Picking up the Pieces Teaser

“He’s stepped into this father-like position with Grace and John, but never mentioned having his own children. He would be a great dad, though.”

“He already is,” Alice smiled, laying her hand over mine. My eyes shot to hers, giving her a withering glare. “Not that I’m saying that he’s trying to replace Jake. He’s stepped into a role where he’s becoming like a dad to John and Grace. Will they ever call him ‘Dad’? Who knows? But, Bella, you have to see what’s happening. You, Edward and your children, you’re becoming a family. Is that so bad?”

My mind said no, but my heart was going a mile a minute, wanting to say yes. I had opened my heart to Edward, said that I loved him and I did. It was different from what I felt for Jake. Jake was a constant, steady, warm and reliable. Edward was passionate, hot, quick-tempered but so affectionate. Edward had been there for me when I needed him and in return, I was there for him when Esme got sick. I would be there for him when Esme passed. Hopefully, that wouldn’t be for many, many years.

“Bells! I asked you a question,” Alice said, waving her hand in my face. “You spaced out on me.”

“What did you say?” I mumbled, shaking out the cobwebs.

“You. Edward. Family. GO!” Alice chirped, giving me an impish grin. I furrowed my brows. Still 

confused. “Is it so bad that you and Edward are acting like a family with your children?”

“No. John loves having a guy, other than my dad, to talk to. Grace adores Edward, relishing in the story times they share. I’m glad to have the intimacy of sharing my life with someone,” I shrugged. 

“But does that mean I’m ready for more kids? I’m thirty-five, Ali-cat. Soon to be thirty-six. My body is not getting any younger.”

“Don’t shut the door on it, Bells. If you and Edward decide to take that step, you will have gorgeous babies,” Alice sang. “And I would love to be the godmother.” She took my hand. “Just let it happen. Everything with you and Edward has been organic. The next step with him will be just as fluid. You do need a lingerie overhaul, though. I’m not bending on that. Even if you spend the weekend in bed, not having sex, I want my best friend looking good. Please, let me help you with the panties! $200! It’ll get you a ton of sexy, saucy goodies.”

“One stipulation…no thongs,” I grumbled.

“Done!” Alice sang, dragging me back to the lingerie store. An hour later, I had a brand new lingerie wardrobe, complete with nighties, bras, panties and some bustier thing with garter belts. Alice insisted that Jasper loved unbuckling her from it. I wasn’t so keen on it, but it was on clearance and did amazing things to waist and my boobs. I actually had a cleavage with the bustier.