The Promise
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 9:
The ceremony was a small one with only Pete’s parents, Ray and his wife, and of course, Mrs. Cuthbert attending.
It was the first time Bella had seen Peter in anything other than denim and her heart picked up speed at the handsome figure he cut in a suit, even though she was going to mess up his slicked back hair the first chance she got.
They grinned at each other as she made her way down the short aisle of the tiny church, the sparkle in his eye and the dimple in his cheek convincing her that she had never seen a more gorgeous man in her life.
It had taken a couple of weeks to be able to do this. The Doctor had extracted the bullet from his shoulder which had been an ordeal that Bella hoped would never happen again. She had stayed with him the whole time as Ray and his father had held him down. It had been necessary in spite of the laudanum the doctor had given him, but to his credit, he hadn’t screamed out at all. He was now pretty damned proud of that. He had even kept the blasted bullet as a souvenir, holding it up for Bella to see as she wiped sweat from his brow, a weak grin on his face just before he’d passed out.
A fever had set in shortly after that and she had spent every minute by his side, bathing him to cool him down and performing quiet healing chants and prayers to the goddess when they were alone and he was unconscious.
The fever had broken in two days and he had recovered quickly after that, becoming an impatient and sarcastic ass which Bella showed herself to be more than a match for.
He’d been shocked into silence a couple of times by her answers until he’d finally grinned and laughed, grimacing when the movements pained his healing shoulder, after which he’d pulled her to him, kissing her and telling her how much he loved her.
Now here they were, finally facing each other at the alter.
Bella stared into those beautiful hazel eyes she loved so much and could barely comprehend the love she felt for him. It filled her very being sending her soul soaring with the joy of it even as her heart ached with the profundity.
She was barely aware of the pastor speaking but somehow she got through her vows and responses, finally hearing the words, “You may kiss your Bride.”
Peter stepped forward and pulled her into his arms as he leaned down taking her lips in a sweet kiss before backing away with a grin. “You ready to get outta here Mrs. Whitlock?”
She smiled. “Like you wouldn’t believe.” He offered his arm and she took it carefully seeing as how it was his left.
They stepped down and were congratulated by Pete’s parents first, his father shaking his hand. “Congratulations son. You’re a good man and I’m so proud of ya. Remember what we talked about. Treat her right son.”
Bella could have sworn Pete blushed and that made her wonder just what their talk had been about.
“I will Pa, and thank you.”
He turned to Bella then and her breath caught when their eyes met. Something about him was nagging at her, like she knew him from another place or time, but she couldn’t place it. Yes, she’d seen him when the doctor was removing the bullet from Pete’s shoulder, but she hadn’t really looked at him then, too caught up in the horror of the situation to see beyond Pete and his pain.
He took her free hand, kissing the back. “Welcome to the family Isabella.”
She smiled. “Thank you Mr. Whitlock.”
He placed an arm around his wife. “None of that now. You can call me Jim or Pa, whichever you prefer.”
“Thank you, I will.”
Mrs. Whitlock stepped forward, hugging her son tightly before turning to Bella to give her a light hug too. “Take care of my boy.” she whispered.
“I will, I promise.” Bella returned with a smile.
Ray approached next with his wife Helen, and shook Pete’s hand heartily, a huge grin on his face. ‘Bout time ya got hitched old man! Congratulations partner.”
Pete laughed. “Old man? I’m only 23!”
“Yeah well, still, most men your age have a couple a’ young ‘uns by now. Ya got some catchin’ up to do.”
Bella felt the blood drain from her face as Pete slugged Ray in the arm, both of them laughing. “You just mind your business and I’ll mind mine partner.”
Mrs. Cuthbert stepped up and hugged Bella. “My best wishes to you on your marriage Miss Isabella. If you need anything, you be sure and let me know. Don’t be a stranger. I’ll be missin’ you at the boardin’ house.”
Bella smiled warmly. “I’ll be sure to visit.”
Pete grabbed her hand and looped her arm through his. “Well, it’s time for me to take my wife home. Thank you all for comin’ and for your good wishes.”
Bella looked up at him with a smile as they left the church and he helped her into the waiting carriage that had been a gift from the whole town for Pete’s bravery in thwarting the bank robbery.
Pete glanced at her with a grin as the carriage moved forward. “I can hardly believe you’re mine. You’ve made me so happy Isabella.”
She leaned into his side, her hand running over the fine fabric of his suit sleeve as she smiled softly. “I love you Peter. More than I have ever loved anyone before.” She looked up, meeting his gaze. “It scares me at times, you know? What would I do if I ever lost you? How could I possibly go on?”
He took her hand, placing a gentle kiss to the back as they stared at each other. “I swear to you now Bella, I’ll always come back to you. I’ll never let anything happen to where I can’t get back to you.”
She shook her head, looking away. “You can’t make such a promise. Things happen Pete and we’re only human…”
He tugged her hand, his look earnest as she met his gaze once again.
“No Bella, I’ll always get back to you, no matter what. I won’t get killed. I refuse to let that happen. Don’t be afraid and don’t worry. We’re gonna grow old together and watch our children grow up and have kids of their own, just you wait and see.” He kissed her hand again as he looked into her eyes. “I promise you Bella. I’ll always come back to you. I promise.”
She leaned up and kissed his lips softly as the carriage rolled to a stop in front of Pete’s house. “I’m going to hold you to that Peter Whitlock and I want you to know that I’ll be very angry if you break that promise.”
He grinned, kissed her again and hopped down from the carriage. “That will never happen Mrs. Whitlock. I never break a promise.”
She climbed down with his help and he swept her into his arms as the stable hand drove the carriage to the back. “Peter! Your shoulder! Put me down before you hurt yourself!”
He pulled her closer, kissing her breathless before whispering against her lips. “Hush wife. I’m fine.”
He climbed the steps and opened the front door as she protested. “If that shoulder starts bleeding again…”
Her voice trailed off as he carried her in and she got her first look at the inside. It was nothing like she expected a single man’s home to be. It was comfortable and homey, the furniture looking new and quite expensive.
He smiled as he set her on her feet. “Welcome home Mrs. Whitlock.”
She pressed herself against him, pulling him down into a kiss, their passions igniting as they made love to each other with lips and tongues.
Breaking the kiss she murmured out “The house is wonderful husband, but I’m more interested in you at the moment.”
He grinned. “Yeah?”
“Yes, I’d be very happy if you showed me the bedroom now.”
She smirked as he swallowed thickly. “Okay then.”
He took her hand and led her down a hallway, finally stopping in front of the very last door which he opened as he stood aside. “This is it.”
She walked in and tugged his hand, urging him to follow. “It’s beautiful Pete.” She turned to him, cupping his cheek. “I love it.”
He gestured to a door across the room. “There’s the washroom if you want to, uh, get ready for bed and I’ll just wait here I reckon. There’s a clothes press in there for you. My mother and Mrs. Cuthbert saw to your things early this morning, so you should have everything you need.”
Bella caressed his cheek for a moment, smiling at his obvious case of nerves as she dropped her hand. “That was very kind of them. I’ll have to remember to thank them later.” She gave him a quick peck on the lips. “I’ll be back in a bit.”
He nodded and she left the room to change. When the door closed behind her he ran a hand through his hair as he blew out a breath, speaking quietly to himself as he removed his suit coat. “Damn Pete, pull yourself together…”
Bella’s voice startled him as he undressed down to his skivvies.
“Did you say something Peter?”
He peeled back the covers and jumped in, pulling them over his lap as he answered. “Uh, no, just mumbling was all.”
She opened the door and walked out, wearing a light robe, her hands wringing together nervously as she peeked up at him.
Flipping back the covers on the other side of the bed, he looked back at her and cleared his throat nervously. “Care to join me?”
“Yeah, sure” she said as she climbed onto the bed where she knelt next to him.
“I’ve never…” she met his eyes. “I mean, well…”
He took her hand and kissed it. “I haven’t either. I mean, I have a basic idea and my Pa talked to me some yesterday…” he spoke quietly, a light blush staining his cheeks. “…but that’s it as far as experience goes.” His gaze locked with hers as he gently squeezed her hand. “I’ll try to do my best by you though. I’ll try not to hurt you too badly, but I know it’ll hurt and for that I’m regretful. I understand that women don’t generally like their wifely duties, so I’ll try to make it quick…”
Her head snapped up from where she’d been staring into her lap. “What? No! That’s not true!”
His brow pinched in confusion and she thought about what she’d just said. “Well, at least I don’t think it’s true… not that I would really know or anything… I mean, I’ve heard it can be pleasurable… for the woman…”
She trailed off with a slight shrug as she realized that her modern views of sex were showing at a most inopportune time, and he still looked baffled as he studied her blushing face.
“You’ve heard? From whom exactly?” Now he looked worried and Bella’s mind raced to come up with a plausible answer.
“Well…” Her hands twisted together in her lap. “…uh, m…my mother used to talk to me about these things when I was growing up, you know, to prepare me for married life…”
His eyes widened. “She talked about such things with a child? And why didn’t you tell me that you were regainin’ your memories? What all do you remember?”
Bella’s stomach dropped when she realized the hole she’d dug for herself in this situation and she struggled for something to say that wouldn’t worsen things. “I really only remember little bits and pieces here and there from when I was growing up, just small glimpses…”
“Do you remember where you’re from? Perhaps we can locate your family…”
She grabbed his hand, meeting his eyes. “No Peter. I don’t remember and I’ve no wish to try. You’re my life now and I love you. I’m your wife and the past can stay in the past for all I care.” She placed a hand on his cheek. “Please, this is our day. We’re married and we should be focusing on us today… please?”
He studied her for a moment, still looking very concerned before finally answering. “All right. We’ll forget about it for now, but we need to talk about this Isabella. I get the feelin’ that there’s a lot you’re not tellin’ me”
Relief flooded her as she leaned forward and kissed him, drawing back to look in his eyes as she spoke. “There’s nothing important about my memories. You’re all that matters to me now.”
She kissed him again, and they lost themselves to it as he pulled her body flush to his, rolling to lay her beneath him on the bed, his hand traveling slowly up her trim waist until he caressed the side of her breast.
She gasped against his lips as pleasure shot through her at his touch in such a sensitive place, but she wanted, no, she needed more and so she placed her hand over his, guiding him to cover her breast fully.
He broke the kiss with a groan, staring into her eyes as he moved his hand against the softness of her, marveling at the feeling and the hardened peak he could feel in the center of his palm as he gently squeezed, drawing a soft moan from her as she arched into his touch.
“You’re so soft, so beautiful…” he whispered reverently and she smiled as she reached for the string that held the robe together in the front, pulling it and baring herself to his sight.
He looked startled for a moment and she smiled softly at him, her hand cupping his cheek. “Touch me Peter. Love me. I’m all yours.”
He looked down at her exposed body, something like wonder in his eyes as his hand moved the robe off of her body fully, his fingers tracing lightly beneath her breasts, down her abdomen and to her center where he stopped as he glanced back up at her. “May I?”
Opening her legs just a bit, she nodded, whispering out, “Yes.”
She watched him as he looked back down, softly tracing her folds before parting them with a single finger, drawing a low moan from her when he breached her body, his finger sliding into her slick heat gently as her hips tipped up against his hand, seeking, needing.
“More Peter, please…”
He looked up at her, startled when she reached down and placed his thumb on her clit, showing him how to rub softly before removing her hands with a soft sigh. “Yes, just like that… don’t stop.”
She ran her hands over her rib cage and over her breasts, writhing a bit at the feeling of what he was doing now that he had the hang of it, his name leaving her lips on a moan as she felt her orgasm building.
She reached for his face and drew him into a kiss and he met her with passion, his breathing heavy with it as they nipped and sucked at lips and tongues.
She broke the kiss and met his eyes as she caressed her breast with her fingertips, whispering to him, “Kiss me here Peter”, as she circled the nipple with her index finger. “Please?”
He nodded and started to withdraw his hand from her center, but froze at her next words. “No! No, please don’t stop… I’m almost there.”
He looked a bit confused but kept going as he nuzzled against her breast, drawing a louder moan from her as he sucked in her nipple.
“Oh god yes!” she whispered, her center rocking against his hand as she buried her hands in his hair.
“So close… yes, so close… oh… oh… Peter!”
She arched up as she orgasmed, closing her legs to still his hand as she enjoyed the pulsing waves of pleasure that moved through her, a smile of satisfaction curving her lips as he removed his hand and looked at her, curiosity in his eyes.
“Hmmm” she stretched and turned her head on the pillow, lazily opening her eyes to look at him with a smile. “That was wonderful, thank you.”
He smiled tentatively. “You really enjoyed that?”
She chuckled and grabbed his hand, drawing him down to lay beside her as she kissed his lips, her answer spoken softly. “Yes, I enjoyed it very much.”
Her hand traveled down his chest and she followed its path with her mouth, placing kisses as she tugged at his skivvies. “Are you going to take these off husband?” She mumbled out against his skin as she bit lightly at his nipple, drawing a groan from him as he tilted his head back. “Lord have mercy, wife, what are you doing to me?”
She ran her hand around his hip and over his hardness, stroking firmly as his breath caught, his eyes wide as he looked at her. “What… what are you doing?”
She grinned as she heard the strain in his voice, sucking in his bottom lip before answering between kisses. “I am touching my husband.” She drew back. “Do you want me to stop?”
He reached down, stilling her slowly stroking hand with his own. “I’m afraid if you don’t, this might be over before it begins.”
Giving him a small, sheepish smile and a nod she slipped out of her robe, tossing it over the end of the bed as she laid back against the pillows.
She watched as he finished undressing, reaching out to him as he moved to cover her body with his own, her heart speeding up as her nerves kicked in.
This was it, and she had to admit to being a bit scared of the pain she knew was coming. He wasn’t little by any means, and while she knew that would be a wonderful thing in the coming years, today it was probably going to be a bit of hell on earth.
She saw him wince as he supported his weight over her. “Are you going to be all right?” She kissed his shoulder and met his eyes as he settled himself, kissing her as he cradled her head in his hands. “Yes wife, I’m fine. It’s just a bit tender is all.”
She studied his face for a moment before giving a nod. “All right, but promise me you’ll say something if it get’s to be too much? You don’t have to be the tough Texas Ranger with me you know.”
He grinned and kissed her. “Yes I do. I aim to keep you happy.”
She held his face, her look serious. “I am happy, with you and not because you’re a Ranger. I’ll always love you no matter what Peter Whitlock, you hear me? No matter what.”
He stared into her eyes, all mirth gone as he gave her a slow nod. “I hear you, and I’ll always love you too Isabella Whitlock, no matter what.”
Her eyes filled with tears and she smiled as she wrapped her legs around his hips, whispering out, “Then love me husband. Love me now.”
He kissed her then as he lined up and entered her, whispering out apologies against her lips as she cried out, tears of pain tracing a path down into her hair as her body finally yielded to his.
He gasped and groaned as he finally seated himself within her fully. “Heaven… good lord, being inside you is a little piece of heaven.”
He drew back, looking at her as he dried her tears with his thumbs. “You all right sugar?”
She blinked up at him, doing her best to stifle her tears. “I will be.” Her voice trembled as she spoke. “The worst of it is over I think.”
He kissed her, softly sucking and nipping at her lips between words as he did his best to stay still, letting her adjust. “I’m sorry baby doll… so sorry for hurting you…”
She wrapped her arms around him, marveling at the feel of his solid muscles under her hands as she whispered to him. “I’m okay now.”
With that, he drew his hips back and began thrusting slowly, his face tucked between her neck and shoulder, completely missing her closed eyes and pained expression as she bit her lip to remain quiet through the pain.
“Oh Isabella”, he gasped as he picked up speed, holding her close against him. “You feel so damn good…”
Three more thrusts later and he froze, groaning against her neck as he filled her.
He laid down beside her and she immediately curled up against him, doing her best not to cry. She knew if she did, he would hate himself for it and probably be reluctant to do this again any time soon. Not that she’d be suggesting it for a few days to come, she thought, chuckling mentally through her residual pain. However, she knew that she would be all about getting more of that when she was over the soreness from losing her V-card and she’d be damned if she wanted to have to beg for it.
She smiled as he pulled her close. “How are you feeling sugar?”
“I could use a good soak in a hot bath, but I’ll be fine.”
Kissing his chest, she eyed his still-healing wound. “How’s your shoulder?”
“It’s fine baby doll, I keep tellin’ you. No need to keep worryin’ over it.”
Her fingers traced over his taut abs, the muscles tensing and relaxing under her touch. “I’ll worry if I want to husband.”
He rolled to his side and pulled her close, his lips caressing hers in a languid kiss. He met her eyes, running his fingers through her hair. “I just can’t seem to get enough of you.”
“Pete, I won’t be able to do that again for a couple of days, at least…”
“Shhh”, he soothed as he kissed her head. “I didn’t mean it like that darlin’. I meant just bein’ close to you, holdin’ you… that’s what I meant.” He glanced down at her, meeting her eyes. “I know I hurt you and I know it’s gonna take a few days for you to feel right again. I’ll wait until you say you’re ready. I would never force you Isabella.”
Leaning up, she gave him a soft kiss. “You’re such a fine man Peter Whitlock and I’m so happy you’re mine.” She smiled and moved out of his arms, getting out of the bed and donning the discarded robe.
“Where ya goin’ sugar?”
She felt a blush heat her cheeks as she turned to face him. “Well, I need to answer nature’s call…”
He relaxed back on the bed. “Ah, right. Well, seein’ as how the crew I hired hasn’t finished installin’ all the new-fangled stuff in the wash-room yet, those facilities are still out back.” He looked apologetic. “I wanted it all done in time for the weddin’ but they just couldn’t get to it all. I’m sorry Darlin’.”
“It’s quite all right Peter” she said with a small smile. “I’ll be back in just a bit and then I think a bath is in order.”
He sat up, running a hand through his hair. “Now that they did finish. I’ll start it for you while you’re out.”
Rising from the bed, he grabbed his skivvies and slipped back into them as she turned and left the room, heading toward the kitchen and the back door.
Closing the door behind herself, she was delighted to see a stone path that wound away from the main house and to a small structure in the distance.
Eyeing the structure with a sigh, her thoughts wandered to all the modern conveniences that she missed, like flush toilets for instance and disposable feminine products. Washing those out had been a terrible experience and she didn’t look forward to the monthly chore. Suffering the period was bad enough as it was…
So lost in thought was she that she didn’t realize she wasn’t alone until the sound of an arrogant Texas drawl had her freezing in her tracks, her head whipping toward a thick hedge that edged the property.
“Well, well, if it ain’t the delicious smelling human I’ve been savin’ for a special occasion.” His red eyes pierced her and her heart took off in terror, one whispered word leaving her lips as she trembled.
“Jasper.”
The ceremony was a small one with only Pete’s parents, Ray and his wife, and of course, Mrs. Cuthbert attending.
It was the first time Bella had seen Peter in anything other than denim and her heart picked up speed at the handsome figure he cut in a suit, even though she was going to mess up his slicked back hair the first chance she got.
They grinned at each other as she made her way down the short aisle of the tiny church, the sparkle in his eye and the dimple in his cheek convincing her that she had never seen a more gorgeous man in her life.
It had taken a couple of weeks to be able to do this. The Doctor had extracted the bullet from his shoulder which had been an ordeal that Bella hoped would never happen again. She had stayed with him the whole time as Ray and his father had held him down. It had been necessary in spite of the laudanum the doctor had given him, but to his credit, he hadn’t screamed out at all. He was now pretty damned proud of that. He had even kept the blasted bullet as a souvenir, holding it up for Bella to see as she wiped sweat from his brow, a weak grin on his face just before he’d passed out.
A fever had set in shortly after that and she had spent every minute by his side, bathing him to cool him down and performing quiet healing chants and prayers to the goddess when they were alone and he was unconscious.
The fever had broken in two days and he had recovered quickly after that, becoming an impatient and sarcastic ass which Bella showed herself to be more than a match for.
He’d been shocked into silence a couple of times by her answers until he’d finally grinned and laughed, grimacing when the movements pained his healing shoulder, after which he’d pulled her to him, kissing her and telling her how much he loved her.
Now here they were, finally facing each other at the alter.
Bella stared into those beautiful hazel eyes she loved so much and could barely comprehend the love she felt for him. It filled her very being sending her soul soaring with the joy of it even as her heart ached with the profundity.
She was barely aware of the pastor speaking but somehow she got through her vows and responses, finally hearing the words, “You may kiss your Bride.”
Peter stepped forward and pulled her into his arms as he leaned down taking her lips in a sweet kiss before backing away with a grin. “You ready to get outta here Mrs. Whitlock?”
She smiled. “Like you wouldn’t believe.” He offered his arm and she took it carefully seeing as how it was his left.
They stepped down and were congratulated by Pete’s parents first, his father shaking his hand. “Congratulations son. You’re a good man and I’m so proud of ya. Remember what we talked about. Treat her right son.”
Bella could have sworn Pete blushed and that made her wonder just what their talk had been about.
“I will Pa, and thank you.”
He turned to Bella then and her breath caught when their eyes met. Something about him was nagging at her, like she knew him from another place or time, but she couldn’t place it. Yes, she’d seen him when the doctor was removing the bullet from Pete’s shoulder, but she hadn’t really looked at him then, too caught up in the horror of the situation to see beyond Pete and his pain.
He took her free hand, kissing the back. “Welcome to the family Isabella.”
She smiled. “Thank you Mr. Whitlock.”
He placed an arm around his wife. “None of that now. You can call me Jim or Pa, whichever you prefer.”
“Thank you, I will.”
Mrs. Whitlock stepped forward, hugging her son tightly before turning to Bella to give her a light hug too. “Take care of my boy.” she whispered.
“I will, I promise.” Bella returned with a smile.
Ray approached next with his wife Helen, and shook Pete’s hand heartily, a huge grin on his face. ‘Bout time ya got hitched old man! Congratulations partner.”
Pete laughed. “Old man? I’m only 23!”
“Yeah well, still, most men your age have a couple a’ young ‘uns by now. Ya got some catchin’ up to do.”
Bella felt the blood drain from her face as Pete slugged Ray in the arm, both of them laughing. “You just mind your business and I’ll mind mine partner.”
Mrs. Cuthbert stepped up and hugged Bella. “My best wishes to you on your marriage Miss Isabella. If you need anything, you be sure and let me know. Don’t be a stranger. I’ll be missin’ you at the boardin’ house.”
Bella smiled warmly. “I’ll be sure to visit.”
Pete grabbed her hand and looped her arm through his. “Well, it’s time for me to take my wife home. Thank you all for comin’ and for your good wishes.”
Bella looked up at him with a smile as they left the church and he helped her into the waiting carriage that had been a gift from the whole town for Pete’s bravery in thwarting the bank robbery.
Pete glanced at her with a grin as the carriage moved forward. “I can hardly believe you’re mine. You’ve made me so happy Isabella.”
She leaned into his side, her hand running over the fine fabric of his suit sleeve as she smiled softly. “I love you Peter. More than I have ever loved anyone before.” She looked up, meeting his gaze. “It scares me at times, you know? What would I do if I ever lost you? How could I possibly go on?”
He took her hand, placing a gentle kiss to the back as they stared at each other. “I swear to you now Bella, I’ll always come back to you. I’ll never let anything happen to where I can’t get back to you.”
She shook her head, looking away. “You can’t make such a promise. Things happen Pete and we’re only human…”
He tugged her hand, his look earnest as she met his gaze once again.
“No Bella, I’ll always get back to you, no matter what. I won’t get killed. I refuse to let that happen. Don’t be afraid and don’t worry. We’re gonna grow old together and watch our children grow up and have kids of their own, just you wait and see.” He kissed her hand again as he looked into her eyes. “I promise you Bella. I’ll always come back to you. I promise.”
She leaned up and kissed his lips softly as the carriage rolled to a stop in front of Pete’s house. “I’m going to hold you to that Peter Whitlock and I want you to know that I’ll be very angry if you break that promise.”
He grinned, kissed her again and hopped down from the carriage. “That will never happen Mrs. Whitlock. I never break a promise.”
She climbed down with his help and he swept her into his arms as the stable hand drove the carriage to the back. “Peter! Your shoulder! Put me down before you hurt yourself!”
He pulled her closer, kissing her breathless before whispering against her lips. “Hush wife. I’m fine.”
He climbed the steps and opened the front door as she protested. “If that shoulder starts bleeding again…”
Her voice trailed off as he carried her in and she got her first look at the inside. It was nothing like she expected a single man’s home to be. It was comfortable and homey, the furniture looking new and quite expensive.
He smiled as he set her on her feet. “Welcome home Mrs. Whitlock.”
She pressed herself against him, pulling him down into a kiss, their passions igniting as they made love to each other with lips and tongues.
Breaking the kiss she murmured out “The house is wonderful husband, but I’m more interested in you at the moment.”
He grinned. “Yeah?”
“Yes, I’d be very happy if you showed me the bedroom now.”
She smirked as he swallowed thickly. “Okay then.”
He took her hand and led her down a hallway, finally stopping in front of the very last door which he opened as he stood aside. “This is it.”
She walked in and tugged his hand, urging him to follow. “It’s beautiful Pete.” She turned to him, cupping his cheek. “I love it.”
He gestured to a door across the room. “There’s the washroom if you want to, uh, get ready for bed and I’ll just wait here I reckon. There’s a clothes press in there for you. My mother and Mrs. Cuthbert saw to your things early this morning, so you should have everything you need.”
Bella caressed his cheek for a moment, smiling at his obvious case of nerves as she dropped her hand. “That was very kind of them. I’ll have to remember to thank them later.” She gave him a quick peck on the lips. “I’ll be back in a bit.”
He nodded and she left the room to change. When the door closed behind her he ran a hand through his hair as he blew out a breath, speaking quietly to himself as he removed his suit coat. “Damn Pete, pull yourself together…”
Bella’s voice startled him as he undressed down to his skivvies.
“Did you say something Peter?”
He peeled back the covers and jumped in, pulling them over his lap as he answered. “Uh, no, just mumbling was all.”
She opened the door and walked out, wearing a light robe, her hands wringing together nervously as she peeked up at him.
Flipping back the covers on the other side of the bed, he looked back at her and cleared his throat nervously. “Care to join me?”
“Yeah, sure” she said as she climbed onto the bed where she knelt next to him.
“I’ve never…” she met his eyes. “I mean, well…”
He took her hand and kissed it. “I haven’t either. I mean, I have a basic idea and my Pa talked to me some yesterday…” he spoke quietly, a light blush staining his cheeks. “…but that’s it as far as experience goes.” His gaze locked with hers as he gently squeezed her hand. “I’ll try to do my best by you though. I’ll try not to hurt you too badly, but I know it’ll hurt and for that I’m regretful. I understand that women don’t generally like their wifely duties, so I’ll try to make it quick…”
Her head snapped up from where she’d been staring into her lap. “What? No! That’s not true!”
His brow pinched in confusion and she thought about what she’d just said. “Well, at least I don’t think it’s true… not that I would really know or anything… I mean, I’ve heard it can be pleasurable… for the woman…”
She trailed off with a slight shrug as she realized that her modern views of sex were showing at a most inopportune time, and he still looked baffled as he studied her blushing face.
“You’ve heard? From whom exactly?” Now he looked worried and Bella’s mind raced to come up with a plausible answer.
“Well…” Her hands twisted together in her lap. “…uh, m…my mother used to talk to me about these things when I was growing up, you know, to prepare me for married life…”
His eyes widened. “She talked about such things with a child? And why didn’t you tell me that you were regainin’ your memories? What all do you remember?”
Bella’s stomach dropped when she realized the hole she’d dug for herself in this situation and she struggled for something to say that wouldn’t worsen things. “I really only remember little bits and pieces here and there from when I was growing up, just small glimpses…”
“Do you remember where you’re from? Perhaps we can locate your family…”
She grabbed his hand, meeting his eyes. “No Peter. I don’t remember and I’ve no wish to try. You’re my life now and I love you. I’m your wife and the past can stay in the past for all I care.” She placed a hand on his cheek. “Please, this is our day. We’re married and we should be focusing on us today… please?”
He studied her for a moment, still looking very concerned before finally answering. “All right. We’ll forget about it for now, but we need to talk about this Isabella. I get the feelin’ that there’s a lot you’re not tellin’ me”
Relief flooded her as she leaned forward and kissed him, drawing back to look in his eyes as she spoke. “There’s nothing important about my memories. You’re all that matters to me now.”
She kissed him again, and they lost themselves to it as he pulled her body flush to his, rolling to lay her beneath him on the bed, his hand traveling slowly up her trim waist until he caressed the side of her breast.
She gasped against his lips as pleasure shot through her at his touch in such a sensitive place, but she wanted, no, she needed more and so she placed her hand over his, guiding him to cover her breast fully.
He broke the kiss with a groan, staring into her eyes as he moved his hand against the softness of her, marveling at the feeling and the hardened peak he could feel in the center of his palm as he gently squeezed, drawing a soft moan from her as she arched into his touch.
“You’re so soft, so beautiful…” he whispered reverently and she smiled as she reached for the string that held the robe together in the front, pulling it and baring herself to his sight.
He looked startled for a moment and she smiled softly at him, her hand cupping his cheek. “Touch me Peter. Love me. I’m all yours.”
He looked down at her exposed body, something like wonder in his eyes as his hand moved the robe off of her body fully, his fingers tracing lightly beneath her breasts, down her abdomen and to her center where he stopped as he glanced back up at her. “May I?”
Opening her legs just a bit, she nodded, whispering out, “Yes.”
She watched him as he looked back down, softly tracing her folds before parting them with a single finger, drawing a low moan from her when he breached her body, his finger sliding into her slick heat gently as her hips tipped up against his hand, seeking, needing.
“More Peter, please…”
He looked up at her, startled when she reached down and placed his thumb on her clit, showing him how to rub softly before removing her hands with a soft sigh. “Yes, just like that… don’t stop.”
She ran her hands over her rib cage and over her breasts, writhing a bit at the feeling of what he was doing now that he had the hang of it, his name leaving her lips on a moan as she felt her orgasm building.
She reached for his face and drew him into a kiss and he met her with passion, his breathing heavy with it as they nipped and sucked at lips and tongues.
She broke the kiss and met his eyes as she caressed her breast with her fingertips, whispering to him, “Kiss me here Peter”, as she circled the nipple with her index finger. “Please?”
He nodded and started to withdraw his hand from her center, but froze at her next words. “No! No, please don’t stop… I’m almost there.”
He looked a bit confused but kept going as he nuzzled against her breast, drawing a louder moan from her as he sucked in her nipple.
“Oh god yes!” she whispered, her center rocking against his hand as she buried her hands in his hair.
“So close… yes, so close… oh… oh… Peter!”
She arched up as she orgasmed, closing her legs to still his hand as she enjoyed the pulsing waves of pleasure that moved through her, a smile of satisfaction curving her lips as he removed his hand and looked at her, curiosity in his eyes.
“Hmmm” she stretched and turned her head on the pillow, lazily opening her eyes to look at him with a smile. “That was wonderful, thank you.”
He smiled tentatively. “You really enjoyed that?”
She chuckled and grabbed his hand, drawing him down to lay beside her as she kissed his lips, her answer spoken softly. “Yes, I enjoyed it very much.”
Her hand traveled down his chest and she followed its path with her mouth, placing kisses as she tugged at his skivvies. “Are you going to take these off husband?” She mumbled out against his skin as she bit lightly at his nipple, drawing a groan from him as he tilted his head back. “Lord have mercy, wife, what are you doing to me?”
She ran her hand around his hip and over his hardness, stroking firmly as his breath caught, his eyes wide as he looked at her. “What… what are you doing?”
She grinned as she heard the strain in his voice, sucking in his bottom lip before answering between kisses. “I am touching my husband.” She drew back. “Do you want me to stop?”
He reached down, stilling her slowly stroking hand with his own. “I’m afraid if you don’t, this might be over before it begins.”
Giving him a small, sheepish smile and a nod she slipped out of her robe, tossing it over the end of the bed as she laid back against the pillows.
She watched as he finished undressing, reaching out to him as he moved to cover her body with his own, her heart speeding up as her nerves kicked in.
This was it, and she had to admit to being a bit scared of the pain she knew was coming. He wasn’t little by any means, and while she knew that would be a wonderful thing in the coming years, today it was probably going to be a bit of hell on earth.
She saw him wince as he supported his weight over her. “Are you going to be all right?” She kissed his shoulder and met his eyes as he settled himself, kissing her as he cradled her head in his hands. “Yes wife, I’m fine. It’s just a bit tender is all.”
She studied his face for a moment before giving a nod. “All right, but promise me you’ll say something if it get’s to be too much? You don’t have to be the tough Texas Ranger with me you know.”
He grinned and kissed her. “Yes I do. I aim to keep you happy.”
She held his face, her look serious. “I am happy, with you and not because you’re a Ranger. I’ll always love you no matter what Peter Whitlock, you hear me? No matter what.”
He stared into her eyes, all mirth gone as he gave her a slow nod. “I hear you, and I’ll always love you too Isabella Whitlock, no matter what.”
Her eyes filled with tears and she smiled as she wrapped her legs around his hips, whispering out, “Then love me husband. Love me now.”
He kissed her then as he lined up and entered her, whispering out apologies against her lips as she cried out, tears of pain tracing a path down into her hair as her body finally yielded to his.
He gasped and groaned as he finally seated himself within her fully. “Heaven… good lord, being inside you is a little piece of heaven.”
He drew back, looking at her as he dried her tears with his thumbs. “You all right sugar?”
She blinked up at him, doing her best to stifle her tears. “I will be.” Her voice trembled as she spoke. “The worst of it is over I think.”
He kissed her, softly sucking and nipping at her lips between words as he did his best to stay still, letting her adjust. “I’m sorry baby doll… so sorry for hurting you…”
She wrapped her arms around him, marveling at the feel of his solid muscles under her hands as she whispered to him. “I’m okay now.”
With that, he drew his hips back and began thrusting slowly, his face tucked between her neck and shoulder, completely missing her closed eyes and pained expression as she bit her lip to remain quiet through the pain.
“Oh Isabella”, he gasped as he picked up speed, holding her close against him. “You feel so damn good…”
Three more thrusts later and he froze, groaning against her neck as he filled her.
He laid down beside her and she immediately curled up against him, doing her best not to cry. She knew if she did, he would hate himself for it and probably be reluctant to do this again any time soon. Not that she’d be suggesting it for a few days to come, she thought, chuckling mentally through her residual pain. However, she knew that she would be all about getting more of that when she was over the soreness from losing her V-card and she’d be damned if she wanted to have to beg for it.
She smiled as he pulled her close. “How are you feeling sugar?”
“I could use a good soak in a hot bath, but I’ll be fine.”
Kissing his chest, she eyed his still-healing wound. “How’s your shoulder?”
“It’s fine baby doll, I keep tellin’ you. No need to keep worryin’ over it.”
Her fingers traced over his taut abs, the muscles tensing and relaxing under her touch. “I’ll worry if I want to husband.”
He rolled to his side and pulled her close, his lips caressing hers in a languid kiss. He met her eyes, running his fingers through her hair. “I just can’t seem to get enough of you.”
“Pete, I won’t be able to do that again for a couple of days, at least…”
“Shhh”, he soothed as he kissed her head. “I didn’t mean it like that darlin’. I meant just bein’ close to you, holdin’ you… that’s what I meant.” He glanced down at her, meeting her eyes. “I know I hurt you and I know it’s gonna take a few days for you to feel right again. I’ll wait until you say you’re ready. I would never force you Isabella.”
Leaning up, she gave him a soft kiss. “You’re such a fine man Peter Whitlock and I’m so happy you’re mine.” She smiled and moved out of his arms, getting out of the bed and donning the discarded robe.
“Where ya goin’ sugar?”
She felt a blush heat her cheeks as she turned to face him. “Well, I need to answer nature’s call…”
He relaxed back on the bed. “Ah, right. Well, seein’ as how the crew I hired hasn’t finished installin’ all the new-fangled stuff in the wash-room yet, those facilities are still out back.” He looked apologetic. “I wanted it all done in time for the weddin’ but they just couldn’t get to it all. I’m sorry Darlin’.”
“It’s quite all right Peter” she said with a small smile. “I’ll be back in just a bit and then I think a bath is in order.”
He sat up, running a hand through his hair. “Now that they did finish. I’ll start it for you while you’re out.”
Rising from the bed, he grabbed his skivvies and slipped back into them as she turned and left the room, heading toward the kitchen and the back door.
Closing the door behind herself, she was delighted to see a stone path that wound away from the main house and to a small structure in the distance.
Eyeing the structure with a sigh, her thoughts wandered to all the modern conveniences that she missed, like flush toilets for instance and disposable feminine products. Washing those out had been a terrible experience and she didn’t look forward to the monthly chore. Suffering the period was bad enough as it was…
So lost in thought was she that she didn’t realize she wasn’t alone until the sound of an arrogant Texas drawl had her freezing in her tracks, her head whipping toward a thick hedge that edged the property.
“Well, well, if it ain’t the delicious smelling human I’ve been savin’ for a special occasion.” His red eyes pierced her and her heart took off in terror, one whispered word leaving her lips as she trembled.
“Jasper.”
DISCLAIMER: Twilight and its inclusive material is copyright to Stephenie Meyer. Original creation, including but not limited to plot and characters, is copyright to the respective authors of each story. No copyright infringement is intended.