“I think you’re wrong. I love him, and he makes me better.”
“You make him better as well,” William said, coming behind the bar. “Are you just watching the women now?”
Isabel looked at William, who was glaring at Peter.
“Yep, sorry. I’ll go ahead.”
He left them alone. “He wasn’t bothering you, was he?” William asked.
“No, he was fine. We were just talking. I’m sorry if that was inappropriate?”
“It wasn’t. Peter can be a pain in the ass at times. I don’t want him to worry you. The only person Peter loves is his wife, and he loves her so much. You’re good for Edward, and he cares a lot for you.”
“I’m not going to leave Edward. He’s been amazing to me. I’m not weak.” Isabel took a deep breath, feeling more empowered. “I love your friend, William. I’m not going to hurt him.”
William stared at her for a few seconds. “You know I advised him to leave you.”
The smile stayed frozen on her face. “Excuse me?”
“I’ve known Edward a long time. He never stays around if it’s hard work. I underestimated his love for you. You are good for him, and I see now what Edward said about you.”
“What did he say?” she asked.
“He said that you made him better. Pretty much told me that I didn’t know him if I hadn’t seen the change inside him. I think you’ve come a long way, Isabel. I didn’t know you before, but no matter what, you’re good for him. You’re good to him, and you have my utmost respect and loyalty.”
“Thank you.”
“If there is anything you need, anything at all, I promise you, all you need to do is ask, and I will make sure you get it.”
She rounded the bar, and moved toward him. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she gave him a hug. “Thank you. Really, thank you.”
“Hey, what are you doing hugging my girl? You know that is forbidden, right?”
“Yeah, I know,” William said, patting her back. “I just can’t resist teasing you.” He pulled away. “See what I mean? He’s very possessive of you, sweetheart.”
“I’m a little possessive of him as well.” She moved back toward Edward, and snuggled against his side. “I love him.”
“I’m going to leave you two alone.”
William left, and she moved back to behind the bar. This was the main nightclub that she was working in. Back in the BDSM bar alcohol was not served. Drinks were accepted, but it was more the tea, coffee, and soda variety.
“Do I want to know what you and he were talking about?” Edward asked.
She shrugged. “I think he was just giving me the congratulatory acceptance of him, and maybe the club.” She held her arms out.
“Did you feel that you needed it?”
Isabel thought about it for a second, and finally nodded her head. “Yeah, I do. They all love you, Edward. They all care about you, and they want the best for you. They don’t want a crazy girl ruining you.”
He reached out, taking hold of her hand. “The only crazy one here is me. I’m crazily in love with you.”
“Aw, you’re so sweet.” Leaning over the counter, she pressed her lips against his.
“It’s a fucking curse,” Ryan said, slamming open the door. He dropped his bag on the floor, and made his way toward the bar. “I need something strong and that will burn as it goes down.”
She glanced at Edward, waiting for his consent. Only when he gave it did she pour a strong drink.
“What happened?” Edward asked.
“I passed the border, and I drove for like three hours, and then I just couldn’t take it anymore. This is where I live. This is my life, and I can’t just walk away. Starting afresh, it’s not going to cut it for me. I’ve got to make it work here in Cape Falls.”
“You’re not the only one who thinks that,” Gabriel said, coming inside. “I’m sticking around, and I’ve also talked to the Steer brothers. Cape Falls is going to move in a positive direction, a new direction, and I’m going to need all of your guys’ help to guide it.”
Edward looked at her. “We’ll be here to help. We’re not going anywhere.”
Once she finished handling the beer, and putting it in the right places, all of the guys and several of the women had come out to join them.
Isabel left them alone, and made her way outside to take some fresh air. It was starting to get cold again. She couldn’t believe how much time had passed, and how much had happened in her life.
Lowering down onto the step, she pulled her knees up to her chest and stared at the grounds around them. She loved when it got cold, and she would have an excuse to cover up, and snuggle into large clothes.