I had no right or reason to feel sad, but I did. It was ten days until graduation, and two weeks until I was unemployed. Actually, I was thrilled to be graduating, not so thrilled to be 'unemployed'. Add to that the fact that Edward had been called back to California early this morning, a whole day and a half earlier than expected. Something about needing him early because weather predictions caused changes to the dates of the reshoots for The Harvest of Avarice.
I already missed him, and was miffed that we wouldn't be flying down there together on Thursday night like we'd planned.
I'm such a whiney little brat.
"Bella dear, are you alright?" Esme asked.
Oh crap. Do they realize that I wasn't listening?
"Um yeah, I'm fine Esme." I said before worrying my lip.
"We just wanted your input about the decorations for the reception." Esme asked.
"Esme, I'm sure whatever you choose will be lovely. I trust you completely." I meant it. I'd already chosen the decorations for the church, which is to say the flowers for the altar and tulle streamers for the pews. I had also chosen the dresses and bouquets for myself and the bridesmaids.
I'd chosen the music for the ceremony and Edward was in charge of the music for the reception. The photographers were hired. Edward and I had handwritten the invitations to our families and close friends last night, and Esme had volunteered to do the rest. Almost everything that needed to be done was now in the hands of other people. All I truly needed to do was show up.
"I feel awful that you're not making these decisions for yourself sweetie." Esme said with concern.
"Esme please don't feel that way. I am really happy you're doing this believe me." I answered with a smile.
"If you're sure?"
"I am" I said as I reached over to grasp her hand.
-V&V—
"Hello Ms. McCarty, my name is Jonathan Corday. I'm one of the publishers here at Old World Press, I work out of our Seattle office." The voice at the other end of the line said in a businesslike tone.
Holee crap.
My mouth suddenly got very dry when I attempted to speak. I'd not been expecting this phone call. Not at all.
I'd pushed to the back of my mind the fact that I'd even submitted a story for publication.
Because of the publicity surrounding my relationship with Edward, I'd signed all my correspondence with the publishers by the pseudonym Marie McCarty, which was Grandma Swan's maiden name. If I were lucky enough to be published, I didn't want to be accused of cashing in on Edward's fame. I wanted to do it on my own.
I cleared my throat. "Yes, um, hello Mr. Corday. What can I do for you?" I tried to sound unaffected.
"Ms. McCarty, I'm very interested in meeting with you so that we can discuss the possible publication of your children's story Francisco and the Swallow." He answered. "I'm prepared to offer you $20,000 in advance of sales, half to be paid at the time of signing, and the other half when the book is released. This advance would be against any royalties you would receive for each book sold of course." He advised.
"I see." I answered, trying to sound professional.
"What I need to know today Ms. McCarty is if that arrangement would be of interest to you?"
How do I say Hell Yeah without yelling in this guy's ear?
I tried to compose my inner twelve year old screaming girl. "Why yes, I believe that arrangement would be of interest to me Mr. Corday. Unfortunately my schedule is quite hectic for the next two weeks. How soon did you want to meet?" I asked.
"Let's see, would you be available around the seventeenth of this month?" He asked.
That was right before our Route 66 trip. I needed to get a lot of advice before I met with this man, a lot of legal advice. Hopefully two weeks would be enough time for that.
"I'm available on the eighteenth, would that work for you?"
He hesitated for a minute. "Yes. Let's say we meet at my office at two o'clock. I'll have my secretary send you an information packet and a copy of the contract so that your lawyer can review it ahead of time."
"Great."
"Thank you Ms. McCarty, and I look forward to seeing you on the eighteenth."
"Thank you Mr. Corday."
I ended the call and did a little happy dance in my living room. I dialed Edward's number, wanting to tell him my good news, but all I got was his voicemail. "Hi Edward, um, I know you're filming so just call me when you have a minute, I have something exciting to tell you." I practically squeaked into the phone.
As soon as I hung up, I charged across the hall to Rose and Emmett's apartment, even though I knew Rose was at a business dinner with some of WIRI's sponsors. Emmett was sprawled across the sofa watching Big Time Rush. I did a double-take as I glanced at the screen. "Big Time Rush? Really Emmett?" I snarked. "I thought that show was aimed at pre-teens."
He raised his eyebrows. "And your point is?" He asked.
I just shrugged; too excited about my news at that moment to worry about what a freak my brother was. I walked over until I stood in front of where he was lying on the sofa. "Pinch me." I demanded as I held out my arm.
He quirked an eyebrow and extended his index finger. "Only if you pull my finger first." He grinned.
I immediately dropped my arm and looked at him in disgust. "Just forget it." I barked.
"Too late anyway." He announced approximately one second before the rank odor reached my nose.
"Emmett!" I exclaimed as I pinched my nose and backed away from him. "You could have warned me."
"Sorry Bellaboo, but how was I to know you'd barge in here at the exact moment the urge to release that SBD came over me?" He defended. "You're invading my sanctuary I'll have you know."
"Your living room is a fart sanctuary Emmett?"
"This entire apartment is a fart sanctuary when Rosie's not home." He grinned.
"You are beyond disgusting." I announced while still holding my nose.
"So I've been told" He said with a shrug. "But it was mostly by you, so I didn't pay attention." He grinned. "Why did you want me to pinch you anyway?" He asked as he pressed the mute button.
I lost all interest in Emmett's farts then as I remembered the phone call. "Oh Emmett, I'm so excited. A publishing company is interested in one of my stories!" I practically shouted.
His face lit up with a brilliant smile. "That's wonderful Sissy." He stood and gave me a hug. "Did you call Edward and Pops yet?"
I frowned. "I tried Edward but his phone went straight to voicemail." I smiled then, "I'll call Dad right now." I said as I pulled out my phone.
"This is really great. I'm happy for you." Emmett smiled.
I was pretty happy for me too.
-V&V—
"Bella, that's just.. " Edward seemed to find it difficult to express himself. "I'm so proud of you baby." He breathed out finally. "Remember when I said that there's nothing like getting paid for what you love to do? Having other people appreciate something you've done is very rewarding."
"Yeah" I answered with a smile. It was late Wednesday night and we were talking on skype.
I watched as Edward yawned. "Are you going to be okay without me there tonight Edward?"
His confession that I kept the nightmares away had been weighing heavily on me.
He frowned. "I hope so. It's only one night."
"Let's get in bed. We can stay connected to skype. Maybe that will help." I tried to sound cheerful.
"I can't wait until tomorrow night when you're back in my arms." He admitted.
I was awoken in the middle of the night by Edward calling my name. He was definitely having another nightmare. "Edward, wake up" I called to him.
He turned to face me then, opened his eyes and blinked a few times trying to focus. He looked pretty shaken. "Oh Edward" I choked out as I stroked his face on the screen. I knew he couldn't feel it, but I was compelled to do it.
He rubbed his face with his hands. "I'm okay baby."
"Edward please promise me that you'll go see Dr. Miller." I pleaded softly.
"I promise sweetheart." He said as he lay back down, never taking his eyes off of me.
-V&V—
The next evening, Lou and I were headed to L.A. Because Edward was still on set, Alice and Jasper met us at the airport.
"Bella!" Alice squealed when she saw me.
I ran to her and we threw our arms around each other. "It's been so long." She exclaimed.
"Alice, I just saw you a week and a half ago." I answered with a laugh.
"Well it seems like forever." She chatted as she grabbed my hand, pulling me with her. We left Jasper and Lou to grab the bags as we talked. "I've got everything set up for the calendar photo shoot. Byron, the photographer, thinks we'll get it all finished in a couple of days. Lucky for you that Edward's filming tomorrow morning and all day Saturday." She grinned.
"Did you remember the dresses and the shoes?" She asked with narrowed eyes.
"Of course Alice."
"Good." She smiled at me as she tilted her head slightly. "You're going to be absolutely stunning."
As we stood there at baggage claim a harsh unwelcome voice intruded on our little bubble.
"Hey Isabella, what do you plan to do if you find out that the child is really Edwards?" The paps had found me.
"Will you leave him for lying to you?" The voice continued.
"Ignore them." Alice hissed through her clenched teeth.
My belief in Edward was so strong that nothing the paps could shout at me would cause it to waiver. As I thought about what they'd asked, I realized that I had expected far worse from them.
-V&V—
On the way to Edward's house, Alice and Jasper filled me in on everything they'd found out about Jill Richardson. "Well, it seems that before the VMAs she'd been living with Spencer Wyatt for almost a year."
"The musician?" I asked.
Spencer Wyatt and his band were just starting to hit it big on the national stage. I'd just begun hearing about them a couple of months before, but they'd been fairly well-known in L.A. for a couple of years.
Alice nodded. "The rumor is that when she agreed to be Edward's 'fake date', he left her. Packed up and moved out."
I listened intently as Jasper spoke next. "From what anyone knows, Ms. Richardson was so blinded by her desire to get the part in that movie, she didn't try to reconcile."
This didn't make sense. "Jasper how stupid is she? I mean she had to figure out soon after that she was pregnant and due in June. How the hell did she expect to be in a movie?"
Jasper took a deep breath. "Well, in her defense, even though the last thing I want to do is defend her, her part wasn't supposed to start filming until late July. I guess she thought she could hide the pregnancy from the studio, and by the time she was on set, she would have already given birth. She obviously doesn't know how things work in this town."
I looked at him questioningly.
"The studio shifts dates around all the time. I'm sure they advised her of that, and she probably signed a contract telling her they could begin filming her part as early as May or June. She's been poorly advised."
"How did you find all this out?" I asked.
Jasper cleared his throat, looking a little uncomfortable. "The private investigator filled me in about an hour before you arrived. I left a detailed message on Edward's phone, so he'll hear it when he finishes tonight."
It felt strange to be in Edward's house without him there, but when we'd spoken that morning he'd asked that I go straight there from the airport. Lou was staying in the guest house with Sidney. Alice and Jasper stayed around for a little while to chat, before they headed for home.
I made my way up to Edward's bedroom. He had obviously arrived in a hurry the day before, because I found his suitcase lying open in the dressing area of his walk-in closet with clothes strewn on the floor around it. I straightened up the mess as best I could before setting my suitcase beside his.
I took a shower and wrapped my hair in a towel before slipping into the dressing area again and pulling my short satin nightie from the suitcase. Once I was dressed, and had dried my hair, I decided to explore a little, eventually ending up in Edward's music room. We had discussed how much he enjoyed playing piano and guitar, but I knew for a fact he hadn't spent a lot of time doing it since we'd met.
Aside from Edward's bedroom, the music room was where I felt Edward's presence the most. I sprawled across his leather sofa and picked up a copy of Guitar Player magazine sitting on the coffee table. I started to read an article about some musician that I'd never heard of. It may have been the single most boring thing I'd ever read, and within minutes I felt myself getting sleepy.
"Bella" Edward whispered as he kissed my neck. "Sweetheart, come to bed." I opened my eyes to find him sitting by me on the sofa. I sat up and wrapped my arms around his neck.
"I missed you." I whispered. I was so sleepy.
I felt his strong arms reach under me and then a second later I was being lifted from the sofa and carried bridal style to his room. I was too tired to argue. Within minutes I was snuggled in Edward's bed, and a short time later he was beside me with his arms pulling me close.
In my dream I felt arms wrap around me from behind and warm hands resting on my stomach. One hand moved up under my nightie until it cupped my bare breast. The other hand went lower until it rested below my belly button, the fingertips lightly tracing the skin there. I didn't fight or pull away because I knew, even in my dream that these were Edward's hands. His thumb began to graze my nipple causing it to harden and making me ache for his touch lower, lower… I was trapped in the dream, wanting his hands and his lips on every part of my body, exploring, caressing. I could feel his warm breath on my neck and his erection hard against my back.
Why can't I wake up?
My will power was effectively shattered at that moment. I wanted him. I wanted to make love. In my dream, I was weak…
As soon as he moaned my name, my eyes flew open and I soon realized that it hadn't been a dream. Edward was wrapped around me, one hand on my breast the other dangerously close to where I wanted it most.
He promised to behave
At that moment, he started to gently grind his considerable erection into my back. I turned just enough to see his face, ready to throw my inhibitions out the window and give myself to him.
One look at his face stopped me cold. Edward's eyes were closed as he lightly snored. He was fast asleep.
He was having an erotic dream about me.
With that realization, my head began to clear enough to realize that this wasn't what we'd planned. As torturous as it may be, we were going to wait, and it was going to be perfect.
I needed to get out of there before I changed my mind. I carefully extricated myself from Edward's arms and headed for the bath. As I sat in a tub full of bubbles at four o'clock in the morning, I couldn't wipe the goofy smile that I had at the thought of plain little me starring in Edward's sexy dreams.
Life really didn't get much sweeter.
The next morning, Edward gave no indication that he remembered his dream, but I noticed that he seemed well-rested and very happy. If a little dry humping in his sleep caused this reaction, I'd let him torture me every night until the wedding.
We sat at his breakfast bar eating bagels and drinking orange juice. It felt strange to be there. I'd gotten so used to spending most of our time in my little apartment, that his large, open house took some getting used to. "Jasper told me what the investigator discovered." I said.
Edward nodded. "It sounds like she's trying to get back at the studio by going after their biggest commodity." He said with a frown while gesturing toward his own chest. "She was willing to lose her boyfriend because she was desperate for a movie role, and doesn't seem to care if she hurts us in the process. I believe the woman has no soul." He muttered.
I thought over what he'd said. "I don't know about that Edward. I mean, she did keep the baby. She must feel something for it. Her actions in the last week seem to me to be those of a very desperate person."
He sighed and then nodded his head slightly before changing the subject. "Listen, I should be finished in just a few hours. We can meet for lunch before I have to leave again."
I raised my eyebrows in question.
"I'm a guest on The Tonight Show this evening. I need to be at the studio in time for the taping at five o'clock." He gave me a slight smile. "Alice said she has plans with you this morning. I'm sorry I'm going to be so busy while you're here."
"That's okay Edward. I'm just happy to be here, even if it's only for a few days." I explained. "Whenever Alice isn't keeping me busy, I'll just study for my exams. In eight days, I'll be a college graduate." I announced with a grin.
He pulled me into his arms then. "I can't wait Bella. After that we don't have to be apart anymore." He said with a smile before pecking me on the lips.
"Hey, why don't you come with me to the Tonight Show taping?" He grinned. "You can watch it from the green room backstage." He pressed.
"Okay." I agreed, always willing to put myself in possibly uncomfortable situations, just to be near him. As soon as Edward left, I got dressed for the day. I was just slipping on my sandals when I heard someone downstairs in the kitchen.
I was surprised. Alice usually announced herself loudly.
Maybe she needs her morning coffee first
When I went downstairs and rounded the corner into the kitchen, it wasn't the sight of Alice that greeted me, but a petite middle-aged woman with dark hair taking inventory of the pantry cupboards.
Mrs. Hernandez
I cleared my throat, hoping not to startle her. My attempt was unsuccessful though as she wheeled around to look at me whilst clutching at her throat.
"Madre Santa!" She exclaimed
"I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to scare you." I started.
Mrs. Hernandez's startled expression transformed into a brilliant smile once she took a good look at me. "Isabella" She whispered.
"That's me" I said with a shrug.
She moved quickly around the kitchen island until she was in front of me, before giving me a warm hug. "I'm so happy to meet you. I'm Jacinta Hernandez, but you probably already figured that out." She grinned. "Eduardo told me you were coming this weekend, but it was so quiet I assumed you went with him to the studio today."
"No, I'm spending the day with Alice."
"Alice" Mrs. Hernandez smiled again and clasped her hands together. "Such a sweet and beautiful girl, Alice is one of a kind."
"Well thank you Jacinta, I feel the same way about you." Alice announced from the doorway before walking over and giving Mrs. Hernandez a hug.
We sat down for a quick cup of tea while Mrs. Hernandez and I got to know each other.
She was just as wonderful as I had expected her to be, and it was obvious that she cared very deeply for Edward. I found out that she didn't have a very high opinion of Alec though.
"He is a jackass" Mrs. Hernandez announced, drawing forth giggles from both Alice and myself. "I told Eduardo to get rid of him, he is too fresh. Every time he sees me, he gives me a little wink. Someday I'm gonna slap that wink right off his face." She said indignantly.
All too soon, it was time to leave, and I was climbing into Alice's Porsche, garment bag in hand.
Byron the photographer was meeting us at his studio in the Hollywood hills. Knowing Alice, I shouldn't have been surprised by what I had facing me, but I was nevertheless. She'd gone to great lengths to make sure these shots were as close to perfect as possible. Obviously since this was for a calendar, there were twelve shots planned. Byron estimated that we'd be able to complete at least five in the time we had allotted the first day. We planned to have a longer session on Saturday in which to complete the others.
As I looked around and took in the props and costumes, not to mention the makeup artist and hair stylist Alice had on hand to 'transform' me I had no doubt that the measly amount that I'd set aside for Edward's gift didn't even cover the cost of the photographer.
"Alice" I hissed "There is no way I can afford all of this, and you promised not to pay."
She just waved away my concerns. "I called in a couple of favors."
I found that I didn't have time to argue, as I was immediately whisked into a makeup chair to begin my first transformation. Almost four hours later, I was finally changing back into my own sundress and sandals in order to meet Edward for lunch.
"Bella" Alice exclaimed, phone in hand, as I exited the dressing room. "It's all over the news that Jill Richardson checked into the hospital in the middle of the night."
Oh my
Alice smiled. "The baby will be here today. That means you'll be able to have DNA test results early next week."
I let out a relieved breath as I thought about what this would mean. Edward and I would be able to return to some semblance of normal.
I certainly hope our new normal will hold at least until the wedding day.
-V&V—
As Lou drove me to the restaurant, I thought back to the photo session. About half the photos would be of Edward's favorite Hollywood 'divas' the rest would be me, or some variation thereof. It had been a lot of fun to do. Much more enjoyable than I had thought it would be. I secretly couldn't wait to do more the next day.
Before I left, Byron showed me the shots he'd taken on a video screen. I couldn't believe how amazing they looked. It was unbelievable how the right makeup and hairstyle, or in some cases wigs, could transform me into someone else. The special treatment made me feel a little like a movie star myself. The 'diva' photos were definitely going to catch Edward's attention, although I would never have referred to Katherine Hepburn or Ingrid Bergman as 'divas', I supposed the term was correct when referring to someone like Jane Russell.
I was also shocked at how sexy they were able to make me look in the one Alice dubbed 'Hot for Teacher'. I giggled as I thought about Edward's reaction.
When Lou and I arrived at the restaurant, the paps were waiting outside. Edward had warned me that it was a popular place for celebrity sightings, but he chose it because the food was excellent.
Lou stayed close beside me as we approached. I guess it was the fact that Jill Richardson was in the hospital having her baby, but as soon as the paps caught a glimpse of me, they were literally in a feeding frenzy. So many voices began to shout at once that I couldn't distinguish a single question.
That's probably a good thing
As they shouted, the cameras clicked incessantly. Inside, I was shown to a private room. Edward arrived about five minutes after I did.
"I'm so sorry sweetheart. I had no idea it would be this crazy. I should have chosen another restaurant." He apologized as He pulled me into his arms.
"It's okay Edward. I have a feeling that any place we would have gone would end up just as crazy today."
"I think you're right." He admitted with a frown as we took our seats. "So, did you have fun with Alice today?" He asked with a smile.
"Oh you know, she wanted to shop, I went along but didn't buy anything." I lied happily. In my mind this lie was forgivable because it was necessary in order to keep his birthday gift a surprise.
-V&V—
At five o'clock, I was comfortably seated in the green room backstage at The Tonight Show, watching the action on stage via a large television screen.
"Welcome back everyone." Jay Leno began "My first guest tonight has played everything from a sadistic murderer to a medieval knight. In his last film Time Stands Still, he was an intelligence operative out to bring to justice the head of the CIA. Please welcome Edward Masen."
I watched the large screen as Edward walked onstage and was greeted by a handshake and half-hug from Jay. They took their seats and had to wait a moment for the screams and applause from the audience to die down.
"Now Edward" Jay said "the last time you were here was about a month before Time Stands Still was released, and boy oh boy have we been hearing a lot about you since then." Jay joked.
Edward gave Jay a smug expression. "What can I say; I love all the media attention." He said as he rolled his eyes, causing the audience to erupt in laughter.
"Congratulations on your engagement by the way, I hear the wedding is in August." Jay said in his usual good-natured way.
Edward looked a bit shocked. "Thank you. Has word of the date gotten out already? I mean we just started mailing invitations."
"Eh, people talk, what are ya gonna do? Maybe someone you invited just has a big mouth." Jay laughed it off. "So is this a big formal church wedding?"
Edward squirmed a little, but kept his smile. "I guess you could call it a medium-sized wedding." He said as he grinned again and rubbed his hands together.
"How are you coping with all the crazy stuff going on right now? I mean it can't be easy." Jay asked sympathetically.
"We're just taking things one day at a time. I'm not going to lie; the nonsense last weekend upset me very much at the time. But the overwhelming words of support and encouragement that Bella and I have received from absolute strangers has helped us both a great deal. Apart from being lied about, the rest of the experience has been truly amazing." The audience then roared with applause which didn't die down for a full half-minute.
Wow, his fans really care about him. He's not just eye candy, they obviously feel connected to him, maybe even to both of us.
Oh who am I kidding? It's just him. He's gorgeous. He's charming. He's sex on legs. Who wouldn't love him?
For the first time, I started to really understand the true affection Edward felt for his fans.
Jay then proceeded to ask Edward a couple of questions about The Harvest of Avarice, and the fact that he was making a movie with Clint.
They broke for a commercial. When they returned, Jay was holding a copy of Vanity Fair in his hands. Yes, the one with Chris, Alice, Rose and I in front of Sleepy Beauty's castle. He held it up so that the audience could see it. I watched Edward smile as his eyes danced over the cover.
"Now Edward, let me see if I have this right. This right here is the lovely Isabella." Jay said as he pointed to me.
Edward nodded. There was a round of applause from the audience and a few catcalls. I could feel myself blush.
"This right here is your sister Alice?"
"Yes." Edward was still nodding and smiling. More applause.
"Now this is where it gets confusing to me. The stunning blonde is engaged to Isabella's brother?"
"Yes" Edward answered. "Her name is Rosalie."
A lot of hooting and applause.
"Let me know if I've got this wrong, but someone told me Rosalie's brother is your manager, and he's also married to your sister Alice."
"Yes" Edward answered, trying not to chuckle.
"Okay, so" Jay proceeded to point at each of us in turn, starting with me, as he said the following "You're marrying Isabella, whose brother is marrying Rosalie, whose brother is married to Alice, who is your sister." He ended by pointing at Edward.
Edward nodded. "Yes" He said with a laugh. The audience then proceeded to laugh in turn.
Once things were quiet, Jay spoke again. "So you're all inter-marrying?" Jay continued.
"In a manner of speaking" Edward was still grinning.
"You know I'm pretty sure that's illegal in all fifty states Edward." Jay said with a grin. "and in Guam."
"No, no, none of the couples are actually related to each other" Edward defended as he laughed along with Jay.
"Well, that's a relief" Jay joked. "Now I gotta ask, who's this guy?" He said as he pointed to Chris. "Is he related to any of you?"
The audience laughed again.
"No, he's a very dear friend, but not related. His name is Christopher Miles, he and my sister are business partners and best friends, they are the founders of Brandon Miles Fashions."
More applause.
"Now Edward, a little bird told me that the lovely Isabella herself is here tonight." Jay stated in a soft tone.
I felt the muscles in my stomach begin to tighten.
"Yes, she's waiting backstage." Edward replied cautiously.
"Do you think we could coax her out here for just a moment?" Jay asked with a big smile.
Edward looked a little flustered. "I, I don't know if she'd feel comfortable.."
The audience started to applaud loudly then, trying to force the situation.
Well, shit. I never expected this.
"Why don't you go back and see if you can persuade her?" Jay told Edward.
Edward reluctantly rose from his chair, never losing his smile as he then made his way back to the green room.
My eyes darted around, looking for the nearest escape. There wasn't one. At least there wasn't one that wouldn't lead me right past Edward. On the big screen I watched as the camera followed behind him as he came in search of me.
Fuck my life. I can't be on national television.
Everyone in the green room watched me with curious expressions as I ducked into the hallway. I rounded the corner and saw Edward walking toward me. As soon as he saw me, he stopped walking and said something to the cameraman.
When he started back towards me again, the cameraman didn't follow.
Thank God.
As soon as he reached me, I pulled him around the corner into the vacant hallway outside the green room. He wrapped his arms around me. "Edward, I don't know if I can do this."
"It's alright sweetheart. You don't have to, I'll go inform Jay right now.."
"Wait." I said effectively stopping him from pulling away. "Just let me think, I need to process this okay?"
He nodded and waited for me.
"Okay so what's the worst that could happen?" I asked out loud. As I considered that, my eyes widened in alarm "Oh Edward, what if I throw up?"
"Bella, you're not going to throw up." He answered with a chuckle.
"You're probably right about that." I thought again. "Suppose I drop the F-bomb?" I cringed. "Oh Edward, with my potty mouth, I mean you know what happens when I get nervous. It's pretty fucking likely that it's going to be fuck this and fuck that as soon as I start talking. Maybe I should just keep my mouth shut and nod." I continued with my verbal diarrhea. "I really wish I knew sign language, unfortunately the only sign language I know would get us tossed out."
Edward was quietly laughing to himself at my ramblings. "This is one of the many reasons I love you, you're absolutely adorable when you're flustered."
I clutched his hand tightly and took a deep breath. "Just don't let go of me Edward."
"I never want to let go of you whether or not we're on television." He replied with a grin. "You're really sure about this?" He asked with a serious look.
"Yes" I answered quietly. "I think I'm good."
He smiled. "I love you so much my brave girl." He breathed before he kissed me sweetly.
I almost forgot that Jay was waiting for us as I tried to deepen the kiss. "I love you too" I whispered when we broke apart. "I just wish I wasn't so awkward." I said before looking down at my sundress and sandals. "And I wish I'd worn nicer clothes." I whined.
Edward chuckled. "Come on, you look beautiful."
When we arrived on stage, we were greeted by a huge round of applause. The fear of throwing up was ever-present, but I smiled and nodded to Jay as he reached over to shake my hand. Instead of sitting in the chair, Edward sat with me on the sofa as he continued to hold my hand.
Jay smiled at us, "I just wanted to congratulate you both in person. I'm sorry Isabella; I didn't mean to upset you. You okay now?"
I nodded and tried to give him a pleasant smile.
"You're sure you're not going to throw up?" He asked with a grin.
The audience laughed, although I failed to understand why. I shook my head and continued to smile.
"Oh and, just so you know, the show is taped, so that F-bomb gets edited right out of there. The same thing goes for rude hand gestures." He whispered conspiratorially before winking at me.
More laughter from the audience, as I was made painfully aware that Jay, and everyone else had heard my conversation with Edward in the hallway.
Jay chuckled and sat back in his chair. "Sorry guys. Edward still had his microphone on back there." He gestured backstage. "I would have warned you, but I didn't even think about it until it was too late."
"What?" I croaked out as I felt my face pale.
I felt Edward's grip on my hand tighten. "You heard us." He stated to Jay.
Damned wireless microphones
Jay nodded, looking a bit sheepish. "Don't worry about it. Everyone thought it was very sweet. Getting to hear you both 'unscripted' as it were was very charming."
Jay smiled and, after a few seconds, I felt Edward start to shake with silent laughter, the audience joining in, no doubt recalling how many times I'd blurted the F-word during my panic attack. I felt my face go from pale to tomato red as I thought about what they must have heard.
Then I remembered Edward saying he loved me, and the kiss. I glanced up to see him smiling adoringly down at me and I couldn't help but return the smile.
I glanced at Jay, and noticed he looked relieved.
"Let's give Isabella a round of applause for being such a good sport." Jay announced just before the audience broke into loud applause. "You're a great couple, and we wish you all the best."
I wanted to hang my head in shame, but he seemed so sincere that I found it hard not to smile and thank him. There was loud applause as we said our goodbyes and exited the stage hand in hand.
After the taping, Jay informed us that they were going to cut the entire overheard conversation and edit the spot afterward so it made sense. We thanked him profusely before leaving.
On our way back to Edward's we got a text from Kyle Browning informing us that Jill Richardson's son had been born a few hours before, and Kyle was catching a flight to L.A. on Saturday. He was hoping to meet with us on Sunday, and intended to stay in town until the DNA results came back early next week.
-V&V-
The next morning after Edward left for the studio, I got a call from Rose as I waited for Alice to arrive.
"Hey Bells"
"Hi Rose"
"I caught Edward's appearance on Leno last night." She said.
I cringed as I thought about it. "Oh yeah, what did you think?"
"It was really sweet when you joined him onstage. Little did I know that the most interesting bit was edited out." She said with a chuckle.
Oh shit.
"What do you mean?" I asked, afraid of her answer.
"Bella, the people in the audience have been tweeting since last night about what they heard you and Edward saying backstage." Rose informed.
"Oh no." I whined as I started to freak out.
"Stop panicking Bella." Rose ordered. "You seriously haven't heard any of this?"
"No Rose. What are they saying?" I whined.
Rose chuckled. "First of all, they all found you highly amusing."
"Oh great, now everyone will think I'm some kind of joke." I muttered.
"Quite the opposite, everyone thinks you're great Bells, they can't get over how down to earth you were. They thought you were sweet, funny and adorable. In short, they all loved you." She replied happily.
"You're kidding?" I asked, stunned.
"Nope. I even found one website where the women admit to having a 'girl crush' on you after hearing you ramble." She laughed out loud then.
I sighed in frustration. "I wish I hadn't said all that stupid shit. You know how I get when I'm nervous."
"Yes I do, and apparently a lot of other people now know too." She laughed. "Bella don't you dare start berating yourself for this. Some of these women are losing their minds because Edward was so sweet. It was obvious that he adores you. Overnight he has become the man that all other men are compared to. I'm sure quite a few of their husbands hate him now."
I had to chuckle at that. "He is pretty perfect." I said in almost a whisper.
Rose laughed. "Gah, you've really got it bad. I need to change the subject." I could tell she was smiling.
"Are you still flying back on Monday morning?" She asked.
"Yes. We're attending the MTV movie awards on Sunday. I have to be back on Monday, because I have an exam that evening."
"Oh, okay." She paused before continuing. "I have to meet with the producers of my new show, so I'm flying to New York on Monday morning. Emmett's coming along this time. Will you be okay on your own Monday night?" She asked in a worried tone.
"Yes Rose. I promise to lock myself in my apartment once I get home. I have two exams on Tuesday, and Edward will be back that night."
"Good. That makes me feel better."
"Are you getting excited about the new show?" I asked.
"A little, but I've still got the wedding to survive first." She said.
"I can empathize." I said in answer.
Just then, Edward's front door swung open and Alice marched into the house. "Come on potty mouth, we have to roll!" She announced.
Crap. She knows too.
"I'd better go Rose, Alice just came through the front door with a crazed look in her eye."
Rose giggled. "That's right; you're working on the photos for the calendar today aren't you?"
"Yes, we did a few yesterday, they are amazing so far."
"I can't wait to see them. Tell Alice I said hi. See you Wednesday." Rose chirped.
-V&V—
The shoot on Saturday was even more enjoyable than the day before, and it had everything to do with the fact that Chris came to help. The time flew as we chatted about anything and everything, which included a lively discussion about the outtakes from The Tonight Show. Chris and Alice were in hysterics over what I said backstage. "Bella, that was priceless. I wish I could have seen your face when you realized everyone had heard you."
I snorted a laugh. "Trust me, it wasn't pretty."
"And let me guess, Edward wasn't even phased by it was he?" She asked smugly.
"Nope. He was only concerned about my reaction." I said with a sigh.
They sighed with me.
"Oh honey, I think this one may be my favorite." Chris remarked as I posed for the next shot.
Alice and I had tried to duplicate my look on the night Edward proposed. I wore the same dress, and my hair and makeup were done to perfection. The backdrop was a simple black background with a couple of fake trees adorned with lights, very understated but somehow perfect. It was the last shot of the day, and when I viewed it on Byron's screen, even I had to admit that it was beautiful.
Edward called me on the way back to his house. "Hey baby, how was your day?"
I was so used to telling Edward everything that I literally had to bite my tongue in order not to spill the details of the photo shoot.
"It was fun. I spent the day with Alice and Chris." I said sweetly.
"That's nice." He said quietly.
"Are you finished the re-shoots?" I asked.
"Yes, actually that's why I called. Are you still up for attending the wrap party tonight?" He asked hopefully.
"Of course Edward, I wouldn't miss it."
"Great!" He sounded happy. "Be ready in an hour, Lou will bring you."
"How should I dress?" I asked.
"Dress comfortably Bella, we're all in t-shirts and jeans." He answered.
"Okay, I'll see what I can do." I smirked as I thought of an idea.
Edward had been so good at 'behaving' that I felt cruel for what I was about to do, but I just couldn't help myself. Sometimes a girl just likes to cause a reaction, and I hadn't teased him in quite some time. Besides I still owed him for torturing me during my sleep the other night.
I'll send him a new image for his erotic dreams.
I took a quick shower and put on my midnight blue lace bra and panty set. Before slipping into my jeans and t-shirt as instructed however, I snapped a photo of myself in the lingerie with my phone. It took three tries to get it right.
I then proceeded to type the message:
Too underdressed? before sending the message with the photo to my poor unsuspecting fiancé's phone.
All I had to do then was sit back and wait for his reaction.
.
******A/N******
Poor Edward…we'll see his reaction in LRM. This was a crazy chapter, covering a lot of moments in the life of Bella Swan. We'll hear a little more about the calendar photos on Edward's birthday.
In the next LRM we'll see what Edward was up to when they weren't together.
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