*All Characters belong to Stephenie Meyer. Special thank's to my Super Fantabulous beta's Lolafalana and Twilight-is-lovee* They are the Greatest! Love Ya Ladies!

Set your thermostat on 60. Turn the fan on and get ready for the heat baby! WHoo Hoo!

I was at work a few days later when I heard myname being called.

"Bella."

I turned and smiled at a handsome bright-eyed Emmett.

"Hey stranger," I teased. I washed my hands, walked over to him, and leaned casually on the counter. "What are you doing here?"

"I thought perhaps we could grab some lunch."

I knew Emmett well enough to know he wanted to talk. He was about as subtle as a hungry grizzly bear. I also knew he must have something on his mind. He would usually come to me if he had problems with Rosalie. Emmett wasn't exactly the best at figuring out girls; it was kind of cute, actually. He tried so hard to keep Rose happy. She was really lucky to have him. I chuckled and nodded.

"Let me tell the staff that I'm headed out." I returned with my purse and grabbed his muscular arm.

"Lead the way, handsome."

He smiled as he led me out the door. We decided to eat at a sandwich shop close by. It was quick and fairly quiet this time of day. After we purchased our orders, I picked at my ham and cheese on wheat as he leaned back.

"How are you doing?"

I wasn't expecting that question. I raised a curious eyebrow. I didn't know why he was asking. "I'm good, you?"

"Things are good. I just worry about you, Bella. You know you are like a sister to me and after what happened with Andrei . . ."

I raised my hand to silence him. "Please, let's not go there. It's in the past, can't we leave it there?"

He contemplated this for a moment then nodded in agreement. "I suppose. You know Cullen is a good guy and it's nice to see him out of his shell. He's had a hard time and it's taken a while for him to open up," he said before he took a massive bite of his sandwich. How can he eat so much at once? I tried to shake that question off and focus on what he said about Edward.

"What do you mean?" I asked as he continued to eat.

Emmett shrugged and took a sip of his drink. "You know Reggie has been through a lot. Edward has really been through hell and back to keep him safe. He cares for that kid. I suppose he sees a lot of himself in him." He glanced at me then back to his food.

"Reggie's a fighter," I said knowingly. I didn't know what else he meant by the comment, but I had a feeling if I pushed he might tell me.

"Yes," he agreed. "He is and, on some level, Edward relates to that. You know Edward's father leaving was the best thing that ever happened to the guy. I hear he was a real piece of work."

Wait, what?

"Edward's father?" I asked, shocked. Edward told me his father had passed. Where did this come from and why would he lie to me?

"Yeah, Mom work's with Esme, she's Edward's mom. You remember the painting in the living room you love so much?" he questioned. I thought about the beautiful piece of artwork with the small girl picking up seashells on the beach.

"Yes."

"His mom painted that. She's very good but she doesn't want her name out there. Mom's gallery sells a lot of her work. It's actually how I found out about him. I don't know much, but I know his dad was in the military and they traveled a lot."

I nodded in agreement. "Yes, he told me that."

"Well," Emmett continued, "it seems he was quite strict and tended to be a tad abusive to Esme. I don't know how much, no one knows really, except it's why Edward is so insistent on knowing how to defend himself. He wanted to protect her."

That made sense. I could see Edward as the protective son.

"It's all a mystery really. One day his dad left and she divorced him. Carlisle, his step-dad, was a doctor who she met at the hospital. I'm not sure how they met but they started dating soon after. Edward immersed himself in his studies and that's why he's so good," he explained.

I suddenly wasn't hungry anymore. I was fascinated by this man I knew so little about."Are he and his step-father close?" I questioned in wonder.

Emmett shifted in his seat and rested his chin on his palm. "I don't know that Edward is close to anyone. He gets along with him. Edward's never had any problems with him because he treats his mother well. He's hard to reach Bella. I've known him years and I still don't really know him if you understand what I mean." He looked at me warmly. "I know you have a good heart and you would be good for him. You two could heal each other."

He was sincere and it was sweet. I've known Emmett as long as he's been with Rose and he's always been a straight shooter. I smiled at him.

"Maybe."

"I just wanted you to know a little about him. I know he won't tell you," he said without hesitation.

"Thanks, Em." I managed to smile even though I wondered if I would be able to break through Edward's shell. He liked me, yes. It was a different story if he would open up to me entirely. This did explain why he had such a negative outlook on being a father, at least from my perspective. He had such a crappy one so why bother?

"He doesn't want kids," I informed Emmett out of the blue. I don't know why but I did.

Emmett's blue eyes met mine. He smiled as he reached across the table and squeezed my hand. "I know, but that doesn't mean you can't change his mind. People change their minds when their heart is involved. Bella, he's already changed in the small amount of time he's known you. I've never seen him like this."

"He said he doesn't date," I added, wondering if it was true.

Emmett laughed. "Yeah, well that's true also."

"Didn't you wonder . . . you know—" I let the hint go. I knew he would pick up on what I meant. Emmett wasn't that stupid.

His loud thunderous laugh filled the small restaurant. I felt my cheeks get warm and hid my face. "No. I didn't, Bella. Edward's very masculine."

I can't believe I let that thought even cross my mind. I didn't think Edward was, I just thought Emmett might wonder after a while, guys being how they were and everything. I felt my pocket buzz and reached down to dig out my phone.

Emmett grinned goofily as he wagged his eyebrows. "Got you some vibrator action there Bells?"

What a doofus. "Yeah, I just had a mini orgasm, did you see it?" I shot back.

"Ouch, Bella's got some bite. Nice one." He grinned widely and flashed his pearly whites as I slipped out my phone. I saw I had a text from Edward and opened it.

Edward Cullen 1:32 PM

I miss you. You should come by the Dojo.

I smiled. He had no idea, but I was missing some of his hard abs myself. I needed to lighten the mood. What I wouldn't give for a peek of some tiger tat right now. Sigh.

Do I get to see the tattoo? It's so damn sexy.

I couldn't believe I sent that, but it was so much easier over a text. Emmett raised a curious eyebrow.

"Are you flirting with my man?"

"And if I am?" I enquired.

"Tell him hit that," he answered with a smirk.

I scoffed and tossed a chip at him.

Edward Cullen 1:37 PM

Sweet Jesus, Bella! I'm trying to keep this PG.

I bit my lip as I laughed. Edward was so cute

Well, in that case I shouldn't come by then.

I pushed send and giggled. Yes, I was enjoying the lighter conversation much better.

Emmet huffed and crossed his arms. "What the hell are you two talking about? Are you sex texting?"

My eyes widened as I looked at him. I laughed and shook my head. "No is that what you and Rose do?"

He rolled his eyes, "We are not talking about me and Rose, are we?"

I winked. "Avoidance is a good indicator that my assumption was correct."

"Smart ass," he snapped.

"Why, thank you," I teased him.

Edward Cullen 1:44 PM

You come by and I'll let you lick the damn tattoo.

Holy Shit! I think I may have wet myself. I also choked on my water and spewed it unceremoniously all over the table and myself. Emmett had a good laugh though. I was so glad I could make his day.

I'm on my way, Tiger.

I texted back with shaky fingers, I knew once I got there all of the text message humdrum would go right out the window. Lick his tattoo? Indeed, he wouldn't let me within ten feet of it with my tongue. He's too afraid of losing his perfectly intact self control.

"You finished?" I questioned Emmett as I cleaned up my lunch. He nodded. We both knew I had an ulterior motive but he wasn't asking what it was. As soon as he dropped me off at work I got in my car and drove to the Dojo. The door was locked when I arrived so I knocked. I was unprepared for the site that awaited me. Edward walked to the door shirtless and sweaty.

Oh My God!

I could barely breathe much less function when he opened the door.

"Hey," he said with a smile.

I wish I could say I handled myself better instead I stood there and tried to pick my mouth up off of the floor.

HOT DAMN! The man is gorgeous!

I wanted to tackle him like a football player running for a field goal. He was hotter than wasabi and I certainly wanted to take a bite. How was it fair for a man to be so beautiful? I let my eyes travel over his well defined pectoral muscles and bit my lip as I saw sweat trickle down his six pack abs. The amazing tiger tattoo glistened and stared right back at me. Oh God!

I swallowed involuntarily. I was so distracted I didn't notice when he tilted my chin gently with his fingers, until I met his endless emerald eyes. I exhaled a shuttering breath as his eyes fell to my mouth. His thumb gently caressed my lower lip coaxing it from my teeth.

"You should come inside, Bella," he said hoarsely.

Oh yeah, baby. Lead the way and I will follow.

I stepped inside as he closed the door behind me. I could hear music playing and followed the soft sounds inside. Just the thought of him working out—lord help me. My mind had the most wonderful images, complete with Kung Fu candy canes and tiger tattoo flavored lollypops, whatever the hell that was. I felt my body stiffen when I sensed behind me. His fingers trailed down my arms and sent shivers through me.

"I'm glad you came. It feels like it's been so long and—" He paused when I reached back to cup his head; my fingers slid easily into his silky hair. My body was firm against his and I didn't care if he was sweaty. I just needed to be close to him again. It was as if I had been starved for oxygen without him. I could finally feel relief within my grasp and yet it was so far away. My stomach tied up in knots the closer we moved. I knew I had been torn with wanting to wait, but I also knew he wasn't Andrei. He was special. A rush of hot blood filled my body as my pulse increased rapidly.

"Jesus, Bella. I want you." His voice was like the sweetest, silky, creamy chocolate. Its decadence was overwhelming. I closed my eyes, intoxicated by his scent. Has any man ever been this erotic? It was almost like an animal magnetism. I turned my head to the left. If I moved a little more our lips would touch.

"If we start this now I don't know that I can stop," he said, almost pleading with me.

I met his eyes. "Then don't."

"Bella," he whispered breathily as he closed his eyes.

I knew he internally fought with himself. Edward wanted this to be right as much as I did. We both had the same issues with wanting to wait but our hormones were never on our side.

"Shhhhh," I calmed him "I'm not asking you to be anything you're not, Edward. I know this is all new to you. It's new to me too but I need you."

His beautiful face looked pained and we both knew we were playing with fire. Why did it have to feel so good to dance near the flame?

"You are so much more," he said as he reached up to stroke my jaw. My heart raced as his words reached my ears. I could see the emotions that played deep in his eyes.

More than what?

I knew if I didn't push him this might not go much further and he was at a critical breaking point. We both were. He knew about my past and he accepted it. I didn't know what the hell was going on in my head accept I had a change of heart and couldn't keep my hands off of him. He probably thought I was insane but so be it. I could accept that as long as he was the consolation package.

I wet my lips and gently covered his mouth with mine, taking advantage of the situation before the moment was lost. I gasped as Edward took my lower lip between his teeth and tugged. It was earth shattering and my knees quickly began to grow weak. He pulled me tighter against him. I wasn't sure if that was in response to my knees or the need to have me closer. It didn't matter; one was as good as the other at this point. I managed to turn in his arms so I could caress his chest; my heart hammered so loud I was sure he could hear. I shivered as I enjoyed the hard, ripped muscles beneath my fingers. I think I actually felt lightheaded.

I released his lips and looked down to trace the beautiful tiger. I had to kiss it . . . after all, he had told me I could, right? Well, he had said "lick," but I could do that too if he insisted. I ran my fingers over the smooth flesh and felt the power of the muscles beneath.

"This is you, isn't it? Strong and beautiful." I met his eyes and paused. "You are the tiger in so many ways."

He gently ran his fingers through my hair. "I'd like to think so."

"I want to understand you," I whispered as I dropped to my knees; my eyes never left his. Edward looked confused but, before he could speak, I smiled softly.

"You said I could."

Realization dawned on his handsome face. "You mean—"

"Oh yes, Edward. I do." I smirked wickedly before I kissed the tiger at his abdomen.

His eyes seemed to darken as my tongue darted out and traced the outline of that beautiful tiger's face. His skin tasted salty, but sweet, and I savored it. What a wonderful aphrodisiac. I moaned, gripped his waist, and nipped at his flesh eagerly. It made me feel powerful the way his muscles clenched and contracted. Edward gasped and suddenly his hands were tangled in my hair.

"Mmmm," I moaned and glanced up to see his face. His eyes were closed and his breath was labored. It was one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. Edward lost in passion was simply exquisite. I couldn't imagine how beautiful he was at the height of ecstasy, but I wanted to.

I let myself enjoy him. My tongue made slow circles on his heated flesh and he didn't seem to mind me being in control; I liked setting the pace. It was so easy to get lost in Edward. I slowly kissed my way up his ribs and groaned when I was finally face to face with that glorious pierced nipple.

Deargodinheaven!

I met his hungry eyes as he waited to see what I would do. Never underestimate a woman in need, Bella Swan would get the job done. I smiled seductively before biting his taunt nipple.

"Shit!" he cried and gripped my hair harder.

I knew I hadn't hurt him. I didn't bite him hard . . . it was more of a tease really. I could hear him pant before me and it turned me on even more. I'll bet he didn't know I could be a tiger as well. I soothed any ache he might have felt by sucking his nipple deeply. He moaned and pulled my head up to face him. I was fully aware that maybe Edward was tired of playing my little game. I knew the first time we were together it wouldn't be all romance and candy. I never expected it to be because we were too attracted to each other. I knew it would be a spontaneous combustion.

His ragged breath fanned my face. "Are you quite finished?" he questioned me with a shaky voice. His eyes were smoldering and he was absolutely and utterly glorious.

"No."

"Isabella, do you really want me to take you right here in the Dojo?"

Did he even have to ask? It was hotter than hell in there and I wanted his pants off. I might regret it later, but right then I didn't care. The man was a stone cold fox—I could feel his hardness against me and knew he was wavering. He felt so good. I always knew he would. I reached down and stroked his length. It was fascinating to watch as he trembled and lost his breath.

"Yes," I answered breathily. "I can't wait any longer."

"Bella," he moaned as he pressed his lips against mine hard.

Edward's strong hands lifted me and I wrapped my legs around his waist. I didn't know what he had in mind until he carried me in his office. I realized he had a couch there. I didn't really care where we were, but I suppose in hindsight it was better than the floor. I felt my body sink into the soft fabric as he gently laid me back. His hands gripped my hips almost painfully. I knew he wanted this as bad as I did.

"Take it off." I directed him as I pushed his hands to my pants. We could never get anywhere with clothes on.

He followed my lead and lifted up enough to remove them fairly easily. I felt like I was suffocating and I inhaled deeper, trying to catch my breath. Edward was so warm, so sweet and I'd never wanted a man like I wanted him. He was a raging inferno I was driven to put out. Edward's warm lips caressed my neck as his deft fingers slid under my shirt to my breasts.

"Please, Edward."

"Tell me what you want," he teased against the shell of my ear.

"All of you," I answered.

"I don't know if you can handle that."

Oh! Please! Let me try to handle it! My breathing was labored as he tossed my shirt aside and kissed my exposed breasts. Who knew he could be a tiger too? Huh.

"You sure you want it?" he asked me again as he pushed his groin into me. I gasped and gripped the band of his pants. Oh God! It's going to be so good!

"I'm going to eat you alive, Bella," he purred into my ear.

Oh, triple damn! I think want to marry this man! "Take these off!" I demanded as I pushed at his pants.

"Ah, ah, ah. You didn't say the magic word," he teased as he bit my earlobe.

I was growing tired of his games and thrust myself up at him. He growled and pinned my hips down. The look in his eyes was unmistakable, pure unadulterated lust. He reached down and stripped his pants off. My eyes widened and I swallowed hard when I saw him.

He was going to put that where?

Edward was huge, well larger than anyone I had ever been with. Not that I had been with a lot of men, but . . . WOW. I was a little concerned at the dynamics. I knew he saw my reaction. He chuckled and I felt his smooth lips close to my ear.

"Don't worry the more turned on you are the easier it is."

His words brought my mind back to his face. I bit my lip and looked back at that gorgeous body. Edward was simply perfect, to me at least. I reached down and ran my nails over his tattoo, delighted when he moaned and lurched forward.

"Bella, I can't control myself when you do that."

"Don't," I replied, meeting his eyes.

"As you wish." It was all the warning I received. He lifted my legs under my knees and slammed into me. I think I forgot how to breathe for a second but he felt so damn good I didn't care. I reached around and gripped his tight ass to give it the squeeze I always wanted to and moaned.

"Edward, don't stop," I begged, lost in pure sensation.

"I didn't plan on it baby."

Good. He was having a difficult time not letting go. I was glad to know I had that effect on him. He slowly began to move inside me. Who the hell needs a vibrator when you have Edward?

Where has this man been all my life? They needed to bottle him up and sell him. Seriously, they could make a mint. He could get to all those hard to reach places. I felt my stomach begin to tighten before long. He lifted my leg around his hip and tilted his pelvis.

"Oh!" I cried out and gripped his shoulders. I was not prepared for the feelings he was awakening inside me. I had never felt them before and it was unexpected and a little frightening.

"Let it happen, Bella. I want to know what makes you feel good," Edward whispered huskily and increased his rhythm. "I want to hear you scream."

"I can't," I replied as I shook my head. I wasn't sure what was going on. My body was on the cusp of something wonderful but my brain said no way.

"Yes you can. You're with me, Bella." How do I tell him that's the problem?

Edward suddenly grabbed my face and forced me to look at him. "I want you to scream for me, Bella. Do you understand? I want you to come harder then you've ever come in your life and do you know what I'm going to do for you?"

I gasped unable to speak.

Edward released my face and leaned to my ear, suddenly pushing me to my limit. I clutched his back as my stomach twisted tighter, my breath hitched as I balanced tediously on the edge of a cliff.

"I'm going to explode." Oh My God! I cried out as I fell hard. Edward pulled me close and buried his face in my neck.

"Bella!" he cried as he stiffened in my arms.

He kissed me softly, turned to lie beside me, and pulled me close. No words were spoken as we cuddled. Edward and I were both too exhausted to think. Instead he held me, placing an occasional butterfly kiss on my shoulder or caressing me tenderly. It didn't take long before we both fell asleep wrapped in each other's arms.

He's amazing.

I didn't know what this meant for our relationship at the time but I knew one thing: Edward Cullen was amazing! He made sex an art and I knew I would remember this night for a very long time.

WOW! Wiping my eyebrow now. I had to turn the fan on it got kind of hot in here. I hope I gave their lust filled first time justice. Keep in mind I haven't written a steamy chapter in so long it isn't even funny. I hope I didn't blow it too bad. I kept re-reading trying to make sure it was okay, until I finally gave up and just sent it to my girls. Thank you so much for your wonderul replies! They are my umbrella on a rainy day. :) Okay, that wasn't cheezy at all. LOL! Review! Review! Please!