Friday, November 30, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Dress You Up ~ Chapter 4
As the sun hits my face, I pat the sheets, searching for my pillow. "Ouch." My skin hurts. My bones hurt. My whole body hurts.
I sit up. My eyes squint from the sun-filled room. "What time is it?" The clock on the nightstand says 3:03 p.m. Holy crap.
I look down at myself, trying to figure out happened. I'm still in my dress. One shoe on, blood stained knees.
What the hell?
My phone beeps, alerting me to a new text. I crawl to the edge of the bed and pick it up off the floor.
Twenty-six texts. Eighteen missed calls and twelve voicemails.
This cannot be good.
Before I can open the texts, my phone starts to ring. My voice is raspy as I answer. "Hello, Alice."
"Thank God you're okay! Do you know how worried I've been? I've been calling since last night. Where are you?"
I rub my forehead; her screeching causes my head to pound.
"I'm at home. In bed." I look around my room. It's a freakin' mess. "What's the problem?"
She lets out a wail. "What's the problem? WHAT'S – THE - PROBLEM? Are you joking? You got shit-faced, made a scene and disappeared. I had NO idea where you were. I was about to call the police, Bella. That's the fucking problem."
"Okay, um...sorry. I'm just waking up, don't really remember much."
Alice laughs out loud in the phone. "You don't have to remember it. You can see it. You've gone viral...on YouTube."
Um...what?
.
.
.
.
After days of nursing my embarrassment I decide it's time to venture out in public and go back to work. So I'm on YouTube. Nobody cares. Well, except for the few hundred people who commented. Yeah. That's not embarrassing.
Kate, my one and only employee, was nice enough to work for me the past three days. Since it's slow, she and I are busy doing inventory. Only a couple of teenage girls came in to try on homecoming dresses. I'm really hoping my 'incident' last week didn't cause me to lose business.
The jingling of the door alerts me to a customer so I pop my head out from the back.
"Hey, Bells! Glad to see you back amongst the living." It's Alice. I flip her off and head back into the stock room.
"Can we agree to move on and never talk about last Friday night again?" I call out to her, hoping she just drops it.
"Only if you agree to give me this shirt." I see her holding the Eliah Flower top against her, swaying in the mirror. Maybe years of fashion advice is rubbing off.
"Deal. It was gonna be your Christmas present, anyway," I reply back.
"You're annoying." She huffs, her tiny frame barely taller than the clothes rack. "Want to go grab a coffee?"
I look over at Kate, who smiles as she shrugs, "Fine by me. I can hold down the fort." She needs a raise.
"We won't be long. Call me if you need me." I grab my purse and head out the door toward our favorite café.
.
.
.
.
The waiter winks at me as he hands us our coffee. Move along, buddy. Not interested.
Alice shoos him away and turns to me "So, I was thinking, maybe you can come over or something tonight?"
I smile and shake my head. "Nah, I'm just going to chill out, maybe draw a few sketches. Thanks for the invite though."
"Are you sure?" she says, sounding desperate.
I let out a deep sigh when I realize what's going on.
"Alice. I'm fine, okay?" I grasp her hands. "I promise. It's not like before. I'm not depressed. I'm not sad. I really just want to draw the sketches that have been swirling around in my head for weeks. My collection is almost done. Just a few more outfits to go."
She smiles softly and squeezes my hands before letting go.
"Alright. But I'm here for you. Don't forget that. Ever."
Shit. I feel like the worst friend in the world right now. A few years ago I was broken. I thought there was no light left in my world of darkness. After my dad was killed, I didn't leave my room for almost a month and shut myself off from everyone. I didn't realize what my few days of seclusion would do to her. How much she would worry.
I know just how to fix this. "Let's do something Saturday night. What about a slumber party?"
Alice lights up like a Christmas tree.
"Yes!" She claps excitedly. "I'll rent 'Pretty in Pink,' 'Teen Witch,' and 'Sixteen Candles' and you can bring the snacks! It'll be like we're fifteen again!"
Exactly the reaction I was hoping for.
I raise my coffee cup in the air. "To the good ole' days!"
"And to Jake Ryan." Alice giggles, bumping her cup against mine. "Oh, before I forget, my parents wanted me to remind you about Thanksgiving. We're staying in town this year."
I'd totally forgotten about Thanksgiving. Holidays just aren't the same without my dad.
"You know I'll be there. You guys are my only family." I reply softly.
"Ooo!" Alice taps on the table and leans forward, her voice at a whisper. "Speaking of family, I forgot to tell you! You know my cousin, Edward?" My heart stops at the mention of his name.
I clear my throat, trying to appear unfazed. "Yeah, what about him?"
"He's missing."
WHAT? WHAT? WHAT?
"He's missing? Like, kidnapped missing?" I feel sick.
She sips her coffee and shrugs her shoulders. "No, not like that. I guess when he and Tanya got back to Chicago, he told her he needed some space and no one has seen or heard from him since. It's been like four days."
"Wow." I don't know what to say. "Do you think everything's okay?" I try to remain calm, not wanting her to see how affected I am.
"I heard my mom and dad talking this morning. I guess Tanya is telling everyone he's traveling for business but the truth slipped out in a voicemail she left on their machine. She told them that if they heard from him to give him a message. She said, and I quote, "Just because you're pathetic and I feel sorry for you, I'll give you two weeks."
Ugh. I hate that cunt.
Alice looks at her watch. "Crap! Sorry, I gotta go. I'm late for my acting class. I'll call you later."
I wave her off and walk out behind her, my mind reeling.
Is he okay? Where did he go?
I head into the boutique and stop suddenly when I see a beautiful white box sitting on the counter.
"What is that?"
I pick it up, no note or name on top. I untie the silk navy ribbon, lift the lid and gasp.
A bottle of Remy Martin Cognac.
My heart races as I tear open the card and read the words:
Dear 007,
I'd love to take you up on that drink. I'll be at Rosie's Irish Pub tonight at 8:00 p.m.
Hope to see you,
Edward
I sit up. My eyes squint from the sun-filled room. "What time is it?" The clock on the nightstand says 3:03 p.m. Holy crap.
I look down at myself, trying to figure out happened. I'm still in my dress. One shoe on, blood stained knees.
What the hell?
My phone beeps, alerting me to a new text. I crawl to the edge of the bed and pick it up off the floor.
Twenty-six texts. Eighteen missed calls and twelve voicemails.
This cannot be good.
Before I can open the texts, my phone starts to ring. My voice is raspy as I answer. "Hello, Alice."
"Thank God you're okay! Do you know how worried I've been? I've been calling since last night. Where are you?"
I rub my forehead; her screeching causes my head to pound.
"I'm at home. In bed." I look around my room. It's a freakin' mess. "What's the problem?"
She lets out a wail. "What's the problem? WHAT'S – THE - PROBLEM? Are you joking? You got shit-faced, made a scene and disappeared. I had NO idea where you were. I was about to call the police, Bella. That's the fucking problem."
"Okay, um...sorry. I'm just waking up, don't really remember much."
Alice laughs out loud in the phone. "You don't have to remember it. You can see it. You've gone viral...on YouTube."
Um...what?
.
.
.
.
After days of nursing my embarrassment I decide it's time to venture out in public and go back to work. So I'm on YouTube. Nobody cares. Well, except for the few hundred people who commented. Yeah. That's not embarrassing.
Kate, my one and only employee, was nice enough to work for me the past three days. Since it's slow, she and I are busy doing inventory. Only a couple of teenage girls came in to try on homecoming dresses. I'm really hoping my 'incident' last week didn't cause me to lose business.
The jingling of the door alerts me to a customer so I pop my head out from the back.
"Hey, Bells! Glad to see you back amongst the living." It's Alice. I flip her off and head back into the stock room.
"Can we agree to move on and never talk about last Friday night again?" I call out to her, hoping she just drops it.
"Only if you agree to give me this shirt." I see her holding the Eliah Flower top against her, swaying in the mirror. Maybe years of fashion advice is rubbing off.
"Deal. It was gonna be your Christmas present, anyway," I reply back.
"You're annoying." She huffs, her tiny frame barely taller than the clothes rack. "Want to go grab a coffee?"
I look over at Kate, who smiles as she shrugs, "Fine by me. I can hold down the fort." She needs a raise.
"We won't be long. Call me if you need me." I grab my purse and head out the door toward our favorite café.
.
.
.
.
The waiter winks at me as he hands us our coffee. Move along, buddy. Not interested.
Alice shoos him away and turns to me "So, I was thinking, maybe you can come over or something tonight?"
I smile and shake my head. "Nah, I'm just going to chill out, maybe draw a few sketches. Thanks for the invite though."
"Are you sure?" she says, sounding desperate.
I let out a deep sigh when I realize what's going on.
"Alice. I'm fine, okay?" I grasp her hands. "I promise. It's not like before. I'm not depressed. I'm not sad. I really just want to draw the sketches that have been swirling around in my head for weeks. My collection is almost done. Just a few more outfits to go."
She smiles softly and squeezes my hands before letting go.
"Alright. But I'm here for you. Don't forget that. Ever."
Shit. I feel like the worst friend in the world right now. A few years ago I was broken. I thought there was no light left in my world of darkness. After my dad was killed, I didn't leave my room for almost a month and shut myself off from everyone. I didn't realize what my few days of seclusion would do to her. How much she would worry.
I know just how to fix this. "Let's do something Saturday night. What about a slumber party?"
Alice lights up like a Christmas tree.
"Yes!" She claps excitedly. "I'll rent 'Pretty in Pink,' 'Teen Witch,' and 'Sixteen Candles' and you can bring the snacks! It'll be like we're fifteen again!"
Exactly the reaction I was hoping for.
I raise my coffee cup in the air. "To the good ole' days!"
"And to Jake Ryan." Alice giggles, bumping her cup against mine. "Oh, before I forget, my parents wanted me to remind you about Thanksgiving. We're staying in town this year."
I'd totally forgotten about Thanksgiving. Holidays just aren't the same without my dad.
"You know I'll be there. You guys are my only family." I reply softly.
"Ooo!" Alice taps on the table and leans forward, her voice at a whisper. "Speaking of family, I forgot to tell you! You know my cousin, Edward?" My heart stops at the mention of his name.
I clear my throat, trying to appear unfazed. "Yeah, what about him?"
"He's missing."
WHAT? WHAT? WHAT?
"He's missing? Like, kidnapped missing?" I feel sick.
She sips her coffee and shrugs her shoulders. "No, not like that. I guess when he and Tanya got back to Chicago, he told her he needed some space and no one has seen or heard from him since. It's been like four days."
"Wow." I don't know what to say. "Do you think everything's okay?" I try to remain calm, not wanting her to see how affected I am.
"I heard my mom and dad talking this morning. I guess Tanya is telling everyone he's traveling for business but the truth slipped out in a voicemail she left on their machine. She told them that if they heard from him to give him a message. She said, and I quote, "Just because you're pathetic and I feel sorry for you, I'll give you two weeks."
Ugh. I hate that cunt.
Alice looks at her watch. "Crap! Sorry, I gotta go. I'm late for my acting class. I'll call you later."
I wave her off and walk out behind her, my mind reeling.
Is he okay? Where did he go?
I head into the boutique and stop suddenly when I see a beautiful white box sitting on the counter.
"What is that?"
I pick it up, no note or name on top. I untie the silk navy ribbon, lift the lid and gasp.
A bottle of Remy Martin Cognac.
My heart races as I tear open the card and read the words:
I'd love to take you up on that drink. I'll be at Rosie's Irish Pub tonight at 8:00 p.m.
Hope to see you,
Edward
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Dress You Up ~ Chapter 3
Why the hell am I still in here? Oh, that's right. I'm stupid and my brain is stupider.
Since my dad was killed a few years ago, I've kept everyone at arm's length. Not letting anyone close to my heart is the only way I've been able to get up in the morning. I won't let it be smashed into a million pieces again. Ever. But I can't stop thinking about him. How can some stranger do this to me?
I look down at the piece of paper in front of me, noticing all the doodles I've made. Fuck it. I toss the pen and tear out the paper, stuffing it into my bra.
Sorry brain, you've been overruled.
.
.
.
What's up with these floors? I lean against the wall for a few seconds, regaining my balance. I've never noticed it before but it's like I'm walking on a cruise ship. I've got to tell Esme her floors are warped.
I finally make my way down the hall. Ugh! I'm never going to find him. There's got to be a few hundred people here. Maybe I need a higher vantage point so I can see around this place. I start toward the stairs when I hear him.
I take off my shoes and push my way through the crowd. "Excuse me, coming through!" I move across the room, elbowing ribs and stepping on toes. My heart is racing and my hands are shaking. I can't believe I'm doing this! Almost there...so close...finally...
I've found him. Everything and everyone else disappears. I am completely lost in him. I can feel my teeth digging into my bottom lip as his eyes stare into mine. My breaths are coming out like pants as my heart pounds under my chest. After what seems like years, his eyes tear away from mine, breaking the spell. I finally look around and see all eyes in the room on me as I stand in the center of the empty circle.
He tugs on his tie as he clears his throat. "Sorry. Where was I?" The crowd laughs.
I take a step back, realizing I've just interrupted something as he continues.
"Being here, surrounded by friends and family, has made me realize just how lucky I am." His voice is soft, sincere.
Carlisle steps forward. "We're happy you're here, and Esme and I are grateful to have such wonderful guests in our home. Let's all raise our glasses to the happy couple, Edward and Tanya!"
WhatTheFuck.
My eyes scan to the girl beside him and my heart stops.
Just fucking great. Just fuckity fucking fuck fuck great.
My head is trying to process the horror as I hear Alice heading my way. "Bella! There you are!"
I walk toward her; the stupid floor causes me to trip. "Jesus, Bella! How much have you had to drink?"
I laugh loudly as I fall into her arms. "Not enough," I answer. "Not nearly enough."
She helps me up and straightens my dress. "Just don't embarrass me in front of Jasper. He finally showed up."
My mind is going in a million different directions. I can't even process what she's saying. "What?"
Alice crosses her arms and lets out a huff. "Jasper is here and the stupid bitch is with him. She hasn't let her claws out of him since they got here. You should see what she's wearing! She looks like she gave her credit card to 'Fredrick's of Hollywood' and told them to 'keep it classy'."
I toss my head back, unable to stifle a loud laugh, grateful for the distraction. "Alice, I love you." I slip on my heels and grab a flute of champagne as a waiter walks by. "Let's go find him." Alice nods excitedly and I follow her to the backyard, knowing good and well we aren't talking about the same guy.
.
.
It's beautiful out here. Jazz hums through the air, and white lanterns hang from the trees. It's like a fairytale.
Well, a fairytale where the witch gets the prince. Stop it, Bella.
I quickly scan the yard, searching for his disheveled hair. My legs collapse from under me when I see him, causing me to grab onto Alice.
"Geez, Bella. You can barely stand up! You need to eat something."
Food is not what I need right now.
"I'm gonna grab you a little something to eat. Stay right here." Alice scurries off, leaving me to my thoughts.
He's perfection. His lips, his jaw. Mmm, the things I would do to that mouth. The dam between my legs has broken and the river Edward is overflowing.
"Here. Take a bite." Alice breaks me from my reverie.
Before I can protest I see Tanya approach him. She's beautiful. More than beautiful. Her long golden hair matches her dress as though it was made for her. I've seen this dress before. It's from Versace's 2013 Fall-Winter Haute Couture Collection. It's official. She has everything I want.
I shove the cracker in my mouth to appease Alice and chase it down with the champagne to appease me. My eyes flicker over to Edward who's...oh my god...who's looking right at me. Look away, Bella! Look away!
Why is he staring at me when he has her beside him?
And then it hits me.
He's mad. I totally made fun of his fiancé.
"Ooo, that's Tanya!" Alice whispers. "And the guy beside her is my cousin, Edward. I'll introduce you!"
Before I can object she's pulling me over to them. I grip her arm tight, trying to slow her down. Please kill me now.
"Edward, Tanya. This is my bestest friend in the whole wide world, Bella Swan."
I chug the rest of my champagne, my eyes avoiding Edward's. No need to add insult to injury.
"Bella! How pleasant to meet you." Tanya reaches out her bony hand and grasps mine. "Any friend of dear little Alice is a friend of mine." Ugh. And there it is. The Madonnas. I seriously cannot handle this shit right now.
"Tanya. I've heard so much about you. You're just as I suspected. Practically perfect in every way." Did I really just quote Mary Poppins with an accent that would make Eliza Doolittle proud? Yes. Yes I did.
I hear a splutter from beside me; Edward has sprayed his drink from his mouth.
"Seriously, Edward? We may be in Hicksville but please try to forget you're from 'round these parts.' Use some manners." Tanya rolls her eyes and turns back to me with a phony smile.
Did she really just talk to him like a kindergarten teacher chastising a five year old? Bitch.
"So, Bella. Your accent is quite distinct. Where in the UK are you from?"
Do. Not. Say. It.
"Well, I've lived in Hertford, Hereford and Hampshire. Hurricanes hardly happen."
And there it is.
"Hurricanes?" Tanya looks at Edward confused, but he's turned around. His shoulders bounce and his face is covered. Shit. He must be really pissed. Oh, well. I'm drunk and he obviously has bad taste in women. Good riddance, dude.
"Mmmhmm." I grab another drink as the waiter passes by. "Thank you, young chap!"
Alice grabs my drink from my hand and pulls me away. "Uh, sorry for the interruption. Bella and I need to run. Nice chatting with you guys!"
"Sorry, Ali...I couldn't..." She stops abruptly, causing me to slam into her back.
"There they are." Alice whispers and I see Jasper first. You can never miss his wild, blond mane. "See what I mean? Angela's talons haven't released him all night."
I see Angela. Her fake Double D's are popping from the sweetheart neckline of the tight, black polyester dress.
"BELLA, ALICE!" Angela waves in our direction. Jasper's head turns toward us, his eyes never leaving Alice as we approach.
"Well, look at you, Alice. I'd never pegged you as a leopard print kind of girl." Angela laughs, obviously making fun of her.
"I think she looks beautiful." Jasper pipes in. I grab onto Alice's arm when I hear her breath hitch.
"Doesn't she, Jasper?" I smile over at Angela; her eyes narrow at us both. Bring it on. I dare you.
"Seriously? Alice should be wearing polka dots and lace. Leopard print is for women, not little girls."
Aw hell nah.
"Just because she doesn't dress like a fucking skank doesn't mean she's a child. Just because she has class doesn't mean she can't be sexy and beautiful. And just because I'm wearing my best fucking heels doesn't mean I won't knock you the fuck out, Angela. I am so sick of rude bitches getting the best guys."
I turn to Jasper, not caring that I've made a scene. "Jasper, if you want to be with this rude ass whore, you're a fucking idiot, too."
I am so done with this party.
Without any fucks left to give, I turn and stomp toward the house. When I reach the stone pavers my foot slips, causing me to fall to my hands and knees. I fight back tears as I make myself stand, dust myself off and hold my head up high, like I always do.
With blood dripping down my leg and my palms burning like fire, I crawl into one of the awaiting cabs out front. What is with that guy? There's a good, decent woman standing in front of him and he wants to be with someone like her? I close my eyes and all I can see is him.
All I can see is Edward.
Since my dad was killed a few years ago, I've kept everyone at arm's length. Not letting anyone close to my heart is the only way I've been able to get up in the morning. I won't let it be smashed into a million pieces again. Ever. But I can't stop thinking about him. How can some stranger do this to me?
I look down at the piece of paper in front of me, noticing all the doodles I've made. Fuck it. I toss the pen and tear out the paper, stuffing it into my bra.
Sorry brain, you've been overruled.
.
.
.
What's up with these floors? I lean against the wall for a few seconds, regaining my balance. I've never noticed it before but it's like I'm walking on a cruise ship. I've got to tell Esme her floors are warped.
I finally make my way down the hall. Ugh! I'm never going to find him. There's got to be a few hundred people here. Maybe I need a higher vantage point so I can see around this place. I start toward the stairs when I hear him.
I take off my shoes and push my way through the crowd. "Excuse me, coming through!" I move across the room, elbowing ribs and stepping on toes. My heart is racing and my hands are shaking. I can't believe I'm doing this! Almost there...so close...finally...
I've found him. Everything and everyone else disappears. I am completely lost in him. I can feel my teeth digging into my bottom lip as his eyes stare into mine. My breaths are coming out like pants as my heart pounds under my chest. After what seems like years, his eyes tear away from mine, breaking the spell. I finally look around and see all eyes in the room on me as I stand in the center of the empty circle.
He tugs on his tie as he clears his throat. "Sorry. Where was I?" The crowd laughs.
I take a step back, realizing I've just interrupted something as he continues.
"Being here, surrounded by friends and family, has made me realize just how lucky I am." His voice is soft, sincere.
Carlisle steps forward. "We're happy you're here, and Esme and I are grateful to have such wonderful guests in our home. Let's all raise our glasses to the happy couple, Edward and Tanya!"
WhatTheFuck.
My eyes scan to the girl beside him and my heart stops.
Just fucking great. Just fuckity fucking fuck fuck great.
My head is trying to process the horror as I hear Alice heading my way. "Bella! There you are!"
I walk toward her; the stupid floor causes me to trip. "Jesus, Bella! How much have you had to drink?"
I laugh loudly as I fall into her arms. "Not enough," I answer. "Not nearly enough."
She helps me up and straightens my dress. "Just don't embarrass me in front of Jasper. He finally showed up."
My mind is going in a million different directions. I can't even process what she's saying. "What?"
Alice crosses her arms and lets out a huff. "Jasper is here and the stupid bitch is with him. She hasn't let her claws out of him since they got here. You should see what she's wearing! She looks like she gave her credit card to 'Fredrick's of Hollywood' and told them to 'keep it classy'."
I toss my head back, unable to stifle a loud laugh, grateful for the distraction. "Alice, I love you." I slip on my heels and grab a flute of champagne as a waiter walks by. "Let's go find him." Alice nods excitedly and I follow her to the backyard, knowing good and well we aren't talking about the same guy.
.
.
It's beautiful out here. Jazz hums through the air, and white lanterns hang from the trees. It's like a fairytale.
Well, a fairytale where the witch gets the prince. Stop it, Bella.
I quickly scan the yard, searching for his disheveled hair. My legs collapse from under me when I see him, causing me to grab onto Alice.
"Geez, Bella. You can barely stand up! You need to eat something."
Food is not what I need right now.
"I'm gonna grab you a little something to eat. Stay right here." Alice scurries off, leaving me to my thoughts.
He's perfection. His lips, his jaw. Mmm, the things I would do to that mouth. The dam between my legs has broken and the river Edward is overflowing.
"Here. Take a bite." Alice breaks me from my reverie.
Before I can protest I see Tanya approach him. She's beautiful. More than beautiful. Her long golden hair matches her dress as though it was made for her. I've seen this dress before. It's from Versace's 2013 Fall-Winter Haute Couture Collection. It's official. She has everything I want.
I shove the cracker in my mouth to appease Alice and chase it down with the champagne to appease me. My eyes flicker over to Edward who's...oh my god...who's looking right at me. Look away, Bella! Look away!
Why is he staring at me when he has her beside him?
And then it hits me.
He's mad. I totally made fun of his fiancé.
"Ooo, that's Tanya!" Alice whispers. "And the guy beside her is my cousin, Edward. I'll introduce you!"
Before I can object she's pulling me over to them. I grip her arm tight, trying to slow her down. Please kill me now.
"Edward, Tanya. This is my bestest friend in the whole wide world, Bella Swan."
I chug the rest of my champagne, my eyes avoiding Edward's. No need to add insult to injury.
"Bella! How pleasant to meet you." Tanya reaches out her bony hand and grasps mine. "Any friend of dear little Alice is a friend of mine." Ugh. And there it is. The Madonnas. I seriously cannot handle this shit right now.
"Tanya. I've heard so much about you. You're just as I suspected. Practically perfect in every way." Did I really just quote Mary Poppins with an accent that would make Eliza Doolittle proud? Yes. Yes I did.
I hear a splutter from beside me; Edward has sprayed his drink from his mouth.
"Seriously, Edward? We may be in Hicksville but please try to forget you're from 'round these parts.' Use some manners." Tanya rolls her eyes and turns back to me with a phony smile.
Did she really just talk to him like a kindergarten teacher chastising a five year old? Bitch.
"So, Bella. Your accent is quite distinct. Where in the UK are you from?"
Do. Not. Say. It.
"Well, I've lived in Hertford, Hereford and Hampshire. Hurricanes hardly happen."
And there it is.
"Hurricanes?" Tanya looks at Edward confused, but he's turned around. His shoulders bounce and his face is covered. Shit. He must be really pissed. Oh, well. I'm drunk and he obviously has bad taste in women. Good riddance, dude.
"Mmmhmm." I grab another drink as the waiter passes by. "Thank you, young chap!"
Alice grabs my drink from my hand and pulls me away. "Uh, sorry for the interruption. Bella and I need to run. Nice chatting with you guys!"
"Sorry, Ali...I couldn't..." She stops abruptly, causing me to slam into her back.
"There they are." Alice whispers and I see Jasper first. You can never miss his wild, blond mane. "See what I mean? Angela's talons haven't released him all night."
I see Angela. Her fake Double D's are popping from the sweetheart neckline of the tight, black polyester dress.
"BELLA, ALICE!" Angela waves in our direction. Jasper's head turns toward us, his eyes never leaving Alice as we approach.
"Well, look at you, Alice. I'd never pegged you as a leopard print kind of girl." Angela laughs, obviously making fun of her.
"I think she looks beautiful." Jasper pipes in. I grab onto Alice's arm when I hear her breath hitch.
"Doesn't she, Jasper?" I smile over at Angela; her eyes narrow at us both. Bring it on. I dare you.
"Seriously? Alice should be wearing polka dots and lace. Leopard print is for women, not little girls."
Aw hell nah.
"Just because she doesn't dress like a fucking skank doesn't mean she's a child. Just because she has class doesn't mean she can't be sexy and beautiful. And just because I'm wearing my best fucking heels doesn't mean I won't knock you the fuck out, Angela. I am so sick of rude bitches getting the best guys."
I turn to Jasper, not caring that I've made a scene. "Jasper, if you want to be with this rude ass whore, you're a fucking idiot, too."
I am so done with this party.
Without any fucks left to give, I turn and stomp toward the house. When I reach the stone pavers my foot slips, causing me to fall to my hands and knees. I fight back tears as I make myself stand, dust myself off and hold my head up high, like I always do.
With blood dripping down my leg and my palms burning like fire, I crawl into one of the awaiting cabs out front. What is with that guy? There's a good, decent woman standing in front of him and he wants to be with someone like her? I close my eyes and all I can see is him.
All I can see is Edward.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Dress You Up ~ Chapter 2
I jump from the couch, spilling the dark liquid across my toes.
"Jesus fucking Christ!"
Across the room, I see a dark silhouette in Carlisle's chair. The sliver of moonlight makes it hard to distinguish any features.
I hear a soft chuckle. "Nope. I'm definitely not him."
Holy fuck. That voice.
I reach over and turn on the lamp, the dim light filling the room. I squint as my eyes adjust. My vision clears and I finally see him.
His hair is disheveled, a mixture of colors: gold, red, bronze. His eyes are kind and soft. A smile spreads across his face. I've completely lost my train of thought.
"Who...wha...what are you doing in here?" My voice strained, I clear my throat, trying to take back control of my brain.
"I was just enjoying the 'peace and quiet' as you put it." He leans forward, his elbows resting on his knees. "I would ask you the same, but I've got pretty good idea." He nods his head toward the liquor cabinet.
I sit back on the couch and cross my legs. "Do you have a habit of hiding out in dark places?" I raise a brow, my body betraying me as I feel a throbbing between my legs.
"Not usually." He smiles as he rubs his hands over his thighs. I notice his long fingers. "I just needed to clear my head. I was about to head back to the party when you James-Bonded your way in here."
I tilt back my head and laugh. "Me? James Bond. Hardly. I don't think James Bond knows the combinations when he cracks a safe."
He takes a swig of his drink. I can see his smile through the bottom of his glass. He sets his drink on his knee.
"Touche." He nods in my direction.
"So, since you scared the living shit out of me asking for some, would you like me to top you off?" I ask, offering to fill his cup.
"Nah, I'm good. I need to be able to stand tonight. I better take it easy."
I shrug and pour myself a glass. "More for me." I smile as I down another shot. Shit. I feel dizzy. Two beers and three shots are a bit much. You need to slow down, Bella.
His voice brings me away from my inner discussion. "May I ask how you knew the combination, since we've concluded that you aren't James Bond?"
I lean forward, my dark brown curls fall over my shoulders. "I've been sneaking liquor from this office since the ninth grade. I practically grew up here. My best friend's parents are hosting this party." I lightly tap on my lips. Shit. They're numb. I'm definitely buzzed.
He swirls the ice in his drink, his eyes looking me over. "So you're friends with Alice?"
"Mmmhmm. Best friends since elementary school. She's practically my sister, which is why I'm even here tonight. That, and I've dressed some of the guests."
"Dressed them?" He takes a piece of ice from his glass and places it in his mouth, his tongue slides over it as he drops it in.
I start to drown on my own spit. Or the wetness between my legs. I stand up as I begin to cough uncontrollably. He rushes to my side, his hand patting my back as his other hand brushes away my hair covering my face. When I finally stop coughing, I look up and my heart nearly stops. His perfect mouth is inches from mine. Fuck. Me.
"Um, thank you." I stand up straight and let go of his forearms that were holding me up. "I'm fine now."
"Are you sure?" His voice concerned, I look up and meet his eyes.
"Yes, I'm sure." His eyes are emerald green, with specs of gold in them, like a kaleidoscope. I force myself to look away, needing immediate distance. I curl my wobbly legs under me as I sit back down on the couch. He hesitantly goes back to the chair and sits.
I close my eyes for a second and regain my train of thought. "Where were we?"
"You dressed people," he replies.
"Yes, well, I styled them. I own a clothing boutique and a lot of women here tonight are my clients."
"So that's why you're here? In case of a fashion emergency?" He laughs softly, his eyes bright with humor.
I roll my eyes playfully, "I'm here to see how everyone looks and out of loyalty, I guess. Alice really wanted me here. There's no way I could have missed it, even if I wanted to."
"Did you want to?" He raises a brow playfully.
"Honestly? Yes. I'd much rather be at home than here. I don't know him and I don't know her so yeah, being in bed sounds much better than being here." I shrug my shoulders as I think about being in my bed with him. The cobwebs between my legs are creating a dam.
He clears his throat and replies, "So you don't know the guests of honor?"
"Nope. I snuck in here as soon as I could. Although, I'm sure I could pick out Tanya from what I've heard about her." I laugh as I pour myself a small drink. A little more won't hurt.
"And what exactly have you heard?" His voice sounds intrigued.
I think back about my earlier conversation with Alice and Esme and smile, "I heard she is snooty bitch and has a case of the Madonnas." Okay, I threw in the bitch part but I'm sure it's true. His eyes scrunch together in confusion, just as mine did earlier. "You know, she speaks with a fake British accent?" I giggle, remembering Esme said she was really from Jersey.
"Well, that's interesting. I guess that would be noticeable." He laughs softly, his eyes never leaving mine. "I, um...I need to get going." He stands and runs his fingers through his hair, causing my breath to hitch. I take a deep breath, trying to restrain myself from tackling this stranger. I slide my heels on and stand.
"It was nice to meet you." I smile up at him and reach out my hand.
He wraps his hands around mine. My fingers almost burn from his touch, like a chemical reaction. I'm thankful he has a tight grip because my legs are close to giving out.
"The pleasure's been mine. I hope you enjoy your evening and that you don't miss your bed too much." His warm breath travel downs my neck. My teeth tug against my bottom lip when I think about my bed. And him. And his mouth.
His tongue darts out, wetting his lips as he lets go of my hands. I let out a sigh as he heads to the door, he opens it slowly, and turns with a half-smile. I smile back and let out a whimper as the door closes behind him. Almost every part of my body begs me to go after him except for my brain. It tells me to stay.
So I stay.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Dress You Up ~ Chapter 1
Disclaimer: Twilight and characters belong to Stephenie Meyer. If they belonged to me, the ending would have been way different.
Chapter 1
I'm so wiped out all I want to do is crawl into bed. The past few months I've been going nonstop, and tonight's when everything comes together.
I'm going to the engagement party for Alice's cousin, Edward. From what she's said, he and his fiancé are big-shot attorneys from Chicago. I can't imagine why they'd want their party here in podunk Forks, but I'm not gonna complain. The party preparation's been great for business.
I own an upscale clothing boutique in downtown Seattle. Business is usually steady but since the engagement announcement, things have been chaotic. Including my best friend, Alice, and her mother, I've dressed over thirty women for the party. Me? I still have no idea what I'm wearing. At this point, sweat pants and a t-shirt sound pretty good.
After a long shower I feel alive again. There was a time when I loved going to parties like this, but lately they've all turned into meat markets. Same people, different day. No one around here has ever made me blink twice. Plus, who needs a man? Not me.
...
...
...
Pulling up to the Cullen house, I notice all the cars. Thankfully I got ready in record time or parking would have been a bitch. I decided on a royal blue, one shouldered, silk draped dress. It's simple, elegant, and most importantly, it's comfy.
As soon as I walk through the front door, I hear Alice's high-pitched voice through the crowd. "Bella! Oh my god you look gorgeous! Can you believe all these people? How do I look?" She grabs the sides of her dress and spins, giggling when she stops.
"The leopard dress looks perfect on you. So, you ready to pounce on he who shall not be named?" I chuckle as she buries her face in her hands.
"Shhh! I haven't even seen him yet. He better not show up with Angela. I'll scratch her ugly eyeballs out!"
I let out a loud laugh as I shake my head. "I'd pay serious money to see that."
"You know I'd win." She sticks out her tongue at me. "Okay, enough about skank girl. I need a drink."
Now she's speaking my language.
Alice drags me to the bar. "Heineken for her and a strawberry daiquiri for me. Oh, with two umbrellas!"
I smile. "You and your daiquiris. How do you drink those?"
"Don't judge. Just because I don't like drinks that make you burp like a man doesn't mean I can't hold my own."
I laugh as I turn and see people filling the house. "Geez, Ali. Who are all these people?" I chug my much-needed beer.
"I don't know," Alice says. "I think they flew in from Chicago. My mom is running around like crazy person and dad's chumming it up with all the hospital execs."
My eyes scan the room and of course I check out what everyone's wearing. I easily spot the women I dressed. They stand out, just like I knew they would. To my right, I see Alice's mother, Esme, trudging through the crowd toward us. Her voice sounds frustrated when she arrives.
"Bella, Alice, can you believe all these people? You'd think they'd have the courtesy to RSVP, especially if coming from out of town, but apparently not." She looks beautiful. The tangerine hue of the dress makes her skin glow.
"Ha! After meeting the 'bride-to-be', I'm surprised any of them RSVP'd," Alice says, obviously annoyed.
"Stop that, Alice!" Esme whispers. "She's a little different, I admit, but we have to be cordial. She's going to be family soon."
"Distant family, thank God." Alice replies as she twirls the umbrella in her drink.
I lean over and whisper to them, "What's wrong with Tanya?"
"Ugh. She acts like her shit don't stink," Alice huffs.
I choke on the last sip of my beer, her words catching me off guard.
"Mary Alice Cullen!" Esme's eyes narrow at her, but you can see she's trying her best to suppress a laugh as she turns to me. "Tanya is very educated. She doesn't mean to sound condescending."
"And she has a case of the 'Madonnas'." Alice blurts out.
"The what?" I smile as the bartender hands me another beer.
"You know, a fake British accent," Alice whispers.
I look at Alice confused. "Isn't she from Chicago?"
"She's from New Jersey," Esme replies. "But I was told she studied in London for a few months."
"Exactly. Hence her case of the 'Madonnas'." Alice shrugs nonchalantly.
Esme shakes her head, "I hate to break up the gossip but I need your help in the kitchen, Alice." She smiles over at me. "You should walk around. Mingle. I bet there are some single guys here."
I shake my head, "You know me. Bella the man-eater."
"Mom. Leave her alone." Alice turns to me and rolls her eyes. "I'll be right back."
After waving them off I sneak toward Carlisle's study; that's where he keeps the good stuff. I hurry into the room and lock the door behind me. Since the moon is shining on the liquor cabinet, I decide to keep the light off. No need to draw anyone's attention.
Lucky for me, the combination hasn't changed since high school. "Now this is more like it." I grab the Remy Martin Cognac and fill a large tumbler, smiling as I make a toast. "To Madonna and what's his face!"
After downing it in one gulp, I clutch the bottle and feel my way across the dark room to the couch, kicking off my heels as I go. "Finally. Peace and quiet."
I let out a soft moan as I stretch out my legs. Deciding on another shot I bring it to my lips, then out of nowhere I hear what has to be the sexiest voice ever from across the room.
"Care to share?"
Chapter 1
I'm so wiped out all I want to do is crawl into bed. The past few months I've been going nonstop, and tonight's when everything comes together.
I'm going to the engagement party for Alice's cousin, Edward. From what she's said, he and his fiancé are big-shot attorneys from Chicago. I can't imagine why they'd want their party here in podunk Forks, but I'm not gonna complain. The party preparation's been great for business.
I own an upscale clothing boutique in downtown Seattle. Business is usually steady but since the engagement announcement, things have been chaotic. Including my best friend, Alice, and her mother, I've dressed over thirty women for the party. Me? I still have no idea what I'm wearing. At this point, sweat pants and a t-shirt sound pretty good.
After a long shower I feel alive again. There was a time when I loved going to parties like this, but lately they've all turned into meat markets. Same people, different day. No one around here has ever made me blink twice. Plus, who needs a man? Not me.
...
...
...
Pulling up to the Cullen house, I notice all the cars. Thankfully I got ready in record time or parking would have been a bitch. I decided on a royal blue, one shouldered, silk draped dress. It's simple, elegant, and most importantly, it's comfy.
As soon as I walk through the front door, I hear Alice's high-pitched voice through the crowd. "Bella! Oh my god you look gorgeous! Can you believe all these people? How do I look?" She grabs the sides of her dress and spins, giggling when she stops.
"The leopard dress looks perfect on you. So, you ready to pounce on he who shall not be named?" I chuckle as she buries her face in her hands.
"Shhh! I haven't even seen him yet. He better not show up with Angela. I'll scratch her ugly eyeballs out!"
I let out a loud laugh as I shake my head. "I'd pay serious money to see that."
"You know I'd win." She sticks out her tongue at me. "Okay, enough about skank girl. I need a drink."
Now she's speaking my language.
Alice drags me to the bar. "Heineken for her and a strawberry daiquiri for me. Oh, with two umbrellas!"
I smile. "You and your daiquiris. How do you drink those?"
"Don't judge. Just because I don't like drinks that make you burp like a man doesn't mean I can't hold my own."
I laugh as I turn and see people filling the house. "Geez, Ali. Who are all these people?" I chug my much-needed beer.
"I don't know," Alice says. "I think they flew in from Chicago. My mom is running around like crazy person and dad's chumming it up with all the hospital execs."
My eyes scan the room and of course I check out what everyone's wearing. I easily spot the women I dressed. They stand out, just like I knew they would. To my right, I see Alice's mother, Esme, trudging through the crowd toward us. Her voice sounds frustrated when she arrives.
"Bella, Alice, can you believe all these people? You'd think they'd have the courtesy to RSVP, especially if coming from out of town, but apparently not." She looks beautiful. The tangerine hue of the dress makes her skin glow.
"Ha! After meeting the 'bride-to-be', I'm surprised any of them RSVP'd," Alice says, obviously annoyed.
"Stop that, Alice!" Esme whispers. "She's a little different, I admit, but we have to be cordial. She's going to be family soon."
"Distant family, thank God." Alice replies as she twirls the umbrella in her drink.
I lean over and whisper to them, "What's wrong with Tanya?"
"Ugh. She acts like her shit don't stink," Alice huffs.
I choke on the last sip of my beer, her words catching me off guard.
"Mary Alice Cullen!" Esme's eyes narrow at her, but you can see she's trying her best to suppress a laugh as she turns to me. "Tanya is very educated. She doesn't mean to sound condescending."
"And she has a case of the 'Madonnas'." Alice blurts out.
"The what?" I smile as the bartender hands me another beer.
"You know, a fake British accent," Alice whispers.
I look at Alice confused. "Isn't she from Chicago?"
"She's from New Jersey," Esme replies. "But I was told she studied in London for a few months."
"Exactly. Hence her case of the 'Madonnas'." Alice shrugs nonchalantly.
Esme shakes her head, "I hate to break up the gossip but I need your help in the kitchen, Alice." She smiles over at me. "You should walk around. Mingle. I bet there are some single guys here."
I shake my head, "You know me. Bella the man-eater."
"Mom. Leave her alone." Alice turns to me and rolls her eyes. "I'll be right back."
After waving them off I sneak toward Carlisle's study; that's where he keeps the good stuff. I hurry into the room and lock the door behind me. Since the moon is shining on the liquor cabinet, I decide to keep the light off. No need to draw anyone's attention.
Lucky for me, the combination hasn't changed since high school. "Now this is more like it." I grab the Remy Martin Cognac and fill a large tumbler, smiling as I make a toast. "To Madonna and what's his face!"
After downing it in one gulp, I clutch the bottle and feel my way across the dark room to the couch, kicking off my heels as I go. "Finally. Peace and quiet."
I let out a soft moan as I stretch out my legs. Deciding on another shot I bring it to my lips, then out of nowhere I hear what has to be the sexiest voice ever from across the room.
"Care to share?"
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