Saturday, October 27, 2012

Chapter 30 - The Southern Gentleman & Caveward

The next morning I actually pinched myself to make sure last night had been real. As we were falling asleep, Edward had explained to me that he never had the aversion to marriage that I did, reminding me how blissfully happy his parents’ marriage was.

He did admit however, that he never thought he’d find anyone he wanted to marry. He was never willing to settle for less than what Carlisle and Esme had, so he‘d been resigned to being alone.

He was as pathetic as I was.

As he told it, when he met me, everything he had previously thought impossible, suddenly became possible. His happiest moment was when he realized that I felt the same way.

He has the gift of a silver tongue. Mmm, I love Edward’s tongue.

I peeked over at him as he drove. I didn’t think I’d ever seen him as relaxed and content as he was today. We were in the Vanquish, heading back to L.A., after reluctantly saying goodbye to Laguna Beach. It had been a memorable two days. I loved my alone time with Edward, craved it actually when we were apart, but today I was missing my brother and Rose, and couldn’t wait to see them again.

My phone chirped signaling a text message.


Bella,


I think I’m partial to a winter wedding for you. I’ve already sketched a couple of designs. See you soon sweetie!


-A


Alice never ceases to amaze me. She’s already planning my wedding. Definitely not mentioning this to Edward, he‘d probably have me out looking at rings. Oh God, I feel sick.

At the thought of a wedding, my stomach did a little flip. Being married to Edward sounded heavenly, but getting married to Edward was something entirely different. I loathed being the center of attention, and would be in misery if I had to endure a huge overblown affair.

I decided to put it out of my mind for the foreseeable future.

Alice and Jasper were taking all of us out tonight. I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that I was actually looking forward to it. I was finally getting to have all the experiences that I had never enjoyed before meeting Edward.

We stopped by Edward’s house so he could pack a bag, then he had Sidney drop me at Alice and Jasper’s while he went on to a meeting with his agent, promising to be back before we were scheduled to go out.

It was just as well that he wouldn’t be going to the airport with us. He would have stressed over the number of paps that were sure to be there. He was so worried about leaving me, that I had to promise that I’d wait in the car, instead of going inside the airport, before he finally relaxed.

No way was I going to do that. A little white lie to preserve Edward’s sanity surely wouldn’t hurt.

On the way to the airport, Alice filled me in on the latest news. It seemed that all the tabloids had printed retractions and apologies for their most salacious stories about me. She’d gone online, and found website after website that had posted apologies also.

This week, the public had learned almost every detail of the day my mother died. This made me extremely uncomfortable. I can only imagine the looks of pity I was sure to receive from everyone at school and work when I got back to Seattle. I shuddered.

They had also delved very deeply into every detail of my life. Alice said they’d interviewed high school and college classmates, former teachers, acquaintances of Charlie and my mother, in short, people who knew absolutely nothing about the real me.

I may have to buy a couple of those magazines just to know what was being spread around.

While these ‘news’ sources all seemed to have only good things to say about me, they were absolutely savaging Tanya.

It’s amazing how they can turn on someone so quickly.

I was starting to understand how Edward could feel so alone in this town.

Aside from the stories about me, and the negative press about Tanya, the tabloids and websites had started to investigate the lives of the string of women that Edward had gone on public ‘dates’ with. I hoped for Edward’s sake that he was right, and those women would keep their mouths shut.

So what if they find out he didn’t really have a past Bella.

Deep down I knew that I was basically insecure. I was afraid that, at some point, this would all be too much for him, and he’d leave me. I didn’t ever want to feel that loss again.

I was staring out the window preoccupied with my thoughts when I noticed we’d arrived.

“Aren’t you waiting in the car Bella?” Jasper asked, confused, as I got out to follow them.

“No, I just told Edward that so he’d stop freaking out.” I chuckled. “How bad could it be Jasper?”

Oh boy. I felt like I’d stepped into the lions’ den within minutes of walking through the doors.

As soon as they spotted me, a crowd of paps was in pursuit, following on either side and behind, cameras flashing, questions being thrown.

“Isabella, is it true that you’ve never had a boyfriend, never even been on a date until you met Edward?”


“Isabella are you a lesbian?”

Wow, I went from dateless to lesbian in five seconds.

“Bella, are you seeing a psychiatrist for you emotional problems? Are you on any medications for depression or anxiety?”

“Assholes” Alice muttered “Where do they get off asking such offensive questions. Tune them out Bella, they’re just trying to get a reaction.”

“Isabella, is it true that you’re bringing a defamation of character suit against the family of Jeffrey Dryden?”

That was unexpected. It was something Edward and I had discussed for about a minute, but I never committed to anything.

“Does Edward’s lurid past bother you Bella?”


“Bella, is Edward gay?”

And Edward went from man-whore to gay in two seconds.

I almost laughed out loud at that one. Alice noticed my smirk. “You need to practice your poker face Bella.” She chuckled. “Your photo is going to be all over the internet by tonight.”

I felt myself blanch at her words.

Game face Bella.

I glanced at the crowd, and noticed one guy in particular working his way closer to me. He wasn’t bad looking, but the evil smirk taking up half his face was off-putting. He was the next one to speak, “With your emotional instability, have you worried about what will happen when Edward grows bored and leaves you? He didn’t want the hottest actress in Hollywood, why would you think he’d stay with you? We may be able to add ‘delusional’ to your list of psychiatric ailments.“

What the hell?

I heard Alice and Jasper gasp beside me.

He continued “After all, we all know you‘re just a warm body, a distraction, a convenient fu--” Before he had a chance to finish, Jasper grabbed the guy by the front of his shirt and pulled back his clenched fist, ready to land it right in his face. The jerk never lost his smirk. Alice and I jumped into action at the same moment, holding onto Jasper’s arm and begging him to stop.

“Jasper, I have no desire to bail my husband out of jail!” Alice cried.

I silently noted that touching Jasper’s arm didn’t bother me.

The Edward effect.

I didn’t have time to ponder that now though. At Alice’s words, Jasper relaxed slightly, and dropped his fist. He did however, keep his hold on the guy’s shirt “You just crossed a line my man that you don’t want to cross. You owe the lady an apology, and you will give her one, or so help me God I will pummel the living shit out of you. It would be worth the night in jail.” Jasper was seething as he pulled the bastard by his collar and arm over to me.

The pig lost his smirk, but narrowed his eyes as if he was sizing me up. Jasper jerked his collar. “Apologize now or I will fuck you up.” Jasper said in a low and menacing voice.

All the other paps had backed away slightly and silenced their questions, but the cameras continued to click nonstop during the entire exchange.

The ass sneered and said “I apologize Miss.”

Jasper was beyond furious. “That’s not quite good enough. You’re going to look pretty fucking funny when I break my foot off in your ass. Apologize properly!” Jasper still speaking in a low voice, tightened his grip on the jerk’s arm.

The asshole sighed, and this time looked a little bothered by Jasper’s insistence. “Look, I’m sorry Miss Swan, it’s just my job okay?”

I think that’s the best Jasper’s going to get out of this guy.

Jasper turned to me and with a hint of a southern accent said, “Isabella, I’m going to let this be your call, was that apology acceptable?”

As much as I’d like to see this dude get the crap knocked out of him, I certainly didn’t want Jasper to go to jail.

“It’s fine Jasper.” I said as I nodded and looked into his eyes.

Jasper had a pained look on his face as he let the guy go, glaring one last time before we walked away.

--V&V--

“Bellaboo!” Emmett’s voice boomed through the airport when he saw us. He pulled me into a bear hug. I hugged him back as hard as he could. He pulled away a little and looked at my face questioningly “You okay Bells?”

Words failed me, so I nodded in response. I was so emotional today. Maybe I was PMSing.

No Bella, you’re just freaking out because your entire life is about to change.

Truth be told, the life-altering changes occurring in my life were set in motion the day I met Edward.

Emmett turned to greet Alice and Jasper, “Ali! Franny! How the hell are ya?” I noticed a couple of moms with small children give him dirty looks. Emmett remained oblivious.

Jasper groaned and covered his face with his hand at Emmett’s choice of monikers. Rose greeted me “Hi Bells” She gave me a hug and laughed. “He insisted on coming on this trip as soon as he found out the location of our photo shoot.“

I realized at that moment that I didn’t know that tidbit of information

“Where’s it being held Rose?” I asked.

“Alice hasn’t told you?” Rose looked surprised “We’re going to Disneyland!”

That completely explains Emmett’s insistence on coming. He is eternally five years old.

Disneyland is one place that Emmett had always wanted to go, but hadn’t been.

He’d better enjoy it, because after tomorrow we’ll probably be banned for life. Shit.

--V&V--

“I don’t understand what’s wrong with him. He was so happy after he proposed, he’d listen while I blathered on about wedding details, just happy that I was happy. About a week ago, I noticed a change, he started behaving strangely. We’ve already reserved the venue for the reception, but every time I want to discuss the actual ceremony, he gets upset.”

Alice and I were consoling Rosalie in the powder room of the Italian restaurant where we’d gone for dinner. The boys were waiting for us at the table, hopefully not suspecting that Rose was having an emotional breakdown.

“Upset in what way?” I asked. I was completely confused by this turn of events. Emmett had been ecstatic about marrying Rose, I couldn’t believe that would have changed.

“He gets a sad, worried look on his face.” She hesitated. “He, he almost looks regretful. I think he regrets proposing.” Rose started to sob.

Dear God Bella, you need to diffuse this situation immediately.

“Rose, honey, there’s no way Emmett regrets that. He is so crazy in love with you, he tells me all the time how happy he’ll be when you’re finally his wife.”

Rose peeked up at me from behind her hands “Really?”

“Of course.” I added in a soft voice.

“Bella is right Rose. Every time I‘ve spoken to him, he‘s been so excited.” Alice remarked.

I thought about possible reasons for Emmett‘s odd behavior. “I think maybe he’s just missing Mom. You have to admit that it makes sense. No matter how happy the day, we’re going to be thinking about her, and missing her presence.”

“Oh my gosh Bells. How stupid and insensitive I’ve been.” Rose dramatically slapped her hand across her forehead. “You’re right, that has to be it. My poor monkey man, I‘ve been so distracted that I forgot about his feelings. I’m a terrible person.”

“Rose, just talk to him. It sounds like he was willing to internalize all this in order to spare you feelings.” Alice soothed.

“God I love that big doofus.“ Rose smiled and, with Alice’s help, did a quick fix of her makeup.

--V&V--

“A club in Pasadena?” Jasper asked, confused, as the limo took us toward our destination. “What kind of club Alice?”

Alice looked a little guilty. “Chris recommended it, he’s actually meeting us there. Emmett wanted to go to a karaoke bar, and it’s supposed to have the best karaoke around.”

Jasper looked exasperated. “Alice, you know I love you, but if Christopher chose this, it’s probably a gay bar.”

“He said it’s only about 80 percent gay” she defended.

Jasper groaned.

“Francesca, you need to lighten up.” Emmett decided to interject “A little karaoke with the queens is not going to kill you.”

“I wonder if you’ll still feel that way after they start hitting on you Emmett.” Jasper answered.

“Get over it Jazz. You boys will finally get to experience what we girls have to deal with all the time.” Rose laughed. “It will be nice to go to a bar and not have anyone hit on me.”

Emmett, Rose and I loved karaoke. Weird I know. Well, Emmett loved anything that made him the center of attention.

If asked, I’d have to admit that I was pretty damn good at it. Not that I ever went out to practice in public. It was just something I did with Rose and sometimes Emmett, they owned a machine, and I never did it sober. I had a few favorite songs that I’d memorized the lyrics to, so Rose and I had added seductive dance moves to fit them.

Moves that no one outside of Rose or Emmett would ever see.

Upon entering the bar, Alice quickly amended her statement “Okay, maybe it’s 90 percent gay.”

With our group making up the other ten.

Chris saw us enter and ran over to greet us. “Hello Alice sweetie. I’ve reserved a couple tables for us. So happy to see you again Bella and Edward.” He said as he hugged us. “Rosalie, girl you are gorgeous, you are like some kind of Nordic goddess.” We laughed. Rose loved it.

“Emmett Swan, mm mm mm, the man with the most talented hands in the NFL.” Chris sighed. “Let’s just leave it at that shall we?”

“Hello Jasper.” Chris said as he quirked an eyebrow while eyeing Jasper’s boots.

Alice giggled. “Chris where’s Gerry tonight?”

“Oh honey, I couldn’t talk him into coming here. He hates places like this, he’s such a grump. He’s coming tomorrow though, he wouldn’t miss a chance to go to Disney.” Chris laughed.

The bar was all red, turquoise and purple streamers, everything sparkled. There was a little stage area set aside for karaoke. Soon after we arrived, the place started to fill up. Most of the clientele was gay, but there were a few straight couples also. Quite a few people were in drag.

After a while, people started to recognize Edward, but everyone was very friendly, not pushy. We felt very welcome.

We were happily chatting, everyone enjoying the first round of drinks when Chris suddenly remembered something, “Oh Jasper. I don’t know how I almost forgot this. What did that guy do at the airport that made you so angry, the photos are all over the internet?” Chris looked alarmed.

Oh shit Edward’s going to find out I went into the airport.

Everyone except Alice and I watched Jasper expectantly, waiting for his answer. “He just said something rude about Bella.”

I saw Emmett, Rose and Edward all bristle at those words.

“How did they even realize you have anything to do with Bella? You know, they’ve really gone too far if they‘re now harassing my manager.” Edward asked, confused.

Time for the truth Bella.

I touched Edward’s arm so he’d look at me. “I went with Jazz and Alice, into the airport.”

Edward frowned. “But you said you would wait in the car, you promised.”

“Edward, I said that because you were freaking out for no reason. You were overreacting.” I kept my voice even.

Edward looked angry. “So you lied in order to placate me Bella?” He turned away from me, back to Jasper. “What exactly happened Jasper?”

Jasper went on to explain the events at the airport. Emmett gave him a fist bump when he was finished. “Thanks for looking out for my sister Jasper. I owe you.” Emmett was serious for once.

“No one owes me.” Jasper responded. “Bella’s family. Family looks out for each other.”

That’s the sweetest thing Jasper’s ever said. Oh shit, Edward looks angrier than he was before he knew all the gory details.

“I’m sorry I missed it Jasper.” Rose added as she beamed at her brother. “You’ve always been the more rational one, it takes a lot to make you angry, but I sure as hell wouldn‘t want to be on the receiving end of that anger.”

She turned to everyone else, “Growing up, Jasper had this group of friends that were, how can I explain, they were like his followers because Jazz was definitely the leader, a very quiet, reserved leader. He‘s always been the smartest one in the room.” She grinned at her brother. “I remember once, we were all at a bonfire party, everyone was drinking. One of Jazz’s followers said something he didn’t like. Evidently the guy didn’t know when to shut up because he kept needling Jazz all night. Suddenly, without a word, Jazz grabbed him, lifted him and threw him down on the ground, breaking the dude’s ankle.“

Emmett looked shocked. “Whoah. It’s always the quiet ones.“ He muttered.

Jazz just laughed, shaking his head.

“I never did find out what the guy said that made you so angry Jasper.“ Rose questioned.

“Jazzy told me about this. That so-called ‘friend’ was saying inappropriate things about you Rose. Granted the guy was drunk, so Jasper went easy on him.” Alice grinned. “It was before you met Emmett. Didn’t you know your brother was your biggest defender?“

Jasper looked embarrassed. Rose patted his hand. “Thanks little brother” she whispered. Jasper just smiled at her.

I chanced a quick look at Edward and he was still pissed. I took a large swig of my drink, downing the last of it. Not willing to stick around for the waiter to appear, I decided to go to the bar for my next one.

As I waited, I was aware that Edward had sidled up to me. “Do you even understand why I would be angry about this Bella?” He spoke in a low determined voice.

“Because you were being irrational, and I told you something you wanted to hear Edward? I’m sorry that I technically lied but you couldn’t have seriously expected me not to go inside to greet Emmett and Rose.” I argued.

“That’s exactly what I expected Bella. It would be different if you’d intended to stay in the car, but changed your mind at the last minute, but don’t lie to me Bella. I was lied to for years, I thought you were different.”

No way did Edward just compare my little white lie to those of his skanky ex-girlfriend.

I was suddenly furious. I downed my second drink while standing there glaring at him. He eyed me curiously. After the drink, I calmed down enough to speak. “How dare you compare me to a whore.” I seethed. “Why don’t you say something about my mental instability while you’re at it Edward?”

Edward looked appalled. “Bella, I never compared you to a whore” he said as he lowered his voice to a whisper. “Yes, Meghan was one of those that lied to me, but I was also speaking of all the phony people in L.A. that were part of my life before I isolated myself. The ones who told me what I wanted to hear, as opposed to the truth.” He paused. “And, I’d never throw your emotional problems up in your face.”

“Oh so you’re admitting that I have emotional problems?” I narrowed my eyes at him.

You do have emotional problems dumb ass. Stop looking for reasons to be mad at Edward.

Edward took a deep breath and let it out. “I don’t think I can win this argument. You’ve obviously had too much to drink, and you are unreasonable. I just wanted to stress the fact that your lie bothered me.”

He’s is so fucking clueless. He has no idea when to shut up. I haven’t had nearly enough to drink.

I went back to the table, Rose and Alice eyeing me curiously.

“Get up Emmett.” I demanded of my brother.

He stood up, bewildered, and I took his seat. Emmett rubbed the back of his neck with his hand while taking in the expression on my face. “Ookay, I’ll just sit over here then.” He said as he moved around to my vacant chair.

Edward sat down in his chair with a resigned look on his face.

Chris looked me apologetically. I reached over and patted his hand to reassure him.

The emcee took the microphone in hand, welcoming all the guests. I took a moment to admire his attire. He was in drag. He was wearing a blue bouffant wig and a form fitting electric blue costume which showed off his muscular legs, and made him look like a beautiful six foot tall diva from outer space.

Good evening everyone! I just want to say a word of welcome to any new comers. I guarantee this will be a night you won’t soon forget!


We’re going to start the karaoke momentarily. I just wanted to make you aware of some special guests joining us tonight.

He pointed over to our tables.

Seated over there is none other that Edward Masen! He said excitedly. Let’s see, his latest movie is ’Time Stands Still’, a wonderful film. Although I’d have to say that my personal favorite is ’September Ends’, and you know why bitches! He said, and then winked at Edward.

Edward had the nerve to flash the panty-dropper at him.

Jerk

I dove into my third drink with a vengeance.

Another special guest, and our first karaoke participant is none other that Emmett Swan. You know Emmett well ladies if you’re a football fan.


After meeting Emmett I’m prepared to switch my allegiance from the Niners to the Seahawks. The emcee announced drawing cheers, and a few boos, from the audience.

Come on over here stud so you can perform the first song of the evening.

Emmett walked over to the stage grinning from ear to ear, and took the microphone. “Thank you everyone. In order to perform the song I’ve chosen, I’ll need the assistance of my lovely fiancĂ©. Rose would you mind?” He said as he gestured to Rose. Rose returned his grin, and I knew instantly which song they were going to do.

“I’m also going to need the assistance of my future brother-in-law, a very talented whistler.” Emmett said with a wink. Emmett handed Jasper a microphone to use from where he was seated.

A few seconds later the opening bars of ‘Starstrukk’ began to come through the sound system.

Emmett, of course, took 3OH!3’s part, while Rose sang Katy Perry’s, with Jazz supplying the whistles.

Nice legs, Daisy dukes, Makes a man go whoo-whoo
That's the way they all come through, Like whoo-whoo whoo-whoo
Low-cut, see-through shirts That make you whoo-whoo
That's the way she come through
Like whoo-whoo whoo-whoo

The audience went wild, singing along and dancing. This encouraged Emmett and Rose to really play it up.

(Cause I) Just set them up Just set them up
Just set them up, To knock them down
(Cause I) Just set them up Just set them up
Just set them up, To knock them down

Alice, Chris and I joined the crowd now dancing and singing. Edward stayed in his seat, sulking. The crowd was eating up Rose and Emmett’s performance. When Rose mimicked Katy’s move, and licked Emmett’s face, I saw one guy grab his chest.

I silently wondered whether he wished he were Rose or Emmett, my gaydar wasn’t fully functional tonight.

By the time the song finished, I was trying to think of a way to teach Edward a lesson. I was certain that it was the alcohol making me brave once again. I was on my third drink, while Edward was slowly nursing his second.

Who cares if he was right about the drinking, this is my vacation damn it.

Alice coaxed Jasper to get up next.

Hell, how much has he had to drink?

I realized as soon as the song started that, country music fan that he was, Jasper had only agreed because he got to sing like Garth Brooks. And he was semi-drunk.

Blame it all on my roots, I showed up in boots,
And ruined your black tie affair
The last one to know, The last one to show
I was the last one you thought you'd see there
And I saw the surprise, And the fear in his eyes
When I took his glass of champagne
And I toasted you, Said, honey, we may be through
But you'll never hear me complain

'Cause I've got friends in low places
Where the whiskey drowns and the beer chases my blues away
And I'll be okay
I'm not big on social graces. Think I'll slip on down to the oasis
Oh, I've got friends in low places

Alice and I were hysterically laughing at the reaction of the crowd. It seems that Jasper was a big hit with more than just Christopher tonight. Jasper was an amazingly handsome guy, but very self-deprecating. I was always certain that he never knew just how attractive he really was.

I was happy when I realized that Edward had started smiling and seemed to be enjoying himself, finally.

A couple other people performed after Jasper. I continued to watch the show from Emmett’s old seat, sneaking glances at Edward when I was sure he wasn’t looking my way.

I wasn’t as angry as I was before, but he still needed to be punished. An idea began to form. I slipped out of my chair, needing a little distance from Edward, and made my way toward the bar.

Are you serious Bella? You could never be drunk enough to pull this one off.

“Shut up you stupid bitch.” I said out loud to myself. Approximately three guys within earshot turned their questioning gazes in my direction. “Uh, sorry, talking to myself.” They burst into laughter, and one of them gave me a reassuring pat on the arm.

I peeked toward the stage, and was surprised to find Alice and Chris up there. I smiled as the familiar ‘Summer Nights’ from Grease started to play. Alice was perfect as Sandy, and Chris did an awesome rendition of John Travolta’s performance from the movie.

I started to feel insignificant, pretty much convincing myself that my plan wouldn’t work, so I slipped off to the bathroom.

After a few minutes, I was joined by Alice and Rose.

“I knew you’d be hiding in here.” Rose remarked. “If it helps, Edward doesn’t seem mad any more.”

“Well, that’s good to know.” I said in my most sarcastic voice.

Rose tried to hold back her smile. “What are you planning Bells?”

Rose knows me too well.

“Maybe I should do a little karaoke.” I whispered.

Rose’s eyes widened. “What song?”

I looked directly into her eyes. “My favorite.”

Her eyes widened further. “No” she whispered. “Emmett will have a fit. Not to mention what it will do to Edward.”

“That’s the idea Rose. He needs to be punished for what he pulled tonight.” I snarked. “He made me feel like shit for most of the evening. Not to mention what he did last Friday by leaving.”

“Now Bella, you said you weren’t holding a grudge about that.” Alice reminded.

“It’s true that I’ve forgiven him, but he still deserves a big bitch slap, wouldn’t you agree?”

They both smiled their drunken smiles and nodded their heads. “Well, if you’re really serious, your outfit needs some adjustments.”

I was wearing a white mini-skirt and a yellow top with cap sleeves. Alice quickly enlisted the help of a couple of ‘ladies’ that worked at the bar. Within fifteen minutes, my shirt had been removed, leaving me in only the white satin bustier that I was wearing under it.

My hair was mussed up and sprayed into a messy heap. A couple strands of beads completed the look. I got to keep my white skirt and heels.

I was ready to go when Alice grabbed my arms, looking into my eyes. “Okay Bella, I’ve got to warn you that Edward is very good at karaoke. He doesn’t go out to bars like this, but I’ve seen him perform at parties.” she grinned. “You may just be the one who’s sorry if he decides to get even with you for this.”

“That I’ve got to see.” laughed Rose.

Me too. Edward singing and maybe dancing. It just got really hot in here. I’m sweating like a stuck pig. And I’m drunk as shit.

“Lead me out ladies. I just hope I have the balls to do what I’ve set out to do.” Alice and Rose both laughed at me.

I almost lost my nerve, but then I saw the looks on the faces of Jasper, Emmett and Edward as I took to the stage. It was a true Kodak moment. As soon as the first strains of ‘Like A Virgin’ began to play, Emmett bolted out of his chair.

“No fucking way Bells. I forbid you to perform that song in public.” He shouted.

I just shook my head and started the song. I saw Rose go to him and speak soothingly in his ear, and he eventually sat back down. I had been practicing this song and dance moves for a couple of years.

I made it through the wilderness
Somehow I made it through
Didn't know how lost I was
Until I found you

My dance moves started out slow and innocent. I was tickled to notice that Edward’s eyes were about to bug out of his head as they stayed riveted on my performance. I twirled and danced around the stage as I sang. As long as I focused on Edward, I knew I’d be brave enough to continue.

I was beat incomplete
I'd been had, I was sad and blue
But you made me feel
Yeah, you made me feel
Shiny and new

This was the point where Rose and I had added writhing dance moves that made Madonna’s look innocent. Both of Edward’s hands went up to his head, clutching his hair, as I slithered down to my knees while one hand held the microphone, the other ran up and down my body seductively.

I saw Rose actually sit on Emmett’s lap to keep him in his chair.

Like a virgin
Touched for the very first time
Like a virgin
When your heart beats
Next to mine

I watched as Edward downed the rest of his drink. I was stunned and thrilled by his reaction, causing me to become bolder as I moved about the stage.

Alice winked and gave me the thumbs up when she saw what was happening to her brother.

Gonna give you all my love, boy
My fear is fading fast
Been saving it all for you
'Cause only love can last

You're so fine and you're mine
Make me strong, yeah you make me bold
Oh your love thawed out
Yeah, your love thawed out
What was scared and cold

As soon as I started to slither across the stage on all fours toward Edward, he flew out of his chair, came over, and grabbed me. I dropped the microphone when he tossed me over his shoulder and carried me out.

Hello Caveward. Hands down the sexiest thing he’s ever done.

The audience burst into applause, and I could hear the hoots and catcalls from our friends and family as Edward carried me outside.

He put me down and then proceeded to back me up against the wall. He pressed his entire body against mine. “Do you have any idea how crazy you make me Miss Swan?”

Truth was, as close as a certain body part was pressed against me, the effect I had on him was pretty obvious. “I think I have a clue.” I whispered.

“First you make me angry because I worry about you so much.” He breathed into my mouth, our lips barely touching. “Then you get up there and do that. Bella, I’m only human. My self restraint is fucking crumbling as it is when I’m around you.”

With those words his lips found mine. This wasn’t a sweet kiss, it was so passionate that it was almost violent. Our tongues fought for dominance, before Edward pulled his lips away, only to attack my neck and shoulder with his lips and tongue. “I like this” He murmured as he fingered the lace edge at the top of the bustier.

I was so tipsy that I forgot my self control and let myself surrender to feeling. My heels made it so I was tall enough to wrapped my leg around Edward’s hip, he held onto the leg to assist me, and then I began grinding against him at the same time he started sucking on my neck.

Oh fuck, Edward’s going to give me a hickey. What are we fifteen?

“You can’t do that to me Bella. You are mine. You’re just lucky that most of the guys here are gay, or I would never let you go back in there, I’d take you home right now.” He continued kissing down my shoulder, then across the bare skin above the bustier.

“Hey, you may want to stop that before Emmett comes to investigate.” I heard Jasper’s amused voice announce from the direction of the door.

Cockblocker.

Edward pulled away abruptly, but left his hands on my shoulders, as we both caught our breath. He started to chuckle as he thought of something. “It’s probably for the best. As much as I’d like to have my way with you right now Miss Swan, your brother would have every right to end my life if it were to happen against the wall of a karaoke bar.“ I started to laugh with him.

Edward kissed my shoulder and up my neck again as he spoke. “Here’s what happens next Miss Swan. You are to go straight to the bathroom and put your shirt back on. Then we are going to enjoy the rest of the evening.”

He looked into my eyes. “I’m sorry I was an overprotective jerk. Will you forgive me?”

“If you’ll forgive me for my little lie.” I said in answer.

“Done. Let’s not ever fight again.”

“I agree.” Then his lips were on mine again, but he pulled away before we had a chance to lose ourselves.

When I returned from the bathroom Edward wasn’t seated at our table. I noticed some commotion in the direction of the stage and saw him standing there watching me, sexy smirk on his face. The commotion was being caused by several people vying for the best spots in front.

He is the sexiest man alive after all, but what the hell is he up to?

The mystery was solved as soon as the music started and Edward began to sing in his best falsetto, and dance in a way that would put Prince to shame.

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

I sucked in a sharp breath as Edward gyrated his hips seductively.

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

Edward started to remove his shirt in a slow sexy striptease. Fuuuuuccckk. Revenge was a cold, hard, motherless bitch, and Edward was exacting his on me right fucking now.

You got to not talk dirty, baby
If you wanna impress me
You can't be too flirty, mama
I know how to undress me (Yeah)
I want to be your fantasy, maybe you could be mine
You just leave it all up to me we could have a good time

It was way too hot in this place. I needed air.

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

When he wasn’t turning his back to the crowd and swaying his hips, giving everyone a view of his stellar ass, his eyes stayed locked with mine, a permanent smirk frozen on his gorgeous face.


Yes, I think I wanna dance
Gotta, Gotta
Little girl Wendy's parade
Gotta, gotta, gotta

I was afraid that if he swayed those hips one more time, I was going to hyperventilate.

Women not girls rule my world, I said they rule my world
Act your age, mama (Not your shoe size)
Not your shoe size
Maybe we could do the twirl
You don't have to watch Dynasty to have an attitude
You just leave it all up to me, my love will be your food
Yeah

From the looks of the crowd, I wasn’t the only one in danger of passing out. There were a few patrons, male and female fanning themselves. Even Rose had a look of awe on her face while watching Edward’s performance. I felt insignificant again, wondering how this Greek god could find me remotely attractive.

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

The roar of the crowd was overwhelming as I found my seat and sank down in it, willing myself to disappear.

Then I heard the only sound able to pull me from my moment of self-doubt, Edward’s voice, low in my ear. “That was just for you baby. Are you ready to leave? I’m aching to have you all to myself again.” He breathed.

I fanned myself with my hand. “Yeah, let’s leave, I need some air, I’m so fucking hot.”

“That you are.” He said as he laughed.

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