Alice. Alice is at my door. Her eyes are darting back and forth between me and Edward with her serious frickity-frack look on her face.
Maybe I can just shut the door. He can run and hide and when I reopen it, she'll just think she's seeing things. That Edward was just a figment of her imagination.
This is a great idea!
As I begin to put my fail-proof plan into motion, the pizza guy walks up behind Alice.
"Um. Pizza delivery." The young guy smiles and starts to read from the bottom of the receipt. "It says here to not let the tall guy pay. He's a stripper and the money's been up his butt-crack."
Dear Lord baby Jesus. He wasn't supposed to read that out loud! It was just supposed to deter him from taking Edward's money!
The pizza guy looks up at Edward. "Dude. That's just wrong."
Alice tucks some bills in the guy's front pocket and takes the pizza from his hands. "Here. Keep the change."
Alice turns toward us.
"Alright you two. I've got your dinner. Now move out of my way and start talking."
Alice walks in between us and heads straight to the kitchen. She opens the fridge and grabs from her stash of wine coolers, twists off the cap and downs the whole bottle, slamming it against the counter as she wipes her mouth with the back of her hand.
"Talk."
Edward starts to explain what went down with Tanya, and I grab a six-pack of beer from the fridge, paper plates and the pizza.
"Guys, let's eat and drink while we talk." I nod my head towards the living room.
Alice plops down in the papasan chair with pizza and another wine cooler in hand, Edward takes a seat on the couch and I make myself comfortable on the floor.
"Ugh! I knew Tanya was a bitch from the second I met her." Alice chimes in quickly as Edward continues. She's leaning forward as she listens to his every word.
"So, I decided to come back to the last place that felt like home to me. Forks." Edward shrugs and his face falls as he says these words.
Alice shakes her head then looks over to me.
"But, I don't understand. How did you become involved in this?"
So far, I haven't said a word. I've just been sitting here drinking away, wondering how to explain this to her.
I finish beer number two and start talking.
"You know how in high school, we used to sneak into your dad's office?"
I lean back and rest my hands on the carpet behind me and cross my legs.
"Well, the night of the ... um ... party ... I decided to relive old times."
Alice is now stuffing her face, listening to the story like she's watching an episode of Gossip Girl.
"So, I snuck in for a drink. I just didn't know he was hiding in the corner like Batman." I say with a smirk and nod over to Edward.
"First off," Edward replies, "I was not 'hiding' and secondly, A drink? As in one? I saw you down at least two, Bella."
"Puh-lease! I had like one and then you popped out of nowhere like a jack in the box and made me spill it all over myself ... so there!" I grab a couch pillow from the floor and toss it at him.
Edward blocks the pillow and smiles down at me. I'm lost in him again.
He's so yummy.
I smile back and pull my knees up to my chest and stretch my t-shirt over them.
I've got to stop shaving. That's the only way I'll keep my clothes on around him.
"HELLO! Earth to Bella and Edward! Geez guys, get a room!"
Shit! I'd forgotten she was even here.
We both start to deny anything at the same time.
"Alice. It's not like that. He's like a brother. An older, annoying brother."
Lies. Lies. Lies. Lies.
"If that's true, then we're on an episode of Jerry Springer."
.
.
.
.
After Edward and I finish explaining how he ended up staying in my apartment, she surprisingly seems okay with it. Doesn't hurt that she's on her fourth Strawberry Daiquiri wine cooler, either.
"Okay, I won't tell mom or dad that you're here in Forks, but you have to at least call them. Let them know you're okay." Alice urges.
"I'll call them tomorrow. First thing," Edward replies.
Alice smiles and claps her hands together. "Okay, enough of this serious talk. Let's have some fun. Who wants to play a drinking game?"
I could use some fun right about now.
"Sure. I'll play. You game?" I turn towards Edward and ask.
"Yeah, why not."
Alice stands up and heads towards the kitchen. "I'll get more drinks."
"I'll help." I stand and follow behind her.
"Alice," I whisper once we're out of the room. ''Are you seriously okay? You aren't mad?" I watch her closely. She smiles and shakes her messy bob. "Nope. I mean, I wish you would have told me, but I understand. Just glad that I know now."
I can't believe how cool she seems with this. Definitely must be the alcohol.
She fills up my arms with wine coolers and beer and we head back to the living room.
Edward is leaning back against the cushions, wearing gym shorts and a t-shirt, waiting on us.
God he looks good in anything ... and better in nothing, I bet.
"What should we play?" Alice interrupts my mental strip show. "There's: Up The River Down the River, Pong, Quarters. Ooo, I know! Let's play I Never!"
I let out a loud laugh as I sit back down on the floor. "How much have you had to drink, Alice? You hate that game."
"I do not. Plus, I'll be able to learn about my cousin! I haven't seen him in like a tragillion years."
Alice is making up words and they're starting to slur. This is gonna be fun.
"Just tell me how to play." Edward smiles.
"Well, I haven't played in years but it's simple. Each person takes a turn and says something they've never done. If what the person says is something that you haven't done either, you don't have to drink. If the person says something that you have done, then you have to take a drink."
"What topics? Anything?" I ask.
Alice nods. "Yep, anything. But, no matter what, we have to all promise that what is said in here will stay between us forever and ever and ever."
"Promise." We both reply at the same time.
"Edward, you go first." Alice giggles.
He clears his throat and wipes his hands down his legs as he sits up. "Let's see ... I've never been to the zoo."
What? That's his secret admission?
Alice must be thinking the same thing because she starts to pretend she's snoring.
I laugh as I take a swig of my beer.
"My turn," Alice replies after taking a sip of her drink. "I've never been to strip club."
I smile at her statement and sit still, not taking a drink. I'm not surprised when Edward does, though.
"Okay, my turn. I've never been kissed in the rain."
Alice takes a sip but Edward doesn't. He narrows his eyes and asks.
"You live in one of the rainiest areas in the country and have never been kissed in the rain?"
I smile slightly and shrug. "Nope. Always wanted to. But I guess all my boyfriends have been opposed to getting wet."
That sounded dirty and I didn't even mean for it to. That's a new one.
We continue on for seven rounds with a few shocking admissions. I have feeling will be regretting them tomorrow.
Edward smirks and takes his turn. "I've never kissed anyone of the same sex."
Alice and I look at each other and burst out laughing. We both drink, meaning we have done that.
"I like how you worded that, Edward. Thought you were going to trick us up with that one." Alice winks over at me.
Edward's face is white as a ghost.
"In case you're wondering, NO it wasn't each other. We aren't that close." I laugh and Alice continues.
"It was in college and we were with some girl friends at a bar. These guys wouldn't leave us alone so we told them we were lesbians." Alice hiccups and giggles. "They didn't believe us so we kissed. Bella kissed Jane and I kissed Leah. I'll never forget those guys' faces! That was such a fun night."
I know this Alice. This is drunk Alice. If she doesn't go to bed soon, she'll start her drunken giggle fits and be up all night long.
"Alice, you want to stay the night? You can sleep in my room. I'll stay out here on the couch."
She narrows her eyes at me and wags her finger around.
"You can't fool me missy. I know when to take a hint."
She giggles and stands up, unable to keep her balance she falls towards the coffee table. Edward jumps up and catches her arm.
"Here. Let's get you to bed." Edward helps her stand and Alice waves her hands around.
"I'm fine. I'm fine. I've got this. Goodnight." She laughs and stumbles down the hall to my room. I hear small crash a few seconds later, followed up by, 'I'm okay' and a giggle snort.
"Well, this was an unexpected night." Edward chuckles as he sits back down on the couch.
"Yeah, you can say that again." I stretch and let out a yawn.
"You ready to call it a night? You can take my bed, I'll stay out here on the couch."
Must. Resist. Temptation.
"Nah, I'm good," I reply. "Just need to wake up a little."
"Come sit up here and let's watch a movie. I'll behave. No feet tickling this time. Scouts honor." He holds up three fingers and smiles.
"Alright, under one condition." I stand and grab the remote. "I get to pick the movie."
I turn off the lamp and sit down beside him.
"Deal." He elbows me playfully and grabs the throw and covers us up.
I chuckle. "Don't worry. You'll love this movie. It's right up your alley." I press play on the remote, knowing what's in the DVD player.
I cover my mouth as the words "Magic Mike" appears across the TV.
"Bella!"
I scream and hide under the covers, laughing as he tries to grab the remote.
"I thought you could use some new stripper moves!" I giggle and shove the remote under me.
Edward is laughing as he tries to find it. "You know nothing about my moves, Bella Swan." He pushes me over and seizes the remote. "I can assure you. You wouldn't be complaining."
Deadz.
I flip through the channels until I hit old "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" reruns.
"Stop here. I love this show." Edward pulls the blanket up over his shoulders and offers me half.
I cuddle up next to him and pull the blanket tight around me. I rest my head on his arm and toss the remote onto the floor. Edward takes a deep breath and exhales slowly.
"You OK?" I ask, not moving from my spot.
He sinks into the couch some more. "I'm good," he says. "You?"
I don't answer, just close my eyes and wish for this moment to last forever.
The next thing I know, the sun is blaring through the living room blinds, Edward is passed out beside me and his hand is cupping my right boob.
I am in heaven.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Chapter 7
I press my finger against his lips, quieting him as Otis Redding's voice continues to fill the room. My brain is locked away and as for my panties, well, they're pretty much useless right now. I'm going to need a life vest to save me from drowning.And perhaps mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
As I pull my finger away from his mouth, a soft moan escapes my lips.
I cup both sides of his face and lean towards him. Our mouths are almost touching when I hear the thump … thump … thump … of the needle dragging against the end of the record.
Without warning, my brain bitch slaps me.
Bella Swan! WHAT IN THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING?
"Bella...I..." Edward whispers.
"Shouldn't be doing this." I finish his sentence.
I hurry from his lap and turn off the record player.
"Edward, there are so many reasons that...that can't happen. Plus, you don't want me. I get your situation, nothing like a quick rebound to take your mind off of things."
He shakes his head and begins to talk, but I continue.
"Don't worry Edward, this won't happen again. I promise."
I turn to walk out of the room when I hear him.
"Bella, wait. Please ..."
He stands up and grabs my arm. I stop and turn around.
"Edward. You don't have to say anything." I shrug and force a weak smile.
"Bella, stop. It's not what you think..."
He groans and runs his hand through his hair. I can't help but giggle when his hair stays sticking straight up like in the movie "There's Something About Mary".
"What's so funny?" He raises his brow, smiling crookedly.
"Your hair. This situation. Us. Me. I don't know. Everything."
I start laughing so hard I can't stop. It's the kind of laughing that makes your ribs hurt and makes you look insane, but you don't care. That kind of laughing. This whole situation is insane. Just a few hours ago I was sitting in my car outside the pub, wondering what was going on and now I'm here. With a roommate, who I almost tackled, and I've lost my mind. Completely lost it.
Edward crosses his arms, unable to stifle a laugh, too.
"What am I going to do with you?"
I wipe away the tears from laughing. "You, dear roommate, are going to tell me goodnight."
I turn and walk to my room, hoping to find my sanity by morning..
.
.
.
I spent the next night at Alice's, fulfilling my promise of 80s movies and girl chat. Alice fleetingly mentions Edward, making it easy for me to avoid the topic. I'm not a very good liar so I'm glad she's had a few drinks and doesn't notice.
I hadn't seen Edward since I left him standing in my living room on Friday night. I'm not purposely trying to avoid him. I just happen to leave the same time he jumps in the shower.
And tip-toe out like a ninja.
I was actually looking forward to Monday, so waking up this morning wasn't as hard as it usually is. I was ready to move on from this weekend and start fresh. It's been a busier than normal Monday and I so want to get home and soak in a long, hot bath. I grab my keys and lock up the boutique, calling it a day. When I walk into the apartment, I can tell he's not here. His door is open and the place is dark.
I wonder where he goes all day?
I'm so beat that I rip my clothes off and toss them across the room. I pour the lemon vanilla bubble bath into the oversized tub, twist my hair into a high, messy bun and grab my iPod. I slide into the bubbles and sigh, pushing in my earbuds and searching through my playlists.
"This one looks good." I press play, close my eyes and let the lyrics resonate.
My fingertips graze the top of the water, spreading the bubbles across my body.
When the next song starts, I can't help but sing along. I find a bottle of shampoo, my favorite makeshift microphone.
When I open my eyes, he's there. Edward. Edward Fucking Cullen is standing in the bathroom.
"Oh my god!" I flail in the tub, making a splash like Shamu, trying to cover myself.
"Bella, I'm so sorry." Edward turns around and covers his eyes.
"I heard you singing. I, uh, thought you were in your room. I knocked on the bathroom door, but you didn't answer." He runs his hands over his face. "Bella, I'm really sorry." He sighs as he walks out and shuts the door behind him.
I look down at my body, realizing that all the bubbles have me covered. Thank God!
It's not like he hasn't seen your ass, Bella. Ugh. Fucking YouTube!
I towel dry my hair and decide I'm not going to mention anything about the naked bathroom incident. Maybe I'll pretend it didn't happen. Avoidance is my best friend lately.
Too lazy to make food, I decide to order pizza. Hmm. Maybe I should ask Edward if he wants some. I knock on his door and hear him shuffle from the bed.
"Hi. Just wondering if you're hungry. I'm thinking about ordering a pizza."
He smiles down at me, seemingly grateful that I avoid mentioning the tub situation.
"That sounds great. Order whatever you want, I'll pay."
"You're not paying, Edward."
"We'll see about that."
"Just tell me what you want." I roll my eyes playfully.
He smirks down at me. "I like everything, Bella. I'm easy to please." He leans down and whispers, "What about you? Do you like meat?"
a;dsjfa;lksdjf;akljsdf;alkdjf (this is my brain, it has suffered an electrical outage due to the panty flooding)
I rise up onto my toes, trying to appear unfazed.
"I love meat, Edward. The meatier the better." I smirk back. "Oh, and Edward, I'm hard to please." I wink and head toward the kitchen to call in the order, leaving him with his mouth agape, knowing that I'm treading on dangerous panty waters right now.
I order from the little dive around the corner. They have the best pizza, and they're fast.
Edward has a fistful of cash ready as he lingers by the front door, thinking he can somehow pay the delivery guy before I can.
Not gonna happen.
When I hear the knock, I run to open it, knowing Edward's going to try to beat me there.
I scream as he reaches for the knob. "Don't even think about it." He shoves me away playfully as he swings the door open.
When it's all the way open, something happens that I'll never forget. Ever.
"Um. Can someone please tell me what in the frickity-frack is going on here?"
I'd recognize that shrill voice anywhere.
Alice.
As I pull my finger away from his mouth, a soft moan escapes my lips.
I cup both sides of his face and lean towards him. Our mouths are almost touching when I hear the thump … thump … thump … of the needle dragging against the end of the record.
Without warning, my brain bitch slaps me.
Bella Swan! WHAT IN THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING?
"Bella...I..." Edward whispers.
"Shouldn't be doing this." I finish his sentence.
I hurry from his lap and turn off the record player.
"Edward, there are so many reasons that...that can't happen. Plus, you don't want me. I get your situation, nothing like a quick rebound to take your mind off of things."
He shakes his head and begins to talk, but I continue.
"Don't worry Edward, this won't happen again. I promise."
I turn to walk out of the room when I hear him.
"Bella, wait. Please ..."
He stands up and grabs my arm. I stop and turn around.
"Edward. You don't have to say anything." I shrug and force a weak smile.
"Bella, stop. It's not what you think..."
He groans and runs his hand through his hair. I can't help but giggle when his hair stays sticking straight up like in the movie "There's Something About Mary".
"What's so funny?" He raises his brow, smiling crookedly.
"Your hair. This situation. Us. Me. I don't know. Everything."
I start laughing so hard I can't stop. It's the kind of laughing that makes your ribs hurt and makes you look insane, but you don't care. That kind of laughing. This whole situation is insane. Just a few hours ago I was sitting in my car outside the pub, wondering what was going on and now I'm here. With a roommate, who I almost tackled, and I've lost my mind. Completely lost it.
Edward crosses his arms, unable to stifle a laugh, too.
"What am I going to do with you?"
I wipe away the tears from laughing. "You, dear roommate, are going to tell me goodnight."
I turn and walk to my room, hoping to find my sanity by morning..
.
.
.
I spent the next night at Alice's, fulfilling my promise of 80s movies and girl chat. Alice fleetingly mentions Edward, making it easy for me to avoid the topic. I'm not a very good liar so I'm glad she's had a few drinks and doesn't notice.
I hadn't seen Edward since I left him standing in my living room on Friday night. I'm not purposely trying to avoid him. I just happen to leave the same time he jumps in the shower.
And tip-toe out like a ninja.
I was actually looking forward to Monday, so waking up this morning wasn't as hard as it usually is. I was ready to move on from this weekend and start fresh. It's been a busier than normal Monday and I so want to get home and soak in a long, hot bath. I grab my keys and lock up the boutique, calling it a day. When I walk into the apartment, I can tell he's not here. His door is open and the place is dark.
I wonder where he goes all day?
I'm so beat that I rip my clothes off and toss them across the room. I pour the lemon vanilla bubble bath into the oversized tub, twist my hair into a high, messy bun and grab my iPod. I slide into the bubbles and sigh, pushing in my earbuds and searching through my playlists.
"This one looks good." I press play, close my eyes and let the lyrics resonate.
My fingertips graze the top of the water, spreading the bubbles across my body.
When the next song starts, I can't help but sing along. I find a bottle of shampoo, my favorite makeshift microphone.
You don't have to be beautiful
To turn me on
I just need your body baby
From dusk till dawn
You don't need experience
To turn me out
You just leave it all up to me
I'm gonna show you what it's all about.
To turn me on
I just need your body baby
From dusk till dawn
You don't need experience
To turn me out
You just leave it all up to me
I'm gonna show you what it's all about.
You don't have to be rich
To be my girl
You don't have to be cool
To rule my world
Ain't no particular sign I'm more compatible with
I just want your extra time and your...Kiss
To be my girl
You don't have to be cool
To rule my world
Ain't no particular sign I'm more compatible with
I just want your extra time and your...Kiss
"Oh my god!" I flail in the tub, making a splash like Shamu, trying to cover myself.
"Bella, I'm so sorry." Edward turns around and covers his eyes.
"I heard you singing. I, uh, thought you were in your room. I knocked on the bathroom door, but you didn't answer." He runs his hands over his face. "Bella, I'm really sorry." He sighs as he walks out and shuts the door behind him.
I look down at my body, realizing that all the bubbles have me covered. Thank God!
It's not like he hasn't seen your ass, Bella. Ugh. Fucking YouTube!
I towel dry my hair and decide I'm not going to mention anything about the naked bathroom incident. Maybe I'll pretend it didn't happen. Avoidance is my best friend lately.
Too lazy to make food, I decide to order pizza. Hmm. Maybe I should ask Edward if he wants some. I knock on his door and hear him shuffle from the bed.
"Hi. Just wondering if you're hungry. I'm thinking about ordering a pizza."
He smiles down at me, seemingly grateful that I avoid mentioning the tub situation.
"That sounds great. Order whatever you want, I'll pay."
"You're not paying, Edward."
"We'll see about that."
"Just tell me what you want." I roll my eyes playfully.
He smirks down at me. "I like everything, Bella. I'm easy to please." He leans down and whispers, "What about you? Do you like meat?"
a;dsjfa;lksdjf;akljsdf;alkdjf (this is my brain, it has suffered an electrical outage due to the panty flooding)
I rise up onto my toes, trying to appear unfazed.
"I love meat, Edward. The meatier the better." I smirk back. "Oh, and Edward, I'm hard to please." I wink and head toward the kitchen to call in the order, leaving him with his mouth agape, knowing that I'm treading on dangerous panty waters right now.
I order from the little dive around the corner. They have the best pizza, and they're fast.
Edward has a fistful of cash ready as he lingers by the front door, thinking he can somehow pay the delivery guy before I can.
Not gonna happen.
When I hear the knock, I run to open it, knowing Edward's going to try to beat me there.
I scream as he reaches for the knob. "Don't even think about it." He shoves me away playfully as he swings the door open.
When it's all the way open, something happens that I'll never forget. Ever.
"Um. Can someone please tell me what in the frickity-frack is going on here?"
I'd recognize that shrill voice anywhere.
Alice.
Chapter 6
A/N: This chapter is in Edward's POV. I needed to change it up a bit and let us get into Edward's head. Hope you enjoy!
The car ride to Bella's apartment gives me time to think about what I'm doing.
Seriously, Edward. What are you doing?
You don't know this girl. You're supposed to be getting away to clear your head so you can figure out your life, figure out Tanya. Not shack up with a stranger and play house.
But ... I can't help myself.
There's something about her. Those brown eyes, the softness of her skin, the way the tip of her mouth comes to plump point, begging to be kissed.
Fuck. I've got to stop this. Appearing at her door like a twelve-year-old with a hard-on isn't the kind of impression I want to make.
Since she walked into Carlisle's office, I haven't been able to get this girl out of my head. She's unlike anyone I've ever met. Bella's so honest and witty. Oh, and the way she bites on her lower lip, her teeth tugging against that perfect mouth ...
Dammit! I just need to turn around. Call her and tell her this was a mistake. I'll find somewhere else to stay.
I laugh out loud because I know I can't. As much as I think this isn't a good idea, I can't seem to stay away from her.
.
.
.
.
.
I stand on her doorstep for what seems like forever. When the door opens, I lose all train of thought. She's wearing tiny shorts and what has to be the sexiest Mickey Mouse t-shirt in existence. I just stare, unable to form words.
"Um. Hi." Her voice is soft and hesitant.
I squeeze my eyes shut, willing a certain body part to stay calm.
"Hi." I choke out.
"Wanna come in?"
I nod and walk past her, carrying my bags inside. I set down my stuff and take a quick look around.
"Sorry, it's a mess. Didn't really expect to have a roommate tonight." Bella laughs.
"It's perfect." I chuckle nervously, not sure what to say.
"Well ..." She pauses. Bella seems as nervous as I am. "Would you like to see your room?"
"Sure. Lead the way."
The room is larger than I expected. The walls are off-white, the bed at least queen size, with a huge taupe fabric headboard.
"Is this the master bedroom?" I ask as I place my bags on the bed.
"Both bedrooms are the same size. I forgot to mention there's only one bathroom though, so we'll have to share. Our bedrooms have a connecting door to the bathroom. Is that okay?"
Bella looks up at me as she plays with the hem of her t-shirt, my mind flashes images of her in the shower, suds dripping down her stomach, her thighs ...
"Edward? You okay?"
Her voice drags me from my mental escapade.
"Yes, sorry, no, that's not a problem at all."
I need a cold shower. Like now.
She narrows her eyes at me, as if she's trying to figure something out.
She turns to walk out of the room. Her hand slides down the frame of the door. My body is about to explode.
"Well, make yourself at home. Let me know if you need anything."
"Do you mind if I take a quick shower?"
"Sure have at it. Towels are under the sink. Feel free to use whatever I have in there. That is, if you don't mind smelling girly."
I fumble through my bag and pull out my soap and shampoo, dropping them on the floor as I reply. "Lucky for me, I brought my own stuff."
.
.
.
.
.
After a much needed cold shower, I towel-dry my hair and pull on a t-shirt and sweat pants. I should probably stay in here the rest of the night, avoid any further temptation, but I can't hide forever. I'm just going to have to just learn how to be around her.
I find her in the living room. She's sitting in a papasan chair, wearing headphones, concentrating on something she's writing. She smiles when she sees me.
"Feeling better?" She taps the end of her pen against her lips.
"I am, thank you."
"What is that I smell...is it...girly stuff?" She throws back her head and laughs.
Damn.
"I don't know what you're talking about?" I shrug my shoulders and make my way to the couch.
"Oh, so that's how we're playing it?" She sets down her notepad and raises her brow at me.
"I'm not playing. I have no idea what you're talking about."
You've got this, Edward. Be calm and hold your ground. You can't admit to this.
She stands up and walks towards me.
Stay calm.
Bella sits down beside me, inching herself up on her knees. I can feel her stomach against my arm, her breasts at eye level.
She leans down, her hot breath on my ear. "Do you really think you can fool me?"
Think about anything besides her. Dead puppies. Dead puppies. Grannies. Granny panties... Bella in granny panties... Taking off her panties... FOCUS!
I clear my throat. "What exactly do you think you smell?" I turn my head and look up at her.
She sits back on her heels, and grabs my hands, bringing them up to her face and smells them.
"I know I smell my new shower gel and lotion. Couldn't resist the Lemon Vanilla? Don't worry. It's my favorite, too."
She's laughing hysterically now. I've blown my cover.
"Fine. You caught me."
I lean back against the couch, my hands up in mock surrender.
"Not as smooth as I thought, Edward. We'll have to work on your 007 skills a little more."
Bella stands up and walks to the kitchen. I can't help but notice the lack of panty lines under those tiny shorts. I smile a little to myself thinking that she decided to forgo the grannies tonight.
Wait. Shit. That's not good. She wears the grannies when she's afraid she'll want to have sex with someone. Ha! This girl isn't even tempted by me. God I'm so pathetic.
"Want a drink or something?"
"No, I'm okay."
Bella's place is nice. Nicer than I thought it would be. For someone who just started her own business, she's doing quite well for herself. I notice a stack of vinyl records on a shelf.
"You have a turntable?" I nod my head to the records as she walks back into the room.
"Yeah, it's in the cabinet, under the records. I'll get it out."
I watch as she sets it up, her fingers lightly trace along the tops of the records as she searches for the one she wants.
There is something extremely sexy about this girl. She's not dressed up. Her hair is in a messy ponytail and she has little or no make-up on. She is breathtaking.
She looks over at me as she plucks one out of the center.
"Found it. This is one of my favorites."
She sets the record on the player, and gently places the needle. The familiar crackling brings back memories of being with family. Back when everything was good.
"Hope you don't mind my taste in music."
I have a feeling I will love every taste this girl has.
But when I hear the song start to play, I am shocked. Totally not what I was expecting. "You like Otis Redding?"
Bella takes a seat at the other end of the couch and pulls a blanket over her legs. She's drinking a glass of water, probably trying to keep a clear head like I am.
"I love him. I've listened to this record over and over many nights. This song ... it just does something to me."
This girl has taken my breath away. Otis' lyrics are resonating through my brain, repeating, "A Change Is Gonna Come."
I think Otis is right.
We sit there in silence, listening to the song. The sweat from Bella's drink drips down the glass and onto her fingers.
I am fucking dying here.
When the next song starts to play, I can't take it anymore. Mr. Redding is begging a girl to please come to him and I'm five seconds away from licking the water off Bella's fingers and tasting her perfect mouth.
The only thing keeping me from running from this room is the aching hard-on that luckily is being concealed by a pillow from the couch. Maybe I shouldn't have worn these sweat pants. Dammit. I've got to break the silence before I make a fool of myself.
"This is a really nice place you have here, Bella. I like your style. It's quite eclectic."
She laughs and curls her legs under her.
"I'm glad you like my style, Edward. A stylist with no style would be just plain pathetic."
I turn my body towards her, feeling the tension lighten I continue.
"So what's there to do in Forks, you know, for fun?"
Bella raises a brow at my question.
"Forks? Fun? You should have stayed in Chicago. Fun isn't a word I'd use to describe Forks."
"But there's got to be something to do. Clubs? Hang-outs?"
"Yeah, there's a few bars the usual crowd meets up at, and as for clubs, mostly just in Seattle. Nothing like that here. There's a movie theater and a few restaurants. Besides that, you've got to get creative for entertainment.
Oh, I can get creative.
"Why, you bored already?" She scoots down the couch and nudges me with her foot.
I grab her toe, deciding a laugh is what we both need. "Hardly."
I start tickling her foot and she screams, begging me to stop.
"EDWARD! Fuck!"
She's laughing so I know she's not mad. I now have both of her feet, she's screaming, trying to wiggle from my grasp.
"I swear to God you're going to get it!"
She sits up and grabs onto my arm, laughing as she pulls herself towards me.
I let go of her feet and try to block her hands from getting to me.
"Let's see how you like it!"
This girl is on a mission.
Her fingers have successfully made it to my ribs and I'm ticklish. Very ticklish.
"Not so fun on the other side, is it?"
Her hair has fallen free from her ponytail and I'm having a hard fighting her off.
"Okay, okay! I give up!"
My stomach hurts from laughing so hard and thankfully she stops her vicious tickle attack on me. We are both panting, trying to catch our breath.
"I guess I'm not the only ticklish person in the room." Bella smiles down at me and the crackling from the record starts to play the next song.
As "These Arms Of Mine" starts to play, I realize where she is. Bella's on my lap, straddling me.
I can hear her heart pounding from her chest as we both sit in silence. Her mouth is open slightly as her breath slows.
Unable to resist, I brush away a piece of stray hair from her face, letting me see her eyes.
"Bella ..."
She presses her finger to my lips, quieting me.
"Shhh. This is my favorite part of the song."
The car ride to Bella's apartment gives me time to think about what I'm doing.
Seriously, Edward. What are you doing?
You don't know this girl. You're supposed to be getting away to clear your head so you can figure out your life, figure out Tanya. Not shack up with a stranger and play house.
But ... I can't help myself.
There's something about her. Those brown eyes, the softness of her skin, the way the tip of her mouth comes to plump point, begging to be kissed.
Fuck. I've got to stop this. Appearing at her door like a twelve-year-old with a hard-on isn't the kind of impression I want to make.
Since she walked into Carlisle's office, I haven't been able to get this girl out of my head. She's unlike anyone I've ever met. Bella's so honest and witty. Oh, and the way she bites on her lower lip, her teeth tugging against that perfect mouth ...
Dammit! I just need to turn around. Call her and tell her this was a mistake. I'll find somewhere else to stay.
I laugh out loud because I know I can't. As much as I think this isn't a good idea, I can't seem to stay away from her.
.
.
.
.
.
I stand on her doorstep for what seems like forever. When the door opens, I lose all train of thought. She's wearing tiny shorts and what has to be the sexiest Mickey Mouse t-shirt in existence. I just stare, unable to form words.
"Um. Hi." Her voice is soft and hesitant.
I squeeze my eyes shut, willing a certain body part to stay calm.
"Hi." I choke out.
"Wanna come in?"
I nod and walk past her, carrying my bags inside. I set down my stuff and take a quick look around.
"Sorry, it's a mess. Didn't really expect to have a roommate tonight." Bella laughs.
"It's perfect." I chuckle nervously, not sure what to say.
"Well ..." She pauses. Bella seems as nervous as I am. "Would you like to see your room?"
"Sure. Lead the way."
The room is larger than I expected. The walls are off-white, the bed at least queen size, with a huge taupe fabric headboard.
"Is this the master bedroom?" I ask as I place my bags on the bed.
"Both bedrooms are the same size. I forgot to mention there's only one bathroom though, so we'll have to share. Our bedrooms have a connecting door to the bathroom. Is that okay?"
Bella looks up at me as she plays with the hem of her t-shirt, my mind flashes images of her in the shower, suds dripping down her stomach, her thighs ...
"Edward? You okay?"
Her voice drags me from my mental escapade.
"Yes, sorry, no, that's not a problem at all."
I need a cold shower. Like now.
She narrows her eyes at me, as if she's trying to figure something out.
She turns to walk out of the room. Her hand slides down the frame of the door. My body is about to explode.
"Well, make yourself at home. Let me know if you need anything."
"Do you mind if I take a quick shower?"
"Sure have at it. Towels are under the sink. Feel free to use whatever I have in there. That is, if you don't mind smelling girly."
I fumble through my bag and pull out my soap and shampoo, dropping them on the floor as I reply. "Lucky for me, I brought my own stuff."
.
.
.
.
.
After a much needed cold shower, I towel-dry my hair and pull on a t-shirt and sweat pants. I should probably stay in here the rest of the night, avoid any further temptation, but I can't hide forever. I'm just going to have to just learn how to be around her.
I find her in the living room. She's sitting in a papasan chair, wearing headphones, concentrating on something she's writing. She smiles when she sees me.
"Feeling better?" She taps the end of her pen against her lips.
"I am, thank you."
"What is that I smell...is it...girly stuff?" She throws back her head and laughs.
Damn.
"I don't know what you're talking about?" I shrug my shoulders and make my way to the couch.
"Oh, so that's how we're playing it?" She sets down her notepad and raises her brow at me.
"I'm not playing. I have no idea what you're talking about."
You've got this, Edward. Be calm and hold your ground. You can't admit to this.
She stands up and walks towards me.
Stay calm.
Bella sits down beside me, inching herself up on her knees. I can feel her stomach against my arm, her breasts at eye level.
She leans down, her hot breath on my ear. "Do you really think you can fool me?"
Think about anything besides her. Dead puppies. Dead puppies. Grannies. Granny panties... Bella in granny panties... Taking off her panties... FOCUS!
I clear my throat. "What exactly do you think you smell?" I turn my head and look up at her.
She sits back on her heels, and grabs my hands, bringing them up to her face and smells them.
"I know I smell my new shower gel and lotion. Couldn't resist the Lemon Vanilla? Don't worry. It's my favorite, too."
She's laughing hysterically now. I've blown my cover.
"Fine. You caught me."
I lean back against the couch, my hands up in mock surrender.
"Not as smooth as I thought, Edward. We'll have to work on your 007 skills a little more."
Bella stands up and walks to the kitchen. I can't help but notice the lack of panty lines under those tiny shorts. I smile a little to myself thinking that she decided to forgo the grannies tonight.
Wait. Shit. That's not good. She wears the grannies when she's afraid she'll want to have sex with someone. Ha! This girl isn't even tempted by me. God I'm so pathetic.
"Want a drink or something?"
"No, I'm okay."
Bella's place is nice. Nicer than I thought it would be. For someone who just started her own business, she's doing quite well for herself. I notice a stack of vinyl records on a shelf.
"You have a turntable?" I nod my head to the records as she walks back into the room.
"Yeah, it's in the cabinet, under the records. I'll get it out."
I watch as she sets it up, her fingers lightly trace along the tops of the records as she searches for the one she wants.
There is something extremely sexy about this girl. She's not dressed up. Her hair is in a messy ponytail and she has little or no make-up on. She is breathtaking.
She looks over at me as she plucks one out of the center.
"Found it. This is one of my favorites."
She sets the record on the player, and gently places the needle. The familiar crackling brings back memories of being with family. Back when everything was good.
"Hope you don't mind my taste in music."
I have a feeling I will love every taste this girl has.
But when I hear the song start to play, I am shocked. Totally not what I was expecting. "You like Otis Redding?"
Bella takes a seat at the other end of the couch and pulls a blanket over her legs. She's drinking a glass of water, probably trying to keep a clear head like I am.
"I love him. I've listened to this record over and over many nights. This song ... it just does something to me."
This girl has taken my breath away. Otis' lyrics are resonating through my brain, repeating, "A Change Is Gonna Come."
I think Otis is right.
We sit there in silence, listening to the song. The sweat from Bella's drink drips down the glass and onto her fingers.
I am fucking dying here.
When the next song starts to play, I can't take it anymore. Mr. Redding is begging a girl to please come to him and I'm five seconds away from licking the water off Bella's fingers and tasting her perfect mouth.
The only thing keeping me from running from this room is the aching hard-on that luckily is being concealed by a pillow from the couch. Maybe I shouldn't have worn these sweat pants. Dammit. I've got to break the silence before I make a fool of myself.
"This is a really nice place you have here, Bella. I like your style. It's quite eclectic."
She laughs and curls her legs under her.
"I'm glad you like my style, Edward. A stylist with no style would be just plain pathetic."
I turn my body towards her, feeling the tension lighten I continue.
"So what's there to do in Forks, you know, for fun?"
Bella raises a brow at my question.
"Forks? Fun? You should have stayed in Chicago. Fun isn't a word I'd use to describe Forks."
"But there's got to be something to do. Clubs? Hang-outs?"
"Yeah, there's a few bars the usual crowd meets up at, and as for clubs, mostly just in Seattle. Nothing like that here. There's a movie theater and a few restaurants. Besides that, you've got to get creative for entertainment.
Oh, I can get creative.
"Why, you bored already?" She scoots down the couch and nudges me with her foot.
I grab her toe, deciding a laugh is what we both need. "Hardly."
I start tickling her foot and she screams, begging me to stop.
"EDWARD! Fuck!"
She's laughing so I know she's not mad. I now have both of her feet, she's screaming, trying to wiggle from my grasp.
"I swear to God you're going to get it!"
She sits up and grabs onto my arm, laughing as she pulls herself towards me.
I let go of her feet and try to block her hands from getting to me.
"Let's see how you like it!"
This girl is on a mission.
Her fingers have successfully made it to my ribs and I'm ticklish. Very ticklish.
"Not so fun on the other side, is it?"
Her hair has fallen free from her ponytail and I'm having a hard fighting her off.
"Okay, okay! I give up!"
My stomach hurts from laughing so hard and thankfully she stops her vicious tickle attack on me. We are both panting, trying to catch our breath.
"I guess I'm not the only ticklish person in the room." Bella smiles down at me and the crackling from the record starts to play the next song.
As "These Arms Of Mine" starts to play, I realize where she is. Bella's on my lap, straddling me.
I can hear her heart pounding from her chest as we both sit in silence. Her mouth is open slightly as her breath slows.
Unable to resist, I brush away a piece of stray hair from her face, letting me see her eyes.
"Bella ..."
She presses her finger to my lips, quieting me.
"Shhh. This is my favorite part of the song."
Monday, February 4, 2013
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