Chapter 12: To Feel Like a Man/Woman

Chapter 12

EPOV

Fucked.

I was royally and utterly fucked.

No ad-libs, variations, if, ands, or buts about it. Besides, Bella wasn't here anyway. I sitting up in my office; lights off, the blinds closed. It was drizzling outside and the sky was a dreary gray. The scene was pretty depressing and that's honestly how I felt right now.

I took a drag from my cigarette and a small sip of my gin and tonic. I was relying on anything to soothe my nerves, but nothing was working.

"Edward, are you okay?" Mrs. Cope called from the doorway. She was a sweet old lady in her early 60's with fiery red hair and light green eyes. People had often mistaken her for my grandmother. She often treated me as if I were her grandson and stuck with me through thick and thin. I guess this time was no different.

"You know everything's going to be alright?" She asked. Everyone was gone for the day and a part of me felt glad that she had decided to stay behind.

"I don't know about that." I sighed stubbing out the end of my cigarette. I had gone through the whole pack in the past two hours. Not the healthiest choice to make, but I was stressed beyond belief.

"So we lost a bit of money. It can't be that all bad right?" She asked.

"I don't think losing over three and a half million dollars is just a bit of money, now is it?" I replied, my tone void of any emotion. I watched as she gaped at me like a fish. No one had known the full extent of what was lost, but now that she knew, I figured it wouldn't be long before the rest of the company figured it out. She looked like she wanted to say more, but I shooed her away with a wave of my hand. I was in no mood for conversation. After she left, I laid my head in my hands and let out a shuddering breath, wondering how in the hell it even came to this point.

Riley Taylor was supposed to be one of our biggest clients; merging his company with ours to help us branch out across the country. His ideas were clean and efficient and the board and I saw fit that he would bring our company some much needed attention. Based on the statistics the board had mustered up, we could double/triple the profits we were making. His plans were great and we all had agreed that this merge was going to benefit everyone, although he happened to be the only one on the receiving end.

Everything seemed fine once the papers were signed, and everything was going to plan. Mr. Taylor seemed like an okay guy; hell, I even let his wife take Bella and I house hunting, but eventually I realized that things weren't beginning to add up.

Instead of gaining money, like I thought we would, we were losing money by the hundreds. We had recently lost a bit of money in the NASDAQ and NYSE due to our other investments, so we paid no mind. But when the hundreds quickly became thousands and eventually turned into a million, red flags were going up everywhere, and we all eventually came to the consensus that the board and I needed to sit and have a little chat with Mr. Taylor to ask him a few questions.

All the losses in the money just so happened to be in the departments he worked on. We questioned everyone and everything, my dad even coming in to sit for a while so we could get to the bottom of all of this. Just as we were supposed to have a meeting with Mr. Taylor, he stopped showing up. We tried calling, mail, even visiting his house, were we found nothing but a few empty boxes and an ugly Victorian carpet.

That asshole had scammed us. He appeared to have disappeared from the planet with no traces left behind and even his wife didn't seem to exist. Riley was a wolf in sheep's clothing and managed to pull the cover over our eyes. The sad part out of all of it was that you would have never suspected it. He had amazing credentials and even a recommendation from Yale.

Out of our total worth, he managed to scam off 3 ½ million from the company, and we were only worth 6, so you do the math. To some, that number may not seem like much, but try dividing that number among our hundreds of employees, maintenance workers, suppliers and still having some to put into our stocks.

That money had to be replaced someway, or we were going to go bankrupt and I had worked too hard to come let it all come crashing down. Since it was basically my company as it had been my grandfather's and his before, I had to come up with the money. My dad worked as a silent partner, so he helped me upfront the money while I paid the other half. I didn't think it was a problem considering my dad was helping me out, but we both ended up spending more than what we wanted to. And when I say more, more than a couple of thousands each between the two of us, just to get back on stable territory. I swore if I found Taylor's ass, I was going to beat him to a bloody pulp.

To bring it all together, try managing all of this without pissing off your pregnant, hormonal wife. No offense to pregnant women out there, but some days she seemed to be a huge pain in the ass, which usually resulted with me hiding up in my office.

Not only did I have to worry about what was going on at work, but now I had to try to survive the day without Bella trying to give me a heart attack. The first time being when she nearly tripped going up the stairs which resulted in me calling Jasper and Emmett to help me move our stuff downstairs. Then there was the whole bathroom incident, where I found her in the bathroom, waiting nearly thirty minutes for me to get home, when she couldn't get herself out. She could have died from hyperthermia and now I knew it was my duty to make sure she was okay.

Lastly, there was the whole Wal- Mart fiasco where my wife promptly threw a tantrum since she couldn't get her pickles. Those fuckers were expensive too. She never wanted the great value ones or the baby dills. She wanted the Vlasic one that came in the large jar with the blue, white and green label. We still had money for the basics: bills, gas, etc., but all the luxury goods had to go including her pickles.

I hated telling her no, but it just wasn't in the budget anymore. There were other necessities that were far more important. I tried to subtly tell her that we couldn't get it, but that only resulted in her getting pissed at me even more.

She threw another fit, claiming I was neglecting her causing all eyes to land on us. I was reaching the brink of insanity and could feel the tendons in my neck and forehead pulse, as I tried to calm down. There was no point in the both of us looking crazy. An employee had came to check on us since we were making such a disturbance when it happened. It was a common mistake. From the way Bella was holding and positioned, she doesn't appear to be pregnant, but when she abruptly turned around, he had to dodge out of her way.

It all happened like clockwork and a set of dominos. The Wal-Mart employee managed to crash into someone and vice-versa until it was complete and utter chaos on the aisle. Bella stood there mortified and I had to quickly grab her hand and hightail it out of there. Call it cowardly or rude of me if you want. If we can't afford pickles, how in the hell can we afford to replace everything that was broken in the process? Yeah you catch my drift.

….

"Is she asleep?" I asked entering the living room, where my mom, Renee, and Gram Swan sat. Bella was sound sleep, her head resting comfortably in her grandmother's lap as Gram pulled one of her wrinkled hands through Bella' hair. I heard my father and Charlie enter behind me, so I knew it was time we all sat down for a little talk. I carefully laid an afghan across her sleeping form, before pressing a soft kiss to her temple. I stared down at Bella for a few minutes. She looked so peaceful and I felt a pang in my chest knowing what her reaction might be once she found out.

By the time I entered the kitchen, I figured my dad had filled them all in. My mom wore a grim expression before wrapping me into a tight hug. I was more than a foot taller than her and had to kneel down just to reach her.

"My poor baby." She muttered and I could hear the tears in her voice.

"Mom, it's okay." I sighed, releasing her. The others looked at me expectedly.

"I did it. I had to." I told all of them.

"He's right. We both did the best we could." My father sighed pinching the bridge of his nose, an obvious trait I had inherited from him. I told them all more about the situation and soon the kitchen became deathly silent.

"What are you going to tell her?" Renee asked, and suddenly the kitchen was a cacophony of voices.

"I honestly don't know what to tell her. Hell, she flipped out on me when I told her we couldn't get pickles, how do you think she'll feel when I tell her I got screwed at work and that we can't afford another house!" I screamed, but stopped when I heard something sounding like a muffled cry come from the living room.

We all ran into the living room, where Bella was giving us all pointed glares. Her eyes were wide and confused, and I could vaguely hear the footfalls of our family disappearing behind me.

"Explain. And I mean now." She breathed, and I sat down beside her knowing this was going to be one of the longest conversations I had ever had in my life.

…

BPOV

"So basically no new car, house, nothing?" Rose chirped as she brought me a glass of juice and a delicious looking banana nut muffin.

"Pretty much and that's not even why I'm mad. I mean I understand why he felt like he had to hide it, but another part of me feels like he doesn't trust me enough to tell me in the first place. I mean, does that even make sense?" I asked.

"You have every right to feel that way. I mean if Emmett kept something like that from me, well… his behind would be smoking over an open fire by now. He was probably just scared" Rose said and we both let out a few giggles. I felt the familiar flutter in my stomach and let out a strained breath.

"Jesus Bella, are you okay?" Rose asked frantically, her fingers itching towards her cell phone.

"Rose, I'm fine. The boys just decided that my ribs would make a nice kicking post." I breathed, rubbing my stomach carefully for a few minutes, the fluttering sensation quickly stopped.

"All boys Bella, I don't know how you'll handle it. One Edward is enough, but 6? I swear Bella, no one will be getting close to you." She laughed. I looked at her confusedly.

"What does that even mean?" I asked.

"Duh Bella, you can be so thick at times. Boys are extremely protective over their mothers and vice versa. I was talking to Alice the other day and Max is in some phase and refuses to let Jasper come anywhere near her without throwing a fit." I rolled my eyes at her amusement.

"Marley was the same way. She stuck to Emmett like glue and would growl at me, like literally growl when I tried to touch, kiss, speak, anything towards him. I guess that's what I get for making a mini me of him with my personality." Rose huffed, picking up a bottle of polish to do my feet. I couldn't see them no way, but at least it gave her something to do.

"You know... Edward sort of wanted a girl?" I told Rose.

"Really?"
"Yeah, we bought a little pink outfit and everything." I grinned at the memory.

"I thought you guys were going gender neutral?" Rose asked, as she finished one foot.

"Oh we still are, despite them being boys. Edward was a little bummed at first, but now he has this idea ingrained in his mind that he's going to create this mini little team of Cullen men, that'll rule the world or something." I shook my head at his ridiculousness.

"That's weird, but um Emmett asked me if we wanted to start trying again…you know for another baby." Rosalie whispered quietly.

"Rose that's great!" I squealed, but stopped when I saw her crestfallen expression.

"Wait, what's wrong?" She looked at me hesitantly.

"I uh… sort of got a hysterectomy." Rose sighed.

"What!" I screeched.

"Shh, I don't think all the people in Seattle heard you." She huffed.

"Sorry, but why? Rose, you love kids." I reasoned.

"I do, but remember when I had you watch Marley awhile back," she started.

"That's when you had it done?" She nodded her head, and looked down at her nails.

"May I ask why?"

"Um, a while back they found a few cysts on my ovaries. They told me it was nothing, but then they multiplied and became cancerous. I had no choice." Rose rasped.

"Why didn't you tell Emmett, he would have stood by you? I would have been there as well." I said, reaching out for her hand.

"It's not like you're in the condition to be going anywhere Bella." She gave me a sheepish smile.

"And? I would have had Edward carry me there or push me, whatever. You shouldn't have to face that all alone. What I don't understand is why didn't you tell Emmett? He worships the ground you walk on."

"I was scared okay?" I avoided the urge to roll my eyes. I swear it was the pot calling the kettle black.

"Weren't you the main one telling me I shouldn't be angry at Edward since he was just feeling a little bit 'scared'?"

"That's different and you know it?" She retorted.

"Is it?" I asked, raising any eyebrow up at her.

"Stop ganging up on me. I already feel bad as it is without you questioning me."

"Babe, I'm not trying to gang up on you. I'm just giving you back your own advice. Edward didn't want to bear the burden anymore so he finally caved. Of course I was the last to know, but that's beside the point. You just said that you would have Emmett's life on a rope if he lied to you and here you're doing the same. That's just not right." I reasoned. Rosalie nodded her head.

"I know, but would you laugh at me if I said I feel less like a woman because of it?" She asked. I shook my head. It amazed me how cool, calm, and collected Rosalie Hale-McCarthy was falling to pieces.

"Girl, you're the epitome of a woman. How about I make you a deal. I'll tell Edward about my concerns, if you tell Emmett about you know what. How does that sound?" I asked.

"I guess so. But what if he hates me because of it?" She breathed.

"He won't and if he does, I have the boys kick his ass." I grinned, and felt a sharp kick to the right side of my ribs.

"Okay, okay. Mommy won't curse anymore." I breathed. Rose let out a chuckle and wiped her eyes.

"So enough with heavy. I'm in the mood for pecan praline ice cream. Sound good?" I asked, as she helped me up.

"Do I get my own carton?" She laughed, knowing how stingy I got lately when it came to food. I gave her the stink eye.

"Uh Rose, I love you, but I get the carton. You'll be lucky if you get a few scoops." I told her amusedly.

"Whatever you say Bella, whatever you say." Rose grinned, wrapping her arms around my shoulders.

EPOV

"Are you okay?" Bella asked, entering the living room with a few bags. She sat them down on the coffee table, before snuggling into my side. I let out sigh and ran my fingers through my hair.

"I guess I'm fine." I answered, and felt a small swat on my arm. I looked over at Bella curiously.

"You know I hate that word. I really want to know how you feel. Ever since you told me a couple of days ago, I feel like you're a little distant." She said, her multicolored eyes seeming to bore into my soul.

"I kinda have. I mean I'm supposed to be providing for the both of us...I mean all of us and with all the crap going on at work and not being able to afford a bigger house, a car, etc. I'm just sort of lost. I don't feel like a man." I rambled.

"Edward," Bella sighed, placing a finger against my lips to shut me up.

"It's okay. So what if we don't get a bigger house, we'll just have to rearrange a few things. The car, well we just might have to split it up between the two of us. Three babies with you, three with me. The other stuff...well we'll just ssee how all of that goes. You're making a mountain out of a molehill for no apparent reason." She grinned.

"How are you so calm about this?" I asked.

"I guess I just came to terms with it. You left so abruptly after you told me that you didn't even give me a chance to respond. You have to tell me things baby, or we'll never be able to communicate. For better or worse remember?" she grinned. I rolled my eyes and let out a small laugh.

"Ah, there's a smile. And you'll always be a man in my books, even if you do look like a bum." She grimaced, fingering my holey wife-beater.

"Are we good?" I asked, rubbing her stomach. I felt a small thump against my hand.

"I guess there's your answer." She grinned, and I felt six more thumps.

"Now what was that?" I asked.

"That was your sons telling you that if you ever hide something like that from their mommy again, you won't live to see their birth." Bella smiled, patting my cheek before getting up.

Yep. We were good.

Ch 11: More than just about a jar of pickles

Chapter 11

BPOV

"Ouch! Mother-fudger…shi- shtick…god dam- dang it on asinine!" Edward growled as he jumped up and down holding his foot. I looked up at him amusedly, watching him as he dressed for work. It was third time he stubbed his toe and I was so glad I had my own source of amusement.

"Really?" I laughed as he continued to shout his own version of expletives.

"Yes really. Explain to me why we bought these stupid dog stairs again?" He moaned, crashing down on the bed beside me. Jerry scurried over and began licking Edward's face. He wrinkled his nose.

"That's why. You know Jerry is height challenged." I laughed as Jerry continued to lick Edward's face, nearly knocking his glasses off in the process.

"Jesus, Jerry you need to lay off the Kibble and Bits my friend." Edward winced as Jerry jumped on his lap, hitting him right in the family jewels.

"Oh shitake mushrooms." He groaned and with that I bust out laughing. Tears welled in my eyes and I had to get up and run to the bathroom before I peed on myself. After finishing my business I looked at myself in the mirror. My face was flushed and eyes bright. Pregnancy seemed to suit me well despite the obvious.

I was huge… no huge didn't even seem to describe how I looked. As each day progressed, I had to be careful with every move I made. Mostly for myself, but also for others as well. I remember the day when I nearly took out half the people in Wal-Mart with my stomach.

3 days earlier…

"Baby no more pickles." Edward growled as we headed towards checkout, passing up my favorite aisle. I huffed and crossed my arms over my chest.

"Why not?" I whined. My diet was perfectly fine and I was progressively gaining weight without any issues. Why was he denying me when there wasn't a problem?

"Aren't you sick of them yet? I cleaned out the fridge this morning and threw away nearly 5 jars of pickles from your past excursions. I don't even know why you even keep them if they're empty." Edward said, trying to push the basket forward.

"Hey, not so fast mister?" I huffed, waddling as quickly as my feet would take me, where I promptly stood in front of the basket defensively. Edward sighed and rubbed the back of his neck with his hand. He knew he was in trouble. I was in one of my moods where I basically threw a BF (b***h fit) all day. Edward let out a small groan.

"Why won't you let me get what I want? Do my pickles bother you? No I don't think so. They're good and I want some now!" I huffed, ignoring the few stares I received. Edward looked like he was about to intervene ,but I stopped him. I was on a roll.

"I am the mother of your sons for freaking sakes and you won't feed me! I'm being neglected!" I screeched. Okay maybe I was laying it on a little thick, but I was moody and I wanted my freaking pickles.

"Bella, please lower your voice." Edward said darkly, the vein beginning to show in his neck and forehead. "We can't afford to get you pickles right now." He grumbled. I looked at him curiously. Edward seemed to be hiding something, but I couldn't lay my finger on it. I continued my little rampage.

"You're so infuriating. I'll get it myself." I grumbled, picking up a few jars and settling them in the basket. Edward took them all back out.

"Edward. I love you, but I seriously don't like you right now!" I hollered.

Suddenly, a hand tapped me on my shoulder and I abruptly turned around. Behind me was a Wal-Mart employee checking to see if I was okay and in my haste of turning around ,he tried to dodge my protruding stomach and clumsily crashed into the aisle behind me, bumping into a woman and her teenage son. They both then proceeded to crash into a man and his two daughters and then an old man. They all went spiraling, knocking down a few random objects as they all crashed to the floor. Everyone looked at me in awe. I stood there horrified at the mess I had created. To make a long story short, let's just say that I quickly forgot about those pickles.

…..

"Isabella Cullen, what in the hell are you doing?" Edward said coming into the bathroom.

"Uh I was trying to take a bath?" I replied dumbly, hoping he would take it as a joke. He didn't. I let out a small sigh. Lately, Edward seemed to be a little more stressed than usual. When he would return home from work he would immediately shut himself up in his office for hours at a time, before crashing. You'd think he would still be on a high since we found out we were having all boys, but I guess that high was long gone.

I usually left him alone. He was stressed and I was moody. Not a good combination at all. We had recently moved our bedroom downstairs since getting up the stairs was becoming a difficult task for me. Edward would often offer to carry me up the stairs, but at this stage he would probably throw his back out.

I was home bound now. Driving was now out of the question and so was staying on my feet for long periods of time. I was constantly on bed rest, except for the few times I would leave to accompany Edward to the store or to make my weekly trip to the doctor.

Edward would constantly watch me like a hawk and I felt like I was slowly losing my independence. I wasn't even allowed to take a bath by myself (doctor's order's not mine).

I thought it was ridiculous to be watched like that, but everyone else didn't think so. They all feared I would slip and bust my head open. I knew I was clumsy, but I wasn't that clumsy to the point I couldn't take a bath by myself. I figured that since Edward was home from work it would be okay.

"You know you shouldn't be doing this by yourself." He huffed, picking me up and settling me on the bathroom counter while he ran my bath water.

"I think I've been doing it long enough for the past 16 ½ years now. I'm 26, not 5." I huffed. I swear husbands just don't get their wives sometimes.

"Yeah, yeah. Now let me help you undress." Edward said walking towards me. Resigned, I raised my arms and let him remove my shirt, shorts, and undergarments. He picked me up and carefully settled me into the tub. He walked back over the cabinet and gave me a soft wash cloth to bathe with, while he sat on the closed toilet.

The water was just right; the soft scent of lavender filling the air. I let out a soft contented sigh. Edward might have been a pain in the but lately, but I knew he only had my best interests at heart.

…..

"Have you noticed anything strange about Edward lately?" Esme asked, as she fixed my mom, Gran and I a cup of tea.

"Yeah, but I try to let him be. He seems so stressed lately." I answered laying my head on my Gram's lap. She began raking one of her withered hands through my hair and I closed my eyes sleepily. I felt like I was 6 again when Liam and I would visit her. I think all the stress and worrying about Edward and myself was beginning to catch up with me.

"So does Carlisle. He's been spending a lot of hours at the hospital and I don't know why." She sighed.

"Well join the club. I feel so lost but I guess like father like son." I sighed drowsily as Gran continued to run her hands through my hair. I felt her soft lips kiss my forehead before I fell into a dreamless slumber.

….

"I did it. I had to." A voice said worriedly from the kitchen. I was stretched out across the couch, a soft grey afghan thrown over me with my hair plastered to my face. The babies were kicking me repeatedly in the ribs and I had to stay there for a while for them to calm down. I was definitley going to have a little football/soccer team in there. Trying to get back into a sitting position, I listened to the conversation in the kitchen.

"What are you going to tell her?" a voice I now recognized as my mom ask. I couldn't hear what was said, as more hushed tones filled the air. Was my dad here? Carlisle?

"I honestly don't know what to tell her. Hell, she flipped out on me when I told her we couldn't get pickles, how do you think she'll feel when I tell her I got screwed at work and that we can't afford another house!" Edward said. My heart stuttered in my chest and I let out a ragged breath.

What in the heck did he mean? I guess I was about to find out as they all ran into the living room, startled expressions on all their faces.

"Explain. And I mean now."

Images and Vids for Ch. 10

Bella's look:



Music vid for Creed's With Arms Wide Open

Chapter 10: With Arms Wide Open

                                                                                                   Chapter 10

EPOV

Sh-, crap. This was all I needed. I felt Bella grab my hand tightly as we both turned around towards the amused grey eyes of Renata “Ren” Daniels. This was not going to be good.

“Renata.” Bella said fuming, plastering a fake smile across her face.

“Aw Belly, don’t be like that. You know its “Ren”.” She grinned, flipping a lock of her curly black hair over her shoulder. Bella let out a small scoff under her breath.

“And you know its “Bella”, now what do you want?” She said starkly. Ren ignored her.

“What, I can’t say hello to my old friend Eddie?” She grinned, flashing her overly whitened teeth. I grimaced. Renata was one of my old “friends” from school. She was one of those girls; pretty, rich and fake, but behind that façade, I knew she had a good heart; she just didn’t have enough of a backbone to say no to her snobbish friends.

 She was one of my good friends, until the hierarchy of high school got to her and she left me in the dust. Not to mention when Bella and I first started dating, and Bella would come down to visit me, Renata would coincidently pop up and try to make it seem as if we were an item, nearly breaking the two of us up. I never forgave her for nearly destroying the best thing that ever happened to me and Bella certainly didn’t do so either. She didn’t hate Renata, but she didn’t particularly like her either.

“No, and the name is Edward remember?” I growled, and I could feel the muscles tightening all over my body. Bella rubbed a soothing arm up and down my back. Renata’s smile fell.

“I just wanted to say hi and I guess I was surprised to see you in here.” She said, fidgeting nervously. Well that was new. Renata Daniels fidgeting?

“Oh and why is that?” Bella huffed, planting her hands on her hips.

“I didn’t mean anything by it. I guess I’m just shocked to see the two of you again.” Renata answered.

“Oh what a shocker, considering you nearly broke us up on more than one occasion.” I huffed. She looked down at her feet.

“And for that I’m sorry. I was young and naïve; I made a lot of mistakes. That was never my intention. Life got hard and I guess succumbed to the pressure.” She replied.

“That still doesn’t make it right.” I answered.

“Oh I know, but still I just wanted to say hi, and that I’m happy for the both of you.” Renata answered and I was surprised by how genuine it sounded.

“Thank you.” Bella replied, her tone somewhere between confusion and awe. I looked down to see that Renata had a few baby items of her own in her hands. She must have seen my line of view because she gave me a small smile.

“It’s for my little girl. My partner Irina is eight months pregnant with her and I figured it never hurts to have a few more things.” She said happily. I was a little shocked for words and Bella seemed a little taken a back as well.

“Well congratulations.” I managed to muster out. She may have been mean to me in the past and I still may not like her now, but I was still genuinely happy for her and her partner. She offered me a small smile when her phone vibrated. She looked down.

“That’s Rina and I gotta run.” She answered looking down at her phone. She looked back up at me. “Despite what you may think, it was nice seeing the both of you again and congrats on your new addition to your family.” Renata grinned, before heading towards the front of the store.

Bella and I turned towards each other.

“Well that was unexpected.” I said.
“Yeah it was, but I’m happy for her.” Bella laughed, shocking the hell out of me.

“You’re happy for her?” I asked. Bella rolled her eyes at me.

“Well don’t make it seem like such a bad thing.” She huffed sarcastically. “She may have been a bi-…a bit-….well you know, since I can’t think of an alternative; but she seems to have her life in order and I can’t be mad at her for that.

 Everyone deserves happiness, no matter where you get it.” She smiled, grabbing my hand. I looked over at the amazing woman beside me. Call me cheesy if you want; hell I’ll bring the fondue pot if you wanted me to. Words couldn’t describe how I was feeling right now, so I offered her a small kiss to the hand where I was rewarded with her lovely rosy blush.

“Ready to continue?” Bella asked.

“Lead the way.” I replied, knowing that no matter where my girl went, I was sure to follow.

……………………………………………..

BPOV

“Isabella Cullen?” One of the nurses called out. I let out a sigh as I rocked myself up into a standing position. Edward still wasn’t here. He had to unexpectedly run to the office to help redo a presentation that had accidently gotten deleted. That was three days ago and he worked from morning to night; usually stumbling in, in the early hours of the next day.

Edward still wasn’t here and I really hoped he hadn’t forgotten about this appointment. Luckily, Liam had the day off and offered to drop me off. He offered to come with me inside, but I felt like it was a private moment only Edward and I should see. Besides, I really didn’t want my brother all up in my goods; that would just be awkward.

Following behind the nurse, I followed the routine checkup, weight (gained 14 pounds so far!), height, BP (luckily normal) and a urine test (ugh!) to make sure I was in perfect health.

Dr. Biers was still finishing up with another patient, so the nurse escorted me to another room, where she carefully helped me up onto the bed. After making sure I was okay (in which she asked me numerous times) she left and I laid there in silence. I closed my eyes. Edward should have been here by now and it was seriously making me worried. What if something had happened to him? He wasn’t answering his phone or the texts I sent him.

I took a few  calming breaths. There was no point in me getting my blood pressure up when all it was going to do, but cause a few more complications. A few minutes later Dr. Biers came through the door a soft smile on his face.

“Good afternoon Mrs. Cullen.” He grinned. I laughed and shook my head.

“You know you can call me Bella you know. Mrs. Cullen is my mother in law. Besides, you did deliver me into the world so I think the whole formality thing is a little far-fetched, don’t you think?”

“I guess so. I looked at your chart and everything seems to be okay. Instead of your bi-weekly appointments, I want to see you once a week. A pregnancy at this high of risk should be monitored very carefully. I think everything will progress just fine as long as you avoid any strenuous activity and unnecessary stress.” Dr. Biers said.

“I know. Edward won’t let me lift finger.” I sighed, suddenly sad again at the fact that he still wasn’t here.

“If you don’t mind me asking, but where is he? I thought he usually accompanied you to your appointments.” He asked, shifting his glasses back up upon his nose.

“That’s the million dollar question isn’t it?” I grimaced. He gestured towards the sonogram machine.

“Ready to see those babies of yours?” I eagerly nodded my head and Dr. Biers let out a soft chuckle at my enthusiasm. He quickly turned on the machine and squirted a bit of ultrasound gel onto my stomach, where I was rewarded by the sounds of fluttering heartbeats. I felt a smile spread across my face. Dr. Biers looked at the screen and wrote a few things down on his clipboard.

“The babies’ heartbeats are nice and strong. I don’t see any abnormalities, but then again it’s a little hard  to tell with so many babies in there. As you already know, you’re in the midst of your second trimester, and if you like, we can try to see if we can determine the sex of the babies. Would you like that?” he asked, and I pondered it for a moment. This was definitely something I wanted to share with Edward, but another part of me felt like I deserved to know. Quickly knowing my answer, he pressed the remote back to my stomach and looked at the screen.

“Do you want me to do each baby individually and tell you their sex or wait towards the end to find out?” He asked.

“You can do them individually.” I answered. After a few moments and prodding my stomach, his face broke out in a soft smile.

“Congrats Bella, Baby number one is a……………..”

……………………….

 Something cool and soft was rubbing down the side of my face. It was late from what I could tell and I could softly hear the sound of crickets chirping in the distance. I knew it wasn’t Jerry touching me since I could feel him lying across my feet sound asleep and Liam had left hours earlier after I cried myself to sleep. I groggily opened my eyes and gazed up into a pair of green ones that looked down into my eyes full of regret and sadness.

“I’m so sorry.” He breathed. I stayed quiet as he continued to speak. He was still dressed in his tie and slacks, so I knew he had just gotten home. I looked past his piercing gaze and looked over at the alarm clock on the night stand behind him that read 1:43 a.m.

 It had been eleven hours since I found out the gender about our babies; 11 hours since I grudgingly called Liam to pick me up when Edward didn’t show; 11 hours since I heard Liam holler and curse at Edward over the phone, when he realized that he had indeed forgotten about our appointment and blown up at me for interrupting his work time when he was enjoying a few beers with his coworkers at the time. Ten hours since Liam, practically dragged me up the stairs as I cried on his shoulder where I eventually fell sound asleep, which brings us back to now, where I looked back up at the green eyes that are solely focused on mine. I closed my eyes and waited for him to speak.

There was nothing for me to say.

…………………….

EPOV (Hours earlier)

“Ed, man let’s get a couple of beers. “ My friend and employee Garrett grinned.

“Yeah, I guess I could use one right about now.” I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck. For the third day in a row, he and couple of my other employees had been assisting me in redoing a presentation that one of the assistants Jane Rivers “accidently” deleted and lost the backups.

“I know dude, I feel like my eyelids have bricks on them.” He groaned, stretching beside me. We had been working since 5 this morning and we still weren’t finished. I was mentally and physically exhausted. I had blown up at Bella earlier for interrupting me while I was working and turned off my phone. I knew I was being an a-hole, but I was too stressed to care at that moment.

 Heading over to our favorite bar we grabbed a couple of baskets of wings and fries to go alongside our beers. We were halfway through our 2^nd round of beers with our coworkers when Garrett got a call from his wife Kate. He made a motion that he would be back and quickly left the table.

That’s when I remembered that I had turned off my phone so I could work on the presentation. Damn, maybe Bella had called to check up on me. When I turned on my phone I was met by a few missed call and text messages.

Edward, where in the hell r u?-B I looked down at it confusedly. She knew where I was, I checked through the other text messages.

Love, I’m already in the room, are you here yet?-B

Are you still mad about what happened earlier, because this isn’t funny! Where are you?-B

Edward Anthony! You officially suck. Thank you for forgetting the most important apt. ever. I guess our babies don’t matter to you after all-B  What the hell? What was she talking about? Appointment?

That’s when it hit me and then I realized I was in deep shit….shoo…..oh fuck Bella wasn’t here right now.  I was screwed. I had forgotten all about our appointment today and it was the one where we would find out the sex of the babies. Was I that obsessed with work that I could forget something like this, and here I was sipping on beer and laughing with friends. I definitely deserved the worst father and husband award. After scrolling through the texts a few more times, I saw that I had a few missed calls. The first three from Bella, and I ignored them knowing she was going to rip me a new one for missing our appointment. The last two were from Liam and I grudgingly opened my voicemail it wondering what he wanted.

“Hey Assward! You’re lucky I’m not kicking your ass right now. I had to pick up and drop off my baby sister, because her douche of a husband forgot. And then you hollered at her too, you’re lucky my-“Beep”. His message quickly ended. I headed to the next one.

“Grr, my dad and I come and get you. You made her cry! You better fix things with Booger before that pretty face of yours ends up under my shoe. Now fix it.” Liam screamed and abruptly ended the message. Fuck! I scrubbed my hands up and down my face. I had to figure out a way to fix this, I just had to.

……………………………………….

She was sound asleep by time I got home. Of course she would be. It was after one in the morning and the days’ events must have worn her out. I trailed my hand down her cheek reveling in the soft texture and radiance her skin took as the soft moonlight hit it. I was broken from my little reverie as she shifted in her sleep, her eyes groggily opening as she looked up bleary at me. After a few blinks her beautiful eyes stared up at me.

“I’m so sorry.” I breathed meaning every word of it. She closed her eyes and I could see the well of tears threatening to release themselves as she let out a soft sigh.

“Baby, please look at me.” I whispered and Bella opened her eyes, a few tears falling down her eyes. I felt like a jerk.

“I’m sorry. I guess I got so obsessed with work that I let it cloud my mind. I would never intentionally forget something as important as an appointment for our children. I want you to know that. I hope you know that.” I continued, pressing a chaste kiss to her nose.

“You hurt me.” She whispered.  I stroked a few stray strands away from her face.

“I know love, I know. I’m sorry for even blowing up at you. My mom would have my behind bent over her lap if she knew how I treated you. Words can’t even describe how I feel right now. Please say that you forgive me.” I begged.

“Can we talk about this later? I’m so tired.” Bella answered and my heart sunk a little bit, but she did offer to talk about this later. I closed my eyes in defeat.

“Edward?” she whispered.

“Yes love?” I asked, not opening my eyes.

“Can you please hold me? I just need your arms around me right now.” She whispered so quietly that she sounded like a small child.

“Anything you want love.” I answered stripping down to my boxers. I laid down beside her, as she cuddled her head against my chest. It wasn’t long before her breath evened out and she began mumbling random sayings in her sleep.

I stayed awake despite being dead on my feet. I just kept staring down at her beautiful profile wondering again how such an amazing woman could be in love with a man like me. I had to make it up to her, I just had to.

“Edward.” Bella sighed in her sleep, a soft contented smile on her face as she snuggled further onto my chest. I felt my face break out in a small smile as I fell asleep moments later, knowing that I still probably wasn’t forgiven, but at least it was progress.

………………………………………

“Wake up!” a voice hollered. I grumbled and rolled over shoving a pillow over my face.

“I swear this boy is just like a teenager.” The voice muttered again. I groaned as I pressed the pillow further down on my head while I absentmindedly searched for Bella. I felt nothing. I raised my head slightly to see if she was there, when the covers were abruptly ripped off of me, letting the cool air hit my skin.

“What the fuck!” I screeched and felt a sharp pain hit the side of my thigh.

“Edward Anthony, watch your language.” My mother huffed and I rolled over on my back to see my mother perched on the edge of my bed a mischievous look in her green eyes.

“You’ve got some explaining to do.” She replied, giving me the eyes that made me tell her everything.

“Mom.” I groaned, laying my arm across my eyes.

“Tsk, tsk my boy. Now get up. You know the drill.” My mom huffed and I grudgingly sat up.

It was going to be a long day.

……………..

BPOV

“You ready for tonight?” Alice chirped as she combed through my dark locks. I was half listening to her, still thinking about last night. When morning came, Edward looked so peaceful and I didn’t want to wake him up.  I had carefully extracted myself from his arms and went downstairs to get breakfast where I saw Esme and Alice perched at my kitchen counter, pastries and coffee in tow.

“Hello, earth to Bella.” Alice huffed, hitting a tangle in my hair.

“Ouch! Yes I am ready for tonight, despite the fact that I’m going to look like a whale.” I muttered. Tonight the hospital was having a benefit honoring Carlisle and his contributions. Everyone was going to be there and see me in all of my glory.

“Isabella Cullen, you will not look like a whale. I specially designed this dress for you and you will not look like a whale!” Alice screeched.

“Well I sure feel like one.” I sighed, fingering a strand of my now straight hair.

“Bella, sweetie look at me.” Alice said. I looked over at her.

“You are one hot mama and don’t let no one tell you otherwise. Understood?” She glared.

“Understood?” She huffed again.

“Yes Alice. I understand. I’m one hot mama okay.” I grinned.

“Good, now let’s get dressed. Rose took the kids over to her parents for the night so we have the night to ourselves.” Alice said, pulling out huge red bag.

“What is all that?” I groaned.

“Just the basics.” She grinned mischievously pulling out numerous beauty supplies. I stifled the groan that threatened to release itself. While Alice was distracted, I moved the small box I brought with me carefully to the side.

“What’s that?” she asked curiously. I smiled to myself.

“Oh, just the basics.” I grinned.

……………………………..

“Come on, one more dance.” Alice said as she begged Jasper for another dance.

“Not tonight darlin, my dogs are killing me.” He said, running a hand through his messy blonde locks.

“Aw, you’re no fun.” She huffed, coming to sit down beside Rosalie, Tanya, and I. All in all, tonight was going extremely well. We laughed, cried, drunk a few drinks (well I had water) and danced. I was feeling a little tired and looked around for Edward to see if he wanted to leave, but he was nowhere to be found.

“Does anyone know where Edward is?” I asked. Everyone shook their heads no in response although I saw them all share a knowing glance. Things were still a little strained between the two of us. We both acted like nothing happened, but there was still this weird sense of awkwardness between us and I didn’t like it.

I was just about to get up and look for him when the lights dimmed and all the attention focused on the stage where the band played.  I still couldn’t see much, but when a figure walked on stage and I saw that unmistakable shade of bronze hair, I knew it was him. Jasper and Emmett trailed on behind him and I was even surprised to see Liam up there. Edward headed towards the microphone post, while Jasper headed towards the keyboard with Liam and Emmett on guitar.

I was wondering why in the hell they were even up there when the opening notes of Creed’s With Arms Wide Open began playing.

Well I just heard the news today
It seems my life is going to change
I close my eyes, begin to pray
Then tears of joy stream down my face

His voice was so soft at first and then gradually turned into a husky tenor.

With arms wide open
Under the sunlight
Welcome to this place
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open
With arms wide open

Well I don't know if I'm ready
To be the man I have to be
I'll take a breath, I'll take her by my side
We stand in awe, we've created life

With arms wide open
Under the sunlight
Welcome to this place
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open
Now everything has changed
I'll show you love
I'll show you everything

With arms wide open
With arms wide open
I'll show you everything ...oh yeah
With arms wide open...wide open

Liam and Emmett broke out into their guitar solos and Edward looked out lovingly into the crowd and he smiled as his eyes focused on mine.

If I had just one wish
Only one demand
I hope he's not like me
I hope he understands
That he can take this life
And hold it by the hand
And he can greet the world
With arms wide open...

With arms wide open
Under the sunlight
Welcome to this place
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open
Now everything has changed
I'll show you love
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open
With arms wide open

I'll show you everything...oh yeah
With arms wide open....wide open

The crowd broke out into a standing ovation. I could feel the tears streaming down my face as Edward took a bow and headed off the stage and towards me. He was just amazing. The meaning behind those words just showed me how much he invested in this. In us.

 He must have taken my tears as a sign of distress, because he began tugging on his bronze locks.

“Love, I’m so sor-.” I cut him off as I crushed my lips to his, my belly softly hitting his stomach between us as I pulled him closer. I heard cheers and cackles around me as Edward ran his hands through my hair. We pulled apart both breathless. Edward rested his forehead against mine.

“I take it that I’m forgiven?” He asked; his usually green grass eyes were now a dark jade.

“You’re more than forgiven.” I breathed, stepping back away from him. I grabbed his hand and pulled him along over to our table. Letting his hand go momentarily I reached under the table and grabbed the box I had hidden under here earlier. I had planned on giving it to him earlier, but it didn’t feel like the right time. I turned around and looked at him nervously.

“Here.”  I blushed. He looked at the box in his hands.

“What is this?” Edward asked and I threw a sly look at Liam. He knew what was in the box.

“Why don’t you open it and find out.” I grinned as Edward tore off the paper and carefully opened the box, pulling out the picture frame.

“Really?” he gasped, his green eyes immediately welling up with tears.

“Yep.” I smiled as he hugged me and looked back at the picture frame that had 6 little blue hats perfectly arranged in them.

“All boys?” He gasped.

“All boys.”