Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 4

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

To clear up any confusion from Chapter 3, Garrett and Kate Cooper live in Washoe Valley, Nevada, not Carson Valley, Nevada.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understand. In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil." ~ Proverbs 3:5-7

EPOV

I had remained outside the boarding house for awhile, debating about whether I should ask Bella's forgiveness again, or whether I should get a ladder and climb up to her room to be certain. I decided against either as she'd already said we could be friends and I'd likely scare her if I climbed up outside her window in the dark.

Back at home in my bed, I tossed and turned, sleep unwilling to come. I finally got out of bed, kneeled beside it and gave the entire situation over to God. If anyone could fix the mess I'd made of things, it would be the Creator of the universe.

Saturday dawned bright and beautiful. It was going to be a very nice day for Ben and Angela's wedding. I was filled with excitement again about seeing Bella, but then reminded myself we were just friends. I hoped things would not be strained between us in the light of a new day.

I arrived at the church in my Sunday suit and a light blue shirt. I caught sight of Bella, who was assisting Rachel with setting things up for the reception. She was in a deep green dress with lace at the neck and the cuffs. Her hair seemed a little softer today, with small ringlets framing her face. I was stunned anew at her beauty. She must've sensed me watching, because she looked up, caught my eye and blushed. I smiled at her and she returned it. I was hoping that meant something good. I knew now I'd never be any good at reading a woman's mind. I'd just have to ask them straight out what they were thinking.

The ceremony seemed to be over quickly or maybe it was because I was daydreaming through most of it. Ben and Angela looked very happy. We quickly moved outside for a potluck lunch reception.

Soon, Mayor Hale was making his way over to me. "Edward, my boy! How are you doing?" his voice boomed. His all-white suit and shoes looked almost ridiculous in this dusty desert setting. I kept my smile to myself.

"Doing well, Isaac. You?" I returned as I shook his outstretched hand.

"Oh, fit as a fiddle," he said as he sat down in the vacant chair next to me. "I wanted to let you know, I've hired two additional police officers for you since our town is growing by leaps and bounds. My nephews, James and Eric Smith, should be arriving on the stagecoach sometime today. They were already on the police force in Ithaca, New York, so you won't have to train them. I think it's high time you and your boys have a day or two off."

"That will be great!" I said, sounding enthusiastic.

He continued, "After a couple of days rest from the journey, they'll be staying at the boarding house so they can stay close to the action in town. My place isn't in the best location for them; it's too far out on the edge of town. They're bachelors, so you won't have to be concerned about working around their family schedules."

"Right. Of course," I replied, a little less enthusiastically. I thought to myself, The boarding house? Where Bella was staying? I knew Eli and Rachel wouldn't allow any harm to come to her, but …

"Well," Isaac said, interrupting my train of thought, "I'd best be getting back to my family." He slapped me on the back and was gone. I waved him off. I suddenly felt queasy.

I got up and walked over to the edge of the church property. Maybe a short walk would do me some good. I focused on the surrounding vistas. I barely noticed when someone joined me until I heard her voice.

"Edward, are you all right?" Bella's concerned voice cut through the myriad of thoughts in my mind.

I absently rubbed my stomach and said, "Yeah, I'm ok."

Bella's gentle hand on my arm was comforting. She continued, "You're rubbing your stomach. Are you certain? Do you want me to get your father?"

"No," I answered gently. "Just walk with me for a bit?" She agreed and we began walking around the perimeter of the church property. Wedding guests were still enjoying the potluck buffet. I decided total honesty was best, "Mayor Hale just told me he's hired two new police officers; nephews of his from New York."

Bella smiled up at me and replied, "That's good, right? Then you and the other officers will be able to have a day off once in awhile."

I stopped mid-stride and looked into Bella's eyes as I said, "They'll be staying at the boarding house. I don't know anything about them other than they're related to Mayor Hale. Please assure me you won't go anywhere with them until I've had time to check them out."

"I won't, Edward. I promise," Bella said. "Thank you for being concerned about me. I appreciate that." She gave me a meaningful smile and then our attention was diverted by the announcement of the wedding cake being cut. That would have to be sufficient for now. It would have to be another thing I'd leave in the Lord's hands.

BPOV

Eli and Rachel introduced me to James and Eric Smith one night at dinner. James was nearly as tall as Edward with light brown hair, blue eyes, and non-descript features. Eric was a bit shorter than his companion with black hair, brown eyes, and was built ganglier than James.

They seemed like nice and polite gentlemen. Almost from the beginning, Edward placed them working on the night and evening shifts.

After several weeks of teaching, it occurred to me obtaining a teaching certificate and using one in the real world were two different things. It prepares you on the theoretical level, but when you're facing a classroom full of students, you somehow wish you had a more practical application before diving in.

I began each school day at 9 a.m. with drills, oral quizzes, and recitation exercises for all age groups, beginning with the younger children first. If the particular age group was not included with that group, they could study in the book provided. The youngest children in school were eight years old and already knew how to read, so I was not privileged to teach anyone how to read this year. After those exercises were completed, we worked on penmanship, increasing reading skills, and arithmetic. I provided two recess periods per day – one in the morning and one combined with the noon meal time. School was dismissed promptly each day at 2 p.m. The children and I brought our lunches in pails or baskets and ate them outside during nice weather or inside when it was cooler.

I asked Pastor Webber one Sunday after services if he would consider allowing the school children to perform a Nativity play for the congregation at the Christmas Eve service. He thought that was an excellent idea. In addition to their schoolwork, the children were also rehearsing for the upcoming play. With only ten children attending school, I was able to provide a part for each one of them.

I should've known things were going too well in my classroom when one afternoon all the children were working on their reading. Suddenly, one Miss Rosalie Hale let out a shriek of horror. My first thought was, Oh dear Lord, Edward didn't repair all the holes and there's another mouse loose in here!

But then the shriek was quickly followed by a cry of, "Emmett Dale McCarty! I will never forgive you!" Rosalie had now dissolved into sobs and had her face buried in her arms folded on her desk in front of her. I quickly rose from my desk at the front of the classroom to see what the matter was.

As soon as I was even with her, I could see the damage. Emmett, it appeared, had stuck a lock of Rosalie's beautiful long blonde hair into the inkwell on his desk. It was an easy reach for him. He sat directly behind her. This lock of hair was now raven black and permanently so, I might add. Oh dear!

This class had been so well-disciplined up to this point. And now I was going to have to take some disciplinary measures. My heart sunk. My mind quickly ran over the disciplinary tactics they proposed during my certification process. I decided to offer Emmett the least of two evils.

"Emmett, did you do this to Rosalie's hair?" I asked.

"I did, Miss Swan," he admitted solemnly, his eyes downcast.

I asked him to come with me into the small entryway of the school. I knelt down next to him and said, "Emmett, I don't want to do it, but I need to enforce some discipline for your actions."

He looked fearful, but said, "I understand."

"So," I continued, "you can either stay after school to copy the first three pages of the dictionary or you can get the strap across your hand twice."

Emmett replied, "Miss Swan, I can't stay after school. My mother needs me at home. I'll take the strap."

I think if my eyebrows could've shot up into my hairline and stayed there, they would've due to my shock at his statement. "You will?" I asked.

"Yes," he said, with finality.

I escorted him back into the classroom and had him stand at the front, near my desk. I rummaged around in my bottom desk drawer, trying to find the blasted small strap. It was at the very bottom of the drawer. After finding it, I asked Emmett to hold out his right hand, which he did. I could not even glimpse to see if the rest of the class was looking, but I'm certain they were.

I gave his hand two quick smacks with the strap. I could tell it smarted; just by the way his eyes winced. But he gave no other outward indication of pain. Then I asked him to go take his seat.

Once Emmett was in his seat and my desk was back in order, I told the class school was dismissed for the day, even though it was early. I needed to take Rosalie home and explain things to her parents. I wanted to sit and have a good cry, but there was no time for that.

When I took Rosalie to her house, her mother was justifiably horrified. In assessing the damage again, it appeared only about an inch of Rosalie's long hair would need to be cut off. I did not consider it a total loss, but the way Mrs. Hale was going on, you would think she was going to have to shave Rosalie's head bald. Mrs. Hale wanted to speak with Emmett and I told her it I had already taken care of the necessary discipline.

On the way back home, Emmett joined me on the road.

"What are you doing here, Emmett?" I asked.

"Oh Miss Swan," Emmett fairly cried.

"What is it?" I wondered, concerned.

Emmett's little voice broke, "I like Rosie so much and she never notices me. And now she'll never forgive me." He began wailing and I knelt down and pulled him close to me.

"Oh sweetie," I said, "just wait until this blows over. I think Rosalie likes you just fine. How many other girls at school know your middle name?"

His sniffles calmed and he said, "I don't think any of them." He brightened a bit, gave me his big dimpled smile, and continued, "I didn't even think she did."

"Well, see? Things are looking up already!" I said. "I'm sorry I had to punish you, Emmett."

"It's ok," he said as he tucked his hand into mine as we walked down the street toward his house. "It only stung for a second. I deserved it. It was a bad thing to do. I won't ever do anything like that again."

We said goodbye at the roadway to his house and he seemed happier to think Rosalie might actually notice him. Thankfully, a lesson was learned as well.

As I continued down the street to the boarding house, it appeared there was a scuffle going on in the middle of the street. A small crowd had gathered. Two men were struggling against each other. I wasn't all that concerned, thinking I would avoid them until one man's cowboy hat was knocked from his head. The bronze hair was unmistakable. Edward was in trouble!

I fairly ran down the street until I was closer. I knew there was nothing I could do except pray, which I did – fervently. From this angle, I could see Edward's trousers were ripped at the knee. Was he bleeding? I hoped not!

Edward had wrestled the other man to the ground. Finally, Eric Smith came up behind the other man and put him in handcuffs. Then he led him toward the jail. Edward was still seated on the ground, heaving great breaths at his physical exertion.

I wanted to go to him, but something stopped me. I was focused on the rip in the knee of his trousers. It revealed his knee and part of his lower leg. I had never seen a man's lower extremities in other than a textbook. If I thought Edward attractive before, he even had attractive knees – or at least the one that was visible at the moment. I could feel my blush beginning at the bottom of my neck.

Edward looked up just then. "Bella? How long have you been there? What's wrong? I must look like a real prize at the moment."

Oh, Edward, if you only knew! Bella, get yourself in hand. I mentally chided myself.

He got up from the ground, picked up his hat and placed it back on his head. Thankfully, his knee that was certainly shaped by the fingers of God was not quite as visible at the moment. "I…um…was just making sure you weren't injured," I eloquently stated.

"I'm fine. Want me to walk you home?" he asked with a smile.

"Yes!" I stated enthusiastically.

When we got to the boarding house, Edward sat beside me on the porch steps. "How was your day?" he asked. Hot tears started flowing from my eyes before any words would come. "Come here," he said as he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and just let me cry. Once it seemed my tears were spent, he asked gently, "Do you want to talk about it?"

The whole story came spilling out then – about Rosalie and Emmett and how bad I felt about having to impose discipline in my classroom.

"Bella," Edward said, "that's your job. The children know you're there to enforce the rules. They know there are consequences when they break the rules. I don't believe they think you take any amount of pleasure in inflicting pain on them. How do you think I feel every day? I have to carry a gun that could easily kill or inflict great bodily injury on someone."

I replied, "When you put it in that context, my infraction doesn't sound half bad."

"It's not. I'm sure your students will love you tomorrow just as much as they loved you today," he said. "Some probably even more so – like your really incorrigible students."

Then Edward stood up and said, "I'd best be getting back to the jail and process the paperwork on our last inmate. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your day, beautiful Bella."

Then he kissed my forehead, squeezed my hand and was walking down the street before I could process what just happened.

Author's Notes:

Lest you think Bella was being extremely harsh on Emmett, I discovered this excerpt on a website: http:/www(dot)pioneersholesschool(dot)org/pages/discipline(dot)html

"Punishment took numerous forms. Corporal punishment was not unheard of nor were other extreme penalties such as detention, suspension and even expulsion. Lesser punishments, more common at that time than now, included such things as a rap on the hands or knuckles with a steel edged ruler; standing in a corner with face to the wall; wearing a dunce cap, facing the room, and sitting upon a high stool beside the teacher's desk; standing for long periods with arms held straight out in front; standing with an arm outstretched, palm up, while holding a heavy book on that hand for a long period; or being banished to the girls' cloakroom (if the culprit were a boy)."

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 3

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." ~ Colossians 3:23

EPOV

On Monday morning, I was sitting at my desk in the jail, looking forward to a certain school teacher to come by to get the key to the school. I was actually driving myself crazy, waiting for her to arrive. All my paperwork was completed long ago and now my cowboy boot on my left foot was rat-tat-tatting on the floor as my nervous energy was flowing out through my leg.

I finally gave up and stretched my long legs out in front of me under the desk and pulled a letter out of my vest pocket I'd received a couple of days ago. It was from my best friend, Garrett Cooper, and his wife, Kate, who lived in the Carson Valley.

Dear Edward, I read, Kate and I will be coming to Virginia City within the week. A neighbor has agreed to watch our animals for the few days we're gone. Kate is in the family way and you know there's no one we trust more than your father, so that's the main reason for our visit. While we're in town, I have a proposition I'd like to discuss with you. We'll be staying at the boarding house. We're looking forward to seeing you. Sincerely, Garrett.

A proposition of what kind, I wondered. My musings came to a direct halt as a feminine figure dressed in pure scarlet appeared at the doorway of the jail – just not the one I was expecting. It was Irina Gonzales.

"Edward!" she exclaimed. "I haven't seen you for a couple of days! How are things coming along with the house? Will you soon be inheriting your father's fortune?"

I took my time refolding the letter from Garrett and placing it back in my vest pocket while my mind struggled to catch up with Irina's questions. I hadn't told her I had decided not to buy the house in town. She thought I was inheriting money from my father – just because he was a doctor? We lived in a comfortable home here, but certainly not one of the mansions. Oh boy!

She continued, excitedly, "I can't wait until you start courting me properly!" She was almost overcome with excitement.

I stood and came around to the other side of the desk and faced her. It was time. I rubbed the back of my neck, squared my shoulders, and said, "Irina, I think it's time I set you straight. I won't be buying a house here in Virginia City. And as for an inheritance, I don't think there will be one. You probably do need to be courted properly, but it won't be by me – not by the sheriff of Virginia City. You expect a lot and I can't be the one to provide that for you."

She stamped her foot then – actually stamped her foot and I had to suppress a smile – and whirled out of the doorway, skirts flying behind her. "Fine, Edward!" I heard her yelling. "I will find someone worthy!" I had heard some girls were prone to fits and apparently I'd just witnessed one. It wasn't something I wanted to see again soon – if ever. I hadn't even got around to the part where I wasn't in love with her – it appeared she didn't care about that; all she cared about was whether I could provide for her financially. What a mess.

I stared thoughtfully out the window and again a female form appeared in my doorway. My face was turning itself into a scowl, thinking it was Irina again, when I heard Bella's smiling voice say, "Good morning, Edward."

I immediately breathed a sigh of relief, returned her smile, and replied, "Good morning, Bella! Are you ready to get started? I thought I'd escort you to the school to make sure any vagrants weren't using the school as a sleeping area since it's been unoccupied during the summer." I quickly jotted a note and left it on my desk as to my whereabouts should someone come looking for me. She agreed and we set off. She was dressed in a dark plum dress and had a basket of cleaning supplies over one arm. I quickly relieved her of the basket.

We talked about the nice weather we were having and other banal subjects on our journey. We arrived at the school before she said anything about my previous visitor. "I saw another woman leaving the jail in a huff," she said quietly. "I hope I wasn't interrupting anything."

I had been just about to hand Bella the key to the school when I took her hand gently in mine instead and said, "Bella, believe me, you were not interrupting at all. The woman you saw – Irina Gonzales – was someone who I had taken out to dinner a couple of times since she was in town as a pianist with the show currently playing at the opera house. She was thinking I could provide her with a wealthy future. She stormed off when I told her that is not on the horizon for me. I'm sure you heard she no longer considers me worthy. I wasn't in love with her. I think the only reason for marriage is love."

Bella looked down at our joined hands for a long moment and then replied, "I knew a lot of people like that in Chicago – people who were only interested in getting to know my parents because of their social standing. I took dinner in my room when they hosted a lot of dinner parties as I preferred that to being around them and their pompous attitudes." She paused and then said, "Wealth doesn't make you worthy." A beautiful blush colored her cheeks as she kept her eyes cast downward and continued, "I will only marry for love as well."

We had to get busy or we'd never get anything done today – not that I wouldn't like to stand here for hours and see how long it took that blush to leave Bella's cheeks or just stare into her eyes. I finally handed her the key and she unlocked the school's door.

Thankfully, no one had been using the school as a place to sleep during the night. I could feel the relief radiating off Bella for that small miracle. However, everything was covered with a layer of grit and dust.

A mop, broom and dustpan were stored in a small closet off the main room. I went outside to fill up a bucket with water from the pump and returned inside as Bella was beginning to sweep the floor. I picked up a cleaning rag from the basket, dipped it in the cool water, and started wiping down a desk.

All of a sudden, several things happened without warning. Bella let out a blood-curdling scream, her broom dropped to the floor with a clatter, and when I whipped my head around, she had climbed upon a desk chair, shaking in fear. "What is it, Bella?" I asked, concerned.

She looked over at me, but pointed toward the corner, her voice shaky, "A m-m-mouse."

I looked the direction she was pointing. The world's tiniest mouse was poking its head out from a small hole in the baseboard. I had to conceal the smirk that was beginning to twitch on the far side of my mouth so I wouldn't laugh. Bella needed comforting. Maybe we would laugh about it later when she wasn't frightened.

I strode over to the chair where Bella was perched; wrapping an arm around her waist to help her down and my other hand was in her hair. I turned her away from looking in the mouse's direction. "It's all right," I whispered in her ear that was suddenly very close to my mouth, "I'm not going to let anything hurt you." Her arms were wrapped dangerously tight around my neck – like she wasn't planning to let go anytime soon. Since I was so close to her beautiful soft hair, I took just a moment to bury my nose in it. It had the faint smell of strawberries. I wondered what it would look like down around her shoulders. This was the second time I'd held Bella in my arms – and it felt just as wonderful as the first. Would I ever get enough?

"Come on," I said, trying to shake some sense into myself, "why don't you gather up the erasers from the blackboard and clean those outside while I go up to the blacksmith to see if he has any small pieces of wood lying around so I can patch that hole, along with a hammer and some nails I could borrow?" Bella let go of me and nodded.

We made our way outside, Bella carrying the erasers from the blackboard. I ran down to the blacksmith to see if he had what I needed. I noticed it was particularly bright out today. This was brought on by the fact I'd left my hat back at the school. My thoughts were a little occupied by Bella Swan, school teacher in residence. I reached down to pat the gun in its holster slung around my waist. Well, it was good to know I still had the presence of mind to protect the citizens of this fine town.

I hurried back to the school, tools in hand. I'm sure those erasers had been cleaned within an inch of their lives. Bella looked very intent on not entering the school until I had dealt with the rodent issue. I patched up the hole the best I could. It didn't look professional, but I wasn't trained as a carpenter. However, it would take care of the problem. I heard Bella's voice from the open doorway, "Did you repair the hole, Edward?"

I smiled as I got up from the floor and dusted off my light blue shirt. "Yes," I replied. Then with mock seriousness, I continued, "Based on the decibel of your scream earlier, I'd say that poor little mouse packed up his family and moved to Carson City by now."

Bella came to stand by me and said, "You, sir, are incorrigible."

"I'm just getting started," I warned under my breath. Then we both enjoyed a good laugh.

We worked until lunch, getting the floor spotless and the grit and grime off the desks. After lunch we would work on polishing the desks and the woodwork in the room. I escorted Bella to the boarding house and was kindly asked to join them. One of Rachel's helpers was going out just then, so she said she'd stop by my house and let my mother know I wouldn't be home for the noon meal. I thanked her profusely.

BPOV

After lunch, Edward was called away to take care of some men who had been fighting in one of the saloons in town. Edward seemed to have such an even, calm personality as far as I knew – I wondered if his job was the right fit for him. My afternoon was uneventful. I polished desks until they gleamed. I placed a small slate on each desk, along with some chalk. I would slip in again on Friday to make sure the ink wells were full and I'd be ready to begin. The rest of my week would consist of making up lesson plans.

When I got back to the boarding house, I was surprised to find Edward there again; seated in the sitting room with a couple I hadn't seen before. He quickly asked me into the room and introduced me. "Bella Swan is our new school teacher for the year. Bella, these are my best friends, Garrett and Kate Cooper. They live in Washoe Valley. They have some business here in town. Will you be joining us for dinner?"

Garrett and Kate welcomed me warmly but I had to decline. "I'm invited to dinner this evening at one of my students' homes – the McCarty family. This week will be a whirlwind of dinners, I'm afraid. All my students' parents want to meet the new teacher before I begin on Monday. If you are still here for lunch tomorrow, I'd love to spend more time with you then." They assured me they'd still be here then.

I went up to my room to get ready for my evening with the McCarty's. Soon, Rachel was at my door to tell me Emmett McCarty was here to take me to his parent's house. An eight-year-old was out on the streets alone, in the evening? Edward was on his feet as soon as I reached the bottom of the stairs. He looked at me with his eyes blazing a bit and said, "I'll take you and Emmett to his house." He didn't look like he was in any mood to argue. I wanted to say it wasn't necessary and that he was just being overprotective, but I wasn't altogether too sure. He hooked my hand over his arm and we left the boarding house.

We reached the McCarty's without incident, even though they didn't live in the nicest area of town. Edward leaned down to whisper in my ear before leaving me, "I'll be back in two hours." I shook my head a bit and he said, eyes blazing again, "Please, Bella." I nodded and then he was gone, leaving me to enjoy the company of the McCarty's.

They were an enjoyable hard-working Irish immigrant family. Patrick worked hard in the silver mines every day while his wife, Emma, kept a very respectable garden in their backyard. She also took in laundry from various townspeople. They told me they expected Emmett to do well in school. He seemed to be a very bright boy and very strong as well. I was able to tell them a bit of my history as well and hoped that the coming school year would be filled with stimulating challenges for the students and also a bit of fun for them as well.

Two hours later, on the dot, Edward arrived to escort me home. Once we were on our way, I said, "Sorry you had to come out just for me. You needed to enjoy your evening with your friends."

"Bella, I wanted to," he replied. "Besides, Garrett and Kate are going to bed early. They have a lot they want to accomplish tomorrow. And you need to be protected from the men who are actually wolves in sheep's clothing around here." As if he needed any proof to his point, a clearly inebriated man stumbled past us on his way home. I was suddenly very glad to have my brave escort.

The rest of the week flew past entirely too quickly. I did get to spend some time with the Cooper's – a lovely couple. Kate confided in me that she was in the family way. I'm not sure why she confessed this to me. I didn't know when I'd ever see her again. I did know that by the time she had her baby, my school term would be almost completed.

Rachel asked me to help her with the quilt she was working on for Angela Webber for her upcoming wedding to Ben Cheney. I confessed I didn't know a thing about quilting. With Rachel, that would never do. She quickly armed me with a needle and quilting thread and she taught as we went. It wasn't all that difficult; once I got the hang of it and was kind of fun. I had done some embroidery and cross-stitch back in Chicago, so I wasn't a stranger to putting a needle and thread to good use.

Finally, Friday evening arrived and Edward waited for me in the sitting room as I came down the stairs. I had dressed carefully in a royal blue dress and had made a loose bun of my hair several times. I don't know why I was so nervous. I wanted the Cullen's to like me. Edward escorted me just like he did the night we had gone to the McCarty's, my hand over his arm. It seemed he was a little nervous as well.

Once we arrived at the Cullen home, it was like I'd been enveloped into a large hug. This was the most comforting home I'd been invited to in Virginia City thus far, aside from where I lived. As soon as I walked in the door, Alice ran to give me a hug and a drawing she'd made of a little bird that had been outside her window that morning. I marveled at the incredible detail and returned her hug.

Finally, we were all seated around their large dining table, enjoying a wonderful meal of steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, yeast rolls, and berry compote for dessert, and I was telling them my story of how I came to be in Virginia City. Dr. Cullen then told me their history – of moving from Phoenix to this mining town so he could provide them with medical services. In Phoenix, they had run a successful ranch in addition to Dr. Cullen being a physician. The Lord had certainly blessed them.

During a lull in the conversation, Edward said, "While I have everyone here, you know Garrett and Kate were here this week."

"Yes, son, we're aware. They have a little one on the way," Dr. Cullen interjected.

"They do," Edward replied and blushed a bit so that the top of his ears colored red. "Anyway, they had a proposition for me." He looked across the table at me meaningfully.

Esme asked, "What was that?"

"Well, their closest neighbors will be moving to California after the spring thaw." Edward looked around the table at his family members and then settled his gaze back on me as he continued, "They asked if I'd like to buy their neighbor's place and get into ranching again. The neighbor is willing to sell to me."

Dr. Cullen looked thoughtful for a moment and then replied, "Isn't that the place that has five sleeping rooms?"

Edward blushed again, looked over at Dr. Cullen and said, "Yes, Dad, it is." Then he looked up at me through his lashes.

Was he suggesting...? Certainly not! I believe I need some air. Calm yourself, Bella. He can't possibly mean what you think he means! Holy crow! Why is he having this conversation with his family when I'm here?

Esme said enthusiastically, "Oh Edward! How exciting!" She jumped up from the table to give him a hug.

Edward said to her while leaning into her hug, "You're not mad?"

"Oh, how could I be?" she asked. "I knew before when you said you wanted to buy that house here, your heart wasn't in it. But this, Edward – this is exactly where your heart is."

The house had erupted into joy and happiness and it was drawing me into it, although I'm not sure why. I told Edward "congratulations" on realizing his dream. After staying the proper amount of time, I felt I should get back to the boarding house so I could get to bed. Angela and Ben were getting married tomorrow.

As Edward took me back home, he was still excited and I was having trouble keeping up with his long stride. "Edward," I asked gently, "could we slow down a bit? I can't keep up with you."

"Oh Bella, certainly," he replied and slowed down to a much more reasonable pace. "But I'm just so excited!" With that, he picked me up by the waist and swung me around. What has gotten into him?

He pulled me into the shadow of a nearby building, leaning me against it as he stood over me, looking gently in my eyes. He said, "I don't think I'm doing a very good job of explaining myself. I want you to move to the ranch with me. I know we don't know each other that well yet. But I want to take this school term to get to know each other better. When the school term is over, I hope you'll agree to marry me." He reached up to finger a curl of hair that had escaped my carefully-placed pins.

"Well, Sheriff, if that was your idea of a proposal, you'll need to work on the romantic aspect a bit." I pushed against his chest and stalked off, leaving him standing there for a few moments, still dumbfounded.

How dare him! Was I just supposed to swoon at his feet the moment he proposed marriage? Did he think I was some spineless school teacher from Chicago? I wanted love and romance, not some quick proposal!

"Bella!" he called after me. I could tell he was close by. He could catch up to me in a moment with those long legs of his.

He stayed behind me all the way to the boarding house and when I got to the door, I knew he was still there behind me, even though I didn't turn around. I said quietly, "Thank you for seeing me home, Edward."

"Bella, please, let me apologize," he said.

I replied, "There's nothing to apologize for. It's late. I need to go inside."

His voice was thick with emotion, "Can we still…be friends, Bella?"

"Yes, Edward. Always." Then I opened the boarding house door, slipped inside, and shut it behind me.

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 2

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. ~ Psalm 119:11

Bella POV

I returned to my room at the boarding house much later than I originally planned. Rachel Cope was entertaining, but she was definitely a talker! She could talk a hind leg off a mule, if she had a mind to.

I found the most beautiful lilac bloom on my pillow with a note from the sheriff. Oh my! I could feel the blush creeping up my cheeks and there was no one in the room but myself. He was devastatingly handsome, but this was probably something he did to welcome new people to town. There wasn't a doubt in my mind that he didn't already have a fiancée or was married. Men that attractive didn't stay single for long. Besides, I was here to do my best as the school teacher for the coming term. Who knows where life would take me after that? Would I stay in this area for another term, would I be heading off to another school, or would I be going back to Chicago? I prayed it wouldn't be the last choice.

I was only going to unpack my necessities tonight. I'd leave the rest for tomorrow. I could feel the weariness creeping into my bones even now. I would be glad when dinner was over and I could sink into a nice, hot bath, courtesy of a small area off Rachel's kitchen she reserved for her cast iron tub. She promised I'd be undisturbed and I couldn't wait for that little slice of heaven.

0 - 0 - 0

I awoke the next morning to the sound of birds singing outside my window. They seemed particularly joyous, as I was, finally fully rested after completing my cross-country journey. I stretched and allowed myself a few more moments of relaxation before rolling over to look at the clock on my bedside table. Nine o'clock? Holy crow! Rachel Cope would have my hide! I quickly performed my ablutions and dressed in a pale pink blouse and a dark blue skirt. Gran had insisted on having some cotton clothing made for me before coming to northern Nevada. She had read about the heat and knew that I wouldn't withstand the summer heat in silk and satin. God bless Gran.

I ran down the stairs, probably not the most ladylike fashion, to be greeted by an amused Rachel Cope at the bottom. "Well, good morning, Bella!" she said.

"Morning, Rachel!" I replied guiltily. "I'm so sorry I overslept. I know the rule is breakfast is served promptly at seven thirty every morning. I'm perfectly willing to go without."

"Ha!" she burst out with a wide grin. "Bella, I'm not going to let you starve! Come on in this kitchen and I'll rustle you up something to eat in a jiffy. I knew you needed your rest after your long trip. Don't you worry none about that. Besides," she looked at me conspiratorially, "I need someone to go shopping with me."

Bacon, eggs, fried potatoes, and two biscuits drizzled with honey butter along with a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice were set in front of me within moments and Rachel was still going on. "I'll take you on a tour of the town along with going to the general store. I know you want to get unpacked. I can help you if you'd like. You'd probably like to write to your folks and let them know you're settled. I left some writing paper and ink in your room, along with some envelopes. The stagecoach takes the mail back to Reno whenever they go, which is just about daily. Some of the townsfolk will likely be at the general store when we're there, so that will give me a chance to introduce you. The people we're not able to meet today, we'll likely see tomorrow in church."

One of Rachel's helpers came in to ask about something, so her attention was diverted from me for the time being so I could finish my breakfast. Rachel was an excellent cook and I could tell I was going to need a seamstress to let out my clothes if I continued to finish everything on my plate every day. Maybe it was this elevated mountain location that seemed to increase my appetite.

Soon, Rachel was ready to leave and we made our way from the boarding house down to the main street of town, shopping baskets in hand. We walked quickly past every saloon – of which there were many in this town. Rachel said countless men who arrived in Virginia City to find their fortunes drank, slept, or spent copious amounts of time in the red-light district when they were not working in the mines. I blushed profusely upon hearing this.

Rachel was pointing out various buildings of interest to me – the church, the fire house, the barber, Piper's Opera House, the medical clinic, the International Hotel – an opulent hotel such as we would have in Chicago and looked almost out of place here in the desert community – it soared a grand six stories above the ground and had a "rising room," according to Rachel which took people from one floor to the next , and the jail. It was outside this establishment we stopped as Rachel was talking to an acquaintance about a quilt pattern. She had introduced me, but I didn't know a thing about quilting, so my thoughts were on a million other things – unpacking, writing to my parents and Gran, my new students, getting my classroom ready for students….

My thoughts ground to a halt when I heard the unmistakable sound of boots on the boardwalk behind us. They hadn't walked very far – in fact, they sounded as if they had just come from the jail behind us. I turned minutely and was greeted by the crooked grin on Sheriff Cullen's face.

He tipped his hat in my direction and said quietly so as not to interrupt Rachel's conversation, "Morning Bella."

I returned his smile and replied, "Morning Sheriff Cullen."

"Please," he said, "call me Edward."

"All right…Edward. Thank you for the lilacs. They smell wonderful. Are you part of the welcoming committee for Virginia City? I don't know that your wife would appreciate you leaving flowers for another girl."

His eyes crinkled up at the corners as his grin widened into a laugh. "Bella, there's no welcoming committee." He leaned closer to me and practically whispered in my ear, "And there's no wife." He held up his left hand in between us and wiggled his long fingers. "See? No ring. I'd want everyone in the state to know I was already taken, if it was by someone as pretty as you." I looked directly into his eyes then – those beautiful brilliant green eyes – and could find no hint of falseness there.

Darn it – this man had caused me to blush yet again. It was getting to be a regular thing around him. I was still captivated by Edward's eyes as he greeted my companion. "Rachel! How are you this beautiful morning?" Obviously her acquaintance had moved away and I was standing there, gaping like a fish at Edward and his hypnotizing eyes.

She fawned under his attention, "Oh Sheriff Cullen! It's good to see you. Bella and I were just on our way to the store. I was giving her a little tour of the town."

Just then, a small girl, grinning from ear to ear, dressed in a light green calico print dress came running up to Edward and hugged him around his waist. He picked her up and swung her around affectionately, saying, "Hey Ali! Did Mom let you out to go to the store?"

"Uh huh," the small girl said, giggling, looking up at Edward as he set her back on the boardwalk. Then she looked at Rachel and said brightly, "Hi, Mrs. Cope!"

Rachel responded, "Hi Alice! How's your mother? I need to get over and see her soon."

The girl replied, "She's good." Then she was looking curiously at me.

Edward bent his long legs so he was at an even height with the girl and said, "Ali, this is Isabella Swan, your new school teacher. Bella, this is my sister, Alice Cullen."

Alice seemed to turn toward Edward's shoulder for protection for just a moment. Had she experienced a harsh teacher in the past? I hoped not. She seemed truly adorable. He put his arm around her and she looked bashfully up at me. "Hi Miss Bella," she said in greeting.

I also knelt down so I was more Alice's height and smiled directly at her. "Hi, Alice. I'm very pleased to meet you. I think we're going to be great friends." I reached out to shake her hand, which she took with no hesitation and smiled shyly back at me.

Edward straightened up and said, "Well, it appears you are all on your way to the store. I would be honored to escort such lovely ladies!" With that, we set off down the street, Edward carrying Alice in his arm on one side and myself and Rachel on the other. Alice chattered all the way to the store about every little thing in her world – a pretty bird she had seen this morning, a dress her mother was making for her, church, friends – all the while fiddling with Edward's sheriff badge on his brown leather vest.

As we reached the store and Rachel was pulling me away down the first aisle, I heard Alice's overly-loud whisper to her brother, "Edward, Miss Bella is very pretty." I didn't hear his answer, but I did hear Alice's next exasperated response, "Stop messing up my hair, Edward!" I had to discreetly cover my mouth with my hand so I wouldn't giggle out loud.

Virginia City was definitely a culture shock for me. Where Chicago had a plethora of stores and emporiums for various items, this town only had one general store for all manner of goods. It was a large general store which encompassed feed, seed, groceries, building supplies, cleaning supplies, candy, writing implements, jewelry, general household goods, mining supplies, quilting and craft supplies, and also included a small dressmaking and tailoring area.

It was there Rachel introduced me to Angela Webber. Angela was about my height with long black hair, brown eyes, was reed thin, and wore wire-rimmed glasses. We formed a fast friendship as she told me her father was the pastor of the church and she was engaged to a man named Ben Cheney, who worked at the fire house, and they would be married soon. In a town over-run with so many men, I was glad to meet a girl who was near my age.

Once Rachel and I made our way back to the boarding house and unloaded our supplies, it was time to prepare lunch. Eli would be going back to the store later with his wagon to bring the supplies we purchased but couldn't carry. Since Rachel didn't need my assistance in the kitchen, I was free to start unpacking.

Once my dresses were hung up and the wrinkles started to disappear from their lengths, I unpacked all my books. What good school teacher traveled without her books? None of them, I hoped. Once my trunks were empty, I hoped to ask Eli if there was a place in their attic I could store them until they had to be repacked.

Rachel came to retrieve me for lunch. She looked around my room in satisfaction, noting that things were starting to come into their rightful place. Her gaze then fell on the lilac bloom I had placed in my water glass. "I'll be right back," she said and was down the stairs again before I could get a word out. She returned with a bud vase and placed the lilac carefully inside. Then she looked out the window. "How did you cut that down?" she asked.

"I didn't. Edward left it for me," I replied with all honesty.

She seemed to tut under her breath and then said, "That boy is such a romantic. I'm surprised he didn't cut down the whole bush for you!" She laughed then and I joined in. Surely he wasn't that enchanted – it was just a nicety – and we'd just met!

Later that afternoon, I wrote a letter to my parents and one to Gran. The one to my parents was basically full of facts, but the one to Gran was full of as much adventure as I'd encountered so far on my journey. I knew she'd soak up every detail. I even told her about Edward, although I'm not sure why.

Sunday dawned bright and early and I got up at a more reasonable hour. I was at the breakfast table on time and had plenty of time to get ready for church.

At church, I sat with Eli and Rachel on a well-polished dark wooden pew inside a beautiful white church with ornate stained glass windows. The sun shining through them was truly a sight to behold. Pastor Webber gave an inspiring sermon and I felt encouraged for the week.

After the service, Pastor Webber informed the congregation I was to be welcomed to the area as the new school teacher. Is there anything more embarrassing than having to stand up in front of a church and make yourself known? I couldn't think of anything at the moment. I stood there, looking mortified for a moment. Then I heard a quiet throat clearing and I looked up. Edward Cullen and those brilliant green eyes looked back at me and encouraged me. I then looked at the rest of the congregation as Pastor Webber finished his introduction and then sat down.

Mayor Isaac Hale and his wife, Violet, greeted me first. I was glad to meet him as he was the first one I had received correspondence from regarding my new teaching position. They wanted me to come to their home for dinner this evening so I could get the last-minute instructions for my new position beginning in a week's time. Their children were Jasper, who was 12 with honey blonde hair and brown eyes who was lean but appeared to already be developing some muscles, and Rosalie, who was 8 with wavy blonde hair to the middle of her back and violet blue eyes.

Next I met an immigrant family from Ireland – the McCarty family consisting of Patrick and Emma McCarty. They had an adorable son named Emmett who had dark curly hair and dimples. He appeared to be about eight years old.

I met several other families – so many I could barely keep up with names. Then I saw Edward approach me along with Alice and two other attractive people. Edward in his Sunday best was a sight to see. His hair was slicked back as much as it could be. He was wearing a dark suit and a white button-down shirt. He stood beside me and quickly made the introductions, "Bella, this is my father, Doctor Carlisle Cullen, and my mother, Esme. You already know Alice." They greeted me very warmly.

Dr. Cullen said while still gripping my hand gently, "Bella, we would be pleased to have you at our home for dinner on Friday evening, if you are available. Please say you'll come."

My mind ran through the dizzying amount of invitations I'd just received and I responded, "I believe Friday evening is free, Dr. Cullen."

"Excellent!" he proclaimed and then continued, "I'll have Edward come to the boarding house to pick you up around six o'clock? We'll look forward to spending more time with you then."

I agreed and then felt the presence of a hand at the small of my back for the briefest moment. When I looked up at Edward, he gave me a quick wink and went to rejoin his family as they made their way out of the church.

The Hale family resided in one of the more stately homes in the town, on the east end. They had a driver come pick me up in a very proper black buggy with a glossy black stallion. Their wealth was obvious. Mayor Hale was a rotund man with mutton chop sideburns and a handlebar mustache with a jovial personality. Mrs. Hale was a bit on the pompous side, like the type of people I attempted to avoid in Chicago. Their children were well behaved and I looked forward to having them in class. Jasper seemed interested in military strategy and the legislature like his father and Rosalie was swiftly becoming her mother's daughter in every way.

During our dinner, it was revealed the key to the schoolhouse was being kept in the sheriff's office for safekeeping. Mayor Hale had already informed Sheriff Cullen I'd be stopping by his office to pick up the key.

Yet another interaction with Edward – I was looking forward to it already.

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 1

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Bella POV

I sighed and leaned back against the seat I'd been in on this long train journey and stared unseeingly out the window at the passing landscape. It was certainly better than taking a covered wagon or a stagecoach the entire distance. This was the modern way to travel in 1870 since the transcontinental railroad had been completed the year before. I couldn't say it was cleaner than a covered wagon or a stagecoach as I felt just as dusty and dirty as someone out on the trail would be with open train windows at intervals to let in fresh air.

I liked to be called Bella by family and friends even though at birth I was christened Isabella Marie, and I took stock of my life thus far as the train swayed onward toward my destination. I had completed my regular schooling and then obtained my teaching certificate just this past year in Chicago, Illinois. I had applied at several schools in the Chicago area, but none of them held any openings for a newly-minted teacher for the next school year. I knew I had to broaden my horizons, so I'd scanned advertisements in other area newspapers at the public library on an almost-daily basis.

One advertisement in particular caught my eye – a teaching position at a school in Virginia City, Nevada. Most teacher advertisements were similar in that they requested unmarried women of upstanding moral fiber for a one-year term. Additional terms could be added after the first assignment had been served if the town found you satisfactory as a teacher and the area agreed with you. I had heard about Virginia City – there was an impressive silver mine there called the Comstock Lode. Other than that, I didn't really know much about the city, other than there were most likely children who needed love and learning in their lives and I was just the woman for that. I'd always loved children and teaching them things – seeing how their young minds worked and delighted in seeing their expressions when they grasped new concepts.

I had replied with my credentials to the advertisement immediately, never expecting a reply. I did receive a reply approximately one month later, from Mayor Isaac Hale of Virginia City, asking when I could report as their new teacher. He had met with the regional school board and they determined I would be an excellent candidate. I replied that I could begin with the new school term in the fall of 1870. Then all I had left to do was inform my parents.

My parents, Charles and Renee Swan, were well-respected Chicago society members with my father a justice of the peace and my mother a perfect society wife, and they had certain expectations of their only child. When they discovered I would be departing – on my own – for the West, they were beside themselves. At first, they forbid me to go. I reminded them I was soon to turn 20 years of age – I could make my own decisions about my life and continued packing.

The deciding factor was actually my grandmother Marie Swan, my father's mother. I affectionately called her Gran. It wasn't that I didn't love my parents – I did – adored them, in fact. I just longed for some type of adventure in my life. I felt stagnant by my present life and Gran knew that. She wasn't able to get out and live any more of her big dreams like she wanted to, so she encouraged me to live mine.

The Swan family was, to a large degree, well-to-do in Chicago. We employed a total of three household staff – a housekeeper/laundress, a butler/gardener, and a cook. My mother entertained as often as my father would allow her. These soirees usually left me bored as they were filled with pompous people who loved to talk about themselves. Once I knew I was leaving for the West, I took it upon myself to learn as much as I could from the housekeeper about keeping a home and the cook about preparing food. I didn't know if or how much I'd have to fend for myself in the future. I had secured a room at a boarding house in Virginia City for the time being.

My parents had wanted me to marry a nice, handsome boy they had chosen for me in Chicago – Riley Biers. He wrote articles for the local newspaper. We had been on a couple of chaperoned walks. We had also been dinner guests at each other's homes a number of times. I had never felt that certain spark with him, the one you were supposed to feel if a relationship was going to lead toward marriage someday. In the end, I did not even meet with Riley to tell him goodbye. I left him a short note which was delivered by post that basically said I was leaving town and I did not know of my expected return date. I also wrote I hoped he could find happiness with another as I was fond of him and truly did not wish to hurt his feelings.

I tucked my reticule as close as I could beside me as I drifted off to sleep. The rocking of the train lulled me right to sleep. My dreams consisted of faraway places and classrooms full of students, eager to learn.

I awoke with a start, unsure what had disturbed my slumber. I put a delicate white gloved hand to my mouth and covered a yawn. I looked at the small watch that was pinned to the front of my dress. It was nearing time for dinner. If I hurried through the bathing car, I would make it in enough time to the dining car to have dinner with a friend I'd made on the train and her twin boys. They were truly a delight and made me laugh.

By the time the train stopped at every podunk station between hither and yon, I was beyond weary. When the conductor finally announced Reno, Nevada, was the next stop, my gratitude knew no bounds. I would be so glad to be free of this chugging train. I knew I'd have another journey ahead of me in a stagecoach, but it would give me time to survey my new surroundings at a slower pace.

When I disembarked from the train, the summer heat blasted my body like the warmth from an oven. So this was the "dry heat" I'd heard some of the passengers on the train talking about. I knew my sapphire blue dress with the high lace collar wasn't going to be the most comfortable attire, but I couldn't go through my trunks right here on the train platform to find something cooler. I would be grateful to have a bath when I reached my final destination.

My trunks were moved from the train to the stagecoach by some men who worked for the Wells Fargo line. While that was being taken care of, I sent a quick telegram to Mrs. Rachel Cope, who owned the boarding house, to let her know I'd arrived in Reno and the stagecoach would be leaving within two hour's time. I was able to have lunch in a hotel dining room near the train station after brushing most of the dust and dirt from my dress in the women's lounge of the train station.

Once I was firmly installed on the stagecoach traveling to Virginia City, I looked out at the wild beauty of high desert Nevada. The hills were mostly brown; there was sagebrush, tumbleweeds and outcroppings of trees gathered here and there. The two gentlemen traveling with me were busy reading their newspapers. The journey would take us approximately four hours and soon, the swaying of the stagecoach lulled me to sleep once again and I drifted off peacefully.

All too soon, the driver announced Virginia City was coming up shortly. I craned my neck out the window of the stagecoach, as much like a lady as possible. I wanted to see – in advance – as much of this new town I'd soon be a part of as I could before I actually arrived.

As we drove further down the main street, the saloons along the board sidewalks were glittering in the afternoon sun with their gaudy bars and fancy glasses and many colored liquors. Thirsty men were swilling burning poison; organ grinders were grinding their organs; and saloon girls were singing songs of drunken revelry in drunken dens. All seemed to be life, excitement, avarice, lust, devilry, and enterprise. I wondered what I had gotten myself into coming to this pit of iniquity.

Edward POV

I yawned and stretched my arms behind my head. Today had been a long day for me, the 25-year-old sheriff of Virginia City, Nevada. I had no one in my jail at the moment – for that I was grateful. I dragged my fingers through my bronze hair in frustration and thought about the events of the day. It had started off so well.

My beautiful mother, Esme, had prepared a hearty breakfast for our family and we all sat down to enjoy it. The Cullen family included my father, Carlisle, a doctor, and my younger sister, Alice, who was 12 and helping out around the house until the new school teacher came to town and started the school year. We had lived here for the past five years, coming from Arizona for Dad's job. A little over one year ago, I had been appointed as sheriff.

Mom looked the most like me – with long caramel-colored bronze hair she kept in long waves my dad preferred. She normally kept it up in the summer due to the heat. Dad was tall like me, although he had blonde hair. Alice was the shortest in the family with the same hair color as Mom.

Breakfast had gone well until I mentioned I'd seen a house down one of the residential streets that had a "for sale" sign in the yard. I felt being 25 – and the town sheriff – I shouldn't live at home with my parents any longer. I had some money saved up from my salary I could use for a down payment and then pay off the note monthly to the bank with my current salary. Mom immediately left the table in tears. I wanted to comfort her, but Dad told me he would handle it.

After the ruined breakfast, I had gone to the jail to begin my workday and relieve my deputy, Mike Newton. I couldn't do something that made Mom so unhappy. I would apologize to her later.

My small police department was comprised of my deputy, Mike, and one other officer, Tyler Crowley. We took turns working around the clock. With the influx of miners and the proliferation of drinking and gambling establishments in this town, it was necessary to have a legal presence to maintain a sense of order. Most people living here were very peaceable, but there was an occasional rowdy drunk, a street fight, or a drunken brawl at one of the saloons. Additionally, silver and money ran through this town like water and we assured those transactions were kept honest.

Then Irina Gonzales had shown up at the jail to see me. She was a petite Spanish beauty who worked as a pianist with the show which had been playing at the opera house for the past month. Rumor in the city was the show was considering pulling out in another month's time. Irina was relentless in her pursuit of me – she was pressing me for a commitment. I had been so excited about the house purchase; I had told her about it. She thought it meant I was getting closer to committing to her.

It was true – I had taken Irina to a restaurant in town for dinner a couple of times. She had also been to my family's home as a dinner guest a time or two as well. We also had taken some strolls down the very public main street of the city. There was just something in my heart holding me back from making a commitment to her. I liked her well enough – I just didn't know if I loved her enough to marry her.

I took my pocket watch out of the small pocket of my brown vest. It was time to place my white Stetson back on my head and go out to meet the stagecoach from Reno. I had received a telegram earlier there was cash onboard, so I would need to make sure it got to the bank safely. Tyler had taken over my post at the jail for the late afternoon and evening shift. I would complete this task and then make my way home and apologize to my mother.

I could see the stagecoach barreling down the main street, growing ever closer. I glanced at the people milling around. There didn't appear to be any threat, but I was ever-vigilant anyway. I was a good sheriff and determined to make Virginia City as safe as it could be.

The stagecoach ground to a halt in front of the general store, with the horses heaving great breaths. They would be glad to get to the stalls this evening for a rest, hay and water. The trail from Reno wasn't an easy one as it was basically cut out of the side of a mountain for the majority of it and horses were worked to their fullest to make it up the embankment.

The passenger door of the stagecoach opened and a small white gloved hand reached out to steady itself on the now-swinging door. I watched as a female figure in a sapphire blue dress emerged – at once captivated by her beauty – her dark brown hair was swept up under a sensible hat, the full lips seem to suit her pale heart-shaped face, and beautiful dark lashes framed her eyes. Then I noticed with horror that her foot was not going to make contact with the step outside the stagecoach door.

I was over to her in an instant, catching her just before she tumbled to the ground. "Oh!" she cried, looking shyly up at me with expressive chocolate brown eyes, her hands firmly planted on my strong biceps, her mouth shaped in a perfect "o."

My mind was racing. Who was this beautiful woman? Why would she come to Virginia City, of all places? She appeared to have come from some wealth, based on her current attire. Did she know unsavory characters sometimes prowled the streets of this city at night? I hoped she was a church-going woman, as she'd need all the help she could get, supernatural and practical, in this town – being as beautiful as she was. And right then, I knew why I could never commit to Irina – my heart did a strange little flip-flop in my chest. Of course, in that moment, I didn't know if she was promised to anyone, but I was going to make it my business to find out.

"Are you just going to stand there, catching flies with your mouth hanging open, Edward – or are you going to unhand our new schoolmarm?" Eli Cope's voice shook me out of my daydream. I flushed a bit as I did just that – gently unhanded the beautiful lady who was now blushing scarlet on every inch of exposed skin on her face and neck. There was general tittering throughout the gathered small crowd. This beautiful woman was the new school teacher? I was expecting someone much older – maybe a grandmother type – not this girl who barely looked out of school herself. I think I unconsciously let out a sigh of relief – at least she couldn't be promised to anyone. School teachers were to arrive unattached.

"Thank you for your kindness," the new school teacher whispered, barely loud enough for me to hear.

"You're welcome," I replied, just as low so as not to embarrass her any further.

I made sure the money from the stagecoach was on its way to the bank with the bank president along with one of the stagecoach scouts. Eli Cope's voice was directed my way again over the dispersing crowd, "Hey, sheriff, help me with the lady's trunks, would you?" I had no plan to refuse that offer.

I don't know what she had packed in those trunks, but they were heavy. I hoped she had packed some lighter dresses than the one she was currently wearing or she was going to melt in northern Nevada. Eli and I had them installed on his wagon soon enough. Eli settled the school teacher on the driver's seat next to him and I rode on the back of the wagon since I could offer my assistance unloading these trunks. Never mind the fact he had people at the boarding house to do that. I wanted to spend more time in the presence of this beautiful girl who had fell into my life and I had not been properly introduced to yet.

Cope's Boarding House was located one block south off the main street. It was a stately-looking two-story structure painted white with dark green trim. As soon as we pulled up, Rachel Cope was out the front door of the boarding house, with the screen door banging shut behind her.

Rachel Cope was a stout older woman. Her gray hair was pinned up into a bun and she was wearing a faded yellow skirt and a white blouse with small flowers embroidered on the collar. Just because she was an older woman didn't mean she had lost any energy along the way.

Rachel was over to the school teacher's side of the wagon in a moment. It was a good thing I had jumped out the back of the wagon before it stopped rolling to help the new school teacher down. The older woman enveloped the school teacher in a hug into her generous bosom and started talking to her a mile a minute, as she was prone to do, firing rapid questions one after another, "Well, Isabella Swan, as I live and breathe! How was your trip? Did you get enough to eat on the train? Did you meet anyone interesting on your long journey? What do you think of Virginia City so far? Did you meet our sheriff? He's quite a looker. If I wasn't married, I would've scooped him up for myself by now!"

I watched the new teacher's face during this entire exchange which went from a smile of amusement to blushing slightly at the end. With a smile, I took the hat off my head, stuck my hand out in greeting and said, "The name is Edward Cullen, ma'am."

The teacher placed her hand in mine, looked up at me, and replied with a shy smile, "I'm Bella. Bella Swan."

Rachel put her arm around Bella's shoulders then, chattering to her about getting settled along with some ice tea and sweeping her up the wide front porch into the house. Eli and I just grinned at each other about Rachel's over-zealous ways and got to work on Bella's trunks.

Not that I had any say in the matter, but I was glad to see Rachel had given Bella her best room, overlooking some of the nicest scenery in the area with the greatest number of trees. I had no reason to linger in Bella's room after her trunks were safely in her room, but she was still in the kitchen with Rachel and Eli had already made his way back down the stairs. I saw some of Rachel's late-blooming lilacs climbing up the wall outside the open window and cut a bloom off with the pocketknife I had with me. I impulsively took a sheet of writing paper from the stack on the desk, dipped the provided pen in the inkwell, and hastily wrote, "To Bella. Edward Cullen." I then laid both the note and the lilac bloom on her pillow and left the room.

It was time to go home and apologize to Mom.

The Business Arrangement - Chapter 12

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision.

Chapter 12 – Epilogues and Happy Endings

Bella POV

It's been ten years since our beautiful wedding. I don't remember much about the day. All I can really remember was Edward's handsome face and the pictures that now grace several photo albums and photo frames in our wing of the Cullen estate. I didn't want to ever think about the killer migraine I had that day.

After we'd returned from our blissful honeymoon to Paris, Jasper and Alice had married about a month later. It was nice having my roommate back – even though we were no longer roommates in that sense of the word. We were almost in different buildings! When we were both at home, though, we did have meals together.

Things had changed in my relationship with Edward. Not in the bad sense – only in the sense that we'd added to our love. We'd had a handsome son – Jacob Michael – two years after we'd married. We followed that stellar production with a beautiful daughter – Kate Elizabeth – three years after that. Edward was in the delivery room for both of the births. At first I thought he was going to faint, but he pulled through at the last minute and was there every step of the way. He was immediately captivated by our children. And they definitely had Daddy wrapped around their little fingers.

When Edward first found out I was pregnant, he demanded I stop working. I told him there was plenty of time between discovering the fact and barely being able to waddle like a duck. After he calmed down – sometimes he's a little prone to overreacting, difficult to believe, I know – we looked at the situation realistically. Lauren had been really been pitching in at work and learning lots of new things. She was the next logical one to take over my position. Once that was decided, I transitioned her into my job so I could concentrate on my next full-time job as Mommy.

Jasper and Alice also joined the parenting game and had twin girls soon after Kate was born. Jane Esme and Charlotte Mary kept them on their toes as well. Alice had resigned from her position as a personal shopper and had begun designing some fashions for a well-known fashion designer that was being really well-received. It was a perfect occupation for her! Those little girls also knew they could charm "Unca Edwa" into just about anything. What a softie he was around kids! It was halfway embarrassing to watch! Obviously Aunt Bella had to be the voice of reason or all four of those kids would own the entire FAO Schwarz toy store!

Emmett and Rosalie were still happily married, although they decided to live in the city due to Rosalie's job. Speaking of which, her job was actually perfect for us! She loved seeing her nieces and nephew when we brought them in for their appointments or on the rare occasions they were sick – and, of course, they came out to the house for all major holidays and they attempted to spoil those kids rotten as well. Emmett and Rosalie had decided against having children since Rosalie had the opportunity to have many children in New York City as her patients. Rosalie actually kicked Emmett's ass and got him to commit to work, so that was actually a relief for Edward. At least he didn't have quite the burden on his shoulders when everyone performed the job they were assigned.

Edward and I had taken the kids to visit my dad a few times. We'd also flown him to New York for Christmas once so he could enjoy the mayhem that was now a Cullen Christmas. I knew it was difficult for him to get off work, so I sent him frequent photos of the children – including Alice's. We also set him up with a computer so we could Skype with him and he could see them online and how fast they were growing.

We took a trip to Disney World once to visit my mom and Phil. That was a fun trip! We also kept my mom in the loop with photos and Skype. I didn't want to be one of those types of people who just write to their parents once at Christmas and send a family photo with a note to say "here's how much the kids have grown this year." I wanted all their grandparents involved in their lives.

Of course, Carlisle and Esme were over the moon with all these grandchildren running around their home! I was sure Carlisle would injure his back one day when he was playing horsey for all three girls. Kate was at the front and kept saying "good horsey" and patting her grandpa's face. I did notice the next day, he was alternating ice and a heating pad on his back. I just rolled my eyes at him and he grinned right back. He loved every minute of it! I think he was trying to make up for the fact Edward was at work when the girls wanted to play.

Esme had the girls outside every day it was nice to have a tea party. They all got dressed up in their "fancy clothes," took their current favorite doll or bear and settled themselves outside like "proper young ladies" and had tea with grandma. I just looked on from the window and laughed. One time, I tried to join them and Kate told me this was their time with grandma and I wasn't allowed.

Carlisle also had special time with Jacob. They went out in a small boat – always with a life jacket, puttered around in the solarium, played cops and robbers, along with many other things. Sometimes Edward even took him to the office. I'm not sure what he did there all day. I'm sure Daddy was teaching him something – probably how to charm the ladies – I have no clue. I'm sure Shelly was feeding him cookies by the barrel full and Angela was taking him out to lunch at some fun place!

Jacob was growing into a handsome boy, just like Edward. They both had that same unruly hair that I loved but was harder than anything to tame. Kate had lovely long brown and bronze ringlets. Both our children had Edward's eyes.

An amazing thing happened after I had our children – I no longer had migraines with the severity I did previously. That country bumpkin doctor in Forks was right, dammit all. At least now I could take some over-the-counter medication and keep alert during the day. It was rare I had a migraine that wiped me out and I had to go to sleep to knock it out.

Edward POV

I was thrilled Isabella had taught me how to work without being a workaholic. I loved spending time with her. I found I was actually more productive during the day since I wasn't given the opportunity to think about work 24/7. With my beautiful wife around, she didn't afford me many occasions to keep work on my mind – she was always tempting my mind toward other pursuits, yes including very sexy ones – and I didn't mind any of those in the least.

Me being the overprotective man I am, the day Isabella told me she was pregnant, I wanted her to stop working that day. She told me she didn't need to do that. After Rosalie told me a bit more about pregnancy, I begrudgingly agreed to let Isabella keep working while she trained Lauren. Seeing Isabella's body blossom during her first and second pregnancy was a beautiful thing. I preferred her fuller figure, even though she sometimes grumbled about it.

Isabella never again had to ask me where I lived or where my heart was – I was fully present in every moment with her and our beautiful children.

There were some days I took the opportunity to work from home. I actually got more accomplished when I didn't have the stress of wondering how my little family was getting along without me. I knew they were getting along fine – but I wanted to be there for them. It was relaxing to take a business call for a half hour, then immediately be wrapped up in Isabella for the next forty-five minutes while the kids were with my parents, followed by an hour's worth of more work, some play time with the kids, and so on throughout the day. I was incredibly grateful for the life I had so I could work this way.

Speaking of which, Isabella and I are going back to Paris for our tenth anniversary. We're leaving this afternoon. Isabella has us all packed and ready to go. I've worked out an arrangement – a business arrangement, of course – with my mother to distract Isabella for the next hour or so while I go through her suitcase and remove all her panties. She certainly won't need any of them while we're in Paris. If she forgot to pack any of the corsets I like to see her in, those will be packed in their place.

Oh, and our company did really well this year, so lucky bastard that I am – I rented out the Eiffel Tower for the entire night. I hope Isabella gets enough sleep on the plane. I don't plan on letting her sleep much at the top of the tower once I get her up there.

I need to go. I have some packing and unpacking to do!

The Business Arrangement - Chapter 11

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

Chapter 11 – Commitments and Faraway Destinations

Alice POV

This past week had been so much fun! Bella's father, Charlie, had been visiting from Forks and was staying with the Cullen family. He'd always been like a second father to me. Bella had asked Carlisle and Esme not to overwhelm him with social engagements as her father wasn't terribly social on his own. Just sitting down for a normal family dinner together in the Cullen home was much more social interaction than Charlie had seen in a very long time. He took it in good stride, though, and kept his eye-rolling to a minimum.

He kept up his good spirits through tuxedo fittings and most other things we put him through. I got to be his tour guide through New York as Bella and Edward were finishing up some things at work before they embarked on their honeymoon. Workaholics – who can stand them?

Bella's mom and stepfather, Renee and Phil, had arrived just last night due to Phil's schedule with his minor league baseball team. They were staying at a hotel in town since Charlie was staying at the Cullen's. They were leaving soon after the wedding. The boys – yes, that's what I call Edward and Jasper – along with Bella and myself – had dinner with the Dwyer's last night.

Afterwards, Bella and I came back to our apartment and I had made sure Bella got her required sleep so she would be a well-rested bride in the morning. I rubbed her down with some soothing lavender lotion to aid in her sleep.

And now – well, all that had come crashing down on us. Bella had woken up around midnight with a migraine. I knew it was the stress of the upcoming wedding, the press, and the list just goes on and on. I got her some medication and a cool cloth for her forehead and let her sleep. This morning, she wasn't much better. It was time to tell the handsome groom. I picked up my phone to text him.

Hey, E, we've got a DEFCON 3 situation going on here. – A

What do you mean? - E

Migraine city is what I mean. – A

Dammit. – E

That's what I'd say. Just don't expect a radiant bride coming down the aisle. – A

Meds? - E

Of course! I'm letting her sleep as long as I can before she absolutely has to get ready. – A

OK. Thank you for everything. Love you. – E

You too. I'll keep you posted. – A

And it was true – I did love Edward, but only in that soon-to-be brother-in-law sort of way, not in the swoony romantic type of love way. I had my own swoony man to love. Speaking of which…

Meet you at the altar in the gazebo, sweetie? - A

Of course, baby. I'll be the best man there. – J

I love you. – A

I love you infinitely more. – J

No wonder I loved him. He was so funny and perceptive. He knew exactly what I needed when I needed it. He was definitely getting something in the horizontal mambo kind of way later on today – you can guarantee it.

Now it was time to wake up the bride to get her in the shower so we could get her ready for her 11 a.m. walk down the aisle. I had arranged for Enrique to come to our apartment to style our hair. I was glad we had chosen a hairstyle for Bella where most of it flowed down her back so there would be minimal stress to her head.

Soon, Enrique was behind us, we were dressed in our wedding finery, and Sam was driving us to the Cullen home on Long Island. Sam and I were speaking quietly in the front of the car while Bella had her eyes closed in the back. I was glad Bella's doctor had been invited to her wedding. He had brought a vial of her migraine medication that he would administer by injection if her migraine wasn't better right before they left for their honeymoon. They had a long flight ahead of them – to the beautiful and romantic Paris, France.

At the Cullen mansion, I helped Bella out of the car in her simple but beautiful gown. I briefed Charlie on the situation with her head. I kissed her on the cheek and said, "Bells, just focus on Edward. He will help you get through this. I know he can."

I took my place at the entrance to the Cullen garden and gave the signal to the pianist that we had arrived and were ready to begin. I could see the boys standing in the gazebo, waiting for us.

Edward POV

I could see Alice and Charlie clearly, but all I could see of Isabella was part of her dress that flared out from her body at the bottom. I was glad the sun was shining. Isabella had told me once if she had a migraine, she preferred the sun to shine than for it to be a cloudy day. The clouds actually diffused the sun and made the glare much worse for her. I wished I could take her away from all this – the stress of it all – and just marry her at the courthouse and be off to Paris on the next plane, but that would never do for the family and friends who were gathered here to witness our vows.

We'd been over it several times – it was just Isabella marrying Edward – although we both knew that wasn't exactly true. The life I'd been born into wasn't going to make things as simple as we wanted them to be. We did have a say in what media outlets were allowed at our nuptials – People Weekly magazine and one local newspaper. The color choice was simple – black, white and red. Red roses were the only flowers used in our wedding – not counting the plethora of flowers in my mother's garden. Isabella did draw the line at carrying two hundred of them up the aisle. Symbolically one hundred each were placed on both sides of the gazebo in reference to my covert operation of several months ago.

As soon as I could look into her eyes, I would know the level of pain she was in and I would know how long we'd be available to our guests. She was the most important person to me this day and every day – I'd finally learned that lesson. I had a stupid grin on my face – I couldn't help it. My lovely bride was coming toward me. It was the moment we'd waited for.

Finally, I could see Isabella. She was carrying a dozen red roses in a bouquet which was accented with rhinestones that caught the sunlight. My little vixen soon-to-be wife was trying to kill me before she made it up the aisle as I distinctly remembered that beautiful bra and panty set she was wearing the day we made love in my office and the day I proposed. I forced my mind to keep itself on task and not about dragging her off to the nearest bedroom. I was pretty sure the minister would insist we say our vows prior to me doing that.

Then Charlie was pulling the veil back over Isabella's head and kissing her on the cheek. I noticed she kept her eyes closed during that small exchange. When I descended the gazebo steps, took her hand, and brought her back up the steps with me, she kept her eyes trained on me. She stayed that way through the entire ceremony. It didn't last that long and soon we were kissing and being announced to the gathered crowd as "Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cullen."

The crowd moved to the luncheon tents set up in another area of the expansive yard. I knew inside the tents were round tables set for eight with white linen tablecloths, heavy sparkling silverware, red linen napkins, and a flickering white pillar candle set in a glass hurricane holder in the center of each table. Each place setting had a thin band of black around the edge. It's amazing the things you notice when you're not trying to freak out about your bride not being her absolute best.

Isabella and I moved on to wedding photos. Our photographer was fantastic. She and her assistants had been taking candid photos throughout the ceremony. She let us see a few of them on her digital camera and they looked exactly like what we wanted. Isabella's eyes were trained on mine through most of the photos and I didn't mind at all. Shouldn't a new bride look like she's besotted with her new husband? I knew why she was doing it – it was the only thing keeping her head on her shoulders until she could get some relief from her head. I think my very favorite photo from the day was a candid Isabella and I took on the spur of the moment on an old swing Emmett, Jasper and I used to swing on when we were kids. I sat on the swing, then the photographer had Isabella nestle on my lap, facing me, with her arms around my neck. The look of pure devotion and fun we had toward each other in that moment would forever live in my memory.

We moved to the luncheon tents and ate a bit, then gave each other civilized bites of wedding cake. I can never understand why couples insist on shoving cake in each other's mouths. Do they do it for a laugh? I'm not certain, but Isabella and I are not that way.

My mother could certainly plan a party. This one would likely go on the rest of the day with dancing and such. My beautiful bride and I needed to get to the airport. Sam was standing by at the helicopter, waiting to take us to the airport. Alice helped Isabella change into a beautiful indigo blue dress and I changed into a suit and tie. Might as well make an impression on Paris!

After we received numerous well wishes from the crowd, Isabella's doctor followed us out to the helicopter and administered her medication right before we took off. He explained it would likely make her sleepy. She wasn't that thrilled with receiving an injection, but she desperately wanted her migraine gone – and I couldn't agree more!

Bella POV

I woke up somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean – or the "Big Pond" as we Americans call it. I felt so much better! Was my wedding a dream? I looked down at my left hand. No, there nestled next to my platinum engagement ring was my platinum wedding ring with the delicate swirls on it. From what I could remember, the wedding had been gorgeous. I wish I had been able to enjoy it more. It had been as simple as Edward and I could make it considering he was Edward Cullen. And now I was Bella Cullen – that was going to take some getting used to.

I took in my surroundings and saw my gorgeous husband stretched out prone in the seat next to me. He'd done so much to make sure our wedding day was perfect! No wonder he was sleeping. He deserved it. I spied a Coke can on his tray table and picked it up. Score! There was some left and I drank it down. The flight attendant noticed my action and asked me if I'd like one of my own. I nodded and she brought another, along with a cup of ice. After drinking my fill, I nestled back in my seat and just had to reach a hand out to push back some of my husband's sex hair that had flopped in his face while he was sleeping.

"Mmmmmm," he rumbled deep in his chest. His hand came up to catch mine. Without opening his eyes, he asked, "Are you feeling better, love?"

"Yes. Much," I replied with a smile in my voice.

He continued as he laced his fingers through mine, "You better get more sleep, Mrs. Cullen. I have big plans for you once we arrive in Paris." And he waggled his eyebrows at me. How does he do that in his partial wakefulness? Brat.

Once we arrived in Paris and went through customs, we went to our hotel. Of course, traveling with Edward on our honeymoon shouldn't have been awe-inspiring to me by this point, but it was. Our room had the perfect view of the Eiffel Tower right outside a pair of French doors. And yes, you could see the Eiffel Tower from the bed. I'm sure he was going to use that to his advantage later.

But as it was morning when we arrived, he insisted we stay up and adjust ourselves to the local time. We visited the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe before eating lunch. After lunch, we spent the afternoon at the Louvre, admiring all types of works of art. It was awe-inspiring!

While in Paris, we also visited the Notre Dame Cathedral (where we did not run into the hunchback – thank you very much), the Sorbonne and the Latin Quarter, Sacre Coeur and Montemarte, and took a romantic boat tour of the Seine River. Edward was adamant that we see everything!

We stayed connected to the office as well. I think a bit of Edward's workaholic behavior had rubbed off on me as well. Although, we only checked in once a day and that was the end of that – only to see if there were any emergencies. Usually Jasper had everything covered, which didn't surprise either one of us. But we gave bits of advice where needed.

And the lovemaking! I don't know what it is about Paris – but I felt particularly swoony in Edward's presence. Was it because I was on my honeymoon? Was it because Edward is particularly handsome? It is because Paris is the City of Love? I don't know – but I was more turned on than a cat on a hot tin roof.

I didn't have a tinge of a migraine even though I was taking my normal medications. Was sex with Edward the cure to migraines? Well, I certainly wasn't going to advertise that as the cure to anyone else! Get your own damn cure!

By the time we went to bed that first night in Paris, Edward was beyond aroused as well - maybe because I'd been rubbing up against him like a proverbial cat all day. I couldn't keep my hands off him. I wanted to climb inside his suit at every opportunity. It's his entire fault for looking so damn delectable in a suit in the first place.

He had me undressed before I barely knew what was happening – although I was well aware of undressing him. I giggled when I saw his boxer briefs. Apparently Jasper had made him wear a pair that looked like a tuxedo that proclaimed "groom" going down one leg. No matter – they went well with the white lacy bra and panty set I was wearing that said "bride" in rhinestones across my ass. We're nothing if not cliché.

I remember earlier Edward and I had been enjoying our dinner out on our tiny balcony and the French doors were still open. As he slid inside my very wet opening, he said roughly in my ear, "Isabella love, I want to hear you. I want all of Paris to hear how good I make you feel." As his talented fingers kept strumming my clit, I didn't care who heard me as I kept shouting his name and moaning. If my eyes could've focused on anything, I suppose I could've seen the beautiful Eiffel Tower all lit up; but the things Edward could do to my body – those were the only things I could focus on.

Other times we made love slowly and gently, taking our time and enjoying each other. I couldn't decide which I liked more – the slow and easy times or the times when he was commanding and in control. I loved it all.

Since Edward has so much money – yes, feel free to insert an eyeroll here – he rented the Eiffel Tower for a "private function" for an hour after it was closed to the public one evening. He requested I wear a dress and heels. Was his family going to surprise us at one of the restaurants there? He wasn't giving me any hints.

We stepped inside the elevator and rode it all the way to the top. The elevator operator discreetly left us and took the elevator back down to the bottom. It was a beautiful clear dark night and we could see all of Paris from our bird's eye view. It was absolutely gorgeous!

Edward stepped close behind me and wrapped his arms around me with me inside his coat. This was very romantic. Count on Edward to go the extra mile! Then he was kissing down my neck and sucking on my earlobe. I turned my head to kiss him back. He shook his head a bit and said, "Just feel, Isabella. Hold onto the railing and look out at beautiful Paris." I did as requested and wondered what he was up to.

Before long, his hands came up to my breasts and they were kneading on my flesh there. It didn't take long for my nipples to stand at attention under his expert ministrations.

His hands soon moved lower down and I think I heard him mutter a "tsk" when he found I was wearing panties. He wouldn't give me any hints earlier so I had no clue where we were going or who we were meeting. He ripped them off me with a little tug and asked me to spread my legs a bit. I did so immediately.

Edward's hands were opening up the folds of my pussy and stroking me, making me so very wet. He encouraged me, "Mmmm…yes, love. Let Paris know how I make you feel." With two of his fingers inside me and his thumb circling my clit, I came over and over again. I didn't know how much a French whore moaned, but I'm sure I was rivaling her skills at the moment.

I had barely gotten my wits about me again when the elevator arrived back on the top floor again. It was time for us to go. Edward kept a firm hold on me since my knees felt a bit like jelly. When we arrived back in our hotel room, we made love up against the wall right inside the door. I could barely contain myself. I wanted him right and now. He smirked a bit later and said, "Love, I think I like you like this."

"Yeah, you've just created a monster! You'll be sorry!" I replied.

The rest of our honeymoon was full of more relaxing and more lovemaking. I would never get enough of Edward – even if we lived to be 105 years old. I didn't ever want to go back to real life.