Blockbuster Teaser

 "This is the main floor. It’s open concept. The only doors on this floor are this entrance, the front door and one of the bathrooms. Here’s the kitchen …”

“Holy crap. Your kitchen is as big as my entire apartment,” I gasped.

“It may be big, but your apartment has something that my house doesn’t,” Edward murmured, tucking an errant curl behind my ear. I gave him a wry look. He just snickered kissing me. “Your apartment is warm and filled with love.”

“My apartment can be too warm since we only have a window unit as an air conditioner, and it’s filled with second-hand furniture,” I deadpanned. “Your house is gorgeous!”

“My house is a place for me to stay when I’m not working. It was decorated by the best interior designer. I love this place, but I didn’t care what went on the walls or what furniture was put inside,” he shrugged. “However, with you in here, this place feels less like a house and more like a home.”

I blushed, frowning deeply. What did that mean?

“Come on, gorgeous. Let me show you the pool deck. Did you bring a bathing suit?” he asked.

“Um, no,” I spluttered. “I … I … no.”

“No big deal. I’m certain we can find something if you want to go into the pool. Or clothing could be optional,” he quipped, waggling his brows.

“Edward,” I chided, giving him a glower.

“I’m kidding, Bella,” he said, giving me a contrite smile.

“I’m sorry,” I whispered, closing my eyes. Edward pulled me into his arms, and I stiffly allowed it. In my head, I catalogued all the scars that were littered on my body. My C-section scar, various wounds from Jacob and his temper, and so many others. I was ugly … my body was ugly.

“Do not apologize, Bella,” he whispered back. “Sometimes, I get ahead of myself. I’ll say this again. You’re in charge.”

I nodded, sliding my arms around his waist. I hated my insecurities. I put up a strong façade, but on the inside, I was a mess. “I have scars,” I said against his chest. “Ugly scars …”

“Even with the scars, you’re gorgeous,” Edward whispered. “It’s not what’s on the outside that drew me in. Your inherent goodness and kindness is so beautiful.”

I sighed. “Thank you, but where’s the bathroom?”

He led me back inside and pointed out one of the doors on the main floor. I gave him a shaky smile before ducking inside. Once the door clicked shut, I slid down to the floor and let the tears flow. I hated this. I hated my fears and my past. I wanted to be happy. For the most part, I was, but I knew I had a lot of issues.

It took me a few moments to gather myself. I patted my cheeks to try to remove evidence that I’d cried. With a slow breath, I exited the bathroom.

Edward was in the kitchen, puttering anxiously. “Do you want some tea? Lemonade?” He gave me a crooked smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable. I don’t want to do that. I …”

“It’s okay, Edward. I’m the one with issues. Not you,” I said, sitting at the island in the kitchen. “I don’t know if I’m worth it.”

“You are worth it,” he breathed.