The Trip Home 2 - Chapter 3


A/N: Thank you to my beta, TwilightMundi, who has infinite patience with me.

Please Note: There will not be a chapter next Wednesday, December 28. I need a few days to catch up on some projects and real-life things. I hope you have a very Happy Christmas, and a fantastic New Year's Eve/Day if you celebrate them. I will see you January 4. :)

If you need more to read until then, I posted both my Season of Our Discontent entry (which is primarily a Rose story, but there is Rose/Edward, and Rose/Riley mentioned), and my TwiKink piece, which is Bella/Alice, with a tiny little drop of Rose spanking.

I also wanted to mention that TTH2 will be written entirely from Bella's POV. I know some of you will fling tomatoes at me (or already have), but I have my reasons. I will promise you at least one outtake of EPOV and JPOV.

All copyright and trademarked items mentioned herein belong to their respective owners. The remaining content is all mine. No copying or reproduction of this work is permitted without my express written authorization.

When I looked down at the stick, tears welled in my eyes, spilling over onto the white formica.

Negative.

I knew it was still so early, but I somehow thought I'd be the exception. I'd be that one lucky girl that gets pregnant the first month of trying. I did my best to compose myself and wiped my tears before throwing the stick away and walking back to my desk. The rest of the day felt heavy, each request people made of me further burdening my over-taxed mind.

"Hey," Esme said, startling me.

When I gasped and then laughed, she joined in. "You okay? Sorry to scare you."

"I'm fine, just a little blue."

"You want to talk about it? I can tell Edward to take over, we can go for a walk?"

I laughed. There was no way we could leave Edward in charge and she knew that. It was nice of her to offer, though.

"Naw. Maybe coffee tomorrow? Little shopping?"

"I'd love that," she said with a smile.

On our way home, Edward and I grabbed a pizza, and we had a lazy couch night. Jasper got home after we did and we ate while watching movies. During a break, Jasper made some milkshakes and I made popcorn. I hadn't intended to tell them about the test, but the anxiety I felt bubbled up and spilled over, giving me a case of verbal diarrhea.

"I took a pregnancy test today," I practically whispered once the TV was off.

"What?"

They both said it at once, and that made me almost giggle. I'd been so upset, but as the day progressed, I realized how unrealistic I'd been.

"It was negative."

"Well, it's just the first month, Bella," Edward said. "Not even really. I mean, you threw your pack of pills away mid-cycle. You have to give it time, silly woman."

His fingers reached to stroke my cheeks and wipe away the tears that fell, and Jasper pulled me into his lap.

"But look at the bright side. More unprotected sex with both of us." Edward smiled as he spoke, then leaned to kiss me.

"I know," I mumbled against his lips. "I know."

When we crawled into bed together, I found that I couldn't be as sad as I'd felt before. I was lucky. I had love. I had a house. I had a good job. I was happy, I just wanted to be happier.

The next day, I met Esme for brunch. Between bites of bacon and toast, we talked about life. As we browsed the stores, we talked about kids. We talked about marriage, the great parts and the shitty parts.

I loved that we were close enough to spend the entire day together and I never felt like she was intruding in my life, or that I was a bother or burden to her. We were genuinely friends.

Alice and I had texted back-and-forth a few times while I was out with Esme, making plans to have lunch the following week. Because our offices were near the hospital, we could easily meet at the cafeteria.

"You talking to the boys?" Esme asked, teasing me.

"No, no. Alice and I made plans for lunch."

"Oh good. I'm so glad you have them to talk to," she said.

We picked a coffee shop to sit in and shared a brownie.

"What's new, kid?" she asked, smiling at me. I could tell she knew something was wrong, but I wasn't ready to talk about it with her, or really with anyone outside of the three of us. It would have felt wrong to tell her, anyway; it was Edward's news to share, right?

"Nothing. So boring. You guys coming to Jasper's game next weekend?"

"Miss a chance to gawk? Of course we'll be there."

They didn't always go to the home games, but they usually made a few each season. I know Jasper loved it when they were there.

"Maybe Carlisle will finally find the right guy," I teased, popping a bite of brownie into my mouth.

Esme almost choked on her caramel macchiato, but joined my laughter. "I'm pretty sure you're a better woman than I am, Bella. I don't think I could handle two of them."

My lips pursed together. "Oh, I'm sure you could… " I giggled.

"You tart! You know what I mean. Two pairs of boxers on the floor. Every single toilet seat left up…"

I nodded and smiled. She was right, there were definitely downsides. But the upsides won me over every time, and I smiled as I thought about those.

When she dropped me off at the house, I walked in and found the boys wrapped up together on the couch. I smiled when they turned to look at me as I came inside, both of them smiling back at me.

"Hey," I said, kicking my shoes off and practically bouncing to them. "Whatcha watching?"

I burrowed between them under the blanket, and we lost ourselves in mindless TV, and then each other.

Alice and I had lunch that week, and she told me how hard it had been for them, trying to hide the truth of their relationship, but people found out anyway. It made me realize that I didn't want a life of hiding who I was and who I loved.

Still, the boys and I had a lot of fun over the next few weeks, playing together, making love, and bantering about life. Edward and I talked a lot about pregnancy and timing. He told me some things about conception I never realized, and I was amazed anyone ever got pregnant, after that. We went to Jasper's game with Carlisle and Esme, holding hands, and huddling together in the stands. When Jasper's team won, we said goodbye to our parents and made our way inside the stadium.

"Hey Edward," Coach said to him, nodding, then turned to me. "Bella."

"Hi Coach. How are you?" I asked.

"Really fucking glad we won," he said, laughing. "Have a good night."

"You too."

Jasper came out of the locker room and gave us both a hug and a kiss, lacing his hand through my free hand, and the three of us made our way to the parking lot. The closer we got to our cars, the farther away from the moment of privacy, the looser Jasper's hand was in mine. As we crossed the threshold of the stadium, he let go completely. I knew he had to walk over to his car, but it wasn't the only reason he disconnected, and when we went our separate ways, there was no hug or kiss for Edward or me.

Sometimes I felt resentful of their careers, of their mutual fear that bad things would happen if people found out. I knew that eventually people would start putting two and two together. The cafe owner would see the two of them together at some point. We weren't always careful in public and they would kiss, or we would all three kiss, and surely that would come back to bite us in the ass. I felt like we were on the cusp of so many things, good and bad.

When I knew it was time for my period, I bought another pregnancy test. My period arrived the next day, and the anger bubbled and grew.

The third month, I decided to forego the test. I didn't need a sad face mocking me.

Thanksgiving was rolling up on us quickly, and as we began to make the preparations, Jasper was around a bit more since his scheduled had lightened up. It was so fun to have him around, and he even came into the office and helped there most days. I tried not to let either of them know how disappointed I was that I hadn't gotten pregnant.

"Hey baby," Jasper said, sliding up behind me in the supply room. His lips skimmed up and down the side of my neck as his hands rubbed my hips.

"Hi. You done with practice?"

"Mhm. Wanna practice something else with me?"

I laughed, turning in his arms. "We can't here. I have to go back to the front desk."

"Not even five minutes? I can be fast."

Rolling my eyes, I slapped his shoulder then ducked under his arm, wandering back to the front. "I need more than that from you," I said.

"Good thing it's Thanksgiving weekend. You get four long days with me. Is that enough?"

He was walking right behind me, talking loud enough for me to hear him, but not so loud that anyone else in the offices would hear.

"Maybe," I teased.

I suddenly realized just how much I was looking forward to the long weekend ahead of us. I'd forgotten just how exhausting working could be, and since we'd been planning for Thanksgiving, I barely had a moment to think about anything else.

When we hosted everyone, it was an eclectic mix of ages and family setups, but it was exactly what I wanted it to be. I made a full four course meal, and Esme, Jasper, and Sue helped me in the kitchen when they could. Before dinner, I was thankful when Edward suggested pouring the champagne in the kitchen — he had an opportunity to stealthily fill my glass with sparkling apple juice. Edward passed the flutes from the tray to everyone there, and if anyone noticed, they didn't say anything. I felt so smug, my secret shared only with my loves.

Edward lifted his glass to everyone at the table. "This Thanksgiving, Mom passed the reins down to Bella, Jasper, and me, and I couldn't he happier or more thankful. We appreciate all of you coming out here to spend this holiday with us. This meal looks amazing, so thank you to Bella, Jasper, Mom, and Sue for that. Now let's dig in."

We ate nosily, each of us chattering away with the people around us, and I smiled when I sat back and surveyed everyone. There was Christmas music playing softly in the background, and I couldn't help but wonder what the table would look like in five or ten years.

After pie, there was wine in the living room, and I made myself a cup of tea. I didn't feel out of place, as Esme and Leah also had tea. I wanted to get to know Leah better, her personality drawing me in and making me curious, but she seemed reluctant and perhaps shy.

"Sue, do you think you guys might want to do a little Christmas shopping together?" I asked, looking between Sue and Leah.

"I think that sounds perfect," she said, patting Charlie's knee. "I have no idea what to get this old man."

"You too?" I asked Leah directly.

"Sure," she said, smiling at me.

After more conversation, I was exhausted and ready to collapse. I needed that weekend of sleeping in to recoup. Everyone began to put their coats on, gathering plates of leftovers I'd forced on them and bundling up.

"You're glowing," Charlie said, voice rough with emotion, when he hugged me goodbye. "Anything you want to tell me?"

I just rolled my eyes and shook my head no.

"You look beautiful tonight, Bella," Sue said. "Thank you for having us."

"My pleasure."

Leah and Seth were at dinner, so I assumed they knew about our relationship. If they didn't before that night, they had a lot of information and gossip to take home with them. We didn't hold back within the confines of our house, and though Charlie was around and the boys were respectful, there were still glances, touches, kisses, and of course, the dinner toast.

"Unzip me?" I asked Edward, watching as he undid his pants.

He gently nudged me to turn around so he could easily reach. His fingertips were cold against my skin as he slid the zipper lower. His wet lips kissed my skin, waking up every part of me. The light fabric of my flowy dress gaped against my skin, allowing the cold air in, and I shivered. Edward stepped closer, his hands sliding along my body to cup my breasts. His mouth pulled away, his tongue leaving a cold, wet trail up the center of my spine.

I shook my arms, pulling away from him just enough to let the dress drop to the floor leaving me in just my underthings. Jasper rounded the corner of the bedroom at the perfect moment, and I laughed, embarrassed. No matter how much they loved me, I still mostly saw my flaws, and almost never felt powerful or sexy.

"You're gorgeous, but when you blush like that, just a little bit innocent…" he said, taking a step toward me. "The right amount of shy, embarrassed, vixen."

As he moved closer, he undid the buttons on his shirt, letting it fall to the floor. His pants went next and by the time he reached me, he was naked. It took me a moment to realize Edward was naked, too. We moved to the bed where they began to remove the last of my clothes. It was so nice to envelop myself with them, Jasper on one side, Edward on the other.

Edward's fingers slid between my cheeks and I pressed forward against Jasper, giving them both room to work themselves into me. I needed them both at the same time, needed to feel the sensation of fullness in my heart and body that had been missing over the last few months. I loved that we never made anyone feel left out in our lovemaking, but there was something slightly transcendent when we were all connected at the same time. I'd become such an unbearable bitch in my quest to get pregnant, I realized, practically demanding that they not have any time together — with or without me.

"I want to watch you with Jasper," I leaned back and whispered to Edward. His fingers were playing and twisting inside my body already, but I wanted something different.

His teeth scraped gently against my neck as he hummed a soft moan into my skin. Before he could over-think it, he moved and got up, standing behind Jasper. We would all be connected, and I spread my thighs wide, bringing Jasper against my body as I laughed.

"What's so funny?" he whispered, leaning down against my body, effectively presenting himself for Edward.

"I'm just so happy. Impossibly happy."

"You know," he said, biting the skin at my collarbone, "impossibly happy is … impossible. I hate to burst your bubble."

"Don't steal my thunder. Just get in here."

I reached between our bodies and pulled his cock between us, rubbing myself against it. Something about the position we were in was delicious, and when Edward began to thrust into him, the sensation against my clit made my hips buck, seeking more. Jasper's lips and tongue teased my nipples, making me feel delirious.

"Please," I whispered, turning my head to look in his eyes.

"Ready?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

He lifted back up to a mostly standing position and I expected him to thrust in fast and hard; to my surprise, he pushed in so slowly, it made me want to scream. I could feel him entering me, then pull back out carefully and repeat the movement. Each time, it was a maddeningly slow tease, but I realized everything was sort of mounting as he did it. He began to alternate slow, deep penetration with shallow, faster thrusts, and I could feel my orgasm building. I moved my hand down to my clit and began to rub slow circles. I didn't want it to be over, but I knew I couldn't hold on much longer.

My eyes closed and I focused on listening to them. I'd wanted and needed them to reconnect, and hearing them together was perfect. If my breathing was quiet enough, I could hear Edward's ragged breathing. The way Jasper was pushing into me, I could tell Edward was pounding into him. As Edward's noises got louder, I felt myself reaching my orgasm, too. He was whispering to Jasper, wet lips smacking against the other man's skin.

I came loud and hard, my heels digging into the bed as I searched for something to keep me grounded. Jasper's hands squeezed my hips, and began quick, deep thrusts. He wasn't even pulling back much, just thrusting hard and deep, hitting my g-spot, and carrying my orgasm longer and longer.

Several minutes later, we were still in the exact same position. I could finally breathe and think again, and opened my eyes to look at them. Edward's head was resting on Jasper's shoulder, both of them smiling at me.

"Never gets old," Edward said, winking.

The way he was looking at me and Jasper made me sort of wanted to do it all over again, but my realistic side quickly banished that thought. Even my studly boys needed some recovery time.

"Come on, I need to clean up," I said.

Of course we touched and loved each other in the shower as much as we'd just done on the bed, and I laughed when the water ran cold. I'd never be able to figure out what it was about the three of us and the shower, but it felt safe and warm and comfortable there.

"What do you two want for Christmas?" I asked, washing Edward's chest with the shower poofy.

Neither of them could come up with anything, which just made me laugh. They were so spoiled, and truth be told, so was I.

Several weeks later, I was in the shower again, alone with Edward this time, trying to figure out what we'd get for Jasper.

"Come on, you have zero ideas?" I said in my best playful-pouty voice.

"Maybe we could do a photo shoot? I haven't dusted my camera off in a few years…"

"We're so short on time, though."

Suddenly, I had what I thought was an epic idea.

"Wait! What if we do a raincheck for a photo shoot of the three of us. I mean, we have some pictures from Esme and Sue, but nothing that really encompasses us, you know?"

Edward smiled at me, kissing my lips. "I love that idea."

The next day, I went shopping for Esme and Carlisle, and Charlie and Sue, and of course Alice, Rose, and Emmett. I hadn't really stayed in touch with Victoria, which made me sad when I thought about it, but our lives were in such vastly different stages. She was still going out to bars on the weekends, and I just wanted to sleep and catch up with the boys. We kept in touch via email, though, so at least there was that. She kept me up to date on the newest guy (or girl) she was dating, and I filled her in on the boring everyday things.

I decided to make a little coupon booklet for Edward and Jasper; they had everything they needed, so I decided to give them fun things they could use. A coupon for a massage, or breakfast in bed, and yeah, I even included a blowjob coupon.

The best gift came a few days later, though. It was Christmas Eve eve, and I realized I hadn't gotten my period. I ran to the drug store for what I'd said were stocking stuffers, and came back with three more pregnancy tests. I'd blown through the supply I bought once we decided to start trying, and I wanted to have a variety of brands, for reliability purposes. While I was there, I did grab a few pieces of their favorite candy and some random other things to put in their stockings.

I got home and did a lot of talking to myself. I wouldn't be sad if it was negative. I wouldn't let this ruin my Christmas. I kept going and going, as I unwrapped the boxes, and then took a stick out and peed. I turned it over and set my phone timer, knowing that if I didn't, I'd stare at the stick and have no idea how long had passed.

When the chirp told me my five minutes were up, I turned it over and nearly yelped out loud. For the first time, I was looking at a smiling face on my pee stick.

I immediately took another test, diligently setting my timer and trying not to get my hopes up.

When it was positive as well, I fist pumped and jumped around the bathroom for a minute. I put the lid down and sat on the toilet and started to cry. Then I had what I decided was the best idea ever. Pushing the tests back into my purse after I'd wrapped them in the packaging so I didn't get pee everywhere, I rushed back out the door.

"Forgot something!" I shouted, rushing past the boys. "Be right back…"

The entire drive to the drugstore, I worked in my mind how to reveal the news to everyone. I knew our parents were all coming over for Christmas dinner, but I didn't know if I could wait almost two days. Once I bought what I needed, having decided that I could and would wait, I went home and almost got distracted by Edward and Jasper. They were again curled up on the couch, but the way their hands were positioned, I could tell they'd been touching each other. It wasn't like they were hiding it from me, more like they'd begun a very slow buildup to what I knew what would be explosive results.

Instead, though, I made an excuse and said I had to use the restroom. I snuck into our bedroom, wrapped each of the rectangular boxes in wrapping paper, and smiled to myself as I carried them out and stuck them under the Christmas tree.

"What's that?" Jasper asked, sliding to the floor.

His hand shot out to pick the box up, but I smacked it away. "No cheating," I said. "Wait until Christmas."

I turned to look at his face. "Aw, no giving me that look. I'll give you an early gift, how about that?"

Edward shifted down to the floor next to Jasper. I pulled Jasper's pants down first, then Edward's, using my hands and mouth to tease them. I loved them both thoroughly, watching them kiss and touch each other. I sort of wanted to have them both come at the same moment, but then I realized that was just silly, and probably impossible. I focused on Jasper, his face and his eyes as he looked down, watching me. I loved that he was unabashedly looking down, watching his cock disappear into my mouth. When he came, my hand squeezed around Edward's cock, and I quickly swallowed.

I switched sides, and Jasper's hands pulled my hair up, giving Edward a better view. Normally, Edward laid his head back and closed his eyes, but Jasper had whispered to him to watch, then joined me, licking and sucking every part he could reach. In almost no time, Edward was coming, and Jasper and I playfully shared what he gave us.

I almost couldn't sleep that night, an entire bundle of nervous energy, bouncing off the walls just aching to tell anyone my secret. But I knew it would be worth the wait.

Finally, when it was Christmas morning, I could barely drag myself out of bed.

"Come on, sleepyhead," Edward said before his mouth wrapped around my exposed nipple. It slipped from his mouth and he nipped at it with his teeth. "Time to get up."

"Ohh," I moaned. "That feels good. Don't wanna get up. Want to come."

Edward's fingers laced together with mine as he settled himself between my legs. He teased, kissing all around my thighs and abdomen before one long, slow lick up the center of my pussy. My fingers pulled on his, gripping tighter and begging for more. He hummed against me, the vibrations giving me goosebumps, and I tried to press my hips against his mouth harder.

Without the addition of his fingers, things moved more slowly, but I wasn't complaining… and clearly, neither was Edward. He was licking me at a languorous pace, then sliding his tongue between my lips to tease my opening. He licked and sucked, pulling my lips into his mouth. I kept trying to redirect him to my clit, but he was teasing me more and more.

His fingers gripped mine tighter as he pushed harder against my wet skin, his tongue sliding deeper inside of me, then pulling back out and going straight to my clit. He sucked it into his mouth, did crazy things I was sure I'd never felt before, and I thought I might pass out the way I was breathing so heavily. When I finally came, I knew the grip on his fingers became painful, but couldn't hold back my response. My back was arched, hips pressing my pussy into him as hard as they could, and I let out a long, low moan.

My fingers released his and I tugged his hair quickly, wanting him to come back up for more kisses and touches, which he did, eagerly.

It was the perfect way to wake up, aside from the fact that I knew I'd be horny all damn day.

When we finally got out of bed, put on some clothes, cleaned up a bit, and met Jasper in the kitchen, I realized he hadn't joined us because Esme and Carlisle had already arrived.

"What time is it?" I asked, still feeling like I was floating.

"Eleven thirty-three," Edward half-whispered half-giggled against my ear.

"I sent Edward in on a search-and-rescue mission half an hour ago," Jasper said, giving us a look that said we were in for it later.

I tried to look remorseful, but yeah, there was no way I felt even a tiny bit bad about it. Well, maybe only that Jasper hadn't been there too. "Sorry. I'll just grab a cup of coffee and a quick shower, then we can start prepping dinner and go open gifts?"

My heart thundered in my chest that everyone was going to know I was pregnant by the end of the day. Then I had the realization that babies would probably mean no more lazy sex-filled mornings. Oh well, we'd have to get creative, but I had no doubts we could do that. We'd done it plenty in the past.

After my shower, Esme and I started the turkey and chopped some things for other dishes, then made our way into the living room. Charlie and Sue showed up and we turned off the TV, opening up the gifts. I'd snuck the two boxes for Edward and Jasper out of the pile and set them behind me, wanting them to be opened last.

When every other gifts had been opened, Jasper looked at me. "What happened to the boxes you snuck out the other night?"

My smile grew as I handed them the boxes, then tucked my knees up under my chin.

They tore into them, paper flying and landing in the already giant pile of trash. I closed my eyes briefly, praying they would both still be happy about what they were about to find out. When I opened my eyes, they were both standing there, staring at the tests.

"Really?" Jasper asked first. He sounded genuinely excited, and I wanted to tackle him.

"Really," I whispered.

I looked over at Edward just as tears spilled onto his cheeks, quickly wiped away by the back of his hand.

"Are you guys excited?" I asked.

"What's going on?" Esme interrupted, not seeing what they were excited about. From her vantage point, it just looked like two jewelry boxes.

"We're pregnant," Edward said, elation obvious in his voice.

The room erupted into cheers and celebration as Edward, Jasper, and I hugged tightly.

"I can't wait," Edward said.

"Me either."

"Holy shit," Jasper whispered. "We're going to be parents."

I felt a little dizzy at his words, but I was locked in my bubble with them. I was certain our parents had said more to us, asked questions probably, but in that moment, all I cared about were the two men surrounding me and the small beginning of life inside my body.

The Trip Home 2 - Chapter 2

This is the tattoo they each have, in different locations:



Sidenote: my beautiful beta, TwilightMundi, actually got me a stained glass version of this. It has shades of blue in it and every time I see it (daily - it hangs by my writing desk), I just get choked up thinking of these characters, all of you, and the friends I've made here. You guys are amazing. I am so lucky that you're here with me. Thank you.

A/N: Thank you to my beta, TwilightMundi, who always has time for me, despite my super-human ability to have a laundry list of projects that prevents me from writing until the very last minute. I love you endlessly and can't thank you enough.

A few notes ... I've marked this story Edward/Bella only because I didn't have the option to mark it Edward/Bella/Jasper. A few people asked. Sorry for any potential hurt, confusion, or upset.

I've placed an image of their tattoo on the blog version of this chapter. You can go to www dot mskathy dot com to view that, if you'd like.

All copyright and trademarked items mentioned herein belong to their respective owners. The remaining content is all mine. No copying or reproduction of this work is permitted without my express written authorization.

I spent the rest of the flight dozing, ecstatic but terrified at all of the changes about to happen.

When we landed and had our luggage, Edward walked to the long-term parking and grabbed our car. Jasper had me curled against him as we waited at the curb. I was exhausted and more than ready to climb into our bed. I needed a good night of sleep to get off the ground running with Edward and Carlisle's practice. We had precious little time left before the doors opened, and although Esme had taken care of things like ordering office supplies, getting new furniture, and overseeing some remodeling of the building we'd picked before I left, there was still so much to do.

"Ready for bed?" he asked, squeezing me against him tighter.

"Yeah."

"I can tell." He laughed, then kissed the top of my head. "We'll get you tucked in so you can rest. Poor woman, double-teamed for fourteen days and nights…"

I giggled; yes, poor poor me. "I enjoyed every second, in case you couldn't tell, but yeah, I'm … exhausted. You two are more than a handful."

"I'll say," he said, winking over his shoulder as he moved to open the car door for me.

I rolled my eyes and got in, buckling my seat belt and waiting for them to load the bags. Normally I would have helped, but I just wanted to close my eyes again. I'd slept a bit on the plane, but my body still ached with the fatigue that had seeped into my bones. It was as if the two weeks of going non-stop had finally come crashing down on me. I closed my eyes and rested my head against the window.

The next time my eyes opened, we were home. I smiled.

Home.

"Need help?" I asked Edward after I'd climbed out of the SUV and walked to the back.

"No thanks," he said. "You can go lay down if you want. Jasper just took a load of bags in and he'll help."

"Okay."

I was content to let them do the heavy lifting; if they needed help, they would have asked. As I walked by Jasper on his way back out, he gave me a quick peck and a swat on the ass, which made me laugh. Once inside, I curled in my favorite reading spot and grabbed my e-reader, settling in to finish the book I was in the middle of. Edward came into the library a bit later to check his email, dropping a throw blanket over me on his way to the desk. We shared a smile and I sank down into the chaise a little more, letting my eyes close once I'd set my book aside.

The smell of food woke me up and I realized it had been a few hours. The sun had set, and in the kitchen, the boys moved together effortlessly. I snuck in and sat at the table, watching them until finally Jasper noticed me. His smile made my toes tingle, and I looked down at the table. I fidgeted, wondering what the rest of the night would be like.

"Do you need any help?" I asked quietly, looking back up at them.

"We got it," Jasper said, giving me another smirk. "Almost done, actually. Wanna grab the plates?"

"I'd love to."

I got up and set the table quickly, bringing the plates and glasses and silverware on each pass to the table. I thought about the dishes as I set them down in their spots, how they were special to us. We didn't register for a lot of things when we got married, but these were something we all agreed on. The pattern was something each of us liked, and I thought it was surely some kind of miracle or sign we just had to register for them. Carlisle and Esme had purchased them for us, and Esme made me promise to use them often.

My fingertips traced the silver edge as I thought about our kids using the same china.

"I think I'm ready," I said to no one in particular.

"Jasper's almost ready, too," Edward said. "Thanks for setting the table." He wrapped his arm around me, using the other to sweep my hair away from my neck, then lowered his mouth to my skin.

"No, I mean, I think I'm ready to have kids."

"What made you change your mind?" Jasper asked, setting his platter on the table and taking his seat.

"I'm not sure. I just feel … ready."

Edward pulled my chair out for me, and once I was seated, moved to his normal spot. "What makes you sure you won't change your mind?" he asked, digging in to the pasta.

I shrugged.

"Who says you two won't change your minds tomorrow and give me the boot?" I asked, twirling a forkful of pasta.

As I chewed, they laughed and shook their heads.

"I want that," I said, changing my tone to make sure they knew how serious I was. "I want to see what happens when we just throw caution to the wind, and let nature take its course. I want to see what our babies look like. I want to hear them call me Mommy. I want to see you cradle them. I've thought about it a lot over the last few days, and you guys know me, I won't change my mind. If either of you aren't on board anymore, we can wait, I just wanted to put it out there that I'm ready."

The rest of the meal was mostly small-talk, or pockets of quiet as we devoured the food. When the kitchen was cleaned up, we decided to head to sleep early. We all had to be awake insanely early to start the week and there was no time to waste with jetlag. Of course, I'd napped — maybe the boys had too, I wasn't sure.

In the bathroom, we shared the counter space as we brushed our teeth, and I was practically giddy. I had no idea if it was simply left over from being so tired or the lightness I felt at having made a decision. I stole glances at both of them, the three of us grinning like kids in the candy store. Although our bedroom usually made me feel that way, I knew we were all too worn out for any fun that night. Before we left the bathroom, I threw away my pack of birth control pills.

As predicted, we snuggled together under the covers but no one made any moves.

"Are you scared?" Edward asked from his spot behind me.

"No," I said. "Not really. I have you guys. I don't have anything to worry about."

"Good answer," Jasper said, leaning to kiss my lips.

"Are you guys scared?"

"A little bit. I mean, I hear the guys on the team complain about their wives sometimes, after they have kids," Jasper said. "Things change."

"Yeah."

"Well, things have to change for a bit, you know?" Edward said. "Everything will be chaotic, and then it will re-balance. It'll be a lot of work."

"But we have more hands than most couples," I said.

Jasper grinned and I could see it even in the dark of the room. "True."

"And Esme and Carlisle and Charlie and… somany people around us that love us."

"Very true," Edward said.

"And we have each other," I said.

No one dared to say anything else, the perfection of the moment something we couldn't possibly have ever planned. We were all on the same page, and we all knew which steps we were taking together, into the future… and soon, I hoped.

The next day, Jasper had been adorably tempting, in bed all by himself and naked. He'd pushed the giant comforter down, stroked himself, and almost begged us to stay.

"Later, I promise," I said, kissing him quickly.

Edward and I left to meet Esme and Carlisle at the office. We were so close to being ready to open our doors, and that was good considering how soon the actual open date was. By the following Monday, we needed to be finished. We'd been taking calls and booking appointments like mad thanks to Carlisle's experience.

"We going to hire some staff, get this place going?" Esme asked as we unpacked boxes of supplies and loaded the cabinets in each exam room.

"I don't know. I was thinking maybe I'd stay on as the office manager. We can hire a receptionist."

The grin that spread across my face wasn't premeditated, but I thought about waddling through the halls, swollen and ready to burst with the life inside of me. Someday. I'd need to get someone to take over during that time, for sure.

"You have the look of a lady that just spent two weeks with her husbands," Esme said with a sigh. "I seriously need to look into that."

"Why didn't you and Carlisle go anywhere before we opened?"

Esme rolled her eyes and laughed. "Have you seen Carlisle? Just try to get him to leave his work behind."

"Behind?" Carlisle said, his voice full of playfulness. "Whose behind are you ladies discussing?"

"No one's," Esme replied. "But if you'd like, we can certainly discuss your fine ass. Not that I've seen it much lately…"

Her arched eyebrow conveyed everything I never wanted to know, and I politely excused myself once they began to kiss. It was sweet, but ew.

"Hey, baby," Edward said when I walked into his office.

I practically fell into the chair, the day already taking its toll. "Wanna grab lunch? I have a feeling Carlisle is going to be grabbing something else, so I hightailed it out of there. Let's give them some privacy?"

"I'd love to. Where do you want to go?"

I hummed, thinking about what sounded the best. "How about the cafe around the corner?"

He stood up and I joined him, our hands linking together. "Perfect," he said.

We got seated quickly and poured over the menu, ordering ourselves some sandwiches.

"Think we should get something to go for the lovebirds?" I asked after a sip of Diet Coke.

"That's a nice idea," Edward said. "You're so considerate."

I loved it when we had easy, casual moments to reconnect. It would have been perfect if Jasper had been there, but the knowledge that he was waiting at home for us, or would be waiting at home for us once he was done at practice … sweaty and hot … or maybe fresh from his shower, squeaky clean … it was distracting, to say the least.

The rest of the afternoon, we worked easily, the four of us tackling things mostly individually. When I took a break to make a coffee run, Esme came with me. She was so happy, glowing and all that shit. It made me smile, but again, was just a little bit ew.

"You guys hosting Thanksgiving this year?" she asked as we waited in line.

"I hadn't thought about it. Do you not want to host?"

I hoped something else wasn't going on with them, but I worried.

"No, no," she said, placing her hand on my arm. "I just thought it might be nice. I'm still all over Christmas, but maybe it would be nice to relax and let you take a holiday. You can invite Charlie and Sue, and all your friends."

"I'll think about it. It sounds nice, but a lot of work. Will you help?"

I was scared shitless at the prospect of hosting so many people at my house, but also thrilled and excited that Esme trusted me enough to hand over one of her traditional entertaining days.

"Of course," she said, squeezing my arm.

The cashier took our order and we moved to wait by the barista, switching out conversation to all office talk. We were looking ahead of schedule for our opening, and that eased the stress on both of us, and seemed to for Carlisle and Edward as well. I knew there would probably be times in the future that we'd get frustrated with working together, but it was nice to accomplish so much together.

By the time we left, my body ached from the bending, stretching, lifting, and other work we'd done. Edward drove us home, and I thought about how much I needed a hot bath.

"Wanna grab takeout on the way home, or do you want me to cook?"

"We can do takeout," Edward said, smiling at me. "Chinese or Indian? And why don't you text Jasper and ask what he wants."

"Yum, Indian."

I tapped away, texting Jasper as music from the radio filled the silent space in the car. When he replied, my laugh was so loud it startled Edward.

"He's being difficult," I explained. "Responding to me with lots of dirty suggestions he's hungry for."

"Well, at least one of us isn't entirely exhausted. Hope he picked up the kitchen like he promised."

I had to laugh; they both tried to pitch in with the housework, but it was hilarious to me when they got pissy with each other (or me) over the dumbest things. In my next reply, I made sure to mention the kitchen, doing my best to try and keep the peace between all of us.

The counters are so clean I could eat off of them. Eat you off of them. On them? Fuuuck. How far away are you?

Oh, Jasper. I shook my head, but shivered. After a deep breath, I dialed our favorite Indian place on the way home and ordered. I didn't really need either of them to tell me what they wanted — the two of them could be such creatures of habit at times. It was adorable and annoying any time I wanted them to try something new and be adventurous.

"Hey, so your mom asked me about hosting Thanksgiving at our house. What do you think about that?"

"That sounds nice," Edward said. "The three of us can definitely tackle it. You want to?"

"Yeah, I think so."

When we got home with the food, Jasper was on the sofa in his pajama pants, watching the news. While he wasn't out in the media, the team all knew about our life together. He lived in near-constant fear that the press would get ahold of juicy details and out him, effectively ending his career. Suddenly, I realized why he'd been so tightly-wound the last few days, and that our returning from vacation meant perhaps questions he wasn't ready to deal with.

"Hey, Jazz," I said, smiling over at him though my heart was pained. "Anything good on?"

He grumbled and turned the TV off, then tossed the remote and followed us into the kitchen. "What'd you get me?"

"Your favorite, duh," Edward said, turning to kiss him. "Thanks for taking care of the dishes."

Jasper mumbled a reply and bit his stubble-covered jawline. Edward's hands tightened around the container he'd been holding and I smirked at them.

"Dinner first, boys."

"You already sound like a mom," Jasper whined, pulling away from Edward.

"Hey!" I smacked his arm. "Maybe I just want you to have enough energy to keep up with me…"

As I laughed, he growled. I raised an eyebrow, tilting my head to our plates. I was fucking starving.

We flopped on the couch, Edward and me putting our legs over Jasper's lap, and ate. Thankfully, Jasper didn't rush us as we all decompressed and talked about our days. He'd had a challenging workout, and was looking forward to his game. We talked to him about Thanksgiving and went through what we'd gotten accomplished at the offices. He was genuinely proud of what we were doing, and that felt nice. There was external validation there that hadn't come from setting up the house and getting things arranged perfectly, or finding just the right couch or bed.

With a full belly, I walked to the bathroom to get ready for the night. I needed sleep, but I wanted my husbands more. I undressed, brushed my teeth, found my favorite lotion, and made myself feel pretty. I picked out a pretty nightgown and slipped the silk over my head, sighing as the cool touch of it snaked along my skin. It was long, off-white with accents of lace; demure by most standards, but it made me feel sexy and sensual. Just as I'd finished up, Edward and Jasper walked in and brushed their teeth. I watched, not because I was waiting and impatient for them, but because I liked to see them together. Sometimes it felt like a reflection of what they were like with me, and it was interesting to be able to see that from the outside. Even without words, they passed the toothpaste at the right time, coordinating and moving in sync. Their toothbrushes joined mine and I smiled.

Slow wasn't an accurate way to describe the way we spent that night. It was true, but not accurate. We moved with certainty and purpose, but gently and with so much more love than I ever thought possible.

"I want to watch you," Jasper had said, moving away from my body.

"What do you want to see?" I asked, breathless. I was really curious, only halfway wanting to hear him say the dirty things out loud that I knew were true.

Edward moved above me, my legs surrounding his hips as he pressed some of his weight against my body. "Hi," he said, my favorite lopsided smirk on his face.

"Hey there," I deadpanned. "Sup?"

We all laughed, but when he dipped down and his hard body slid against my softness, I closed my eyes and mouth.

"That's what I want to see," Jasper said quietly. "The way you two move together. The way Edward makes you come. The way Edward's eyebrows furrow when he comes."

"Touch me," I said. "Please."

I'd grown so used to both of them, all of us loving each other, and I didn't want to be without Jasper. It didn't matter where he touched me, just that he was there, too. When the bed shifted, I opened my eyes and watched Jasper move behind Edward. I wondered if he'd changed his mind, and felt a stab of jealousy that he was going to touch Edward.

He did touch Edward, but his hands moved between our bodies, touching me, too. His cool fingers slid up and down the length of my slit before dipping in. My body arched, reaching for the pleasure he brought. When he pulled his fingers out, I wanted to whine and pout, but I felt the familiar press of the head of Edward's cock and whimpered. I could hear them whispering to each other, kissing occasionally, and I was impatient. Lifting my hips, I pressed, begging him to push inside.

Jasper moved back to my side, curling one arm beneath my head and kissing me hard as Edward finally thrust into me. Edward lowered his mouth, joining his lips with ours for a moment. Separating from us, he lifted himself up again, thrusting harder. Jasper continued to kiss me, swallowing the noises they were both provoking.

The position was awkward, my neck turned and straining, and he shifted back a bit, focusing on touching me and watching his hands as well as Edward's face. Jasper scooted down, his fingers finding my clit again, and quickly brought me to orgasm. Edward fucked me faster, chasing his orgasm so hard. When he came, his hands were gripping my hips tight. Jasper had leaned down again, and began to whisper in my ear about how sexy and beautiful Edward was in that moment.

Edward slowed and then stopped, resting on his elbow as his lips plucked at mine, both of us smiling.

Jasper hummed and we turned to look at him. "My turn to make you come."

There was something about taking turns with them that still felt dirty to me — it was one thing when we were all together at once, each pleasuring each other. Edward laughed, kissing a path down my body as he moved away from me and made room for Jasper. I had expected him to go to the bathroom and clean up, and I turned to see what he was doing.

"Hey, you watch us together all the time. I think Jasper had the right idea; I want to watch the two of you love each other. Or fuck. Your choice."

I wasn't really an exhibitionist, but having one of them watch wasn't really like that for me. It didn't feel as though I was on display, it was just a more passive way of participation, I reasoned. It was still hot, though.

Jasper brought my attention and gaze back to him when he wrapped his lips around my nipple, teeth plucking at the sensitive skin. He rolled, and I squealed as we moved, having not anticipated it. When I was above him, he pulled the other nipple into his mouth and sucked gently. I thought I'd go mad when he pulled it into his mouth, then let it slowly slide back out, only to repeat the action. His tongue danced over the tip and I pushed my body against his, seeking pleasure much lower.

"I can feel him dripping onto me."

I hadn't considered that, but I took a minute to think about it. On one hand, I'd never been the biggest fan of cum itself, but on the flipside, it was sexy that Jasper still wanted me even after I'd just been with Edward. It had been something I struggled with a lot when we first got together, so the reassurance was welcome. "That's hot."

"Wait until I'm inside you, right where he just was."

I whimpered again, feeling him slide up and down between my lower lips. The head of his dick pushed over my clit and I bucked against him harder. He was slick, slick with Edward, and slick with me, and I moaned as the pressure against my clit increased when he pushed his hips up.

"Jesus," he breathed. "Are you going to come just like this?"

"If you keep doing that, I am…"

We moved together, his thick length rubbing just the right way against my clit. When I felt the first tingle of my orgasm, Jasper thrust into me, causing me to gasp and make a loud, sharp noise. His hips flexed and pulled back with startling frequency, driving into me and prolonging my orgasm as long as he could. There was no way for me to be quiet, the force of his movement and my overwhelming pleasure bursting from me in short cries. The way his hips slammed into mine hurt, but in the best way possible. My fingers gripped his chest, seeking something to ground me, and I could tell I'd scratched him a bit in the process.

Several moments later, when I felt like I could think again, I realized he'd stopped moving so violently. His hips lifted and retreated slowly, and when I looked at his face, he was entirely blissed out. My eyes shifted down and I realized I had indeed drawn blood on his chest, which I immediately felt bad for. My mouth moved to kiss each angry mark, and I whispered apologies over and over. Jasper's hands were in my hair, not guiding or holding, just touching.

"It's okay," he whispered. "More than okay."

"I hurt you." My eyes welled with tears as I looked at him.

"You can hurt me like that any day of the week, baby," he said, laughing a little.

The movement reminded me that he was really okay — he was a strong, sturdy man. If he said it was okay, I had to trust that. I moved to his side, opposite Edward, and we were all quiet for several minutes, my fingers meeting Edward's in the middle of Jasper's chest. We toyed with the hair there, tracing muscles and lines.

"Shower?" I asked, suddenly realizing how sticky I was.

They both agreed, and I got up and went into the bathroom, turning knobs and waiting for the water to warm up. We cleaned each other, a sort of quiet calm settling through us. Everyone had been so stressed and we'd only been home a single day. I worried what that would mean about the future, but tried to remain optimistic.

The practice opened the following week, and we celebrated several weeks later with an open house. Charlie and Sue were there, as were Alice, Rose, Emmett, and their children. Jasper was there too, of course, and it was amusing to watch people walk around the open house and try to figure out exactly what was going on with Dr. Edward and his wife and this other guy. We'd agreed not to hide, but also not to invite questioning.

I couldn't help the tug at my heart when I watched kids come in and talk to Edward or Jasper. We'd been at it for six weeks, and I was so sure that I'd get instantly pregnant the moment we stopped using contraception and had sex as much as possible. I knew I was exhausted, but it still made me laugh when I'd give one (or both) of them the eyebrow waggle. They had a never-ending supply of … energy. Surely, with two men and one woman, I figured this whole getting pregnant thing would be a breeze.

I'd bought a test and taken it as soon as possible. It happened to be a workday, and I escaped to the staff bathroom, almost jumping out of my skin as I peed on the stick. I conjured up ideas of how to tell Edward and Jasper. Somehow, the idea that we'd succeed made me want them even more, and I imagined us slowly making love together in celebration. I imagined Esme and Carlisle's delight, having been kept in the dark about this huge step in our lives. I even imagined Charlie holding my baby boy, as proud of me as ever.

When I looked down at the stick, tears welled in my eyes, spilling over onto the white formica.

Negative.

The Trip Home 2 - Chapter 1

A/N: I am so thankful that you are back for the next leg of this trip (hehe) with me, and these three. It means the world to me that you all loved these characters as much as I did — enough to want more. Thank you. This story will be updating each Wednesday, unless otherwise noted in the update.

To my beta, TwilightMundi, you are the wind beneath my wings. Thank you to afeistyginger and stephk0525 who both played sexy pre-readers this chapter.

All copyright and trademarked items mentioned herein belong to their respective owners. The remaining content is all mine. No copying or reproduction of this work is permitted without my express written authorization.

The plane had just gone wheels up, and I was full of excitement.

It was hard to believe it had been five years since we were last in Greece, but on the final leg of our exhausting journey back, all I could do was smile like a lunatic.

"I'm so glad you got the time off," I said, squeezing Jasper's hand.

"Yeah, well, if Coach had tried to fuck with me, he'd have found himself minus one star player."

I rolled my eyes at the way his ego had inflated.

"Besides," he continued, "I haven't had a vacation in five years. I think I deserve some time off."

Edward had his headphones in already, dozing on the other side of me. His hand was lazily resting in mine as he slept, and would periodically squeeze mine. Every time it happened, I smiled at the way he kept me close, checking to make sure I was still there, even when he had no conscious idea he was doing so.

"True," I said. "I'm glad that Carlisle and Edward were able to time things just right."

I couldn't have been more excited. Two weeks, alone, together. So much had changed about my boys, yet the best things stayed the same. With Edward and Carlisle opening a joint practice in the next few months, we had a lot of work to do, but agreed to take a vacation before, knowing there wouldn't be much time once things were up and running.

It certainly didn't hurt that it was also our five-year anniversary — a milestone everyone outside of our relationship (with the exception of maybe Alice) was surprised about. None of us was surprised, though. We'd survived the distance when we first met, having to hide after we moved in together, and then planning a wedding together. We got a brief reprieve after the wedding was over, but there had been five years of residency, soccer stardom, and utter confusion about my life path on my part.

I still wasn't entirely certain what I wanted to do with my days, but thanks to the new practice, I had plenty to keep me busy. I knew Esme and Carlisle would work on some things that needed to be done to open the office while we were gone, but they'd also taken a week off to enjoy each other. Lingerie shopping with Esme had been … an experience. I did not need to know that much about my father-in-law, that was for sure.

Soon after we'd arrived home from our honeymoon, we put an offer in on a house. When that fell through, we found another. I'd taken it upon myself to get the house exactly as we all wanted, with Jasper helping when he could. Edward had felt guilty, offering multiple times to hire a decorator or a college kid to help unpack our things, but that just didn't make sense to me. I was free, my own guilt nagging at me at not using my college degree.

By the time things were really in place at the house, Edward was done with his residency and trying to figure out what he wanted to do. The day Carlisle suggested they open a practice together was one of the highlights of our time together. Edward was relieved to have direction, and frankly, it gave me something new and fun to do as well. Jasper just loved and supported us, as usual, content to have me do whatever I loved whether or not it meant I was earning an income.

Beneath our shared blanket, Jasper snaked his hand over my thigh, bringing my thoughts back to the present, and I smiled at him. His hand crept higher, teasing the seam of my jeans. When he began to press harder, I leaned back and closed my eyes.

"You better stop soon," Edward whispered across my body.

"Killjoy," I said.

Edward laughed. "Are you kidding me? You're moaning so loud, I'm surprised the flight attendant hasn't come up here to see who's being murdered. Or blown."

I hadn't realized I'd been so loud, but I quickly moved my hand under the blanket to rest on top of Jasper's, forcing it to be still.

"Plenty of time for that later," Jasper said.

"Mmm, I hope so. Edward was sleeping through most of it," I said.

I tried to behave the rest of the flight, but I admit, my hand snuck under Edward's blanket when he fell asleep again. He was a good sport about it, even though I know he was exhausted from the last bits of his residency. I was amped up, ready for privacy and a soft bed to lie in, even if I was exhausted from all of the travel.

To distract myself, I spent the balance of our flights thinking about all of the places we'd been the last time we were in Greece, and which ones I wanted to go back to. I made a list of restaurants and cafes I wanted to be sure to visit, and then made another list of things I wanted to bring back for friends. I dozed for a bit, then woke up during our layover in Athens.

When we finally got to Santorini and Jasper gave the address to the taxi driver, I had to laugh. Of course Jasper had rented the same villa. Of course.

The boys loaded our luggage and we were on our way in no time. After we arrived, we unpacked and I couldn't help but wander around quickly, taking in what had changed around the place. There was a chef — a different one this time — and apparently a housekeeper that would be arriving later in the week.

"I want all of your free time for us, not cooking or cleaning," Jasper had said, his scruff tickling my neck as his lips moved.

"Yes please."

Before I could even finish my sentence, he'd grabbed my hand and pulled me into the bedroom. Poor Edward was already sprawled on the bed, sleeping. We laughed and undressed, then slowed down to take our time with each other. I scooted back on the bed as Jasper slid between my thighs, stalking like a predator as he moved his hands up my body.

Small noises filled the air and any time either of us would turn and look at Edward, we'd giggle, but the other person would bring us back with a reminder of what we were doing. Slowly, we made love and reconnected, our bodies tightening and then letting go completely. It took every last reserve of energy to clean myself up after, and I collapsed onto the bed snuggled against Edward when I was done. Jasper curved his body to fit against mine, and we napped together for several hours.

When I woke up, the boys were gone. I stretched, cat-like, and put on a robe before making my way into the kitchen. There was food on the table, both of them picking and nibbling, and I sat on Edward's lap.

"Feeling more rested?" I asked.

My arm wound around his neck and I tilted his head up to kiss me, not bothering to wait for his answer. Apparently, at the very least, I was feeling well-rested.

He mumbled against my lips, his tugging into a smile. He tasted like the gorgeous fruit on the table, mixed with Jasper and his own sweet taste, and I finally let go after several slow, sweet kisses.

"Someone had a nice nap," Jasper said, teasing.

"I did," I said. "Now I'm ready for more of you guys. Let's get this vacation started right."

"You don't have to ask me twice," Edward said.

We stood up together, Jasper following close behind. I tugged at Edward's scrub pants, loosening the string that kept them up. As they fell to the ground at the foot of the bed, I got down on my knees and looked up at him. One quick swipe up the length of him was all he got before I put my lips all the way around him. I licked and sucked as I pushed my mouth further down his cock, taking all of him inside of me.

Jasper was behind me, untying my robe and pushing it off my shoulders. When he had me naked, his hand snaked between my thighs, then pulled, lifting my lower half so I was standing, bent at the waist while I sucked Edward's cock. He lowered himself, kissing down my back and over the swell of my ass, until he was at my pussy, kissing and licking. I pushed back against him, wanting and needing more.

His hand slapped my ass and surprised me, causing me to lurch forward against Edward's body and take him even deeper.

"Up on the bed," Jasper said.

Yes, Sir.

"Edward, lay down. Bella's going to straddle you."

I raised an eyebrow at Edward, both of us grinning and ready, as he laid back on the bed, waiting for me with open arms. I crawled on top of him, straddling his body as Jasper had instructed. When I sank down, I had to close my eyes, the sensation of being filled by him something I wasn't sure I'd ever get used to. They both had a profound ability to affect me and I easily imagined us in twenty years, still laughing and playing in bed.

Once I was in position, Edward moving slowly in and out of me, Jasper was behind me again. His fingers played with my body, slick with lube, as they opened and relaxed me. We'd gotten to a point where we didn't need a ton of foreplay when we engaged in anal, but Jasper still took his time teasing me. It was never a means to an end, but rather an entire experience for all of us.

A few minutes later, I felt him rub himself up and down between my cheeks as Edward and I moved together. I couldn't wait, a quiet noise escaping my lips at the desire that had built up. As Jasper pushed forward, entering me carefully, Edward's thumb reached out and traced the small triquetra tattoo on my hip. I smiled at him, leaning in to kiss him harder.

We moved together — choppy and uncoordinated at first as we found our rhythm, but when things smoothed out, it was as if it had been choreographed. Every movement, each thrust and push and pull, all combined and overwhelmed me. I was panting and whimpering, ready to come at any moment, thanks in no small part to both of their hands touching exactly where I wanted. I felt my muscles squeeze and tense, my entire body set on fire by them, as I almost lost control of myself when I began to orgasm.

Jasper was the first to falter and break the rhythm, his thrusts becoming more pounding and demanding as he pushed himself into his orgasm, too. His grip on my hips tightened and I squeezed Edward, pleasure still rolling through me. After Jasper had come, he pulled away and disposed of the condom, coming back to us quickly and resuming his not-so-gentle touches.

When his hand pushed me up to more of a sitting position, I couldn't help but feel a rush of pleasure, knowing he was going to help coax a second orgasm from me. Edward's face turned almost pained as one of Jasper's hands disappeared behind me, and I imagined him teasing Edward in a similar fashion to what he'd done with my body. It wasn't long before I was coming again, Edward falling apart beneath me.

Thankfully, Jasper had brought a towel back from the bathroom, and I laid it beneath my body once I'd slid off Edward, still panting and attempting to regain my sanity.

Jasper laid between Edward and me, and we were gently touching each other. Being in Greece had been magical for us, and the second time was proving to be just as magical as the first. I was happy, sated, and ready to swim and eat again. Well, once I was recovered.

"I love you," Edward said.

His words had startled me out of my thoughts. Jasper and I echoed his sentiment back to him and I lifted my head to look at him, noticing he was tracing Jasper's ink.

"Sometimes, I think about those crazy lonely nights in Boston, and I never imagined it would be this good," I said.

"Just imagine how great it'll be once we have a little one," Edward said, his voice lifting with hope.

"Someday soon, sweets. Just not yet."

Poor Jasper was always stuck in the middle of these conversations — this time literally. He had no opinion on when or even if we should have kids, but he always listened to us discuss it. Edward had never pressured me, I just knew he was ready. He knew (and respected) that I wasn't, even though he'd argued that there would never be a right time. He was right, there was no perfect time, but we needed to get through opening the practice first, I'd argued.

The truth was, I wanted more time with them by myself. Sure, it was selfish, but we had eighteen-plus years once we had a child together, and I wanted more of just us before it was altered significantly. I'd seen Rose, Emmett, and Alice and their struggle to manage to have a private life with their children around, and they were making it so far, but it was still not easy. I'd babysat for them, and it was insane. Being around kids was fun, but much harder than I ever thought. They'd added baby Sadie to their family, bringing them up to two girls. Emmett still laughed and joked about adding a boy, but both women seemed bound and determined that they were done, each having given birth.

I knew what a source of stress and strain the kids had added to their personal lives as well, and although they were still all committed to each other and in love, it scared me.

Terrified me.

All of that was forgotten when Edward stood up, still naked, his long and lean body on display for me. I could see his mouth moving, but couldn't really hear what he was saying. He might as well have asked me what the secret to life was — I was rendered stupid when I looked at either of them like that.

"Bella?" Jasper said, one of his hands tweaking my exposed nipple.

"Hey! Hmmm?"

"Edward wants to go swim," Jasper said. "Wanna put a suit on or go commando?"

"Suit, for sure."

Jasper got up off the bed, walking out of the bedroom toward the porch. "I think I'll chance it…"

Oh Jesus. He was really going to swim naked, and I was supposed to resist that?

It occurred to me that maybe that was the point — he didn't want anyone to resist anything. I was good with that option.

Edward helped with my bikini and we joined Jasper in the cool, blue water, the sun warming us as we splashed and played. I couldn't help it, I teased Jasper at every opportunity, and so did Edward. After a bit, I just wanted to lie in the warm sunshine, so I climbed out, sprawling on the chaise lounge. It was a lovely view as they seemed to be grinding against each other in the pool, making out, hands wandering.

I let my own hand wander beneath my bikini bottoms as I watched, not necessarily to bring myself to orgasm; I just wanted to channel the nervous sexual frustration as they teased each other. When Jasper helped lift Edward out, settling between his thighs in the shallow end of the water, I gasped. Jasper was so, so eager to please, and Edward leaned back on his hands, face full of bliss. The glare of the sun beat against their skin as they got lost in each other.

I could only see Jasper's back and Edward's front as their bodies met, and I watched as Jasper's muscles flexed, holding him up and out of the water, but also, I was certain, stroking and helping him tease Edward more. When Jasper's head moved up and down, my mind filled in what I couldn't actually see, and I stroked myself faster.

One of Edward's hands went to Jasper's hair, threading through the wet strands and pulling and pushing, and I lost it. My fingers pressed harder and faster against my clit as I gave myself an orgasm. I had to fight for my eyes to stay open, watching them and thinking about how sexy they were together… thinking about how I was lucky enough to be a part of that. Not just the sex, but the connection and intimacy they shared.

My hand stayed in my bottoms once my orgasm was over, my entire body spent again. Edward groaned and Jasper's movements stilled. After Edward had clearly come, he laid back, legs still dangling in the water, body flat against the border of the pool, and I giggled. He, too, was obviously spent.

Jasper was going to be the death of us. How he sometimes had enough stamina to exhaust us both would always be a mystery. A very fun mystery.

The rest of the day was spent lounging and relaxing — recovering from jet lag — and then a ridiculously early bedtime, considering Edward had napped. When I fell asleep, I had a full belly from the feast of meats and vegetables the chef prepared for dinner with baklava for dessert, and a full heart from Edward and Jasper.

~0~

Morning was early. So early, the sun had barely risen in the sky, but we were all well-rested and ready to go. We walked to our favorite cafe from the last visit and sat for a morning boost.

"What do you want to do today? I have my list right here," I said, turning to dig in my bag.

"What is it with you and lists?" Jasper asked.

"I like to make sure I don't miss anything."

"Do you have a dirty list?"

"In my head," I said, raising an eyebrow. "You have a problem with that?"

"Nope."

"So, as I was saying, I have a list of things I want to make sure I don't miss. Maybe we could do some sight-seeing today since we're up and at it so early, then do shopping on a more lazy day?"

They both nodded and I set my list on the table, walking them through the options. Of course, neither really cared much what we did — we'd seen most of the sights we were desperate to see the last time, but they went along willingly with the plan I laid out for the day, which involved touring a winery.

It was so much fun to relax with them and walk around the winery. We weren't too concerned about people whispering about is. We were used to it, and most of the time, it never even occurred to me that people might have a problem with our unusual arrangement.

In the car on the way back to the villa, we were all happily tipsy and looking forward to dinner and nighttime. We arrived home to another giant feast of delectable foods, stuffing ourselves full of Greek delicacies like dolmas and spanikopita. Thankfully, dessert was just cut up fresh fruit, so we put it in the fridge for the morning.

We sat on the couch together, resting our tired feet, and watched a movie. Edward had his head in my lap, and I was stroking his hair. Jasper was on the other side of me, and his hands would sometimes join mine, other times resting on my knee or another part of my body. By the time the movie was over, we were all exhausted again.

We brushed our teeth together, laughing and smiling at the sink as we made foamy-mouthed faces at each other. We crawled into bed together, touching and soothing and reminding each other of the goodness we'd created. I was certain I'd be the first one asleep, but instead I found myself wide awake between them, thinking about the ways our lives would have been vastly different if we'd had less faith in each other, and in the three of us together.

I wondered if Jasper and Edward would have gone to Greece on their honeymoon, or if Jasper and I would have had babies by now, or would Edward have moved to Boston and finished med school there?

It was pointless, but I couldn't stop my mind from wandering.

When we did have babies, how would we do it? Was there some high-tech insemination method they wanted to try, so we could somehow combine their genes? I didn't really want that. I wanted to have a baby the old-fashioned way. The fact that I was contemplating just how we'd have kids was a sure sign to me that I'd crept one step closer to actually wanting them. I decided to talk to them about it sometime over our trip, and solidify a plan to get pregnant.

Finally, a little after 2AM according to the bedside clock, I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, ready to rest my brain and body.

When Jasper was wide awake at eight, I almost smacked him. Thankfully, once I explained I hadn't had enough sleep, they agreed to a calm day of wandering the city. The entire day, I felt on edge, though. At lunch, we stopped to grab coffee and a quick bite to eat, and my thoughts from the night before came back.

"Hey," I said, looking at Edward. "How'd you imagine me getting knocked up?"

He nearly choked on his salad, and I couldn't blame him. Crazy sleep-deprived no-context girl had thrown him a curveball.

"Um. I'm not sure. I thought we'd talk about it and decide," he said. "What were you thinking?"

My eyebrows curved together, lines appearing on my face. "I'm not sure, but I don't want to be wearing a hospital gown with my legs spread for some stranger, you know?"

Jasper laughed so hard, people started to stare. Or, well, maybe they were staring at my brash words. I couldn't be sure.

"I know what you mean," Edward said. "Does it matter to you? I mean, I'm trying to find a delicate way to ask this." He tapped his fingers on the table. "Actually," he said, turning to Jasper, "does it matter to you?"

"Well," Jasper paused.

"Wait, I think it shouldn't matter," I said, unable to hold my thoughts in. "I mean, we're a family. It doesn't matter who the genetic father is, right? You're both going to love any child we create together, right?"

Suddenly, I was panicked. What if Jasper didn't feel that way? What if Edward only wanted his own genetic kids?

"Of course we will," Edward said as Jasper nodded in agreement.

Of course. What in the fuck was wrong with me? Of course they would both love any child.

"So if it doesn't matter, then let's just have lots of crazy monkey sex and see what happens."

"You know that sounds good to me," Jasper said, laughing.

Edward grabbed my hand. "Does that mean you're ready?"

"Not yet, but I think I'm ready to start thinking about it," I said. "I need to mentally run through the practicalities and possibilities."

They both laughed and rolled their eyes. Whatever. I needed time to get used to all of the changes. We'd all evolved in the five years we'd been committed. I wanted to talk to Esme and get her perspective, find out what raising a kid was like in her house, and see what she thought about this whole thing. Wouldn't the genetic father be completely obvious?

The idea of either of the boys with a baby did make me kinda swoony, though, I had to admit. Then my practical side would kick in, remember the poop and screaming, and I reverted back to my original desire to wait just a little longer.

Regardless of waiting or going ahead, we finished our food and walked hand-in-hand through the rest of the city, stopping in shops periodically and just enjoying the down time together.

I sent Esme an email that night and asked to have lunch with her a few days after we got back. I knew we'd all be busy with the practice opening up, but she was someone I could trust and talk to. Of course there would be conversations with Alice, too, but I also knew those would happen organically.

There was so much to think about, it was tempting to lose myself in worry, but I tried to focus and be in the moment as much as possible over the next few days. We wouldn't have a chance to take a vacation like that again for a long time, especially if we brought kids into the equation, and I wanted to immerse myself in them.

By our last day of vacation, I'd succeeded in forgetting that there was even an outside world. Our last few days had been spent entirely in the villa. We would wake up, shower in some configuration of people, have breakfast, have orgasms, relax by the pool or swim, watch a movie or read together, and have dinner. Of course, the order of certain things was subject to change, but the freedom of no deadlines or phones ringing was an amazing gift we gave each other.

On the flight home, I pulled out my planner and started making checklists of things to do before the office could open its doors. I'd meet with Esme on Monday morning to go over what was left to take care of in the few days before the planned opening, and I hoped we could sneak away for a private lunch during that time to talk about the future. She'd responded positively to my email but we hadn't planned anything specific, hoping we'd have enough time to make it a spontaneous trip.

I was excited and proud for Edward to open his practice with Carlisle. I was even a little excited about the possibility of being pregnant, although the pre-pregnancy activities had me most excited. Jasper would be going back to training and playing soon, and I thought about whether I wanted to stay on as the medical office manager or wanted to do something else with my days. It was a luxury of choice I realized I was very lucky to have.

I spent the rest of the flight dozing, ecstatic but terrified at all of the changes about to happen.

powered by Blogger | WordPress by Newwpthemes | Converted by BloggerTheme