting on a stoop. How do you think she will feel to see her father, the
man who she remembers being the way you were, acting that way?"
"What am I supposed to do? Just go on with my life and pretend that
she doesn't exist?"
"No, what are you stupid? Of course not. But shit, Son, you have a new
baby coming, and no matter what you are feeling right now, you need to
suck it up and take care of that baby, and MY baby. Because AS a
father, I will not allow either of those two precious people to live with a
jobless drunk who doesn't give a damn about nothing," he pointed angrily
at me.
"I do care. I love Bella and Little Bit very much, Charlie. But it's justit
feels like I'm trying to replace my daughter with someone else, and
thatI can't do that." I pushed my plate away and moved to get up, but
Charlie pushed my shoulder down, forcing me to sit.
"I'm not asking you, first of all, to take care of my daughter. I am
TELLING you that you are going to take care of them. In the process
maybe you wake your stupid self up and see that you also need to fight
for that little girl of yours too. Rolling over and playing dead is not a
way to handle problems. It is only the mark of a weak man. Now go put
on your damn shoes and something you don't mind getting dirty." He
picked up my plate, along with his and moved towards the kitchen again.
"Where are we going?" I asked, rising to my feet.
Charlie dumped our paper plates in the trash and then turned around,
smiling widely at me as his hands rested on his hips.
"I told you, I was going to kick your ass."
BPOV
I stood there watching with Alice as the bread baked to perfection in
the oven.
Was I super fucking ecstatic to have her here? You bet your fucking
bippy. Not only was Alice cool as shit as a person, but she also was a
major asset to have in my business. Having a pastry chef on hand, who
could also cook, was a major plus, and I knew that if this new fucker I
hired didn't work out as Edward's number two, I would definitely be
looking at Alice to take that position.
"So, have any idea when Edward will be coming back?" Alice asked
quietly as we watched her bread rise and brown to perfection.
"I don't know. My father is with him now, so that shit is either going to
work like a charm, or I will go back to his house and find all my shit on
his doorstep." I sighed, shaking my head and Alice rested her tiny hand
on my shoulder.
"I'm sure it will be alright. I've known Edward for a long time. The one
thing that always impressed me was his ability to be strong. No matter
how much shit, and believe me, there was a lot, Jessica threw at him, he
never wavered. Most men, would probably just tell her to F herself and
give up on trying, but he always did his best to stay cordial. Even after
the Mike stuff." She rubbed my shoulder and then went back to gazing
at the bread.
"He's just so broken right now. I'm scared. I could only imagine what
would happen if someone tried to take my child away." I placed my hand
over Little Bit instinctively, but then tried to quickly recover, seeing
Alice look over to me questioningly. "I mean, you know, if I had a child, I
would probably fucking gut someone."
"I know what you mean," Alice smiled and then reached for her pot
holders so she could remove the tray from the oven, since the timer just
sounded.
"I can't even tell you how glad I am that you are here and not over
there with Queen of the Cocksuckers." I watched her as she placed the
bread on the steel-top and my fucking stomach growled, smelling the hot
bread.
"Well, I'm sorry, Rose is my friend, has been for years, but what she
did," Alice shook her head as she laid out the bread to cool. "That is just
way too many shades of wrong."
"I just can't believe Emmett is being so stupid. I mean, what the hell?
Edward is his damn brother! And Squeaks was his niece for Christ sake.
Rose is just"
"The mother of his child," Alice smiled up at me.
"That doesn't matter. It doesn't give her a free pass to fucking do
whatever she wants," I snapped.
"I know, but maybe Emmett is just scared of what Rosalie might do; of
losing his own child. I am not saying I agree with him, at all, but just try
to imagine his feelings. I would think he is very torn up at the moment.
Not only did he have to choose sides, Bella, but when he did, he lost his
brother and his niece, just like you said. Now he has been outcast by his
parents and you. I'm sure he is really hurting."
"Good. Serves him right," I said angrily.
"You should probably talk to him. After Edward gets back on his feet,
he's going to need someone to lean on and I'm sure having his brother
there would help. You are probably the only one who could bring them
back together at this point." Alice finally cut into the bread and handed
me over a slice.
I inhaled a long ass, deep breath, holding the steaming bread to my nose,
and fucking groaned at how delicious it smelled. I shoved it into my
mouth and closed my eyes, humming at the flavor and how fucking
fantastic it was.
"Awice," I said with my mouth full, causing her to laugh. I chewed a bit
then swallowed before I began again. "I don't know if any of that shit
you just said is right, but bitch, you can make some ass-slapping good
bread."
EPOV
"Twenty two, twenty three, twenty four, come on there, Edward. Don't
stop now, boy."
"Fuck, your killing me." I breathed hard, pushing my arms, even though
they burned something fierce and shit, I could do more than this
normally.
But I was fucking fucked up from all the drinking, feeling severely sick to
my stomach, and dehydrated.
Weak.
"Don't make me sit on you'cause I will," he warned.
I kept going, trying to keep up with his torture tactics.
"Whatever happened to the good old days when someone just really did
kick your ass?" I asked, trying to push myself harder.
"This is more fun than beating you with my hands, boy," he chuckled.
"I give up." I dropped down and gave up, feeling exhausted.
"The man can't even do thirty push-ups, and he thinks he's worthy of
raising a child." Charlie sucked his teeth and kneeled down beside me.
"Here," he shook a bottle of water at me and I rolled over to sit up and
take a drink. "Drinking doesn't seem like such a good idea now does it?"
"No, but it didn't seem like a good idea before, either." I took another
long drink and then wiped the sweat from my face, using my shirt.
"Then why did you do it?" he asked, handing me a towel.
"It was the only one I had." I wiped my face and took another swallow
of water.
"Drink?" he asked confused.

"No," I took another sip and swallowed hard. "Idea."
"Well, the great thing about an idea is that you can decide if it was a
bad one, you can choose not to repeat your mistakes and try again,
right?"
"You sound like a fucking after school special." I wiped the back of my
neck and set the water down on the gym floor.
"The only reason I'm letting your foul mouth run is 'cause I'm pretty dang
sure it's Bell's influence on your stupid vocabulary."
"Actually, I cursed long before Bella came along," I lay back against the
floor, cringing from how much my body ached. "As you can see, she makes
me better, not worse." I groaned, trying to wiggle my neck to get the
kinks out.
"You better be lucky she has me take care of your ass, 'cause if she was
here, I'm guess'n she'd be on you about wimping out right now." He stood
up and kicked my hip with his foot lightly. "Come on, no break time for
the party animal. You have a track to run." He blew a loud whistle and I
covered my ears, sucking in hard through my teeth.
Fucking Bella. You see, this is where Charlie was wrong. I wished she was
here, 'cause at least then I could just distract her with my hands down
her pants and get out of doing this shit. Charlie on the other hand
Yeah, I'm guessing that's why she didn't choose to do this herself.
She was too fucking smart for her own good.
I sure as fuck hoped our baby took after me, because if it was like Bella,
I was fucked for sure.
XXX
BPOV
Charlie came back to the restaurant tonight, taking over for me so I
could go home and get some sleep. I was fucking spent. Growing a person
inside of you takes a toll, lemme tell you.
Add on all the other extra work I was doing with the absence of Emmett,
since I still hadn't forgiven the fucker, and of course Flower Child's
douche ass being MIA, and I had the fucking most epic fuckery on my
hands of all time.
Plus, I was also fucking aching all over, missing the shit out of Squeaky.
I tried finding her, looking up all the gossip rags and reporters I knew in
New York, thinking maybe they had seen cunt-pickle, AKA Jessicunt, out
with her or some shit, but no.
Don't get me wrong here, I wasn't trying to be my own cunt-pickle to
Edward, 'cause I loved that fucker hard, but I needed him to fucking
snap out of it and help my ass.
Number one, I was carrying his child, and that fucker abandoned me and
our first check up. It was fucking scary being alone, and I hated it. I
debated, whether or not to tell Esme, needing a female to take with me,
but I didn't want to have to do that alone too.
I needed to fucking tell someone, though, so fuck, of all the people I
could have picked, I, of course, spilled the beans to my father. I still
went to the appointment alone, not wanting to bring my dad to the twat
doctor. It sucked, and I fucking cried alone in the bathroom when I got
home and saw Edward still passed out drunk on the couch.
The little black and white sonogram picture of our baby, which really
just looked like a fucking fuzzy channel when you forget to pay the
cable, was hanging on the fridge, next to Nessie's drawing.
I debated, whether or not to take it down, but opted not to, 'cause she
wasn't just something you could fucking erase like that. Plus, I liked
looking at that picture. It made me happy, not sad, 'cause it's one of the
things that brought us together.
I'm sure Flower Child thought differently, but I left it up anyhow. It
wasn't my house, and I wasn't going to fucking act like it was, removing
what little sentiments of his daughter remained.
The whole reason for staying here was to just make sure Edward didn't
fucking hurt himself, being alone and fucked up all the time. He never
asked me to stay here, but there was no way I was going to leave him.
He was hurting, far far too badly to do that.
No matter how much the dickhead deserved that shit right now.
When I came 'home', I was surprised to see Edward was not on the couch.
Charlie said his little talk went well, but honestly, I expected Flower
Child to just ball right back up after my dad left. He didn't really tell
me what he said, or what Edward said either, but I could see in his eyes
that my father felt sympathetic towards him.
"Edward? Babe?" I called out, walking around, trying to see any sign of
life, but there was none. I paused briefly in the hallway outside Ness'
door, thinking maybe he had gone in there.
If he had, I was sure I didn't want to open the door and pry.
I pressed my ear gently to her door, trying to see if I could hear anyone
in there, but all that was found was silence. Walking back out to the
kitchen, I saw his keys were still on the counter as was his phone. I
looked by the door and noted that his shoes were missing.
Shrugging, I walked back into the kitchen and poured a glass of water
for myself. He could have gone down to the pool or beach or some shit,
who knows? It was doubtful, but where else would the fucker go?
Setting down my water, I walked back to the fridge and started pulling
out some things for dinner, deciding on making a garbanzo bean & feta
cheese veggie dish; something easy, since Edward probably wouldn't eat
with me.
Plus, I was really craving the fuck out of cheese.
Really stinky cheese too. Weird, right?
A knock on the door sounded as I readied the pan. I wiped my hands on
the dishrag and turned the heat off, before walking over to answer it.
"Sorry, I forgot my keys," Edward said, leaning in to kiss me. "I was
lucky you were here, I suppose."
"Where did you go?" I asked, allowing him in.
"Running," he said, walking in and stripping his shirt off.
"Running?" I asked surprised, closing the door and following him in.
"Yeah, you know, that thing you do with your legs when they move a
little faster than walking." He walked to the fridge and opened it, taking
a large swig of milk, straight from the carton.
"Was someone chasing you?" I asked playfully, leaning against the
counter.
"No," he bit back a laugh and took another swig, then replaced it back in
the fridge. "I just fucking felt like running."
"And no one had a gun?" I pressed, still trying to tease him.
"No, angel," he stepped towards me and cupped my chin into his palm. "I
just felt like running." He leaned in and kissed me softly.
This was my Edward. The Edward I loved.
"I'm going to take a shower and then we can go eat, alright?" His fingers
brushed my cheek and he looked adoringly into my eyes.
"I'm already cooking," I motioned towards the counter where all my
ingredients were.
And the cheese.
"No, you're not." He shook his head and moved away from me, putting
back all the things I pulled out from the fridge.
"But I want cheese," I whined as he put the feta away.
"Then have cheese, but we're going out to eat somewhere." He pulled the
feta from the fridge again, leaving it on the counter, then walked out of
the kitchen before I could debate further.
I ate some fucking feta while I waited for him to shower, then decided
that maybe I should freshen up, myself. I brushed out my hair in his
room and sprayed some perfume on, trying to take away all the
'restaurant' smell. I wasn't sure where the fuck we were going, but I
threw on some capris and a fucking tank top, seeing as how this is Florida
and that's what the fuck was acceptable just about everywhere.
Seriously, they should be like the fucking official pant style of the state
or some shit.
The water turned off in the bathroom and I sat down on the bed, laying
back against pillows, and waited for my free show of naked
Edwardlyness.
He came in, wearing only a towel, as I suspected he would. I smiled at
him, but he didn't see me sitting there in the dim room. Edward paused
at the dresser and opened the top drawer, pulling out a pair of boxer-
briefs and dropped his towel to the floor, then slipped them on.
I was going to make a comment, whistle or some other juvenile shit like
that, but I saw him reach back and take off the chain he had on, with
Ness' Hello Kitty and Esme's cross on it and rested it down on the
dresser. Flower Child stood there, looking down to it and my heart broke,
knowing what he must have been thinking, feeling.
"Babe," I called softly, trying not to scare him, but wanting him to know
I was there.
He turned his head towards me and I sat forward, crossing my legs, and
patted the space beside me. Edward walked over and took a seat, but
then rested his head down into my lap as he lay down. I ran my fingers
though his damp hair, making more of a mess of it, and he just kept his
eyes closed, allowing me to comfort him.
"I love you, Flower Child. I love you so much, babe." I allowed my fingers
to caress his dewy face that was freshly shaven and felt so soft under
my touch.
"I love you too, angel. I'm sorry," he leaned in and kissed my stomach,
whispering something over the fabric of my shirt, and then kissed it again
before he reached for my hand that was on his face. He kissed my
fingers and held my hand to his lips, keeping it there as my other hand
continued to stroke his wet locks.
I could feel it in his touch, he was truly sorry. All the pain and anguish
he had been buried under these past few weeks, had not gone away or
subsided at all, but right now, he was trying so hard to be there for me,
and all I wanted was to be there for him, too.
Edward reached up and pulled my face down to him as he rolled back
slightly, bringing my lips to his. He kissed me so tenderly, lightly, and
with a sweetness that left no need for words. Edward, though, the
wonderful, strong man he always tried so hard to be, of course, did not
let them go untold.
"I'm so sorry, Bella," his lips ghosted over mine as he spoke, "I am so
sorry. I justI just miss her so much." I felt his face scrunch against
mine and I didn't need to open my eyes to know that he was holding back
tears. I knew my Edward and I knew myself, and fuck, I was about to
cry with him. "I just miss her so fucking much."
I nodded my head against him as my tears crept out, streaming down
from under my closed lids. Edward kissed sweetly along my face,
thumbing them away, and I did the same to his.
"I love you. You deserve so much more than that, but that's all I have to
offer you," he whispered.
"That's all I want," I whispered back, sniffling.
"I promise I'll be a good father to Little Bit. I promise you." He kissed
me again, just as lovingly, but a tad bit rougher, before he pulled back
and sat up. "Let's just get out of here for a while, alright? There's this
place I have been meaning to take you, and keep putting it off." He slid
away from the bed and reached for my hand.
I took it silently and followed him as we exited the apartment.
When we arrived at the restaurant, I was pretty impressed. It looked
stunning. Not stuffy or anything, but still elegant in nature and very
'Miami' friendly, resembling old Spanish architecture. There were lanterns
strewn throughout the small courtyard, and the hostess greeted Edward
by name, which surprised me.
"Esme loves this place. I take her here for Mother's Day every year," he
explained as we walked to our table.
The hostess sat us in a cozy spot outside. The booth was uber comfy
looking, filled with jewel toned pillows and an overhead canopy of
mosquito netting strewn loosely along the terrace above us. It was quite
lovely amid all the candles and lanterns.
"This is nice, babe. Good choice." I cuddled up to him once we slid into
our seats.
"I thought you would like it. The food is really good, too. Even Bella
Swan worthy." He kissed my face and passed me a menu.
"We'll see about that," I teased, picking up the menu into my hands.
The waitress came over and introduced herself, then poured our water.
Edward and I ordered our favorite little suckling pig to share, and I had
to laugh at all the differences in this dinner versus last time when we
shared this meal in Hawaii.
"So, tell me about your day with Charlie," I said, picking up my water for
a sip.
"It sucked," he replied with a laugh. "But I guess it was also
purposeful."
"Not going to let me in on the details are you?"
"Let's just say he kicked some sense into my ass." Edward reached for
my hand, taking it into his.
"Someone needed to. I usually can. But this one required some special
reinforcement." I nudged him with my arm and he smiled lopsidedly.
"How long is he staying for?"
"I'm not sure. My dad said he would stay and help out as long as I
needed him to. You know, with the baby and stuff," I said nervously,
remembering that I hadn't told Edward that Charlie knew.
"I can't believe you told him, alone. You should have waited for me Bell."
"Waited for you? To what? Come out of your drunken stupor? Realize you
were being a twat? Have an epiphany or something? Would you like me to
keep going, Flower Child? You do realize that I had to go to the first
doctor's appointment by myself, yes? Have any idea how hard that shit
was and how much damn strength it took not to tell your mother so I had
someone to go with me?"
"I'm sorry. I just mean, I wish that we could have told him together. Of
course, I'm not saying it is your fault or anything, Bell. I know it's my
fault. You don't think I feel bad about that shit?" He shook his head
staring at me as his grip on my finger tightened.
"Feeling something and doing something to rectify it are two different
things. You feeling bad about it does nothing for me Flower Child. You
want to know how long Charlie is staying? Well, I guess that is up to you.
If you're going to crumble as soon as I ask him to go home and leave me
on my own again, then I guess I'm going to have to ask him to stick
around, aren't I? So tell me, do I have a fucking executive chef and
sober father for my child or not?"
"Yes, I told you I was sorry. I meant that." He brought my fingers up to
his lips and kissed them. "I think you're father should still stay, though.
You shouldn't be working so much. It's not good for you. Especially the
type of shit we do."
"You want Charlie to stick around? Working in the restaurant?" I
laughed.
"I want you and Little Bit to be alright. If that means I have to take a
few kicks to the nuts from your father for that to happen, then yeah. I
want him to stay."
The food arrived and we were silent, except for thanking the waitress as
she laid it all out on the table for us. Flower Child placed my napkin on
my lap for me and served me some of the roasted pig and rice, along with
some veggies.
Why did such simple acts of kindness turn me and Butterbean on?
"So, what is your plan, Flower Child?" I asked, forking a bite of piggy
goodness.
"My plan?" he served himself some food and waited for me to swallow so
I could explain.
"Yeah. Plan. You know, that thing you do when shit needs order,
structure. Sometimes people write it down and try to assemble ideas." He
smiled at my mocking of his words earlier when I asked him about
running.
"I'm not really sure. Can we just eat the pig and relax for tonight? I
have a feeling when I return to work tomorrow my boss is going to hand
me my ass. Rightfully so, but still."
"You've got that shit right, Flower Child. You have an entire month's
worth of shit to make up for. I'm going to work you harder than a
fucking twelve-year-old in a Chinese sweat-shop. You have no idea." I
held my fork up to his mouth and smirked.
"Like I said, rightfully so." He leaned in and took the bite of food, then
closed his eyes, sighing hard.
"Then, we are going to go to your parents' house and tell them we are
having an illegitimate child together. THEN, we are going to have to have
a nice sit down with that cunt-pickle brother of yours and make nice,
'cause I need my general manager back."
"Bella, I thought I said no plans for tonight?" he eyed me warningly.
"Fine, but we are going to do those things. No more running from shit and
hiding. That's part of the fucking problem with us, and how we ended up
in this whole mess anyhow." I picked up my drink and reclined.
Flower Child sat back with me, resting his arm over my shoulder, and
kissed the top of my head. The first tiny stars popped out, and I sighed,
remembering what I had said to Squeaks' the night before she left.
I looked up to Flower Child, tilting my head, and saw that he was doing
the same thing. His eyes flickered down towards mine and I debated for
a minute whether or not to tell him what I said to Ness. His expression
was too saturnine though and I knew even the lightest mention of her
name would probably break him right now. He was trying, and only asked
that I give him this night to be worry free, so I relinquished, choosing to
talk about something lighter.
"My math was correct, you know," I said quietly.
"About what, angel?"
"The baby. It happened that night in the ocean. Conveniently enough, it
also happens to look like a tadpole right now, even though tadpoles don't
live in the ocean, but what the fuck ever. You get my point. Water
related." I patted my stomach once, and Edward laughed quietly.
"Sort of fucking fitting wouldn't you say?" Edward's hand rested on my
stomach, rubbing softly over my clothing. "You faced your fears that
night, going in the ocean. You were scared to death, but did it anyway,
and now, look, we have something really great to show for it."
"You only think that because you're not stuck with your head in the
crapper every morning. And can still smokeand eat whatever the fuck
you want...and" he cut me off, turning my face to his, and kissed me
gently.
"It's the truth," he spoke softly, keeping his face to mine, "and I'm glad
that you did. I'm glad you have faced all of your fears, because I
wouldn't have you otherwise. And I need you, angel. I really need you."
"You've officially got me, babe. You couldn't possibly have me anymore
than you fucking have me right now," I laughed.
"That isn't entirely true," he mumbled.
I looked at him questioningly, but he averted his eyes, staring down at
my hand in his. I watched him as his expression changed, looking
thoughtful. He said nothing, though, looking back up to me, and kissed my
face once.
"I love you, Edward. Tomorrow we start over again. Like none of the shit
over the past month happened, and we fucking do it together, alright?"
He only nodded and kissed me again, telling me softly that he loved me
too. We went back to eating our meal, even though now it was pretty
much cold. We didn't say much, but it was that good, comforting sort of
silence that you have with someone you know all too well. You don't feel
the need to speak to them because just their sheer presence alone offers
you all the comfort words can only allude to.
The waitress dropped off the bill and Edward reached for his wallet,
pulling out his card, and slipped it into the black book, then went back to
nibbling on the food with me. There was a band setting up a station
outside. The music fit the atmosphere as a soft string from the guitar
hummed from across the courtyard. We settled back into our seats and
relaxed, listening to the music.
Edward brought my face to his and kissed me tenderly, holding me in his
arms. It felt fucking wonderful to have him back this way. I reveled in
his affection, kissing him back just as sweetly, and trying to show him
how much I truly loved his ass, no matter how much of a punk he might
be at times.
He pulled back and pressed my face into his chest, brushing his fingers
along my cheek, and hummed along to the music. I closed my eyes and
tried to just enjoy the last bit of our evening here, knowing that
tomorrow would be challenging. I felt a gentle buzzing vibrate against my
leg, coming from Edward's pocket. I moved away, allowing him to answer
his cell phone and knew the second he flipped the lid and brought the
receiver to his ear who it was on the other line.
It was the first time Flower Child had truly smiled in almost a month.
Renesmee.









Chapter 23 "Where the Heart Is"

Bella.
* * * *
I leaned my head in and tried to listen, not giving a shit if it was rude or
not.
Edward smiled wider, removed the phone from his ear momentarily to
thumb the speakerphone feature, and then hugged me to him as we
listened. Squeaky was babbling on about the cabs in New York, calling
them 'yewwo cars'.
I wasn't sure if Edward knew what that meant, so I whispered 'the cabs'
to him, to which he nodded in understanding. She talked about her room
and how there were pictures of fairies on the walls. Flower Child didn't
really ask her much, but rather, just allowed her to tell him all about
things, not interrupting except to laugh or comment.
The only real question was about Jessica, when he asked Ness where she
was at the beginning of the conversation. I guessed he was probably
scared that she wasn't supervising her or something. She relayed that
Jessica was in the living room, watching TV. That seemed to relax Edward
and I was grateful she was at least present.
She never asked for me, and I was a little surprised. That could only
mean Jessica probably told her not to talk about me or some shit. She
probably even threatened to punish her if I had to guess. I could just
see her ass doing something fucked up like that.
I swear, when Edward gets his daughter back from the skank, the first
thing I am doing is driving to the slummiest part of town, rounding up the
hardest looking men losers I can find, and paying them all to go
family-style on her ass.
Quite literally.
Speaking of the Herpes Queen, I heard her calling out that it was
Nessie's bedtime. I had to admit, that was both shocking and comforting
to hear at the same time. Edward said his goodbye to her, telling her
repeatedly how much he loved and missed her, and I stayed silent, not
wanting to add to the trouble, simply saying it inside of my head instead.
"Edward?" Jessica called over the loud speaker.
"Yes?"
"I have to ask you some things," she said, sounding like her usual bitchy
self.
"Go ahead," he said quietly. I looked up to see his face baring an
expression that resembled when you're about to hit a dog for doing
something wrong. He was bracing for the blow that Jessica was probably
going to give, which made me make a silent vow that if she said anything
as such, I was getting on a plane tonight and fucking her up good.
"What kind of laundry soap do you use?" she asked, causing his
expression to change rapidly. His eyebrows scrunched and he blinked
quickly, obviously not expecting her to ask that.
Nor was fucking I.
"It's just, she has this rash, and when I took her to the doctor, he said
it must be an irritation from something I am using to wash her or her
clothes or something. I am really not in the mood to go and buy twelve
different types of soap and shit, so if you can just tell me, it would save
a lot of damn time," she explained, and his face donned understanding.
"Oh, yeah. I wrote it down on the paper. You can't-" she cut him off.
"I lost your stupid paper, so just tell me or forget it. I don't need your
lectures."
"I was just going to say you can't use anything with dyes. She's allergic.
You have to buy something clear with no perfumes. I don't know the
brand name and I'm not at home to look, but I can text it to you when I
get there or something. Just look for something that says 'free' on the
bottle if you can't wait 'til then. You can't use those dryer things either,
you know what I mean, the little softener things?"
"Yeah, I know what dryer sheets are, prick. I'm not that stupid. I just
needed to know what kind of soap. That goes for her bath-wash stuff,
also. Do you know what kind, or do I need to wait for you to text that
too?" she sounded irritated and I couldn't understand why. He wasn't at
all being rude or condescending. Edward was merely explaining all the
shit she should already know, being her mother.
I once again thought about the gangsters gang-banging her.
"My mother usually buys something from this catalog. I'll ask her for the
name, or could mail you some. Whichever is easiest for you, but they
should have something in the store that is for sensitive skin. I know this
kind has perfume in it and that doesn't seem to bother her, so maybe it's
not as strong as the detergent. Maybe one of those ladies in the cosmetic
area will know if you ask them to help you."
"I don't need your mother's handouts. I'm perfectly capable of finding
soap for my kid on my own. You know, you are such a prick. I didn't have
to let her call you, but I did. You should be thankful, not talking to me
like I'm a fucking retard."
"Jess, I was trying to help. I'm not saying you're stupid. I didn't know
any of that-"
"Whatever. I'm done with you," she hung up, and Edward just stared at
his phone, mouth gaped open.
"What is wrong with her? Seriously?" I asked, shaking my head, and took
his phone from him, closing it.
"Fuck." The worry came back to his face, and I knew he was afraid that
she wouldn't allow Ness to call again.
"FYI Edward, you didn't do or say anything wrong. You were perfectly
nice. She is just a fucking cunt on a rag that should then be set on fire."
I handed him back his phone, and he flipped it open, thumbing through it.
I placed my hand over it, stopping him.
"Don't call her back. It will only make things work."
"I'm not. I just want to save her number." I removed my hand and
allowed him, watching as his face scrunched, knowing he was still trying
to figure out what he did wrong.
It bugged the shit out of me.
"She's pissed at herself, babe. Not you," I said, cupping his chin and
making him look at me.
"What are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about that she doesn't even know what type of soap her kid
uses. Not only do you know all of these things, but you also have to hold
her hand through figuring them out. Jessica's wrong. She is stupid,
Edward. Really stupid. She is finally figuring it out, though. That's good."
I let go of his face and starting grabbing up my things, preparing to
leave the restaurant.
"I just wish she would let me help her. I would rather just have her call
and ask me then usethen use Ness as a damn guinea pig." Flower Child
slid out of the booth and held out a hand to me.
"I know, but that's what I mean. She has too many things that she
doesn't know. I wouldn't be surprised if your phone starts ringing off the
hook. She will call again. Trust me. And when she gets sick of trying to
figure it all out, and sees that your life hasn't been all sunshine and
rainbows raising a child, she'll give up." Edward took my hand as we
walked out of the restaurant, towards the Volvo. I glanced over to him
and saw that he was contemplating my words.
"Trust me. She's not as strong as you Flower Child. That is how you both
ended up in this position to begin with. You have shit that people can
judge because you actually tried, Edward. And when you try, you fucking
make mistakes. Jessica never tried, not even a little. Now though, she
will have to, and when she does, she's going to fuck up. A lot. The
biggest difference, though, is that you are strong enough to be persistent
and not give in when it gets too hard. She isn't. She's a weak person,
which is why she is a shitty mother. Believe it or not, THAT is your
biggest ally." He held the door to the Volvo open for me and I leaned
over to kiss him once before climbing inside.
He didn't say much driving home and I hoped that he was really
considering my words. I meant them, they weren't just hot air I was
blowing up his ass to make him feel better. The only part I left out was
my hope that Jessica wouldn't fuck up in a way that would harm Squeaks.
I'm sure he was already thinking it, but still.
We pulled up to his building after a short while and he turned the car
off, but didn't move. I looked over to him and followed his gaze to see
the Banners coming out from the main entrance for their late night
strolls I remembered they liked to take. Edward sat back in his seat and
sighed, causing me to look back to him.
"I just don't want to run into them right now," he said quietly, closing his
eyes.
"Is something wrong?" I asked, confused, not understanding what they
could have done to upset him.
"Isn't everything, angel?" he sounded exasperated, sighing hard. Edward
tilted his head towards me, opening his dim eyes as he spoke. "She's going
to ask about Ness. I really don't feel like explaining all that shit right
now."
"I understand." I sat back in my seat too, waiting for them to head away
from the building. He closed his eyes again and was silent, which was
killing me. I looked back over to him again and smiled, having frolicsome
thoughts enter my mind. "Babe?"
"Mmm?"
"I think we should make out." He opened his eyes, looking at me
dubiously. "What? We're in the car and have nothing better to do."
"That's a little immature don't you think?" he asked, sounding completely
unamused.
"I don't know. Did you make out in cars when you were a kid? I mean, I
know your reputation for shit you did in your later teen years in cars,
but what about the preteens?" he finally cracked a smile at my teasing.
"I'm not really in the mood, Bell." His face looked resentful as soon as he
said it, and he tried to recover. "I meanI just can't go there right now.
It's not you, baby. It just-"
"Flower Child, I'm not Jessica," I said pointedly. He looked at me
questioningly. "I want to know how you feel, and fine if you don't want to
kiss or fuck or whatever, then that's fine. But don't talk to me like I'm
fucking Jessica. I love you, and I want to know how you feel about shit.
The only thing that is going to piss me off is if you hide or lie. Got it?" I
raised my brows waiting for him to answer, but all he did was nod.
"Good." I looked back towards the door and saw that the Banners had
made there way out, meaning the coast was clear. "Let's go in. I'm spent
and would love a shower, then to pass the fuck out." I grabbed my purse
and opened the door as Edward followed my lead.
I drudged my way up to the door, crossing my arms over my chest, too
tired to even hold my head up. I was following the cracks in the concrete
when I felt Edward's arm rest on my shoulder, then his other under my
legs, sweeping me up into his arms. I laughed quietly at him and nuzzled
into his neck.
He held me like that the whole way up to his apartment, even in the
elevator. I once again chuckled at his attempt to unlock the door with
me in his arms, but he was persistent, saying he could do it without
putting me down. I smiled at him and reveled in that thought. It was
something small, but yet, monumentumental.
He was at least fighting against something.
Even if it was just a locked door.
* ~ * ~ * ~ *
HELL DAY
At 4:30 a.m. my phone buzzed under my pillow, signaling that it was time
to get up.
I rolled over and kicked Edward hard in the leg, trying to wake him. He
groaned and muttered something into the pillow; curse words if I had to
guess. I kicked him again and heard him suck his teeth, then curse aloud.
"Damn! Why are you kicking me, Bella?" he rasped, still full of sleep. I
flipped my phone open and held the light to his face, causing him to close
his eyes as he tried to hide his face.
"Hell day, pumpkin. Wake the fuck up." I kicked him again and pulled all
the covers off the bed with me as I crawled out. I heard him huff and I
smiled; 'cause even being only half awake, that shit was funny.
I made it into the bathroom and took a long ass shower, ensuring he
would have no hot water if he chose to take his. I even used the last
little bit of toothpaste left and tossed the tube, so he couldn't attempt
to get not even the tiniest bit out. All of my towels were left in a wet
heap on the floor, and I made sure to use my hand to wipe away all of
the steam from the mirror, knowing that shit would streak.
Yes, todayI was going to be the biggest pain in the ass of all time to
Flower Child.
Leave me to fucking see baby-twat-doc on my own. Oh, nu-uh Mister.
After I was dressed and ready, I stepped outside the bathroom, seeing
him waiting on the bed, looking very grumpy, tired, and irritated. Just as
I wanted.
"Oh, I'm sorry. Did you need to use the bathroom?" I asked, acting as
though I was really sorry, but, of course, I was not.
He didn't say anything, just gave me the hairy eyeball as he stood up and
sloshed his feet towards the bathroom. I waited for the door to close
and heard a string of profanities as soon as it did.
Awe, poor baby must have stepped in water.
I made my way to the kitchen and made a cup of tea; caffeine free, of
course, since Baby Cullen wouldn't allow me to drink my coffee. As I
waited for it to cool off enough for me to sip, I began going through the
cabinets and making sure there was no more booze in the house for my
little happy drinker. I ALSO, even though it felt sacrilegious to do so,
threw away his bag of gourmet coffee.
Edward stepped into the kitchen and eyed me angrily again, to which I
smiled cheerfully, only driving him even more mad. He went straight to
the cabinet and reached for the bag of coffee, but paused, furrowing his
brows when he saw it missing.
"If I can't drink it fucker, neither can you."
XXX
On the drive to The Workshop, I stopped at one of the open-air markets,
wanting to get some fresh ingredients for tonight's specials. Edward
seemed to wake up a bit at the sight of it, and I was happy he still had
that spark in him for this type of thing. It was one of the elements I
loved so much about him.
"Is this place always here? I don't remember ever seeing it before," he
asked as we started at the first row of produce.
"Yes. This market is open every day, which is pretty awesome, seeing as
how most cities only have weekend farmer's markets. We're pretty
lucky." I greeted Maggie, the owner of the pepper stand, and introduced
her to Flower Child, letting her know he was my executive chef. We
bought some shit from her and then moved on to Al, the guy in charge of
my favorite stand; the CHEESE stand.
We bought A LOT of shit from him.
I made Flower Child carry all of our stuff, and by the second row of
goods, he was pretty much awake. We visited the old couple who owned a
stand that sold handmade pottery, and I bought a small trinket for Esme
to say thank you for all the help she gave me this past month.
"If I am supposed to be hating this, you are going to be really
disappointed," Edward teased, giving me his stupid-cupid half smile.
"You're 'job' today, Edward, is to make me happy. How ever that happens
is how ever the fuck that happens."
"Like I said, if you think I will hate that, you're going to be disappointed,
angel. I would never hate that type of job." He smiled again and I had to
laugh at him. He took my hand as we walked the remainder of the market
and then back to my car.
XXX
My father was already at The Workshop when we arrived, not to my
surprise. The man opened his diner every morning at the butt-crack of
dawn. I left him a key so that he could have access the night before,
and I had a feeling I might find him here this morning. It made me smile
to think he was showing my place as much dedication as his own; even
though we weren't supposed to open for another twelve hours or so.
Or so I thought.
As we approached, I noticed the lights were on and my sidewalk sign was
out, showing a breakfast special menu. My brow furrowed, wondering
what the hell my father was up to. Edward even gave me a look, but I
simply shrugged, not knowing what the fuck was going on.
As we entered, I saw the restaurant was pretty full of people, and the
aroma of bacon and pancakes filled the air. My stomach growled, and my
memory flooded, completely being jogged of all the familiar smells and
memories I had walking into Charlie's diner when I was a kid.
"Simmer down Baby Cullen," I said quietly, rubbing my hand over my
stomach as we walked toward the kitchen passed all of the diners.
"What did you just say?" Edward asked, sounding amused.
"I told your child to cut it out." I replied, looking over my shoulder to
him as he followed behind me.
"I thought we agreed to call him or her Little Bit?" he asked playfully.
"You can call him or her that all you like, but I named the baby first. To
me, this is Baby Cullen." I backed my way into the kitchen and made a
face at him, causing him to laugh.
"Mmm, why my name?" he asked, squinting his eyes.
"It's your kid," I said, looking at him like he was fucktarded.
"Little Bit is both of ours. You could have just as easily given him or her
your last name. It could be Baby Swan," he countered, raising his brows
at me, looking playful.
"Baby Swan? What are we, fucking Animal Planet? Why on Earth would I
call my child Baby fucking Swan, you idiot?"
He just laughed and shrugged his shoulders, obviously pretty happy with
the rise he got out of me. I turned around to see my dad, whistling and
looking all fucking chipper as he flipped some pancakes and cooked the
breakfast foods.
I was going to say something smart to him for opening up my restaurant
so early without my okay to do so, but as I eyed the pancakes, a bright
fucking idea came into mind. Edward was leaning on the steel-top, looking
amused as he watched my father working. I tapped his shoulder, causing
him to look over at me, and I snapped my fingers, pointing towards
Charlie.
"First thing you're going to do today, Flower Child," I laughed in spite of
myself, "is learn how to make fucking pancakes."
My father looked over his shoulder to us questioningly as I tugged
Edward's arm. He grumbled that he 'already knew how to make pancakes'
to which I, of course, shot down.
When he was all set up with Charlie, I walked back out into the dining
area and looked around. Everyone seemed pretty happy as they sat and
ate my father's breakfast. The smell of sausage and coffee hit my nose
again and this time, Baby Cullen decided that smell was not alright.
I sprinted towards the restroom, covering my mouth until I reached the
sink. A woman washing her hands backed up immediately, and I apologized
as soon as I was done tossing my non-existent cookies.
"Sorry," I rinsed my mouth and spit, then reached for a paper towel. "My
child apparently doesn't like sausage today."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Edward
XXX
Day Thirty-one.
"When the bubbles begin to rise to the top of the batter, you know the
magic is working. That's when you know it's ready." I rolled my eyes as
Charlie explained the simple dynamics of making pancakes to me.
Why Bella was so fixated on teasing me about this, I had no idea. She
knew that I knew how to make stupid pancakes. It was a mind game, I'm
sure, as most things with Bella were. Usually, I enjoyed that side of her.
You know, the wittiness, the joking, the twinkle in her little half-angel-
half-devil eye that she would get when she was pushing someone's
buttons.
This morning, however, I was not amused.
First of all, kicking a person is not a very nice way to wake them up;
especially when said person had just fallen to sleep about an hour before
said kicking. Add in stepping in puddles of water with your socks on, then
being forced to take an ice-cold shower, and you had one very irritable
Edward on your hands.
PLUSshe took away my damn coffee!
Was I really that bad this past month?
"Are you paying attention here, boy?" I looked over to Charlie, and he
eyed me as he poured out another row of batter on the grill.
"Yeah, sorry. Someone took away my coffee this morning and I was just
thinking about how much more alert I would be right now ifthat
personhadn't." I stared murderously at the pancakes, even if they
didn't do anything to me.
The anger needed to be directed somewhere, though.
"Ah, damn. She took your coffee?" Charlie laughed as he flipped the row
of pancakes, clearly amused at his daughter's torture tactics.
"Yeah, and made me take a cold shower, and kicked me out of bed"
"I don't wanna hear nothing about you being in bedwith or without my
daughter," he held the spatula up to me. "So let's just not even go
there. Now, what you can do is show me what a good little waitress you
are, and serve those people out there another round." Charlie shoved the
plate of pancakes at me
"I'm not a waitress," I gave him a look of warning, but it didn't seem to
sway him on the matter. He stepped closer to me and tossed down the
spatula, making it clink loudly against the griddle.
"Let me tell you something here, boy. I have been up since 4 a.m. running
this place by myself. I have prepped, cooked, and served without any
help. I could be at home right now with my beautiful wife, having a
fantastic time watching her dance around my diner in her little waitress
uniform.
"Instead, I am here, looking at your stupid face, being a one-man show.
Which, last time I checked, was all your fault. The least you could do, is
go serve some customers pancakes as a way of saying 'thanks'." He shoved
the tray at me again and backed off, picking up the spatula again.
"Maybe if you spent less time trying to get in my daughter's pants and
more time learning what she's trying to teach you, Edward, you could be
standing here making food Bella knew how to make when she was knee
high to a grasshopper." He gave me one final look of disgust from over his
shoulder and then shook his head, going back to his cooking.
"Thanks," I mumbled under my breath and headed for the dinning room.
Bella was behind the wait staff's station, ringing up a sale as I stepped
through the doors. She looked up and smiled at me, then went back to
her work. The diners all seemed pretty happy with Charlie's breakfast. I
was a little surprised that Bella was allowing Charlie to get away with
opening the restaurant without her authority, but maybe it had to do
with what Charlie was saying to me. Maybe she was just thankful to have
him here, regardless.
Alright fine, if she could just suck it up and not allow Charlie to get on
her nerves about things she, quite obviously, had issues with like people
having control over shit then so could I.
After all, he was right.
I was the reason he had to be here.
Xxx
After breakfast was over, we locked back up so that we could clean up
the mess and begin prep for the real service tonight. Okay, let me back
that up.
I was cleaning up.
Bella was eating, and Charlie was helping her sort out the receipts from
this morning; doing all of her book keeping for her. I was up to my
elbows in dirty dishes and cursing like crazy as I stood there doing each
load. This was not the way I wished to spend my day. Although, being
busy was sort of nice in a way. Did it help me to not think about Ness?
No.
Nothing would take my mind off of her.
I'm sure that's what Bella was trying to really achieve here, too; by
giving me all this work. I made a promise to her that I was going to try,
though, so that is what I had to do.
And I would, for her and for the baby.
As I waited for the new load of dishes to finish, I started scrubbing
down the grill, once again finding colorful uses of the English language
with each scrape of dried egg and pancake batter.
The metal handle popped on the dishwasher, singling the load was done a
short while after. I walked over to it, opening the metal door, and
allowed the steam to billow out. They would need a few minutes to cool
off before I could touch them, so I walked back over to the grill and
began scraping again. Keys rattled against the back door and I lifted my
eyes to it, watching to see who was coming in so early.
Only two people, other than Bella and myself, had keys to that door;
Angela and Emmett.
Something told me, it wasn't going to be Angela.
Sure enough, my damn brother stepped through the door. He stopped
dead in his tracks, seeing me standing there, and rubbed a hand over his
head.
"Hey," he said simply, with a slight nod towards me.
I said nothing in return, just looked back down to my cleaning and began
scraping again.
"Is B here?" Emmett asked nervously.

"You think I would be here right now scraping down the fucking grill if
she weren't?" I looked back up to glare at him. I swear, somewhere in
the back of my head, looking at him standing there, that fucking
Drowning Pool song was playing in my head.
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floor
Let the bodies hit the floooooooooooooooooooooor.
"My office. Now." I whipped my head towards the sound of Bella's voice,
and saw her standing in the doorway to the dining room, glaring at
Emmett.
This was the only time within the past month I had been thankful for
Emmett's presence. Bella finally had a new person to pick on today. And
something told me, looking at the anger in her eyes, I wasn't the only
person who was hearing that song in my head.
Emmett walked silently towards her, dipping his head a little, looking like
a scolded puppy, again. But this time, there was no irritation there, like
when he messed up the chef's table installation. He almost looked like he
wanted her to yell at him and to take whatever punishment she was
surley going to give him. Bella glanced at me once before she allowed the
door to swing closed behind them.
In just that one small glimpse into her eyes, I saw everything that she
tried so hard to mask, and knew Emmett was in for it.
As soon as I heard her office door slam, Bella's yelling followed.
"What the fuck is wrong with you! Flower Child is your brother and you
choose that skank over him! Seriously Emmett?!"
"Bella, I wasn't"
"You can't turn a whore into a housewife! Anyone ever teach you that
shit Emmett?!"
"She's not"
"Save it! You chose Rosalie over Edward! Over Ness! Over me! Over
everyone! Edward is right to call you a fucking traitor, you know! That is
exactly what you are! And all of this fucking time" she stopped and I
heard Charlie talking. His words were muffled through the walls, though,
and I couldn't make out what he was saying. I heard the door to her
office close again and then Bella's voice was lower, no longer allowing me
to hear what she was saying to him.
Charlie entered the kitchen next, shaking his head and rubbing the back
of his neck. I looked at him questioningly and he waved me off.
"Kid's gonna have an aneurism yelling like that."
Xxx.
Bella.
* * * *
"Bells, you gotta settle down. I know you're angry, but seriously, that
stuff is no good for that baby." I was taken aback by my father's words
as he poked his head into my office, interrupting my Emmett-ass-handing.
I nodded to him and he looked at Emmett, almost like he was going to
say something, but opted not to, simply ducking back out of my office,
closing the door quietly behind him. I was still standing, leaning slightly
over the desk so I could really yell at Emmett as he sat in the chair on
the opposite side.
Taking a few deep breaths, I plopped down into my seat and cupped my
forehead into my hand, trying to calm down.
"I wasn't trying to hurt Edward," Emmett said quietly. "Or Shortcake.
Fuck, Bella," Emmett rubbed his face several times and I lifted my eyes
to him.
"Well, you did. More than I think you could ever know. Up until fucking
yesterday, he was balled up in the fetal position, drunk off his ass. If it
wasn't for Charlie, he probably would still be like that right now," I
sighed, sitting back in my chair, and looking him in the eye. "What the
fuck were you thinking?"
"There was no right choice for me, Bella. No matter what I did or said.
Can't you see that?" I shook my head at him and sat forward, resting my
arms on my desk.
"This isn't about you, Emmett. It's about Flower Child and Nessie. Do I
really need to spell..."
"What I mean is, no matter what I picked I was screwed. Even if I
decided to break it off with Rose, she would have still testified against
Edward. Except then I would have lost my kid, too. I'm not standing by
what the fuck she did 'cause I know it's wrong, Bella, and SHE knows
how I feel about it, trust me but I can't just walk away from my child.
You have to at least understand that. Can't you?"
I shook my head at him, not wanting to hear his pity-tale and 'woe is me'
bullshit.
"B, what if you were in my shoes? What if you had to choose between
Edward and that baby?" he pointed towards Baby Cullen.
"It's not the same," I shook my head.
"It is. Edward is the father of your child, just as Rosalie is the mother
of mine. Can't you understand that I wasn't picking her, I was picking my
child; just as I know you would, too. No matter how much you love
Edward. You would pick that baby over anything, anyone."
I stared at him for a long moment and hated that Douche Emmetlo was
right. That didn't mean I forgave him, but I could understand what he
meant. He, of course, didn't need to know that shit.
"You and Edward need to be able to work together. I know he's probably
not going to be willing to even talk to you today, so just give him
breathing room. You have some serious catching up to do on work, but
first, you need to go down to the docks and pick this up," I handed him
over the order for my fish vendor. "Then, you can spend the next three
hours having Charlie teach you how to gut, filet, and scale all the fish
from that order."
"I thought I was supposed to stay away from Edward?" he grumbled,
taking the paper from my hand.
"Flower Child has his own duties today. He won't be in the kitchen during
that time, so just be a good little Douche Emmetlo, and do as I say."
Emmett nodded to me and climbed to his feet, turning to face the door.
"Em?" I called, causing him to turn around. "You need to figure out how
the fuck you are going to make this right with Edward. I would suggest
starting on how you're going to convince that precious baby mamma of
yours to recant her statement she made in court. Something tells me
that is the only way you are ever going to repair this shit between you
and him."
"I know. I'm trying," He reached for the handle and exited my office.
I spent the next hour going through emails and making sure all was right
in my crazy world. Eyeing the clock, I saw that Alice was about to
arrive, which meant Flower Child could leave since she would need the
kitchen for her own prep. I scooted from behind my desk and grabbed my
bag, walking to the kitchen.
Edward was with Charlie, watching the new sous chef, Alistair, as he
showed them how to make vinaigrette drops. I laughed, seeing the same
expression on both my dad and Flower Child's faces. One that clearly
read 'I don't get it.'
"Bonjour, Miss Swan," Alistair smiled, looking up to me.
"Morning," I replied simply, stepping inside of the kitchen. "You ready to
go, babe?" I held my hand out to Edward and his brows furrowed.
"Where?" he asked, taking my hand into his.
"We have an appointment," I smiled and tugged him along.
As we walked toward the door, Alice was coming in. She gave a bright
smile, seeing Edward, and winked at me quickly.
"Hey Baby Daddy," she hit him once in the chest as we passed, and he
smiled down at her.
"Hey, peanut-butter-cookie girl."
* * *
"Why are these rooms always so small and quiet?" Edward asked, leaning
his mouth to my ear. I smiled as I thumbed the buttons on my phone,
replying back to someone working on shit for Invoke.
"I think you should fart," I whispered back. "That would be classic."
Flower Child laughed softly and leaned his head against mine, glancing at
what I was typing.
"What are you doing?" he asked.
"Choosing countertops," I scrolled through the pictures on my phone and
showed him.
"For Invoke?" he asked, and I nodded. "You know that you amaze me,
right?" Edward wrapped his arm around my shoulder and kissed the side
of my head. "Only you could be sitting in a doctor's office, about to see
our baby, and be picking out dcor for a restaurant in another country,
at the same time," Edward gave me his stupid half smile and I laughed
quietly to myself.
"The real world stops for nothing, Flower Child." I continued to thumb
through the pictures and he watched.
"Isabella Swan?" I looked up to see a woman holding a chart, calling me
to the back.
"But sometimes," I closed my phone and slid it back into my bag, "you
just have to shut it the fuck off."
*
I was lying there, one hand behind my head and the other in Edward's
just like I wanted it the first time as the twat doc rolled the cold
slimy goo over my belly. I was still not far enough along to really see
much of anything new, as Baby Cullen was still looking like a fish with
small flippers.
I stared at the monitor, though, watching as the doctor showed us what
was going on inside of yours truly.
Peaking at Edward, his face looked serene, but his eyeshis eyes danced
with a pride and happiness that I hadn't seen in a long time. I bit back
the tears brewing in my own eyes, and looked back to the monitor.
"Now, you probably have another two, or possibly three, weeks before we
can get a good listen of the heartbeat, but if you look right there," the
doctor pointed at the screen, "you can see where the heart is." I looked
at the place she pointed, and sure as heck, you could see the thump-
thump.
"Can you leave it there a second?" I asked her, and she smiled, allowing
the paddle-wandy-thingy to stay showing the heartbeat.
"Why can we only see it and not hear it?" Edward asked, causing me to
look towards him. "I don't remember that before?"
"You have had children previously?" The doctor asked, looking to me,
confused.
"I have a daughter," Edward said simply, keeping his eyes on the monitor.
"Well, sometimes, depending on the position, it is just hard to get the
sound. The position just isn't right this time. By your next visit, you
should be able to hear it, no problem. This picture is very clear, though.
You must have to go to the bathroom rather badly," the doctor winked at
me, and I sighed, looking back to the monitor.
Apparently, drinking large doses of liquid was key to this fuckery, as I
was instructed to do so each time.
Seriously, my bladder was about to burst, people.
"Thanks a lot, Doc. I wasn't thinking about it until you just said it." I
continued to watch the heartbeat and squeezed Edward's hand, trying to
hold in the emotions that were coursing through me at the sight of it.
"Sorry," the doctor apologized. "I will give you pictures of this for your
records, also." She pressed a few buttons and went over the rest of the
check-up, telling me all about what to expect and asking me a slew of
questions.
The doctor left for a bit, after she cleaned me off, leaving Edward and I
alone in the room. He sat next to me on the examining bed, holding me
close to him, running his fingers through my hair as we waited for her to
return.
"Are you alright?" he asked softly.
"I'm fine. Just need to pee like there's no tomorrow."
"She should be back soon," he kissed my head and continued raking his
fingers through my hair.
"It's really beautiful, right?" I asked quietly, even though it felt like my
words echoed loudly in the small room.
"The baby?"
"The baby, the heartbeat, this," I squeezed my hand in his and Flower
Child nodded against me.
"Yes it is, angel," he kissed my hand that was locked in his and hugged
me tighter in his arms. "I was wrong, you know. That day, when Iwhen I
had to let Jessica have Nessie. I told her that she gave me the greatest
thing anyone ever had, when Ness was born. I was wrong, though.
Renesmee is just one of the three greatest things I have ever been given.
I see that now. It felt wrong to admit that before, like I was admitting
to not loving her as much or something. I understand it now, though," he
said softly.
"Well, if it's any consolation, up until I met you five months ago, Edward,
I lived the past eight years of my adult life thinking there was never
anything I could love more than my profession. And never did. Except
maybe cheese, but that's sort of neither here nor there." Edward's
laughter vibrated softly, and I clung to him harder, rolling my head into
his shirt, breathing in a long pull of his fragrance.
"That's pretty bad, Bella," he teased.
"I know."
The doctor came back into the room and handed over the paperwork and
pictures, and went over some other stuff. I was finally able to pee, and
then we left the doctor's office. I gave Edward the keys to my car and
let him drive so I could work from my laptop. Plus, I was feeling way too
tired to drive.
Half way to The Workshop I was literally forcing my eyes to stay open as
I stared at the screen, yawning uncontrollably. I wiped the water from
my sleepy eyes and blinked, trying to focus.
"Maybe you should go home and sleep," Edward said, rubbing his hand on
my cheek. I looked over to him and shook my head.
"You're not getting rid of me today, Flower Child. Nice try, though." I
knocked his hand away and he laughed. "Plus, there is no way I am
leaving you alone with Emmett."
"I don't have anything to say to him," he shrugged, raking his bottom lip
in between his teeth.
"Sure you do. Just as I did this morning. I'm sure they are very much the
same words, in fact." I looked back over to him, raising my brows.
"Well then they don't need to be said twice, now do they?" he
countered.
"Don't be a smartass, Flower Child. You are just beginning to get back on
my good side. It would be really shitty for you to ruin it now." I went
back to my work and the car was silent.
The tension was thick as he drove, and I knew that I probably shouldn't
have even brought up Emmett's name. I sighed and closed the lid to my
laptop, shoving it back inside of my bag. My conversation with Emmett,
earlier, lingered in my mind as I stared out the window, watching as the
city of Miami flew by.
"If you had to choose between me and Ness, which would you pick?" I
asked, keeping my eyes looking out the window.
"What kind of question is that?" he asked, sounding irritated.
"One that Emmett had to answer last month," I looked over to Edward
and watched as his brows scrunched, looking at me dubiously. "If you
could only choose one of us, would you pick me or Renesmee?" I pressed.
"My daughter isn't Emmett's sacrificial lamb, Bella," he said angrily.
"But can you see that he wasn't picking Rose? He was only guarding his
child, as you would guard yours."
"Alright fine," he shifted the car into park as we pulled up behind the
restaurant. "Let's go with this, then. You want to use analogies for shit
to get me to see his point? Then here's one for you to see mine." Edward
grabbed the folder with the paperwork from the doctor's office and
pulled out the sonogram picture, tossing it into my lap.
"There's 'your Renesmee', Bella. Let's say Charlie's wife, Sue, is going to
say you did some shit that you didn't, and THAT shit, is going to take,"
he pointed to the picture, "your baby away from you. A month later he
shows up, never having said a word to you about it, and giveslet's say
fucking Angela, a sob story as to why. Are you really going to believe and
be able to forgive what she is telling you? What he has said to her? Dad
or not, can you honestly say that after the shit you felt in that doctor's
office, seeing the baby's heart beating, that you could just forgive him
that easily?" His blue eyes were electric with the anger he felt. I
nodded, looking down to the picture on my lap.
"I know, Edward." He went to get out of the car, but I reached for him
and he paused. "I'm not saying you have to forgive him or that you
should. I'm just saying this whole situation is fucked up and I'm tired of
seeing everyone I love miserable. You, most of all, and I know that having
thisthis shitin between you and Emmett is only making it worse. I
don't know how to make the stuff with Squeaks better, babe. That shit is
not in my control. But I know you, and I know Emmettand I know you
guys love each other, and I love you two jackasses. Sojust try. If not
for him, then for me. Just try for me. Please?"
Edward closed his eyes and leaned back against the seat, sighing hard. I
unbuckled my seatbelt and leaned over the console placing a kiss to his
cheek. He pressed my face into his neck, tilting his head, kissing me in
return.
"If you give me back my rights to smoke and drink coffeeI might
consider it," he said.
"How about you just do what I say and stop being such a pussy," I poked
his chin and he laughed humorlessly.
"OR, you could give me back my rights to drink coffee and smoke," he
tried again.
"Edward, as cute as you are, there is no way that you are allowed to
drink coffee again until I am, too. And I mean, full fledged coffee, none
of that decaf bullshit. Smoking is justit's just no longer allowed.
Period." I pulled back from him and popped the door to climb out.
"Don't you think that is rather hypocritical?" he asked, walking around to
my side of the car. "You smoked around my kid, you know."
"No I didn't," I said pulling my laptop bag from the car.
"Okay, not in front of her, but you still smoked while we had her. And
allowed me to, as well." Edward took my bag and slung it over his
shoulder, closing the passenger side door before he took my hand.
"Well, I was stupid, and truthfully, that was your fault. You never said
anything about it, and I'm not experienced at this type of fuckery. So
cut me a break. New rules are: no smoking, for either of us, ever. You're
not allowed to eat, or drink, or do anything I can't do too. Truthfully, I
should also be allowed to kick you in the gut every morning, as well, since
that is what having morning sickness feels like." He stuck his keys into
the backdoor and unlocked it. I placed my hand over his and smiled,
looking at him.
"What you are about to see when you walk in here, babe, shows just how
much I love you." I let go of his hand and opened the door, holding it
open for him. "And how fucking wrong I think your brother was."
* * *
Edward.
XXX
As I stepped inside of the kitchen, I saw Emmett's big ass covered in fish
guts from head to toe. Charlie looked up to Bella and waved at her,
looking highly annoyed. She pulled me along, not allowing me to linger
where he was, and walked with me to her office. I went to sit down in
the chair across from hers, but she shook her head at me and pointed to
the floor beside her, not saying a word.
I sighed hard and rose to my feet, walking around her desk, and took a
seat on the floor beside her chair.
"Shoes," she swiveled her chair so that she could type and wiggle her
feet at me simultaneously. I pulled off her heels and set them to my
side.
"Rub," she said next, and I began massaging her feet. "You know, this
feud of yours is working just great for me. I take back what I said in
the car," Bella sighed dramatically.
"You know, I bet he still has another hour of filleting to do. You better
get comfy sitting down there."
I remained silent, knowing that was best. She thrived on getting a
reaction out of people, and, in truth, this was better than having to deal
with Emmett right now.
"Unless, of course, you want your kitchen back. Then, I mean, you could
just get right up and prance on in there, telling them all too fuck off and
show Emmett how to filet a fucking fish and shit. Totally make him look
like a dick. I would find that highly arousing. Really," she nodded looking
at her screen, but her tactics were useless.
I wasn't going to speak to Emmett today.
No matter how many times she used the word 'arousing.'
Xxx
After Bella's extended foot-rub hour, she gave me the keys to my office
that I had yet to see then we went back to prep. The new dude,
Alistair, was way too fucking flirty with both Alice and Bella. I didn't
like it one bit. Earlier today, he showed us this stuff with making bubbles
that held the dressing. I just stared at him, wondering how much pussy
he must have missed out on learning to do such tricks. I mean, shit, I
wasn't the pussy Messiah by any means, but at least it was because I
spent most of my time raising a kid.
Not making vinaigrette capsules.
Bella, on the other hand, seemed all kinds of impressed by himand his
stupid European accent. Alice and she giggled like little school girls
watching him perform all his little tricks. Bella even exchanged words
with him in Italian, having some type of secret conversation.
I knew she was doing it to fuck with me, but that was hitting below the
belt.
Thankfully, the time to open rolled by quickly, and we all gathered for
our normal staff meeting beforehand. I took my seat in the front, and
Charlie sat down next to me. I saw Ben come in, finally. Bella had given
Angela the night off and Ben was only closing tonight since we were
overstaffed now.
"Hey man," Ben hit my arm and I nodded to him. "Haven't seen you
around here in a while. Bella have you traveling around or something?" he
asked, taking a seat on my left.
I was a little taken aback by his question, thinking that Bella would have
explained my absence.
"UmI just had shit to do," I said, shrugging, unsure of what to say. I
sure as hell wasn't going to say what I had been really doing.
"Alright, simmer down," Bella said, entering the room. "Soas you can
see, Flower Child and Emmett are back from their honeymoon. They both
look freshly fucked and just super duper happy to be here, don't they?"
She waved towards us and I rolled my eyes at her crassness. Charlie
groaned beside me and I peeked over to see him covering his face.
"Good, now that we have that taken care of, I want to say that I will
not be in the kitchen tonight. Flower Child is the executive chef and
Alistair is the sous chef, so I am just the fly on the wall. Unless your
name is Edward, pretend I don't exist, 'cause he is the only one I am
answering tonight. That, of course, means you are to bring all questions
to" she motioned for them to answer.
"Edward," they said in unison.
"Aww, see how smart you all are," Bella smiled teasingly. "Okay, let's get
to work." She went to leave and I cleared my throat, causing her to
pause. "Yes?"
"You didn't ask if anyone had anything," I tried hard not smile at her
miss.
"Do you have something to share, Flower Child?" she asked, looking rather
amused.
"YeahEmmett sucks as a husband." The others laughed, not knowing
what I really meant, and Bella gave me a look of warning.
"Anything else, Flower Child?" she asked.
"And I'm sorry I wasn't here," I said quietly, looking down to my shoes.
"Let's go to work," she said and the meeting was dismissed. I followed
behind Bella and stopped her, placing my hands on her hips. She waited
for the others to go about there business and then faced me, finally.
"I was trying not to bring the drama into the restaurant," she said
angrily.
"I know. That's why I was about to apologize," I leaned in and kissed
her. "I'm sorry." My arms surrounded her waist and Bella sighed.
"Just behave tonight, please. By all means, give him as much shit as you
can, but keep it strictly on the level of an executive chef torturing the
general manager," she smirked, thumbing the buttons on my chef coat.
"Soin other words, be like you?" I teased.
"Nomy fuckery goes way beyond anything you could ever achieve as an
exec." She hit my chest once and went to turn, but I held her still.
"I love you," I pulled her to me, cupping my hands to her face, and
kissed her soundly.
"Mmm, love you," she whispered against my lips, kissing me more
forcefully.
My hands slid down her face, coursing over her petite frame until I
reached the swell of her ass and copped a feel, not having done so in
quite some time. She groaned into my mouth and wrapped her arms
around my neck, pulling me into her harder.
She obviously had been missing this too.
"Excuse me," a small voice sounded from behind me and I tilted my head
to look, turning us slightly.. There was an older woman with her husband
standing at the podium. "Could we get a table, please?" she asked shyly.
"Oh!" Bella pushed me aside, realizing that the restaurant was open, and
walked to them. "I'm sorry. Um, how many?"
"Just the two of us," the lady replied.
Bella grabbed two menus and asked them to follow her, after marking
there table on the seating chart.
"I'll do that," Emmett pushed passed me and took the menus from Bella.
"Thank you. Emmett will show you to your seats," Bella smiled and took a
step back so they could pass. "Sorry you had to wait."
"That's quite alright dear," the lady said. "I don't blame you for not
passing that up. He's very handsome," the lady looked at me as she
passed, and Bella laughed, turning back towards me.
"Yes, he is." Her hand palmed my cheek as she passed me. "Hung like a
horse too," Bella giggled looking back at me. Her eyebrows wiggled and I
watched as her eyes looked down to the front of my pants that were.
Fucking going commando bullshit.
Tented.
"Didn't know wieners were on the menu," I looked up to see Charlie
holding the kitchen door open for me with one hand, knife in the other.
I made a b-line to the restrooms in order to avoid having my dick cut
off. After I got Lt. Dan to calm down, I walked back towards the kitchen
and made my way in.
"So nice of you to join us," Charlie made a face at me. "Finished
molesting my daughter now?"
"I'm ready to start service," I said, not wanting to provoke him any
further. There were too many sharp objects in this kitchen, and I'm sure
he had no qualms about using them to harm me.
"Ed-waaaard," Alistair sang, putting his arm over my shoulder, and held
the first ticket up to me. I looked over at his arm and then to his face,
clearly telling him that gay shit was not allowed. He backed off before I
had to look for some sharp objects of my own.
"Miss Bella was allowing me to call the tickets. Would you like me to do
that this evening or" I snatched the ticket from him and pushed him
aside. "It's my kitchen. I'll call the fucking orders. You just stand there
and look pretty or fucking jerk yourself off or whatever the fuck Bella
hired your ass for. Okay, Princess? Or should I say Princesa?"
Alistair backed off, walking over to his side of the pass, and I looked to
my brigade, calling out the first order, then tacked it back on the board.
"Thata boy," Charlie patted me on the back and smirked, looking over at
Alistair quickly, then back to me.
"Fucker is here for less than a month and thinks he owns the place," I
grumbled, setting up my space on the pass so I could dress my plates
when they were ready.
Service was going well. The new guy stayed out of my way, only doing
what he was told, thankfully, and Charlie was actually a great help. I
watched him tonight, how he interacted with Ben, showing him all the
points of where he was wrong, and was glad he did so.
I always liked that kid. I know Bella had her issues with him not being up
to par and all that, but I don't knowthere was just something about
Ben that was A-ok with me. Seeing her father take the time to mentor
him a bit, made me respect Charlie all the more.
"Yo, Edward," I looked up to see Emmett standing in front of the pass.
"What do you need?" I asked, going back to dressing my plate.
"This lady on table five wants to know if the kitchen can swap the veg
for a piece of pie?" he waved the ticket at me as I looked back up to
him.
"Veg for pie?" I asked.
"Yeah," he nodded.
"Alistair," I called, swiping the ticket from Emmett's hand.
"Yes, Chef Edward?" he said, walking towards me. I held the ticket
towards him and he took it from my hand.
"You want to swap pie for veg?" I asked him, looking back down to my
plating.
"Veg for pie?" he asked, highly confused. I lifted my plate and set it on
the tray for the waiter next to Emmett, and looked at him finally.
"There's your answer, General Manager. Now fuck off out of my kitchen
and next time you think it's funny to come ask me some bullshit like that,
I'll be sure to show you just how funny I can be, too." I spun around and
called out the next ticket.
When I turned back aroundEmmett was gone.
Xxx
Bella.
* * *
I wanted to leave Edward in charge tonight for several reasons. Most
importantly, I needed him to remain busy. Secondly, I needed him to be
able to deal with working with Emmett, even if he was only answering
questions pertaining to service.
I checked on him several times throughout the night and he seemed to
have his shit in order.
My father was sort of 'keeping guard', which was nice. I knew no one
would dare step out of line with his presence in the kitchen. I spent most
of the night in my office, arranging things for Invoke, trying to do as
much as I could over the phone and computer. Taking a trip to Canada
right now just wasn't going to help matters.
I looked up at the clock, yawning, and rubbed my eyes, feeling
completely spent. It was well after one in the morning, and seeing as how
we woke up at four today, I knew Flower Child was probably dying to go
home too. He did really good tonight, never once coming to me with a
problem; which was exactly what I wanted for him to handle things.
I stepped out of my office, walking towards the kitchen to tell him to
hurry up cleaning so we could go home. As I rounded the corner, I
paused, seeing his office door ajar. I peeked in quietly, and saw him
sitting there. He had the picture of Renesmee that I framed for his desk
in his hands.
Edward's face looked thoughtful as he stared down at it, and I could see
his fingers coursing over the glass. I knocked twice on the wooden door
softly, making him lift his eyes to me. He kept the picture in his hands
and looked back down.
"Thanks," he said softly, to my surprise. "This is a really nice picture."
"As if she could take a bad one," I said, making the corners of his mouth
lift slightly. He set the picture down and rested his chin into his palm,
looking at it, still.
"I'm done in the kitchen, unless there's something else to do," he said.
I stepped inside and walked around his desk. He finally looked up to me
as I held my hand out to him.
"I think we had enough for one day." Edward took my hand and allowed
me to lead him out.
I noted that he left the light on in his office as we exited, but I said
nothing about it, understanding perfectly why he did so.
~ * ~
When we arrived home, I pulled Edward with me, through his dark
apartment, towards the bathroom. I closed the door softly, only turning
the dial on the lights so that we could see. It casted a warm glow in the
small space, and I began helping him out of his clothes, fully intending on
taking care of him for doing so well today.
"I love you," I tipped up on my toes and kissed his chin softly.
"I love you too, angel." The intensity in his eyes said it all as I looked
into them. I kissed him again, this time on his lips, and then reached for
the water, holding back the shower curtain for him to climb in.
I pulled off my own clothing, then slipped in behind him.
His bar of soap was all goopy and soft, so I chose to use my body-wash
on him, instead. Sure he smelled like fruity girly stuff, whatever. He was
MY fruity girly stuff. My hands lathered the gel and I began working his
back, making sure to linger on all the important parts like hot muscles
number one, then two, thenoh yeah those dimples on the lower back
definitely needed special attention.
Hel-lo Nurse!
I gave him a good back scratching as I washed him, and he hummed
appreciatively. When I was done with his back, I moved onto his fabulous
butt cheeks that were more like fabulous works of art. Seriously, those
were two humps of goodness in the world that needed their own shrine
somewhere.
I kneaded them like they were precious lumps of dough, firmly, but
gently.
When my ass-worshipping was done, he spun around. I washed his chest,
giving him several light kisses, but tried to keep it innocent, knowing that
he was probably too tired to get frisky. I'm sure he could have been
swayed if I really pressed the issue, but I had already done enough of
that shit todayand right now, I was supposed to be taking care of him.
So that's what I did.
After we were both clean and dry, we changed into our respective
pajamas and crawled into bed. Edward spooned behind me, kissing my
neck, and lacing his fingers with mine under the pillow. Butterbean's
greedy self begged me to rub my ass against crotch, 'cause this position
was seriously fucking with my need to do just that, fuck but I beat
her off like a crazy Robert Pattinson fan.
No means no.
His other hand rubbed along my belly, slowly and sweetly, as he
continued with his innocent kisses. I closed my eyes and devoted all of
my attention to the feeling. It was encapsulating, powerful, when he
touched me like that. I had never felt so bonded to someone, and I tried
to imagine how Jessica could have possibly ever felt anything else
towards Edward. I know they were young, and not in love, but this
shitpeople, I'm telling you I could never describe the high I felt.
Or the gratitude towards Edward I felt, for that matter, for giving me
such a thing, intended or not.
"I wish we could have heard the baby's heartbeat today," I said softly,
placing my hand over his. "I really want to hear it."
Edward was quiet for a moment, then, pulled away from me, rolling to his
back.
"Come here," he said, pulling me towards him. I rolled over and laid on
my other side, spooning into his side. "Put your head here," he patted his
chest and I leaned my ear over the area. "Can you hear it now?" he
asked softly.
Flower Child's heart thumped under my ear and I closed my eyes,
squeezing the tears in them out. I nodded quickly and sniffled, as the
emotions I had been holding in all day erupted.
"That's where Little Bit is. Where you are. Where Ness is," he whispered,
sounding very sleepy. "That's where the heart is. My heart, your
heartit's all the same, Bellit's all the same."
~ * ~
Edward
XXX
Day thirty-two.
The morning sun was shining in brightly though my bedroom's sheer
curtains. I looked over to see Bella still sleeping, curled up in a ball along
my side. I kissed her forehead and laid there for a few minutes, looking
at her. The sun made the red in her hair stand out, looking more auburn
than the usual dark brown.
I thought about that for a moment, and wondered why, in five months
time, this was the first I had really ever noticed this about her. It was a
strict contrast to the rest of her, as her skin was becoming paler. I
looked back towards the sliding doors and realized how little sun she
must have been getting this month, not able to do much other than work.
She once made a comment about that, towards the begging of when I
started working there, saying that she loved the beach, but rarely ever
got to go anymore.
I leaned in again and kissed her forehead, allowing my nose to skim along
her face, inhaling her sweet fragrance. One more kiss and I scooted out
from the bed, making sure to cover her up with the extra blanket I was
no longer using.
I went into the bathroom and took a piss, then brushed my teeth. My
face was still pretty smooth, so I neglected to shave. It was fairly early
still, just after six, and I knew Bella had to be exhausted from
yesterday.
I walked into the hallway, closing my bedroom door quietly behind me,
and paused, looking at Ness' door staring back at me. The little princess
sticker on the door jabbed me in the heart, and I had to walk away
before I thought too much about it.
There was no coffee, and I wasn't sure what to do with myself, seeing as
how making it was usually the first thing I did in the morning. I looked
around and took in my surroundings, seeing a few new things my hazy,
drunken eyes hadn't the day prior. There was a sonogram picture on the
fridge from the appointment I missed.
I looked at it, and then walked over to where Bella had left the envelope
from yesterday's visit so I could hang the new one. The picture Ness
drew was just below it, and, again, I had to walk away.
The couch seemed safe enough, but as I sat down, I then thought about
being drunk here and all the shit that stirred. It was a lost cause. This
whole place was just one reminder after another of unpleasant memories,
just like my parent's house.
I walked back into the kitchen and dug out a piece of scrap paper to
scribble down a note for Bella that I was going for a run and that I
loved her. Not really sure where to leave it, I balled it up and threw it
away, thinking I would just text her instead.
Creeping back into my room, I pulled on some old sweatpants and a tank
top, then snuck back out to the living room. Once my shoes were on, I
grabbed my keys, iPod, and cell phone, shoved them into my pocket, and
then left the hell that was otherwise known as my apartment.
The Banners were sitting on a bench out in front of the building, and I
quickly skirted around them, still not wanting to have that meeting yet.
Once my feet hit the sand of the beach, I placed my ear buds in and
reached for my phone, texting Bella, and then took off, leaving nothing
but the Miami sand in the dust.
I jogged until I was out of breath and my legs felt rubbery. Running on
sand was not easy, that's for sure. It was worth it, though. I had way
too much pent up shit going on to let it sit and fester. Trying to catch
my breath, I walked back up to the mainland, needing to feel some
sturdy ground under my feet.
"Edward!" I spun around to see Lauren waving to me, and I cursed lowly
under my breath, but waved back to her. She was sitting outside one of
the cafs by herself. Hesitantly, I walked over to her, not really wanting
to, but not wanting to be rude either.
"Hey! What are you doing up so early?" she smiled, appraising me with
her eyes.
"Sweating," I said sarcastically, motioning to my clothes.
"I see that," she said raising a brow at me.
Okay, that was clearly not the right thing to say to her.
"What are you doing?" I asked in return.
"Just waiting for some friends," Lauren shrugged. "Would you like to join
me?" she asked just as I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket. I held a
finger to her and dug it out, smiling once I saw it was Ness.
"Hey baby girl," I said, completely walking away from Lauren, back down
the sidewalk.
"It's me," Jessica said. "I have to ask you something."
I paused as soon as I heard her voice and shook my head, leaning against
one of the vacant buildings. She said nothing and I looked back to my
phone to make sure the connection was still good.
"Ed-ward!" she yelled.
"Sorry, I was waiting for you to say it. Go ahead," I replied, pinching the
bridge of my nose, already irritated by this conversation.
"I just need to know what the heck the Snuggy Bear song is."

I had to lower the phone to my side so I could laugh without her hearing
me. If only there was a way I could see Jessica singing that shit, I would
die a happy man. Trying to control my laughing spasms, I brought the
phone back to my ear and explained.
"It's a song from a cartoon we used to watch. You can look it up on
YouTube. They have a video," I explained.
"And do you know what the heck a sanna is? She keeps asking for one
but I have no clue what that is." Her voice was irritable and I could tell
Bella was right, she was breaking. This was too much for her.
"San-Ta. She is asking about Santa Clause," I said, turning around to
face the building I had leaned against.
"Well that makes a lot more sense," she mumbled.
"Jess, is she there? Can I talk to her, please?" I asked, feeling nervous,
yet pissed off at the same time that I had to even fucking ask to speak
to my own child.
"She's with my mom. I'll have her call you later," she hung up the phone
and I resisted with all might not to throw mine, even though I really
wanted to. It beeped after I cleared my call with her, and I saw Bella
had texted me back, telling me she loved me too, and to bring her back a
bagel.
I laughed, shaking my head, and slipped my phone back into my pocket.
As I turned to look around, trying to remember where the bagel place
was, I saw Lauren sitting alone at her table, and instantly felt bad about
running off like a jerk.
With a stomach full of reservations, I walked back towards her and
picked up our conversation from before, explaining that I was trying to
talk to Ness. She said she heard about what happened from her mother,
who, of course, was told by my mother.
She gave me a number to some guy she knew, saying he might be able to
help. She knew of him since she had gone to school for law. I'm sure he
couldn't do shit that my own father hadn't done already, but I was
grateful for the gesture, none the less.
Her friends showed up and I chatted with them for a little while. I
invited them to The Workshop for dinner some time, knowing they all had
rich little friends, and that it would be good for business. Plus, they
were chatter boxes and would spread the word.
Once I left Lauren with her friends, I started off in search of a very
important item.
A bagel, for my angel.











Chapter24 "The Good Life"
~Bella.~
I go for mine
I got to shine
Now throw your hands up in the sky
The sexy people of Miami went by in a blur as we drove along the street
in Edward's Volvo. The windows were down and the radio was cranked up,
letting the salty warm air in and the loud bass of the music out. It felt
fantastic. I closed my eyes and reveled in it for a moment.
It was Sunday, our day off, and we had nothing to do, nowhere to be,
and my phone was turned the fuck off. I just wanted to hang out with
Edward and avoid all interruptions, work, and annoying ass fuckers.
I tilted my head and looked over at Flower Child as he drove. There was
still a tinge of strain on his face. It wasn't as bad as it had been, but I
could still see the tension there. To most people, he would look happy,
but I knew better. The sparkle was missing from his eyes. Even when he
smiled, it seemed somewhat sad to me, like he had to put all his effort
into it to make it appear there.
So when he asked me to go along with him today on his little journey, I
obliged; even though it was not how I wanted to spend Sunday afternoon.
We pulled up to the health food store and I had to shake my head one
more time, looking over at Flower Child. When I asked him to straighten
up his act, I didn't realize that meant he was going to go to extremes.
Not to mention, take my ass there with him.
He had been on this major 'health food' kick for the past couple of weeks
making me eat all kinds of weird shit, running every morning, and
shoving all of these papers at me of shit he printed off the internet.
They were usually about being pregnant and what to eatyadda
yaddathe point washe was driving me crazy.
I almost wished he was back to being drunky-the drunken-monkey.
Almost.
Don't get me wrong, I loved shopping for food, especially 'good' food, but
if I want to eat a cookie or twolemme eat a cookie or two, dammit!
Know what I'm saying people?
"Look! organic apples are on sale," he said just a little too goddamn
excited if you ask me nodding to the sign on the door as he held it
open for me to enter.
"Terrific!" I said, mocking his excitement.
I grabbed a shopping cart and started along the produce section, eyeing
the fresh mozzarella balls with a love I have never known.
Flower Child gave me a stink face and took the cart away from me,
clearly seeing how my love for the luscious cheese ball outweighed my
love for him. Jealous bastard. I fought back, though, sliding under his
arm and standing on the little bar as he continued to push.
He laughed and kissed my shoulder, letting me get a free ride; even
though said free ride went right passed the cheesy goodness.
"You think we should make something to bring with us to my parents'
house tonight?" Edward asked, rounding the corner and stopping in front
of the apples.
"Like what? A pie?" I reached over and grabbed an apple, bringing it up
to my nose, and sniffed it. It smelled divine, and normally I would never
do what I was about to, but you see this kid inside of me had a way of
making me crazier. So I did it.
I bit the fucking apple.
"Dear Lord" I mumbled, closing my eyes to devote all attention to the
heaven that was a Granny Smith. "Save me from myself." I sighed after I
swallowed, and then took another bite. There was a lady staring at me,
with a disgusted look on her face, as I opened my eyes again, causing my
chewing to slow.
"Pregnant," Edward said from behind me.
The lady nodded in understanding and then smiled at me. I stepped down
from the shopping cart and ducked back under Edward's arm, walking
around to the other end of the cart. His face looked amused, seeing my
disgruntled expression, but he said nothing. Instead, he just bagged up
some apples and placed them in the cart.
I grabbed a red apple from the pile and rubbed it against my shirt to
'clean' it. Shoving the green apple in between my teeth, I tucked the red
one under my chin, and hoisted myself up on the end of the cart so I
could swing my leg over.
I climbed in and took a seat in the cart, feeling quite proud that I was
able to perform such a feat. Setting my red apple into my lap, I took a
bite of the green and was once again in organic apple bliss.
Edward's laughter, however, pulled me out of my moment.
"You're becoming more monkey-like by the minute, Bell. I'm not sure if I
should find it adorable, or be worried." He started to push the cart again
and I ignored him, continuing to eat my apples.
"Aren't you ashamed to be seen with a grown ass woman sitting in the
back of a shopping cart?" I asked, eyeing him as he paused to pick up
some veggies.
"Not when the woman is you. No," he winked at me and handed me the
plastic bag of green beans. I tucked them in front of me, and he
continued on.
"Would you like me to stop by the bakery so you can get a free cookie,
little girl?" Edward teased.
"Actually" I eyed the bakery case filled with sinful delights that were
clearly the food of Satanbut Edward just kept on moving.
"Jerk," I muttered.
"So, are you nervous?" he asked.
"About telling your parents you knocked me up all good and proper-like?"
"Mmm hmm."
"Not really. I figured mostly," I reached out and grabbed a handful of
nuts from the bin he paused in front of, as he began scanning the aisle,
then popped some in my mouth, "they will be mad at you. So if anyone
here is going to die," I reached over for more while he was distracted
looking for something on the shelf, "it will probably be you. Not me."
As I reached for another handful, he looked over, catching me red-
handed.
"Isa-bella," he said shaking his head at me.
"I am hungreee," I whined, grabbing my third, and final, handful of stolen
nuts. He continued to look at me with disapproval. "I'm gonna pay for
them!"
"Sweetheart, I love you dearly, but you can't eat half of the store
before we get to the checkout. The last thing I want is for you to end up
arrested and on the news for stealing three dollars worth of cashews."
"Well, maybe if you would have stopped for the cookie" I shoved the
nuts into my mouth.
(Shut up.)
"Iwovenneedtobeettnlikdif." My cheeks threaten to burst as I attempted
to chew, and Edward started to laugh, which made me laughuntil I saw
the manager walking up behind him.
* * *
After we paid for my nine dollars and fifty-two cents worth of stolen
goods, we were asked nicely to purchase our other items and not return
again.
"Only you, angelwould get kicked out" Edward was laughing so hard
he couldn't talk as we drove home.
"Shut up," I grumbled, looking out the window, still thinking about the
cookie he mentioned earlier. "I'm still hungry. What the fuck."
"You're going to be like that girl from Willy Wonka. The blueberry girl
they had to roll out of the chocolate factory," he kept laughing.
I slapped his arm, but Edward's laughing spasms continued.
"Laugh it up, Flower Child. You're the one who has to tell Mommy and
Daddy, tonight, that you and your stupid dick fucked me so good and
proper-like, we made Baby Cullen. Can't wait to see how you walk with
broken legs, jerk." I patted his shoulder and that seemed to cure his
giggling problem.
I lay across his lap, feeling highly content, now that he had just fed me
properly.
Grilled herb chicken breast on ciabatta bread with fresh mango chutney
andfuck mehe even made me some type of smoothie concoction that
I am sure had all kinds of 'magic powders' in it, but it was berry and
chocolaty and tasted fuckassgood.
Edward's fingers raked through my hair as we enjoyed our lazy Sunday
afternoon, watching Man Vs Food reruns. Adam was on his last
overstuffed sandwich when I felt my eyes grow heavy. The full tummy,
combined with Edward's hair stroking, and the balled up kitty position,
made me feel like doing just that taking a cat nap.
This, ladies and gentlemen, was the good life. Not the prestigious awards,
assload of money in the bank, or fancy cars parked in garages I never
visited.
Curling up on a Sunday with my sexy ass man, being fed good food
prepared by said man, and then having him stroke your hair.
The. Good. Life.
"I love you," Edward whispered, moving his hand to the side of my face,
and caressed my cheek gently.
"Mmm," I balled up closer to him and closed my eyes.
*
Edward
XXX
Day forty-eight.
I clicked the volume down a few notches, seeing Bella fall asleep on my
lap. This episode had already been on a million times and I wasn't really
paying attention to it, anyhow. My eyes had been planted firmly on Bella,
watching her as she laughed and crinkled her face at Adam's challenge.
Her hair was like silk ribbons, as they slid easily through my fingers, and
I couldn't help but to revel in the happiness and contentment I felt
sitting here with her. It was so simple and such a common, ordinary thing
to do just watching a silly TV show but I loved it none the less.
Today was the first time I actually enjoyed being in my apartment in a
long while.
This afternoon, she was too funny, sitting in the shopping cart, eating her
apples. One thing I loved about Bella the most was that she was just
herself. My mother was always the type, growing up, who regarded 'what
others would say' to the point it drove me mad. I would hear her say it
in my sleep sometimes as a kid, I swear. We had to always be dressed in
wrinkle-free clothes, mind our P's and Q's, and god forbid if my parents
were having marital issues and one of the other mothers found out.
My Bella, however, sat in shopping carts eating stolen apples, cursed
when she felt the need, and never once yelled at me for wearing ratty
jeans out in public. Last week, we actually went out for ice cream at
3a.m., in our pajamas.
It was wonderful. Freedom at its finest, really.
Don't believe me? Try it sometime.
As my fingers made another gentle pass over her soft skin, my phone
rang, filling the quiet room with its loud shrill. I tried to reach for it
quickly, trying not to wake up Bella, but it was no use. Her eyes
fluttered open on the second ring and she sat right up.
"Hello," I said, not having looked at the caller ID in my hastiness to
answer.
"Pappa?"
"Hi, sweetheart," I smiled, hearing Ness' voice come over the other end of
the phone. Usually, Jessica had her call me at night. It was nice to have
an afternoon call. I pulled Bella back into me and she leaned her head on
my shoulder to listen as I hit the speakerphone key.
Bella hadn't talked to Ness all of this time, and I knew it was hurting
her, but I also knew she understood why that wasn't possible.
Jessica had been calling me frequently, asking me countless questions,
and sounding more and more like she was at her breaking point every day.
I prayed that it would come soon, needing to have my daughter back in
my life.
Every day, it only got worse, not better.
As her scent faded from the apartmentand my routine changedand the
baby in Bella's stomach grewit all signaled how much was passing by,
changingand I knew that meant I was missing as much as Ness was. It
killed me to think she might start her first day of school and I would not
be able to see her off.
It was coming in a few weeks, and I was counting down the days, hoping
to have her back before then, but knowing I probably wouldn't.
Renesmee talked about her day, telling me about hanging out with
Jessica's parents and seeing a play they took her to. I was glad, at least,
she seemed to be having fun; although, a tinge of jealousy lingered,
thinking about her happiness away from me. I tried desperately to beat
that emotion back, knowing how selfish it was, but my attempt was
futile.
"I need to shower," Bella whispered. She leaned in and kissed my cheek,
and I nodded to her.
Ness kept chatting on about the city, and I sunk down into the couch,
just listening to her. The excitement in her voice was heartwarming, and
I just wanted her to keep talking and never stop.
Unfortunately, though, that time always had to come.
After I hung up the phone, I laid there for a moment, trying to take in
all that she said, and revel in it for a bit before real life reared its ugly
head again. Sighing hard, I sat up and tossed the phone back on the
coffee table, then walked to the hallway. When I reached the bathroom,
I knocked softly and cracked the door to poke my head in.
"Angel, I'm going to go for a quick run before dinner," I said.
"You better come back. Don't even think you can get out of telling your
parents about our bun-in-the-oven, jerk. Remember, Flower Child, I know
people with big meat grinders." Her laughter echoed inside of the steamy
bathroom, and I shook my head at her threat.
Like I would really tell her if I was planning to run away.
"I am well aware, sweetheart. I just think I better get out all my pent
up frustration so I can make room for fresh frustration, seeing as how we
will be dining with Emmett and his whore-tastic Rosalie tonight."
Bella popped her head out of the shower curtain, squinting her eyes at
me. "Did you just say 'whore-tastic'?" she asked.
"Yes, yes I did," I smiled proudly.
"MmmYou've been spending too much time around me. You're beginning
to take words that are already degrading, and combine them to make
even more degrading variations." She shook her head and then ducked
back into the shower, closing the curtain.
"Anyhow, I'm going for my run. I'll be back soon. Promise." I closed the
door and walked to my bedroom to retrieve my shoes.
Ah, speaking of shoes
Here's something I have learned living with my dear Bella over the last
few weeks. She loves to pick up all my shit and put it back in places she
thinks it belongs; a.k.a., places I can't find my shit.
Like my shoes.
I, personally, have a strong belief that shoes kept near the front door
make perfect sense. I am only going to put them on for that purpose and
that purpose only to leave right?
Wrong!
Bella apparently has a strong belief that shoes by the front door were
the equivalent to what did she say?
'Shitting on someone's head as soon as they entered your home.'
Yeah, that was it.
So, my shoes were not allowed to reside by my front door any longer.
Was I a pussy for not bothering to remind her who pays the rent here, or
that it wasn't her name on the lease?
No. I just happen to really like being anatomically correct.
The Nike's came out of hiding as I pulled them from my our closet
and I sat myself down on the edge of my perfectly made bed to put
them on. The bed being made was also another change. It was sort of
nice, though. Plus, I didn't have to do it, so all was good there.
My laces were tied and I stood up, walking back to the closet to change
my shirt to a tank, and then I exited my bedroom. As I reached the end
of the hallway, I paused, cursing to myself, and then spun around,
remembering that my iPod was on my dresser.
The bathroom door opened and Bella stepped out, wrapped up in a towel.
She paused, seeing me standing at the end of the hall and furrowed her
brows.
"I thought you were leaving?" she asked, hugging her towel to her.
"Mmm hmm," was all I could muster.
It had beenlikeholy shita long timesince we had sex.
My eyes roamed over her, starting with her dark hair that was wet,
allowing drops of water to run down her arm as it clung to her skin. I
followed that trail with my eyesokay fuck thatI couldn't see the
water from this far away, but I still trailed my eyes down, imagining that
was where said water might be dripping.
I licked my lips and raked my bottom lip with my teeth as I stared at
her.
"Yeah, fuck running," I leaned down and took off one shoe, tossing it to
the floor and then the other.
"I thought you had some type of pent up aggression issue to work out?"
Bella said, backing up, trying not to smile as I made my way towards her.
"OhI was planning on it," I said eyeing her again.
She laughed as she squirmed her way backwards trying to get away from
me, but I reached her first and hoisted her up onto my hips. She giggled
in my arms and I kicked the bedroom door open with my foot, then,
kicked it closed again once we were inside.
My lips went to her neck first as I laid her on the bed, but she pushed
me away.
"Flower Child we don't have time. I told your moth-" I cut her off, not
allowing Lt. Dan to be cock blocked by time restraints.
There were enough damn restraints going on right now in my life.
"My mother is going to be pissed, no matter what, after we tell her
you're pregnant. Being five minutes late isn't going to make it any worse."
I kissed along her jaw and she laughed again.
"Mmm, giving me two extra minutes of lovin' than normal? You're such a
swooner, Flower Child." She teased.
"It'll be the best five minutes of your life. Promise." I brushed Bella's
wet hair back from her face and kissed her, then pulled back a little.
Bella's lips turned up into a smile and then she laughed, despite herself,
causing me to laugh with her. It was sweet and, in our own weird way,
romantic. I loved the playfulness, light heartedness we shared. It was
comforting and easy not to have to worry about stepping on her toes with
such silly commentary.
If I judged correctly, looking at her now, I'd say she shared the same
feelings.
Bella's expression changed as she brought her hand up to my face,
running the back of her fingers down my cheek. Those deep caramel eyes
of hers were softer and I could see the love I felt for her, reflecting
back into my own as I gazed into them.
"I love you, babe," she whispered.
'Cause she really did.
"And I love you, angel," I said back to her, kissing her soft lips.
'Cause I really did.
"Now take off your pants and show me," she said, smirking.
'Cause that was Bella, and her brand of romance.
"Yes ma'am," I replied, scooting back from her.
'Cause I really, really wanted to.
Bella watched me, smiling her little half-angel, half-devil grin as I
stepped out of my pants and boxers. I reached back and pulled my tank
off, tossing it to the floor, then raised my brows to her and nodded to
her towel. She laughed at my silent request, but otherwise obliged.
I framed her sides with my hands and leaned down, placing a kiss below
her bellybutton, and then worked my way up. More than anything, I
wished I had time to offer her up more, but there wasn't. I sure as hell
wasn't going to be the five-minute-man, as I was just kidding about that
earlier, but it was definitely not going to make up for the
pastshitwhenever we had sex in the Volvo last.
Before I laid over her, I reached for the remote on the bedside table
and flipped on the stereo. As I lowered myself back down over Bella, the
piano riff paused me, knowing the CD playing did not belong to me.
"Is this yours?" I asked, looking down to her, and she nodded. "Stop
touching my things," I whispered, teasingly.
"It reminds me of you," she said softly.
"'Cause of the piano shit?" I laughed.
"No," she shook her head, sighing hard, and framed my face in her hands.
"The butterfly shit."
My eyes squinted, not quite understanding, until I heard the lyrics.
You give me butterflies
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflies
You give me butterflies
I looked adoringly into her angel face before I placed my lips back to
hers, whispering the words she used for me, "Me too, angel." I pulled her
hands down from my face and tilted my head to kiss her palm, "Me too."
She pulled me back to her lips and I felt her legs wrap around my waist.
Her heels rested on the lower part of my back, trying to draw me in. I
moved my mouth to her chin and she tilted her head back, silently asking
me to go lower.
My mouth traveled along her neck, kissing her softly, remembering all of
her sweetness. I felt my body swell as I grinded against her, and finally
gave in, sliding myself inside of her, slowly. Closing my eyes, I paused,
taking a moment to revel in how good she felt.
"Could you play this on the piano?" she asked as the music changed,
pulling me from my reverie. I opened my eyes and looked at her.
"Probably," I rasped, sliding myself out of her and slowly pushing back in
once more.
"Will you?" Her hands slipped down my sides, resting over my hips as I
rocked myself inside of her.
"I'll play you something sometime," I replied, placing a feather-light kiss
to her forehead.
"Promise?"
"I promise, angel." My lips glided over hers again, and she gripped tighter
to my hips as I moved with more vigor, driving myself harder inside of
her.
Bella's legs wrapped tightly around my waist as her arms clung to me,
pulling me in deeper with every thrust. I gripped the white fabric of the
bedspread, feeling the surge of my orgasm approaching. Slowing my pace
to stave it off, I moved my lips from her mouth, back to her neck, then
down lower, over her breast.
My tongue swept over her taut nipple, eliciting a moan of pleasure from
my love's lips. I felt her fingers move to my hair as she slid them through
my locks. The warmth of her chin rested against my forehead as I kissed
my way back up her body, pausing to kiss over her heart. "I love you."
Her voice was shallow and heady as she held me to her. "I love you so
much, Edward," she repeated, just as breathlessly.
I lifted my head to rest against hers, so I could look into her eyes. She
watched me as my thrusts grew more frantic. Her mouth fell open,
verbalizing all the ways my body pleasured her, and pleaded for more.
Knowing I was probably already being too rough with her, I chose to
whisper back my own words, telling her I loved her and all the ways she
pleased me, too.
My eyes never left hers, and I knew as her cries grew louder, she was
close to her release. The words of adoration continued to flow from my
lips and I felt her shudder, finally closing her eyes as her body
constricted around my own. "Don't stop, don't stop," she begged,
tightening her legs around my waist. Her lips sucked the skin under my
ear as her fingers gripped my hair harder.
"Mi ngel, oh coo que rico se siente." I gave one last push inside of her
and came hard; humming a loud groan of pleasure as I did.
Both of our breaths fanned against one another's face as we stilled. My
eyes closed, briefly basking in the euphoria my orgasm brought. "Mmm," I
kissed Bella along her face and rolled to my side, holding her to me.
My phone rang, again, and I cursed, looking up at the time, thinking it
was my mother. We were going to be seriously late, as we should have
left by now. "Don't want to move," Bella whined, as she clung to me, and
I laughed quietly.
"Let's just lay here for a second. We'll lie and say we had car trouble or
something." I leaned my lips in to kiss her cheek and Bella smiled.
"Good thinking," she cuddled up closer to me and nuzzled her face into
my neck. We lay quiet for a few moments, just giving soft caresses and
innocent kisses as we enjoyed one another. I brought her wrist to my lips
and kissed the blackbird inked on it, loving the symbolism it bared. The
shit tatted on my own arm was for her, because it was true; Bella lived
by her own rulesor'flew by her own wings'.
She was definitely one of a kind.
Bella called my mother to let her know we would be later, while I took a
quick shower. I could hear her in the bathroom brushing her teeth as she
tried to get dressed, and I finished up washing. As I stepped out, I
grabbed a towel from the bar and dried off, then wrapped it around my
waist. She was leaning toward the mirror now, applying mascara, and I
paused, walking behind her to place a kiss on her shoulder as she leaned
away from the mirror.
"I think this will win over my father, but my mother" I teased, looking
at her only wearing her bra in the reflection.
"Ha-ha." She leaned back in and applied her make-up to the other eye as
I stepped back and exited the bathroom.
Bella came in my our room as I was pulling up my pants inside of my
closet. Her nails tapped against the wood of the doorframe, and I looked
at her expectantly. "Yeeeessss?"
"Just debating whether or not we should go or stay here," she smirked,
eyeing me up and down.
"Don't do that. 'Cause it's just downright evil. You know I would choose
stay, so let's not wave the worm in front of 'Edward fish'. Kay?" I made a
face at her and pulled a black dress shirt from a hanger.
"You're not wearing a tie are you? Because you know the tie fuckery will
justI'll be humping your leg in the middle of dinner if you go there,"
she said holding her hand out, sounding overly dramatic.
I eyed the ties and scrunched my face in debate.
"Promise?" I asked teasingly as I looked back to her.
"I hate you." She stepped forward and fixed my collar as I pulled on my
shirt.
"Love you too, sweetheart." I chuckled, leaning in to kiss her. "Go get
dressed, or you won't be the only one humping legs tonight."
"You look really handsome," Bella tipped up on her toes and kissed me.
"Oh but let me help you do your hair," she smiled vexingly and messed
her hands in my hair childishly. "There, you so purty now," she patted my
cheek and spun around.
"Thanks," I said fixing what she messed, even though it was completely
useless.
My hair was fucked and I knew it; had been my whole life.
After I grabbed a pair of shoes, I clicked off the light in the closet and
stepped out, walking over to the bed beside Bella. I sat down and put on
my shoes as she slipped on hers and it finally fucking hit me.
We were one of those people. Likethose people who get dressed
togetherand keep their shoes next to each other'sandlive together.
Likereally together. I was going to come home to, or with, Bella every
night, and wake up with her next to me every morning.
Bella wasn't going anywhere. She was stayingright here with me.
My heart warmed at the thought, and goose-bumps ran over my skin as I
felt the flush of heat course through my veins. I watched her as she
stood up and righted her clothes, then turned to me and held out a hand.
"Ready to go?" she asked.
I stared at her for a moment taking in how perfect she looked standing
there in front of me, asking me if I was ready to go with her. I knew she
meant to my parents' house, but my mind wandered elsewhere, thinking
about how profound that question seemed right now after my little
realization.
This was her, she was it for me.
"Yes," I took her hand and stood up, then brought it up to my lips and
kissed her fingers. "I am ready, angel."
In more ways than one.
XXX
Bella.
* * *
"So, you seeit just happened. I wasn't trying to get your son to knock
me up, honestly."
No.
"It was all his idea!"
No.
"I'm a huge whore and let your son violate me in the ocean while the
scum of Miami were probably watching us," I said looking at myself in the
mirror of the Cullen's bathroom.
One of the bathrooms, anyhow.
That's probably as close to the truth as we are going to get, Baby Cullen.
A soft knock rapped on the door, and I sighed.
"Yeah?" I asked lamely.
"You alright, angel?" Edward asked softly from the other side of the
door. I reached over and unlocked the knob, allowing him in.
He stepped inside and closed the door softly behind him. I looked over
and nodded, but he made a face that said he didn't believe me, and I
turned my head away. Edward leaned off the door and surrounded me in
his arms from behind, resting his chin on my shoulder.
"You look beautiful," he said softly. I placed my hands over his forearms
and looked up, finally. He was gazing at my reflection in the mirror, and
I was a little taken aback by the emotion that lay in his eyesand how
damn perfect we looked together.
"Just so you know, Flower Child, I am totally blaming this all on you." I
smirked and he laughed, placing a kiss to my cheek.
"Fair enough," he deduced, letting go of me as we made our way out of
the bathroom. "Worse come to worst, we can just steal Grandma Cullen's
amoretti cookies and hide out in my old room." He took my hand as we
walked down the hall.
Now, I knew he was saying something to make me feel better and shit,
but honestly, my mind stopped working at 'amoretti cookies'.
All the rest was like Woodstock from old Snoopy cartoons.
As we made our way into the kitchen, all eyes turned toward us and I
instantly felt my stomach roll, knowing what we had to sayat some
point this evening.
Edward led me to the kitchen island, and pulled out a chair for me right
in front of the cheese platter. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why I
loved Flower Child. I reached out and picked a piece to nibble on.
"Would you like some wine, dear?" Esme asked, watching me nom away on
my cheese.
"Um, no thanks," I said, looking back down to the platter.
"Are you sure? I have this wonderful merlot we brought back from our
trip to Europe. It would taste fabulous with the cheese. Here, try some."
She passed over her glass to me and I was freaking out on the inside.
There was no way I was swiggin' that shit.
"Ma, if Bella doesn't want wine, then she doesn't want wine," Edward
said, saving me from having to spill the beans before we even got to
finish the appetizers.
"I was just trying to be hospitable," Esme said glumly as she turned
away, and I scowled at Edward.
"Great, now she thinks I'm being a douche," I whispered to him as he
stood beside my chair.
"She'll get over it after we tell them later," his fingers pinched my chin,
bringing my lips towards his, and he kissed me several times quickly.
"Mmm, you taste like," he kissed me again, "cheddar." He smiled against
my lips and I laughed quietly against his.
Somehow the others in the room faded away as he brought my mouth
back to his once more. I parted my lips to receive him all proper-like,
and felt his tongue slide against mine. Flower Child's fingers tightened
slightly as he pulled my face into his more, tilting my head to kiss me
deeper.
Butterbean's light was on and flashing like a neon 'Eat at Joes' sign.
Until I heard a 'smack' as Edward's head knocked into mine, and then
heard him groan.
He pulled away from me and looked over his shoulder, scowling. "Not in
the kitchen Junior Cullen," his grandmother said, making a face at him as
she passed. "Show your mother a little respect."
"Now you're getting me in trouble," he shot back, smirking his stupid grin
at me.
"Serves you right, fucker," I poked Edward's chin, causing him to laugh,
and he leaned in to give me one final kiss.
The doorbell rang and I sighed, knowing it had to be my father. Edward
invited him, thinking that it was only right to have poor Charlie subjected
to the killing of his daughter.
He was sweet, what can I say.
We all sat down at the table when dinner was ready. Grandma Cullen did
her thing tonight, making spicy Creole shrimp with homemade grits and
garlic bread. Ugh! I was in comfort food heaven. She even had tart fried
apples and creamed spinach as sides.
I felt like Homer Simpson when he was in the presence of doughnuts: all
drooly-like, unable to form coherent sentences.
Edward and I were next to each other with my dad sitting across from
me and next to Emmett, who of course was next to Rosalie. Carlisle sat
at one head of the table with Esme to his right and Grandpa Cullen was
at the other, with Grams to his side.
Kodak family moment, right?
Fuck no. Edward wasn't speaking to Emmett, no one was speaking to Rose,
and the tension was thick enough to be cut with a goddamn chainsaw.
Everyone seemed so uncomfortable and on their toes, it was killing me.
I hated awkward silence, and even worse, awkward social settings. Which
is why I had spent 99 percent of my life avoiding them.
"Dinner is really good, Elizabeth," I said, trying to get some fucking convo
going around this funeral of a dinner.
"Thank you, honey. More grits?" she offered.
"The answer is always 'yes'. You never have to ask, just shove the food
at me and I will happily consume," I jokedsort of.
"Except for when it's wine, right?" Esme smiled, and I kicked Edward
under the table. "I'm just kidding, dear."
"I know. I actuallyum," I looked over at Edward quickly and then back
to the rest of the table. "I should probably explain that. Um, it's just
that I can't drink wine right now'cause um" The words stuck in my
throat as the silence threatened to take over. Everyone's eyes were on
me and I kicked Edward again, trying to force him to say it.
"Oh hell, I'll do it," Emmett said, throwing down his napkin. "Bella is
pregnant and obviously can't drink wine. There." He shook his head I
stared at him; jaw hanging to my feet.
"That isn't even close to being funny," Esme said seriously.
"He isn't joking," Edward finally spoke up and I looked over to him. He
was pushing the food around on his plate looking at his mother. I looked
back to Esme and watched as her eyes grew wide with realization.
"I'm sorry, I should have said something soonerbut there was justa lot
going on," I said quietly.
"Sooner? How long have you both known this?" she asked.
"I found out when I came back from Japan," I looked down at my plate,
feeling so exposed saying this in front of his entire family, like I was on
the damn witness stand or some shit.
"That was" Esme shook her head trying to think back.
"Almost two months ago," I said for her.
"You and Edward have only known each other just a little more than
twice that amount of time," she said incredulously.
"WHO CARES!?" Emmett exclaimed. "You know, this family is so screwed
up. I know I'm on the shit list right now for my screw ups, but seriously,
Mom? You're going to congratulate Rose and me one day, and then try to
cast judgment on B and Edward the next?"
"You are older," Esme argued.
"So I can knock up whoever I want because I have a few years on the
kid?" he waved over to Edward. "In truth, Edward has known B longer
than I have known Rose. So I don't know what your getting your panties
wadded for." Emmett sat back in his seat and shook his head.
"For the record, Son, I am never okay with you boys having children out
of wedlock, so let's get that straight right now," Esme said, pointing to
him.
"Here we go," Flower Child sat forward and tossed his napkin to the
table. "Let's start the hundred ways Edward has fucked up the family
name."
"Watch your language, Junior Cullen," his grandmother scolded.
"Edward, I am not blaming your for Renesmee," Esme said. "That precious
child is the apple of my eye. But yes, you are the main example, because
you know more than anyone what can happen when you act so foolishly!"
"So if Bella and I were married, all would be fine? Nothing could go
wrong then? It would just be kittens and rainbows and sunshine, right
Mom?" he asked sarcastically.
"Being married signifies that you at least have some type of commitment
towards each other. There's a difference between commitment and love,
Edward. While I am sure you and Bella love each other very much, the
truth is that you have only known each other for as many months as I
can count on one hand. You have one child in another state, and now a
second with a girl you barely even"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Emmett interrupted, sitting forward again. "You
make Edward sound like a damn Morey Povich guest. He didn't go out club
hopping or some shit and knock Bella up, first of all. They've been dating
since basically day one.
"Secondly, before you get all in a tizzy about B, let me just remind you
that I have known Bella since I graduated college, and was a kid that
didn't have a pot to piss in. This horrible girl that you think is going to
be the second coming of Jessica took care of me when I didn't have shit,
AND, may I remind you, gave Edward a shothe obviously gave her much
more." Emmett smirked, looking over to me, "But that's not really
important," he said more seriously.
"I'm not judging Bella. She is a very nice girl," Esme turned to look at
me. "I'm not saying that. I care a great deal for you, and have never
seen Edward happier. That doesn't mean I don't think it is extremely
irresponsible, though," she looked back to Flower Child.
"Well this has been fun. I think I'm done listening to Bella being insulted,
though, as I am sure she is too." Edward scooted back from the table
and stood up.
"Sit. Down," Carlisle said.
I looked over to him and he was obviously angry. It scared me that he
might provoke Edward and that this night, which was already turning into
a major cluster fuck, would only get worse.
"Maybe we should just go," I said.
"I said, sit down." Carlisle kept his eyes on Edward. "You always blow up,
run out of here, leaving nothing resolved. Your mother is right, but if you
are trying to argue against making the same mistakes you made as a
teenager, then sit down and do not repeat them by running off."
Edward plopped back down into his chair, but didn't make eye contact
with his father. I looked to my own, and Charlie nodded at me, silently
telling me it was okay. I placed my hand on Edward's legs and he looked
down, sliding his own underneath and closing his fingers around it.
"I am not going to pretend that I am happy about this. Was I happy to
learn Emmett was having a child? Yes, I was. The reason being that
Emmett is accomplished, older, and has made good choices in his life that
led me to believe this was one of them. Your brother has chosen to marry
Rosalie, make a life and a family with her, and, regardless of how much
time they have known one another, that says something to me; I respect
my son for making that choice. As any father would." Carlisle looked over
to my dad and then back at Edward.
"I don't know Bella's father, but if my daughter was having a child with
someone, I would expect a ring on her finger. Especially, if that someone
had a child already. At seventeen I could understand how my son could
make a mistake and act in a way that was so thoughtless, but at twenty-
two, having already been there done that, I would expect that you are
better than Emmett, not the same or worse in your actions.
"In fact, that was part of my happiness in finding out Emmett would be a
father, because I knew he could learn a lot from you, as you are a
wonderful father to Renesmee, Son. The pride I feel watching you with
her is more than I could ever explain to you. I am sure that the child
Bella is carrying will receive the same parenting, but that doesn't make
everything else alright because, as you just witnessed not even two
months ago, good intentions are not enough, Edward. Let me ask you, do
you love Bella?" Edward looked up to Carlisle with a dubious expression
on his face.
"Of course I do," he answered.
"Then why are we here?" Carlisle asked shaking his head.
"I'm sorry," I interrupted, "but why is everyone blaming Edward? I was
there too, you know. He didn't exactly hold me down and force me to
conceive his baby. And so what?! He screwed up as a teenager and got
Jessica pregnant! So-thefuck-what! I am so sick of people holding that
shit over his head, and more so, I am SICK of people talking about Kobe
and his five-million-dollar-guilt-ringed-soon-to-be-wife over there, like
what they have is legit.
"'Cause I'm sorry Em, but you and I both know that blonde bitch only
needs a tracksuit and a boob job to complete her role in your life." I
held my hands up and gave him a face before turning towards Esme and
Carlisle again.
"The truth here is that Emmett has made his fair share of mistakes, but
you all don't know about them because I was always there to help him
clean them up. Him getting Rose pregnant, now, is no different than what
Edward and I have done. So don't act like he is a saint for agreeing to
marry her because we all know he wouldn't have otherwise.
"So cut the shit. I don't want Edward to ask me to marry him because he
feels 'obligated' to do so, or fucking forced into it just because we had
one night of amazing sex in the ocean," my eyes closed regretfully as
soon as I said it, but I waved it off, going back to my speech.
"My point is, if you are pointing fingers and trying to blame him, then I
am to blame too. And if we are being judged based upon levels of
success, and if that is what is determining our right to either have or not
have kids, then I am queen of the fucking baby makers, and your
argument is invalid." I sat back for a second as everyone remained silent.
My eyes traveled towards Rosalie, and as I stared at her face, the anger
inside of me flared.
"And let me just remind you all, that the reason Flower Child doesn't
have his other kid is because of that person, that FABULOUSY ENGAGED
person, sitting to Emmett's left! You all sit here and fucking judge ME,
yet she can walk into your house after what the hell she said and that is
fine?!"
"I didn't do"
I stood up and leaned over the table, ready to knock her fucking lights
out if she said one goddamn word in her own defense.
"Shut. Up!" I pointed at her and Edward grabbed my arm. "Don't EVEN
fucking say that it was the truth 'cause we all know it fucking wasn't!
You have some nerve even showing your damn face here! And if you all
can't stick up for Edward and say it, then fuck it, I will," I swatted his
hand from mine and leaned over the table towards her.
"You took Ness away from Edward, ended Emmett's career, and now he
has to support you and that kid for the rest of your pathetic existence!
All you do is ruin shit! No wonder you side with Jessica, you're just
fucking like her!" I sat down as the tears began to run from my eyes.
Edward tried to wipe them away, but I swatted him away and wiped
them myself.
"If you all want to say that Edward is a fuck up then fine, I'm a fuck up
too. We're two fuck ups who fucked, and are now have a fucking baby!
OH-KAY?!" I started flat out blubbering at this point.
Stupid Baby Cullen and all his or her emotional bullshit!
"Everybody just needs to calm down," I heard Charlie say. "Now, I'm not
thrilled over the fact that my first real encounter with this boy was
when my daughter called to tell me she was pregnant with his babyand
also that he had a drinking problembut I am happy she felt the need to
ask for my help and confide in me." I looked up to him as my sobs came
slower, and wiped my tears away.
"More than anything, I'd love to reach across this table and beat the
snot outta your son and his stupid face," Charlie smirked before he
added, "but something tells me I'd want to do that to any male sitting
there saying he loves my daughter. I couldn't tell you that for sure,
however, 'cause before this jerk, Bella never brought anyone else around
for me to meet, besides that damn Tyler kid who worked in my diner."
Charlie eyed Edward up and down and sucked his teeth. "Can't really say
her taste has improved much."
"Dad I was fourteen and he was taking me to the spring dance. That isn't
really 'bringing someone home'," I sniffled.
"My point exactly," Charlie tapped his finger at me and sat forward in
his seat. "That right there tells me you are serious about this guy. So
that means I have to be too, which is why I agreed to help you when you
called me. I don't really know you all, aside from Emmett, but what I do
know is that when I found your son here, he was in a hell of a position,
and when I leaned on him to do the right thing, he did." My father
looked over at Carlisle.
"That's what I want from your boy, for my daughter. Would I love to see
Bella happily married? Sure, what father wouldn't? But that is her
choice, and I'm not in favor of anyone having a shotgun wedding. These
kids already have enough to deal with. Marriage is just"
"That's my point," Esme interrupted. "They should have waited. Having a
baby is"
"Spilt milk," Charlie cut her off, waving his hand. "You can't fix it now
that it's done. We all know what's right and wrong. But making it worse
isn't going to make it better, now is it?"
"I wouldn't say marriage is worse," Edward's mother scoffed.
"If it's done out of guilt, I assure you ma'am, its worse. I've been there
and done that." Charlie said. "I'm not here to argue, though. It was just
the idea of my daughter thinking that she was a screw-up that made me
feel the need to say my piece on the matter." He looked at me and
emotions I hadn't seen since I was a little girl simmered in his eyes. "You
are not a screw-up, kid. Don't ever let me hear you say that again."
I sniffled again and wiped the remainder of tears from my face then
looked at the table, seeing all the food we had barely even touched.
Grandma Cullen looked sad, sitting there watching all of us argue, and it
broke my heart that her thoughtful meal was ruined.
"You never gave me more grits," I said, looking at her. She cracked a
pitiful smile and grabbed the bowl.
"Swing that plate over here, baby," she said, holding up the spoonful of
grits. Edward handed her the plate and then passed it back to me.
Emmett held his plate to her next and everyone started to go back to
eating, but in complete silence. I held my free hand over my stomach,
feeling completely nauseated, but there was no way I was going to let
Grandma Cullen's hard work go to waste.
"She get it from her mammawhere she get that ass from?she get it
from her mamma" I looked up to see Emmett singing under his breath,
moving his head back and forth as he scarfed his food. A few bites more
and he was done. "Why she always gotta call the lawshe get it from
her mammagot a nigga rock harder than a tree.she get it from her
mamma" he kept going, and I bit my lips trying not to laugh at him. It
was so fucking inappropriate, yet so fucking Emmett. His eyes caught
mine and I saw the wicked gleam in them. "Big fine woman will make you
smile when she pass youdamn that girl sexyher mamma ass tooshe
get it from her mamma." He went into full Emmett-ghetto mode and I
broke, busting out in laughter.
Cupping my face in my hands, I tried to hide, but it was useless.
Emmett's booming laughter filled the quiet room and then I felt his big
hands on my shoulders. I swatted him away and made a face at him. "I
hate you, go away," I shrugged trying to get him off of me, but he
wrapped his big arms around my shoulders and swayed me.
"Awww, B's gonna be a mammathen I can sing that song to you when
mini-Bella is cursingshe get it from her mamma," he sang and I hit him,
but he held onto me still.
"What if it's a boy you oaf?" I asked.
"Ah, it's Edward's kid. If it's a dude, I can still say 'she', 'cause we all
know if he has a boy, it's going to be the wimpiest boy of all time."
Emmett let me go and punched Edward in the shoulder as he walked back
around to take his seat.
Edward didn't say anything, but as I looked over at him, the corners of
his mouth lifted slightly, and I knew he was feigning a smile.
After we finished dinner, I helped clean up, bringing the dishes to the
kitchen while the guys watched TV. Esme was putting food away, and
Grandma Cullen was washing the dishes as I entered with the last of the
plates. I saw Rosalie drying some of the plates Elizabeth set aside as I
made my way over to the sink to drop off the last few.
"Thank you, dear. Now go rest. Women in your condition shouldn't be
working so hard," Elizabeth teased.
"That's the last of them, anyhow." I shrugged and turned to walk away,
but she stopped me, "Bella?" She wiped her hands on the dishtowel and
stepped towards me. "I want you to know, that I am happy for you and
Junior Cullen. It makes me happy to think I'll get to have time with two
more generations of this family before my time is up." She leaned in and
gave me a hug. "Now go on, go find that boy and make him rub your feet
since he left you to do all the work."
I nodded and started on my way out again, but this time, Esme stopped
me just outside the entryway. "You know I didn't mean I thought you
unworthy of my son, right? Because I don't think that, Bella. It's very
much the opposite, which is why I feel the way I do," she said sadly. "I
want you all to have a chanceand I want Edward to be able to make
something out of himself before he has more children, more responsibility.
He's experienced so much, so fast, Bella." She began to tear up and so
did I.
"I know that, but he has, Esme. And it's the only thing in this whole
messed up situation with Ness that has been good for him. You know I
never hired Edward because of how I felt about him personally, nor did I
promote him because of that. He earned it. So, he is making something
out of himself. Everyday I get offers and calls about him. You know
someone wants him to have his own cooking show?" I laughed, wiping away
my tears, and her expression changed, looking surprised as she cleared
her own eyes.
"Maybe we were stupid for not being more careful, but if I was careful
at all with Edward, I wouldn't have him, 'cause I would have stayed true
to form and denied what I felt. SoI don't regret it. Esme, I love him. I
love him a lot, and that's because Flower Child IS someone already."
* * *
Edward.
XXX
All alone, I sat on the front steps of my parents' house, not wanting to
join the rest of my family in the theater room. Dinner was a nightmare,
although, they didn't really say anything I didn't expect them to. The
only unexpected part, that I suppose shouldn't have been, was Bella
yelling at Rosalie in my defense. No one really had yet, and the level of
anger she showed really surprised me. Not that I didn't know how she
felt, but just seeing it brought forth had me taken aback.
I hugged my arms around my legs, tucking my knees under my chin so
that I could rest my head down. Bella was still helping my mother clean
up, and I was in no hurry to go back in. I offered to help, but she
wouldn't let me. I'm sure she hoped I would hang out with Emmett since
he stuck up for us, but that wasn't enough to erase the bad taste in my
mouth for him.
Him making Bella laugh at the end of dinner, however, earned him a little
of my thanks.
But just a little.
"Beer man?" I turned my head to look behind me. Emmett was walking
forward with two Coronas in his hand.
"No," I faced back forward as he took a seat beside me.
"Don't be a party pooper Edward," he knocked the bottle into my arm.
"I'm not, but if Bella smells that shit on my breath she's liable to chop
off my balls while I sleep tonight," I stretched my legs out and Emmett
laughed, taking a sip of his beer.
"Fair enough," he said, and then all was silent.
I kept my eyes forward, not wanting to see him, but I could sense he was
still there and gearing up for his apology. I debated in my head whether
or not to forgive him, deciding to choose based upon what he would say.
"You were such an ugly baby," Emmett said, laughing quietly.
"Excuse me?" I looked over to him, not at all expecting him to start that
way.
"Dude, when you were born, you looked like one of those aliens they keep
in the glass jars," he laughed harder, taking a sip of beer, and then set
it down to his side. "But damn, I was so happy after you were." He
looked over to me and his expression became more serious. "I still
remember teaching your ass to throw a football, you know that? I think
you were like four. Funny shit is, you still throw, now, just as bad as you
did, then," he knocked his arm against mine and I laughed despite myself.
"Fuck off Emmett," I said, but he reached over, hooking my neck into the
crook of his arm, and knocked my head into his.
"You know I didn't mean to fuck up that shit with court. I'd never hurt
you or Shortcake intentionally, Edward. Never. But it's like that shit
when you're a kid and you fucking.I don't knowwhen you like, see a
hill you want to skate board down and think, when you're at the top,
nothing is gonna hurt you, until your ass is falling head first into the
pavement. I never thought that you could lose her, 'cause you're a
fucking great father," he tightened his hold on me and kissed my head.
"I fucked up. And I fucked up your shit when I did, and I am so damn
sorry. I know that can't change anything, but I am. You're my baby
brother and I love you," he kissed me again and I pushed him away.
"Will you please stop with all the gay shit," I wiped my forehead and
shuddered.
"Oh stop it. You know you like it." He pulled me back into him and tried
again, but I fought against him and couldn't help the laughter that
bubbled up out of me.
"Fuck, stop, Em! I'm gonna get Bella to kick your ass," I laughed, pushing
him away one last time, and he receded.
Emmett laughed beside me and picked his beer back up. I punched him
once, really hard, just to make sure we were clear on how I felt, and
then all was good in man-land, 'cause that's how we roll.
"Man," he laughed, "I thought Mom's eyes were gonna pop out when I
said that shit."
"I know. And then I thought Bella was going to kill Rose, and I would be
forced to bury her mangled body in the backyard," I laughed.
"You know what, man?" Emmett leaned in to me and said quietly, "I love
Rose, but I would pay big money to see Bella brawl with her." He laughed
and so did I.
"My money would definitely be on Bella," I said.
"Oh, mine too, mine too," he nodded quickly. "Congratulations, by the
way," Emmett tipped his beer towards me. "I never said that to you. I
mean it for both the baby and getting Bella. Shit, that's one hell of a
feat. I turned you into a goddamn pimp. You should be thanking me, you
know."
"I heard that," I tilted my head to see Bella closing the door behind her.
"It's true. My baby brother bagged the hardest woman to bag of all
time. That makes him a pimp," Emmett said, nodding.
"Maybe I bagged Edward. Ever think about that, genius?" She raised her
brows to him as she walked toward us.
"Who the hell would want to do that?" he teased, reaching for her. She
tried to sit on my lap, but he pulled her into his, and she giggled.
"Caught me a Bella," he hugged her and she nuzzled into him as he
sipped his beer. Her feet rested in my lap and I kept my eyes on her
face.
"Grandma Cullen said to rub them," she smiled, wiggling her toes at me.
"Where's Rose?" Emmett asked her.
"I threw her down the garbage disposal, where she belongs." Bella
winked at me and I had to laugh.
"Don't be mean, Bella." Emmett sucked his teeth looking down to her.
"Seriously Em, What do you see in her? I want to know," Bella asked,
tipping her head up to look at him.
"She's hot, for one," he smiled. "But all joking asideshe's really a good
girl. Don't make that face at me Bella. She is. You just don't know her. I
know she fucked up with Edward, and that makes you all protective of
him and shit, but I wouldn't lie to you. I really do love her, and it's
because she's worthy of loving. Just like you."
"Ugh! Don't even relate me to thatI don't even have a word right now.
She needs a good cunt-punting, that's all I know." Bella looked back to
me. "What do you love about me?" she asked.
"The fact that you use terms like cunt-punting in relation to Rosalie," I
replied smirking at her as I rubbed her toes. Bella laughed, but I became
more serious in my next reply. "Your mind and the crazy way it works.
The fact that you don't take any of my shit. You're a good teacher and
have a big heart." I brought her foot to my mouth and kissed her toes.
"And of course, because your hot." I laughed, mocking my brother's
words.
"See?" she looked up to him. "Flower Child can actually name specifics.
He didn't say 'because she's all wonderful, blah bitty blah blah'. Such a
loser, Em," she shook her head, and he lifted her from his lap, tossing her
onto mine.
"No more lap for you," Emmett said.
"Good, I like Flower Child's better, anyhow," she made a face at him and
leaned into me.
"Imma go find Rosalie. You know, the woman I don't really love," he stood
up and she smacked at his leg as he walked passed.
When the door closed, she looked at me and smiled, "I take it you two
made up?"
"He's not on my list of people to kill, let's put it that way."
Bella maneuvered so that she straddled my lap and wrapped her arms
around my neck. I hugged her in my arms, locking my fingers behind her
back, and kissed her gently.
"I love you, for so many reasons. I could never tell them all to you. You
know that, right?" I asked, placing another kiss on her lips.
"Mmm hmm. You know what I want, Flower Child?" she asked in a whisper
as we continued to kiss.
"What, baby?"
"To go to your old room," she moved her lips to my chin and then nibbled
along my jaw until she reached my ear. "And eat amoretti cookies."
I laughed, tightening my hold on her, and she lifted her face to look at
me. She nodded with excitement on her face, and I just shook my head
then kissed her again.
"You see? Only a man who clearly loves you would even consider feeding
you his grandmother's cookies after such a tease." I hoisted her up with
me as I stood, making my way to the front door.
"I just said I wanted to eat cookies. I didn't say you couldn't have your
way with me while I was doing it," she smacked my forehead lightly,
causing me to laugh again.
"Really love you, Bella."
Bella.
* * *
I giggled as I leaned into his lips and we shared a kiss on our way
towards the steps, until Edward stopped abruptly. I felt myself sliding
down his body and my feet hit the floor. As I followed his eyes, I saw my
father standing directly behind me.
Shit, hand caught in the cookie jar, again.
"I'm headed out, Bells," Charlie said, looking at me, then giving Edward
the hairy eyeball.
"Thank you for coming," I stepped towards him and gave a quick hug.
"Sure thing, kid." My dad gave a light slap to my cheek and walked
towards the door.
"See you tomorrow, Charlie," Edward said, opening the door for him.
"Keep your damn hands to yourself or you won't be of much use
tomorrow," Charlie warned before he exited the Cullen's house.
"Yes, Sir." Edward laughed and then closed the door.
"Ready for cookies, angel?" he said, walking backing towards me. I
nodded and waited for him to reach me, then jumped playfully on his
back when he did. Flower Child chuckled and hoisted me up higher,
clearly happy to play along. He piggy-backed me to the kitchen and I
saw Grandma Cullen smile up at us as she fixed a tea for her and Rose.
"Okay, Grandma, where did you hide the amoretties?" Edward asked. She
laughed at his question and replied, "What's it to you?"
"Making Bella happy," he replied.
"Well, in that case," she spun around and opened the cabinet door, pulled
out the box of cookies and handed them over. "You better save your
father some. You know how he is about his amoretties."
"Yeah, yeah." Edward tipped the box towards me and I pulled a few
individually wrapped cookies from the box. He passed them back over to
Elizabeth and thanked her before we exited.
I didn't miss Rosalie staring at us as we did, either.
Back in Flower Child's old bedroom, we lay in his small bed, nibbling on
our Italian cookies, as he read one of the books from his collection to me.
My head was on his chest with one of his arms wrapped around me, and
the other held the book open.
I watched his lips as he read, mostly to avoid looking at the crumbs I
was getting all over his shirt, but also because I loved watching him
read. He was very good at it, articulating the story to me in a way that
made it even more interesting than it should have been.
It was something I always admired in people who bared such a gift. In
my life, I sat through so many seminars of people giving boring speeches,
and had to listen to so many conferences. When someone was actually
able to hold my attention for a length of time just because of the way
they delivered what they were saying it was fascinating; even when it
was something I had no interest in.
That's how I felt about listening to Edward right now.
"How's your amoretti?" he asked, resting the book down on his chest so
he could unwrap a new cookie for himself.
"Perfection," I said, taking another nibble.
"When we were little, Em and I always got these things in our Christmas
stockings." He took a bite and picked the book back up to read.
"Flower Child?"
"Mmm?" He looked over to me.
"You're grandmother is seriously like one of my most favorite people," I
sighed, rolling into his chest as I popped the last bit of cookie into my
mouth.
I felt the vibrations of his quiet laughter as I lay against him, and he
kissed the top of my head. He began to read again, and, as the dinner
from earlier worked its magic with the cookies in my full belly, Edward
stroked my hair. Once again, I was both lucky, and sleepy.
Before I drifted into my dreams, Edward stopped reading and I felt him
move to turn off the light. "Sweetheart?" he said softly. "I want you to
take tomorrow off, okay?"
"Can't," I mumbled.
"You can, and you will," he said a little louder.
"Shut up," I mumbled, placing my hand over his lips, and he laughed as I
kissed him.
"Goodnight," he whispered softly. I hugged myself to him, nuzzling my
face into his neck, and fell asleep there.
Several hours later, I woke up and found myself alone. I blinked in the
dark room, calling out his name softly, but no one answered. Thinking he
got up to use the restroom, I rolled back over and tried to get back to
sleep, but failed, not being comfortable without him beside me.
I kicked the covers away and sat up, opening my eyes, and tried to
adjust them to the darkness. The small digital clock said it was just
after three in the morning and I debated on where he could be.
The walk to the door seemed longer as I fumbled my way towards it,
holding my hands out in front of me, waiting until I felt something hit my
palms. When I finally reached it, I slid my fingers over the door until I
felt the cool handle and opened the door. A soft light illuminated the top
floor, and I walked towards the bathroom in need of relief, hoping to find
Edward on my way; except, when I did, I wished that I hadn't.
As I closed the bathroom door, I saw the other one that led to Ness'
room was open, and her nightlight was on. Little fairies danced around
the room, casting a soft glow, and I saw Edward was curled up in her
bed. My chest burned, and I felt the tears welling in my eyes, wondering
how long he had been there while I was sleeping.
I walked into her room and climbed on the bed, sitting behind him.
Reaching over, I shut off the nightlight and then turned towards Flower
Child, tugging on his shoulder so that he would face me. He rolled over
and I lay down next to him, nose to nose. The only thing I knew to do
was comfort him with my affection. I had no more words to offer, and
I'm sure he wasn't wanting them, anyhow, right now.
I kissed all over his face and could hear him sniffle; which only made the
pain in my chest worse, knowing he was hurting to the point of tears.
Growing up with a man made of matter tough as steel, I knew how hard
it was for them to cry, and the only time I ever saw Edward do it was
when it pertained to Renesmee.
My lips continued to course over his face, trying to replace all of the
salty tears I tasted there with my kisses. "I wish I could take it all
away, baby," I whispered, feeling my own tears surge forth. "I wish I
could just make it go away, Flower Child. I'd take all the pain for you if
I could. I promise. I don't know how to make it better, and I'm sorry." I
gave him more kisses and stroked my fingers through his hair. "I'm sorry."
His arms slid around me, hugging me to him tightly.
"You do, Bella," he whispered back, kissing my face just as adoringly.
"You're the only thing that does." He brought my face to rest under his
chin and held me there. I could hear his heart beating under me and I
closed my eyes, trying to allow it to lull me back to sleep.
It must have, because the next time my eyes opened, the sun was
brightly shining in the room. Edward and I were still in the same position,
and when I tried to move, he clung to me, not letting me escape. It made
me smile, and I let him have his way, not trying to move again.
My fingers played with the fabric of his shirt as I let him sleep. He felt
warm and wonderful as I lay against him, wrapped up in his arms. My
fingers tugged down his collar, and I kissed the little bit of skin exposed
there. Edward began to stir and I did it again, trying to wake him up
nicely, so that I could move. As good as it felt to be wrapped up with
him in bed, it would feel even better to get up and stretch.
And pee.
He cleared the sleep from his throat as his eyes fluttered open, fanning
his thick lashes and revealing his blue eyes to me for the first time this
morning. I leaned in and kissed his chin, causing a soft hum to emanate
from his throat.
"Morning sleepyhead," I teased. "Can I move now?"
"Mmm mmm," he held me tighter and I laughed.
"I have to pee. Baaaad." I tried to wiggle free and he begrudgingly let
go, groaning in displeasure.
After I relieved myself, and made Baby Cullen some extra room, I washed
my hands and then my face, but cursed when I realized I couldn't brush
my teeth. We never intended on staying last night, but, after dinner, we
were both too tired to drive back home.
Thankfully, he still had those old superhero pajamas I wore last time,
and they made for good sleeping attire. As I made my way back into the
room, I saw he was sitting up, waiting for me on the bed. I sat down
next to him and he swung an arm over my shoulder, placing a kiss to my
head.
"You're not going to work today," he said, reminding me of our
disagreement on the matter before I dozed off last night.
"Edward, you're still on probation. I'm not done torturing you, yet."
"Well you can continue torturing me tomorrow, but today you're doing
nothing but resting, or going to the beach, or anything that isn't work.
Shit, hang out with my mother and teach her how to cook for my dad's
sake," he laughed.
"Let me break this down for you so you can understand it like the
retarded monkey you are, Flower Child. I have ten restaurants, over one
thousand employees to deal with, a new restaurant being built in another
fucking country, a lawsuit from Jessicunt up my ass, a child
endangerment lawsuit from Jessicunt up my twat, and a child living right
above there. I CAN'T take a day off right now." I looked over to him,
giving the good old stink face.
"You totally just made my point," he said, and I increased my level of
stinkfacedness. "You have all of that to deal with, and the baby living
right above needs you to take a day off. You're doing too much. Believe
it or not, the world will continue to spin if Isabella Swan fucks off at the
beach for a day."
I continued to make my face, not backing down and he sighed hard. "Fine,
you can work, but you have to do it from our bedroom when we get back
home. You don't need to be at The Workshop. I'm there, Em's there,
Charlie and that European fucker." He gave me his own evil eye and I had
to laugh.
"Don't be jealous of Alistair's mo-jo. He can't help his flyness."
"Flyness? The dude makes vinaigrette drops," Edward scoffed.
"Can you make vinaigrette drops, Flower Child?" I teased.
"No, but I'm sure if I turned my dick inside out I could."
And with that, I lost my shit.
I fell back laughing, and Edward leaned over me. "I knew there was a
reason I put up with you," I continued to have laughing spasms as I
reached up and tugged him down by his ears to my face.
"Is that your way of agreeing with me?" he asked.
"Yes, fuck. I'll be a useless piece of shit today. Happy?" I raised my
brows to him and he leaned in and kissed me quickly.
"Exceptionally so," he said, and then sat back up.
"Exceptionally so," I mocked, and he whipped his head towards me. A
wicked gleam sparkled in his eyes and I knew he was up to no good.
"Don't," I said holding my hand out, preparing for whatever he was
plotting, and he laughed, moving towards me. "Flower Child!" I warned,
scooting back more.
"You're making it worse," he said, seeing that I was trapping myself in
with nowhere to run.
I did the only thing I knew to do in a scary situation like thisI kicked
him in the gut and made my getaway.
After we were back in Edward's apartment, he changed into his work
clothes and kissed me goodbye. That, of course, was after he made me
promise not to leave the bed unless it was to go to the beach, or do
something non-work related. As sweet as he was, and as bad as I needed
some rest, the truth was that a day off was not very conducive to my
professional life right now.
He was right, though; the baby needed me to slow the fuck down.
I spent most of the morning on the computer going back and forth with
the people assembling Invoke. A trip was definitely going to be needed
soon. There was only so much I could do working from here, and I was
dying to get my hands on that place and see it in person.
After I disconnected from my conference with those people, I talked with
Gordon for a bit, going over some things I had concerns over, since he was
heading up the project with me. I felt sleepy after my phone call with
him, though, and took a two hour snooze.
When I woke up, it was early afternoon and I texted Edward to tell him
I loved him and missed him. He didn't text back and that was good. It
meant he was busy; a.k.a., doing his job. I climbed to my feet, needing to
stretch, and made my way out to his balcony. The beach looked great
and it was so warm and breezy outside. As I looked over my paling skin, I
decided to go down for a bit and get some sun.
It felt great and I was actually glad that Edward forced me to do this
today. The oil was all nice and warm on my skin as I lay there, and the
sound of the ocean waves soothed all the tension away. It was way
better than listening to the crappy relaxation CDs I owned, that was for
damn sure.
My stomach started to rumble after a while, and I decided, looking over
my skin that was coloring, it was time to head back in. I thought about
what to make for lunch as I walked back towards his building, and
decided that maybe I could go pick up Edward and take him with me
somewhere. Service was still a while away, so there was plenty of time.
As I rode the elevator up, I decided I would definitely take him to lunch
with me, but was going to eat a PB and J beforehand. Maybe even try to
make one of those smoothie things he served me yesterday.
The doors opened and I stepped out of the elevator. Reaching in my
beach bag, I dug around for my keys to his apartment.
"Bewwa!" My head whipped up, and I stopped dead in my tracks.
"Squeaks?" I said shakily. She was in the arms of Mrs. Banner standing in
front of our door. I stepped quickly towards her and grabbed her up as
soon as I reached them.
"I was looking for her father," Mrs. Banner said. "She was wandering the
halls, and I figured he must have been worried sick."
"Where is your mommy?" I asked Squeaks, and she simply shrugged. "Is
she here?" Ness said nothing, just shrugged again, looking just as
confused as I felt.
"I haven't seen anyone with her," Mrs. Banner said. "She just kept asking
for her daddy."
"Thank youumI'll bring her to him. Edward works for me, so she's
safe." I hugged Ness to me and Mrs. Banner nodded with a smile.
"You take care, little one." She walked passed us and patted Ness' back
as she exited.
"Oh my God. I missed you so much," I hugged her tightly, pressing her
face into my neck, kissing her all over. "You're daddy is going to be so
happy to see you."
Her little face pulled back from me and I knew, as I looked into her blue
eyes, she was just as anxious. "You want to go see him?" I asked, unable
to contain the smile on my lips. She nodded vigorously, and I laughed at
her.
I wasn't sure where the fuck Jessica was, or how Ness ended up here,
but I was just grateful she was. As I drove with her to The Workshop, I
called Emmett, knowing that I would need to explain to Edward in private
about how I found her. Chances were Jessica probably just left her
standing in front of his door like the titty-mouth she was, unable to
handle her own kid anymore and Flower Child was going to flip.
Emmett was standing outside as I parked in front of Rose's bakery. He
made his way across and opened the door to the back where Ness was
waiting excitedly. "Shortcake!" he exclaimed, and she giggled saying his
name loudly back.
"Just stay with her until I talk to him, okay?" I slid out of the car and
Emmett pulled Ness out, standing on the sidewalk with her.
I made my way into my restaurant and headed straight for the back. As
soon as I saw Edward in the kitchen, I grabbed his hand and tugged him
towards me. "Come with me."
"What's going on?" he eyed me and it was then I realized I still had my
bathing suit on with just my towel wrapped around me. I ignored him and
pulled him towards my office, though. "Bella?" he said as I closed the
door and turned to face him.
"Just listen to me, okay. I need you just listen to everything I say
before you do anything." I waiting and he nodded eagerly to me.
"Promise?"
"Yeah, what's going on?" he asked impatiently.
"Okay, so I was at the beach, and when I came back, I saw Mrs. Banner
standing at your door andfuck, promise me you will just listen when I
say this, okay?" I asked again.
"I already said I promised. Bella what the fuck happened?"
"She had Ness," I said nervously.
His face scrunched, looking confused, then shocked, then happy, then
angry, and asked, "What do you mean she had Ness? Wherewhere the
fuck is Jessica?"
"I don't know. She didn't see her and Ness didn't say"
"Where is Ness NOW?" I could see he was breaking, doing exactly what I
feared, and I grabbed his arm as he turned towards the door to search
her out.
"You promised! Just stay calm. She's fine. Emmett has her. Listen to me,
damn it!" I tugged his arm and he looked at me again. "You need to call
Carlisle and tell him what's going on. Flower Child, this could be your
chance to get Squeaks back, don't fuck it up. Call him and explain this
shit first, then you can go see her. Please?"
He closed his eyes for a second and then nodded and stepped around my
desk, picking up the phone. He sat down and I waited as he talked with
his father and wrote down a bunch of things he said. When he hung up,
he wrote a few more things on the paper and then looked up to me.
"He said to take her to the emergency room and have her checked out.
He's going to talk to the building manager of my apartment and see if he
can get them to let him watch the security tapes, trying to see if Jess
left her there. You and Mrs. Banner will have to fill out police reports
too, since Jessica probably did just fucking." He stopped, and his jaw
grew tight.
"Alright," I said, nodding. He looked up to me and I could see his silent
question in his desperate eyes.
"She's across the street with Em, probably knee deep in cookies if I had
to guess," I laughed.
Edward bolted from my office chair and kissed my head quickly as he
passed. I followed behind him, even though he was practically running and
I was simply walking. As I reached the front window of the dining room, I
pushed back the heavy curtain and peered out, watching as Edward
scooped up Squeaks into his arms and kissed her, much the same way I
had.
Squeaky's little arms clung to his neck and he rocked her, still planting
kisses to her face and head. I couldn't hear what he was saying, but I
knew what those words were. It was his love, his heartache, and how
much he missed her.
Yesterday when I lay in Flower Child's lap, happy to have enjoyed
something as simple as a sandwich and his fingers in my hair, I was
wrong. That was just a very small portion of my life that was good.
The display of love and affection before me now, accompanying the
swelling of happiness I felt in my heart, seeing the two people I loved
most in this world brought back together
This, ladies and gentlemen, was the good life.
~ * ~ * ~*









Chapter 25 "Food is Love."

Edward.
X xX xX
Renesmee was weightless in my arms, feeling like I held all the joy of
Christmas morning with her wrapped in them.
My lips attempted to kiss every inch of my daughter's baby-doll face.
The hole in my heart instantly dissipated when the word 'daddy'
whispered against my ear. The little tinge of fear that lived inside of me,
thinking that maybe she would have forgotten, vanished as she hugged me
back, casting all my doubts aside.
My little girl remembered and still loved me.
"Where did you go?" she asked, framing my face in between her small
hands.
"I didn't go anywhere, sweetheart. I was right here, waiting for you." I
kissed her face again, and she smiled then puckered her lips for mine.
I kissed her once, lightly, and then rested my forehead to hers. My eyes
were closed and I allowed myself to soak her in, and just for a brief
moment, be happy that she was here. That moment, of course, couldn't
last as long as I wanted it to, for I knew something must have been
seriously wrong if Jessica left her unattended in my apartment building.
"Sweetheart," I opened my eyes and pulled back to look into her face,
"where is mommy?"
"She is getting cookies," Ness said, playing with her fingers against my
face.
"Cookies?" I turned my head towards Rose's bakery and gazed into the
window.
"I didn't see her go in there," Emmett said shaking his head.
"Baby? Where was Mommy last?" I asked again.
"Home," she replied.
"In New York?" I asked, and she stared at me, looking confused. "Where
the yellow cars are?"
"No," she said, shaking her head.
I hugged her to me, resting her head down into the crook of my neck,
unsure of what she meant by 'home', but I had to stop asking because I
could see it was making her sad. Emmett shrugged his shoulders as I
looked towards him, obviously not understanding either.
"Em, will you get Bella, please? I want her to come with me to the E.R.,"
I asked him.
"Sure man." He hit my shoulder as he passed, walking back across the
street.
I dug my keys out from my pocket, making my way to my car, and clicked
the button to unlock the door. As I set Ness down, so I could rearrange
some things for her to be able to have a seat, she tugged on my pants,
causing me to look down.
"Daddy's home," she said. "Mommy is at Daddy's home."
"Are you sure?" I asked.
Renesmee nodded to me, still clinging to my pant leg, and I kneeled down
beside her. She reached her hand up and tugged down the collar of my
shirt, looking confused afterwards. Her baby blues lifted to my own and
she asked, "Where is kitty?" I took her little hand into mine and kissed
it softly. "At home, sweetheart. Where it's safe. I promise."
I cupped her cheeks into my hands in an effort to own all of her
attention. I wanted, needed, to know where Jessica was.
"When you were at Daddy's home, where was Mommy, love? Can you tell
Daddy, please?"
"She was getting the cookies and then she was all gone," Ness said.
"Cookies from where? Mrs. Banner?" I tried to guess, thinking it might
jog her memory.
"No, the swings," she answered, and I finally got it.
There were vending machines by the playground as you entered the
bottom floor to my building.
"Did you walk away from Mommy?" I asked her. "It is alright if you did,
but Daddy just needs to know." I waited for her to answer, but she
didn't and I guessed that was a 'yes' since she knew it was not alright to
just wander off.
Shit, that meant Jessica was probably looking for her.
I called Carlisle on the way to the hospital, explaining to him what Ness
told me. It surprised me that he said to not go back to my building. He
wanted to be able to have Ness examined and a report filed before we
did that.
He did, however, inform me that I would have to return Ness to Jessica if
she was still there, as Ness was still lawfully in her custody. That didn't
sit well with me, but the fact that we were granted an emergency
hearing this week was. I just hoped it would end in my favor this time
around.
Ness checked out fine at the hospital, and Bella filled out a report with
the police. Jessica had already called in, though, and that meant I had
to call and tell her where Ness was. My finger pressed nervously and
resistant against the keys of my phone, and I prayed she wouldn't
answer.
Apparently, God was no longer listening to me, though, and she did.
Jessica met us in the lobby back at my building, and I hugged Ness to me
as I walked up to her. She extended her arms for Ness, but I pretended
like I didn't even see her actions and avoided the exchange. "What's
wrong?" I asked her.
"Nothing, she's fine, obviously," Jessica said, taking another step closer to
grab Ness, but I turned her out of reach.
"I mean, what brought you here in the first place?" Ness hid her face in
the crook of my neck as I waited for Jessica to answer. I rocked her
gently, smoothing my palm over her back soothingly.
I probably should have passed her to my dad, or Bella, while I had this
conversation, but I just couldn't let her go. Jessica exhaled a hard sigh
and shook her head at me before she replied, "It's Mike's birthday and I
came to visit him. I was hoping that you would watch Ness so I could
surprise him, but you weren't home."
"You could have called me."
"I tried. You didn't answer," she replied, crossing her arms.
A part of me didn't believe her. I shifted Ness slightly, digging my phone
out of my pocket, and flipped it open with my thumb. Fuck. She did call.
"Satisfied?" she asked, annoyed. "I tried calling you last night too. I
wanted to tell you that I was coming here, but you never answered then
either, or called me back."
"We were at my parents' house. I thought that was Esme calling me,
because Bella and I were running late. Damn," I flipped the lid closed
and shoved it back into my pocket. "Sorry."
"Whatever. How the hell did you find her anyhow? I was looking
everywhere."
"Bella saw her with one of the ladies in the building. What happened?" I
asked.
"I was looking to see if you were down in the gym or something. She
wandered off when I stopped to get a soda from the machine." Jessica
shrugged nonchalantly, like my daughter missing was no big deal in her
eyes.
"Well, it's a good thing Bella found her." Because if anything ever
happened to her, I'd gut you like a fish.
"Oh don't act like you never had anything go wrong when you watched
her. Or your little girlfriend. As I recall, she almost died, once," Jessica
glanced to Bella, who was standing aside with Carlisle, and then back to
me.
"I wasn't blaming you. I'm just grateful she's alright." I hugged Ness
closer to me and looked to her, trying to avoid having to look at Jessica.
"Whatever. We need to get going," she extended her arms, and I
recoiled.
"You just said you came here to leave her with me. Just go with Mike.
She'll be fine." I tried to stay calm, but in truth, my insides were
beginning to churn, knowing full well Jessica had every right to take her
right now.
And I couldn't do a damn thing about it.
"Just give her to me, Edward."
"Jessica, please. Go have fun with Mike. You can come pick her up"
"Oh, yeah right. I'm just so sure you and Daddy Lawyer over there are
just gonna sit and twiddle your thumbs while I'm gone. No thanks," she
stepped forward, but I turned, holding Ness out of her reach.
"Jesus Christ Jessica, I haven't seen my daughter in almost two months!
Can't you just let her stay for the rest of the night?" My voice grew
louder and I could feel eyes on us from around the lobby, but I didn't
care.
Until, of course, Ness started squirming, distressed, in my arms. I kissed
her head and tried to shush her, but it did no good and she began to cry,
hearing Jessica and I fighting.
"Now you're upsetting her," she reached out and grabbed for Ness and I
once again deflected her. "Don't make a scene, prick. Just let her go,"
she gritted her teeth and stared at me, but I held my ground.
I leaned in towards her, holding my hand over Ness' ear, and said in a low
voice, "Fucking make me, bitch." I walked past her and started towards
the elevator.
"Edward!" Jessica yelled, but I ignored her.
If she wanted Renesmee right now, she was going to have to pry her from
my cold, dead hands.
"It's alright," I shushed Ness, rocking her as I waited for the elevator
doors to open.
Part of me expected Jessica to be in my face screaming any second now,
and when I looked over my shoulder, I was shocked to actually see her
leaving, and Bella and my father walking towards me.
I looked back to the elevator doors as they opened, but Carlisle's hand
landed on my shoulder, stopping me.
"We should go to our home, Edward. I need to make calls and figure this
all out. I can't help you from here," he said.
"Fine, but I need to go up and get something," I caught a glimpse of
Bella as I looked back towards the doors. "And I'm sure Bella would like
to change," I smiled, eyeing her still in her bikini.
Bella followed me up to the apartment and my father waited in the
lobby. Ness scrambled to get out of my arms as we entered, and she
excitedly ran to her room. I smiled at her enthusiasm to be back in our
home.
"Sweetheart," I called, walking past her door into my own room. "Come
here, Ness." As I waited for her, I walked to my dresser and pulled out
the Hello Kitty locket Bella had given her.
She came running into my bedroom, holding onto an armful of toys, and
smiled when she saw me sitting on my bed. I dangled the necklace at
her, raising my brows in question, and she giggled, letting the toys fall to
the floor. Her little legs ran over to the bed, and she hoisted herself up
into my lap. I fastened the necklace around her neck as Bella was
walking in, and she stood against the doorframe, smiling.
"We should go," she said, holding out her hand.
Ness slipped down from my lap and tottered over to her. Bella scooped
her up and placed a kiss to her face. I stood up and walked towards her,
trying to beat back all of the emotions brewing inside of me, seeing how
perfect my daughter looked wrapped up in Bella's arms.
In other words, how perfect we all were together.
Bella.
* * *
I allowed Squeaks to play in the backyard alongside Esme when we
arrived at their home.
Edward was upstairs, talking with his father. I asked beforehand if it
would be alright to make lunch, needing to keep busy, and also, Baby
Cullen and I were fucking starving. Lunchtime had been interrupted, and
that wasn't permitted when I wasn't pregnant, let alone now that I was.
Baby need food, baby get food.
That damn simple, folks.
Plus, Esme had a seriously packed fridge, full of all kinds of great finds.
I pulled a baggy of lunch meat out, roast beef, and ate a slice while I
debated what to make. My eyes grazed over all the items, from the
wonderful cheese collection, to the pancetta, and then slowly, fucking
slowly I tell you, they lowered to the dish which held the contents
heaven was created from.
Peanut butter fucking cream pie.
Grandma Cullen was my Personal Jesus. I swear to pie. Quite damn
literally.
I pulled that glass dish of holiness out and rested it gingerly onto the
marble countertop, patting the cellophane-covered top ever so lovingly.
I could practically feel Baby Cullen's little fishy lips smile inside my
womb.
It was a happy womb.
"Bewwa! Bewwa!" Squeaks came running through the double doors of the
porch, into the kitchen.
She held out her hand as she reached me, and I smiled down at her. Only
this child would have the ability to take my attention away from peanut
butter pie. That's how special she was.
"Wook!" I gazed down into her hand and saw a potato. "Gama grew it.
It's dirty," she giggled.
"Awesome," I picked up the spud from her hand, "now we just need, like,
ten more to make something worth our while." I smiled, and her face
beamed as she said, "Kay!" Ness ran back out into the yard, and as my
eyes moved away from her direction, I saw Edward leaning against the
doorframe to the kitchen.
Surprisingly, he looked amused, not pissed off like I expected he would
be.
"What are you making?" he asked.
"Um, not sure. Depends on how many she brings back, I guess." I laughed
and he pushed off the doorway.
"I suppose I should go make sure she gets at least ten more then." He
started out the door and I spun around to finish my refrigerator
examination.
Two shelves left.
"Potatoes, potatoes," I said to myself as I searched. "Ah ha," I pulled
out a nice butcher's cut of bacon and some green onions. "Potato soup,
here we come."
After I tossed those ingredients down onto the counter, I searched for
some spices and then a pot. As I was finishing up chopping an onion,
Squeaks and Flower Child came back in, hands full of potatoes.
"Wow, good job Farmer Ed," I laughed.
"It amazes me that my mother can't cook, yet," he waved his hand over
the spuds as he rested them down on the counter, "she can grow this."
One of the potatoes rolled away and we scrambled to catch it before it
hit the floor. Edward captured it in his hand, just before it rolled off
the counter and I laughed, "Good save."
"Should have been a baseball player. I knew it," He tossed the potato in
his hand, and I rolled my eyes at him.
"Why don't you get washing there, Babe," I teased. He walked over to
me at the stove, leaning his lips to my ear, "Yes, Chef." He kissed the
side of my face, and low and behold, the rebirth of Butterbean occurred
right there in The Cullen's fabulous kitchen, I tell you.
"Just scrub the po's, Flower Child." My attempt to rein him in was futile,
as this man was relentless in his quest to own my nether regions.
He walked over to the sink and mouthed, "Yes, Chef," blowing a kiss
afterwards, 'cause the asshole knew I was getting off on it.
Sometimes, I really hated Flower Childin the most affectionate of ways.
"Smells good," Esme said as she entered with a basket of goodies I was
dying to get my dirty paws on.
"That's 'cause it is good," I said over my shoulder as I stirred. She
laughed and walked over to me, taking off her gardening gloves. "Are
those the potatoes the kid's dug up?" she asked, looking into the pot.
"Sure are. And you know," I brought the spoon to my mouth and took a
taste. Perfection. "I've decided. I will keep this baby, but only because
it will ensure I have my own personal produce grower for the next
eighteen to twenty-one years."
"And herbs," she added, and I laughed.
"This is why I like you, woman," I said, resting the wooden spoon down.
Esme walked over and washed her hands, then began pulling out bowls for
us. Flower Child grabbed the silverware, handing some down to Ness as
she reached up to help, and I couldn't help but think of my words.
This was what I was going to be doing for next twenty years or so.
Cooking lunch for Edward, Squeaks, and so on. Normal, family stuff.
Weird. Who was this girl, and where did the real me go?
I wasn't sure.
The new girl made fuckassgood potato soup, though, so I guess I'd let her
stayfor a bit.
Edward called his father over the intercom to come eat, and we all took
our places at the table. As I topped Esme's bowl all proper-like with
crispy bacon pieces, green onions, and a fresh dollop a dollop of daisy
of sour cream, the fucking doorbell rang.
Carlisle called out that he had it as he began to enter the dining room.
Flower Child glanced at me as I looked to him, and we both just knew. He
looked back down to our food and finished serving Ness. I saw his father
walk back into the room before Edward did, and sure as shit, his face
confirmed that it was indeed Jessica.
"Edward," he said softly, pausing at the doorway.
Flower Child looked to him briefly and then back to Ness, ignoring
Carlisle.
"Son, I have no choice here. I'm sorry. She calledthe authorities."
"Ness is going to finish her food. If the authorities really want to come in
here and deprive my five-year-old her lunch, then that's on them. But
I'm sitting right here until she's finished." Edward turned back to Ness
and rested his chin into his hand, watching her.
Squeaky kept eating, seemingly oblivious to what was happening, and a
small smile came across Flower Child's face as she slurped away at her
soup and attempted to shove a giant bite of bread in her mouth.
I couldn't blame her. My garlic bread was pretty damn good.
Carlisle walked back towards the front door, and I reached across, taking
Edward's empty bowl, so I could serve him, as he neglected to do so. He
thanked me, but really didn't eat much, focusing his attention on
Squeaks, mostly.
When she was finished, he scooped her up and brought her over to the
countertop. As I cleaned up the table, bringing the dishes to the sink
alongside him, I peaked over as he wiped her mouth, cleaning her up.
I was scared shitless, thinking he might break again once Ness left this
time.
"Mommy is going to take you home now, okay?" he said softly to her.
Ness immediately looked up at him wide-eyed, and he shushed her,
rubbing his fingers along her cheek. "No crying, remember? You're my big
girl, right?" She nodded sadly at him and tried to suck in her tears.
Edward leaned in and whispered something in her ear, and she nodded
again.
"Good girl," he reached back and unclasped her necklace, dropping it into
his pocket. Without another word, he lifted her from the counter and
walked past Esme. She quickly leaned in and kissed her lips to Ness, but
he shook his head at her and she offered nothing else.
Esme looked to me and I could see the tears in her eyes. Edward was
hiding them from Squeaks. Carlisle followed him out and I debated, not
sure what to do. I turned to wash the pots in the sink, but it felt too
wrong. I cursed and shut the water off, grabbing a towel so I could dry
my hands.
I walked angrily towards the front of the house and gazed out the
window, needing to make sure Flower Child was alright. I watched him
hand Ness over to Carlisle and then he handed her over to Jessica
without a word. Edward said something and then Carlisle tugged on his
arm, pulling him in the house. I let go of the curtain, not wanting to get
caught spying, and walked back towards the kitchen.
Potato soup tasted like shit when it bubbled back up in your throat.
"It'll be okay, it'll be okay," he chanted under his breath over and over
as we drove back to The Workshop.
Baby Cullen was feeling evil and wanted to laugh at his or her daddy's
pain.
Okay, not at his pain, per se, but just at his ramblings.
He was cute, likereally cute right now.
"Flower Child? I'm just throwing this out there, but if this judge doesn't
allow you to have Ness back after the fuckery that was today, we are
going to steal her and change our names. Fuck, I have so much goddamn
money, we could buy our own island and make our own laws and NOT
extraditing sexy fathers who love and adore their adorable ass kids
would defs be one of them."
He looked over to me as he stopped at the red light and stared. His face
scrunched, and I worried that maybe my joke wasn't funny to him, until
he said, "Sammy."
"Sammy?" I asked. He shifted the gears as he replied, "Yeah, you know,
like Sammy Sosa. I want to be known on our island as Sammy Sosa."
I burst out laughing at him, literally snorting as I took in what he said.
My head fell against the window and I couldn't help my laughing spasm.
What on earth would make him think of that name? I swear, I was so in
love with him, it was fucked beyond all reasoning.
"Who" I tried to recover my giggle-snorts. "Who would I be?"
"I don't know, I like you as Bella too much." He looked over to me and a
small smile crept over his face. I opened my mouth to reply, but a song
on the radio caught my ear. "My dick!" I turned it up louder.
"That's creative," Edward replied.
"No, this song, stupid. Listen." I smiled as the idiots rapped about
theirdicks.
"Why does this song remind me of Jessica?" He laughed as we continued
down the highway.
"Dicks. Lots and lots of dicks," I replied. "Oh this is my favorite part.
You should totally say this to Emmett when we get back."
My dick, is like super sized, your dick, looks like two fries. My dick, more
mass than the earth, your dick, half-staffed, it needs work.
"Dude, you have a dick like Jesus," I said patting him on the shoulder.
"Thank you, angel. So kind of you," he said sarcastically.
"Seriously, Flower Child. You're dick, good, good lovin', Em's dick, good fo'
nothin'," I repeated to him, and he snorted. "You're dick, rumble in the
jungle, Em's dick, got touched by your uncle."
"Stop, please." He started laughing hard and I had to laugh right along
with him. "Need to drive," he wiped the tears from his eyes and I smiled,
sitting back into my seat.
At least they were happy tears.
Edward.
X X X
I was holding my shit together.
Jessica would not break me. When I leaned down into Ness' ear at my
folks' home and whispered my words, I meant them.
It wasn't easy, but I was doing it.
Service was about to begin, and Bella called us out to the back parking
lot for our meeting. I wasn't sure why but, of course, we all followed.
"Form a circle please," she said, pushing us all aside as she took her
place. Once we were where she wanted us, she said, "Flower Child, I
think you have something to share?"
I bit my lip, looking at her, knowing she wanted me to say that 'my dick'
shit from the car. "No, I'm good." I shook my head at her and she
laughed, "Fine, let Emmett's dick win."
"Huh?" Emmett asked, looking highly confused, yet amused. Bella looked
back to me, but I held my ground.
"Forget it. Okay so, I don't know about you all, but I have some serious
rage going on inside of me that needs release. We are gathered here
today to let it out. I'll go first." Bella cleared her throat and bellowed,
"My dick, parts the seas!!!! Your dick, farts and queefs!!!!"
I covered my face, laughing, despite my better judgment. Jesus H, I
impregnated this woman. My stomach couldn't help the spasms of
laughter vibrating inside of it as she kept going on with her song, until
she finally ran out of air.
Thank the heavens.
"Emmett, you're up next," she said, stepping back in line.
"Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuucking A!!!! I owe Edward twenty bucks!!!" He
started to laugh as he reached into his back pocket and pulled out his
wallet. I looked questioningly at him, and he extended a twenty out to
me. "My fucking team LOST!!!!" he yelled, laughing at the end.
"Then I have nothing to rage on about," I snatched the money from his
hand and went to step back in line, but paused, thinking I owed Bella a
serving of her shit. I reached over to her and pulled her shirt collar out,
then tucked the twenty inside, tapping my hand over it afterwards. "For
later," I whispered teasingly.
"You think twenty bucks is going to get you laid, Flower Child?" she
asked, playing along, to my amusement. "Perhaps you didn't hear me say I
could purchase islands?"
"Hey, hey, hey. None of that," Charlie interrupted our playing. I smiled,
looking down to my shoes, and waited for the rest of the screaming to
commence.
The meeting wrapped up after Ben screamed his frustrations for carrots
that don't cook on time, and Angela made sure everyone knew she hated
her ex mother-in-law. As we made our way back inside, I reached out
and tugged on the back of Alice's chef jacket.
She spun around, and I waited for Bella to be inside before I spoke. The
back door closed and I said, "Do you have a smoke?"
"Yeah," she said, nodding.
"Fuck, give me one, please?" I asked, relieved.
"I didn't know you smoked," she giggled, reaching into her coat pocket.
"Here," she handed over the lighter and cigarette.
"I don't," I said pointedly as I lit the end. I took a long pull from it and
closed my eyes as I exhaled. "You never saw me here, Alice."
"Bella doesn't let you smoke?" she giggled.
"She doesn't think it's fair if I can smoke and she can't." I took another
hit and Alice looked at me, confused.
Oh, right.
"Don't say shit, 'cause Bella probably doesn't want anyone here to know
yet, but she's pregnant. So"I waved, alluding to our previous exchange
of words.
"Holy!" she covered her mouth and giggled again. "Really? You're going to
have a baby with"
"Alice!" I warned, and she lowered her voice, laughing still as she said,
"You and Bella are having a baby?" She sounded touched by the news,
and I was grateful at least someone we told was.
"Yeah," I said softly, lowering the cigarette to my side.
"Shit. Wait right here." Alice spun around and tugged the door open,
stepping inside.
I moved out of view immediately and to the other side of the stack of
pallets. My back rested against the wall and savored smoking the first
cigarette I had in weeks. The high filled my head and the dizziness felt
good. My thoughts wandered to Ness, and I tried not to think about her,
but it was useless.
My eyes flickered over to the door as I heard it open, and I chucked the
cigarette quickly, scared of who might be coming out.
Okay, only one person scared me, but you get it.
Thankfully it was only Alice.
"Come here," she waved at me and I leaned off the wall to walk over to
her. She started spraying me down with shit and I coughed.
"What the hell are you doing?" I asked, waving my hand in front of my
face.
"Fabreeze, travel size. Gotta love it. Arms up," she insisted.
It seemed ludicrous, but I obeyed. Something told me death by Fabreeze
fumes was much better than death by Bella fumes.
"Thanks," I said, as she finished.
"Not done yet," she handed me over a small bottle of mouthwash.
"What are you, a walking mini-mart?" I laughed, taking the bottle.
"I'm a girl. Girls carry these things. It's embedded in our DNA," she
smiled.
"I see." I took a swash of the mouthwash and swirled it around a little
then spit to the side.
"So, why are you smoking behind Bella's back, anyhow?" she asked.
"I saw Ness today," I admitted, the words coming out like cactus thorns.
"Oh. How?" We walked towards the door and I paused with my hand over
the metal handle. I was going to explain, but it was just too much shit to
get into, and if I talked about it, my smoke would be in vain.
"Long story," I shook my head and opened the door for her. Alice stepped
in, only giving me a sad smile, and we went back to work.
The night went pretty good for the most part, and we were out of there
and back home before I knew it. Alice's remedy for not smelling like the
cheater I was worked, and all was good in that department.
Bella leaned against me in the elevator as we rode our way up to our
home. Yeah, I said our. She looked as tired as I felt. The numbers
seemed to be climbing at the speed of turtle tonight as I stared at
them.
Ugh, all I wanted was a shower, bed, and sleep. In that order.
Finally, the bell chimed as the doors slid open, revealing our floor. Once
we entered, I began to strip down, leaving a trail of clothes in my path.
Chef jacket on the kitchen island. Shirt on the chair. Shoes by the
bookcase leading to the hall. Sockssomewhere along the way.
"You live like a pig," Bella scoffed.
I made the appropriate animal sound at her and she laughed, sliding her
hands into the waist of my pants, following me along to the bathroom.
She stripped once we were inside, leaving her clothes in the laundry
basket, like they should be, as I climbed into the shower.
"Edward?" she called.
"That's my name," I replied before I ducked under the stream of water.
"Why do you have Dickward's card?" she asked slowly.
"Huh?" I poked my head out of the shower, wondering what the hell she
was talking about.
She held a card up to me, between her fingers, and I squinted to see it.
"Where the hell did you find that?" I asked.
"It was on the floor by the hamper," she said, looking at it again.
"I don'tah shit," I laughed, and she looked back to me. "I think Lauren
gave me that."
"Lauren? Why would Lauren have this? And when the fuck were you with
Lauren?" she asked, raising one of her brows.
"When I was on a run one morning, I bumped into her. Said she knew
someone who might be able to help with Ness." I went back to washing
myself, and Bella stepped into the shower.
"Why didn't you say something?"
"I didn't even look at the card, angel. I figured, if my father couldn't
help me, no one could." I reached for her shoulders and spun Bella
around. "Coconut or strawberry?" I asked.
"Mmm, coconut," she said, leaning back into me. I reached for the
shampoo and squirted some into my hands. "Maybe we should call him. At
the very least, he could keep an eye on Squeaks and make sure she
doesn't get lost in New York." Bella sighed in irritation and I couldn't
help but consider that idea for a moment.
"Let's just shower and sleep for tonight. No talking about custody. My
brain feels like Jell-O at this point." I dug my fingers into her scalp,
massaging gently as I washed.
"Shower and sleep. Too bad, someone paid me twenty bucks for some
good, good lovin'," she laughed.
"Thought twenty dollars couldn't buy my way into your pants?"
"You thought wrong," she concluded. "In truth, I should be paying you,
since you do most of the work."
"This is profoundly true." I turned her around so I could rinse her hair.
"I want my twenty bucks back."
Bella laughed, and I leaned in to kiss her before I tipped her head under
the water. She was kind enough to return the hair washing favor and I
hummed as her little fingers scrubbed away all the funk from the day.
After we were sparkling new, we ended up in bed; Bella's head on my
chest, and my arms around her. Her breathing was soft and gentle as she
danced her fingers over the art of my skin. My own fingers played lazily
through her damp locks as I begged for sleep to find me.
Perfection.
"I love you," were my last words I whispered to her before all went
black.
Sleep was found.
In the morning, the sun was first to speak as it filtered its way into my
room, brightly. Bella had curled herself onto the other side of the bed,
and I leaned over to kiss her shoulder before I climbed out. A run was
definitely needed this morning.
After I was dressed and was ready to go, I went back to Bella one last
time and kissed her sleeping face before I left my silent home.
I jogged my usual path, not stopping until I felt my heart would burst
and my legs would tell me to go fuck myself. My circuit was not complete
without picking up a bagel for Bella, so I made sure to do so. On my way
back towards home, I eyed the abandoned building I passed every
morning on my run. It was still for lease, except now, it had a special
running on it.
First month free.
It looked like shit and I had to laugh at the desperation. No one was
going toI stepped back and looked at it again before I passed.
Yep, still a shit hole.
I started to walk again and this time, my phone rang, stopping me dead
in my tracks once more. "Shit." I dug into my pocket, and retrieved my
phone.
Dad.
"Double shit," I flipped it open and brought it to my ear. "Morning," I
started to walk again as I listened.
The judge had given us an emergency hearing, at 1 p.m. today.
Thank you Lord.
I hung up with him after I was brought up to speed, and once I was back
home, explained it all to my now awake Bella, who was grateful for her
bagel. Her payment was kisses, and they were worth the five mile
journey. Throbbing pain in my legs never felt so good.
When we arrived at court, I made sure my tie was in perfect order and I
had all my answers in check. Bella wasn't here, though, and that made
my nerves worse. Carlisle said she didn't need to be. Her police report
was enough, along with Mrs. Banners. The judge wasn't granting anything
permanent today, just reevaluating the situation after what had taken
place.
Still, I tried to be hopeful.
My hope, it turned out, was not in vain.
Nor the tie I wore.
The judge granted me back temporary custody, until our new court date
was set. My heart was happy, joyful, yet, scared. I only had a month to
get my shit in order before that next hearing, and I knew that date was
also inline with Bella's departure to Invoke.
For the time being, I casted those fears aside and was just grateful to
God that within the next hour my daughter would return to me, and for
the next thirty days, be mine and mine alone.
I met Jessica in front of Rose's bakery and she said nothing as she
handed my daughter over to me. I was only given Renesmee, none of her
things, and even though I should have been pissed, I wasn't. All of that
stuff could be replaced. The only thing I wantedwas her.
And I had her, finally.
Taking advantage of the time I had alone with her today, I decided to
take her for ice cream, just wanting to do something normal and nice for
a change. We sat in one of the small shops and I ate the spoonfuls of
cotton candy flavored ice cream she fed me. She seemed happy here, and
for that I was grateful, too.
"Pappa?" She looked up to me as she finished her last bite.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"Where's Bewwa?" she asked.
"Bella's working, love. We'll stop by and see her before we go home,
alright?" I wiped the bright blue smear of dessert from her cheeks and
she nodded happily.
As we exited, I held her hand, walking towards my car. As I opened the
door for her, I saw a man being led into the vacant building that I
passed, jogging this morning. My eyes caught Ness raising her arms to me,
asking for help to get in and I looked down to her.
Something about that damn building was irritating, though.
I picked her up and closed the door to the car, changing my course.
"Where we going?" she asked.
"Daddy wants to see something."
Bella.
* * *
"Boo!" I looked down feeling something push on my leg. I laughed, seeing
Squeaks. Her little face smiled brightly, and I scooped her up, even
though I should have been pissed that Edward allowed her behind the
line.
Rules somehow ceased to exist when cute, smiling little girls were
present. Especially if they belonged to Flower Child.
"You think you can scare me?" I asked.
"Yup," she nodded once, leaning her face into mine.
I laughed and kissed her all over.
"Little small to be a sous chef, no?" I looked over to see Charlie smiling
all wide at Squeaks. She had that type of power. And used it well.
"This is Edward's daughter, Renesmee," I said. "Or Squeaky, if you're
me," I teased.
"I don't even wanna know, Bells," he said and then extended a hand to
her. "Hi, Renesmee, I'm Charlie."
She looked at him funny and then to Edward, unsure. Edward gave a
smile to her that should win prizes. "Charlie is Bella's daddy," he
explained and Ness turned back to my father, looking at him like he was
Sunday morning pancakes, now.
"I should have explained that," Charlie laughed as they shook hands.
"I call her Squeaky because she's like a pip squeak," I said, feeling like it
needed to be explained. What the hell did he think I named her that
for? "Get it?" I looked back to him and he didn't seem to appreciate my
creativity.
"Whatever you say, kid." Charlie waved me off. "Nice to meet you,
sweetheart." Charlie slapped Ness's cheek, like he did to me and I felt a
warmth in my heart I never knew existed.
"Bye," Ness said as Charlie went back to his kitchen duties.
It hit me, Charlie was going to be likeholy F-sticklike Ness' grandpa!
Whoa.
"Take her," I said quickly, ushering her into Edward's arms.
"What's wrong?"
"Take her," I said again and ran off once I was free.
That was, by far, the worst puking experiencing of my life.
My father was kind enough to watch over the restaurant for the
remainder of the evening. He was a saint at this point and I was so
indebted to him. Edward started a load of laundry when we arrived
home, and I started a bubble bath for Ness since, apparently, she had a
fight with an ice cream cone and lost.
I sat on the floor of the bathroom, beside the tub, as she played with
her toys and talked to them, lost in her own happy world. Edward leaned
in the doorway at one point and I looked to him, seeing him smiling that
stupid goofy grin he always had when it came to Ness. I pulled the
shower curtain and scowled at him teasingly as I said, "Pervert."
He snorted, but otherwise, walked away.
I practically had to drag Ness from the tub, and then struggled to dress
her once I did. She was sleepy and slightly cranky and not helping me out
at all. Edward found this amusing. I found him annoying. The pajamas won
and I told him, "She's yours, you deal with the fucking Dora socks," and
gave up.
He somehow mastered that shit and slipped them on, no problemo. Fucker.
Flower Child lifted her limp body into his arms and walked her from her
room to ours as I watched him. Apparently he wanted to sleep family
style. That was quite alright with me. Squeaky smelled nice and was uber
warm.
It, of course, meant no sexy time with Lt. Dan, which sucked, but I
understood Flower Child's other needs right now.
Butterbean just needed to shut her goddamn mouth. She was too needy
these days. I'm telling you. Who knew having a baby inside of you meant
you actually would want MORE sex? I thought for sure it would end all
sinful desire from the devil that lay within my dirty soul, but no.
Fucking no.
I snuggled into bed with my pajamas on; which were more like Edward's
pajamas.
Semantics people, semantics.
Squeaks was in between my belly and Edward'swhich was pretty sweet
if you ask me, 'cause technically that meant she was also lying next to
Baby Cullenwhich was now making me teary and shit.
I felt Edward's lips on my forehead, kissing softly. Ness' snoring was the
only sound filling the still air of the room, and it was comforting.
"Angel, yo quiero que estemos asi para siempre," he whispered, making my
heart swell further. I felt his hand slide under mine, lifting my finger to
his lips for more thoughtful kisses. "Someday."
He wanted to stay this way foreversomeday?
"I love you," he added.
"I love you too," I told him back, not knowing what else to say to his
confused confession.
"I found a place I want you to see tomorrow," he said next.
"A place? Like a house?"
"No, not a house. We'll talk in the morning. I just wanted you to know, so
you can make time," Edward kissed my face again and that was the last
of his words for the evening.
I fell asleep, confused and intrigued.
In the morning, Edward woke us up at the butt crack of dawn to go see
his magical place of wonder. I swear if he led me to a fucking smoothie
bar, I was gunning for his fun-bag. Ness looked sleepy, and just as
irritated as I felt, as we drove towards 'secret place'. I was too damn
old and pregnant for this early morning fuckery. I felt old, anyhow.
We pulled up to this shady looking place that looked like a squatter's
dream. I rolled my eyes and got out of the car, eyeing him with serious
hate. He noticed and smiled at me, trying to win me over, but little did
he knowonly two things could do that this early.
His stupid smile wasn't one of them.
Coffee, and lots of it, was.
His stupid dick ensured both of those weren't happening.
My hatred for this vile man soared to new heights.
Flower Child lifted Ness from her seat and walked towards the building.
He slid a key into the lock and I asked, "What in the name of our Lord
are you doing?"
"Going inside our restaurant," he said, holding the door open for me.
"Come again? That is not a restaurant. That is an infested mess that
needs to die in a fire. Preferably without you and your innocent
daughter," I stepped forward and my hands asked for Ness to be
returned to a safe place.
"It needs work, but it's doable. Plus, it was a good deal."
"Flower Child, please, pllleeeease, tell me that you did not buy this
dump. Please!" I begged, cupping my hands.
"Sorry, but I can't do that. Would you like to come in?" he asked,
laughing.
"Are you crazy!?" I stomped my foot, and he laughed harder. "What
would possess you to do such a thing!?"
"Relax, angel. I have good reasoning. Will you just come inside?"
I could see the excitement fading from his eyes, and even though I
wanted to gut-punch his stupid ass, I did as he asked, and entered his
shitty dream.
It was awful, like God awful.
"Flower Child, I don't get it. I really don't. Why would you buy this? We
have a perfectly good restaurant, ten to be exact. Soon to be eleven." I
rubbed my head at the thought, "And a baby on the wayand now this?
Do you just like being miserable or something?"
"No, and that's the whole point," he settled Ness down on her feet. "I
need to have my own shistuff, Bell. No more coattail riding."
"Come again?"
"I said"
"Oh, I heard you. I was waiting for you to unsay what the fuck you just
said." I was pissed.
"Angel," he began.
"Don't angel me, Edward. Coattail riding? Seriously? And you're just
gonna leave becausebecause what? You're nuts are feeling inadequate?"
"It's not like that and I'm not trying to hurt you, Bell," he said softly.
"Well you fucking failed at that," I headed for the door, feeling the
tears creeping in my eyes.
"Bella," he called once as we stepped back onto the sidewalk. "Bella," he
called again, louder this time. "Wait. I'm not chasing you carrying Ness.
Just wait."
I paused, not wanting to upset Squeaks. She had enough of that shit
lately. I turned, crossing my arms, and Edward walked back to his car,
settling Ness inside and turning the car on for her to get some cool air.
"I need you to understand this more than anyone else, Bella," he said
facing towards me again. "This is for us, not me."
"Us? You need to ego trip for us?" I asked angrily.
"Did you not hear what I said last night? Bella, I love you. I love you so
much. And that baby," he dropped his eyes to my belly, "our baby, I love
him or her too. Just as much. And Ness," he paused briefly and then
continued. "We, are a family, Bella. All of us. Not you and me. Not you,
me, and Little Bit. You, me, Ness, Little Bitthat's our family."
"I know that," I said, nodding.
"Then allow me to keep us together. Let me do this," he looked to the
building and I took a step towards him.
"Edward, this makes no sense."
"I have thirty days, Bella. Thirty fucking days to get my shit together
and be a person worthy of being Ness' father." His blue eyes were sad.
And my heart mimicked them in feeling.
"Owning a rundown building isn't going to do that for you, Flower Child."
I stepped around him and took a seat on the hood of his car. "You can't
open a restaurant in thirty days, regardless of what they show you on
Top Chef. Fuckers aren't even real chefs," I grumbled.
"Well we're going to have to try," he said, resting beside me against the
car.
"You just keep making my world more chaotic, you know this?" I rubbed
my temples again and he reached for my hands.
"I'm trying to fix that," he kissed my fingers and I couldn't hold onto my
hate for him as I wanted to.
"You don't even know how to run a restaurant, Flower Child."
"Then why do I have keys to yours?" he shot back.
"Not like this you don't. It's completely different. Fuck, Edward. I am so
going to set your damn flag on fire for this shit."
"What?" he asked, laughing.
"Nothing. Just shut up. I need to think on this Volterra crap for a
second."
"What is Volterra?" he asked.
"Do you not understand shut up?" I looked over to him, and he raised his
hands in surrender.
There was no way this shit was gonna happen, was he crazy? I stared at
the mess before me and wanted to seriously rage on him, but I
understood what the fuck he was trying to do; even if he was going
about it the complete wrong ass way.
"Number one," I began, "Volterra is a place in Italy that I had the
pleasure of visiting once when I was asked to help out with a sinking ship
of a restaurant that was the holy grail of disaster restaurants."
I sucked in a deep breath and then said, "Number two, I will spare your
life this time around, but I swear if you ever pull some shit on me like
this again, Flower Child, I will ensure you have permanent Pink Sock
Syndrome for the rest of your damn life. Said syndrome being caused by
me jamming my foot up your ass repeatedly, until said Pink Sock
syndrome occurs.
"Number three, you need to have a business plan on my damn desk in the
next twenty-four hours. You still work for me. I don't give a rat's ass
whose name is on this building. You impregnated me. I own you. Got it?"
"Yes, angel." His eyes were pleased and his face, relieved.
I wanted to punch him.
"I need this shit like I need a second butthole," I grumbled, getting off
his car.
I meant every word of it.
The week was long and full of all types of fuckery.
Leah was back to babysitting Squeaky, a temporary fix until Ness began
her first year of school.
It was nice seeing her again. Squeaky seemed to be happy about it as
well. We finally ended up at his parent's house when Sunday rolled
around. More custody shit to deal with and yadda yadda.
There was also food.
Food was welcomedespecially since it was made by Grandma Cullen,
whom I was contemplating kidnapping at this point.
Before food was allowed, we were forced to sit in Daddy Carlisle's office
and discuss the itchy twat that was otherwise known as Edward's first
baby mama.
"We just need to be prepared for the trial this time. No mistakes."
Carlisle walked around to the other side of his desk and took a seat. "I
wish I knew someone who could find out what Jessica was doing all of
this time in New York. It would be helpful if I had something to 'seal the
deal', so to speak."
I looked over to Edward, remembering the card I found from Lauren last
week.
It was like a message from God or some shit, I'm tellin' ya, people!
"I know someone, but it will cost you," I laughed, looking over to Edward.
"Dickward."
Edward groaned, cupping his face into his hands. "There must be someone
else we can go to," he mumbled.
"He's the best, babe, and you know it."
Edward groaned again and I laughed.
"Who is this?" Carlisle asked.
"Dickward's a P.I. friend of mine. He helped me out of sometrouble, a
few months back," I explained, without having to fully explain that
fuckery.
Carlisle still looked confused.
"I'll contact him. Trust me," I laughed, "you don't want to deal with
him."
Before dinner, I used the computer in Carlisle's office to email my old
P.I. buddy. It went a little something like this
Dear Dickward,
Hey, it's Bella Swan. I really need your help with a case. I'm sure you
are busy, but I'll make it worth your while if you push it to the front of
your schedule.
Still dreaming of your gun, by the way.
~ B.


He replied.
Dear Miss Swan,
I'm sorry, who are you again?


He seriously picked the right professionbeing a dick.
Dickward,
It's Sweet Tits. The bitch with the ravioli? Fuck, to think I put that shit
on dry ice for your punk ass. Thought we had something special.
-B

Send a man your love and see what happens? He shits it right out the
next morning. Fucker wrote me back.
Sweet Tits,
That's more like it, I didn't recognize that formal fucking shit.
What do you need, I'm in.
- The Dick.
Okay, well he had me there.
Dickward,
Sorry, I'm a bit out of sorts, and shit, lately. Long story. Anyhow, I need
you to follow around a cunt-pickle named Jessica Stanley. She lives in
New York, but I have no address. Works for Rachel Ray. She is also
Edward's (you know 'The Kid') baby mama.
I need you to follow her around, keep her busy. I need anything and
everything you could possibly get on her. If she spits her gum in the
street, I want a fucking littering ticket thrown on her ass, feel me?
I know your not a pig, cop, whatever...but I just need her to know she is
being watched like a hawk. The more paranoid, the better.
There's some serious ravioli and other gourmet delights on the line for
this one. Plus cash, of course.
~ B.

And people say I'm not nice.

Sweet Tits...
"Cunt-pickle"? Seriously? *shaking head*
The Kid in trouble or something?
Sounds manageable. She won't be hard to find. What kinda timeframe are
we talking about here?
In case that wasn't clear enough, count me in.
-D

Dickward,
Yeah, 'cunt-pickle'. You know like a...never mind.
Edward lost custody to this twat because of some bullshit, long story,
but she fucked up the other day and now Squeaky, Edward's kid, is back
here, but only temporarily. Unless the judge decides to side with Edward
this round.
Please, find me something good...cause if not...I'm gonna kill the
bitch...then...your gonna have to bust me out of jail...and help me
relocateand I will NOT be offering up titty grabs or fucking ravioli for
that shit.
-B

Sweet Tits,
Calm the fuck down, no one's going to jail. But just for the record, that
would definitely be worth at least a boob grope. Just sayin'.
I'm sure the Kid would under-fucking-stand.
OK, so this cunt-pickle needs a lesson in fucking with the wrong kid. Got
it. I can leave today and be back tomorrow, good enough?
-D
Dickward,
That's perfect. Just keep in mind, the key here is scaring her and also
being able to prove just how irresponsible she is.
I trust you, though.

Thanks. The Kid says thanks too...didn't even refer to you as 'Leather
Twat' once. Promise.
Call me if you need anything.
~B.
I closed out of the email client and made my way downstairs, wanting to
get my nom nom on.
After the fabulosity that was Grandma Cullen's dinner A.K.A. feast
was over, Flower Child and I ended up back at our place. Nessie was
passed out, and thankfully, tonight, she ended up in her own bed.
I loved her, but fuckme, my ovaries, clitoris, and other girly parts
needed some Edward lovin'. Bad.
As soon as he came in the room, I jumped him.
He laughed against my lips, and I pulled my sexy ass man across the room
by his waistband, 'cause I roll like that.
My hands pushed his shirt up quickly, revealing all his fleshy goodness,
and I ran my hands all over that fucker.
Mmm, chiseled perfection.
Run more please.
I found my way onto the bed as I kissed him, lowering my hands to the
buttons of his pants that held the object of my desire. I had the button
open, zipper down and thenhe fucking stopped me.
I looked up at him like he was a man stealing my candy.
"What's the rush?" he laughed. "I'm not going anywhere, you know. Ness
is dead asleep." He kissed my forehead and then walked to the far end
of the room. I rested down on my heels and looked towards him,
wondering where the hell he was going.
Edward turned the stereo on and then pulled a candle from his dresser.
Warm, amber light illuminated the bedroom and I relaxed, seeing his
romantic gesture.
Most men would have taken the opportunity for a quick, easy fuck.
"Better, right?" he said, walking back towards me. I nodded and kept my
eyes on him as he climbed back on the bed. He sat next to me and took
my hand into his. "This is the song that reminds me of you. No
butterflies," he smiled and placed a basket full of kisses on my hand.
"And it's all true."
I looked to his face, watching as he continued to kiss my hand. Then
wrist. Thenfuck, could he really get me off kissing my arm? He kept
going and the answer was yes, yes he could.
Flower Child leaned in and kissed behind my ear. "Right here is your life,"
he blessed me with his lips again, placing them to the pulse of my neck.
"And in it, too, is mine." His hand rested over my abdomen. "Our baby's."
Rolling my face into his, I searched out his own pulse, trying to relay the
same message to him. He tasted like heaven and safety. Security and
comfort. I crawled into his lap and went for his lips. He gave them to me
willingly and I asked for more. Edward wasn't selfish.
His fingers slid under the hem of my shirt, and played against my skin.
His touch was soft and gentle, slow. The tips of his fingers caressed
sweet circles along the small of my back, before he drew my shirt over
my head.
It was the only time our kiss broke, other than to speak our whispered
words of affection, adoration.
"I want you, Bella. For forever." He laid me down, telling me his words
with his lips, but confirming them with his eyes. They were full of truth.
His lips spoke again, this time into my neck, softly, and with conviction, "I
love you."
My head lolled to the side, resting against the top of his as he allowed
his lips to claim more of my body. My words mirrored the ones he spoke.
Edward freed me from the remainder of my clothing, and rested him self
in between my legs. His warm lips kissed softly below my belly button,
then lower.
"So sexy," he spoke softly, then, pressed his lips to my skin. "So
beautiful."
He began planting soft, slow, kisses against Butterbean, bringing her to
life. I closed my eyes and just felt what he was doing. His mouth moved
sweetly over my lower half, kissing my pussy no different than he would
kiss my mouth.
His movement slowed even further, as he rested his cheek on my thigh,
allowing his thumb to slide back and forth over my clit, lightly.
"Edward," his name floated from my lips.
"Yes, angel?" He replied, moving his mouth back to my center.
His thumb kept rubbing, ever so lightly, against my clit as he French
kissed my opening. My hand went quickly, to his hair, as I bit my bottom
lip, trying to hold in all the words I wanted to scream, shout.
"Edward." I chose to say instead.
"I'm right here."
He was officially playing with me.
And he did that shit good.
He gave more sweet licks, kisses, rubs and my orgasm began built as he
whispered, "So sweet, my angel is." Kiss. "Beautiful." Kiss, lick. "All I
want."
More, more, more.
"She's all I want."
More. Please.
He kissed fervently to my swollen pussy as I came, not stopping until my
breathing slowed.
"I love her so much."
My heart swelled, holding him to me, looking back into his eyes as he
hovered over me. I spread my legs for him and allowed him to claim me
again. His cock slid into me slowly, but forcefully.
Edward's left hand held him above me. His right hand held my own. He
kissed those fingers, watching my face. Blue eyes again, saying 'I love
you'.
I lifted my head to reach his lips and he met me halfway. Equals. My
legs constricted around his back, wanting as much of him inside of me as
I was allowed. It would never be enough.
Just like the song that was playing in the background.
Soft cries of pleasure emanated from my lips, and Edward crushed his
back down to mine, quieting me. He was too good, too much, and his
mouth only made it better.
My lower body pulsed, throbbed, and I closed my eyes tight as I came
around him. He pumped into me fervently, and I squeezed myself tighter
around him, trying to offer the same pleasure he gave me. His friction
was a pleasured pain, hurting and leaving me wanting more as my swollen
cunt begged my sane mind to make him stop.
I didn't have to.
His lips pressed hard into mine as he came, holding himself deep inside of
me, filling me with his warmth. When he pulled his mouth away, gasping
for air, I kissed his throat, whispering my love for him again. He replied
by kissing my forehead, cheek, and chin.
It was damn beautiful.
And he was all mine.
I was woken up to sweet kisses along my face.
When I opened my eyes, I saw familiar blue eyes looking back at me.
They seemed happy. Exceptionally so, if we were going by Edward's stupid
speaking ways.
I smiled back at him because I just couldn't help myself. His happiness
was infectious, and his smile was a welcomed guest at my table of life,
always. He lay down on his side, resting on his elbow, and drew his free
hand up. A small flower, looking more like a weed, showed itself.
I laughed.
"Go all the way to the ninety-nine cents store for that, did ya?" I
teased.
"I was actually taking out the trash," he said, still smiling.
"Nice."
"It was next to the real flowerbed. I was thinking of plucking some of
those, but Ness insisted this one was better."
"Why is that, babe?"
"She said this one you could make wishes with." He handed it over to me,
and I held it to my nose.
"A wish, huh?"
"She swore to it," he confirmed.
"I better make it good then," I closed my eyes and thought for a
moment. "Okay," I blew against the white petals and they landed on
Edward's face.
"Thanks," he said, wiping them away.
"Sorry, my aim is bad," I laughed and handed him the stem.
"I made you some breakfast too, just in case the wish doesn't work," he
sat up and reached over to the side-table.
A plate of eggs, hash browns, and fruit presented its fine self towards
me.
"Just did," I said taking the plate. Edward laughed and handed me over
my fork as I sat up.
"I have one more thing," he reached over and handed me a paper that
was folded.
I settled my plate down into my lap and opened it. I looked up at him
and questioned with my eyes.
"You asked for a business plan," he said.
"This is Squeaky's drawing of us," I held it up to face him.
"Exactly," he nodded.
Sometimes I really loved him.
"This is beautiful, truly, but babe, we need a real plan. If you're serious,
then please, get serious. This shit freaks me out." I rested the picture to
my side and brought a bite of hash browns to my mouth.
"I am. The real one will be on your desk," he leaned in and kissed my
head. "I promise."
"Flower Child?"
"Mmm?"
"I really love you. No matter what. I love you likefucking hash browns.
Seriously." I smirked at him and he cracked a smile in response.
"Food is love," he replied.
I was feeling hopeful already.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
~BONUS~
Tailing Jessicunt. Dickward's POV
I had motherfuckin' bad dreams galore on the plane ride to NYC.
I'm talkin' everything from exploding warehouses, to fucking snakes, to
getting strung up in public by the goddamn Mayor while he cut my balls
off, sauted them, and then proceeded to fucking eat them in front of
my partner-in-crime, who laughed her ass off.
Told ya.
I needed a goddamn drink.
Was that gonna happen? Probably not, I didn't have a whole lotta fucking
time to make this shit happen with the cunt-pickle of a mother. So I
checked into my hotel and set up camp after landingand scored a
fucking Mustang as a rental car.
Not as flawless as the Vanquish, but better than the goddamn Neon's
they had sitting next to it.
I texted Sweet Tits to let her know I was in NYC, and then I headed
over to Rachel Ray's set to feel out the area of the building that I had
to work with.
It didn't take me long to get in. Apparently, the security guards at
Rachel Ray's are not very fucking concerned with anyone stealing her
recipes or anything. They were all in a small room in the back playing
fucking Go Fish or some shit like that.
This was when I came up with my plan.
I grabbed a chef's coat that was hanging on a nearby wall, and then
lifted the ID that was hanging next to it and ducked out of the back
door, before anyone noticed.
This was gonna be quick, easy, and a whole lotta fucking fun screwin'
with this bitch. And Sweet Tits could consider my ultimate goal a double
bonus for her troubles.
I was about to head back to the hotel when I noticed a couple of people
coming out of the building, and I decided to sit and wait.
It's my gut instincts that make me a lucky motherfucker sometimes.
I don't say that lightly either, my friends.
I picked up the photo that was sitting next to my camera on the
passenger's seat that I'd printed off of the net when I motherfuckin'
Googled Rachel Ray's show, and looked closer at the woman leaving with
some loser fuck face who was hanging all over her.
I mean, Jesus, does she NOT have any goddamn self-respect?
I shook my head, wondering how the FUCK The Kid ever brought himself
to stick his dick in someone like that.
But hey, he was young and stupid.
And bewildered by his dad's Vanquish.
Not that I would know what that was like, or anything.
And besides, he had one hell of a little girl now because of the cunt-
pickle mother, so what are ya gonna do?
She made out with said fuck face and I picked up my camera to snap
some pics. Because you know, who fucking knows if this guy was some
goddamn son, or something, of Gordon motherfucking Ramsey or some
crazy ass fuckery like that.
Not that I gave a shit.
She finally brought a halt to the slobber fest, they said something to
each other, parting ways, and she got into her car.
"Okay, now we're gettin' somewhere," I whispered, pulling out of the
parking lot to follow her.
She went to a club.
What? It was a fucking dance club, people. Get real.
I followed her in and she only stayed for about an hour, but damn, that
woman could put down some fucking drinks. She also danced with a
minimum of ten guys, all groping and grinding on her.
This chick definitely had some sort of fucking low self-esteem or, shit, a
guilt complex over being a cunt-pickle, I don't know.
Hell yeah, I got pictures of that shit.
The disturbing part was when she left and got into her goddamn car.
I snapped a few incriminating photos of THAT too, and let her drive about
a block before I decided that was really fucking dangerous, and she
might kill someone.
And although that would definitely get The Kid his kid back, I wouldn't
have been able to live with that shit. So I called the NYPD and alerted
them that they had a drunk driver on their hands.
What? She was only gonna spend the night in the clinker at the worst,
and hell, that shit would look motherfucking excellent on her record for
The Kid.
And actually, I had much better fucking plans for her sorry ass.
Once she was stopped and taken in, and her car was impounded, I paid
her bail, chuckling my ass off because the money was well worth the
outcome of this fuckery.
She got her car out of impound once the po-po was satisfied she was no
longer drunk, and went home with yours truly following her.
Once I found out where she lived, I wrote the address down and watched
her apartment building until a light flickered on from a few floors up.
Not long after she got home, someone else entered the building.
A male someone.
I wondered if he was headed for her apartment too because he definitely
was NOT the fuck face that was trying to swallow her whole in the
parking lot at Rachel Ray's.
After about an hour, nothing exciting happened, so I decided to head
back to my hotel for the night, and maybe text my cohort, back home,
before she blew a fucking gasket.
But not before I left a note on the cunt-pickle mother's car.
It said "Drunk driving and illegal parking are not very motherly. The
courts will not be happy to hear this." Hell, I even put a fucking smiley
face on there for her.
I laughed as I left, and looked very fucking forward to the next day's
activities.
DAY TWO:
When I woke up, there was a text on my phone from back home, and I
smiled, thinking about the event I was supposed to be at in about
fuckfourteen hours.
It was gonna be a long goddamn day.
I dressed in my jeans and pullover after the suck ass hotel shower, and
headed out with my very chic, very professional looking, chef's coat on,
making some mental notes about how the day would play out.
When I walked into the building, I got a few weird looks from the
security guards, but they blew me off.
I shook my head.
Rookies.
The cunt-pickle mother was just coming in, and although she eyed the
fuck face from the previous night, she didn't smile at him or say anything,
and I found that very fucking interesting.
I crossed her path, purposely, and caught her eye, smirking at her as
best I fucking could. Her mouth fell open a little and she couldn't stop
fucking staring, causing her to bump into the goddamn cart right in
fucking front of her that had a fuck ton of food and shit set up on it,
knocking that fuckery all over the place.
A few guys who looked like grunts rushed to start picking shit up off the
floor, and then everyone stopped what they were doing when a woman
yelled from across the room.
"Jessica!"
The cunt-pickle stood, frozen, and I heard her mumble "fuck me," under
her breath as the short, dark-haired woman stalked over to her.
"Are you seriously this clumsy, Jessica? I thought I hired a qualified,
organized, put together woman for this gig. If you can't even keep your
food on its cart, how am I supposed to expect you to assist me on the
show?"
"Sorry, Rachel," the cunt-pickle whispered.
"WHAT?" the woman screamed again, and I had to put my finger in my
ear and wiggle it a little from the pain of that fucking octave.
Cunt-pickle cleared her throat and said it a little louder, before the
brunette, Rachel I'm guessing, stalked off again.
Score.
"Wow, you uhreally made an impression on the boss there, my friend," I
said to her, smirking.
"What's it to you?" she asked, glaring at me.
"It's everything to me, my friend." I didn't flinch, keeping eye contact,
and she narrowed her eyes at me, asking, "And you are?"
My smile widened, and I just told her, "I'm your worst nightmare."
Then I walked away, behind the scenes, and I felt her stare on me as I
disappeared out of her sight.
For the time fucking being, anyway.
As the day progressed, so did my resolve that this would not only be the
easiest case I'd ever taken, but the most fucking enjoyable, as well.
Turns out fuck face from outside, the night before, did NOT equal cunt-
pickle's boyfriend, because HE showed up at lunch to take her the fuck
out.
When I followed her outside to watch where they might go, I noticed
he'd parked next to her, because she opened up a door to get something
outwhich, turns out, was a box of food with a big fucking stamp on the
side that said "Rachel Ray".
I pulled out my iPhone and snapped a pic of that shit, texting it to
Sweet Tits.
"Thieving from the boss is not very motherly either, cunt-pickle," I said
to myself as she started to put it into the boyfriend's car and saw me
watching her.
I smiled and waved, then wrote that shit down to keep track of her
fuck-ups. Because, let's fucking face it, I was pretty sure there'd be
more.
She was eyeing me nervously, getting visibly upset when I turned and
went back inside.
I found the fuck face from the night before and decided to have a talk
with him.
Turns out he was Rachel's cousin and had a major fucking crush on the
cunt-pickle, but she wanted to keep theirand I had to laugh out fucking
loud at this shitlovequiet. You know, for now.
Whatever the fuck that meant.
I gave her boy-toy some good advice. Told him to proclaim that shit loud
and proud, that women love that shit and that the cunt-pickle would
stop, drop, and do him faster than he could get hard if he did.
No, I didn't call her a fucking cunt-pickle to the kid's face.
And yes, I was definitely sticking around for that shit.
At this point, I kicked back in the break room and chilled the fuck out,
carrying on a hot ass conversation with Rachel fucking Ray herself about
some bullshit ravioli dish she was planning on doing a show on.
Hot, that is, until I told her she hadn't had brilliant motherfucking ravioli
'til she tried that shit Sweet Tits made. That's when she got pissed off
and left the break room.
Probably off to fire my non-existent employee ass.
The afternoon was quite enter-fucking-taining, if you ask me.
Not only did I run out to get a hard copy of the photo I'd taken of the
cunt-pickle putting Rachel Ray's box of food into her boyfriend's car
and tack it up onto the very public, very visible, announcement bulletin
board but the fuck face cousin of Rachel's also gave, undoubtedly, the
best fucking rendition of Nicholas goddamn Cage from Moonstruck I'd ever
seen when he stood up on the stove in the middle of Rachel's set, giving a
loud ass speech to the cunt-pickle about their secret love, in front of the
boyfriend.
What? I fucking like Nick Cagesue me.
I actually laughed out loud and threw my hand over my mouth once I'd
noticed I was the only one finding it funny when she slapped him across
the face and screamed, "Snap out of it!"
Shit, I thought she was playing along until she slapped him again for good
fucking measure.
The boyfriend didn't like the scene, though, and had a pretty big fight
with the cunt-pickle over that debacle. I was pretty sure I heard shit
like "how many times?" and, "you promised" come out of his mouth,
insinuating to me that this wasn't her first fucking offense.
Big surprise there.
Well, my friends, not only did the boyfriend not take lightly to that shit,
but Rachel was pretty fucking pissed as well. Apparently, she didn't like
inter-office, so to speak, fraternization. Especially when someone was
fraternizing with her favorite fucking cousin.
The cunt-pickle was fired.
Her boyfriend broke up with her.
I texted the iPhone pics, and faxed the hard copies of the other shit I'd
gotten, to Sweet Tits.
And managed to get my good buddy back home to tap into the NYPD's
records, and print off a copy of said cunt-pickle's arrest the night before
so I could fax that bad boy to Sweet Tits, too.
And it was only fucking three o'clock.
"Just enough time," I said to no one.
As I left the building to get back to my hotel, and pack up before
heading off to the airport to go back home, I passed the cunt-pickle in
the parking lot.
She was sitting on her ass, on the ground next to her car, crying her
eyes out.
She looked up at me as I walked by and said, "You did this. You fucking
did this, didn't you!"
I smiled and put my hand over my heart. "I proudly accept responsibility,
my friend."
"Why!? I don't even know you! What'd I ever do to you!?"
She was fucking hysterical. And I don't do hysterical.
I bent down at my knees and clasped my hands together in front of me,
looking her straight in the eyes when I told her, "It's not what you did
to me, lady. It's what you did to a friend of mine."
She sobbed, asking "Who? Who is it?"
I stood back up and kept on walking when I answered her, "You'll see
soon enough, my friend. You'll see, soon enough."
Then I was off to catch a flight home and attend a party for my brother
so I could watch the sexiest woman alive get fucking groped by an ass-
hat.
Good times.
~*~













Chapter 26 "Meadow Dreams and Little Nightmares"
~ Flower Child. ~
"Hands," I said, pumping a squirt of soap into them.
"Water," She replied with a smile.
I turned the knob and she leaned until her small hands reached the
stream.
"Scrub good; you have serious 'Playdough-Under-The-Nails' syndrome
going on," I laughed.
We had been building an entire city out of orange and purple Playdough.
I think more ended up on the floor and under her nails then actually on
the table.
Bella was going to be pissed.
As Ness cleaned her hands, a knock on the door sounded loudly.
"That must be Uncle Emmett," I said, reaching for the hand towel. "Come
on, baby." I dried her hands and then lifted her off the bathroom
counter.
She went running down the hall and reached for the knob on the front
door.
"Uh-uh. You never open the front door," I stopped her and she looked at
me, confused. "What if it isn't Uncle Emmett? What if it's a big scary
monster whose going to steel your Playdough?" I asked and she looked
down shyly.
I knew it was Emmett, but the last thing I needed was Ness opening
doors for strangers.
"Who is it?" I asked.
"Dude, it's me. Open up."
"I don't know a guy named 'Dude', could you identify yourself better?
Small children are being taught a lesson here," I smiled, knowing Emmett
was probably getting annoyed.
"It's Emmett, your brotheryour brother who is going to pound your face
if you don't open the door. I had other stuff to do you know."
"Do you have I.D.?" I asked, just to annoy him further.
Ness giggled at my question and I winked at her.
"Open the door, Edward."
"I.D.," I repeated.
I could hear him grumbling his frustrations on the other side of the door
before he slipped his driver's license under the door. Ness grabbed it and
brought it up to her face to examine it.
"Is it Uncle Emmett?" I asked, she nodded.
I held my hand out for his I.D. and she handed it over for my
examination.
"I don't know, I think you're heavier than this Emmett. Either you lied, or
you're an impostor," I teased through the door.
"I'm going to the beach; forget this noise," He said and I opened the
door quickly before he could get anymore pissed off.
"Was that really necessary?" He asked.
"The first three questions, yes. The rest, no probably not," I swung the
door open further to allow him in.
He punched me as he passed.
"Whoa, is that you're blue print for the dump?" He asked, nodding
towards the city made out of Playdough on my kitchen table.
"Funny," I walked to the fridge and pulled out a juice-box for Ness,
handing it over to her, then a one for Emmett.
"Dude, I'm not five. Where's the beer?" he shoved the juice back to me.
"I already told you, this is no longer a fun place to live," I joked, trying
to hand him the juice back.
"Can I at least have a soda or something?" His lip wobbled.
"I don't have soda. I have juice, water or protein shakes. Take your
pick." I placed the juice back in the fridge and left the door open for
him.
"What has B done to you, man?" He shook his head and searched for
something on his own.
"It's not just Bella," I sat down on the couch, flipping on something for
Ness to watch as she curled up on the floor in front of it.
Emmett came over, chewing on a green apple.
"Seriously, man? You took my last damn apple? You know Bella is gonna
kill me now, right?"
"What? You said to help myself," He shrugged, taking a seat beside me.
"Em, you don't eat the last of something without asking. It's just
rude.especially when it belongs to one hundred and two pounds of fury,
otherwise known as my girlfriend Bella."
"Aww, your girl-friend," He tried to mess my hair, but I hit his hand
away. "Trust me man, I think B will be aight with me steeling her stupid
apple, seeing as how this is my only frigg'n payment for this crap I'm
bouta help your sorry butt with." He took another bite of the apple and
sat back.
"Speaking of which," I reached to the coffee table and grabbed the
notepad laying there. "Here," I handed it to him.
"Oh man," Emmett started to laugh. "You're so lucky you showed me this
first. B would kill you if you made her read this crap." He stuck the
apple in his mouth and curled his fingers at me for a pen.
"What's wrong with it?" I asked, scooting over to look.
Emmett took the apple from his mouth, leaned forward and then rested it
on my coffee table.
I tried to ignore how disgusting it was.
"It's all jibber jabber. Edward, your girlfriend needs cold hard facts. She
deals in numbers and statistics, this is all hopes and dreams. You might as
well tell her Santa Clause is going to help you run the restaurant." He
started scribbling stuff on the paper.
"If this is your concept, you have to research it. I mean, did you even
see if there is a market for this type of place in our area?"
"Market?" I asked.
"Yeah, you knoware there actually people who want to come and eat at
a place like this? With this type of food, atmosphere?" He looked at me
and I shook my head.
"I don't have time for that stuff, Emmett."
"Which is why you don't just buy a restaurant on a whim," He went back
to writing on the paper and then looked up to me. "Dude, why aren't we
open on Sundays?" he asked.
"Because no one comes in to eat on Sundays," I replied.
"Why?"
"I don't know Emmett. Maybe they have better stuff to do," I shrugged.
"No man. People don't come into eat on Sundays because that place the
red head, what's her name," He snapped his fingers trying to remember,
"That freakin' Denali chick?"
"Tanya?"
"Yeah, Tanya. Her place offers a really good special for Sunday dinner.
Then that place next to hers, does a brunch, buffet style for like $5.99
a person. So, why would anyone eat at B's joint, right?"
"Why doesn't Bella just change the menu then?" I asked.
"She probably would under normal circumstances. In fact, she was
thinking of doing a family style menu for an early dinner special, but, she
isn't exactly operating the way she 'normally' does these days," He
smiled, going back to writing on the paper.
"Are you trying to tell me Bella closes the restaurant because of me?"
"It sure as hell isn't because she enjoys being closed or not making
money," He laughed.
"Well that's news to my ears."
"Dude, it's no big deal. And if you tell B I told you, I swear," He slid his
finger over his throat.
"Fine," I sighed. "Just tell me what to do to get this rolling," I took the
notepad from his hands and began to read what he wrote.
"Well, you don't have time to go through all the stuff you should be
doing, so, I'd say," He leaned over and grabbed his apple again, "Let's
just go right to the people. Make some of that food you on have on there
and then we'll go out and see what's the dilly."
"Alright," I nodded, still reading over his writing. Dilly. Right.
"Yo, Shortcake," Emmett said to Ness. She whipped her head back and
looked at him. "You never gave me a hug." He held out his arms to her
and she smiled, but stayed in place.
"No love for me today?" He asked.
"She's tired. Can't you see?" I waved towards her as she rolled back
over, ignoring us.
"Uh huh," he slid off the couch and crawled towards her, nuzzling his
face down into her neck. He made weird noises and she giggled at his
playfulness. "What are you watching?" He asked.
"Nanas," she said softly.
"Did Bella show this to you?" He laughed, lifting her into his big arms.
"Yeah."
"Thought so," Emmett cradled her, reaching back to me for the throw off
the couch. "B used to annoy me with this song like you couldn't believe."
He told me, before looking back at the screen.
"Oh, I think I can," I said, knowing perfectly well how much Bella loved
to sing 'Banana's in Pajamas' theme song.
Emmett said nothing in return, just rocked slowly side to side with Ness
in his arms, lulling her to sleep. I tried to look back to the paper in my
hands, but my brother was distracting me with his affection towards my
daughter.
It was the first time in months I knew he was sincerely sorry for the
hurt he had caused both of us.
XXXXXX
~ Bella ~
I walked through the door of our home, arms full of groceries. "Home," I
called out as my foot tried to close the door.
My nose perked up, smelling something really good and very basil-like.
"Here," Flower Child came around the kitchen island, arms extended.
"Thanks," I handed him over some bags and followed him into the kitchen.
"What is owning me, babe?" I asked, snooping my way over to the stove.
Edward laughed as he lifted the lid and replied, "Sauce for lasagna."
"That's white," I said looking into the pot. Sauce of lies.
"It's my grandmother's recipe. She makes it without tomatoes. Just
cheese," he smiled, saying the magic word.
"Mmm hmm," I said looking at him skeptically.
"Lasagna Blanca? No?" Edward shook his head at me, smiling and I
tightened my eyes, keeping them on him. "It has spinach, three cheeses
and basil." He explained.
"Oh, I know. I get it. I'm just waiting for the spoon to reach the mouth,"
I pointed to my lips and opened up.
Flower Child laughed and dipped the spoon into the pot, giving it a light
blow before placing it into my mouth.
It was fucking incredible.
"My love for you, it grows and grows," I said keeping my eyes closed at
after I swallowed the cheesy goodness.
"You can thank my Grandmother." He kissed my forehead and covered the
pot back up.
"Where's Squeaks?" I asked, returning to the groceries.
"Napping," Flower Child tilted my shoulders so I faced the couch.
Emmett had his big ass jammed into the small couch, Ness resting on his
chest, fast asleep.
"What a buffoon," I laughed quietly.
Edward's arms tightened around me as he rested his chin on my shoulder.
I rested back into him, enjoying his embrace.
It was the first of the day, and it mixed with the smell of cheese and
basil in the background, felt like Heaven on Earth.
"Missed you today," He whispered, giving my neck a kiss.
"I missed you too," I tilted my head to give him my lips.
He took them and treated them to a nice slow, long kiss.
Emmett's loud snoring interrupted our romantic moment and we both
laughed, going back to putting the groceries away.
"What's Em doing here sleeping anyway? Rosalie finally kick his ass out?"
I asked.
"He was helping me with my business plan." He explained, kneeling in
front of the fridge, putting away the juice boxes I bought for Squeaks.
"Ah, the business plan that is extremely late," I handed him over a
container to be placed in the fridge.
"I'm working on it, Sweetheart." Edward took the container from my
hands, but paused, staring at it. "What the hell is this?"
"Goats milk," I replied, opening a baggy of baby carrots.
"It doesn't have a label," he shook it and looked back to me.
"That's because it didn't come from a store. I got it from a dude's farm.
It's going to taste magnifique as cheese on toast with fucking" I closed
me eyes, reveling in the thought. "It's gonna be grand, lets just put it
that way."
"You went all the way to a farm for goat milk? I think your love of
cheese is starting to scare me, Angel." He placed the container in the
fridge and stood back up.
"Flower Child," I took a bite of carrot and hopped up on the counter,
"Let me make you privy to a little somethin' somethin'. That shit is fresh,
milked from the goat, Bob, as I watched. I might have even squeezed a
teet or two." I took another bite of carrot and loved the amusement on
Edward's face as he listened.
"Plus, that shit is not pasteurized, so all the goodness is left it in still. I
guaran-fucking-tee if you make one of your precious smoothies with that
shit, you wont be bitching about the extra twenty miles I had to go to
get it."
"Why is the goat's name Bob?" He asked, confused.
"Short for Boberina. The farmer was weird," I shrugged.
"I thought it was illegal to sell unpasteurized dairy products?" He asked,
trying to seem all smart.
I was smarter.
"Oh, it is. I didn't buy it though, I traded. So I guess I should tell you,
you're due at the Crest's farm in like an hour, wearing nothing but a
Speedo and lots and lots of oil."
I smiled, popping the last bit of carrot into my mouth and Edward just
shook his head at me. I'm sure he was wondering what the hell he ever
did to deserve being tortured on a daily basis by yours truly.
"In other news, you'll be happy to know I received some very interesting
pictures, faxes and emails from our Dick friend," I announced.
Edward looked over his shoulder at me, eyebrow in full arch.
"The P.I." I added.
"Oh, right. What did he say?" Flower Child turned back around to look at
me.
I could see the nervousness in his eyes.
"Apparently your beloved is a drunk driving, jobless thief," I smiled. And
we also have something in common."
"This isn't going to be a joke about our baby is it?"
"No. I was going to say 'banging the people we work with'."
"Jessica is banging Rachel Ray?" He asked surprised.
"No," I snorted. "I wish though. That would make for interesting
talkand also explain the man voice and hairdo," I thought for a moment
on this, but then shook my head, coming back to our conversation.
"Jessica is banging Ray's cousin or something."
"No shit," He replied.
"Yep. I got a copy of her arrest sheet, pics of her stealing food from
Ray's and well, like I said she's fired. If she gave Ray's cousin herpes,
you can probably get him to rat on her even more, as I'm sure he will be
pissed and looking to vent," I smiled, nodding my head.
Flower Child's eyes lit up like a fucking Christmas tree.
"Want his number?" I laughed.
Edward opened his mouth to reply but stopped, looking past me.
Squeaky came into the kitchen and I hopped off the counter, knowing he
wouldn't talk about Jessica in front of her. Flower Child picked her up
into his arms, rocking her slowly as she tried to wake up.
I took this once in a lifetime opportunity to do something I had dreamed
about for years.
"Shh," I said, holding my finger to my lips. Edward looked questioningly
at me, but I ignored him and started my tip toe walk over to towards
Emmett, who was still snoring away on the couch.
As I reached the couch, I debated for all of maybe fifteen seconds on
what to do, decidingyeahthis was best.
I brought one knee up onto the arms rest, then slowly stood up, using the
wall for support. When I was standing on the armrest, I looked down to
poor Emmett, wondering what types of dreams he was having.
His mouth was open, and his lips moved slightly as he murmured shit in his
sleep. I tried to keep my composure, but it was hard, hearing Flower
Child and Ness giggling like idiots in the background.
"Fire!!!" I yelled and Emmett sprang to life, looking around quickly.
I jumped from the armrest and landed right on him, laughing hysterically
as I did.
"What the hell!?" Emmett tried to push me aside and move but I was
laying right on top of him, slumped into hysterics.
Squeaky came running over and pointed at him from the side of the
couch, saying, "She scared you."
"You're supposed to have my back, Shortcake." Emmett tried to reach for
her, but she ran away.
I knew he'd turn his attention, AKA, his retaliation, back to me.
I tried to make a run for it.
My ass hit the floor hard and I tried scooting back, but he was coming at
me too fast and I put my hands up, still laughing, shouting, "Emmett! I
have a child inside of me. You're not allowed to do me bodily harm!"
It didn't sway him any.
"Flower Child!" I reached my arm to him, but it was too late, I was being
hoisted up by Emmett and slung over his shoulder. "Help me!" I reached
for Edward and the fucker just stood there, shaking his head and then
went back to cooking.
When I ended up on the other side of the door, locked out and alone in
the hallway, I decided I was not sharing my damn goat milk his punk,
traitor ass.
Xxxx
~ Flower Child ~
A new day, a newokay forget that. I had no new dollars.
It was a new day though and I followed behind Emmett and Bella as they
poked around the building I was trying to turn into a restaurant.
"You have insurance on this shithole?" Emmett asked.
"Yeah," I nodded.
"Good, let's set it on fire," He laughed, right along with Bella.
"Are we just going to make fun of me, or are you actually going to help?"
I asked, tired of all the jokes.
"Calm down. I'm just playing," he rested his hands down on to the old
bar top and the shit fell to the floor. "Sort of."
"You need to call Mommy and Daddy Moneybags, cause this shit is going
to cost a lot more than your pretty looks," Bella tugged a cap of a her
pen with her teeth and started writing on a clip board.
"Like, how much?" I asked, cringing at the thought, but knowing I had to.
I already spent Ness' college fund, which was the first part of my
inheritance, to buy this place and there was zip left to actually fix it up.
"Mmm, a hundred large for the dcor and dining area," Bella looked
around again and then jotted more notes down.
"The kitchen is going to easily cost double that and then there is the
fabulosity that is paying taxes, employees, licensesand so on and so on.
I hope your knees don't hurt easily. You're going to be doing a lot of ass
kissing and dick sucking to get this place an 'A+' rating."
"Great," I sighed.
"And of course the endless love and devotion you must show me for the
remainder of my existence," She added.
"And my box seats you are going to be paying for until my team is no
longer worthy of being cheered on by yours truly," Emmett chimed in.
"I get it. I owe you guys huge. Can we just get on with it? Time is flying
by here." I asked, getting really irritated that they both found this so
amusing.
Of course, that was the wrong thing to do in the presence of Satan's
Children.
"Aww, look at Flower Child. He's all acting like a stressed out owner,"
Bella tried to pinch my cheek, but I swatted her away.
"Wait 'til you have the health department up your ass," Emmett laughed,
swinging an arm around my shoulders. "You'll wish all you had to deal
with was B and I bustin' on you."
"Speakin' of bustin'," Bella began, "Jake and his boys are coming to tear
down the old counter tops and shit. You need to make sure they do a
good job and get all that shit removed before my people get here. They
don't fix up shitholes and if they walk into a mess, they'll be next to be
bustin' on you. You don't want them to go there and I will not stop
them," She laughed.
"I'm sorry, who?" I asked as we exited the building.
"Don't you pay attention? I said my people. My people who build
restaurants. Get with it, Flower Child," she gave me a look of irritation
and unlocked the passenger door to set her papers down.
"Sorry, a lot of shit going on, you know."
"Yeah, I do. You're the only one, right?" she shot back, slamming the car
as she spun to look at me.
"I didn't mean it like that," I shook my head as I tried to back peddle,
but it did no good.
"Whatever. I'll see you later." Bella turned to go around the other side
of her car, but I grabbed her.
"Don't be pissed off at me. I wasn't trying to smart mouth you, or sound
ungrateful." I pulled her into me and tried to hug her, but she was stiff
and not believing me.
"Bella," I sucked my teeth and pulled back, holding her by the shoulders.
"Don't. Be. Mad. At. Meeeeee," I shook her slightly and she finally
cracked a small smile.
"Better," I leaned in and kissed her and she gave a pathetic kiss in
return.
I sighed at her hard headedness and said," I see were going to have to
do this the hard way."
Bella crinkled her face looking at me as I leaned in and kissed the side of
her mouth, then along her jaw, working my way to her ear, then neck.
"Stop. I hate you. Stop it," she tried pushing against me, but I kept
going.
I slid my hands from her shoulders and wrapped my arms around her,
clasping my hands behind her back. My mouth kept kissing its way down
until I reached the crook of her neck.
"You can make me work for it," I kissed her again, holding her tighter.
"Its alright. I'll gladly work for a real kiss from you."
"I hate you so much, Flower Child."
"Because it's working?" I smiled against her skin, keeping my lips there.
She said nothing and I pulled back, puckering my lips at her as I closed
my eyes and waited.
"I should bite them off," She said.
I shrugged and kept my lips waiting, hoping she would give in.
"I hate you," She said again and then leaned in.
As her lips connected with mine, I felt her rigidness melt away and she
was nice enough to give me several meaningful kisses, not just the one I
was requesting.
"Uh, can you please stop molesting my boss so we can go back to work?"
Emmett said, passing us as he exited the building finally.
I gave him the finger behind Bella's back as I kept kissing her.
"Seriously, we have shit to do," Emmett climbed in to Bella's car and she
leaned off me.
"Happy now?" She asked.
"No," I shook my head and leaned back in, making her laugh. "I love you,"
I said, placing a kiss to her forehead.
"Yeah well, I hate you," She leaned away, but I tugged her back to me.
"Don't say that. You would feel pretty bad, joking or not, if those ended
up being your last words to me, yes?"
"Fine," She sighed. "I love you, but I hate that you have that type of
power over me. Better?" She made a face at me and I nodded.
"Can I go now?" She asked, looking down to my arms that were still
around her.
"Oh, yeah. Sorry," I laughed and stepped away, allowing her to walk to
the side of her car.
"Have fun with your shithole," Emmett said, rolling down the window only
enough for me to hear him.
Chicken shit.
I gave him the finger again and turned around to face the building.
And yeahits was a shithole.
Xxx
Jake and his guys came over right on time to gut the interior. They
worked fast and I was glad, because when Bella's employees showed up a
few hours later, I could see why she said not to mess around with them.
They looked a little scary and I am not ashamed to admit that most of
them.were women.
It was like Bella, but to the tenth power.
Understand?
While they worked their magic, I made that dreadful call to my mother
and she actually sounded a little too happy to be loaning me large sums
of money.
I didn't even want to go anywhere near my dad after this call. I'm sure
he was smiling ear to ear after my mother told him this fabulous news.
I am being sarcastic, in case you didn't catch on.
Although, he probably was happy, because now, he had one more thing to
rub in my face.
I helped the guys from Jakes' crew carry out the shit they tore down to
the dumpster out back and by the end of doing that, I was spent.
Not that it mattered, because I still had to go back to The Workshop
and clock in for my shift.
Bella's people stayed behind, doing what it was they did and I took off,
headed off to the other restaurant.
Once I arrived, I pulled around back and parked. As I got out, I saw
Alice with Jasper, sitting on the pallets that belonged to me and Bella. I
wanted to say something, but telling them to get off my pallet just
seemed like it would soundodd.
"Hey Baby Daddy Times Two," He said, smiling.
"Alice, you have a big mouth. Know that?"
"He's my man. I have to tell him," She said, taking Jasper's hand into
hers.
"Yeah, yeah. I'll see you two inside." I tugged the door open and stepped
in, seeing Charlie and Bella cooking side by side.
It was rather heartwarming.
"Bells, you steal one more thing off my cutting board and I'm going to
chop your fingers off," Charlie warned.
"I'm just making sure you're doing it right," She teased, stealing
something else from his board.
I laughed and she looked up to see me.
"Hey babe," She said, smiling.
I guessed I was fully forgiven for my remarks earlier.
"Hi, Sweetheart." I leaned over the pass and gave her a quick kiss before
I walked around to the other side.
"What? Nothing for me?" Alistair held out his hands to his sides and I
stared at him, unamused.
"Don't even go there, man. Not that I doubt you have a pussy between
your legs, but still.you're not as pretty as Bella." I hugged an arm
around her and Charlie whipped his head my way, knife in hand.
"I wasn't talking about Bella's pu-" I stopped, feeling Bella stiffen in my
arms again.and the rage burning in Charlie's eyes. "Never mind," I
pointed at him and released Bella.
"Flower Child, I believe you owe me something?" She rubbed her fingers
together and I pulled the paper from my pocket.
"How very professional," She made a face and took the paper, that was
otherwise known as my business plan.
"I'm sorry. I didn't have time for Kinko's." I tried to smile to make it
better, but she didn't look at me.
I followed her as she walked, reading my paper, out of the kitchen and
towards her office.
Once inside, she took a seat and I waited impatiently as she read it over,
literally on the edge of my seat. When she laughed, my heart sunk a
little.
Bella must have noticed, because she looked up to me and held out the
paper, saying, "It's not the plan. I just can't believe Emmett still can't
spell 'statistic'."
"Sorry, I didn't think to proof read it," I replied.
"It's alright. I'm not judging your grammar or spelling capabilities." She
laid the paper down and leaned down to open her bottom drawer.
Bella slid a paper to me that I recognized as my contract and then a
pen.
"You should feel lucky that I love you, because I am going to let you out
of your contract without paying a hefty fine." I took the pen from her
hands and she added, "At least a monetary fine, anyhow."
"Does that mean my plan meets your satisfaction?" I asked.
"It needs a little work, but it's a good start. I like that you will survey
the community. That's very important."
I nodded and signed my name where she had amended my contract, then
slid it back to her.
"Well, it's official," She signed her name and then looked up to me, "You
don't belong to me anymore."
"You and I both know that's not true, Angel."
Xxx
Two weeks into the work on the building and it was looking pretty damn
good. The entire inside looked brand new, smelled nice and looked like a
small beacon of hope.
I had my friend here today, Sam, the guy who did all my artwork. He
was painting a nice design on the back wall when Bella came in.
My eyes roamed her over as I sat on a five-gallon paint bucket, watching
Sam sketch. She had on a white dress, hair down, blown straight with flip
flops. As she got closer, I saw a small barrette in her hair, and wrinkled
my face recognizing it as Ness'.
"Are you stealing from my daughter?" I asked, reaching an arm out to
her.
"Yes," She replied taking a seat on my lap. "Looks better on me anyhow,"
she smiled.
"You're crossing dangerous territory there, Bell," I teased.
"Look at you all Papa Bear-like," She poked my face with her finger and
laughed.
I gave her a kiss and then looked back to Sam's work.
"What's this?" She asked.
"Sam's drawing something. It's actually a surprise, so you shouldn't be
looking."
I tried to stand up and she lifted off me, giving one glance towards the
wall and then looked away.
"It's looking kind of decent in here. I'm pleasantly surprised, Flower
Child." Her fist knocked the counter as she walked around.
I was about to reply, but my phone rang and Bella waved me on to
answer it. She went back to looking around and I returned to my paint
bucket seat as I listened to Ness telling me about the quilt my
grandmother was making.
Xxxx
~ Bella ~
I walked around snooping while Flower Child talked on the phone. The
place was looking much better than I expected it to.
After I made a complete walk through of the place, I came back into the
main room and he was still chatting away, and I decided to leave for a
bit.
There was some event happening down near the band-shell and I wanted
to check it out before I had to go back to The Workshop and also, I
needed some food.
That place was sure to have a whole lot of awesome fucking finds and I
was planning on bringing some back to Edward before returning to my own
restaurant.
I ducked out and headed down the street, weaving through the crowds of
people that were enjoying the beauty that was an afternoon in Florida at
the beach.
I hit two stands, trying a sampling of each dish. One was a spring roll
with crispy veggies and other goodness. The other was a tostada of
grilled lime chicken with fresh tomatoes and cilantro.
Ugh, I was in Heaven.
As I approached the third booth, I saw it was croquettes and I said a
silent 'yessssssss' along with Baby Cullen.
I waited my turn in line as the people ahead paid and grabbed their
food. It was so damn busy and I started getting a little claustrophobic,
plus, the sweaty bodies I was surrounded by were icking me out, big
time.
A few dudes next to me were horsing around and bumped into me as they
did. The first time, I ignored it. The second time, he hit into me a little
harder and the third time, I fucking lost it and shoved him back.
"Who the fuck," He spun round and saw me, quickly changing his tune.
"Oh, hey." He smiled, trying to seem cute, or sexy, but it fucking wasn't.
"You should watch where the hell you swing your arms, Fuckhead," I said
angrily then stepped forward to order my food.

"No need to get hostile, Mama," He came closer, "It's all good here." He
eyed me up and down and I wanted to puke.
The beer came off his breath and my stomach churned as it met my
nostrils. He was the type of asshole that cunt-rag Jessica would probably
trade Ness over.
He was not Flower Child, that was for damn sure.
"Um, excuse me," I tried to get my food and he only moved closer, his
buddies, backing him up. "If you don't fucking move asshole, I will give
you a new hole to breathe out of."
"You've got quite a mouth, don't you?" He stood up straight and leaned
over me. "Yo man," He looked over his shoulder to his homie, "She's got a
mouth on her, doesn't she?"
"I think she does, Bra'. Why don't we put it to better use," He tapped
his shoulder and the dude walked into me, moving me back through the
crowd.
The street was too busy, too noisy for me to be noticed and I started to
freak.
Jam his nose into his brain. Jam his fucking nose into his brain.
He reached his hand out and tried to grab my arm.
"Don't fucking touch me asshole," I kicked him and he laughed at my
weak attempt, going for my arm again.
He caught it this time and pulled me into him hard. I struggled trying to
get free, but the fucker was too strong. This wasn't like play wrestling
with Emmett, this bastard was trying to fucking hurt me and not look like
a pussy in front of his loser friends, even though, that is exactly what
the fuck he was.
"I'm fucking pregnant you asshole," I kicked at him again, but it did
nothing.
As quickly as his hold on me tightened, it loosened, and I was free.
I never saw the punch, but apparently, someone threw it.
"Jessica isn't fucking enough for you anymore Newton?!" Flower Child was
pushing one of the other dudes I hadn't seen.
It was that fucker Mike. I recognized him from our meeting in Hawaii.
I looked down to the ground and the dude that was trying to grab me in
the first place was out cold.
"I wasn't doing shit, Cullen. Just trying to enjoy all that the street had
to offer," He snickered.
Flower Child stepped in front of me, blocking me from Mike-the-loser and
yelled back at him, "You ever fucking come near my girlfriend again and
I'll fucking kill you Newton."
"Don't worry Cullen, I have plenty of your women to choose from. Jessica,
BellaRenesmee."
I grabbed Edward's shirt as her name left Mike's mouth.
Was he insane?! Have a death wish?!
"Edward, don't! That's what he fucking wants," I came around to his
front and I could see he was beyond reasoning with.
He wanted that fuckers head.
Rightfully so.
Where the fuck was Emmett and his big ass when you needed him!?
"Hey! Break it up!" the cops rolled up on us and I tugged at his shirt,
trying to get him to come with before the fuzz could start asking who
knocked out scumbag number one.
That was the last thing me or Edward needed right now, more assault
charges.
"You're fucking next Newton," Edward said, walking backwards as I
pulled him along.
Newton grabbed his crotch, making a gesture at Edward and I tugged on
him harder, wanting to get as far away from this shit as possible before
he provoked him again.
When we finally rounded the corner, I lost it and all the fear and
adrenaline came crashing down, spilling from my eyes as I leaned again
one of the buildings.
Edward grabbed me and pulled me into him. I clung to his shirt and
sobbed. His hands roamed over my back as he held me securely.
"It's alright. Calm down. You're fine, baby. You're fine," He said softly.
I could hear his heart pounding hard in his chest and it did nothing to
help my resolve, knowing he was just as riled up and angry as I felt.
"I'm sorry, I should have waited for you," I said though my tears.
"That shit was not your fault, Bell," He said adamantly. "Just curious
though, why did you leave without me?"
"I wanted food. Why else? They had croquettes and I just" I started
crying again and he held me tighter.
It was mostly Baby Cullen's tears at this point, but you understand,
right?
"Are you alright? He didn't hurt you did he?" Edward pulled back a little
to look at me and I shook my head no.
"I'm fine. My stupid mouth just always has to fucking run," I wiped my
face with the back of my hand and then on Edward's shirt. "That's for
later."
"That fucker Newton is lucky the cops showed up. He's been begging me
for an ass kicking since high school. He would have gotten one today."
Edward wiped my face, clearing it of the rest of my tears.
"I'm sure that would have made his day too. You locked up with a charge
that would stick this time and then he and Queen of the Cunt-rags could
ride off into the sunset with Squeeks."
"I know. That's why I didn't give him one." Edward and I started walking
back towards the restaurant.
"Babe? Do you really think Mike would hurt Ness?" I asked holding his
hand in mine.
"I don't even want to think about that, Bella."
Xxx
~Flower Child~
After the fiasco with Newton and his dumbass friends, I walked with
Bella to get something to eat, since she didn't get to.
It was a good thing I had to be at my parent's house right nowand that
I had court to still attend, because Newton had a serious ass kicking
coming his way otherwise.
At some point, he was definitely going to get it too.
Fucking Stanley was one thing.
Trying to harm Bella, my pregnant girlfriend, and then telling me that
you planned doing the same to my daughter, was not fucking acceptable.
At all.
I needed to push that anger aside and just handle my business right now,
though.
That business being: meet my mom and pick up the check for the money
she was loaning me.
I slammed the car door in irritation at all that has just transpired less
than a few hours ago and walked my way up to the door, not bothering
to knock.
"I'm here," I called, shutting the front door loudly so they would hear
me enter.
My Grandmother was in the parlor room as I passed and I paused to step
in and say hello to her.
"Hey baby," She said, smiling at me.
"Hi Grandma," I leaned in and gave a kiss to her cheek, then sat down in
the chair beside hers. "Where is everyone?"
"Your mother had to run out to the store, said she'd be right back. Your
father is working of course," She kept her eyes on the quilt she was
working on as she spoke.
"So that's the infamous quilt?" I asked.
"Sure is. I thought Bella would appreciate it. Renesmee always liked the
one I gave her," she smiled.
"That's nice of you. I'm sure Bella will love it."
"Well, this is actually for the baby, if you want to get technical. I just
meant Bella would appreciate the gesture, towards her child. I do have
something for Bella thoughand I'm sure she would really appreciate it."
There was an evil, evil smile on her face that I recognized all too well.
I squinted my eyes at her and asked, "What are you up to Grandma?"
"I'm just trying to say that if you should, ya know, maybe happen to
want to put a ring on that girls fingerI could help out with that," She
kept her eyes on her work still, but the smilethe smile was prominently
in tact.
"I see; you too." I rolled my eyes and sat back into my chair.
"Listen here, boy. I'm not trying to tell you to do something you don't
want to, but I am curious to know why you don't want to? I thought you
loved this girl?"
"It has nothing to do with not loving Bella. Quite the opposite in fact. I
don't want her thinking I'm marrying her just because of the baby."
"That would be a bad thing because?" She raised her brows to me in
question. "Junior Cullen, I'm no psychic, but I can guarantee you, there is
nothing that would make that girl feel better right now then you giving
her a commitment, solely based upon your devotion to that child alone."
"That's not what I mean. I'm trying to say I would marry Bella even if we
weren't having a baby. I don't want her to think I did it out of pressure
or some type of obligation because everyone around us," I paused giving
her the evil eye, "Keeps telling me to."
"Well how about this. I'll give you the ring and you can decide when to
use it? Deal?"
"I'm already here to scam about a half a million from my mother, so fine,
why not add diamonds to the mix," I said sarcastically.
"What in Jesus' name do you need all that money for, boy?" She finally
put down her needles and looked at me.
"I'm opening a restaurant. Mom didn't tell you?"
"No, she most certainly did not. What happened to you working for
Bella?"
"I still am. Sort of. It's complicated, Grandma and I don't really have
time to explain. I wish mom was here actually. I really don't want my
father asking me about this shit either if he sees me," I sat forward and
clasped my hands together, looking towards the window.
"Junior Cullen?" I looked towards her as she called my name. "You need a
partner?"
"What?" I laughed.
"I said," she slid forward, placing the quilt down, "you need a partner? I
always wanted a restaurant and yesterday, that Oprah was talking bout
filling out your listsome kind of life list"
"A bucket list?" I guessed.
"Yeah," She snapped her fingers at me and pointed, "That. Well this was
on my list. I have money, honey, so you won't need to borrow from your
folks. I don't know how to run a kitchen though, so that'll be your job. I
just want to cook. We'll be fifty, fifty."
"Grandma?"
"Yes, baby?" I couldn't help but to smile at the excitement and
conspirators smile on her face.
"I really love you."
Xxx
When I got back to my restaurant, I saw Emmett helping Jake installing
the kitchen equipment.
"Where's Bella?" I asked, not seeing here anywhere when I walked in.
"She went home. Said she wasn't feeling good," He said.
"Was she alright?" I stepped in further, dismissing Jake from helping Em
and took over, helping him to scoot the stove into place.
"Yeah, dude. She's just a little overwhelmed I think."
"I don't fucking doubt it, considering the fucking day we've had." We slid
the stove in and Emmett leaned on, looking at me in question.
"What happened?" He asked.
"Oh nothing, just Mike and his loser ass friends thought it was cool to
shove Bella around and then tell me that he'd be happy to do the same
to Ness."
"When the fuck did this happen?" He stood up straight and looked
yeah he was pissed.
"Earlier. Bella was down at the band-shell where have that shit going on
today and I don't really know what happened. All I know is that when I
saw her, some kid with Mike was grabbing her and I knocked the fucker
out."
"And Newton?" He asked.
"I've got court and shit, you know I can't hit Newton."
"Yeah well, I don't," He said, looking at me pointedly.
"I'm not asking you to do that." I shook my head and leaned off the
stove, walking towards the other box.
"Oh, there's no asking here. I'm simply wanting permission to do so."
I looked up to him and he was serious.
"If he pukes, I'll make sure they give complimentary drinks in your box."
I held out my fist to his and he knocked it, nodding with a slight smile on
his face.
"So how did it go with mom and dad?" He asked as we unboxed the
second stove.
"That would be the only thing was good about today. Grandma agreed to
be my partner, so didn't have to ask them for money."
"Seriously?" He laughed.
"Yeah, she's going to come work here," I replied.
"So, then, likeher and Gramps are moving here?"
"I think they would sort of need to Em. Unless grandma had the ability
to teleport and never told us."
"I wouldn't put that shit past her," He laughed, scooting the second stove
in with me.
"She gave me a ring for Bella too," I mumbled, keeping my eyes on our
work.
"She did?" He asked, surprised.
"Yeah. That doesn't piss you off does it?" I asked.
"Naw man. Rose wouldn't want that old ass thing," He teased. "I already
bought one for her anyhow." We placed the stove in beside the other and
Emmett wiped his forehead on his shirt, looking and me asking, "So, you
gonna really do it?"
"Shit, I don't know Emmett. Bella is at home right now stressed out,
feeling sick. You really think I need to spring this shit on her too?"
"I'm just asking," He shrugged.
"Let's just work on getting stoves in order, then, maybe, fucking maybe,
we'll talk about bigger issues. Alright?"
"Sure man," He smiled and we went back to our work.
Xxx
It was late when I finally made my way home.
Ness was cuddled in the bed with Bella, sleeping. She had her arms
wrapped around my daughter, holding her securely as they slept.
I sat down gently on the bed and just stared at them for a moment.
My fingers moved to Bella's face and swept her hair back that had fallen
over her cheek. I leaned down and kissed that cheek, then Ness' head.
I slid back off the bed to shower and change quickly and then joined
them once again. As I tried to pull Ness onto me, Bella tightened her
hold and mumbled, "Get your own."
"Share," I whispered back and she let up a little, allowing me to pull
Ness onto me.
Bella moved closer, tucking herself into my side and rested a hand over
my daughter.
"Sweet dreams, Angel." I leaned my head against hers, "Coconut cream
pie," was all she said in return and I had to laugh.
That's what she dreamed about.
Amid all of the drama, chaos and headaches we had been faced with of
late, my Bella could still lay here, sleeping soundly and dream of coconut
cream pie, happily.
I started to wonder about my own dreams in this moment, wondering how
I could ever get my mind to shut down and be at peace for once.
What were my dreams even?
Right now, perhaps it was just to be laying here with a good woman and
my daughter, safe and sound.
The future though, as in, goal orientated dreams. What did I want in
that aspect? Somehow, it all seemed to come back to this again.
Bella and Ness, safe, happy and beside me.
I decided to hold onto those thoughts and try and take them with me as
my eyes closed and my brain grew tired of thinking.
There would never be a dream sweeter than this.
Not even coconut cream pie.
Xxx
When I woke up in the morning, Bella was gone from bed, as was Ness. I
looked up the clock and cursed, seeing that I slept in too late and
wouldn't be able to run this morning.
I climbed unwillingly from the bed and made my way down the hall to
find my girls.
What I found though was Leah?
"Where's Bella?" I asked as Ness ran to me. I picked her up and Leah
looked up to me from the couch.
All she said was "she had an emergency. Umyour brother."
"What happened?"
"Um, Renesmee," Leah stood up and extended her arms out. I handed her
over Ness and she settled her on the feet. "Can you go find that book
you told me about before? We can read it this morning."
"Okay," Ness went running towards her room and I looked back towards
Leah.
"Your brother was put in jail last night. Bella called me to watch Ness
while she went to go help him out. It was a few hours ago."
"Shit," I said, knowing perfectly well why the fuck Emmett was in jail.
Bella was going to kill me.
"Can you stay wi" I didn't get to finish my sentence as Bella came
walking through the door.
"You," she curled her fingers at me and I knew I was in for it. "Now."
She ducked back out into the hall and I did as she requested.
As soon as I reached the hallway and closed the door behind me, she
punched me.
"Are you out of your fucking mind?" She whispered-yelled at me. "Over
Newton? Seriously?" She hit me again and I put my hands up to deflect
her.
"Will you listen?"
"No! You know, Flower Child, just when I think you're growing a brain in
that precious head of yours," She hit me again, "You go and do stupid
shit like this!"
"Fuck, stop hitting me will you?!" I tried not smile, but it was hard.
That only got me in deeper.
"Oh so now its funny?"
"No, but," I grabbed her and wrapped my arms around her so she'd stop
with the girly slaps, "The thought of having to wrestle with a pregnant
lady is." I couldn't help but to laugh and she tried to wiggle free, but of
course, couldn't.
"Just listen a second and then I'll let you go. If you sill want to beat
me, then you can, alright?"
She said nothing and I took my opportunity to explain.
"First, no one is allowed to touch you. If I could kick Mike's ass myself, I
would. Emmett was just looking out for you and I'm not going to say I'm
sorry for that shit." I waited a moment and she didn't move, so I figured
all was safe and let her go.
That was the stupidest thing I could have done.
Bella hit me in the nuts.
"You just don't get it do you?"
Did she expect me to reply? Cause I couldn't fucking reply. This wasn't
like getting an accidental hit from Ness. This was intended and fuck me,
Bella hit me harrrrd.
I think I felt a tear or two in my eye.
"You're going to ruin everything over some punk ass Mike Newton, who
technically, wasn't even the asshole who was touching me, Flower Child?
He ran his mouth, yeah, I get it, but you can't just go around hitting
people because you're pissed off!"
Says the woman who just injured my boys.
I was still unable to speak.
"I can't fucking do this Edward. Ijust" She fell against the wall and
slid to the floor. "I can't fucking live like this." Bella started to cry and
suddenly my nuts were the last thing on my mind.
"I'm sorry," I said, scooting next to her.
"This is craziness," She whispered, wiping away her tears.
"We were just trying to protect you," I reached for her hand but she
pulled it away from me.
"Protect me how? By waking me up to have to go bail my general
manager out of jail? By me worrying even more now that they are going
to try and do something stupid to get to get back at you?
"Or by making me stress even more that that maybe in two weeks time,
you won't have Ness anymore, because of stupid shit like this, and then I
get to go back to having a non existent partner, no executive chef in my
restaurant and now a NEW restaurant to run without you.
"A fucking restaurant mind you, that is taking all of my time away from
the restaurant that I actually want to have in my life.
"Tell me Edward, which part exactly was to protect me and which part
are you sorry for, because I keep hearing the fucking words, yet your
actions seem to miss their mark."
"All of it," I closed my eyes and leaned my head against the wall,
knowing she was right. "I'm sorry for all of it."
"Then grow up and start fucking acting liking it." Bella stood up and
started off down the hall.
I followed her, asking, "Where are you going?"
"To work. Where I should have been fucking two hours ago," She spat
back. "You know, while you were sleeping in." Her fingers hit the elevator
keys hard I had nothing else to say as she stepped in and they closed
after her.
Xxx
When I returned to The Workshop later on the day, Bella was still pissed
off at me.
I hated it.
There was nothing worse than her giving me the cold shoulder and
avoiding me. It reminded me of me of when we broke off our relationship
after the shit with Jessica.
Jessica.
How did she always manage to be the reason for problems between Bella
and I?
Because I let her, that's how.
Our daily pre-open meeting was over and Bella began to walk off,
probably going back to hiding in her office again, but I stopped her,
slipping my hand into hers.
She looked up to me and I could see her hesitation.
"Will you have dinner with me tomorrow?" I asked.
"I don't have time and neither do you," She replied.
"It will be more like a midnight snack, after work," I changed up my
game, not sure what the hell I was talking about, as this was all on the
fly.
And I didn't want 'no' an answer.
"You have Ness," She said.
"She's going with my folks, down to the time share they have in the Keys
or some shit." I lied.
I knew Esme would go. She loved that damn place.
"Please?" I tried again.
She debated for a moment but then nodded slightly agreeing to go.
"Thank you," I leaned in and kissed her cheek, then went off to the
kitchen to work.
On my break, I called my mother and told what I wanted to do. She of
course agreed to help me out, and said I could have the house all to
myself tomorrow night.
I could practically hear her packing her bags on the other end of the
phoneand my father groaning in irritation.
Xxx
She made a face when I pulled up to the drive.
"Why are we going to your parent's house?" She asked.
"I promised you something," I replied, putting the car in park.
"I thought they were out of town?" She climbed out of the car as I did
and I reached out for her hand.
"They are. I just need to borrow something of theirs."
She remained silent as we approached the door and entered. Emmett was
nice enough to help me set up some stuff while we had been working.
I really hoped he remembered the
Yes. Thank you.
I saw the 'flowers' sitting on the piano as I walked further into the
house.
They weren't actually flowers, but rather, just a vase filled with basil
and other herbs that I knew would mean more to Bella than cheesy roses
or something.
What? Lady loved the smell of basil.
"Are you hungry?" I asked a little nervous.
"Not really," She said unexpectedly.
That was not ever her reply. Bella was always hungry. She never turned
down food.
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"I just don't know what were doing here." The distrust was full in her
eyes and I hated it. How had I managed to change everything between us
so quickly?
I sighed and replied," I promised that I would play you something on the
piano, remember?"
"Oh," her face softened as she understood and I pulled her along with
me towards it.
"The only problem here," I sat down as she did on the bench, "Is what to
play."
I had to laugh lightly as looked down at the keys, unsure of what I even
still could play. Surely 'chopsticks' wasn't going to get me out of trouble.
"Is that" I looked over to Bella and she was pointing her finger at the
bouquet. "Is that basil?"
"Yeah," I nodded.
"Why would your mother put basil on her piano? She does know what
that stuff is for, right?"
I laughed and replied, "Esme didn't put it there."
She looked confused and I explained, "I had Emmett put it there, for
you. You know, plotting to beat up Mike Newton isn't the only thing we
do in our spare time."
"I see," She looked back to the basil and then down at the keys. "Well
Romeo, romance me then, why don't you."
"I'm trying," I looked down to them as well and Bella leaned a little
closer.
"Starting with food fuckery is a win. Now move the fingers and you might
get me to stop hating you."
I smiled and plucked the book from the top of the piano, passing it to
her.
"Pick one."
"I don't know any of these," She said, flipping through it.
"That would make two of us," I teased.
She smiled small, and finally settled on one, handing it back over to me.
"I promise you nothing here, but to try my best," I set the book on the
ledge and tried to remember how the hell to do this.
"That's all I ever ask for," She said quietly.
Those words stilled me momentarily as they registered and I had nothing
else to offer but my promise.
I played the song for her, the best I could and she never laughed or said
any of the usual smartass commentary that she normally would have.
She was quiet and respectful and staying true to her words, as I tried to
stay true to mine.
When the song was over, she rested her head against my arm and sighed.
I moved so I could hold her better and she still said nothing. The house
was dead silent and the only sign of life was Bella's heart beat against
my fingers when I swept her hair to her back and her own, playing
against the fabric of my shirt.
"You want to know something?" I asked quietly and she nodded.
"My Grandmother gave me a ring for you. She wants me, just like
everyone else, to ask you to marry me." She stiffened slightly in my
arms, like I knew she would, and all my words to my family came true.
Bella didn't want to get married.
"I'm not here to ask you that, so, don't get scared. I just wanted to tell
you how I feel about it. When Mike and his friend were pushing you
around the other day, it wasn't a pissing a contest Bella.
I love you and that shit scared me, because not only were they hurting
you but they were hurting our baby too. When your hurt, Little Bit is
hurt and yeah, alright, maybe I didn't go about the right way, or the
way that you wanted, but when you pulled Stanley into your office that
day, to get her to drop the charges, were you thinking about how I felt,
or just that she hurt me and you wanted to do something about it?"
"Low blow, number one and two, this isn't helping to get you out of the
dog house," She replied.
"I'm trying to make you see where I am coming from," I sighed.
"Fine, I guess so."
"I am still sorry, regardless, because obviously it only ended up hurting
you more, but my motivation was the opposite, I promise." I kissed her
head and then continued.
"There is one thing thought that came out of this that was good. When
you were ignoring me," I laughed lightly, "It reminded me of another time
when we had a fight and you ignored me much the same."
"I didn't ignore you," She argued.
"Alright fine, hid from me. Same difference in my world," I shrugged,
still holding her.
"How is this supposed to be a good thing Flower Child?"
"If you let me finish," I paused and she sighed, allowing me to do so.
"When we were in Hawaii, do you remember the night I stayed with you?"
"Yes," She answered.
"That night, I had a dream about us." I pulled back from Bella and
raised her chin up to look at me, rubbing my thumb gently over her lip.
"I thought it was sort of silly at first and really never knew what to
make of it."
"What was it about?" She asked, searching my eyes.

"We were in this field, or meadow, whatever it's called. That was sort of
the silly part," I smiled, "But then it got a little more serious as we
made love and I told you that I loved you," I leaned in and kissed her
mouth lightly several times before I continued. "Then it got really serious
when I told you I wanted to have a baby with you and instead of
smacking the holy shit out of me, you actually agreed."
I closed my eyes, leaning my face to hers as I murmured, "And now here
we are, I love you, only want to ever make love to you and you alone and
we are going to have this baby to show for it all." I kissed her again.
"You literally made my dream come true, Bella."
She kissed me back, whispering, "You're getting better at this romance
shit," in between our kisses.
"It's just the truth," I replied as she maneuvered herself into my lap.
I brought my lips back to hers and kissed her slowly and sweetly, holding
her face in my hands. Her tears ran down my own cheeks and I was
content that for once, they were tears of happiness and not the sadness
and fear she had been feeling of late.
"I would marry you regardless of whether or not we were having a baby
together, just so know. But after the last few days, I realized that
you're right. You deserve a man who is deserving of you. So, until I am, I
won't ask. 'Cause that's what you deserve. What our family deserves."
She rested her head down onto my shoulder and I hugged her, moving my
lips into the curve of her neck, making a new promise.
"I promise no more nightmares, Angel. I promise."











Chapter 27 "Oh Happy Day"


"Anyone can be passionate, but it takes real lovers to be silly." Rose
Franken


~Bella ~
I leaned into his neck, wanting another taste.
Fucker tasted so good.
"I wanna be on top this time," I whispered, grinding my lower half
against his.
"Again? Aren't you tired, Angel?" He asked, tossing his head back onto
the pillow.
I pulled back and replied, "I thought this was every dudes dream?"
Flower Child kept his eyes on my naked breasts for a moment, then,
looked to my face, replying, "Baby, that's like three times in an hour." He
swallowed thickly, adding, "I'm gonna need like a sandwich or something
if you want number four."
I smiled, rolling my eyes at him. "Fine, I'll make you a sandwich then." I
climbed out of bed and slipped his shirt on.
Flower Child whistled at my bare ass as I exited and I tried to ignore
him, but the retarded girl inside of me thought it was cute.
She was so annoying and extremely easy.
As far as being able to walk around with said bare ass showing; Ness
wasn't back from her trip with his parents to the Keys and I was free to
wander around naked.
It was nice; very liberating.
I made the fucker a quick roast beef sandwich on the last two pieces of
French bread, even though I was saving those pieces for French toast.
Sex was more important right now, though.
Sandwich would get me that.
It was a good trade.
He smiled as I made my way back in the room. Just to be a brat, I set
the cold plate on his bare chest. He groaned, giving me a dirty look.
I was forgiven once his mouth met the sandwich.
He was easy too.
I lay back while he refueled, propping my feet against the wall, listening
to the ocean breeze blow in. My fingers found their way under his stolen
shirt and I began to trace patterns over my stomach, as I thought.
The last few days had been such a cluster fuck.
Last night, the fucker was rather sweet, telling me about why he didn't
want to propose. Oh, but the dream, the dream!
I can't lie people, I was truly swooning over this bastard as he told me
that shit. It was fucking sweet as hell and alright, maybe that meant
something. I'm not fucking one to get all deep with fate, or destiny and
shit, but maybe that dream was a prologue to something in our lives.
Or maybe, it was like, his subconscious wanting this to happen all along.
I decided it didn't really matter though. What was done was done and
shit, if he wanted this even way back then- that was perfectly fucking
fine with me.
Who am I kidding? I wanted Flower Child then, too.
Even if I was being a total fuckhead.
His groaning of contentment now, caused me to look over. I had to smile
at how happy his face looked. Actually, he looked kind of drunk, but it
was like, drunk off sex and food, so this drunk was a good drunk.
"Alright," Edward looked over to me, "I think I'm good now."
A laugh emanated from my lips and I slid my feet down off the wall. I
crawled back over, straddling him again. My index finger ran down the
bridge of his nose and he kissed the tip once I reached his mouth.
"I love you," I said softly, leaning in to give him my lips.
"I love you, baby," He replied.
I hooked one finger under his chin and drew him in closer, so I could
whisper, "Show me," Before I kissed him.
French bread tasted much better on Edward's lips than it did as French
toast.
*~*
When I awoke in the morning, Edward was already up. As I walked down
the hall, I assumed he would be out running, but instead, he was being
measured by his mother in the living room.
Her eyes caught sight of me and she smiled, saying, "Good morning,
Bella," sweetly.
"Morning. What's going on?" I asked.
"Just making sure Edward will fit into his tux," She replied, before
pointing her finger at him. "If you gain a pound, Rose will kill you. Stay
away from those wonderful things you cook."
"Ma, do I look like I care about Rose?" Edward asked, deadpan.
"Allow me to rephrase. Rose will kill Emmett, then, Emmett will kill you."
She made a face at him and walked towards the kitchen table, placing
the tape back in her purse.
"If Emmett is dead, the how can he kill me?" Edward took a seat at the
table and narrowed his eyes playfully at Esme.
"Just don't gain any weight, Smartass," She replied.
Edward sputtered with laughter, obviously surprised at his mother's
curse. "Geeze, you get feisty when you have a wedding to plan, know
that?" He pinched at her side and she swatted him away.
"Leave me alone, Edward Anthony. You are never too old for a spanking.
Keep that in mind."
He looked over to me as I leaned in the hall. A devilish grin appeared
upon his perfect lips and knew he was up to no good.
"This apartment has seen way too much spanking in last twenty-four
hours, Mother. I don't know if it could take anymore." He put his hands
up immediately after he said it and Esme smacked him hard.
"You have grown so foul. To think your father and I wasted money to
send you to a proper school," She swung her purse over shoulder and
made her way towards the door.
"I'm just kidding, Mom. Like I'd spank a pregnant woman," He continued
to joke.
Esme tugged the door open and turned to look at him. "Renesmee only
slept about an hour last night, I'm sure she will be extremely cranky
when she wakes up from her nap this morning. Have a nice day, Honey."
She patted his cheek and exited.
Edward laughed and locked it behind her.
"Squeaky is home?" I asked, stepping towards him.
"Yeah, she's sleeping," He replied.
"How did it go? I mean, the water didn't scare her, did it?"
His face scrunched for a moment, before the realization hit. "She's
tanner than me now, so, evidently not." He smiled, but it quickly faded.
"I didn't really think about it, honestly."
"Well, it was awhile ago. As long as she was fine, it's a good thing. I'm
glad she's not scared, considering where we live," I walked into the
kitchen and started pulling out things for breakfast.
"That's true." He stepped behind me and rubbed my ass, as he went for
the vitamins, above the fridge.
"Just gonna grope me in front of," I looked down to my hands, "farm
fresh eggs, are ya?"
"I'm sorry, I didn't know it was off limits," He smiled and opened the
bottle. "Last night you were practically begging me for gropes and grabs
and" He started to laugh and I kicked him lightly with my foot.
"Well right now, I'm making breakfast, so back off," I said playfully.
He held up his hands and went on about his business beside me.
"Big week, huh," I commented, cracking a few eggs into a bowl. "Ness is
going to school and Emmett is getting married," I shook my head at the
thought.
"I can't believe Ness is old enough for school. I swear she was just a
baby last time I looked," He replied, sliding a few slices of bread into
the toaster.
"She was probably super cute as a baby," I smiled.
"Of course. She's mine, isn't she?" He teased.
Just the person we were talking about came tottering into the kitchen,
looking sleepy as hell. As Edward picked her up, and drew his attention
towards her, I stole the fuckers toast and dunked it into my egg
mixture.
Just because I let him have the French bread, didn't mean I was going
without my French toast this morning. It just wasn't asFrench.
After we finished breakfast, I crawled back into bed and waited for
Edward to clean up Squeaks.
"Well, Baby Cullen, today is the day. You're lucky, getting to have
Squeaks for a sister. I had no one as a kid. For years I was stuck with
only my imaginary friend. Being an only child sucks ass. Being the kid in
school who smells like bacon and eggs sucks even bigger ass and being a
kid with a hippy mother who doesn't even know how to boil water, even
though you have explained to her time and time again that when you take
the pot and fill it, all you need to"
"Bell?"
My head whipped towards the doorway and I saw Edward standing there,
looking rather amused.
"Sorry, just introducing our child to the inner workings of my mind," I
rested my head back down and he laughed.
"So I heard." He walked behind Ness, as she ran, not walked, to the bed.
"Ness, I think we talked about this need to run you have, didn't we?"
Edward sat down on the bed and she simply shrugged. "That's not an
answer."
"Sowwy," She said, crawling her way to him.
"That's better." He hoisted her up in the air and fell to his back.
She giggled and begged to get down, but he rested her on his legs,
holding onto her hands. "You would make a good weight for working out if
you were heavier."
"Daddy!"
"Alright, alright." He tipped to his side and she fell off, laughing.
I pulled her towards me and looked to Flower Child.
Um yeah, I wasn't going to tell her this shit.
"Ness, would you be happy if you had a brother or sister?" Edward
asked.
"Wike Baby Bugs?"
"Sort of. Not as furry though," He replied.
She giggled and then nodded her head.
Flower Child's face looked hesitant for a moment as he thought.
I wasn't sure how the hell you explain this to a kid.
I'm sure that was his problem right now.
"Do you want to know a secret?" He asked and she nodded. "Come here
then," He curled his fingers at her and she leaned in.
Edward whispered in her ear and she pulled back, looking surprised.
"Still happy?"
"Bewwa has a chicken!?" She asked excitedly.
"What the heck did you tell her?" I asked.
"That's" Edward started laughing, shaking his head. "That's not what I
said. "It's not a chicken, Sweetheart." He rubbed her cheek and then
propped up his elbow.
Flower Child lifted the hem of my shirt and revealed the small bulge that
had started to grow.
Normally, I would have smacked his ass for this shit, because regardless
of how I felt about Baby Cullen, I didn't need to see what he or she's
cheese loving ass was doing to my body.
Since this was to explain to Squeaks, I let him slide.
"The baby is in Bella's tummy. It's growing, like the eggs we saw at the
farm. That's what I was trying to say."
Squeaks looked at me and then down to my belly. Her little finger poked
at me, like she was scared it might bite her and I laughed. She looked at
me again and I nodded, telling her, "It's alright. You can touch. You just
have to be gentle."
"Kay," She said softly, then, laid her small hand on my stomach.
Of course, stupid Baby Cullen just had to be touched by this and make
those pesky tears appear in my eyes. His or her father, who was equally
as stupid, thought this was amusing.
Squeaks stopped suddenly and then scooted down from the bed in a rush,
running out of the room. We both stared at the door way, completely
confused.
Was she scared?
Did I feel funny?
Smell funny?
I did a quick once over, and nope, all seemed good.
As she came back, running through the door, she stopped dead in her
tracks, looking at Edward. A small, shy smile crept over her face and she
said, "Sowwy."
She tip toed the rest of the way over, slowly, and made her climb back
on the bed. A brown, beat up teddy bear, I remembered from the day
she almost drowned, was sat upon my stomach and she smiled at me.
"Teddy."
*~*
I sat there listening to Rosalie, as she spat off at warp speed, all of the
shit she wanted for her the reception's dinner.
The only reason I was doing this crap was for Emmett's sake, as the
Tweetybitch still had not been forgiven.
Plus, Emmett agreed to make me a groom's woman.
That's right, groom's woman!
Rose had a fit about it, saying that it was not 'traditional' and when
Emmett said, "Neither is being two months pregnant," I thought he were
a dead man.
It was funny though and highly true.
Back to the present, I was biting back laughter as she ordered phyllo-
wrapped asparagus and mini quiches. Could the bitch get any lamer? I
wrote down a real menu and fully planned on making it.
Fuck phyllo-wrapped asparagus and all its overdone glory.
Stuffed mushrooms, I will cut her if she even thinks of suggesting them.
"And then I'd like pancetta wrapped cantaloupe as part of the
appetizer"
"I can't do this! Do you even know who I am?!" I whined loudly,
stretching my arms over the table. "This is the most redundant, lame,
just wedding food! It's motherfucking wedding food! Do you want people
to laugh? 'Cause they will laugh and I I will die!"
Flower Child started snickering at my side, and Emmett covered his
mouth. I knew that fucker was laughing under there. Rose looked pissed,
but that wasn't new. Wasn't she always?
"Seriously, just let me help you, Rose! I'm going to give you my best
fucking Jerry McGuire speech right now and ask you to please, let me
help you.let-me-help-youlet meeee, help youuuuu!"
She stared at me like I was a fucking 'tard.
"Okay, let me break this down into simple speak. I know food. I make
lots of it, every day. I have seen and done everything there is to do and
see when it comes to catering. If you serve shit you get out of bridal
magazines, I will have to humbly decline being your caterer.
"Your food will suck and I will bring a lunch box for myself and Flower
Child. Said packed lunch, will get eaten, while you read your vows.
Period."
Rose huffed and tossed her stupid blonde hair over her stupid, dainty
shoulder. "Well, what do you suggest, then?"
That was all I needed, I got my way.
*~*
After I designed the menu, got Bitchface's approval and made sure
everything on that front was taken care of, I locked myself in my office
and attempted to work on shit for Invoke.
I was so far behind.
Every time I tried to focus, it seemed like there was something else
needing my attention. The most important of course, would be my fish
baby, who really, wasn't really so much a fish anymore, as it now had
actual body parts.
We had our appointment to hear Baby Cullen's heart beat for the first
time today, and the even better part was getting to show Squeaky her
brother or sister.
Flower Child knocked on my door, once again interrupting my work.
Squeaks came running in and I hoisted her into my lap. "Cookie?" She
held up a Nutter Butter and I chomped the end then thanked her.
"What's dat?" She pointed to the screen asking.
"That's Canada, Squeaks. Somewhere I am never gonna get to go," I
exited out of the screen and lifted Ness as I stood.
Edward's face seemed pained as I looked at him and I regretted my
words instantly.
There was no taking them back, though.
*~*
The gel was so cold and slimy.
I hated this part of the visit. Could they not keep that stuff in like a
heated bath or something? You know, like the ice cream scoopers at
Baskin Robbins?
Shit, it seemed like such an easy fix.
Squeaky stood on a chair at my side, watching in wonder at all the stuff
the doctor was doing to me. Edward's fingers felt good, rubbing
soothingly at my cheek.
My bladder was full, I was excited and damn, could not wait to hear this
shit. The only problem was that we were waiting for the rest of the
Cullens' and my dad to show their stupid faces and none of them had,
yet.
"Maybe I should call again," Edward said.
As he went for his phone, the receptionist's head popped in and
announced, "There is some family out here. Is it okay if I"
"Yes, tell their asses to hurry," I blurted out.
She laughed and ducked back out. Soon after, Emmett's big ass came in
and then Esme, Grandma Cullen andthat was it?
"Where is my Dad?" I asked.
"Yeah, and mine?" Edward asked.
"The lesser men felt weird about being in here," Emmett laughed.
"Oh that is crap!" I said, looking at Em. "You tell my Dad to get his ass
in here, 'cause I guarantee you, no one feels as weird as me. So he needs
to just suck it up."
"Alright, alright." He held up his hands and squeezed his way to the
door.
"Jesus, like I'm asking for the moon or something," I continued to grumble
and Edward took my hand into his.
"Relax," He said, then looked to the doctor. "Will you tell her to relax,
please?"
Fucker smiled saying it, too.
Before she got her chance, Charlie and Edward's dad came in. Grandma
Cullen moved a little closer and took my hand from Edward.
"I'm sorry my husband couldn't make it. He's feeling a little under the
weather."
"It's alright, you guys are old. He gets a pass." I smiled at her and she
laughed at my joke.
"Are we ready, then?" The doctor asked and I nodded.
She moved the wand thingy and it sounded like a scene missing from Star
Wars or some shit. I'm telling you, I prayed for Darth Vader's voice to
come over, saying "Luke, I am your fath-er."
It didn't happen though.
What did happen, however, was a pulsing sound.
"There you go, Miss Bella," The doctor said. "That is your baby's'
heartbeat." She smiled and held it there, allowing me to listen.
"Why does it sound like Darth Vader?" Emmett asked, interrupting my
moment.
"I was thinking the same thing, but seriously, shut up, Emmett," I
replied.
"Sorry, I've been dying to ask and knew Rose would be..."
"Shh!" Grandma Cullen scolded him and again, and my love for her soared.
"Let the girl listen."
I turned my head to look at Edward. His blue eyes were already on me.
The expression he wore was breathtaking, prideful, loving. I smiled at him
and he leaned down to kiss my forehead.
"Happy?" He asked in a whisper.
"Extremely," I nodded.
He pulled back and his smile grew wider.
*~*
~ Flower Child ~
They were sitting in the church, acting very, very badly.
The choir was performing "My God" and Emmett and Bella.ah, they were
enjoying it just a little too much.
As the choir sang 'like birds of a feather, we, flock together', my beloved
thought it was funny to point two fingers at her eyes then Emmett's, like
this was a damn football game or something.
I was dying laughing on the inside.
She then took the opportunity to point at him and mouthed the lyrics,
"No muscle bound man, could take my hand, from my God".
Emmett lost it and curled Bella's face into his arm as they both shook
with laughter, silently. Rosalie looked highly pissed off and embarrassed.
I figured my mother would be too, but as I glanced her way, she actually
had a smile on her face.
Bella hit Emmett lightly and did the eye-pointing thing again, except this
time, it was directed at our Lord and Savior, along with her singing, "but
when it comes to being happy, we are.'
Thankfully, it was the last song of the service.
I still wasn't sure why Rose wanted to attend church before her wedding
day. We had never gone together before, but maybe she was trying to
atone for something evil she did.
Ormaybe she was just trying to ensure it didn't rain tomorrow.
We were now doing a rehearsal ceremony and Bella stood at my side. It
was weird, I'll admit it, but what about Bella wasn't? Plus, it kind of did
make sense. She was Emmett's best friend and I was just sort of best
man by default.
I'm sure if Em thought he could get away with it, he would have asked
Bella instead.
I almost wanted to say no, just to see Rose's face if my theory was
right.
Ness was coming up the aisle now, while some expensive wedding
coordinator tried to direct her. She wasn't having any of that, though.
The flowers were going wherever my daughter felt the need. Some on the
bench some at the lady's face hardly any on the actual aisle.
Bella cursed and stepped down from the alter. She swatted the lady
away telling her, "Go play with the damn place cards or something." She
took Ness' hand and walked her back down the aisle. "Angela, get your
little dude over hereand I don't mean Ben," She laughed.
"I don't even know that kid," Rose glared.
"Do you want the flowers to go in the aisle or not?" Bella shot back.
Rose sighed and looked away. Bella told Angela's son to hold the basket
for Ness and then she sent them on down the aisle again. Bella followed,
scooting them back into the aisle when they went a little astray and for
the most part, they did pretty well.
"Three hundred dollars an hour my ass," Bella grumbled, taking her place
next to me again. "I'm clearly in the wrong profession."
"That was good," I said quietly.
She leaned over and whispered, "I promise, Flower Child, if we do get
married, I will never make you go through this."
I held out my hand to her and replied, "To Vegas."
She smiled and shook it in agreement, "To Vegas."
*~*
~Bella~
As predicted, everyone loved my fucking food at the rehearsal dinner.
I wasn't the one actually cooking tomorrow, since I couldn't be in two
places at once, quite obviously. Charlie, Alice and Alistair were in charge
and The Workshop would be closed.
Tonight however, we were open, hosting the rehearsal dinner.
It was pretty cool, until of course, Jessica's ugly face showed up.
Yeah, that douche was Maid of Honor.
This was going to be interesting folks.
I wouldn't have normally allowed her to be in my damn restaurant, but
the last thing I needed was more drama by throwing a hissy fit, so, to
make my life and Emmett's life easier, I decided to try and be mature
about this.
The urge to spit in her food was definitely there, though.
I could feel Edward's tension as he sat next to me. Jessica was talking
with Rose, completely not paying attention to us, or her daughter, but I
saw him stealing peaks at her, still.
"Daddy," Ness tugged on his arm and he faced her. "Can I sit with
Bewwa?"
He looked over to me and I nodded, placing my fork down to take her.
"What's up, Squeaks?" I gave her a squeeze after he placed her on my
lap and she replied, "Nuffing. Can I have sip?" She pointed to my drink.
"Can I have a sip?" I raised my brows and she smiled.
"Peese?"
She was adorable and who was I kidding, the kid was going to get her
way regardless.
Still, she needed manners, I guess.
Reaching for my glass, I caught evil eyes on me. They belonged to an evil
person. Evil person named Jessica Stanley.
I averted my gaze, placing it back upon my beverage and lifted it to
Ness' mouth. "Tank you," She said happily after she got her fill.
"Welcome."
The tension only grew to new heights. I tried to ignore it, but I felt like
when you steal a piece of candy from the quarter bin in the grocery
store.
Squeaks of course, being the candy.
Air, we need air, Baby Cullen.
"I'll be right back." I kissed Ness' head and handed her over to Edward.
He looked worried and I gave him a smile, trying to reassure him I was
ok. On my way out, I grabbed Emmett from the bar and tugged his big
ass along with me.
"Ah, man," He stretched as we stepped onto the sidewalk.
"It's so nice out tonight," I commented, feeling the cool breeze blowing
against my skin.
"Gotta love Florida, B." He wrapped an arm over my shoulder and started
to walk with me.
"I think I kind of do."
"Does that mean your going to stay?" He asked.
"Like I have a choice, Em." I waved my hand over Baby Cullen.
Emmett stopped and turned to face me. "What does that mean?"
"I'm just saying where ever we 'settle down', to raise this kid, it's not
really up to me. Your family is here and this is Squeak's home," I
shrugged.
"Yeah, but what about Canada? You had plans to be there for the better
part of this year. How is that going to work, B?"
"I'm not going," I said quietly.
"What do you mean? Bella, this is what you've wanted for as long as I've
known you."
"Yeah well, a lot of shit has changed, Emmett. You really think Edward
will be alright with me in Canada, pregnant, for six months?"
"This isn't just about Edward," He argued.
"Okay, fine. Do you think I would be alright with that? I don't even know
if I could do that, Emmett. You know how hard openings are."
"So then what, you just give up? This is not like you, Bella." His face
looked sad as he stared at me.
"Yeah, well, what is lately, Emmett? What about any of this is like me?"
He hugged me to him, sighing hard. "Scared?"
"A little," I admitted.
"It'll be alright. Edward's a good dude. I would have kicked his ass other
wise."
"Speaking of which, you owe me some money, Jerk."
"I know. Sorry about that. Thanks for bailing me out though. Rose would
have been pissed if I called her, or my folks."
"I was pissed too."
"I know, Edward told me about you kicking him in the nuts. That was just
wrong, B," He said, laughing.
"You're lucky I didn't kick you too. Seriously, you guys are such jerks
some times it makes me want to kill you both."
"Newton deserved what he got and then some. I've watched that asshole
hurt too many people I love."
"Aw, so it's true?" I teased.
"What?"
"You love me? You like," I swung my arms around his neck, "REALLY love
me!?"
"You know I do," He kissed my forehead, smiling.
Someone cleared their throat loudly and Emmett spun with me still
hanging on him like a monkey.
It was Rosalie.
"Mind getting your hands off my fianc?"
"I was just breaking him in for you," I rubbed myself against him and I
knew he was trying desperately not to laugh.
"I'm serious," She said through her bleached white teeth.
No one running a bakery could have teeth so white. Eating sugar like a
motherfucker and all that jazz.
"Relax. I'm just joking. You know, if you two are going to be married, you
might want to get one of those, seeing as how Emmett has a really good
one." I let him go and stepped back.
"Get what?" She asked, crossing her arms.
"A fucking sense of humor," I replied.
"What is your problem with me?" She was angry and I had to laugh.
Did she really forget?
"Let's see, you have accused the father of my child of beating that cunt-
rag friend of yours, managed to get Emmett to quit working for me and
now you are standing outside of my restaurant insulting me."
I saw Edward walking towards the door, through the glass and I didn't
want this fiasco to get any more out of line.
"Just fucking forget it," I stepped passed her and went for the door, but
she grabbed my arm.
"You have the nerve to be angry with me, when you have been all over
Emmett, the entire time we have been dating. I'm having his baby,
marrying him tomorrow and you are out here, hanging all over him like a
total slut! You know, maybe there is something in that loser Edward's
sperm that makes girls want to fuck every guy they encounter or
something!"
I wanted to be pissed off, but ended up laughing, seeing as how she just
totally admitted Jessica was a slut.
"Let go of her, Rose." Edward took my arm out of her hand as he
entered our little World of Fuckdom.
I felt like playing along with her ridiculous accusations.
"Actually, I'm having Emmett's baby, too. I lied, it isn't Edward's. You're
right; I'm a huge slut, Rose. This has been so wrong," I held out my hand
to Emmett longingly, "We shouldn't have to hide our love."
"Shut up, Bella." He was amused; I knew my Emmett and my Emmett
fucking got me. Why he was in love with this bland, crispy cracker called
Rosalie, I had no damn clue.
Emmett was more like a Cheez-It; full of flavor, cheesy and highly
delicious.
"No seriously. I'm tired of having to keep our secret. I mean, between
ten restaurants, traveling, raising Edward's child- that we are only using
for show- and then having to date Edward and pretend that I love him, I
finally have had enough, Emmett. We must admit our true feelings."
"You're fucking crazy, you know that?" Rosalie spat.
"Only about Emmett." I clutched my heart and she tugged on his arm,
pulling him back inside.
As soon as the door closed, I busted into laughter. "Oh fuck, Emmett is
in so much trouble." I fell into Edward, unable to control my hysterics.
"You know, Jessica is inside. Would you like me to bring her out next?"
He offered, looking highly amused at my display.
"No way, I can only handle one dick-pickle at a time. Ah, that was fun,"
I cleaned the happy tears from my eyes and looked up to Edward.
"It is my baby, right?" He asked playfully.
"Actually it's Alistair's, but don't tell Emmett. I don't want to break his
heart."
"Interesting," He mused.
"What?" I wrapped my arms around his neck and Flower Child smiled.
"He has a penis after all."
*~*
Emmett wasn't 'allowed' to have a bachelor party, so instead, Edward
just took him out for a few drinks and to play pool with the rest of the
guys working for us.
I was stuck making sure everything in the restaurant was cleaned up
once everyone left. Squeaks had gone home with Edward's parents and
thankfully, Jessica had not started any shit tonight.
Other than the evil, creepy stares.
I was just about to head out, making one last walk-through to ensure all
was good when said creepy person appeared before me.
Seeing her caused me to jump and I debated for a moment, wondering
how the fuck she got into my restaurant. Jessica was sitting at the
chef's table, looking at her fingers as they traced over the surface.
"I brought this for Ness," She said softly, holding up a doll in her hand.
"I was trying to say I was sorry." Her eyes stayed down and I stepped
to the side, walking behind the pass.
"That was nice of you," I said, unsure.
"She asked me if it was like your baby," Jessica finally looked up to me.
"You and Edward are having a kid?"
I nodded slowly and she shook her head, looking disgusted.
"He'll do the same thing to you, you know." Her eyes were dark, lifeless.
"He got me fired from my job and everything."
"I think that was all you, Sweetheart. Shit like that tends to happen
when you steal." I shook my head, unable to believe she still didn't get
it.
"You knew about this?" She asked, standing up.
"I heard about it," I lied, shrugging.
I wasn't about to make the same mistake twice, letting the cat out of
the bag. Let her wonder who brought her ass down, until we had court.
Dickward was good enough for now.
Ah, Dickward.I still owe him a shipment of ravioli and an autographed
pair of my

"Edward's not as great as you think he is. Did you know he kicked me
out? I had no where to go and he just kicked me out, and then he stole
my baby. He'll do it to you, too. My daughter doesn't even know me."
Jessica began to cry and even as pathetic as she looked, I could not feel
sorry for her.
She didn't just make her own bed to lie in, the idiot pissed in her bed
too. That wasn't my fucking fault, and she wasn't about to get my
sympathy.
Save that shit for Rose.
I started getting pissed, hearing her defame Edward's name and all his
goodness, but his words came back to from the night at his parents.
When you're hurt, Little Bit is hurt.
He was right and Jessica had already hurt enough Cullen's for one life
time.
"I don't know what happened between you and Edward, but it's different
with us. You guys were just kids, Jessica." I stepped from behind the
pass and tried to figure out how the hell I was going to get her out of
my damn restaurant.
She stepped in front of me, blocking my path.
"He said he would take care of me and he didn't. Edward just left me.
He tricked me and then he left me. I have nothing and he has everything.
It's not fair." She stepped closer to me and I backed up quickly, until I
felt the table hit my back.
I hopped onto it and spun myself around so I could be on the other side.
As I looked back, she wasn't following me anymore. Jessica stood there,
allowing her bitter tears to stream down her cheeks. Her face was blank,
void of any expression as she just kept rambling on about how unfair her
life was.
I cursed, not needing this shit tonight.
My damn cell phone was in my office too. I grabbed the kitchen phone
instead and dialed Edward as the idiot plopped herself down on the floor,
crying like a freak.
"Why us, Baby Cullen?" I said, waiting for him to pick up.
Jessica wailed in the background and I allowed another string of
profanities out.
"Hello?" He finally answered.
"You said no more nightmares, Jerk." I looked back to the douche as she
continued to blubber.
"Huh? What's wrong?"
There was no describing this fuckery. I simply held out the phone and let
him hear for himself.
"What is that?" He asked as I placed my ear back to the receiver.
"That would be the sound of Jessica blaming you for her entire life."
"She's there? Why? What the hell is going on, Bell?"
"Just come and get it, please. It's messing up my clean floor. You know
how I feel about snot."
"I can't, you know that. Ugh, just call the cops, Angel. Are you alright?
Fuck, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have left you there alone."
His worrying was sweet, the blubbering mess to my left, was not.
"I'm fine, but you are giving me the pussy licking of all motherfucking
pussy lickings for this shit." I hit the 'end call' button and dialed the
cops.
My ass sat on the floor as I waited for them to answer. She kept on
crying and it was all I could do to not fucking throw something at her.
This was going to be a long ass night.


~Flower Child.~
I was taken aback when I saw Bella for the first time today.
She was always beautiful, but hell, today she was justI had no words.
To call her an angel would not done her justice. It was like, watching
that Deritos commercial, when they had the hot brunette in them, as she
sauntered in.
Long legs, straight hair, brown eyes lined with dark makeup. Fuck, and
the lips.cherrieshappy little cherries. My eyes rested on the amber
heart lying in between her cleavage finally.
"Perv."
Was my ogling that obvious?
"Sorry. They're getting a little hard not to notice." I rested my hand on
her hip, placing a kiss to her forehead. "Are you here for your tie
duties?"
"Of course." She reached up and began to work on making the knot. "You
look very handsome. You have the ring, right?"
I grabbed my chest and looked at her in horror.
She didn't find it funny.
"It's in my pocket, safe and sound," I reassured.
Bella reached up and raked her fingers through my hair a few times, then
brushed them along my suit's front.
"You know Rosalie is going to be pissed at you, right?" I asked.
She looked up to me and asked why. My finger lifted her chin and I
leaned into her cherry-colored lips. "Because you're going to upstage her
today."
Bella smiled and fell against me, resting her chin on my chest.
"Can I mess up your lipstick?" I asked and she smiled wider, nodding her
approval.
Those lips tasted just as sweet as they looked. I prayed the door was
locked and Bella's father would not 'accidently' walk in.
I had that type of luckor lack of, whichever.
The problem here is that, my angel, was not so angelic these last few
days. It must have been the hormones, because even at the slightest bit
of affection, her fuse lit.
Like right now.
The even bigger problem however, was that I wanted her just as much.
My eyes opened briefly, glancing over her shoulder.
The door was locked.

~Bella~
This man.
This stupid, tie wearing, good smelling, strong, irresistible man.
Fuck, I wanted him.
My whole body was craving for a taste, a lick, a nibble. Anything,
everything. My freshly painted nails scraped against his scalp as I dug
into him, trying to get more. I needed so more. He was like a drug right
now and I was the fiend.
"I owe you something." His tone was dirty, low, surely up to no good.
I loved it.
A kiss was placed upon my chin.
Good boy, don't mess up the make up further. Thank you.
He slid down to his knees and moved my dress higher. Jessica had never
been so welcomed in my world, as I knew what he was about to do and
her blubbering on the floor of my restaurant last night was forgiven.
The best fingers in the world slid my panties down my legs allowing them
to rest on my ankles. He wasted no time, thank God for that, seeing as
how we had very little.
God.
Shit.
This was his house and here we were in the back room of it, sinning to
our hearts content. His tongue met my flesh and suddenly, God and I got
very familiar, as I called upon his name.
I may have asked for his Son, too.
Fixing Edward's hair earlier was in vain, as I was clawing my fingers
through it, full of need and out of pleasure. He steadied me with his
hands on my hips and kept his mouth moving over my clit, complimenting
the movement by sliding it over my entrance.
Since we were in church, I prayed no one would hear me moaning.
I released his hair and rested my palms to his shoulders. He sucked
harder, and I gripped his clothing firmly, trying to keep my balance and
hold on to my sanity at the same time. It was fucking incredible, but
still, not enough.
My hand slid under his chin and I stepped back. His blue eyes watched
mine and he simply followed me silently, allowing my hand to guide him
towards the vanity counter.
A jaw never felt so good in my palm.
He lifted me, sitting me on top and I went for his buckle, unfastening him
quickly.
"So pissed." His eyes looked as devious as our actions.
I liked this side of Edward.
His bottom lip looked delicious and I leaned in to have a taste. It was. I
sucked harder as my hands freed him of his pants and he pulled me
closer.
Flower Child placed himself in me, going slow and I closed my eyes to
devote all of my senses to how he felt. Complete. His head rested on my
shoulder as he wrapped his arms around me, thrusting beautifully,
perfectly.
I kissed the apple of his cheek and told him how much I loved him. I felt
his arms tighten around me as he repeated the same, and gave me sweet
kisses in return.
His nose skimmed along my face and he kept whispering to me all of his
feelings. He fingers drew down the fabric of my dress, to reveal my
breasts. Edward paused and paid them attention. My skin was so
sensitive, greedy, and his warm mouth felt fucking heavenly gliding over
my nipples.
"Mmm," I hummed, digging my nails against the nape of his neck.
"You like that?" He asked, as if it were a secret.
I rested back onto my palms and allowed his to have free reign of my
body. He took it, treating me to his hands palming my breasts together,
and sucking softly at my nipples.
Man was a nipple sucking champion.
He began to slide himself into me again and I felt myself beginning to
unravel.
His suit lapels filled my hands as I pulled him to my face, wanting his lips
back on mine. We were greedy, hungry and we fit perfectly together as
he gave one last push, filling me completely with his love, lust and
euphoria.
Even after all that, still, I wanted more.
I sighed heavily, knowing that time was not on our side here.
He enraptured me in his arms, holding me securely as we panted and
laughed a little at our behavior. I helped him right his clothing once we
were ready to leave and he gave me a smile, placing a kiss on my hand as
we walked towards the door.
I didn't miss the statue of Jesus giving me the eye from the corner as we
exited.
Sorry.
*~*
Emmett stopped us in the hall and asked if he could speak with me alone.
He drew a small box from his jacket pocket and held it in his hands.
"I got something for you. It's um" He started to get choked up to my
surprise and I rubbed his arm. "Shit, just take it." He handed it over and
I lifted the lid.
There was a key, mounted on a small plaque. Underneath it was an
inscription of an address.
It was our old address, to our first apartment in New York.
"You kept this?" I asked.
"Yeah. I found it when Rose and I were moving. It was in a box of old
pictures I had. I can't believe some of the shit we did, B." He laughed
and let out a happy sigh, adding, "Fuck, Bella, we built so much together.
Two kids who had nothing, somehow found everything, right?"
"Right." The tears welled in my eyes and he hugged me tightly.
"I love you so much, B. I'm gonna miss working for you, but we're family.
Our kids are gonna grow up together and you'll always be my best
friend." He kissed my head and I pulled back, nodding in agreement.
"Holy shit," I started to laugh through my tears, "we're going to be
parents. How the fuck did that happen?"
Emmett laughed and his smile reached my heart. "I know, right? Shit,
there was a day when you couldn't even get a date."
"That was by choice," I pointed out.
"Mmm hmm," He hugged me again and said, "I'm glad you have Edward.
And I'm really glad he has you." He swayed me in his arms and I looked
back up to him.
"It's your fault, Emmett. You made me hire him."
*~*
The wedding was beautiful, I'll give it that much.
Squeeks was a perfect flower girl and Edward smiled all proud and
father-like watching her.
If he weren't so cute, I would have totally made fun of him.
I did my best to not look at Jessica, even though, there was a part of me
that should have probably went over and said "thanks for the awesome
sex your breakdown caused", but I didn't.
Speaking of crying, Rosalie blubbered through her vows and everyone
melted like butter at her spectacle.
Personally, I wanted to blow chunks at the Drama Llama.
Edward kept me in check, though.
I watched him from our table as he danced to a slow, sweet song, holding
Renesmee in his arms. It never ceased to amaze me how adoringly she
gazed at her Daddy. That was love, right there folks.
It warmed my cold heart to see them so happy today.
The woman, I recognized as the wedding coordinator, came over and
tapped his shoulder. It must have been time for the speech. He looked a
little nervous and my excitement only grew brighter.
Sue me, I liked to see the man squirm. He was cute like that.
The room quieted down and he drew a paper from his pocket, standing
beside Emmett at our table. I winked at Em and he smiled wide, waiting
anxiously to hear what his brother would say.
"Forgive the cursing, Bella helped me write this," He began, getting a
laugh from the crowed.
That was a good start. I felt proud already.
Baby Cullen gave a little roof-raise in my womb with its slightly
underdeveloped arms. I added the, "What! What!" silently in my head.
"When I was little, I hated Emmett. He had all the coolest toys, stole
anything and everything I was ever given and would never let me borrow
any of his things in return.
"As we grew older, he only got me into trouble and figured out I was fun
to take his aggression out on." The crowed was laughing still, enjoying his
speech. Emmett looked amused too; as I watched his eyes dance happily,
staring at Edward.
"I see now, that was all normal stuff kids did to one another." Flower
Child faced Emmett and continued.
"I'm proud to call you my brother. I really look up to you, Em and I know
that I was really lucky not get stuck with a total fuckhead," He looked
to the crowd, "that was Bella's word," He faced Emmett again, "for a
brother."
"I wish you guys all the best, but I just hope you know, that regardless
of whether or not my child is a boy or girl, it is still going to kick your
kid's ass."
Edward took his seat and Emmett hit him playfully.
The crowed applauded and all was a success.
*~*
After the food, dancing and speech giving, we somehow ended up in the
grass outside.
Flower Child was more than a little drunk, as was Emmett and the rest of
the people we were sitting among. His head was in my lap, laughing as he
and Emmett traded old stories.
Baby Cullen and I were a little pissed off that everyone else got be
drunken monkeys while we sipped our non-alcoholic beverage, but it was a
wedding and I wasn't going to deny him that privilege today.
Plus, Jessica was hereand Rose, sowell you know.
He needed that shit.
"No," Edward started to laugh, "You are never being left alone with our
new baby, Em." His hand came over my stomach and rubbed all of Baby
Cullen's bumpy goodness. "I learned my lesson with Ness. You are
dangerous around small children. Seriously, Rose, never leave him
unattended."
"I think Emmett will be fine with our baby, thank you very much," She
replied.
"Really?" Edward raised his brows, looking at her. "Let me ask you
something. Who would you rather leave your kid with, me or Emmett?" He
asked playfully.
Rose rolled her eyes and tried to ignore his question, but Edward wasn't
having that.
"I have five years under my belt, Rose. At some point, I'm sure you'd like
to have an alone night with Emmett after the baby is born. You will
probably call me and ask. Unless," a fit of laughter came from him and
he shook his head, not finishing his sentence.
"Unless what?" She asked.
"I was going to say something, but never mind. It'll only piss youand
others off."
"Say it, Cullen," She demanded.
Edward sighed and finally gave up the goods. "I was going to say unless
you planned on getting your best friend, Jessica, to sit for you. It was in
bad taste. Sorry."
"Hey, screw you, asshole," Jessica's bitch face said from across our happy
circle.
"I said I was sorry and that it was in bad taste, didn't I?" He asked,
looking to her.
"Rose would let me watch her kid, so fuck you, Edward."
We all looked to Rosalie as she failed to back up Jessica's claim. A
glimmer of realization flickered in Edward's eye.
"Holy shit," He lifted his head from my lap and sat up. "Wait, I know I'm
a little fucked up here, but I think this means I'm fucking right. Like, you
and I are seeing eye-to-eye or some shit, Rose."
"You're such an idiot, Cullen." Rosalie shook her head, looking highly
pissed off.
"You don't trust me to watch your kid?" Jessica asked, stupidly.
I wanted to chime in and tell her, "Crack heads wouldn't let you watch
their kid, honey," But again, I was on my best behavior.
"Okay, let me change my question, since I'm drunk and feeling ballsy,"
Edward swallowed and asked, "If you had to leave your baby with me or
Jess, for just one hour, who would you pick?"
"I'm not answering that!" Rose was really pissed off now.
I was finally enjoying my sober self.

"Because you would pick me?" Edward continued to goad her.
It was a risky move, as Emmett was putting his balls, possibly, his new
marriage on the line, but he helped Edward's cause, adding, "It's a pretty
fair question, babe."
I thought smoke and flames would come from Rosalie's nose as she looked
at him. Thank God, he was safe. No fire came.
"I want to know, too. I'm supposed to be your best friend and you really
can't answer his fucking question?" Jessica was angry and this was the
best game of all time.
Edward was a drunken genius.
Blow jobs. He would be rewarded with endless blow jobs.
"Jessica, you don't even want to watch your own daughter! Why would I
ask you to watch mine?!" It was a verbal slap to Jessica's face and she
felt every last bit of it.
I swear, somewhere, angels were singing, seas were parting and the
hungry longed for food, no more.
"He took her from me!" She shouted back, pointing to Edward.
"When?! The nights you went out drinking and I was stuck watching Ness
all night long?! Or maybe," Rose scrambled to her knees, hoisting her
dress up so she could yell at Jessica all good and proper-like.
"Maybe it was when you had that shithead Mike over and decided fucking
him all night long was more important? I had to take her with me on my
first date with Emmett, you know that?!"
"She did?" Edward asked him, surprised. Emmett nodded and Edward
looked back to Jessica, but before he could say anything, all hell broke
lose.
"I covered for your ass the night Edward pushed you, bitch! I fucking
testified to that shit!"
Emmett looked at her, full of shock and asked, "You lied?!"
"No! I didn't say that." Rose shook her head, but the cunt-rag cat was
already out of the dirty bag.
"Um, I'm pretty sure you just said you did." I finally spoke up, not
letting this shit slide twice.
"Fuck you all," Rose tried to get up, but Emmett held her there.
"No, we need to settle this right here, right now. Edward is your fucking
family, like it or not and this shit has gone on way too goddamn long.
Just fucking say it. Did Edward hit Jessica that night or not?"
I had never seen Emmett so pissed. It was scary, yet, charming.
"He pushed her but," Rose started the waterworks bullshit and I rolled
my eyes. "She was fucking drunk alright?!"
"Did he, or didn't he hit her?" Emmett asked again.
Rose stayed quiet and Jessica spoke up, whining, "You know he did. I'm
your best friend, Rose. Tell them. He hit me, just tell them he-,"
"Shut up Jessica! Just just shut up," Rose shook her head, looking
highly defeated. "No," She said softly. "No, he didn't fucking hit her. She
was trying to pull on him and he pushed her, I wasn't lying about that,
but he didn't hit her. Not even when she hit him."
"You're a bitch!" Jessica rose to her feet and walked off, still screaming
at Rose. "You're a fucking lying bitch, Rosalie!"
Edward stood up quickly and looked around. I knew what he wanted.
"She's over by the gazebo," I said standing up next to him.
We walked quickly over to where the kids were playing. Squeaks saw
Edward as we approached and ran over to him. He kneeled down and
scooped her up into his arms.
"You're stinky," She whined, placing a hand over his mouth. Her arms
extended over to me and I took her. "Pretty." She approved of my smell.
I smiled as she rested her face into my neck, playing with the amber
charm Edward had given me. "Happy day, Bewwa?" She asked as we
began to walk back towards the reception.
I caught sight of Jessica as we got closer to the building. She was
standing alone on the edge of the grass, before the lake started. Her
entire world had been shattered. No dream job, lover boy or lying best
friend lay within her grasp any longer.
This little girl, who was so precious, so extremely deserving of a devoted
mother, was going to get just that. If it meant giving up my own dreams
and aspirations, so be it.
It was the fine line that separated me from becoming a heartless bitch
like Jessica Stanley.
"Yeah Squeaks. It's a happy day."











Chapter 28: "Daddy, I'm Growing Up."
~ Xx~
"Some think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting
go." - Sylvia Robinson
}i{
~| Flower Child |~
"Oh my God, he wanted to tickle her belly button from the inside." Bella
was still laughing to the point of tears as we exited the movie theater.
We agreed, in order to maintain the sanity of our relationship, we needed
a date night, alone.
Tonight was that night.
The movie was alright. Bella laughed endlessly at all the potty humor and
I pretty much just laughed at Bella. It wasn't really my type of movie,
as no one's head was being blown off, but she agreed to eat barbeque
afterward, if I agreed to see it.
Compromise; we were all about it.
"Your chariot," I opened the car door for her. It was what gentlemen's
do.
"Dude, you sound like your Gramps." Apparently it was not appreciated.
"But thank you." Or it was.
Most of the ride was silent, except for Bella's important questions about
our next destination.
"Do they have corn fritters?" She was looking at the window, but asking
me, obviously.
"I believe so, Angel."
"Do they come with powdered sugar sprinkled on top?" She looked
towards me and I had to laugh at the excitement in her eyes.
"Feeling better about barbeque?" I rubbed at her cheek and she tried to
bite me. "I'll take that as a yes."
Bella's weirdness grew as her belly did.
"I think I'm going to have a pulled-pork sandwich, with drumsticks on the
side and a tall, icey glass of raspberry lemonade. I pray it's fresh not
that damn shit from a nozzle. I hate fake lemonade. Like, it's really that
hard to make, you know?" My sweet angel, she was all over the place
lately.
It was best to just play along.
"I certainly do, Baby." My hand reached over and held hers and the rest
of the ride was silent, minus the stomach rumblings.
Once we arrived to the restaurant, we were seated and placed our order.
Bella was happy to see fresh lemonade on the menu. She drank two
glasses before our food arrived and spent most of meal time in the
bathroom. On her last trip, I paid for our food and waited for her by the
exit, making sure to grab a mint from the bowl by the cash wrap,
because I knew she loved them.
I stuck out my arm, as she approached, not caring if she thought my acts
of chivalry were old fashioned. They were respectful and she was
deserving of such behavior. I was treated to a roll of her eyes and a
sweet smile. It was the only payment I would ever need.
Once we were tucked back inside of the Volvo, I handed over the mint.
She glanced at it in her palm as though it were much more significant
than a cheap candy. As I turned over the ignition, bringing the car to
life, she hit the button on her door's console, lowering the window. The
candy was sent flying across the parking lot and I stared at her like she
was crazy.
"Was there something wrong with your mint?"
She laughed humorlessly at my question, nodding as she replied, "Yeah,
everything is wrong with those mints."
I had no idea what that meant, but there was a smile on her face that
made my lack of knowledge quite alright.
If throwing mints made her happy, who was I to deny her such things,
right?
~Xx~
The next morning was busy.
My mom kept Ness overnight and was spending today with her as well. I
felt bad, not being able to go shopping with her for her school clothes,
but I had a restaurant to get open and hoped she could forgive my
absence.
Besides, I didn't know shit about buying kids clothes. That was my
mother's job most of the time, anyhow. I should have probably been there
for like, moral support or something, but again; restaurant to open.
"Come on, come on," Bella was talking to the toaster as she waiting for
her bagel to pop. "Shit, whatever happened to the fucking toasters that
you could burn your house down with?"
"Safety features." I gave her a wink as I shook up a bottle of liquid
breakfast, otherwise known as protein powder and water.
"Fuck." Her bagel finally popped and she grabbed it. "Ten minutes later
and the fucker still isn't hard."
I snorted, loudly.
"Shut up, Flower Child." She placed the bagel in her mouth and scooped
up her things from the counter, getting ready to head out.
I followed behind her, scooping up my keys and cell phone and we were
off.
The elevator ride mostly consisted of Bella complaining about how her
bagel tasted like a wet sponge and how we needed a new toaster for the
house. Then she went on a rant about how we needed a new house and all
the things she would do to my balls- all of which were not good- if I
didn't get on the stick about helping her to find said new house. I pretty
much drank my protein shake, water, whatever, and nodded in agreement.
It was for the greater good of my balls of course.
"I love you," I leaned in and gave her a kiss before she got in her car.
"Have a good day, Sweetheart."
"I hope you have the worst day ever. Seriously, Flower Child. You're a
dick and I hope nothing goes right."
"You'll be fine." Her anger was because today was our first day working
separately. I understood. This was her defense mechanism.
"I'm talking about people not showing up, things exploding, and when the
Health Department shows up for inspection, I pray there will be a tribe
of mice, having baby mice all over your floor." Bella's face looked no
different than when Ness through a temper tantrum.
I wondered if she would start stomping her feet.
"Mice live in tribes?" I knew I shouldn't egg her on, but it was just too
easy sometimes.
"In your shithole place, I'm pretty certain they would and on Tuesday
nights, they probably all gather around drinking fucking margaritas
playing limbo-limbo."
I bit back my laughter, in order to reply, "That would explain why the
straws are always all over the floor in the morning. They must use them
as the pole." I smiled and she sputtered with laughter.
"You're an evil, Jerk. Have fun with your stupid rats, Edward." She kissed
me and went for the door handle.
"Mice," I corrected.
"Whatever." She closed the door and started up her car as I walked
back to mine.
As I sat in my car and got situated, my phone beeped and I dug it out of
my pocket. There was a text from Bella.
I love you too. Good luck.
It made me smile to know she remembered our last conversation, when I
told her saying mean things wasn't a nice way to part with someone.
~xXx~
~Bella~
When the fucker told me I'd never look at the pass the same way again
after he fucked me all good and proper-like on it, fucker was right.
The problem of course, was that I was not alone in the kitchen.
Alistair was here, making jokes beside Alice as she prepped her baked
goods. Charlie was showing Royce and Bree a faster way to make garlic
paste, even though, I told his ass a million times, rubber mallets were not
considered a kitchen tool.
And here I was, staring at the stupid pass, remembering my knees bent
behind my head and how good Edward smelled as he breathed sweet
cherry sauce against my face.
A heated flush crept over my skin and I went to the ice chest, sliding
some cubes down my top and then dug for another handful, shoving them
into my mouth. As I sat my ass against the lip of the container, I saw
Emmett walking over, looking highly amused at me antics.
Did he know?
Oh hell. I must show my guilt for being a whore worse than I thought.
"Hot flashes?" He asked.
"Huh?"
"Rose, she gets like little hot flashes. By the time I bring her ice cubes,
she is already begging me for a blanket, telling me she's freezing."
Emmett sat down next to me and I decided being a hormonal pregnant
woman was better than being one that got fucked on the pass like a
dirty slut.
"Yeah. Hot flashes." I nodded and scooped up more ice, just to be
dramatic.
"Missing Edward, too?"
Idiot knew me too well.
"I knew I would, it's just" My shoulders slumped and I tossed the
remaining cubes back into bin. "It just feels wrong. Edward not being
here just feels all wrong." I sighed and Emmett hugged an arm around
my shoulders.
"So then why are you here?" He asked.
"This is where I work." Did I really need to explain that shit?
"Bella, you have a sous chef, made Alice your exec and Charlie's old ass
is still hanging around. You are free to leave. Mission accomplished." He
patted my shoulder and drew his arm back.
"And then where do I go? The only place left for me is Canada and
obviously that isn't happening."
"Go play with Edward," He slapped his hand to his leg and looked at me
as though I should have already known this shit. "He's probably over
there acting like a pussy missing your ass, too."
"He didn't invite me," I whined.
"And that matters because?" He raised an eyebrow and I hated that he
was making so much sense.
"He'll think I'm like spying on him or something." I tried to go another
route.
"And that matters because?" He chuckled.
Damn it
Damn it
Damn it.
"Bye B. Tell Edward I said 'hi'."
Definitely knew me too well.
I jumped up from my seat and pushed my way angrily through the doors.
I swear, one damn comment from Flower Child that I was spying or
invading his space and Emmett was going to get the damn beating of his
life.
But he was right, I didn't fucking care.
Flower Child was being admired by every last member of the decorating
staff as I entered his restaurant. They didn't see me and I quickly made
sure they did.
"Hey bitches, you know I distinctly remember opening up about twenty
restaurants with your punk asses over the years and you know, I don't
ever recall a table being so damn interesting when it was installed."
Their faces sunk, but they didn't move. "Go fucking do something else or
I'm gonna start firing bitches!" I flailed my arms and walked passed
them.
They very smartly moved their asses.
"To what do I owe the pleasure?" He asked.
"You could have made them go away too, you know." I wasn't really
pissed, but it was true. I sat myself down on a box and sulked.
"I don't have eyes in the back of my head, Bella." Flower Child sounded
like I was on his last damn nerve. "Did you need something, or did you
just come here to harass me?"
Yep. He was annoyed.
"I missed you," I tried to recover and it worked.
His stupid, half-smile that I loved and hated crept its way across his
face- that I felt very similarly about. "You did?"
"I'm sure it's just the baby hormones, but yeah. Don't look so happy over
it. You're creeping me out, Flower Child." I shrugged trying to play it off,
but he only got more joy of out this.
Edward crawled over to me, placing kisses on my knees, that felt like
when you find a piece of chocolate you didn't knew you had, and took a
seat on the box with me.
"I missed you too." He was about to lean over and kiss me, but the stupid
box broke and we both fell to our asses on the floor. His head knocked
into mine and I felt a staple pinch my ass from the floor.
He cursed. I cursed. We laughed like fools.
"That might go down in history as the most unromantic move ever," He
rolled over and kissed my face as I lay there, still.
"Maybe this building is haunted. I swear, it's like trying to keep us
apart." I rubbed my head and Edward helped me to sit up beside him.
"I hope not. It's almost done and I don't think they give refunds." We
stood up and dusted our selves off.
Flower Child showed me around after that a little, telling me what they
had planned for things and asked me about a million questions. He was
adorable and looked extremely happy here, so I couldn't help but to push
all my selfish shit aside and be happy with him.
~Xxx~
"So you never talk to strangers. And you never leave with anyone but
Daddy or Bella or Grandma or Grandpa or Uncle Emmett."
I was spying from the doorway as Edward proceeded to make Ness a very
long list of rules for her first day of school.
"If boys talk to you, that's ok. But if they ask you to go behind the
swing with you, that is not ok. I was five once and I know what that
leads to."
I rolled away from the door, covering my mouth and snickered silently at
how adorable he was. It was kindergarten for Heaven sake. What trouble
could she possibly get into?
After their little chat ended, I plopped down into his lap on the couch.
"Maybe you should just teach her the Private Circle song," I suggested.
"I don't know that one, just Stranger Danger shit."
"Stranger Danger has been proven non-effective, Flower Child. Especially
if the stranger happens to be good looking. Apparently kids think
strangers are only ugly, or mean."
"How the hell do you know that?"
"Research, shit. It's a good thing you have me, you know? To think poor
Squeeks would be sent off with such a weak knowledge of strangers and
creeps tomorrow. Have you watched How to Catch a Predator, lately?
Most of that shit takes place in Florida, Edward! One minute you're
chatting online with hot under-aged babes, then the next you're being
handcuffed and prepping your butthole for shower sex with Bubba the
inmate who doesn't like pedophiles."
He stared at me in horror. There was only one way to solve this problem.
I cleared my throat.
"STOP! Don't touch me there, this is my private square. R-A-P-E, get
your penis off of me. Listen when I tell you stop. I don't want my cherry
popped. NO MEANS NO!"
His look hadn't swayed. In fact, it looked possibly more horrified.
"That's the Private-,"
"Yeah, yeah. I get it." He stopped me, placing a hand over my mouth, as
though that would somehow erase all that had been done.
Silly man.
I lowered his hand and decided to go another route. "We could just pack
the condiment gun in her backpack. If anyone messes with her, she can
shoot first and ask questions later."
That made him smile.
"I don't know if I can do this, Bell." Edward's head slumped to the couch
and I framed his face with my hands.
"She'll be fine."
"I'm not talking about her." His lip wobbled, making my heart swell.
"Awe, Babe." I mashed his cheeks together and kissed him, laughing at
his sweetness. "You'll be fine, too. I promise." It looked like he believed
me when I kissed him this time.
As usually, our kissing started to get out of hand. I'm telling you, this
fucker, he needed to understand that if he wanted to keep his pecker in
check, it needed to stay clear of Butterbean and all her naughty desires.
She and Lt. Dan were obviously having some type of silent conversation
through the fabric of our respective pants however, because they were
clearly joining forces as I both our crotches started getting friendly.
Naughty genitals cared nothing about the little person who lived with us.
Edward rolled to his back, dragging me down with him, ignoring my
warning that Squeeks could walk in. He slowed his kisses though, giving
me only sweet pecks as he leaned over, almost squishing me into the back
of the couch cushions.
"I love kissing you," He said softly, continuing to do just that. "You have
the best lips." Kiss. "I could kiss them forever." Kiss. "I have plans to,
actually." My lips smiled against his at his last omission, but faltered
quickly as I realized what I had not yet done.
I pressed my face into his chest and clung to his shirt, trying to gather
the nerve to tell him about my own plans for the future. He continued
kissing my face, hand, arm, as he caressed me sweetly.
It gave me courage and I finally opened my mouth to reveal my news.
"I'm not going to Canada next week." The only reason I knew I actually
said the words, were because his hand stopped moving instantly. "I'm
gonna sell my share to Ramsey."
"Why would you do that?" He lifted my face and my courage seemed to
fail me as I looked into his blue eyes; blue eyes that seemed very
unhappy.
"II just want to stay." It was the only reasoning I could get out and it
was true, just not completely.
"Since when? Bella you have been talking about this since for as long as
I've known you, practically."
"It just not the same anymore." I had to look away from his eyes, before
they could see too much.
"Because of the baby?"
Apparently, it was too late.
"No, well, yes, but not like that. It's just not for me anymore." Again,
half truth, half lie. Balance, it was a good thing, right?
"I told you it was fine and that everything would be alright. You know I
support you going. This makes no sense." Edward drew my face back up
to look at him and I tried to turn the tables, 'cause deflection way my
forte.
"Don't you want me to stay?" It hurt him, I could see it. He handled hurt
better than me, though, and pressed on, not allowing me to play my
game.
"To even ask that question is ridiculous in itself. Let's make ourselves
perfectly clear here, Bella. I'm the son of a lawyer, you can't out argue
me. Not on this. Care to try again?"
Edward's demeanor had Butterbean's attention. She sat up straight in her
seat, clasping her hands over her school desk like a good girl, even
thought she were anything but.
"What?" I asked, because I had a major brain-fart going on.
"Alright, I'll make it easy for you. If you weren't pregnant, would you
stillwant to stay?"
Fuck Carlisle and his stupid lawyer genes he passed along.
Mmm, Edward as a lawyer would be yum.
"Bell?"
"This isn't because of the baby." I shook my head and tried to look away,
but he held my chin snug in his hand.
"That's a cop-out answer."
"I can't be a mom and a chef and a business owner and travel and do a
million things at once." My tears betrayed me as they crept forward, my
stupid chin following as it shook.
"You can be anything you like, but you still haven't answered my
question." His eyes, I swore they would burn a hole into me if I didn't
give up the goods.
Baby Cullen, you so better have brown eyes, like mine, or I am putting
you in a basket, naming you Moses and sending you down stream.
"You can't answer me, can you?" Mr. Blue Eyes simmered down, looking
extremely sad at my bout of silence.
"It's not like that, Edward. There's not just one answer, so I can't simply
say 'yes' or 'no'."
"I thought we had a plan, Bella?"
"Don't talk to me about plans," I sat up, shaking my head. "None of this
was planned and in truth, if I were sticking to them, then we shouldn't
be together and I should already be in Canada, since my plans were to be
here two months, train a sous chef and get the fuck out of dodge. Five,
almost six, months later, I am still in damn Miami, pregnant and have just
hired a replacement for you." I stared at him, finally, wanting him to
understand where I was coming from.
"Edward, if I go, I don't know when I would come back. This shit sucks
you in. It's not made for this type of life. There's a reason I used to live
in hotels, going to bed every night alone and I promise you, it wasn't
because of the fucking mints they leave on your pillow."
"Soyou think if you go to Canada, some new sous chef you hire will be
able to sweep you off your pregnant feet and keep you away from me?"
Mr. Blue eyes changed up his tune, going for the playful route.
He was extremely smart. Fucker.
"Don't," I tried to warn, but the look in his eye only became more
playful.
He leaned in and started to nuzzle into my neck. "I saiddon't." The
laughter from my lips couldn't be helped as he continued to kiss and
tickle me.
I really hated him sometimes.
~xx~
~Flower Child~
She was insane, but fuck, I was so happy after she said she was staying.
That thought was selfish though and I would not allow it to happen. As
she laughed and squirmed under me, I wanted that smile to remain fully
intact on her face. I knew the truth was that if there were no baby,
Bella would be going. It wasn't fair to her. She deserved dreams and
goals and happiness. There was only way to get her there.
"I need you to go, Bella." My words were true in their statement, but my
heart begged me to recall them.
I ignored it, continuing to plead with her to believe me and give in.
"You gave me my dreams, Angel. You deserve to have yours, too."
The want and need was there, swimming in her teary eyes, mixed with all
the fear and doubt. All I had to do was push, make her believe that
everything was fine- we were fine- and she would go.
I knew it.
My phone vibrated in my pocket and Bella used that opportunity to
wiggle free. I sighed and sat back up, as she left, walking towards Ness'
room.
"Yeah, Dad?"
"How are you, Son?" His tone sounded way too pleasant.
"I'm good. Just arguing with, Bella. What's up?" I got off the couch and
walked over to the fridge, grabbing a water bottle.
"Why are you arguing?" He asked.
"I'm just joking." I drank the water, half listening to him and staring at
the ultrasound pictures on the door.
"Oh. Well, I have some news. It seems the judge was arrested for fraud
last night, so our court date will be delayed until they reassign your
case."
The water in my mouth went flying and I cursed, getting the front of the
fridge wet. "What?"
"It's alright. It's actually a good thing. I wasn't crazy about having the
same judge determine this case again, regardless of the changes."
"Jesus Christ. I swear," I reached for a rag to clean up the water. "This
is just never going to end."
"I know, Son, but as I said, it's a good thing." There was genuine
optimism in his tone and I tossed the wet rag, feeling a little bit better.
"Alright. Is there any else?"
"Grandma told me about your business venture. I wanted to tell you good
luck."
I waited for the punch line.
"Edward? Are you there?"
"That's it?" I asked skeptically.
"What else is there, Son?"
"Sorry, I just.I didn't think you would be happy." I admitted.
"Are you kidding? This means I might finally get back some of the money
you owe me for lawyer fees." He laughed, like.my father laughed.
"Have you been drinking, Dad?"
"Funny, Edward, but no. Anyhow, I'll talk to you soon. Give Bunny Rabbit
a kiss from her Grandpa."
"Yeah, sure." I was completely confused as the other end went dead.
Either he had been drinking, or he and my mother must have been having
some seriously good
Yeah, forget I was even headed there.
I picked up my water and walked towards Ness room, pausing in the door
way, watching Bella brushing my daughter's hair as she sat in her lap.
Ness' eyes were trained on Bella's face, watching her intently as she
swept her hair to the side, fastening a jeweled clip into it.
"What's Baby's name?" Ness asked, poking her little finger to Bella's
stomach.
"I'm not sure yet, Squeeks. We have to wait and see if it's a boy or girl."
Bella clasped her hands behind Ness' back as she finished her hair and
looked at her.
"When?"
"Soon. The baby just has to grow a little more," Bella explained.
"Remember when we made the Hello Kitty calendar? We'll make one of
those for you, so you can see, alright?"
"Now?" Ness asked excitedly.
"How about after we figure out what you're wearing to school tomorrow."
Bella leaned back, reaching for the bag my mother had left from
shopping.
Her shirt came up a bit as she reached for it and Ness leaned into her
pressing her lips to Bella's stomach. "Good baby," She said, patting her
hand there.
Bella paused for a moment and then forgot about the bag, wrapping her
arms back around my daughter to hug her. She placed a kiss on her head
and rocked her gently.
"You're going to be a very good sister. You know that?" She pulled back
and Ness nodded in agreement. "I love you, Squeaks." She kissed her
again and I felt warmth in my heart I never knew before.
Even though I was aware Bella loved my child, I had never actually been
a witness to her saying it to Ness. What came next was just too much. I
thought my chest would burst with the level of happiness surging inside
of me, as my daughter held Bella's face, much the same she held my own
and told her, "I love you, too."
I had to clear my throat as my emotions came over me, blowing my cover.
Bella smiled, holding Ness in a hug still, looking nothing like the girl I
used to know, who would have tried to hide the fact that she had just
shared such a tender moment.
I finally understood what she was saying on the couch earlier.
And the mint she tossed from the car window the day before that.
Bella was different.
"What's up, Babe?"
"That was my Dad. He said the case was delayed. Long story. Everything
is alright though." I took a seat next to them on the bed, wrapping an
arm around Bella.
"Well, I guess that's good. It will give you more time to get things
settled."
"That's what Carlisle said, too." Ness crawled over to me and took her
into my arms.
"Papa, I want Baby to be a girl," She announced, making Bella smile.
"Do you?" I asked, raising my brows to her.
"Yeah, I need new toys," She nodded as though it were the best idea she
ever had.
I laughed.
"And you think if it is a girl, the baby will get your toys and then Daddy
will buy you new ones?"
She nodded again, clearly feeling as though her message was delivered to
sender.
"Sweetheart, you can't get all new toys just because there will be a new
baby. Plus, Daddy is broke and will need to sell a lot of burgers before
that is even an option." I teased.
"And a house," Bella reminded me, laying back on Ness' bed.
"Daddy, I am growing up!" Ness slapped her hands down on my shoulders
and I could help but to bust into laughter at her expression.
Bella followed suit.
"Renesmee Cullen, I love you dearly, but you're not getting new toys.
Maybe if you're lucky, Santa will bring you a bike for Christmas, but he
will definitely not be swapping all your old toys for new ones." I fell to
my back, sitting her up on my chest as I waited for her retort.
Being given the genes of a lawyer's Son, was not always good thing.
"But I gave up Teddy," She whined, jutting her little lip out.
See what I mean?
"That was very sweet of you, but you know why you give things,
Sweetheart? Because it is something you want to do to be nice or show
someone you care about them, not because you are trying to get
something out of them. When Bella gave you the Kitty necklace, did she
ever ask you for anything in return?"
She said nothing.
Don't mess with your Daddy, for he knows all.
"See? So if the baby is a girl, then you can share your toys. She would
need a big sister to show her how to use them anyhow, right?"
"Yeah Daddy." She surprised me by rolling her eyes and I looked over to
Bella.
"Your influence is strong in this one," I teased.
"Shut it, Yoda." Bella pointed to me.
"Who's Yoda?" Ness asked and we both laughed.
"It's a movie, I'll show you someday when you're old enough to
understand." I hugged her to me and prayed that day would never come.
"Please, I'm freakin twenty six and still don't understand that movie,"
Bella argued.
"Alright, enough eye rolls and use of the word freakin has been had
today. I think we need to move on to some dinner and maybe a bubble
bath, so a girl who is too old for her toys can go to school in the
morning." I sat forward, reaching for Bella's hand to pull her along with
me from Ness's room.
How very contradictory the last thirty minutes of my life had been.
While one of my girls grew up, it meant she only got closer to me and
when my other one did, it meant she moved further away.
~Xxx~
After dinner was done and the dishes were washed and Ness was tucked
away in bed, Bella and I finally made our way into our own room and
snuggled up.
My fingers carelessly ran through her hair as she laid on me, forming her
own circles and secret patterns over the art of my chest. Her toes
skimmed along my bare leg, keeping me awake.
"Do you want a boy or a girl?" She asked.
"It doesn't really matter to me, Angel. I'd be happy either way." I
looked back to make sure the alarm clock was set, for the fifth time.
"I kind of want a boy." She said softly.
"Why a boy?"
"I figure, he could beat the snot out of all the boys who will no doubt be
banging down the door when Squeeks is old enough to date."
"That's impossible, Bell. Ness will never be old enough to date."
She looked up to me, resting her chin on my chest.
"You have to let her grow up someday, Flower Child."
"She's my baby," I argued. She'll always be my baby."
"But she won't always be a baby. So, you have to get used to that."
"Are you trying to depress me?" I made a face at her, showing her how I
felt about her words.
"No," She laughed, keeping her brown eyes, that were highly amused on
me. "Just some friendly advice."
"Mmm, hmm."
"I was wondering something," She propped herself up, leaning a little
closer. "You said you would have to sell burgers earlier when Squeeks
asked about the toys. Does that mean you made a menu?"
"I have some ideas," I shrugged.
"Can I hear them?" She leaned even closer and suddenly her lips became
very hard to keep secrets from.
We spent the rest of the night talking about the menu, my restaurant
and the future. To both my displeasure and satisfaction, the word Canada
was never mentioned.
I ended up not needing the alarm as I awoke two hours earlier than
needed. Bella was still fast asleep, and I tried not to disturb her as I
rolled away, slipping out of bed. Checking on Ness, she was still sleeping,
too.
Today was going to suck, that was sure.
After a quick shower, I made sure her lunch was packed and then made a
batch of muffins for Bella.
Shut it, men can make muffins. That was perfectly fine.
Plus, she had been bothering me for the last week to do so and I was
trying desperately to keep my promises and ensure she was nothing but
happy. If it meant losing a few manly notches on my belt, than so be it.
Ness came wandering into the kitchen, rubbing at her sleepy eyes and I
scooped her up into my arms. "Would you like some juice?" She nodded
against my shoulder and I walked to the fridge.
She lifted her head as the door opened, then closed and as I walked to
the counter to pour her a drink, she pointer over my shoulder, asking,
"What is that?"
I turned back to see what she was talking about and realized it was the
sonogram pictures. "That's the baby."
Her face looked confused and as I walked back over, to return the juice
container, I showed her. "They take the picture from the outside of
Bella's tummy, so it's hard to see."
That was a good way to explain it, right?
She held one in her hands and studied it. "Can I keep?" She asked,
holding it up to me.
"Sure. Just make sure it's safe, okay?" I gave her a kiss, then, seated
her at the table and took one beside her.
Emmett called as the muffins were beeping, reminding me that we had a
game to watch this weekend. It was Bella's stepfather's team against
Em's and I prayed this time they would win. Not only because I was sick
of them losing, but also because twenty bucks sounded really good right
about now.
He also agreed to meet me over at Ness's school before he made his way
to The Workshop and I thought that was pretty nice of him; wanting to
see his niece off on her first day of kindergarten.
"Morning." Bella looked like she didn't sleep well as she entered the
kitchen.
That changed slightly as she spotted the muffins and grabbed one up. I
smiled, pulling Ness from her seat so I could get her cleaned up. Bella
gave me a look, shaking her head in disapproval. "Let her do it, Babe."
She took a seat and I debated for several moments, holding onto Ness.
Finally, I gave in and allowed Ness to go off on her own to the bathroom,
to wash her own hands, and didn't get to do the 'hands, water, scrub'
routine.
I looked at Bella like she kicked my puppy.
"I'll do her hair so she doesn't get picked on." Bella shoved the last bite
of her muffin into her mouth and walked to Ness' room.
I was left all alone, with just a table full of crumbs.
~Xxx~
~Bella~
We all stood there, looking at each other as we waited for the teacher
to arrive and allow us entrance into the classroom.
It was really uncomfortable. I mean, what do you say? As I have stated
before, I hate forced conversations. I looked around to all the other kids,
then, Squeeks and she looked just as confused. There was this one kid
who had a lazy eye and for a brief moment, my thoughts turned evil.
Thankfully I remembered karma existed and shut down all the
commentary that was brewing in my fucked my up head. As funny as it
would have been to say, having Baby Cullen born with five arms, or a
fucking lazy eye of his own, would not have been.
I leaned over to Flower Child, turning my head so no one would hear me.
"You do realize you have the cutest kid here, right?"
"Behave," He warned, but smiled.
"I hope she doesn't make friends with the droopy-eyed kid. I knew we
should have packed the condiment gun."
"Look," He whispered back, nodding towards Ness.
She was talking with some kid, that did not have a fucked up eye, and oh
my Lord, it was so damn cute. It was like, Land of the Little People.
They were talking in a language I didn't quite understand and suddenly,
Baby Cullen, his father and I, were all teary eyed, looking like total
losers, huddled up with other teary eyed losers.
What has this fucker done to me?
The teacher finally opened the door and the little people, who were
followed by the big people, entered what was the scariest room I had
ever seen. There were bright colors, creepy looking creatures on the
walls and.what the hell was that smell?
It reminded me of the hotel linens, all lemony and screaming, "WE KILL
GERMS!" I feared for Squeeks and prayed silently, knowing I should have
packed some damn antibacterial gel or something in her bag.
Oh, how I had failed her already.
We found her little desk and Flower Child looked he was going to be sick
as she took her seat and ignored him, still talking with her new found
friends. He kneeled beside her and she finally acknowledged him, cupping
her hands to whisper, "Can I show the pichure, Daddy?"
Flower Child smiled, nodding in approval. Squeaks reached for her book
bag, and pulled out the sonogram of Baby Cullen to my surprise. She
showed it to her friend, saying how it was her baby brother or sister and
the other little kid asked a million questions about it, none of which Ness
answered correctly.
The teacher made her rounds, introducing herself and then it was time
for us to leave.
Again, Edward's face grew pale.
"I love you, Sweetheart. I 'll be back later. Have fun today." He leaned
down and kissed her and she gave him one in return. He seemed happy
that she didn't feel too grown up for those yet.
I tugged him along, unable to stand the pride and pain and fear in his
eyes. He followed me and we stood outside of the class room, along with
all the other loser-teary-eyed people again, watching our little people
through the glass, like they were little inmates doing little people jail
time.
My eyes pretended that they didn't see Edward wipe away his wimpy
tears, since he was nice enough to pretend like he didn't see mine.
~Xxxx~
~Flower Child.~
She looked too grown up, sitting there interacting with all of the other
children. It was a world apart from the last time I saw her among kids
her age, that night Jessica abandoned her at the neighbor's house when
she was three.
Right now, she looked fine; happy even.
Bella hung on my arm, sighing hard and I leaned my head to hers, doing
the same.
"I thought Em was coming?" She asked.
"Yeah, so did I. You know, just when I feel like he's starting to show me
that he really gives a shit, he does stuff like this." I dug my phone out
and saw no missed calls.
It hurt that he didn't show up, I'll admit it.
"Maybe he got held up in traffic or something." She shrugged. "You
should call him."
"He's a big boy and knew what time school started. He can call me to
explain. I'm done playing these games with people that can't seem to
keep their word."
"Flower Child." She shook her head, looking up to me in disapproval. "I'm
sure he has a good reason. Don't assume he just forgot. It's not fair."
"Sorry. It just pisses me off."
Most of the parents had left and Bella and I were still watching. I
wasn't ready to leave, but knew we had to. After another couple of
minutes, I allowed Bella to tug me along, practically dragging my pathetic
self away from the window.
She sang me silly songs all dramatic-like as we drove to work. She was
trying to make me feel better, but it did little as I eyed the clock,
constantly worrying, wondering, what Ness was doing and if she were
alright.
I dropped Bella off at The Workshop and shook my head, seeing Emmett's
car parked right out front. Asshole did forget. I prayed Bella would give
him hell for being so thoughtless about Ness, me, us.
When I walked into my own restaurant, I finally felt a little better,
seeing that there were only minor details left to complete. I got to work,
writing out the rest of the menu, keeping in mind all of the things Bella
and I talked about the night before.

I wasn't interested in doing the fancy shit Bella did. That wasn't my or
Grandma's forte. This was strictly comfort food at its finest, done clean
and with high quality ingredients.
The hardest part was making sure all the elements worked together. I
had to start over several times, but finally constructed something I felt
was doable and proud of.
Giving the kitchen one last walk-through, I made sure we had everything
we would need. The food was still missing, but that was just a stop at
the market, for today's task anyhow.
The only thing left now, was going to pick up my grandmother and see if
we could actually cook all this shit.
My phone went off on my drive to my parent's house. I scrambled to get
it out, thinking that perhaps it was Ness' school, but instead, it was my
father's number. He only left a text message, saying to come home right
away.
I tried to call, but it went straight to voice mail and I decided to just
drive a little faster. When I got there, his car was gone and I felt even
more confused. I checked my phone again as I walked up to the door and
sure as shit, I had read it correctly. It said to come to their home.
"Ma?" I called out as I walked in, dropping my keys on the hall table. No
one answered and the only voice I heard was my Grandmother's. I
followed it and it led me to the parlor.
My mother was lying in her arms, sobbing as she kept saying, "My baby,
my baby," over and over.
For a moment, I wondered why the hell she was crying over the child she
had miscarried out of nowhere. That shit happened forever ago. My
Grandmother saw me and shook her head, showing her own tears and I
stepped closer.
"Oh, Junior Cullen." She extended her arm out to me, but I paused not
understanding.
It wasn't until his name came from my mother's lips along with all her
tears and, "My baby", that I finally got it. She wasn't crying about the
miscarriage, she was crying because something had happened to Emmett.
I somehow just knew, when I woke up this morning, today was definitely
going to suck.








Chapter 29: Regrets and Unstoppable Spirit
~Flower Child~
I made sure to park in the back parking lot, using the side streets to
navigate towards The Workshop, knowing if I took my usual route, I
would see the scene playing out in front of Rose's bakery.
Bella wasn't in the kitchen as I entered, only Charlie and Alice. I by
passed them, walking straight to Bella's office so she wouldn't
accidentally see what was happening just across the street. Her head
looked up as I stepped inside of her office, her expression telling me that
I wasn't whom she expected and my throat thickened, knowing that I had
to tell her, the person that belonged in my place, never would show.
My back leaned against the door and she settled her pen down, looking
nervously at me. The pain in my chest must have reflected in the tears
welling in my eyes, as I looked at her Angel face, attempting to find
words.
"Edward? Is everything okay? Did something happen to Squeaks?" Bella
stepped around her desk, coming closer. She never touched me, just
crossed her arms across her chest and waited.
My eyes were drawn to her stomach and I had a new bout of fear
bubbling inside of me, as I remembered how fragile she was right now and
if anyone else was lost, I would surely crumple where I stood.
I remembered her words from the day Ness came back, and she must
have felt very much the same way that I did in this moment. They were
the only words I had and I rolled with them.
"I need you to listen to what I say and stay calm. Just listen alright?"
She only looked more on alert now and I should have known better, but
what else was there to say? It was the truth. "For the baby," I added.
"I need you to stay calm when I tell you this for the baby's sake,
alright?"
"What happened?" Her face looked scared and her arms tightened over
her chest. I swallowed, asking God silently in my head to help me tell her
this.
"Something happened at Rose's bakery this morning." I had to look down
from her eyes as my voice betrayed me. "Emmett's gone, Bell." The words
burned, stabbed at my throat, like I had just told the dirtiest lie. It was
silent, so silent, as I looked to the floor, unable to face her yet.
"What the hell are you talking about? Where the fuck did he go?"
"He's gone," I raised my head finally, needing her to see in my eyes what
my words were failing to convey. "Like, gone."
She studied me carefully, contemplating for a few moments. Her confusion
turned to anger and she lowered her arms, but raised her hands, shoving
me hard in the chest.
"That shit is not fucking funny! If you and Emmett think that it is, you
both can just-," I grabbed her hand as she tried to hit me again and
pulled her to me.
"I'm not kidding," As my face pressed to her head, I lost it, unable to
conceal the anguish burning inside of me. "I'm not kidding, Bell."
She let me hold her for a second and then pulled away, staring at me
like my words were impossible. My tears must have been the evidence she
needed to believe in, because as she took them in, her head shook
frantically and her chest heaved. I tried to hold her again, but she
backed up from me, like if I captured her, it would all come true.
But it already had.
She finally fell against me, sobbing loudly into my chest, her breaths only
coming in sharp intakes. I was scared, literally terrified, that she would
have some sort of panic attack. I remembered how she looked that day
at the park when Emmett told her he was simply quitting. The fear was
unreal in her eyes that day, she shook with it. She was shaking much the
same now, and I held her tighter, trying with all my might to hold her
together but the tighter I held her, the harder she cried, digging her
fingers deeper into my clothing, knotting it up and burying her face
there.
"I've got you. It's okay, I've got you." My words were fruitless, but they
repeated themselves anyhow. It helped me to focus and keep my own
sanity in check.
"Move," She pushed against me, and I knew what would come. I didn't
want her to go, but I knew stopping her would only make it worse.
I moved aside, but followed her as she rushed into the front dining room,
only to pause as the flashing lights and busy scene showed itself through
the large glass windows of the front of the restaurant.
It was proof enough.
~xxx~
Bella sat slumped in the seat next to me as I drove to my parent's house
again. I eyed the clock, knowing that I would have to pick up Ness in a
few hours and trying to figure out all this shit in my head.
My father was at Rose's bakery. I felt bad, guilty, that I could do
nothing to help him right now. Rosalie must have been a mess. A part of
me truly felt for her. No matter how wrong she could have ever done me,
I would have never wished this shit on anyone.
~Bella~
I couldn't let him go.
Edward didn't seem to mind as we huddled on his parent's couch. It felt
like when I used to live in Forks as a kid. The sky was grey and the rain
chilled you to the bone, leaving you unable to shake it free, no matter
how much hot chocolate you drank or blankets you bundled yourself
under. The only bit of comfort I right now felt was Edward.
His warmth, his scent, his arms.
It was selfish, as I knew he was hurting just as much. I tried to hold
him, but my arms were too weak and unable to provide the type of
security he needed.
Elizabeth must have asked a million times if we wanted something to eat
and I assumed she was trying to keep busy. Esme was no where to be
seen and after a while, Carlisle finally walked in with Rose. It was the
only time I looked up from Edward's shirt since we arrived.
She was red and swollen in her face from crying. The first sign, Rosalie
was a real, actual person; that I had ever encountered. She sat alone,
still sniffling and looking incredibly shaken on the couch opposite ours.
A part of me wanted to move, to go to her and forget all the horrible
things she had said and done, but Edward's shirt smelled like the closest
thing I had left to Emmett and I went back to shoving my face against
it, ignoring her and accepting my own selfishness.
The room was quiet after Carlisle left, minus the sound of Roses'
hiccupped-sniffles and Edward's heart beating. I tried to block out her
crying and just pay attention to the rhythm of it. I could feel myself
drifting, slipping away as it beat softly under my ear, until she
interrupted the calm.
"He was getting cookies for Ness' class." Her voice was soft and I peaked
at her, trying to see who was she was talking to. It was her glass. She
kept her eyes on it and I felt Edward's hold tighten. "He thought she
would make more friends." Her eyes closed as she started to cry again,
Grandma Cullen came over, wrapping her arms around Rose.
I tucked back into the protection of Edward's shirt and prayed for her
crying to end. I couldn't take hearing it right now and didn't care, or
want to know how Emmett's life came to an end.
Hiding was better, what I was good at.
"I'll get Bunny Rabbit from school," I heard Carlisle say and Edward
nodded. "Stay here, but check on your mother in a bit, please."
The front door closing was the last sound I heard before I fell asleep.
~xxx~
I felt like I had being sleeping for forever, but as I opened my eyes, I
saw it was only early evening. I was in Edward's old room and he was no
where to be found. I rolled into his pillow, trying to find his scent to
comfort me, but it was too faint and his warmth and heartbeat were not
here, either.
My feet dragged across the floor as I made my way out to search for
him. The first place I looked was Ness's room, but all was vacant. The
house was quiet except for voices coming from further down the hall. It
was Edward and his father. I paused outside of Carlisle's office door,
listening as they talked.
"You know these boys?" Carlisle was asking.
"They were messing with Bella last week, pushing her around and shit
down by the beach."
"Did she report this?"
"No, Newton was there. I didn't want-," Flower Child's voice broke and
my hand pressed to my chest, feeling the guilt swell inside of me. "I hit
one of the guys, the guy who was pushing Bella around, to get him off of
her and when I saw Newton, he made some remarks about Bella and Ness.
He was trying to get me to hit him, I'm sure, but the cops showed up and
Bella and I left before they had a chance to find out I hit the guy. I
didn't want that shit being brought up in court, you know?"
"You should have told me, Son."
"I didn't think it was important and sure as hell didn't think this was
going to happen."
"Edward, I don't understand why it was important for those boys to
attack Rose, though. What did she have to do with this?"
"Emmett kicked the shit out of Newton when he heard what happened. It
must have pissed off his friends."
I didn't want to hear anymore and walked back to the safety of Edward's
room. Once inside, I stripped off my clothes, changing into a shirt that I
found in his dresser. It was too big and worn out, feeling soft and
comforting as I climbed back into his bed.
I couldn't get the sound of Emmett's laughter of my head or the goofy
ass smile that was always on lips to fade from under my lids, even after
my tears tried to wash them away. I sobbed into his pillow, unable to
hold it in. They are wrong when they say that when you die, your life
flashes in front of you. Okay, well, maybe it does happen, but what they
forget to inform you, is that it happens to those you leave behind too.
All of it flooded my thoughts. From the most insignificant memory, right
up until just a few days ago, hugging him and telling him our children
would grow up together and how we would always be family. The agony
overwhelmed me, choking me to the point of feeling ill. I wailed into the
pillow, crying harder than I ever imagined, even when Gram had died and
I knew I would never be able to eat her spice-pear trifle or oatmeal
cookies, with way too much sugar in them, ever again.
"Shhh, it's okay." His voice was gentle as he slid into bed behind me,
forming a protective hold as he surrounded me in his arms. "I'm right
here." His kiss confirmed that, as he pressed his lips into my hair over
and over, like it would help, like my heart and his heart and every else's
heart wasn't breaking.
It did nothing.
~xxxx~
They buried Emmett on a clear day, with sunny skies. I wore white, while
everyone else wore black. They didn't seem to understand that the sun
was shining because God was happy to have Emmett and I didn't feel like
explaining it.
It just seemed like something they should already know.
The smell I used to love, gardenia, smelled liked shit inside of the small,
over crowded room and my stomach rolled with the nausea I felt. The
carpeting was bright red and not helping at all as I stared it, because all
I thought of was blood and then had to wonder what fucked up person
really thought this color is acceptable inside of a damn funeral parlor.
Person after person went up to speak on his behalf and even though
speaking in front of people was my goddamn forte, here, it was not.
My hands shook and I tried to stay calm, but the urge I felt to scream
and rage prevented me from doing that. So I stood there at the podium
crying like all the other losers and hating myself and fuck, Emmett, for
making me look like a fool and a coward.
It was the worst speech I ever gave, when it should have been the best.
He deserved the fucking best and I was a shitty ass friend for failing to
give him one.
When we got back home Flower Child tugged at his tie, taking a seat on
the couch. I walked passed Ness as she asked me something, and paid her
no mind. I just needed the bed. I crawled into it, not bothering to take
off my shoes and it didn't seem to mind.
The bed welcomed me with open arms.
As time went by, my feet moved, taking me from point A to B, and I
worked, allowing my fingers everyday to type what needed to be typed
and took the calls that needed to be taken, but it was a blur.
I had no idea what was going on with Flower Child's diner, restaurant,
whatever the fuck he was opening and he didn't seem to care about why.
Charlie stopped by everyday, sometimes to play with Ness, or watch a
game on TV with Edward. One day he made me dinner, scolding me for
not eating properly and I got pissed, shoving half of the sandwich in my
mouth and looking at him as if to say, "Happy now?!"
He didn't find it amusing, nor did Edward.
Two months after Emmett died, I came home to find out Rosalie had her
baby premature, at only twenty-eight weeks. That news kicked me in the
ass and I felt so damn guilty for all the strain I was putting myself,
working so stupidly and ignoring everything the doctor was saying about
relaxing and remaining calm. The fact that she and I were only two
months apart was extremely unsettling to ponder the idea that I could
be doing the same harm to Baby Cullen.
I assumed that her baby was allowed to live, because she agreed to take
back all things she said about Edward in court, earning her a few fucking
points with the dude upstairs.
The dude who had Emmett.
I wanted to be happy about the possibility of Edward being rewarded
custody, Jessica getting hers and knowing that Ness might finally be
given a good deal in life, but I just couldn't. That part of me that had
learned to want love and appreciate those things was gone and Bella
Swan, the robot woman, who just did shit because she had to in order to
get shit done in life, was back and in charge.
A part of me wished she had never left in the first place.
If I had only been smart and stuck to my plan.
"I'm going to meet my mom at the hospital, to see the baby. Want to
come?" He sat down on the edge of the bed, putting on his shoes as he
asked.
"If you've seen one baby, you've seen them all." I continued to flip
through the channels of our newly acquired flat screen TV. A little
present to myself for the bedroom.
"It could die, you know." He was obviously over my zombie 'I don't give a
fuck if the world stops spinning' mood.
Rightfully so.
"That's supposed to make me want to go?" I shot back, glancing at him
for a moment.
"It's Emmett's baby, Bell." My heart stung as Emmett's name mixed with
the sadness in Edward's tone.
"Which is exactly why I don't want to go." I raised the volume on the TV
and rolled over, signaling that I was done having this conversation.
The bed moved and I looked over my shoulder to him standing up. He
turned around faced me, looking doleful. "You're not the only one who
lost Emmett, Bell."
"I know that."
"I miss you, Bella. You're never around for anything. I need you." His
expression broke my heart and I had to look away.
"I'm not trying to be a douche-waffle, Edward," I mumbled.
"I didn't say you were. I just said I missed you."
He was breaking any remaining pieces I had left of a heart as he stood
there; looking lost and scared as he admitted his feelings. I rolled over
and sighed, patting the space next to me. Edward crawled over, placing
his head to my chest and curled his arms around my belly. I ran my
fingers through his hair to soothe him and struggled to keep my shit
together.
I leaned my head to his and closed my eyes, just allowing myself to love
the essence of him. He smelled just like Emmett, though, that familiar
sense of warmth and comfort. I breathed him in deeper, rolling my face
against the softness of his hair. As he began rubbing soft circles on my
stomach, I calmed myself, remembering the million times my doctor told
me that was important.
It was something Rose couldn't do.
I was stronger than her, always would be.
"I cheated." He looked up at me as I admitted it, still keeping his hands
on my stomach. "I peaked at the papers."
"What papers?"
"It's a boy," I said softly, holding his gaze.
A gentle smile, almost shy looking, appeared on his face. I couldn't help
but to smile back a little and for the first time in a long time, I actually
meant it.
"We're having a boy?" He was still smiling as he asked quietly.
"I know we wanted to wait, but I couldn't help it. The fuckers were
calling out to me like the last Twinkie in the box."
"You ate the last Twinkie?" He narrowed his eyes playfully at me,
something else that else that hadn't been seen in quite sometime.
Playfulness.
"It was Baby Cullen. I swear." I patted my hand over his and he wiggled
closer to my face, giving me tiny kisses.
"Come see the baby, please?" His eyed were begging me, looking so sad
and scared.
It matched how my insides felt.
"I don't want to, Flower Child," I shook my head and looked down to his
hand on my stomach.
"No one wants to go, Bella. We go because we have to, because that's
the right thing to do. Do you think I wanted to listen to Charlie when he
made me run fucking laps around half of Miami when Ness was taken
away? No, but I did it because I it was the right thing to do."
"The doctor said to rest, that's what I'm doing, unless you want our baby
born early like Roses'?" It was a cheap shot and I instantly felt like a
cunt for saying it.
Flower Child slid off the bed and I thought he would he leave, but
instead he walked to the closet and came back with my shoes, tossing
them beside me.
"Get up."
I looked at him like he was short and he rested his hands on his hips,
trying to look much taller.
"Let's go, Bella. You said Emmett was your brother. Fucking prove it." He
nodded to my shoes and his challenging words stung.
"Don't even go there, Edward." I warned.
"Prove me wrong." He shrugged and held his ground.
I tugged away the comforter angrily, hating him for making me do this
and also, because he was way too much like fucking Em and that shit of
course only infuriated me further. I would do him bodily harm later for
that.
Maybe a kick in the nuts or punch to the gut.
For now, I slipped on my stupid shoes and gave him the evil eye as I
walked out of the room. Leah said goodbye to us as she read with Ness
from the couch and we exited the apartment without another word.
The car ride to the hospital was just as silent.
~xxx~
I waited in the lobby, too fearful to go any further. Edward was
apparently much braver and left me to go find his mother. I mostly
played on my phone, trying to ignore the fact I was being a complete and
total fucking douche right now.
"I'm sorry." I whispered, fingering over Emmett's name on my contact list.
"I just can't go in there."
Baby Cullen must have been on his father's team, because he kicked me
fucking hard. I totally deserved it, don't get me wrong, but shit.
"I know, Mama is being a total loser, I get it." My hand rubbed over
where the little shit kicked and he did it again, totally agreeing with me,
obviously. "Fine." I stood up and walked down the hall, pausing when I
approached the door.
"He better not look like him," I said to my stomach and pushed the door
open.
A nurse whipped her head my way and held up a hand.
"Ma'am, this is for authorized personnel and family only, please."
"I know." I closed the door behind me and saw Edward, Rose and Esme
huddled together.
The nurse looked to Rose and she nodded. "It's alright," she glanced at
me, "She's family."
Her eyes looked back down to where all of their attention was and I
followed, seeing a very, very, little person all bundled up inside of an
incubator. I looked down and shook my head when the nurse offered me
the scrubs that she said I needed to wear.
Baby Cullen could kick all he wanted to. I wasn't going anywhere near
there.
"Sorry," I opened the door again and left, practically gasping for air as I
walked back to my seat.
I wasn't ready for this shit.
~xxx~
It was quiet at home. Ness was asleep and Leah was nice enough to do a
load of laundry before she left. Even though she wasn't really needed
here much anymore, with Ness being in school now, it was still great that
she wanted to be a part of her life and I was grateful that she still
helped out, seeing how busy and crazy both our lives had become.
I sat on the patio, looking out into the night sky, wondering which one of
the stars belonged to me, if any. Baby Cullen was kicking again, or doing
the fucking backstroke, whatever his lil ass was doing inside of there and
I had to laugh as I rubbed my hand over the ugly bump he made.
"You should be kicking my ass, not my stomach, Kid. Personally, your
father's ass too, seeing how his punk ass still hasn't made time to go
house hunting. Fucker opens a stupid diner or whatever and suddenly he's
too busy for us and shit? It's a good ass thing I'm your mom, Kid. I could
do fucking cartwheels and change a diaper at the same time. Your loser
father couldn't even tie his"
"Mind if I sit with you?" I turned my head to see Edward stepping out to
the porch, smiling and obviously having heard my rant.
Spying ass fucker.
I waved to the seat next beside me. He sunk down into the seat and
closed his eyes. "Rose named him Peyton."
"How is he?" I asked softly.
"Small, like, really small. He's fighting though. I think he'll make it. Plus,
he's named after a great football player, so" He shrugged, smiling
slightly.
"Em would like that," I nodded. "Just don't get any ideas. We're not
naming our baby after sports athletes."
"What would you like to name him?" He took my hand and brought it up
to his lips.
"I don't know. We don't even have a house, meaning we don't even have
nursery, Flower Child." I gave him the evil eye and he looked away.
"I'm working on it." He kissed my hand again and looked back to me. "You
want to know something?"
"Sure."
"Emmett said something to me once about you. I was younger, still in high
school. The nurse at the hospital reminded me when she said Peyton's
spirit was strong, tonight. Anyhow, Em called me one night and was a
little drunk. I guess it was after you guys opened up Rileys. He was
talking shit to me that night about how much money he was going to
make someday and whatever and I teased him back, talking my own shit
and asked him how exactly a woman and his stupid ass were going to
make millions of dollars running a stupid restaurant. His exact words to
me where, 'It's easy, Isabella Swan is an unstoppable spirit, douche-bag'."
I smiled at him, remembering the phone call. Emmett was sitting on the
couch in our apartment, in his underwear, eating fucking potato chips,
drunk off his ass and I was laughing hysterically, on the floor, in my
underwear, eating the same bag of potato chips, drunk off my ass.
We weren't doing anything wrong.
We were both just comfortable in our underwear drunk and eating
potato chips.
"I remember," I nodded and he smiled at me.
"He's right. That's why you came in the room tonight. That's why you
even left the house at all." Edward let go of my hand and brushed his
fingers at my cheek. "You're strong, the strongest person I know,
stronger than me."
"You stayed in room," I argued.
"I wanted to see Emmett," He said sadly. "The baby was the only way to
do that."
"That's why I don't want to. I'm scared that he'll look like him and it will
just hurt worse."
"It's alright. I'm just glad you came." Edward rubbed at my cheek again
and then sat forward. "Let's go to bed, Angel." He gave me his hand and
helped me up, walking me to the bedroom.
Flower Child spooned behind me, holding me securely like he did every
night. My eyes didn't feel as tired as they usually did as I lay there,
listening to him humming that same song he always hummed to the baby
every night, wondering if we could all ever be as happy as that melody.
I wiggled further into him and his tightened his hold slightly, giving me
sweet kisses to my shoulder and neck.
"Edward Anthony," I whispered.
"Mmm?"
"Not you. Baby Cullen."
"You want to name the baby after me?" He asked quietly.
"It sounded nice when your mom yelled at you that day."
Edward laughed and propped himself up, leaning over me. "Are you sure it
isn't because you like my middle name? I remember being told you did."
"Who the fuck told you that?"
Angela, I would kill her. Better not be.
"Angela. When we left Hawaii."
I knew it. She will suffer immense pain.
I rolled to my back, leaning on my elbows so I could see the fucker. "I
want to name the baby after you because then when I yell, it will be like
killing two birds with one stone, seeing as how anything the baby does
wrong is obviously because of you and your stupid genes and not mine,
since I am goddamn perfect."
His forehead fell to my shoulder as he laughed. "Bell, you're crazy, you
know this, yes?"
"Again, your fault, Edward." I rolled back over and he surrounded me in
his arms.
"Would I be forgiven if I agreed to go house hunting tomorrow?"
"I'll meet at twelve, send Charlie over to close up and I swear if you
ditch me, your balls will be the fucking special on The Workshop's menu
tomorrow night, loser."
~Flower Child~
"Hey, you send me fucking medium burgers, when I know I said well-done
again, Ben and I swear on my unborn child, I will fucking deck you." I
tossed the ticket at him and he fumbled to grab it before it fell to the
floor.
I liked this kid, but he had me seriously questioning if I should have hired
his ass. Bella fired him a week ago after he almost burned down her
kitchen and then made the very, very, very stupid move of sitting in
Emmett's old seat during the meeting one night.
Thank God Charlie was there, because I think if he weren't, Bella
seriously would have killed this kid.
"Sorry man," He hit my shoulder and then winced. "I mean, Chef."
"Just get back on the line and fucking cook the burger, before I call
Bella to finish you off." I turned around and tried to get shit in order
again.
The restaurant had been doing pretty damn good. Mostly, because of
Grandma's pie and the burgers, but at least we weren't in the red and
actually turning a profit. It was nice to be making money again, that was
for damn sure.
"Junior Cullen, are you sure it's a good idea for you to leave?" I spun
around, taking off my chef coat to face her.
"Grandma, it's for one hour and Charlie will be here to help. You'll be
fine, but if I blow Bella off, I won't be. Today is the only time Mom can
pick up Ness and I promised Bella we'd look for houses."
"Fine, fine, but if another person comes in here throwing patties, I'm
gonna hurt you the next time I see ya'."
"No one is going to be throwing anything," I laughed and gave her a hug.
"I love you."
"Love you too, honey. Tell Bella and that baby I said hello."
"Will do." I let her go and hung up my coat on the way out, making sure
to give Ben one last evil glare over my shoulder.
I was surprised to Bella sitting at the front counter when I exited the
kitchen, she had never been here before and truthfully, never really even
asked me about it that much. It hurt a little, but I sort of understood.
"This is the ugliest counter I have ever seen, Flower Child." She pointed
to the red counter top and shook her head.
I smiled.
"It was on special, if you bought this, you got an angry Bella for free."
"Ha-ha." She looked towards the kitchen window. "Your fries are cold."
"I'm sorry did you come here to work, or to meet me so we could find
houses?" I was being playful and hoped she would see it.
"Someone around here needs to." She smiled back and hopped out of her
seat. "Ready?"
"As I'll ever be." I reached for her hand and headed for the door.
"I do like the drawing." She nodded towards Sam's art as we exited.
"Can you remember the first time you saw it?"
"Of course." She clung to my arm that had the same words written on it.
It changes in the place it's found to be gone.
"How could I forget?" She asked. "I like the other stuff around it too, it
reminds me of" She stopped short and smiled a little as she realized its
symbolism. "New York."
"Has it changed for you?" I asked, as we began to walk again.
"Yeah, in more ways than just that, though. Thank you," She looked over
to me and leaned up for a kiss as I paused next to the Volvo. "It's
beautiful."
"So are you." I kissed her back and opened the door.
When I climbed into my side, she was toying with her hair, looking a
little upset. I brushed my fingers at her cheek and she looked over at
me, nervously.
"Angela is pissed off at me," She announced.
"Why?"
"She thinks it's unfair that I fired Ben. Apparently she can't remember
that it's my fucking restaurant." Bella yanked on her seatbelt hard and
fastened it over herself.
"She'll get over it." I turned the car on and reached for my own
seatbelt.
"Yeah, or she can fucking walk too."
"You don't mean that. She's your friend, Bella." I glanced to her as I
pulled out of the parking space, onto the road and she looked away.
"No, she's like everyone else. Fair weathered. There's a reason why I miss
Emmett and it isn't just because he was goofy or silly or fucking did
stupid shit to make me laugh. He wasn't a fucking court jester, there for
my goddamn amusement!" She kicked the under side of the glove-box and
sobbed, looking towards the window.
"He was my fucking friend, like a real friend, who understood shit and
stood by me, not like this bitch who wants to make me feel guilty over
firing her boyfriend, who never should have fucking worked there as long
as he did, in the first place. Then she wants to give me shit about how I
let you get away with shit because you're my boyfriend. Fuck her!"
Who knew asking a simple question would open the flood gates.

I just listened, knowing she didn't want my advice, nor did I have any to
offer.
"Like I have to fucking explain myself to her! She's my goddamn head-
waitress for fucks sake. Good, let her quit, I really don't give a shit. Let
them all fucking quit! The fucking place could burn to the ground for all
I care. Like it really even fucking matters. Like anything really fucking
matters anymore."
"Bell?" I reached for her hand as I parked again. She said nothing, but I
talked anyway. "I'm sorry. I know it hurts and I'm sorry, but you have
me, baby. I'm not Emmett and I never will be, but you have me." My
hand lifted to her face and rubbed gently at her cheek.
Bella sucked in sharply, nodding her head and I leaned over the console
to kiss her wet cheek. She leaned her head towards me and I held her
there until her crying subsided. We were going to be late to our meeting,
but I didn't care. Houses could wait, work could wait, she was right, it
didn't fucking matter.
"I'd give anything to fucking smoke, I swear to God, Flower Child." She
wiped her face and leaned away from me.
"I could do it for you." I sat back into my seat and she looked over at
me. I smiled at her and she shook her head, giving me a slight roll of her
eyes.
"You're wrong," She said quietly. "You are like Emmett. You both always
make me feel better. It's like fucking talking a crazy person down from
a ledge. Seriously, it takes talent." A humorless laugh left her mouth and
I smiled.
"At least I have career options. If the restaurant goes under, I could
become one of those dudes who actually talks crazy people down from
ledges."
"It probably pays better." She shot back.
"And doesn't involve people throwing burgers at me." That got her
attention.
"Who the fuck threw burgers at you, Babe?" She asked laughing, still
wiping her tears away.
"Some crazy woman who didn't appreciate getting rare twice in a row," I
shrugged.
"Did you throw them back at her?"
"No."
"I didn't train you right, then." She shook her head and sighed.
"Ready to go look at houses or do you feel the need to cry like a little
girl some more?" I shoved her shoulder and she laughed harder.
"At least no one threw burgers at me, asshole." She made a face and I
leaned over to her again.
"Feel better now?" I kissed her cheek and didn't wait for her reply.
The smile on her face said it all.
~xxx~
Six houses and two crying real-estate agents later, we found a house
that was suitable in Bella's eyes. I was just glad to have that shit done
and over with and see her happy. It was a pretty average house, nothing
fancy or extraordinary. It sucked that I couldn't buy it for her, but
someday, hopefully, I could rectify that.
After dinner we sat on the floor in the apartment, going through piles of
clothes and other stuff Bella swore we didn't need and even though Ness
didn't seem to mind giving up anything that wasn't toy related, it stung
to have to give away anything that was hers in my eyes.
Bella of course thought it was great and made fun of me to no end, but
someday, after our son was born, she would understand.
"Flower Child, it would be one thing if this baby was a girl and we could
like recycle-reuse this stuff, but seriously, it has got to go." She held up
a pair of baby booties she dug out of the depths of somewhere and I
snatched them from her hand.
"Baby booties are not going to make or break our new house's spacing
issues. These are staying." I placed them behind me and she laughed,
reaching for the next item.
"What the heck is this?" She held up an unbuttoned onesie.
"It's what babies wear," I laughed at her horrified expression.
"It looks like a Project Runway losing garment." She held it with two
hands, flipping it backward and forwards, trying to figure it out.
"You have to button it up, silly girl."
"You expect me to be able to put this on a squirming baby? It has a
million damn buttons." She threw it at me and I caught it, shaking my
head.
"I thought you were perfect and could do anything?" I teased.
She went to reply, but my phone rang and I begrudgingly answered it,
disturbing my enjoyment.
"Edward." It was my father. "How are you doing, Son?"
"I'm fine. What's up?" Bella looked at me and I got up to move to the
bedroom, knowing this was probably not a conversation I wanted to have
in front of her or Ness.
"I just wanted you to know they arrested the boys who they arrested
them this evening."
"Well it's about damn time." I flopped down on the bed and waited for
more.
"I'll need you to confirm that they are the boys who were pushing Bella
around that day, too. They have them on camera at Rose's bakery, but
I'll need you and Bella to identify them so we can make the intent clear
here. There defense is going to go for a lesser charge, saying it was a
robbery gone wrong, or whatever the hell. Premeditated murder would
give them a harsher sentencing." His voice was tired and I knew this had
to be weighing on him.
"Dad, you should let someone else handle this."
"I am, but he was my son, Edward. I wouldn't turn my back on this
anymore than I would turn my back on you and your case."
It was the first time I think my father had ever equated me to Emmett's
importance and it tasted bitter as hell to swallow. This wasn't how I
wanted to be held to his standard. My father could just tell me he liked
my food, or that I didn't screw up my life, or my daughters, or
something, anything else but what he just said.
"Edward?"
"Sorry, umI can't come down until morning probably.wait, shit" I
rubbed my face trying to figure out how I was going to get Ness to
school, open Tatu and make it down there all at the same time.
"Your mother will take Bunny Rabbit to school if that's what you're
worried about?"
"I have to open the restaurant, too. I don't want Bella to have to go
alone. Let me call Alice and ask her if she can open and maybe I can
work at the Workshop to cover her shift. Okay?"
"Alright, Son. Give me a call later on.and Edward? How is Bella?"
"She's fine. Better."
"Good. I'll see you both in the morning then."
I hung up the phone and called Alice right away. She was kind enough to
agree to swap with me tomorrow. As I looked up, Bella was in the
doorway and from the look on her face; she had been there quite a
while.
"Squeaky is sleeping." She looked down to her feet. "They found the guys
right?"
"Yeah. Carlisle wants us to go down and make an ID in the morning. Alice
will watch Tatu and I told her I'd work at The Workshop. That's alright,
isn't it?"
She walked over and sat down beside me. Her head nodded slowly and
she looked my way. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine." Her eyes didn't believe me. "I am."
"You can't be and you're a really shitty liar, Edward."
"Alright, I need to be." There, that was honest.
She cupped her hand to the back of my neck and pulled me into her
shoulder. I settled myself there, wrapping my arms around her.
"You can talk to me, Flower Child. I won't freak out or anything. I
promise. Just talk to me."
"What do I say? That this was my fault? That I never should have said
any of those things the morning Emmett died?"
"You couldn't have known and Emmett would never be mad at you for
saying those things. He knew how much you loved him, which is why he
was there in the first place," She argued.
"Maybe," I shrugged. "But that doesn't dissolve the other shit."
"Emmett made his choice. You didn't ask him to kick Newton's ass. It's
not your fault."
"He wanted my permission and I gave it to him. It's the same damn
thing." I pulled away from her, feeling angry, not at her, but just my
own stupidity.
Bella grabbed my chin, making me look at her way, shaking her head in
disbelief. "Did you even know your brother? You really think if you had
said 'No, Emmett, please don't go do that', he would have listened? That
day in the fucking hospital when Ness almost drowned, what did I say to
Jessica, Edward?"
"I don't know." My voice sounded as tired as I felt.
"I told her I knew how much money it would take to get someone out of
an assault charge, remember? I wasn't talking about myself and my prior
history for beating the snot of out people."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"That's how much money I had to pay James after Emmett kicked his ass
for the shit with the video tape. A video tape he never he even had, but
you know what I'm talking about. I'm pretty fucking sure I asked his ass
not to do that, too. And if I, or you, told him not to kick Newton's ass,
he would have been just as stupid and not listened, because that's who
is, was, whatever that's just what he fucking did.
"He protected the people he loved and you know what as much as I'd
like to be pissed off about how fucking stupid he was, the truth is that
I'm glad he did, because I'd really hate to have to live every fucking day
looking at how his face would have been if something happened to Rose
and their baby. It would have killed him anyhow, Edward. It would have
fucking killed him anyhow." She let go of my chin and wiped the tears
from my cheeks.
I had nothing to say at that point. A part of me knew she was right, but
still, Bella was here, safe, and so was our baby. Rose was sitting in the
hospital, watching her and my brother's baby, scared and alone. It wasn't
fair, considering that this all started over something that had to do with
me and not him.
She slid back further into bed and I was glad this seemed to be the end
of the conversation, except I felt her sit behind me, wrapping her legs
around my waist. It tickled as she slid my shirt up, gliding the pads over
her thumbs along my skin, slowly and my eyes closed as I felt her lips
press between my shoulder blades.
I pulled my shirt the rest of the way off and tossed it to the floor. Bella
continued to kiss softly along my back, running her hands up and down my
arms slowly. Her touch was comforting and welcomed and helped to ease
the pain in my heart, just as I'm sure she intended it to.
I turned myself around and removed her shirt, tossing it on the floor
beside my own. I laid her down gently; placing kisses into the curve of
her neck, then moved myself down, to the fullness of her cleavage, but
before I could go down further, she reached for my face, bringing my lips
back to hers.
"You're all I have, Flower Child." She held my face to hers as I dipped
back into her neck, planting kisses that earned me gentle scrapes of hers
nails against my scalp.
"That's not true," I whispered, keeping my lips moving over skin, working
my way back towards her lips. "At least I hope not, because you deserve
a lot more."
"You're enough." She shook her head and tilted towards my lips again. I
could see in her eyes that she meant what she said, but I knew I was
still right.
No one was going to win that debate, so I simply kissed her and tried to
show her the many shades of my love for her and our baby and our
family. Somehow as her warm body pressed against mine, my gentleness
began to wear thin and I felt everything that was being bottled up inside
me try to come forth. Bella kept me in check, pushing me away when I
leaned too heavy on her, but kept me in sync as she kept her mouth
moving on mine, telling me that she understood and not allowing me to
stop when I wanted to just roll over and not even bother.
Her body felt too good, too welcoming and too much of where I wanted
to be. So I stayed and pleasured that body, pleasuring my own in
consequence, even though I knew I didn't deserve it.
"Flower Child," She panted when I pushed harder. I stilled for a moment,
making sure I wasn't hurting her. "I'd marry you. I want to." I pulled
back to look at her and she drew my lip to hers, whispering, "I don't
want to lose you, too."
"I'm not going anywhere." I brushed her hair back, making sure to settle
my weight on my knees and elbows. "You've got me, Angel. I'm yours."
"There's nothing better than you. You're perfect just how you are," She
closed her eyes and shook her head, "There will never be anyone but
you."
"For me either, Baby." I kissed her cheek and couldn't help but to tease
her, a little. "I'm supposed to ask you to marry me, not the other way
around." I kissed her and started to work my body within hers again.
"You're taking forever." A slow smile spread across her face as I looked
down to her.
"It was supposed to be perfect," I whispered back.
"I told you, you already are." Her eyes closed and she gripped tightly to
my forearms, letting me know I found the spot she liked best.
I leaned my lips to her cheek, "Right there, Angel?"
"Yes," She cried. "More."
I would have asked her again, but we were already making too much
noise and I didn't need Ness waking up. Instead, I put my mouth back on
hers, allowing her moans and groans to be muffled against my lips.
"Is my belly in the way?" I had to stop again, unable to keep from
laughing.
"Shh, stop talking. And no."
"I think it is," She argued.
"Do you want to be on top?"
"No, then you'll just stare at it and make me all self conscious."
"Angel," I laughed, "your belly is fine. It's beautiful."
"It's fat and hideous."
"No it isn't. It's beautiful, but since you're uncomfortable, turn to your
side." I slid away and let her roll to her side.
I spooned behind her, pushed one of her legs forward and let my fingers
play between her legs, trying to stimulate her again. "Better?" My finger
rolled over her sensitive skin and she hummed in response as I placed a
kiss to her cheek. "Thought so."
Slowly, I let my fingers slide in and out of her, until she tensed in my
arms and I knew she wanted more. My body slid easily into her warmth
and I wrapped Bella securely in my arms, kissing along her neck and
shoulder, roaming my hand over her belly that she had ridiculous
insecurities about.
Bella's head tilted back and I kissed her; our kisses growing deeper,
longer, as the intensity of our love making did. I savored every slow slide
of her tongue against mine, giving her extra pecks to the side of her face
in between, because I simply couldn't get enough of her.
"Does it feel good, Angel?" I whispered against her lips.
She nodded and hummed and I gave her more of me, curling her legs
little higher so I could go deeper. "I don't think I've ever had you like
this. Do you like it?"
"So good."
"Now I just have to find where that special spot is." As I worked to do
that, I left my lips on hers, kissing and whispering all the ways I loved,
adored and cherished her. When I got to my love of her beauty, she
moaned louder, tensing in my arms and tightening around me. "I think I
found it," I whispered and pressed into her further, eliciting a string of
quick pants from her lips.
I slowed down, feeling my own body grow way too aroused at how she
felt in this position.
"Baby, more. Please," She panted.
"I want to go slow." I kissed her lips and she allowed me to keep my
pace for a few slow pumps before she asked again. "You're torturing me,
Flower Child. Please."
"I can't help it. You feel too good like this."
"So do you." She rolled into me, making my body press further inside of
her and I tightened my hold, but gave in and slid myself into her the way
we both wanted.
"It's so good, Babe." I held her face in my free hand, kissing her as my
thrusts deepened and quickened.
"I love you so much, Bella. I love you so fucking much it hurts." I crushed
my lips back to hers and felt myself leaning on the edge.
She was panting against my face, into my mouth. Her body was so perfect
and all I could was think about how much I didn't deserve her, yet
wanted to keep her and all of the fucked up shit that had happened and
time that had been wasted and fuck.it just boiled inside of me as my
face flushed with the desire, dying to spill from me to her.
I opened my mouth as I heard her breathing go shallow and her fingers in
my hair stiffen, telling me that I was making her come undone. "Are you
mine, Bella?" It was a stupid question but my brain wasn't exactly sane
right now and it seemed like the right thing to ask, even though this
wasn't at all how I had planned it but fucking plans never seemed to go
the way they were intended anyhow. She didn't seem to care as she
nodded and breathlessly told me that she was mine.
"Marry me. Will you marry me, Bella?" I was so fucking close to the edge
I could see it as I screwed my eyes shut and let my face fall against
hers, fisting her knotted hair into my palm as she nodded again and
panted 'yes'.
It could have just been her coming, but as I spilled myself inside of her,
I believed and pretended she was answering my proposal and reveled in
how good both felt. "Mother fucker," I groaned, holding myself deep
inside her body, probably too deep, but she didn't do anything except try
to draw me nearer and I didn't fight it.
It was the best fucking orgasm of my whole damn life.
I breathed out, resting against the pillow and holding her securely as I
attempted to catch my breath. I must have planted a million kisses all
over her and asked her if she was alright too many times, because on the
last time, she laughed as she said 'yes'. So, I laid there, quiet and
caressing her skin and kissing her tenderly and telling her I loved her and
she let me. Bella was limp and I knew she was just sleepy; but still, her
being fragile had me constantly on edge and I had to be a pain in the ass
and make sure that was all that was wrong for the millionth time.
"You alright, Bell?" I hoped if I gave her more kisses as I asked, she
would forgive me.
"Actually, I'm a little thirsty."
I slid my arm out from under her and leaned over. "Water?" She nodded
her head and I leaned down again, kissing her face. "I'll get you some."
One more kiss and I slid out of bed, throwing my jeans back on and
walked out to the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of water for her.
By the time I came back, she was already asleep.
~xxxx~
When we arrived at The Workshop the next day, it was already late. The
shit at the fucking police station, along with my dealing with my father
afterward, took way longer than I imagined. I told Bella to go home, but
she insisted on being here, saying it would help clear her mind.
There was a new guy there I didn't know, but one look at his name tag
said everything. He was the new general manager. I knew I shouldn't
have felt anger or hate towards him, but it was too hard not to. I tried
to stay clear and just do my damn job, keeping my word to Alice. Not
much here had changed other than a few staff members and at least
that was comforting.
"Close down your restaurant already?" Charlie joked as he entered the
kitchen.
"No, I swapped with Alice today." He looked like he wanted more
information. "They um we had to identify the guys who killed Emmett."
"Oh hell, I'm sorry, Son. Bells didn't say anything. Not that she ever
does." He patted my shoulder and got to work next to me.
"I know. She's getting better, though."
"Good. That's good." He nodded keeping his eyes on his work.
"Thanks for staying with her, you know, here.It must suck being away
from home so long." I reached for the steel so I could sharpen my knife
and glanced at him.
"Nothing is more important than family, Edward. It's just a diner," He
shrugged.
"I actually meant your wife."
"Well, yeah, that does suck and I sure would love one of her dinners," He
laughed. "She understands though and I'm lucky to have such a good
partner. It's hard to find someone who is always there for you, you
know?"
"Yeah," I said quietly, looking back to my sharpening.
"Bells will get back on the horse. She always does." He nodded and
handed me over my bin of vegetables.
"I know. She's an unstoppable spirit." I couldn't help the smile those
words conjured up, and apparently Charlie agreed, as he looked at me
with a smile of his own.
His eyes glanced over my shoulder and he smiled wider. "Speak of the
Devil."
Bella came in, clip board in hand, talking with the new manager. He
looked too stiff, too professional. After she walked around the kitchen
for a bit with him, she stopped by Charlie and I.
"You know what I realized today?" She asked. "I fucking love otters."
"To eat?" I looked over to her, horrified.
"Fuck no, I mean why would I eat an otter, Flower Child?"
"Were in a kitchen. Cooking." I nodded to the food in front of me and
she laughed, shaking her head.
"No stupid, I don't want to eat otters."
"Then why are you talking about them?"
Was this like, another pregnancy thing? Separating Old Weird Bella and
New Weird Bella, was becoming like a second job.
"I saw them on TV out in the dining room while the girls were setting up.
Oh my gosh, they are so cute," She settled her clip board down and put
her hands together. "Like I want to come back as one in my second life
and just paddle around all day with a big paddle tail," She made the
movement with her hands. "Eating a fish." She looked over to the
manager guy and made what I think was supposed to be the sound of an
otter eating a fish.
His face looked confused and not at all amused by her, even though,
everyone else seemed to be finding it quite funny, myself included. She
stopped seeing his expression and looked down a little too shy for Bella,
as she picked up clip board.
"Yeah, just ignore me. Never mind." She bit her lip and looked down to
the list, then back up to me. "Um, yeah so this is Edward. He's the
father of my child." She pointed to her stomach. "And owns Tatu, the
restaurant with ugliest red counters and cold fries, seriously," She looked
back to him, "never eat there. He misses me dearly and knows that he
should have never left, so tonight he's working here and enjoying the fact
we don't have ugly countertops and bitches throwing burgers at us." She
smiled at me and I wanted desperately, desperately to fucking hoist her
up and carry her smart ass self into her office, lock the door and teach
her a really hard lesson.
Yesthat was a bad joke.
The guy looked even more lost now and I simply wiped my hand on my
apron and extended it to him. "I'm just here for tonight. Nice to meet
you."
"You as well," He replied and then stepped back, releasing my hand.
"So, why don't you go and get started on what we discussed and we'll
have a meeting shortly. Okay?" Bella handed him over the clips board and
he nodded, then excused himself.
As soon as he exited the kitchen, Bella groaned and looked back to me
and Charlie.
"Seriously, Dad?" She flailed her arm and he chuckled. "That guy is drier
than fucking Rosie O'Donnell's crotch. What the hell? Do you not know me
at all? I know that no one is going to put up with my bullshit and
ridiculousness like Emmett, but damn."
"Calm down. He's a good hire. You asked me for a manager, I hired you a
proper manager. You want a playmate" He patted me on the back.
"Here's your guy. Play on."
"Emmett wasn't a playmate," She said angrily.
"You know that's not what I meant."
"That dude won't be able to deal with me for two days. I give him two
damn days before he quits, Charlie." She pointed to the door and he
stepped around me.
"Then maybe you need to be a little more professional, Bells. Stop with
all the jokes and cursing. Not everyone finds it funny." He reached for
her shoulder, trying to be nice, but she swatted him away.
"Forgive me for having a damn sense of humor. It's the only thing that
fucking you know what, never mind. You wouldn't understand." She held
up her hand him and looked back at me. "Meeting in five minutes, Flower
Child; make sure you check your personality at the door."
"Bells," He called out as she spun around and walked away from us.
"She's alright. It's just what she does," I said.
"I just wanted her to understand that not everyone is going to act like
your brother did with her."
"She does. That's why she's upset."
~xxx~
~ Bella ~
All the fuckers were gathered for the stupid meeting and I hated it.
Not only did I have to introduce this lame ass new general manager, who
was not fun at all, but that fucking chair Emmett always sat backwards
in was glaring at me. Like, what did it want me to do? Not hire a new
general manager? Well guess what Emmett's old chair, I have a business
to run and can't fucking
Holy fuck, now I knew I lost my mind.
Talking to my clit and unborn child was one thing. Yelling at a chair
totally another.
I needed to get my shit together.
"Alright, shut up, everyone. Tonight we have a there's going to be a
fuck, this is Larry. He's our General Manager." I couldn't say new
because 'new' smelled too much like 'replacement' and he wasn't a
goddamn replacement.
Emmett couldn't be replaced.
He was more like, a stand in. Filler, like, the shit they put into something
that is actually good, but need to water it down or stretch it out to
make it cheaper and lessening the quality in the process. Yeah, that was
Larry. He was filler.
It was rude to say aloud, though and I shut the fuck up before I made a
fool of myself, again.

They were all still looking at me.
"Anyone you know, have anything?" Of course, Flower Child had to raise
his stupid hand. "Yeah, Babe?"
"Do you really hate my counters?" I wanted to play along, but I was
taking my father's advice and that meant it wasn't playtime. "Anyone
else?"
No one said shit and I dismissed them.
"Bell?" Edward grabbed my arm as he walked behind me to the kitchen. I
looked at him and he pulled me into his arms, hugging me without a word.
I just wanted to stay there for forever.
He let me go, but cupped my face in his hands and I thought he was
going to kiss me, but a playfulness I knew all too well flashed in his eyes
as he drew me closer. "You would make a cute ass otter." I smiled and
he kissed me, then, continued, "If I were an otter too, I'd think your
paddle tail was sexy. So sexy in fact, I'd probably share all of my fish
with you."
Definitely was going to marry this fucker.
"What if I was an ugly otter? Would you still share your fish with me?"
I asked.
"That's impossible, but yes. I'd still share. Even if there was a fish
shortage, I would give you my catch." I fell into him laughing and he
wrapped me back up inside of Edwardly goodness.
"Oh, baby, is that a phone in your pocket or are you just happy to see
me?" I rubbed up against him and pulled away.
"Not a phone, but not that either," He laughed. "I'll show you after the
dinner rush."
I followed him into the kitchen and hated that I had to listen to him
tonight. As Edward organized everything at the pass, I stepped up beside
him and pointed my finger to his stupid face.
"I'm not calling you 'Chef'."
This was still my kitchen. I didn't care if I was working the veg station
tonight or not. I was only doing it because my stomach at the pass was
fucking annoying and got in the way.
Plus, I would have to yell and yelling was not permitted, unless I wanted
to be a cunt-pickle and harm Baby Cullen, who was now Edward Junior.
Or Mini Edward. Or Anthony I would probably just call him
Anthony.until he was born and could do stuff that warranted him being
called by his full name.
The point is, yelling wasn't aloud.
"I call you 'Chef'," He argued, pushing his sleeves up.
"That's because I am."
"And I'm not?"
"No," I shook my head, trying to not smile.
"You trained me," He shot back.
"Fine. I'll call you Chef, but only if you call me Queen of the Kitchen
Fuck and don't mean it for the original way you meant it when you called
Bree that your first night here."
"Your Dad is here." He made a face and I wanted to laugh that he was
scared of Charlie.
"So?" I shrugged.
"Can't I just call you a Queen?"
"Queen of the kitchen?" I waited, raising my brows at him.
"Fine," He huffed. "Jesus Christ, Miss Queen of the Kitchen Fuck, can you
please get on your station."
"You see," I laughed. "That is exactly why I refuse to call you Chef. You
just totally let me, a measly line cook, tell you what to do."
"Shit." He closed his eyes and sighed in irritations.
"No, fuck."
He reopened his eyes. "Huh?"
"Queen of the Kitchen Fuck," I corrected.
"That you are." He put his hands on his hips and nodded, looking really
pissed off.
I wanted him. Bad.
~xxxx~
After the dinner rush was over, Flower Child pulled me along with him
outside, for the little 'surprise', he had promised. I sat next to him on
the pallets outback and he took something from his pocket.
"I tried to think of a romantic place, but the truth is that this is where
all of our shit always happens, so, it's fitting. I hope you don't mind." He
slid behind me, bringing his arms around me and flipped open a small
black box.
It was a ring.
His chin rested down on my shoulder, placing a kiss there and then to my
neck. I know he asked me the night before and I had agreed, but it was
so surreal right now, to imagine that he was actually going to propose to
me.
Me, the girl who made fun of people who did such things.
"Will you marry me, Angel?" He asked softly.
Say yes.
Say yes.
Say yes.
How could I deny Butterbean at this point? She had been through so
much.
"Yes," I nodded and leaned back to kiss him.
"Thank you." He gave me several more sweet kisses and then lifted my
hand into his. "This might not fit. Great Grandma Cullen had fat
knuckles."
"Shut up, Flower Child," I laughed.
"She did," He shrugged and slid it on anyway. "But I probably shouldn't
have said that, seeing as how it fits your finger, too."
"Yeah, Jerk. You just ruined the moment." He hugged me again, tighter
this time, rocking side to side.
"I love you, Bell. I promise to always make you happy."
"I love you, too. Even though you think I have fat knuckles." I held my
hand out and looked at it.
The ring was stunning, sparkling beautifully under the moonlight.
Great Grandma Cullen must have had some serious game with Great
Gramps Cullen, 'cause this ring was ballin'.
"You like it?" He asked.
"I love it. It's beautiful. Thank you." I tilted back and gave him another
kiss.
"So, I suppose" He took a deep breath and looked at me a little unsure.
"I suppose if Emmett were here, he'd say I was like a gangster or a
fucking a Mac Daddy or something for getting you to marry me."
"A pimp. He called you a pimp."
"Yeah, that." Flower Child looked down; taking my ringed hand into his
and his sadness killed me.
"Babe?" He looked up to me and I turned myself so I could cup his chin
into my palm. "All I have thought about, since Em died, is how differently
things would be, if I had just stuck to my fucking plan and never let
myself love you and stay here. Because there's a part of me that knows,
this shit never would have happened if I did. But then I start to think
about that day, with Newton and how all I was fucking doing that day
was going to get a stupid croquette and that there was no way there's
just no fucking way that shit was part of some damn plan gone wrong.
"It's absurd to even try and think about it, because that would mean I
would have to retrace every step I ever took and that only leads me
back to never having met Emmett in the first place, because he was
always linked to you and at some point, under some type of circumstance,
I would have met you and I would have fallen in love with you. It's
impossible not to and it wouldn't have mattered if you were my sous chef
or just Emmett's brother. I would have wanted to stay here with you,
just like now and I would have been there, trying to buy a fucking snack
off a street vendor and Newton's friends would have been too and the
same shit would have happened.
"The only way Newton wouldn't have cared about who I was that day is
if you never did any of the things in your life that made him a part of
yours, and again, that's a lot of steps ago. And you wouldn't have
Squeaks and you know what I'm saying. I plan everything, Edward. I
want everything to be my way and to be in control and I thought all this
time I was that it was me and I set my life up so that I couldn't fail
and I could get hurt and it was the stupidest fucking thing I ever did,
because for all my efforts, a fucking fried food changed all of that.
"That choice. Not loving you or not loving you or whether or not to go to
stupid Canada. Buying a simple croquette." I lowered my hand and
cleared the tears from my face.
I laughed and looked back to him again.
"If Emmett were here, he'd tell you that he was mad jealous of you,
because he got stuck with Rose and you got to nail me and marry me and
our son is going to better at football, and if he thinks I'm going to
change that kids dirty ass diapers, just because he isn't here, he's
fucking wrong." I pointed to the sky and he smiled finally, capturing my
hand into his and kissed my ring.
"Unstoppable spirit indeed, Bella." He kissed my hand again. "My brother
was fucking right."










Chapter 30 "Dancing in the Rain."

~~ Bella ~~
There was a time when I was twelve, we were living in Forks and I ran to
my father's diner, crying my eyes out. This little pricky kid, Ronnie, was
picking on me, again.
I hated Ronnie. He was a goddamn loser of all losers, but because his
father was the Chief of Police, he got away with everything, and thought
he was unstoppable.
The idiot teased me just about everyday, but that day in particular, he
was teasing me because I tripped getting off the bus that morning and
had to spend all day in wet clothes, covered in mud.
As soon as I pushed my way through the door, Charlie glanced up at me
through the pass' window. I sat myself down at one the seats along the
red counter top and sulked until one of the waitresses brought me a
milkshake.
Being bullied sucked ass. I hated it.
I sat there sipping my milkshake, and knew he was still watching me, so I
glanced up and chanced a peeksure enough, he was. A shy smile
appeared on his scruffy face and he disappeared from behind the window.
His boots thumped over the sound of the giggling teenagers behind me
and the cheesy music playing and my slurping came to a halt as he sat
down beside me, presenting a plate of fries.
I fucking loved Fries- his especially.
They were way too salty and he always mixed the ketchup with mustard
on my plate, just how I liked to eat them. They replaced little things like
I love you and I'm sorry your mom doesn't call.shit he never
said.except with the fries.
When I was half way through my food and feeling like the sugar in the
shake mended my heart, he finally spoke up and told me if anyone ever
picks on me, to kick them in the knee until they beg for mercy.
Also, to make sure I looked them up when I became rich and famous so I
could mail them five dollars, exactly what they were worth.
Sitting here now, looking at the front page of the paper, seeing Emmett's
heartwarming smile, I wanted to find those three fuckers who hurt him
and kick them in their fucking knees until I had no toes left to kick with.
But unfortunately they weren't just bullies, they were goddamn
murderers.
I told Flower Child once, to take down a monster, you had to become
one.sitting here now, that's how I felt. If I saw anyone of
these.these.monsterswho killed Emmett, I would be able to do it, I
think.
I could kill them; the hate was strong enough in my heart.
"Sorry, Baby Cullen," I rubbed my hand over my stomach and tried to
simmer down, not wanting that negativity around him.
He deserved better.
I glanced back to the paper on my desk, rubbing my fingers over Em's
smile, feeling the tears welling in my eyes.
"You do, too."
Someone knocked on my door, pulling me from my reverie and I called for
them to enter. To my pleasure, it was Flower Child.
And the fucker brought me a coconut smoothie.
"For my Baby Mama," He smiled as he sat it on the desk, leaning in to
kiss my hair.
"You didn't have to do that," I kissed him back, "but thank you."
"I didn't get to see you this morning. You abandoned me." He took a seat
on the arm of my chair and smoothed his hand over my back.
"I have a lot to do. I've been slacking like crazy."
"Bell, all you've been doing is working." He twirled a string of my hair
around his finger as he called me out on my lies.
"I just feel better when I'm busy, okay?"
"Sitting in here reading that shit," He nodded to the paper, "isn't going
to make you feel better, Angel."
I huffed, keeping my eyes on my work and replied, "Especially when I see
that they are going to be released on bond this morning." I reached for
the smoothie, feeling way too much like a damn twelve year old version of
myself right now.
"I know. My dad called me a little while ago. Since we're being honest
here, that's really why I came by. I don't want you going anywhere until
I come pick you up.and no hanging around out back, please?"
"Anything else, Father?" I looked up to him and his face fell. "I'm sorry,
I knowbut shit, Edward, I could say the same thing to you too, seeing
how these assholes are friends with Newton, who clearly has issues with
you."
"Wanna know something funny?" He asked.
"I don't see what could be, but sure."
"Jess is engaged to him." He reached for the paper and flipped until he
found the article inside and pointed. "Unbelievable, right?"
"I'm sending her to the meat grinder if you don't get custody this time
around. That's all there is to it, Edward." I tossed the paper back to the
desk and he leaned down and kissed my head again.
"It'll be alright. I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sorry."
"I'm fine, but there's no way in scorching Hell Newton is going to be
Squeaks.fucking anything. He isn't going anywhere near her and if
Jessica thinks her murderer-loving-ass is going near her, she can go fuck
a monkey, too."
Before he could reply, Larry knocked on the door and poked his head in.
"Oh, I'm sorry."
"No, it's cool man. I was just leaving." Edward slid off of the armrest
and leaned down to me. "I gotta go before Grandma freaks out. She
hates being there without me." He kissed me on my lips and forehead and
Butterbean started to sing for him to stay with those nice lips.
"Ben is probably burning your kitchen down," I teased.
"He's alright. He just needs a good kick in the ass every now and then."
He kissed me again. "Remember what I said, please."
"Yeah, yeah. I'll stay here and play with Larry."
Fun. Fun. Fun.
"I love you." He poked my stomach. "And you." Baby Cullen loved his
daddy, too.
"Me too, Babe."
"Love you too, Larry." He patted his shoulder on the way out and poor
Larry looked so confused.
He was in for one hell of a week.
I gave him 'til lunch before he quit.
"Take a seat," I nodded and tried to ignore Emmett's face on the paper.
I promise to give him as much hell as possible.
"So are you and" I cut him off.
"Larry, I don't talk about my personal life. You're here to work, so let's
just do that." I handed him over a stack of papers. "I need you to go
through those and see who has been going over their hours. Also, the
payroll. I'm not really able to travel right now, so you will need to make
arrangements to go to Las Vegas this week on your own. Laurent is a real
screw up and needs a good ass reaming. You've given one of those before,
right?"
"Um"
"Like, you can be stern, yes? Put someone in their place?"
"Uh"
"Fuck." I picked up the phone and dialed Flower Child, clicking on speaker
phone.
"Miss me already? If you would have stayed this morning, I could have
given you"
"Babe, you're on speakerphone," I warned.
"Oh," He laughed, "Given you a hearty breakfast." He tried to recover
and I laughed, cupping my face.
"Shut up, Jerk. Listen.yell at me."
"What?"
"I've just totally fucked up your kitchen and we are seriously behind. I
also may have gone over my allotted hours by twenty and fucked up my
food budget. Yell at me."
He said nothing.
"Flower Child!"
"I can't do on the spot yelling, Bella." He laughed. "Shit, you could have
warned me or something.
"You're useless." I hung up the phone and sighed hard. "Let's go." I stood
up and pointed to the door.
Larry looked scared and he should have been. We were going to find
Angela.
I found her cleaning the wait-station and did my best to swallow down
all the bitterness from our previous argument about Ben and Edward. I
put on my best smile and she gave a very forced one in return.
"I need you to school Larry in Yelling 101."
Her smile turned more genuine and she grabbed his hand, shaking her
head. "Come on, man."
I laughed as she pulled him through the doors, to the back. Someone
tapped on the front door, startling me and I jumped slightly, feeling the
goose-bumps rise on my skin.
"Fucking shit," I shook my head and recognized it was Edward's friend,
Lauren.
What the fuck does she want?
"Oh yeah, Flower Child," I said sarcastically under my breath as I walked
to open to open the door.
"Hey, Elizabeth said Edward was here? Can I talk to him?" She asked.
"You just missed him. He left a few minutes ago."
"Crap. I don't have time to go back over to his place. Uh, could you give
this to him when you see him next?"
Next? Did she not see my stomach? What was I? A ship passing through
his little Edward ocean.we effing lived together for Christ sake!
"When I get home, I'll give it to him." In more ways than one, douche-
waffle.
"Thanks." She nodded and turned to walk off. I looked down to the
envelope and called out to her, seeing Emmett's name. "Hey, what is
this?"
She turned around and stepped closer. "My father is handling Emmett's
case. "His trust, too. I guess that's what he left to Edward."
"Oh, right." I said softly. "Uh, can I ask you something?"
"Bella, I can't answer anything about the case," She guessed.
"I just want to know if these guys are going to walk. I saw the damn
paper this morning."
"I'm not allowed." She stood her ground, shaking her head.
"Listen," I stepped closer, "He was like my familyplease.I'm not asking
for specifics, I just want to know what you think. From a lawyer's point
of view."
She debated for a moment, but then looked up to me. "No matter what
the judge says, Bellathere will never be a sentencing harsh enough for
what they did. That's what I think."
I nodded and backed away, holding up the envelope. "I'll give this to
Edward." Going back inside, I walked straight to my office, ignoring
Angela and Larry as they came back in, and shut I shut the door.
Sitting at my desk, I stared at the envelope, knowing what was in it
already. I was there the day he sat on the plane, flying to Paris with
me, listening as I ranted about how with traveling so much, he needed to
have a Will made out, just in case.
He said he was going to leave everything to his niece.
As far as I knew, he never changed it and I felt sort of bad, wondering
how that would make Rose feel now. Not that Edward or myself would
allow Peyton to do without anything, but still.
"I hope she spends it on something good, Em." I tossed it on the desk and
stared at the paper again.
Lauren's words reigned in my ears and as much as she irritated the shit
out of me, I knew she was right. Nothing could ever justify what was
done to Emmett and just thinking about how these assholes could possibly
be free to roam around and harm someone else.or Flower Child.
I held my belly and breathed, trying to stay calm, but that was quite a
task when the possibility of losing all you held dear to you was in
question.
Knock Knock
"Bells?" Charlie poked his head in and I smiled.
"Hey Dad."
"Just wanted to let you know I was here. Sorry I ran a little late this
morning."
"Dad, are you crazy? I should be apologizing to you. Not only was being a
brat the other night, but you have been helping without one word of
complaint for months now." I slumped down into my seat and sighed.
"I told you I'd stay until the baby was here. I try to be a man of my
word," He shrugged.
"Well, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have yelled at you."
"Have you thought about what I said, at all?" He asked.
"I'm trying. Change isn't easy for me thoughobviously." I rolled my eyes.
"Well, just try. I think you and Larry could get along great if you just
tone it down a bit, Bella. Anyhow, just wanted to check in. Are you
staying for service?"
"No, Edward and I are supposed to go shopping for baby stuff after Tatu
closes."
"Alright, well, just stop in before you go, Kid." I nodded to him and he
ducked back out.
I snatched the paper and the envelope from my desk, opening up the
bottom drawer, thinking if I tossed it in there I could forget about it for
a while, stupidly.
As I shoved the files back, making room, there was a business card in the
bottom drawer I hadn't seen since the Fourth of July.
I picked it up and rolled my thumb over the name, then looked back at
Em's face.his smile and the envelope that contained his entire life.
There was no fucking way these asshole's were going to get away with
taking it from him.
~Flower Child~
I wondered if she knew she was glowing.
The smile that was begging to spread across my face was hard to hide as
I watched her hold up item after item to me, fully amused by each little
saying the baby outfits had.
So far, we had made the educated guess that our son would, love his
Daddy, think his Grandma was the greatest in the World, and Bella's
favorite the shirt that said, I'm not staring at you, I'm pooping.
"What are we forgetting?" She asked, chewing her lip.
"I think we have everything, Sweetheart. Other than the furniture, but
we should save that for after we move, probably."
"Word." She nodded and looked down to Squeaks. "Is there anything you
want Pipsqueak?"
"Puppy," She pointed to the pet store as we passed it.
"We can't have a puppy right now, Squeaks. One thing that likes to poop
a lot at a time, okay?" She teased.
"Peeeese?" She begged.
"Maybe after the baby is born, but not now. How about shoes or a shirt?"
Ness crossed her arms and didn't answer.
"Renesmee, Bella asked you a question."
"I want puppy!" She whined.
I scooped her up and pulled her hand down from her face as she rubbed
her eyes. "We can't have a puppy. Daddy and Bella would have to trade
you and the baby in, is that what you want?" I tried to tease, but she
was too cranky and shoved her face into my neck to hide.
"Alright, fine. Someone obviously had a hard day at school." I hoisted her
up higher and took Bella's hand in my free one as we started to walk
again.
"Sorry," Bella said.
"It's no big deal. Something tells me school is going to make my child
much moreinteresting." I smiled.
"Well, she has a lot more influences...but we were sort of dragging her
around all day, too. It's only natural," She shrugged. "We should get
going, let her rest."
As we exited the mall, my eyes couldn't help but to dart around the
parking lot.
Was I paranoid?
Wouldn't you be?
I had no idea where those guys were, now that they had been released
on bail and the thought that they could harm Bella or Ness or myself was
at the forefront of my mind.
"Here," Bella dug into my pocket, finding my keys as I held Ness, who
had fallen asleep in my arms, and helped me to get her in the car.
When we arrived home, Bella carried Ness in her arms so I could grab our
bags. As we rode the elevator up to our place, I watched as she rocked
Ness and kissed her face.
How I had gotten so lucky, I was clueless.
Bella helped me put Ness to sleep and as we closed her bedroom door, I
took her face into my hands, kissing her softly as I trailed my feet
backwards, walking towards our room. She held onto my wrists; following
me as I led her to the bed. I sat down on the edge of the mattress,
lowering my hands to her hips and guided her onto my lap, so she could
straddle me.
My face nuzzled into her hair and planted a few kisses along her neck,
then rested my face against her chest, holding her close to me and loving
how her fingers felt, massaging into my hair.
"I love you." I whispered. "You're so beautiful, Bella." My lips kissed once
to her chest and I hugged her tighter.
"I love you too, Babe," She said quietly. "I missed you today."
"Me too. I think tomorrow you should come play with me."
Bella laughed and pushed me gently with her hand to my back. "If I
weren't so tired, I'd play with you right now." She rested down onto my
chest and I laughed.
"I am serious. I'd like for you to spend some time with me tomorrow. I
think it would be good for you to get away from that place for a while,
Angel."
"You just want me to bless your stupid restaurant with my genius." She
poked my face and I grabbed her hand.
"Don't be a smart ass. I'm trying to be serious, Bella," I huffed.
"Why is everyone trying to bring me down lately?" She pushed against
me, looking upset.
"I'm not, come here." I pulled her back toward me and kissed her face.
"I just miss you."
"SorryI'm not trying to be Sensitive Sallybut I spend all day with
that dry ass Larry dude, having to watch everything I do and getting
Charlie's stupid mouth running at me to not be.well fucking me and then
if you start too, I think I might go jump off a cliff. I swear."
"No cliff jumping," I laughed. "I'm not telling you to change, baby. I love
you as you are, you know that. Charlie is just being your dad and looking
out for you."
"I don't know why I have to change just because this one dude doesn't
get me."
"You don't," I cupped her face in my hand and rubbed my thumb along
her cheek. "Being Bella is what got you where you are in life. She's the
type of girl I look at and hope someday, my daughter will grow up to be
like. The kind of girl I'm going to marry and love for forever."
"Are you trying to swoon me, Flower Child?" She smiled.
I pulled her closer, wanting that smile pressed against mine. "Always."

I kissed her until she started to squirm on top of me, making me laughing
against her lips. "I thought you were tired?" I teased.
"Mmm." She rubbed her face along mine and then slumped down to my
shoulder. "I am."
"Then stop giving Lt. Dan ideas," I whispered, slapping her playfully on
the ass.
We changed after that and I held her in my arms, lulling her to sleep as
I hummed her our song, but towards the end, as I rubbed my hand over
her stomach, I felt something against my palm and Bella tilted her head
back.
"Did you feel that?" Bella asked and I nodded. "Mmm." She snuggled
back into me and I left my hand over the spot, felling a few more faint
thumps.
It was a wonderful way to fall asleep.
~xxx~
Bella looked so happy right now and I was ecstatic that she was working
in my place today and not hers. She needed to be here, around people
who loved her and not over there, dealing with the bullshit Angela was
putting her through or staring at that stiff, new general manager, Larry,
wishing he were Emmett.
"You are going to have the best fucking pancakes of all time," She smiled
wide and poured the coconut milk into the batter. "Oh my God, you
should like, be so happy you know me and shit."
"I am," I smiled, watching her work.
"The pussy lickings will be so amazing," She giggled and poured a ladle of
batter onto the griddle. "I can't believe no one around here has coconut
pancakes, like, are they fucking nuts? You can buy fresh coconuts on
every damn corner practically."
"Maybe people don't want to eat coconut pancakes?" I shrugged and she
whipped her at me, looking as if I just peed on the Pope's head or
something.
"I'm sorry, but I believe I've agreed to give you my vagina for the
remainder of my lifetime, yes?"
"Mmm hmm," I nodded, pursing my lips, trying not to laugh.
"Okay, so maybe you'd like to take that back now. 'Cause, I'm pretty
fucking sure that my three-time-award-winning, five-star-ass, knows that
people should flock to any place, on the goddamn planet, that serves
coconut pancakes." She made a face and looked back to her creation.
"It was just a guess." I leaned off the counter and moved to stand
beside her. "I'm sure they'll be great, but what are you going to top
them with?"
"Fresh berries and a coconut sauce. Speaking of which, get me some
fucking cream and make yourself useful. Shit. I'm pregnant up in this
bitch and doing all the work. Lazy fucker." She shoved me with her free
hand.
I scooted behind her and pushed her hair to the side, so I could bite her
neck.
"Flower Child!" She squealed and scrunched her arm, trying to get me
off, but I didn't let her. "You're going to make me burn them!" She
laughed.
I kissed the spot I bit and rested my chin down on her shoulder, rubbing
my hands over her stomach.
"Have I told you that I love you, today?" I kissed her again and she
relaxed into my arms.
"This isn't going to get you out of helping," She laughed and tilted her
head towards me. "But I love you, too."
I cupped my hand to her cheek and kissed her only long enough to get my
point across and not long enough to burn her precious pancakes.
"Fuck, I am good!" She said, flipping it over as I went for the cream.
"You're telling me," I said under my breath as I looked in the fridge.
"Babe? Can you get me some juice or something, too? Thirsty as a
motherfucker over here."
I snorted and shook my head. Thank God Grandma Cullen wasn't here yet.
Regardless of how much she loved Bella, I don't think she could handle
the new language in the kitchen. She could barely tolerate my cursing
and it wasn't nearly as bad, or consistent as hers.
"Sweetheart, I love you being you, but there is a small person in there
that can hear you." I tipped the glass of juice towards her stomach
before I handed it to her.
"He can't hear me," She took a drink and after she swallowed said, "It's
like being underwater. All you hear is muffled words."
"How do you know? Maybe he has super hearing."
She stared at me, scrunching her face all up like I spoke in a language
she didn't understand.
"What are we having? Fucking Superman or Spiderman or something? Of
course he can't fucking hear me, idiot." She handed me back the juice
and I laughed, watching her mumble under her breath.
As I was putting her glass in the sink, I saw my grandmother come in and
smiled.
"Well look who it is," She wrapped an arm around Bella and squeezed.
"My favorite person."
"I thought I was your favorite person?" I teased.
"You just moved down the list. You stole my parking spot this morning,
Junior Cullen."
"You're too old to drive anyway. You should be getting a ride Grandma," I
laughed.
She looked at Bella. "There is a reason why we love him, right?"
Bella laughed. "Yeah, but I only do because of his skills in the bedroom. I
don't know what you could possibly have to love him for, seeing as how
you probably haven't looked at his pecker since he had one the size of my
pinky."
"It was never the size of your pinky," I said adamantly.
"He's right," My grandma said, "It was smaller."
Bella cracked up at my expense. "Burrrrn, Flower Childand by a fucking
lady with a cane and shit."
"Laugh it up, Bella. See if you ever get another ride on it."
"Awe, poor baby got his feelings hurt." Bella patted my cheek as she
walked by. "You know this kitchen sucks ass. You have it all out of
whack."
"That's what I've been sayin'," Grandma agreed.
"Well, since you two are only going to talk crap about me, I think I'll go
hide in my office."
"You make a sucky chef, Edward! Real chefs dish it back out." She
snorted and kept working.
"Ha-ha," I made a lewd gesture to her as I exited and she laughed
harder.
My grandmother thankfully didn't see.
As I walked through the kitchen doors, I saw something taped there. I
walked towards it and unlocked the door, pulling it off and then closed
back up.
As I unfolded it, I saw it was from Jessica, asking me to meet her later
on. It was odd and I had no idea why the hell she would do that. I
hadn't spoken to her except for a couple of times when she actually
called to talk to Ness since I was awarded temporary custody.
I shoved the paper into my pocket and decided I'd tell Carlisle about it
later on.
"Flower Child!" I heard Bella calling me from the kitchen and I walked
back over to see what she wanted. As I entered she smiled and curled
her fingers at me.
I was fed the best damn coconut pancakes of all time.
~xxx~
Bella stuck around for most of the morning, cooking and randomly helping
out. One of the girls I had working in the kitchen was new and not really
that experienced, but she worked hard and I appreciated her efforts.
Bella seemed to really take a liking to her as well and showed her some
of the things she could do better, but it wasn't like how she would have
normally yelled or screamed.no.
She was being patient and kind and understanding.
It baffled me to no end.
When the rush slowed down in the morning, we took a break outside and
I asked her about it.
"So, you seem to really like Lucy. What's that all about? I don't think I
heard you curse once," I teased.
"She's a fast learner. You should hang on to her. She'll be good."
"How do you know that? I mean, how do you see it? I know she works
hard, but so does Ben, that doesn't mean he'll be good."
"It's just a feeling," She shrugged. "I can't explain it. It's the same way
I felt about hiring you. It's just a hunch."
"So you want to drag Lucy into your office and make sweet, sweet love
to her?" I narrowed my eyes playfully and she gave me a shove.
"Fuck off, Flower Child. I didn't want to nail you. Okay, that's a lie. I
did, but beyond that, I just got a vibe. I told you, I can't explain it. If
you want me to train her, I will. You just have to beg."

"Beg? What am I a dog?"
"No, you're a boy.a boy who desperately wants the smartest, prettiest
girl in the entire land to train the only person in that shit brigade of
yours, how to be an amazing cook, possibly chef." Her smile made me
want to kiss her, but her words made me want to do evil things.
"Fine, Bella, the smartest, prettiest girl in all the land, will you please,"
I reached for her hand and kissed it, "please, pretty please, teach Lucy
how to cook?"
"Maybe." She shrugged.
"That wasn't very nice." I shook my head and let go of her hand.
"Alright, fine. I'll teach her, but under one condition," She said.
"Name it."
"You let me and Grandma re-arrange the kitchen."
"Deal," I stuck out my hand and she shook it. "You know you're not a
very good deal maker, Bella?"
"Um, fucking excuse me, Flower Child? How so?"
"I would have given up the best pussy lickings in the world, too."
Her mouth opened and then closed, turning up into a smile. She patted
me on my arm and said, "You might just make a chef after all, Flower
Child. You might just make a chef after all."
"Maybe if you're nice," I leaned in to her ear, "I'll still give you some." I
kissed her cheek and she grabbed onto my coat, tipping up to meet my
lips.
"You better." She whispered, pressing her lips to mine.
I pushed her hips down gently, resting her back on her feet and bent to
meet her instead. My hand cradled the back of her head, kneading her
hair as we kisseduntil Grandma made her presence known.
"Boy, we have food to cook in here. Don't even think I won't yank my
money out from under your behind, Junior Cullen. And leave that girl
alone, I think you've done quite enough already," She nodded to Bella and
then waited, holding the door open.
"I'll be right in, Grandma." I smiled, knowing I couldn't dare move
without showing the woody I was sporting.
"I'm giving you 'til ten. One, two, three" She went back in counting
louder from inside.
"Like I can lose wood in ten seconds," I said, pushing Bella away.
She looked down to it and slapped her hand over Lt. Dan.
"Are you crazy?!" I cupped my dick, apologizing silently for the abuse.
"I'm not supporting your punk ass and she looked pretty serious." Bella
tugged me along and I continued to rub my hand over my crotch.
Just like old times.

~~Bella~~
I was really enjoying working at Flower Child stupid restaurant.
Who knew?
At the end of the day, I was pretty much covered in syrup, reeking of
grease and my feet were a little sore, but hell, I loved it.
It had been a long time since I actually worked in a restaurant, if you
know what I mean and it I missed it. This was why I wanted to go into
this business, not to be a pencil pusher or sit in meetings. I just wanted
to cook and be creative and see the way people's face lit up when they
enjoyed something you made with your hands.
I smiled the entire time we drove to Ness school, right now, and didn't
even realize I was until I felt my cheeks start to hurt. That hadn't
happened in a long time too, and even thought I felt a little guilty, I
enjoyed it as well.
Flower Child parked in the school lot and took my hand as we walked
towards Squeaks' classroom. The other parents stared at us as we
approached and for a minute I didn't know why until I took in our
clothing.
Edward looked just as bad as I did, possibly worse and I brushed my
hand over his shirt laughing.
"I thought I taught you better than this."
"You're just as bad, Angel. Though," He ran his hand over me quickly.
"It's much more fun to clean you off."
"Small children at play," I warned, whacking his hand away.
"Just take that thing off before you embarrass the snot out of Squeaks.
I hated it when Charlie showed up at my school looking like a dirty dish
rag. Kids picked on me for forever."
He listened, unbuttoning his coat and handed it over to me. There wasn't
much I could do, seeing as how I had no coat to remove. I patted down
my shirt and just decided I would try and hide when class let out.
"Are you little Renesmee's dad?" A woman asked.
"Yes," Edward nodded.
"I thought so. She said you were a chef to my son, Garrett. I'm
Charlotte." She stuck out her hand to Edward and he shook it. "You must
be her mom, she said she was a chef too," The lady stuck out her hand
to me and I shook my head.
"I'm not her mom. Her motherJessica used to work for Rachael Ray's
Show," I explained.
"Oh, but Garrett said her name was Bella." The woman looked confused.
"Yes, I'm Bella, but I'm not her mom." I wasn't sure how the fuck to
explain this crap.
"Bella is my fianc," Edward interjected. "And a chef and in her spare
time, she tries to be a mother to my daughter," He smiled.
"I see. Well she's very lucky. I can't cook at all," She laughed and
looked back at Edward. "I actually run the PTA and I was wondering if
you would be interested in signing up for the school's annual bake sale?
Possibly being in charge of it? We are really short on help this year and
it would be so great to have someone like you help out."
"Um" Flower Child laughed. "It's kind of hard to make time, but maybe
I can do something. Why don't you stop by for breakfast in the morning,
maybe we can work something out?"
"That would be great. It's the old library building, right?" She asked and
I looked at her, wondering how the hell she knew that.
As I caught sight of the other mother's, I realized, Flower Child was like
the last shiny coin at the bottom of the ocean. He was probably all they
gossiped about. A dude with a daughter who cooks, owns a restaurant, is
way too politeand looks like a God.yeah.he wasn't allowed to pick up
Ness at school alone anymore.
That was for damn sure.
"Is that what it used to be? I never knew." He smiled and I thought they
would all faint.
Bitches.
I know, Butterbean.
The bell rang and she wrapped up her little conversation, agreeing to
have breakfast at Tatu. All the little boogers ran out of the class room
and I scooted back, both to hide my disgusting self from the kids and
also, because they scared me quite frankly.
Squeak's face lit up as soon as she saw Flower Child and he scooped her
up, kissing her face. "There's my baby." He reached for my hand and she
stopped him.
"Daddy, wait! Need to say bye to Gawwett." She pointed back to the
little boy next to Charlotte.
"You're too young to be saying good bye to Garrett's. Wave as we walk."
I smiled, looking at his face that was clearly freaking out and Ness
wiggled herself, leaning on his shoulder to wave.
"Byyyyyee!" She hollered.
"Bye Crazy Frog Girl!" The boy yelled.
Ness Squealed and waved again.
"Bye Gummi Bear Boy!" She giggled back.
"Definitely too young for nicknames," Flower Child grumbled, digging his
keys from his pocket.
"I think it's cute. Will you be my Gummi Bear Boy?" I hung on his free
arm and he gave me the evil eye.
"No."
As we got to the car, he placed her in the back and I turned around as
he started up the car.
"Why is Garrett a Gummi Bear Boy?" I asked.
"Cause that's how the song goes," She said happily.
"What song?"
"Daddy knows," She pointed to him.
Before I could even get my mouth open, he held up a hand and shook his
head. "I'm not singing it so don't even ask me to. I'll show you the video
at home."
"Why are you the Crazy Frog Girl?" I asked again.
"That's how the song goes, Bewwa!" She flailed her little arms, like 'duh!'
I looked back to Edward and he sighed. "I'll show you that one too."
I sat right in my seat, and was half way through trying to figure out how
a song about a Gummi Bear would go, when it happened.
The song on radio was that stupid Pink song I used to sing to Emmett and
even though it was stupid and ridiculous, it brought me to my knees. I
tried to look towards the window and hide my tears, but as the chorus
came on, Edward heard one of my sobs and touched my cheek.
"You alright, baby?"
I nodded even thought it was a lie and wiped my face, not wanting to
ruin Squeeks' good mood in the backseat. She deserved to be happy and
carefree and think about nothing but silly songs about crazy frogs and
Gummi Bears.
Edward realized it was the song and changed the station, putting on AM
talk instead.
For the first time ever in my life, fucking politics were less depressing
than pop music.
~xxx~
I watched the videos once we reached the apartment and laughed like
crazy at how funny that stupid frog was, doing his little motorcycle
impression dance thing.
The Gummi Bear song, I decided, was the best fucking song ever created
and should win endless awards.
Edward did not agree and seemed to really hate it.
I played it non-stop for the rest of the after noon and until dinnertime.
After I checked in with Alice, to make sure all was cool at The
Workshop, I met Edward in our kitchen, ready to school his ass on how to
make the best goddamn coconut chicken in all of creation.
As you can see, my love for cheese has been replaced with coconuts.
Not only was this a choice I made consciously, because I found out that
soft cheeses can actually make Baby-Edward-Anthony-Cullen-Junior-Mini-
Him retarded, but also, I just really was feeling coconuts lately.
I loved how they smelled, tasted, felt.
I just craved the ass out of them.
Unfortunately, they were about as fattening as cheese, and do nothing to
help this bump issue I had going on. Edward assured me, nothing would do
that and it was inevitable to even try to control, but I told him to shut
his pie hole and tried my damndest not to feed mine so much.
That of course didn't go very well.
"Ready to get your sweet ass handed to you, Babe?" I wiggled my
eyebrows at him and he smiled that stupid grin of his.
Butterbean liked his smile; she thought it was the most intelligent smile
of all time.
"What are we making?" He asked.
"Coconut chicken with almond rice."
"Angel, aren't you tired of coconut? Can't we have likeI don't
knowlasagna?" His face lit up, bouncing his brows in enthusiasm.
"I can eat cheese, dick." I rolled my eyes and his face slumped.
"How about stir-fry? I could really go for stir-fry and it's loaded with
veggies, perfectly acceptable for weird pregnant woman who eat way too
much coconut."
"You're walking on dangerous ground, Edward. Do not speak ill of the
coconuts," I warned.
"Please?" He begged. "Or honey chicken? I'd give my right nut for honey
chicken," He nodded.
"I like your right nut, so no," I teased.
"Bell, I love you, but please don't make me eat coconut chicken." He put
his head down on the counter, tucked into his arm and because Edward
has the amazing power of persuasion on his side, he peeked up at me
showing me his stupid blue eyes that didn't let me say no and begged,
"Please?" one more time.
He was eeeeeeeeeevil!
"Fine, make honey chicken, Jerk." I sighed, tossing the rag at him,
wishing it were something much harder.
"Thank you." He leaned across the counter, like a kid who just got
permission to go driving from his parents and kissed me.
"Yeah, yeah." I waved him off and he came around, digging out a pan for
his stupid chicken.
As he worked on dinner, I sulked, really wanting to have been able to eat
coconut chicken and really fearing that I would love his stupid honey
chicken and become addicted to it too.
Did he not know how scary new foods were?
I watched him as he stood there, smiling all happy like and I wanted to
punch Butterbean in her goddamn mouth for letting him get away with
this shit, but in truth, he looked so cute and pretty fucking sexy if I
really was being honest.
It had been a while since I downright just ogled his ass, especially in the
setting of a kitchen and forgot just how great it was.
No wonder bitches from the PTA were all up on his junk.
I'd be too, or fuck should be. I was the one with damn ring, right?
"Papa, I made this," Ness held up a picture to him as she came running
into the kitchen.
"Daddy has dirty hands, Sweet Pea," He wiggled then at her. "Show me."
She held it up a picture to him with two hands and he smiled. "Show
Bella," He nodded to me and she turned around holding it up.
It was a picture much like the one on the fridge, except this one had me
sporting a rather unattractive stomach that resembled a beach ball.
"I'm not that fat," I shook my head.
"It's Baby," She explained.
I smiled and hoisted her up onto the counter, handing her the bottle of
garlic powder. "Show your daddy how to cook, would ya?" I winked and
she shook some into Edward's hand until he said stop.
"Papa? Can we cook for Gawwett?" She asked and I thought Flower child
was going to have a coronary.
"Why do you like that boy?" He sighed, mixing the chicken a little harder
than needed.
I, of course, laughed my ass off.
"He makes other kids stay way." She said quietly.
"What kids?" Edward asked.
"Mean ones." She said even quieter.
"Who is being mean towards you?" I asked.
Jesus, this was kindergarten, no? Was I really going to have to get all
'Hand That Rocks the Cradle' already? I was sure that wouldn't come
until at least fifth grade.
She didn't say anything and I held her chin in my hand.
"Squeaks, if someone is mean to you, you don't take any shit from them.
You kick them in their knee until they beg you for mercy." She laughed a
little and I nodded to her.
"Um, I don't think that's the best advice, Angel. Just tell your teacher,
Ness."
"Edward if you tell the teacher, they will just pick on her more, because
then she will be a tattle tale too. I was picked on in school, I know these
things," I argued.
"I don't think violence is the right answer, Bella. She's five."
"Fine, how about this; you play with Garrett, we'll make him cookies and
when we move to our new house, were going to have the biggest bad-ass
playground there ever was and when those mean kids ask to come over
and play on it, they wont be allowed and we'll laugh at eat cookies while
they are at home, crying and being the mean little shit heads they are."
Squeaks smiled and nodded, looking pretty happy at this new knowledge
of having a bad ass swing set to look forward to.
Edward didn't seem quite as amused, but let it go anyhow.
Obviously he didn't have any better ideas.
Edward went back to the chicken and as I was about to help a knock on
the door came. "I'll get it."
I left Ness with him and walked over, looking in the peephole and saw
Rose. I paused for a moment, not expecting to see her and then quickly
opened the door.
"Hi, umsorry to drop by like thisbut I was hoping we could talk?" She
looked like hell. Her blonde hair had dark roots showing, no make-up on
her face that was riddled with dark circles under her eyes and I swear,
those were the same clothes I saw her wearing last week.
"Sure, we're just making some dinner." I held open the door and she
stepped through, looking just as unsure as I felt.
"Hi Wose!" Ness waved and she smiled small at her in return.
"Have a seat," I motioned to the couch.
She sat in one corner and I sat in the other. It was extremely awkward.
"Um, do you want something to drink?" I went to stand, but she shook
her head.
"No, I'm fine. UhI just have something that I thought maybe you would
want and I umwell here." She handed me over an envelope and I opened
it, shoving my hand in and pulled some papers and pictures out.
They were things from Emmett, shit we had done from the openings and
as friends. I shoved the pictures back in and tossed it on the coffee
table.
I heard Edward telling Ness to go put on her shoes and I looked back to
him.
"We're going to go down to the gym for boxing lessons. Be back soon," He
winked.
As they exited, Rose looked at me confused.
"Some kids are picking on her," I explained.
"Why? She's so sweet. I could see if she was like Edward, but she's the
complete opposite." I stared at her and she broke a smile. "It was
supposed to be a joke. Sorry."
"I know, I was just surprised to hear you say one," I explained.
"There's only so much crying one can do," She said quietly.
"How's Peyton? I've been trying to make it down to see him, but you
know.it's just been really busy and everythingso"
"It's alright. I know it's hard. I don't even want to be there most of the
time," She looked up to me. "He's doing better, though. Gained a pound,
doctor says that's really good. I just wish I could take him home, you
know?"
"Yeah," I nodded, even though, I really had no damn idea what the hell
she was going through.
"Look, I came here for something else too. It's probably messed up to
ask, considering that I have never really been very nice to you, but it
was what Emmett wanted so, for him, I am going to ask." She wiped her
face of her tears and I waited.
"He wanted you and Edward to be the Godparents. I don't have any
sisters or brother's or anything, so I'm alright with that, if it's alright
with you? Would you do that?"
"Yeah, sure," I nodded. "I mean, I don't know what the hell one does,
but I'll learn. I'll learn and I'll do it."
She laughed, finally. "I don't know what they do either."
I laughed at her omission and for a brief moment didn't fucking hate her.
"We fought about who it should be. I wanted Jess for a long time, before
all the shit at the wedding happened of course, and he wanted you. SoI
just thought it was fair," She shrugged.
"Rose, I'm sorry, but what the hell do you see in Jessica? Seriously? Why
are friends with her? You obviously have an entirely different set of
ethics, seeing how you are being a great mother to Peyton and shit, so I
don't get it."
"You don't know her, Bella. And Edward is your man; of course you're
going to want to hate her."
"Um, Rose, I sat and watched Jessica sell her kid to me for a job on
Rachael Ray. That had nothing to do with Edward. I'm not trying to pick
a fight, but Jessica made me hate Jessica, not Edward. In fact, all he
ever did was defend her behavior."
"Well, I just know a different side. He wasn't always the nice guy you
know today."
"Maybe not, but that has nothing to do with Ness. Her being a shit
mother has nothing to do with how she feels about Edward and whatever
he failed to give her when they weretogether."
"I know," She nodded, "I know."
"Edward is a good father, no matter what happens between him and
Jessica. He is always a good father," I said.
"I know that, too," She sighed. "I didn't come here to talk about Jessica
though, hopefully that will all be over soon."
"They still haven't set a court date," I huffed.
"Well, I'm pretty sure he will win, seeing all that Jess has going against
her." Her words sounded very bitter. "She fucking deserves to lose, too. I
knew Newton was a creep, but I never thought," she looked down and
sniffled. "I never thought this would happen.
"What" I was nervous to ask and not so sure I wanted to know. "What
exactly happened that day?"
"Didn't Edward tell you?" She asked.
"I never asked," I admitted. "I wasI'm scared to know."
"Then maybe I shouldn't tell you."
"Noit's ok. I should know andyou should be able to talk about it. If
you want to. What I mean is; I'm here if you want to talk about it."
I really didn't want to talk about it and prayed she would just leave.
That would be best, if she just left.
Rosalie scooted closer to me though, and I trembled, feeling like the
damn Grim Reaper was sitting next to me, not just Emmett's widow.
"He asked me the night before if I would make him cookies for Ness' class
so he could bring them to her. He was scared that she would be too shy,
since Edward always babies her so much. I offered to make them at
home, but he said it would be easier for me to just make them with all
the others in the morning and didn't want to bother me," She started to
sniffle and I just knew this was a bad idea, as my own tears began to
run.
"He was so sweet to me, always. I opened early that day for this old
couple that I saw sitting in the chairs on the patio. I felt bad because
they always came in everyday and they shouldn't have to wait if I am
there, right?" She shrugged, not waiting for me to answer.
"Anyhow, I opened for them and they came in and got coffee, like always
and went back out, but I forgot to lock the door again and when I was
taking the cookies out of the oven, I heard the door chime and thought it
was Em, 'cause he should have been there already.
"When I went to go tease him for being late, there was this group of
guys I knew Mike was friends with and I knew they caused trouble, so I
tried to play it off and act like I wasn't ready to open, but the one guy
remembered me from one night I was with Jessica and knew that I knew
Edward.
"He asked me where he was and I told him I didn't know, then he started
asking me about his brother and I asked why he needed to know that and
he told me he had a favor to pay back to Mike. I didn't know what he
was talking about, since Emmett never told me about what happened to
you at the beach and sure as heck didn't know he was in jail for hitting
Newton." She shook her head and then continued.
"He told me about it, saying Edward's brother beat up Mike and I was
shocked, told them they were liars and he asked me how I knew that,
and stupidly I told him that he was my fianc and I knew he would never
do that. He smiled when I said it and I knew right away that he was
going to hurt me or somethinghe shoved me and I told him I was
pregnant and to stop.
"I begged him to stop! I was so scared he was going to hurt the baby
and by the time he got me to the kitchen doors, Em was coming in and
rushed towards me.
"There was like, three or four of them I thinkand all I know is that one
minute they were fighting and the next Em was on the ground and there
was blood. It happened so fast.it all just happened so fast." She put
her head down and cried.
I sat there in shock, unable to move, unable to speak, seeing it all play
out in my head. I remembered the guys and how they acted that day,
how scared I felt and how Rose must have felt the same, being all alone
in there with them.
Then Emmett
"He saved me. If he weren't there, they would have probably killed me or
raped me or something. He saved me."
I could smell Flower Child's honey chicken was done and the timer went
off just as I recognized it. We both jumped and I got up to pull it out of
the oven. Standing there for a moment, I pulled my shit together and got
her a glass of water and a paper towel for her face.
Walking back towards the couch, I felt so stupid; she didn't need a glass
of water and napkin, she needed a fucking award or something, because
she was a tough ass bitch.
I was wrong, again.
Settling the glass down on the coffee table I reached for her hand and
tugged her off the couch, making her follow me to the bathroom.
I put the seat down on the toilet and sat her there.
"No offense, but you look like shit." I grabbed the towel and wiped at
her face.
To my surprise, she laughed through her tears and I smiled in response.
"Seriously, you look like a fucking raccoon and Em would kick my punk ass
if he knew I let you get like this." I turned on the water at the sink,
wetting the towel with some warm water and wiped her face clean again.
"My Gran used to say a little lip gloss makes everything better." I
reached into the drawer that was mine and pulled out my bag of
cosmetics.
"She sounded like a smart lady," Rose sniffled in agreement.
"She was," I nodded. "This is called 'tickle my fancy', so, let us pray." I
went to apply it and she laughed harder. "Hold still, woman."
After I got the lip gloss on her, I applied a little make-up to her dark
circles and then attempted to brush out the rat's nest her blonde hair
had become.
When it was pulled back into a neat pony tail and she had changed into
one of my shirts, she almost looked brand new and no longer like a woman
who had the weight of the world on her shoulders.
"Bella?" She called quietly. "Do you think it was my fault? You know, like
karma for all the shit I did to Edward? I think it was. I think it was God
trying to get even with me for saying that stuff."
"No, I don't think that. Emmett was just trying to be nice and was in the
wrong place at the wrong time. It is no ones fault except those assholes
that killed him and they will pay Rose. They will fucking pay."
I left her in the bathroom as I heard Edward coming back in with Ness.
She came running up and punched me in the leg.
"Owe!" I laughed.
"Ness, I didn't say to hit Bella and if I remember correctly I said not to
hit anyone unless it was to protect yourself. Bella clearly was unarmed."
He smirked.
"Sowwy." The Squeak squeaked.
"It's alright." I smiled at her and Edward picked her up with one arm,
curling her into his face and bit her tummy. "Mi pequea boxeadora"
"What's that?" She asked.
He flipped her over his shoulder and held onto her hands, looking at her.
"My little boxer," He blew a fart at her cheek and she wiggled to be
free. "You gonna be good if I let you go? I know a choke hold you can't
get out of, Ness." He teased and she nodded, so he freed her.
"Help set the table please," He pointed to the drawer and I was glad he
was making her do things on her own. Normally he would let her go play
while we did this. Flower child was letting go, finally.
"Um, Rose is going to stay for dinner, so we need an extra plate." I said.
"Oh, okay." He nodded and reached for another. "How is she?" He asked
softly.
"She's alright, just freshening up a little," I shrugged and went for
glasses, the same time he went to reach for something and I knocked the
door into his head.
"Oh, Babe," I laughed. "I'm sorry." I reached over and pulled his head to
me, kissing where I bumped him.
"I think you just killed my last brain cell." He winced, big baby. "I was
saving it for a special day too." He laughed.
I gave him a few more kisses and let him go, rubbing it with my hand.
"Sorry."
"It's alright. I'll just go over here while you get cups. Where it's safe."
He pointed to the other counter and moved.
I caught sight of Rose paused in the hall as I looked back and gave a
light smile. "He was talking smack about your hair earlier, I wacked him
for you."
"He needs more than a cabinet door to the face, but it'll do for now."
She looked at Edward and his lips curled, setting out the silverware.
"Keep it up and see if I share my chicken with you, Hale." He teased.
"Cullen," She corrected.
"No, you're not a Cullen yet." He shook his head and smiled looking at
Ness. "You haven't been inducted."
"Um, I married your brother, that makes me a Cullen."

Edward shook his head and whispered something to Ness, cupping his hand
so we couldn't see. She smiled wide and wiggled down from the table,
running over to Rose and kicked her hard in the leg.
"What the" She reached down and rubbed her leg and Ness giggled.
"Now you're a Cullen."
~xxx~
I stood the next day in front of the dreaded damn door.
When I told last night Rose I would come see Peyton, I meant it, but
standing here now, I just wanted to run. I hated that it scared me,
fucking hated it.
"Emmett, I swear to holy Christmas, I better not faint or pass out or do
any of the million things I think I am going to do if I go in there,
fucker," I said.to myself.
I blew out hard and turned the handle quickly, opening and closing the
door like I was running from someone and hiding.
Rose was there and she looked up and smiled. The baby was in her arms
today, not in that scary baby baker thingy and that at least was nice. It
seemed less.scary, somehow.
I had asked if it was alright to bring gifts and they said yes, so before I
came, I brought this little hat that I found originally for Baby Cullen,
but seemed like it would be more meaningful now for Baby Peyton.
After the nurse made me put on one of those creepy outfits that made a
'shoo shoo shoo' sound as I walked towards Rose, I held it out to her,
taking a seat beside her.
"I brought this, I don't know if he can wear it," I shrugged and let her
decided.
She laughed softly reading it.
I survived the birth canal.
"I think it's supposed to be funny, like when you ride a roller coaster," I
explained.
"It's great. Thanks." She smiled and I let it rest on my knee, gathering
the courage to look at the baby.
I chanced a peek and it wasn't as bad as I thought. He was sleeping and
looked kind of peaceful. His face didn't look like Emmett's as I feared it
might, in fact it actually looked like aturtle?
"He's beautiful, right?" Rose asked, sliding her finger down Peyton's little
face.
"He looks like a turtle," I whispered.
She whipped her head towards me and her jaw dropped. I felt bad,
thinking I offended her. She looked back to Peyton and snickered a
little.
"He kind of does."
"I mean, he's a cute turtle, but I think I just expected him to look like
Em. He doesn't, he just looks like.a really cute turtle," I laughed
quietly.
"Emmett would kick your butt for saying that," She whispered.

"I know. It scares me. You don't understand. We used to joke that who
everyou know.went first.would come back to haunt the other. You
have no idea how fucking scared I am at night that shit is going to
happen and like I'm gonna have Em's big ass sitting on me in my sleep.
Seriously, I'm petrified of that happening."
"I wish it would," She said. "I wish I could see him. Sorry," She stood
and placed Peyton back into the baby baker thing.
"Rose," I called out, wanting to apologize.
"It's alright. I just need a second." She walked out and I looked at the
nurse, unsure of what to do.
"It happens to her everyday. It wasn't you." The woman said
reassuringly.
I nodded and looked back to Peyton. His eyes were open and it was then
I saw it. He did look like Emmett. He had his blue eyes and when he
looked at me, it nearly knocked me breathless, because it was just like
looking like Emmett.if he had looked like a cute turtle, that is.
"I'd sing to you, booger, but I can't carry a tune worth a crap. You'll
have to wait for your Uncle Flower Child. He has musical gifts and stuff.
I'll keep you fat though, when you're old enough to eat hard foods.
Swear. You'll eat so much trifle and cheese you will have to be rolled to
most places." I smiled at him and scooted to the edge of my chair to get
closer.
"I'm sorry I didn't come see you sooner," I stuck my hands in one of
those weird holes, feeling a little brave and touched his mini hand. "I
was too afraid you'd be handsome like your Daddy. I was right, you are.
Lucky shit." I smiled and he still stared at me.
"Your father was the greatest friend I ever had and it was because of
him I get to have my babyin more ways then one, seeing as how he
introduced me to your uncle in the first place. He always looked out for
me and made sure I was happy and I promise I'll do that for you too, kid.
I'll always protect you. I promise."
~xxx~
I invited The Cullen's to come and eat at The Workshop tonight. It had
been a long time since we all sat and shared a meal and that was
important to me. It was what you did as a family and all of us deserved
that shit.
Also.we had been putting off the engagement shit and needed to come
clean.
I saw Grandma Cullen eye my ring that day I worked at Tatu, and I'm
sure she was only going to keep quiet about it for a short time.
Before they arrived, I went over things with Larry, who was actually
doing a good job, despite his desert-like personality.
In the kitchen, Alice had Ness next to her and I smiled, seeing her having
fun at the pass, dinging the bell I hated. Bells were for tools and I tried
to convince Alice to get rid of it, but she said she hated shouting and
needed it.
I wanted to debate over this and tell her real chefs fucking yelled, but
in the grand scheme of things, a little stupid bell really didn't matter
and if it made her happy, then fuck it, let her have her stupid bell and
ring it 'til the damn cows came home.
I grabbed a take-out bag while no one was paying attention and slid the
envelope from my pocket inside of it, making my way back out to the
dining room, wishing them all a good service before I slipped through the
doors.
There was a band here tonight, a group I knew from New York and it
made for a nice backdrop as the air, that was way too warm for
November, blew in through the doors, mingling with the aromas of the
restaurant.
I lingered only at the table four long enough to drop off the take-out
bag and then walked away, being sure to wish the man a good night and
to return to again soon.
Flower Child was at the bar when I walked over. He held up his drink to
me and said, "It's just Coke."
I smiled and kissed his cheek. "I wasn't going to say anything. Where are
your folks?"
"Mom called. They're running a little late. My father got held up with
work. You know, same old same old," He shrugged.
"That's alright. I just wondered." I looked to Jasper as he came over.
"Can I have some water with lemon?"
"Feeling a little risky tonight, Darling?" He teased.
"Drop a cherry in it if it makes you feel better," I shot back.
He winked and nodded. "One risky water with a cherry, coming right up."
"What is that guy's fascination with you?" Edward asked, nodding
towards the dining room.
"Jealous?"
"No, but this is the second time I've seen him in here trying to impress
you with his fancy wristwatch and he doesn't look like the type of guy
I'd expect to see you talking to."
"I wouldn't talk to a well-dressed business man? Have we met, Flower
Child?" I asked teasingly.
"He looks.shady."
"He had on Armani," I rolled my eyes.
"He looks like his name should be Tony and asking if you want to sleep
with the fishes."
I laughed at him and reached for my drink as Jasper set it down. "On
the house, Ma'am," He winked.
"Thanks sexy." I winked back and he smiled, then tended to paying
customers.
"Bell?"
"What? Jasper's Mohawk is sexy," I shrugged.
"I'm not talking about his retarded ass hair," Edward shook his head and
I saw jasper's eyes glance over, but then back to his customer. "I'm
talking about Fisherman Tony."
"He's just a business dude making business deals, Flower Child." It was
true, that was what this was - A business deal.
"What kind of business deals?" He asked more seriously.
"The kind little innocent boys like you want to know nothing about and
wouldn't understand if you did."
"Tell me," He demanded.
"You don't want to know, Edward. Trust me. I don't want to know." I slid
down from the bar stool and held my hand out to him. "Dance with me?"
Flower Child stared at me for a moment, but gave in, slipping down from
the bar stool and followed me towards the make shift dance spot in front
of the piano.
"You look very sexy tonight," I smiled placing my hand into his.
"I could say the same to you."
My eyes closed as I rested my head to Edward's chest and I counted his
heart beats along with the piano keys playing in the background.
When we stepped along with the chorus, moving to the right, I imagined
the man getting in his car, placing the take-out bag to the seat and
turning over the ignition.
On the middle of the chorus, stepping back to the left, I hugged Edward
tighter and saw each one of the asshole's faces as they pushed me
around that day on the beach.
Stepping back to the right; Edward's hand slamming into the guys face
and him falling down to the pavement.
To the left, Newton telling Edward he would hurt me and Ness. To the
right, the man would have spotted them coming from their lawyer's
office, and waited, following behind as they drove to their next
destination.
I wondered if they had families as Flower Child kissed the top of my
headif anyone would miss them.
When he spun me around, I smiled and pretended it was a dance of
celebration, as I counted down the final seconds in my head, knowing
that when the song came to an end, so would all of my fears.
For all of my jokes, silliness and inability to take most things too
seriously, there was one thing in life I did; the people I loved.
There was nothing humorous in thinking someone could harm them, had
harmed them and there sure as fuck wasn't a price on any of their heads
that was too high.
The businesses could go under, parish along with the accolades, prestige
and clout. None of that shit mattered to me anymore. There was a
medium somewhere I needed to find in between Edward telling me I could
be myself and Charlie wanting me to change and tonight, I found it.
As I finished my dance with Edward, it began to rain outside, and instead
of sitting at the dinner table, like adults, waiting for his parent's to show
up and being bored, I pulled him outside and made him dance to the
second song with me along the desolate sidewalk.
We were soaked and laughing like crazy, lost in our own stupid world as
he twirled me and lifted me into his arms. His smile was all I wanted to
live for and worth everything and anything that needed to be done, or
lost or changed in order to keep it for forever.
I needed to be able to be silly with him, even though, I was serious about
marrying him and committing everything in my life to him, to our son and
to Squeaks.
There was one thing about me that no one ever understood though. It
was something only Emmett had ever come to realize. Most of my humor
was truthful and filled with all the things I couldn't normally find the
courage to say, with a straight face.
If they paid attention, they would have known that, perhaps.
Flower Child caught it, on occasion, but I'm pretty sure this one passed
him by.
I wasn't joking when I said I knew a man with a meat grinder who owed
me a favor.
His name wasn't Tony.
I smiled as he twirled me one last time and I caught sight of Rose's
Bakery. My breathing was hard from dancing and playing and I wiped the
wet strands of hair from my face as I stared at it.
Flower Child's hand found mine again and I took my eyes away from the
door to look at him. He kissed my hand and twirled me around again, then
swooped me up into his arms.
I looked over his shoulder as he walked back towards The Workshop,
locking my eyes back on the door and then closed them tightly, allowing
the last vision before I reentered my new life, be him.
It was his laugh, his smile and the way his eyes always said everything
was going to be alright, even if his voice said nothing at all.
I needed to carry it with me, even if he wouldn't be.
"Good bye, Emmett."
My heart, finally felt at peace, no milkshakes needed.











Chapter 31: Truth and Trusts
Bella
I was humming, humming, humming.
Baby Cullen, Junior EdwardAnthony- whatever- was humming, humming,
humming, too.
Why?
Toasted marshmallow topped, vanilla ice cream milkshake- in my mouth-,
being served by Flower Child's sexy-Mother-of-Mary-ass.
Oh, this fucker gave such good milkshake.
Normally, I would be pretty pissed off right now, seeing as how Carlisle,
otherwise known as, Edward's asshat of a father, ruined our dinner
tonight by getting stuck in his office.
But Edward, other wise known as, the greatest fucking man of all time
who doesn't deserve to have an asshat for a father, made me a fucking
milkshake to make up for it.
I might not be twelve, but who doesn't like a milkshake, right?
Listen peoplethe fucking ice cream was made by him, with magical
vanilla beans that did things to my tongue which I am pretty fucking sure
should be, or is, illegal in most states.
Then the fucker made hand-made, yes, with his two perfect, stupid ass
flower tattoo-hello-this-is-how-I-earned-my-nickname-hands.
What was I saying?
Oh yeah
He made fucking hand-made marshmallows and then.breathe with me
folks.fucking swirled them in with the illegal vanilla ice cream, then
added the marshmallow fuckery, then topped Satan's creation with the
more marshmallow-hello-I-was-made-by Mr. Hot Hands.and then the
fucker took out a little torch and toasted them.
I had the most illegal, pussy wetting, gateway to the best blow job
Flower Child was ever going to receive, sitting in my hands.
Soooo, I was humming, humming, humming.
His stupid face, however, was staring at me and making feel all sorts of
self conscious. I turned away from him in my seat and hid my milkshake
orgasm.
Fucker was so invasive sometimes.
Mamma needed some alone time with this bad boy.
I would deal with him and the blow job shit later.
The idiot started laughing.
"Flower Child," I turned back around to face him, "Do you mind? Toasted
marshmallow and I are having a moment."
"Mmm hmm." Asshole was highly amused, resting his perfect face against
the back of the couch, still staring at me and marshmallow goodness.
"You know," I pulled the straw out of the glass and sucked it clean, "if
you served this shirtless at Tatu, you could retire in five years, I bet."
"That's a very sexist thing to say, no?" He slid closer and I rolled my
eyes.
"How about thisI have a child in my gut, so you see, when God made
man and woman, he was a funny ass guy and decided that 'woman' never
have to worry about being sexiest, seeing as how he made 'woman' push
human beings from our twats.
"Human beings, who happen to be the size of seedless watermelons.
Twats, being the size of apricots. You see the humor he had and the
right I now have, to tell you that serving milkshakes in the buff is a-oh-
fucking-k, don't you?" I took another pull of that deliciousness in debate
and he laughed at my words.
"Watermelon babies and apricot twats, got it," he nodded.
"Good." I took my last sip and then set the glass aside. "On a serious
note though, I really think that you should wear less clothes. I mean, you
have a pass window, people can see you. I would pay double for a burger
if I could ogle your ass while you cooked. I'm just saying, Babe," I
shrugged and sunk down into the seat, full of milkshake and great ideas.
"So, you're telling me to be likewhata male version of Hooters or
something?" He scrunched his face, looking rather unenthused about the
idea.
I smiled.
"Peeners," I giggled. "No waitI can do better than that." I shook my
finger at him as I thought, but he didn't allow me to finish.
"I think it's time for bed, Angel," he sighed and scooped me up into his
arms, lifting me from the couch.
"Lt. Dan's," I tried again. "You could all wear camo pants and nothing
else. Umph, you could retire in two years, then."
"I'm not serving burgers in camo pants or half naked, but thanks for the
business advice, Bell."
"Fine, but when you're fifty and still slinging burgers, don't expect me to
help or be around, 'cause my happy ass is going to lounging on a deserted
island somewhereprobably fucking eyeing up a dude I'm paying to strut
around in camo pants."
He said nothing, simply rested my annoying ass down on the bed and
walked to his side. I laughed lightly and tucked my feet under the
covers, snuggling myself in.
"Can I ask something?" I looked over and he was sitting with his back to
me, tipping his head to look over his shoulder.
"What Babe?"
He turned a little more, but kept his eyes down.
"Do you have a problem with the type of place I opened?" he asked
softly.
"What are you talking about?"
"Because it's not like the fancy shit you do." He was looking at me now.
"No," I shook my head and sat forward. "Babe, why would you say that?"
He looked away, simply bobbing his shoulder as his only reply.
"Flower Child, I was just joking. Not that you wouldn't make money doing
that," I laughed, "but I was just kidding. You're place is fine, shit, I
liked working there better than I like working in my own."
He nodded and reached over to turn off the light. I waited until he was
settled in bed and then moved over towards him, laying my head to his
chest.
"Edward?" I said softly and he hummed. "I really was kidding. I'm sorry
if it hurt you. I wasn't trying to do that."
"I know," he kissed my head and played his fingers through my hair, but
didn't hum our song like usual.
He was thinking; distracted.
"I really am sorry," I said again, hoping he would believe me.
"It's not you, Bell. Go to sleep," he whispered, moving his free hand to
my cheek, caressing soothingly at my skin.
"Are you happy there?" I asked.
"Yes."
"Then what's wrong?" I lifted my face and he sighed hard.
"I just wish sometimes that maybe I waited" he laughed humorlessly
and shook his head(.) "That's sounds funny, right? Like, it should be my
damn motto for life."
"Are we still talking about the restaurant?"
He laughed and tucked my face back under his chin. "Yes, but saying
that aloud just made me realize how much shit I do out of emotion, orI
don't know, impulse? I guess that's the word."
"Why do you wish you waited? You're doing well, better than I thought
you would, to be completely honest. Last month your sales were actually
better than The Workshopwhich really kinda chaps my ass."
"I could have hired someone, like a manager and done things differently,
from a more business-like mindset."
"Um, what am I? Fucking chopped liver? Shit, you could pay me in
milkshakesand that would be about the smartest fucking business
decision you ever make," I laughed.
"That's what I mean, though. I shouldn't have to come to you and ask
those things."
"Because?"
"Because, the whole point was to do something on my own and be able to
take care of us."
"So you are just going to go to one side of Miami and I'm going to go to
the other. Like, we high five and then meet up after the game? That's
bullshit, Edward."
"So is not being able to take care of your wife," he argued and my head
popped the fuck back up.
"Don't even start that shit, Flower Childand I'm not your wife yet, so
really don't start with that shit."
"You didn't want to do things on your own, little Miss I-moved-to-New-
York-All-By-Myself?" he shot back.
"I wanted to be successful. If I wanted to be on my own, I wouldn't have
hired Emmett. Every Superman needs a Lois, Edward."
"You want to be my Lois?" He smiled.
"I'm fucking Superman, stupid. You're Lois." I poked his cheek and he
laughed.
"Thanks, I feel so much better already."
"Okay fine, on your turf, you can be Superman, but in most instances,
you're Loisespecially when you're crying like a little fucking girl in bed
over not having an awesome partner and wha wha wha, my name is
Edward" He started tickling me at this point, rolling me off his chest
and to my back. "And I have it soooooo hard! My mommy stills buys me
underwear and nobody loves meeeeee!" I started making crying sounds
and he tickled harder.
Baby Cullen didn't like Daddy's tickles.
"You're going to make me pee, stop, Jerk!" I laughed, pushing him away.
He paused but stayed over me. I pressed my hands to his face and leaned
up to kiss his perfect, stupid ass chin.
"If you were to wear a cape cooking burgers, you could retire in one
year."
~xxx~
My shoulder; someone was shaking it.
I tried to ignore it for the first thirty seconds, but by the next forty
five, I was highly annoyed and slipping out of my dreams that were laced
with coconut filled tubs, toasted marshmallows and Edward's lips. Oh, the
lips.
"Angel." The shoulder shaker was now bothering my ear. "Baby, wake-
up."
My eyes fluttered and I looked over my shoulder. First thing I saw were
those damn lips. I licked my own and debated briefly over the morning
breath issue I was sure to have going on.
He smiled with those damn, perfect lips. Fucker.
"I'm sorry, I know it's early, but I didn't want you to miss this."
He waved towards the open sliding-glass doors of the bedroom and I tore
my eyes away from his lips long enough to try and figure out what the
hell he was talking about.
"Come on." He helped me out of bed and we stepped out onto the patio. I
rubbed my sleep filled eyes and squinted against the bright glow of the
rising sun, sneaking its way up from behind the ocean that seemed to go
on for forever.
As my eyes adjusted, they focused on what he was trying to show me.
The sea was filled with boats and as my eyes really adjusted, I
saw.Santa Claus?
What the eff was Santa doing on a boat?
I had to be fucking dreaming.
"No more milkshakes before bed, Baby Cullen."
Edward laughed and wrapped his arms around me from behind. "They do
this every year. It's appropriate I supposed, considering we don't get
snow in Miami."
"Is that really fucking Santa?"
"Yeah. Ness is down there with my mom. He hands stuff out to the kids
once they dock."
"Free stuff? Like presents? We are so going down there." I pushed away
from the rail and Edward followed me as I went for clothes.
Down on the beach, Flower Child was right. Santa fucking handed out
candy canes, coloring books and score! Weird looking elf hats!
Miami was like, the best fucking place on earth. I swear.
I sat in the sand, watching the sun as it finished rising alongside Flower
Child as he watched Ness and Esme play with the other kids.
Santa was pure win, because the free candy cane fuckery was allowing
me to be able to finally lean over and kiss his stupid ass lips that had
been taunting me, especially right now, as they smiled watching Squeak's
cute 'lil self.
He flicked the bell on my elf hat and laughed, breaking our kiss. "Sexy,"
he commented.
"I know. I think I'll wear it all day." I lay back on the sand, really not
giving a shit- I needed a shower anyway- and went back to eating my
candy cane, wondering how life could possibly be any better.
"What do you want for Christmas?" Edward asked, lying next to me.
"Got it," I shrugged.
"Got what?"
"What I want." I closed my eyes and tilted my face to the sun.
"And that is?" he inquired further.
Was he serious?
I pulled the candy from my mouth and looked over to him squinting. "You,
stupid. The baby, free candy.fucking Santa Claus on a boat. This is like
the Willy Wonka fucking.I won the golden ticket bullshit, Flower Child.
Jesus."
He was still looking like at me like a 'tard.
"Allow me to clarify. You're perfect, Squeaks is perfect, I have a
successful business, in few months I'll have Baby Cullen and I'm filthy ass
rich. What else could I possibly ask for?"
"Mmm, how about a restaurant in Canada?"
My face fell a little at his words and I looked away, going back to
sucking on my candy.
"Is that a yes?" he asked.
"That's a, 'I don't want to talk about this'."
"Because you still want it and are being stubborn and not going to admit
it?"
Must not hit the man we just professed was perfect.
Must not hit the man we just professed was perfect.
Must not hit the man we just professed was perfect.
"You know, for someone who didn't want me to go, you bring it up a lot.
I'm starting to wonder if you're dropping subtle hints to me, Flower
Child." Not really, but it was deflection and we already talked about my
issues with being a deflecting motherfucker.
Right?
"Fine, I'll drop itfor now. Would you like to go sit on Santa's lap? He's
free, now." Edward nodded towards the red suited dude who looked
rather relieved to have no kids on his lap.
Was he stupid? Of course I did.
He helped me to my feet and we did just that. I asked for nothing, but
told Santa that Baby Cullen would love to have very easy, very painless
birth that didn't involve a wide-set vagina afterwards or any stretch
marks on his mama's tummy.
What? He wanted those things. I am his mother, I know this shit.
"You need this," I shoved my elf hat onto Esme's head and she laughed.
"Get some candy cane striped thigh-highs and you might have a very
happy Mr. Cullen on your hands, Mama Cullen."
"Bella," she blushed, shaking her head.
"I'm just sayin'. You all have been married for like what? At least
twenty-two years? I think some elf loving might be needed. Plus, Papa
Cullen probably has a freaky side. He's a lawyer; meaning he is highly
stressed and I read that people who have very stressful jobs tend to be
very freaky between the sheets. How do you think I ended up with Baby
Cullen?" I patted my stomach as we walked.
Her face was bright red and Flower Child looked like he wanted to follow
Santa as he left on his boat.
I laughed all the way back to our apartment.
~xxx~
Flower Child
I had to rush once we got back up to the apartment, as I was already
late for work. Bella had Ness today, since it was the weekend and she
and Esme made plans to go pick out furniture for the baby's room. We
were moving tomorrow and my apartment looked like a warehouse with all
the boxes stacked around.
"Be good for Bella and Grandma," I kissed Ness' cheek and she ignored
me, completely consumed by the French toast in front of her. "Love you."
I kissed her again and then Bella, who was seated beside her.
"Tell Grams I said 'hi' and 'where the heck is the baby blanket and bread
pudding she owes me?'" Bella took a bite of her food and I smiled against
her hair.
"Will do. I'll see you guys later. I love you." She gave me her lips this
time and I kissed her gently, then, moved to the door.
"I see how it is. No love for the woman who bared you," Esme said.
I paused in front of the door and walked back towards Esme. Bella
looked amused and I hugged my arms around my mother's shoulders,
getting laugh from her. "There, now I am extremely late and grandma
will kick my a.my butt for sure. Happy?" She tilted her head and shook
it 'no'. "And I love you.even though you are totally messing up my
morning by being a needy mother. You know I love you, Jesus Christ," I
laughed and she hit me.
"It is sacrilege to say that. I don't like it."
"I'm leaving for work, feel free to explain that to Bella. I'm sure she
could use some knowledge on the matter."
Bella whipped her head towards me and I winked at her.
"Just because you are no longer my executive chef, does not mean I am
opposed to throwing things at you inside the confines of a kitchen, Flower
Child."
"I am leaving. Enjoy your day of shopping. I love you all."
Finally I went for the door and made my way out, mumbling a million
words under my breath and thankfully arrived only twenty minutes
behind.
Unfortunately, when I got thereI ran into the last fucking person on
Earth I wanted to see.
"I left you a note, prick." She had her arms crossed, sitting on top of her
car as I climbed out of my own.
"Oh yeah, I must have.forgot." I didn't forget, I gave it to my father
and he said to not speak to her. I was trying to do that right now, but
she was making it difficult as she followed me to the back door.
"I need to talk to you."
"Well Jess, I'm not allowed to do that. Call my lawyer and talk to him if
you have something to say." I rifled through my keys for the one to the
door and she placed her hand over the lock. I looked up to her and she
stepped closer.
"I have something you might want."
"You don't have anything I want, Jessica. Not anymore and never will.
Move your hand, please." I was only going to ask once.
"Yes, I do. I'm willing to trade for it." She didn't move her hand.
I dug in my pocket and pulled out my phone, flipping it open. "Are you
even listening to me?" She asked.
"Nope." I started pressing the keys and she knocked it from my hand.
"You're really pissing me off, Jessica and being incredibly stupid." I
pointed up. "There is a camera right there."
"I'm trying to tell you something, prick."
I leaned down and picked up my phone, then knocked on the back door,
as she was still holding her hand over the lock and I was not going to
fucking touch her in any way, shape, or form. Ben opened the door and
she stepped back finally as I smiled at her and turned to step inside.
"Fine, let your brother die in vain. See if I care, shithead." Her words
stilled me. I spun back around and stepped through the door, slamming it
hard behind me, causing her to jump.
"What the fuck are you talking about?"
"I thought you didn't want to know," she shrugged.
"If you're playing games you can go fuck yourself, Jess. You have thirty
seconds to say something or I'm fucking calling the police on you for
trespassing and breaking my phone. I don't have time for this shit."
"Fine, I know where they hid the knife." She smiled, looking rather proud
of herself and it took every ounce of restraint in my being to not beat
her where she stood.
"Where? How?"
She laughed. "Like I said, I'll trade you."
"I'm not giving you Renesmee. Emmett is gone and as much as those
assholes need to fucking fry for what they did, I'm not giving you Ness to
see that it happens. You can go fuck off now." I took a step back and
she stepped forward.
"I don't want Renesmee, you idiot." She rolled her eyes and I wasn't sure
if I should feel relieved or want to beat her even harder.
"What the hell do you want then? I have nothing else," I shrugged.
"I want out of this place. I want to never see you again. I want my
fucking life back that you stole. That is what I want," she spat.
"Well, I don't have a fucking time machine, Jessica, how the hell would
you like me to help you achieve that?"
Insane, she was insane. My dick, my dick had been insane.
"I need money. I need to get out of here," she said angrily.
"I can't help you out there, either. Sorry."
She rolled her eyes and waved towards the building. "You have all of
this. Bella has an entire fucking empire and your parents are loaded, yet,
you don't have anything!? You know, why am I even wasting my time with
your ass!?" She turned and went towards her car.
Shit what if she was telling the truth.
Hesitantly I took a step and called out to her. "How much?"
She turned and looked at me. "Five million."
Fuck.
"I don't have that kind of money." She shoved her keys in the door and I
scrambled for words. "Fine, wait. What if I could? What if I did give it
to you?"
She looked up, "I'd tell you where it was."
I stood there for a second; trying to think and she huffed, then, went to
get in her car. I moved quickly to the door and closed it before she could
get in.
"I want you to give me Ness. If I agree to this, you have to give up Ness,
too. There's no fucking way I'm doing this shit unless you give her to me."
"Then you better double that number." I hated her so much for even
considering it, yet, at the same time, was beaming with joy on the inside.
"I mean it, you're going to sign whatever my father tells you to sign and
you never come back, ever. She has a mother and it isn't you."
"Yeah, yeah I know. Bella, your precious fucking Bella." She shoved me
and I stepped away from her car. "You better tell Bella that I don't
take checks, prick."
I wasn't going to ask Bella. Bella would kill me.
"I'll call you when Carlisle is ready."
Carlisle. I was going to ask Carlisle.
She climbed into her car and I stood there watching as she drove away.
It wasn't until my grandmother opened the door and started to yell at
me that I snapped out of my thoughts.
It was going to be a long fucking day.
~xx~
I sat in my car when I arrived at my parent's house. Could I really do
this? It went against everything I believed in and everything that had
separated me from my father. Agreeing to give and trade money for my
daughter, money for vindication of my brothers death was just.it just
wasn't right.
My heart knew this, it screamed it to me.
What was though?
What if I allowed things to take their natural course and let the chips
fall as they may? Would I be righted? I've tried to do all I could to
prove myself worthy; to do what was right, legal, permitted by God, and
it never seemed to work out in my favor.
What if Ness ended up back with Jessica?
What if the courts still couldn't see me as worthy?
NewtonI'd fucking kill Newton if he touched her, thought of her, even.
She was my child, I was her father, her protector, the person who was
supposed to make everything alright and keep away all the bad
thingseven if one of those things was her own mother.
I blew out a hard bit of breath and climbed from my car. My feet felt
heavy, as if they had boulders attached to them as I made the walk to
the door.
The house was quiet and I looked around for a moment. It seemed each
little piece of this house was a reminder of something, even if some
reminders, like Emmett's pictures, had been removed. Their absence
seemed fruitless, seeing as how them not being there was actually more
painful than if they were.
It was like everything else though in this family; sweep it under the rug
and pretend it doesn't exist, then, maybe it will go away.
Right?
Wrong.
I remembered each insignificant thing.
The third railing of the banister was missing because as children, we
broke it horsing around and Emmett begged my mother not to replace it
during her remodeling phase, for he wanted to have it be a constant
reminder than he could always kick my ass.
Well, it was.
The room I passed on my way to the staircase was where I saw Esme
sitting everyday when I used to drop off Ness before I went to work at
the grocery store. It was after the separation papers were signed and
she thought she no longer needed sleep or food.
It was much the same way she often looked now whenever anything,
everything, reminded her of my brother.
This needed to end.
All this pain, it just needed to end. It began with Jessica.it began with
me. It needed to end that way, too.
I gave a light knock to the door and turned the handle. Carlisle looked
up from his work and then waved me in. "Have a seat."
He went back to working and I studied his movements silently, just
debating, thinking, wondering how the hell he had lived with all of this
for so long. How could he have lived with himself?
"Is there something you wanted, Edward?" He still wasn't looking at me.
"It's why you don't like me, isn't it?"
His face crinkled as he lifted a stack of papers and spun in his chair,
towards the fax machine, placing them into the slot.
"Care to explain that further? Then, perhaps I could answer."
"You tried to pay off Jessica and I ruined it. If I never knew, never
stopped you that day, everything would be differentor the same."
"Except that you wouldn't be here speaking to me right now," Carlisle
added.
"Like I said, the same." I looked down to my hands and listened as he
punched the numbers on the fax machine.
"I never went out of my way to ignore you, Edward. I only wanted to
provide for my family in the very best way. You're now a business owner,
tell me, is that not your intention?"
"I see Ness off to school every morning and make sure I am there to pick
her up everyday. I planned my work around her. Not the other way
around."
"Well, then you are very lucky to have such a luxury. If this is why you
came here, to blame me once again for everything I have ever done
wrong, then you can leave. This has grown tiresome."
I looked up to him and shook my head. "It isn't, but sitting here with the
reason for why I came has me thinking that I feel very much like how
you must have that dayand for the first time in over five years, I
understand why. I don'tI won't ever forgive you for doing thatbut I
think I understand it."
"Why?" He asked.
"Because it was wrong."
"No, why do you understand now?"
"Jess came to me today. She was sitting on her car when I got to work
and she made me an offer.and I agreed to it even though I know in my
heart it isn't right, but it would be right for Ness."
"Care to share?"
"She wants money..a lot of money.she will give up Ness and tell us
where the knife is thatyou know."
"She knows this?" he asked surprised.
"That's what she said," I shrugged.
"How much money?"
"Five for the knife, five for Ness."
"How very ironic," he mused. "Same price for life as death."
He started fumbling through papers and said nothing else. I watched him
and he seemed unshaken by what I just said, going back to his work.
"So?" I asked.
"So what?"
"So, what are we going to do?"
"I'm not giving her money. The case around Emmett is solid and there is
no way you're going to lose custody over Bunny Rabbit this round."
"But Dad-"
"Edward," he put his pen down and faced me. "The point of a father is to
not allow your children to make the same mistakes you did. I am
supposed to be wiser. I am not going to fail you this time and I am
certainly not going to honor Emmett's life by paying those who harbor
those who took him away."
"And if you can't? If you can't win this case, then what, Dad? What
happens when I have to hand Ness over Jessica and she is married to
Newton? What then? Still hanging onto foolish pride?"
"This isn't about pride. This is about right and wrong and handing over
ten million dollars to some little whore that both blessed our lives and
took away our lives is wrong. Staying up night and day to ensure to that
this family receives no more heart ache is right. That is what I am doing.
That is what I have always tried to do. That is what you have never been
able to see.
"Forgetting that the damn bike on your birthday, when you were a child,
does not makes me the worst father who ever graced this earth, Edward.
I have been trying to explain to you for how many years that good
intentions are useless and actions mean everything, haven't I?
"A roof over your head, a good school, proper education, sufficient food in
the fridge and on the table every evening- that is my purpose as your
father. That is what I gave, that is what I worked for, that is why I
would be viewed a fit parent.
"I made a mistake that day with Jessica, I'll admit to it and own up to
my wrong doings, but I won't allow you to make the same mistake I did
and I certainly won't allow her to manipulate everything I have worked
so hard for and had to lose along the way.
"I didn't enjoy missing your birthdays, school affairs or having you look at
me with disappointment in your eyes all these years, but it was what was
necessary in order to provide for you; to be able to provide for my
granddaughter now and not allow trash like Jessica to dictate what
happens to this family."
He looked back down to his work for a moment and then back up again.
"And don't you even think about asking Bella for the money."
I almost wanted to smile.
"Bella would beat me within an inch of my life for even suggesting such a
thing."
"Really? I was under the assumption she had no qualms about such
things."
"Dad," I warned. "Don't talk bad about the woman I am marrying."
His eye brow quirked and I closed my eyes, shaking my stupid head.
"You and Bella are engaged?"
I sighed and rubbed at my face. No way out now.
"We were going to tell you all last night, but you know, you were
busy.providing."
To my surprise, the corner of his mouth lifted, allowing a light smile to
don his lips.
"Don't say anything to Mom, Bella would kill me." I rubbed at my face
again and Carlisle chuckled lightly.
"Don't worry, I won't. That is good news, I'm glad you stepped up to the
plate."
"I didn't do it to appease you, Dad."
"I didn't say you did. I simply said I was glad."
I nodded and then went back to my original reason for this meeting.
"Anyhow, Jess broke my phone, its on camera, too." I dug out my phone
from my pocket and tossed it on the desk.
To my surprise, Carlisle laughed. "She really is a piece of work, isn't
she?" He shoved the phone into his desk drawer and then looked back to
me.
"The court date is set. That is what I was working on when you came in.
Two weeks. Renesmee will be yours in two weeks."
~xxx~
"Bell?" I called out, entering the apartment. "Baby? I'm home."
It was quiet and I made my way to the bedroom to find her lying in
there with Ness. She saw me and placed a finger over her mouth as I
made my way to the bed. I laid down, cuddling up to Ness as she hugged
herself to Bella's front.
"Hey baby," I whispered, placing a kiss to her forehead. "Sorry, I'm late.
I had to go see my dad."
"What happened?"
I shook my head. "They set a court date."
"Oh. When?"
"Two weeks," I drew Ness' hair away from her sleeping face and tried to
find the trust I needed in my father to keep his words. There was no
way I could lose her again.there was just no fucking way.
"We have a crib," she snickered. "I opted to purchase it disassemble,
just to fuck with you."
"Thanks," I smiled at her and she wiggled her head closer, asking for a
kiss.
"I bought Ness some things for Christmas, too, but I had to lie and say
they were for your other illegitimate children she doesn't know about.
Hope you don't mind."
I sucked in a breath, pretending to be shocked. "How did you know about
those?"
Bella laughed, leaning against my face. "This is why I love you."
"And I love you." I kissed her face and she leaned back, looking at me
with soft eyes; that glowed in the faded light of the sun.
"Flower Child?"
"Yes Angel?" I stared at her, allowing my fingers to feel how perfect she
was and all my words in the parking lot to Jessica, about my daughter
having a mother already, came true as Ness wiggled herself into the
comfort of Bella's arms, further.
"What do you want for Christmas?" she asked, leaning her head atop
Ness' and keeping those soft eyes on mine still.
I leaned in and kissed her face, then locked my eyes with hers again.
"Got it."











Chapter 32: Sugar
Fame will go by and, so long, I've had you, fame. If it goes by, I've
always known it was fickle. So at least it's something I experience, but
that's not where I live.
Marilyn Monroe

Bella
"I know, I know, a day off. Whatever will Bella do?" Emmett handed me
a cup that housed coffee and I smiled. "Got room for me on that bench?"
I scooted over and allowed him to take a seat beside me. It was Arizona
and way too hot to be drinking coffee outside in the sweltering heat, but
it was how we always started our mornings, work or no work.
"Gran is making banana bread." There was a smile on his face that just
couldn't be described. "And she told me I could have the first piece."
"Congratulations." I took a sip of my coffee and hummed.
"Did I get it right this time, Sugar-Sugar?" Fool called me that because I
had an obsession.
"Like I'd tell you." He knew, he understood me and shit.
Emmett smiled into his mug and sipped happily at my side. The sunrise in
Arizona was amazingeven if it did make it too hot for drinking coffee,
but I had a friend at my side and a lovely grandmother in the kitchen.
She was making banana bread.
Emmett was a fucking fool in my mind because he actually believed he
was going to get the first piece. Not that Gran wouldn't let him, but I
sure as hell wouldn't.
I didn't sit through Renee's bullshit about how fifty-two different pairs
of pants looked on her newly renovated ass- I gave her Lipo money for
Christmas- to get second dibs on the best banana bread known to man.
Man was a fool. Fool was Emmett.
I fucking loved his ass.
"You're thinking about work, aren't you, Sugar?"
"Laurent needs an ass kicking."
Not much had changed.
"Bella?" I turned to see Edward stepping out onto our new porch.
I heard the truck when it pulled up five minutes ago and all the guys
laughing and joking with each other and even Angela calling out for me,
but the bench in the middle of my new backyard had me trapped- locked
up in the memory of Emmett and all the joy simple things like sitting on a
bench and sipping morning coffee could bring.
I missed those days.
"That bench needs to go." I climbed to my feet and kissed his cheek as I
passed.
Edward didn't need to know why.
He followed me back around to the front and returned the kiss I gave
him before walking to Sam's truck.
"This is a really nice house," Angela commented.
It really was. Not in that fancy, expensive sort of way that would
warrant features in magazines and shit, but it was justhome. I wanted
a home. Not a house.
A fucking home.
Some place Squeaks could play. A backyard, that would allow us to do
those normal things, like barbeque and have parties. Maybe for birthdays.
I wanted to swing on a stupid porch swing watching the sun rise and set,
with Flower Child, until his face wrinkled and still looked handsome like
his grandfathers'. I don't knowdrink a nice glass of sweet tea and yell
at Edward Anthony Junior for playing to close to the street.
Fuck, being pregnant was doing shit to me.
We took a seat on that swing of happy thoughts and watched as the boys
unloaded our things.
We talked about the Ben issues, which at this point was like the pink
elephant no one wanted to mention and finally decided to call a draw.
Basically, Ben was better with Edward, regardless of how he arrived
there.
I was growing so much as a person, I tell you.
Angela did all the weird shit everyone wanted to do to me at this point:
poking my stomach, talking about my stomach and asking to see it.
I let her touch it, but anyone who requested to see it, even Edward,
could fuck off like no one had ever fucked off in their life.
When the truck was empty, Edward took a seat on the stepsthen laid
down and called me a million curse words.
I laughed so hard.
It was funny marking something fragile when it was simply a box full of
books.
Lots and lots of books.
"You're pure evil," he groaned, placing his arm across his face.
Sam took a seat next to Edward and wiped his face on his shirt. "Man oh
man, we are almost in December, right?"
"I know." Edward sat up. "I was thinking the same thing. You'd think
after living here most of my life I'd be used to it by now, but no,
disappointment every year when it's the middle of summer in the middle
of winter." He looked over to me. "Are sure you don't want to move to
Canada? We could be snowmobiling right now, Angel." Edward lay back
down and groaned again.
"Awww, and I thought I was only having one baby. Apparently I'm having
twins." I patted his cheek and he pulled back, giving me the evil eye.
"You little babies want lunch? I'm starving and I bet Angela could be
persuaded to give me a ride to the store to get all that is needed for
sandwiches."
3, 2, 1
"Roast beef with Swiss cheese, on French. My wallet is" Edward lifted
his head a little, "Somewhere over there."
I laughed and waddled my way off the steps- darn Baby Cullen - along
with Angela, to her car.
When we arrived to the store, I filled up a cart with the stuff for lunch,
along with other items we would be in need of, not only because we just
moved, but also because we just moved into a house that had a fridge
the size of Texas. I was so going to fill that bad boy. We had all the
essentials, some major non-essentials (I would lie and blame Squeaky) and
I was going to be a nice person and let the fuckers drink, so I grabbed
them beer, too.
I can be nice, really. I can.
Standing in line, I saw my stupid face staring back at me on the front of
a magazine and groaned. Angela thought it was funny and picked it up.
"Let's see what you have been up to lately, shall we?"
"It's probably about the baby. I can't exactly hide this thing anymore." I
placed some items on the conveyor belt and she laughed.
"Oh man, did you know Edward is only dating you to promote Tatu?" She
sucked in hard breath and I shook my head. "And he has been spotted
with a young blonde, having coffee while you are at home crying your
pregnant eyes out?"
"What?" I whipped my head her way and she faced the paper towards
me. "That's just fucking Lauren." I rolled my eyes and went back to
unloading the cart.
"Man, tabloids are so fucked up." She shoved the magazine back into the
rack- backwards- she was a good friend after all.
"I wish the biggest issue Edward and I had were him having coffee with
a blonde. My life would be much easier."
"What's wrong now?" She asked, tossing a candy bar in with our order.
"He has court, again." I grabbed a fistful of candy bars and tossed them
on counter.
"I thought he was done with all of that?"
"No, this is for keeps. Win, lose, no chance at a draw, type of shit. If we
lose, you are never going to see me again, as we will be moving to an
undisclosed location. You may keep all my businesses and let Ben burn
them all to the ground if you wish."
She laughed. "I'm sure it will all work out. Edward has been working
really hard."
"Yeah, well, let's hope. I really can't take anymore shit this year."
Angela nodded at my words and I pushed our cart forward, allowing the
bag-boy to begin loading our groceries.
I used my time wisely as we waited to be checked out, by rifling through
Edward's wallet. Angela laughed and said, "He really is a trip, you know."
I glanced at her in between my snooping. "Why?"
"Because you are Isabella Swan, owner of everything food related and
yet he makes you pay for groceries with his money."
"He's gotman issues," I shrugged.
"I think it says a lot," she said softly.
I pulled out money and handed it to the clerk. "Like that he isn't using
me to promote his restaurant?" I nodded towards the magazine stand.
"Yeah, but also, that he really doesn't think of you like that. Like, he
doesn't treat you differently. You're justBella to him."
I smiled at her and took my change from the clerk. "Fianc."
"What?"
I wiggled my finger at her. "Fianc."
"When? Holy" Her eyes went wide, taking my hand into hers.
"Fitty can suck it," I laughed and turned back towards the cart, waving
off the guy as he offered to help us out.
"So, when are you doing it?" She asked.
"I don't know, we haven't really gotten that far." I stopped at her car,
waiting for her to open the trunk and caught sight of a familiar face.
"Hey, look. It's Rose. Rose!" I waved to her and she paused, then, walked
towards us.
"Hey Bella."
"Hey yourself." I gave her a hug, because like I already stated, I could
be nice. "How are you?"
"Goodwella little nervous. Peyton is home."
"Really? When did that happen?"
"They discharged him this morning. I called you guys, but no one
answered," she explained.
"Oh, shit, we have been moving all morning. I haven't checked my phone.
How is he?"
"Good, really good. My mom is watching him so I could" She paused,
looking past me and I followed her gaze.
It was damn Jessica getting out of a car with Newton, a few rows down.
"Just ignore her Rose. Finish what you were saying, please?" I touched
her arm and she looked back at me again.
"I hate her so much, Bella."
"Join the club."
She looked back to me and sighed. "Anyhow, he's doing really well. I just
needed to stop and get some things, but I guess that isn't going to
happen now." Her eyes moved back to Jessica and Newton as they
entered the store.
"Well, I just bought like enough shit to feed a small country, so, you can
rifle through my cart," I offered.
"I needed wipes and stuff. I should have already had them, butI just
didn't." She looked down and Baby Cullen kicked me in the bladder for
making his Aunt Rose sad.
"I'll get it for you," I offered. "Just tell me what you need."
She debated for a minute but then gave in, giving me a small list of
things and I left her with Angela as I went back inside. Should Angela
have gone in instead? Yeah, probably, but I agreed to be the kid's
godmother and fuck Jessica and all her bullshit. She didn't scare me and
I could shop wherever the hell I wanted.
Plus, I wanted to buy a copy of that tabloid magazine, just to fuck with
Flower Child.
I grabbed a basket and made my way around, trying to find all the
things she asked for, hoping the shit I picked out was right. As I rounded
the last aisle, I saw Bitch-Face and her asshole fianc heading my
direction. I stared at her the entire way to the check out and didn't
back down.
Like I said, fuck her.
They of course got in line behind my happy ass.
"Oh, look, Mikey. A whore on the front cover of a magazine," Jessica said
and I heard her flipping through the pages.
I set my stuff on the counter and ignored heror at least, didn't
acknowledge her.
"Well, well, well, seems the whore and the prick are having issues. What
a surprise. And let's see," I heard more pages flip. "He's using her for
money. How sweet, I mean, when I asked him for the money I was sure
he would give it to me, but to steal from his little whore, that is
justthat is just perfect."
I knew she was fucking with me, but my mind started to wander;
wondering what the fuck that meant. She asked Flower Child for money?
When and why? And why the fuck was she calling me a whore? Did she
not know the meaning of the word?
"So, has he asked you yet, Bella? Or did he go to Daddy?"
Just pay and leave
Just pay and leave
Just pay and leave
"Maybe he changed his mind and doesn't really care about his brother as
much as he said. Maybe I should have told you, since you were fucking
him at one point too, right?"
I turned around and knocked her shit off the conveyor. "Shut your
fucking mouth and don't say shit about shit you don't know anything
about you fucking cunt-rag."
"OhJess," Newton pulled Jessica's arm, laughing, "Don't upset Bella. She
is veryfragile."
"I guess that means he didn't tell you," Jessica smiled.
I turned back around and tried to just pay attention to the guy in front
of me speaking in French on his cell. It helped to distract me. She was
still babbling on and I prayed that he would just pay and leave, so I
could too.
"Unless he doesn't want to pay up. I mean, if that's the case, I could
just all of a sudden have amnesia and not remember until he forks over
the money. I know Edward is stupid, but he couldn't be that stupid that
he would actually allow such a valuable piece of evidence to pass him by?
Or his daddy, right Mikey?" I froze in my place, unable to move or
breathe until the French speaking man boasted about his brother's baby
girl being born over the phone.
I looked forward again and he apologized to the cashier in English, saying
he needed to leave a message for his mother or she'd kill him. Jessica
was still laughing along with Dick-hole Mike and I laughed and looked
back to her.
"You just so fucked up, Cunt-rag." I said nothing else and paid for my
things in a rush, when it was my turn, keeping an eye on the man as he
exited.
I walked way faster than a fat, pregnant woman should and hurried to
the lot. He was fumbling with his keys and I waved and hollered until he
looked up.
"Sir, I need your phone, please!" He looked at me like I was crazy. "The
person you just called, you left a message, yes?"
He was still staring.
"I need to know the person you were speaking with. The message, it could
haveit could have information on it I need."
He started to get into his car.
"Wait. Please. I know I sound crazy, but you don't understand." I
explained the rest in French and cried and sobbed as dramatically as
possible.
~xxx~
Angela and Ben unloaded the bags from the car when we arrived to the
house. I needed to find Edward too badly to even try and help. He was
laughing with Sam on the back steps and looked towards me as I stopped
short in the doorway.
"You look flushed." He was right. Mama was highly flushed. Flushed and
spent and fucking elated.
"I'm glowing." He smiled at my sarcasm and reached for me, but I held
my ground. "You're in it big time, Mister."
"In what? I'm just sitting here. Sitting here after I just moved an entire
truck of shit."
"I know about the money. Jessica was at the store and told me all about
your dirty secret. Stand up, so I can junk-punch you." His face soured at
my words.
"I'm not giving her anything, Bell." He shook his head and I held out the
golden ticket.
"I know." My smile had to have of looked like Emmett's that day in
Arizona, years ago. No banana bread needed.
Without another word, I flipped open the French dude's mother's phone -
Claire - she was a very nice lady - and pressed the magical numbers she
gave me.
"Unless he doesn't want to pay up. I mean, if that's the case, I could
just all of a sudden have amnesia and not remember until he forks over
the money. I know Edward is stupid, but he couldn't be that stupid that
he would actually allow such a valuable piece of evidence to pass him by?
Or his daddy, right Mikey?"
Flower Child's expression looked like how I felt the first time I ever saw
a penis.
"I still want to junk-punch you, Jerk." I flipped it closed and after many
blinks, he finally closed his mouth, stood up and lifted a woman -who was
way too fat and pregnant and sore to be lifted in such a manner - and
kissed her.
And kissed her.
And kissed her.
And kissed her.
Andwellyou get the damn point.
Team Cullen for the motherfucking win- we needed shirts.
~xxx~
I fed him the melted chocolate off my finger.
It was meant for the pie, but he couldn't wait and really, what was
better than feeding a person with your fingers?
Nothing I tell you, nothing.
Especially when they had lips that looked as delicious as what you were
feeding them and they hummed and gave you the best kisses in between.
Ever just feel so damn happy, that you swore you might start to float
away? I know, it sounds fucking weird and shit coming from me, but right
now, I'm telling you, in my new kitchen with Flower Child, feeding him and
making silly things like chocolate peanut butter pie, I just.
I was floating.
Sue me, but I just was.
"I should give this a weird ass name like the chick from The Waitress."
My finger swiped through the chocolate again and traveled to lips I
loved.
"Like what?" He slowly took my finger into his mouth, being way too
naughty for someone who had a small child at his side.
"I couldn't say, right now," I nodded to Squeeks who was lost in a world
of confectioner's sugar and chunky peanut butter.
Edward released my finger and allowed me to finish my lesson. I told
Ness we would learn how to make something every weekend and today, it
was pie.
Daddy was interrupting in the most blissful, enjoyable ways.
"Ready Bewwa?" She tipped the bowl to show me her work and I nodded.
"Where?"
I slid the full pie plate over to her. "Throw it on top, Squeaks. Go wild."
She took my words to heart and tossed handfuls of the crumbles on top,
until we built a mountain of peanut butter Heaven-like pie.
I don't give a shit whose body she came from, she was clearly my child.
"We eat now, Bewwa?"
See?
"It has to get cold and set, Sweet Pea. After dinner, okay?" I handed
over the chocolate-covered spoon to make up for the disappointment and
she seemed to be quite alright with the news.
This week was insane. We had unpacked all of our stuff, attended our
first PTA meeting- oh my God those bitches are crazy and finally,
fucking finally got to tell everyone that we were engaged.
Grandma Cullen laughed- like, gut busting laughter and called Edward
stupid. I told you guys, she already knew.
Esme hugged me until I prayed for my air supply to be returned and
Edward pried her away. It was adorable, but damn.
My father basically did the father thing, congratulating us on one hand
and threatening Edward's life on the other. It went better than I
thought. Probably because we had arranged for Sue to send some of her
chicken and dumplings, God bless dry ice and overnight mail.
Bribery, it goes a long way.
I earned some cred with Edward's father by getting that shit with
Jessica on tape and let me tell you, serious loving down below.
By Edward, not his father. Don't be sick.
We piled the shit Dickward found in New York with the camera from
Flower Child's camera at Tatu - he was getting so smart and then the
phone message I had and rolled it up into a nice ball, topped off with all
the positive changes in Edward's life.
Edward vetoed the shirt idea. He was seriously no fun.
Soby the time court custody had rolled around, we had a new home,
long meaningful kisses and one of the best peanut butter pies ever
consumed under our belts.
As I looked at him this morning, he was shining much the same way our
Miami sun did. Edward was a far cry from the half-man half-boy I knew
not too many months ago. He didn't look scared, he stood straight when I
tightened his tie and smiled when I grabbed that motherfucker and
kissed him for the millionth time this morning.
I wasn't nervous walking into the courthouse and all the jewelry bullshit
was at home. There was only one piece I needed and it wasn't a bangle
or a fucking pair of studs in my ears. When I sat next to Esme and she
poked my stomach, I didn't give her shit over it, because she was happy
today and it didn't happen to often anymore. She could poke all she
wanted.
Fuck, I might have even showed it to her if she asked.
The color orange never looked so good. Not many people could pull it off,
but Jessica, Jessica pulled it off like nobody's business as she entered
the room.
Orange was fine on her, but the dark circles and baggy eyes made me
believe five-to-ten wasn't.
Ormaybe it was the thought of her precious Newton being owned by a
man twice his stature from behind, right now?
Hmm, maybe.
Baby Cullen and I planned out shit like what type of outfit to bring him
home in when he was born and whether or not we wanted cute baby stuff
painted on the nursery walls for most of the hearing. It really wasn't
much of one, seeing as how, there was no case here.
Mothers in orange were not given children.
Well dressed Edwards in black suits were.
Mothers in orange also lost all rights they had. God is good and all that
shit.
I decided that the very first report card Squeaks would receive, I would
send to Jessica. Along with photos, and black and white copies of any and
all pictures Ness ever drew in her life.
Jessica only deserved them in black and white.
The colorful ones, that held all the vibrancy and lively hood of a happy
faced- well rounded Squeaks, would hang on our fridge, in our home.
That is where they belonged. Where she belonged.
I didn't want Jessica to ever forget, though. She didn't deserve to
forget. Squeaks never would. Everyday of Jessica's life needed to be
worst than the last, as everyday of Ness' life would grow better than her
last.
I would never forget that.
Edward would never forget that.
It was the most important part.
~xxx~
"Sugar, I'm heading out. You sure you don't want to come?" I looked up
and shook my head. "Come on, Bella. Have fun."
"I am. Can't you see?" He loved my sarcasm. "Go on. You can call me
drunk and tell me all about it later." I went back to endless piles of
paper work. Being a new owner of a business sucked ass.
Except for the new money part. That was fucking great.
"Well, I'd say don't work too hard, but" he smiled and I tossed
something at him. "See ya."
I watched him leave and hated the silence left in his wake. It was never
quiet when Emmett was around and I loved his disturbing ways. The pokes
to the side when I was trying to concentrate, or the pieces of paper he
drew faces on and held up to his face, trying to make me laugh when I
took conference calls.
"Sugar."
Edward's head popped up and looked at me. "Have I moved up the
ranks?" He teased.
I didn't know I said it aloud. "I'm just thinking."
"About sugar?"
"About Emmett," I admitted.
His face fell, but then cracked a smile. "Do I even want to know?"
"No, probably not." I went back to my work, helping Flower Child get his
office at Tatu in order.
"Sowant to hear something that will make you smile?" He asked, smiling
himself as he worked.
"Sure. Hit me, Babe."
"They're opening a Voo-Doo Doughnuts in Miami. They just bought over
Rosalie's place."
"I heard about that. Rose told me." It was fucking wonderful and sad all
at the same time.
Wonderful, well, because they had fucking delicious-ass-shit like bacon
topped-cream-filled doughnuts and sad because.well.I don't think I
need to explain that shit, now do I?
"I still think you should ask Rose to come work here. She's cooped up
with the baby all day. That can't be good. I'd be going crazy away from
work if it wasn't for you and all your virgin restaurant fuckery. And our
baby isn't even born yet."
"I seriously doubt Rose wants to work here, Bella. Plus, who would watch
Peyton?" He tapped a stack of papers and handed them over to me.
"I could watch him," I shrugged.
He stared.
"I could," I said again, but he only cracked a smile. "Are you trying to
say I'm going to be a bad mother? 'Cause if you are, you can just go-,"
"I'm not saying that. At all." He held up his hands and laughed. "I have
no doubts about your motherly instincts, or qualities. You're perfect with
Ness, but she isn't a newborn baby, Angel. That's a completely different
ballgame. They cry all the time and need constant diaper changes." He
shook his head, going back to his work.
"So, it's like dealing with you."
He looked up and tried not to smile but failed. "Good one."
I smiled in return and looked back to the computer screen, filling in his
order form for the next food delivery.
Sugar.
I loved Edward and the jokes we shared, but it was still too quiet.
~xxx~
When he came home from work on Friday afternoon, I had twice-baked
potatoes in the oven and chicken noodle soup on the stove. Squeaks had
been feeling sniffly. Damn kids and germs. Not Squeaks, those other
fuckers she went to school with.
I was swinging on our porch, doing what I said I wanted to and sipping
sweet tea still decaf, thanks and he took a seat at my side. Squeaks
plopped herself down on the steps with a coloring book and ignored us.
"Dinner smells good." He gave a kiss to my cheek as I flipped through a
magazine.
"That's because it is good, Babe."
He leaned his tired face down on my tired shoulder and made the swing
'do its thing' with his feet. "What's this?" He picked up the envelope I
had sandwiched in between us.
"I should have given it to you a long time ago, butit was just hard. It
was like it was official." His eyes lowered to read the front and then
looked back up.
"Why I am I getting this?"
"He left it all to Squeaks. At least, last I knew of," I shrugged.
Edward nodded and settled it back in between us, not saying a word as
he leaned his head back down to my shoulder and said 'hello' to Baby
Cullen with his hand. We went back and forth slowly, until the sun grew
dim and Squeaky was done coloring her pictures. Edward helped me to
stand and I couldn't go the same direction he was headed. He paused and
turned to me, but I had no words. I took his hand and led him to the
garden, until we reached the bench.
"I was thinking of when Em called me Sugar. He stopped doing it when
you started working for me. I never even realized it until today, when I
saw this benchand I tried to think of why. It sounds cheesy, I know,
but it's kind of likeyou took over shit he used to do and maybe...it's like
everyone's life has a purpose and maybe his was to make sure I found
you. That we found each other. It's really cheesy." I looked away and
wanted to kick myself for becoming such a sap.
"Well, you have a thing for cheese, remember?"
He was a saint, pure and simple. I looked back towards him and gave a
faint smile.
"I want to keep the bench. It completes our home." Edward nodded in
agreement and led me back to the porch and then to the kitchen.
We ate our baked potatoes and chicken soup and for dessert, laid in bed,
kissing and whispering things were way too naughty for little ears to
hear. Thankfully, this house had thick walls. The dishes were left for
morning, floating in a sink of bubbles and degreaser. Life was too short
to be wasted on such insignificant things that didn't matter.
I just wanted whispers and kisses and those dirty words that followed
dirty deeds and to get up with Edward at two in the morning to check on
our sick girl and see how she was doing.
She was fine.
She would always be fine.
The light on the porch, shining over our small garden bench, made sure of
it.








Chapter 33: Love Notes
~Bella~
It was way too warm to stay in Miami for Christmas.
We had this sort of, 'make shift' Thanksgiving thing where everyone
opened presents early and shit, ate food and gathered and were
all.merry.
I'm funny, right?
We made plans to go to New York and have one of those fabulous white
winter wonderland type of holidays. Squeaks needed to play in snow and
make snowmen and just.see the huge tree in Rockefeller Center and
gaze into windows and do all the magical shit you just do on Christmas.
And fuck, I loved and missed the shit out of New York.
So, we closed up shop and hopped our happy asses on a plane.
As we exited the airport, I slipped on my heavy coat and tried to bundle
up and brace for the cold. As I shoved my hands into my pockets and
followed the family out of the airport, I smiled. Edward had been leaving
me notes, describing all the things he loved or remembered about us,
leading up to Christmas. He said since I asked for him and Squeaks for
my present, it was only appropriate.
I pulled the paper out and stopped to read it as they loaded up our
rental car with luggage.
The best sleep I ever received was every night I slept with you.
I held in a giggle.
When his family was distracted, I tugged on his coat. "You do realize I
could take your words two ways, right?"
He smiled and tucked his lips under my ear. "Both would be true."
My laughter echoed among the sounds of the busy pick-up area. He
leaned away and winked at me, then picked up a shivering Squeaks into
his arms. She buried her face into his neck and he rubbed against the
back of her puffy coat to gain warmth from the friction.
"You are definitely a Miami girl," He teased.
"She'll warm up once we get to Serendipity," I offered.
"What's that?" He climbed into the backseat of the car, with me
following. Once the door was closed, I replied.
"Heaven, Edward. It is where Heaven is, seriously, you can Google it.
Trust me."
Squeaks wiggled her way in between us and then proceeded to play with
the buttons on the door for the remainder of the drive. Flower Child
looked annoyed slightly, but I found it rather amusing for some reason. It
was just hercuriosity? I suppose.
That curiosity only grew once we entered Heaven and she struggled with
me to pick out which sinful delight we wanted to shove our faces in first.
Get it? Sinful things in Heaven and it's called Serendipity- ha
motherfucking, haright?
Thank you, thank you. No applause.
As I shared a frozen hot chocolate with her (again, do you see the
funny?) Grandma Cullen spoke up. "I always loved this place. My Husband
took me here once before and it has been too long. Thank you for
reminding us, Bella." She tipped her cinnamon stick to me and I tapped
my own stick to it.
"Anytime, Old Lady." My eyes went back to searching the menu and I
swear to pie- Baby Cullen felt like he was trying to nom my insides.
It's like he could read what I was reading!
"Know what you want?" Edward asked, stretching an arm over my
shoulder.
"Everything," I practically was drooling at this point. "I think I am going
to get a foot long with chili and pretend it also has cheese, though."
He laughed. "Are you trying to open the door to wiener jokes, Bell?"
I pushed my face into his. "Shut it, Flower Child. What are you getting?"
"Steak Char Char," He smiled.
I eyed the menu and read what it was.
Sliced Roumanian Steak served open-faced on garlic rye toast with
greens and salsa.
"Mother of Balls," I whispered.
His chest rumbled with laughter and I looked over to him with a pleading
expression. "Will you please share?"
He debated silently for a moment and then nodded, but added, "May I
have some of your-," he was going to say frozen hot chocolate, but as he
looked to the glass, a loud suction noise was all that remained.
Squeeks' cheeks ballooned with fullness and looked to Edward like 'what?'
as she attempted to swallow it down. I started laughing and couldn't
stop, falling into Edward's side.
I laughed so hard it fucking hurt. She was priceless.
We ordered our food after that and fell into a casual conversation. It
was odd, yet comfortable. Even Charlie came with us, and Sue was
arriving tonight. He seemed anxious sitting here and I had to smile at
how juvenile he looked.
"Bella," Esme called, snapping me from my fixation on my dad. "After
lunch I was thinking maybe we could do some baby clothes shopping?" She
smiled, clasping her hands together.
"You buying?" I teased.
"Nope, but he is." She patted Carlisle's back and I laughed lightly.
"Then we can definitely do that."
"Perfect. We'll have a nice girl's day, then. You, me, Grandma, Rose and
Nessie," She nodded.
"What are we supposed to do?" Edward asked, motioning between himself
and the other men.
"It's a big city, Son. I'm sure you can figure out something." She smiled
at him, but it was odd and I looked back and forth between the two of
them.
They were definitely up to something.
~xxx~
Flower Child.
While the ladies did their shopping, I made sure to hide the overnight
bag in the hotel suite so Bella couldn't find it before it was time, along
with the tickets.
She was a snoop and that shit was a secret.
Charlie wanted to get Sue a gift, for when he greeted her at the airport
tonight. I accompanied him so I could get a few things myself and of
course my father, being my father, chose to stay behind and do what
else on Christmas Eve, but work.
Grandpa took nap, as that is what he did best.
~x~
The cab ride was pretty silent between Charlie and I. He wasn't really
much of a talker and that was fine. It gave me time to collect my
thoughts and take in a place I had never seen before. I could understand
why Bella liked here so much. It was just as alive and vibrant andwell,
busy as she was.
Once we arrived to our destination, we walked along sidewalk that was
crowded and full of last minute shoppers. It was almost chaotic and at
times, maddening, but the buzz and electricity in the air, somehow, made
it all worth it- if that's makes any sense.
As Charlie snooped around the inside of a small store, I eyed all the
people passing by from the store's window. There was a girl weaving her
way quickly through all the people and I had to laugh at how her
scowling expression and clear irritation reminded me of Bella. I tried to
picture her here, as that eighteen-year-old girl, on her own, full of
dreams.
Her dreams.
"Ready to go?" Charlie's voice snapped me from my reverie and I gave
him a nod before we exited.
Walking along the street again, I made sure to buy a few things from
some random vendors for Bella and Ness. They were silly and really,
rather pointless, but they would find humor in them.
"Look at that," Charlie knocked my shoulder and pointer his finger
towards the sky.
Smack dab in between two other billboards was a huge billboard, claiming
Bella's restaurant as number one in New York. It featured Bella wearing
a red dress, sitting on a steel-top table, slicing and apple, with lips
painted just as red as the fruit and dress.
It was without a doubt, the coolest, hottest, fucking thing I ever saw.
Literally, took all my will power to not point to it and shout to the
people around us, "I'm marrying her!"
Let's just keep that between us though, okay?
I just took a picture of it with my phone and sent it to Bella.
"Let's stop in there," Charlie suggested, nodding towards where Riley's
was located just a few blocks down.
"Uh" I debated for a minute, giving a scratch to the beanie on my head.
"I don't think that's a good idea. Her umBella's executive chef there
doesn't like me very much. I don't want to piss off Bella by starting
trouble, especially today."
"Well, we aren't starting trouble, Edward. We are simply checking out
what my daughter and your fianc's place looks like. No harm in that."
He hit my arm and started off towards Riley's.
I begrudgingly followed.
It smelled good as we entered; warm and inviting. A man greeted us
offered a table, but Charlie declined as he looked around quickly. There
was a framed photo on the wall that caught my eye and I smiled once I
realized what it was. A very small Bella sat on a man's lap, smiling wide.
"That was my Dad." Charlie said; looking almost lost as he stared it.
"Man, she looks just like him."
"She was precious. Is, is precious." My eyes lingered on the image for a
moment longer and then were drawn up to a framed article above it.
If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.
I remembered the day Bella told me about it.
"I'm sorry, but if you all aren't going to be dining here, I will have to ask
you to step outside, please."
Charlie faced him and gave a wave of his hand. "I just wanted to check
it out. Didn't mean to cause trouble, we'll be going." He smiled and
stepped towards the door.
I moved closer to the man.
"Do you have a ticket book on you?" He nodded and reached into his
apron's pocket. "Do you mind?" I held out my hand and he hesitantly
handed it over. I tore off a page and then handed it back to him.
"Thanks, man."
His face looked perplexed, but I paid him no mind as I followed Charlie
out. I slipped the ticket into my pocket and waited as he hailed a cab
for us. My phone beeped and I reached for it, smiling when I saw it was
a message from Bella.
She replied to her billboard picture.
Hot, right?
I typed the keys and replied:
Your lips painted red does things to me that should make your father
want to murder my ass, Angel.
Like what Babe?
I'll tell you in full detail later.
Race you home?
You're on.
*You* I hope.
Don't we all Bella. Don't we all.
Back at the hotel, she was sitting in the middle of our bed, smiling wide,
as I entered.
"Where's Ness?" I asked.
"With Rose and your mom, getting their toes painted in the salon
downstairs." She wiggled her own at me.
They were cherry red, just like her lips were right now. And holy
fuckwhat was she wearing?
Ornot wearing?
"I should leave you alone with my mother more often." I walked to the
edge of the bed and leaned down, kissing her perfect toes and worked
my way up, making her squirm and giggle.
My nose skimmed along her silky legs, pushing up the white fabric of the
skimpy slip she wore, until I could press my lips into her belly, finally.
She sighed and pulled my face towards her, as I helped to ease her down
on her back.
"You look sexy in a winter clothes. Not that it surprises me." She smiled,
plucking my hat off and tossing it to the side. Her fingers coursed
through my hair until she achieved whatever she was going for there. "I
missed you."
"Did you?" I pressed my lips against her chin.
"Mmmhmm," she nodded, pulling me into her.
"How much?" I moved my self between her legs and was careful to keep
my weight off her.
"I watched Esme buy you underwear all afternoon. How much do you
think?" She teased, rubbing her feet along the back of my legs.
I lowered my mouth to the bountiful cleavage showing itself and got lost
there for a bit, cupping her into my hands and teasing her with my
tongue dancing around her nipples. Her hands tucked themselves in
between us and she fumbled to free me of my pants until I took my
attention away from her breasts and removed them myself, along with my
sweater.
"Scoot this way, Angel," I whispered, helping her move to where I needed
her.
She laid back, feet resting on the edge of bed, legs spread- all pink,
caramel and perfect and soft and smooth. I palmed the space next to her
with one hand and allowed my other one to find her center, sliding over
her slippery skin and watching her face as she closed her eyes and sighed
and held her bottom lip in between her teeth until I could handle it
anymore.
I leaned over her, framing the sides of her head and allowed my body to
enter her, slowly, achingly so. She opened wider for me and held me gaze
and I moved in and out of her with a steady rhythm. My eyes moved from
hers, down to her cherry colored lips and then my mouth followed,
crushing into them with all the fever I had to restrain from the rest of
my body that desperately begged to pound into her, knowing that was
not allowed.
My lips dragged from her mouth, pulling the red color with them and left
a faint smear down her neck, to her collar bone and then back up again
and again. Her body was tight and swollen around mine as I grew inside
of her and she scraped and clawed along my back, neck and shoulders in
pleasure and need with her nails.
"I missed you too," I rasped in her ear, burying my face into the side of
her neck as she fisted tightly to my hair.
"How much?" She whispered back.
"So fucking much, Baby." She trembled under me and I felt her body
tense, her breathing hitch and the constriction around my cock.
I forced my eyes open and watched as her red lips fell open, panting my
name as she came. I focused all my attention there, pumping with more
vigor until I felt my own breathing pause in my throat, eyes close and
body tense- burying my cock deep inside of her, coming hard.
"Mmm" I couldn't quite pry my eyes open yet and felt her face with my
own until I rested my forehead upon hers.
"That.was way better than shopping for underwear with your mom," she
sighed.
"Please don't talk about my mom right now," I whispered.
Bella laughed quietly and I felt warm lips in the crook of my neck that
sent a tingle down my spine and straight to my dick. "I wish we could
stay like this tonight," I rolled my face against hers. "I'm guessing that
Ness will be back soon, though."
I placed a kiss on Bella's face and crawled beside her. She tucked
herself into my side and snuggled there. "I told Ness we would build a
snowman. I am wishing I never opened my mouth," she groaned with a
chuckle.
"Then we better get dressed before she arrives," I sighed. "Bell?" She
looked at me as we sat up, on the edge of the bed. "I love you."
She opened her mouth to speak, but then started laughing hysterically.
"You look like you attacked something." She rubbed at my lips and chin.
"Fuck, I could only imagine how my face looks." She wiped at her mouth
and I laughed, realizing that she had red lipstick smeared just about
everywhere, thanks to mywellattack.
"We definitely need to clean up before Ness comes knocking. We'd scare
the shit out of her." I took Bella's hand and led her to the bathroom.
We showered together and rid ourselves of any and all traces of red
lipstick and love making, except for the goofy ass smiles we both wore.
There was just no getting rid of that.
~xxx~
Bella
Ness looked like that little girl "Boo" from the Monster's Inc. movie, all
bundled up, barely able to move as we stomped through the snow, finally
reaching our destination.
I hadn't been here in forever and missed it. It was a place in the park I
always loved to come to and think. I would sit and write out recipes and
just 'get away' when things got too much to handle.
Tonight, we were just making snowmen.
"Okay Daddy, get to making the pile at the bottom." I ordered, plopping
myself down into the snow.
"You're just going to sit there?" He gave me the evil eyebrow and I
smiled with a nod.
"I will jam the carrot in his ass, well, nose and find stuff for eyes. We
all have a duty, Flower Child. Get to piling."
He laughed at me and began gathering snow into a heap to form the
base. "I help." Ness kneeled beside him and I watched them interact. It
warmed me in ways I couldn't describe and seeing them of course made
me think about the years ahead and how someday the baby inside of me
would be here too, building snowmen and helping his daddy.
Shit guys, I need to get a grip. Fast.
I wiped my eyes and went back to my task, finding some shit to put as
eyes and while I waited for them to build the blob, I mounded my own
snow, into my hands and threw that fucker as hard as I could at Flower
Child's head.
He stilled, not even looking at me and I tucked my lips, trying hard not
to laugh. Retaliation was coming, I knew it from the hard expression on
his face, but I couldn't move. He simply tilted forward on his knees and
scooped an enormous amount of snow into his hands, balling it slowly-
using psychological warfare like the dirty bird he was.
I was in for it.
I tried to crawl away, 'cause running was not an option thanks to Baby
Cullen, but a tiny tossing of snow fell against my head. I heard Squeaky
laugh and I gaped at her, amazed that she would turn against me.
While I had been distracted, Edward plopped down into the snow next to
me and started burying me, his snowball forgotten, and I begged and
pleaded with all I had.
"You'll kill our baby!"
He paid me no mind.
"God will hate you, it's Jesus' pre-birthday!"
I was buried deeper.
"My vagina will get frost bitten and fall off!"
The man was ruthless, I tell you.
Finally, when my legs were completely covered, he stopped and looked up
to me with a cocky ass expression.
"Oh please, Edward, you defeated a fat, pregnant woman." I heard
giggles at my side. "With the help of a traitor." I swatted some snow at
Ness.
"Gimme carrot, Bewwa," She curled her tiny fingers at me.
"Tell your ridiculous father to unbury me." I waved to my snow-covered
legs and she giggled.
"Papa, I need his nose," she pointed to lump that was supposed be the
snowman. Edward simply reached out and pushed her over into a pile of
snow. She laughed and scurried to recover, charging at him and they felt
backwards.
I kicked until my legs were free and then dumped a huge scoop of snow
onto Flower Child's head and shoved the carrot my from pocket to Ness.
"Run Ness Run!" I gave my best Forest Gump impression and suffered the
consequences for the attack as she left me to fend for myself.
He didn't do anything but hold me though, shaking the wet from his hair
and allowing it to fall over me. I squealed and tried to move but he
stopped and slumped down, still keeping me locked in his arms. I tilted
my head back and kissed him, sighing into his mouth. Edward pulled back
after a few moments, thumbing my cheek, gently.
"If you lay down in the snow, Bell, you could quite literally make a snow
angel."
I pushed his face away and hid my own before he could see the red in my
cheeks his stupid, swooning, bastardly self made.
Squeaks had shoved the carrot way too low and Edward fell backwards,
laughing hard. His hands were over his face and I could only hear him and
watch his stomach shake. It made me laugh too, but I had to correct
that shit.
Pulling myself to my knees, I trudged through the snow and plucked the
carrot out of his lower half and stuck it into his upper half. Edward was
still dying of laughter and I shook my head at him. Squeaks looked a
little confused, but as she turned back to face her creation, she beamed
with pride. I hugged herand then used her head as an object to lean
on, so I could stand up.
"Come on, Babe." I held out my hand and he quieted his laughing fit.
We walked towards the where they hosted the Festivals of Trees and
weaved through all the different displays. Ness' face looked in awe and
full of wonder, same as the other children wondering around. Edward and
I held hands, stealing peeks at each other, stirring the butterflies in my
stomach each time. It was amazing how connected I could be to him, yet
he could still do such a thing.
We finally ended up at the gift shop area and he allowed Squeaks to pick
out something to bring back to Esme and Elizabeth. She chose two small
ornaments and we waited as they wrapped them up, eating peppermints
sticks and the home-made style fudge they sold.
Did I say I loved Christmas and New York, yet?
"Here you go. Merry Christmas," The lady handed over our bag and
Edward took it, thanking her.
He shoved the peppermint stick in his mouth so he could place his wallet
back into his pocket and then produced something else. It was a soggy
white piece of paper and he laughed as he handed it to me.
Taking the candy from his mouth, he said, "Sorry, I didn't take the snow
into account. Can you still read it?"
I unfolded it and to my surprise, the note was still legible. There were
only three words written across it and this time, my red cheeks didn't
escape him.
"That was my favorite memory," he murmured, before shoving the candy
back in his mouth and picking up Ness to carry her on his hip.
I hooked my arm around his and leaned my head to his shoulder as we
walked back towards the rental car.
~xxx~
When we arrived back at the hotel, we changed clothes and then met in
one of the lounge areas, where my father promised he would recite the
story I begged him to. When I was a little kid, nothing made me happier.
I wanted Ness to experience it, also. She had snuggled herself into his
side, with Sue on the other, as he sat in a one of the lounge chairs.
Edward looked almost as intrigued as she did and I couldn't hide the
smile on my face even if I tried.
Grandma Cullen held Gramps hand, even though the dude was passed out,
snoring up a storm. Old people, geeze. I was huddled up with Edward in a
chair, probably squashing him, but I didn't care and he didn't seem to
mind much, either. Carlisle managed to pull himself away from working
and join us, taking a seat next to Esme.
Rose held Peyton close to her in the seat next to ours and I felt my
heart sting, both at her bravery and the thought of Emmett. I shifted us
in our chair, so we were leaning more towards her and held a hand over
hers, which was over Peyton.
She smiled, looking thankful at my gesture and then faced Charlie as he
began.
"Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the houseNot a
creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the
chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-
plums danced in their heads.And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my
cap,Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap."
My head landed on Edward's shoulder and the day took me over as
Charlie's story telling faded from my ears. The next thing I knew, I was
being placed down gently into the bed and warm covers were tucked all
around me.
"Flower Child?" I heard him hum in response, pressing equally warm lips
on my cheek. "This will be the best night of hotel sleep I had," I
mumbled, remembering his note from the beginning of the day.
Amazing how nothing smelled of disinfectant spray and everything,
smelled of Edward's warmth and Ness' bubble gum bath-wash.
In the morning, I was woken by a soft whisper in my ear.
"Bewwa."
Once.
"Bewwa."
Twice.
"Bew-WA!"
It was growing louder and more irritableand backed up by familiar
laughter.
I peeked one eye open, and saw four blue eyes looking at me.
"Santa came," The Squeak squeaked, holding a present to my face.
I cleared my throat and sat up a little, taking the gift into my hand. She
waited patiently, looking eager and I glanced at Edward. "Shouldn't she
go first?" I asked.
"She didn't even wait for me to wake up, Bell," he laughed.
I looked at her and scowled. "Now I have no pictures. This was my first
Christmas with you guys, you know," I complained.
"Open Bewwa," she ordered, ignoring my rant.
"Fine," I slid my finger under the paper and cast it aside, revealing a
wooden frame that housed a picture she drew.
She slid closer and poked her finger at each person she had colored on
the paper. "You and Papa and Baby and me."
I drew her head to me and kissed her, holding her to my chest. "It'
beautiful Squeaks. I couldn't have gotten a better gift. Thank you." She
patted her little hand over my stomach and then smiled at Edward,
looking proud.
"So, can I give you my present now?" He asked.
"I thought we said no gifts?"
"It's just your last note," he shrugged.
I laughed and held out my hand, but he shook his head. "Actually, I don't
have it here. We'll have to get up and go get it."
My face crinkled. "Why cant you just bring it here, you know, to the nice
warm bed where I am extremely comfyand warm."
"It's no where around here and it's a bit of a surprise," he explained,
feigning a smile.
"You're giving me the creeps."
He laughed, but moved off the bed, saying nothing else. I sighed and
placed the picture to his side and then climbed out, hating that he was
making me do so. Squeaks reached up for him and he placed her on his
hip.
As I went for my slippers and walked past the two of them, towards the
bathroom, I heard her whisper, "Daddy, where are we going?"
I paused at the door of the bathroom and listened, only hearing him
faintly as he replied, "To see Bella's dream."
~xxx~









Chapter 34: "Forever and Ever"
~Bella ~




As soon as I heard the pilot announce our destination, the heat flared in
my cheeks, and I glared at Flower Child and all his 'bright' ideas.
"Peanut?" He offered- looking not the least bit worried.
"The only nuts you should be worried about right now, Edward, are your
own."
He sighed and tilted towards me. "Let's just wait until we get there and
then you can do me bodily harm if you are still pissed, okay?"
I looked out the window, crossing my arms and ignored him for the rest
of flight. Why was he doing this to me, guys?
Couldn't he just be happy that I was agreeing to marry him, having his
love child and planning on cooking and doing various lewd and lascivious
acts to him for the remainder of my existence?
Shit.
We landed, drove and then arrived at the place I had avoided like the
plague.
Invoke.
It was closed today and that made me smile.until I saw Flower Child
pull a key from his pocket and unlock the door.
"Where the hell did you get that?" I asked.
"I know a friend, who knows a guy, who knows a girl I know," he winked
and waved me on in.
Squeaks was already running her way inside, and I followed.
I looked around, taking in all the dcor, layout, colors. It was like my
dream brought to life, in physical form. Chancing a few steps further
inside, I allowed the blade of my finger to slide down the smooth
countertop that had gold specks imbedded in the black granite and I
smiled.
It was perfect and I was damn good; considering I picked that shit out
waiting in a doctor's office, on my laptop.
It was perfect, stunning.
I wanted to punch Flower Child in the face.
As I turned around to give him shit, he simply held out a folded paper to
me. I debated briefly before I took it into my hands, slipping my finger
under the paper and opening it. The black writing was written just as
beautifully as all the other notes - except the soggy one- of course- and
I felt the same damn butterflies making my insides flutter about as I
read it.
If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.
As my watery eyes adjusted, I realized the paper was more like an order
ticket, and then it hit me.
"Did you go todid you go to Riley's?"
"Your dad wanted to see what it looked like, after we saw the
billboard," he nodded.
I was speechless, which didn't fucking happen often, but the fact that he
put so much thought into this, it did shit to me that made my brain fuzzy
and my mouth stupid. I just stared at him, looking into those damn blue
eyes that got me from the start.
"I like the picture of you with your grandfather. It was a nice touch," he
smiled sweetly and took a seat on the edge of a barstool.
Tears blinked themselves out of my eyes and I clear my throat of
thickness, to speak. "He would have liked you, Babe."
Edward's eyebrows lifted as he looked down shyly, playing with his
fingers. "I didn't know him, but I would guess if he knew you were giving
up your dreams for a man, he wouldn't be too keen on that man."
He looked at me again. "I'm not blind, Bella. I know you didn't fight this,"
he waved between us, "so hard from happening just because you didn't
want people talking shit about you."
"We already talked about this," I argued, shaking my head.
"And I remember saying that you could have it. Actually, I remember
promising that you could have it. Do you really want to marry a man who
breaks his promises?" There was playfulness in his eyes, but his words
were serious.
He held out his hand, asking for me to come to him and I did. "Look
around and tell me this isn't what you want and we'll go. I won't ever
bring it up again and we'll forget all about it." His hands tilted me to
face the room.
Squeaky was grabbing all of the salt and pepper shakers, placing them all
on one table and building something; lost in her own little world. It made
me smile and I tried to imagine her older, helping out and cooking with
us, like I used do as a kid.
Then I imagined this place, full, alive, and everything I hoped it would
be.
Damn Edward.
Damn Edward.
Damn Edward.
His arms came around my waist, his mouth near my ear. "Good things
happen when you trust me, you know," he whispered, making circles with
his hand over my stomach.
Damn Edward, indeed.
That day in Canada had been a very long time ago, but that night, I had
gone to bed with promises of forever and ever, in my mind. Soft kisses
from a man who promised things that he had no control over, but I
trusted him and I tried to believe that even if he couldn't keep his word,
his good intentions would be enough.
His heart and the good faith he kept there- it would be enough.
Enough for forever and ever.
What I wouldn't do - couldn't do - was make the same mistakes I had
before. Edward was right, I wanted Invoke, that dream- but not at the
price of sacrificing first steps and first words and birthdays and all that
shit I told Edward he had to miss in order to be successful in this
industry.
It was one dream that was just going to have to wait.
I wasn't afraid, I wasn't running, I was just.growing up?
Or down, I wasn't sure.
So, while the weather grew colder and darker and then brighter and
warmer, we did all the normal things that normal people do. We took
down the Christmas tree and argued about how to store the lights and
juggled Ness' schedule in between our own and thanked parents who were
way too helpful.
Time had never passed so quickly.
I sat in the grass of our backyard, watching as Ness and all of her little
friends hunted for Easter eggs, along side Flower Child.
"She's winning," I smiled.
"It's not a competition, Bella."
"Everything is a competition, Edward."
"Bella, can't we just sit here and be happy that our daughter looks
happy finding speckled eggs in our yard? Does everything have to be"
I stopped listening to him at this point. All the rest was like being under
water and I stared at his face, feeling a little stunned.
"Bella? Bella? Bella? Are you alright.Angel, what's wrong?" He was
panickingit snapped me out of my moment.
"Nothing, I'm fine." I had to swallow and get all the mushy words out of
my throat.
He rubbed my back and slid closer, feeling tense. My voice was barley
audible and I didn't dare look at him. "You said our."
Edward looked at me, I felt it, but still couldn't look at him.
I should have just lied and said it was gas.
Fuck.
"You always say my, not our." Please understand, Dense Man.
"Oh." I finally looked up to him, but he wasn't looking my way. He had
his eyes on Squeaky, those perfect eyebrows in full scrunch-mode.
Maybe he made a mistake? Maybe he didn't mean to say it like that?
Yup, I should have lied.
Blue eyes finally found mine, then his hand found my face, and his soft
voice found my ears.
"It's just a habit, Bell. I refer to the baby as being mine, too. Doesn't
mean he's any less yours, does it?" He lowered his hand to my stomach
and thumbed gently over my shirt.
"But she's not, it's different."
He shook his head. "Technicality. Let me ask you something, if Charlie
didn't 'make' you, but you had grown up with him all the same, would you
still consider him your dad?"
"Yeah."
"Well, it's no different."
But it was and I could never make him understand.
Ness came running over with her little basket full and plopped down in
front of us.
"Daddy," she held up an egg to him to show off her finds and he smiled,
placing her into his lap.
"Show Bella." She extended it to me and I nodded and smiled, but in
truth, he had just proved me right.
I was just Bella- not Mom, or Mommy or Mama. Edward was Dad, Daddy
and Papa. She knew the difference- she would always know the
difference.
Edward whispered something in Ness's ear and she laughed. "Bewwa, we
have a surprise." She reached for my hand and Edward pulled me to my
feet.
I followed him into the house. He led us to Baby Cullen's room and
covered my eyes in front of the door.
"I don't like surprises, Edward," I grumbled.
"You'll like this one." I heard the door open and a little hand reached
into mine, pulling me forward. Once we were stopped, he lowered his
hand, but I kept my eyes closed. "Open."
I blinked, trying to focus my eyes. When I finally could, a drawing was in
front of me on the wall behind the crib. It was a lotus flower, with a
bird perched on its petals.
"Sam drew it. It's nice, right?" His arms surrounded me from behind, as
he planted kisses to my shoulder.
"It's perfect." And it really was.
"It's kind of crazy to think that in.." The shit from before happened
again - Edward's words turned into underwater jumble- except this time,
it had nothing to do with things he said. It had to do with..
"Holy fuck." I was frozen in place. Never in all my life has anything so
disgusting occurred. It was vile and to make it the worst possible
scenario of all time fucking disgusting scenarios.
"I think I just totally peed on your leg, Babe."
I was officially out of my goddamn mind, lead straight to the House of
Embarrassment by Baby Cullen and all his baby bullshit.
"Bell, you didn't pee. I think your water broke."
"Well fix it!"
No, no no. This couldn't happen. I wasn't ready. There was still a
ceremony we needed to have to unmake me the whore mother I was and I
mean, we never finished reading those last three baby books and
shit.oh, my poor vagina.
Edward's stupid ass was laughing.
"Your vagina will be fine and baby books don't teach you shit, anyway."
Fuck thinking out loud and who ever invented it!
"This can't happen. Oh my God. Make it stop, Edward. Make it stop!"
He was still laughing. What an asshole. Why was I marrying him?
"Because you love me. Now, if you'll please give me your hand, Angel," he
held out his and I let him lead me to the rocking chair. "Stay."
Great, now he was talking to me like I was fucking dog.
"Stay with Bella, Love," he told Squeaks as he exited the room.
She came over and stood by the chair, petting my knee. "S'okay, Bewwa."
She was such a little liar, because before we even made it to the front
door, it was most certainly NOT okay.
"I want them to cut me open and take it out. Just tell them to come
here and cut me open and take it out." I was begging Flower Child,
promising things and threatening various parts of him that could not be
replaced - regardless of technological advances - but he wouldn't budge.
"Pay up, Cullen." My eyes flashed to Rosalie as she scooted around us in
the doorway. "Told you she'd freak out."
"You fuckers were betting against me? Oh, ha-fucking-ha. I swear to
God, if my knee could connect with your nuts, right now, Edward!"
"Relax," he rubbed the side of my face and then turned to Rosalie. "My
mom is like five minutes behind you. Can you wait for her and stay with
Ness, please?"
"Sure. Have fun." She sounded way too fucking chipper. Again, if I could
perform random acts of violence, I would have.
In the car, my mouth continued on with its demands.
"I don't want a doctor's hand in my vagina, Edward. I have watched the
Discovery Health where they show women in real life scenarios giving
birth and I swear to God, if I get fisted, I am going to castrate you on
sight!"
"Right, no fisting."
"And I only want you to touch the baby. It's like the worst fucking luck
ever if anyone but you touches the baby and when they stick that blue
suction thingy in his mouth don't let them just fucking JAM it in there
like those fuckers on TV. Oh my God.they will kill our poor baby before
he even gets toSHARP PAIN JESUS FUCKING CHRIST KILL ME NOW
KILL ME NOW."
"We're almost there."
"And no drugs. I don't care what I say or who I try to harm, NO DRUGS.
I don't want one of those red diaper doper babies Savage talks about,
even though I don't really know what the hell a red diaper doper baby is.
The point being, I don't want to wake up one day with a fifteen year-old
Baby Cullen who likes dope because his whoretastic mother couldn't
handle a little human body ripping its way through her vagina. Okay?!"
"No drugs, no jamming blue suction things and no random hands anywhere.
Got it, Bella."
"OH MY GOD EDWARD I AM GOING TO DIE. YOU HAVE PLANTED THE
SEED OF DEATH IN ME AND WHEN I DIE I AM GOING TO KILLLLLLL
YOUUUU!"
I don't even know how we ended up in the hospital room, as it was all a
blur of me yelling, Edward trying to tell me to calm down, me yelling, and
then poof- Esme.
In that order.
So.I was spread eagle like the whore Flower Child had turned me into,
with all the world staring at my unmentionable areas that were definitely
being mentioned and I was trying to find my happy place.
Peanut butter pie
Peanut butter pie
Peanut butter pie
"Push."
Coconut pie
Coconut pie
Coconut pie
"Almost there. Give me a good one, Bella."
"Fuck-OFF!" I didn't know who I was yelling at.
Could have been Edward.
Could have been the doctor.
Could have been Esme, for all I knew.
"I can see the head."
"Are you trying to kill me?" I whined. "Don't say anything about heads
coming out of anywhere!"
I could feel Edward's mouth on my forehead, but my eyes were still
closed. He needed to know THIS WAS NOT ALRIGHT.
And by THIS, I mean the dirty, unprotected sex we had.
"I'm so going to light your flag on fire. I'm so going to light your flag on
fire. I. Am. SO.going to light your flag on fire."
I chanted and chanted until.
"One last push. Just reach down and you can touch him."
WHAT?!
My brain was smart enough to know that was not a good idea, but when
someone says to do something absurd, my normal reaction is to look at
them, like the retard they are, and tell them exactly what I am thinking.
So, my stupid eyes opened.
And low and behold.there was human entering the world, via my vaginal
port of entry.
It was like instinct or maybeinsanity.but I reached down, like the
asshole doctor told me to, and as Baby Cullen slid free, I grabbed him
and laid him all gross and disgusting and fucking beautiful, on top of the
blue papers on my stomach and just like that, it was all over.
And I no longer hated Flower Child.
.And if anyone, I mean ANYONE, came at us with one of those blue
suction thingies, I was going to shove my foot, right up their ass.
(Okay, well, I let them 'suction cup thingy' him, fine, I didn't want him to
suffocate, but they didn't jam the fucker in there like on Discovery
Health.)
And the gross shit all over him didn't bother me. It didn't even register
in my mind as he lay warm and gentle and dark-haired and looking just
like a carbon fucking copy of Edward on my chest, his skin on my skin,
like he just knew who I was.
Likehe just belonged there, all along.
"Happy birthday." He just stared at me through his wrinkled, little eyes
that looked perfect- and I had to laugh. "Your father is definitely the
Arnold."
Edward's head leaning on my head, made me once again aware, others
actually existed.
"Aren't you glad I knocked you up and not Emmett?" He whispered.
"Extremely."
He kissed my face and I took my eyes off the baby long enough to kiss
him back.
"You did so good, Bella." More kisses. "You did so good."
I looked back to Baby Cullen and sighed. "We both did, Babe. We both
did."
"Still love me?"
Laughter broke in my throat and I looked back to him. "Sorry I said
mean things and threatened your unmentionables. And yes."
He smiled. "I love you too. And it's okay. I'm pretty sure I deserved it."
"You sort of did."
It was quiet for a few minutes as we just stared and stared and stared
at Baby Cullen, but then Edward interrupted it with more laughter.
"What?"
His head fell into my shoulder. "Only you would actually reach down and
pull your baby from your own body, Bella." He laughed harder.
"The doctor said to."
He just pressed his lips into my cheek and went back to staring.
A nurse came over and tried to grab my baby and I looked at her like
she was insane.
Edward, of course, found this highly amusing.
"I just need to check his vitals and record weight and size. I'll give him
right back, promise."
I eyed her name tag and imprinted it to my memory.
"I have seen those shows on TV where fake nurses steal babies. He's
going with you, baby snatcher."
I handed our son to Edward and he smiled the whole way over to where
they needed to measure and do whatever it is they do, to new babies.
I kept my eyes on the shifty nurse as she handled Baby Cullen and swore
silently to myself I would end her if she did anything wrong.but
then.my eyes, oh, they were so heavy and even though I fought and
fought and foughtthey just wouldn't stay open.
There was soft humming in my ear and fingers I knew all too well on my
cheek. They felt amazingly comforting and I tried to hold on to the
feeling and take it with me into the darkness. It stayed there the entire
time and never left.
But it wasn't Edward. It was my dad and his humming and hands on my
face pushed me further into my dreams and I slipped and fell so far, I
was back at Christmas and remembering all of the things he said and why
today was even possible.
Why anything was ever going to be possible.
"You always liked Christmas lights," Charlie whispered, inclining his head
towards my ear. "That was always you're favorite part."
I nodded and stared at the ones in the church, remembering.
"Your speech was beautiful that day, Bells. I should have told you that."
My head turned his way and he took my hand. "I understand now why
you always liked the lights. You're name needed to be in lights, baby girl.
You're name- it deserved to be lit up somewhere. You did good, kid. You
did real good."
I shook at his words and all the shit I had always pushed down,
everything that lay buried somewhere in the pit of my stomach, streamed
from my eyes and down my cheeks and onto Charlie's finger that caught
them.
"Thank you, Dad. Thank you." I looked into his eyes- eyes that were
really looking back at me for the first time since I was a kid - and he
smiled.
"Merry Christmas, kid."
Then, we were on my porchSqueaky showing everyone her new toys
insideit was our first night home from New York and everyone
commented on the tree until my ears couldn't take it anymore and I
escaped to the porch, finding Charlie sneaking a smoke from his pipe.
"Sue will gut you like a fish if she catches you."
He puffed and then patted the seat next to his. "Dad, there's a reason I
gave up smoking and I'm not ruining it by breathing in that funk." I
waited until he smothered it and then took a seat.
"What are you doing out here, anyhow?" He asked.
"Just needed some air. It's been a long time since.wellyou know," I
shrugged.
"Yeah, yeah I do. Your stocking back at home misses you, ya know."
"Dad? Why.why did you agree to help me? I've been like.I pretty
much left you behind. I don't deserve your help, so why are you even
here?"
"I already told you that, tonight."
"But I was terrible to you," I argued.
"You were a kid being a kid. And I'm just a dad being a dad. Don't over
complicate things, Bells. There's enough of that without trying."
I stared at the bench in my yard and nodded. "I've heard that before."
It was quiet between us for a long while after that. I could hear all the
chatter and laughing from inside and gave a quick glance, seeing everyone
watching Rose hold the baby and then looked back to Charlie.
"Edward wants me to go to Canada. I was supposed to open a place there
and he used Em's money to buy back my share. But.but if I go, isn't
that likemaking all the same mistakes I made? I mean, you're supposed
to learn from mistakes, not repeat them, right?"
He stared at me and then replied, "How is this a mistake?"
"Because I'd be doing the same thing to Edward I did to you. The
samethe same things mom did to me and the same things Squeaky's mom
did to her."
He nodded in understand and then leaned forward, resting his arms on his
knees.
"Bells, there is one thing I know and that is that you are not your mama.
And by the looks of things, that little girl in there does not think you are
like her mama, either. Edward is a good father to that girl and if you
were anything but Bella, he wouldn't want you to be around her, now
would he?"
"I'm not the same when I'm working like that. I have to be selfish and all
my time is mine. I didn't just stop visiting and shit because I wanted to
lose you all."
"Well, what did you just say to me? That you learn from your mistakes,
right?"
"It's not as easy as it sounds, Dad."
"Nothing you ever did was, kid. Nothing you ever did was."









Epilogue- Full Frames

Bella.
I am back in my Miami office.
This is the first time in two weeks I have sat here. I am dying to go
home. There is a framed picture on my desk that is screaming at me.
Dark hair with light eyes and a scrunched face, peering just over the top
of the pass, with a woman, who looks so similar, but slightly different,
scrunching her nose just like him, and bending her knees to be eye to
eye. It's my favorite picture of all time and for once, I am grateful to
fame and the media and the magazine photographer that took it when
they did a spread in Epicurious about my life.
Our life.
But he is my life.
I was showing them the kitchen and introducing Alice that day when
small, familiar footsteps came pitter-pattering in. He loves flip-flops. He
loves the beach. His tan skin and light tips of his hair resemble that love.
But, his flip-flops alerted me to his presence and I turned around to see
him peeking through the pass. There was a stool in the kitchen just for
him and his sister and he used it often and well.
"Hi Little Boy," I was smiling. Looking at him. I was always smiling.
"Hi Mommy." His face was a little red, a little burnt and a little peeling.
His smile was perfect. His eyes were perfect. His cheeks- I wanted to
slather them with my kisses he wiped away two seconds after I left.
"What's up?"
"Nutt'n." He rested his head down just as casually as mine- like this was
just a normal way to communicate. I'm sure if I looked at the man
standing behind him, he would be smiling wide, but not even that man
could make me look away- even if he was just as perfect.
"Do you know I adore you?"
This was when his face started to scrunch. He wasn't grossed out, he was
just two. And shy and sweet as sugar and I lived for him. And the
scrunch. I gave him my own and that's when it happened.
Snap.
I finished grabbing my things and shoved them into a bag. Two weeks in
Canada had me on edge, feeling sick everyday and to make matters
worse, I couldn't even just jump off the plane and run my ass home. No. I
had to stop at Tatu and grab something for Edward, then here - The
Workshop - and of course - people couldn't just let me do my thing and
leave.
No. Questions, commentsthey were endless.
This is why Isabella Swan lived a lonely existence. Families didn't work
with work.
Instead of twenty minutes, it was two hours and the sun was setting. No
way. I grabbed my shit and hauled ass. They could suck it. I had plans
and those plans involved the sun. If I let him down, I couldn't bare to
see his face. I promised and I wasn't going to break my words.
They would break him and he would break me.
Our family was whole.
Thankfully, I didn't have to travel very far. I changed in my office,
pulling on a pair of denim shorts and a tank top and my flip-flops that
made me smile all crazy because I couldn't help thinking of his little, mini
feet and the sound they make.
Edward and I would lay on the couch and just listen as he walked around
our house; laughing hysterically.
It was a mom and dad thing. Some people - like Angela and Ben just
didn't get it.
The restaurant was a little full, now, and I waved my hand bye to Jasper
as he served the customers overtaking the bar. He gave me a warm smile
and goodbye nod and I felt more free than ever as I exited the door
that held one world, and entered the world in which held another.
I didn't care about the wait going on, or if Alice could manage tonight or
what if, what if, what if. What if what? The only 'what if' scenario I
cared about was 'what if the sun sets'.
So, I ran my way down the road and when I hit the sand I kicked off my
flip flops and shoved them in my back pocket and hurried my way
towards the canopy and circle of people and the little boy running my
way, wide smile and hair blowing free. His feet were bare, but he was
dressed in the cutest, smallest, tropical shirt I had ever seen.
It was priceless and this was priceless and the only thing better was
seeing the bigger version of him, waiting patiently and looking happy, not
pissed, that I was late for one of the greatest days in our lives.
"Mama, fowers." He stuck a yellow hibiscus in my hair, over my ear as I
carried him towards the canopy and attempted to smother his face in
kisses.
"You're late," Charlie whispered. "I thought you might have changed your
mind."
"Sorry." I kissed Anthony once more on the cheek, breathing in a little of
his face before I lowered him to his feet. He took Ness' hand and I
winked at her before she turned around, facing forward.
"Ready, kid?" I shoved my arm into Charlie's and nodded.
The sun was perfect.
There were only a couple of dudes playing one of those little guitar
things and some bongos. No silly march or pianos or organs or flowers and
tule and chiffon that made me gag. Fuck no. I was in denim shorts and
Edward.oh my Lord- that man did some serious justice to a simple white
shirt and cargo pants.
Yes, cargo pants.
Esme was horrified and I didn't even have to look at her to know it.
"You're in so much trouble, right now," Edward whispered as I placed my
hand into his.
"I was trying to wrap it up with my new Canadian boyfriend, sorry."
He smiled and kissed my hand as the ceremony began.
Our son constantly stepped on my feet as the pastor recited the words
he read and I had to bite my lip to keep from laughing. Edward noticed
and steadied him between us, holding onto one of his hands. Squeaks was
perfect. She just stood and listened and when it was time for the second
part of this 'non-traditional' ceremony, she looked at me.
There was paperwork saying Squeaky belonged to me.
There were hugs before school and pictures strune across our fridge and
on the backs of doors across the world, in my various offices, which said I
was her mom.
But, never had it been spoken. Never had it been official. Never, had she
not flinched when Anthony called me mommy and I flinched when still -
two years later- she called me by my first name and I was still just
Bella.
Today- today there would be words.
Edward spoke to me and our children, like he had these words written in
his heart for all his life. They flowed effortlessly and truthfully. Anthony
finally stopped stepping on my feet.
"I take you now, in the presence of God and these witnesses, to be my
wife. I promise to love you, to hold you and to honor you, in good times
and in bad, to enjoy you, console you, to delight you and astound you
when I can. I will give thanks for you always, and cherish you with all my
heart until the end of our days."
He looked at just me for the next part. His blue eyes burning into me
with the same intensity as that day two years ago and I felt myself fall
just as easily as I did that night, but the fireworks- they were in my
heart this time.
"Not only do I promise to be a good and faithful husband to you, but also
to be a patient, loving father to Renesmee and Anthony, caring for them
and providing for them as my own. I promise to be their strength and
their emotional support, loving them with all my heart until the end of
their days."
I repeated the same words back to him and our children, and then the
pastor took over, once again.
"Edward and Isabella are blessed with these children, Renesmee and
Anthony, as fruit of their love and giving together. Edward and Isabella,
do you commit to love and care for Renesmee and Anthony, and to teach
them of love through your examples? Do you pledge to treat Renesmee
and Anthony with honesty and dignity, respecting them as a person,
listening to them, teaching them and helping them to grow?"
"I do," We both spoke together.
"Not only are Edward and Isabella creating a marriage today, but they
also are forming a family with Renesmee and Anthony. Just as it is
appropriate for Edward and Isabella to begin their marriage by affirming
their love for each other by exchanging rings, they also wish to show
their love for Renesmee and Anthony with a gift of a ring."
I kneeled down with Edward to give Renesmee her little ring. I hugged
her and made her more promises in her ear and she knew she was loved.
The same went for Anthony and then we both stood back up. Edward's
thumb removed tears from the corner of my eyes and then reclaimed
Anthony's hand, again. He had very shifty feet.
"And now, Renesmee and Anthony do you promise to love your parents,
Edward and Isabella? Do you promise to support their marriage and their
new family? Do you promise to accept the responsibility of being their
children, and to encourage them and support them in your new life
together?"
Renesmee answered right away with a high pitched "Yes!" and then she
nudged Anthony to say the same. He was his own brand, though, and
simply nodded.
"Edward, do you take Isabella to be your wife?"
"I do." A ring slid on to my finger at the pastor's request.
"Isabella, do you take Edward to be your husband?"
"I do."
One more ring and it seems that I was right on time, after all.
The sun set, just as our lips touched and my heart, I am telling you, it
was just as golden and just as big and just as fucking perfectly warm.
It was complete.
"Son, stay close." Edward sat next to me in the sand after the ceremony.
"I'll watch him, Daddy." Renesmee love, love, loved being a sister.
Edward continued to stare, eyes trained on their direction. He would
never forget the pool incident. Never.
"Don't worry, I'll keep an eye," Rose winked as she passed, holding a
hand to a child that was the second most beautiful boy- but I was
severely biased of course. Even if he was Emmett's boy.
She followed them as they played by the ocean. It was getting busier
and I kept my eyes focused on them as Edward brought my head to his
chest.
"Beautiful right?"
"Our kids or the view?" I asked.
"Both, Angel."
"Mmm. Perfect. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."
Soft laughter vibrated from his chest. "Things in Canada not so good,
Baby?"
"Things are fine, but it's just not here. Traveling sucks and not even
Anthony's blanket could take away the creepy smell of clean hotel
rooms."
"I'm sorry, but I am glad you're back. We missed you."
"Same, Babe. Same."
"You know what I found out this week?" He laughed. "Anthony has your
cookbook stashed under his bed."
I lifted my head and stared at him with my surprisedand slightly
confused eyes. "Why would he have that?"
Edward's hand tucked some loose hair behind my ear and his lips smiled
lovingly. "He said he likes looking at you when you cook. He thinks you
look pretty."
I was lost for words and feeling like that precious child was much too far
away.
"Fuck, I am a horrible mother."
He laughed. "Why would you say that?"
"I should be here."
"You are."
"All the time, Edward."
"You are." He tapped his fingers over his heart. "Always."
"I want to build a sand castle." He laughed at my pouty lips and then
stood up to find our kids.
The rest of the family came over and we all built things in the sand until
the beach was too crowded and we had to stand up and watch as our
creation was trampled. Anthony loved watching it smash and crumple.
I had to laugh.
He was going to give me grey hairs at some point, I'm sure.
Esme stood at my side, smiling at my son with sheer adoration. "Want to
come to Grandma?"
He hugged me tighter.
"I'd love to say I'm sorry, but I'm not." I hugged him just as tight and
she smiled with understanding.
"It is amazing how much he looks like Edward. I don't think I will ever
get used to it." She brushed her fingers gently through his hair, as he
rested his face on my chest.
Her words made me realize how much that truth held.
"Thank you."
Esme lifted her eyes to mine. "For what, Dear?"
I needed to tell her this with all my heart. It was my whole my heart.
"For Edward. For Emmett," I paused, trying not to cry. This was our
happy day. "I wouldn't have anything without them. I would be anyone
without them."
Esme looks touched- so touched. I was so glad.
"Well Dear, thank you for my grandson. Both of them, actually. I
wouldn't have Peyton or Edward JR without you, so thank you for giving
them to me. Thank you for making my son so happy, too. You're a blessing
to our family."
I just nodded my head and shoved my face into Anthony's hair, allowing
his warmth and innocence and to flood through me and no tears show
themselves, even if they were happy tears.
"Here, Mommy." Edward handed me a sparkler and kissed my cheek, then
turned to Esme. "And my mommy." He gave one to Esme, too.
"Pop-pop!" Squeaks ran to Carlisle, as he approached. He picked her up
and walked towards us, along with my dad and the rest of our family.
Just like last year and the year before, when the sky fell totally dark,
the ship out at sea lit it up with a vast array of colors and streaks and
booms. I watched most of them in the reflection of small blue eyes that
were full of wonder. A hand went under my hair and pulled me towards
his lips.
I kissed him until a smaller hand pulled my chin away and looked at me
with extreme disapproval. He wanted me to watch the fireworks with
him. Edward laughed and held me to his side.
"Happy Fourth of July, Angel."
I sighed in contentment.
"Happy Fourth of July, Flower Child."
As I closed the door to our son's bedroom- him tucked inside and sleeping
soundly- I crept my way toward our living room. Edward was showering
and the house was so quiet. It felt good and I sat down on the couch,
amid all the toys and unfolded clothes and smiled to myself.
It was a world apart from where I had been.
The past week I had screamed and yelled and fought for standards and
details and rules. Not much had changed in that area. You always had to
fight for those things. You always had to fight for your dreams. Invoke
was beautiful and fun and alive, but it wasn't here.
And at night, alone in the hotel, it wasn't here.
And the sheets that still smelled of that same, familiar disinfectant
weren't here.
And mint candies didn't match the sweetness of a little boy's smile,
because it wasn't here.
My home was home. It smelled of sneakers and dinner and suntan lotion
and laundry soap. I tripped over toys and shoes and woke up in the
middle of the night to a small person crawling his way over my chest to
settle into a bed he loved more.
I woke up to see him snuggled under a strong arm of protection, looking
like past and present versions of one another and ate my cheddar cheese
eggs with kisses on my cheek and syrup in my hair and someone always
asking for something.
I leaned forward and picked up a picture from the coffee table. It was
one of my other favorites. It reflected all that chaos and happiness and
here. It was here. It was us- all of us.
Cake was smashed into a little face and a huge smile was on a woman's
face and another huge smile with a hand pressed to a forehead was on a
man's face and a little girl was covering her mouth and looking shocked,
yet amused.
It was Anthony's first birthday and he was way too eager to try cake for
the first time.
That was one of the best days of my life.
Another, had been winning twenty bucks and a foot massage.
"Say mama. Say mam-ma. Mam-ma."
He was making every noise except that word.
"It's going to be Daddy or Papa. Watch, Bell."
"Kiss my ass, Flower Child. Say ma-ma."
"Wanna make a bet?"
"Little boy, if you say 'Daddy' first, you will break my heart and then I'll
have to break your Daddy's face. Please say Mama first. Please?"
"Daddy, it will be Daddy."
It was Mama and the best foot massage ever.
Then, it was tiny feet. I was coming through the door, returning home
from my trip to Las Vegas to check on Twilight, when it happened.
"Look, Bell!" Edward was so excited and I could barely get my keys out
of the door.
Edward was sitting on the floor and as I came inside, my little boy came
towards me with very wobbly legs. I dropped to my knees immediately
and extended my arms for him as he fell into them.
I had never cried and laughed so hard.
We sat there for the next three hours, feet pressed together on the
floor, watching as he went back and forth between us. It was wonderful,
until he realized walking meant freedom and freedom meant, you could
get into a lot of shit you weren't supposed to.
I don't think Squeaky has yet to forgive him for the destruction of her
art book. Who knew kids who were only two feet high could reach four
feet high, right?
Crafty little shits, I tell you.
I placed the picture back down and smiled at the collection that was
building along the table and walls. We had so many. It was like a
lifetime of memories was painting itself right here, in our house.
Like, a documentation of progress and life.
Real life- not just existing, but really, truly, living.
The memories could be happy, could be sad. Sometimes, they were both. I
kissed my thumb and stamped it over Emmet's face, like I did every
night. He was the both category- happy, sad. But, more happy then sad.
Always.
Edward was already in bed and waiting for me with open arms as I crept
my way in. His fingers glided slowly through my hair as he held me,
making soft sounds of contentment as I kissed along his neck.
I didn't get very far.
We both laughed as the door creaked open and the paddles of small
feet, four of them, made their way to our bed.
"So much for a honeymoon, right?" He whispered as I made room between
us.
"It's alright. We have forever for that stuff."
I petted Ness' hair as she wiggled her way down to where I had been
laying beside Edward. Anthony had taken over the spot Squeaks had
grown too big for, on his chest. There was nothing, simply nothing better
than waking up to the vision of him sound asleep there.
When I die someday, I will allow that memory to play itself in my mind
until my mind can no longer work.
"Thanks for marrying me today," he whispered.
"Sure, anytime. I love you."
"I love you, Angel. For forever. I promise."
I kissed his shoulder and he kissed my forehead.
"Night, Babe." I rested my head against the little piece of him I could
and then hugged my arms around Ness.
"Night, Squeaks. Little Boy," I whispered, closing my eyes.
Emmett.
"Night, Mommy," Two voices whispered back to me and my heart swelled.
Okay, so maybe it was a just a silly name, I know this. And I wasn't that
petty. But, I was built on believing in certain things and those things
made me who I was and all I wanted was for those around me was to be
the best that they possibly could, because all I ever wanted was to give
those people the best that I possibly could.
I said a lot of things over the years that I would take back and change
and wish I never had, because I had been wrong.
I had done a lot of things I wished I never had and wished I could take
back, because I was wrong.
But some of those things.some of those things I was dead right on and
would never take back, would never, ever change.
It didn't just make me, it made us.
It gave Flower Child a restaurant that was successful and made him feel
proud and alive. It made him a better man, a better father and a
husband who would be just as good. It made Carlisle, the father who
never looked at him like he was anything, look at his son suddenly like he
was everything. Through clear and present eyes that finally, finally let
go of the past. And Edward did, too.
It made Squeaks a little girl who would grow up to have anything,
everything, she needed and more. It took the weight off her young
shoulders and the pain from her heart that had no place there. She
would always be happy.
And this little boy - my biggest surprise- something I never knew I
wanted until he appeared and blessed me with a life I couldn't imagine
being without- he was created two years ago, today, based off letting go
and trusting my life in the hands of another. Hands I placed a ring upon
and promised to cherish and love and be my only, like our song.
When Edward showed up at The Workshop that first day, the first thing
I wanted to know about him was the story behind his lotus tattoos. I
often wondered since that day- why?
It wasn't really until I lay here, right now, hearing two out of the three
most precious people in my life call me their mom that I understood
something I preached and fought for everyday, since my career began.
It was one of the first things I ever taught Edward and one of the things
I knew I was always right about, but it was something he taught me too,
through his heart and his love and our children and our life and all those
pictures that would fill our walls until we had to pack some away, or buy
a bigger house to be able to support them all.
It was all about the details and our life, it had many.


The End




OUTTAKES



The Workshop: Restaurant Wars






On a warm sunny day in Miami
}Edward, Flower Child{
She was humming, standing by our stove in the kitchen, flipping
bacon.
Bella's hair was a mess, piled on top her head in a sloppy pony-tail,
but my eyes didn't stay there long. The sliding doors were open and
the warm, humid air from outside was blowing in, filling our house
with a salty fragrance that mixed with the smoky bacon she cooked.
The moisture from the air speckled itself along her bronzed skin, in
between the spaghetti-straps of her tank top, arms, and a small peek
of skin where her top didn't meet her pajama shorts.
I waited until she moved the bacon off the burner and reached up for a
plate from the cabinet before I made my move.
"Eeek!" She squealed as I lifted her in my arms from behind.
"Thought I couldn't scare you?" I teased, planting kisses along her
neck.
"I was lost in Bacon World," She giggled, resting her head against my
shoulder.
I kissed her lips.
"Thief," I accused, licking my lips.
"You were snoring like a pig next to Anthony. I was not going to
interrupt that fuckery to feed you. Now put me down. You and your
mouth have nothing on bacon."
I smiled and rested her back on her feet.
A sleepy child came into the kitchen, rubbing his eyes and Bella
seemed to forget all about her precious bacon. She picked up our son
and let him rest on her shoulder as she worked to finish breakfast. I
knew better than to offer to take him. Bella was a scary mother. A
fucking great mother.
"Hey, here's an idea. Why don't you stop stealing my bacon, Jerk, and
pour your kid some juice."
See?
"Yes, Ma'am." Just as I got out the cups and started setting the table,
a knock on the door came.
"It's Em," Bella announced, settling Anthony into his seat. "Let him in,
please."
Ness raced me to the door and I tossed her over my shoulder,
airplane-style and opened it.
He stared at Ness, and then looked at me.
"You know, your house gets weirder and weirder every time I come
here," Emmett laughed, pinching Ness' nose as he walked in.
"You should see what we do when no one is around," I teased, closing
the door.
"Oh, I bet." Emmett kissed Bella's cheek and took a seat.MY seat.
"Really, Em?"
He smiled, holding up his hands. "Sorry, sorry." He moved and took a
seat next to mine, across from Bella. Ness crawled onto his lap and he
held out his hand for Anthony to high-five.
My son gave him a look I knew too well. It was Bella all the way. Well,
Bella when you interrupted her from eating.
"I told you, bacon is serious business," Bella teased.
Emmett grabbed a piece off the plate and chewed as he spoke. "I
dropped off the paperwork you asked for this morning. In your office."
"Thenwhy did you come here?" Bella asked, looking confused.
"Free food. What else?"
She rolled her eyes. "Doesn't Rose feed you?"
"She's been too busy lately. Hungry Man is my best friend."
"No, I'm your best friend," she wiped Anthony's face and stood,
walking to the kitchen. "What the hell has Rose been up to that she
can't feed her own husband? She bakes freaking bread for a living,
how difficult can that be." Bella set a plate down for Emmett and
waved her hand towards the food.
I shook my head at him, laughing lightly.
"What?" He asked.
"You are so not my brother."
He ignored me, shoving a forkful of eggs in his mouth.
"Roseesdwinresrawntwas."
Anthony giggled.
"In English, Em, with a little less egg this time," Bella smiled.
"I said," he swallowed. "Rose is" long burp. "Doing Restaurant Wars."
"What is that?" She asked.
I interrupted, seeing as how his mouth was full, again.
"Miami does a competition every year between the local businesses.
It's like, in good fun, but some people take it pretty seriously," I
shrugged.
"Okay, so I have been here for like two years and didn't know about
this because?" She looked between Em and myself.
"Because there has been a lot of shitstuffgoing on and I never
thought about it," Emmett shrugged.
Bella's face soured, looking back to her plate.
"You can still enter. The deadline is two days away, B."
She looked at me. "Are you entering?"
"I don't think so."
"Why not?"
I just shrugged.
"Hmm." She went back to picking her food. Emmett kicked me under
the table.
My face asked, "What?"
His head nodded to Bella.
I shook my head 'no.'
He shook his 'yes'.
"I can see you, you know."
We looked at Bella. She was staring at us.
"Come on, B. You know you want to. There used to be a fun girl inside
of there," He waggled his brows and I kicked his ass hard under the
table.
"Yeah well, Fun Girl has children, and businesses and best friends who
need to be fed and piles of laundry that her husband never did last
night."
"Husband was doing much more important things last night if I
remember correctly. Things you didn't seem to mind."
She blushed, picking at her food again.
"Uh huh," I nodded.
"Okaaay, that's not awkward," Emmett mumbled.
"Angel," I took her hand, "If you want to do it, than just do it." I
kissed her hand. "Unlike Emmett, I can fend for myself and feed our
children."
"Funny." He stole my plate of food.
"What exactly do we have to do for this competition?" She asked.
Emmett smiled wide. "How do you feel about breaking and entering,
B?"







!Chef Bella!
"I'm kicking both of your asses if I end up on the front cover of a
tabloid, holding my inmate number."
"Relax, B. We won't get caught. And even if we do, my Pops will bail
us out."
Edward was shaking with laughter next to me. I smacked the back of
his head. We were crouched on the second floor to Tanya's restaurant,
Denali's, in front of some tiny ass window, attempting to break in. It
was dark and I had a ski-mask on and a bucket of stinky fucking fish
next to me.
For fuck's sake, I was a mother now. What the hell was I doing in this
predicament?
"We're in!" Emmett announced, pulling the circle of glass he cut away,
so he could unlock the window.
"I don't even want to know how you know how to do that, Em," I
whispered.
"Shush, just fucking stick your little ass hand in there and turn the
lock."
"I'm not putting my fucking hand in there! Are you crazy?"
"B, just"
Edward covered my mouth and shushed Emmett. Someone was
coming.
Shit.
We all held completely still.
Someone below us was whistling?
For the next forty five minutes, we had to lay there while some drunk
person paraded around, giving their best rendition of Cheeseburger in
fucking Paradise. I pointed to myself and then Emmett, telling him
through our ever-so-creative sign language that I was going to end
him.
Thankfully, Drunky fucked off down the street.
My ass and legs were giving me the finger.
"Climb in, B."
"Maybe we should just forget it," Edward suggested.
I turned to look at him. "I did not just sit through a bum's best effort
to imitate Jimmy fucking Buffett so I could go home empty handed.
Fuck that. We're going in, Flower Child."
"This is why B is my girl." Emmett helped me crawl through the small
window. "Go unlock the door. Edward and I can't fit."
I prayed they had no alarm system.
I crawled onto a flat surface of some type and waved my flash light
around. Ahh, the kitchen. There was a door in the back corner, leading
to the deck around back. I unlocked it and thanked Baby Jesus an
alarm didn't sound.
"Hurry," I called.
They found their way in and we closed the door. It was ridiculously
quiet until we all started laughing. I pulled my mask up so I could see
better and waved the flashlight around to get a view of our
surroundings.
"It smells like lemon in here," Emmett whispered. "I like it."
"Fuck you, Em. This is the enemy. We like nothing." I pointed the
flashlight in his face and had to laugh.
The fucker still had the ski-mask on.
"I'm gonna wear this home. Rosey has a robber fantasy."
"Sick," I tugged on his mask and walked past him. "Okay, so what do
we do now?"
"We need to find a good hiding place for the fish," Emmett said,
shining his flashlight around.
"The air-ducts. They'll never look there until it's too late," Edward
suggested.
I shined my light on him and raised a brow.
"It's true," he shrugged.
"You and Em are giving me the creeps with your knowledge of
committing crimes."
"You knew I was a criminal when you met me, Baby."
My face scrunched. "Excuse me?"
"I stole your heart, didn't I?"
"Did I seriously marry you? That was the worst fucking line ever."
Emmett spoke up. "Can you two stop acting like a married couple for a
second and more like two bad asses who just broke in to a private
business to defile property and inevitably anilate them in the process?
Please!"
"Look who forgot their Midol today." Edward pushed passed him and
jumped onto the counter. "Hand me the fucking fish, Princess PMS."
I saw it coming and as much as I loved Flower Child, I would never
pass up the opportunity to watch this happen.
"What the fuck!"
Emmett smacked Edward hard with one of the fish on his back. Guts
splattered in the faint light I was aiming their way.
"Who needs Midol?" Emmett asked.
"Just give me the fucking fish. When we get out of here," Edward
shook his head. "It's fucking on."
Emmett handed over the bucket and Flower Child placed the fish into
the air vent, and then replaced the screen. I almost felt bad for what
we were doing. Almost. They started bickering again and I took off,
snooping around the kitchen.
Let's face it, when I would get this opportunity again?
It seemed pretty clean. Well kept. Em was right, it smelled like fresh
lemons and pretty damn nice. Our kitchens usually smelled like bleach.
The lemons were better. It irritated the shit out of me.
I was about to find my way into the walk-in, when all of a sudden, the
lights came on, full blast. My eyes squinted and my heart jumped into
my throat.
We all looked at each other in horror.
"Run!" Edward said, making his get-away. I followed them to the door
this time, but Em stopped me.
"You have to lock it and climb back through the window, or they'll
know."
Fuck me running.
Once they were out, I locked the door and then scrambled to the
counter; hoisting myself up. I could hear people talking, approaching.
My heart was flying, beating so hard. My hands were slick from being
so freaked out and I just barely wiggled myself out. Reaching through
the small hole Em made, I locked the window and then he glued the
circle back in place.
We all slid out of view and sat with our backs against the wall,
breathing hard.
"Fuck, I almost pissed my pants," Emmett laughed, covering his face.
"You? I had to fucking stay behind and crawl my ass out of a window,
Emmett."
"Guys," Edward laughed, "we are way too old for this shit."
Once Flower Child and I were back at home, we showered and crawled
into bed. Our mini's were at his parent's house tonight.
I straddled his ass.
"Breaking and entering did it for you, huh?" He teased, gripping my
hips.
I eyed the fucker up and down a secondor two. Let's face it; we were
married with two children. Alone time was pretty much non-existent.
Fuck, most of the time we didn't even get to snuggle in bed, as said
children attempted to ensure no other children would ever be made,
ever again.
"Just give me a minute here, Flower Child. I need to eye-fuck you a
little."
"Will it be followed by a real fucking?"
"Shhhh," I held out my hand and he smiled, closing his eyes. "I take it
back; I made a good choice in marrying you. You can be as corny as
you like." My hands swept over all his toned, tattoo goodness.
His eyes opened, looking amused.
"I think we need to even things out here, Angel." He tugged on my
shirt and I obliged, pulling it over my head. "Come to Daddy," he
whispered, cupping my breasts.
I leaned down and kissed him, grinding a little into his crotch. His lips
moved to my chin and then neck and shoulder.
"I missed you," he said softly.
"Me too, Babe."
"We should break into places more often," he teased.
I leaned back a little and he moved his lips to my nipples. Oh yeah, it
had been way too long. Butterbean was making her presence known. I
rocked into his lap again, trying to gain her some friction. Edward sat
up and flipped me on my back.
I guess I wasn't the only one who was eager.
His hardness pressed against me as he rested in between my legs. I
pushed him back and tried to explain through example that Momma
didn't need romance tonight. I lifted my hips and pulled my panties
down a little. He got the hint and pulled them the rest of the way off,
then tugged down his own.
He settled back down and I gripped his shoulders as he entered me.
Much, much too long.
He was moving slowly at first, then faster and harder and somewhere
in between begging for more, saying his name, and holding on to
broad, tattooed shoulders I fucking loved, I noticed it.
My wedding ring was gone.
Shit.








|The Workshop: Restaurant Wars|
|Chapter la three: G-strings, Lt. Dan and Finger Sucking|



[Edward }- Flower Child]
"Less clothing," Bella demanded, sitting on the edge of our bed.
I gave her a highly annoyed glare before unbuttoning my shirt for the
tenth time.
"Don't give me that look, Flower Child. It wasn't my idea to break into
Denali's."
"You don't even know if it's there, Bell. It could have fallen off
anywhere." I grabbed a tank-top from the closet and pulled over my
head. "Does this meet your approval? Or would you prefer I just go
find your wedding ring, strutting around in a G-string for Tanya?"
She said nothing.
"Bella!" I said with much irritation. This morning was going to be a
total cluster-fuck.
"I'm trying to imagine you in such a get-up," she smirked.
"I'm leaving."
"Wait!" She leaped off the bed and stood in front of me. Her hands
raked through my hair; smile painted wide on her face. "There. Now
there's no stopping you."
"I'm not sleeping with her to get it back; just know this," I pointed at
her.
"You totally want to take back the 'for better or worse' part, don't
you?" She teased.
"I'll answer that when I come back."
She followed me to the front door. "Maybe I should oil you up before
you go. Where's that damn cocoa butter?"
"Good-byeeee, Bellaaa." I grabbed my keys and ignored her until she
tugged on the back of my shirt.
Her face was more serious when I looked at her this time.
"I'm sorry I lost it and I love you," she sighed.
My fingers lifted her chin, bringing her lips to mine. "You can make it
up to me later. I love you too."
She grinned wickedly before I pulled away.
"I'll be sure to find that cocoa butter."
I sighed hard, leaning against the wall as I watched Tanya's car pull up
in front of Denali's.
Bella fucking owed me.
Little Miss Redhead smiled like my kids picking out ice-cream flavors at
Baskin Robbins, as she climbed out of her car.
Show time.
"Edward," she cooed, walking towards me. "Long time no see and how
very," her eyes dropped from mine, tolower parts "Very nice it is to
see you."
"The feeling is mutual Tanya," I smiled back.
"So, to what do I own the pleasure?" She unlocked the front door and
I offered to hold some of the things in her hands, to help.
"I was actually wondering if your offer to teach me still stood. I know
it's been a long time, but I sure could use a little help with some of
myskills?"
Her face scrunched. "Aren't you married to Bella? Queen of Food? Not
that I mindteaching you a thing or two, but I just figured you would
ask her first." She opened the door and I held it so she could step in.
"She's just really busy these days. Traveling, you know." God forgive
me. "Plus, it would be kind of nice to get out from under her for a bit
and work under someone else," I gave her the half-smile.
I was an asshole and I gave her my Grandfather's famous half-
smilewhile I made sexual innuendos and put down the love of my
life.
Insert ticket to Hell in my back pocket.
She bought it.
Her eye-lids lowered, matching her tone and a dark smile played on
her glossy lips.
"Wanna come in? We can get started this morning if you'd like."
I winked at her and stepped into the Lion's Den.
It's for the greater good, I swore to myself.
It wasn't working.
Tanya walked slowly, over-exaggerating each step, swaying her hips
and when we climbed the stairs, she curled her fingers around my
bicep for support she didn't need.
I was in deep shit. Deep. Fucking. Shit.
She climbed a little faster and let me go, then made sure to step right
in front of me, which put her ass right in my face.
Don't look. Do not look, asshole.
She was climbing slower.
Bella in her pink pajama shorts.
More steps.
Bella in a bikini, applying tanning oil.
More fucking steps.
Jesus Christ, who buys a restaurant with a fucking kitchen up three
flights of stairs?
Ass. In. Face.
Was she wearing
Bella. Bella spread out, fucking naked as a Jay bird on our bed, my
hand on her tits and mouth on her pussy. Pussy. MY WIFE Bella's pu
"Right this way," Tanya held the door open to the kitchen.
Thank you Sweet Lord.
"I need to get a few things settled in my office. Why don't you get
yourself acquainted with the kitchen and I'll be back in five. Okay?"
Great idea.
"Take your time," I nodded.
She grinned and pressed her palm to my chest as she passed. "Feel
free to touch whatever you like, Edward."
And then she was gone.
I stared at my tented shorts.
"Really, Lt. Dan?" I asked my crotch, which was not acting like a
happily married man and shook my head at him. "You don't deserve
Bella. You really don't, asshole."
Ignoring my dick, I got back to my mission at hand. If Bella's ring was
here, there would only be a few places it could be. I checked the floors
and the counter she had climbed on from the window.
Nothing.
I crouched down and looked under the stoves, thinking maybe
someone kicked it.
Nothing.
I crawled along the floor, hoping and praying it would be under a
station or table. There was nothing, just absolutely nothing. Not even
crumbs or dust or.
"Fuck." I climbed to my feet and walked to the trash cans, even
though that was impossible. We broke in after service, they would
have already swept the floor and I was the first person here today.
Before Tanya arrived this morning, I checked the perimeter, thinking
she lost it when we broke in last night, but nada.
There was only one place the ring could have been- if it was here; the
fish.
Quickly, I hopped up onto the counter and unhooked the latches on
the air-vent. It fucking stunk. Not bad enough to flood the restaurant
yet, but by tonight, oh yes, definitely.
I pulled one of the fish forward to see if it was anywhere in the vent
and because God has an incredible sense of humor, I of course,
dropped the fucking thing.
It splattered when it hit the tile floor, and I felt a lump in my throat.
Grow a pair, Cullen.
I hopped down and scooped it up in my hand, not at all helping the
sour taste in my mouth that made me want to hurl and managed to
put the stupid fish back in the vent. The ring wasn't there either and
now my hand was covered in fish guts.
As was the floor.
I hurried to find a paper towel and clean it up, but again, God is funny.
One of the fish's eye balls rolled under the station and I was trying to -
no pun intended - fish it out.
"Come on, you son of a mother."
"Edward? What are you doing?"
Shit.
Tanya.
How did I not hear her?
"Um," I scrambled to my feet. "I was just.uh."
She smiled, but it wasn't a sexy smile. It was a 'you're fucked' smile.
"Lose something, Edward?" She held up Bella's ring on her pointer
finger.
Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. With a side of fucking fucked.
"Uh."
"Don't even lie to me. This ring has been splattered across every
magazine cover from here to Tim-Buck-Two. I know it's Bella's. The
question iswhat is it doing in my restaurant?"
"I swear; it was just all in good fun, Tanya."
"What?"
"We justit was just for fun, for the competition. We meant no harm."
"You guys were the ones who broke in last night?" She asked,
surprised.
"How do you know we"
"I have a silent alarm. It went off last night."
Ohhhhh.didn't think about that.
Note to self: Kill Emmett.
"I'm sorry, really, we were just trying to be.festive." I pouted my
lips, giving my best sad puppy eyes.
"So, what exactly did you do? I figured a bum was just looking for a
place to rest or something. Nothing was stolen," she shrugged.
"We just.we just um.swapped out some of your salt shakers for
sugar. It's lame, I know."
She laughed, shaking her head. "If that's the best Bella has, you can
tell her she might as well pull out before she embarrasses herself
further."
I laughed and cursed myself for nodding in agreement.
"So, you're not mad?" I asked.
"Are you kidding? It's like you said, Edward, all in good fun."
I smiled and nodded. "Exactly." My hand reached out for the ring, but
she tugged her finger away.
"Oh, no. I'm not letting you get away that easily."
"What do you want?" I asked nervously.
"What I have wanted since the first day I saw you, Edward." She
stepped closer to me and grabbed a hold of my shirt. "To feed you."
For the next hour and a half, I sat at Tanya's Chef Table, shirtless,
licking various things off of her fingers, eating things from her fingers
and..fucksucking things off her fingers.
At this point, the jig was up. She knew we broke in, but I needed that
damn ring. It was not only Bella's wedding ring, but it had been in my
family for forever. I would be a dead man if I had to explain to
Grandma Cullen that I lost it.fucking shoving fish into an air vent
for a stupid food competition.
When all the plates on the table were cleared, Tanya let me go and
gave me back the ring.
I felt defiled as I walked out of Denali's. Dirty.
And perhaps like all of my shit deserved to be on the front lawn
when I got home.
Bella looked up from feeding our son as I walked in.
Her face beamed when I waved the ring at her. The next day.did not
go so well.
I was picking out some fruit in the grocery store while trying to keep
track of two rambunctious children, when something smacked the back
of my head, hard. As I turned to ask the person what the fuck their
problem was, I stopped myself.
Staring back at me, was my own face, next to Tanya's, as I ate all that
shit off her fingers- half naked.
Bella was the one holding the magazine.
The one who hit me.
My son giggled.
"Momma is maaaaaad."
Indeed.









The Workshop: Restaurant Wars.
Chapter la four: War, I'll give you war.



!Chef Bella!
Thank the fucking Gene God's that my child has Edward's looks, but
my brilliance.
Clearly, his father was fucktarded.
"Bella, stop." He pulled the magazine from my hand as I tried to swat
him, again. "Give me this."
"Oh, I am going to give it to you alright." My teeth were clenched.
Flower Child ignored me and flipped through the article until he
spotted something.
"You see?" He pointed to the picture on the next page- which wasn't
any better, by the way.
Tanya was going to die. Soon.
"This is not helping your cause, Edward."
"She has your ring on her finger," he shoved the article closer to my
face.
Well, look at that.
"You wanted it back, didn't you?" He asked, pulling the magazine away
and tossing it on top of the fruit stand. "She's just playing you, Bell."
I sighed in frustration, crossing my arms. "Fine. If she wants to go
there, we can go there."
Emmett was donning a fabulous pair of red Speedos, accompanied by
a curly blonde wig and shades, as he stood along the boardwalk,
handing out flyers.
We were drawing quite a crowed, thanks to his beefy - yet oddly
dressed self. I was in disguise too, but not showing as much skin.
Emmett had a thing for being dramatic, what can I say.
The flyers were practically flying out of his hands. "This is genius,"
Emmett laughed.
"Free food, prepared by a Michelin Star award winning chef, tonight! 5
'til close! Free drinks! Free desserts! Get your coupons!" I hollered,
sitting atop his shoulders. "Customer Appreciation Night!"
"Here you go, Ma'am. Enjoy," Emmett smiled, handing over some
more coupons.
I scratched his head. "I haven't had this much fun since we lived in
New York."
"Word, B."
When the last few flyers were gone, I climbed down from his shoulders
and gave him a fist bump, smiling wide. He swung his arm over my
shoulders and we laughed all the way back to The Workshop.
I stood before my staff, at our usual meeting, before the restaurant
opened.
"So, we will probably be really slow tonight. Apparently, Denali's has
a," I quoted with my fingers, " 'Customer Appreciation night', going
on."
Emmett put his head down on his arms, as he sat backward in his
seat. His shoulders told me he was cracking up. I almost lost, it
imagining him in that fucking ridiculous Speedo.
My Sister-in-Law was going to kill me if she found out.
Not that I cared.
This was war, damn it.
"So, we will probably get our regulars and not much else. I'm going to
have dinner with my family tonight, so if you need me, figure out how
to not need me."
Edward called thirty minutes passed the time he was supposed to be
here for dinner. I wasn't really surprised.
"Yes, dear?" I answered.
"Hey, there is traffic like you cannot believe. Jesus, you'd think
something is being away for free, tonight."
Do not laugh. Do not laugh.
"I'm sorry, Babe. Just take your time. I'm a little busy anyhow," I sort
of lied.
Peering from behind a tree, across the street, I watched the mayhem
that was Denali's.
"Suck on my husband's fingers, bitch," I muttered.
"What, baby?"
"Nothing. Just get here when you get here. I'll wait."
We hung up after a few I love you's were exchanged and I kept
watching the chaos build outside of Tanya's restaurant. A long line
formed outside and people were trying desperately to get in. A few
staff members were trying to keep things organized, but there were
just too many people. I held up my phone and took a picture before
walking back into The Workshop.
While I waited for Edward, I went to the kitchen and made sure things
were good, even cooked a little and then readied our table. He showed
up with my two favorite mini-people just as I took my seat.
"Man, I guess no one minds the fish stink." Edward leaned in and
kissed my cheek. "Tanya has quite the crowd, tonight."
"Oh, I'm pretty sure there will be a guest or two who will." I held out
my hands for my baby boy, sitting him on my lap.
"What's all the hub-bub, anyhow?" He asked.
I laughed a little. "I love that word. Hub-bub."
Edward smiled.
"Tanya is hosting Customer Appreciation Night," I explained.
"Oh, that's a good idea, I guess."
"Yeah," I sighed. "She is also going to have two of Miami's toughest
food critics asking for a reserved table in about," I looked at the
screen on my cell, "ten minutes. She better get it together. Wouldn't
want a bad review this week."
He looked at me, arching one of those fabulous eyebrows. "What did
you do?"
I laughed. "Just helping her get some attention, since that is what she
wanted. I mean, with that magazine article and all." I shoved some
bread into my trap and shrugged.
"I should have known," he sighed.
"By the way, your brother looks delish in a Speedo and a blonde wig."
I showed him my cell's screensaver.
He choked on his bread.
"Told you."
The following morning
My face was in Heaven.
Flower Child Heaven.
My lips were pressed against his neck. Nose breathing in his delicious
sleepiness. Cheek, warm and content against his chest - and to top it
all off - no small people were invading our bed. I hugged him tighter
and wiggled closer. His fingers scratched sleepily at my hair and he
rubbed some more of that Heaven against my face with his own.
"Let's never move," I mumbled.
"Mmm," he agreed.
"We can just call-in for food."
"Mmm hmm."
"And forget about work. I'm rich, you're rich, we don't need work," I
kept rambling.
"Definitely," he whispered.
"When the world ends, we'll just be right here," I sighed and tried to
find my Personal Heaven, again.
It was quiet for a few minutes as we laid there.
"You know our kids are probably lighting something on fire out there,
right?" I asked.
Edward laughed and then grumbled, "I'm getting up."
After a quick shower and an attempt to get dressed with a toddler
hanging onto my leg, I made my way to the kitchen and was greeted
with a hot cup of coffee and a few cold pieces of bacon. Fuck it, bacon
was good no matter what. I was just glad they saved me some.
"Papers on the table, Angel," he winked.
I smiled wide, knowing there must be something good. As I flipped
through the pages, I found what I wanted and laughed out loud,
seeing the headline for Tanya's restaurant in the review section.
Redheaded Beauty Goes Down in Flames.
"Oh, I love my life." I read the review, sipping my coffee and laughing
the entire time.
"That good, huh?" Edward asked.
"Your fish were a major hit. This was way worth a little a finger play.
Two hundred people all slammed into her place, reeking of rotting fish
and begging for free food. Plus, a bad write-up." I tossed the paper on
the table. "I can die a happy woman now."
Edward started cleaning up breakfast. "And this is only the beginning.
I don't even want to know what will be happening once the actual
competition starts."
"All is fair in love and war, Flower Child. And food is love, sodo the
math."
"I suppose, Bell. Hey, are we still going to 'you know where' this
morning?"
I looked at my kids and their wide-eyes told me they understood
Secret Parent Code for the beach.
"Yeah. Go put your bathing suits on."
Why do frozen fruity beverages taste so good when you have a spent
the whole day under the warm sun, getting a fabulous tan?
I had creamy mango goodness in a plastic cup, my lips wrapped
around the straw sucking happily, as we strolled down the sidewalk
together. Squeaky gazed into the windows of each shop we passed,
licking away at her ice cream cone, while Edward carried Anthony on
his hip his very sexy, bare hip sharing his drink. My son reached
up and took the hat from Flower Child's head, placing it on his own.
I laughed quietly to myself and looped my hand around Edward's
bicep.
His very sexy, highly tattooed, bare bicep.
Did I mention he was shirtless, already?
Anyhowwe bought a few things from the stores, finished our treats
and rounded the corner, going back towards the car. As we settled the
mini's inside, and tried to cool down the interior, my phone buzzed.
It was Emmett. He left a text and a picture.
We have a BIG problemo at The Workshop, B.
I clicked on the picture.
"That redheaded, fire-crotch, bitch."








Chapter la Five: Sour Lemons and Sweet, Sweet Love



!Chef Bella!
I just stood and stared; mouth gaping open.
If it weren't for the fury coursing through my veins, I would have
actually been impressed by Tanya's retaliation. My beautiful sign that
used to read my beautiful restaurant's name in the window and on the
overhang, now read:
Bella Swan's House of Massage.
In bright, flashing, neon colors.
There was a second flashing sign. A lady's silhouetteon a stripper
pole. The lights flickered from left to right, making it seem as though
her ass shook from side to side.
Edward covered my son's eyes.
"Take them home," I said mechanically, unable to even wrap my brain
around what the fuck was happening. Edward apparently was just as
stunned, because he just did as I asked, not following me as I made
my way inside.
This was some epic fucking shit.
She actually replaced all of my tables and chairs with.I don't know,
shit you would find in a skank-infested strip club? There were dudes
getting "massages" from chicks and from dudes and from chicks that
looked like dudes.
The fuck
Emmett held up his hands as soon as he saw me.
"How the fuck did this happen?" I demanded.
"I just got here this morning and there was.there was.happy times
all around, B."
"How.what.the fuck, Emmett!"
"I know. Sorry."
Something tapped my shoulder.
"Scuse me, I'm here for my stress relieving massage."
I jerked my shoulder away and pushed passed the asshole, stepping
onto a chair. "Alright, fun is over! Every body get the fuck out, before I
lose my shit and have you all arrested for trespassing!"
They just stared at me.
"I said to get. The fuck. Out!"
Slowly, they started to listen, filing out, one by one, with Emmett's
help. Once the room was clear, I climbed down and looked around, still
unable to believe she pulled this off.
"I should have her arrested. Rotting fish is one thing, but this is just
way too fucking far," I fumed. "And where is my goddamn furniture!"
"Easy, we don't need to involve the cops.especially since she could
arrest us for breaking in, too."
"Grow a pair, Emmett. The bitch stole thousands of dollars worth of
furniture from me! We put a damn fish or two in her AC vent. Big
fucking difference! Plus, I'm pretty sure massages with happy endings
are highly fucking illegal..even in Miami. I could get in serious shit for
this shit."
I rubbed my temples. It did nothing to help.
"I'll take the signs down. Just go find Tanya, ask her where the hell
our stuff is. I'm sure she has it somewhere safe."
I glared at him and kicked the shit out of each piece of "massage"
equipment as I made my way towards the front door.
Once I reached Denali's, I pushed the door open with some serious
force, walking passed the staff, paying them no mind. The Fire-crotch
was in her office and smiled at me as I entered.
Fucking smiled.
"Nice outfit," she quipped.
"Yeah, well I was enjoying a day at the beach with my family until
some asshole decided to turn my restaurant into a goddamn Whore
House."
"I didn't know you were up for renovations," she laughed.
Fucking laughed.
I slammed my palms against her desk.
"Where's my fucking furniture, Scunt?"
"Why ask me?"
"I'm in no mood for games, Tanya. Just tell me where it is and maybe,
just fucking maybe I'll consider not calling the cops on you."
"I didn't do anything, Bella," she said innocently.
"Fine. Have fun getting raped by a broom stick handle, bitch." I turned
around and headed for the door.
"Alright, alright. Here," she tossed a pair of keys to me as I spun
around. "Storage number is on the key. Let this be a lesson to you,
Swan."
"Cullen," I corrected, waving my ringed-finger at her.
"Looked better on me," she grinned.
"Yeahbut it's not yours. So stay the fuck away from it."
"That scared, huh? You know, he looked pretty happysitting
theresucking my fingersone bye one," she said slowly.
I laughed at her arrogance. "Tanya, darling, my husband wouldn't
touch your snatch with someone else's dick. Don't get it twisted." I
flashed my ring again. "Edward belongs to me."
Back at home
I walked in, feeling exhausted. My back leaned against the door,
sighing at my tiredness. It was quiet as I started to make my way in,
dropping my bag on the table and entered the living room.
My lips weren't too tired to smile at the sight before me.
Squeaks and Little Boy were tucked in between Edward and the couch
cushions, passed out. His feet hung over the arm rest and I scratched
the bottom of his foot lightly. His eyes blinked open and he smiled
sleepily.
"Hey Baby. What happened?" He asked.
"It's fine, now. Em's taking care of it."
He shifted, pulling Anthony and Squeeks to his chest so he could move
over, then opened his arm for me. I curled up there and thanked the
Furniture God's for over-sized couch cushions.
Leah woke us in the morning, keeping her word to take Thing 1 and
Two to the park. I was finishing up making breakfast when my son
decided it was a good idea to spill orange juice all over his clean outfit.
I took him to his room, to change him quickly. Edward was standing in
the doorway as we were finishing up. Anthony ran passed him, but
Edward stopped me.
I looked up to him.
Mr. Blue Eyes was up to no good.
His hands pushed my hair away from my face, giving his mouth
clearance to whisper in my ear.
"Come take a shower with me."
"Our kids are out there."
"Leah is here and they are about to leave," he argued, sliding his
hands down my arms to
I closed my eyes and said ta-ta to sanity and intellectual thoughts as
teeth bit softly into my shoulder; hands kneading against the cotton of
my pajama shorts.
"Fine."
He didn't let go as we made our way towards the bathroom, like two
criminals trying not get caught. My son might have called my name
and I might have ignored it. I think the front door closed and Leah said
goodbye.
I think.
There were this pair of lips on my own that wouldn't allow me to pay
attention to such things and as the bathroom door closed, locking us
into the only place of freedom and privacy left in our child-infested
world, those lips became more eager and my own lips seemed not to
be satisfactory.
He moved them down my chin, along my jaw.
Hands, fucking hands, gripped my ass and pulled me easily onto his
hips, working in sync with the lips to gain better access. My neck was
littered in wet kisses. Ass resting on the counter.but the shorts.he
lifted me up again and pulled my shorts down.
Then, my ass was on the counter.
Our mouths met again, smiling at our antics and lack of coordination.
"Water," I snickered "Need water to take a shower, Flower Child." My
feet pushed him away from his kissing assault.
As he reached for the dial in the shower, turning it on, I ran my thumb
around my mouth, trying to wipe away sloppy kisses; even if they did
taste delicious. While his back was to me, I hopped down from the
counter and slid my fingers into the waistband of his pajamas, kissing
in between his shoulder blades.
He turned slowly to face me, my fingers glided under the elastic with
his movement. This time it was slower, as his lips met mine. Sweeter.
His fingers were light as a feather, gliding up my sides as he pulled my
shirt over head. I returned the gesture, removing my fingers from his
waistband and running them up his sides, back and forth, until he
smiled against my lips and warned me to stop.
Ticklish fool.
On my last stride down his ribs, I hooked my fingers inside the top of
his pants and pulled them down over his hips, allowing them to fall
around his feet. He stepped free of them and framed my face, kissing
me, still sweetly, as we entered the shower.
I was backed into the stream of water on my side, hotness coursing
over head, down my face, down my shoulders, down my back. His
hands kept caressing my face, keeping the over flow of water away. I
stretched my arms up, extending them over his shoulders and curled
my fingers into his hair; hugging him to me.
We were then under the warm stream together, his body pressed
firmly against mine. Hard on soft. Strong on gentle. Lips moved to my
cheeks, my chin, my neck. I tilted my head away from the stream,
blinking my eyes open. His head was bowed, mouth in the crook of my
neck and I watched my fingers tighten to the wet, dark hair on his
head.
Sunlight beaming in from the skylight caught the diamonds in my ring,
casting a colorful shimmer. My eyes locked on it, remembering that
day; remembering how lucky I was.
Edward belongs to me.
And it was true.
My eyes closed for a moment, locking that truth inside. I hugged my
arms tighter around his neck; his lips coming up to meet mine, but I
pulled away.
His face was confused, slightly.
I leaned my head against the tile wall and brought my hand to his
face, sweeping away his wet hair and just.fucking looked at him.
He was perfect.
He was sweet.
He was mine.
"What's wrong, Bell?" His hand touched my cheek and I shook my
head, rolling into it, planting kisses to his palm.
"I just love you."
When he pressed back against me, I wiggled in his arms until his cock
was in between my thighs. I rocked back and forth, teasing,
tempting.completely frustrating my self.because fuckit was
backfiring and felt way too good on poor Butterbean.
His hums told me what it was doing to him.
His hands gripping my ass told me what it was doing to him.
When I withdrew my face from his shoulder and looked at him, blue
eyes on fire told me what it was doing to him.
He pushed me with a little bit of force into the tile, resting his forehead
to mine, keeping his eyes on me. I kept moving my hips, squeezing
my thighs around him. He just watched me.
My eyes.
My mouth.
Fuck.
"You drive me fucking crazy." Husky, low, sweet, sexy.
Mine.
"You drive me fucking crazy."
He didn't warn me. He didn't ask. He just did.
Slow and forceful and with no guide of his hand; hard and strong and
everything pushed into me, ending my game. A hand slid down the tile
wall, over my shoulder, down my arm and straight to my ass, lifting
my small frame easily onto his hips.
Deeper. Fuck yes, deeper.
Ankles locked, back to the wall, lips to my neck..slow and sweet.
Tiny fingers gripping strong tattooed shoulders, ring still sparkling
under sunlight, stomach twisted into a knot..faster and sweet.
Long hair knotted around his fingers, short hair curled around mine,
my stomach against hisharder, faster, sweeter.
"I love you too, Bella. More than anything. I love you more than
fucking anything."
And it was true and it was sweet and his hips repeated those words
over and over until it was too much and my ass slapped into the wet
tile wall, a groan in my ear and perfect, satisfied, sweet, sweet man
was breathing hard against my face.
I kissed his lips repeatedly, 'cause fuck, they were where the
sweetness came from in the first place.








Chapter 6: The Flower Child Wannabe



| Edward |
I swear, today must have been the hottest day in history of days in
Miami.
I barely made it half way down the beach on my morning jog before
the words, "fuck this," came from my mouth. I turned around and
started heading home, but home wasn't close enough. I was dying. My
happy ass jumped into the ocean and found instant reliefuntil I
realized my damn cell phone was in my pocket.
"Shit."
Walking my way back to shore, the breeze felt a little cooler on my
wet skin and I managed to make it home without passing out from
damn heat exhaustion.
I would need a new exercise routine.
Ben was running my restaurant this week, since today would be the
first day of Bella's competition and I wanted to be able to support her.
Plus, she kind of roped me into being her teammate.
Blow jobs; they do amazing things to persuade the male mind.
Bella was coming in the back door, as I entered through the front. She
smacked her arm and cursed. "Fuck! It's only like 7 am and I am
already being eatin' alive by bugs! And what the fuck is up with this
heat?" She smacked her other arm and then stared at me. "And what
the fuck happened to you?"
"Everything you just said, then add me jumping in the ocean."
She nodded. "Are you sure your parents wouldn't love to move to New
York? I have this amazing space that never gets used. Costs me a
pretty penny to keep, too. No bugs, I promise," she smiled
sarcastically.
"Summers here just suck sometimes, but you know, come winter, you
love it Bella. We have the same argument every year."
Her eyes narrowed, showing her disapproval, but no further fighting
came.
"We're going to die cooking outside today," she grumbled, shutting the
sliding glass door. "Thefuck, man."
After a quick shower, I waited for Bella to take her turn and get ready.
Knowing I had plenty of time, I sprawled out on our bed, ceiling fan on
high speed, butt-ass naked.
It felt incredible.
I closed my eyes and paid no mind to the goose-bumps making an
appearance. They would just need to learn that being under a fan, in
the air-conditioning, was way better than sweating outside, with damn
bugs.
The oil-reed bottles Bella had on the dresser swirled their coconut
fragrance around with each passing of fan blades and soon, all I heard
was the soft humming sound it made and the gentle fall of the shower
water from the bathroom. My mind started to drift; feeling extremely
relaxed and a yawn escaped my mouth.
Where my mind escaped to was just as pleasant as the room's
atmosphere. It was my first birthday with Bella. She made a picnic on
the beach for me, complete with all the foods I loved. It was nearly
sun-set and she settled herself into my lap, facing me as she
presented a small box in her hand. I remembered her smile vividly, for
it was so anxious and adoring; the only thing more captivating than
the golden hues playing behind her on the ocean water.
"Happy Birthday," she wished, softly.
"You didn't need to get me anything. You already gave me everything
I wanted."
She shrugged. "Consider it a bonus."
I took the box from her hands and opened it.
"Flower Child?" An angel laughed, pulling from my reverie. "What are
you doing, Babe?"
My eyes blinked open and as I tilted my head up, Bella stood holding
her towel snug to her chest, looking at me, quite amused.
"Cooling off?" I answered.
She laughed again, walking her way over and plopped down next to
me. She opened her towel and mimicked my position. I turned my
head to look at her face and she was smiling.
"It looked like you were sleeping."
"I was. Just a little though." I nuzzled my face to hers. "I was
dreaming about my birthday."
"Your birthday?"
"Mmm hmm. The picnic you made me."
"I can't believe with all the trips we have taken, you still remember
that."
"How could I forget? You gave me something to remind me, Silly Girl."
I lifted the beaded cord around my neck with my index finger, flicking
it towards her.
She smiled and pinched the beads in between her fingers. "I can't
believe it still hasn't fallen off. Are you sure you made a wish?"
Theory was; some crazy woman sold it to Bella during one of her trips
and supposedly the person you give it to makes a wish and wears it
until the cord wears out and falls off. When that happens, the wish is
supposed to come true.
"I told you, Bell. I already had everything I wanted. There's nothing
left to grant."
She tugged on it, pulling my face towards her, until our lips met. "Still
a swooner, Flower Child."
"Always trying, Angel."
"That's all I'll ever ask for," she whispered and pressed her lips into
mine again.
I rolled to my side, sliding my arm under her, allowing her head to rest
in the crook of my arm. Her leg hitched over my hip and I explored her
soft skin with my free hand, feeling my way down to her calf and then
back up.
Bella's body was angled wrong and right at the same time; for much
the same reasons. My dick was against her bareness in this position,
which felt incredible, but also, made it hard to focus on taking my
time. Her skin felt too good under my hand as I caressed her body.
Her tongue tasted too good as she slid it into my mouth, tempting me
further. Her noises and heavy breathes were too damn sexy and
alluring in my ears and on my face.
I rocked back and forth between her legs, but didn't enter her. I felt
my body get lost in her slickness, the tip of my cock begging me for
entrance with each thrust and press into the bottom of her ass cheek.
She made up my mind for me; pulling me closer with her leg until I
felt myself fully surrounded by her warmth. My world went black as my
eyes closed tightly; leaving only her sounds to fill my senses.
How could it always be so good?
How could always be this good?
I rolled so I was on top of her and opened my eyes to find hers. Brown
Caramel Heaven stared back at me, lips parted open, asking for more.
I denied this woman nothing.
"Right there, Angel?"
She nodded fervently as I kept a steady rhythm, hitting the spot inside
of her that was more my spot than hers. Again, wrong and right. This
was so, so right and I was about to be so, so wrong by ending it this
soon.
But fuck, it was too good and when I slowed down, she told me to go
faster and again, I denied her nothing.
"Baby. Baby. Baby," she panted until her breath caught and her body
came and then my body came and fuck, it was so, so good.
I kissed her face, her lips, her shoulder. My face buried itself into the
crook of her neck, amid all her tangled, damp hair.
"Maybe my wish did come true," I sighed. "Two days of sex with no
interruptions from children. I've wished for that shit for a long time,
Angel."
The competition
I slathered Bella in sunscreen, still feeling way too giddy inside from
the sex earlier. The look in her eye told me she felt much the same. It
was that shit only the two of you thought you knew, but in reality,
others fucking saw it.
No one was that dumb.
She swiped the bottle out of my hands when I might have spent a little
too much time on her cleavage. Let's face it; this was Miami, it was
almost a hundred degrees right now, with 82% humidity; no one was
wearing fucking chef coats to cook in. Our attire was no different than
it would be on a regular day at the beach. As she took her turn,
rubbing some on my shoulders and arms, I caught sight of another
contestant at a booth across from ours.
His eyes were planted firmly on my wife's ass.
"Turn this way," I said highly-fucking-annoyed.
Bella didn't say anything, but her eyes questioned, looking over her
shoulder.
"I don't know who that is. Never seen him before. You?" She asked.
"No. Never. His eyes need to get a new hobby, though." I turned,
changing places with her as she finished putting lotion on me. She
smiled and stepped forward, placing the bottle back in her bag.
The dude was still staring, except now he was up close and personal;
right in front of our damn table.
"Can I help you with something?" I asked.
"Oh, hello Young Man. I'm Steven." He extended his hand, but I
offered nothing in return.
Young man? Did he seriously just call me young man? This jack-hole
looked younger than I was.
"Edward. My name is Ed-ward."
"Yeah, sure man, it's cool." He waved me off and put his eyes back on
Bella. A stupid smile crept over his face. "I just wanted to introduce
myself to your boss. Pleasure to meet you. I've always been a big
fan." He extended his hand and I eyed the knives on our table, wishing
I had sharpened them already.
"Hi," Bella said simply. "Sorry, I don't touch people. Germs," she
shrugged.
And this is why I love Bella.
He laughed and leaned in a little closer.
What does Bella always say in times like this? Thefuck? Yeah, that was
theterm for this shit.
Thefuck, indeed.
"Well, I'm sure we'll be good competition for one another, Bella. I look
forward to it."
"What was your name?" She asked.
"Steven."
"Ah, Steven. Well, Steven, to be honest, I have no damn clue what
you do or who you do it to or with, but I can tell you this much; no
person who would be a good competitor of mine, would ever walk over
to another chef and address them by their first name.
"Secondly, that same person wouldn't have the balls to blow off that
chef's assistant, who also happens to be her husband, and might I
add, also happens to have the second most successful restaurant in
Miami."
Fuck I love this woman. Calm the fuck down Lt. Dan.
To my surprise, he didn't seem the least bit put off by her words. In
fact, he seemed like she lit his fuse.
"Like I said, I look forward to it, Bella."
He backed off the table, giving me one last glance before he retreated
to his side of the fence, so to speak. I looked at Bella, wondering what
the fuck.
She started laughing.
"That's funny to you?" I asked, waving my hand towards him.
"It's fucking hilarious. I mean, look at that douche-waffle," she giggled
harder and mimicked his voice. "Oh, hello, I am Steven. Like my hair?
It's just like Flower Child's." She reached up and flicked her fingers to
the front of mine, rolling her eyes. "Don't even get me started on that
idiot's tattoos. Was that a knife and fork?"
I just kept staring at her.
"Oh, come on, Edward! You really don't see it?"
"Uh, no. Last time I checked I wasn't sporting assholiness. And I have
no tolerance whatsoever for blatant disrespectful shit right in front of
my face. Like he's really just going to come up and admire my wife in
front of me. He knew who the fuck I was."
She shook her head.
"Such navet, Grasshoppa." She patted my head. "He wasn't admiring
me. Look at that dude. He is a walking, talking, blonde, tattooed,
fucked up hair version of you."
Bella sighed, letting a light chuckle escape.
"Congratulations, you have your first Flower Child Wannabe, Babe."
I was about to say something, but the announcer began speaking,
asking us to listen to the rules as he read them off over the
microphone.
"Good Morning Chefs! Welcome to Miami's 10th Annual Restaurant
Wars Challenge. We are pleased to have such a wonderful turn out this
year. I see some new faces in the crowd and again, I say welcome."
The crowd gave a light applause and Steven was still keeping a
watchful eye on Bella.
I tried to focus on the rules.
"This challenge is a series of events throughout the week that will test
your ability to lead, be creative and work under pressure. We will
score you based on each individual challenge presented by our chosen
panel of judges, but be ware, your food will be tested by the locals and
they will also have a say in the scoring on certain challenges."
"The team with highest score at the end will win a trophy, a trip for
four to Paris and of course bragging rights. We will also contribute
$25,000 to the charity of your choosing. Alright, if everyone is ready,
let's get started! This morning's challenge is to create a gourmet
burger using fresh local ingredients from the Farmer's Market."
Bella looked over at me and rolled her eyes. "Oh, this one is in the
fucking bag, Burger Boy."
I smiled and bumped her extended fist.
"Of course, this is called a challenge, so to make it interesting you will
only have thirty minutes total, and you will be cooking" they dropped
the curtain from behind the stage. "Tail-gate style, using only the
items you find in the back of each pick-up truck. Good luck!"
"Thefuck?" Bella looked at me, waving her arm to that shit.
I shrugged and grabbed her hand, knowing we only had thirty minutes
to do this shit. We needed to get to the market and back, fast.
Steven the Asshole jogged backwards as we hurried towards the
market.
"What's wrong Bella? Looks like you're scared," he laughed.
"Fuck you Flower Child Wannabe." Bella pulled me in a different
direction, away from where everyone else was going. "There is a
second market this way. It's closer, but no one goes there because the
workers only speak fucking Thai."
"You speak Thai?" I asked surprised'cause fuck if I knew that.
"Nope, but I'm pretty sure I can figure out what the fuck shit needed
for a burger looks like."
I rubbed my hand to the beaded cord around my neck and decided
today was a good day to ask for some wishes to come true.








Chapter 7: This is why Flower Child is My Baby Daddy."
!Chef Bella!
I am tossing so much shit in the basket and not even thinking. Edward
is going through the basket and pulling out shit he obviously doesn't
agree with. Thank God they sell regular food in this market, too. I
have no idea what the in the fucking fuck we will be given to cook with
in the back of the pick up truck, but I grab a bottle of lighter fluid and
I will set something on fire if there is no fucking stove.
Losing is not an option.
We pay for our shit and my fucking legs cannot keep up with my
husband, who apparently thinks he is fucking Forest Gump. He stops
and lets me ride him piggy-back style, while carrying our groceries and
it's official; my husband is the fucking man.
He beats the Flower Child Wannabe by a few minutes and we pull the
tarp off our truck. There is a small grill, but no charcoal and I am the
smartest woman of all time. It's hotter than a fat woman's crotch and I
am sweating like a damn pig. Edward is no better and I wipe my hand
to his forehead, as he gets the grill going, so sweat doesn't run in his
eyes.
"I have no idea what the fuck we are doing," I admit.
"Sesame burgers with cilantro and mango chutney. Dice the fruit.
Here," he tosses me a mango and I am taken aback. "Come on, Bell.
Hurry, hurry."
Well yesssssssssssssss Sir.
I get to dicing and mashing and making some serious deliciousness.
Flower Child The real one is mixing the meat and I can't keep my
eyes off his shoulders and arms. Fuck; he is all that is man. He starts
forming the patties and I get back to work.
I look up and see Rosalie in the back of a truck and anger takes over
my blackened soul when I see Emmett's big ass standing next to her.
"Thefuck!"
I look around the back of the truck and see a water bottle. I pick it up
and chuck it at Em's head. He spins around and sees me. I raise my
fucking arms, quite obviously asking him "What in the fucking fuck do
you think you and your gorilla sized ass are doing?"
He just pretends to be humping a girl doggy-style and spanking that
ass. I am not sure if I am supposed to be the metaphoric ass in that,
but regardless, I am motherfucking steaming and take it out on my
poor chutney that did nothing wrong.
"Taste this." Edward is shoving a piece of burger in my face and I open
my mouth. It burns like a sumbitch, but I am a fucking professional
and take that shit.
"Fucking God how many shades of love can one have for another." I
grab his shirt in my fist and tip up on my toes. I bite his chin because
it is highly fucking bitealicious. "You smack that burger's ass, Flower
Child."
He is laughing and I am pretty sure thinking that I am crazy. Like
that's new. We are assembling the burgers and the clock is winding
down. Steven comes over and stands right behind me; grinding his
miniature, baby-sized fuckstick against my ass. Flower Child again,
the real one sees this shit the same time I feel it and I cannot place
any other event in my life that has ever been as epic as this fuckery
that is about to go down.
Edward turns and for a second and I think he is going to hit him, but a
smile comes over his face and he faces forward. "So, you like tattoos,
huh?" He asks Steven; tending to our burgers.
"Yeah, I've got a few." The fucker's mouth is like, right in my ear and
if it weren't for the fact that I know Flower Child's mind so well, I'd be
kneeing this bastard in his funsack.
"I see you have a knife and fork inked on your hand. Is that like,
symbolic of being a chef?" Edward's face is serious, except for the
amusement only I am able to see in his eyes.
"I think every great chef should leave his mark."
Flower Child nods as though he agrees, but faster than I can blink,
faster than I can move, Steven is being yanked to Edward's side and
his forehead is tapped once, quickly to the grill. When Edward pulls
him back, there is are grill lines on his forehead, bright as the fucking
sun and the front of his Wannabe Edward hair is singed off.
I am a puddle of laughs on the sandy floor.
Edward is not as amused. Fierce, protective man has returned. All
playing is gone. Butterbean is wetter than a newborn babies' diaper.
"Don't ever fucking touch my wife." He pushes Steven to the ground
and I roll away. Edward pulls me up with his hand and simply gives me
back the bowl of chutney I was making.
I am smiling like an idiot as we finish our plate to present to the
judges. Time is called and when it is Steven's turn to explain his dish, I
have to think of the saddest shit possible to hold myself together and
not piss my pants with laughter. His face is so fucked and red. Emmett
is shoulder bobbing away and making it difficult for me to stay quiet.
Thankfully, they call for my dish and I explain it with a serious face.
We all sit in the back of our trucks while they deliberate over the
scores. I am eating one of the burgers and thinking this shit is in the
bag. It is fucking just as epic as Steven's forehead. Edward looks tired
and ready to leave. I kiss his shoulder to say thank you for putting up
with my bullshit. He kisses my forehead and smiles and waits with me,
not saying a word about how much the heat sucks or going home. He's
patient and considerate and fuckprotective as hell.
This is why Flower Child is Baby Daddy.
We are called up to the judges table after twenty five long, long
fucking minutes in the hot ass sun. Our burger places in first place, but
so does Tanya's. We are tied with the Fire-crotch. I am fucking fuming
on the inside. She blows Edward a kiss and I give her the finger. Rose
and Emmett didn't stand a chance. They scored the lowest out of
everyone. I want to feel bad, but Emmett is a traitor and I need to
remember to junk-punch him for competing against his own kind.
"I'm still proud of you, Angel," Edward takes my hand and kisses it.
"Want a piggy back, ride?"
Okay, I lied. This is why Flower Child is my Baby Daddy.
He carries me back to the Workshop and I am fucking spent, but the
day has only just begun, and as usual, there is work to do. He leaves
for a while to check on Tatu and pick up the kids from school. He drops
them off here and runs to the bank for me before they close. With all
the madness this morning, I forgot to make our deposit.
I had Squeaky in my lap while I went over schedules with Emmett.
She was bopping to a video on Youtube; some rap song and I had to
laugh. My eyes flashed to Edward as he walked in and fuck me
running; my husband is a piece of ass. Like, a Grade A, Certified Prime
fucking Choice piece of motherfucking ass. Fuck. His bathing suit
bottoms are hung low on his hips and his shirt is thrown over his
shoulder. There's so much tan, smooth, tattooed goodness going on.
It's like a buffet of Man. Delicious Man. Delicious Man with fucked up
hair andshit he sees me ogling and I still can't look away. I need to
eat him. Right now. I need to eat his face.
The rap music isn't helping.
I want your body...I need your body
It's like he's walking to his own person theme song. Fuck, if only it
were in slow motion, all would be perfect in the world. I want to bite
his neck right where my name is tattooed, or below his belly button;
the inside of his thigh.
Is it fucking hot in here?
"Hey, Baby." He leans down to give me a quick kiss, but I grab that
fucker with my right hand and curl my fingers to the back of his head.
I kiss him a few times and his lips smile against mine. "Why is
Squeaks listening to this?"
"It's her favorite song." I shut him up with my mouth. We are in the
dining room and I know that there are members of my staff probable
watching this, not to mention Emmett sitting next to me, but me and
Butterbean just don't give a fuck. He matches my kisses, giving me
peck after peck and when I open my mouth to give him more, he
doesn't pull away. He gives me small tastes of his tongue, not being
too out of line, but just bordering on the edge. I open my mouth a
little more, tipping my head back and he finally stops, moving his lips
to the corner of my mouth.
"We need to stop. Swim shorts don't hide shit."
I smile and put my mouth back on his, licking my tongue slowly over
his lips.
"You're incredibly evil," he mumbles.
I open my eyes and keep planting kisses on his lips. "You taste
delicious." There is a silent conversation for the next fifteen seconds. I
am looking at him like I want to eat him alive and he is still kissing me
and telling me with his baby blues that he desperately wants to get his
fuck on.
I bite his lip and a decision is made.
He looks at Squeaky in my lap. "Ness, go find Aunt Alice." She looks at
him, scrunching her little face. "Go find her." She listens and slides
down my legs, running to the kitchen. As soon as the doors swing
close and she has disappeared, Edward pulls my chair back and I can't
help but laugh and wiggle down as the teenage girl inside of me
squirms in anticipation. He scoops me up and Emmett is whistling
loudly as my office door closes.
And I was wrong earlier.
This, Ladies and Gentleman, is why Flower Child is Baby Daddy.








Chapter 8: Big Apples
!Chef Bella!
We meet at our usual spot on the beach for the next day of
competition. Steven and his stupid hair are here, joined by his
forehead which has blistered over and dried into a nice crusty mess. I
have uncontrollable giggles and I'm trying to hold my mouth closed,
but the harder I try not to laugh, the more I want to. I roll my head
into Flower Child's chest and hold on for dear life. His face knows what
I am laughing at and his hand rubs my back. He is smug and I fucking
like it. I loop my arms around his waist and once my spurts of laughter
have calmed down, I look at Steven; giving him a slight smirk and
hold tighter to Edward.
He is pissed off and looks away. I smile wider and face the judges as
they come out.
"Good Morning, Contestants! Day one of our challenge pushed you to
be creative and work under pressure. Today's challenge will test your
ability to work." he pauses and lets the fear settle in. I roll my eyes.
"On the road."
Again, eye rolling.
These people know I am Isabella Swan, yes?
Queen of Travel?
Many nights alone?
Lived out of hotels?
Right?
Right?
"For this challenge, you will be traveling to New York. As you know,
New York is a"
That's all I heard. New York. The rest was rambles. Yadda Yadda's.
Yes, I know- New York is epic for food. I might have started to hump
Flower Child's leg at this point. We were going to the epicenter of my
food loving soul for a food challenge.
The fucking epicenter, people!
"You will have one hour to pack your belongings and make your way to
the airport. Travel has been arranged."
The announcer dude kept on rambling as I tugged Edward's arm and
made off like two thieves in the night. I wasn't crazy about leaving my
kids behind; we both never left at the same time before, but there
wasn't much time to worry and they would be safe with Esme and
Carlisle. My eyes were watching out the window of the car as we sped
along the highway.and suddenly took an exit that was not needed.
"Flower Child? Thefuck?" I pointed to the sign.
"If you'd like to drive to the airport, Love, we need to stop for gas."
I grumbled and sat back into my seat. Time was a wastin'.
We pulled into the 7-11 and while he pumped gas, I ran in to get a
drink and some chips.and a bag of those delicious super chunky
chocolate chip cookies they always have on the counter. Ugh, how
fucking good are those, right? There was this little Eminem-wannabe-
punk talking away on his cell-phone behind the counter and I bounced
impatiently waiting in the other line that had about five idiots in front
of me. All moving at the speed of fucking Turtle, of course.
"Come on, come on," I mumble to myself.
"Boo!" Someone said right in my ear, from behind. I jump and whip
my head around. Asshole.
"What are you doing here, Emmett?"
"Gas. And Rosalie had to take a piss."
"You do realize you guys don't stand a chance, right?"
He just smiled and nodded towards the Eminem kid as he fucking
finally decides to open his register. I dump all of my shit there and he
is just staring at me. I look around.
"You're open, right?" I ask; feeling like maybe Em is screwing with me.
"For you, Baby, I'm always open." He winks and I just stare.
My eyes blink in a way that says; Wow, so this is why Butterbean and
I were single for so long.
"Dude, are you open or not?"
The creeper smiles. "What can I get you, baby?"
My finger circles over the pile of shit on his counter. "And a lotto
ticket, if it's not too much for your brain to handle."
"Sure thing. Where we going if we win, baby?" He starts pressing
buttons on the lotto machine and I look to my left. Emmett is finished
paying for his shit. I grab that fuckers arm. His huge, beefy arm.
"Well, I'll be sitting on a beach sipping a fucking Maitai with my
husband..." I nod to Emmett. "And you my little red smocked wearing
friendI'm pretty fucking sure you'll still be here whacking off to the
Big Bites."
The Creeper is going to say something back. As he opens his mouth,
Emmett's large form seems to catch his eye finally.
There is a reason why I cannot hate Emmett, despite him being
traitor. 321.
"You got my wife's lotto ticket or what?" Em holds out his handhis
huge, beefy hand and the kid hands it over, silently. "Now, be a good
boy and run and get me one of those Big Bites she was talking about.
Extra mustard."
I was still laughing as I climbed back into the car. Edward looked over
at me; annoyed. "I've been waiting for like ten minutes, Bell." He eyes
the bag. His voice drops. "Did you get those chunky chocolate chip
cookies they always leave on the counter?"
I smile and hand them over.
The flight is good. We discuss food options and try to guess what the
challenge will be once we arrive in New York. Emmett is back to being
a fucker and won't tell me anything they discussed when Edward I
took off early and didn't hear it.
We land and take a cab to my place. Everyone else is stuck with the
hotel option and I am a bowl full of shit eating grins. I watch the city
go by as we drive and there's a real part of me that misses being here.
I wish I could get out and walk. I want to sample the street cart food
and listen to all the noise. I want to walk by a shop and smell pizza
and fresh pastries.
We arrive to my apartment and the elevator ride is quiet. I unlock the
door for us and drop my bags next to Edward's. It's been a long time
since I've been here; in this space. Oddly, I've never been here with
Edward and it feels a little strange. I walk to the large windows
surrounding the space and push the curtains aside. There is a city
fading into twilight and being brought to life by the lights of each
building. I sigh, but smile.
"Nice." There are arms I love surrounding my shoulders and I rest into
them. "I can see why you're enamored."
I tilt my head and look up at him. "Is it that obvious?"
He smiles. "You look like Ness in the toy store."
"I think we should go downstairs and play," I whine.
He bounces his brows. "Or we could stay right here and play." He
nuzzles his mouth in the crook of my neck and I laugh, but pull away;
twisting in his arms.
"You don't have falafel, Flower Child."
He's going to say something smart-assed, I am sure, but there is a
knock at the door and we are interrupted. Per-fucking-usual. A card is
slid underneath and I walk over to pick it up. My finger breaks the seal
and I open it.
"What is it?" He asks.
"Instructions." I take a seat on the couch and he follows me.
In a city that never sleeps, you must be prepared for anything.
For this challenge, you will need to assemble a team that will
include one new member who is NOT part of the competition
and join forces with two who ARE. You will meet at The
Calvary at 7am sharp. Bring your game face.
We look at each other, then the clock. It was already getting late.
Finding a new member in this city wouldn't be hard. Lord knows I have
enough choices, but shit, we had to join forces with the enemy?
"Em. We should pick Em and Rose," Edward suggested.
I made a face. "They suck, Flower Child."
"Yeah, but who else can we trust not to butt-fuck us?"
I bite my lip. "Say that again."
"What?" He asks.
"Butt-fuck."
He rolls his eyes. "Can we be serious, Bell?"
"Not when your using words around me like butt-fuck. No, sorry."
He sighs. "We can trust them. Let's just hope they'll want to pick us."
"Well, Flower Child there are only two types of people in the world;
those that entertain and the ones that observe. They can shit or get
off the pot."
He stares at me for a moment, and then crinkles his brows. "Britney
Spears?"
I smile. "Except for the shit or get off the pot part. That was all me."