"Bring Me to Life" Chapter 22~Fun Tonight
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, NC-17 for parts of this chapter.
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.
Chapter 22-Fun Tonight
EPOV
“That was...” Bella panted as we collapsed on our bed after practically destroying the sheets on our bed for the third time that day. “The way you...” Our chests both heaved craving the air. “Then my ankle was...” I could still feel where it had dug into my shoulder. “You fit just...” I was learning that part of me was made to be inside of her. “God, we're gonna have to write that one down.”
“Finally, a coherent sentence.” I swiped my brow as I suddenly felt how cool the room was and how drenched with sweat we'd both become.
“It's difficult to from any type of sentence let alone talk after what we just did.”
We had only been married five days, but I had learned so many was to push just the right buttons to make my wife sing. I think we were both a little shocked and surprised by how much we were enjoying exploring our new physical relationship. So much so, we had only left our room for an hour or so here and there and to eat.
“I guess we have just hit our groove then.”
She flipped over to rest on her stomach. “What ever you call it, I really don't care. Just as long as we keep doing it. You are totally spoiling me.”
“Me?” I turned on my side and started trailing my fingertips up her spine. “I think you get the award for fastest learner. The things you can do with your body.” My thumb was caressing at her jaw as she smiled wide at me. “I never knew you were so... flexible.”
“I got some pointers, just like you did.”
“What?” She got pointers? Oh, god. From my sisters.
“Rose told me that the boys talked to you about our wedding night. Alice warned me about the feather.” She lifted her eyebrow like she was intrigued. “Where are you hiding it anyway?”
“I was saving it. If either of us can walk tomorrow, maybe we can work it in.”
She lifted her head to bring her lips to mine before sinking back into her pillow. “I think I might just have the most perfect husband on the face of the planet.”
“Bella, how would you know. We've hardly even made it out of our room for five days.”
“I know.” She winked at me. “Five glorious days.”
“You are so bad, Mrs. Cullen.”
I went to roll over on top of her when I heard my cell phone ring.
“Round four postponed until further notice.”
She let out a slight pout before letting her lips turn into a smile. I grabbed for my phone on the nightstand before pulling what there was of the sheets over us.
“James, man! How's it going.”
“Good. Hey, I didn't interrupt anything?”
“No.” I let out a soft laugh. “We just finished.” I didn't feel at all shy discussing those sort of things with James. I had listened to every single one of his sexcapedes stories since he lost his virginity when he was fifteen. “What's up?”
“Just wanted to let you know what's going on here.”
“Everything okay? You getting hassled?”
“No, it's pretty much the opposite. Everyone is treating me like I'm the greatest thing since sliced bread. That I'm such a great guy for being such a great friend to you. They all really hate Victoria now.”
“People giving her a hard time then?”
“Yep. I think her parents are thinking of pulling her out. One of her room mates said she would rather sleep in a dumpster than in the same room as her. Guess she's been sleeping in the common room on the couch.”
I shook my head at the thought of how much Victoria was suffering. It was horrible, of course, but I couldn't help but think she might have brought it on all by herself.
“Priceless. You think she really leave?”
“No. She's too stubborn for that. Plus, it's nice to see how jealous she is.”
“Jealous?” Man, James moves fast. Not even back at school a week and he's already got a girl on the line.
“Yeah and you won't even believe who it is?”
“She got to be beautiful, that's a given. Your standard long legged blond probably.” I had to think of all the blonds at Masen, who hadn't he dated, slept with, or slept with their sister. “Amber? No, you dated her for like a week. God... I don't know.”
“Bree.”
“What? Bree.” Bree was like the sweetest girl ever. She was little and cute, like someone you wanted to pick up and put in your pocket. We'd had so much fun competing against each other, but no one ever seemed to think of her as more than a little sister.
“She came to my room the night I came home. She offered to be a shoulder if I needed one. You remember how sweet she is. The girl would throw herself in front of a bus to stop it just so it wouldn't splash you. Anyway, she was in my first class Wednesday morning. We started talking again and I can't stop thinking about her. The sound of her laugh. The way her eyes crinkle when she smiles. I never thought about that stuff with any girl before.”
“You're growing up, my brother.”
“You think?” We both laughed. “Maybe you and Bella have rubbed off on me. I think I might be able to have something really special with Bree.”
“I'm happy for you, man. I'm glad things are going well.” I turned to see that Bella was fast asleep at my side. Thank god. I loved the woman, but I was starting to think she'd never get tired.
“Okay, I'll let you get back to what you were doing.”
“It's okay, James. Bella's asleep now.” I lightly threaded my fingers through her hair.
“Wore her out, huh?”
“I think we wore each other out.” I nodded in agreement with myself.
“Okay, well... I was thinking, if things keep going the way they are, maybe you and Bella could make it down for the winter contest. I'm thinking of doing the one we've been working on.”
The winter contest was right before Christmas. It was a huge showcase that only the best in the school were picked to participate. James and I were in every year together. Could I face going back there and seeing the faces of all those people knowing what they thought of me when I left?
“We're taking things one day at a time. We'll see.”
“Okay, sounds fair. I'll let you go. Give Bella a hug for me.”
“Sure and you keep me up to date on the Bree situation.”
“I will. Later.”
“Later.”
I set my phone back down on the nightstand and cuddled next to the breath taking beauty lying beside me.
“Sweet dreams, Mrs. Cullen.” I kissed her forehead before tucking my arm under my pillow and letting the exhaustion take a hold of me.
/&/
The events of Thursday left our bodies still way into Friday afternoon. As soon as Alice heard the slightest creak of our floor boards, she was in the room dragging Bella out to get ready.
“It's just a game.” I yawned after getting to the kitchen and getting a much needed cup of coffee from Jasper.
“To us... maybe. To Alice, it's a social event. Plus, with all of us being out of circulation for awhile, I'm sure we will be the focus of the game.”
“Then I guess tonight's the night we let everyone know we've gotten married.”
“Only if you intend on keeping that on.”
Jasper pointed to my left hand. The ring that Bella had placed there was never going to move from that finger. “I don't think I'll ever take it off. I want to make sure everyone knows I have the most amazingly perfect wife.”
“Especially Newton?”
“Yeah.” I rolled my eyes while taking another sip. I couldn't wait to see the look on Newton's face when he found out.
“How you gonna do it? I'm sure Alice could get someone to write it out on the fifty yard line if you want.”
“Don't think so,” I laughed.
“Too much? Yeah, I thought so.”
“I think we'll just wait and see if anyone notices.”
“Notices what?”
I sighed at the sight of my fully dressed wife. At least she looked strikingly beautiful in her favorite pair of jeans and the navy long sleeved tee that hugged everyone of her curves. I loved that shirt.
“Notice... um... our rings.” I could barely get the words out as she ran her fingertips up my torso before clasping her fingers at the back of my neck.
“If that's what you want, it's fine with me. But I don't think I can let you out of the house looking like you do.”
I realized I was only wearing the flannel pants I had slipped on as Alice was barging into our room.
“Not enough?”
“No.” She shook her head before giving me a soft kiss. “I laid something out for you on the bed. It's only a suggestion.”
“It's started already.” Jasper slapped me on the back. “First, it's the clothes. Then, it's your hair. Next thing you know, you'll be holding her purse while she buys another dress you know she doesn't need.”
“He's not you, Jasper.”
I couldn't help but laugh and almost fall over in the process. His face was beat red as he sat down at the kitchen table.
Bella pulled me back up, kissing at my neck before reaching my ear.
“I have a feeling you'll like it, but if you don't want to wear it...”
I cut her off with a quick kiss. “I'm sure I'll love it.”
“Then get going.” She pushed me away at the shoulders. “I'm not going to be able to cover for you if you're not ready by the time Alice comes down.”
She grabbed the cup of coffee from my hands and smacked my behind as I made my way out of the kitchen. My wife had turned into a little vixen and I really liked it. Strange.
/&/
BPOV
Jasper and I traded insults for about twenty minutes before Edward came back down. My jaw practically dropped to the floor when he walked in wearing everything I had laid out for him.
“Do I pass the first husband test?” He held his hands up as he did a little turn for me.
I got up from the table to take him all in. He had on his best pair of dark blue jeans with a black button down shirt. He was even wearing his black Doc Martens. Even though I knew it wasn't at all possible, he looked about a foot taller when he wore them.
“I might...” I played with the buttons on his shirt before turning my attention to those piercing emerald eyes. “I might just have to take you back upstairs and take it all off of you.”
He pulled me in and kissed along my neck before I felt Alice tugging at my back.
She had our jackets in hand and was tapping that little foot of hers.
“You have the rest of your lives for that kinda stuff. This is a once in a life time thing. You guys are making a big step.”
I turned so my back was pressed against Edward's chest. “Alice, you act like it's our coming out party or something. I've been to football games before. We'll sit in the stands. We'll route for the team. We'll eat popcorn and nachos. It'll be fine.”
“Alright. I told Jessica we would meet her and Angela at the gate so we better get going.” She shoved our jackets at us.
I pulled mine over my shoulders. “I'm glad you're so concerned about both of us.”
“We appreciate all the trouble you've gone through. I'm sure we'll have fun.” Edward smiled before pulling Alice into a hug.
“You better, or else.”
/&/
We all piled into our new Volvo. For some reason, Edward handed over the keys to Emmett. I had guessed he had wanted to cuddle with me in the back seat. I so loved the newlywed stage.
We rolled into the parking lot to find most of the cars covered in shoe polish and streamers. As promised, both Jessica and Angela were waiting at the front gate. I waved to them as they started to come over. I had one foot out the door when I felt Edward pulling me back in.
“What's wrong?”
Edward was breathing deeply. I could tell his nerves were getting the best of him and he just needed a moment to relax.
“You can do this. I'll be with you the whole time.” I rubbed circles on his hand with my thumb on the hand he was holding.
He dropped his chin down to his chest as he shook his head. “I have no idea what they're thinking about me. I hardly know these people anymore and I wasn't the most social guy when I came back from Masen. What am I supposed to say?”
“We've talked about this together and with Dr. Yorkie. But if you're not ready, we can go home.” I brought my index finger to his chin and lifted it up so his eyes met mine. “It's you and me, remember?”
I tried to smile that reassuring smile I seemed to have. After a moment, he smiled back.
He brought my hand to his lips. “We can face the lions together?”
“Together.” I pressed a soft kiss to his lips and tasted his sweet breath before coaxing him out of the car, shutting the door behind us.
I was instantly surrounded by two pairs of arms, squeezing the life out of me and piercing my eardrums with high pitched cries.
“Hey guys.” I panted, which made Jessica and Angela squeeze even tighter.
They both pulled back and Angela started rambling a mile a minute.
“Bella, we've missed you so much. We've hardly even gotten anything out of Alice. You could have called. We were so worried.”
Jessica at that point had left my side to clutch onto Edward. A move that certainly shocked the hell out of him by the look of panic on his face.
“We thought about you everyday, Edward. We thought about both of you. We're all so glad you're alright.”
Jessica pulled back from Edward to take his hand in hers.
“Thanks?” Obviously it was not the reaction Edward had expected at all.
That's when it happened. Jessica caught a glimpse of the silver resting on Edward's left hand. I literally thought her eyes were going to fall out of her head.
“Oh my god,” she gasped as she held his hand up for closer inspection.
“That didn't take long.” Edward rubbed the back of his neck as he put on a nervous smile.
That brought Angela's attention to the rings resting on my left hand. “Bella. You didn't?”
I nodded my head. “We did.”
She grabbed a hold of me again and started jumping up and down. “Congratulations! We've got to celebrate.” She pulled back as she gasped. “Please tell me you both are going to Tyler's party after the game.”
I looked to Edward who just shrugged as his crooked little grin crept up on his face.
“I think so.” It felt almost normal. Except for the fact that I was going to the party with my husband and not a boyfriend.
“Good.” Angela started pulling me along as Jessica and Edward were actually carrying on their own little conversation. I had the slightest feeling it was about James. I had hoped he'd let her down easy.
“Are we keeping this a secret? Who all knows?”
“You don't need to whisper, Ang. It just happened Sunday so we haven't really had time to announce it I guess.”
“Fine, then you won't mind me giving you some sort of wedding shower or something. Did you even get a bachelorette party?”
“Sort of. Alice and Rose made me do shots while they dyed my hair and we watched old movies.”
“Oh, god. I'm sure Alice is busting at the seams to throw you guys a big shin dig. We are so gonna have to get started.”
“Fine, but can we make it through tonight first? I want to hear all about you.”
I felt Edward take my hand and saw his smile as Angela launched into one of her stories.
We made it to the stands just before kick off. Everyone seemed really understanding. Most were a little shocked by the whole marriage thing but congratulated us anyway. Mostly a lot of people telling us how they missed us and were praying for us the whole time we were gone.
By the time half time came around, Edward was completely calm. I was so glad that he was coming out of his shell so to speak. We'd been so wrapped up in each other almost every minute since he returned home in January that we really hadn't had much time to be teenagers. It was nice to see him so at ease in a crowd of people.
“That new receiver they've got is really good. Did you see that last touchdown he made? It was a miracle the guy even caught it the way Newton's been throwing tonight.” My brother, always handing out the compliments.
“Oh, that's Riley Jensen. He just transferred here this year from Seattle. I heard something like he didn't get enough attention on the team at his old school and he really wants to go pro. His parents thought if they got the scouts to come see him at a smaller school where he was a big fish, he might get a better scholarship.” Angela seemed to know all about this Riley Jensen from the look on her face. Studying his every move, cheering whenever he came anywhere near the ball.
/&/
“It's good!” The announcer's voice rang over the loud speaker. Tyler had kicked the winning field goal to bring the score to Forks 24, Port Angeles 21.
“See. They couldn't have done it without Tyler. I'm telling you. Newton needs to get his act together if he thinks any school is gonna take him” Emmett was still dogging on Mike. I guess their hate/hate relationship was alive and well.
“Be sure to tell him that at the party. I'm sure he'd love some more pointers, oh wise one.”
“Wise, eh? I'll show you who's wise.”
Emmett rushed me and picked my up, flinging me over his shoulder. I was punching his back as he started running for the car, but I was actually laughing so hard I was crying.
“That's what you get for starting things, Bells.” He set me down next to the passengers side door.
“Thanks. I haven't had a laugh like that in a long time.”
“Glad to be of service.” Emmett kissed me on the forehead before opening the Volvo's doors.
Edward came up behind me and held tight to my waist. “I might just have to try the caveman routine when we get home later.”
“Don't make me promises if you can't deliver.”
He kissed that spot just below me ear making my whole body quiver. “Oh, I'll deliver.”
/&/
After making the rounds, there was still one person I needed to talk to. Mike.
I walked through the crowd as Edward was occupied with some new video game system that Tyler had. He and Jasper were practically glued to it. I spotted Mike. Poor guy was getting the third degree from none other than my big brother.
“Serious, if you want to get more power on your throws, you have to include it in your workout.”
I came and put my hands on Emmett's shoulders. “Don't listen to him, Mike. I think you did a great job tonight.”
“Thanks, Bella.”
“Fine, when you're at some third rate school loosing every game, don't blame me.”
I smacked Emmett's shoulder as he walked away. “Really, Mike. I think he's just a little jealous. This is the first season he hasn't played in like forever.”
“Is Washington gonna take him for next season?” He took a sip of what I assumed was beer by the smell emanating from him and his proximity to the keg.
“I think so. If they don't, I'll go begging on my hands and knees to the coach, since it's all my fault.”
“Yeah, he was a mess while you were gone. I really didn't get to tell you how much I missed you.” He brushed his fingers up and down my arm. “School's not the same without you there.”
I pulled my arm back a bit, his face showed that aura of rejection it always had. I felt bad, but I never felt that way about Mike.
“You'll all just have to live. I had enough credits to graduate. All I had to do was pass a Government test. Hopefully I'll be going to WU in the spring.”
“That's great, Bella. I can't say I'm happy, but if you are, then I can try.” He pulled me in for a hug as his beer sloshed in his plastic cup.
I felt his free hand press at the small of my back while he buried his head in the crook of my neck. I just patted him on the back and waited for him to let go.
When he pulled back, he looked like he almost had tears in his eyes. “Bella, I...”
Mike's hand had been replaced with another. “I see you're catching up with my wife, Mike.”
Mike had to do a double take as he looked in between Edward and I. Edward wrapped his arms around my waist as he set his chin on my shoulder.
“Wife.” Mike nodded as he shut his eyes. “Right.” Mike looked to see the rings on my finger before finding the ones on Edward's. “Just don't fuck it up, Cullen. Cause I'll be waiting here if you do.”
Mike hit Edward on the shoulder before stumbling passed him back over to the keg.
“That wasn't very nice you know.”
Edward held on to me tighter. “I just wanted to make sure that he knows that you are all mine, Mrs. Cullen.” He gave me a peck on the neck before spinning me around to face him. “You about ready to go? I think I have a few promises to deliver on tonight.”
“Aren't we the eager beaver tonight.”
“I can't help it. You bring it out of me.” He flicked his tongue out to moisten his lips before that most glorious grin settled on his lips. “Don't I bring a little bit of the vixen out in you?”
“So much,” I nodded before pressing my whole being into him and settling my lips on his. “I just want to say goodbye to Angela. I think she and Alice probably have our wedding reception planned already.”
“Okay. I'll be back over with Jasper.” He pecked my lips before we went our separate ways.
/&/
“Jess, do you know where Angela went to?”
“I think she's out back or she was the last time I saw her.”
“Thanks.” I let her get back to appreciating Tyler and all of his... hospitality.
I made my way out to the back porch and felt a slight chill as the wind was picking up. No sign of Angela, but I took the moment to loose myself in the silence. My life was now filled with blissful chaos, but I still enjoyed those moments where I could just step back and take in the quite.
I stepped off the back porch to see someone sitting at the foot of a nearby tree, making me gasp.
“Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you.” He stood up and started walking towards me.
“It's alright. I just didn't see you is all. What are you doing sitting out here by yourself?”
“Just clearing my head. It was a pretty big game for me.” I now recognized the features standing before me. Tall, lean, and now visible black hair and piercing blue eyes. “Sorry, I'm Riley Jensen.” He extended his hand to me.
“Bella...” I took his hand. “Bella Sw- I mean Cullen.” It was the first time I had called myself a Cullen. I blushed and let out a soft laugh as he released my hand.
“Bella. What a beautiful name. I'm sure you know it means beautiful in Italian.”
“Yep.” I nodded. I had only heard that one about a million times.
“I haven't seen you around at school, but I feel like I've seen you before.”
“I already graduated, so I haven't been around this year.”
“Oh, a college girl.” He stepped in a little closer than I would have liked. “What are you doing hanging out with a bunch of high school kids?”
“Tyler's a friend and he asked me to come.”
“I'm glad he did.” He grabbed my right hand. “You wanna get out of here?”
Before I could even comprehend what he was doing he was pulling me towards the driveway on the side of the house.
“Riley. No. I can't.” I tried pulling my hand from his grasp, but he was holding on too tight.
“Oh, come on. You're friends will understand.”
“Yeah, my friends, but my husband won't.”
That stopped him. He turned back to me. “Husband?” He released my hand before sweeping his through his hair. “That's one I haven't heard before.”
“He's just inside. I'm sure he's looking for me by now.” I felt the adrenaline nervously running through my veins. I was making a mental checklist of all the defense moves I could use to counter any move he would make.
“Come on, Bella. I promise to give you a night you'll never forget.”
The next few seconds went exactly how it should have. He grabbed a hold of me and tried to kiss me. My knee went up directly between his legs causing him to double over in pain.
I stumbled back. “What part of I have a husband did you not understand?”
“Bitch!” He spat at me at he lunged for me.
That's when the heal of my hand thrust up, breaking his nose.
“Fuck!” He fell to the ground as I heard people rushing to where we were in the driveway.
I jumped as Edward came to my side.
“Everything alright?”
I smiled as I saw Riley rolling on the ground. “I guess now I know I can take care of myself.”
“Remind me not to get on your bad side.” Edward pulled me in. “Can someone get him some ice? I think my wife broke his nose.”
Riley looked up as he saw Edward with his arms around me. “Good luck with that one. She's just a dick tease.”
Edward started to lunge for Riley but I caught him.
“He's not worth it. He's just made cause he got his ass handed to him by a girl.”
Edward's tension slightly subsided. “Fine, but if I see him so much as look your way, I get a free shot.”
“I promise. Let's go home. I still think you have a few promises to deliver on.”
Tyler rushed passed us with a bag full of ice as Edward held me close walking to our car.
/&/
A/N: Bella is a strong gal and with this confrontation, I think she's gotten over another obstacle. Plus I really wanted to see Bella take out some of her pent up frustration and kick a little ass. Will her actions have ramifications?
Leaving you thinking about consequences, Lindsey
Title: Bring Me to Life
Author: Lindseyfair
Characters/Pairings: Edward/Bella mostly, some Alice/Jasper, some Emmett/Rosalie
Rating: Overall M for Mature, NC-17 for parts of this chapter.
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.
Chapter 22-Fun Tonight
EPOV
“That was...” Bella panted as we collapsed on our bed after practically destroying the sheets on our bed for the third time that day. “The way you...” Our chests both heaved craving the air. “Then my ankle was...” I could still feel where it had dug into my shoulder. “You fit just...” I was learning that part of me was made to be inside of her. “God, we're gonna have to write that one down.”
“Finally, a coherent sentence.” I swiped my brow as I suddenly felt how cool the room was and how drenched with sweat we'd both become.
“It's difficult to from any type of sentence let alone talk after what we just did.”
We had only been married five days, but I had learned so many was to push just the right buttons to make my wife sing. I think we were both a little shocked and surprised by how much we were enjoying exploring our new physical relationship. So much so, we had only left our room for an hour or so here and there and to eat.
“I guess we have just hit our groove then.”
She flipped over to rest on her stomach. “What ever you call it, I really don't care. Just as long as we keep doing it. You are totally spoiling me.”
“Me?” I turned on my side and started trailing my fingertips up her spine. “I think you get the award for fastest learner. The things you can do with your body.” My thumb was caressing at her jaw as she smiled wide at me. “I never knew you were so... flexible.”
“I got some pointers, just like you did.”
“What?” She got pointers? Oh, god. From my sisters.
“Rose told me that the boys talked to you about our wedding night. Alice warned me about the feather.” She lifted her eyebrow like she was intrigued. “Where are you hiding it anyway?”
“I was saving it. If either of us can walk tomorrow, maybe we can work it in.”
She lifted her head to bring her lips to mine before sinking back into her pillow. “I think I might just have the most perfect husband on the face of the planet.”
“Bella, how would you know. We've hardly even made it out of our room for five days.”
“I know.” She winked at me. “Five glorious days.”
“You are so bad, Mrs. Cullen.”
I went to roll over on top of her when I heard my cell phone ring.
“Round four postponed until further notice.”
She let out a slight pout before letting her lips turn into a smile. I grabbed for my phone on the nightstand before pulling what there was of the sheets over us.
“James, man! How's it going.”
“Good. Hey, I didn't interrupt anything?”
“No.” I let out a soft laugh. “We just finished.” I didn't feel at all shy discussing those sort of things with James. I had listened to every single one of his sexcapedes stories since he lost his virginity when he was fifteen. “What's up?”
“Just wanted to let you know what's going on here.”
“Everything okay? You getting hassled?”
“No, it's pretty much the opposite. Everyone is treating me like I'm the greatest thing since sliced bread. That I'm such a great guy for being such a great friend to you. They all really hate Victoria now.”
“People giving her a hard time then?”
“Yep. I think her parents are thinking of pulling her out. One of her room mates said she would rather sleep in a dumpster than in the same room as her. Guess she's been sleeping in the common room on the couch.”
I shook my head at the thought of how much Victoria was suffering. It was horrible, of course, but I couldn't help but think she might have brought it on all by herself.
“Priceless. You think she really leave?”
“No. She's too stubborn for that. Plus, it's nice to see how jealous she is.”
“Jealous?” Man, James moves fast. Not even back at school a week and he's already got a girl on the line.
“Yeah and you won't even believe who it is?”
“She got to be beautiful, that's a given. Your standard long legged blond probably.” I had to think of all the blonds at Masen, who hadn't he dated, slept with, or slept with their sister. “Amber? No, you dated her for like a week. God... I don't know.”
“Bree.”
“What? Bree.” Bree was like the sweetest girl ever. She was little and cute, like someone you wanted to pick up and put in your pocket. We'd had so much fun competing against each other, but no one ever seemed to think of her as more than a little sister.
“She came to my room the night I came home. She offered to be a shoulder if I needed one. You remember how sweet she is. The girl would throw herself in front of a bus to stop it just so it wouldn't splash you. Anyway, she was in my first class Wednesday morning. We started talking again and I can't stop thinking about her. The sound of her laugh. The way her eyes crinkle when she smiles. I never thought about that stuff with any girl before.”
“You're growing up, my brother.”
“You think?” We both laughed. “Maybe you and Bella have rubbed off on me. I think I might be able to have something really special with Bree.”
“I'm happy for you, man. I'm glad things are going well.” I turned to see that Bella was fast asleep at my side. Thank god. I loved the woman, but I was starting to think she'd never get tired.
“Okay, I'll let you get back to what you were doing.”
“It's okay, James. Bella's asleep now.” I lightly threaded my fingers through her hair.
“Wore her out, huh?”
“I think we wore each other out.” I nodded in agreement with myself.
“Okay, well... I was thinking, if things keep going the way they are, maybe you and Bella could make it down for the winter contest. I'm thinking of doing the one we've been working on.”
The winter contest was right before Christmas. It was a huge showcase that only the best in the school were picked to participate. James and I were in every year together. Could I face going back there and seeing the faces of all those people knowing what they thought of me when I left?
“We're taking things one day at a time. We'll see.”
“Okay, sounds fair. I'll let you go. Give Bella a hug for me.”
“Sure and you keep me up to date on the Bree situation.”
“I will. Later.”
“Later.”
I set my phone back down on the nightstand and cuddled next to the breath taking beauty lying beside me.
“Sweet dreams, Mrs. Cullen.” I kissed her forehead before tucking my arm under my pillow and letting the exhaustion take a hold of me.
/&/
The events of Thursday left our bodies still way into Friday afternoon. As soon as Alice heard the slightest creak of our floor boards, she was in the room dragging Bella out to get ready.
“It's just a game.” I yawned after getting to the kitchen and getting a much needed cup of coffee from Jasper.
“To us... maybe. To Alice, it's a social event. Plus, with all of us being out of circulation for awhile, I'm sure we will be the focus of the game.”
“Then I guess tonight's the night we let everyone know we've gotten married.”
“Only if you intend on keeping that on.”
Jasper pointed to my left hand. The ring that Bella had placed there was never going to move from that finger. “I don't think I'll ever take it off. I want to make sure everyone knows I have the most amazingly perfect wife.”
“Especially Newton?”
“Yeah.” I rolled my eyes while taking another sip. I couldn't wait to see the look on Newton's face when he found out.
“How you gonna do it? I'm sure Alice could get someone to write it out on the fifty yard line if you want.”
“Don't think so,” I laughed.
“Too much? Yeah, I thought so.”
“I think we'll just wait and see if anyone notices.”
“Notices what?”
I sighed at the sight of my fully dressed wife. At least she looked strikingly beautiful in her favorite pair of jeans and the navy long sleeved tee that hugged everyone of her curves. I loved that shirt.
“Notice... um... our rings.” I could barely get the words out as she ran her fingertips up my torso before clasping her fingers at the back of my neck.
“If that's what you want, it's fine with me. But I don't think I can let you out of the house looking like you do.”
I realized I was only wearing the flannel pants I had slipped on as Alice was barging into our room.
“Not enough?”
“No.” She shook her head before giving me a soft kiss. “I laid something out for you on the bed. It's only a suggestion.”
“It's started already.” Jasper slapped me on the back. “First, it's the clothes. Then, it's your hair. Next thing you know, you'll be holding her purse while she buys another dress you know she doesn't need.”
“He's not you, Jasper.”
I couldn't help but laugh and almost fall over in the process. His face was beat red as he sat down at the kitchen table.
Bella pulled me back up, kissing at my neck before reaching my ear.
“I have a feeling you'll like it, but if you don't want to wear it...”
I cut her off with a quick kiss. “I'm sure I'll love it.”
“Then get going.” She pushed me away at the shoulders. “I'm not going to be able to cover for you if you're not ready by the time Alice comes down.”
She grabbed the cup of coffee from my hands and smacked my behind as I made my way out of the kitchen. My wife had turned into a little vixen and I really liked it. Strange.
/&/
BPOV
Jasper and I traded insults for about twenty minutes before Edward came back down. My jaw practically dropped to the floor when he walked in wearing everything I had laid out for him.
“Do I pass the first husband test?” He held his hands up as he did a little turn for me.
I got up from the table to take him all in. He had on his best pair of dark blue jeans with a black button down shirt. He was even wearing his black Doc Martens. Even though I knew it wasn't at all possible, he looked about a foot taller when he wore them.
“I might...” I played with the buttons on his shirt before turning my attention to those piercing emerald eyes. “I might just have to take you back upstairs and take it all off of you.”
He pulled me in and kissed along my neck before I felt Alice tugging at my back.
She had our jackets in hand and was tapping that little foot of hers.
“You have the rest of your lives for that kinda stuff. This is a once in a life time thing. You guys are making a big step.”
I turned so my back was pressed against Edward's chest. “Alice, you act like it's our coming out party or something. I've been to football games before. We'll sit in the stands. We'll route for the team. We'll eat popcorn and nachos. It'll be fine.”
“Alright. I told Jessica we would meet her and Angela at the gate so we better get going.” She shoved our jackets at us.
I pulled mine over my shoulders. “I'm glad you're so concerned about both of us.”
“We appreciate all the trouble you've gone through. I'm sure we'll have fun.” Edward smiled before pulling Alice into a hug.
“You better, or else.”
/&/
We all piled into our new Volvo. For some reason, Edward handed over the keys to Emmett. I had guessed he had wanted to cuddle with me in the back seat. I so loved the newlywed stage.
We rolled into the parking lot to find most of the cars covered in shoe polish and streamers. As promised, both Jessica and Angela were waiting at the front gate. I waved to them as they started to come over. I had one foot out the door when I felt Edward pulling me back in.
“What's wrong?”
Edward was breathing deeply. I could tell his nerves were getting the best of him and he just needed a moment to relax.
“You can do this. I'll be with you the whole time.” I rubbed circles on his hand with my thumb on the hand he was holding.
He dropped his chin down to his chest as he shook his head. “I have no idea what they're thinking about me. I hardly know these people anymore and I wasn't the most social guy when I came back from Masen. What am I supposed to say?”
“We've talked about this together and with Dr. Yorkie. But if you're not ready, we can go home.” I brought my index finger to his chin and lifted it up so his eyes met mine. “It's you and me, remember?”
I tried to smile that reassuring smile I seemed to have. After a moment, he smiled back.
He brought my hand to his lips. “We can face the lions together?”
“Together.” I pressed a soft kiss to his lips and tasted his sweet breath before coaxing him out of the car, shutting the door behind us.
I was instantly surrounded by two pairs of arms, squeezing the life out of me and piercing my eardrums with high pitched cries.
“Hey guys.” I panted, which made Jessica and Angela squeeze even tighter.
They both pulled back and Angela started rambling a mile a minute.
“Bella, we've missed you so much. We've hardly even gotten anything out of Alice. You could have called. We were so worried.”
Jessica at that point had left my side to clutch onto Edward. A move that certainly shocked the hell out of him by the look of panic on his face.
“We thought about you everyday, Edward. We thought about both of you. We're all so glad you're alright.”
Jessica pulled back from Edward to take his hand in hers.
“Thanks?” Obviously it was not the reaction Edward had expected at all.
That's when it happened. Jessica caught a glimpse of the silver resting on Edward's left hand. I literally thought her eyes were going to fall out of her head.
“Oh my god,” she gasped as she held his hand up for closer inspection.
“That didn't take long.” Edward rubbed the back of his neck as he put on a nervous smile.
That brought Angela's attention to the rings resting on my left hand. “Bella. You didn't?”
I nodded my head. “We did.”
She grabbed a hold of me again and started jumping up and down. “Congratulations! We've got to celebrate.” She pulled back as she gasped. “Please tell me you both are going to Tyler's party after the game.”
I looked to Edward who just shrugged as his crooked little grin crept up on his face.
“I think so.” It felt almost normal. Except for the fact that I was going to the party with my husband and not a boyfriend.
“Good.” Angela started pulling me along as Jessica and Edward were actually carrying on their own little conversation. I had the slightest feeling it was about James. I had hoped he'd let her down easy.
“Are we keeping this a secret? Who all knows?”
“You don't need to whisper, Ang. It just happened Sunday so we haven't really had time to announce it I guess.”
“Fine, then you won't mind me giving you some sort of wedding shower or something. Did you even get a bachelorette party?”
“Sort of. Alice and Rose made me do shots while they dyed my hair and we watched old movies.”
“Oh, god. I'm sure Alice is busting at the seams to throw you guys a big shin dig. We are so gonna have to get started.”
“Fine, but can we make it through tonight first? I want to hear all about you.”
I felt Edward take my hand and saw his smile as Angela launched into one of her stories.
We made it to the stands just before kick off. Everyone seemed really understanding. Most were a little shocked by the whole marriage thing but congratulated us anyway. Mostly a lot of people telling us how they missed us and were praying for us the whole time we were gone.
By the time half time came around, Edward was completely calm. I was so glad that he was coming out of his shell so to speak. We'd been so wrapped up in each other almost every minute since he returned home in January that we really hadn't had much time to be teenagers. It was nice to see him so at ease in a crowd of people.
“That new receiver they've got is really good. Did you see that last touchdown he made? It was a miracle the guy even caught it the way Newton's been throwing tonight.” My brother, always handing out the compliments.
“Oh, that's Riley Jensen. He just transferred here this year from Seattle. I heard something like he didn't get enough attention on the team at his old school and he really wants to go pro. His parents thought if they got the scouts to come see him at a smaller school where he was a big fish, he might get a better scholarship.” Angela seemed to know all about this Riley Jensen from the look on her face. Studying his every move, cheering whenever he came anywhere near the ball.
/&/
“It's good!” The announcer's voice rang over the loud speaker. Tyler had kicked the winning field goal to bring the score to Forks 24, Port Angeles 21.
“See. They couldn't have done it without Tyler. I'm telling you. Newton needs to get his act together if he thinks any school is gonna take him” Emmett was still dogging on Mike. I guess their hate/hate relationship was alive and well.
“Be sure to tell him that at the party. I'm sure he'd love some more pointers, oh wise one.”
“Wise, eh? I'll show you who's wise.”
Emmett rushed me and picked my up, flinging me over his shoulder. I was punching his back as he started running for the car, but I was actually laughing so hard I was crying.
“That's what you get for starting things, Bells.” He set me down next to the passengers side door.
“Thanks. I haven't had a laugh like that in a long time.”
“Glad to be of service.” Emmett kissed me on the forehead before opening the Volvo's doors.
Edward came up behind me and held tight to my waist. “I might just have to try the caveman routine when we get home later.”
“Don't make me promises if you can't deliver.”
He kissed that spot just below me ear making my whole body quiver. “Oh, I'll deliver.”
/&/
After making the rounds, there was still one person I needed to talk to. Mike.
I walked through the crowd as Edward was occupied with some new video game system that Tyler had. He and Jasper were practically glued to it. I spotted Mike. Poor guy was getting the third degree from none other than my big brother.
“Serious, if you want to get more power on your throws, you have to include it in your workout.”
I came and put my hands on Emmett's shoulders. “Don't listen to him, Mike. I think you did a great job tonight.”
“Thanks, Bella.”
“Fine, when you're at some third rate school loosing every game, don't blame me.”
I smacked Emmett's shoulder as he walked away. “Really, Mike. I think he's just a little jealous. This is the first season he hasn't played in like forever.”
“Is Washington gonna take him for next season?” He took a sip of what I assumed was beer by the smell emanating from him and his proximity to the keg.
“I think so. If they don't, I'll go begging on my hands and knees to the coach, since it's all my fault.”
“Yeah, he was a mess while you were gone. I really didn't get to tell you how much I missed you.” He brushed his fingers up and down my arm. “School's not the same without you there.”
I pulled my arm back a bit, his face showed that aura of rejection it always had. I felt bad, but I never felt that way about Mike.
“You'll all just have to live. I had enough credits to graduate. All I had to do was pass a Government test. Hopefully I'll be going to WU in the spring.”
“That's great, Bella. I can't say I'm happy, but if you are, then I can try.” He pulled me in for a hug as his beer sloshed in his plastic cup.
I felt his free hand press at the small of my back while he buried his head in the crook of my neck. I just patted him on the back and waited for him to let go.
When he pulled back, he looked like he almost had tears in his eyes. “Bella, I...”
Mike's hand had been replaced with another. “I see you're catching up with my wife, Mike.”
Mike had to do a double take as he looked in between Edward and I. Edward wrapped his arms around my waist as he set his chin on my shoulder.
“Wife.” Mike nodded as he shut his eyes. “Right.” Mike looked to see the rings on my finger before finding the ones on Edward's. “Just don't fuck it up, Cullen. Cause I'll be waiting here if you do.”
Mike hit Edward on the shoulder before stumbling passed him back over to the keg.
“That wasn't very nice you know.”
Edward held on to me tighter. “I just wanted to make sure that he knows that you are all mine, Mrs. Cullen.” He gave me a peck on the neck before spinning me around to face him. “You about ready to go? I think I have a few promises to deliver on tonight.”
“Aren't we the eager beaver tonight.”
“I can't help it. You bring it out of me.” He flicked his tongue out to moisten his lips before that most glorious grin settled on his lips. “Don't I bring a little bit of the vixen out in you?”
“So much,” I nodded before pressing my whole being into him and settling my lips on his. “I just want to say goodbye to Angela. I think she and Alice probably have our wedding reception planned already.”
“Okay. I'll be back over with Jasper.” He pecked my lips before we went our separate ways.
/&/
“Jess, do you know where Angela went to?”
“I think she's out back or she was the last time I saw her.”
“Thanks.” I let her get back to appreciating Tyler and all of his... hospitality.
I made my way out to the back porch and felt a slight chill as the wind was picking up. No sign of Angela, but I took the moment to loose myself in the silence. My life was now filled with blissful chaos, but I still enjoyed those moments where I could just step back and take in the quite.
I stepped off the back porch to see someone sitting at the foot of a nearby tree, making me gasp.
“Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you.” He stood up and started walking towards me.
“It's alright. I just didn't see you is all. What are you doing sitting out here by yourself?”
“Just clearing my head. It was a pretty big game for me.” I now recognized the features standing before me. Tall, lean, and now visible black hair and piercing blue eyes. “Sorry, I'm Riley Jensen.” He extended his hand to me.
“Bella...” I took his hand. “Bella Sw- I mean Cullen.” It was the first time I had called myself a Cullen. I blushed and let out a soft laugh as he released my hand.
“Bella. What a beautiful name. I'm sure you know it means beautiful in Italian.”
“Yep.” I nodded. I had only heard that one about a million times.
“I haven't seen you around at school, but I feel like I've seen you before.”
“I already graduated, so I haven't been around this year.”
“Oh, a college girl.” He stepped in a little closer than I would have liked. “What are you doing hanging out with a bunch of high school kids?”
“Tyler's a friend and he asked me to come.”
“I'm glad he did.” He grabbed my right hand. “You wanna get out of here?”
Before I could even comprehend what he was doing he was pulling me towards the driveway on the side of the house.
“Riley. No. I can't.” I tried pulling my hand from his grasp, but he was holding on too tight.
“Oh, come on. You're friends will understand.”
“Yeah, my friends, but my husband won't.”
That stopped him. He turned back to me. “Husband?” He released my hand before sweeping his through his hair. “That's one I haven't heard before.”
“He's just inside. I'm sure he's looking for me by now.” I felt the adrenaline nervously running through my veins. I was making a mental checklist of all the defense moves I could use to counter any move he would make.
“Come on, Bella. I promise to give you a night you'll never forget.”
The next few seconds went exactly how it should have. He grabbed a hold of me and tried to kiss me. My knee went up directly between his legs causing him to double over in pain.
I stumbled back. “What part of I have a husband did you not understand?”
“Bitch!” He spat at me at he lunged for me.
That's when the heal of my hand thrust up, breaking his nose.
“Fuck!” He fell to the ground as I heard people rushing to where we were in the driveway.
I jumped as Edward came to my side.
“Everything alright?”
I smiled as I saw Riley rolling on the ground. “I guess now I know I can take care of myself.”
“Remind me not to get on your bad side.” Edward pulled me in. “Can someone get him some ice? I think my wife broke his nose.”
Riley looked up as he saw Edward with his arms around me. “Good luck with that one. She's just a dick tease.”
Edward started to lunge for Riley but I caught him.
“He's not worth it. He's just made cause he got his ass handed to him by a girl.”
Edward's tension slightly subsided. “Fine, but if I see him so much as look your way, I get a free shot.”
“I promise. Let's go home. I still think you have a few promises to deliver on.”
Tyler rushed passed us with a bag full of ice as Edward held me close walking to our car.
/&/
A/N: Bella is a strong gal and with this confrontation, I think she's gotten over another obstacle. Plus I really wanted to see Bella take out some of her pent up frustration and kick a little ass. Will her actions have ramifications?
Leaving you thinking about consequences, Lindsey