I love their game with Jacques' card from Valentine's Day. I agree with Carlisle that Edward and Bella are too old to be getting it on in the elementary school playground, passing out drunk for hours. I thought that as I was reading it. I also agree with Charlie's annoyance with Edward (and Bella's) recklessness. Edward may not have planned to get behind the wheel, but then why drive there in the first place if you were going to drink to drunkenness? Take an I bet or taxi there. Or, you know, stop before you've had too much. Sometimes you get drunk without meaning too, shit happens. But to me it is reckless to both get drunk. One should've stayed sober. Whether on a date, or out with a group of girlfriends, there should always be at least one reasonably sober, clear-thinker. Even if walking, it's dangerous for everyone in the group to be completely impaired. Of course it happens, but it is not wise. Not applicable to this story of course, but another rule I learned, through experience, is never get drunk with people you don't trust completely.

Edward always takes such good care of Bella. Always has, as we know from Carlisle-with the exception of their two-year break. I think Charlie already knew that, subconsciously, but seeing it so dramatically really cemented it I bet. Esme knew how much Edward wanted to come home that weekend. She also knew how utterly swamped he was with obligations back at school in NY. If she wasn't fully aware before, she now understands just how significant Bella is in her son. She also clearly understands that Bella's wellbeing is his number one priority. She is awed and proud of the tender way that he cares for Bella, even as she silently mourns for her best friend right along with Bella. She surely hurts for Bella, and with Bella. What a glorious Mother's Day gift she received. Witnessing first-hand, in-the-flesh proof, that she raised a son who's full of empathy and compassion, who's fiercely passionate and devoted, who's incredibly loving and tender, attentive and patient. He knows how to give Bella what she needs, when she needs it, including a time to fall apart in his strong and loving arms. Now Charlie and Esme understand what Carlisle figured out long ago. This is just Edward and Bella. This has always been them. This is the way they love, and edify and sustain each other. This is the lifelong devotion of best friends and who love and adore each other so thoroughly.

Hah, they made the sex museum sound almost clinical and scholarly. I mean I love how they viewed certain exhibits through the prism of their chosen field of study, but I'm surprised that Edward wasn't more playful. I did get a kick out of the gift shop attendant telling Edward to lick it like he means it. Hehehe. I'd have been bashful too. These two are sensual, enthusiastic and thorough lovers, but thus far, fairly straight laced. Aside from both seeming to enjoy having sex with the added danger of possibly getting caught (slightly exhibitionist), they aren't super adventurous sexually. I like that they don't break character in this chapter. They explore, but within the bounds of their comfort zones. Too bad for them that they didn't get to at least try out their purchase. Their last day sounded just as full and interesting as their other two. Not a moment wasted. I hate when friends try and push their buddies that they know are in committed relationships to cheat. Usually it's for self-serving reasons. It's such a sh*t thing to do, and Edward's roommate is on my sh*tlist for that. Edward was polite and friendly-ish without encouraging (well not intentionally) the pretty purple-coated girl. Nothing wrong with that. I do however think he should've been able to articulate his unavailability. I agree there was no need, up until she made her desire to go home with him clear. That when he should've explained that he was flattered by her interest, but that he was happily involved. It's not rude, it's honest. It's not presumptuous either because she made a move on him. He had to either accept her advance or shut it down. There was no need for the stuttering loss for words there. The picture got the point across very effectively, but it shouldn't have been necessary. Am I upset with how he handled it? No. He was polite, and still did not entertain her flirtations. So, nothing at all to be upset with just didn't get why he struggled with the words. I think it's good for them both to get out and enjoy their college life. That includes friends and parties, and the arts, and seminars and on and on. This only enhances what they bring to each other when they are together. If they spend their every moment apart while away at school drowning in misery, it renders their entire separation completely in vain. It sucks, they miss each other terribly, but at least they are out their making that time count. Making it mean something.

What a delicious (pun definitely intended) lunch date. Even though Edward hates chocolate (freak), he wanted Bella to have her Valentine's chocolate. He could've gotten her a nice box of chocolate and she probably would've love it, but your Edward is so super special and thoughtful. He gave her an absolutely unforgettable personalized 'chocolate experience' with a fun, flirty, attentive world-renowned French chocolatier. I love that this whole thing came together so organically because Jacques was intrigued by Edward's quandary of finding the perfect chocolate for his lady who loves chocolate, but can only tolerate small quantities of the rich stuff. Jacques was intrigued by the challenge and also very likely, Edward's earnestness. Their evening date at the elegant French restaurant with the six course tasters menu with paired wines had my mouth absolutely salivating. Her shoes may be sexy af, and make her legs look miles long, but all I could think of was pain and danger, lol. I'd do a lot for love, but six-inch heels is off the menu (unless it's just for show, cause mama ain't walkin' nowhere in those tortuous deathtraps. Can't believe Alice was such a great actor. I was surprised she didn't know, but she sold the act so well. It's funny because when you described Bella's arrival outfit, from the coat to the heels to the not slutty, sexy and chic lingerie, I was thinking has Alice written all over it. Edward really has a thing with danger sex. He seems to like getting frisky with Bella in places and situations where they could get caught. They seem to do that quite a bit, guess it adds an element of excitement. Again, it refreshing that your Edward is sexy as he'll, but not always perfect or always perfectly smooth, as evidenced by him drunkenly falling on his front stoop with Bella on his back. I also noticed that he's kind of sucks at sports, not the best at video games and needed time to adjust to life in NYC and the rigors of his coursework at university. He's...human. A pretty great human, but human. The cabby was a very good sport. And Bella seems to get on well with Edward's roommate's. It's interesting that she wasn't jealous of the female bartender, who was clearly very familiar and friendly with Edward. It speaks to her trust in him and their relationship.

Their date at The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, topped off with wine overlooking the beautiful gardens as the sun set was a really lovely and unexpected date. I used to go there a lot during my childhood. There's a wonderful library and museum right near by. It's also near the great Prospect Park and zoo. The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and the world famous Junior's Chesecake is a quick ride from there too. Thanks for triggering those fond memories although I can't recall going in the winter. I may have, but I don't recall it. I'm glad Edward took her to Gray's Papaya and to the local dive bar that he and his roommates hang out at. This is what I'm sure she wanted-to see his NY. See how he lives and plays and experiences the city. Edward seemed relish thumbing his nose a bit at the snobby doorman/guard at Tiffany's. It was a great idea to suggest Bella consider getting a second piercing so that she can also enjoy wearing other earrings while still wearing her mother's studs. Edward sure is burning through money. He's obviously not the typical broke college kid. Sounds like he's fairly frugal though, except for when it comes to Bella and well, Alice's visit had to have seen him spending more coinage than usual too.

I love that Alice came to visit Edward in NY, even though she was there for a Fashion Week student internship. It was nice that they got to spend time together just the two of them in NYC. I like that it was Alice that asked her big brother why he never discusses his relationship with Bella. And that she gentle nudged him to explain and gave him the time formulate his thoughts. How impressive is it that Jasper kept Edward's confidence. It was a sweet reunion with a sleep adled Edward at the airport. I wonder how Bella got Edward's roommate's email addresses, but it was a very romantic move to ask them to make themselves scarce for the day so they could have their first reunion night to themselves. Fun that she wanted to surprise him with the lingerie they had joked about. I love that somehow Edward eventually rested control back, but couldn't stay in the game. He wanted to be fully intimate, holding her close to him, embracing her tightly, absorbing her into his skin, leaning over her back whispering softly into her ear that she was the best thing that ever happened to him, kissing her tears away, quietly shedding his own. How do you do it, how do you write such beauty, such powerful lovemaking?

That prolonged silence horrible and beautiful. It was thick and heavy, replete with emotion, until I thought I would burst. It felt like if they dared break their sacred silence, they'd literally shatter too. They communicated everything they needed to without words. They've done this goodbye thing so many times now, there's just no more words. They've said them all before. And with each new goodbye, it seems to get harder and heavier. And with each new reunion and goodbye, they seem to care less and less about shielding the true nature and power of their connection. This may be an unpopular and un-romantic opinion, but I respect that these two did not abandon their academic dreams/goals for each other. I mean Edward always wanted to go to Columbia and in his field, which I assume is some branch of psychiatry, school matters and his chosen school offered an accelerated doctorate, which is a big incentive. Bella seemed mainly drawn to her choice because of the favorable weather. Growing up in cold, rainy Washington I can understand that, but really she was the one here who maybe could've been more flexible in her university choice. Florida is sunny and in the south, but at least on the same coast as Columbia and a reasonably short and affordable plane ride away. New York has four distinct seasons so it's not like it's cold and rainy all year. That being said neither should feel guilty for making the choice they made, though they hate the distance and probably really regret their choice in retrospect. The daunting, or I guess I should say the more daunting, part of this is how much more time Edward still has to go before he's done. Hopefully they figure out a way to make this work, logistically speaking. Perhaps Bella can join Edward in NY when she graduates since Edward can't easily transfer. I once let fear of prolonged separation keep me from chasing exciting opportunities. That is...regrettable.

The beginning of this chapter reminds me of youthful times on the phone with my sweetheart when neither wants to hang up, so your essentially breathing on the phone to each other, until one falls asleep. Charlie is a real trouper and it speaks volumes to his level of trust in Edward and his daughter that he'd permit Edward to unceremoniously waltz in and make a direct bee-line to Bella's bed. Kudos to Edward for making sure to keep the door wide open. Even in his addled and exhausted state he takes care to show this respect. So while it was kind of shocking in its audaciouness, it was also very much an Edward/Bella thing. Something they just do. Even if the parents were none the wiser. It's clear this is their thing. They sleep together, have slept together (not sexual), been sleeping together. Edward was just too tired to worry about hiding. Carlisle quietly relishing in Bella casually showing Edward tender affection in front of him was a special moment between he and Edward. Then he lingered over the stairway banister witnessing even more displays of affection. That was cute and funny, especially when they both bid Carlisle a muffled goodnight through their gentle kisses. Sweet. The NYE date was very sweet. Although I'm not one for activities in the cold. Their planned Valentine's Day date in NYC sounds like a lot of fun. And she'll be able to reunite the Christmas shoes at last. The sharing of childhood memories was a joy. Carlisle chasing Emmett through the house was great. And I've had the painful misfortune of stepping down HARD on a wayward Lego so I can fully commiserate with Emmett's pain. My favorite line in this chapter is, "Well the life of one inconsequential worm for the price of an entire fleet of brave and heroic soldiers seems like a fair trade to me."

I'm still so sleepy. I fought sleep trying to finish the chapter, fell asleep in the wee hours I guess, and an so bleary-eyed but determined to read some more. Their Christmas was really one worthy of that lovely new journal. In fact the entire Cullen-Swan holiday was great. Edward and Bella's comfort, adoration and affection around their family seems effortless and natural, it's just infused with so much more and little by little everyone is becoming aware of the shift. They can literally feel their connection. Their energy. I'm glad that Charlie was intimidating, but not a brute. He was firm, but respectful of their bond. I'm glad Edward was submissive, but not groveling and sniveling. He too was firm and confident and honest and challenging when it aS appropriate. I'm the few words he uttered, he assured Charlie that he understands the gravitas of Bella's faith and trust in him and he honors that. He's not shrinking away from that. Thank you for not having the chief threaten to shoot him. I love the silent communication between Carlisle and Edward there. Subtle, but conveying so much, love, support, initiation into the brotherhood so to speak, pride at his son for not withering under the scrutiny, respect and assurance by Edward to his dad that he was good. All this convey by a look, a shoulder squeeze or pat and a wink. The last lemon was insanely erotic. And...noisy. Yikes!

"What's better than a promise?"
-"A vow."
OMG, what a freaking great line. This line should be forever immortalized as one of the greatest in the annals of romantic Twifanfic. Seriously swoon worthy. Not at all cheesy or overly flowery, just ugh, perfect. I expected Bella to ask about Emmett's claims about Edward's NY sex life. I mean I guess rather than bringing it up specifically (which would force her to also discuss her own sexual tryst) she asked him to promise devotion to her now, going forward. Although my curiosity is burning-I'd like to know if they've each dated and slept with others in their time apart, which would be completely normal and I'd argue, healthy for their relationship, it's very interesting that neither questioned the other. I guess they decided it just doesn't matter in the bigger scheme of things. I have to say ewwwwww with the oral...delights on the crushed velvet couch in the theater. Ew, lol.

Reading in the dark, next to sleeping hubby, so can only manage a brief review. The conversation between Edward and his father was terrific. I loved how he shared that memory and how it illuminated things for him. How he always understood that those two shared a very special connection. How he's watched them throughout the years and how last year's incident opened his eyes, lol. I also very much appreciate that no matter how easy going and kind Carlisle is, he commands respect. Without raising his voice, Edward understood he needed to rein himself in, less he cross a line. Him surprising Bella was a risk, but so romantic. I love it. Her ebullient reaction was great. So much for being brief typing in the dark.

There's more than one way to be a gentleman, says Jasper. LOL I think Edward wanted to knock him upside his head, but honestly I can't find fault with what Jasper said, or what he's implied. Charlie assaulting Edward with the sleeping bag and Edward's good-natured reaction was pretty funny. Not getting WHY Rose took off her top. Was it just a casual, it's hot or I want some sun thing, or was it a look at me, my man marked me thing? Alice's reaction was kind of rude since they were in mixed company. If Rose likes her husband to leave bite marks on her and spank her or anything else, that's totally between her and her husband. I know Alice is younger than the rest so it was shocking to her, but still she should've found the decorum to ask Rose about it privately or just amongst the girls. Bella's impassioned speech was wholly unexpected and also maybe more than I'd expect in mixed company, but wow. Wow. It was like beautiful poetry. I was like making love to their love. It was honoring their special brand of loving. The heated and fervent passion, combined with the always reverent worshipping. The gentle and strong together-always infused with love and care and respect. I was gobsmacked reading it. It was a soul-stirring profession. A public declaration, giving homage to Edward's rough and tender, deep abiding love. I can understand why everyone was left utterly speechless. I think they've all been schooled as well. I never knew your Bella had that in her to share those very intimate details about the dynamics of her and Edward's loving, even as they continue to avoid coming right out and saying to the family that they are indeed a true couple. Um, everyone pretty much knew I'm sure, but my gah, I think Bella blew their wigs off with that. What a shock, but also a true and glorious gift she gave Edward. That will tide him through their ling absence. And he seemed to struggle sometimes with how she felt about his restraint slipping. However even in his most impassioned moments, he always took care with her.

Funny line when Edward exchanges wedding partners and say that's enough of that. LOL The panties in the pocket was a funny little tease that quickly escalated. I like that he isn't super smooth. He's sexy, yes, but he's also intoxicated. The bumping into things makes it more believable, and funny and sweet. Although very conspicuous, and not gonna lie, I'd probably be mortified the next morning-if I remembered the public scene we made-particularly at the elevator (hilarious.) I'm glad Edward had the wherewithal to text Jasper. In doing that he protects Bella from a potentially embarrassing scene and also manages to express brotherly concern for Alice. I love that he tells Jasper to be an effing gentleman. Sigh.

What a welcome home reunion, wow. Risky too. I think Edward likes the excitement of maybe-possibly getting caught. They're really not all that clandestine with their amorous antics, lol. They don't really care that much about being outted, they just don't really want to do tell whole talking about their relationship thing with the whole family. I get why they hid it before college and then I guess things were never really labeled or clearly delineated when they went off to college, so I get it, but at this point everybody has to know. Everyone. They've just all agreed, even if not verbally, to just let these two come out when they're ready.

The necklace that Edward gave to Bella and the photos he selected for the locket sounds lovely. Delicate, beautiful and honoring both their lifelong bond and their love. And this time when Edward says he loves her, Bella knows. She just knows. Her affirmation of her enduring, but intensifying love was so heartfelt. She took him through the stages of their developing love bond and it was so meaningful. Their passion for each other would not be contained on that evening. I'm pretty sure every soul in the chateau, most certainly Edward's family, knows that they are madly in love. They made very little effort to be discrete. I don't think Edward cares much.