"Bring Me to Life" Chapter 14~Bringing Back the Real Me
Or read it HERE at ff.net
Title: Bring Me to Life
Author: Lindseyfair
Characters/Pairings: Edward/Bella mostly, some Alice/Jasper, some Emmett/Rosalie
Rating: Overall M for Mature, will designate chapters with more graphic content.
Category: Hurt/Comfort, Romance
Spoilers: None really, would be nice if you've at least read “Twilight” to get the basic character content.
This is Alternate Universe and is All Human.
Summary: 17 year old Edward has returned to Forks after spending six years at an exclusive boarding school. He's not the same Edward that his childhood best friend, Bella, remembers. He's changed and closed himself to almost everyone. Can Bella bring him back to life?
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters. They all belong to Stephenie Meyer. She is the goddess, so thank her.
A/N: There is a tiny lemon included in this chapter. I hope you all understand where I'm going and aren't too offended. Thanks for reading.
Chapter 14-Bringing Back the Real Me
BPOV
After a few more hours of questioning at the Billings Police Station, I was left with a phone to call my mother. She had been frantically calling my dad every thirty minutes since we were found. I hadn't realized how much I had missed her. Hearing her voice made me want to go back to being that six year old cuddled up in her lap being read a bedtime story. She and Phil were already booked on a flight and would be back in Forks by the time we got there.
I was actually looking forward to the flight. The girls were exhausted, so I was sure they would sleep. They were coming home with us, just like we had hoped. Harry pulled some major strings, but was able to get Carlisle and Esme appointed as their guardians until they could have a formal hearing and then hopefully it would be made permanent.
I found myself excited about watching them grow. Watching Alice do their hair. Rose showing them how to change their own oil on their car. Emmett showing them some wrestling moves to keep all the unwanted boys away. Jasper teaching them how to keep their cool with our crazy families. I couldn't wait till they were old enough to read the classics with me. I just knew Gracie would appreciate everything that was Jane Austen. What I was looking forward to most was watching Edward teaching them how to play the piano. Gracie had long slender fingers, perfect for playing. I was sure Kenzie would grow into hers, maybe she would be more suited for the guitar though. I thought James would be perfect for that role. I just knew they would be a welcomed addition to the family, our family.
Even though I was lost in the happily ever after, I needed to focus on the next step I needed to take before I could get on that flight back to Washington. I knew what I had to do. I knew how I needed to do it. Knowing and doing were two very different things.
“You ready?” Emmett had peeked his head in to bring me out.
Every fiber that was holding me together screamed no, but I knew if I didn't do it then I might not ever.
“Yes.” Emmett took my hand and led me down a hallway to the back stage of a large meeting room. Harry was speaking to all the reports gathered there, answering what questions he could. Harry turned to see I was ready.
“The families have decided to make a statement. Their will be no questions, only the statement. Please respect their privacy at this time.”
Harry looked back to me and I nodded that I was ready.
“I'd like to introduce Isabella Swan.”
I walked out with Emmett on stage to hear over a hundred people gasp. The flashes from the cameras were coming from every direction. Thankfully the audience lights were dim, so I could barely see them all as I made it to the microphone. I adjusted in front of my mouth as I took a deep breath then began to speak.
“I'm Bella Swan, b-but I guess you all know that.” The room became thick with low giggles. “I wanted to speak to you on behalf of the Cullen and Swan families, especially for Edward and myself. Mainly, we want to say thank you. Thanks to everyone who spent countless hours in search of us. Please know that all your efforts are greatly appreciated. You will never know the depths of our gratitude.” I swallowed hard before I went into what little I could about how our life had been. “The last few months that we've had no contact with the outside world, not knowing what all of you we're doing or if anyone was looking for us...” I started to tear up as I felt Emmett's fingers lace through mine. I looked over to him. “I knew this guy would never give up on us. I hear you've all had your hands full with him.” I looked back to the audience as another round of camera flashes caught Emmett's grin. “I'm glad he didn't give up. I'm glad none of you did. As for what happens next, I'm not really sure. We want to get home for one and get some real sleep. I know you all must have a million questions. When Edward and I have a chance to process everything and the authorities decide it's alright, I hope we will be able to answer what we can.” Emmett squeezed my hand. “Until that time, I believe that is all I have to say. Further statements will be released through the website that my brother and Edward's sister, Rosalie, have established. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.”
Emmett pulled me off the stage as another round of camera flashes erupted. He rushed me down the hallway as several agents filled in behind us. They took the opportunity to get us into an awaiting van and off to the airport.
/&/
I couldn't sleep on the plane. I was too excited to be going home, seeing my mom, and James. I had actually missed him, a little bit. I just stayed cuddled up in Edward's arms as the miles flew by.
“We've got a lot to do... You know, a lot to figure out.” He kissed into my hair as I laid back into his chest.
“I know. There's the girls, school, all the legal stuff. They're going to make us go into some sort of counseling, I'm sure. Then there's figuring out where we're going to live and the wedding... My head's already spinning.”
“The wedding?”
I turned to face him. “Had you forgotten that you'd asked me?”
“No, I just thought after everything you might want to wait is all.”
“You are not getting out of it that easy, Mr. Cullen. September 14th is only a few weeks away.”
“You really want to go through with it then?”
I looked deep into his eyes. I couldn't tell if he was wavering on his decision or if he actually thought I would.
“I want nothing more in this world at this moment to be Mrs. Edward Cullen. Bella Cullen.” I placed a soft kiss on his lips. “Sounds nice, doesn't it?”
“Very... but, I haven't even gotten you a ring yet.”
“I don't need a ring. I don't need a fancy dress or a cake or a horse drawn carriage. All I need is you, me, and a Justice of the Peace. I know that now more than ever. I love you, Edward, and I can't stand being Bella Swan one more minute than I absolutely have to.”
“But, it's Bella Swan that I fell in love with. Bella Swan has been my best girl friend since Kindergarten. Bella Swan that gave me my first kiss.” He brought his lips to caress mine. He leaned his forehead against my own. “It's Bella Swan who I asked to be my wife.”
“You guys are still gonna do it! Good, cause I've got so many ideas. I'm sure we could still get that dress you saw on line. So, have you set a date yet? How many people are going to be in the wedding party? We've got to work on a band, a caterer. We can have the ceremony in mom's garden. She would absolutely love it.”
I took a hold of her shoulders. “Slow down, Alice. We don't need anything that extravagant. I don't think we really have that much time for all of it.”
“No, you have to give me time to prepare. How much time are we talking about?”
“Weeks?”
I thought her whole world might just shatter, but instead, she just smiled. “Okay, I can do this. First things first though. We have got to fix your hair. It's such a pain in the ass to get black out, but I think my stylist can do it. With my help, of course.”
I turned back to Edward and ran my fingers through his messy onyx locks. “I've kinda gotten used to it, but I do miss the bronze. The way the light hit it just right and it looked like you had a halo right here.” My fingers were tangled on top of his head.
“We'll fix it in time. Everything will be perfect. That's the least I can do after everything I've put you through.”
I rolled my eyes and shook my head. “You have not put me through anything. We are alive and strong and all on our way home because of you. It was your brilliant plan, was it not?”
“Well...”
“Edward? You were the mastermind?” Alice looked a little shocked.
“Actually, it was Kenzie who gave me the idea. Watching her trying to dump that stuff in her diaper was priceless.”
The pilot got on the loud speaker. “If you would all take your seats and get your seat belts securely fastened. We are about to make our decent.”
Alice scurried back to her seat beside Jasper as I buckled my seat belt. I laced my fingers through Edward's as we felt the plane begin dipping down through the clouds.
/&/
Walking back into the Cullen's house was like a dream come true. Everything seemed just the same, like we'd never left. Once we got to Edward's room, it was a different story.
The bed was a mess, sheets and blanket strewn all over. Edwards t-shirts covered the floor.
“Looks like I forgot to do laundry. This is pretty embarrassing.”
Alice peeked in behind us. “This is my fault. I kinda lived in here. I'll clean it up, I swear.”
“It's fine, Alice.” Edward kissed Alice on the forehead. “Can you go help mom get the girls settled? Bella and I need to do something, then we'll be down.”
“Alright. I'll make sure to lock the door behind me.” Alice scrunched her noise as she squeaked. She did lock the door behind her.
“What first?” I asked.
“We need to get you out of these clothes.” I looked him up and down, a little shocked. “I just mean we need to take a shower and change our clothes. I've kinda gotten used to you being in there with me. I'm not sure I can remember how to wash my hair by myself.”
“Fine, I'll do it, but just to make sure that you get clean.”
We walked over to the bathroom to find Alice had indeed move in. All her hair products and cosmetics were spread out all over the bathroom.
Edward turned the shower on as I slipped out of my shoes. I slid my jeans and underwear down before taking off my t-shirt and bra. I stepped in the shower with Edward right behind me. I wasn't difficult to get back into this routine. My fingers floated effortlessly down his torso, making sure my soapy hands got every inch clean. I could see the bruises and feel the scars, but it was as if they were just another part of him. The violence that had put them there was replaced with the love and attention I was giving them.
I turned as Edward began to message the soap into my scalp. One of the few pleasures I had enjoyed over the past few months. I moaned as he hit a particularly sweet spot.
“It's nice to know I can still do that.”
“Every time you touch me it feels miraculous. The water and soap is just a bonus.”
He laughed as I turned to rinse my hair out. I took in a full view of him as he had taken in the full view of me. This was a strange territory. We were used to seeing each other naked. I had become accustomed to the ache between my legs that only he could cause. I felt selfish though, for wanting more, knowing he wasn't ready to give it.
Once all the soap was out of my hair, I was about to get out when he grabbed my wrist.
“Another minute, please.”
I stepped closer to him, not really sure what to expect. He was standing beneath the shower head, water streaming down his back. He brought his hand up to cup at my left breast, his thumb sliding across my hardened nipple. I closed my eyes and bit down on my lower lip, trying to stifle a moan. Did he even realize what he was doing to me? My head dipped down as I felt his other hand doing the same to my right breast. I opened my eyes and saw just how much of an effect the situation was having on him. He was standing at attention. Every glorious inch of him. I couldn't help but reach out for it. I wanted to touch him, make him feel just as good as I did. I started to slowly slide my palm up and down him, eliciting the most glorious sound I had ever heard. He moaned out of pure pleasure and I was the one to make him do it.
I realized what I was doing. We weren't ready for it. We hadn't even talked about it. I knew I needed to stop. Our whole family was waiting right downstairs, for god's sake.
I slipped my palm pass the tip of him and brought my hand up to my breast to meet his.
“Please, Bella. Don't stop.” He pulled into me, kissing me with a hunger I had never felt before. I let my hand drift back down and take a hold again. Just a few more thrusts and I felt him bite my lower lip. His warmth dripping from my stomach. His arms surrounded me as I continued to explore his mouth with my tongue. I felt a weird sense of pride. We were one step closer to completing each other.
I pulled back from his lips and put them to his ear. “I can't believe you let me do that.”
“I wasn't planning on it, but you make me feel things I've never felt before.” He pulled me back to look me in the eyes. He swept my sopping wet hair behind my shoulders. “I think I actually feel like a man for once. All because of you.” He brought his lips to mine, lapping the water running across them that was now getting a little cold.
“Good, cause I wasn't really sure... I mean, I've never done that to anyone before.” Even with the cold water running down our bodies, I could feel the heat rising to my skin's surface.
“You're a natural.”
“You're not making this easy on me.”
“I'm sorry. I promise, next time to pay more attention to you.”
“Believe me, you did just fine.” I reached and turned off the water before stepping out.
Edward delved into his drawers and found a few clean items to put on. As Alice had been living there, so had most of her clothes. I found a pair of yoga pants, a bra, and a t-shirt.
I slid the pants up my thighs and tied the tie at my waist. I looked to see the confused look in his eye.
“What?”
“You're not wearing anything under those?”
“I don't have anything. I know Alice and I are close and all, but I'm not sharing underwear with her. I don't even want to think of some of the things that Jasper has done with them.”
He laughed as I pulled my wet strands back into a pony tail. I saw him eying the piano in the corner. He hadn't played since May. I knew his palms must have been itching just to touch the keys.
“Go ahead.” I pushed him towards his baby.
“There's just something that has been running through my head. I want to see if it sounds as good as it does up here.” He tapped at his temple as he sat down at the bench.
I went to my favorite spot and sprawled out on the couch. I closed my eyes as the notes started off soft and slow. I felt myself humming along, then out of nowhere, he began to sing.
Life ain't always beautiful
Sometimes it's just plain hard
Life can knock you down, it can break your heart
Life ain't always beautiful
You think you're on your way
And it's just a dead end road at the end of the day
I got up and went to sit on the bench beside him.
But the struggle makes you stronger
And the changes make you wise
And happiness has it's own way of taking it's sweet time
No, life ain't always beautiful
Tears will fall sometime
Life ain't always beautiful
But it's a beautiful ride.
He stopped kind of suddenly, like there was more he just couldn't figure out.
“That's all I have so far.”
“It's wonderful. You wrote that all in your head?”
“Yes, but the lyrics really didn't come to me until this morning. I know I'm not much of a singer.”
“You are some kind of amazing. I can't even explain what I'm feeling right now.”
“I think we've been in here for awhile. They might send out another search party.”
I kissed him again before I pulled him off the bench and out of the room.
/&/
EPOV
Once we made it down the stairs, we were immediately met by Renee. She held onto both of us as she whispered incoherently into our ears. She was crying so hard, but all I could do was smile. I was just so happy to have the chance to hold onto Renee of all people. If she only knew how close she was to becoming my mother-in-law.
Jasper ripped me away from Renee. She just held onto Bella even tighter.
“There's someone else who's been waiting to see you.”
Jasper led me into the living room to where my best friend was waiting.
“James.” I could feel myself getting choked up as he came over and pulled me into a hug.
“I've missed you, man.”
I patted him on the back. “I've missed you, too.”
He pulled back from me with his hands on my shoulders, fully taking in what was standing before him. “What the hell happened to your hair?”
“I know. It's a mess, but Alice is gonna fix it. I'm sure she's already got it set up for first thing tomorrow.” I ran my fingers through the still damp mess.
“Good, cause we couldn't have you looking better than me.”
“What?” I was confused. “You think it looks good?”
“You know how girls always go for the dark, bad boy type. I bet Bella loves it.”
“Loves what?” Bella had been released from her mother's trap. She scooted pass me, into James' arms. He picked her up and held her close as his eyes squeezed shut.
I pulled on her shoulder, getting them to release each other. “My fiancée, remember?”
“My bad. Sorry, man.”
I pulled her back into my arms. “I guess we need to talk to everyone about that. Well, that's if Alice hasn't blurted it out already.” I looked to Jasper.
“Don't look at me. She's been huddled with mom and Rose ever since we got home. Everyone is in the kitchen, I think.”
“Even the girls?”
“Yeah, I think dad is already spoiling them. I heard something about ice cream and cake.”
The four of us made our way to the kitchen to find just as predicted. Alice with mom and Rose huddled over the laptop. My dad and Charlie feeding the girls ice cream and cake. Renee and Phil watching and laughing as Kenzie smeared icing all over her face. Emmett rubbing Rose's shoulders as she resigned her position over the keyboard so Alice could take control.
I cleared my throat to let them all know we were in the room. Jasper made his way to stand behind Rose as James sat down at the table. I looked carefully at all of them. I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to say, but if Bella could get up int front of the national press, the least I could do was face our families.
“I know we've already said this, but we will never be able to tell you how grateful we are for everything you have done. I know Bella, the girls, and I will never be able to repay any of you for all you've done. We can't go back and change what has happened. Right now we just need to move forward. I know Bella and I are in no way ready to go back to school. With everything that will be happening over the next few months, we'd miss so much anyway. We are hoping to talk with the school since both of us are only a few credits short of graduating. If that doesn't work out, I think we're prepared to go get our GED's.” Bella nodded in agreement at my side, grabbing onto me a little tighter. “We also want to go a head with some other plans. We know after everything, we don't want to spend another night a part. We want to go ahead and get married as soon as Bella turns eighteen.”
I heard Charlie's chair scoot out from underneath him. “How soon?”
Bella took her arm from around my waist and stood in front of me. I rubbed my hands up and down her arms as she took a deep breath. I could tell she was trembling, scared of Charlie's reaction the most. “September 14th.”
We both looked as Charlie's eyes widened and his lips formed a tight frown. “Of this year?” He asked through clenched teeth.
“Yes, dad. This year.”
His eyes clenched shut and I prepared myself for the worst.
/&/
A/N: I really hope I was able to get across what I needed to in this chapter with my little lemon. The two of them are going to have to deal with all of their feelings and everything that come with being married, sex included. I'm not going to have them just jump in the sack though. So, I hope it wasn't too weird to have them exploring each other in the shower.
The song is by no means an original. It's “Life Ain't Always Beautiful” by Gary Allan. I really don't see Edward singing with the twang that Gary has, but the lyrics really seemed to fit. I really wanted something beautiful come out that he'd only been thinking about. What do you think?
On the home front, my niece hasn't made her way into the world yet. That's why I was able to get this done today. Hopefully something will happen tomorrow. My sister is miserable. Thanks to everyone for all the good wishes.
As always, you all totally rock. Keep commenting and reviewing. Please send me your stories. I've had a couple people let me know about theirs and I've gotten totally hooked on some. I'm in the middle of getting a list together now with a few of my thoughts on each. Maybe it will be ready when I post the next chapter.
Leaving you wondering, Lindsey
Title: Bring Me to Life
Author: Lindseyfair
Characters/Pairings: Edward/Bella mostly, some Alice/Jasper, some Emmett/Rosalie
Rating: Overall M for Mature, will designate chapters with more graphic content.
Category: Hurt/Comfort, Romance
Spoilers: None really, would be nice if you've at least read “Twilight” to get the basic character content.
This is Alternate Universe and is All Human.
Summary: 17 year old Edward has returned to Forks after spending six years at an exclusive boarding school. He's not the same Edward that his childhood best friend, Bella, remembers. He's changed and closed himself to almost everyone. Can Bella bring him back to life?
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters. They all belong to Stephenie Meyer. She is the goddess, so thank her.
A/N: There is a tiny lemon included in this chapter. I hope you all understand where I'm going and aren't too offended. Thanks for reading.
Chapter 14-Bringing Back the Real Me
BPOV
After a few more hours of questioning at the Billings Police Station, I was left with a phone to call my mother. She had been frantically calling my dad every thirty minutes since we were found. I hadn't realized how much I had missed her. Hearing her voice made me want to go back to being that six year old cuddled up in her lap being read a bedtime story. She and Phil were already booked on a flight and would be back in Forks by the time we got there.
I was actually looking forward to the flight. The girls were exhausted, so I was sure they would sleep. They were coming home with us, just like we had hoped. Harry pulled some major strings, but was able to get Carlisle and Esme appointed as their guardians until they could have a formal hearing and then hopefully it would be made permanent.
I found myself excited about watching them grow. Watching Alice do their hair. Rose showing them how to change their own oil on their car. Emmett showing them some wrestling moves to keep all the unwanted boys away. Jasper teaching them how to keep their cool with our crazy families. I couldn't wait till they were old enough to read the classics with me. I just knew Gracie would appreciate everything that was Jane Austen. What I was looking forward to most was watching Edward teaching them how to play the piano. Gracie had long slender fingers, perfect for playing. I was sure Kenzie would grow into hers, maybe she would be more suited for the guitar though. I thought James would be perfect for that role. I just knew they would be a welcomed addition to the family, our family.
Even though I was lost in the happily ever after, I needed to focus on the next step I needed to take before I could get on that flight back to Washington. I knew what I had to do. I knew how I needed to do it. Knowing and doing were two very different things.
“You ready?” Emmett had peeked his head in to bring me out.
Every fiber that was holding me together screamed no, but I knew if I didn't do it then I might not ever.
“Yes.” Emmett took my hand and led me down a hallway to the back stage of a large meeting room. Harry was speaking to all the reports gathered there, answering what questions he could. Harry turned to see I was ready.
“The families have decided to make a statement. Their will be no questions, only the statement. Please respect their privacy at this time.”
Harry looked back to me and I nodded that I was ready.
“I'd like to introduce Isabella Swan.”
I walked out with Emmett on stage to hear over a hundred people gasp. The flashes from the cameras were coming from every direction. Thankfully the audience lights were dim, so I could barely see them all as I made it to the microphone. I adjusted in front of my mouth as I took a deep breath then began to speak.
“I'm Bella Swan, b-but I guess you all know that.” The room became thick with low giggles. “I wanted to speak to you on behalf of the Cullen and Swan families, especially for Edward and myself. Mainly, we want to say thank you. Thanks to everyone who spent countless hours in search of us. Please know that all your efforts are greatly appreciated. You will never know the depths of our gratitude.” I swallowed hard before I went into what little I could about how our life had been. “The last few months that we've had no contact with the outside world, not knowing what all of you we're doing or if anyone was looking for us...” I started to tear up as I felt Emmett's fingers lace through mine. I looked over to him. “I knew this guy would never give up on us. I hear you've all had your hands full with him.” I looked back to the audience as another round of camera flashes caught Emmett's grin. “I'm glad he didn't give up. I'm glad none of you did. As for what happens next, I'm not really sure. We want to get home for one and get some real sleep. I know you all must have a million questions. When Edward and I have a chance to process everything and the authorities decide it's alright, I hope we will be able to answer what we can.” Emmett squeezed my hand. “Until that time, I believe that is all I have to say. Further statements will be released through the website that my brother and Edward's sister, Rosalie, have established. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.”
Emmett pulled me off the stage as another round of camera flashes erupted. He rushed me down the hallway as several agents filled in behind us. They took the opportunity to get us into an awaiting van and off to the airport.
/&/
I couldn't sleep on the plane. I was too excited to be going home, seeing my mom, and James. I had actually missed him, a little bit. I just stayed cuddled up in Edward's arms as the miles flew by.
“We've got a lot to do... You know, a lot to figure out.” He kissed into my hair as I laid back into his chest.
“I know. There's the girls, school, all the legal stuff. They're going to make us go into some sort of counseling, I'm sure. Then there's figuring out where we're going to live and the wedding... My head's already spinning.”
“The wedding?”
I turned to face him. “Had you forgotten that you'd asked me?”
“No, I just thought after everything you might want to wait is all.”
“You are not getting out of it that easy, Mr. Cullen. September 14th is only a few weeks away.”
“You really want to go through with it then?”
I looked deep into his eyes. I couldn't tell if he was wavering on his decision or if he actually thought I would.
“I want nothing more in this world at this moment to be Mrs. Edward Cullen. Bella Cullen.” I placed a soft kiss on his lips. “Sounds nice, doesn't it?”
“Very... but, I haven't even gotten you a ring yet.”
“I don't need a ring. I don't need a fancy dress or a cake or a horse drawn carriage. All I need is you, me, and a Justice of the Peace. I know that now more than ever. I love you, Edward, and I can't stand being Bella Swan one more minute than I absolutely have to.”
“But, it's Bella Swan that I fell in love with. Bella Swan has been my best girl friend since Kindergarten. Bella Swan that gave me my first kiss.” He brought his lips to caress mine. He leaned his forehead against my own. “It's Bella Swan who I asked to be my wife.”
“You guys are still gonna do it! Good, cause I've got so many ideas. I'm sure we could still get that dress you saw on line. So, have you set a date yet? How many people are going to be in the wedding party? We've got to work on a band, a caterer. We can have the ceremony in mom's garden. She would absolutely love it.”
I took a hold of her shoulders. “Slow down, Alice. We don't need anything that extravagant. I don't think we really have that much time for all of it.”
“No, you have to give me time to prepare. How much time are we talking about?”
“Weeks?”
I thought her whole world might just shatter, but instead, she just smiled. “Okay, I can do this. First things first though. We have got to fix your hair. It's such a pain in the ass to get black out, but I think my stylist can do it. With my help, of course.”
I turned back to Edward and ran my fingers through his messy onyx locks. “I've kinda gotten used to it, but I do miss the bronze. The way the light hit it just right and it looked like you had a halo right here.” My fingers were tangled on top of his head.
“We'll fix it in time. Everything will be perfect. That's the least I can do after everything I've put you through.”
I rolled my eyes and shook my head. “You have not put me through anything. We are alive and strong and all on our way home because of you. It was your brilliant plan, was it not?”
“Well...”
“Edward? You were the mastermind?” Alice looked a little shocked.
“Actually, it was Kenzie who gave me the idea. Watching her trying to dump that stuff in her diaper was priceless.”
The pilot got on the loud speaker. “If you would all take your seats and get your seat belts securely fastened. We are about to make our decent.”
Alice scurried back to her seat beside Jasper as I buckled my seat belt. I laced my fingers through Edward's as we felt the plane begin dipping down through the clouds.
/&/
Walking back into the Cullen's house was like a dream come true. Everything seemed just the same, like we'd never left. Once we got to Edward's room, it was a different story.
The bed was a mess, sheets and blanket strewn all over. Edwards t-shirts covered the floor.
“Looks like I forgot to do laundry. This is pretty embarrassing.”
Alice peeked in behind us. “This is my fault. I kinda lived in here. I'll clean it up, I swear.”
“It's fine, Alice.” Edward kissed Alice on the forehead. “Can you go help mom get the girls settled? Bella and I need to do something, then we'll be down.”
“Alright. I'll make sure to lock the door behind me.” Alice scrunched her noise as she squeaked. She did lock the door behind her.
“What first?” I asked.
“We need to get you out of these clothes.” I looked him up and down, a little shocked. “I just mean we need to take a shower and change our clothes. I've kinda gotten used to you being in there with me. I'm not sure I can remember how to wash my hair by myself.”
“Fine, I'll do it, but just to make sure that you get clean.”
We walked over to the bathroom to find Alice had indeed move in. All her hair products and cosmetics were spread out all over the bathroom.
Edward turned the shower on as I slipped out of my shoes. I slid my jeans and underwear down before taking off my t-shirt and bra. I stepped in the shower with Edward right behind me. I wasn't difficult to get back into this routine. My fingers floated effortlessly down his torso, making sure my soapy hands got every inch clean. I could see the bruises and feel the scars, but it was as if they were just another part of him. The violence that had put them there was replaced with the love and attention I was giving them.
I turned as Edward began to message the soap into my scalp. One of the few pleasures I had enjoyed over the past few months. I moaned as he hit a particularly sweet spot.
“It's nice to know I can still do that.”
“Every time you touch me it feels miraculous. The water and soap is just a bonus.”
He laughed as I turned to rinse my hair out. I took in a full view of him as he had taken in the full view of me. This was a strange territory. We were used to seeing each other naked. I had become accustomed to the ache between my legs that only he could cause. I felt selfish though, for wanting more, knowing he wasn't ready to give it.
Once all the soap was out of my hair, I was about to get out when he grabbed my wrist.
“Another minute, please.”
I stepped closer to him, not really sure what to expect. He was standing beneath the shower head, water streaming down his back. He brought his hand up to cup at my left breast, his thumb sliding across my hardened nipple. I closed my eyes and bit down on my lower lip, trying to stifle a moan. Did he even realize what he was doing to me? My head dipped down as I felt his other hand doing the same to my right breast. I opened my eyes and saw just how much of an effect the situation was having on him. He was standing at attention. Every glorious inch of him. I couldn't help but reach out for it. I wanted to touch him, make him feel just as good as I did. I started to slowly slide my palm up and down him, eliciting the most glorious sound I had ever heard. He moaned out of pure pleasure and I was the one to make him do it.
I realized what I was doing. We weren't ready for it. We hadn't even talked about it. I knew I needed to stop. Our whole family was waiting right downstairs, for god's sake.
I slipped my palm pass the tip of him and brought my hand up to my breast to meet his.
“Please, Bella. Don't stop.” He pulled into me, kissing me with a hunger I had never felt before. I let my hand drift back down and take a hold again. Just a few more thrusts and I felt him bite my lower lip. His warmth dripping from my stomach. His arms surrounded me as I continued to explore his mouth with my tongue. I felt a weird sense of pride. We were one step closer to completing each other.
I pulled back from his lips and put them to his ear. “I can't believe you let me do that.”
“I wasn't planning on it, but you make me feel things I've never felt before.” He pulled me back to look me in the eyes. He swept my sopping wet hair behind my shoulders. “I think I actually feel like a man for once. All because of you.” He brought his lips to mine, lapping the water running across them that was now getting a little cold.
“Good, cause I wasn't really sure... I mean, I've never done that to anyone before.” Even with the cold water running down our bodies, I could feel the heat rising to my skin's surface.
“You're a natural.”
“You're not making this easy on me.”
“I'm sorry. I promise, next time to pay more attention to you.”
“Believe me, you did just fine.” I reached and turned off the water before stepping out.
Edward delved into his drawers and found a few clean items to put on. As Alice had been living there, so had most of her clothes. I found a pair of yoga pants, a bra, and a t-shirt.
I slid the pants up my thighs and tied the tie at my waist. I looked to see the confused look in his eye.
“What?”
“You're not wearing anything under those?”
“I don't have anything. I know Alice and I are close and all, but I'm not sharing underwear with her. I don't even want to think of some of the things that Jasper has done with them.”
He laughed as I pulled my wet strands back into a pony tail. I saw him eying the piano in the corner. He hadn't played since May. I knew his palms must have been itching just to touch the keys.
“Go ahead.” I pushed him towards his baby.
“There's just something that has been running through my head. I want to see if it sounds as good as it does up here.” He tapped at his temple as he sat down at the bench.
I went to my favorite spot and sprawled out on the couch. I closed my eyes as the notes started off soft and slow. I felt myself humming along, then out of nowhere, he began to sing.
Life ain't always beautiful
Sometimes it's just plain hard
Life can knock you down, it can break your heart
Life ain't always beautiful
You think you're on your way
And it's just a dead end road at the end of the day
I got up and went to sit on the bench beside him.
But the struggle makes you stronger
And the changes make you wise
And happiness has it's own way of taking it's sweet time
No, life ain't always beautiful
Tears will fall sometime
Life ain't always beautiful
But it's a beautiful ride.
He stopped kind of suddenly, like there was more he just couldn't figure out.
“That's all I have so far.”
“It's wonderful. You wrote that all in your head?”
“Yes, but the lyrics really didn't come to me until this morning. I know I'm not much of a singer.”
“You are some kind of amazing. I can't even explain what I'm feeling right now.”
“I think we've been in here for awhile. They might send out another search party.”
I kissed him again before I pulled him off the bench and out of the room.
/&/
EPOV
Once we made it down the stairs, we were immediately met by Renee. She held onto both of us as she whispered incoherently into our ears. She was crying so hard, but all I could do was smile. I was just so happy to have the chance to hold onto Renee of all people. If she only knew how close she was to becoming my mother-in-law.
Jasper ripped me away from Renee. She just held onto Bella even tighter.
“There's someone else who's been waiting to see you.”
Jasper led me into the living room to where my best friend was waiting.
“James.” I could feel myself getting choked up as he came over and pulled me into a hug.
“I've missed you, man.”
I patted him on the back. “I've missed you, too.”
He pulled back from me with his hands on my shoulders, fully taking in what was standing before him. “What the hell happened to your hair?”
“I know. It's a mess, but Alice is gonna fix it. I'm sure she's already got it set up for first thing tomorrow.” I ran my fingers through the still damp mess.
“Good, cause we couldn't have you looking better than me.”
“What?” I was confused. “You think it looks good?”
“You know how girls always go for the dark, bad boy type. I bet Bella loves it.”
“Loves what?” Bella had been released from her mother's trap. She scooted pass me, into James' arms. He picked her up and held her close as his eyes squeezed shut.
I pulled on her shoulder, getting them to release each other. “My fiancée, remember?”
“My bad. Sorry, man.”
I pulled her back into my arms. “I guess we need to talk to everyone about that. Well, that's if Alice hasn't blurted it out already.” I looked to Jasper.
“Don't look at me. She's been huddled with mom and Rose ever since we got home. Everyone is in the kitchen, I think.”
“Even the girls?”
“Yeah, I think dad is already spoiling them. I heard something about ice cream and cake.”
The four of us made our way to the kitchen to find just as predicted. Alice with mom and Rose huddled over the laptop. My dad and Charlie feeding the girls ice cream and cake. Renee and Phil watching and laughing as Kenzie smeared icing all over her face. Emmett rubbing Rose's shoulders as she resigned her position over the keyboard so Alice could take control.
I cleared my throat to let them all know we were in the room. Jasper made his way to stand behind Rose as James sat down at the table. I looked carefully at all of them. I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to say, but if Bella could get up int front of the national press, the least I could do was face our families.
“I know we've already said this, but we will never be able to tell you how grateful we are for everything you have done. I know Bella, the girls, and I will never be able to repay any of you for all you've done. We can't go back and change what has happened. Right now we just need to move forward. I know Bella and I are in no way ready to go back to school. With everything that will be happening over the next few months, we'd miss so much anyway. We are hoping to talk with the school since both of us are only a few credits short of graduating. If that doesn't work out, I think we're prepared to go get our GED's.” Bella nodded in agreement at my side, grabbing onto me a little tighter. “We also want to go a head with some other plans. We know after everything, we don't want to spend another night a part. We want to go ahead and get married as soon as Bella turns eighteen.”
I heard Charlie's chair scoot out from underneath him. “How soon?”
Bella took her arm from around my waist and stood in front of me. I rubbed my hands up and down her arms as she took a deep breath. I could tell she was trembling, scared of Charlie's reaction the most. “September 14th.”
We both looked as Charlie's eyes widened and his lips formed a tight frown. “Of this year?” He asked through clenched teeth.
“Yes, dad. This year.”
His eyes clenched shut and I prepared myself for the worst.
/&/
A/N: I really hope I was able to get across what I needed to in this chapter with my little lemon. The two of them are going to have to deal with all of their feelings and everything that come with being married, sex included. I'm not going to have them just jump in the sack though. So, I hope it wasn't too weird to have them exploring each other in the shower.
The song is by no means an original. It's “Life Ain't Always Beautiful” by Gary Allan. I really don't see Edward singing with the twang that Gary has, but the lyrics really seemed to fit. I really wanted something beautiful come out that he'd only been thinking about. What do you think?
On the home front, my niece hasn't made her way into the world yet. That's why I was able to get this done today. Hopefully something will happen tomorrow. My sister is miserable. Thanks to everyone for all the good wishes.
As always, you all totally rock. Keep commenting and reviewing. Please send me your stories. I've had a couple people let me know about theirs and I've gotten totally hooked on some. I'm in the middle of getting a list together now with a few of my thoughts on each. Maybe it will be ready when I post the next chapter.
Leaving you wondering, Lindsey