The One That Got Away

Chapter Fifty-Three

For those of you who read the Get Your Southern On contest entries, this is my contribution. I am tickled at the results ... first place in public vote and third place for the judge's choice. I've decided to break this up into smaller, drabblish chapters and it will be continued. The contest contribution is the first six or so chapters, roughly. I don't know how long it will be, but I do have it planned. Thank you to Bridget for betaing this for me and for Clo, who created the banner.

Cliffie ... I know. But, we're going to have some smexy times in the next chapter. Where should they get it on? I'm thinking outdoors ... In my mind, this imaginary hotel has a gazebo overlooking a manmade lake. What do you think? And let's just say that this next chapter will be nothing but lemons. Juicy, sexy, hot lemons.

Oh, and there will be some more run-ins with that mystery woman. How do you think Edward will react?

"Do you want to dance, sweetness?" Edward asked, his fingers twined with Bella's.

"Maybe in a little while," she smiled, kissing his cheek. "I'm so proud of you, Edward. Resident of the Year?"

"I never expected this," he blushed. "There was talk about some sort of accolade for my work with Seth, but I never expected to win Resident of the Year. I thought that it was given to the chief resident. That was not me."

"Who was it?" Bella asked.

Edward pointed to a petite woman with short dark hair. "Dr. Marilyn Downton. She beat me for the job by a fraction of a point. She's a great doctor, amazing with the kids and one of those natural-born leaders."

"I could say the same about you, Dr. Superman," Bella giggled. She blinked over at him, giving Edward a seductive smirk. "You know, seeing you up there made me want you even more." She kissed him, sucking on his bottom lip.

"I always want you," he breathed. Bella's smile darkened and she stood up, offering her his hand. "A dance?"

"No," she purred. "I want you and I'm feeling a little like an exhibitionist today."

"Fuck me," Edward growled.

Twining their fingers together, Edward led Bella outside to the lavish outdoor space of the hotel. It was quiet, save for the croaking of the toads and subtle buzz of the crickets. In the distance, there was a gathering storm. Heat lightening flashed and the low rumble of thunder filled the humid air. They walked, stepping further away from the hotel ballroom and closer to the gazebo that was overlooking a quiet lake. Edward slid his arms around her waist, kissing her neck. "Exhibitionist?" he quipped, his voice deep and silky smooth.

"Seeing you in that tux? All I could think of is taking it off with my teeth," Bella purred, leaning back against muscular body, angling her head so he could continue his seductive assault on her neck. "Hmmm, I like that. Your teeth on my skin ..."

"How you like my mouth on your pussy?" he asked, his hand pressing between them and lifting the flowy skirt of her chiffon evening gown. "Feasting on your sweetness?"

"At home," she breathed, turning around and pushing him onto the bench in the gazebo. "Only you get to see my pussy. No one else." She straddled his lap, rolling her hips. "You're so hard, Edward."

"I've got the most beautiful woman in my lap," Edward replied, giving her a deliciously crooked grin. "Kiss me, Bella."

She smiled, brushing her lips against his. He sighed contentedly, pulling her closer to his body. Their kisses began innocently with simple caresses along Bella's bare shoulders. With a rumbling growl, Edward slid his tongue between Bella's lips as the first drops of the coming storm began to fall. Bella pulled away, looking around. "Ever made love in a rainstorm?"