Above: Alice's outfit was modeled after the look above. Just with a long sleeved shirt.
Chapter 6: Three Very Different Types of Dreams
Song Selections:
“Crash” by Dave Matthews Band
"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" by Marilyn Manson
“Here Without You" by 3 Doors Down
“Let it Rock” by Kevin Rudolph feat. Lil' Wayne
**Edward POV**
She was so beautiful. Her eyes bored into me, heavily hooded, with a level of intensity I have never seen. Her long, brown hair cascading out around her head on the blanket framing her heart-shaped face. Her full, luscious lips were quivering in anticipation. A soft moan escaped her mouth as my lips lightly brushed up against the sensitive area behind her ear. “You're so beautiful, Isabella,” I whispered in her ear.
“Oh, Edward. I really want this. I don't want to wait anymore,” she breathlessly proclaimed.
God, I wanted this so badly. It was all so fast, though. Were we ready for this? Fuck, I wanted to be ready, because she looked so god-damned amazing lying there beneath me.
The setting could not have been more perfect for our first time together. We were in our special place, a small meadow, hidden deep in the woods. Wildflowers in every color imaginable dotted the open field. It was a warm and sunny afternoon, so rare for spring in Washington.
I slid my hand down the front of her shirt, tentatively touching her breast and gently squeezing. Her breasts were the perfect size, molding faultlessly into my palm. I could feel myself hardening and becoming uncomfortable against the strain of my jeans. I let my hand wander lower, brushing over her taught abdomen to the curve of her hip. A small sigh slipped from my mouth. I gently lifted the hemline of her shirt wanting to feel the soft skin of her stomach against my hand. It was pure silkiness.
Bella sat up slowly, making eye contact with me, before confidently lifting her shirt over her head. I was mesmerized by her allure, the way the curves of her small body dipped inward in all the right places as her arms stretched into the air. She placed her shirt on the blanket and then looked deep into my eyes, once again sucking in and lightly biting on the right corner of her lower lip in the sexiestpose I have ever seen. How the hell could she be so sanguine? I, myself, was coming to pieces.
Sensing my apprehension, she cautiouslyreached towards the hemline of my pants grabbing my belt loops and pulled me towards her. Never breaking eye contact, her hands slowly made their way up to my hips where she fisted my shirt and began to tug it up my torso. “I need to feel you, Edward. Please,” she whispered in my ear as my shirt came up over my head.
I bit my lip nervously as she lifted and then discarded my shirt next to hers. I couldn't refuse this beautiful creature anything. She touched my chest, placing her hand over my heart. She had to have been able to feel it practically beating out below my ribcage. I stared at her, questions burning within my eyes. Practically trembling, I said “Bella, do you know what you're doing to me? Are you sure about this? We can wait baby, there is no rush.”
She leaned toward me and captured my lips with hers. “Stop thinking, Edward. Just feel.”
Our lips began working in synchronization, slowly at first and then deepening as I turned my brain off and let my emotions take over. Our tongues furiously caressing against one another. She had her hands in my hair roughly grabbing to pull herself closer. She softly bit my lower lip and I nearly lost all control. I grabbed the back of her neck with one hand and her lower back with the other as I lowered her down onto the blanket. Hovering above her, my lips dropped to her jaw, placing open mouthed kisses along her neck until I reached her collarbone. I slid my tongue across the ridge and over to her delicate shoulder, sucking softly as I reached behind her and quickly flicked open her bra clasp. I pulled the straps down her arms and tossed it aside.
She lay in front of me, her upper body fully exposed to me now, and I gasped at the beauty that was pure Bella. Her areolas were the most exquisite shade of pink, her nipples hardening at once in the light breeze. My mouth was immediately drawn to her full breasts, as if there was some type of supernatural force drawing them together. My tongue lightly circled her nipple. I blew on it gently and then flicked it with my tongue before fully bringing it into my mouth and sucking on it. Once again, her hands began weaving themselves into my hair as she pulled me closer towards her. I couldn't resist nipping at her nipple when she began moaning in pleasure. Fuck! I was so worked up. I didn't know if I would be able to stop if she changed her mind.
Bella moved her hands from my scalp, sliding them over the back of my neck, lightly scratching as she worked down my back. The sensation was so overwhelming, that I shuddered against her touch, dropping my head into the valley between her perfect breasts and groaned.
My breathing was becoming more labored, as I continued losing the virtually non-existent shreds of control that I so desperately tried to cling to. I began frantically kissing down her abdomen, my hands latching on tightly to her hips. Her exquisite smell was so overwhelming. Themixture of florals and fruit, was so sweet, so tempting, that there was only one way to describe it… So Bella.
My hands worked on their own accord, releasing her hips and sliding down to her milky thighs, as I whimpered at the smoothness against my palms. She was wearing a mid-thigh lengthed red skirt. The slit that came up the left side exposing her leg, was so fucking sexy. I felt for the bottom of her skirt and roughly pushed the material upwards around her belly. My hand slid between her inner thighs and I could feel the heat radiating from her core. A guttural growl escaped my lips as my hand felt her wetness soaked through her panties. “God, Bella. You are so wet, baby” I mewled.
Bella leaned forward, her hands desperately searching for my belt buckle. She pulled me up towards her once more, kissing my lips chastely as she unhooked the belt and ripped the button of my jeans open. Wanting to help her, my hand went for my zipper and I quickly shoved my jeans down to my ankles and then kicked them aside. Wanting her as naked as I was, I found the small zipper on the side of her skirt and quickly lowered it as well. Bella lifted her hips as I pulled it down over her legs. The only clothing separating us now was my boxer briefs and her little white and red polka-dot cotton thong.
I lowered us both back down to the blanket, holding myself up by my elbows so I wouldn't crush her. Christ, I was so hard for her. Our bodies felt so amazing up against each other naked. Unconsciously, we began moving against one another, gyrating our hips in perfect unison. Bella held onto my back tightly. I reached down and slid her underwear to the side feeling her soft folds for the first time. Her slick juices covered my hand. I practically melted as I realized I had found the only place I wanted to call home.
Bella purred in pleasure, so I slid my index finger up towards her clitoris and she gasped as I made contact with her nerve fibers. I quickly opened my eyes to make sure I hadn't hurt her and when I did, I knew this was not the case. What I saw, was one of the most fucking beautiful sights I had ever seen. Her eyes were closed, her bottom lip was slightly sucked into her mouth, with a look of pure pleasure on her face. My God she was beautiful! Reassured, I started massaging her nub slowly and gently at first. As her moaning became more pronounced, however, I pressed with more force, emboldened, and then slid one finger into her warm opening.
“Ungh! Oh God,...Edward, so...good. Don't...stop. Please,” she panted breathlessly.
With this, I slid a second finger inside her, turning my hand palm up so I could return to massaging her clit with my thumb. I curled my fingers upwards in the shape of a hook, hoping to find her G-spot as I thrusted quickly, yet softly in and out of her. As I did this, her body began to tremble and I felt her legs shaking around me. Her fingers grabbed desperately for the blanket as her back arched up off the ground. I felt her insides pulsing around my fingers, before her juices spilled down my hand.
Overwhelmed by the intensity of her orgasm, I quickly wrapped my hand around her thong, ripped it off and threw it to the side of the blanket. As I did this, her eyes widened in surprise, but then changed to lust as she could feel my engorged cock straining against my boxers. Realizing that I was too far gone, I first had to ask, had to be positive that this is what she wanted. “Are you sure, Bella?” I asked looking deeply into her beautiful brown eyes. “If I take these off, I don't know if I'll be able to stop again.”
“I've never been more sure about anything, Edward. I want you,...No,... I need you, inside of me now, baby. Please don't make me beg you. Please,” she quietly pleaded.
Fuck, was she kidding me? No way in hell was begging necessary! I had wanted to do these things to her; to make love to her, to cherish her, to show her that she was my forever since the first time I met her. I brusquely pulled off my boxers and lowered myself back down to her, our fully naked bodies touching for the first time. I nearly came the second my dick made contact with her warm center. I froze, not wanting to make an ass out of myself. I couldn't have her think I was some kind of one minute man. I worked to try and calm my breathing, concentrating on reciting Ken Caminiti's stats from last season in my head. Yeah it was fucking lame, but my God I wanted to make this moment last as long as earthly possible.
When the sensation finally passed, I slowly began entering into her. I stopped halfway, letting her adjust to my size. She felt so warm and tight around me.
Holy shit! Does it get any better than this? Let me think…Fuck No!
When she began bucking her hips up towards me, I gave in and entered her completely. Bella wrapped her legs tightly around my hips to bring us closer, her fingers once again lacing into my hair. Trying to hold my upper body slightly off of her, I started pumping in and out of her slowly, yet deliberately. I brought my lips to her neck and began placing open mouthed kisses into the crook. We were both panting and moaning into each other's shoulders as our bodies worked in unison. Christ, we fit together so perfectly. The intensity of the situation was only enhanced by the tingles of electric current that always seemed to be present whenever we touched.
I knew I wouldn't be able to last much longer.
Reaching down between our bodies, I began rubbing over her clit again. “Come for me, Bella. Baby, I need you to come for me again,” I whispered breathlessly.
Bella's moans grew louder as she once again began to tremble. Her hands knotting into my hair, she tugged it so roughly, I wondered if she might pull it straight out. The pain however, was squelched as I watched her mouth form a perfect “O” shape and her insides spasmed around me; the sensation bringing me to the edge. Feeling my eyes rolling back into my head, I plunged myself deeper into her, releasing with a loud grunt as a mirage of white lights began showering behind my eyes, before I collapsed in a heap on top of her. I rolled to the side as quickly as possible, not wanting to hurt my beautiful girl, then grabbed her around the waist, pulling her against me. With her head on my chest and arms around my waist, I could lay with my Bella like this forever. It was truly heaven, right here on Earth.
I was so fucking spent, I kept my eyes closed as my breathing slowed and returned back to normal. I loved this girl beyond reason, and couldn't believe that she was actually mine. Did she know what she meant to me, how she had changed my life for the better when she unexpectedly walked into it? My confidence surging in the afterglow of our sex, I opened my mouth and said the three words I never thought I'd ever ell a woman. “I love you, Bella. I promise you, now and forever, that I will love you and only you.”
I waited for her to reply, to say something, anything. I had just bared my fucking soul to her; I needed to hear her voice. Panic rising, I hastily opened my eyes to gauge her reaction. I looked around but she wasn't there. Confused, I realized I was no longer in our meadow, in fact I was fully dressed laying on my bed, clutching a pillow in my old bedroom back in Forks. Bella was nowhere to be found.
I sat up quickly and called out for her, but I heard no response. I jumped off my bed searching frantically throughout my house for her, but she wasn’t there. All of a sudden, I felt a tremendous wave of fear. My heart was pounding, my chest hurt, and it was getting harder to breathe. I thought I was going to die. As the panic surged through my body, I tried to figure out where the love of my existence could be. Where could she have gone?
My mother came quickly from the kitchen to meet me. Her eyebrows furrowed, questioning me, “Edward, what's wrong? Why are you shouting? You're going to wake your father, dear.”
Something was wrong, terribly wrong. I could feel it deep inside, deep to my core. Terror-stricken, I asked “Where is she? Where is Bella?” A dream-like sensation came over me as images of her flashed through my mind like a movie. She was smiling and clapping, watching me during one of my games. Another one was of her sitting by the river that ran behind my house, playfully splashing water at me. Then one of her smiling shyly at me, while peering under her long lashes in the cafeteria popped into my head. The images continued to come so fast, that I had to brace myself against the door frame due to their intensity. The last one I saw, however, was something I wish I could forget. It was of her scowling face after the fight we had over Jake. Fucking Jake!
And with this, my heart completely broke. A loud sob escaped through my lips, before I crumpled over at the waist clutching my stomach. No, no I didn't want her to be sad. What had I done? I had to find her.
My mother interrupted my thoughts, “Edward! Oh my God, are you okay? Honey, whatever are you talking about? Bella's not here. You told me she left town just yesterday.”
My head starting shaking back and forth in denial. I clenched my eyes shut tightly. I couldn't breathe. No, this wasn't possible. I couldn't lose her again. Where was she? The terror overtaking me, I began shouting for her again. “Bella, Bella!” My mom came towards me, grabbing my arm, trying to hold me still. Her strength was no match for me, as I tore myself from her screaming her name one last time, “Bellllaaa!”
I sat up abruptly, my breathing labored. I was sitting in a bed and covered in sweat. I glanced around at my unfamiliar surroundings having no idea where the hell I was, when I spotted a USC blanket on a chair in the corner of the room. Realization hit me, and I finally remembered that I was in Jasper's guestroom.
I was dreaming, but it wasn’t a dream. It was a fucking nightmare.
The nightmare, unfortunately, wasn't a new one. Over the years, I frequently had dreams about Bella. They were all similar and usually consisted of me losing her and then desperately searching to find her. I, gut wrenchingly, always came up empty. This particular dream was much more vivid though, so real. My mind was still swimming with memories and I became cognizant of the fact that I would not just be able to lay back down and go to sleep.
I looked over at the digital clock, which read 3:44. Sighing, I rolled myself out of the bed and wandered towards the kitchen, opening random cabinets until I found a glass. I pushed the button on the front of the refrigerator for the crushed ice and then filled it with water. Leaning against the counter I took a long drink. The cool temperature of the liquid helped to rid my body of the sweaty perspiration.
I had flown into Chicago yesterday morning and spent the day signing contracts and undergoing the required physical exams with the team physician. I was supposed to meet with a realtor this morning and then join up with Jasper at Wrigley Field around two o'clock for the official media announcement of my signing. I was looking forward to the press-conference, hoping I could finally meet with both owners and settle some of my nerves.
Needing a distraction, I walked outside onto Jasper's balcony to take in the city skyline. The cold air hit me with a shot, but it was oddly soporific. The city lights were something to behold, so different than my home in Phoenix. It would take some getting use to for sure, but I looked forward to exploring more of this town and making it my home. I was in desperate need of a fresh start and knew this place could give me just that.
Feeling placated, I headed back inside, locking the door behind me. I stopped in the bathroom quickly before heading back to bed. An odd sense of peace overcame me as I drifted back to sleep, dreamlessly.
~XXXXXX~
When I woke up again, the light was shining brightly in through the window. It was almost eight-thirty and I had about an hour to get dressed and meet up with the realtor. I took a quick shower and threw on some faded Diesel jeans and a black cable-knit sweater layered over a long sleeved white t-shirt. I would most likely need to purchase a whole new wardrobe if I decided to live here year-round, as my Arizona clothes were not going to cut it. Jasper had lent me one of his coats to wear for the time being, but said he had spoken to Emmett about having his sister meet up with me to get a few essentials. Apparently, she was some sort of buyer for Bloomingdale's.
Fucking great! How I hate shopping. Honestly, can’t she just pick out my clothes and send me the bill?
I grabbed one of Jasper's protein bars before locking up and heading down to my rental car. I was supposed to meet the realtor at a new high-rise called The Peshtigo. When I got down into the parking garage, I set the GPS to the correct address and then headed out.
Traffic wasn't quite as bad as it I thought it would be at this time of morning. I guess I had missed the heavy rush hour, but within the city, traffic was always congested. I found the building pretty easily at the corner of E. Grand Ave and N. Peshtigo Ct. There was a line on the Visitors side of the gate into the garage, probably holding for the guard to confirm the person was supposed to be here after all. As I sat waiting at the corner of the garage area, a dark blue convertible Ferrari caught my eye. The car itself would have captured my attention, it was beautiful, but the fact that it was cornering around the tightest of spaces at a speed well above what was appropriate for a parking garage made me gasp. The driver had to slam on the breaks before pulling into traffic.
The car skidded to a stop and I was shocked when I realized it was a woman. Okay, that is a sexist remark, I know but what can I say, I’m a guy! I do realize there are women who enjoy sports cars and driving fast, but the way that car was driven with such skill, cornering like it was on rails, I would have taken the driver for a Formula One racer.
Once the car was stopped I took a second to really peer in at the driver. She was quite stunning. Her long chocolate brown hair was cascading over her shoulders and truly complemented the light pink sweater she was wearing. She turned her head slightly in my direction before her tires screeched out into the traffic. My breath caught while my heart fluttered like a hummingbird. Bella.
My instinct was to do a quick U-turn and to try to follow after her, but then reality set in. This was not the first time I thought I had seen my past love. In fact, over the years I had convinced myself multiple times that I had found her, only to make an ass out of myself when I approached the girl. Honestly, if they had dark brown hair and chocolate colored eyes, I always did a double-take. This most recent episode most likely being brought on by the intensity of my dream last night. I knew that I had to find a way to move on because this obsession with her was seriously unhealthy.
Get your shit together, Masen! Come on, guy. Let’s try to focus today, shall we?
Shaking my head, I tried to push Bella out of my head as I parked my car and headed into the lobby. I met a tall, mahogany-haired beauty that introduced herself to me as Heidi. She had on a designer ginger colored wrap dress with intricately cut diamond panels at the neck line that really set off the highlights in her hair. The dress stopped a few inches above her knees prominently displaying her long shapely leg. If my mind wasn't so wrapped up in Bella, I would have probably said she was breathtaking. I followed Heidi up the elevator and we looked at a condo unit on the forty-third floor that was nice, but a little smaller than I had hoped to find. She suggested we hit up Aqua, which was another newer high-rise located in The Loop District, where there was apparently a penthouse space open on the eighty-first floor.
We drove separately to the building, just in case I was running short on time before the press-conference. As I turned onto N. Columbus Avenue I could see the architecturally unique building. It was one of the coolest things I had ever seen. The balconies came out of the side giving the building a rippled effect, almost like water. The amenities in the building were aplenty. There was a fitness center, a jogging track, basketball courts, two pools, and really anything else you could ever think to wish for in one place.
We looked at a few open units on the way up to the penthouse, but nothing really caught me eye. When we reached the eighty-first floor, I stepped off the elevator, not expecting to be as blown away by the view as I was. The penthouse unit was approximately three thousand square feet, with four bedrooms and three and half baths. The unit was completely upgraded with marble countertops and beautiful dark bamboo flooring. The balcony faced south and had exquisite views of the city, marina and lake shoreline. I fell in love with it instantly. The asking price was 1.99 million dollars. I talked to Heidi about my options and we made an official offer while I was there. She told me to expect to hear something in a few days.
After bidding good-bye to Heidi, I had to hurry to get to the stadium on time for the press-conference. I met Jasper and the Cubs' GM in a small conference room to go over some questions they expected me to answer, all pretty basic stuff. Emmett met us a few minutes later. He was polite, but seemed distant, sticking to strictly business conversation. I was disappointed when he told me Ms. Black would not be able to make it down for the conference today, but he assured me that everything was straightened out and that there was nothing to worry about; I would most likely meet her at Spring Training. At this point, I was beginning to feel as if the illusive Ms. Black was deliberately hiding from me for some reason. What the hell? I swear I’ve never met a Bella Black, so as to what the problem was I was completely flummoxed.
After the conference, Emmett gave me the address for Bloomingdale's and told me I was to meet Alice in her office there at four o'clock. I headed over towards the store and arrived a little earlier than necessary. I found a pizzeria only a few stores down called Frankie's on 5th. I decided on a Black Goat personal pizza. I hated eating in restaurants by myself, as waitresses always found it as an invitation to flirt shamelessly thinking that I could use the company. Yea right! The only company I ever wanted was for a hallucination that I have been seeing for the past ten years. Knowing that wasn’t going to happen any time soon, or fucking ever, I sucked it up and dealt with it today, as I was way too hungry to care.
After paying the bill, I headed over to Bloomingdale's to meet with Alice. I must say that I was astounded when I saw her. She was the complete physical opposite of Emmett. She was just a little peanut. Whereas, Emmett was huge and burly, Alice was petite and pixie-like. Her spiky, chin-length black hair complemented her facial shape and her unusual grey-colored eyes. She smiled widely, her eyes twinkling and bounded over to greet me. I smiled realizing they obviously both had the same type of energy level, which seemed to run only on one level.. high. She enveloped me into a hug, insisted I call her Ali, like all of her friends, and told me she had heard so much about me. My head was spinning after just the introductions. My word, whoever is giving this little spit-fire so much caffeine needs to be fired. Good Lord!
We headed down the elevator to the Men's Department. Alice led me by the hand and into a dressing room, telling me she had already pulled a bunch of clothes for me to try on. Shopping was never really my favorite pastime, so I had to say that the fact that she was making it so much easier for me, certainly endeared her to me. She continued to make conversation the entire time I was trying on clothes. Alice was like a little fireball, running back and forth gathering different garments once she had a better idea of what I liked, and if I am being honest, what she felt looked best on me. I belatedly realized her energy level surely topped Emmett's without question. Holy Shit! With this in mind, however, she grew on me and I found myself laughing carefree and easily with her, almost like I had known her for years.
It was easy to see why Alice was so great at her job. From personally selecting my clothing to personally ringing up my purchases, it didn’t take a rocket scientist to understand how passionate she was about her job. I signed the credit card slip without even looking at it, in fear of what I would find, as I had no desire to see the damage I had done. Such a total probably would have done me in for the day. She told me she would have them delivered to Jasper's place so I wouldn't have to worry about trudging them up the elevator on my own, which I was grateful for. Anyways, I would look like a complete tool if I tried to carry all of those bags inside on my own.
“It was such a pleasure to finally meet you, Edward. I have a feeling you and I will be good friends, eventually. If there is anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to call. I have lived here my whole life, so I know all the ins and outs,” Alice said, grinning like the Cheshire cat.
I noticed she mentioned it was nice to meet me finally, which I felt was a little odd, since I hadn't known Emmett all that long, but I decided it probably meant nothing. It was just her type of personality. I asked her about a good place to have dinner and drinks at later tonight and she recommended the Elephant and Castle Pub. I told her she should join Jasper and I if she didn't have plans and she surprised me by accepting. We agreed to meet up around eight pm.
It was already six-thirty so I headed back to Jasper's place to get cleaned up. I always felt so disheveled after trying clothes on. I glanced in the rearview mirror and groaned when I saw my hair. Even on a good day it was always in a messy disarray, but right now, honestly there were no words to describe what was going on. It stuck up in some areas and lay completely flat and lifeless in others. In all honesty, I looked like a moron! I finger-combed it trying like hell to at least make it presentable to walk into the building, but unfortunately, it was of very little help.
Jasper was still at work when I arrived back at the condo, so I decided to jump in the shower so he could get in when he got home. I washed quickly, threw a towel around my waist and tried to put a little gel in my hair to tame it. When I walked out to the hall, I heard Jasper listening to ESPN in the living room. He must have heard the bathroom door open as he called out asking how my shopping trip went with a throaty chuckle.
“Fuck, man, you know I hate shopping. And Ali, well, she was a handful, but I liked her. She's a cool chick. She's actually going to meet us at some Elephant bar tonight around eight. You look like you could use a drink, bad day?” I asked.
Jasper threw his head back against the couch, grumbling, “Nah, just long. This time of the year is always crazy for me.” He sighed looking completely exhausted, before his head shot back up. “Wait. Is Ali Emmett's sister? Son, your not wasting anytime here, huh?” Jasper smirked.
I rolled my eyes and shook my head at him before muttering, “Fuck you. She's cool, but I know better than to start hitting on the boss's sister my second night in town.” He started chuckling to himself again, so I added an “Asshole” under my breath.
Jasper turned his attention back to the TV, dropping his head back against the couch once more. “Oh, chill out, Golden Boy. You're such a drama queen. By the way, there are about a hundred shopping bags that I had the doorman bring into your room. You better hope you get that penthouse, because you will probably have to turn one of those smaller bedrooms into a huge California Closet, especially after you move all of your stuff up from Phoenix. Did you buy up the whole Men's Department or what?” Jasper chided.
I threw myself down on the couch next to him in defeat. “Hell, that girl wouldn't take no for an answer. She insisted I would need each and every piece of clothing I purchased. You laugh, but wait until you meet her. She is a persistent little thing and believe me, she's got a certain charisma that makes it damn hard to refuse her.”
Jasper gave me a disbelieving glance as I pushed myself up out of the couch and turned to walk back down the hall. I heard him snickering behind me so I flipped him the bird. He laughed loudly and called out, “Pussy” just as I was closing my door.
What an asshole I thought to myself, smiling. I couldn't deny that I had truly missed this type of friendly banter with my best friend. It made me feel like I was finally home. I felt lighter today than I had in almost a year, and couldn't help but feel optimistic that maybe my life was finally coming together as it should be.
**Alice POV**
After Bella's colossal meltdown this afternoon, I was in serious need of a strong drink. I was relieved that she had finally shared her secrets with Em and Rose, as it had been damn hard for me to try and advise Emmett without giving away what I knew about Edward. But the damage was already done. I could only hope that Bella would eventually work herself up to facing him as she should have years ago.
Emmett had come to me about a week ago asking me to help pull some winter clothes for Edward at Bloomingdale's. I won't lie; I was ecstatic to finally meet the infamous Edward Masen. The man has had my dear cousin twisted around his finger for years. After I got Bella safely and inconspicuously back to her car, I took off back to work. I had a few more things that were supposed to arrive this afternoon that I wanted to pull out for him.
At four o'clock on the dot, my secretary rang and told me my appointment was here. You have got to love a man who is punctual. Score one for Edward. Hmm...maybe I should try out the old Ali checklist with him to see how he scores. It had been a fool-proof list for judging men worthy of my dating in the past. Perhaps I could use it for Bella?
Attempting to control my excitement, I walked out to meet him. Edward was leaning against the doorframe to my office when I saw him. His jeans fit him like they were custom made for him and him alone while his sweater stretched across his broad chest, revealing every ripple of his chest and abdomen. He was pure eye-candy and I could instantly see why Bella was still fawning over him.
After introductions, I grabbed Edward's hand for the sole purpose of seeing whether he would shy away from it or if he would take it comfortably. I often did this to see if people were standoffish or friendly regardless of how long we had known each other. Edward gave me a questioning look, but willingly held my hand as I led him down to the private dressing room I had set aside for him. My internal girl wanted to squeal. Two points for Masen. He was on a roll and I was liking him more by the minute.
My third challenge was to see how he took it when I showed him the loads of clothing I had set aside for him. Men hated trying on clothes and most would have argued and gave me the “fuck no, you must be out of your mind” look when I brought them in. But Eddie, bless his little heart, just smiled and took it like a man. He tried on everything I brought him and even volunteered stuff he liked. And most importantly, he looked damn good while doing it. Three points.
Finally, on to the last challenge. I pretty much decided on my own to ring up all of the clothing that we had set aside in the “Yes” and “Maybe” piles. I had no idea if Edward would argue that he didn't need all of it or not. But low and behold, the man was perfect of course, because he gave me his credit card and didn't say a damn word. Obviously, I gave him a significant discount, but I don't even think he looked at the receipt when I handed it back to him.
He had passed every test on the Alice approval list. If I didn't know Bella was still in love with him, I might have tried to snag him for myself. There was no way around it at this point; I would get these two crazy kids back together if it killed me trying. First I needed to be able to get some more dirt on his personal life though. This should be rather interesting; as I am sure he didn’t follow the lonely route Bella decided to take. Nothing like looking in someone’s closet to see what they are hiding. This should be a treat!
When Edward invited me to join him later for drinks, there was no way I could pass it up. At this point, I wanted to jump up and down like a child because he was providing me with the perfect chance to feel him out. I needed to know whether there was anyone significant in his life before I put my plan to action. Despite her past actions, Bella was in desperate need of a happy ending and I just had the feeling that Edward would be just this. I was also more than curious to meet his friend Jasper, as Emmett had already mentioned to me that he thought we'd get along well.
After he left, I arranged a driver to take his bags back to Jasper's and then took off back to my condo. I needed the perfect outfit if I was going to meet the elusive Jasper Whitlock. After digging in my closet I decided on my Current/Elliot worn and shredded skinny jeans, a white cotton long sleeved tee layered with a black strappy vest and my Christian Louboutin slouchy black peep-toe boots. It was the perfect mix of casual and dressy, said that I was confident and put-together, yet approachable, and definitely not pretentious.
I wanted to get to the restaurant before the boys so I could grab us a table in the back, where it was a little quieter and we would be able to talk. I was lucky enough to grab one, without having to wait. The day was really starting to look up after its disastrous beginning, thank God! I ordered myself a Stoli Razz and soda and some spinach dip to nibble on until they arrived. I was, however, a tad worried that we may run into Bella here, as it is one of her favorite spots, but quickly decided that she would most likely be hunkered down in your penthouse all night long with Emmett. As sad as the sight of a broken Bella made me, I was glad to spend a few more hours with Edward and finally meet Jasper. Tonight was full of possibilities!
After scanning the restaurant for a few seconds, I locked eyes on Edward and he waved when seeing me at the table. I stood up and was pleasantly surprised to find him wearing one of his new outfits. I wanted to pat him on the head for being a good little boy. It looked as if he had been trained well. Five points! The man certainly knew how to dress to accentuate himself that was for damn sure. The black button up shirt was rolled up to his elbows and the AG damaged jeans once again hugged him perfectly. I was more than a little proud of my masterpiece. He was such a good little student, perhaps even the top of the class. Well done, Masen! Okay, so I realize I can't take full credit for his handsomeness, but whatever, I'm a girl. When he turned suddenly to speak to the person behind him, my heart stopped.
The man I assumed to be Jasper was absolutely breathtaking. He looked like a Hollywood actor. His honey-blonde locks were slightly curly and longer on top of his head. He was lean, but muscular and just slightly taller than Edward. He wore a light grey v-neck cashmere sweater and a dark pair of jeans with a pair of black puma sneakers. I was impressed with his style, considering he had obviously done it on his own. A man after my very own heart.
I could feel my heart fluttering as he walked closer. Edward must have said something funny, because when he laughed his ice-blue colored eyes sparkled and his perfect white teeth shone. I was in love, like crazy L-O-V-E love! Okay, maybe not love, but if someone had asked me to describe my perfect man, Jasper was him. I already said that tonight was full of possibilities. I really must be psychic!
Edward gave me a hug and kiss on the cheek when he arrived at the table and then introduced Jasper and I. The beautiful man had a southern accent. Oh, swoon! He was like an early birthday gift from the gods. I really must have been a good girl because I love a man with an accent. Good night! Still a tad taken aback by the perfect man, Jasper I mean, we sat down, ordered drinks and started talking.
Jasper and Edward recounted numerous memories of their days in college. I was impressed with their banter and was also glad both men seemed so relaxed with me, considering we had all just met a few hours ago. I found myself lost in their stories and laughing along as if I had been there right along with them. I told them stories about Emmett, Bella and I growing up and was surprised that Edward did not seem to show any recognition of Bella at all. I wanted to tell him the truth, really I did, but knew it wasn't my story to tell. Maybe she wasn't as important to him as he was to her. Hmmm….minus one point for Masen.
I knew I was here on an Edward information reconnaissance mission, but I couldn't take my eyes off of Jasper. Each time he looked at me, my heart raced and I nervously dipped my head or started twirling my hair. I felt like I was seventeen again and realized I had already begun planning our wedding and future together.
Whoa there tiger! Pull it back a tad. You haven’t even been alone with the beautiful boy yet.
Sucking up all the courage I could muster, I finally asked if the two of them were seeing anybody. Edward smirked looking back and forth at me and Jasper before announcing that Jazz was “as single as they come.” Dammit! Was I being that obvious? Jasper dropped his eyes, then shook his head and laughed before looking at Edward. I had heard that Edward had quite the ladies-man reputation, so I was surprised when Jasper admitted that he couldn't have a “real” relationship because he was still too hung up on his high school girlfriend. Edward punched him in the arm and gave a sarcastic “Thanks, Jazz” before shifting nervously in his chair. I couldn't help but smile, as he looked so adorable in his embarrassment. With this little tidbit of information, I wanted to jump up and dance like the little naked baby on Ally McBeal, hug him, and shriek all at the same time. However, I couldn’t do this. I just knew though, that things with Bella were going to work out and I quickly began formulating my fool-proof plan in my head. Plus two points for Edward!
We headed out around one o'clock am since Jasper and I both had to work in the morning. When Edward excused himself to use the restroom, Jasper leaned over and asked for my phone number. Needless to say, I was beyond thrilled. I slowly took his phone from his hands, making sure my fingers lingered on his for a few electrifying moments, and typed in my number before pushing send, so I would have his as well. When Edward came back we headed outside to grab cabs. Both men gave me a quick hug and kiss before helping me into a taxi and waving good-bye. I was right, tonight was full of possibilities for myself and, luckily Bella, although she didn’t know this yet.
On my way home I thought back over my day. I realized that Edward was a good man and that Bella needed to find a way to work it out with him. By the look on Edward’s face after Jasper mentioned Bella, it was completely obvious he was still in as much love with her as she was with him. This time apart hasn’t been easy for either one of them, of this I was sure, which is why they both needed to find their way back to the other to start their happy ending together. I knew Edward would be heading back to Arizona the following week to get ready for Spring Training Camp and was hoping to convince Bella to talk with him there. The sooner the better is always my motto, as it never does any good to let a situation fester. Bella of all people should know this. I was going to make the best out of this Jasper thing and it would be a lot easier if we could all hang out together. The first thing I had to do was call and talk to Bella though. She was still in the dark about my whole day with Edward. I knew this might set her off again, but I was banking on the information I received at dinner to save me from her wrath.
The phone rang twice before I heard her answer. I took a deep breath knowing it was now or never. “Hey Bells, it's me. I have news.”
**Edward POV**
The rest of my trip in Chicago was fairly uneventful. I was able to agree on a contract for the penthouse and was supposed to close on it in two weeks. Luckily, I would be able to do it from Arizona. My mother, bless her heart, had decided to go to Chicago and decorate and set the place up for me while I was in Spring Training. Gotta love being a momma’s boy! I decided to keep my home in Scottsdale for now, since I would be spending some, if not all, of my offseasons still in Arizona. She would be starting with a clean slate since I would need to buy all new furniture and decorations and shit. Alice had recommended her mother, Esme, to help since she was an interior designer. My mother and Esme had been talking on the phone non-stop for the past week making plans for the best places to shop. I was glad to just hand over my credit card and be done with it. This, apparently, seemed to be a reoccurring theme with my current shopping excursions. Oh well, as long as I didn’t have to physically do the shopping, I could care less about the cost.
I had seen Alice a few more times before I left Chicago, since she and Jasper had sort of started dating. She seemed to be a really great girl and a good fit for Jasper. I was happy for him, but I was a little worried that I was now going to be a third wheel in this town where I didn't really know anyone. I was hoping to forge some relationships with some of the guys on the team, just so I had options. Options are always a good thing to have, so I was determined to ensure that I had some. I still, however, had a strange feeling that Chicago was holding a piece of me that was missing. Although I couldn’t put my finger on it quite yet, I really felt as if this busy, Midwestern city was going to be a place where I could become whole again, a complete person. Who knows, maybe Alice had a sister or cousin as cool as she seemed to be and could fix us up.
I reported to Spring Training early in February so I could meet with the new manager and coaches and hopefully get to know some of the guys. Most of the veterans didn't show up until later in the month, but as a new player I figured it was best to make a good impression. Coupled with the fact that Arizona had been my home for so many years, it was comforting to go back to a place that I was familiar with.
Most of the guys were pretty welcoming, which was a relief. You never know how you will be accepted when you are replacing a respected veteran player and let’s face it, this is a professional sport and there are a lot of egos involved. Luckily, I didn’t really have that problem because, to me, it’s a game pure and simple. I met first with the manager Lou Piniella and immediately felt right at home. There was no question where he had acquired his nickname of “Sweet Lou” as the man had one of the friendliest, most welcoming demeanors I had ever known. I had a hard time comparing this man with the one I had seen on the field being ejected numerous times but then again, passion of the game will bring that out in a person, so I am a little excited to see what gets this man all fired up.
My second week at camp I met our catcher, Mike Newton. The guy was a classic ass, but he was funny as hell. I wasn't quite sure I wanted to be buddy-buddy with him, but he definitely seemed like he might be a good time to hang out with. One look at this guy and I could instantly tell that he was all talk and very little action. He was definitely one of those guys who was full of shit and really believed the crap he was saying. So, when I combined this with the fact that he was the team’s catcher, it was if everything came together. Catchers, from my experience, tend to be the cockiest son’s of bitches on any team. I don’t know what the fuck it is about them, but they all have some massive ego issues. When relating this to Mike Newton, the global atmosphere didn’t seem to fit his gigantic head. Holy Shit! He felt the need to tell me stories about this girl or that girl, who of course all said he was the best fuck they have ever had. While I found this little fact highly doubtful, I couldn’t help but laugh at his stories because he really believed the shit he was saying. Classic!
In addition to Mike “I am the best fuck in the world” Newton, I also got to know Tyler Crowley. He was a utility player, meaning he could play almost any position on the field. I quickly came to find out that he was sort of the prankster of the team. Luckily, he tended to focus his energy on Mike, which was rather comical. Both guys had a penchant for loud music and friendly mud-slinging while in the locker room and I could tell Coach loved to give them both a hard time.
Our third week into camp Emmett made his first appearance. I was pleased that he seemed to be more like the man I had met down here for dinner. I won't lie, as much as I tried to ignore it, the way he acted during the press conference had made me a little nervous. He just seemed a little withdrawn and I wasn't sure what had caused such a change. Fuck, I know I sound like a chick, but I didn't like it. It was probably still my slightly over-emotional side that was making me so self-conscious, but I couldn't push back the feeling that there was something bigger there, something I was missing. I still had yet to meet Ms. Black and was told she would not make an appearance until early March. I really just wanted to get this meeting with her the fuck out of the way so I could focus on playing ball. So like a girl to get into your head without really knowing anything about her. Shit! All I know is that I really didn’t like the fact that I hadn’t met, seen, or even communicated with her. There really is something off with this entire scenario. Oh fuck it! I will just have to put her elusiveness out of my head and focus on the game.
The fourth week of February we finally started playing some preseason games. I was never really a big fan of the preseason, mainly because the days are fucking long as shit. We had practice every morning, where we would field, hit, run sprints and lift weights. Then in the afternoons we usually had games, which were boring typically. They were really more for the players trying to make the roster. Veteran players only played an inning or two here and there and used it more as an opportunity for live batting practice.
This left me with a lot of time during the games to sit and just sort of people watch. What? It's fucking entertaining. This was especially pleasurable because of the crowd that attends. There were typically a lot of older people at the games, because so many spent their retirement in an RV going from field to field. They are like a traveling groupie club or some shit like that. Watching them is a sport within itself. The other half of the crowd tended to be Arizona natives that were there more for something to do. It was mostly from these people that I heard the boos from the crowd when I stepped up to bat. Most were upset that I had turned down such a lucrative deal with the Diamondbacks. I knew it was something I would just have to get used to. Well shit, it appears my “Golden Boy” days were finally behind me. Oh well, Mason. Take one for the team and move the hell on.
It was during these games when I first saw her... the beautiful brunette with the curvy hour-glass shape. I would often find her sitting alone during the games with a note pad in her lap, chewing on her pen. I wasn't sure what she was doing, but God knows I wanted to find out. That note pad on her lap and pen in her mouth were a couple of lucky office supplies for sure. Perhaps she was an artist and came here to sketch or maybe she was a writer and got good story ideas while watching a game. My mind wandered aimlessly, constantly making up scenarios since I had nothing better to do while riding the bench. Unfortunately, I never got a good look at her as she was always so far away. Whenever I did see her, though, my mind would always revert back to my memories of Bella, as she would do these exact same gestures while watching me play and reporting for the school paper. Shit, I miss her!
The following week Emmett pulled me aside to inform me that Ms. Black would be in town shortly and had requested to meet with me after the game on Thursday. I was quite relieved to finally get this meeting over with, as I really wanted to meet her and clear the air once and for all. However, when Thursday's game came around I was met in the locker room by Emmett.
“Masen, when you get finished down here, meet me in Coach's office for a minute” he quipped before brusquely shuffling down the hallway.
After showering and changing, I headed down to Lou's office where he and Emmett were waiting. I knocked quietly on the door before being ushered inside. “Everything okay, Coach?” I questioned when I was directed into the room. Lou was seated at his impressive mahogany desk, while Emmett was seated on the arm of the leather couch on the side of the office. Both appeared to have been immersed in conversation before I had arrived.
Taking a deep breath and nodding, Coach was the first to speak. “Sure, sure Masen. I, or I guess I should say we, wanted to talk to you about taking a more active role with the team. You see, the reporters here typically follow Bradley's circus antics and we'd like to try and change that this year,” Lou rolled his tired eyes and sighed while rubbing his forearm over his sweat stained forehead. He replaced his hat on his head before continuing, “You did a good job of taking a leadership role in Arizona and we were kinda hoping you'd step up and do that here as well. Unlike what you are use to, we don't have an official captain of the team, but we have a few guys that step up to the plate,” he softly chuckled a bit “no pun intended, when necessary. We've been discussing this for the past few weeks and have come to the conclusion that we would like you to be one of those people.”
Emmett jumped in before I could respond. “We are really just looking for someone who is comfortable talking to reporters and keeping a calm facade. Derrek Lee and Ryan Dempster have routinely done this sort of thing when necessary, but it would be nice to have a go-to guy on a regular basis. If you know what I mean.” Emmett’s blue eyes were hopeful throughout his statements and I knew he really wanted me to take this role. It was almost as if, his eyes were begging for some unknown reason. So damn odd!
With this, I agreed that I would be willing to take on this type of role, but that it might take a little time for me to feel comfortable calling meetings with the team, since I was still trying to gain my bearings and didn't really know all the guys that well yet. Both seemed to understand my reasoning and it was decided that I would be the main player to field questions by the media following games.
On his way out of the office, Emmett abruptly turned and added, “By the way Masen, Bella had some things she needed to take care of back in Chicago, so we are going to need to postpone that meeting. We'll get it set up again when she's back in town, alright?” Somewhat disappointed by the turn of events, I nodded slowly and then turned to leave myself. Honestly, was Bella Black even a real person? In my mind, all signs are pointing to the roads of Hell No and Keep Fucking Dreaming. Fanfreakingtastic! The wait to meet her continues.
As the weeks in March progressed, our preseason games picked up. Veteran players were playing more frequently and many of the non-roster guys were reassigned down to the minors. I started getting more comfortable with a lot of the players during this time, which was exactly what I needed to reenergize myself. For so long, baseball was something that I played because I was good at it, not because I had the passion I once had. Perhaps it was being in Arizona for so many years or other factors I never knew were present. All I know is that day by day I was beginning to feel more revitalized by the game I once loved. Little by little, I felt as if the change to the Cubs and to Chicago was really what I needed all along. I was letting the game heal me, which was really what I was hoping for.
I continued to see the beautiful brunette in the stands on a fairly regular basis. She always seemed to be immersed in the game or drawn to her notebook, chewing on her damn pen. So fucking adorable! On several occasions, I tried to catch her eye, but she miraculously seemed to look away quickly before any real contact could be made. Not to sound like an ass, but I have never had problems getting a girl to look into my eyes, so this was a little off the norm for me. However, something about this girl really made me want to get to know her. I found myself trying to make bigger plays on the field in an attempt to get her attention and hopefully impress her. I know that is pretty childish, but there was just something that made me want to make eye contact with her or see her smile. The last time I can remember doing such juvenile things was my first home game at Forks High School.
Several meetings had been scheduled and cancelled with Ms. Black in the past few weeks. I was really starting to get pissed off. At this point, whether she liked me or not was a moot point, I wasn’t looking to sit around a camp fire and sing fucking Kumbaya or anything, but it would just be nice if we could get along. Emmett continued to tell me there was nothing to worry about, that she would get around to it when she could. I guess I would just have to take his word for it. I really didn't care if I ever met her, but I would like to get some things squared away before the start of the season.
I was assigned the number “3” for my new uniform which, I can’t lie, I was pretty excited about. That had been Babe Ruth's number and there was something special and prestigious about wearing the same uniform number. I couldn't believe next week I would be back in Chicago for good. Hopefully, there was a little magic left in The Babe’s number for me because I really needed it.
**Emmett POV**
To tell you the truth, Spring Training had gone way better than expected. I was happy with the twenty-five man team roster we had it narrowed down to. Bella and I had a routine that we used when scouting the players with Hendry. We would each try and sit in different parts of the field in order to get a different angle of the guys and hopefully a better perspective on each player. Hendry took behind the plate, I took the 3rd base line, while Bella took the 1st base line. By doing this, we could individually see how the players worked together as a team and how they responded when different signals were called. It had been working pretty well for us in the last two years, so we decided to stick with it. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it right?
Bella had been in Arizona for the entire Spring Training, but she stayed mainly inconspicuous. She requested the 1st base line for scouting as it would be the furthest from Masen's view. I rolled my eyes at the request, but complied as I really wasn’t in the mood to argue with her about it. My mother always reminded me that I needed to pick and choose my battles, so this was not one that I was wishing to pick. I knew Bella was still trying to figure out how to deal with Masen, but by this point it was starting to piss me off. I told her I wanted all that shit to be dealt with prior to the start of the season. It was best to just get it all out in the open as soon as possible, you know?
At Bella's request, I tried to dismiss my feelings toward the guy and treat him as I had before her confession. I knew it was professionally necessary not to hold a grudge and be as fair as possible with him. I was actually impressed with how he handled himself both on the field and bench during Spring Training. In addition, he even agreed to take a leadership position with the team and would be addressing all media after the games. I, for one, was relieved about this because that meant that it would keep Milton Bradley out of the spotlight. Fantastic! The last thing I needed was that moronic idiot making another bonehead comment to the press. Whenever he opens his mouth, I wish I could press the Mute button on a remote control and shut him up. If only this were possible.
To top it all off, Alice had let us all know that Edward still had feelings for Bella even though he did not know she was one of his bosses. I think Bella was a little taken aback with the whole admission. I can’t say that I blame her, especially because she has spent the better part of the last ten years pining away for the guy. The way I see it, if she would just sit down and talk to the guy, they could easily work whatever shit needs to be worked out and get on with their lives together.
Come on Bella, let’s get this show on the road.
Bella had not been happy, and this is an understatement by epic proportions, when she found out Ali and Edward had been spending time together. Ali tried to convince her there was nothing to be upset about, but it took Bella several weeks to see reason. This is why it was so important to me to get her and Edward together before the season started. I had scheduled several meetings for Bella to talk with him, but right before each one, she came in begging me to reschedule saying she just wasn't ready yet. I know it is hard, but my God, she needs to get her head out of her ass, put on her “big girl” panties, and get it over with already. I was starting to get royally pissed about the whole thing for sure. I hated playing the telephone game, which is another way of saying I disliked being the go-between guy. After getting to know Edward throughout the weeks, I didn't really see that there would be any problems, most likely just some shock on his part. Whether anything came of them from that point, was of little concern to me. I really just wanted Bella to get it out so we could go back to business as normal.
On the final week of Spring Training, Bella had once again cancelled a meeting I had set up. I was absolutely livid and marched myself directly into our office to give her a piece of my mind.
Slamming the door behind myself, I sharply said “What the hell, Bella? Coach tells me you cancelled the meeting with Masen again. You promised you would take care of this. I can't keep running this whole team while you crawl up in a ball and hide in the office.” If Bella was going to act like a child about this, then I would talk down to her like one. This behavior had to stop and it had to stop immediately.
Bella groaned and put her head in her tiny hands before muttering, “I know, I know. I just...I don't know what to say to him. I mean, does he just walk in the office and I say 'Surprise! Yep it is me, Bella, your ex-girlfriend from high school, and now I am your boss. By the way, I hope you are okay with that. How have you been the past ten years? Me, I’ve been a mess, thanks for asking, because I’m still in love with you.' It's not like it's the easiest thing to do Emmett,” she whined.
I let out a long sigh and then sat down in the chair across from her. “Bella,” I chose my words carefully, as I knew there was only so much she would be able to handle “it doesn't matter if it’s easy. You're a professional, you're his boss, and this shit has to be dealt with. The longer you wait, the worse it is going to be. How do you think it will make him feel when he finally sees you and is thrown completely for a loop? He will wonder why you have been hiding from him, which by the way I can see that this thought does cross his mind. Not to mention that every time you cancel, you are probably giving him more ammunition to think poorly of you. Is this really what you want? Do you want to spend your whole life running from him?”
Wrinkling her nose and eyebrows in disgust, Bella huffed once again while shaking her head. “I can't do it. I know I should feel better about things after Ali told me about his feelings, but it just makes it harder. He might want to be friends again or maybe even more, and I just don't know if I can handle that. Am I supposed to just confess everything to him right away about the baby...about why I left? He's going to have questions, Em. Questions that I don't know all of the answers to myself right now. I don't need him distracted at the beginning of the season. I care about him too much to do that to him.”
Her whining was starting to annoy and piss me off to no end and I knew I was about to lose it with her at any moment. I really did not want another blow up like the one we had in Chicago, but I had to put my foot down. We shared ownership duties for this team and over the past two months I was beginning to feel like I was the only one participating in those duties. Apparently she didn’t get the “there is no I in TEAM” memo.
“Bella, do you want to resign your position from this team?” I asked cautiously, hoping to get a rise out of her. I knew this wouldn’t happen, but desperate times call for desperate measure and, sadly, I was a desperate man.
Upon hearing the question, Bella's eyes popped, her mouth dropped open and her face blushed furiously. For several moments she was speechless before she stuttered out “What? Why...why would you ask me that? I love this job. I've always loved this team and this job.”
“Then you are going to start acting like it,” I said with finality. “Here is what you are going to do. Let me first say, that this is not a request, this is an order. Got it?” Bella nodded her head, still somewhat in shock as I continued. “You will host a team meeting after our home opener next week. That will give you a little more time to prepare yourself. At the end of the meeting, you will ask Masen, who will probably be extremely confused, to your office for a one-on-one conversation. I don't give a shit whether you talk about the baby stuff with him or not, but you will be professional to him. You will make nice and answer any questions he has for you. I will not have this personal shit interfering with his playing. Do you understand?”
Bella once again nodded, but more slowly this time. She seemed to be contemplating what I had told her. “Bella, if you can not do this, then I am going to ask you to step down. You know what the motto of this team has always been. 'It's not personal, it's business.' If you can't put aside your personal feelings and treat him in a business manner, than I can't have you here. This shit will end up affecting the whole team and I for one, have worked too damn hard to watch it all fall apart.” Squaring my shoulders, I looked deep in her eyes and said, “So what's it going to be?”
Hating to feel defeated, Bella pursed her lips in a hard line. “Fine,” she said with a little bit of a snarky attitude. Apparently, this lit a small fire under her ass. “After the home opener, Edward Masen is mine. I will handle the situation appropriately. You don't need to be there in the room with us, as I know we will need some privacy, but I would like you to at least stay in the offices with me, until I am done with him...Just in case. I am not sure how he is going to react and I might need back-up. Okay?”
I smiled at her in triumph and agreed to her wishes before gathering up all my files. I sent a fax of our final twenty-five man roster into the commissioner before heading out for the night. I was looking forward to heading back to Chicago tomorrow and finally getting this season started.
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