A Fresh Start

The Holiday

Author's Note: I own nothing. I just like to play with the characters that were created by Stephenie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended.

This story is kind of cathartic for me and it's based in real life. Rated M for future lemons.

Chapter 6: The Holiday

I listened intently to Edward's story. His voice lost all emotion and his sparkling green eyes were flat, devoid of all feeling. He was detaching himself as he explained how his wife was killed by a drunk driver. He was removing himself from the pain of losing his wife and unborn child. As I heard the story, my heart broke for this incredibly strong man sitting in front of me. He was so young. Too young to deal with the tragedy that was bestowed upon him.

When Edward finished his story, I found my hand in his, offering him comfort. I rubbed soothing circles on the back of his hand and he gave me a wistful smile. "Edward, I had no idea," I said, barely above a whisper. "You seem..."

"So normal?" Edward finished for me, continuing to hold my hand. "Believe me, therapy has helped. Also, being removed from the situation and the location helps too. It was hard going to work and walking into the trauma room where you wife died. I couldn't go in there for a few months without having a serious panic attack."

Feeling uncomfortable, I gently removed my hand from his. Edward's brow furrowed and he put his hands back into his lap, appearing nervous. "Sorry about being such a downer," he said, picking at his napkin. "Not exactly how I envisioned this."

"I'm glad that you feel comfortable enough to talk to me," I said encouragingly. "Working with middle schoolers, I've learned to be a combination of a teacher, therapist, best friend and counselor."

"I may have you on speed dial," Edward teased.

"Call anytime," I smiled.

Edward gave me a lopsided grin and he reached his hand across the table. His actions were stopped when his cell phone rang from his pocket. He had a look of irritation and he picked up the call, glancing at the caller ID. "Dr. Masen," he said brusquely. He listened intently. Whoever was speaking was very frantic and Edward was not happy. "Fine. I'll be there in a half hour," he said as he ended the call. "So sorry."

"I understand. Not everyone has summers off," I teased.

Edward gave me an apologetic look and waved down Roseta. She returned with the check and took our meals away to be wrapped. Edward took out his credit card and slipped it into the small folder.

"How much do I owe?" I asked, reaching for my purse.

"Um, nothing," Edward said, holding the folder to his chest. "This is on me."

"Edward," I admonished. "You did me a favor in picking up my drunken ass from Bar Louie. You did me another favor in driving me to pick up my car from the parking garage today. At least let me pay for my meal."

"Nope," Edward smirked, giving me a wink.

I growled lightly and narrowed my eyes. Edward mimicked my actions and handed Roseta the folder when she returned with our food. "At least let me get the tip."

"Bella," he warned. "I insist. My parents raised me to be a gentleman. Please?" He looked over his glasses and gave me an adorable pout. "Pretty please?"

"My eighth grade girls pull that with me and I don't even buckle," I laughed. "It looks better on them."

"Are you saying I'm not attractive?" Edward scoffed.