The One That Got Away Teaser

“I know you closed on your bungalow in the chief’s neighborhood, but when are you moving?” he asked Alice.

“After Christmas. We’re spending Christmas with my family in Seattle. Then, we’re packing up the truck and making the cross-country trip to Florida, stopping in Austin, to celebrate New Year’s with Jasper’s family,” Alice said. “I’m lucky. I can work from home and with Bella’s schedule, I have flexibility to unpack and set up our house.”

“Bella’s schedule?” Edward asked. “Isn’t she going back to the university?”

“She is, but she’s also going to be flying to and from LA for status checks on the production of Mafia Princess,” Alice explained. “The first one is at the end of February and the next one is just prior to start of filming in late March, while she’s on spring break. I just told Bella this while you were at your meeting with the hospital board this morning. How did that go?”

“I’m so lucky I have Dr. VanDuzor on my side. I’m not losing any time in my fellowship, nor will have to make it up. I am on FMLA and legally, they can’t force me to do that. Jenks, my attorney, fought for me, along with my mentor and boss,” Edward chuckled. “Though, I’m itching to get back in the game. I’ve received a few shifts at the hospital between now and when I go back full-time.”

“Good,” Alice nodded. She looked over to the twins, who were now playing in the family room. Alice skulked over to Edward, wrapping her arms around his. “And what about putting a ring on that girl’s finger?” she hissed. Alice waggled her brows, smirking conspiratorially.

“I have a plan,” Edward laughed. He quickly told Alice about what he was working on with the twins. He’d already found a ring for Bella and it was being made. This weekend, however, while Alice and Bella enjoyed some time a nearby spa with Edward’s mother and Sue, Edward was going to take the twins to choose some mother’s jewelry for Bella, using their birthstones. Alice approved and clapped her hands excitedly.

“When?”

“When what?” Edward asked, taking the pasta and emptying it into a colander before adding it to the chili.

“When are you going to put a ring on it?” Alice queried, smiling impishly. 

The One That Got Away Update

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Edward dressed in a black suit, white shirt and a black paisley tie. He was anxiously pacing the bathroom trying to tie the tie, but it was too crooked. “Edward, stop,” Bella said, walking over to him and clumsily trying to help. It was useless because her right hand was encased in a cast from her recent wrist surgery. “Why are you nervous?”

“Because …” he whispered, stopping her fussing and kissing her forehead. She was also dressed for court, but she was in a conservative dress. Her hair was pulled into a loose ponytail, cascading down her back. She looked far too beautiful for such a solemn day, but it was a necessary evil to put the Wicked Witch of South Beach away for a long, long time.

“Edward?”

“Because, seeing her will … people will know what she did,” he hissed, gripping Bella’s waist and his eyes drifting shut and a lone tear trickling down his pale cheek. “I’m not ashamed …”

“Baby,” Bella murmured. “I can see it in your eyes. You are ashamed with what happened. She violated your trust in more ways than one.” He blinked and looked at the woman who was holding him together. He cupped her cheek, wiping his thumb down her warm skin. “You’re a good man. A strong man. I’m sorry that she did that to you.”

He wrapped his arms around her waist and pressed his cheek to her hair. “I am ashamed at what she did. I’m also pissed as hell, sweetness. She’s going to pay for what she did. With our statements, she’s going to go to jail for a long time.” He tipped her chin up, kissing her lips tenderly. “I love you, Bella. I’m sorry about being emo Edward.”

“You have every right to be emo Edward,” she giggled. “I’m not exactly a bowl of sunshine. This cast itches like a son of a bitch and where the staples were in my head, I have a nagging ache. I feel so badly that I’m so cranky most of the time.”

“You’re not cranky. You’re recovering,” he countered, turning and retying his tie, finally happy with its result. “Dr. Wells is happy with your progress.”

“I still get daily migraines and my vision is not what it should be,” she grumbled. “I may need to make an appointment with an eye doctor …”

“I’ll make one for you. My eye doctor is awesome,” Edward said, waggling his chic frames. Bella 

nodded, kissing his chin. “We should go, though. The prosecutor wants to go over our statements.”

“It makes me wonder why she pled guilty,” Bella mused.

“Me, too, but I’m not fighting it. If she wants to plead guilty, that’s her prerogative. I just pray that she’s not getting some sort of deal,” Edward sighed. He checked his watch. “Do you need a pain pill?”

“No. I mean, it hurts, but they make me kind of foggy,” she replied. “When we get back.” He wrinkled his nose, swiping the bottle and putting it into her purse. He threaded their hands together after he put the sling around Bella’s right arm. He kissed her forehead once more before sliding behind the wheel of his SUV. Backing out of the garage, he drove them to the Thirteenth Judicial Court House in Hillsborough County. Charlie, along with Seth, Sue and Jacob were waiting outside. Carlisle and Esme were planning on attending, but the kids were off school for the Thanksgiving break. Besides, the hatred they had for the former daughter-in-law was barely contained. So, they decided to stay back, prepare for Thanksgiving, using their little minions to help with the preparations. 

The One That Got Away Teaser

Edward dressed in a black suit, white shirt and a black paisley tie. He was anxiously pacing the bathroom trying to tie the tie, but it was too crooked. “Edward, stop,” Bella said, walking over to him and clumsily trying to help. It was useless because her right hand was encased in a cast from her recent wrist surgery. “Why are you nervous?”

“Because …” he whispered, stopping her fussing and kissing her forehead. She was also dressed for court, but she was in a conservative dress. Her hair was pulled into a loose ponytail, cascading down her back. She looked far too beautiful for such a solemn day, but it was a necessary evil to put the Wicked Witch of South Beach away for a long, long time.

“Edward?”

“Because, seeing her will … people will know what she did,” he hissed, gripping Bella’s waist and his eyes drifting shut and a lone tear trickling down his pale cheek. “I’m not ashamed …”

“Baby,” Bella murmured. “I can see it in your eyes. You are ashamed with what happened. She violated your trust in more ways than one.” He blinked and looked at the woman who was holding him together. He cupped her cheek, wiping his thumb down her warm skin. “You’re a good man. A strong man. I’m sorry that she did that to you.”

He wrapped his arms around her waist and pressed his cheek to her hair. “I am ashamed at what she did. I’m also pissed as hell, sweetness. She’s going to pay for what she did. With our statements, she’s going to go to jail for a long time.” He tipped her chin up, kissing her lips tenderly. “I love you, Bella. I’m sorry about being emo Edward.”

“You have every right to be emo Edward,” she giggled. “I’m not exactly a bowl of sunshine. This cast itches like a son of a bitch and where the staples were in my head, I have a nagging ache. I feel so badly that I’m so cranky most of the time.”

“You’re not cranky. You’re recovering,” he countered, turning and retying his tie, finally happy with its result. “Dr. Wells is happy with your progress.”

“I still get daily migraines and my vision is not what it should be,” she grumbled. “I may need to make an appointment with an eye doctor …”

“I’ll make one for you. My eye doctor is awesome,” Edward said, waggling his chic frames. Bella nodded, kissing his chin. “We should go, though. The prosecutor wants to go over our statements.”

“It makes me wonder why she pled guilty,” Bella mused.

“Me, too, but I’m not fighting it. If she wants to plead guilty, that’s her prerogative. I just pray that she’s not getting some sort of deal,” Edward sighed. He checked his watch. “Do you need a pain pill?”

“No. I mean, it hurts, but they make me kind of foggy,” she replied. “When we get back.” He wrinkled his nose, swiping the bottle and putting it into her purse. He threaded their hands together after he put the sling around Bella’s right arm. He kissed her forehead once more before sliding behind the wheel of his SUV. Backing out of the garage, he drove them to the Thirteenth Judicial Court House in Hillsborough County. Charlie, along with Seth, Sue and Jacob were waiting outside. Carlisle and Esme were planning on attending, but the kids were off school for the Thanksgiving break. Besides, the hatred they had for the former daughter-in-law was barely contained. So, they decided to stay back, prepare for Thanksgiving, using their little minions to help with the preparations. 

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Bella ended up staying in the hospital for a week to monitor any further symptoms like the substantial headache, her staples in her head and the blurry vision. The nice thing was she had the private suite, thanks to Carlisle’s pull in the hospital. However, she got very little sleep because the nurses would constantly check on her every hour or so. She was exhausted and anxious to get home. And by home, home with Edward.

A shower was in order, too. Bella just felt grimy from not being able to shower with her injuries. Sponge baths helped, with the help of the nurses, but it wasn’t the same.

Now, Edward made arrangements to end her lease at her apartment, no penalty because of the water damage she’d experienced earlier in the month. With the help of Charlie, Jasper, who was visiting from Seattle, and Mike, they moved Bella out of the apartment and into his home. They also emptied out her storage unit, putting most of her belongings into the unfinished portion of the basement.

Edward was adamant that he would take care of her once she was out of the hospital because she was struggling with memory loss and gross motor skills. Bella was clumsy naturally, but after her brain was scrambled, she was as wobbly on her legs like a newborn deer.

Both of them were on medical leave until after the new year. Edward had to deal with the emotional aftermath of the revelation of Tanya’s ultimate betrayal. Bella couldn’t focus her mind on anything longer than a minute or two and was not allowed to do anything other than sleep or relax until the doctors cleared her. The twins, after meeting with the family counselor Kelli recommended, would go back to school the Monday after Bella’s release from the hospital.

Which couldn’t come fast enough.

It was Friday, almost one week from when Bella went after Tanya, protecting her children from that heinous monster. She was waiting with Esme to be released, getting the paperwork from Dr. Wells. Esme was puttering around, packing up Bella’s bags and making sure everything was good to go. “I’m going to bring some of this down to the car, sweetheart. Edward will be here when he’s done with his therapy session in a little bit and I’ll be back in ten minutes. There was no parking today,” Esme laughed.

“Thanks, Esme,” Bella said, leaning back on the bed. She was dressed in a pair of yoga pants and one of Edward’s Dartmouth hoodies. She stared out the window, her vision still fuzzy, but getting better.

A few moments after Esme left, there was a tentative knock on the door. “Bella?”

She turned and saw the tall form of her ex-boyfriend, Jacob Black. “Jake, what are you doing here?” she asked. 

Jacob Black

The One That Got Away

Bella ended up staying in the hospital for a week to monitor any further symptoms like the substantial headache, her staples in her head and the blurry vision. The nice thing was she had the private suite, thanks to Carlisle’s pull in the hospital. However, she got very little sleep because the nurses would constantly check on her every hour or so. She was exhausted and anxious to get home. And by home, home with Edward.

A shower was in order, too. Bella just felt grimy from not being able to shower with her injuries. Sponge baths helped, with the help of the nurses, but it wasn’t the same.

Now, Edward made arrangements to end her lease at her apartment, no penalty because of the water damage she’d experienced earlier in the month. With the help of Charlie, Jasper, who was visiting from Seattle, and Mike, they moved Bella out of the apartment and into his home. They also emptied out her storage unit, putting most of her belongings into the unfinished portion of the basement.

Edward was adamant that he would take care of her once she was out of the hospital because she was struggling with memory loss and gross motor skills. Bella was clumsy naturally, but after her brain was scrambled, she was as wobbly on her legs like a newborn deer.

Both of them were on medical leave until after the new year. Edward had to deal with the emotional aftermath of the revelation of Tanya’s ultimate betrayal. Bella couldn’t focus her mind on anything longer than a minute or two and was not allowed to do anything other than sleep or relax until the doctors cleared her. The twins, after meeting with the family counselor Kelli recommended, would go back to school the Monday after Bella’s release from the hospital.

Which couldn’t come fast enough.

It was Friday, almost one week from when Bella went after Tanya, protecting her children from that heinous monster. She was waiting with Esme to be released, getting the paperwork from Dr. Wells. Esme was puttering around, packing up Bella’s bags and making sure everything was good to go. “I’m going to bring some of this down to the car, sweetheart. Edward will be here when he’s done with his therapy session in a little bit and I’ll be back in ten minutes. There was no parking today,” Esme laughed.

“Thanks, Esme,” Bella said, leaning back on the bed. She was dressed in a pair of yoga pants and one of Edward’s Dartmouth hoodies. She stared out the window, her vision still fuzzy, but getting better.

A few moments after Esme left, there was a tentative knock on the door. “Bella?”

She turned and saw the tall form of her ex-boyfriend, Jacob Black. “Jake, what are you doing here?” she asked. 

Jacob Black

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Bella was in purgatory, floating in a light grey mist. She could hear whispers, hushed conversations but couldn’t understand anything that was being said. Her head was throbbing, pulsing with each heartbeat. Her wrist hurt, as well, but not as badly as her head. She tried to open her eyes, but they wouldn’t respond.

“Sweetness, just rest,” came the honeyed voice of Edward. “You’re okay.” He pressed a kiss to her temple, sniffling quietly. She didn’t respond, but she allowed herself to fall back further into purgatory, allowing the grey mist to swirl around her comfortingly. She didn’t stay there long. She heard more voices and medical jargon.

Severe concussion.

Traumatic brain injury.

Fractured wrist.

Memory loss.

Drug-induced coma.

Weaning her off the medications.

Bella whimpered and she felt a warm hand twine with hers. “Bella, you’re okay. Can you open your eyes?” She whimpered again, trying to will her eyes to open. They did and she gasped, the light causing the pain in her head to intensify. There was rustling and angry whispers before Edward spoke again. “It’s dark now, sweetness. I need to see your beautiful eyes. I have to know if you’re okay,” he said, his voice sounding so lost and broken. Bella opened her eyes, trying hard to focus on Edward’s face. He was fuzzy, but he was there. “There you are, my gorgeous love.”

“Thirsty,” she croaked, shifting uncomfortably and her voice raspy.

“Here,” Edward said, placing a straw between her lips. She sipped tentatively and leaned back against the pillows, moaning quietly. “Easy, sweetness. You’ve got some staples back there.”

“What happened?” she asked. “I mean, I know what happened, but why am I in the hospital? Are Lucy and Liam okay? Did she …?” Her eyes flew open and she tried to get up out of the bed. She needed to see her babies.

Edward gently stopped her and caressed her cheeks. “They’re okay. Worried about you and anxious to see you. They miss you so much,” he said soothingly. “They want to see their mom.” Bella smiled, tears falling onto her cheeks. He kissed her forehead and sat back, turning to Dr. Wells.

An older, African American doctor stepped forward, standing behind Edward. “I’m Dr. Felix Wells and I was the neurosurgeon assigned to your case. You hit your head so hard on that counter that you got a severe concussion. In fact, you actually fractured your skull and you’ve got seven staples just below the crown of your head.”

“Is that why my head is throbbing and everyone’s blurry?” Bella questioned, blinking her eyes to try to get her vision to clear. It didn’t work.

Edward’s eyes widened and he took out a penlight. “I’m sorry, Bella, but we need to check your eyes,” he whispered. The light seared Bella’s brain and she whimpered, clamping her eyelids shut. “Still sluggish.” 

The One That Got Away Teaser

Bella was in purgatory, floating in a light grey mist. She could hear whispers, hushed conversations but couldn’t understand anything that was being said. Her head was throbbing, pulsing with each heartbeat. Her wrist hurt, as well, but not as badly as her head. She tried to open her eyes, but they wouldn’t respond.

“Sweetness, just rest,” came the honeyed voice of Edward. “You’re okay.” He pressed a kiss to her temple, sniffling quietly. She didn’t respond, but she allowed herself to fall back further into purgatory, allowing the grey mist to swirl around her comfortingly. She didn’t stay there long. She heard more voices and medical jargon.

Severe concussion.

Traumatic brain injury.

Fractured wrist.

Memory loss.

Drug-induced coma.

Weaning her off the medications.

Bella whimpered and she felt a warm hand twine with hers. “Bella, you’re okay. Can you open your eyes?” She whimpered again, trying to will her eyes to open. They did and she gasped, the light causing the pain in her head to intensify. There was rustling and angry whispers before Edward spoke again. “It’s dark now, sweetness. I need to see your beautiful eyes. I have to know if you’re okay,” he said, his voice sounding so lost and broken. Bella opened her eyes, trying hard to focus on Edward’s face. He was fuzzy, but he was there. “There you are, my gorgeous love.”

“Thirsty,” she croaked, shifting uncomfortably and her voice raspy.

“Here,” Edward said, placing a straw between her lips. She sipped tentatively and leaned back against the pillows, moaning quietly. “Easy, sweetness. You’ve got some staples back there.”

“What happened?” she asked. “I mean, I know what happened, but why am I in the hospital? Are Lucy and Liam okay? Did she …?” Her eyes flew open and she tried to get up out of the bed. She needed to see her babies.

Edward gently stopped her and caressed her cheeks. “They’re okay. Worried about you and anxious to see you. They miss you so much,” he said soothingly. “They want to see their mom.” Bella smiled, tears falling onto her cheeks. He kissed her forehead and sat back, turning to Dr. Wells.

An older, African American doctor stepped forward, standing behind Edward. “I’m Dr. Felix Wells and I was the neurosurgeon assigned to your case. You hit your head so hard on that counter that you got a severe concussion. In fact, you actually fractured your skull and you’ve got seven staples just below the crown of your head.”

“Is that why my head is throbbing and everyone’s blurry?” Bella questioned, blinking her eyes to try to get her vision to clear. It didn’t work.

Edward’s eyes widened and he took out a penlight. “I’m sorry, Bella, but we need to check your eyes,” he whispered. The light seared Bella’s brain and she whimpered, clamping her eyelids shut. “Still sluggish.”

“Bella, your brain slammed against your skull and rattled it,” Dr. Wells said. He took out an egg and put it into a glass jar. He shook it, scrambling the egg. Inside the jar, there was the scrambled egg and cracked shell. “That’s what happened to your brain. Obviously, not to this extent, but you get the idea.” He put the egg/jar combo on a shelf behind him. “It’s going to take time for your brain to heal. Your concussion is pretty damned severe. Any more severe, you would have needed surgery.”

“Shit,” Bella whispered. “I hope Tanya …”

“Is going to jail for a long, long time,” Edward said, his voice cold and his eyes dark with hatred. He took her left hand and kissed her knuckles, pressing her hand to his cheek. “She confessed. No trial. The kids will not have to testify, thankfully. Nor do you need to testify. Nothing. She’s in heaps of trouble and will pay for her crimes.”

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Edward’s car had been towed. Apparently, he parked in a tow zone or in the chief of staff’s spot, or something. It was open and he didn’t honestly care. He called his parents and Carlisle arrived. “Edward, I’ll get the whole car thing situated,” his father said, flustered for his son. “Dr. Holt is a douchebag.”

“Whatever,” Edward said, shrugging sullenly. “I don’t care about the car. I don’t care about anything but seeing my kids and having Bella open her eyes.” He looked at his father. “How are they?”

“Asleep with your mother in our bedroom,” Carlisle said. “Liam is pissed and Lucy … she’s just lost, heartbroken.”

“I’m going to get them some help. This was a nightmare and it’s impacted their lives,” Edward sighed, leaning his head back in Carlisle’s Mercedes. “I’m also going to keep them home tomorrow. I don’t want them to be the butt of other kids’ jokes. And with their scantily clad, biological mother getting carted off in handcuffs … that would definitely make them a huge target.”

“I’d do it for the rest of the week. Send them back on Monday, after they’ve met with a counselor,” Carlisle said, squeezing his son’s shoulder. “Their birth mother tried to kidnap them. It’s going to take time for them to feel safe. They’re going to need their father and their mother.”

“Too bad their mother is in a hospital bed, in a medically-induced coma,” Edward scoffed, his emerald eyes hardening. “They won’t be okay until Bella’s home.”

“You may want to call her boss and explain the situation,” Carlisle said. “Bella’s belongings are in the backseat.” He gulped and slid a glance over to Edward as he found Bella’s cell phone. “The attack has been on television, too, Edward. Bella’s name or the children, they haven’t been mentioned, but Tanya’s face was splashed all over the newscasts.”

“Great,” Edward grumbled, opening Bella’s cell phone and finding her boss’s cell phone number. He pressed the button and waited. “Hello, Sarah?”

“Edward, why are you calling using Bella’s phone?” Sarah asked.

“Look, today, Bella was in an incident involving my ex-wife. Have you seen the news?” Edward asked.

“Tanya Denali is your wife? She tried to kidnap your kids?” Sarah breathed. “Are they okay?”

“Ex-wife, yes. And they’re physically unharmed, but emotionally, a mess. Bella, however, is hospitalized with a head injury and a fractured wrist,” Edward said. “I know that she’s new to the university, but she’s obviously going to need some time off.”

“Oh, my word! Yes!” Sarah said. “Don’t worry about a thing. I’ll take care of everything. Tell Bella to get better soon and that I’m thinking about her.”

“Sarah, it’s serious,” Edward whispered. “I don’t …” His heart cracked, along with his voice.

“Edward, she’ll be okay,” Sarah replied. “And I’ll take care of everything.”

“Thank you,” Edward sighed. “I appreciate it.” He ended the call as the car pulled up to the house. 

The One That Got Away Teaser

Edward’s car had been towed. Apparently, he parked in a tow zone or in the chief of staff’s spot, or something. It was open and he didn’t honestly care. He called his parents and Carlisle arrived. “Edward, I’ll get the whole car thing situated,” his father said, flustered for his son. “Dr. Holt is a douchebag.”

“Whatever,” Edward said, shrugging sullenly. “I don’t care about the car. I don’t care about anything but seeing my kids and having Bella open her eyes.” He looked at his father. “How are they?”

“Asleep with your mother in our bedroom,” Carlisle said. “Liam is pissed and Lucy … she’s just lost, heartbroken.”

“I’m going to get them some help. This was a nightmare and it’s impacted their lives,” Edward sighed, leaning his head back in Carlisle’s Mercedes. “I’m also going to keep them home tomorrow. I don’t want them to be the butt of other kids’ jokes. And with their scantily clad, biological mother getting carted off in handcuffs … that would definitely make them a huge target.”

“I’d do it for the rest of the week. Send them back on Monday, after they’ve met with a counselor,” Carlisle said, squeezing his son’s shoulder. “Their birth mother tried to kidnap them. It’s going to take time for them to feel safe. They’re going to need their father and their mother.”

“Too bad their mother is in a hospital bed, in a medically-induced coma,” Edward scoffed, his emerald eyes hardening. “They won’t be okay until Bella’s home.”

“You may want to call her boss and explain the situation,” Carlisle said. “Bella’s belongings are in the backseat.” He gulped and slid a glance over to Edward as he found Bella’s cell phone. “The attack has been on television, too, Edward. Bella’s name or the children, they haven’t been mentioned, but Tanya’s face was splashed all over the newscasts.”

“Great,” Edward grumbled, opening Bella’s cell phone and finding her boss’s cell phone number. He pressed the button and waited. “Hello, Sarah?”

“Edward, why are you calling using Bella’s phone?” Sarah asked.

“Look, today, Bella was in an incident involving my ex-wife. Have you seen the news?” Edward asked.

“Tanya Denali is your wife? She tried to kidnap your kids?” Sarah breathed. “Are they okay?”

“Ex-wife, yes. And they’re physically unharmed, but emotionally, a mess. Bella, however, is hospitalized with a head injury and a fractured wrist,” Edward said. “I know that she’s new to the university, but she’s obviously going to need some time off.”

“Oh, my word! Yes!” Sarah said. “Don’t worry about a thing. I’ll take care of everything. Tell Bella to get better soon and that I’m thinking about her.”

“Sarah, it’s serious,” Edward whispered. “I don’t …” His heart cracked, along with his voice.

“Edward, she’ll be okay,” Sarah replied. “And I’ll take care of everything.”

“Thank you,” Edward sighed. “I appreciate it.” 

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“Whoever planned this trip on the Friday before Halloween was an idiot,” Edward grumbled.

“Be grateful that they don’t have to go dressed up,” Bella said, checking her backpack. “I think it’s brilliant. The kids are out of the building and spending the day at the aquarium. No classroom parties.” She pulled out the letter and reread it. Bella was chaperoning Lucy’s group of five little girls. Liam was in a separate group from students in his class. “I hope that I don’t mess this up. I mean …”

“Bella, stop,” Edward said, walking to her. He left the lunches he was packing on the kitchen counter. He took her face and caressed her cheeks. “I trust you, baby. The kids trust you and you are going to be fine.”

“But …”

“No buts,” he argued. “Have fun with the kids. Take lots of pictures. And breathe.”

“I just have a bad feeling,” she whispered. “Ever since the photo shoot, I feel like I’m being followed and …”

“You’ve told me, Bella. Your dad and Detective Clearwater is going to have someone following you at a safe distance. And they’ve been following you since I heard about Tanya’s move to some shithole apartment near the university,” Edward grimaced.

“I’ve seen Seth and on occasion, my dad. We’ve had lunch at school,” Bella said. “But, this is different. It’s when I’m working at the library. I don’t know. Maybe I’m paranoid.”

“With Tanya, we can’t be too careful,” he sighed, pulling her closely and inhaling deeply, taking in her strawberry-scented hair. “I love you so much, baby.”

“I love you, too,” she whispered back. “I hope that I’m just being paranoid and that nothing will happen. Because, if it does, I’m terrified that you’ll blame me.”

“Never,” he growled.

“You can’t say that, Edward. You got so upset when I brought up Tanya a couple of months ago, blaming me for not keeping a close enough eye on the twins,” Bella pouted. “Granted, I probably should have told you sooner …”

“Bella, stop,” Edward said, taking her heart-shaped face into his hands. “I know that you love my children as if they were your own. I could never blame you. Never. I was an asshole, blaming you for something that was far beyond your control, sweetness. I will forever feel like an ass for making you cry and almost ruining the best thing that has ever happened to me.”

“The kids are the best thing that happened to you. I’m a bonus,” Bella snickered. He growled, attacking her neck and making her giggle with his tickling fingers. “Stop! Edward! Behave!”

“You’re more than just a bonus, Isabella Marie Swan,” Edward snarled against her ear. He kissed her, his tongue sweeping inside her mouth and molding her to his body. She melted against him and tangled her fingers into his soft, but unruly hair. “You are my dream come true,” he mumbled against her mouth. “I love you. Our children love you. My family loves you. Bonus … psssh.” He kissed her again, smacking her behind and giving her a wry look. “You’re everything, sweetness.”

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Tanya began working at Black Auto Body. She filled out the tax paperwork. She put down fake information. By the time, Jacob would realize that the information was incorrect, she’d be long gone. Wearing a pair of skin-tight jeans and a highly-modified polo shirt, she half-heartedly filed and ordered the supplies that Jacob asked for. He also asked her to make the daily deposit to the bank.

He really wasn’t that smart.

They’d just met and she admitted that her credit and life was shit. It was like an open invitation for her to steal from him. He would never even know that the deposit would be short.

This was absolutely perfect. Things were finally looking up. Yes, she was working in a stinky auto shop with a handful of grimy mechanics, one of which looked at her like she was the first woman he’d ever seen, but with each deposit, a hundred dollars, or two, or five would magically appear in her purse.

When she wasn’t working, she was mirroring Bella at University of Tampa. She wore a disguise, creeping in the library or following her to and from her classroom. One day, in mid-October, Tanya listened as Bella spoke to the young librarian, Sarah and shared how she was going to have family pictures taken with her boyfriend and his kids. Tanya’s blood boiled, hating Isabella ‘Smella’ Swan because she was encroaching on her family.

They aren’t your family anymore, idiot. You gave that up. Willingly.

She shouldn’t be this obsessed, but she was so pissed off that Bella was getting her happily ever after. When she dated Edward, she thought of him as all fluff and no substance, but when he got accepted to Dartmouth, she knew that he was more substance than fluff. AND, he was loaded. His family was loaded. She would be set for life. Even more so when she got pregnant. Edward was fastidious about using condoms, but when he got drunk and drugged, that fastidiousness disappeared.

Yeah, she drugged her boyfriend.

He never knew. 

Tanya

The One That Got Away Teaser

“Dad, we’re going on a field trip,” Lucy said. “We’re going to the aquarium with the third graders. Can you chaperone?” Liam reached into his backpack, handing Edward the paperwork.

Bella was cooking them dinner. Her apartment was out of commission due to a water leak from the apartment upstairs. She was grateful that none of the furniture was hers, but the damage was quite extensive to the dry wall, carpeting and cabinetry in the kitchens and bathrooms. It was almost two weeks since she last set foot in her apartment while they completely renovated and repaired the damage.

“I can’t,” Edward frowned, reading the paperwork. “I have to work at the hospital that day.”

“Miss Archer really wants you to go,” Lucy pouted. “She remembers what you did for the field trip to the science museum.”

“Sweet girl, I can’t,” Edward said, tugging on Lucy’s ponytail. “Maybe Nana can go?”

“Why not Bella?” Liam suggested. “She’s considered to be one of our guardians.” He took the paper from his father’s hands and handed to Bella. “It’s on Friday, in a month, Bella. Right before Halloween.”

“I think it might be doable,” Bella said, reading over the paper. “It’s during midterms, but my students are writing a paper for their midterm and I’m not having class that day. I’ll talk to my boss and request the day off.”

“Yay!” Lucy squealed, running over to Bella and wrapping her arms around her waist.

Bella giggled. Edward wrapped his arms around all of them, kissing Bella’s cheek. Edward filled out the forms and Bella put her contact information to be a parental chaperone. Putting them into the envelopes, the twins stuck them into their ‘home folders’ in their backpacks. Dinner was made and they ate their meal as a family.

After dishes and homework, the twins went upstairs. Lucy, after her bath, went into her brother’s room. “Lee?” she asked, climbing onto his bed. “Do you think Dad is going to marry Bella?”

“I don’t know?” he shrugged. “I’m not a fortune teller, Lucy.”

“Do you want Dad to marry Bella?” Lucy pressed. “She makes him smile.”

“If you’d asked me when he first started dating her, I would have said no,” Liam snorted. “She’d leave us. Leave him, but after their fight … that fight when Dad yelled at her about that lady.”

“That lady is our mom, Lee,” Lucy grumbled. “She looked mean and her clothes were too small.”

“I’m more worried about her. I heard Dad talking to Papa and Chief Swan. That lady is still missing. Dad said that she may becoming unhinged. I don’t know what that means, Lucy. But the look on his face, it can’t be anything good,” Liam shrugged. “I’m surprised that Dad isn’t coming with us on the field trip if he was so worried about that lady. Our birth mom.”

“He trusts Bella,” Lucy argued.

“So do I,” Liam nodded.

“Lee … is it bad that I want to call Bella ‘Mom’? I don’t want to call her Bella. I want a mommy. Bella’s so nice and kind and she’s there for us,” Lucy whispered, toying with her damp curls.

“Me, too, Lucy,” Liam whispered back, hugging his sister.

“Terrors! You’ve got to go to bed! I hear you yammering!” Edward called up the stairs. “School tomorrow!”

“Yes, Dad!” Lucy shouted back. “Good night, Lee.” He waved as he snuggled under the covers. Lucy skipped to her bed and curled around her pillow. As she drifted off, she dreamt of a day where Bella stayed at the house and she was called ‘Mommy.’ 

The One That Got Away Update

TOTGA Chapter 62 on FicPad

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TOTGA Chapter 62 on Stars

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TOTGA Chapter 62 on Wattpad

After the first class, Bella was on a high. She felt amazing and powerful as she taught the packed class of almost one-hundred students. They were excited, polite and eager to learn. The discussion they had was engaging and she was pleased with the level of intelligence among her students. It was a three-hundred level class, designed for juniors and seniors. The maturity and intelligence were a given, but it still surprised her.

Walking from the lecture hall, Bella went to her office in the library. She plugged her computer into its docking station and walked to the break room. Swiping her lunch box, she pulled out her meal and a piece of paper fluttered to the ground. Bending down, she saw a note from Liam and Lucy, hand-drawn and very sweet.

Dear Bella,

We know that you’re scared about your first day of school, but you’re going to be awesome! You’re going to be a cool teacher. Everyone wants to be in your class!

We love you!

Love,

Liam and Lucy

Below the note was a cute drawing of Bella in front of a class, smiling warmly at her students. Liam and Lucy had drawn themselves, waving excitedly in the windows of her classroom. She clutched the picture and grinned lovingly down at it. “From your kids?” asked an older woman, a coy grin on her face.

“Yes,” Bella nodded. “They knew I was anxious about my first day.” She folded the note and put it into the front pocket of her lunch box. “I’m Isabella Swan. I work here in the library and teach Contemporary Romantic Literature.”

“I’m Paulina Rowen,” she said, shaking Bella’s hand. “I’m one of the department chairs for the English department. My specialty is British Literature and introduction to English composition. One of the prerequisites for creative writing. Sarah said that you may teach that class next semester.”

“It’s a possibility,” Bella chuckled. “It’s nice to meet you, Paulina. Sarah told me about you when I interviewed. I’m sorry about your loss.”

“Thank you, Isabella,” Paulina said, giving Bella soft smile. “It was such a sudden loss. One moment, I’m laughing with my husband and the next moment, he’s in the morgue.” She sat down at the table, an ancient sadness crossing over her face. “I love him dearly and will always continue to do so. It’s weird to start another school year without him. He taught in the music department.”

“Music history and the concert choir, yes?” Bella asked. Paulina nodded, taking out her phone and showing her a picture. “He was very handsome.”

“He was,” Paulina chuckled, caressing his face on her phone. “But, enough of my wallowing. How was your first class?”

“It was amazing,” Bella replied. “I think this semester is going to be a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to see their work, hear their thoughts and challenge their minds with my assignments.”

“I read your syllabus, and it will be challenging for these students. I think you will be an asset to the department,” Paulina beamed. “I like how you’re utilizing both the online component and traditional teaching methods. The students will latch onto that. And if you need any help, I’m more than willing to do so.”

“I do need help setting up the gradebook. Sarah said that it was recently changed over the summer and she’s not familiar with it,” Bella said.

“Let’s enjoy our lunch and then I’ll get you settled with the gradebook,” Paulina nodded. 

The One That Got Away Update

TOTGA Chapter 61 on FicPad

TOTGA Chapter 61 on AO3

TOTGA Chapter 61 on Stars

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TOTGA Chapter 61 on Wattpad

“Bella, you look fucking hot,” Alice said as Bella put on her heels. She was wearing a blue halter dress that left little to the imagination. However, the dress was all Alice’s idea. It was barely legal. Underwear were not really an option. “Edward is not going to be able to keep his hands off you.”

“That’s the problem,” Bella snorted, twisting her new promise ring. “He said he wanted to make me come in the club.”

“Ooooh, that boy is dirty,” Alice giggled, putting on her lipstick. “Is he going to finger fuck you? Have you grind on his thigh?”

“Alice!” Bella snapped. “That’s not me.”

“Why would you say that?” Alice asked, turning around and guiding Bella to the couch in her suite. The same couch where she and Edward fucked each other upon his arrival. “Bells, I can see you blossoming since you’ve left Seattle. You’re glowing with love.”

“I wasn’t glowing a month ago,” Bella snorted.

“I know. What happened between the two of you was horrible. Tanya is crazy and she’s determined to screw you guys over. What Edward said was wrong, but you weren’t completely innocent either,” Alice said, arching a brow.

“I know that and I’m working through that. We’re working through that,” Bella sighed. “Therapy helps.”

“Good. At least both of you realize that both are at fault,” Alice snickered, giving Bella a look. “But, own your sexuality. Enjoy exhibitionism. It’s fun.”

“And you know this how?” Bella asked, arching a brow.

“I speak from experience,” she smirked. “Come on. Our men are waiting for us in the lobby.”

Bella rolled her eyes, picking up her purse and room key, stuffing it inside. They rode down to the lobby and Edward and Jasper were waiting, talking to some men at a bar. Jasper saw Alice and Bella first, slapping on Edward’s arm. Edward looked up, his jaw dropping when he saw Bella. They both walked over to them, sweeping them into romantic kisses. Edward’s fingers glided around Bella’s bare back. “You are so fucking gorgeous,” he growled. “I’m going to have a hard time keeping my hands off you.”

“That’s what you promised,” Bella purred, looking up at him and biting her lip. Where did that come from? Just a few moments ago, I was just freaking out about exhibitionism, Bella thought. A flash of embarrassment crossed her expression and Edward cupped her cheek, his eyes piercing through hers. However, his jade eyes were swirling with love, lust, devotion, passion and arousal. She smiled seductively and kissed his lips, nibbling on the plump lower lip. “You do intend to keep your promise, right?”

“What do you think?” Edward chuckled, smacking her ass. “You guys ready?”

Jasper was in a daze, dragging Alice to the entrance, but she laughed. “The club is here in our hotel.”

“Oh, awesome,” Jasper cooed, nuzzling Alice’s neck. 

Club in Vegas, at the Cosmopolitan 

University of Tampa

Flowers from Charlie

Flowers from Edward

The One That Got Away Teaser

“Alice, I don’t understand why I need to pack sexy lingerie,” Bella grumbled on her phone as she folded her clothes for her trip to Las Vegas. “Edward isn’t coming with me to this conference. He’s got to work and he’s terrified that Tanya is going to kidnap his kids. I’m terrified she’s going to kidnap his kids. That woman has a first-class ticket on the crazy train.”

“Trust me,” Alice sang.

“I’m not going to be set up, Alice,” Bella snarled.

“Bella, really? I know that you’re in a committed relationship with Edward. Just let me have my moment,” she giggled. “And make sure you bring heels. No ballet flats. You’re going to VEGAS! Not some coffee klatch.”

“Fine, fine,” Bella grumbled, tossing in a pair of black stilettos, along with a pair of nude heels, too. “You’re meeting me there?”

“We’ve got a sweet set up in a suite at The Cosmopolitan. The conference is Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with a welcome gala on Wednesday night and another party for the authors on Friday,” Alice said. “You’ll do awesome. You always do. Yes, you’re nervous, but you get over it and become like your heroines in your stories.”

“That’s because they’re confident and poised. I’m not, Ali. I’m a hot mess,” Bella grumbled.

“Stop, Bella. You’re not a hot mess. You’re smart, funny, sexy, poised and confident,” Alice snapped. “I don’t know why you think you’re not.”

“I’m second guessing everything, lately. I’m working with a new counselor, been seeing her since Edward and I had our disagreement. Being back in Tampa brought back a lot of insecurities and I’m struggling with that,” she sighed. “It’s getting better. Edward is quick to tell me that I’m special and that he loves me. The kids are amazing, treating me like their mom.”

“Bella, you are, for all intents and purposes, their mother,” Alice whispered. “They love you. Edward loves you.”

“I know, I know,” Bella breathed. “I’m sorry. Just a huge insecure moment.”

“Get over it,” she giggled. “You are going to kick ass and take names. The artwork, swag and paperbacks are sweet. The panel you’re presenting at is sold out. It will be a great trip. Take a breath, fuck your boyfriend and then meet me at our suite. I’ll be there by two tomorrow.”

“My flight arrives at four. I’ll get there when I can,” Bella said. “Thanks, Alice. Love you.”

“Love you, too, girlie,” she chuckled. “See you tomorrow.”

Bella ended the call and finished packing her belongings, including sexy lingerie, though she knew no one would see it. As she finished packing, she heard the lock disengage and squeals of Liam and Lucy. She zipped up her suitcase, greeting the twins with hugs and kisses. Edward kissed her tenderly as he maneuvered his body into the kitchen. He pulled out plates and opened the pizza boxes. “Already, terrors, come get dinner.”

“Bella, can’t you stay with us,” Lucy asked, her lip quivering. “Daddy said you’re going to a conference in Vegas.”

“I am, sweetie. I’m meeting some people and promoting my books. Plus, I’m spending time with my best friend, Miss Alice,” Bella replied, playing with Lucy’s curls. “I’ll be back, I promise, on Monday.”

“You promise? Pinky promise?” Lucy asked.

Bella hooked her pinky with the sweet little girl and hugged her tightly. “Pinky promise.”

“I told you she was coming back, Lucy,” Liam said, idly playing with Bella’s ponytail. “She didn’t believe me.”

“I love you guys. Why would I leave permanently?” she asked, giving them both Eskimo kisses. “Just like your dad must go to medical conferences, I’m going to the conference and then I’ll be back.” Both twins hugged her and snuggled against Bella.

Edward took pictures with his cell phone, his heart growing with love for the gorgeous woman who loved his children like they were his own. He was feeling the same way as his twins, but he had a surprise up his sleeve. It was only a matter of time before it came into play.

The One That Got Away Teaser

Tanya snuck back into Reynold’s bed, falling asleep. She was exhausted from her exploits. As she snuggled against him, Reynold could smell another man’s cologne and he stewed.

Jenks had called him back almost immediately after he reached out to his attorney. Between Reynold and his other lucrative client, Edward Cullen, he was rolling in the dough with the two of them. Reynold explained his concerns and Tanya was going to be homeless, penniless and thrown out like the trash she was.

When Tanya tried to cuddle with Reynold, he growled, getting out of bed and going to the guest bedroom. The next morning, Reynold severed all ties with Tanya. He removed her from his accounts and discontinued her credit cards. He changed all the passwords to his computers and online accounts. He also had his staff pack up Tanya’s belongings, putting them into garbage bags. He was going to give her the Lexus SUV she drove around, but after that, he was washing his hands of her. Sitting calmly, drinking his coffee, he watched as Tanya flit down into the kitchen, wearing a flimsy negligee, leaving little to the imagination. “Good morning, baby,” she chirped, walking over to him.

Reynold got up, staring at her coldly. “Don’t.”

“What’s wrong?” Tanya asked, pouting her lip and blinking up at him. “Didn’t I make you feel good last night?”

“I’m not the only person who you made feel good,” Reynold growled. “I may be old, but I’m not fucking stupid.”

“Excuse me?” she squeaked, appearing innocent. “What are you talking about?”

Reynold, who was normally mild-mannered, roared and threw his coffee mug across the kitchen and watching it splatter along the crisp white walls of his mansion. “I saw you. You fucked Michael. I watched you. I smelled his cologne on you. He’s fired, by the way. I sent him back to wherever hole he came from and if you’re lucky, he’ll help you.”

“Reynold?” she gasped. “I’m not sure I understand.”

“You have five minutes to finish packing your shit and get the fuck out of my house,” he hissed. “I’m done with you. My daughter told me that you were nothing but a whore and that I was thinking with my dick. I tried to see past it all, but after last night? My daughter was right. You are a whore.” 

The One That Got Away Update

TOTGA Chapter 57 on FicPad

TOTGA Chapter 57 on AO3

TOTGA Chapter 57 on Stars

TOTGA Chapter 57 on FFn

TOTGA Chapter 57 on Wattpad

Edward left that night since he had early rounds at the hospital prior to his day at the office. Bella went to bed early since she was exhausted, still reeling from the emotional roller coaster that she’d experienced the past week and understanding Edward’s apology. She did feel confident they would get past this drama, having a stronger relationship in the end. It also put her mind at ease when he suggested they go to couple’s counseling. She also wanted to speak to a counselor on her own. Being back in Tampa was bringing back some of her insecurities from when she was in high school.

The next morning, Bella called Aimee and made an appointment for the following weekend for the two of them while the twins were going to a pool party with some friends from school. She also went shopping for ingredients for red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese filling and buttercream frosting. Making the cupcakes, she put them into container and got dressed to spend the evening with Edward and the twin terrors.

Bella drove to Edward’s house, picking up a bottle of wine on her way. Parking her car on the driveway, she was attacked by two excited seven-year-old twins. “BELLA!” they squealed, tugging her into their arms and hugging her fiercely. “We missed you!”

“I missed you, too,” she breathed, kneeling down and holding them tightly. “Did you guys grow? You seem taller.”

“Nope, but I lost a tooth,” Liam said, displaying his bottom set of teeth. There was a gaping hole where his left canine tooth had been located. “I got five bucks from the tooth fairy.”

“And I’ve got a loose tooth. It may come out soon,” Lucy squealed, showing her very loose tooth. “I hope I get five dollars, too.”

“I don’t know if the tooth fairy can get into your room, Lucy,” Edward quipped, padding out onto the driveway, dressed casually in a pair of shorts and a polo shirt. “Every one of your Barbies, stuffed animials and toys are on the floor. If the tooth fairy can’t get to your bed, he can’t leave your money.”

“What?” Lucy squeaked. “Bella … I have to …” She kissed Bella’s cheek, darting back inside.

“Lucy is a slob,” Liam snickered.

“Your room wasn’t that much better, bub,” Edward deadpanned. “I think the tooth fairy stepped on a few Legos, kiddo.” Liam scowled. “Go clean up the pig sty.”

“Okay, okay,” he sighed, wrapping his arms around Bella’s waist. “I’m glad you’re here, Bella. Thank you for coming back.” Before she could respond, Liam ran into the house. 

The One That Got Away Update

TOTGA Chapter 56 on FicPad

TOTGA Chapter 56 on AO3

TOTGA Chapter 56 on Stars

TOTGA Chapter 56 on FFn

TOTGA Chapter 56 on Wattpad

Edward was an anxious mess as he drove to Bella’s apartment. He rehearsed his apology over in his head, but he was terrified that he was going to make things worse with his nervous ramblings. Think positive, Cullen. Parking next to her Volvo, Edward got out of the car and walked to the main entrance. Using his key, he let himself into the building and rode up to Bella’s floor. Shifting nervously in front of her door, he knocked timidly.

The door unlocked and Bella stood before him, her eyes empty and sad.

Fuck, I’m such a moron, Edward spat to himself. “Can I come in?”

Bella nodded, stepping to the side and granting him access. He stepped inside, seeing all the flowers he’d sent to her. The apartment really did look like a funeral parlor and smelled like one, too. The overbearing scent of roses and lilies reminded him of his Grammy Platt’s funeral when he was in middle school.  It was not a pleasant memory, to say the least. “Would you like some water? Beer?” Bella asked.

“I want to apologize, sweetness,” Edward choked out. “I want to make things right between us.” He gently took her hand, guiding her to the couch. She was trembling and very closed off, huddling in a tiny ball and staying as far away, physically, from him. “Bella, I was so wrong in what I said. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me and to my children.”

“But, you don’t trust me with them,” she spat.

“Bella, no,” Edward whispered, taking her hand and cupping her chin. “I said that … I was angry at Tanya. At least, I think it was Tanya. I contacted the police, but they spoke to her and she denied being in contact with them. Anyway, I was pissed off about her and I took it out on you. I know you adore my children and would do anything for them.” Tears tracked down Bella’s cheeks. Wiping her tears away, he stared at her. “I’m so sorry. I never meant to lash out at you, sweetness. Please, please, forgive me.”

“I understand that you were worried about your children. I was terrified for them, too, Edward,” Bella said, turning and curling up on the couch, pushing further away from him. “I wanted to …” she trailed off. “And to think that you didn’t trust me with them.”

“Bella, you are one of the few people that I trust implicitly. I was just pissed off at the whole situation,” Edward said. “I took it out on you and I was completely wrong. What can I do to make you see that it wasn’t my intention to hurt you like that?” She shrugged. He gently tugged on her arms and gathered her in his lap. She was stiff, not melting against him like she usually did. “Bella, I love you. I want it all, with you. You are the mother to my children and I want you to see that I will do everything for you to see that I believe it.”

“I don’t know how to be a mom. I mean, my mom didn’t stay around to show me,” Bella choked out, barely audible. “And when you said that …” Her eyes fluttered shut and her tears turned into streams.

“Bella, sweetness, look at me,” Edward said, taking her face in his hands. Her frown deepened and she shook her head. “I mean it, Isabella. I want you to see my eyes when I apologize.” Her eyes blinked open and they were shimmering with unshed tears. It shattered Edward. He hated himself for making her feel so worthless. “I’m sorry. So, so, so sorry. You are everything to me and to my children. You complete our family. My heart is whole when I’m around you. My children feel a mother’s love. I love you and I want you in our lives forever. This week has been torture. I’ve missed you so much and it was all my fault. I’ll do anything to prove to you that I’m sorry for how I acted.”