The Ring

Outfits Chapters 15-19

Bella Chapter 15

Edward Chapter 15

Bella Chapter 16

Edward Chapter 16

Bella Chapter 17

Edward Chapter 17

Bella Chapter 18

Edward Chapter 18

Bella Chapter 19

Edward Chapter 19

Chapter 17: Teaser

Hello everyone!

So, I just wanted to let you know that this chapter is with my beta and she is working on it...here is a little tast in the meantime. (They are in the People interview)


I roll my eyes and flick my hand in dismissal at the last comment, but notice that Edward has become increasingly pissed at my explanation. Julianna turns her attention to him and addresses his shift in mood.


JR: Edward, I can’t help but notice how agitated you became at Bella’s disclosure. Will you tell me what it is that you are thinking?

EC: I’m thinking that this is bullshit. I hate that Bella has to expose herself this way in order to discount whatever that little weasel is saying. It’s completely unfair, considering that he never wanted to be in a committed relationship with her in the first place. I mean, I’m glad that he didn’t because I got the girl, but still. He’s a fucking coward and a fame whore and I can’t wait for the day I meet this asshole face to face.

My breath hitches, as does Julianna’s, at Edwards declaration. I reach up and drag my fingers along his scruffy jaw and try to convey just how much I love him through my simple touch.

JR: Wow. So is that a threat? Because that would be more than a little scary if it is.

She quirks her eyebrow as she turns to the camera and flexes her biceps and then points to Edward with a mock scared face causing both me and Edward to laugh.

JR: Seriously, you are a really big guy and I’m not gonna lie…you’re pretty scary.



I quickly jump in to defend my man while sending him a cheesy smile.



BS: He’s not scary…he’s perfect.



Edward leans in to place an inappropriate kiss on my mouth before turning his attention back to Julianna.



EC: It was merely a statement, but he can take it however he wants. It’s only a matter of time until that day arrives.

Chapter 16: Teaser

I take another quick shower, because anyone who doesn’t shower in the morning is fucking disgusting and head to the arena for rehearsal. I’m a little nervous about seeing the guys because I’m still just as pissed off at them as I was the last time I saw them. Usually I get mad, blow my stack, then get over it right away, easily avoiding any need to sit and hash things out. This time is different, I just hope they realize it.




They are already there, along with Jacob, Jared and Paul. Everyone’s head snaps in my direction as I approach, trying to judge my mood, I’m sure. Too bad I have my game-face on and that motherfucker isn’t giving anything away.



“Nice of you to join us,” Emmett grumbles under his breath. His voice is too damn loud and obnoxious to go unheard, unfortunately. Instead of flipping him off and offering a smug smirk, however, I send him a death glare.



“So, I take it you’re still pissed off?” Jasper pipes in, his voice is hesitant but there is an undeniable hint of irritation. I don’t know what the fuck he has to be annoyed about.

Chapter 15: With Or Without You

Sleight of hand and twist of fate

On a bed of nails she makes me wait
And I wait without you

Through the storm we reach the shore
You give it all but I want more
And I'm waiting for you

My hands are tied
My body bruised, she's got me with
Nothing to win and
Nothing left to lose

With or without you
With or without you
I can't live
With or without you
With or without you



~With or Without You- U2~





~Edward~



I’m sitting on a stone bench in Bella’s grandparent’s back yard thinking about the words my father said to me just yesterday and how defensive I was at first thinking he was full of shit. I guess he knows more than I thought when it comes to matters of the heart.



“Son, I hope you realize that this relationship isn’t going to be easy.” His tone is calm and gentle, but it still pisses me off, putting me immediately on the defensive.



“What the fuck are you talking about?” I bite out harshly. My father doesn’t hesitate to bite back, but he has a way of using his tone to get my attention and calm me down at the same time.



“I’m talking about the fact that your girlfriend is young, Edward, very young. And while I believe that she loves you every bit as much as you love her, I think that she still has some growing up to do. Aside from that, she hasn’t really had the best role models when it comes to working through differences to make a relationship last, not to mention her own experience with relationships.” He looks at me pensively before continuing. “I know that you haven’t had much relationship experience, if any, yourself…but what you lack there, you gain in life experience and maturity. You are a natural caretaker, you always have been, so although you haven’t really experienced romantic love before, it is a natural transition for you to have a significant other…almost instinctual. It makes sense for you to want everything right now, but you are going to have to give her a chance to catch up. You have fifteen years on her, Son, I just want you to remember that when the impatience and the jealousy threaten to take over. Given your extreme possessiveness, conflict is inevitable.”



I guess this is exactly what he’s talking about.



This fucking sucks. I can’t fucking believe that she took that asshole’s side and dismissed me the way that she did. How could she fucking choose to talk to him before me, and just send me away like a fucking dog? She is my fucking woman for Christ’s sake! Working things out with me should be her first priority.



Taking a deep breath in effort to calm my raging temper, I scrub my hands over my face and through my hair, trying desperately to understand why she might have done that. My body vibrates with rage and jealousy when I think about the way he reached out to touch her…she did push his hand away, though, so I reluctantly think that counts for something. It is obvious that they know each other intimately, so I’m assuming that she fucking slept with him. And the fact that he was with her grandfather today leads me to believe that maybe he is a family friend? She must have known him since she was a little girl. The sigh that escapes me feels heavy and defeated and I can’t fight the melancholy that washes over me. Did she love him?…Does she love him still? I have to believe that she doesn’t because she told me that she’s never loved anyone but me.



Only me.



Arrggg! I want so desperately to believe her, but I have to admit that I have my doubts now. Why else would she totally disregard the feelings of the man she loves, but for a man she loves more. Dropping my head into my hands propping my elbows on my knees, I finally let the emotions I’ve been fighting surface. I fucking hate feeling inadequate. A fucking pussy, that’s what I am. To be honest, I don’t know which bothers me more, the fact that she dismissed me, or the fact that I obeyed her like a goddamn puppy. I’m thirty-five fucking years old! I don’t need to be told what to do by a girl nearly half my age. Fuck! Who am I kidding? I would do anything she told me to do. Fucking pussy-whipped motherfucker. What if she is inside right now reconciling with that tool? What will I do if she comes out only to tell me that she realized that she doesn’t want me anymore? I want to spend the rest of my fucking life with her, even if she were to come to me right now and tell me that she doesn’t want me anymore, I would beg and plead for her to reconsider…for her to stay with me.



I quickly snap out of my emo bullshit, discreetly wiping the few stray tears from my eyes and arrange my features into a scowl when I hear her light footsteps approach, stopping in front of the bench just to the right of me. I may officially be a pussy, but I’m not about to advertise that shit. Besides, she needs to know that I am pissed. Really fucking pissed.



“I know you are angry with me, but I’m angry with you, too.” There is a sense of authority in her words and the determination I hear in her voice assures me that she is not fucking around. Still, I let my own anger show in my features. She will not get off that easy. A part of me really wants to say mean things until she feels as used and unimportant as I do at the moment, but the other part of me realizes that this type of behavior, although momentarily satisfying and completely fucking justified in my opinion, would be counterproductive, so instead I focus on keeping my temper in check and resolve to take this opportunity to show her that I am in this for the long haul…for better or for worse and all that bullshit.



I take a deep breath and without saying a word, I turn my body slightly toward her. I have made my decision to hear her out and work through it, I don’t want to leave her, again, but you can be goddamn sure she will hear how I feel in return. When I finally look up into her eyes, my resolve falters if only for a fraction of a second. She looks absolutely livid and in that instant everything inside me that tells me that I am justified in my current ire waivers and I begin to wonder if there is more to the confrontation than I remember. Come to think of it, I was pretty lost in my own feelings of jealousy and betrayal. Now that I think back I wonder…did she really betray me? I don’t fucking know, but I’m not about to give in that easily.



I look up at her furious expression and I have to admit that she is fucking glorious with fire flashing in her eyes, her ample chest heaving with the deep breaths she is taking and her tiny fists balled up at her sides. I fight my instinct to pull her into my arms and shove my tongue…or my dick…into that sexy mouth that is currently twisted into a sneer and motion to the empty spot on the bench as I awkwardly clear my throat, hoping to hell that she doesn‘t notice the massive wood that is taken residence in my jeans. She looks annoyed at the seat I offer her, but sits down anyway, crossing her long shapely legs and flicking her shiny, dark hair over her shoulder. Christ, she is sexy.



When she finally sits down, she takes a deep breath then lays into me. I am completely caught off guard, so to say I’m shocked is an understatement.



“What the fuck was that, Edward? Were you trying to embarrass me? Because if that was your intention…then congratulations, asshole, you were completely fucking successful.” She folds her arms across her chest and looks away from me, leaving me utterly stunned by the indignation in her voice. I am just about to start defending myself when she pipes up again, “I am not a fucking possession! You don’t get to just jump in and fight my battles. I get that you might feel threatened by Mateo’s presence and the past that we have obviously shared, but you don’t just get to act on those feelings and go around threatening people whenever you want!” She is full on shouting at me by this point, and while I may see her point…I sure as fuck don’t agree with it.



“So what, I’m supposed to just sit there, keeping my opinions to myself while listening to him make sexual remarks about your mouth? Insinuations about past experiences he has had with that mouth? Do you think you could sit quietly while someone from my past talks about how much pleasure she has experienced by my tongue? Do you think you could just sit there as she runs her fingers through my hair while rehashing that shit? Or is it only ok for you to be possessive?” She opens her mouth to retort but I keep ranting, effectively silencing her. “Furthermore, you have told me on several occasions that you not only enjoy my possessiveness, but that you love it. That it turns you on, and that you love that I want every motherfucker in sight to know that you’re mine. You can’t condone that shit, encourage it even, and then get pissed off about it when it involves someone like your precious Mateo.”



I know that last statement was a bit petty and childish, but I honestly can’t find it in myself to care. She takes an exasperated breath while scrubbing her hand over her face before she turns to me and speaks, “There is a time and a place for that shit, Edward, and this isn’t it.” As much as I don’t want to, I see her point.



“I know and I’m sorry, but it felt like you were choosing him and his feelings above mine. Not only that but you didn’t even yell at him. I mean, fuck Bella, you have no problem yelling at me.” I hate that I sound like a whiny bitch but, damn, that shit isn’t kosher.



Looking up at me with regretful eyes and fidgets a little under my intense gaze but immediately begins to explain. She tells me that she grew up with Mateo, spending every summer with him since the age of six and how close they have always been. She tells me that she explored every stage of physical intimacy with him and at the age of sixteen, he became her first sexual partner, and that it has been an unspoken understanding since she was thirteen that whenever she is in Italy, they are a couple. She also explains that she hasn’t seen him in three years, so they only slept together for two summers before she met Collin…apparently Mateo didn’t know about Collin, believing that it was purely financial reasons that kept her from visiting. This is the first time they’ve see each other since the summer when she was seventeen, and she tells me that she felt so guilty when she saw him because he had no warning…she had been so caught up in us that she didn’t even think to send him a letter or an email to let him know that she would be showing up with someone special. I guess those words are meant to pacify me, too bad they don’t. I don’t give a flying fuck about this asshole, so the last thing I want to hear is how they frolicked around the vineyard and show each other their naughty parts. Fucking Christ!



“Look, I know damn well that I encourage your possessiveness. But, the last thing I want is for my grandparents to think that I’m planning to spend the rest of my life with a fucking Neanderthal! Jesus, Edward, have some fucking respect.” You have got to be fucking kidding me!



“How fucking dare you imply that I don’t respect you!” I seethe. I concede on the fact that I should control myself a little better in front of her grandparents, but for her to say that I’m disrespectful is bullshit. She quickly backpedals at my outburst.



“That’s not what I meant. It’s just hard to reconcile my past and my present, you know?”



I narrow my eyes at her while I reply sarcastically, “No, I don’t know.”



Understanding flashes in her eyes and she lets out a huge sigh. “I don’t want to fight anymore, Topolino, this…” she trails off, motioning between us, “he isn’t worth it. And you’re probably right about me letting him off too easy compared to how I came out here guns-a-blazing. That wasn’t cool. So I‘m sorry for that.” She offers me a weak smile, but all I see is red.



“Don’t fucking call me that.” The venom in my voice is startling, even to me, but fuck after hearing her call him that, I don’t ever want to be called that again. Her eyes widen in recognition before they fill with regret. I reach out to stroke her cheek because I feel like a total douche for the way I just snapped at her. “I’m sorry, baby, I just…what can I say? I’m a jealous, possessive asshole. It’s not like this is a new side of me, I don’t understand why you got so pissed about it.” Lost in thought, I focus on the way the black nail polish is chipping off of her nails as I play with her fingers. “I am sorry that I displayed that part of myself in your grandparents home, though, you’re right…there is a time and place.” I remain quiet for a moment before acknowledging the one statement that bothers me the most. I clear my throat and press on, “And…I’m sorry that I embarrassed you.” I really fucking hate that she sees me as an embarrassment. I want her to be proud to stand at my side, not be embarrassed. I really was trying to protect her, even if it was fueled by jealousy.



“You didn’t embarrass me, ciccino, not really. I honestly didn’t mean it, I was just mad. The whole situation was fucked up and I let my guilt over hurting him rule my actions. I shouldn’t have sent you away. I should have taken care of you first, and spoke to him later. That’s what you would have done for me, and you deserve nothing less than the same.”



“I love you,” I say quietly while I pull her into my lap, needing to feel that connection with her.



“I love you, too Edward. Only you.”



“Only you,” I confirm.



I am glad that we were able to get through this, I know we will be better for it. I also am grateful for my dad’s insight because, to be honest, this might have gone a whole lot differently without it. She sighs heavily against my chest and I can feel the tension rolling off of her. She is pensive as she stares out into the darkening sky.



“What is it, Bella?” Pushing the hair out of her face, I tug on her chin forcing her to meet my gaze.



Her eyes fill with tears as she whispers, “Did you know that he is married?” She barks out a humorless laugh while toying with the buttons on my shirt before continuing, “Yeah. And you know what else?” I shake my head in the negative while leaning down to nuzzle my face in her neck, enjoying her heady floral scent. “He has been with her since the fall before I slept with him.” I feel wetness along my jaw and realize that she is crying. Fucking asshole.



“I’m sorry, baby.” The words seem so insignificant but they’re all I have to offer.



“He fucking lied to me, Edward! He told me he was a virgin, too…we fumbled and learned together, or so I thought. But it was all a lie. He had already been with her. Once again I was the whore on the side. What the fuck is wrong with me? Why am I always the side-dish?”



She drops her head into her hands silently shaking with her sobs. I want more than anything to comfort her, but at the same time I want her to acknowledge that yes, those guys were heartless assholes, and yes they used her, but I’m here now and I’m not using her. I want to fucking marry her and have children with her and make a fucking home with her…doesn’t that count for something? I understand that she is hurt by these new revelations and that she needs to purge her feelings, but I also feel like she needs to appreciate what she has now. Focus on our future, ya know? I know in my heart that she‘s not intentionally trying to hurt me but the complete lack of regard to my devotion to her cuts pretty deep.



“Why do I not count in any of these assessments? Huh, Bella? Because the last time I checked, you were not just my main dish…but my only dish,” I seethe, making ridiculous air quotes in reference to her ridiculous metaphor. “I may not be your precious Mateo and I may not be a fucking preppy douche bag like Collin, but I happen to think I’m a pretty decent catch and I practically worship the fucking ground you walk on. I am completely devoted to you…” I trail off shaking my head in annoyance. “You could do a helluva lot worse, if you ask me.” I scoff at her shocked expression and I have to admit that I feel a little bit bad about the way I just talked to her, but damn, enough is enough.



“You are my whole fucking life, Bella. You are everything to me. I’m really sorry that he turned out to be a prick, but what does that really have to do with our future? I don’t mean to diminish your feelings, but I just don’t see why he matters so much.” I trail off and wonder if my words are too harsh. I just hate that this motherfucker is causing tension in my relationship while he gets to scamper off with his clueless bride. He shouldn’t have any power over our happiness, and it bugs the shit out of me that he does.



“You’re right. I’m not being fair to you. You shouldn’t have to sit here and watch me cry over someone else. There is no room for him in our relationship.” She sniffles lightly, and I cringe when I feel her wipe her nose on my shirt. If I wasn’t so goddamn in love with her that shit would be so fucking disgusting. She looks up at me with those beautiful brown eyes and offers me a small smile. She licks those luscious lips and speaks softly, “I want you to know that I do know how devoted you are to me, and I appreciate it very much. I have never felt so important, cherished and loved in my entire life. I couldn’t have picked a better man to share my life with. And you’re right, you are a pretty fucking awesome catch…I just wanted you to know…” she lays her head against my chest and I am complete.



“I’m sorry for being an asshole, baby. Forgive me?”



She doesn’t say the words, but I know I’m forgiven when she jams her tongue insistently down my throat, threading her tiny fingers into my hair. A loud moan escapes my lips when she turns to straddle my lap, grinding her hot little body against me. I drag my lips down to her throat and am just about to latch on when we hear Bella’s Nonni call us to dinner from the back door. I drop my forehead to her shoulder and she places a sweet kiss on the back of my head before chuckling and climbing off my lap. I stand, grudgingly, and grumble as I try to adjust the monster in my pants.



Bella leans up on her toes to whisper in my ear while gripping my cock firmly, “I’ll take care of this later.”



I groan as I push her hand away, “You are going to be the death of me, woman, I swear to fucking Christ.”



With one last smirk over her shoulder she takes off running toward the house. I pull out my phone to check the time as I follow Bella back to the house, and notice that I have two missed calls from my mother, one from Peter and one from Victoria. I make a note to call my mom and Victoria back after dinner, but decide to wait until we get to Rome to answer Peter. Asshole.



Bella is standing on the back porch when I approach. Her smile is breathtaking as she yells out teasing me, “Affrettarsi su, il ciccino, non tenermi attendendo.” (Hurry up, ciccino, don’t keep me waiting.)



“Le mie scuse il mio amore. Tale bellezza non dovrebbe mai essere tenuta l'attesa. Come posso farlo fino a lei?” (My apologies, my love. Such beauty should never be kept waiting. How can I make it up to you?) I catch her around the waist, planting a sloppy kiss to her temple when I finally reach her.



She rolls her eyes as she retorts, “You are such a cheese ball.” Her laugh dances around us as I usher her through the threshold.



Nonni is waiting for us just inside the back door. Her long, silver spattered dark hair is pulled up into an intricate chignon and I allow my eyes to drift down her petite body, taking in every detail. It amazes me that my Bella looks so much like this woman, right down to those gorgeous eyes. She must have really been something in her day. She casts me a knowing smirk when my eyes finally land back upon hers. It is absolutely fucking mortifying that I just got caught checking out Bella’s granny, but she just winks while patting my cheek, “Isabella è molto fortunato per avere un uomo così meraviglioso nella sua vita. Non duole che lei è tale fusto come bene ed il suo italiano…perfeziona!” (Isabella is very lucky to have such a wonderful man in her life. It doesn’t hurt that you are such a hunk as well, and your Italian…perfect!) I chuckle as I feel my cheeks heat with her compliment. It is a little fucking embarrassing because I can’t even remember the last time someone made me blush. Looking over at my girl’s beaming smile makes the red on my face worth it, though.



It isn’t long before she reminds us that dinner is ready and we all take our places at the table. I am completely baffled when Mateo enters the dining room with a very pregnant woman in tow. Not only does the fact that he is still here after all the drama this afternoon infuriate me, but also that he would act so heartbroken over Bella having a boyfriend when he clearly is in a relationship of his own.



After some prompting from Bella’s grandmother, Mr. Compagnoni introduces Mateo and his wife, Lenore, to me while she serves us the most delicious smelling lasagna I have ever encountered. I try my best to ignore the glares Mateo is sending my way from across the table and focus on the fact that Bella is happily telling her grandfather about how we are in the process of purchasing a house in Seattle and that I am relocating from London to be with her while she finishes her degree. After what happened this afternoon, it makes me insanely happy to hear her speak of our plans so candidly. A wide smile takes over my face because it feels so fucking good to hear her talk about our future so confidently. I sometimes forget that she is only twenty; I need to make more of an effort to slow myself down. It’s just hard because I’m ready for everything right now, I just need to learn to give her time. Not too much though; mom’s right, I don’t want my swimmers to dry up, either. I’ve gotta get a couple kids in there before I’m too damn old to enjoy them. I look over at Bella and brush a wayward curl out of her face, thinking about how beautiful our children will be. I really hope I can keep the desire to get started on them to myself for awhile because the last thing I want is for her to feel pressured to start a family with me so soon. I can give her time…I think…I hope.



Forcing my attention away from Bella, I acknowledge the asshole and his wife.



“So, is this your first child?” I ask, motioning my fork between them.



All the color drains from Mateo’s face as Lenore starts jabbering, “Oh, yes! We are so excited. We just found out that it‘s a boy, Mateo Armando Moretti III.” She is looking at him with such undeserved adoration that it makes me sick.



“Wow, congratulations. It must be an incredible feeling to bring a child into the world...I can’t wait until Bella is ready to get started on our brood.” I hear Bella’s breath hitch and Mateo snort at my statement but he continues to tuck into his meal while Bella turns to look at me with love shining in her eyes.



“I won’t make you wait long.”



Her smile is shy and sweet and I see Nonni’s eyes fill with tears at her declaration. When I scan the table, however, Mateo glares at me before rolling his eyes and looking away. This whole situation is beyond fucked up. I can feel my temper bubbling right below the surface and I have to breathe deeply before it can get carried away. Bella shoots Mateo a dirty look and as much satisfaction that I feel in her action, I hate that he ever put her in this position to begin with. I can’t deny that I’m glad that she now knows what an asshole he really is, though.



I reach over and brush my fingers over her cheek, effectively pulling her out of her wallowing. She flashes her eyes to me and I see betrayal and uncertainty swimming in their depths. As much as I want her to just forget about him, I recognize that she is going to need to hash it out with him first. A deep sigh escapes me at the realization that she is going to need to have a private conversation with him and I immediately feel bad as guilt joins the rest of the emotions marring those beautiful windows to her soul. I don’t want to ever be the reason she is unhappy, so I force an encouraging smile on my face to let her know that I wont throw a fit over the pending conversation. I can’t allow my jealousy to stand in the way of her opportunity for growth and closure. I love my girl too much for that. Plus, I now know that she will jump my ass again…and not in the good way.



We finish the rest of the meal with idle small talk. Bella’s grandfather informs me that July and August are holiday months in Italy and most of his farmhands are on sabbatical. He asks me to help him tend to the vines tomorrow, but I get the feeling it is for more than an extra set of hands.



After dinner, the women clean up while sending us men into the living room for coffee. The room is filled with tension as we sip our cappuccinos and eat chocolate-amaretti torte. The desert is fucking delicious, and I selfishly make a metal note to ask Bella if she knows this recipe. I want this shit again. I smirk at the mental image of my Bella wearing an apron and cooking Italian meals for me and our five kids, all domestic and shit. Bella’s sweet voice pulls me from my daydream as she drags her fingers through my hair and places a gentle kiss upon my lips before asking Mateo to join her outside on the patio to ‘catch up’. Bella’s grandfather looks down to his cup with a private smirk on his face. I get the feeling that he sees more than he lets on and has no doubt about the tongue lashing that man is about to receive from the spit-fiery temper of his only granddaughter.



Lenore settles herself into the overstuffed chair to my right and gleefully digs into her torte. I suppress the urge to laugh at her naiveté. This girl is so happy to be wolfing down her chocolate treat that she has absolutely no idea that her husband was unfaithful to her for at least two summers. It makes me kind of sad that this sweet girl was taken advantage that way. Although she could never hold a candle to my Bella, she really is a pretty girl. She has a glow about her and the way she caresses the large protrusion that is her belly is really quite captivating. I’m a little envious as I let my imagination run wild with images of Bella round with my child.



Mateo comes in to collect Lenore about thirty minutes later. My temper flares slightly at the trust and elation that shines in her eyes when she sees him. I know it is none of my business, but I almost want to tell her how only hours ago he was crying over my girl. Fucking bastard. Not able to stomach any more of her devotion to this asshole, I get up and receive a nod from Emilliano. That man is smart.



I find my sweet girl staring out at nothing with tears streaming down her cheeks. She looks disappointed, but not broken, which is a really fucking good thing. When I throw my arm around her shoulders she instantly turns to bury her face in my chest. Her body is relaxed and she isn’t crying anymore, so I decide to ask how it went.



“It was fine,” she says with a sigh. “I actually thought I would be more sad.” I don’t really know what to say to that so I just pull her into my arms instead of replying. “I guess I thought I cared more about him than I actually do.” I am secretly doing a victory dance in my head at her epiphany. Not only am I glad that she isn’t torn up about the situation, but I am also fucking ecstatic that he is no competition for me. At all. Suddenly, however, I feel like a fucking dickhead about the way I acted today…all day. Especially now that I know there was no reason for my insecurity.



“I really am sorry, baby. I was such an asshole today. You deserve so much more than that. I promise to try and control the caveman shit, okay? I mean, I’m still gonna be the same possessive motherfucker that I have always been…but I promise to try to tone it down when necessary.” She turns in my embrace, throwing my arms around my neck smothering every inch of my face in kisses.



“I love you so fucking much, Edward.”



I let myself get lost in her pillow soft lips and silky tongue as they slip and slide along mine. Taking my time to explore her neck and collarbones, I murmur sweet words of love and devotion. Just as I’m about to pull Bella to straddle my lap, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I groan against the soft skin of her neck while I reluctantly pull the offending object from my pocket.



I glance quickly at the caller ID as I hit the accept button to answer it.



“Hey Ma.”



My mother’s sweet voice wafts though the line as I put her on speaker and it is easy to tell how excited she is. House hunting must have gone well. “Oh, Edward! They are just beautiful! Four of them just aren’t going to work, but the other three…Oh!”



I chuckle at her exuberance before cutting off her rant, “Whoa ma! Slow down!”



She obviously doesn’t listen one bit because she continues, “I sent a video tour of each acceptable one, and let me tell you…my mind is just going wild with all of the possibilities!”



Bella giggles and I roll my eyes as mom continues to rant. Mom’s excitement is contagious because before I know it Bella has confiscated the phone and is talking animatedly with her. I sit back and just enjoy this moment and it’s significance. We will never again purchase our first home. Okay, that’s it. I’m going to leave Bella to it and go in search of my balls.



I bring my laptop out to Bella and then make my way down the well worn path to the gardens in the back yard. Sitting down on a different stone bench, I light up a cigarette and just enjoy the clear night sky. For the next half hour or so I sit and think about everything that has happened since Bella has come into my life. I know I need to wait until she lets me know she is ready for a more permanent commitment, but I am convinced, now more than ever, that I need to have a ring ready for when the time comes, and I make a mental note to call and talk to Lizzy about having one designed. I will put a ring on Bella’s finger so fucking fast it would make her head spin. By the time I finish my third cigarette, I decide to not give nicotine and tar one more stick of reason to kill me faster, and go in to see what we have to choose from.



The three houses that mom has narrowed it down to are stunning, to say the least, and after watching the videos with Bella four times, we are finally able to agree on one. We choose a beautiful lake front property in Mercer Island, Washington which will only be about a ten minute drive to Cornish. It has a wall that is entirely made of glass which displays gorgeous views of the lake. It has over nine-thousand square feet of living space, including five bedrooms, six and three quarter bathrooms, a finished basement that can easily be converted into a recording studio. The best part is that it has a very large, finished loft that takes up most of the third story and opens up to a large deck that is built upon part of the second story roof. The deck faces the water and I can clearly see this as Bella’s space to create her art. The gated property sits on three acres of land which will ensue our privacy, and it also has a large guest house which we both agree to offer to Jacob and Leah, that way they are always on the property yet they will be far enough away so Bella is still able to feel a semblance of normalcy.



We call mom right away so that she can get the paperwork started, needing to move as quickly as possible in order to have the renovations and decorating finished for Bella to move in by the eighth of September. I expect that I will hear from Jenks within a couple of days to hash out the details. The only thing that really matters to me is that Bella’s name be put on the deed. This may be something we have to correct when we arrive in Seattle, however, because obviously Jenks doesn’t have a power of attorney for her. Bella takes the phone from me so she can give my mom Seth’s phone number to set up a time to retrieve the rest of her stuff as soon as the house is ready. I smirk when I hear Bella gushing about the house as I wander over to the closet to get my guitar.



Pulling Ruby out of her case, I settle against the headboard and play softly, letting myself get completely lost in the melodies pouring from my fingertips. Bella’s sweet voice pulls me from my trance, telling me to say goodbye to my mother as she shoves the phone in my face. I make sure to thank mother, again, for her trouble and say goodbye. Going back to my idle strumming, I instruct Bella to return Victoria’s call from earlier since LA is nine hours behind us, meaning it is only three in the afternoon there.



When Bella finally gets off the phone she tells me that Victoria wants us to give an interview to People Magazine, as well as have an exclusive sit down with Barbara Walters. She feels that by going this route, we will not only expose Collin for the lying, fame-whore that he is, but that we will also have the chance to show the public that we are a united, devoted couple who is deeply in love, and that this publicity stunt he is pulling has no bearing on our happiness. Although I am skeptical of exploiting our relationship at first, I realize that I really have no choice because I have to do whatever I can to make this clusterfuck go away for my girl. She also informs me that Victoria and her assistant, Heidi, will be meeting us when we land in Rome.



Not wanting to spend any more time talking about Victoria, or about Collin, or about my mother, or about anything really, I set Ruby down beside the bed and then proceed to straddle Bella’s lap, effectively pinning her thighs beneath me. When she reaches out to touch my chest, I take advantage of the fact that she is still leaning against the headboard and grab her wrists and restrain them above her head while leaning forward and aggressively invading her hot, wet mouth. She eagerly responds, thrusting her tongue forcefully against mine while trying to pull her hands free. I move my ministrations down to the side of her throat where I suck and nip at the soft delicate skin. Her breath is hot in my ear and I feel the wetness of her tongue as she licks the outer shell. I release her hands but continue to grind against her as I let my hands roam freely over her curves. Bella’s body is sexy. Tight yet soft. Curvy yet slender. Petite yet leggy. Fucking perfection, and I don’t hesitate to tell her so.



I continue down her body kissing every inch of exposed skin, discarding her clothing as I go. Once I have her bare before me, I spread her legs wide, drinking in the sight of her before diving in to taste her sweetness. I hook my arms around her thighs, keeping my hands away from her tight heat, determined to make her orgasm from my mouth alone. My hands grip her thighs to give them something to do, otherwise I’ll be too damn tempted to touch. Alternating between flicking her clit and plunging my tongue deep inside her, I work her over until she is moaning and grinding all over my face. Her scent is so thick in the air that I feel almost drunk off of it. When she finally comes, her arousal coats my lips and I enthusiastically lap up every fucking drop.



I stand up at the foot of the bed and quickly discard my clothing while unabashedly staring at my beautiful girl. Bella is a vision, still flushed in her post-orgasmic high. Crawling up her sweaty body and placing wet kisses along the curve of her abdomen, I finally settle myself into the cradle of her thighs. Kissing her deeply, I push myself inside and I swear it feels like the first time, every goddamn time. She feels so fucking good wrapped around me and it takes every bit of self control that I can muster to refrain from pounding the fuck out of her. I know my girl likes it rough, but I want to savor her this time. I start moving slowly, pushing in as deep as possible before pulling out about half way. Driving in over and over, trying to get deeper within her each time. She lets out a breathy moan when I tilt my hips and I internally rejoice, knowing that I’ve found her sweet spot.



I start pumping faster and harder while grasping onto her thigh as she claws at my back while wrapping her legs high around my waist. She opens her mouth in a silent scream and it is so damn beautiful. I work harder and push deeper, grinding my pelvic bone into her clit with every thrust, determined to give her as much pleasure as possible. My arms are trembling with my effort, and just when I feel like I can’t possibly hold out any longer, she begins to shake and convulse around me. Holy shit, it feels amazing, and two thrusts later I groan, coming hard and spilling my seed deep within her. I don’t even have coherent thoughts beyond telling her that I love her as I drift into oblivion.



I spend the next morning working my ass off in the vineyard. I honestly didn’t realize how much preparation goes into picking wine grapes. The harvest, according to Bella’s Nonno, doesn’t start until the middle of September, but there is so much shit to do before that can happen. My respect for the old man skyrockets after the seven straight hours of hard manual labor I do this morning.



While I let the hot water soothe my tired muscles, I wonder how Bella’s morning and afternoon went with her Nonni, considering I left her while she was still sound asleep. I let my thoughts drift to the time I spent with Bella’s grandfather, Emilliano, as he demanded that I call him. He spoke at great length to me about women and how to keep them happy. He even let me vent about how confusing Bella can be with the whole be possessive…don’t be possessive…well, only be possessive when I say it’s okay, but I won’t tell you ahead of time when it is acceptable while withholding all comments and judgment, which I really fucking appreciated. He assured me that he understood where I was coming from and that Bella can be difficult, spoiled and bratty at times, and that he still, to this day, has the same damn issue with his wife. The longer I spend with Bella’s grandparents, the more I see the similarities between her and Nonni, not only physically, but in their temperaments and expectations, as well.



Emilliano also told me that he has never seen Bella so happy and that both he and her grandmother could tell just how much we love each other. By the end of our conversation, I wasn’t surprised at all when he asked me point blank what my intentions were with her. I didn’t hesitate at all to inform about what I wanted and that I am ready for it all, but that I fear that she isn‘t…yet. He clapped me on the back and told me to be patient, that the right time will present itself when I least expect it, and of course, he gave me his blessing. I have to say that as fucking tired as I am, I wouldn’t have traded that experience for anything. I swear to Christ, our first born will be named after that old man.



I notice her reflection sitting on the bed as I pull a clean t-shirt over my head. She is sitting cross-legged wearing an ugly yellow tank top, blue shorts, tube socks and her glasses. It baffles my mind how she can still look like sin in such a hideous outfit. I chuckle at my inner thoughts and stalk over to the bed to place a wet, sucky kiss on those full, pouty lips. I just shake my head before biting her bottom lip sharply and smacking her ass when she raises her eyebrow in question.



After Bella changes into a tight green tank with black sequin designs, a pair of jeans that I swear cost more than this house, and black, peep toe pumps, we pack the rest of our shit and get ready to leave her grandparents’ home. And yes, I know what peep toe pumps are. Fuck you.



Before we say our goodbye’s and leave for the airport, I make sure to get those recipes so Bella can make them for me because I’m useless in the kitchen. This opportunity to experience Bella around her grandparents was fantastic. It was nice to see her interact with people she loves and it gave me some insight to her nurturing disposition. It just leads me to wonder how the hell Renee turned out like she did. I feel like we have grown more as a couple in the last two days than we have in the last two months; this time away from everyone was definitely worth the added stress it put on the band. Speaking of which, I haven’t spoken a fucking word to either one of my boys since our blow out. I huff at the thought, yeah, I’m still pissed.



The paparazzi have evidently been informed of our location and gather ’round to watch our exciting venture into the airport. Bella puts on a smile and doesn’t hide her face in my chest, rather, she struts her stuff. Now, my girl has been known to be a bit sassy, but this, in her skin tight jeans and high heels, it’s too much for me. She looks like a rock star’s girlfriend, the right amount of confidence and sexiness without looking like an arrogant attention whore. I can’t fucking wait to see this picture on some magazine cover tomorrow.



After we finally board, we work to make ourselves comfortable. Bella pulls out both of our iPod’s and two neck pillows from her giant bag that she calls a purse. I’m surprised they didn’t make her check it as luggage. She also pulls out a bottle of hand sanitizer that she makes me use before I even think about touching something that I will put in my mouth. Who knew my woman was a germ-a-phobe?



During our take-off, she slips her heels off of her tiny feet and pulls a pair of long socks from her ‘purse’. I gaze at them incredulously as she proceeds to roll them onto her feet and over her jeans.



“What? I had to put them over my jeans, the legs are too tight to push up far enough to pull the socks on all the way,” she scoffs, like that’s the one thing I have a problem with.



“Baby, why the fuck are there socks in your purse?” I ask, because, come on, she has socks in her purse…



“My feet get cold…”she says, while looking at me like I’m the one that’s lost my mind.



“So you put socks in your purse? What else do you have in there, grandma?”



“Everything you’d ever need. You’re lucky you have me around. Who else would be able to give you Tylenol, a pillow, music, candy, granola bars, your cell phone charger, your laptop charger… socks… envelopes… deodorant… soup…” her voice gets softer towards the last of her items, making me think she realizes how crazy she sounds.



“It’s okay, baby,” I whisper as I kiss the side of her head, “everybody needs someone to take care of them. Thank you for thinking of everything I’d need.”



Her answering smile is radiant and full of relief as she adds shyly, “You know, I would have my knitting needles and a ball of yarn too, cuz I’m making you a hat,” she sticks her bottom lip out in an adorable pout as she continues her thought, “but they won’t let me through security with them.”



What. The. Fuck?



She smiles sweetly as she adds, “I hope you like blue…”



So sure, my boys and I are on the outs, my girl is kind of nuts in the best fucking way, my publicist has gone off the deep-end, we’re moving into our new house, and I’ll have to leave Bella while she’s in school and I make music…but I have her, and she’s all I’ll ever need.



I swear to fucking Christ I’ll find my balls in Rome…

Chapter 14: Here Is Gone

I'm not the one who broke you

I'm not the one you should fear
We've got to move you darling
I thought I lost you somewhere
But you were never really ever there at all



~Here Is Gone- Goo Goo Dolls~









~Bella~



The weight of everyone’s stares is crushing and I clutch desperately to Edward while silently thanking God that I have already told him everything there is to know about my past with Collin. Disbelief courses through me as my mind slowly begins to register what is happening around me. Collin spent two and a half years making excuses about why he couldn’t commit to me and spouting off all kinds of bullshit about social status and proper breeding, and now he has the nerve to call me his girlfriend, on national television? Just what does he think he is going to get out of all this? That thought alone infuriates me because it reminds me that he is, once again, using me.



Looking up into Edward’s deep green eyes, eyes that are filled with murderous rage, I realize just how much damage this could do to his career…not to mention his reputation. A mix of guilt and trepidation washes over me and I can’t help the fresh round of sobs that bursts from my chest. Edward’s expression softens and he reaches up to brush away the tears that are streaming down my cheeks with his thumbs, as he tenderly cups my face. “Don’t cry, baby, we’ll handle this together.” His voice is soft yet firm, and it doesn’t escape my notice that he is making sure that I am okay and calmed down before he bothers to address the rest of the room, who‘s gazes are currently burning holes into the back of our heads. There is no possible way for me to love this man more than I do in this moment. He is putting everyone and everything else aside to focus solely on me and my feelings. He always puts my feelings first.



Anchoring myself in the depths of his eyes, I focus on breathing slowly until I feel my heartbeat slow and the panic start to subside. Sagging against his body and fisting my hands tightly in his shirt, I am finally able to relax. The weight of his hand as it moves slowly up and down my back is reassuring and I allow myself this moment to just be close to him while taking the opportunity to drown in his warm masculine scent. I feel him press a kiss to my hair before he addresses the room again, “How can we get a copy of that interview? I need to know exactly what he said.” His voice holds a no nonsense tone that anyone would be crazy to question.



Jasper speaks up first and I have to admit that his tone has an accusatory edge that startles me, “Well, it seems that this Collin guy believes that you are gallivanting about with his girlfriend…and by the reaction of this one,” he adds while nodding his head slightly in my direction, “I’d have to say there is some vestige of truth to that, is there not?” My eyes widen in horror at the thought that they automatically believed him. I mean, fuck, what kind of person do they think I am? I am just about to jump in and defend myself when Edward beats me to it.



“You better watch your fucking mouth, Jasper. I love you like a brother, man, but I wont hesitate you lay your punk ass out.” There is a definite sharpness to his tone that suggests that he is not messing around and Jasper quickly holds his hands up in surrender effectively backing down from the potential argument. I reach out to place my palm against the side of Edward’s face when a slight movement in my periphery catches my attention. I snap my head in the direction of the motion only to find a self-satisfied Rosalie and Tanya whispering amongst themselves.



“Just what are you two looking so smug about, huh?” I shout, finally letting all of the repressed anger I have at Collin manifest itself in my rant to these bitches. Rosalie remains quiet, but Tanya smirks before answering boldly, “I knew it was only a matter of time before you showed your true colors…You‘ll never be good enough for him.”



“You don’t know a fucking thing about me or this situation, so why don’t you just shut the fuck up.” I am seething by this point only minutely calmed when Lizzy gets up and pulls me into a tight embrace.



“It gonna be fine, Bella, you’ll see,” she coos in my ear, trying to bring my temper down to reasonable levels.



Over her shoulder I can see Edward, Jasper, Emmett and Carlisle in a heated argument and I strain my ears to hear what they are saying. I know that I shouldn’t eavesdrop, but I hate that they are obviously fighting about me. The last thing I want to do is drive a wedge between Edward and the people who matter most in his life. My efforts are fruitless, though, because I can’t decipher a damn thing they are saying. Finally, Esme sticks her fingers in her mouth letting out a loud whistle, effectively capturing everyone‘s attention.



“Why don’t we sort out the details of what we are dealing with so that we can start working on a solution, hmmm?” Her voice is soft, but full of authority, and before I know it we are all headed for the long dining room table, about to air out all of my dirty laundry, which admittedly makes me extremely uncomfortable. We all take our seats and Esme remains standing, waiting until everyone quiets down before she begins talking.



“Now, Tanya, this matter has absolutely nothing to do with you so I suggest you find something to entertain yourself with for the time being.” Esme flicks her hand toward the door, promptly dismissing her without a second glance, while simultaneously sending me an inconspicuous wink. “Now, Edward…Bella, this seems to be a private matter that may be best dealt with by family alone, but I’m leaving that decision up to you. Do you want the rest of the band to sit in on this discussion, or do you want to dismiss them, as well?”



I have to admit that I am impressed and a little bit intimidated by the air of authority surrounding Esme, thank goodness she is on my side. Looking over at Edward, I squeeze his hand under the table because I’m not really sure what we should do and I want him to understand that I trust his judgment. Edward clears his throat awkwardly before he speaks, “I want them to stay for the time being…some pretty shitty things were said and I think we need to clear the air before we even begin to discuss what we want to do about the rest of the situation, if that is okay with you, baby.” He looks over at me as he speaks the last part and all I can do is nod my assent.



“Fine.” Esme says as she settles herself into the chair next to Carlisle who is looking at Emmett like he is ready to spit nails. I shoot a questioning look at Edward who brings my hand up to his mouth to place a kiss in my palm before turning his glare on Emmett.



“How fucking dare you say that this is Bella’s problem and that she should have to deal with this shit on her own. Not only have I put up with Rosalie’s continuous and certainly unwanted advances for over a fucking decade, but I have supported you through all of the bullshit that has plagued us by the mere association with that tramp. The initial media frenzy that surrounded us when you married a fucking stripper, when her multiple sleazy sex-tapes came out…with other men, mind you…and your near bankruptcy due to her $10,000 a day coke habit, not to mention the five stints in rehab. I can’t fucking believe you!” Edward is standing in front of his chair leaning toward Emmett and shouting by the time he finishes ticking off each infraction on his fingers. I reach up to grip onto the hem of his tee shirt, trying fruitlessly to garner his attention. I don’t want to be the cause of any further rift in the band, so I cut in, “Edward…”



He hold his finger up, successfully silencing me and I sit back in my chair feeling really uneasy with the way the conversation is going. Ignoring my attempt to calm things down, he turns his accusations on Jasper, slamming his open palm down on the table.



“And you…how could you? How could you imply that there is any truth to what that bastard is saying? I thought we were like brothers, Jasper? Who stood behind you when all that shit came out about Alice’s time in the mental institution, huh? Who constantly fought with the media, desperate to do anything that would help to focus their attention on me and off your girl? Answer me motherfucker!” My heart is literally pounding in my chest. I have never seen Edward this angry, and by the things coming out of his mouth, I can clearly see his justification. He feels betrayed by the few people he trusts in this world, people he has apparently gone to great lengths to protect.



Jasper’s eyes are as big as saucers but he remains quiet, tenderly stroking Alice’s hair as she cries quietly beside him. I stand quickly, wedging myself between the table and Edward while placing my hands on either side of his face. Whispering sweet words of affection and devotion, I gently push until he is seated in the chair with his head cradled against my chest. The level of commitment and loyalty Edward has given to his band mates and their significant others throughout the years is astonishing and it really pisses me off that they didn’t automatically reciprocate that loyalty, regardless of how they feel about me or our relationship. It seems to me that they clearly take him for granted. Yes, he is a hard-ass, and yes he is difficult to get along with at times, but he is also generous and funny and honest and loyal, not to mention disgustingly talented, and they would be nothing without him. He is Eclipse, and they would be smart to remember it. That is a discussion for another time, but there is something I need to say to them now before I focus on the pain that this situation and the people who should love him have caused for Edward.



I try to calm myself down enough to speak and stroke Edward’s hair to comfort us both. I finally look up into the eyes of the people Edward has stuck his neck out for and whisper, “You should be ashamed of yourselves. I now realize our shitstorm is much smaller than any of yours. We will handle it on our own, just like Edward has apparently done everything else. I have many things to say to you, none of which are beneficial at the moment. I suggest you learn to deal with your own problems from now on. You may leave now.”



I look into all of there eyes as they sit there, motionless. They all looked shocked and maybe a little remorseful, even Rosalie, if it’s possible. None of them make move to leave, but it doesn’t matter because right now the only thing I want to do is crawl into my man’s lap and love him, comfort him, reassure him that he is no longer alone and that he never will be again, so I do…and once I am settled astride his thighs, I lift his face, forcing him to look into my eyes and reiterate that fact. “I’m here, ciccino, you aren’t alone anymore. I’m here for you, I’ll always be here for you. And you don’t have to bear the brunt of everyone else’s burdens anymore, it’s not your duty. Let them take responsibility for their own decisions and we will take responsibility for ours. I don’t expect them to all jump in and help to clean up my messes. I only expect that you shoulder it with me.”



He gazes into my eyes for what feels like forever before he finally sighs while, nodding his head in acceptance and understanding. Winding his arms around my body, he crushes me to his chest nuzzling my neck before whispering that he loves me in my ear.



When he finally relaxes his hold on me, he curtly dismisses everyone who are still stuck in their spot, except the family, leaving Carlisle, Esme, Lizzy, and Alec since Seth and Sam left early this morning. Once everyone filters out, Carlisle starts speaking,



“I’m glad you got that shit off of your chest, Edward, it’s about time that they are called out on how they have always taken advantage of you and the selfless way you have always turned unflattering events onto yourself in order to protect everyone else.” Carlisle’s eyes are soft as he speaks, but they leave no room for argument as he continues, “You need to stop with the fucking martyr routine, though, as you have your own woman to look out for, now, and as you can see,” he pauses as he waives his hand around the nearly empty room, “you can’t count on anyone but yourself and your family to help you do so. And all too soon, hopefully, you are going to have children to add to the mix. I’m not trying to cause problems with your band mates, son, I just don’t want to ever see you this disappointed again.”



Edward remains quiet for several minutes before nodding slowly. Flashing his green eyes up to meet his dad’s he finally answers, “I understand where you’re coming from…thanks. And I’m sorry I lost it like that, but fuck, dad, they just…they hurt me. I don’t think they understand the depth of our feelings, or rather, they don’t want to acknowledge them. They think it’s all fun and games and that she will ditch me as soon as this part of the tour is finished and that I will return to the Edward that they knew before. But even if that were the case, why would they want that for me?”



The vulnerability and disappointment is evident in his expression and it is absolutely heartbreaking. Carlisle is pensive for a moment before he answers, “Because as much as the media has always made you out to be the immature one of the group, the truth is that you are the one who always takes care of everyone else, and now that you are not available to do that…well…they are going to have to learn how to take care of themselves. My guess, by the way things went down today, is that they are not very happy about that fact.”



Finally giving up my perch on Edward’s lap, I slide into the seat I was occupying before, figuring that it might be more appropriate to discuss the matters at hand from a separate chair. Not wanting to be any farther from him than absolutely necessary, however, I manage to nudge the chair as close to his as possible while leaning against the side of his body with my head resting against his shoulder. Winding my arms around his bicep, I slide one of my hands inside the arm of his tee shirt as I lightly scratch his skin with my blunt fingernails. He reaches out, sliding his hand along my thigh until he finally curls his fingers around my knee while roughly tugging at his hair with the other hand.



“Why don’t we start from the beginning, that way we know what we are potentially dealing with,” Carlisle suggests while turning his gaze toward me. His expression is soft and his eyes are comforting which makes it much easier to rehash the biggest regret of my short life. I am crying for the third time today by the time I finish my story, but it brings me immense comfort that no one blames me for my poor judgment. As a matter of fact, everyone seems to be upset at Collin for the way he used me and livid with the way he treated me. I try to argue by saying that I’m the one who kept going back, but they all brush off my attempts at taking the blame upon myself by agreeing that I made a poor choice but that no one deserves to be treated so callously, regardless of the circumstances.



I feel elated that I have the support of Edward’s family and I know with all of my heart that they will be there to support us through whatever Collin decides to throw at us, but that elation is shadowed by the guilt I feel when I realize that because of me, of course, he no longer has Gianna to help navigate this shit storm for us.



Fucking great.



After a phone call to the family attorney, Carlisle announces that we now have a publicist, or rather, I have a publicist that is willing to bend over backwards to straighten this whole ordeal out. He hands me a piece of paper with a name and phone number, instructing me to call her immediately to give her any and all of the information she might need to help her handle this situation.



Victoria James answers her phone on the second ring announcing that she has been waiting for my call. She is kind and sympathetic to me as I relay, for the third time, the embarrassing story of my past relationship with Collin Brady. By the time I finish my story, including names of the girls he publicly dated while we were together, addresses of parties he attended with those other girls, as well as any and all contacts and acquaintances I could recall, she announces that she has more than enough to get started. She lets me know that she will be in constant contact with me until she has something solid to strike back with, and after expressing how grateful I am that she is willing to help me out, we say goodbye.



My phone feels like a dead weight in my hand, but I manage to look up at the amazing people that are now in my life and thank them for all of their help and support. Esme gathers me into her arms, reassuring me that this is what family is for as she places kisses in my hair. I catch Carlisle’s eye from across the table and he sends me a wink, letting me know that no thanks are necessary.



I’m not naïve enough to believe that it will be easy to make Collin go away, but I now feel better equipped to handle him, and looking at Edward, I know I have a reason to fight. Collin is a mean, vindictive asshole who would gain pleasure out of tarnishing my reputation. I’m sure his main goal is to destroy my relationship with Edward, but I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that this amazing man will stand behind me every step of the way.



By the time we finish our conversation it is two-thirty and I am starving. Edward is, too, because he stands up rubbing his stomach and announcing that he is, and I quote, ‘fucking famished’.



Esme is up and fluttering around the kitchen in an instant, fixing sandwiches for us, which we take outside to eat on the patio. “Your family is so wonderful. It was really nice to be able to share that kind of private information and not feel like I was being judged.” He reaches over to brush the hair out of my face while offering a small smile. “They love you, there is no reason to judge. Everyone has a past, Bella. I just hate that yours is doing this to you…it’s not surprising, though, considering the kind of person he is. Heaven forbid he doesn’t use you to get his fifteen minutes of fame.”



We are just finishing up our lunch when Alice makes her way out onto the patio looking timid and unsure of herself. I offer her a warm smile and waive her over, hoping to dispel the unease that is currently dulling her normally bright, exuberant personality. Her expression lightens some as she makes her way over to us, sitting down in one of the empty chairs. She places several magazines on the table along with some articles that she has printed out from the internet. “I thought these might help…” she trails off, uncertainty clouding her features once more.



“Thank you, that was very thoughtful of you.” I reach out and place my hand over hers wanting her to realize that I don’t hold anything the guys said against her. She looks up at me with stormy grey eyes and I can see so much sadness reflected back at me. “I’m sorry for what Jazz said,” she offers in a small voice. “I can’t believe he would say something like that. He knows how the media will take and twist stories. I just…I’m so embarrassed, and I want you to know that I don’t feel the same way.” Hugging her tightly to me, I let her know that I believe her and that I never thought she would think that of me to at all. Edward also accepts her apology, stating that she has nothing to apologize for, and then offers her an apology in return for bringing up her past without her permission, to which she dismisses, assuring him that she would have told me the story eventually and that he just gave her an opening to do so.



The rest of the afternoon passes quickly as we gather the final things we have laying around the house, and before I know it, we are saying our goodbyes. I thank Edward’s family again for their love and acceptance, and Esme once again tells me to get used to it. She also lets us know that she has contacted her real estate agent and that they have set up an appointment to look at the houses on our list for Wednesday morning. She will call us as soon as she has seen all of the properties on our list to let us know what she thinks of them. Carlisle wraps me in a tight embrace, discreetly muttering in my ear that he will keep her under control which makes me laugh, earning a scowl from Edward. “I swear to fucking Christ dad, stop hitting on my girlfriend.” Carlisle just shoots him a smirk worthy of Edward’s cockiness and slaps him on the back as he pulls him into a “man” hug while whispering something in his ear. Edward nods while looking down at the ground then thanks him before waiving at them as they climb into their waiting car.



We quickly say goodbye to Lizzy and Alec, and Lizzy promises that she will come out to Seattle to spend some time with me once Edward leaves to start the US leg of the tour. The thought of getting to spend more time with her makes me incredibly happy considering that, besides Alice, I really don’t have any female friends. As we drive away, I think about how much they already mean to me and how much I will miss them over the next few weeks.



It doesn’t escape my notice that Edward doesn’t speak to his band mates before they leave for the airport.



Edward took it upon himself to book our travel so that we fly into the town of Ancona, which is a ninety minute drive from Le Marche (the region in Italy in which my grandparents live), while the rest of the band flies straight into Rome, since we only have two days to visit before the show. He is so damn thoughtful, and I can’t even articulate how thankful I am that he arranged our travel this way, because it means that I will get to spend an extra day with my grandparents.



I called Nonni yesterday to remind her that I would be coming in late tonight and that I would be bringing a very important guest with me. She was thrilled when I told her about Edward and assured me that she would leave the key in the flowerpot and that she would make sure my room was ready for us.



The three hour flight flies by and, at last, the car is making its way down the long winding driveway to my grandparents home. Edward unloads our bags and follows me up the porch steps and eventually inside. I lead him quietly through the house until we finally reach the bedroom I have occupied nearly every summer since I was six. He gently places our bags inside the closet and then toes off his shoes and socks while simultaneously pulling the tee shirt he is wearing over his head. I can see the red waistband of his boxer-briefs poking out with how low his well worn jeans are resting on his hips. He shoots me a sexy smirk when he catches me staring at his half naked form as he saunters over, looking at me like he wants to devour me.



A shiver of anticipation shoots up my spine and a gush of arousal seeps out from between my thighs, completely soaking my panties as I quickly slip out of the sandals I’m wearing, keeping my eyes locked on his the entire time. I rub my thighs together, trying to gain some friction as he finally gets close enough to reach out for the back of my head. Threading his long, calloused fingers into my hair, he roughly pulls my face to his while aggressively invading my mouth with his tongue. He explores my mouth insistently, tasting and sucking at my lips while gripping the back of my thigh with his free hand and hooking my leg around his hip so he can grind himself into my throbbing clit.



“I need you,” he breathes into my mouth before nipping at my bottom lip. His voice sounds so desperate and it only spurs on my body’s reaction. “Yes,” I moan, snaking my hands into his hair and pushing his face into my neck. “Mark me,” I groan as he begins to suck at the delicate skin, absolutely thrilled that there will be a fresh, dark mark from him the next time I look in the mirror. His hands tighten their hold on me as he sinks his teeth into the delicate flesh of my throat. I let my head fall to the side to give him more room while I reach in between our bodies to unbutton his jeans.



Sliding the denim over his hips, I drop to my knees, wanting nothing more than to take him deep down my throat. I take a moment to admire the skull and roses that adorn the fabric covering his massive cock, nipping at the thin cotton before reaching up to hook my fingers into the waistband of his underwear and dragging them down his muscular legs. Pushing lightly on his thighs, I guide him to sit on the end of the bed, keeping my eyes trained on his erection standing tall and begging for attention. I can’t help the giggle that escapes my lips as I take in the sight of his piercings and the trouble they caused in the airport earlier today, resulting in Edward being taken behind the curtain to be searched when the wand indicated that he had metal beyond his zipper in his pants.



A sharp tug on my hair pulls me from my memory and I slide my open palms up his thighs as I lean in to lick up the underside of his shaft, feeling the texture of the steel balls under the sensitive flesh of my tongue. Edward reaches down to pull the tank top I’m wearing over my head and then unclasps and discards my bra as I take the head of his cock inside my mouth, sucking lightly. “Uhh, fuck, baby. Take off the rest,” he rasps out between moans. I swallow him deep down my throat for a moment before releasing him with a pop so I can discard my jeans and panties, promptly dropping back down to my knees and taking his whole length into my throat again. He hisses at the suddenness of my movement, but quickly gives himself over to the sensation while tangling his hands into my hair. Releasing him again, I continue to stroke him with one hand while sucking each of his balls into my mouth and twirling my tongue around the sensitive area right behind his sac. He is grunting and groaning when suddenly he yanks on my hair while reaching down with his free hand to grab me by my ass. He pulls me up onto his lap like I weigh next to nothing, and I have to admit that it makes me feel fragile and feminine at the same time. I know it is cliché, but it is insanely sexy to have a man that is big and strong enough to toss you around a bit.



Before I realize what is happening, his tongue is in my mouth and he is pulling me down onto his rock-hard cock. I gasp at the feeling of him filling me completely and immediately wrap my arms around his neck, threading my fingers into his messy hair as I eagerly respond to his kiss. He pushes his hips up as I roll mine, creating the most wonderful sensations and I can do nothing but moan wildly. His arm tightens around my waist and he starts to pull me down harder and harder, driving impossibly deeper with each thrust.



“Yes…yesss…come on, Bella, I need you to fucking come. You feel so good, too good. I can’t hold on any longer. Please sweet girl, please fucking let go for me.” His voice is sweet, and loving yet rough and sexy at the same time. The contradiction in it does amazing things to my body and I can feel that I am right on that edge, I just need a little more. As if he can read my mind, he begins to roll his hips in the opposite direction of me at the top of each of his hard thrusts, and by the third time he does it, I am so over stimulated that I begin to convulse as I fall apart in his arms. Everything is swirling and spinning and flashing and I can only vaguely hear the strange keening sound that escapes my lips as this incredibly intense orgasm claims my body. Edward lays back and he continues to rock my hips hard and fast over his until he finally tenses while letting out a sound somewhere between a grunt and a groan with his release. I watch intently as his face twists in ecstasy and marvel at how beautiful he is. The light sheen of sweat covering his body along with the beads of sweat on his forehead glisten in the moonlight and when he finally opens his eyes to look up at me, a slow lazy smile spreads across his face. “I love you,” he states as he reaches up to push the hair away from my sweaty forehead. He looks godlike, angelic even and I am powerless to do anything at the moment but stare.



He pulls me down onto his chest pressing his lips to my temple while he wraps me protectively in his arms, and when I finally find my voice I return the sentiment, “I love you.” I hear his hum of contentment as I fall asleep on his chest, with his flaccid cock still inside me.



The next morning I wake early and seek out my Nonni, leaving a soundly sleeping Edward in my bed. I find her in the kitchen making fresh cornetto, a sweet Italian pastry much like a croissant, and brewing espresso for cappuccino.



“Nonni,” I breathe into her neck as I throw my arms around her shoulders, allowing her sweet, comforting scent to fill my nostrils.



“Oh, my angel. It is wonderful to see you.” She takes a step back to really look at me, “My how you have grown up since the last time you were here sweetheart, you are a woman now.” Taking my face in her weathered hands she places kisses on each of my cheeks. “Where is this young man of yours?” she asks as she looks behind my shoulder.



“Still asleep, Nonni, he should be up soon.” I smile sweetly as I add, “I can’t wait for you to meet him.” I look around the large kitchen not seeing my grandfather anywhere, which is odd. “Where is Nonno?”



She turns her attention back to the cornetto as she answers with a flick of her wrist, “Tending to the vines with Mateo.”



A slight sense of unease creeps into my mind at the mention of Mateo, but before I get a chance to dwell on it I feel Edward step up behind me, placing a gentle kiss on the top of my head as he settles his hand on the small of my back. I let the smell of his soap envelope me as I shamelessly drink in the sight of him fresh from the shower.



“Morning, baby,” he says with a smirk while lightly brushing my cheek with the back of his knuckles. “Morning,” I reply in a daze. The effect this man has on me with just the slightest touch is truly amazing. Snapping out of my Edward induced haze, I proceed to introduce Edward to the most important woman in my life. “Edward this is my grandmother, Isabella Compagnoni. Nonni, this is my anima gemella (soul mate), Edward Cullen.”



Edward reaches out for her hand placing a gentle kiss to the back of it, “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Mrs. Compagnoni, Bella has told me so much about you.”



“The pleasure is mine, sweet boy, you make my Bella very happy. Continue to do so, and you will always have a place in my heart.” Nonni, then grabs Edwards head placing kisses on each of his cheeks before brushing her hand through his hair. The sight makes me a little emotional and teary eyed, so I offer Edward one of the fresh baked cornetto in hopes of breaking some of the tension.



Conversation flows easily with Nonni and Edward and I have to admit that the fact Nonni speaks flawless English offers me some much needed comfort about the situation while still allowing me to enjoy the familiarity of her heavy accent. We move to the living room and Edward proceeds to tell my grandmother about his career in music, how he usually lives in London and about how we are buying a house in Seattle so that I can finish school. He tells her about his childhood in Chicago and how he earned his Doctor of Music degree at Oxford with the intention of teaching music composition at the university level when the hype surrounding the band died down. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it, that has yet to happen. He also goes on to tell her how he would like to fund a program for underprivileged children that would provide them the gift of free music education, but that he doesn’t want to start that until he can be heavily involved not only in the organization and operation of the foundation, but in the teaching as well. I know all of this already, of course, but it doesn’t seem to curb the overwhelming amount of pride that surges through me when I hear him discuss those plans. He is such a generous and loving man and I am lucky to have him in my life.



It is nearing lunchtime when Edward briefly excuses himself to use the restroom, and Nonni doesn’t waste a second when she pulls me into her arms overjoyed by the fact that not only have I fallen in love but that the man I have given my heart to is everything she hoped he would be, except for all the mess he has ‘painted on his body‘. Her thoughts on his ‘excessive’ tattoos is funny to me especially when she goes on to wonder why anyone would want to cover up such beauty following up with the declaration of him being a ‘hunk’. “He reminds me so much of my Emilliano…” she states with a wistful look in her eye.



Edward clears his throat behind us and the smirk on his face makes it obvious that he has heard everything she said. Nonni jumps up and scurries to the kitchen casually calling over her shoulder that she needs to get started on lunch for the men but the telltale blush on her cheeks betrays her embarrassment. Edward snickers as he takes his place next to me on the sofa leaning back, stretching his long muscular arms along the back of the couch and propping his foot over his knee while threading his fingers into the hair at the back of my neck. He pulls me in for a quick but passionate kiss as he teases me a bit about falling in love with a hunk while wiggling his eyebrows in a ridiculous Emmett fashion, making me laugh while playfully shoving him away.



Nonno comes in a few minutes later and I pull Edward to the center of the room to greet him. After brief yet polite introductions, he excuses himself to wash up for the afternoon meal. Nonno is not a man of many words and I am deeply touched by the fact that he uses his best broken English when he addresses Edward. He doesn’t give Edward much of a chance to respond, however, before he dashes off to the washroom. Edward turns and winds his arms around me, placing a sweet, loving kiss on my lips before he starts to tell me something. I never get a chance to hear what it is though because the next thing I know, I hear a gasp from the doorway and the sight before me breaks my heart. Mateo is standing just inside the doorway with a look that can only be described as a mix of shock, horror and anguish etched across his strong Italian features. Edward tightens his grip on me, but I gently twist out of his grasp while I attempt to diffuse the situation by offering introductions, and I don’t need to be wrapped around my boyfriend to do it.



“Edward, this is Mateo. Mateo, questo è Edward.” Even though I am standing a little bit in front of him and cannot see his expression, I fidget a little because I can clearly feel the tension radiating off of Edward’s body. I instantly feel bad that I didn’t introduce him as my boyfriend but I don’t want to hurt Mateo’s feelings any more than I obviously already have, besides, it’s not like isn‘t obvious anyway.



I have known Mateo since I was six years old. I spent every summer playing and exploring Le Marche with him, and as we grew up, discovering sex with him, as well. He was my first kiss, my first touch, my first everything…he took my virginity and I took his. It has always been an unspoken understanding between us that whenever I am in Italy, I am his. So to show up now, with Edward, is a huge slap in the face to him and I can’t help the immense guilt that washes over me.



I am pulled back to the present when Mateo lets out a strangled cry as he collapses on the couch with his face buried in his hands. Wanting more than anything to erase the pain he is feeling at the moment I rush over to him wrapping my arms around his head. The guilt I feel at the moment is immense, but the only thing I can do at this point is offer him the only comfort I can. The anguish in his voice is disarming. “Per favore non di dire esserla è mosso sul mio bell'angelo, per favore dirmi non è il suo ragazzo.” (Please don't tell be you have moved on my beautiful angel, please tell me he is not your boyfriend.)



The next thing I know, I am kneeling before him and brushing my hands through his dark hair while cooing sweet words of comfort. When he tries to pull me into his lap, however, I gently push him away, “Sì, il topolino, è il mio ragazzo. Sono così spiacente.” (Yes, topolino, he is my boyfriend. I‘m so sorry.) I hate that I didn’t give him any warning, but it doesn’t change the circumstances.



I hear Edward huff loudly behind me and I turn to glare at him. “Are you fucking kidding me with this shit?” Edward seethes gesturing to Mateo. He looks absolutely livid, and for the life of me I can’t figure out why. “Edward, can you leave us alone for a moment?” I ask, leaving no room for argument. “Oh…that’s fucking golden, Bella. Why don’t you tell your friend there to stop fucking glaring at me, and to wipe that smug fucking smirk off his goddamn face. I swear to fucking Christ, I won’t hesitate to do it for him.”



Not wanting the tension to escalate any further, I turn back to Mateo pleading, “Per favore, Mateo, non l'oppone. Lei farà solo delle cose peggiori.” (Please, Mateo, don’t antagonize him. You will only make things worse.) I know Edward’s temper all too well and I certainly don’t want it to be on full display here in front of my grandparents.



Mateo chuckles darkly before sneering, “Oh, Bella, dunque ubbidiente. Non ho mai pensato vedrei il giorno che lei lascia un uomo dice lei ciò che fare. Devo ammettere che sono un po' geloso.” (Wow, Bella, so obedient. I never thought I would see the day that you let a man tell you what to do. I have to admit that I‘m a little jealous.) He reaches up to brush his fingers across my cheek before whispering, “Dove lo spitfire è che piacevo? Ci sono così molti usi migliori per quella bocca erotica di baciare quest'asino dello scatto.” (Where is the spitfire that I used to enjoy? There are so many better uses for that sexy mouth than to kiss this jerk's ass.) His hot breath fans across my face and I recoil, equal parts embarrassed and horrified that he would speak to me like that in front of my boyfriend. Where does he get off?



I make to stand up, wanting to get away from the whole situation, when I feel Edward’s strong hands pull me to stand behind him while leaning down to stand nose to nose with Mateo as Mateo stands up from the couch. Edward looks really fucking intimidating at the moment and it doesn’t help the situation that he is at least six inches taller than my childhood friend.



“Fare lei non fottendo mai il tocco o il discorso a lei che la maniera di nuovo se lei desidera trattenere l'uso delle sue mani maledette. Mi faccio chiarisce?” (Don't you ever fucking touch or talk to her that way again if you wish to retain usage of your fucking hands. Do I make myself clear?) Mateo shrinks away from Edward’s wrath, and as pissed off as I am that he is acting on his irrational jealousy, I have to admit that he looks sexy as hell. And hearing him speak Italian is making my girlie parts tingle. Fuck, I didn’t even know he spoke Italian. I rub my thighs together, momentarily distracted, before I command firmly. “Edward, I love you. But I need to speak to Mateo privately about his disrespectful behavior. Give me a moment. Please don’t make me ask you again.” I send him a sharp look and try my damnedest to keep the lust from shining through. He looks into my eyes for a moment before letting out a heavy sigh and reluctantly turning away from me.



When I turn back to Mateo I have every intention of telling him how upset I am, but ultimately forgiving him. However, when I catch a glimpse of a gold band around the third finger of his left hand, I can’t help my ire. “Che il fotte è ciò?” (What the fuck is that?) I shout, pointing at the offending piece of metal. How could he say such crass things to me when he has a goddamn wife at home? Or better yet, why did he act so fucking heartbroken when he found out that I had a boyfriend? He has a fucking wife! Bastard. The situation becomes painfully clear to me at this moment. He wanted to instigate a fight between Edward and I. What a prick.



“It’s a wedding ring, Bella…not like you care. Her name is Lenore. You know her, I introduced you to her the last time you were here.” His voice is soft, regretful even.



“Why would you act like that when you have a wife at home, Mateo? Do you even know how disrespectful that is to her. God!” I am so mad. This is not the boy I used to know.



Suddenly the light turns on in my head. I gasp at the realization of what he just said. Snapping my head to look him in the eye I ask, “Were you already with her the last time you were with me?” I can’t imagine being the other woman again.



His voice is barely a whisper when he finally answers, “Yes. I started dating her our sophomore year. I’m so sorry, Bella.”



I let his confession sink in before I press, “You cheated on her with me?” It is more a statement than a question.



“Yes.”



It feels like a knife to my heart because I trusted this guy. How can I ever look at Lenore again knowing that he did that?



“You really weren’t a virgin.” I hold my breath, cursing my naiveté.



“No.” Oddly the revelation doesn’t make me angry just sad. I hate knowing that I have been used and lied to again.



“I’m glad that you gave that to her…she deserves to have at least that part of you.” I tell him honestly, even though it sucks that he lied to me.



I smile in spite of everything. Edward might have an unflattering past, but he has always been nothing short of honest and upfront with me about it. I may have picked two losers to share myself with before him, but if that is the small price I had to pay to end up with such an amazing man, then I’d pay it again…gladly. I send Mateo a sad smile because despite how much he hurt me today, he did succeed in solidifying my respect for Edward and our relationship and making me realize that I am ready for a permanent commitment…even if Edward is currently in the doghouse.



I take a deep breath, steeling my resolve. Heading out the back door in the direction which Edward fled, determined to call him on the irrational jealousy he displayed earlier. That shit isn’t going to fly.



Edward is about to meet that spitfire tonight, I smirk to myself.