Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended

Chapter One

Reconstructing Bella

I flung the magazine across the room and screamed at the top of my lungs. That bastard was smiling again on the latest cover of Forbes' "Richest Men Under Thirty-Five"! I walked over slowly, picked the magazine up off the floor and stared at the magnificent image of Edward smirking at the camera in his Italian made suit. I couldn't help myself and reached out to stroke the smooth outline of his face, eyes and lips.

Well, I guess he had to smile. It was, after all, a photo shoot. But couldn't have the cold-hearted son of a bitch at least tried to look a little sad?

I poured myself another glass of whatever the fuck was burning my throat.

You left him, remember?

Yeah. I left him. But it wasn't like I had a choice. He wanted out, or at least the woman I caught naked in our bed gave me that impression.

You didn't even try to hear him out!

The hell I didn't. I waited for him to come to me and beg for my forgiveness. Instead what did he do? He told me I was overreacting, and that it was all a "misunderstanding". How fucking dare he tell me I was overr-reacting to a naked fucking tramp laying tangled up in our sheets?

All right, you have a point!

Why the fuck was I talking to myself?

Because you got an invite in the mail to his parents annual Chicago Children's Hospital fundraiser along with a letter stating your attendance was mandatory.

The fuck it was! Who the hell are they to tell me what to do? Well, at least Edward's parents had always been good to me. Never once had they interfered, not even when it was leaked to the press that I had moved out.

I grabbed the bottle of what I now determined to be Jack and walked into the bedroom. I turned on the TV, grabbed my glass and stumbled into the bathroom.

I turned on the water, pressed the latch down and watched as the claw-footed tub filled. As the steam started to fill the bathroom, I walked to the mirror and untied my robe, sighing as I let the cool silk slide down my body. I hesitantly grazed my hands over my body- everything was still in place. My breasts were still as perky as they have been in high school… Who was I kidding? I filled out better in college. My hips were still broad but slim. No tummy pouch sticking out. My arms toned, and an ass so tight I swear I could bounce a quarter off of it! I ran my hands up and down my smooth body, admiring myself. I laughed and raised a glass to my reflection.

"I would like to make a toast to you, Bella, for doing an excellent job of staying true to yourself and not eating like a pig the second you realized that fucker was a cheating bastard. However, most importantly, I would like to thank Tai-bo and my all consuming eternal hate for Edward Cullen. Two things, that are separating me from being fat and in a stable, loving relationship by now. Cheers!" I downed the glass and set it forcefully set on the vanity. I gave myself a sarcastic smile, pushing down the pain. I just stared at myself and thought for a moment. Realizing it was time to get over with the inevitable, I grabbed my cell from the dresser and started dialing.

"Yes, I would like to leave a message for Esme Cullen. I know she is in, but I would prefer it if you would just relay the her the message please. Thank you. Ready? Please tell her that Ms. Isabella Cullen will definitely be attending the charity gala. Thank you, goodnight."

I got up the next morning with the worst hangover ever known to man or woman. I rolled off the bed and found my best friend JD waiting for me on the bedside table. I lifted the bottle and took a long sip. I felt it scorch a path down my throat. I grabbed the remote to turn on the television and threw it on the bed as I walked into the bathroom to wash up. I stood under the warm stream of water, letting it cascade down around me and tried my best to shake the nerves I felt whenever I was trying to sober up.

Sober Bella is weak!

I knew it. Why do you think JD waits for me every morning? Jack Daniels and I have had a long and troubled relationship, but ever since he gave me the courage to send Edward "theBitch"Cullen that long email telling him what I really thought of him, Jack and I couldn't be happier.

Really Bella, you make it seem like Jack Daniels is a person not a type of alcohol.

Well, fuck you! It's JD to you!

All right, I think I'm going insane.

I steadied my thoughts as I got out of the shower and pulled my wet hair up into a messy bun. I had just started brushing my teeth when his name being announced on the TV caught to my attention.

"Edward Cullen was spotted today coming out of the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas where it is rumored that he is staying with an unidentified woman. Although the young millionaire states he is happily married to wife, Isabella Cullen, she has not been seen with Edward Cullen in over four years. There are also rumors that the two are set to announce their divorce as early as next week. As you may recall, four years ago our very own station was the first to air the tape catching Ms. Edward Cullen moving out of their California mansion. It showed the two in a very heated argument in which Isabella Cullen slapped Edward Cullen and drove away. The two have been at similar events over the years, not surprising, considering Isabella's family connection to the Volturis of Italy, and it has not escaped the public's notice that while Isabella Cullen has remained out of the spotlight except when necessary, Edward Cullen has never been photographed without some different woman hanging on his arm. I guess whatever the truth, we will just have to wait and see."

I swallowed hard. "That son of a bitch!"

I marched over to the phone and started dialing as fast as I could. There was a knock on my door as Leah brought in my morning breakfast tray.

"Yes, Aro Volutri please, tell him Isabella Cull… no, tell him Isabella Swan is on the phone." I waited while Leah made my bed and fluffed the pillows.

"Isabella, passerotto mio! (my little bird) How are you, my darling!" His squeaky Italian accented voice always made me smile. It was a happy constant like the smell of warm cookie dough, my mom's apple pie or the smell of Edward's cologne after a shower… fuck it.

"Uncle Aro! Mi manchi! (I miss you) I am sorry, I know you must be busy, but do you have a moment to talk?"

I heard his laughter as he spoke to someone in the background. "I've put my appointments on hold, so don't you worry. How are you, my Bella? I am so glad you called. How is New York?"

"It is as fine as can be. Uncle Aro, I need your help." I took a deep breath. "You know this sham of a marriage I am in? Well, I have come to a decision. Can you help me?"

I waited as he thought for a minute. "Bella, my love, you know I figured you had come to a conclusion when my assistant told me Isabella Swan was on the phone. Does this have to do with the story in the Post?"

I cleared my throat and held back a sob. "You know that I never listen to gossip but, well, it's been a long time coming, Uncle Aro. It does sting, but you and I both know I lost whatever right I had to comment on his life and behavior when I walked out four years ago. "

Liar, you still comment all the damn time. At least be honest with me! I mean, I am your inner monologue!

"Come n nnn ow, Bella. You have every right to comment on the behavior of your husband."

I swallowed hard. "Well, that is what I was calling you about. Uncle Aro, I think I need a good lawyer. I think it's time to cut the cord, and… you know… pick up the pieces and move on."

I pressed a hand to my chest as the fa f miliar throbbing sensation began. It always reappeared whenever I thought of ending our farce of a marriage.

"It is about damn time, my little star. I have supported your every decision, and you know how I feel about Edward Cullen. I've never liked that boy. He was never good enough for you. I only gave you away at your wedding because your own father wouldn't be there."

This brought a sad smile to my lips. That day was the happiest day of my life. I was young, naïve and utterly in love. I blinked away angry tears and composed myself. That fucker! He has tainted every good memory. Damn him. I swallowed hard and forced myself to remain calm. "Uncle Aro, thank you so much. I don't know what I would do without your support. I'm going to see the Cullens at the Gala. Are you going to be there?"

I heard him rustle some papers around. "Y "Yes, I have it here on the schedule. I should be there, I can't have Carlisle outbidding me in my absence, now can I?" I heard him chuckle. Those two were still thick as thieves. Even after all that had happened, they had managed to maintain a mutual respect for each other. I had to remind myself that Carlisle was not Edward.

"Well, I will see you in two weeks, Uncle Aro. Please give my love to the boys and Gianna."

"Of course I will, take care of yourself, my darling. Ciao."

I hung up the phone and sat on the bed. It was going to be a long two weeks. I had to get myself together mentally and physically. I called out to Leah, while I started rummaging through the closet.

"Ms. Isabella, what are you looking for?" Leah asked as I flung skirts, blouses and pants at her.

"The perfect outfit, Leah, it's Reconstructing Bella time! I am going back to the Lion's Den, and I need to look better than I ever have before." I was pulling everything out and giving it a good once over.

You know what you need to do.

Shut up! I would not call her. I could do this by myself. I didn't need anyone's help. Especially not the help of Alice Cullen!

You need her help! She has been there for you!

I bit my lip thinking about if I should or should not. "Leah, let Jacob know I am going to be needing security to get ready. I am going shopping today."

"Yes, Ms. Isabella." I watched her leave and quickly slipped on my jeans and a blouse. I left my hair up in a messy bun and drank my now cold coffee before heading out the bedroom door. I ran down the spiral staircase too quickly, tripped on a step and flew headfirst down the stairs. As I saw the ground coming at me fast, I closed my eyes and prayed there wouldn't be a bruise this time. Suddenly, I felt two large hands holding on to my waist. I opened my eyes and saw the dark and alluring eyes of Jacob Black.

"Trying to get up close and personal with the floor, Bells? I am sure there are better ways than throwing yourself at it," he said with a smirk. I blushed deeply as I felt his hands squeeze me a little tighter. He stood me up and let me go, never breaking eye contact.

"Thanks, Jacob. know I can always count on you. Is everything ready?" I straightened my blouse and walked to the front door.

"Everything is set and ready to go. I was very surprised when Leah told me where we were going today. The Bella I know always has her stylists work on things for her." I laughed getting into the Audi. "So how do you like your new car?"

I ran my hands over the dashboard and leather seats. "It's nice, but will we have enough room for all the clothes and shoes I am going to buy?"

He snorted as he shut the door. As he got into the driver's seat, he pulled out his cell. Jacob texted the security teams the details and that we were on the move. "Well Bella, the car might not have enough room, but that is what the security SUVs are for. I am sure they wouldn't mind moving over one of their missile launchers for your Jimmy Choo's or Stuart Weitzman's."

I laughed along with him, until I had a strange thought. "They don't really have a missile launcher with them, do they?" Jacob laughed a little harder.

"You know what, Bella, I don't know, and I don't want to find out, okay? Promise me no wandering out again?" I crossed my heart and smiled at him. It had been a long time since anyone had tried anything. However, that was what happened when you were related to one of the largest and richest families in Italy. The Volturis had a long history that made some pit stops in dealing with the Mafia. While four generations before had claimed reform and made the family more mainstream and legitimate, some factions were still were out for blood. I had been lucky that my mother married outside the family to my simple American dad. He loved his job, country and apple pie. Sunday afternoons with Jacob's dad, Billy Black, was still a ritual. After my mother died in the car bombing, he was never the same. Truthfully, I was never the same either. But Jacob took care of me then just like he did now.

Who are you kidding? You were still a shell until Edward showed up!

That is not true! And quit talking to me. I hated having conversations with myself.

I will not quit it, unless you are honest with yourself. If it weren't for Edward, you would probably still be sitting in Forks or Italy all alone, never having been married or knowing what amazing sex was like.

What the fuck was I doing now? Like I had amazing sex all the time, right? Just me and my vibrator! Yeah, thank you, Edward Fucking Cullen, for introducing me to my vibrator.

"Bella?" I snapped my head around to see Jacob giving me a strange look.

"What?" He looked at me with a Cheshire Cat like smile.

"So Edward introduced you to a vibrator?" My hands flew to my now red- hot face.

"Fuck, did I say that out loud? Damn it. No. Yes. I mean… No Jacob. OK let's not talk about this."

Jacob chuckled and continued driving. As we pulled up in front of the fashion boutique's, I could already see the paparazzi scrambling from their cars to start their assault on me with their cameras. I could feel my breathing quicken. Jacob took my hand slowly. "You don't have to do this. You can just call the stylist and get her to do the shopping for this charity gala thing."

I shook my head. "No. I need to get out more. If I can get used to having cameras shoved in my face, I might be able to handle the Edward situation with more style. No crazy pictures of me looking sad and depressed, you know?"

Jacob rubbed my hands and took off his seatbelt. "It is refreshing that you can still be honest with me. I love that about you, Bells. Still such an truthful and trusting person, don't change that, okay? I'm sorry about that douchebag, but he was never good enough for you and he never will be."

I smiled at him and watched him get out of the car. As he made his way over and opened my car door, I saw him reach out for me. I took his hand hesitantly and walked out in the sea of photo snapping chaos.

Two weeks flew by and before I knew it, I , was about to come face-to-face with the cheating bastard in less than twenty-four hours. Leah had made sure to pack everything I bought and even labeled them for each event that would take place while I was in Chicago. Jacob and Leah begged me to cut down on my time with Jack. After a few sobering words with him, I managed to cut our relationship down to a glass before bed.

I tossed and turned in bed, all night. Sleep seemed to evade me, at every turn. Every time I looked at the clock it had only been a few minutes since the last time I had looked. I pushed the covers back and wandered into my sitting room. The huge window that overlooked the street showed it was alive with reflecting lights of the city that never sleeps. I watched the lights turning from green to yellow to red. The cars constantly on the move and the people continually walking; they looked like ants from up here. I leaned against the glass and remembered the last time we were together in New York.

"Edward Cullen, you are trying to kill me, " I managed to scream before I fell hard on my ass. I tried to get up, but Edward was there before I knew it and had his hands around me pulling me up.

"I swear, I have never seen someone look so sexy and graceful when she falls!" He leaned down and gave me a soft and chaste kiss. My lips parted to allow him to devour me but he pulled back. "Unless you want us to get arrested for indecent exposure, you shouldn't be doing that."

I pouted and pulled back, patting the snow off my pants. "It was only a kiss, how could that get us arrested? Besides, I see tons of people making out."

Edward caught me by my coat and pulled me back. He dipped me low and kissed me hard. "You and I both know what happens to my self-control when I kiss you, Bella. I don't want us to get arrested for fucking like animals in the center of this ice rink."

I blushed deeply and pulled myself upright. I started to skate away when Edward zipped in front of me and grabbed my hands. "Come on Beautiful Swan, let's have some fun!"

He pulled and glided us all over the pond in Bryant Park. Edward was so different from all the men I had dated. Most would have taken me to Rockefeller Center and rented out the whole rink just for us. But not Edward Cullen. No, he had magic. He had a way of making even the simplest experience magical. When I was young and naïve, any moment I had with Edward Cullen was amazing; with him, we were in a world of our own.

I slammed my hand against the window and spread my palm across it. I felt the tears forming and threatening to spill over.

You promised yourself no more tears over Edward Cullen, remember?

Of course I remembered. Why do you think I started my wonderful relationship with Jack?

Come, come now, you and I both know that you don't need Jack not to cry.

You don't know that, damn it, you just don't.

I walked over to the bookcase and pulled out the first edition hardcover book of the "The Old Man and The Sea." It was one of my favorite books. Edward had tracked down this rare edition that was being auctioned at Christie's and had gave it to me as a wedding gift. I turned to the section where I kept the letters and notes Edward had given me over the years. The napkin that held his phone number that first night at the bar when we met, the note he left me the morning after we made love for the first time, and of course the unopened letter he sent three years ago. A full year after I left him.

CHEATING BASTARD!

I was about to put the book away when a little sheet of paper fell to my feet. I quickly picked it up and opened it. As I glanced over the words, that did it, and I couldn't help it. I held myself around my waist and let it out.

Dearest Isabella,

It is with great honor that I am writing to you. When you came to me last week, I was sure of your condition. However, I wanted to have proof before I told you of my suspicions. I am proud to be the one to tell you, congratulations! You are six weeks pregnant. I remember when I told your mother of the wonderful news when she was having you.

I am assuming you will want to travel home and let your wonderful husband know at your own time, thus I will not keep your file with the others and have classified your papers like I do with all the Volturi family.

As the Volturi family's personal physician, I give you the clear to travel home and will send the appropriate papers to you for your own doctor in America.

Yours in Confidence,

Dr. Antonio Russo

I had waited my entire married life to receive the news I did that day.

DAMN EDWARD CULLEN! He stole it all; my dignity, my self-respect and my chance at happiness by being a mother.

Well, he doesn't know about the last part.

As far as I was concerned, he would ever know. Not as long as I could help it. He had won at everything else he wanted to do to me; I wouldn't have him know he won even at taking away my child.

I IIwas about to throw the letter into the fireplace, when I quickly tucked it back into the book. I walked into my room and put the book in my carry-on. I slipped under the silky sheets and pulled the covers up. Jack was calling to me from the side table. I leaned over, turned off the light and whispered, "Not tonight, I have a headache."

A/N: (Translations: Passerotto mio: my little bird, Mi Manchi: I miss you)