Chapter 10

 BPOV

Sunday morning breakfast had been anything but what I expected it to be.  We had spent the evening before together and I took advantage of the situation by squirming my nearly naked self closer to him.  He had wanted to talk the previous night, but this morning it was like something had changed.  He was cold and distant. 

We ate omelets and discussed the weather but there was no mention of what he had wanted to talk to me about.  Why did I have to fall asleep?  We could have had this all sorted out by now. 

It was a dreary morning and it didn't do much for my mood.  He dropped me off claiming he had some errands to run.  I came close to offering to go with him but his mood didn't reflect that he wanted company. 

Monday was just as awful.  Edward continued to ignore me.  Not directly but he was gone for work before I even got up and he didn't get home until well after I went to bed.  I wasn't asleep of course.  I could hear his familiar heavy steps as he moved around the apartment.  I could hear him muttering something under his breath too.  It was loud and I wondered if he was talking to someone else.  I didn't dare go out there though.  I was afraid I would find him with someone and it would break my heart. 

Tuesday was just about the same.  However that night when he came home he was clearly drunk.  I could hear his slurred words coming from beyond my door and I wondered what he was doing there... or what he was saying.  I decided to give him the same treatment he had been giving me though, I pretended I was asleep.

On Wednesday I rushed off to a meeting I had with a professor at the crack of dawn and spent the rest of the day in the library.  I had no desire to be home.  I knew he wasn't there.  He certainly wouldn't wait around for me.  I knew he had better things to do. 

I was slowly realizing just how big of a mistake all of this was.  He was avoiding me and now I was really alone.  There was absolutely nothing that I could do about it.  There was no going back.  Edward was my best friend, but now that we had made this fucking arrangement I had just thrown away twenty years of friendship. 

I came home a little passed midnight that night hoping to escape him.  He had been getting home just after that and I couldn't sit in the hard wooden library chair any longer.  I wandered in to our dark apartment and heard the muffled noise of his TV coming from his room so I crept quietly back in to mine.

EPOV   

I had spent most of the week drinking away everything that had happened.  Was I pissed about how the date went?  No not at all.  Was I really that pissed that I had woken up next to her the next morning?  Honestly, not really.  I mean I was upset with her of course but in reality it didn't seem like she was trying to be anything more than friendly and she had a point that it was her bed.  So was I taking valuable years off my liver you ask?  Well that's simple.  I had finally worked up the courage to have the talk with her and she fell asleep.  Was I upset with her?  Not at all.  She looked like an angel sleeping in the seat next to me and I may have stolen a snuggle or two from her while she was passed out cold.  

I was ultimately upset with myself.  I had every intention of talking to her on Sunday at breakfast but I was a coward.  I was afraid she'd tell me everything that I feared.  That I was just her friend.  Those words would have essentially killed me so I couldn't do it.  

To make matters worse I had been working late and going in early just to avoid our awkwardness.  We had been out on two of the best dates of my life and the third was quickly approaching.  I had already made all of the necessary arrangements for the night and now was confused if that night would even happen.  

As much as I wanted it.  I wanted more.  I was selfish and if I really was to get what I wanted it would be to have Bella as mine forever...

Whoa....

Yeah... but it was true.  I loved her and I had made a purchase almost a year ago that I hoped I would get to share with her soon.  If we could figure this whole thing out.  

Thursday came and went and thankfully Friday had arrived.  Friday was Bella and mine's unofficial date night.  We would end up on the couch watching a movie together and I was excited to just get to sit next to her.  I had mustered every ounce of courage I could find and I set my mind straight that I would tell her after dinner.    

I got home from work extremely early hoping to spoil her with a homemade meal like she had done to me all last week.  I found myself dancing around in the kitchen while I seared the chicken breasts.  I wanted everything to be perfect and just right.  I was making chicken Marsala.  I knew she would love it and besides it was a chance to have a glass of wine without feeling bad.  I had selected tonight's wine already and had chilling in the fridge. 

A couple years ago Bella and I had gone out to a little Italian restaurant and she had basically fallen in love with this stuff.  Needless to say I almost had to carry her out.  I had purchased three bottles for the evening hoping that we would both be able to loosen up a little. 

Bella had texted me earlier in the day letting me know she was going to be home late because she was studying at the library.  I planned for her normal 'late' time that she got home from studying which was usually just minutes after six.  When I got home. 

Six passed.  Seven was nearing and the food was now stone cold.  I got a glass of wine and waited for her on the couch.  I knew texting her while she was studying would be rude so I just decided to sit and wait...  Eight passed and nine was coming along.  I was starting to worry when I heard the sound of the lock click and a giggling girl. 

She was shushing something.  I waited for her to come down the hallway before I said anything to her.  The apartment still smelt of the cold Marsala that was sitting on the stove.  I heard heavy foot steps accompanying her light ones and I perked up.  Did Bella bring a guy home with her?

Then they walked in to view.  A lucid looking Bella was with a tall, tan man.  I was taken aback, but I really shouldn't have been surprised.  Bella was beautiful and she had every right to date, but something in my chest clenched when I saw them together. 

"Heyy..  Eddie-ward!"  She said, giggling. 

Oh fuck... she was drunk... and this guy thought he was going to get lucky!  Over my dead body!

"Hello Isabella."  I replied back, trying not to seethe. 

"Eddie whyyyyyyy do youuuuu sound upset?"  She asked, trying to be serious. 

"I'm not Bella, don't you think you should say goodnight to your friend?"  I asked.

"Ohhhh Yeah!!  Jake... It is Jake right?"  Then the fucker nodded.  "Jake this is my Eddie-ward.. but you can call him Edward!"  

Her Eddie-ward!  That's right, I'm pathetic and I would take anything I could get. 

"Hi."  He said outstretching his hand to me.  I ignored it.    

"Hi." 

"Eddie Jake suggested we should study in my room!  Isn't that a great idea?"  She asked.

"I bet he did!"  I said glaring at him.  "But it's getting late and you don't look like you're in any condition to study."

"Oh?"  She said looking dumbfounded.  "What do I smell?"  She asked. 

"Nothing..."  I said shrugging, but Bella was stubborn even when she was drunk and she maneuvered her way around the bar and looked in to the pot on the stove. 

"That was for us, wasn't it?"  She asked, pointing at the pan.

"It was..." 

"Oh Edward..."  She sighed wrapping her arms around me.  I reveled in it and stared right at the fucker who was now becoming my worst enemy. 

"It's okay babe I'll make it for you again, whenever you want."  I said leaning down to kiss her, but I stopped myself.  Instead I hugged her tight and then released her. 

"Bella can I speak to you for a minute."  She looked confused hearing the other man's voice. 

"Uhh.. Sure."  She said coming around the bar. 

"When you said you had a roommate I didn't realize he was a guy." 

"Oh... I didn't think that mattered since we were just going to study." 

The fucker chuckled.

"I thought you wanted a little more than studying..." 

"What did you think I wanted?"  She asked, raising her voice. 

"I don't know, Come on, let's talk, where's you room?"  He asked grabbing her wrist. 

"NO!"  She shrieked.  And that's where I felt it was necessary to step in.

"Get your god damn hands off of her if you want to live to see tomorrow."  I shouted, I was two seconds away from decking the asshole. 

"And what are you going to do about it?"  He had the nerve to ask.

That's when I hit him square in the jaw, my arm snapped back and I flung it at him again hitting him in the eye. 

"Edward stop."  Bella cried. 

"Why, I'm just showing him what he asked me too." 

I finally got off of the guy and he ran out of the apartment like the little pussy he was.  

I turned back to Bella after the door shut.  "What the fuck was that?"  I ask, seconds from having my anger explode.

"What do you mean?" 

"I mean why the hell did you bring that asshole back here?" 

"We were just going to study..."  She said, shaking now with an overload of emotions.  That meant she had tequila.  I bet the fucker didn't know that.  No he didn't know anything because I had been her best friend for the past twenty years and he just wanted to get in to her pants.

"Bella when did you start drinking tequila?"  I asked, almost glaring at her. 

"Around two."  She answered knowing better than to lie to me.

"Why?" 

"Because I didn't want to start at one?"  She gave me a smart assed answer

"Isabella Marie!  You may think this is funny, but I don't.  You could have been seriously hurt!" 

"I'm fine, you were here to save oh all mighty Edward."

"Bella I'm serious." 

She huffed. 

I was pissed so I said something I never thought I would.  "If you wanna go fuck an asshole, feel free to do as you wish, I for one won't stand in your way.  But God help me if you drag your sorry ass back here with that fucker again!  Our arrangement is obviously off."  I said, storming off in to my room locking the door behind me.

*****

I paced for a few hours... I know it sounds ridiculous but that's what I did to try to calm down before I went out to talk to her.  I felt like I was wearing a hole in the floor board.  Then finally I heard her calling my name softly from the other side of the door. 

"What?"  I snapped. 

And then I heard her sob and it killed me.  I flung the door open and cradled her in my arms. 

"Da-da-don't... You're mad at me..." 

"I am not mad at you Bella, I was concerned about your safety.  If you want him though I'll call him and apologize for my actions." 

"I don't want him..."  She whispered.  "I want you..."   She said clinging to me.

"Then why would you bring him by?" 

"He really was just a friend, but I guess in a weird way I was hoping to make you jealous... You haven't really been spending much time with me lately and I thought if you thought there was someone else you would want to spend time with me..."  She explained as the tears continued to roll down her cheeks. 

"Well it worked."  I muttered.

"What worked?"

"I was jealous."  I admitted. 

"You were?"  She looked up at me confused.

I nodded, not really knowing what to say to her.

We sat in silence for a while; I cradled her in my arms wanting so much to tell her everything.  There was a desperate need inside me now that made itself known.  I had to tell her soon that I was in love with her… or else. 

An hour had passed and her sobs had stopped.  She had worked herself up quite a bit and was now in a tossing sleep in my arms.  I tried everything I could to make her rest more peaceful, but nothing helped.  I grimaced when I realized that my arms were probably not the most comfortable.  I stood and easily lifted her.  I brought her back down the hallway to her room and tried to deposit her in her bed.  But it was like even unconscious she knew that I was trying to separate myself from her. 

She clung tightly to my shirt and I wondered if she was still really asleep, then she whimpered when I finally loosened her grip enough to set her down.  She just kept whimpering.  It was the most heartbreaking sound.  I just couldn’t take it any longer and I had to make it stop.  I knew the only thing that would do it.  I scooped her back up in my arms and carried her delicately back to my room.  And once we reached it I heard her sigh.  I lowered her to the bed contemplating if I should just leave her there by herself.  But she made up my mind for me because when I reached the door she began making that noise that made me crumble.  My heart couldn’t take it.

So I did the only thing that I could.  I took off my jeans and t-shirt and hers too.  Then I pulled the covers back and slid her in.  I climbed in next to her and wrapped myself around her.  It was almost painful how close I was holding her but it was the only thing that would make the whimpering stop.

It took me hours to finally fall asleep that night.  Everything in my body hurt.  Bella had marked me worse than I ever thought possible.  The feelings that rushed though me when I saw her with that guy were so strong.  So powerful.  They were nothing I had ever felt before.

*****

BPOV

Morning came with a splitting headache.  The same ones I used to get when I would cry myself to sleep at night.  Except this one was mixed with a hangover.  Ugh... I felt gross.  My body felt achy and heavy.  Like someone was compressing me. 

I tried to roll out of bed but I couldn't budge. 

Holy shit!

I looked around the familiar room and there I was... in Edward's room.  In his bed no less.  I was curled in his strong arms.  Like they were a cage protecting me from everything terrible in the world. 

What the fuck had happened last night?

I tried squirming out of his grasp but his arms just got tighter.  My bladder was going to win this fight so I needed to get up soon.  I lightly shook him and he smiled but was still asleep.

"Edward..."  I called softly, trying not to irritate my head. 

"Mhggmgmmm"  Was his response

"Edward.... I need to get up."  I tried again.

"I'll go with you."  He said, still asleep.  He got up and started lifting me off of the bed. 

"Edward!  Put me down." 

He just shook his head and nuzzled my neck. 

Seriously!  What the fuck happened last night?

"Fine I need to go to bathroom.  Can you bring me there?"  I asked. 

He nodded and though his eyes looked like they were barely open he made the strides over to his bathroom.  He opened the door and just stood there with me in his arms still.

"Thank you.  Now can you put me down?"  I asked.

"Shower or toliet?"  He asked.

"Toilet."  I answered.

He set me down right in front of the porcelain facade and turned his back to me. 

"Thanks for all the privacy." 

He just nodded and stood there.

It wasn't as if I hadn't peed in front of him before so there I went.  I finished up flushing the toilet and washed my hands.  When I was completely done I was in his arms again.  We were headed back to the bed. 

He laid me down like I was a delicate flower.  And then collapsed next to me again wrapping himself around me. 

Alright... that's it!  I need to know now!  What happened last night!

"Edward?"  I asked, hoping he hadn't already fell asleep.

"Yes?"  He mumbled with his face his pillow. 

I rolled over to get him to look at me.

"Edward... Why am I here?"  I asked.

"Well Bella, I know your a virgin but you should know that.  But if you really want me to tell you... When a man and a woman really love each other--"

"Edward, I meant in your bed."  I explained further.

"Oh that..." 

"Yeah."

"How much of last night do you remember?"  He asked.

I gave him a sheepish look and shook my head.  "Not much." 

"That's what I was afraid of."  He grimaced.  

"Well for starters you came home plastered... with a guy."  He answered after a few minutes.

"I-I came home with a guy?"  I asked.  Shit Swan, how much did you drink yesterday. 

It had started out as an innocent study game with a couple of guys from class.  We'd ask each other questions that were going to be on the quiz and when we'd get an answer right we'd take a shot.  The liqueur of choice?  Tequila.  I was no light weight.  Please don't get me wrong.  But after seven shots... I mean come on.  This went on for five more questions and at that point I had consumed eleven shots.  I had missed one question.  Simply because I couldn't stop laughing.

Jake... that was one of their names... ugh... there was a Seth too I think?  Oh god.  

"You did..."  Edward mumbled again, still not looking at me.

"Jake?"  I asked.

He nodded his head. 

"Oh god..."  I breathed.

I wanted to run... I wanted to escape.  He didn't say anything.  And I just sat there and breathed.  Why?  Why now?  Today was the day right?

I knew exactly why I had done it.  I had been frustrated that he had said he wanted to talk to me and then never did.  On top of that he had been ignoring me all week.  Always gone when I got up and never home until I was already in bed.

"So got in a lot of extra hours this week huh?"  I asked.

He just shrugged.

"Before we start on my lack of judgment and sobriety can we start with your lack of appearance this week?"  I asked. 

"I'd rather not."  He mumbled.

"Well that's just too damn bad."  I said sitting up.

I poked him relentlessly until he finally turned to face me. 

"What?"  He croaked, still sounding sleepy.

"Sit up.  I want to talk and you and I aren't leaving this room until we do."  I said proudly.

"Fine..."  He grumbled adjusting his body into a half way sitting position. 

"So you first.  Where have you been all week?"

"Avoiding this conversation."  He answered, flinching at the end, as if I'd hit him.

"Doing what?"  I pressed.

"After I finished getting everything settled for our arrangement I got drunk..."  He said looking at the wall.

"Every night?"  I asked.

"Well I had everything taken care of on Monday for the arrangement, but yes every night after that I got drunk.  I mean bumbling drunk.  I'm surprised you didn't hear me..." 

"Oh I did.  I just figured if you were trying so hard to avoid me you probably didn't want to see me."  I answered.

"Wonderful..."  He muttered.

"Why were you avoiding this conversation?" 

"Not fair you just asked me a question.   Isn't it your turn to explain something?"  He whined.

"Fine what would like explained."

"The drinking and the guy..."

"The drinking was a studying game.  It was a few guys and myself were sitting in their dorm and we were studying.  And then one of them suggested taking a shot when we would get an answer right.  Apparently I know my english lit.  Eleven shots.  And the guy... well I'm not entirely sure.  I think I remember him.  It was Jake right?"  I asked, hoping that Edward had gotten a name out of him.

"Yeah, that was the fucker's name."  He answered, scowling. 

"So Jake and I hit it off.  We were chatting after we finished studying and I guess he just wanted to take me home."  I grimaced.

"I think his intentions dove a little deeper than taking you home."

"I wanted to make you jealous."  I blurted out.

"Yeah, you mentioned that last night." 

"I did?" 

He nodded.

"Oh..." 

"Come out in to the living room and I'll help you piece together last night.  Besides I have some dishes I need to clean up." 

Dishes?  My mind wandered.  I was trying to remember the night before but everything was so damn hazy that it was impossible. 

We walked out in to the living room and I noticed that it was essentially a complete disaster.  The couch was pushed to side at an awkward angle, like there was a fight or something.  The area rug was all scrunched up.  Then I saw blood.  I proceeded to check over my body for any wounds.  When I saw none I started check Edward again I found nothing. 

"Edward!  What's all this blood from?" 

He didn't hear me though, with the sink filling and the clanging of pans I was surprised I could hear myself.  So I walked in to kitchen and stopped dead. 

Edward had made us dinner last night.  Bits and pieces from last night came filtering through. 

...What do I smell?  I remembered as the familiar scent hit my nose.  I looked down at the pan and frowned.  He had tried for me.  He had tried for... us.  And I was drunk off my ass and went so far as to bring a guy home.  Good lord, I'm such an asshat.

His back was to me and he didn't notice that I was in the kitchen.  I was still inspecting all that he had done.  Shaking my head all the while.  He turned around and I jumped.  How do I fix this?

"Edward..."  I started softly.

"It's fine Bella."  He cut me off.  His voice was cold and harsh.   

"No it's not." I argued. 

He continued to wash some plates.

"Edward... I was horrible last night wasn't I?"

He shook his head not looking at me.  

"So what's the blood from?"

He stopped and shook his hands dry.  "Its from Jake's nose."

"What?" I asked 

"I said the blood on the floor is from Jake's nose." He explained, turning towards me.  

"How...?"

"He grabbed you and wouldn't let go when you asked him to so I stepped in... I hope you’re not too upset with me." He murmured the last part.

"I'm not upset." I assured him.  "I just can't believe I was stupid enough to bring a guy home." I uttered more to myself than anyone else. 

"It happens Bella, it's a very normal college thing to do.  That's why I called off our arrangement." He explained.

Then it came flashing back to me.  Our arrangement is obviously off.  Damn... "Is that why you let me sleep in your bed last night?" I asked.

"No." He muttered quietly.

"Then why?" I pressed.

"Because I didn't want to let go of you."

"Why?" I asked quietly, as I took a step towards him.              

"Because I-I... Because Bella I love you."  The words made my heart flutter but surely he could have never meant them the way that I had hoped.  

"I love you too, Edward."  I replied, simply.  We had said it for ages and it just meant that we were best friends.  He closed the gap standing so close that I was breathing him in.  His scent, his air, all of him.    

"No Bella I don't think you understand...  I said I love you."  He repeated.  I'm pretty sure my heart stopped dead in its tracks because I got all-lightheaded.  

"Wa-what?"  I stuttered, I couldn't have possibly heard him right.  He took my face in his hands and looked deeply in to my eyes.  

"I said, I love you."  He said, again. And then he kissed me.  Pressing his warm pillowy lips into mine, making my heart sing all the while.  

He pulled back and stared at me, observing my reaction.  I wasn't sure when the tears began trailing down my cheeks.  My breath was shaky and my voice was even worse.  "I love you too."  I finally managed.

He kissed me again, hard.  

This was everything that I had been dreaming about for the last three years nearly and now it was here and I had no idea how to proceed.  

"Bella I can't... I can't screw this up."  He whispered, searching my eyes.

"You won't."  I reassured. 

He took me in his arms and wrapped me tight.  All the love I had ever held for him was seeping out of my pores in to that embrace and what was worse was that he was giving it right back.  Was this love?  Did he really feel the same way?

"I don't know what to say..."  I muttered.

"Me either."  He said laughing lightly. 

"Where do we go from here?"  I asked. 

"Dinner, I have something wonderful planned for us tonight."  He answered.

"Like dinner, dinner?"  I asked, dumbly.

"Yes Bella.  Like a real date.  Not the shit with our arrangement either, because that Love, is over."  He explained.  

"Edward?"  I questioned.  

"Yes Bella?"

"Wa-what does this make us?"  I asked, frightened of his answer.

He was silent and thoughtful for a moment.  Then he smiled from ear to ear.  "Two fools in love?"  He asked, with a questionable shrug.  

I grinned right back at him.  "Sounds about right."  I answered with a kiss.  

Alright… So there it is.  It only took ten chapters for them to figure it out.  But they love each other.  The night Edward has planned though is so far off from anything that anyone is thinking!  I promise! 

Tune in soon for another update!

By the way sorry to everyone, I couldn’t update this weekend because I was out of the state.  The hubby and I took an impromptu trip.  :/ 

Chapter 9

Hey loves!  Thank you again for reading!  I have to say that this chapter was pretty touch to write.   I wrote it a completely different way at first and then had to start over from scratch because I didn’t like it.  So I hope you like it.  It’s about half and half with the povs.  As always please let me know what you think. 

Firsts

BPOV

He kissed the tears off my cheeks the morning of our first date.  Later he kissed me with so much emotion they almost reappeared and then that night he kissed me one final time and I knew that he felt it too.  I was in love with him. 

Monday afternoon I got a note on the door to go down to the apartment office to pick up a package. I was confused for a minute but I realized that Alice had mentioned that she was sending me some things... 

I ran down there to see a huge box.  Demetri the office manager offered to have his assistant Felix carry it up for me.  He left in my room thankfully ridding me of having to move it.  I ripped open the box and tore through the paper wondering what the hell Alice could have sent me.  

I ran my fingers over the blue material.  I knew it was going to be clothes.  The tag attached was labeled 'The Big Night'.  The dress was a midnight blue strapless with a sweetheart neckline.  It had a tie off to the left hip and the skirt of the dress flared slightly.  It looked girly and romantic.  It was perfect for the night I was going to lose my virginity.  How did she know me so well?  In it there was also some tiny sexy pieces to wear under the dress and there were also a few sets of heels.  She specifically labeled the strappy silver pair as the ones that I was supposed to where with the dress.  I smiled that she had truly thought of everything.  

I wanted to look sexy for him and she had made that happen.  I had no worries now, I just had to make it through the next two weeks and I would be a happy woman.    

EPOV

My lips left hers and I made the most painful walk of my life.  I had to walk back to my room alone.  Bella and I had successfully gone out on our first date.  I had a long week ahead of me before I would get to touch her again.  I longed to just hold her warm body next to mine.  But I knew I couldn't do that.  There was no way I could guarantee the control I needed.  Hell I had slept next to her for the better part of twenty years and I had never had a problem keeping my hands to myself but the other night, it just felt like something had changed.  Like I knew she could feel what I felt.

I spent the better part of that night jerking off.  I could control the constant hard on that kept appearing at just the thought of Bella in that dress.  She looked stunning and I couldn't help myself.  It was the first time in a long time that I was glad she wasn't in the bed beside me. 

I kissed her with so much emotion and I felt everything coursing through my body leaving through my lips and going back to her.  And when I stared in to those beautiful brown pools I could see she felt everything too.  This was no longer just an agreement.  And I was going to need to make that clear before we had sex.  I wanted to make love to Bella our first time.  And that's what I planned to do. 

I had planned something carefree and a little out of the ordinary for us for our second date.  I was planning on taking Bella to the Big E.  It was like a carnival but it was huge!  Everyone would travel from all over New England to go.  And since we were transplants here I figured we could get in to the culture.  I wanted to see the tractor pulls and then we could go on some rides together.  It sounded like a good time.  And hey we wouldn't need any stuffy clothes.

*****

The week was going to be fairly uneventful.  I had to work a lot and as usual Bella had her classes and she would need to be studying a lot. 

I wasn't keeping this date a secret so I figured I'd find a casual way to ask Bella if she'd like that.

Tuesday came and went and I didn't get to tell her what our date was.  Instead she cooked us dinner, stir fry with chicken, and we ate in almost complete silence then she scurried off to her room claiming that she had lots of studying to do.  So there I was alone on the couch until one AM when I finally decided to drag myself in to my lonely room for the night.  I wondered how she could possibly sleep.  Did she feel like I did?  Maybe she too was in her room lying there awake?

I snuck out of my room and down the hall.  I wanted to see if she was sleeping.  It was all meant to be quite innocent.  I got to her door and paused.  I had been tiptoeing in my own house.   I felt like an idiot, but there I stood pressing my ear to her door.  Inside I could hear her music still playing at level that I knew she couldn't sleep through.  Maybe that's how she was getting through all of this?  Just refusing to sleep?  Diving in to her studies?

I decided not to knock knowing that it was too soon.  I wanted to wait until after our next date.  I willed myself back in to my room and there I laid until I eventually passed out from exhaustion.

*****

On Wednesday I got home from work to find Bella once again cooking.  This time she was slaving away over beef roast, mashed potatoes, streamed artichokes and homemade gravy.  It smelt like I had died and gone to heaven.  Bella knew how much I loved home cooking.  And boy was this home cooking.  Nothing Asian, nothing too complicated.  Just all America meat and potatoes. 

I came up behind her because I could no longer keep my hands off of her.  After resting my hands on her hips I kissed her neck softly.

"Hi..."  I murmured against her luscious neck.

"Hi to you too."  She said giggling. 

"I've missed you."  I continued.  I knew I was getting myself in deep, but I didn't care anymore.

"I missed you too..."  She said tending to the veggies.  

I took a deep breath and attempted to pull myself together.  I let go of her hips and found some wine for us.  I handed her a glass and sat at the breakfast bar to admire the view.  A beautiful woman cooking me a delicious dinner. 

"So..."  I started.

"So?"  She asked turning to me. 

"I was thinking..."  I continued.

"Oh no... that's never good..."  She joked.

"Like I said... I was thinking... for Saturday's date I was thinking that we could go to the Big E?"

"That sounds awesome.  I've always wanted to go."  She said, coming over and hugging me. 

"Great that makes two of us."  I said, smiling at her.

"So I get a cheezy date with the Edward Cullen?"  She asked, with her arms still wrapped around me.

"And what is that supposed to mean?"

"Well you are internationally known to dazzle hordes of women and I get simple, cheezy date with you... I feel special." 

"As you should."  I said, kissing her nose.  And hell if I were to argue this affection I did say I would go up to a sloppy make out on the couch without feeling guilty so I took a moment to just enjoy her close proximity.

"Ohhh I'm so excited!"  She squealed, pulling away from me. 

She put down her glass of wine and started mashing the potatoes. 

"I hope your hungry."  She said over her shoulder. 

"Oh I am."  I replied with a wink. 

I loved this... The comfortable flirting and joking we had.  I loved how easily we lived together.  And I loved her...

After an amazing dinner, I refreshed our glasses of wine and we retired to the couch.  There we sat snuggling for quite a while.  And when her glass finally ran empty she turned and kissed me softly before getting up and going to her room.  My lips were left buzzing from just that faint touch.

How could she just get up so easily?  Why was it all becoming so difficult for me?

*****

Thursday came and we spent it picking at left overs and chatting, again she was somehow able to pull herself away and lock herself in that room of hers.  I was beginning to hate the fact that we had doors.  This was all my fault.  She would have been perfectly content sleeping in my bed with me, but I had to go be a fucking gentleman and I couldn't even make it to the second date.  It hadn't even been a week and I missed her. 

Friday was here again and I loved it.  It meant that tomorrow I would get to show Bella a good time.  I was working late so texted her so she didn't worry.  She texted me back letting me know there would be pizza and beer waiting for me when I got home.  I hoped that meant a movie and cuddle too... I mean I know I sound like a pansy but I needed the contact with her.

I got home and there she was sprawled out on the couch in what had to be the tiniest pair of shorts I had ever seen.  They were barely covering her goods.  And I do mean goods.  She had on a little tank top that was busting from her soft breasts.  I hadn't even made it to the kitchen and I was already hard.  This was going to be a difficult night to say the least. 

She jumped up and hugged me when pressing her soft body into mine and I was sure she could feel me.  At the moment I had lost all my will to care.  I snaked my arms around her waist and held her to me.  I needed to feel her close to me and the contact of her exposed skin.  I smelt her, the freesia and strawberry melody that she carried around so naturally hit me.  It was all Bella.  I grabbed her thighs as my hands worked on their own accord and brought her legs around my waist and I had to bite back the groan in my throat from when my crotch came in contact with her hot, damp center.  Why was she so excited?  Oh god I had to stop this, before it got out of hand.  I kissed her forehead and slowly lowered her to the ground.  I could see the disappointment in her eyes.  I didn't want to see that.  She was far too beautiful to look sad. 

"Hi beautiful."  I murmured kissing her temple again.

"Hi."  She said, softly.

"How are you?"  I asked hugging her body to mine. 

"Oh me?  I'm good, my class got canceled so I spent the day relaxing about."  She said smiling wide. 

"Oh really?" 

"Mhm."

"So what did you do all day?"  I asked.

"Umm... I used some presents..."  She said shyly, blushing.  Oh her face lit up in to that beautiful tint.  She looked so sweet and perfect.

"Oh yea?  What presents did you use?"  I asked.

She blushed again and looked away from me. 

"Bella?"  I pressed.

"Well I used yours.  I wrote for a little while.  And then IusedRose'sgift."  My eyebrows shot up.  Good god.  I just went from hard to rock solid.  I wanted to be in her so bad.

"Well that's good."  I said carefully.  What the hell was the proper response to an admission like that?

"Mhm... It was."  Oh god she was torturing me.

"Bella, is there a reason why you are telling me?"  She blushed even redder.

"I ja-ja-just thought you... um... would want to know."  She explained.

"I love to know... Thank you for sharing, but I don't tell you every time... I... um... do that."

"I know... It's just you probably do that more than I do." 

She had no idea.  I couldn't help myself, she was too damn sexy.  "Thanks?"  I said, joking.

"Oh you know what I mean..."  She continued, with the beautiful red tint touching her cheeks.

"That I do."  I smirked.  "So if I may ask... Where... did you umm... do it?"  Oh hell I knew I was getting myself in trouble but at least I could use the mental images later to take care of my now very large problem.   

She blushed the most luscious shade of red, almost turning her in to a lobster.

"Well I... umm.... it was already in your room... and you did invite me to... umm... do that there."  She explained.

"Are you trying to tell me, that you Isabella Swan, masturbated in my bed?"  I asked in a smooth voice.

She flushed.  I seriously thought she was going to pass out from all the blood flowing to her face and not anywhere else.  And I seriously thought that I was going to pass out from the blood flowing to my dick and not anywhere else.

"Ummm... yea... but I'll change the sheets... God I'm sorry." 

"Don't you dare.. God that's hot.  I just wish I was there to witness it."  I said, pulling her in to a reassuring hug,  

"Me too."  She mumbled in to my chest. 

She looked winded and I left it at that.  There was our playful banter for the evening.  It was cute that she was so eager to tell me about it. 

We ate pizza while we both nursed a beer.  Then I grabbed us both another and we planted ourselves in front of the TV to watch a movie.  She giggled away at the comedy that played out before us.  But before the movie  she snuggled in to me.  

I wondered how long she was going to sit with me.  Normally she didn't stay long after the visual distraction was gone.  She nudged me and I looked down in to her eyes.  Why was she nudging me?  I looked at her soft, pouty lips and at that moment there was nothing more in the world that I wanted to do than kiss her.  And I took my chances and did it.  I silently reminded myself that this couldn't go any further than making out.  

Her lips were perfect.  They were soft, warm, and perfect.  I pressed a little bit firmer letting her know that I wanted this just as much as she did.  She mewed against my lips and I sighed knowing the exact feeling she was having because I too was having the same one.  The one where this was the most perfect kiss ever.  And not even that this particular kiss was the most perfect ever its just that everyone that I shared with her was. 

I slowed my persistent lips and took a moment to just enjoy the feel of her soft pillows against mine.  I kissed her softly before I pulled back.  I watched her face carefully and saw her eyes were bright and shining.  She was glorious.  And she had no idea just how much I enjoyed staring at her.  

I waited for her to say something, but nothing came, we both just sat there mesmerized by each other.

After a while she slowly snuggled back in to me.  And that's where she stayed for the rest of the evening.  We didn't say a word to each other.  Eventually the clock read twelve and I picked up her, I thought about bringing her in to my room with me and just saying fuck the rules but I was strong for the moment and walked her down the all to her room.  Where I pulled back her covers and tucked a very peaceful Bella in to bed.  I kissed her forehead lightly and shut the door.  I walked back to my room where I laid awake in my bed for hours.  There was nothing more that I wanted to do than to run back down there and curl up next to her.  I knew it would calm every nerve in my body and I would be out like a light.  But instead I continued to lay there and torture myself. 

*****

The next morning came and I had finally fallen asleep somewhere between three and four AM.  It was a long night but thankfully sleep did take over me.  And like I had imagined they would, my dreams were filled with Bella. 

I got up and showered at eight and then went to the kitchen to fix us breakfast.  I picked up our cans and threw out the pizza that had sat out all night.  Then went to the fridge and retrieved some eggs and of course bacon.  I wanted to spoil her this morning. 

I made the food and placed it on the a tray and then sauntered towards her room.  I knocked lightly glancing at the time.  It was just before ten I figured she should be awake.  And when I heard her murmur behind the door I knew I was right.  I pushed the door open gently, trying to keep her orange juice from sloshing and walked inside. 

I had to stop in my tracks.  She looked adorable.  A rumpled version of my Bella sat in the middle of her bed studying away.

"Good morning."

"Morning."  She yawned.

"How did you sleep?"  I asked as I brought her tray to her.

"Uh... not so great..."

"Why not?"

"I was fine out there... it must be something about this bed.  Because I swear I woke up at one and didn't get back to sleep until four."  She complained.

"If I had of known that I would have never brought you in here. I'm sorry."  I would have brought you to my bed.  Where I wanted to bring you.

"It's fine... How were you to know?"  She shrugged. 

"I brought you some breakfast."  I mentioned.

"Oh thank you, you didn't have to do that." 

"I wanted too." 

"Well thanks.  You're gonna have some too right?"  

I remembered her birthday breakfast and she had wanted me to share that too.  I was blessed to have Bella in my life and I was just now realizing it... Twenty years later.  Hopefully I wasn't too late.

"Sure."  I replied, getting up to the kitchen to get a second fork.  But before I could even move from where I was now standing she caught my wrist. 

"We'll share."  She said with a wink.  That should be illegal.

I grabbed the fork and began feeding her.  She moaned at the first bite and that made me want to do things that I knew I wouldn't be able to do.  It was kind of sick when you think about it.  How a simple noise from her could make me hard in a second. 

I took a bite for myself occasionally but I really preferred feeding her.  I loved watching her little pink tongue poke out and lick her supple lips after each bite.  Oh how I wanted to have that tongue in my mouth.  Once we were finished I kissed her cheek lightly and took the dishes back to the kitchen.  When they were clean and back in the cabinet I went back down to Bella's room. 

I stood in the door frame for a moment just enjoying looking at her.  I couldn't help myself.  She was exquisite. 

"Bella how soon can you be ready?  I have lots planned for us today." 

"Umm... thirty minutes sound good?"  She asked.

"Sounds perfect, love."  I shuffled down the hall to go get myself ready. 

Today was going to fun and carefree, an awful lot like we were back in Forks before college.  I wanted to give her a little slice of childhood back. 

*****

Bella emerged from her room looking sexy in just a t-shirt and jeans.  I wondered to myself how she could make the simplest of attire look so damn good.  She pulled on a sweat shirt over her head and when she did I saw a sliver of skin peek out from her waist and it took all of my control to not lick it.  The desire to taste her was overwhelming. 

After a two hour drive of loudly singing along to ridiculous songs we finally got there.  The laughter had made both of our sides sore and now we were going to walk off the pain.  It was just after one and we had the whole day ahead of us to play.  There was so much I wanted to share with her and I just really wanted to see her smile.  Like a true genuine smile.

We found a ticket booth and decided to ride some rides right away.  Bella was excited, she was jumping up and down.

"Which one do you wanna go on first?"  I asked. 

Her eyes went wide and I knew what her answer was going to be.  That damn ship ride.  She always loved that thing and I was going to just have to bite the bullet and suffer through it.  She took her small hand and extended her dainty finger in the direction of that monstrosity.  I smirked knowingly and grabbed her hand.  I basically pulled her through the crowds of people over to it.  She giggled the entire way.   

"Do you mind?"  She asked once we were in line.

"Not at all."  I said shaking my head.

"Yay!"  She said grasping my hands tightly.

I pulled her close and wrapped my arm around her shoulder.  Hell it was a date right?  There was nothing wrong with being affectionate.  She lifted her head so that she could look at me and and I saw her smile.  And I couldn't help myself but I kissed her.  It wasn't lingering or anything but small and special.  It was perfect. 

The line moved forward and we were getting on.  After checking our straps and bars for the umpteenth time the monstrosity came to life.  The large dragon covered ship began heaving and swing and Bella's smile grew.  I swear the only reason why she liked it was because I couldn't stand it.  

BPOV

He got on the flying ship for me.  I know it sounds stupid but Edward hates the flying ship and he waited in line patiently and the willingly boarded that contraption.  I just couldn't believe it.

Next was the bumper cars where we spent the entire time crashing in to each other.  Then we went again, this time riding together.  I let him drive even though he insisted that I do it.  He wrapped one arm around me and crashed in to everyone else.  It was exhilarating. 

After that we decided to walk around through the tents and exhibits.  Edward bought me a shirt to commemorate our date here.  It said Big E 2010 on it and though it was simple and had farm animals on it, I knew I would cherish that fucking shirt. 

He wrapped me in his arm again and I snuggled in to his side as we went about exploring.  We stopped in front of a cotton candy vendor and Edward gladly bought an enormous amount of the sugary treat.  We found a bench to sit down and we took turns feeding each other.  It was sweet, silly and even romantic.  My heart sputtered for a minute and then I tried like hell to squash those feelings.  I knew he could never feel what I did.

After that we found some games to amuse us for a little while.  Edward trumped most of them.  He was amazing at everything.  He even managed to win me a giant panda.  I know it's silly but I planned to cuddle with that thing that night.  I asked him to carry it secretly hoping his sent would rub off on it and would make that nights sleep process just a little more bearable.

We found a small station that was serving hamburgers and beer.  Edward grabbed our dinner while I found us a table.  When we were finished we just meandered for a while taking in everything and people watching.       

The sun was setting and we had been there for a while.  My legs were in need of a rest.  We found our way to the hay rides.  Edward led me away from the lines to a smaller wagon. 

"This ones for us."  He said motioning towards the wagon.

"Oh?"  I asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

"Yeah... Come on."  He said offering me a hand so I could get in.

We both took a seat at the back and again he placed his arm around me as the tractor sputtered to life.  We took off with a bit of a jolt and Edward steadied me.  Heat rose in my cheeks from the feeling of his hand on my waist.  I wanted him closer.  And then we began going up this hill and the view was incredible.  The purple and pinks mixing lightly with the warm yellows and burnt oranges.

"This is amazing..."  I breathed.

"Nothing compared to you..."  He replied back.  I swear he must flip a switch and he instantly become Mr. Suave. 

I helplessly swooned at his comment and I couldn't contain the blush that now stained my cheeks.  He grinned from ear to ear.  And wondered how much of this was an act and how much of this was really him. 

The tractor continued around and I snuggled even closer in to him.  I wanted to be close to him.  I nudged my head up and looked lovingly at him.  Maybe through some sort of secret eye communication he would understand my true feelings for him.  Maybe he would realize he was the only man I could ever love.  And that he had broken me.  He had rendered me useless for the rest of the male population because I was way more than used to his overwhelming perfection.  No man could ever live up to Edward Cullen.  It was a fact. 

We crested the hill again and this time he took my hand in his and looked me in the eyes.  "How has your day been Bella?"  He asked.

"Wonderful."  I replied. 

"Good I'm so glad to hear it." 

I smiled back at him.  

When the tractor finally came to a stop, almost an hour later I figured it would be a good time to leave.  We still had a two hour drive ahead of us and it was nearing eight-thirty.  I tugged on his hand leading him in the direction of the exit.

"Hey wait!"  Edward said, releasing my hand.

I turned to look at him.

"What's the rush?"  He asked.

"Well I just figured it's getting late and there is still a two hour drive ahead of us." 

"Bella, are you tired?"  He asked. 

I shook my head no.

"Is there something that you need to get home for?"

I shook my head no again.

"Then let's go on one more ride.  Please?" 

His eyes looked so sincere.

"Sure, what one were you thinking?"  I asked.

"Come on.  I'll show you." 

And then he took my hand and we strolled across the fair grounds back over towards the rides.  There in front of us stood the ferris wheel. 

"Do you mind?"  He asked looking down at me.

I shook me head no.

"Good."  He smirked.

The line moved along pretty quickly and then it was our turn to board.  We got in and the wheel took off stopping occasionally to let new riders on and the old ones off.  We were sitting at about half way up when Edward finally spoke. 

"Bella, can I just say that you look so beautiful tonight.  I don't know if I've told you, but you take my breath away."  My heart stuttered at his words and my blush was back with vengeance. 

"Thank you.  You don't look so bad yourself Cullen."  I remarked.

"Thanks, I like to try when I have a date with a beautiful woman."  Again I swooned.

And now I wanted to ask him the one question that had been plaguing me since this all began.  "Edward?"

"Yes Bella?"

"How real are these dates to you?  I mean... Are they really dates or are we just hanging out here?" 

"How real are they to you?"  He asked back at me as the wheel went around. 

"I asked you first."  I said, feeling very childish.

He cupped my face in his hands and leaned down to me.  "They're as real as this."  He said pressing his lips to me.  I didn't even realize that we were at the top of the wheel.  I opened my eyes for a split second and then I realized we were stopped at the top and the man of my dreams was kissing me... and meaning it?  Oh god it was a good day.  That was just another fairytale dream to cross off my list. 

He pulled away when the machine jolted to life and started moving again. 

"And how real are they to you Bella?"  He repeated his question.

"They're really real to me..."  I admitted softly, blushing all the while. 

"Good I was hoping you would say that."  He smirked. 

I blushed again and then the attendant opened the door for us, indicating that our ride was over.  I got up to leave but Edward ripped off some more tickets and stuffed them in the mans hand and and asked him to keep it going until those run out.  I smiled, wholeheartedly at the gesture.  He wanted to spend time with me. 

It began to spin again and I was almost caught off guard by his lips.  They pressed in to mine and that's where they stayed for the remainder of the ride.  Occasionally our tongues would meet but nothing was rushed or hurried.  It was very slow and sensual.  He loved me with his lips. 

We eventually did get off of the ride and wandered back to his car.  Edward opened my door for me and helped me get my seat belt on.  I raised an eyebrow at him and he just mouthed 'safety' to me.  He closed the door and then opened the back door and buckled in my bear.  I chuckled and he just winked when I looked back at him. 

Edward slid in and took off.  The drive was calming. 

"So what did you think?  Do you think we got the real New England experience?"  He asked. 

I giggled.  "Yeah, I think so." 

"Well let's see you went on a hay ride, we saw a fuck ton of pumpkins, you got an up close and personal view of a cow's ass and then we rode some awesome rides.  I think it was pretty all inclusive." 

"Mhm... I agree.  I especially liked the cow's ass."  I joked. 

"Me too.  But all kidding aside, I had a really great time."  He said, thoughtfully.

"Me too."

A long silence took over the cabin in the car before either of us spoke again.  And just as we were about half way home Edward broke that. 

"Bella... I think we need to talk.. But I don't wanna do it while I'm driving... But it needs to be soon."

"When we get home?"  I suggested.  What the fuck did he want to talk about? 

"I’d like to if that's alright with you."  He agreed.

I nodded and swallowed thickly.

*****

I must have fallen asleep because when I woke up next I was in Edward's bed.  It was soft and wonderful and smelt of him, but he wasn't anywhere to be found.  I gazed at the clock and it said four seventeen AM.  I groaned and went to look for him.

I shuffled through the living room and he was nowhere in sight and then I checked the kitchen again there was no Edward.  I walked down the hall to the study and it was empty as well.  That's when I figured I'd check my room for the hell of it. 

And I crack the door open and saw that beautiful man sprawled out in my bed sleeping soundly. 

Why the hell had he put me in his bed and then took mine?

Ugh men they were always so confusing.  I knew he would be would be mad about what I was going to do but I didn't care.  I lifted my comforter taking care not to disturb him and I climbed inside.  I wanted to be near him. 

When I was under the covers I wasn't satisfied.  What can I say I'm greedy.  Edward was only in boxers... typical sleep ware for him.  He had left me clothed so I took a moment to shimmy out of my jeans and lift off my t-shirt.  This was in no way intended to be something sexual, I just wanted skin to skin contact with him. 

I curled in to his side and pressed my body against him.  He instinctively wrapped his arms around me and I fell asleep quickly. 

Two dates down... one to go...

*****       

The next morning I awoke to Edward cursing loudly. 

"What the hell Bella?"  He mumbled grumpily.  

"What's the matter?"  I asked groggily as I wiped the sleep from my eyes.

"Why are you in here?"  He asked.

"Well it is my room..."  I muttered. 

"I gave you my bed."  He said softly.

"Yeah missing the one thing that belonged there."  I said under my breath.  Then I saw him.  I took in all of his gloriously almost naked body.  And he was still sporting morning wood despite his anger.  

"What was that?"  He asked, pulling me from my thoughts.  

"Nothing." 

"So why did you come in here?"  He asked.

"Because I woke up at four this morning in your bed and you weren't there.  So I got worried and went to find you.  When I did you were in my bed.  Alls I wanted to do was go back to sleep so I got in to my bed.  It's not my fault you were already in it."  I explained feigning innocence. 

"And you just happened to strip down to your undies in the process?"  He quirked an eyebrow at me.

"Hey you're not one to talk.  Mr. I sleep in my black briefs."  I said smirking.

"We didn't.. do anything right?"  He asked.

I shook my head no.  "No you were a perfect gentleman, you just wrapped your arms around me.  That's all."  I answered.

"Well that's good... What happened to our agreement?"  He asked seriously. 

"Listen, I wasn't trying to break the rules, I was half asleep I found you and yes I climbed in to MY bed with you.  I'm so very sorry."  So very sorry that nothing happened.   

"Bella I gave you my bed."  

"Why?"

"Because you said you weren't sleeping well in yours.  You fell asleep in the car and when I carried you in I didn't want it to be like the other night.  Where you woke up right after I moved you."

"Well thank you for thinking about me.  I'm sorry you're upset that I came in here last night, but I really wasn't trying to overtly break any of your rules."

"It's fine Bella.  I'm going to go take a shower.  Maybe we can go grab some breakfast later."  He suggested.  

"Sounds good."  I agreed.  

I remembered he wanted to talk and maybe he was planning on talking at breakfast.  

I showered quickly and tied my hair up.  Once I was finished getting dressed I met him in the kitchen.  

I knew looking at him that this could be a breakfast that would change our lives.   

Again, thank you all for reading!  Please review!  Thank you so much! 

Chapter 8

Okay I'm going to get this out of the way right now.  There is a ton of lemon-like material in this chapter.  I know I totally spoiled the surprise right?  Well I just wanted to warn anyone who reads at work that this chapter is definitely not work appropriate.  Okay now that, that is said on with the show... 

Firsts

On Tuesday I woke early making Edward the biggest breakfast my mind could imagine as thanks for the most amazing birthday a girl could ever have.  He truly thought of everything and even though the night didn't end in the passion filled sex romp I had hoped for it did live up to every expectation I had.  I could wait for the sex.  Edward was certainly worth the wait.

After breakfast I gave Edward the proper thank you for all that he did for my birthday.  There on the floor in front of his bar stool where he sat and ate his breakfast I got on my knees.  I tried to be as quiet as I could so he couldn't see me and then when I got to him I pulled him out quickly before he could protest.  He was still slightly hard from his typical morning wood. 

"Bella what the hell are you doing..."  He mumbled through his bite of food.

"Thanking you now shut up and relax."  I said and then I took him in my mouth. 

He hissed on contact and I could tell he was loving it. 

It didn't take long, after some serious sucking and rough strokes he was shooting his hot streams in to my mouth. 

He literally screamed my name at the end.  I imagined that he might have been in need of a release. 

The week dragged on, Edward worked long hours making up for the time he took off.  I felt immensely guilty because he was making up for time that he spent with me.  I was looking forward to the weekend though.  Saturday was our first date and Friday we were having like a pre-date to tentatively go over everything and anything that had to do with our arrangement.  I know he wasn't completely comfortable with everything but I wasn't letting him back out at this point. 

Friday finally came after a grueling week that was mostly spent in the library.  I was exhausted and really just needed a relaxing night.   Edward understood and suggested we head to the Brick and Brew to discuss all the things we needed too. 

Despite the fact that we had slept together in the same bed for the past few days he had made no move to touch me in anyway that wouldn't be strictly considered friendly. 

I dressed in jeans in a t-shirt.  I figured that if I didn't try too hard maybe he would feel less threatened?  I don't know where my thought process was but I certainly didn't want to scare him away in anyway.

I walked to the restaurant knowing he would be driving me home.  When I got there I noticed he was already there and looked a bit jittery. 

"Hey."  I said, softly when I reached his table. 

"Hi."  He replied, staring at the menu. 

"So... How was your day?"  I asked after I got situated in the booth. 

"Long and tiring... It's been a long week actually.  How was yours?"

"Ehh... I spent the morning in the library, slaving away."  I explained. 

"Sounds boring."  He commented, still not looking at me.

"It was...."

"So listen, Bella, I've been thinking..."  He began.

I knew exactly where this was going, he was going to tell me that he wanted to renege on the deal.  My heart leapt out of my chest for a minute.

"I was thinking that maybe we should try to enjoy our dinner here and go home to discuss all that we need to... It's not really a public place topic."  He said.

I was instantly relieved.  "That sounds good."  I admitted.

So we ordered our cheese pizza and our beers.  We sat making light conversation while we chewed away.  Everything felt good and comfortable.  When we finished Edward ordered another pizza for home commenting that it was probably going to be a long night and grabbed a thirty pack out the refrigerated case.  I laughed a bit. 

He led us to his car, he still managed to open my door for me.  Which I found completely impressive.  He put the pizza and beer on the back seat and we were headed back to our lovely bubble.  I was kind of anxious about what rules or suggestions he had. 

He went in to the kitchen and set the pizza on the small table in there and then loaded the fridge with the beer.  I smiled because this was our home and if we weren't here together it just wouldn't have ever been the same.  Then I frowned thinking that my suggestion could ruin us.  I could lose my best friend...

“Bella take a seat at the table… I’ll be right there.”  He said over his shoulder. 

“Okay.”  I answered, pulling a chair out at the kitchen table.  He sat directly across from me looking very serious and composed.

“So listen, I had an idea… I want both of us to be comfortable with this. “  He murmured, flipping through his school notebook.

“I do too.”  I agreed.

“So I thought we could maybe… make some rules and stuff… you know?”  He asked.

“Yeah that sounds like a good idea.”  I agreed.

He got up and got us two beers, probably thinking the same as I was... how awkward this was going to be.  

"Okay let's start with the basics... when, where... and ummm... how?"  He suggested. 

"Alright."  I agreed.

"When would you like this to take place?"  He asked.

"I'm hoping as close to the third date as possible." 

"I think we can make that happen."  He said, scribbling away in his notebook. 

"So when is the third date?"  

"I was kind of thinking that our third could be the Saturday after next?"  He answered, but it sounded more like a question. 

Hell I've waited five years... what's another two weeks.

"Okay."  

"So I'd kind of like to surprise you with the where... if that's alright with you?"  He asked. 

"What it wouldn't be here?" 

He shook his head no.

"Oh... I guess that's fine, but really I don't need all of this, I'm not fussy."  I tried. 

"Bella, please just give me this?"  He pleaded. 

"Okay." 

"Now... umm... hows.  Do you have specific requests?  Or would you prefer standard missionary?  Is there anything you'd like me to do?"  He asked, sounding very sterile.  

"Well I don't know... I guess I imagined that we would sort of just let it happen and what ever way it happened we would both be happy with."  I explained. 

"Okay, can I just offer some information to you?"  

"Sure."  I answered, wondering what the hell he was going to offer to me. 

"You should know the benefits of the positions before you decide on which.  See missionary is pretty much guaranteed to be the least painful position, but with that said it doesn't offer much control to you, which in turn may make you feel uncomfortable and tense up.  Now we could try with you on top, it would offer you all of the control but it is said to be a little bit more painful.  I plan to make this as painless as possible no matter what position you try."  He reassured.

"Oh..."  I said, I'm sure my mouth was gaping.  I felt like I was being sold a car and those were all the different options.  This wasn't sexy or romantic, it was all very frigid and removed.

"And then we need to go over some birth control options as well as lube.  So let me know when you've digested that last piece and I'll continue."  He said sounding like doctor performing a procedure instead of a best friend.

"Edward?"

"Yes?"

"Are you like really uncomfortable with this?"  I asked nervously.

"Surprisingly... no... I just wanted to make sure you are well taken care of before hand."  He explained.

"Well then can you lose the doctor voice and demeanor... I mean we're talking about sex... between you and me... and you act like it's some kind of procedure you're performing." 

"Sorry Bella, I guess I was trying to do this for your benefit." 

"Don't... I just want my normal best friend here."  I said, honestly.

"Okay then.  So what do you want Bella?  Me on top or you riding away?"  He asked, smirking like a cocky bastard.

"I trust you."  I stated simply.  "So I guess pain free would be the way to go."  I answered.

"Alright."  He commented writing that down in his notebook.

"So... umm... are you at least a little excited?"  I asked, fidgeting. 

"Yeah..."  He said not looking up at me.

After a few more moments he turned his attention back to me.

"Do you want me to use a condom?"  He asked.  There it was... exactly what I was hoping to avoid by telling him that I was on the pill.  I wanted to feel him... I wanted to feel all of him when he filled me.  It was one of things I was very much looking forward too.  

I shrugged.

"It's safer."  He offered.

"I know... And this is probably going to sound weird, but I always kind of imagined my first time... Umm... natural?"  I said, wincing at the last word.

"Alright I suppose that would be okay... how long have you been taking your pill?"  He asked.

"Umm... just over a month."  I answered.

"And have you had a cycle since you began?"  He asked.

I shook my head no... this was starting to sound clinical again.

"Then you would be protected."  He answered.

"So does that mean we don't have to use one of those icky things?" 

He nodded.

"Good."  I answered.

"You'll be my first..."  He muttered, writing something more in the notebook.

"What do you mean?"

"How do I put this... You'll be the first I ever go bareback for...?"  He said, blushing slightly.

"REALLY?"  I said, almost yelling out of sheer surprise.

"Yes, really... I don't normally do those sorts of things... but I know you... and I know you're clean... and I trust you."  He explained.

"Oh... Well thank you..."  I said, feeling my heart swell with even more love for this man.

"Bella, if you want me to get tested for you I will, but I was just tested two months ago... and I was clean.  And I'm sure you know I haven't been with anyone since."  He offered.

"No I know you haven't so it would be a waste."

He nodded making another note.

"So lubes..."  He began, again smirking at me.

I grinned back, trying not to blush but it didn't work.

"I know you've never had an issue with getting wet in the past, but I just don't want that night to be ruined because you're nervous and dry as the Sahara so do you have a particular one you like?"  He asked.

I shook my head no... I had never bought one or needed to buy one before.  Edward had never failed to stimulate me.

"Okay well then I'll just get a few and I'll let you try them out first and you let me know which one you like best.  Then if we need one, you know what you feel comfortable with."  He said.

"How would I try it out?"  I asked, confused of course.  I never felt like more of a virgin before.

"Ummm... maybe with Rose's gift to you..."  He suggested.  Again I blushed like a mad woman.

"I wasn't really planning on using that thing..."

"Bella, two weeks is long time to go without a release.  I strongly recommend you do use it.  You could be sexually frustrated that night... and it would make things tense until you come."  He explained.

"I just don't understand why we can keep going to each other during those times.  I mean really... normal dating couples do that.  They go on a date, they kiss, then they try oral, and that eventually leads to sex.  So why can't we pretend to be normal?"  I asked.

"Bella, please... just give me this.  It's only two weeks.  If you want... tonight maybe I can show you how to use that little thing."  He offered. 

"I'm pretty sure I can figure it out."  I said, getting a little frustrated.

"Bella, please don't get upset with me... I promise you will be thanking me when this all over." 

"Fine... you said you'd show me?"  I asked again.

He nodded. 

"An what if I need help at any point in the next two weeks?"  I asked.

"Um... I guess you could call Rose?" 

"But I can't ask you?" 

"I just don't think that would be a good idea.  But if you're desperate... and you really can't sleep I suppose you could ask me a question.  But I draw the line at helping!" 

I nodded.

"So was there any other suggestions, requests, or questions you had?"  He asked.

"Well this isn't about the sex part, more like the dates, but I was just wondering... are you planning on seeing anyone else over the next two weeks?  I mean you said it wasn't good to go that long with out a release."  I said stammering my words together like a fool. 

"No Bella, you're the only girl that's going to be around until this is all over." 

His words set me on fire.  Did he mean until our arrangement was over?  Or did he mean until we were over?  I don't know but I smiled brightly at him.  I wanted to make sure he knew how his words touched me. 

"Thank you." 

He nodded.

"Umm.. I was thinking maybe I could go get that thing and meet you in your bed?"  I hedged.  I really wanted to touch him, I really wanted him to touch me.

I tried to calmly walk into my bedroom to retrieve my present and then I walked back through the living room noticing that Edward was already gone.  I giggled to myself at how he was just as excited as I was.  But when I got to his bedroom there was no Edward to be found.  I was a little sad.  I didn't think I had taken that long to find the stupid thing.  I mean I did have to dig through my closet but I really was as quick as I could be. 

I decided to look for Edward.  I mean it was a fairly large apartment so I could've missed him.  I checked the bathroom and then I went back in to the living room and then I checked the kitchen and even the foyer.  And there on our little entrance table was a quick note to me from him.  Hey, I went to go grab some stuff for you.  I'll be back in a few.  Don't start with out me.  Love, E. 

I smiled and went back to his room to get comfortable.  I stripped down to a t-shirt and underwear hoping that he would provide me with some foreplay.

A few minutes later I could hear that Edward was back.  There was a rustling sound like multiple grocery bags and I got curious.  Finally after was seemed like forever he came into the bedroom.

"God you look beautiful just like that."  He commented.

"Oh yea?"  I asked.

"Yeah, all ready and waiting in my bed.  Mhm... perfect.  Can I keep you here forever, just like this?"  He asked, taking a seat at the edge of the bed. 

"Of course you can."  I whispered as he slowly removed his shirt.  I wasn't sure if he even heard me or not.

He slid in to the bed on his side bringing the bags with him. 

"What'd you get?"  I asked.

"Some different lubes.  I wanted you to have a variety to try."  He explained.

"I don't think I'll need any tonight."  I said, blushing furiously.  He didn't know this but just the smell of his bed could make me dripping.

He smiled wide, leaned down and kissed me hard.  Right on the lips.  Sure we had kind of talked about before hand, but still there was no usual 'Hey, I'm gonna kiss you... okay?' nonsense.  It was awesome and again it set my body on fire.  I was excited to have him near me.  And I was more excited just thinking about what he was going to do with me.

"Bella, did you get your present?"  He asked.

I nodded, blushing furiously again. 

"Good can I see it, please?"  He asked with the biggest grin I had ever seen on him. 

I handed him the box that I had set on the floor next to the bed.

"Ahh... you haven't even opened it yet."  He commented. 

"Nope."  I agreed.

"Can I?"  He asked.

"Sure... why not?"  I shrugged, trying to cover my face with the comforter. 

I heard the destruction of the packaging and then a final pop as it was removed from the plastic holster.  Edward seemed like a little kid tearing in to a present on Christmas morning. 

"Now Bella do you know how to use one of these?"  He asked caressing the seamless metal devices.

"I have an idea... I mean I-I umm... you know."  She said nervously.

"You what, Bella?"  He asked, pointedly. 

"Well... you know, I umm... touched myself that one time."  I explained.  "And I basically got the job done." 

"That one time?"  He asked.

"Yeah."  I agreed.

"You mean to tell me that, that was the first time these beautiful little fingers have ever ventured down to your pretty pink pussy?"  He asked.

"Umm.. Well when you have an Edward Cullen growing up... it doesn't much compare to your own fingers... but I guess I've tried twice before but I eventually just gave up and came to you."

"You know you are really inflating my ego here..."  He commented.

"It's the truth though, who has someone who they completely trust growing up... doing all the work for them?" 

"You're right.  I have been awfully lucky."  He said. 

"Awe, Edward..."  I chided softly.

"Getting back to getting you off now, you think you know how to use this?"  He asked, changing the subject.

I nodded. 

"Okay well here you go, here's the bag of lubes... I'll be back in what... a half hour?"  He asked.

"No wait!"  I shouted from the bed.

"What's the matter now?" 

"I thought you were going to stay and help me?"  I asked.

"Oh so now you want my help?"  He countered.

I gave him the best pouty face I could muster.  "Please?"

"Fine..."  He huffed.  Then he jumped on to the bed.  I giggled loudly until he crawled up from the foot of the bed stalking me like prey.  He crawled right on top of me and again I could feel his length pressing in to my thigh.  It drove me wild.  I wanted nothing more than to have him take me right there. 

He began kissing my neck and right beneath my ear.  I shivered in anticipation.  "Please..."  I murmured unconsciously.

He slipped off my shirt and groaned.  The sound of his low husky voice nearly did me in.  I didn't think there was any way I could ever manage to get off without him near me.  He ignited my body in such a way that I couldn't even begin to explain. 

"Bella I should stop..."  He murmured in to my breast as kissed the tops of them.

"Why...?"  I breathed.

"Because I can't be here to do this for the next two weeks..." 

"That's exactly why you shouldn't stop."

"But I have to show you..."  He murmured still kissing away.

"Please Edward... I just want you."

"Hang on... just let me show you... then we will. Okay?"

I nodded knowing that he wanted our time together just as much as I did. 

He quickly got up and grabbed the bags emptying them on the bed.  "Now look through these here and pick one for tonight... I know you don't need one, but we'll still be able to see if it’s comfortable for you."

"Okay."  And I started picking up the colorful bottles.  Some promising warming, tingling, and an obscene amount of pleasure.  Others just jellies and lubes.  Some were even scented and flavored.  I looked them all through even reading the backs of some. 

"So which one is your favorite?"  I asked, knowing he must have grabbed his too.

"Hmm?"  He asked turning his attention back to me.  He had been engrossed with my new toy. 

"I asked which one is your favorite."  I repeated, gesturing to the humongous pile in front of us.

"Oh that's easy."  He said, handing me a Greek looking bottle. 

"This is Liquid silk... It's pretty much the most realistic, it won't get tacky on you and it doesn't have an odor.  The other I like is Maximus... both are pretty much awesome." 

"Oh okay... can we try this one tonight?"  I asked, holding up the creamy colored bottle of liquid silk.   

He smirked at me and nodded. 

"So does it tingle or anything?"  I asked.

"No, it doesn't tingle, but it will make your special areas a bit more sensitive."  He explained.

"Oh..." 

"Don't worry it's really mild."  He assured me.  He always knew what I was thinking and feeling.  I swear the boy had a sixth sense that allowed him to read my mind.  I was so afraid that my lady parts were going to get singed off by the intensity of the lotion but he did what he always did and reassured me that nothing of the sort would happen to my precious loins. 

"So how do I start this?"  I asked.

"What do you mean?"

"How do I umm... begin?"  I asked.

"Oh god... Yeah that's right I have to keep telling myself that you've never really done this before."  He said.  I grimaced.  "Okay get in the middle of the bed... except when you do it, it'll probably be your bed.  Unless you wanna do it in here which that would just be hot..."  He breathed.

"I don't know about that..."

He chuckled.  "Well get in the center of the bed."  He said and then I scooted into the center of his bed.  He sat back on his knees at the foot of the bed.  "And then relax.  After that just kind of let your mind wander."  He suggested.

"Let my mind wander?"  I questioned.

"Yeah... you know... think about something that gets you hot." 

"Oh..."  I breathed and then all of these images flashed before my eyes.  All of them were of him in various stages of nakedness. 

"What are you thinking about?"  He asked in a low, husky voice.

"You."  I replied, simply, smiling up at him.

"Bella..."  He warned.

"What... it get's me hot... I'm not going to be ashamed of that."  I said getting up on my elbows so I could look in to his eyes.  Whoa confident Bella... Where the hell did you come from?

"Alright then."  He said, smirking at me.  "So I guess think about me then..." 

"Oh I am..."  I said running my tongue over my lips.

"Oh god... Why do you do this to me?"  He groaned.

"Mhmmm because I love to see you sweat a little."  I answered.

"Alright so now since the oven is sufficiently pre-heated.  We can now go about the process of getting the turkey ready for the oven."

"The turkey?  Really?" 

"Oh shut up its good way of looking at it.  Mines like as big as turkey." 

"You wish."  I giggled. 

"Okay so let's um... open up the oven and check the temperature."  He suggested.

I quirked an eyebrow at him and he smirked.

"Take your panties off and see if you’re wet."  He said.

"Oh... I know I'm wet..."  I said in a low voice.

"Bella!" 

"Fine."  I said reaching down and slowly rolling down my tiny panties. 

"Mhmmmmmm."  He moaned.

I flung them across the room. 

"So now you should check the temperature..."  He instructed.

I nodded taking my pointer and middle finger separating my folds and then taking my pointer from my other pointer and drawing it through the center of my slit.  My finger was slick, coated in all of my wonderful juices and I held it up to him.

"I think I'm up to temp... chef."  I said smirking.

He took my finger in his mouth and quickly sucked it clean.

I cried out... he was too good.

"Mhmm... my favorite dessert."  He moaned in my ear.

"I'm glad you like it..."

"I do."  He sighed, regaining some sort of composure.  "Now that the umm... oven is up to temp you should try to get your hands comfortably down there.  Find a position that's good for you."  He instructed.  I did as I was told, fixing the pillow behind me and laying flat with my head resting on the pillow.  "Alright are you set?"  He asked after I stopped moving.

"Yeah I think I'm good."  

"Okay now, you obviously know how to stroke yourself.  But do you know how to finger yourself?"  He asked. 

I nodded.  Hell it can't be that hard... alls you do is stick your fingers in right?

"Okay let me see."  He said, his voice even lower and more seductive.              

And what did I do?  Well I slowly spread my legs for him and inched my hand along my stomach until I hit my very own promise land.  He hissed as I made contact, as if I was touching him.  I swirled my finger lightly at my entrance and you could hear the wetness slurping.  I blushed a little bit at the unladylike noise.

“Don’t blush you are fucking perfect.”  He said through gritted teeth.  I could tell it was literally taking everything he had in him to not jump on top of me and start thrusting. 

I hummed at the sensation.  Then I figured I’d just get on with it.  I let my pointer slip in, plunging deeply.  Obviously it didn’t come anywhere near what Edward’s felt like but it still felt good.  I moaned at the feeling and I could hear Edward’s breathing begin to hitch. 

On my way out after a few thrusts I added a finger and the shudder that it caused made me cry out. 

“Your doing great, but I can show you something.”  He offered.

I nodded and removed my fingers, but he tsked.

“Nope I have to use those for right now.”

Then he too my hand and guided me in to my own pleasure haze.  He showed me where to push and rub.  It was incredible and erotic.  He knew exactly what I like from all of the years of practice.  It felt amazing and all to soon I was crying out his name at the top of my lungs.  I shuddered as I came on my own fingers. 

Eventually when I finally opened my eyes Edward was leaning over me looking like a kid in a candy store.  He was grinning from ear to ear.  And then he did the sexiest thing.  He took my fingers from in me where they still rested and pulled them out immediately sucking them clean.  I shuddered at the feeling. 

“So Bella, I think you have fingering down now.”  He commented.

“Muh humm.”  I murmured in agreement still trying to collect to myself.

“Next you need to understand the art of toying.”  He said seductively.

I gulped and nodded.  This was going to be a long night. 

He got out his favorite lube, Liquid silk, and spread a little dollop on the tip of the toy.  The lube looked like lotion.  It smothered over the plastic, while Edward motioned to me to lie back again.

“Now I’m going to let you try it first and if you’re doing it wrong I’ll jump in again.”  He said handing me the toy.

I slid it down over my slit relishing in the feel of the cool lotion over my already hyper sensitive clit.  I pressed a little and rubbed then I moaned.  It was pretty great just swirling it alone, then Edward leaned down and twisted the end of it and it came to life.  It was like nothing I had ever felt before.  I cried out so loud I figured that our neighbors were going to complain. 

“You like that baby?”  He asked, huskily.

I just moaned unable to form words.  I continued to swirl the device over my sensitive nether area and as the pressure began building again Edward stepped in.  I was hoping he would.  I needed him more than he knew.  Even him just helping made everything a thousand times better. 

He swished it through my slit then pressed it against my clit firmly and I cried out loudly.  Then he plunged it in me.  And again I screamed.  For a brief moment I wondered if the neighbors were going to call the cops on us.  But like I said that moment was fleeting. 

“Baby I need you to pay attention for a minute here.”  He said slowing the device.

I nodded and pried my eyes open. 

“I going to teach you how to use your G-spot.”  He said all calm, cool and collected.

“Kay…”  I managed.

“Now when you go in like this…”  He said driving the toy back in to my depths.  “I want you to stop here.  And press it up.”  I gasped lightly at the unfamiliar sensation.  It almost felt like too much with the vibrations.  It had felt so much different with Edward’s fingers. 

Then he maneuvered it just a bit and pleasure shot through my body like fireworks.  Orgasm after orgasm hit.  I’m pretty sure he was talking, but I couldn’t hear him over my own screams let alone the fact that I couldn’t concentrate on anything except the intense amount of pleasure that was coursing through me. 

I clutched the sheets afraid that I was suddenly going to start floating away.  Then I heard the loudest squishing noise.  Like it was almost right in my ear.  The pleasure had begun to subside and I started to concentrate on the loud disgusting noise.  He was chuckling now.

“What?”  I choked out.

“Don’t you hear that?”  He asked.

I nodded.

“It’s you.”

“Oh god…”  I face palmed.

“Bella that was so fucking hot.  God you’re beautiful when you come.  Not only do you make the most delicious face but those noises.  Ahhh you’re killing me.”  He announced.

“Why don’t we do that thing and then go to sleep… I’m pretty exhausted.”  I offered.

“We don’t have too.”  Edward said, playing down how aroused he was, but I wasn’t going to let him off with that.  I wanted to be close to him again.  I wanted to see his beautiful ‘O’ face and I definitely wanted to be the one to give it to him. 

“I want to.”  I said sitting up quickly.  I was light headed from the bliss that he had just given me and I fell back a little causing Edward to laugh wholeheartedly.

“Okay, but I going to probably have to hold on to you… since you’re a little out of it.”  He suggested.

I nodded in agreement.

He lifted me up and moved me over as he laid down in the center of his bed.  I needed him and I went for it kissing him roughly before he could even get situated. 

"Jesus Swan can't even give me a second to get settled before you attack me?"  He asked as he pulled me back a bit, both of us trying to catch our breath.

"No... I'm a woman who knows what they want.  And right now... I want you."  I stated confidently.  Again my inner self was completely surprised.  Holy fuck, you done and grew some cojones there didn't ya?

"Oh yea?"  He egged me on.

"Oh yea."  I said as I straddled him quickly finding the buckle to his belt and removing it.  I flung the strap of leather across the room.  It hit the door with a loud thwack and he raised an eyebrow at me.  I had never seemed so determined before, I guess.  I made quick work of his pants, discarding them off the side of the bed.  Then I sexily kissed him all the way down to his boxers while he chuckled lightly.  I hooked my fingers in the waist band as he had done so many times to me and pulled them down slowly.  I watched, mesmerized, as his cock bounced free.  I licked my lips unconsciously staring at it, like it was some kind of prize. 

"You know it's not nice to stare."  He commented.

"I know but you're just so fucking beautiful... I mean everywhere.  It's really not fair."  I stated.

"Are you trying to tell me that I have a beautiful cock?"  He asked.

I nodded. 

He chuckled again, but it turned to a hiss when I quickly took him in my mouth.  I wanted to ride him but I also wanted to show him how devoted I was to him.  So there bent over on my knees between his thighs I sat sucking on him.  And when I felt his hand slowly find purchase in my hair I about came right there.  I put my hands to good use.  One at the base of him stroking all that I couldn't fit in my mouth and the other softly massaging his sac.  I licked the head like a lollipop before his hand let me know that he wanted to be all the way in my mouth.  I took him willingly and when he went to pull out a bit I let my teeth graze the underside of his cock... right at that perfect vein.  That was his undoing.  He tensed in my hand and lips. 

"Bella..."  He ground out.

I hummed around him trying to spur him on.

"Bella... move I'm gonna come..." 

I didn't move an inch... instead I sucked harder and moved my fist that was at the base of his cock furiously.  Then I felt him release... his sweet beautiful release.  He came hard and powerful and his face contorted in the best way.  His nose scrunched up and his eyes were slammed shut.  It was erotic to say the least.  I kept sucking and cleaning up until his body relaxed all at once.  I knew... because I knew Edward that when this happened that he was much too sensitive to touch any longer.

"Fuck... that was hot."  He breathed when he finally started to come down from his high. 

I giggled in response.

"Who knew a virgin could be such a sexual deviant?"  He asked.

"I'm glad you liked it."  I said as I curled up next to him.  He pulled me even closer into his side kissing me on forehead.

"Thank you..."  He breathed.  I could tell he wasn't far from falling asleep. 

"You're welcome.  Good night."

"Good night love." 

And there I laid in the arms of the man of my dreams for the next eight hours almost completely sated and certainly more than content to just be sleeping next to him.  My last thought before sleep finally took over was that tomorrow was our date.  I smiled and rested my head on his chest.            

*****

EPOV

I woke up the next morning more excited than I had ever been.  I was going on my first date with Bella.  Yeah we had gone on 'dates' before but I was more than determined to make this a real honest to god date.  I had planned out everything intensely.  Just as I had done for her birthday.  And her thank you though unnecessary was more than appreciated.  I still couldn't believe she took me in the kitchen.  It was so hot.  Bella was an amazing woman and that was a given I mean come on.  Look at her life.  Her mom is a scatterbrain, too busy to ever give her the love and attention she needs and her dad is kind of an unemotional jerk who sits there and strokes his gun because he thinks its something to be the police chief of Forks.

Even though Bella was blind to how inattentive they were I wasn't.  Unfortunately for me that meant that Bella loved her family and cherished it when I would give her small gifts that reminded her of them.  Like I did for Christmas.  Bella had always mentioned that she like her moms Diamond pendant that she wore.  And we happened to be in Tiffany's a few days before Christmas doing some last minute shopping mainly for my mom when I saw her bent over the case examining a necklace that looked a hell of a lot like her mom’s... I snagged it from the cashier before Bella could see.  And what she didn't know was that I bought her something else from there... and I planned to give it to her soon... but that's for another day.   

The day that Bella and I moved away from that place I celebrated because I knew when she was just with me she would be happiest.  My parents could see it too which was why she spent the majority of her time at my house growing up.  And whenever she was at her house I was with her.  It was just a given that we were a package deal.  Her parents didn't know what they had in Bella.  She is a beauty to say the least but hell she is fiery woman who learns with a passion and has sense of humor that will make you piss your pants.  She's got this attitude about life that I admire in so many ways.  She just lives in the moment sometimes because regrets do happen and she said when she’s all old and crinkly that she doesn't want to have any of those. 

I looked down from where I still laid in my bed and there perched on my chest in a little pool of drool was the loveliest creature I had ever set eyes on.  She was so peaceful when she was asleep.  I always admired how Bella slept.  It enveloped her and she became warm and lucid.  It was precious.  And on some nights I would get a treat.  My beautiful Bella would start talking in her sleep.  Mostly mumbles but I knew that what she said when sleep took over was everything she had filtered from me.  I knew she didn't filter much but it was kind of nice to know what she did. 

For a long time there was nothing... up until about two years ago.  That's when she started whimpering, "I love you, Edward." in her sleep.  Almost like she was crying it.  I never really thought anything of it until last week.  Why would she filter something from me that she says to my face daily?  Then it dawned on me that the meaning of it might me different.  Maybe she loves me, like honestly loves me, like I love her.  It was a lot to hope for but I was determined to find out. 

She stirred slightly and I could see her beautiful breast poking out from under the sheet.  It was sensual watching her move like that under my sheet.  Where her perfect body would begin to play peek-a-boo with me.  Her sexy hips wriggled a bit until she was in a better position and when she did my body returned it's natural reaction.  I was hard in an instant.  I should have known better than to lay around and watch her naked body move.  I should have known that it would have been too much for me.  I didn't want to do anything this morning.  I had created my own rules where in my mind the boundary line was going to be drawn at making out.  I knew though, that if she felt it or saw it I would be done for.  Bella had come in to her sexuality like a hurricane.  She was confident in the bedroom and when she didn't like no the answer wasn't no.  She could make you beg for it even if you didn't even really want it to begin with.  It was incredible. 

I tried rolling her off of me without waking her, but when I looked under the blanket all I saw was her gorgeous naked form.  It made this whole process much harder... and me.  I cringed because what kind of gentleman am I?  I sat there ogling her blatantly while she was peacefully asleep.  I was such a perv.  I tried to roll her again, this time I wrapped her in the sheet, hoping that her body wouldn't escape again. 

"Edward..."  She mumbled sleepily.

Fuck... 

"It's early baby, go back to sleep."  I cooed.

"Then what are you doing up?"  She asked, sitting up a little. 

"I just need to go to the bathroom.  Just go back to sleep." 

Then I stood, slid on my boxers and tried to walk by her side of the bed without her noticing my massive hardon.

"So you're planning on taking a shower then?"  She asked.

Shit... she saw...

"I was... yeah."  I answered.

"Come here."  She said.

"Bella... No.  It's Saturday."  I explained.

She shook her head.

"Yes it is... I swear." 

"No I shook my head because all you said we couldn't do was sleep together.  You never said anything about not touching one another for two weeks."  She argued.

"Come on Bella... This isn't right." 

"It sure seemed like it felt right last night." 

"Ugh... After tonight Isabella Marie we will not be doing this again for two weeks!  Okay?"  I said seething that could just undermine me like that.

She nodded, her eyes wide like saucers.  "I'm sorry... I-I just really... la-la-like our time together."  She said, sniffling back tears.

"Don't cry, baby."  I said as I crossed the room back to the bed. 

"I-I'm sorry..."

I couldn't help myself I kissed the tears streaming down her face.  I couldn't take seeing her in pain.  "Bella... Please stop crying."  I asked lifting her chin. 

She hiccupped trying to compose herself and it was the cutest thing I had ever seen.  I kissed her right on the lips then.  I couldn't help it.  I moaned at the softness of her lips. 

"If I ask you for just once more are you going to be upset with me?"  She asked trying to untangle herself from the sheet. 

I shook my head no... because honestly I would never be upset with her wanting to be close to me.  I wanted nothing more than to be close to her, but my moral strings tugged because I knew she deserved so much more.  I had every intention of giving her all that she deserved but damn it if she wasn't making it near impossible to do it. 

"Bella... after this morning you have to promise me... okay?"  I pleaded, knowing I wouldn't be able to say no to her.

"I don't wanna agree to that."  She said, hesitantly. 

"Well if you don't the whole thing is off." 

"Edward..."  She sighed.

"Bella... I can't do this... I'm trying to be good here.  I need to you to be too."

"Fine..."  She pouted. 

"Thank you." 

"I just don't think I can make two weeks without some sort of contact with you.  You're taking away everything that I know."  She cried softly.

"I know but I think we need this anyways." 

"Okay..."  She sighed.  "After this morning... right?"  She asked.

"Yes."  I agreed.

"Okay... then can you come back to bed?"  She asked.

"Oh I guess..."  I feigned dramatically.

I took my time sliding in to our nice warm nest.  I relished the feeling of it knowing I wasn't going to have it for three weeks.  It was worth it though.  If in some way she could see that I love her in a different way than as her best friend... then maybe just maybe she could love me that way too.  And if not then maybe she'll change her mind about who she gives herself too.  Not that I deserve her.  The thought of there being anyone else though... Just made my blood boil.  I can't take thinking of my Bella writhing in someone else's arms.  It needed to be me. 

I kissed her softly as I got in to bed with her.  Letting her know in every silent way that I loved her.  I wanted to show her that.  I wanted to make her feel everything that I felt. 

BPOV

The way he kissed me made me feel like I was going to cry.  It evoked every emotion in my body and I quivered trying to keep them all tightly behind my well built walls.  He kept kissing me like that for what felt like hours.  And even though I knew there was going to be a time when we would have to pull away from our languid mouth movements I just basked in the sensation for the time being.  I wanted to enjoy everything that he was giving to me.  And even though you think he was unwilling... that was not the case.

"Bella..."  He whispered against my lips.

"Yea..." 

"We have to do this soon..." 

I nodded assuming he had things he wanted to get done before our date.  I peeled him easily out of his boxers and rolled on top of him.  That's when his hands came and rested on my hips... where they fit perfectly.  We glided slowly at first while he hissed and I cooed.  Then the sensations became all too much for both of us and all too soon we were both crying out each other's names.  I collapsed on him panting. 

"That... that was so good."  I breathed out as I traced his chest. 

"Yes it was."  He agreed.

"Okay I'm going to go take a shower."  I announced. 

"Bella hey I have to go out for a bit.  But I promise I'll be back in time for our date.  Can you be ready for seven?"  He asked.  

I nodded.  

"Okay I'll see you then my sweets... and if you could, could you try to remember that this is a real date?"  He asked.

I nodded and he kissed my forehead, got dressed and then left.  

After my shower I made a cup of tea as to try to calm my nerves.  Then I decided since it was almost two that I should try to tackle my hair.  I wanted to look stunning for him.  I knew he deserved it.  I piled it in loose curls on the top of my head.  Three hours later and a few pins my hair was done.  My stomach grumbled but I shushed it figuring we would eat when we went out on our date.  

I decided to call Alice and ask her what dress I should wear tonight.  I figured she would appreciate it.  I grabbed my cell from my purse and dialed her number.  I hit send and waited.  On the third ring she thankfully picked up the phone.  "Hey Alice."

"Bella!" She shouted.

"Alice." I mimicked sarcastically.

"So what did I do to finally get a phone call from you?"  She asked. 

"Well if you must know... Tonight is the first date... and you must've somehow known about the dates because.... umm... you gave me four perfect outfits... so I was wondering which one I was supposed to wear tonight."

"Well I didn't know about the three dates but I assumed as much that he would make you go out with him at least once before hand."  She agreed.

"So which one do I wear tonight?"  I asked again.

"That's simple... The heart stopper!  The red dress and matching shoes."  She answered. 

"Oh... Why would I do that?"

"Just wear that one Bella... trust me on this.  Oh and you'll have a package arriving in about a week."  She said, nonchalantly. 

"A package?"  

"Just some things I felt you couldn't live without."  

"Thanks..."  

"You're welcome Bella, but I really have to go... Call me tomorrow to let me know how everything went."  

"Okay, will do.  See ya."  

When I was finally through with the phone call I went to my closet to find that dress.  I cringed for a moment wondering if maybe it was a bit over the top. I wondered too if we were even going anywhere that would require such formal attire... Edward and I were pretty simple up here... What if he was taking me to the brick and brew?  I would look so out of place.

I decided not to worry and put on the dress anyways.  I wanted him to think of me as sexy as this dress was definitely going to do the trick.  There was no doubt in my mind.  (To see the dress as well as the other two outfits please visit my profile.)   I strapped on the accompanying heels and headed for the door.  As soon as I got to the handle though I heard him.  I wanted the way I looked to be a surprise and I had another half hour until he was supposed to pick me up.  So I settled on the only thing that could ever calm my nerves.  Reading.  I grabbed my favorite book off the shelf and relaxed on my bed.    

It didn't take long for me to get lost in the book.  Wuthering Heights was amazing and always held my attention.  So when the knock on the door came I jumped about four feet.  

"Come in..."  I choked out, scrambling trying to calm myself. 

"Hey."  He said as he came around the door. 

"Hey, I'm all set whenever you are."  I said before turning to see him.  When I did he stood there with his mouth hanging open.  

"Edward?"  I said again once I realized I hadn't gotten a response from him.  

"Umm... yeah... let me ah... just grab a jacket."  He mumbled going to the coat closet in the hall.  I slipped on my black wool one over the dress, I was anticipating it to get pretty chilly once the sun set.  

Edward looked pretty damn good himself.  He was dressed in one of his white button ups with a black tie.  He wore black pants and a black jacket too.  It all seemed so simple but he looked scrumptious.

Once he had his jacket I headed for the door.  "Hey wait a sec."  He called. 

"Oh okay."  

He walked up beside me and took my hand in his.  "God you look so beautiful tonight."  He said looking in to my eyes.  That's right the low neckline and figure hugging dress didn't take his attention from my eyes.  I was taken aback.  

"Thanks."  

"Are you ready?"  He asked after a moment.

I nodded and he led us out of our apartment.  

The drive wasn't long we ended up at the ritziest place in town to eat.  The Daniel Webster Dining Hall.  It was certainly upscale to say the least.  I kind of expected that he would take me here.  We stepped out of his car and Edward handed his keys to the valet.  I blushed when the matradée complimented me on how gorgeous I looked and noticed how Edward's grip on hip got tighter.

Once we were seated we started an easy conversation about the past week and we even joked about his notebook and dedication to the project.  It was fun and almost felt like we had been 'dating' our whole lives.  He held my hand over the table and kissed it occasionally.  I couldn't help but appreciate all of the small signs of affection he offered me. 

When we finished our meal, we decided to go grab drinks at a bar not far from the restaurant.  When we got to the bar Edward ordered us some drinks and then went over to the jukebox and selected a song.  He came back to the table before it began playing and took my hand, silently asking me to dance with him.  "I've wanted to dance with you all night..."  He breathed in to my neck when the familiar beat finally came through the speakers.  

I wasn't sure how to respond to him so I just grinned like an idiot. 

"You know no woman could ever compare to you."  He continued as we swayed together.  

"And any man could ever compare to you...?"  I asked instantly wondering if i had put myself out there too far. 

"Bella you are amazing and I am so happy you let me share this evening with you."  

Again I was left speechless.  This was Edward trying... he was an unstoppable force when he tried to be sexy.  Regular Edward was bad enough but this one was incredible.  He knew just what to say and do to sweep me off my feet.  Not that it took that much since he was sexy as hell.  

He kissed me lightly on the cheek when the song ended and we went back to our booth to enjoy the rest of our drinks.  When we finished them we both agreed to go home.  the drive home was quiet.  He looked like he was thinking.  I wasn't sure about what but my suspicions were confirmed when I saw him drag his hand through his messy locks.  It was a sure sign that something was bothering Edward Cullen.  

We arrived at home and walked hand and hand to our door.  Edward opened it, releasing my hand and we both walked inside.  That's where everything got a little awkward.  I hadn't thought about it before.  On a normal date you got brought to your door and possibly kissed good night and that's where it all ended.  And if he was really lucky he got brought inside... never in my case.  But now he lived here too... how were we supposed to end it?

He answered every thought I had for me.  He brought me to my door which was closed and hugged me close.  

"Thank you for tonight Isabella... it was wonderful.  I can't wait until next week."  He whispered.  

"I had a great time too."  

"I'm glad."  He said, smiling. 

"Da-Do I ummm... get a... good night...?"  

"Kiss?"  He finished for me. 

I nodded and then so did he.

He held me closer gently pressing his soft lips to mine and this incredible spark shot through me and just like always all too soon he released me and said good night walking off towards his room.  I whispered it back, barely audible.  He turned and winked at me before he disappeared behind his door.  

I opened mine clumsily; shut it behind me and then slouched down the back of it before my ass hit the floor.  Edward Cullen had just made me swoon... he affectively swept me off my feet.

Another first for Edward and I… our very first date… and it was beautiful. 

And there ladies and gents you have their first real date… yay!  Please for the love of god tell me what you think.  Mhmmm lots of lemon like goodness with some sweet fluffy fluff!