Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Violently in Love

Written by: Michelina
You can read the original post here:
All Credit goes to the Original Author

i. Time will decide

Isabella Swan’s eyes are brown. Before she ducks her head, you notice they are deep, wide, and curious. Perhaps she is embarrassed at being caught staring, because she doesn’t look up again. Strange; humans get so flustered about the most trivial things. Since when was fascination a sin?

Perhaps it is vain to think that she’s fascinated by you and your family, but it is the general response to your pale skin and usually golden (today coal black) eyes. Most frustratingly, though, there is no way of knowing what she feels. You can’t hear what she’s thinking; about you, about anything.

How strange. She is the first true stranger you’ve encountered for decades. It’s refreshing, and it’s infuriating. In seconds, the new girl goes from being boring to intriguing. How cliché.

Without warning, her head snaps up and her eyes lock with yours. Her cheeks colour, and your throat burns with thirst. You usually roll your eyes at descriptions of characters with chocolate brown eyes, but suddenly it doesn’t seem so inappropriate. So stupid, so cliché, you think. Girl captivates boy with a single look across the cafeteria. Ice meets fire.

You don’t know it yet, but someday, you will tuck her hair behind her ear and say, you’re right. Brown is warm.

How ironic.

-~

You soon learn that she prefers to be called Bella.

In the thoughts of other students, you hear her correct several people, always kindly. Vaguely, you remember her doing this on her first day. You aren’t too hard on yourself for forgetting, as it’s been a week since that disgustingly fateful hour. And since then, you’ve been quite busy battling your own demons. Your problems are a bit more complex than a misnomer.

But who was Bella Swan, really, but an oblivious little girl? Who was she to tempt you? She doesn’t have any power over you, at least not knowingly. And yet, you find yourself staring at her over the sea of students. Your memory isn’t faulty enough to betray the fact that this isn’t the first time.

Her body language is very restrained as she looks down at her table, as if she’s forcing herself to fix her gaze there. Guilt washes over you. You didn’t exactly roll out the welcome wagon. Mysterious boy is nasty to the quiet girl. If it weren’t for the part where the mysterious boy wants to drink her blood, you’d think this story was getting more cliché by the hour.

“Edward Cullen is staring at you.” Like a speeding car, Jessica Stanley’s words hit you hard and bring you back to reality. Thoughts hum around you in a strange buzz. You used to think of that hum as the most inconsistent, abnormal song in the world, because everyone’s voices were at a different level. Funnily enough, it is the silence from Bella’s mind that attracts you most to the music, like a broken piano key, making everything more out of tune than usual.

To your unexpected despair, you hear her say, “I don’t think he likes me.” She raises her head bravely then, but not in your direction; still, you quickly duck your head, feeling very much like the nervous humans you mocked not eight days ago.

Not sure of how much more of this you can take, you think it’s time to get to know Bella past brief glances in the lunchroom. Without thinking about it, you have already begun blocking the bloodlust incident from your mind. Hopefully she can do the same.

-~

ii. And by time I’m melting into many forms

Interrogating Bella Swan has quite possibly become your favourite hobby of all time, and if anyone understands the concept of that phrase, it would absolutely be you. I’m immortal, after all, you think, smiling goofily. You have to revel at the way you can now lightly think of your (simultaneously) blessed and cursed condition. Before Bella, night and day were one and the same, but after Bella, twilight suddenly became more prominent, that middle ground between hope and unrequited longing.

You drive into Chief Swan’s driveway, tapping your fingertips on the steering wheel to the beat of the song on the radio. The artist is soulful, his voice strangled with passion, and it suddenly strikes you that you haven’t talked to Bella about her favourite music yet. That would be on today’s interrogation list. You had to admit it to yourself - you were pretty shameless about the whole thing. It was too fun, and too long since you’d been able to get to know someone like this. You weren’t about to stop now.

Bella then exits the house, locking the door behind her, and you laugh quietly as she carefully walks across the asphalt. The ground was smooth, but knowing Bella, she probably had more difficulties walking across a flat surface than a bumpy one. Maybe that was why she wasn’t afraid of you.

“Good morning.” You smile at her as she opens the door, and she offers a little wave before settling into her seat. She places her backpack on her lap and hugs it to her chest. You notice that she’s wearing a brown sweater, and you grin. Everything about her radiated warmth.

She looks at you thoughtfully for a moment, and then, seeming reassured by your smile, she says, “fire away.”

You begin immediately. “What is your favourite song?”

“Oh!” She looks startled by the question at first, and then her face lights up. “Music, wow - I’m surprised this one didn’t come out sooner, Mr. Debussy.”

“Shush and answer.” You say firmly, but you know you’re smiling like an idiot. To give her time to think, you turn your eyes to the road so as not to distract her.

But she’s quiet for several moments, the song on the radio filling the silence between them, and you notice that the singer’s emotions become more heightened as he reaches the final chorus. Explosions of fear, anticipation, and love burst from the lyrics, until the melody slows down, and the song fades away into a gentle strumming of guitar strings. You tremble slightly, suddenly longing to play your piano. Bella’s voice replaces the need, though, as she softly says, “I liked that song.”

“Me too.” You smile. “I don’t know what it was called, though.”

“We’ll know when we hear it again.” She says confidently. “Until then, it’s my favourite.”

“Absolutely.” You swallow, reaching forward to turn up the volume as a contemporary folk song you enjoy comes on next, just as Bella does the same. Your fingers brush lightly, and electricity passes through your body.

“Um.” She blushes, pulling back her small hand and fiddling with her zipper instead. “Next question?”

-~

Despite laying on it several times before, Bella’s bed still manages to be just as warm and inviting as the first night. You could be a total liar and blame its appeal on the soft covers, or the fluffy pillows, and not for some mushy reason like her scent or her body heat, but you’re past discomfort now. You can tell her anything, really.

You’re pretty silent this evening, though, as Bella lays flat on her stomach, reading a novel, and your eyes shift from watching her, to her belongings around the room. Your eyes rest on her blue prom dress and you smile at the memory of her soft curls and clumsy dancing, wondering if she’d let you take her again.

Gently, you tug a strand of hair falling out of her bun to get her attention. She’s poured over Pride and Prejudice for the millionth time, or at least, that’s what she tells you. Before tonight, you’ve actually never seen her read it, but through endless literature based conversations, you know by now that it’s her favourite summer read. She flinches only slightly at your touch, and yes, you’re feeling kind of shunted to the side at the moment. In favour of a book.

“Am I going to have to compete with the charms of Mr. Darcy for the rest of the night?” You ask her, smiling crookedly. She’s never said it outright, but you’ve grown to learn that Bella has the tendency to become enamoured with the characters in books she reads. Confirming this, she blushes when she looks up from her page.

“There’s no competition.” She mumbles distractedly, her eyes flickering back and forth from yours and the paperback.

Chuckling, you say, “I won’t make you put it away. But could I at least read some for you?”

“Oh, God, I haven’t had someone do that for me since…well, ever.” She giggles, but she throws the book at your chest and snuggles deeper underneath the blankets. Triumphant, you pick up the book and look at her curiously. This was a new piece of information.

“Your mom never read to you?”

“Nope, and neither did Charlie. I never minded, though. I liked reading on my own.” She sighs, and you feel rather than see her arm brush against yours. “But I’m actually kind of sleepy now. You can read to me.”

Finding her bookmark, you place it on her pillow and scan the page for a passage you like. Grinning, you think you find the perfect quote, but she mistakes your smile to be teasing.

“I know I’m not very far in. I’m not usually this slow of a reader, but having you here distracts me, and -what?” She looks adorably confused when you clear your throat, attempting to sound disapproving of her chatter (and that was a lie if you ever knew one).

“If you don’t mind, I’m going to start reading now.” You say in as stern as a voice you can muster, and she snorts, but looks back at you respectfully. Smiling, you begin to cite the words you relate to so well.

Hoping to God that your Mr. Darcy voice isn’t completely ridiculous, you say slowly and clearly, “I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow.” Sadly, your voice sounds more like Edward Cullen’s than any romantic hero’s, but Bella doesn’t seem to care. She beams, gazing up at you fondly, almost tauntingly, and you can’t look away.

“Is that all you’re going to read to me?” She asks, and all you can manage is a nod. Maybe that wasn’t the best excerpt to read, because it was too close to home. Your voice is nonexistent at this point. Bella and her warm eyes have that effect on you; they were more than just “fine”, so Mr. Darcy could take that.

“That’s too bad.” Bella’s hand rests on your elbow. “Don’t tell anybody or anything, but it was dancing with you at the prom that made me want to read the book again. You know, because of all the balls they have.”

You can’t help but chuckle now, amused enough to regain your voice, because seriously, Bella was such a great ballroom dancer. “We can go to prom again next year?” You propose, tickling her in the stomach. “I can absolutely teach you the Jane Austen dance -”

“Oh my God, I hate you.” She juts out her leg in an attempt to kick you, but you lift her quickly to save her the toe pains, your hands settling on her hips. Carefully, you press her firmly against your chest. Her breathing turns into panting from being tickled, from being touched, and the book falls to the floor. Grinning, you know that not much more reading will be done tonight. And what’s better, you think you’ve found another one of Bella’s weak spots.

My only love sprung from my only hate, right?” You whisper into her ear, and she shudders. “Watch, next you’ll be telling me that you have a crush on Romeo, too.”

“Shut up,” she mumbles, burying her head into your neck, and you spend the rest of the night altering between laughing and kissing her.

iii. Something between the burning shade and the faded light

The reflection in the mirror above her dresser is a stranger to you. There is little familiarity in the man’s face. You deem him as the shell of the man you once were. You had nothing, you found everything, and now you were back to drifting in the middle of nowhere.

Your hair still drips with water from the rain outside. It splashes against her floor, and the liquid almost feels like tears as you stuff pictures, CD’s, and memories, beneath it. Shaking, you lift yourself from the ground and stare out the window. You’ve crawled through it so many times to meet her. You’ll never pass through it again.

Running a hand over your face, you close your eyes and then launch yourself outside. Your feet are faster than they’ve ever been as they push against the muddy ground. All that you see is the darkness inside your eyelids, and all that you feel is the rain washing over your entire body. For a moment, you can believe that you never really existed. And you know that you never will again. Not without her.

Boy leaves girl in a flight of terror.

What a coward you are.

-~

After that, you never look at anything that will reflect your broken body back at you. Mirrors, glass, and windows become forbidden evils. If you ever feel the need to leave your spot on the floor, you refuse to drive. Your car contains too many opportunities for your reflection to destroy you. Still, you’re not sure if the empty passenger seat, or the absence of her weight on your back, is more painful to your senses. What was left of them, anyway?

If you were human, you surely would have died by now. You would have lost weight, colour, and strength. You might as well be human, you think. Your hands are cold, white, and dead. You are void of any heartbeat. You’ve abandoned love. Boy wallows in his own misery as girl moves on. Just like the boy hopes, just like the boy fears. It’s like every sad movie you’ve ever hated.

You’re pathetic, you tell yourself, waiting for the pain to come. But even your mental voice is cracked and emotionless. No, you don’t feel anything anymore. Curling into a ball, you close your eyes and wait for the peaceful slumber that you’ll never get.

That’s right, you remind yourself. You aren’t so human after all.

-~

There is no other word for the sun but blinding. You stare up at it, feeling numb as it moves in all of its warmth across the sky, too slow to be noticed by human sight. As each ray of sunlight beams down at you, mocking you, tempting you, you see flashes of her warm body falling from the cliff and into the frozen water. You can almost hear her scream your name, a distant echo of fear and panic. Your knees give out underneath you, and you grip the wall for support. You are not invincible. You are weaker than you thought. You feel as destructible as the rest of the people beyond the alleyway. Maybe this is what a vampire feels before death: shreds of humanity, returning at long last.

An indescribable pain flows through you as you hear her cries again, repeating your name over and over. You wait for the air in her lungs to run out, for the sound of rushing death to crush her, kill her, and end your entire reason for living. But the noise of destruction never comes. She continues to cry.

“Edward!”

Stop, you think desperately.

Edward!”

You press your back against the wall, fighting to keep your eyes open. The clock ticks loudly.

Please end this.

But her voice only becomes clearer, stronger, and more hysterical. You can’t look away from the sun, but some unstoppable force is pulling at your strength. Somebody up there doesn’t want you to burn. Somebody believes you can make it. I can’t, you assure them. It’s over.

Your body begins to feel unlike your own as her voice echoes louder. Most cruelly, you think you hear water splashing. Somebody up there is hurting you. Somewhere close to where you stand, hurried footsteps fly across the road. You hope whoever is searching finds what they’re looking for. Maybe they lost someone too.

At least they’ll be able to find them again, you think bitterly, struggling to keep your gaze fixed on the sun. Her voice still screams inside your head.

Except…no. Wait.

She isn’t screaming; puzzled, you listen closer. Her voice is a whisper now, as if her mouth is close enough to brush against your ear.

A scent so beautiful, so warm, so ethereal, suddenly clouds your senses, and the sun can no longer hold your interest. Captivated, you turn to see a small vision of light and air in front of you. Her clothes drip with water and her face glows with sweat and tears. A ghost, you think faintly, and then correct yourself as you take in her sparkling eyes and breathtaking beauty.

An angel.

Your entire body trembles. She can’t speak anymore, as if her voice is hoarse from crying, and slowly she reaches out her hand to find yours.

Bella.

Her touch is too real to be imaginary. Your body crumbles and you pull her, in all of her warmth, against you. It’s the only way you can stay on your feet.

You are home.

iv. And I was broken for a long time

You might as well be strangers.

Clutching the motorcycle helmet in your hand, you stare out at the deserted road. It’s not been five minutes since Jacob took her to the campfire, and yet you miss her unbearably. You sit in the driver’s seat, but you’ve never felt less control in your entire existence. Your renewed existence, that is. You’re grateful to be back, and yet it’s becoming too hard to watch the new bonds that formed in your absence. Bonds without you.

There is something new in Bella’s face. Her brown eyes no longer swim with devotion only for you, and you know you deserve every bit of it. Without question, you know this is something you will have to live through, perhaps forever. You know this, but it doesn’t make it less painful. In fact, it only makes it worse.

But it’s you, only you are to blame. You doubted, you feared, and you left. She fought, she mourned, and unlike you, she made an effort to live. And unlike you, she was successful.

Boy leaves girl. Girl finds comfort in male best friend.

You always hated that story.

Angrily, you jam the helmet on your head. You know it’s stupid. You don’t need it, and you’re not even riding the motorcycle. No, she rejected that proposal. Again, you don’t blame her. Riding is not something she shares with you. Stupid.

You had snuck the helmet into the car when she wasn’t looking, although your speed would have made it impossible for her to notice anyway. You still don’t know why you did it. Perhaps it was for some sentimental reason that you don’t care to analyze right now.

How are you going to get through this? You knock against the helmet’s hard exterior, as if it will give you the answers you need. Nothing comes, and you smack it again. It doesn’t even hurt.

You push the helmet off and begin driving, fast, just as you like it. Maybe you’ll drive all night to pass the time. Somewhere in the back of your mind, you contemplate riding the motorcycle alone. Wildly, you hope she’d somehow see you.

You wonder if she’d feel guilty.

It alarms you that you’re not even sure anymore.

-~

Her eyes are closed, her eyelashes long and dark against her cheeks as she lies in the arms of another man. She doesn’t shiver in the cold like she would if it were you. She’s safe with Jacob Black. You like him and hate him at the same time.

You told him as much before he fell asleep. And in his thoughts, you saw that all he felt was loathing for you. You don’t know if that makes you sad or relieved. You wonder why you even care. He doesn’t love her like you do, but he wants to. Of course he hates you for that. All of Jacob’s spite had kept his gaze on your face, in some manly battle for intimidation and power, but your eyes had always flickered to Bella’s sleeping form, illuminated by the firelight. Sometimes you thought you saw her stir, or her eyes flicker open, but it might have been a trick of the light. It scares you when you can’t see her face.

She wants you, you tell yourself. She kisses you like a woman who needs you. You hope that you will someday be able to kiss her back with the passion she craves. To touch her, to complete her, to - well - you’re not exactly sure of what comes next. That is something you’ll have to learn together. If the dog doesn’t take her away from you, a voice in your head says harshly.

Watching him hold her close to his heated skin, you think you hate him more than you like him right now. You want to cause him as much pain as possible. But that, of course, would hurt Bella, so you convince yourself not to. Not tonight.

You’ve watched her sleep many times before. And yet, looking down at her now, her warm brown eyes out of your sight until morning, you’ve never felt father from her.

-~

She cries for hours, but reassures you that she’s fine. You hold her as gently as you can while she tells you you’re the man she can’t live without. When she finally falls asleep, all of the distraught in her face is replaced with a calm expression, and you suddenly feel very sorry for Jacob Black.

Girl realizes that she’s meant to be with her first love. Boy finds hope again.

Suddenly, the fairytale ending belongs to you. You have more compassion for the werewolf than you thought. He’s a part of Bella now, and that makes him important to you, too.

This strong, growing Bella isn’t a stranger to you anymore. She’s only human. You lean down and kiss her eyelids. They are still wet with tears, but instead of remorse, you feel only rejuvenation.

We made it.

v. But it’s over now

Your knees buckle as Bella kisses you hungrily, both of your bodies wet from the warm ocean water. You’ve never felt your skin so alight with fire. She presses her exposed chest against yours, and you feel everything, without limits like fabric separating you now. Gently, you wrap your arms around her waist to keep her upright, because she’s succumbing, too. The water makes you lighter, powerful in an almost otherworldly way. The waves are soft and silent, the water rushing past your entangled bodies, and it’s as if time has stopped only for you, for the new husband and wife. The summer wind tickles your face, as if it too thrills from the moment. You’ve never felt so alive.

But still, you’re not sure how to do this. Right now you’re just kissing, perhaps differently than you have before, but what you crave to do is still so foreign. You’ve read about it, you’ve heard people talk about it, unfortunately you’ve heard people doing it, but you’ve never experienced it for yourself. And suddenly she’s as close as she can get, and you’re going to get there very soon.

Instinct guides you, and still kissing her, you release your arms from around her. They float in midair for a moment, longing to touching her again, and she expresses much of the same need, locking her arms tighter around your neck. A groan escapes your lips and your hands suddenly find their place, cupping her breasts. You both cry out, then, her from pleasure, you from the newfound sensation. She’s so soft, so warm, and so delicate.

She’s yours, tonight and for forever.

-~

Her eyes are burgundy instead of brown, but somehow they are still warm. You have a new brown-eyed girl, and she’s small and she’s beautiful, fragile but stronger than any child. You didn’t see her coming. Who could have seen her coming? How were you to know that you could create something so amazing, so impossible? You have a daughter, sleeping soundly downstairs as her mother wakes up. And Bella stands before you, born again.

No, her eyes aren’t brown anymore, but she isn’t a different person. Your family crowds around you, peering at her, mouths open, but you’re not surprised by her beauty. She always has been beautiful. Everyone was just blind. You were too, once, in the brief seconds when you were bored by her, just another girl across the room.

And here she was again, looking at you from the other side, waiting, watching. And it’s a mark of how far you’ve come since first sight that you can now walk towards her, and hear her laugh, and rush to meet you in the middle. She throws her arms around you and you kiss her violently, fiercely in a way that no longer has to be careful, or guarded. The freedom is new and it’s perfect and yet, the need is the same. All you want in your life is her, and most remarkably, she wants to stay with you too. In this moment, your happiness is impenetrable.

-~

Bella traces her fingers over your bare chest, her soft hair fanning out over your skin, and your stroke her curls absently as you read out loud to her. The cottage is quiet and bathed in sunlight as twilight settles in the sky, and the peace is comforting.

You pause for a moment, and it’s not the first time in your life that you’ve had to stop and take in your surroundings. You wonder if they’ll ever stop feeling so surreal. You rather hope they don’t. As if to reinforce this desire, Bella showers your chest with kisses to bring you back to earth. You oblige, of course.

“I’m sorry, where was I?”

Bella rolls her eyes, but she smiles as she points to the spot on the page. Her paperback is so worn out at this point, you wonder how you don’t break it with your strong grasp, but there’s something about Bella and everything she owns that has the ability to endure time.

Her human impatience, especially, is just as strong. “Edward, are you listening to me? Elizabeth was telling Mr. Darcy how much her feelings have changed.” Bella says, raising her voice now, and you can’t help but grin. She gets so frustrated by your moments of silence. It was a little quirk she’d have to deal with for eternity, but deciding not to drive her crazy any further today, you resume reading.

The happiness which this reply produced was such as he had probably never felt before; and he expressed himself on the occasion as sensibly and as warmly as a man violently in love can be supposed to do.” You whisper, twirling a lock of brown hair around your fingers, and she giggles.

“I love that line.” She smiles, and then stretches her legs. “Let’s end it there.”

“All that eye-rolling and exasperated sighing for nothing.” You chuckle, and put her bookmark in place. It’s the same bookmark she’s had since you met her. It’s bright yellow. Faintly, you remember a time when she desperately missed the sun. She didn’t have to miss it anymore, though. It was everywhere.

“Sometimes you just go off into your own little world.” Bella sighs, but you can tell she’s smiling as she rolls of the bed and puts on her nightgown. Renesmee was doing the same in her room. You feel pride wash over you as your girls get ready for nighttime. You and Bella don’t sleep, but it feels right to get ready to lie down together. It’s your routine.

Every so often, you will listen to music as you lie awake, and you can tell by the way that Bella shakes her hips as she dances from one room to the next, that tonight will be another one of those nights. Music is something that will always be apart of you.

Sure enough, Bella turns on the radio when she bounces back into your bedroom. Renesmee usually likes to listen to music too, but Bella says she’s too tired tonight. She smiles almost girlishly at the fact, and you wonder if you’re missing out on some mother-daughter secret. Renesmee, a teenager herself, spends a lot of time with Jacob lately, but you try to block that from your mind as you lie in bed with your wife. You could save that interrogation for another day. Or forever.

To your delight, both because it distracts you and mesmerizes you, a song you’re familiar with sounds softly from the stereo. Bella says “oh, yay!” and rests her head on your shoulder. You both listen to the soulful singer in silence. Neither of you know the name of the song, but you both love it obsessively. It plays only every so often. It’s amazing how it’s transcended so many years. The passionate singer with nothing but a guitar and a strong voice, a worldwide hit. You don’t know his name, or if he found his girl, or why he was so in love with her in the first place, but it doesn’t really matter. You understand the feeling.

And sometimes, questions are better left with unpredictable answers. That’s the beauty of discovering something new about the person you’re violently in love with. Every quirk, every sensitive body part, every favourite song or favourite book, will be a stranger for some time before you find it. And quite honestly, you find that very warm and satisfying.

Black Sheep

Written by: SmileyFace55
You can read the original post here:
All Credit goes to the Original Author

Breaking Free

It wasn’t dissatisfied with my vampire and werewolf life. I loved – and was loved by – every one of them. Well except maybe Leah, who was warming up to me gradually. It was just, the only times I had been out in the human world, really out in the human world, were on my monthly shopping trips with Alice, and on family vacations. It was time to break free.

I was going to university.

At first Mother was a definite no. “You’re only five,” she said, “how can you put yourself out there with eighteen and nineteen-year-olds?” But I was the physical size of a sixteen-year-old, and if I compensated for that with my abnormal brain power, who would keep me out of university?

Well I guess Mother could, for one.

It was Daddy who saved me in the end. I was glad for that, once I had my mind set on something it was almost impossible to change, so it would have really broken Mom’s heart if I left without their approval. Daddy argued that I was physically and mentally ready for graduate school. High school was out of the question. I had developed much too quickly to remain inconspicuous, and besides I found the work dull and simple. Daddy won over Mother eventually, but she adamantly refused to be a part of any discussion revolving my upcoming departure. I guess she was just reluctant for me to grow up so quickly.

Of course, there was Jacob for another matter. I loved him dearly – though we weren’t officially dating or really in love love… yet – and it was really hard for me to be away from him. As long as I kept nearby, though, he could visit on evenings and weekends (geez, I sound like I’m grounding myself or something) and everyone would probably be fine. Like I said, nothing in the world would get me to change my mind.

So there I was, in the passenger seat of Esme’s car, on the road for Thorton University.

It was only two hours away from Forks by car (that is, if you’re going at vampire speed). It wasn’t a huge institution, nor was it one of the Ivy League, but it was close, and a starting point. If I survived this, than maybe in a decade or so, I could end up at Harvard!

“So,” Esme said, breaking the silence “Do you want me to tour Thorton with you? Or do you want to go by yourself?”

“I think I’ll go by myself, thanks Esme,” I replied. Mother and Daddy were arriving home this afternoon from a fourth honeymoon at Isle Esme, so it was the island’s namesake who was taking me to visit my future university.

“Of course,” she replied warmly, “It’s the first step to independence isn’t it? And besides, I might go hunting anyways.

I rolled down my tinted window and a tiny steam of June sunlight (muted by the overcast clouds) entered the Ferrari’s dark interior. Esme immediately cowered away from it, and I laughed.

“Oh Esme, we’re in a speeding car, and I think you’re dressed for the weather anyway.”

Esme was wearing dark sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat, and a long-sleeved satin dress. Pair that with a parasol, and she looked like a classy, European supermodel.

“Oh I know, but going about in the summer daylight makes me nervous…”

“You’ll be fine. I can’t say the same for your parasol, though. Apparently the deer here are quite vicious.”

That Girl

As I studied the campus map that Shawn had given me I noticed two things: my future dorm was right across from the library, and the library was enormous. I decided to begin my tour there.

As I strode through the great oak doors, my jaw dropped. There were shelves upon shelves of every kind of writing imaginable! And the space that wasn’t occupied by bookshelves, housed comfy armchairs and long practical tables. I went to the fiction section first. There were barely any modern novels, most were classics by Shakespere, Dickens and many more. I didn’t mind that since the modern novels were sloppy, insignificant fluff about boyfriends and murders. At least Shakespere wrote it with sophistication.

I strolled through the labyrinth of literature, trailing my finger along the worn out spines. I had just entered the non-fiction section, when I stopped dead in my tracks. I sniffed suspiciously. Through the musty library smell, I located a scent much to sweet to belong here. I sniffed again. Nope, there it was. My nose could not be deceiving me.

There was a vampire in this library.

I was vibrating now: who could possibly be here? I must know them, the Cullens knew all the vampires in this area. Perhaps it was Tanya or another of the Denali coven. Could a non-vegetarian vampire stand to be around this many humans? Not quite sure what to expect, I followed my nose around the corner to a long study table.

There she was.

If I hadn’t been so positively sure she was a vampire I would not have known it from her appearance. Her silky black hair was chopped off at her chin and hung into her face. She wore a frumpy cardigan and baggy jeans, no doubt to hide her flawless figure. Thick, ugly glasses were slipping down her thin nose.

She was alone at her table and surrounded by books, even though I was pretty sure exams were already over. It surprised me. I stood there a moment trying to place her. There was no way I had ever seen her before, but strangely, she seemed to remind me of someone. Perhaps she was a nomad. But why then, would she be attending university?

Intent on getting my questions answered, I marched over to where the strange girl was sitting.

“Hello,” I said quietly.

The girl jumped violently, sending up a flurry of pages. The chair groaned in protest.

“What are you doing? You’d better – I mean… it’s not a good idea for you to be talking to me – ” she stopped abruptly. She inhaled and I saw her nostrils flare as she assessed me: my strange scent, my vampire-ish body and most importantly, my steadily beating heart. “Who – ?”

“Hello,” I said whispered again “My name is Renesmee Cullen. I am a half vampire, half human. What’s your name?”

“I – you… humph!” the girl stood up and marched away. “I don’t know who you think I am, but I have no idea what you’re talking about!”

I flounced after her.

“Look,” I murmured impatiently “I know you’re a vampire. You don’t have to hide it.”

The vampire stopped and turned to face me. If we hadn’t been in a library full of innocent bystanders. I would have ran away as fast as I could, what with the look she gave me.

“I most certainly do have to hide it!” she hissed. “Is you indeed know what I am, I suggest you keep it to yourself!” she moved towards the door, but after noticing the sun outside, she cringed.

I immediately knew what I had to do.

“Here,” I rummaged through my bag and pulled out a wide brimmed hat – identical to Esme’s – and a pair of gloves. “These should block most of the sun. Won’t you at least come and talk? I’m dying to know more about you.”

“Well,” she eyed the hat before snatching it up with her marble hands. “Fine then. I’ll talk, but you had better do some talking yourself! My name is Karen, by the way”

“It’s a deal.” With a wide grin of success on my face, I opened the door and led my soon-to-be-best-friend outside to the courtyard.

Surprises

Edward’s POV

Bella and I were lounging on the couch after returning from Isle Esme. My Bella’s face was worried. I knew it was because of Renesmee. She was touring Thorton University today, and it hurt Bella to be separated from her daughter for such a long time. University next year was going to be tough.

“When is Renesmee due back?” she asked Carlisle, who was immersed in his reading.

“Any minute now” he said casually “Esme said they wouldn’t be back after six.”

Suddenly I heard the thrumming of a familiar engine far out on the road. It was Esme’s Ferrari.

“That’s them.” I said.

Bella made an urgent move to get up but I put a restraining hand on her shoulder.

“Independence, love, remember? We have to let Renesmee come to us.”

“Independence, yeah right.” she grumbled, but never the less, remained in her seat.

While Bella glowered, I turned my mind to Renesmee’s thoughts. It was an old habit. My daughter’s thoughts were so interesting. They changed so quickly, I had to treasure them all I could. While I listened, a smile tugged the corner of my lips.

Home sweet home! Oh I am so glad to be back… and Mother and Daddy will be back to… I can’t wait to show them my surprise! Wait, oh no, I can’t think about that now! Daddy will hear me… butt out Father! Okay then…Oh they’ll love her so much!... aargh! Stop! Think of something else…umm…let’s see… trees… yes, trees… I do like trees… There are such a lot of them on the road. I can’t wait until the leaves change colours… why do they do that? I must have learned about that once upon a time. I wonder if Karen – wait! Aargh! I’m thinking about that again! Stop it Nessie! … okay okay… trees… no I already did them… um… well I can see the house now, Mother isn’t there for once… maybe she’s letting me be independent after all… Thorton is going to be so much fun in the fall… hopefully Kar – RENESMEE! I mean, umm… I’m not thinking about the surprise! No I’m not! Aaargh… I just hope Esme is doing a better job than me…!

So they were bringing home a surprise. I blocked my daughter’s thoughts from my mind to give her some privacy. I heard the car pull up in the driveway.

“Well, love, I guess we can go out and greet them now.”

Bella was out of the house like a flash.

Revelation

Karen spent most of the drive sitting in the back seat with a neutral expression on her perfect face. I tried to be sly, taking a peek every little while to judge her reactions, but she always caught me. It was impossible to tell if she was excited or scared, but I had the feeling she was more apprehensive than anything. I could live with that. I had convinced Karen to come and meet our family at least. If she liked them (and more importantly, liked me), she was invited to stay for the summer, and then go back to Thorton University with me in the fall! If not… well how couldn’t she love us?

Meanwhile, Esme and I had a game plan. First I called my Jacob to make sure he was hanging around, so Alice wouldn’t be able to see that we were bringing Karen home with us. It broke my heart, though, when I instructed him to leave before we got back. I didn’t want Jake to get hurt if Karen over reacted. Or if Jake over reacted for that matter.

Next, we filled Karen in on most of our family. The size of our coven scared her a little, and she was quite shocked when I told her about everyone’s special abilities.

“I’ve never actually met any other vampires besides you two,” Karen admitted sheepishly. I was a little surprised at that.

“Who changed you then?” I asked suspiciously “And how did you know that you’re a vampire?”

“It’s a long story…” Karen said, “And if I’m going to have to repeat it to the rest of your coven, I’d rather only tell it once.”

I had the feeling she was just stalling.

When we finally pulled into our driveway, I was bursting with excitement. I was trying my best to block my thoughts from my father, but they all ended up coming back to Karen, and the surprise. Hopefully he wasn’t listening.

“Renesmee!” Mother called, as soon I was out of the car.

“Mom!” I cried and a second later, I was in her arms.

“How did you like university?” she asked underneath my iron grip that would have broken a human bone.

“Enh, it was okay…” I lied.

“Just okay?” she looked surprised as I released her.

“No!” I rolled my eyes “Actually it was great! Come meet Karen!” I grabbed her hand and pulled her over to where Karen was hesitantly getting out of the Ferrari.

“Who – ” Mother asked, then stopped as she caught sight of my vampire friend.

“Umm…. hi.” Karen said timidly, and then looked to me for support.

“Oh, this is Karen Sterling,” I announced clearly. Father, Carlisle, Alice and Jasper all had come out to see the new girl. “I met her at Thorton University. She doesn’t hunt humans, so I invited her to stay with us for the summer.”

No one objected, in fact, they seemed quite happy.

“Hello Karen,” Mother said warmly, shaking her hand, “How are you?”

“Great, thanks,” Karen replied timidly.

“Come inside and we’ll talk,” Carlisle called to us, appraising Karen thoroughly from afar.

“So,” Carlisle said once we all were seated, “Where are you from, and how were you changed?”

“Well,” Karen started, looking around at all of us. Mother, Father and I were crammed on a couch; Alice and Jasper were in front of the old fireplace; and Carlisle and Esme were in matching armchairs. Rosalie and Emmett were on vacation.

“I was born in nineteen-eighty in London, Ontario. My parents were writers, so they traveled all over the USA, as well as Canada, while I stayed in boarding school in Mississippi. I was sixteen when they died. It was a small ferry crash in the Caribbean, very quiet. I didn’t find out until three days later. They were working together on a project this time, it was set in Barbados.”

I felt a wave of sadness crash over me. Who was I to have this perfect happy life, and know someone who was surrounded by such sad memories?

“I was devastated. My parents were the most caring people in the world. Even though we couldn’t spend all our time together, I received volumes of letters every month and in the summer; we toured across Europe or other foreign parts of the world. I had had the best life ever. School had just ended so I stayed with my grandmother, who lived only a couple miles away. I spent the first few days locked up in my room crying. I didn’t even go to the funeral. One night, a week or so later, I was walking home from the store with some groceries when I was changed. I don’t really remember too much of it. I thought that I had died and was in heaven with an angel. Then there was pain, a lot of pain. I burned for a while, and when I awoke, I was behind a wall of crates in an alleyway. I don’t know why the vampire didn’t finish me off, the only conclusion I could come up with, was that my blood tasted so horrible that they couldn’t bear any more.” Karen’s voice shook for a second; I walked over and patted her back. Surprisingly, she didn’t flinch away.

“I didn’t know what I was for days after. When I realized that I wanted to hunt humans, I ran away to the woods. Some deer were there and I compensated with animals. I was so disgusted with my desire for blood that I tried to kill myself by starvation. It didn’t work the way I had hoped, so I spent over a year hiding in forests, hunting animals.”

I noticed Carlisle’s eyes were shining with awe, and I knew why. Karen’s story seemed very close to his own first year as a vampire.

“Once I thought I had myself under control, I dared to venture out into the human word to learn more about what I had become. I discovered that while I was reading, or concentrating on any sort of writing, I was better able to control my thirst. So with that new knowledge, I’ve been living in various universities ever since. I use the name Ellie-May just in case the police are still looking for me, and as long as I stay inconspicuous, I blend in with the others.”

There was silence. Karen raised an eyebrow, looking for some sign of approval or acceptance.

“Impressive,” Father said, breaking the tension.

Everyone seemed to be on the same wavelength. Jasper was looking a little doubtful at Karen’s claim to supreme self-control, but Alice was looking downright happy, as usual.

Carlisle was nodding thoughtfully.

“Your grandmother,” he asked “What was her name?”

“Cynthia Hayes.” Karen replied promptly. I could tell she was rather perplexed with the irrelevant question. To tell the truth, so was I.

“Your great grandmother, then, do you know her maiden name?”

“Well I don’t really remember,” Karen said irritably “I never met her.”

Daddy gasped silently and flashed a glance at Carlisle. I wondered for a second what he had heard. It must have been something important though. I pressed my palm to his arm, a quick gesture, but enough to ask a silent What? He only nodded to Karen, who was still trying to remember.

“Her name was Margaret I think… Margaret Bailey, no, not Bailey. Maybe it was Blanchard… Everything is very fuzzy and hard to remember.”

“Brandon,” Alice gasped “Margaret Brandon.”

The room went silent. Everyone turned to face Alice. No one dared even breathe.

“Yes, it was Brandon.” Karen frowned, “How did you know that? I thought it was the other one that read minds.”

“Because,” Alice breathed “She was my sister.”

Suddenly everything clicked into place. I knew that Karen reminded me of someone, and that someone was Alice. That was what Carlisle had suspected, what Daddy had heard in his thoughts.

Karen Sterling was Alice’s great grandniece.

Alice looked like she was going to faint, if that was possible for a vampire. She slowly rose to her feet, walked over to Karen, and touched her cheek with one pale hand. They stood there, looking into each other’s eyes, then Alice gave a peal of laughter and threw her arms around Karen.

“Oh my goodness!” she cried “My niece! My family!”

Karen looked equally shocked, but very pleased at the same time. I looked over at Carlisle, who sat back in his chair, looking a little smug. He caught my eye and winked. Esme, Jasper, Mother and Father were all staring at Alice and Karen with faces of shock and amazement. It was Mother who recovered first.

“Well,” she joked, “I don’t think Alice saw that coming!”

There was a ripple of laughter and agreement. Alice detached herself and danced towards me, an enormous smile dimpling her cheeks.

“Oh Nessie!” she said happily, kissing me on each cheek “How can I thank you enough!”

“Who, me?” I asked, perplexed: What had I done? It was Carlisle who had figured it all out.

“You brought Karen home to me.”

Oh right, I had done that hadn’t I? Not it was my turn to feel rather smug. It was because of me that Alice was meeting a member of her family, who was immortal as a bonus!

“Don’t forget, I was the one driving the car.” Esme piped up. Alice laughed and embraced her as well.

We were all like one happy family.

You’re in love with a WHAT?

If I had been in Karen’s place then, I would have known what it felt like to be a bug under a microscope. Or at least I would have felt supremely awkward.

The rest of our family was assembled out in front of the house, watching as Alice and Karen chattered away at a ridiculous speed, perched up on Emmett’s favourite arm wrestling boulder. It was obvious now the family resemblance between them. They both had the same silky dark hair, the same thin noses, and almost identical smiles. Alice was still a head shorter though. It was like watching a movie, but in fast forward mode. All their movements were lightning quick and their lips were all but invisible. I didn’t see what the rush was; they had all the time in the world – literally.

It was then that I realized with a start that during the past hour I had forgotten the singular most important person of my existence: my Jacob.

Father laughed. “You had better not let your mother hear you thinking like that,” he chuckled under his breath.

“Thinking like what?” Mother frowned at me “Renesmee?”

I was saved from that awkward conversation by the abrupt ringing of my pink cell phone. Grinning, I dashed away from the group to get some privacy. It was wonderful, the way Jake and I had this telepathy thing going on. I only had to think about calling him, and he would call me first.

“Hey!”

“Nessie?”

“Jacob!”

“How are you? What was with that surprise thing? And can I come over now?” he was always full of questions – most involving my overall well-being.

“Yes, I’m fine, and you will never believe this! I met this vampire girl at university and brought her back – that’s why you had to stay away – but it turns out she’s Alice’s niece! She was changed a couple years ago and I reunited them!” I didn’t mean to brag, Jacob would understand.

“Whoa, seriously?” I could just picture the appalled look on Jake’s face as he took it all in.

“Yes! Do you think I would lie about something this important?!”

“Wow, I guess not. This is crazy! You guys just keep multiplying! First Bella, then you and now her. I hope the pack isn’t affected.” there was a hint of worry in his tone.

“Oh stop worrying. Anyway, when can I see you? It will only take me a couple minutes to get over there if I run. Unless you want to come here…?”

“I don’t think that will be necessary.”

What? What are you talking about? I don’t understand.” I stiffened, was he upset? I thought I was more important to him than the pack…

“Turn around.”

I turned, and there he was. He clicked his phone shut, tossed it aside, and opened his arms.

“JAKE!” I screamed and launched myself at him. He caught me out of the air and gave me a crushing bear hug.

“Don’t you ever do that again.” he murmured “You know how much it hurts.”

I knew what he meant: staying away from him hurt me as well, but my will power weakened it so I was able to cope. Or at least cope better than Jake. I wrapped my arms tighter around his broad shoulders and leaned against his chest, inhaling his warm woodsy scent greedily. It was so confusing – I loved Jake, but I wasn’t in love with him. Jacob leaned forward and kissed me tenderly on the forehead, like he had done so many times before. The difference was, this time a shiver went up my spine. How odd, maybe I was in love with him after all…

“Jake? Is that you?” My mother’s voice rang clear as she came to join us. Jake immediately released me. Our regular PDA’s – Public Display of Affection – made her a bit uncomfortable, and that made me a little jealous.

“Hey Bells,” Jake said conversationally “How’s Katherine, or whatever her name is?”

“Karen,” I jabbed him in the gut with my elbow, he didn’t even flinch. Darn.

“She seems very nice, and of course Alice is thrilled.” Mother replied happily “I’m thinking she can stay with Renesmee until we get an addition built to the main house, you don’t mind do you?” she asked me.

“Oh gosh no!” I cried passionately “She can stay with me for the whole summer. Of course we’ll be off to university next fall anyway.” I smiled slyly.

Mother blinked. “Oh right.”

“Is she and Alice done their conversation? I want to introduce her to Jake.”

“Umm… are you sure that’s not a bit too quick?” Mother frowned at me uncertainly.

“Or do you just want me to leave now?” Jacob said sarcastically.

No!” I snapped, grabbing Jake’s hand “Jacob’s staying. So is Karen.” And with a firm set of determination on my face, I dragged Jacob over to Emmett’s favourite arm-wrestling boulder.

“You’re in love with a what?” Karen cried. She was lying lengthwise on my huge bed, her bare feet propped up on my pillow, staring at me incredulously.

I was perched on my headboard, my kneed pulled up to my chest. My bed was a lavish affair purchased soon after my third birthday. Alice had chosen my ‘little kid’ bed but after a couple years all the pink gauze had gotten in the way of my sleeping, so I picked out something new and more practical. I now had a lavender comforter and pristine white sheets that kept me cozy on even the chilliest of nights. My wooden headboard had been hand carved with my name – Renesmee – surrounded by sprays of ivy and honeysuckle. I absentmindedly traced the patterns while Karen and I chatted.

“A werewolf,” I said simply. Jake was outside now with the rest of my family, waiting for the right time to be introduced. I had thought it better to break the news in private.

“But… how…?” Karen stuttered. “He looks like a normal guy. I don’t understand.”

So I had to explain most of it to her. How Jake could phase and how in a ‘normal’ world werewolves and vampires were mortal enemies but my mother and I had brought them together. Then I had to explain the imprinting.

“So basically,” Karen said once I had finished, “You guys are, like, destined to be together even though your first instincts are to kill each other.”

“Well, yeah – I guess.”

“This world is crazy.”

“Tell me about it.”

“So now what? Do I get to meet him formally or something?”

Sure, I hopped off my bed and went to the window. “Jake! Karen wants to formally meet you!” I hollered.

We went outside slowly. Karen had promised not to lose control when Jake phased, but I was still worried. I knew my family would be able to restrain her, but the thought of Jacob in danger made me tremble.

“Okay, ready?” Jacob said hesitantly, his arms out protectively in front of him even though Karen was twenty feet away.

“Yes.”

Alice had pinned Karen’s arms behind her back. It was even more worrisome since Karen had been completely deprived from vampire contact throughout her existence, so no one knew how she would react to a werewolf. Alice hadn’t been able to predict an attack, but we all knew, Alice’s visions were subjective. I had to do everything in my power to keep my Jake safe.

I should have known that all the worry was for nothing. When Jacob phased, Karen’s eyes widened in shock, but she made no move towards him.

“Jacob wants to know what you are thinking,” my father translated for him.

“I’m surprised,” she stuttered “And I’m trying to figure out of that horrid smell is you.”

Father chuckled quietly.

“Yes, that would be him.”

Karen wrinkled her nose. “I don’t know how you can stand it all the time.”

“We try,” Alice laughed as she released her niece’s arms.

I sighed in relief as Jacob dashed off to the woods to regain his proper form. So all the secrets were out now. We had permanently gained a new member to the Cullen family.

The only thing I wondered now was how long it would take before Alice gave her a full body makeover.

Victim

“Hmmm… what will I do with you, now…” Alice sang as she danced around a terrified-looking Karen, brandishing a pair of lethal looking scissors and an enormous hairbrush.

It had only been three days since I had brought Karen home with me and, of course, she had to pass Alice’s assessment on if she was presentable enough or not. As I had expected, with her blunt unflattering cut and frumpy clothes, Karen needed some work done.

“Some longer layers might look nice,” Rosalie suggested helpfully from the doorway, She and Emmett had returned from their vacation yesterday, and were thrilled by our new family addition. Emmett had bet me that it would be less than three days before Alice got to Karen, I had bet on more than three. I had lost. Alice had said as she marched down the long Cullen staircase and had stopped in front of Karen, and said ‘I’ve put up with this long enough, but I can’t stand it anymore. You. Are. Getting. A. Makeover.’

“I’m thinking that too.” Alice said thoughtfully. Then she frowned and her eyes defocused for a moment, before blinking an returning to the present. “Nope, that’s not going to work,” she said “I saw it. It’s not good. How about…”

Alice spent the next ten minutes pinning up various parts of Karen’s black hair. She searched for the outcome of her newest idea, before muttering darkly and then playing with another bunch of hair. It was fun to watch: Alice going from future to present and back again. But it gave me a headache.

“Well,” Alice said finally “I’ve exhausted all the options. As much as I don’t want to do this I’m going to have to take desperate measures – I’m going to have to give you this,” she gestured sadly to her own spike ‘do.

“I’m getting a cut like yours?” Karen asked.

“It’s the only thing that will look nice,” Alice frowned for a second. She didn’t like the idea of someone else having the same hair as her. “But,” her face brightened “Then we can be twins!”

We – Karen, Rosalie and I – all laughed.

Alice adjusted her razor sharp scissors in her hand and began to chop away.

A minute later, we were shoved out of the room by an adamant Alice. “I want it to be a surprise,” she said before shutting the door.

It wasn’t like we didn’t know what was coming since Karen and Alice would look identical with their matching cuts. But Alice was her own force of nature when she wanted something a certain way, so Rosalie and I waited in Alice’s bedroom until we were summoned.

Even though Alice was my favourite Aunt, I would never tell Rose that. She was the one that stood up for me when everyone else wanted to kill me – yes, Jacob had told me everything after I requested details. Mother, of course, was furious, but Jake couldn’t help himself with the whole giving-me-everything-I-want-when-I-ask thing. I had forgiven Rosalie for willing to forfeit my mother’s life for mine (I was special after all) but she never seemed quite so lovely after that.

“So Nessie,” she said conversationally, “Have you and Karen made plans to go back to university in the fall?”

“No, we haven’t talked about it yet. I think she might though, since it’s pretty obvious she’s not going to leave the family.”

I thought about it for a while. Karen couldn’t possibly stay while I was away. She was my best friend after all, even though she was technically family. The thought of Karen here – taking my place and all the attention – without me, was disturbing.

“Hmm… that’s good –”

“Rose!”

“That would be Emmett, I guess I’d better go,” she said ruefully and breezed downstairs.

I wanted to be the first one to see the new and improved Karen, so I waited for the next fifteen minutes in Alice and Jasper’s bedroom. I paced, I fiddled with my bronze curls, I twiddled my thumbs, not wanting to disturb any of the perfect organization. Unfortunately, my range of vampire abilities didn’t include sitting still. Finally, after I read all the names of the CDs on the shelf twice, Alice called me in.

“Ta daaa!” she cried, gesturing to Karen, seated in front of the mirror.

If I hadn’t known it wasn’t Alice in the chair I would have swore it was. Sitting down, you couldn’t see the height difference, just the back of a spiky black head. Karen turned to face me and her grin was electrifying.

“W-o-w,” she said. “I look… great!”

“Of course you do,” Alice scoffed. “I did this after all.” She began to say something else, but was cut off by Jake’s voice, echoing up the stairs.

“Nessie…” he whined “Are you done yet?”

I rolled my eyes, but wasn’t really annoyed. “Come on, Karen, let’s introduce the new and improved you.”

Change of Plans

The person’s who’s face I was the most anxious to see was Jasper’s. I wondered how he would react to a sister-on-law that looked almost identical to his wife. Fortunately, he only nodded approvingly as Karen descended the grand staircase with me and Alice behind her. I guess love didn’t have everything to do with appearance. But I knew that already.

“You look lovely!” Esme gushed when she saw Karen for the first time.

“It is an improvement,” Rosalie commented “Not… that you weren’t pretty before.”

“I know, I know,” Karen rolled her eyes “I looked like a hag. But now that Alice is finished with me, I actually feel pretty!”

“I don’t think Alice is totally finished with you…” Mother winked “You’re only redone from the neck up. Your clothes still need to be sorted out.”

I grinned. Karen was now wearing a pair of my mother’s faded jeans and one of my green cashmere shirts. The pants fit okay, but the shirt was a size too small. It really emphasized her curvy frame, but I didn’t think Alice would go for it. And I knew that Karen felt guilty having to borrow clothing from me, Mother, Rosalie and Esme (Alice’s clothing was way too small for her neice).

“Oh, Nessie,” Alice said abruptly, “Can I talk to you for a second?”

“Sure,” I replied and followed her into the kitchen. Alice looked… uncomfortable. It was very odd, I had never seem Alice look like that before.

“Umm… So you know how we’re going shopping in Paris next week?”

“Yes?” I asked eagerly. It had been tradition every since I turned two, for Alice and I to spend a week in Europe, shopping. We didn’t buy much, but it was expensive!

“Umm… about that,” Alice paused and grimaced “Do you mind if Karen comes?”

“Sure! That would be awesome?” I cried enthusiastically. Then I paused. Why was Alice looking so guilty? All we needed to do was get another ticket–

Oh.

“You can’t get another ticket, can you?”

“Well, I checked, but there aren’t any available at such short notice.” Alice said unhappily “But I could always call back and bribe the pilot to get her on, it wouldn’t be that hard! It’s just in case… Karen really needs new clothes! I mean, she can’t keep borrowing all of ours! I hoped you would understand that…”

Disappointment surged through me. Of course Alice wanted to take Karen along with her – and I had a sneaking suspicion that it wasn’t just about the clothes. Alice wanted to spend quality time with her niece didn’t she? Time that would be ruined if I tagged along. Alice must have foreseen that.

“No, it’s okay, go with Karen,” I heard myself mumble “You’ll have a good time together.”

“Are you sure?” Alice’s eyes were wide with apprehension “I’m sure it would be no problem to get you a seat too, I feel horrible asking you to do this.”

“It’s fine,” the voice from my mouth said louder, “It’s only clothes anyway. We can go another time.”

“Well, if you’re sure,” said Alice “I’ll go tell Karen!”

After Alice left the room, trying to hide her satisfaction. I stood in the kitchen for a while. Shut up! I had wanted to tell the voice that was speaking for me This is not okay! I am not fine! How could Alice do this to me! These aren’t just clothes! This is about my relationship with Alice! I won’t have it messed up by Karen!

Still fuming inside, I turned, and went out the side door, calling Jacob on my cell.

“I’m going hunting, meet me in the woods,” I said abruptly, and hung up before Jake could say a word.

“Renesmee?”

I sighed, I should have known this was coming. Father was waiting for me, alone. No doubt he had heard the whole conversation and my thoughts.

“Hi,” I said resignedly.

“I’m so sorry,” said Father “Do you want me to talk to Alice?” he opened his arms to console me but I brushed him off, stalking towards trees. Father didn’t follow.

I knew I shouldn’t have brushed him off like that, he was only trying to help. But Father was always understanding too understanding. He should have told me that I was being selfish, that I was only thinking of my own happiness and not of Alice and Karen. I didn’t care if he heard that, I didn’t care if he was hurt. I was feeling… I didn’t even know what I was feeling at the moment, but I wanted, I needed, to escape.

A wolf Jacob met me at the edge of the woods. I only had to be with him and I could feel my fears dissolving. We didn’t speak – as Jacob physically couldn’t – but only ran and hunted. There were a group of deer nearby and I took down two immediately, filling myself with the warm delicious blood.

A while later, when we were ready to return, I heard footsteps echoing in the summer stillness. It was Karen. She ran gracefully over to us and stopped a couple meters in front of me. She seemed distressed even though I could tell she was trying to hide it. Great, she looks even more sad than I am, now I’ll probably end up being the bad guy…

“Renesmee… Alice explained what you did for me and I am really very grateful. You aren’t mad, are you?” she appraised my indifferent expression, I tried to make my response light:

“It’s fine, really. Well sure, I’d love to go shopping in Paris, but I think you need it more than I do.” I secretly hoped that she did pick up on the insult.

“No, it’s not fine! I’m here feeling horrible because I took your trip away form you an you’re saying it’s okay, when I know inside it’s not okay!” Karen stamped her foot, making an enormous hole in the ground. I wouldn’t be surprised if it triggered an earthquake nearby.

Her voice seemed so sincere, I suddenly felt guilty. Here I was, trying to remain the center of my family, while Karen was trying to build a relationship with her aunt, who I wasn’t even really related to. I decided then and there that the trip didn’t matter at all. Karen was my best friend, and – even though I hadn’t had a best friend before – I knew that I couldn’t be selfish.

I ran up to Karen and put my arms around her.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” I said “Let’s pretend this never happened. I wouldn’t be able to bear it if you hated me, especially when we’re off to university in the fall.”

“Thank you,” her voice rang out sincerely.

“Well I guess I’m all done for today,” I ran over to Jacob and planted a kiss on his shaggy cheek. “I’ll see you soon okay?”

Jacob darted off into the woods and I turned to run back with Karen.

“Our first fight,” Karen said, was it… proudly? “I’ve never had a best friend before so I’m rather happy to have someone to fight with.”

I rolled my eyes “If you could even call that a fight. We weren’t even yelling or anything! What a disappointment we are…”

We laughed together, and our laughter sounded like music or a birdsong.

“Hey, do you want to watch a movie tonight or something?” Karen asked “We can chat about our crushes – well, you can talk about Jacob, and I can make something up; we can tell our most embarrassing moments; we can play truth or dare, or fear factor or something; and we can see who can stay up the longest!” she winked, I laughed “It’ll be just like in the books and movies!”

“Sure!” I grinned “Except I don’t think that sleepovers are meant for vampires. Key word, sleep.”

“No problem, You can do the sleeping.”

“Then I’ll dare you to drink a can of soda.”

“And I’ll dare you to eat a bag of chips.”

We both made faces.

“Fear Factor here we come,” I grumbled.

Black Sheep

So the sleepover turned out to pretty great after all, and I did end up eating a bag of chips. Mother suggested plain ones – they had been her favourite as a human, and had the least flavour – but after I finished, I had to go to the freezer (always stocked with human food, just in case) and rinse my mouth out with whatever blood was still frozen onto the rock-hard, icy steak. It was rather disgusting, but at least it got the gross chip taste out.

By one-in-the-morning I was pooped. I could not understand how the normal humans could stay up all night, like I had seen in movies. So, grudgingly, I said goodnight to Karen and my parents, then slumped to my bedroom, yawning continuously. My cozy sheets formed a snug warm cocoon around my body and it wasn’t even a minute before I fell asleep.

It seemed like a second later I was waking up. The sky was still dark, as I could see through my window, and the alarm clock on my night table glowed 4:27am. I tried to roll over and go back to sleep but after a couple seconds tossing and turning my patience ran out.

One little sheep… two little sheep… three little sheep… yawn… four little sheep… God, this is getting boring… Umm… When I consider everything that grows… Holds in perfection, but a little moment… No, Shakespeare wasn’t going to help me. So instead of counting sheep or reciting sonnets I resigned myself to simply lie still and wait.

Some voices in the kitchen caught my attention.

“… I’m so happy that Nessie has a vampire friend her own age,” Mother was saying.

“I’m really glad to have met her,” Karen said sincerely “I can’t really remember having best friends as a human, so it’s nice to have someone who isn’t family that I can have fun with.”

“Yes, well I hope you don’t have too much fun,” Mother teased “I would like my daughter to learn something when you’re at university in the fall.”

There was a bit of silence. I tried to make my breathing sound regular in case anyone was listening, but no one made any notice that I was conscious.

“About that…” said Karen, “I’ve been thinking about it and I’m not quite sure if I want to go back in the fall. I’ve been spending my twelve years as a vampire in school, and I’ve just found a home here. Alice is a darling and I love her to bits, and I don’t think that I would be happy away from everyone when I’ve just met you all.”

“I see…” Mother’s tone was concerned and a little shaper than before “Have you told Renesmee about this?”

“Not yet, I’m still figuring it out.”

“Well I think you should tell her as soon as she gets up. She’s been looking forward to the fall ever since you’ve met and I think the news would be a terrible heartbreak to her. I don’t like admitting this, but Nessie is quite spoiled and isn’t used to anything going different than she had planned out in her mind. After the fiasco today with the trip to Paris, I think it will put her over the edge.”

I plugged my ears. I didn’t want to hear any more. Karen wasn’t coming to university with me in the fall. Mother thought I was spoiled. I knew deep down that that statement was the truth, but mothers weren’t supposed to say that about their daughters! Especially to a girl that hadn’t even been with my family for two weeks! I didn’t notice, but my eyes had overflowed with tears. Damn teenage hormones, I thought reproachfully, If I weren’t for them I wouldn’t be over reacting like this!

Soundlessly, with the instincts of vampire, I slipped off of my bed and leaped out of my window into the night and started running.

There was the beginning of a faint orange glow on the horizon and I knew I only had an hour or so left until morning. My feet knew the way easily so I could concentrate fully on my own unhappiness.

Alice loved Karen more than me.

Karen loved Alice more than me.

Mother thought I was spoiled.

Carlisle was more fascinated with Karen (it was true, I had caught them speaking about Karen’s vampire history and self-restraint only yesterday).

I was five years old and already my family had ditched me.

I wasn’t even a vampire for God’s sake!

I was the black sheep of my family…

I tried to sort out my emotions as I ran. I couldn’t quite say I was sad, or angry, or depressed. I felt myself hating Karen and all the trouble she caused for me, at the same time as I felt a deep longing for something I couldn’t put my finger on. I didn’t really hate Karen, just all the attention she was getting. And what did I long for? With a start I realized what this meant, and why I was having such trouble coping with this emotion. I was jealous!

Now that I said it, it seemed perfectly clear to me. In my five years, I had never had any competition for my family’s affection. They all doted on me and I basked in the glow of their love. Now there was a new girl to change all of that. But at least, I knew there was one person who’s love would never change, and I was headed to his house in La Push right now.

Jacob was snoring when I tapped the glass of his bedroom window, just hard enough to get his attention. His eyes snapped open, and upon seeing my tearstained face, was out of the window in a flash and had me in his arms.

“Nessie… Nessie,” he crooned, hugging me, “What happened?”

“Oh, Jake,” I sniffed “It’s not bad, really. I’m just so jealous of Karen, and it’s making me feel sick! How I can want more and more attention from everyone when that’s really being terribly selfish…” I sniffed a few more times, and Jacob took my hand and we walked through the woods and down to the shore.

The waves were light and foamy and the breeze was warm, so we cuddled in front of an enormous piece of driftwood and I poured out my irrelevant, teenage woes. Most of it was silent, as I pressed the palm of my hand to Jacob’s cheek and replayed the scene’s with Alice, and the one I had just overheard. Of course, it had been perfect to pick Jacob for this. He knew exactly when to say something that would make me feel better, and how to hug me that would warm me all the way to the bottom of my heart.

“That’s it,” I said as I pulled my hand away from Jacob’s cheek “That’s how I’m feeling right now… unloved.”

“Well I love you,” Jake said huskily, but there was something in his voice that had never been there before. I turned to him, lifting my face upwards, trying to figure out what he was thinking. But I stopped as Jacob slowly leaned his head down…

And touched his lips to mine.

I froze. Jacob had never kissed me like this before. He had kissed me, of course, but never on my lips. Jacob kissed me on my forehead, my cheeks, my nose and even my hand when we had played dress-up and I was the royal queen. But never on my lips.

Jacob and I had never been in love. We loved each other, but we weren’t in love love like my parents were, or like Sam and Emily. But now that was changing. I felt a new kind of love hit me like a ton of bricks. And it make me feel tingly right from my head to the tips of my toes and the bottom of my heart. I didn’t even remember Karen and the pit of despair I had been in only moments before. The only thing I thought about was reaching up, and pressing my lips to his once more.

Enough for Eternity

I was running through a field under the blazing sun. My skin was glowing as I leaped through the tall grass and flowers, moving towards something unknown. A second later I recognized my family, all together with arms open to embrace me. My smile widened and I quickened my pace, eager to reach them sooner.

Then something passed me from behind. With a start I saw the figure of Karen speeding ahead of me, towards my welcoming family. I watched as she reached them first and was enfolded in a loving embrace. It wasn’t me they were waiting for after all. I stopped dead in my tracks as Karen, accompanied by the rest turned and melted through the trees, the sound of their happy laugher ringing in my ears…

“Renesmee Carlie Cullen get up this instant!”

I started. This wasn’t a part of my dream – or should I say nightmare. Confused, I replayed the words in my head, trying to find some meaning. My brain seemed to be working at a sluggish pace.

“Renesmee Cullen if you aren’t up in one second I will be very angry!”

Angry. That wasn’t good. But my father never woke me up in the mornings, why should he be yelling at me today? I instinctively moaned and rolled over onto my side groping around to try and find my pillow to cover my head with. Instead my hand touched something hot… too hot. My eyes snapped open.

The first thing I saw was Jacob, snoring peacefully, his sweet, kissable mouth open ever so slightly. His long dark hair falling messily into his beautiful face. Then I swiveled around to find my father’s comparatively unhappy face staring down at me. I looked past him into the sky. It was still dark out, even though I saw the faintest glow on the horizon. My instincts told me it was just before five in the morning. I hurriedly ran over my recent memories to find some explanation for this bizarre situation, and the memories came, good and bad.

I was in deep trouble.

“Good morning, Renesmee. Did you have a nice night?” My father asked icily.

“Umm…” I tried to find words that would redeem myself, but none came.

“Get up. And don’t wake the dog. You have got some explaining to do,” Dad turned and started walking in the opposite direction. I hastily got up and followed.

Dad explained that Mom had noticed my absence three hours earlier when she went to check on me. Immediately realizing I was gone, my family searched the woods all around the property and, after no avail, Mother got it into her head that I must be with Jacob. Then they had to track down Sam, and make sure they had permission to cross onto the La Push territory.

“Bella is in a fit of worry,” Father muttered as we ran through the trees “She had no idea where you were and of course began imagining all sorts of unpleasant things. She thought you might have been sleepwalking and fallen off a cliff, or had been kidnapped. I don’t know what possessed you to run off like that!”

“I can show you if you want,” I whispered reluctantly. The story was bound to get out eventually. I was being very careful not to think about it in case he got the wrong idea; showing would be the better option.

“I’d like to see it.”

We slowed to a stop and I pressed my hand to his, letting the memories of the previous night flow through me and into him. The continued up to when I was with Jacob on the beach. I stopped abruptly there, and withdrew my hand.

“You see now?”

My father still didn’t look happy, but he wasn’t as angry as he had been before.

“I understand now,” he admitted “Not that I quite understand your reaction, but I at least know what triggered it.”

We began running again and didn’t stop until we had reached our little house.

Karen’s POV

Renesmee was getting on my nerves, and that was an understatement. I had been so worried when she had disappeared like that, simply to find out later that I was the reason for all this trouble. Not a very nice thought. And I wasn’t the one being jealous and stubborn. I tried to avoid Renesmee for the next couple hours, but she cornered me in the living room, and I wasn’t about to jump through a wall of glass.

“I’m really sorry,” Renesmee apologized “I didn’t mean to! I just over reacted a little… it was probably just some teenage hormones! Can’t we still be best friends?”

“Oh stop blaming it on the fact that you’re a teenager!” I snapped involuntarily “You’re jealous and everyone knows it. Why don’t you just get over yourself and suck it up?”

That stung. Renesmee’s eyes widened and then narrowed.

“Fine. I guess since you’ve made your decision, I’m going to make mine. I’m not going to university in the fall either! I’ve got Jacob now. I don’t need you!” she stalked off.

I turned and stalked off in the opposite direction.

Renesmee’s POV

I expected Karen to be angry, but not that angry. What she said stung, and I wasn’t used to being insulted. So I shot back that I wasn’t going to university either. Actually, I hadn’t thought before I said that, it just slipped out. But when I thought about it later, it made perfect sense. Now that Jacob and I had entered another phase to our relationship, it would be all the harder to stay away from him. And I wasn’t up to the challenge.

So I guess Karen and I aren’t the best of friends after all.

But who cares? I have Jacob now, and that’s enough for eternity.


Bella's Amnesia

Written by: VegitarianxVampire
You can read the original post here:
All Credit goes to the Original Author

Snow fell in tiny flurries as I watched out the window, half-listening to Alice whine about something involving shoes… Bella was lost- I could tell by the frazzled look in her eyes.

“Don’t you agree?” Alice asked, trying to make some kind of point.

“Um, sure?” Bella said, making it sound like a question. Alice rolled her eyes, sending an elbow toward my ribs- I dodged it cleanly.

“Hey,” she said to me, “does your girlfriend have any sense in fashion? She wouldn’t know a Gucci knockoff if it hit her in the face.”Bella blushed deliciously, looking down at her painfully conservative ensemble- a thin jacket, deep blue jeans, and a simple t-shirt. Besides her face, neck, and hands, not a single centimeter of her creamy skin showed. I groaned mentally- she was torturing me.

“I don’t look that bad, do I?” she asked, turning to me.

I smiled nervously. “You already know what I think.” I said, “You would look amazing in a paper sack.” One very revealing paper sack.

I smacked myself mentally. Get your head out of the gutter I ordered myself.

“Anyway,” Alice continued, narrowing her eyes at me, “I’m cutting class after lunch. Are you two in?”

“Sure.” Bella said, “They’re talking about blood and plasma donation today, anyway.” I just nodded, agreeing. We all dumped our trays, and Alice had to run to her locker, so I walked slowly through the lot with Bella.

Hey, look- Cullen and Bella. Now might be the time to turn on the charm. I immediately recognized Mike Newton’s mental voice and turned to where he stood, about fifty yards away. Bella had not noticed my halt and kept walking. Suddenly, Mike raised his hand to his mouth and called “Hey, Bella!”

Even for me, it all happened so fast. One second, Bella was walking to my car, and the next, she turned her head too fast, lost her questionable balance, and fell to the ice-covered ground. Her head ricochet off of the ground with a sickening ‘crack’ before settling again. She did not cry out. She did not move.

“Bella!” we both yelled. I sprinted to her side, not bothering to act human, while Newton ran slowly to us.

I heaved a sigh of relief- her heart was still beating.

Oh God, no. Mike pleaded mentally, reaching for her.

I snarled. “Keep your hands off of her, you idiot!” I hissed, my voice deadly as I scooped Bella’s unconscious figure up into my arms. “This is your fault!” I yelled behind me as I ran towards the nurses office. I kicked the door open and stepped into the warm little office.

“Oh my!” the nurse cried, taking in the angel in my arms.

I swear, we get more accidents from this girl… she thought. I gave her a harsh look as I settled Bella onto the cot. I lifted her head and placed my cold fingers gingerly to her scalp. I was horrified at what I felt- there was a golf ball sized lump near the base of her skull. I gasped.

“Bella? Bella, love, can you hear me?” I asked, an edge of panic creeping into my voice. She mumbled, and the door flew open- in stepped Newton and the secretary. Suddenly, her eyes fluttered open. She gasped and sat up, immediately grasping her head.

“Bella, love, I think you should lay back down.” I said soothingly, resting my hand on her thigh. I was shocked when she pushed it away.

“Who are you?” she demanded, sounding disgusted, “And why are you calling me ‘love‘?”

The door flew open again, and Alice flew in, her face terrified. I had a vision. she gulped mentally.

“Love, you hit your head and-”

She cut me off. “Why are you calling me ‘love’?” she demanded again, “I don’t know you, and I certainly don’t love you.”

“Ouch,’ Alice hissed, her eyes pitying.

I clutched my stomach, my eyes wide as I began to cough uncharacteristically. I had only heard those words from her in my worst nightmares, or whatever vampires had. She…didn’t…love…me??? I collapsed to my knees in front of her, still coughing. Mike smirked.

“You better wipe that smirk off your face, Newton.” I hissed through my teeth. He chuckled.

“What is up with this freak?” Bella shrieked to no one in particular, driving the knife in deeper. But then, she collapsed again, falling onto her side. She hopped up again, looking at me.

“E-Edward?” she stammered, looking confused. I hung my head.

“She had amnesia, Edward.” Alice whispered. I didn’t move.

“What happened, Edward?” Bella asked, putting her hand on my shoulder.

I launched up, wrapping my arms around her. “I love you. Do you love me?” I said, my voice shaking. How gay is this? Mike complained in his mind.

“Of course I love you!” she cried, returning my embrace, “What could possibly make you doubt that?”

I hesitated. “It doesn’t matter anymore.” I whispered, still holding her.

“I love you.” she said. “With all of my heart.”

“Give me a break!” Mike yelled before storming out. I laughed- he would never know the amazing feeling of her love. And that gave me a very warm feeling inside.

Another Heart Calls

Written by: Kristina Edwards
You can read the original post here:
All Credit goes to the Original Author

Bella struggled through the evening, and looked at the clock for what seemed every twenty seconds. “Alice why did you put me through this?” she groaned in her head.

The man sitting across from her continued talking, just like the rest. He probably expected to get some reward for being insanely boring, just like the rest. Soon, Alice would pay for this. And not through another shopping trip. To Bella’s surprise, the night ended quickly, where she asked to be dropped off at her apartment. The man seemed reluctant, but let her go. Bella got out of the car before he could ask for a second date.

Once inside, Bella slipped her death traps off, along with her dress. There was no work tomorrow, and taking a trip to the nearest book store seemed like the perfect way to occupy her time. But before Bella could even move another finger, her phone rang. “Hello?” Bella asked sleepily.

“So how was it?” a smooth high-pitched voice asked. “Terrible. Next time you’re setting me up, do better.” Bella growled, not in the mood for a two hour date analysis by Alice.

“Fine, I’m just trying to help you out you know. It’s not my fault you can’t find someone as wonderful as Jasper.” Alice said dreamily, obviously referring to her boyfriend of two years.

Bella rolled her eyes. “Whatever Alice, I gotta go.” She sighed, hanging up her phone. Bella jumped into bed, completely ready to forget about the past few nights. Filled with the same guys, same dates, over and over. “Something new, just give me something new.” Bella pleaded into her pillow before slowly drifting off.

Bella ran into the bookstore, getting out of the rain. It was perfect reading weather. She made her way to the back of the store, where all her classics were kept. Jane Austen was practically calling her name. Despite her soaked hair, and raincoat still on, someone stopped her quickly.

“Excuse me…” but he was cut off as soon as Bella looked at him. His stare lingered on her for a moment before he stumbled on. Bella wasn’t even paying attention, his intense eyes caught her. Everything about him was perfect. The way his emerald eyes reflected in the light, millions of emotions playing in them. His bronze hair with a tint of red. He turned to look at her, making Bella open her mouth slightly.

“Um…sorry…what was that again?” Bella snapped herself out of the stare. He spoke again, glancing at her every few moments. “I’m looking for a book for my brother and I was wondering if you worked here?” he asked slowly. Bella shook her head quickly.

“Sorry no. But I come here a lot, what are you looking for exactly?” she asked. “He’s into hunting and that kind of stuff. I really have no idea what to get him…” he chuckled slightly, glancing around nervously.

“Well, there are some recreational books over there.” Bella pointed to the left side of the store, beginning to head in that direction. He followed close behind her, not being able to help his staring. Bella stopped at a few of the hunting books.

“What exactly does he hunt?” she asked, looking up at him. The man stared at the books, “Um…I really have no idea. Hunting isn’t my forte.” He said reaching for a random book. ‘Hunting for Dummies.’ Bella smiled at him.

“This will fit him perfectly.” He said pointing to the word ‘dummies.’ Bella laughed lightly and looked at the book again. “Well glad I could help.” She said, turning to leave. “No, um wait!” The man said, making Bella pivot around to look at him. His appearance seemed even more breathtaking every time she looked at him.

“I..uh…didn’t get your name?” he asked. “Oh, Bella Swan.” She said, holding out her hand. He shook it, a smile spreading across his face. “Edward Cullen. Um…I was wondering if you wanted to join me for some coffee?” he asked confidently. Bella’s face brightened. “I would love to Edward.” She replied.

“Well I have a few more errands to do. Would you mind meeting me somewhere later?” Edward asked looking at his watch. Bella couldn’t help but notice how expensive it looked. In fact, everything about him looked expensive.

“That’d be fine. How about that coffee place next door?” Bella asked, pointing to the right side of the store. Bella loved going there, usually she would grab a book here then settle down next door with a latte or something.

“That sounds wonderful. How about I meet you there at four?” he asked. “Great. I’ll see you then Edward!” Bella said, turning to leave. He nodded and then headed to the front of the store. Bella returned to the section she was in, completely unable to concentrate. Did that really just happen to her? Plain old Bella who always got idiotic guys for dates, just got the most incredibly handsome, and obviously kind Edward Cullen for a date? Bella’s mind was running in circles, making it impossible to concentrate.

She took out her phone, dialing the first number that came to mind. Alice picked up right away. “May I help you?” Alice asked cheerfully. “Um yeah…prepare me for the first date I’m looking forward to in a long time.” She said. Alice squealed.

“Your place. Right now. Move it.” Alice said, hanging up. Alice actually did a good job when it came to making her acceptable. Just as long as she didn’t make her change her outfit, Bella would be fine. It was after all, just a coffee date.

With the most magnificent man Bella had ever met. That thought made her anxious.

At 3:45 pm, Bella was literally freaking out. Alice gave her one last glance before declaring her date-ready.

Alice had agreed that the outfit changing would make it seem that Bella had spent hours upon hours getting ready for a simple coffee date, so Alice gave her a small about of eyeliner, a light eye shadow, and some pink lip gloss. Not the usual Alice look, but it made Bella happy.

“Thank you Alice.” Bella smiled, reaching for the door. “Good luck!” Alice said hanging out on Bella’s couch. That seemed to be a habit of Alice’s. When Bella went out on certain dates, Alice raided Bella’s giant collection of movies and waited for her to get home so she could go over the date. However if there was any possible chance Bella like the guy and decided to bring him home, Bella would secretly text her to say, get out. A weird little system they had worked up.

Umbrella in hand, Bella walked through the rain, hoping not to get her jeans too wet. It was exactly four when she arrived. To her surprise, Edward was already there. He motioned for her to join him. Bella walked over, sitting down.

“Hello.” He said in a smooth voice. “Hi.” She greeted, setting her jacket behind her chair. “If I knew you were going to walk, I would have given you a ride.” He said, observing how she was a little damp.

“Its fine, I only live a few blocks away. And my truck doesn’t run too well in the rain.” She said, frowning at the idea of driving her wretched vehicle. Edward nodded, glancing outside. “Wow, it’s really raining.” He commented.

“Yeah…” Bella looked outside as well. Ugh, the weather? That was the best they could do? “You want anything to drink?” he asked, turning his attention back to her. “Um, a latte would be fine.” She said, smiling at him.

He nodded, getting up and returning with two lattes. “So you go to that bookstore a lot?” he said, glancing at the wall that was next to the bookstore. “Yes, it’s closest to my apartment. I usually go there on rainy days because I can’t find much else to do.” She said.

“Oh, I go to a bookstore that one of my brother owns. I get a discount.” He smiled. “But when I went there this morning, I couldn’t find anything in there. So I looked around.” He continued. Bella nodded, suddenly remembering something.

“What did you say your last name was?” she asked. “Cullen.” He answered taking a sip of his latte. “Cullen…” Bella repeated. “What’s your brothers name?” she asked. “I have two brothers. Emmett and Jasper.” He said, smiling at her. Maybe she knew one of her brothers. Or she was one of Emmett’s many ex-girlfriends. That thought made him upset at the possibility.

“Jasper is your brother!” she said elated. “Yes, how do you know him?” he asked, relieved she didn’t know him through Emmett. Nothing good would come from that. “My best friend is dating him right now.” She said, still smiling.

“Alice?” he asked, remembering the small pixie-like girl he had met a few times. “Yes! It’s such a strange coincidence.” She said, looking down. “Strange, but in a good way.” He said. “Of course.” She answered, looking up at him again. Was it just her? Or was it that every time she looked at him, he became more breathtaking?

The date continued as Bella and Edward talked. They covered many topics they both enjoyed such as music, literature, and basically what they did for a living. To Bella’s happiness, he was even close to her age. Edward was 23 as she was 22. Bella glanced at her cell phone and gasped.

Had they really been talking that long? “Whoa, it’s 7:40!” she said. Edward chuckled a little.

“Do you need to get going?” he asked, a little disspointed. “No, I just didn’t realize we’d been talking that long…” she said, looking up at him.

“Hmm, would you like to join me for dinner perhaps?” he asked. Bella grinned. “Sure, that’d be wonderful.” She said, getting up to leave. He followed her, and showing her to his car. A Volvo of course.

Edward took her to an Italian restaurant, that wasn’t too expensive to his dismay. He enjoyed spending money on people he liked. And he certainly liked Bella.

Dinner went pretty much the same, still talking and discussing people they knew. At the end of the night, Edward drove her home and walked her to her apartment.

“I really enjoyed spending this evening with you.” He said hugging her. “Thank you. I really enjoyed it too!” she replied, kissing his cheek.

With that, Bella bid him good bye and retreated up to her apartment. Alice was waiting for her. “So how was it?” she asked. “Incredible. We lost track of time talking Alice! That hasn’t happened…ever!” Bella smiled, sitting next to her.

“Oh and he’s Jaspers brother too.” Bella told her, making Alice scream. “You’d think I would have noticed that…well Jasper never talks about his family and I’ve only met them a few times. I guess Edward just didn’t make himself very known when I was there…” Alice trailed off.

“Yeah, it was amazing though. Edward is…I can’t even describe him. We exchanged phone numbers, so I’m hoping he’ll call soon…” Bella said, taking out her phone with Edwards number in it.

“Well I’m happy for you, I’d stay for the usual date analysis, but I’m tired of sitting on your couch, and I have a certain Jasper Cullen to yell at for not telling me more about his family.” Alice said, hopping off the couch and leaving before Bella could even say good bye. She shook her head at her crazy friend.

Bella walked into the theater. Being an assistant manager kept her busy, but satisfied. It was nice that she not only could see shows for free, but she got paid for keeping everyone in line and making sure the shows ran smoothly.

Bella walked into her office, greeting her secretary. As soon as Bella sat down, her phone rang. The caller ID flashed, “Edward Cullen.” Bella shrieked, picking her phone up immediately.

“Hello?” she said, trying to hide her excitement. “Hello Miss Bella.” Edward purred into the phone. Did he always sound that seductive? “How are you?” Bella asked not being able to think of anything else.

“I’m doing okay, work is getting a little busy, but I’m free for today. I was wondering if you’d like to join me for lunch?” he asked. “I’d love to, my lunch break is at eleven.” She said, wondering how he got off of Hospital shifts so often.

“Great, I’ll pick you up okay?” he said. Bella agreed and hung up, now very excited. They had discussed where she worked anyway, noting all the plays they had both seen.

Bella hurried out of the theater, spotting the Volvo, and the God leaning against it. “Hey!” he said, opening the door for her.

“Hi!” she said sliding in. He ran around to the drivers side getting in. “Where do you want to go?” he asked, starting the car. “I don’t know, pizza sounds good.” She said, thinking about a craving.

“Pizza it is then.” He smiled, taking off. He stopped a pizzeria. A very expensive looking pizzeria. This man was amazing. He opened the door for her, grinning at her the whole time. Bella walked inside with him and they quickly got a table.

Edward asked her how her day had gone, wanting every detail about what she did. It was more interesting than what he did anyway, reading a book he’d probably read over twenty times. He needed to go to bookstores more often. When they finally did get their food, they had decided on sharing a medium garlic chicken pizza.

Something new neither had tried. Bella took a bite and was immediately satisfied. Maybe this was her new favorite restaurant. Edward smiled at her. “You like it? I’ve come here a few times with my brothers. Of course Emmett usually orders a pizza for himself.” Edward shook his head, remembering how Emmett would even finish before them.

“What’s your family like?” Bella asked, still eating. “I don’t really know how to explain my family. We’re different, but traditional at the same time.

My father is a doctor like myself. My mother stays at home most of the time, and my brothers and I live away from home. But we do frequently visit.” He shrugged.

That didn’t even cover half of what his family was like. “Do you work with your dad?” Bella asked. “He works at a hospital closer to my parents house, although I did work there when I first started out. What about your family?” he asked, picking up a piece of pizza.

“My parents divorced when I was really young…” Bella started. Wait, what was she saying? That was one way to explain her family, it made them sound depressed and angry. “But it all works out. My mother remarried and lives in Florida. My dad is a police chief in Forks, Washington. I like visiting my dad a lot so I chose to live in Seattle after I graduated college. I lived in Phoenix most of my life, and the change of weather was kind of nice.” Bella shrugged.

“Oh, sounds like you’ve planned everything out then huh?” Edward smiled, glad she was opening up like this to him. It probably wasn’t easy for her to talk about this so easily to anyone. Bella nodded, and both remained quiet for a while. Bella looked at her cell phone finally and looked up at him.

“Oh I need to get back to work…” she said. “Great, I’ll get the check.” He said, motioning for a waiter to bring him the bill. “You don’t need to pay for it.” Bella said, getting out her purse.

“Yes I do.” He argued. “You paid for the last date.” She reminded him, taking out her wallet. “Bella please, let me pay?” he begged, pouting slightly. Bella laughed, and grinned at him.

“Nope. It’s my turn.” She said, pulling out a credit card and handing it to the waiter. Edward slouched back in his seat. “That’s not fair.” He said. “Oh it’s plenty fair.” She said, leaning forward.

“I get to pay next date.” He said still pouting a little. “Fine…” Bella rolled her eyes, that got him to stop pouting he leaned forward like she was. “You mean I get another date?” he asked eagerly.

“Of course you do! I like you a lot Edward, and you can have as many dates as you like.” She smiled as the waiter brought the receipt for her to sign. Bella got her card back and put it away. “I like you a lot too.” He said getting up and holding up her coat for her. Bella put her arms through it and turned to look at him. They left together, getting in the car quickly. The rain was starting again.

When Edward pulled up in front of the theater, he pulled out an umbrella and walked her to the door. “Bye.” She smiled, hugging him. “Bye.” He said, pulling her closer. She looked up at him, and he leaned down to meet her lips. The kiss was quick, but left both of them in the best mood either of them had in a very long time.

Bella POV

When getting back to work, I found it very difficult to concentrate. Who knew one man could turn my world around after two dates?

By the end of the day however, I found myself exhausted and thoughts of the upcoming shows preparations clogged my mind. At home, I was too tired to even grab something to eat. I flipped on the news barely even paying attention.

My eyes closed and I practically drifted off, if it wasn’t for my cursed phone starting to vibrate. “Hello?” I asked a little sleepily, not bothering with the caller id.

“Hi! Is this Bella?” A very loud voice asked. It practically started a migraine right there. “Um yes, who is this?” I asked, praying this wasn’t anything that had to do with business.

“Emmett, Edwards brother. You see, I’ve stolen his phone and he’s making a very poor attempt at getting it back. Aren’t ya Eddie?” Emmett said in a teasing voice. I could hear a lot of fighting going on in the background.

“Emmett! Give me my phone back!” I heard someone shouting. Probably Edward. I stifled a laugh. “You should probably give Edward his phone back before he kills himself.” I said, remembering how Edward mentioned Emmett’s size. How he could give Edward a black eye in two seconds.

“Nah, this is too much fun. So I here you’re dating my little brother?” Emmett boomed on the other end of the phone. “Is that what he said?” I asked curiously.

“Ooh, Eddie, haven’t I taught you better? Don’t brag about dating someone if you haven’t clarified it with them!” Emmett sounded like he was laughing his head off at his brother.

I didn’t pay attention to Emmett after that. My face had turned a very bright red. Edward had ‘bragged’ that he was dating me. Not only was I flattered he assumed we were dating, but he was actually bragging about it!

When my attention was turned back to the phone, Emmett had been replaced by Edward. “I am so sorry!” he said quickly. I heard a door slam in the background.

“It’s okay, it didn’t sound like there was much you could do…” I trailed off a little, still bright red probably. “I really hope he didn’t annoy you at a bad time.” Edward sounded sincere. More like sincere and humiliated.

“He didn’t annoy me Edward. And I’m not doing much right now. I got done with work and I was just relaxing after today.” I said, stretching a little, as if it would emphasize my point.

“Oh well, then I’ll leave you to relax.” Edward said about to hang up the phone. I stopped him, “No wait! I want to ask you something!” “Anything.” He promised.

“Were you really bragging?” I asked, probably turning redder by the second. Edward chuckled a little. “I guess…I wouldn’t say bragging. But definitely expressing how happy I am that you’ve gone out on a few dates with me.” I could almost hear him smiling.

“Okay.” Was my genius answer. “Have you said anything to anyone?” he asked, obviously curious to know. “Yes I told Alice…after our first date. I haven’t talked to her yet today…” I said. I stopped, that probably sounded like I was someone who kissed-and-told. Which in a way, I was going to be. It wasn’t like I could hide any of this from Alice!

Edward laughed, as if he could sense my embarrassment from my mistake. “Don’t worry, she’s with Jasper right now. We’re actually celebrating Emmett’s birthday over at my place. Jasper was intent on spending tonight with Alice anyways so they’re over right now.” He said quietly. I heard the door slam again.

“EDWARD CULLEN YOU GIVE ME THAT PHONE NOW!” I heard another familiar voice shouting. “Can’t I talk to someone for five minutes without getting interrupted?” Edward growled, probably to himself.

“No you can’t. Now let me talk to my best friend before I beat you for it.” Alice said to him cheerfully.

Edward obviously handed over the phone without a fight. “Hello Bella. I’ve heard all about your little adventure today…” Alice snickered on the phone.

I groaned. This meant Alice knew all about my kiss, and all about Edward. How did I get myself into these things. “And you Bella, are in big trouble for not calling me directly afterwards and telling me.” Alice scolded.

I laughed lightly, “You know me Alice, I don’t kiss and tell.” It was the truth, and no matter how many times Alice tried to change that, I would never spill.

“Fine…Edward looks like he’s going to die if I don’t give the phone back soon, so before he shoots himself I’ll let him say goodbye. Get some sleep, you’ve got a big day tomorrow!” Alice said, the phone going silent for a moment.

What was she talking about? I didn’t have to work tomorrow and I had no plans. What did she mean by ‘big day?’ Edward came back on the phone.

“Sorry…” he muttered, upset. “Not your fault, I know how demanding she can be.” I laughed, attempting at making him feel better.

It worked, he started laughing. “Do you know what she meant by ‘big day?’’ I asked, wondering if he knew. Edward groaned.

“Well, Emmett, his girlfriend Rosalie, Jasper, Alice and I were going to go out clubbing tomorrow night and I was going to invite you if you wanted to go.” Edward said.

“That sounds nice! Other than the fact Alice is probably going to come over and tackle me with beauty products, I’d love to go.” I said, frowning at the idea of all the makeup that would be forced upon me.

“Great, sorry that Alice is going to bug you. I’m sure there’s some way to…” I stopped him. “There’s no possible way to stop Alice. Trust me, I’ve tried.” I said rolling my eyes a little.

He laughed, “Well then I’ll see you tomorrow.” “Yes you will. Goodbye!” I smiled. “Goodbye.” He said, then hung up. I shut my eyes after that, falling asleep on the couch with only thoughts of Edward.

I woke up the next morning with a headache. And tears streaming down my face. Why did I have to keep having that dream? It made everything worse. I should have known it would happen with my luck. Every time that something good happens to me, I’m reminded of why my life sucks so much. I got up off the couch and walked into the kitchen, grabbing some pain medicine from my cabinet. I took three hoping it would kill my headache fast.

After a long shower and some coffee, I sat down to watch the news. Was it just me, or was it that every time I turned on the news, the world got more depressing? All the world seemed to contain now were idiotic criminals, politicians who never took the blame, and the occasional kind-hearted person who accomplished a good deed. The news only emphasized the worst.

I decided to take a walk after that. Something I usually did to clear my head of terrible dreams. But it didn’t really work. I walked through the park, my mood only dampening. All I saw was couples and more couples. And they all looked happy, that’s what made it worse. I kept remembering when he would make me happy and then take my happiness away. I prayed that didn’t happen to anyone here, but it was too hard to look at them. The pain kept coming back.

Before I knew it, I was on the street leading back to my apartment, tears running down my face again. And then it got worse, I kept seeing his face. “Go away…” I murmured to myself as I ascended the stairs. “Just go away…” I whispered, trying to wipe my tears away. When I reached my apartment door, I rushed inside, locking the door. My back slid down the door, finally sitting on the floor. “Go away…” I said a third time, bringing my knees to my chest. I got up off the floor, and almost tiptoed to my bedroom. As if I was hiding from someone. Which, in a way, I was.

I opened my eyes to someone pounding on my door. I glanced at the clock. It was 4:35 pm. Crap. Alice was here. I checked myself in the mirror, no doubt I’d been crying in my sleep. I didn’t bother splashing cold water on my face, it wouldn’t hide anything from Alice. I opened the door, Alice’s cheery face meeting my shadowed and depressed one. Her smile soon faded. “Bella…” she whispered, walking in and throwing her tiny arms around me. “Another one of those days?” she asked, leading me to the couch. The tears started pouring again as I sat down. “I…I’m sorry!” I choked a little.

“Sh…there’s no reason for you to be sorry…” Alice said quietly. I shook my head. There was a reason for me to be sorry. There was a reason why he should be here and not me. Alice sat with me while I cried, like she had many times before. There were occasional days like this, where I couldn’t stop myself and the pain just replayed itself through my head. “Bella, you don’t think he’d want you crying right now would he? He’d want you to be getting ready to go have fun.” Alice said, attempting to cheer me up.

“H…he…sh…should…b…be the one….” I stuttered, not even finishing my sentence. I burst out crying again. “Maybe we should just have a girls night in huh?” Alice said, pursing her lips together. I shook my head. “I…I just w…won’t go. You should go…” I murmured through my crying.

“No Bella. I’m staying with you. I’ll go call Edward…” she said, getting up from the couch. I couldn’t do this to Edward. I had to go, no matter how much pain I was experiencing. “Alice…” I warned, getting up and finding her. I grabbed the phone from her. “I’ll go. I don’t want Edward to think I’m canceling on him. I’ve done that before.” I said, wiping the last of my tears away. “That’s my girl.” Alice smiled, patting me on the back. She disappeared for a moment and returned with two different outfits. “Now, dark blue or aqua?” she giggled. Ah, classic Alice.

Spending time with Alice turned out to be exactly when I needed. We laughed and talked about Jasper, Edward, and even Emmett. Alice described the whole family practically and any funny or interesting aspects of the previous night. I almost wished I had been there. We walked out to Alice’s car, a yellow Porsche. Ms. I love anything expensive. And she had the money to get it too. Which is why Alice dragged me on so many shopping sprees. I had no idea how Jasper put up with her…

“We’re meeting them outside the club.” Alice said, pulling out of the parking ramp. “Are you going to be okay?” Alice asked after a few moments of silence. “I’ll be fine. I just…lost it this morning. But I promise I’ll be okay.” I said, not exactly sure if that was true. Alice bought it though and continued driving. When we reached a parking ramp near the club, I got out quickly, thankful Alice had put me in flats. I was wearing a dark blue halter and some black skinny jeans. For once Alice agreed on comfort, most likely out of pity for my episode this morning and afternoon. We walked across the street and towards the corner. I assumed that’s where we were meeting everyone.

Everyone was there. Jasper embraced Alice, giving her a quick kiss before smiling at me. I smiled back at him and looked at the rather large man that was with us. A very pretty blond was at his side. “Where’s Edward?” I asked, turning to Jasper. “He isn’t here yet, he should be soon.” Jasper shrugged. “Oh so this is Bella!” the large man laughed. I smiled at him. “You must be Emmett.” I smiled at him. “Great, Eddies passed on some sort of information that’s made me look bad.” He frowned. “No, I just remember your voice from on the phone…” I laughed. Emmett started laughing too. “Well it’s nice to meet you Bella!” he smiled. I looked at the blond. “I’m Rosalie.” She said in a friendly voice, holding out her hand. I shook it and smiled at her. “Bella.” I said.

We waited for a few more minutes until Edward finally showed up. He smiled brightly at me and embraced me. “Hi.” He breathed, pulling back a little. I smiled up at him. “Hi.” I couldn’t help it, I started staring. His eyes held me for about five minutes probably before Alice started tugging on our arms. “Let’s go.” She said, rolling her eyes at us. I blushed a little. As we walked towards the club, Edward hooked his arm around me. “Are you okay?” he whispered, staring at me with concern. “I’m fine…why do you ask?” I looked up at him. Edward shrugged. “You just look a little sad…” he said, rubbing my arm.

“I’m fine.” I said again, looking away. We quickly got admitted to the club, being greeted by loud music and a lot of dancers. That reminded me. If Edward didn’t ask me to, Alice would force me onto the dance floor. At least I was wearing flats. Who knows what catastrophes I’d cause on the dance floor in heels. We found a table and sat down. “What do you want to drink?” Edward asked smoothly. “I’m fine for now, alcohol can get to me pretty fast.” I said, remembering a few incidents I’d had at clubs before. Alice started laughing at me, probably remembering the one time I was so drunk I was flirting with Jasper who happened to be with us.

I felt myself turn a little pink as Edward left with the other guys who were getting drinks. “Bella don’t feel bad, I can’t blame you.” Alice giggled. I glared at her. We waited for a few minutes, chatting. Rosalie seemed like a very nice person, and obviously knew Alice well. When the guys returned, Edward sat next to me. He glanced at Alice, and Alice glanced at him. They both looked at me. “What?” I asked, they turned back to look at each other, as if they were having a silent conversation. “Hello?” I waved my hands in front of their faces. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Edward asked, turning to look at me. I glared at Alice again. “What? I just told him…” I cut her off. “Alice!” I shrieked, now extremely embarrassed. Did she tell him the whole story? Alice wouldn’t…

Alice finished after I shrieked, “I just told him you were a little upset today. I texted him while we were waiting.” She said, answering my second question. Edward looked at me concerned. I was one third relieved, another third flattered he was so concerned and another third upset he was worrying over another one of my episodes. It’s not like they hadn’t happened before.

A new song started playing, and I immediately groaned. It was Alice’s favorite song. She squealed and grabbed Jaspers and I hand. I grabbed Edward before she could drag me any further. Edward looked confused, but pleased at the same time. Alice left me with Edward once we’d reached the dance floor. “Do you dance?” he asked seductively, beginning to move himself. “Yes, but usually people get injured.” I stuttered a little. He laughed a little and grabbed by hands. “I won’t let that happen.” He smiled, turning me around.

Overall, dancing wasn’t too bad when you were dancing with Edward. He was incredibly amazing and even made me look acceptable on the dance floor. When both of us were too exhausted to move anymore, we went back to the table and he offered to get me a drink. I agreed and he returned with some sort of fruity concoction. The drink was refreshing enough to make me want to dance again. So we danced some more.

We repeated the cycle a few times until it looked like everyone was about to crash. “What time is it?” I asked, downing another drink. Jasper looked at his watch. “Almost midnight, tired?” he laughed. We were all tired. It’s what we got for getting to the club so early. But it was better if I didn’t stay out too late, work was calling for me tomorrow morning. Edward smiled and grabbed my hand. “I’ll take you home.” He said, pulling me away. I said a quick good bye to everyone, suddenly disappointed I didn’t exactly get a chance to talk to anyone but Edward.

Edward led me to his car, and I noticed he had parked in the same ramp as Alice did. “Are you sober enough to drive?” I asked, remembering we both had been drinking. “Ah, Bella. If you remember, you were the one drinking more than I. I’m fine.” He smiled, opening my door. I slid in, a little dizzy. He got to the drivers side and pulled out of the parking ramp. I rested my head against the seat, another headache was beginning to erupt.

“Bella are you okay?” Edward asked, speeding up a little. “Mmhm.” I murmured, “Just a little headache…it’s what I get for drinking.” I faked a laugh. Edwards tone of voice was only filled with concern. “I’ll get you home.” He promised, holding my hand.

When the car stopped, I was half asleep. Edward got out of the car and opened my door. I slid out a little wobbly. Edward looked like he was trying not to laugh at me. But before I could say anything, he scooped me up in his arms and was carrying me to the building. “Key?” he asked, while I searched my pockets still dizzy. I handed it to him and he walked into the building, still carrying me. What would the neighbors think? “208” I murmured him my room number. He smiled and walked upstairs, finally finding my apartment. He set me on the floor. “Need me to come in with you?” he asked, supporting my weight. I must have been really out of it…

“Sure.” I agreed, snatching the key from him and fiddling with the lock. “Bella…let me.” He said quietly, opening the door with ease. Edward helped me inside and put me on the couch. “Where you do you keep your pain meds?” he asked, moving to my kitchen. What was I thinking? Letting Edward into my apartment? This seemed wrong…and I knew why it seemed wrong. Probably because it was. I felt a few tears slide down my cheeks when he came back, obviously having found all of my medicine. He put the pills on the table and sat down, wrapping his arms around me. “Bella…” he murmured, rocking me back and forth a little. My tears stopped and I pulled away. Edward was making this worse.

“You should go…” I said, standing up. “Are you sure?” he asked, holding me steady. Why did I have to be dizzy? I nodded and he made me sit down. “I’ll call you tomorrow okay?” he said, tilting my chin up. I nodded, pulling away from him a little. He kissed the top of my head and left.

I don’t think I’ve ever cried so much in my life.

The next morning, things seemed to turn up. It wasn’t raining, and my migraine had disappeared. And no thoughts of men clogged my head. I was going to be solely focused on work today. Besides, the next big show was opening up. And I was looking forward to it. So after a stop at the coffee shop and a large mocha, I was completely ready to take on my day. I paraded into the theatre, my confidence reloaded. Maybe I was having daily mood swings or something, but I felt incredible today. Hopefully nothing would ruin it.

After my exhausting day, I was stuck. I had finished almost everything that had to be done in order for next week. Which left me reporting to my boss, the main manager. “Hello?” I asked, walking into the room. Mr. Clearwater sat at his desk, shuffling through papers. “Hello Ms. Swan.” He said, not taking his eyes up from his work. “I…um, finished the preparations you gave me.” I said, placing the stack of files on his desk. Mr. Clearwater looked up at me and smiled. “Well done Ms. Swan. I believe that entitles you to an entire week off.” He laughed. “But please be here for opening night.” I stood there a little shocked. An entire week? My whole life practically revolved around this place. What was I going to do with myself for a week?

“We’ll see you next week.” Mr. Clearwater said, returning to his files. I almost tripped walking out of the room. I never took time off, and I hated doing that as well. Maybe confidence didn’t suit me very well if it meant I was getting an entire week off because of it.

I went home, contemplating what I was going to do. There was nothing I really could do. I had such a routine based life that everything was pretty much taken care of in my apartment. And now I had all this free time. I refused to tell Alice for the moment, she’d probably freak out, and take a week off herself. When I thought about it, my vacation was almost a week and a half! Today was Wednesday, and opening night was next Friday. I could not stand a week and a half with Alice. No human is capable of that.

Don’t forget, I love Alice dearly, but you’d belong in an insane asylum after a week and a half of constant shopping.

Maybe a vacation was something I needed. I did have a ton of extra money that I really hadn’t put to any use. I could get away for a while and visit someplace warm. No, something would go terribly wrong and I’d end up in the hospital or something. What was I going to do.

I got out of the car and walked up to the building. What I saw, shocked me. Edward was standing by the door, and was now walking towards me. “What are you doing here?” I asked quietly. He almost blushed, “Well, you weren’t answering my calls and I wanted to make sure you were alright.” I was honestly touched by this, yet I didn’t know if I could stop myself from feeling guilty if he came up to my apartment. So I smiled at him and nodded. No words coming out of my mouth.

“Obviously you are in one piece, so, I think I’ll go.” He said awkwardly, probably confused by my nodding. “Um…wait!” I said, grabbing his hand. Edward pivoted around a little to fast, and made me fall over. Two arms locked around me, bringing me up again. It wasn’t until I noticed no pain in my head that I realized how close we were. “Sorry.” He murmured, not letting go. I didn’t mind the closeness, in a way it was extremely comforting. I enjoyed the idea of him never letting go.

“It’s okay.” I said, words finally escaping. My mistake was staring into his eyes. They looked like a darker green at night. I couldn’t help but get lost in them. Edward moved his head forward, resting his forehead against mine. He groaned for a minute and pulled away. I noticed he pulled something out of his pocket, his phone no doubt. Edward answered it, putting it to his ear. “No I won’t come with you. No I don’t. Stop calling me that! Emmett!” he groaned a little.

“What is it?” I asked, still incredibly close to his face. “Emmett just won this vacation for six in France.” He groaned. “And he’s trying to drag me along with him.” Edward shrugged. He returned to the phone. “Yes I am with Bella. EMMETT!” he screamed practically dropping me. Edward hooked his arm around my waist before I could fall. “Emmett wants to talk to you.” Edward gave me his phone. He scowled. I took it carefully, afraid to break the expensive tech device. “Hello?” I said putting the phone to my ear. “Hey Belly!” he laughed. Crap. Another nickname. How many of those will I have to suffer through. “What?” I choked. “Belly Jelly and Eddie! Hmm…good enough.” He said. I shook my head. “Emmett I swear, you call me that EVER again and I’m going to…” I began but Emmett cut me off. Edward looked like he would tear Emmett’s head off if he could. “Well Miss Belly, Rosie, Alice, Jasper, Eddie and I are going on a little trip to France. How’d you like to come with?” he asked smoothly. “We’re leaving in two days and we’ll be back by next Thursday.” He continued.

“Oh and Alice is already packing for you, I suggest you head up to you apartment before she stuffs your entire closet into a suitcase.” He added, now snickering. I screamed and began dragging Edward up to my apartment. I groaned when I noticed the door was open. My words of advice, never give an annoying little pixie the key to your apartment. It only causes trouble.

“ALICE I’M NOT GOING!” I screamed, running to my room. I should have known it. Jasper, Emmett and Alice all were crowding my room. Edward was behind me, obviously too interested to see my entire collection of clothes sprawled around my room. I hung up Edwards phone and handed it back to him. “Bella! Glad you’re here, I bought you a few things to take with and I want you to try them on…” Alice said, pointing to a mountain of bags in the corner. I groaned. “Alice I’m not going…” I said, walking towards her. “Yes you are. I already called your boss to see if you could get some time off and he said you had the next week and a half or so off. And you need a vacation anyway.” Alice chimed. Curse the theatre for giving me a week and a half off.

“But…I don’t speak any French!” I complained, ignoring all three brothers. They were all sitting on my bed, observing my quarrel with Alice. “That’s alright mademoiselle.” Jasper laughed from the bed. I glared at him. Of course he knew French. “I know French too. We can translate for you if you really need it.” Alice added, continuing to shuffle through my clothes. She came to my lingerie dresser and I pulled her hands away. “Not while they’re here.” I nodded my head towards the boys. Alice giggled. “Fine.” She laughed, beginning to pick through the pile of clothes on the floor.

I glanced towards Edward, my last defense. He said he wasn’t going. “I’m not going if Edward isn’t.” I said. “Well good then. Eddies tagging along anyway.” Emmett boomed. Edward scowled at Emmett and then looked at me. “I get dragged into them and no matter how much fight I put up, I have to do whatever it is. I hate being the youngest sibling.” He glared at his brother again. Emmett laughed at him. Edward looked at me again. “Sorry.” He shrugged. Edward didn’t seem too upset over my refusal to go. Knowing me, I’d get dragged into it as well. Looks like Edward and I were on the same page. “We should get going. I’m hungry.” Emmett said, getting up and patting his stomach. “I’ll make you something…” I said, trying to walk out of my room. Edward stopped me. “Trust me, you won’t be able to feed an Emmett size hunger. We were going to go somewhere as a ‘brother night’ anyway.” He smiled at me. I merely nodded, entranced by his eyes again. “Okay Belly Jelly, let Eddie feed me.” Emmett pouted, snatching Edward away. He let go once he’d dragged Edward to the door.

Edward ran over to me for one last thing. “I’ll see you in France mon ange.” He whispered, suddenly leaving. That perfect-sneaky-loveable-man put a slight smile on my face. But I wanted to frown. He spoke French too.

The next two days passed as a blur. Apparently we were all taking different planes. Well, the brothers had something, “secret” planned for us and so I was going with Alice and Rosalie. Which could actually be fun. Alice decided to take over packing for me, and booking my flight with her. No doubt she got first class. That was okay though, gave me an excuse to put some money to use. I looked in my suitcase about half an hour before leaving, just to make sure everything was in there. And I couldn’t help but notice a lot of new items in there. I also spotted a lot of skimpy pieces of clothing. But I didn’t have much time to look before Alice came bounding into the room. She told me I couldn’t look, and I now understood why.

Before I knew it, we were on the plane. I had a window seat in first class, next to Alice who was bouncing in her seat. Rosalie was on her other side. “Hey Bella!” Rosalie whispered over Alice who was sleeping for once. I looked over at Rosalie and smiled at her. “Yeah?” “Can I tell you something?” she asked, a grin on her face. I leaned towards her and nodded. “Well first I wanted to thank you. Edwards never been quite so…happy. I’ve known him for a while, and I’ve never seen him this excited about someone.” I smiled at her more. How could I make Edward the happiest he’s ever been? But I felt a little bad. Edward really is my first boyfriend since him. Dating again is hurting a little.

“Just know that Edward cares about you a lot. Even though I guess he hasn’t known you a long time.” In a way, that made a lot of sense. I was beginning to like Rosalie. “Do you know what the surprise is?” I asked her, raising an eyebrow. She smirked. “If I did, I’d probably be on the other plane beating Emmett up. Who knows what they’re planning.” She laughed lightly. That made me worried however. Rosalie noticed my worried expression. “Don’t worry about it though. It’s probably harmless.” She laughed. I nodded and returned to my seat, drifting off a little. I woke up to someone tugging on my arm. “Alice!” I groaned, but she pulled harder. “WE’RE HERE BELLA!” she almost yelled. I got up quickly.

To my surprise, we got to the hotel very fast and checked in. Obviously Alice knew what she was doing. “Jasper texted me on the plane. He said we should check in to our rooms and freshen up.” She smiled. Alice dragged me to her room. There were three rooms all six of us had to share. That put me in a dilemma. Knowing Alice, she’d hog Jasper in her room. Emmett and Rosalie would probably take a room. So that left me and Edward? Thank goodness there were two different beds in the rooms.

Alice dressed me in a long sleeved, light blue dress as seeing it was late fall. Apparently Jasper told her what to wear too. It wasn’t an evening gown or anything, but it wasn’t like we were going on a picnic either. “Jasper said there would be separate cars waiting for us.” Alice said cautiously, descending the stairs. I felt way too caked over with makeup. It looked good, but it was too much. My shoes were thankfully flats so I could walk down the stairs normally.

We exited the building, and sure enough, there were three different cars waiting for us. The men waiting by them said our names and we got into the appropriate cars. “Can you tell me where we are going?” I asked, leaning towards the front of the car a little. The man looked at me confused. “No anglais.” He said. It was obviously a cognate. He didn’t speak English. I let out a frustrated sigh and leaned back in my seat. This was incredibly frustrating. I barely knew this group of friends, besides Alice and all of a sudden, I’m in France with them.

The car stopped soon and I got out quickly and looked around. The driver handed me a note. Wait at the fountain. I read and looked around, I spotted a rather large fountain at the center of the area I was at. “Merci beaucoup.” I said to the man, beginning to walk to my destination. There were crowds of people there, how was I supposed to find Edward? I stood next to the fountain, simply people watching. I couldn’t understand a thing they were saying and it made my head hurt. To help, I sang the English alphabet in my head. Before I knew it, I was humming the alphabet as well. If I started dancing, I’d probably start being grateful I wouldn’t see any of these people again.

“Bonjour mademoiselle.” A voice said as I felt a tap on my shoulder. The voice sounded amused. I turned around and was face to face with Edward. Before I could say anything he began dragging me away. “Edward where are we going?” I asked a little frantically. If anything, I despised surprises. “Be patient mon ange.” He said smoothly. French didn’t sound so bad when it came from his mouth. I groaned anyway, and followed him closely. He kept his pace up until we turned a corner. Then he started strolling. At a simple pace that I could keep up with. “Enjoying France?” he smiled, turning his attention to me. He took my hand and made my heart jump. “Sure…I haven’t had much to see though.” I said quietly, looking away. “Well I’m glad you could come, you’ll have plenty to see.” He assured me.

I nodded and continued to walk in silence. Soon enough we approached a very large building. “What is this place?” I asked as he began ascending the steps. “Art Museum.” He said simply. I followed him up the steps and walked inside the giant arch way. “I…thought you might like to see this place.” He said shyly, walking in the door. I merely nodded as the sight hit me. There was so much art in there I almost burst. Sculptures and giant paintings greeted us.

“Thank you.” I murmured, still looking around. When I was caught by the most beautiful face in the room. “Bella?” he asked, moving slightly closer. “Yeah?” I answered, more entranced by his face than anything around me. “I know that we haven’t known each other very long…but I really feel like I have a…connection with you. I know that probably sounds weird, but it’s just how I feel and…” I cut his rambling off with a kiss. As if I was telling him I felt the same way. The kiss was the longest and most passionate we had ever had. And it felt more magical than anything I ever had before. I pulled away and he smiled radiantly.

At the end of the day, we had probably seen only one quarter of the museum. The place was so big, and everything I saw, I wanted to come back to. Edward seemed just as fascinated as I did. But at the end of the day, around six o’clock, he told me we had to go back to the hotel. When we did get there, Rosalie, Emmett, Alice and Jasper were all waiting. Alice came running up to me and tore me away from Edward. “Where did he take you?” she asked frantically. “An…art…museum.” I said through her practically shaking me. Alice pulled away. “An art museum? Really?” she turned to Edward. I slapped Alice’s arm gently. “I enjoyed it!” I said in defense. “But that’s not really lively now is it? Can’t you just look at all the pieces online. Now shopping is something you do in Paris.” Alice said. “Alice…” Jasper warned, he must have noticed how fumed I was.

I was blissfully happy with the fact we went to an art museum. Art had so much French culture displayed, and it almost told you more about the city than the city itself. Edward linked an arm around my waist. “We should get ready for dinner.” He smiled. Alice squealed. “Bella I have the perfect dress! You too Rose!” she leaped from Jasper and grabbed Rosalie and I. I almost tripped running after Alice. Well more like she dragged me up the stairs.

Alice took us into her room and she tore open the suitcases inside. She pulled out a dark green and white dress for me. It was very formal looking. “Where are we going for dinner?” I asked cautiously. “They won’t tell us.” Rosalie answered, observing her maroon gown that had a long slit in the leg. Alice told us to go put on our dresses, and we did as told. I didn’t want to make Alice upset or anything as seeing she seemed anxious over where we were going. Alice didn’t like being surprised almost as much as I did.

I walked into the bathroom and looked in the long mirror in the corner. It didn’t look half bad. The dark green had two thick straps occupying my shoulders and flowed down around me. There was a white sash a little above my stomach that tied around in the back. Alice had handed me low rise white heels. That made my walking issue a little easier.

After about an hour of hair and makeup, Alice had deemed us all acceptable for a formal type of French dinner. We met all three boys down stairs. Edward smiled at me and kissed my cheek. “You look lovely.” He said, twirling me around a little. “You do too.” I smiled.

We walked through the hotel, and I only assumed there was a restaurant next door that we were going to. And because we were guests, we got seats quickly. I took one glance at the menu and I groaned. It was all in French. “Do you think they have an English version of the menu?” I asked, looking at everyone. Edward laughed next to me. “I’ll translate for you.” He said, looking at my menu.

I eventually decided on some chicken dish. I had no idea what was in it though as seeing the descriptions weren’t very clear, and I didn’t want to push Edward to tell me everything on the menu. So when our meals came, I automatically gasped and sent Emmett into a fit of laughter. Two words. Chicken. Snails. I was terrified and Edward blushed a little. “I’m sorry…we can get you something else.” He offered. “No it’s fine. Besides, I have someone to prove to that I do try new things!” I glared at Alice for a moment. We had an argument a while back when I was with him. Apparently I enjoyed my stable life too much and needed change. Thus where Alice argued with me. So I spooned out a bit of snail and ate it. It didn’t taste too bad and I wasn’t completely disgusted. Emmett’s laughter died and he muttered something about, “It’s no fun when she actually likes them.”

Due to my confidence, everyone ended up trying it. And we all agreed my meal was the best. Take that Alice.

The meal passed slowly, but was filled with laughter and talk amongst ourselves. Turns out, having three brothers together with their girlfriends is the most entertaining thing I’ve ever seen. But then we got to a slightly uncomfortable topic. “I call Rosie’s room!” Emmett almost shouted. Each of us girls had pretty much claimed our own room, and that left the boys. “Alice’s room.” Jasper laughed. I blushed a bright red. “Bella?” Edward murmured. I turned and looked at him. “I’ll go sleep with Emmett and Rose if you want.” He smiled sincerely, but I could almost see disappointment in his eyes. “No it’s fine.” I said, smiling back. I actually did want Edward to room with me. It’s not like we were going to be…doing anything. And it would give me a chance to maybe know him a little better.

Edwards smile brightened, as did his eyes. “Great. We should probably get going.” He said, looking at his watch. We left and retreated to our rooms, grabbing our suitcases out of the wrong rooms and putting them in the correct ones. I set mine down and looked down at my dress. I felt too formal all of a sudden. “That dress does look amazing on you.” Edward said. I looked up, noticing him sitting on one of the beds. I had almost forgotten he was there. “Thank you.” I blushed, playing with the white sash. “But I suppose it is late…we should get ready for bed.” He said. I nodded and walked towards my suitcase. “Mind if I steal the bathroom for a while?” I asked quietly. “Be my guest.” He laughed, watching me. My blush deepened as I retreated to the bathroom.

It felt wrong to be doing this, sharing a room with Edward. But at the same time, it felt right. Half of me was saying, “No, don’t do this. It’s selfish and it’s fair to him.” And my other half was saying, “Get over it. Move on. It’s what he wanted remember?”

Those thoughts placed tears in my eyes, so I stepped in the shower after my dress was off. I let the hot water wash those feelings away. As I stepped out of the shower I threw on a silk nightgown, courtesy of Alice, and left the room. Edward had changed while I was in the bathroom, sitting on the bed in shorts and a t-shirt. He was reading a book, so I tried not to bug him. I crawled onto the other bed and let my head fall on the pillow. I was on my side, facing Edward. It was nice to be able to stare at him and fake that I was trying to sleep. Maybe Edward knew I was watching him, because he had a big smile on his face. “Good book?” I asked, faking a yawn.

“Sure.” He said, closing it. “What about you? Having fun staring?” he chuckled. My blush returned and I smiled. “Actually yes.” I admitted. Edward lay down himself and turned to look at me. “Are you okay?” he asked. I forgot, my face was probably still all red and puffy from crying. “Fine, just tired I guess. It’s been a long day.” I shrugged. “Not true. If you were actually tired, you’d be sleeping by now. It’s about midnight.” He said matter-of-factly. He had me there. “I’m fine Edward, don’t worry so much.” I said, trying to pass it off. But he just couldn’t give up.

Edward got out of bed and sat on the edge of mine. “What’s wrong.” He said a little more demanding. “Nothing is wrong Edward! Let it go.” I replied, a little more frustrated. I could not tell him what was wrong. It would make everything worse if I told him. He’d probably either ditch me, or pity-date me. And I was not ruining my chances. “Bella…” he groaned, laying down next to me. I turned away so I was facing the other side of the room. He just laid next to me so I had to face him. “Tell me please. If you think I’m going to judge you, you’re wrong.” He said. Oh how wrong he was.

“No Edward. Go to bed.” I said quietly. The sudden tension came. I knew why. It’s because I was laying next to some guy I barely knew. Promise number one, broken.

“Bella…” he whined a little, wrapping his arms around me. Why did he have to make this worse! “Edward please…just go to bed.” I covered my face as I felt a tear slide. He heard it in my voice anyways. “Bella.” He breathed, pulling me closer to him. “You…don’t…know…how…hard this is.” I stuttered through my tears a little. “Bella I’m here. You can tell me.” He said, his voice cracking a little. Edward was hurt that I was crying now.

“Please stop crying.” He kissed the top of my head, I buried my face in his shirt. “I can’t. This is wrong.” I whispered through cascades of tears. “What’s wrong? The fact we’re…together?” he asked quietly. I didn’t answer for a while. “Yes.” I finally said, pulling away a little. “Do you not want to be together?” he asked, pulling away from me. “Yes.” I said, wiping my face as if it would help. “Then why is it wrong?” he challenged. Stupid traditional values.

“It’s not fair.” I said, looking away from him. I sat up and he did the same. I could feel Edwards stare. “Not fair to who?” he asked. “Him.” I emphasized. “Him? Are you telling me that…” he started but I cut him off. “I’m not cheating on anyone. I would never do that. Only, I feel like I am.” I said, closing my eyes a little. “Bella I don’t get this. What are you trying to tell me?” he asked, I could almost picture his perfect face.

His brow furrowed and his eyes alight with curiosity. He was probably frowning too. “I don’t want you to judge me.” I said quietly, I can’t believe I was going to do this. “I won’t. That’s a promise.” He said. I sighed, and began telling him my sad story that almost makes me kill myself every time I think about it.

Aiden hooked his arm around my waist, smiling his classic smile that made my heart melt. “What’s wrong darling?” he asked, his accent sending butterflies through my stomach. “I’d like to know where exactly we are going.” I laughed, kissing him quickly. “You know it’s a surprise.” He narrowed his eyes and lessened his smile. I pouted at him and he grinned. “You’ll like it, I promise. You trust me don’t you?” he asked, gazing at me.

“I think so…” I said cautiously. “Bella…” he pouted. He had a better pout than I did. No fair. “I trust you. I’d just like to know where we’re going.” I shrugged, looking away. Aiden took my chin and made me look at him. “Have some faith.” He said, kissing my lips fully. Alice would probably kill him for that later.

The car stopped and Aiden opened the door, taking my hand and pulling me out. “Happy birthday.” He said, his voice ringing in my ears. There we stood in front of my favorite theatre, with my favorite show that had been impossible to get tickets to. Romeo and Juliet. “Thank you!” I shrieked, tossing my arms around him and kissing him passionately. He laughed and pulled away, taking my arm.

I was practically bouncing in my seat as the show began. However, Aiden kept me calm. He kept me from embarrassing myself all the time. Thanks to him, I hadn’t needed to go to the emergency room from the very moment I met him.

As the show began, Aiden would lean over and whisper the lines in my ear. It made it even more special. Officially the best birthday I had ever had. I made it through the show, entranced by every romantic and fight scene. The show replayed over and over in my head.

When we were finished, Aiden escorted me out, then pulled me to the side in the hallway. My back was pushed against the wall. “Will you promise me something?” he asked, his lips tracing my jaw. Thank goodness the hallway was empty. “Anything.” I smiled, reaching up and running one hand through his black hair. “Don’t hurt yourself when I’m gone.” He said, smiling against my skin. What did he mean by that? “You’re leaving?” I asked, pulling his face up to look at me. He was smiling. It was odd. “I will never leave you if I have a say in it. But just incase, promise me.” He said, his tone growing serious, but his smile never fading. “I promise.” I said, still confused. With that, Aiden took my arm and we left. When we reached my apartment, he took me to the elevator and up to my apartment. “Are you staying?” I asked, unlocking the door. “I have work tomorrow, I should probably stay at my house.” He said, walking inside with me anyway. “Bella?” he asked quietly, turning me around to face him. “I love you.” He said. Aiden said it in a way that I hadn’t heard before. There was passion, honesty, and regret? “I love you too.” I said, trying to decode his strange behavior

“I should go.” He said, placing a full kiss on my lips. He lingered there hesitantly, then before I could say anything else, he disappeared.

I went to bed, forgetting all about Aidens weird behavior. But my bed felt empty without him, as usual. I hummed a short song before I heard my phone ring. Who was calling me at 2 a.m.? I got up anyway and answered it, not looking at the caller id. “Hello?” I said sleepily. “B…Bella?” someone stuttered on the other end of the phone. I recognized the voice. “What’s wrong Robert?” I asked Aidens younger brother. “Um…you need to come over to Aiden’s apartment, now.” He said, I heard him sniffling. “Robert? What’s going on?” I asked. “He’s missing Bells. He’s gone.”

I got to Aidens apartment in a blur. I ran upstairs and found Aidens family. His mother was crying and Robert was simply staring at a piece of paper. “Robert this better not be…” he cut me off by thrusting the piece of paper at me and muttering, “He’s gone.” Robert seemed angry now. I read the letter.

Dear Friends and Family,

I know this is slightly abrupt, but I find myself leaving. I will not reveal my location, just know that I may be gone forever within a day.

Much love,

Aiden

P.S. Bella, I love you more than the moon or the stars. Happy Birthday.

Tears formed in my eyes. “No.” I choked, putting the letter down. Aiden couldn’t be gone forever! What was the whole story behind this? “He’s left everything here, including his phone. He’s gone.” Robert said quietly. I looked around Aidens apartment. I walked into the kitchen, imagining him there, attempting to cook something that I would take pride in making edible. I almost ran to his bedroom, imagining him following his routine. But he just wasn’t there. My Aiden, was gone forever.

“We called the police, but we’ve never been able to find him. He’s gone. And I made a promise not hurt myself, and it hurts to do this. I’m sorry Edward, I am ready to start dating again. It is what he wanted, but I feel like I’m betraying him. Because some part of me hopes, that someday my phone will ring and it will be him. But it’s never happened, and all I do is sit around hoping for nothing.” I said, the tears silently pouring. “I’ve tried blaming myself, and I still do. Even though I know it isn’t my fault. But I end up blaming myself. Aiden was so special, and I can’t get over the fact he’s gone.” I murmured.

Edward sat there quietly, not touching me. I knew this would happen. I knew he would somehow feel differently about me. “I knew Aiden had some sort of past, but he never told me about it. We only focused on our future. I was so used to looking for the future, it hurts too much to look back.” I said. “I’m sorry.” I choked a little, the tears still pouring. I couldn’t bring myself to look at Edwards face. He wouldn’t want me now. He’d think I’m insane or something. The crazy girl who couldn’t get over her dead boyfriend.

But instead, he took my hand. More of a friendly gesture. “Bella…” he started, I still refused to look at him. “I will wait for you if you need time. I feel so strongly for you already, I’m not able to go back. I will give you what you need. And if that means we need to wait, I’m perfectly fine with that.” He said. “No Edward. I want you now, I will want you forever. But it hurts. That’s the only problem, it just hurts to be like this with someone again.” I said quietly. Edward kissed the top of my head. “I understand. If you still want to do this…we can work through things. I don’t want to lose you Bella, even though we’ve only known each other for a short time. I don’t want to lose you.” He said, stroking my hair. I looked up at him then.

Edwards face was neutral. But his face screamed every emotion running through him. The two I could pick out, were love and sadness. This was almost good. It was good because he wasn’t running away from be, but telling me that he wanted to be with me, and he would do whatever it takes to make sure I was safe and happy. Aiden would like him.

I smiled at Edward and kissed him lightly. “Thank you.” I whispered, feeling suddenly much more comfortable. Probably at the confident thought that Aiden would approve of this. If Aiden couldn’t be there, I know he’d want someone who could do what he could. Not that I wanted someone to replace him, just help me cope with life.

The next morning I woke up next to Edward. I hadn’t forgotten how Edward had accepted me for my past with Aiden. But my attention was directed towards a banging on the door that had Edward stirring in his sleep. I ran to the door. “What?” I almost shouted as the door opened. It was Rosalie and Alice. “Hello beautiful.” Alice kissed my cheek and walked inside, followed by an apologetic looking Rosalie. I probably did look like a mess what with my hair all over the place and all the crying I had done last night.

“EDWARD WAKE UP!” Alice yelled, jumping on our bed. Edward groaned and threw a pillow at Alice. These guys were so mature. “WAKE UP NOW!” Alice continued jumping. “No.” he said, feeling around the bed. “Bella?” he was suddenly awake. I laughed as I saw his hair. It was more messed up than usual. “What?” I asked, Rosalie was giggling next to me. “Oh.” He said, then threw his head on the pillow again. “Can you throw the pixie out and come back to bed please?” he asked muffled through the pillow. “No going back to bed!” Alice pouted, landing on her knees on the bed. “Edward get up.” I laughed, walking over to the other bed and sat down. Rosalie copied me. Edward groaned and sat up again. “Get out.” He glared at Alice. Alice glared back. “Alice, let them get ready.” Rosalie said, snatching Alice and leaving. “Don’t take too long.” Rosalie called, dragging a pouting Alice out of the room.

“Thank God.” Edward said, getting up. “You’re hair is messy.” I laughed, it truly did look like a mess of hair was just thrown onto his head. “I could say the same for you.” He smiled. I stuck my tongue out, being the mature person I am. We took our turns in the bathroom and soon enough, met the others in the lobby.

“Another surprise!” I groaned. We were at our second to last day of vacation in Paris. Tomorrow was Wednesday, and we were heading back home. If anything, Edward and I had become extremely close. We talked every night now and fell asleep in each others arms. And for once, it felt right. I was really beginning to trust Edward, and maybe even growing to love him. But I couldn’t think about that. We were taking our time with our relationship. It didn’t need to move any faster than it was.

So here I was, being dragged out of the hotel for the billionth time this past week or so, by Edward. Thankfully, I was in a zipped sweatshirt and jeans, but I had a surprise waiting for me. “Where are we going?” I groaned. “Bella it’s kind of obvious.” He chuckled. The sun was setting, and the sight couldn’t have been more beautiful. I stopped for a second to look at the sun setting. But Edward pulled me with him still. “Not yet.” He said. That whetted my curiosity. Soon enough, we approached a very tall structure.

I really was the worlds biggest idiot. “Oh.” Was all I said, gazing up at the Eiffel Tower. Edward chuckled and pushed me towards the elevator to go up.

When we were at the top, we faced the sunset and simply watched. In a way, it was perfect. Everything seemed exactly right, and nothing was missing. I enjoyed the feeling while it lasted. “Bella?” Edward smiled, pulling me right next to him so I was looking in his emerald pools that were called eyes. “Mmhmm?” I smiled. “I love you.” He whispered.

My eyes widened. Did he really just say that? What was I supposed to do? I had no idea if I felt that way, I was too busy basking in my perfect feeling of perfect. Edward noticed my hesitance. “I know you might not feel that way, and I’ve fallen for you really quickly, but it’s true. I just wanted you to know that.” He said quickly. I smiled at him, and then leaped in for the kiss. When I pulled away, “I love you.” Then more kissing.

The weird thing is, I meant it.

“No, no, no!” I shouted at one of the stage movers. “That goes on the left side of the stage!” I hissed. Wasn’t the stage director supposed to be here? This was definitely NOT the assistant managers job. Thus, I was getting very stressed and cranky. Cranky Bella is not a very nice Bella. “You! Don’t put that there!” If I had any idea how stressful it was to organize Romeo and Juliet, I never would have taken this job. But it would be worth it. At least that’s what I kept telling myself. It was my last memory of Aiden, and anything Romeo or Juliet, happened to put a smile on my face, because it was the last truly happy memory I have of him. Edward understood this of course, because he’s mister magic with all his understandings of what goes on in my crowded head of thoughts.

Since we had arrived back yesterday, it was all work for me. I haven’t had a break from thinking about this show since I stepped off the plane. My phone had been ringing nonstop, mostly business calls. And after staying up until two am yesterday working on show preparations last night at the theater, I was exhausted. Plus, I had a long flight yesterday and then had to work my butt off. So here I am, running on three hours of sleep, I’m cranky, and can’t get the damn stage coordinators to do their job right. I am surprised I am not in tears.

My phone rang again and I groaned. What was it now? An actor was sick? The maestro’s mother had passed away and couldn’t come to direct the orchestra?

I picked it up, not even looking at the caller id, a new habit of mine. Usually because I’m too exhausted to bother to see who’s calling me. “Hello?” I tried to put on the best business tone I could. “Hello.” Edward said on the other end of the line. I had no idea what to say. “You need some sleep. How many hours did you get last night?” he asked. This man knew me too well. “Three.” I answered nondescript. “Bella.” Edward scolded. “I can’t help it. Romeo and Juliet won’t let me sleep until the curtain opens.” I snapped back. Not meaning to get angry, but I was extremely tired. “Well when it does you’re going home and sleeping for a good two days.” Edward said, humor in his voice. I didn’t return it. I was distracted with the man setting two swords down in the wrong place. “Hey! NOT THERE!” I almost screamed. “You’re busy. I’ll let you go. Get some sleep. Love you. Bye.” Edward said quickly then hung up the phone. I must of scared him.

When I got home, I literally fell on the couch and didn’t get up until my phone woke me up at six…in the morning. “What?” I groaned slightly dramatic. I wanted more sleep, good thing I had a comfy couch. “We’re getting you ready for the premiere at 3:30 this afternoon okay?” Alice said. I was outraged. “YOU WOKE ME UP TO TELL ME WHEN YOU WERE GOING TO MAKE ME OVER!!!!” I screamed into the phone. But I gave up, sleep was calling for me, so my screaming came out more as dramatic talking.

“That and Edwards going to be at your door in about two minutes. Wanted to make sure you looked presentable for that.” She said, giggling. I sat up immediately. “Why is he coming over?” I asked. “I don’t know. Ask him.” I hung up the phone. I ran into my bedroom, sudden energy taking over. I threw on some new clothes, casual comfy clothes, but at least they were clean. And I brushed my teeth before I heard a knock on the door. I ran to answer it.

Sure enough, there stood the amazing man I got to call my boyfriend. “What did I tell you about sleeping?” he asked, walking in the door. “I…um…uh…well…I was.” I said, stuttering the whole time “Did I wake you up?” he sounded concerned now. “Nah, that was Alice warning me that you were coming over.” I eyed something in his hand. “What’s that?” I asked, pointing to it. A smile flickered across his face. “Breakfast.” He said, handing it to me. “And why did you need to bring me breakfast so early in the morning?” I asked, raising an eyebrow. He shrugged. “I have to get to work in about an hour, and I wanted to make sure you got it.” Edward said quietly.

I laughed lightly. “You didn’t need to bring me breakfast.” I said, putting in on my coffee table and sitting down on the couch. He sat next to me. “Yes I did. I wanted to make sure you at least had something to eat today. That’s why you’re going to eat while I’m here. So you actually eat it.” He said, grabbing the white box and giving it to me. “Edward, I really don’t have time…” I started. “No. I don’t want to hear it. Eat. I know that you aren’t going to be eating much else today, so eat.” He ordered. “Edward…” I tried complaining, but he opened the box and shoved a pastry in my mouth. “Eat.” He ordered again.

Why was Edward so amazing? He brought me breakfast so I actually had food in me and didn’t pass out today or something. There were multiple pastries in the box, and he ordered me to eat them all. So I did, and they tasted pretty good. I don’t think I ate much yesterday either. When I was done, I was finally full. “Thank you.” I smiled, kissing his cheek. He carefully pulled me in for an actual kiss. One that met his standards.

Ever since I’d told him about Aiden, he’d always been more careful about my sensitivity to physical contact, or anything he said that would set me off. And it made me love him even more. So there I was, loving someone who I wasn’t sure was alive or not. And I was falling in love with Edward. I needed to get my head in place.

My day was pretty hectic, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as yesterday surprisingly. Maybe it was because I wasn’t so upset or cranky today. When I got back, Alice was waiting for me. Her beauty salon had taken over my apartment. My dress, a sparkly dark purple dress was put over my head. And to my despise, heels. If I died tonight, I would make sure to haunt Alice.

Anyway, when I was at the theatre, my little group of Emmett, Rosalie, Jasper, Alice, and Edward had all shown up. However, I didn’t have much time to talk to them, I think I only got to wave at them and then go help an actor fix his hat. Why I was doing these things I had no idea. But the show really was amazing. It made me just as excited as when I had seen it with Aiden. I even remembered his voice when the parts came when he would be whispering the lines to me.

It was the happiest I’d felt since that night.

After the show, I didn’t have anything to do thankfully. I could have gone home if I wanted to. So I was walking backstage, and through one of the hallways to the offices to get my coat when I heard a quiet voice behind me. “Bella?”

I turned around and gasped. I backed up against the wall as he moved closer. “Bella.” He breathed, stepping more into the light. I couldn’t talk, I couldn’t breathe. He reached out and touched my cheek. What was he doing here? Wasn’t he supposed to be six feet under or something!

“Wh…what are you…d…doing here?” I choked. “Do you not want me to be?” he sounded disappointed. “Stay.” I said, now reaching out and grabbing his shoulders. “Don’t leave.” I choked again, a tear sliding down my cheek. Why did I have to be crying so much. If this was dream, I didn’t want it to end. He was finally back, I had him here.

“I won’t leave, never again my Bella.” He whispered, pulling me closer and burying his face in my hair. He smelled the same but he looked a little different. He was still my Aiden. And he was where he belonged.

“Bella where are you?” I heard a voice call down the hallway. Aiden looked up and smiled. “Alice!” he laughed, releasing me to hug one of his long lost friends. Alice squealed louder than she usually does. “AAAAIIIDDDEEEENNN!!!!!” she yelled, tossing her arms around him. I laughed. It was classic Alice and Aiden bonding. Aiden released her and went back to me. He wrapped his arms around me again, and I felt complete.

Aiden kissed the top of my head as Alice disappeared. I was suddenly reminded of the one person waiting for me in the lobby. “No.” I choked, burying my face in Aidens shirt. I belonged to two different people all of a sudden. I was in love with two different people.

“Oh Aiden!” I choked, tears running down my cheeks. “Bella what’s wrong?” he asked frantically, his British accent ringing. It only reminded me further and made me cry more. He wiped my tears away, just like he used to. “Bella don’t cry darling. Don’t cry. I’m back! You see? I’m not leaving my Bella.” He said, trying to get me to stop. His words only hurt more. Sooner or later I was going to have to decide.

New love? Or lost love?

I heard Alice come back around the corner. “Erm Bella?” she asked, aware of my tears. “You need to get yourself together and go in the lobby. As for you…” she pointed at Aiden. “You need to get out of here.” She said. “Why?” Aiden asked, his eyes narrowing slightly. He knew something was up. My crying had stopped as guilt took over me. “Later…Aiden. I’ll explain it later.” I said, pulling away from him. Aiden tried to stop me but I ran away, in heels, before he could catch me. I successfully made it to the lobby again. I spotted everyone in the corner, mostly talking. However, Edward had an insanely dark look on his face. One that almost made me turn and run back to Alice and Aiden.

Instead, I slowly walked over and glanced at Edward. “It was a lovely show.” He said gravely. I could tell he was trying to be happy, but Alice had told him. He’d have no other reason to be this dark unless Alice had told him. I understood why Edward was so mad, but I couldn’t get over my happiness right now.

Edward took me out to his car, “Where are we going?” I asked after getting in. The others had obviously noticed something was up, and Aiden and Alice had disappeared. “My apartment. Please tell me you’ll stay there.” He said, more like a demand. “Edward…I need to go home.” I said calmly. Well, as calmly as I could manage. I was so filled with guilt that nothing could stop my voice shaking. “Then I’m staying there.” He said darkly. “Edward…” I started. “Why did he have to come back?” Edward narrowed his eyes that were still fixated on the road. “Why are you so mad about it?” I asked, now a little angry. “Because he’s going to take you away. And I’m too selfish to let you go.” Edward said quickly. He didn’t want to admit that.

“Edward…” I whispered, my voice softer. “That might not happen.” I said. It was the truth, it depended on how I felt once I realized who the right choice was. Or at least what my head told me to do compared to my heart.

“Really? Or are you just saying that so I don’t lose my temper.” It was already too late for that. I could tell how agitated he was. “Give me a while to talk to him.” I said.

“Bella, you’re my girlfriend. You expect me to feel okay with you just going about ‘talking’ to your ex-boyfriend who left you and you thought was dead?” Well when he put it that way it sounded terrible.

“Edward just trust me okay? I’m not going to pull anything. I just have a lot to talk about with him. Please?” I pouted a little. “I want to meet him first.” Was all Edward answered.

Once we were at my apartment, I recognized Alice’s car. We walked up to my door in silence, and I opened the door in silence. “Bella?” I heard Aidens voice running to the door. He saw me, then Edward. “Bella?” his voice squeaked a little. I blushed out of guilty embarrassment. Edward was glaring at Aiden, and he had a protective arm around me. A gesture that almost screamed, “Back off.”

We stood there awkwardly until Alice cut in. “Aiden this is Edward. Edward, Aiden.” She calmly introduced them. Edward didn’t remove his arm, he merely nodded at Aiden. “Is there something I should know?” Aiden asked slowly, his gaze focused on Edward. He looked scared.

“Only if you promise not to kill me.” I choked. The guilt was overwhelming. “Bella don’t talk like that.” Aiden said, moving closer to me. Edwards automatic reaction was to tighten his grip on me. I pried Edwards fingers from my waist. “Stop it.” I said, pushing Edward away a little. Edward backed off but still stayed close. I walked closer to Aiden. “While you were gone…I gave up. But Edward helped me start moving on…and…” I couldn’t finish it. The guilty tears streamed down my face. Aiden pulled me into his arms, and tried wiping my tears away. Some habits never die.

“Bella I’m not mad. I understand if you moved on…” he said quietly. “That’s the problem! I’m in love with both of you!” I murmured angrily. I was upset with myself. Either way I was going to hurt one incredibly amazing man. “Maybe if I explain what’s been going on for the past few years it will help.” Aiden offered, getting straight to the point. I nodded and he moved me to the couch. Edward sat on my other side.

However, Aiden didn’t get a chance to start explaining. I heard my stereo blasting from my bedroom. “Alice what the heck?” I asked, running into my room. She was standing covering her ears and trying to turn the volume down. I suddenly recognized the song. “Wake Me Up When September Ends.” I whispered to myself. I felt a pair of arms wrap around me. “Well, September is over. And I’m back. You can wake up now.” Aiden pressed his lips into my neck. I heard a growl from behind him. “Take your hands off of her.” Edward growled. “You know what, she was my girlfriend until something happened that I tried to protect her from. And what have you done? Simply stand in as a replacement boyfriend?” That set me off.

“Aiden don’t say that. He was not a replacement boyfriend. You left and I tried to move on. Edward understood me and I fell for him. Don’t say that.” I snapped. Edward took me away from Aiden and put his hands on my shoulders. “You left her to protect her? Well if you mean protect by ruin her life then sure. You protected her real well.” He growled. “Edward!” I shrieked, turning around to look at him. “If he left to protect me from something, he probably had a good reason for it…”

“STOP IT!” Alice yelled. All three of us looked at her. “Before this turns into a really bad fight, we’re all tired. We should all go to bed. So Edward, get out of here. I’m staying with Bella, and Aiden, you should leave too.” She said, now that she had our attention. Alice made sense and I pulled away from Edward to stand next to her. “Aiden do you have a place to stay?” I asked sincerely. If he didn’t have anywhere else, I wouldn’t make him stay outside. “He’s not staying with you Bella.” Edward said automatically.

“I’ll get a room or something. Don’t worry. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Aiden said, glaring at Edward. I smiled at Aiden and bid them both good bye. Edward kissed my cheek, soon followed by Aiden. And before I knew it, they were gone.

“Alice…NO!” I screamed as the pixie threw a pillow at me. We had just woken up, and I had completely forgotten about Edward and Aiden. So there I was, having an immature pillow fight with my best friend.

But my phone rang. Why does the phone ringing always ruin my fun? I picked it up quickly, “Hello?” I asked, slightly out of breath.

“Are you okay?” Edward said on the other end. “Fine…Alice and I just…um…never mind.” I said as Alice and I started laughing hysterically.

“Bella…” Edward complained. “What?” I asked, confused as to why he was complaining. “Please tell me you aren’t going to go talk to him today.” I could almost see him pouting.

Then the door buzzed. Alice let someone up. And within two seconds, Aiden was there. “Um…yes?” I was a little distracted at Aidens presence. “I’ll…call you back okay?” I said into the phone, then hung up.

“Bella.” Aiden greeted me, kissing my cheek. “Hi.” I said quietly. “Bella, I know Edward will kill me for leaving you alone. But I have to go.” Alice called, a bright smile on her face. It was true, Edward was probably going to have a big fit over it. But he could suffer, because at that moment, I needed Aiden.

As soon as the door was closed, I pulled Aiden down to me. Now there were a few things wrong with this. One, I had a boyfriend. Two, we were in my bedroom and this could escalate to something I would regret. And three, I felt like the old Bella was taking over. The one that clung to people so much, she broke when they left.

However I didn’t care. So for the next hour or so, I belonged to Aiden.

I heard a violent knock on the door and I leaped up, happy Aiden and I hadn’t gotten carried away. I opened it and was met by a fuming Edward, followed by a guilty looking Alice. “I can’t believe you left him alone with her.” Edward growled, taking my hand and looking me in the eyes. “You talked. As long as you only talked I will not be angry.” Edward said, I heard venom in his voice. Aiden appeared then. “Talk...sure.” he laughed, receiving an even worse glare from Edward. “Bella? Did you hook up?” he asked, turning his gaze on me.

I couldn’t lie to him. I’d hate myself if I did that. “Um…uh….I’m sorry!” I felt tears erupting. Edward pushed me away a little and tried to attack Aiden. “Stop it!” I screamed, grabbing him. It didn’t do much good, but he stopped. “I…Edward let me explain.” I said, trying to get him to look at me. But he was only concerned with hurting Aiden. “I’m not mad at you Bella. I’m mad at him for not being six feet under by now!” Edward roared. I jumped back, a little scared by his tone. Edward took it as an opportunity. He leaped at Aiden and threw a punch at him.

“Eddie!” someone boomed from the doorway. Jasper and Emmett ran in the room and threw Edward off of Aiden. Rosalie followed in behind them.

“What were you thinking Eddie?” Emmett scowled, hitting his brother on the head. Edward was trying to struggle against his brothers. He calmed down for a moment, “Bella. We need to talk. Now.” Edward said relatively settle. I nodded. And Emmett and Jasper hesitantly put Edward down. He grabbed my hand forcefully and dragged me out of the room. I heard one comment from either Jasper or Emmett, “You’re screwed.”

I got in Edwards car quietly, trying to hold back the tears that wanted to pour down my face. I couldn’t believe Edward would get so worked up over this. “I’m going to let you explain.” Edward said, an edge to his voice. As if he wanted nothing more than to yell at me.

“I…Aiden came over. And I don’t know what happened. I put myself in my old shoes. I was the old Bella, and the old Bella was crazy about Aiden.” I said as my terrible explanation. “And who is the new Bella crazy about?” Edward asked, glaring at the road in front of him. We were basically just driving around. “Aiden and Edward.” I said quietly. It was true. I was crazy about both of them. But mostly Edward. Aiden seemed to have changed in some way, and I didn’t know him yet.

We pulled up to a building, a very expensive looking building. Edward got out of the car and I followed. “Where are we?” I murmured. “My apartment.” He said opening a door after we went through many hallways. I nodded and followed him inside.

It was expensive. I was afraid to even breathe. Edward sat down on a black leather couch and stared out the window. It gave a perfect view of the city.

I sat next to him and looked down at my hands. “I get it Bella. You still love him. But you have to choose.” Edward said, choking a bit on the last statement. “And I know, we haven’t been dating for a long time at all. But I can only tell you I’d be the right choice. I know what I’m capable of, and that is giving you a happy life. I love you, a lot.” He said, not taking his eyes off the window. I reached out and took his hand. “I love you too. But I don’t know who Aiden is anymore. He might of changed, he might not have. I need to know where he’s been, why he left, and if he’s changed to the point where he isn’t the Aiden I love.” I said quietly. “I just need time.” I added.

“If time is what you need, I’ll be here when you need me. But you come to me, because I can’t handle being around him. I’m waiting for you.” Edward murmured. That touched me. He was waiting for me. Maybe Edward wasn’t such a bad choice, but I needed Aiden at the same time. I would get to the bottom of all of this Aiden stuff.

I left Edwards apartment and walked home. He offered to give me a ride, but I refused. I needed time to think anyway.

I did stop at a CD store. When I walked in, I grabbed a random pair of headphones and put them on. Of course, “Wake Me Up When September Ends.” I listened for a while.

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

How true that really was. He left a few years ago, and the summers passed. I cried my eyes out of innocence. And now he’s back, after September. I picked out one last significant verse.

As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends

Why did this song have to be so true! I took the headphones off and practically ran out of the store. I felt my tears running down my face again.

When I got home, Aiden was the only one there. He got up as soon and I walked in the door and opened his mouth to say something but I stopped him. “I need time to myself.” I choked slightly. “Bella…please. Just let me explain this and then I’ll leave you alone.” So I sat down and let Aiden tell his story.

Aiden POV

I didn’t want to leave Bella. She was my pride and joy, and I wanted nothing more than to give her what she deserved. And leaving her when I knew she was so dependent on me was definitely what an angel like Bella deserved. If I wasn’t being forced to leave the love of my life, I would have purposed. That ring has been lingering in my pocket too long and I eventually just made it into a ring so that way the next time I saw her (which I made sure would happen), I could beg her to take me back and seal the deal.

Of course, I was not expecting to come back and find her with a new boyfriend. He seemed too vicious for my Bella. He was too overprotective even, and I thought I guarded her too much.

But it was what Bella had chosen, and all those thoughts of begging and pleading with her had vanished. For some insane reason, she seemed content and happy. But coming back only screwed things up for her. I was now making her choose. Maybe it would be better if I was six feet under by now.

If you’re wondering how this all started, it was with my best friend in the entire world, Jacob Black. He was an entertaining guy, and fun to be around. But he made a few bad choices and got his girlfriend killed because of it. Then I got into this insane situation and they were going after my Bella if I didn’t do what they said. So I left, with little to no explanation of where I was.

Jacob and I have been friends for our entire lives. I think we were friends when we were inside our mothers. However, we were born into completely different worlds. Jacob was a sports freak, always switching what teams he supported and such. And I was interested in studying. So when we were about three years old, Jacob and I kept in touch when my parents decided to live in England. Our mothers were friends so they thought it was cute when we called each other and talked about some little kid show everyday. Anyway, I picked up the British accent and soon returned to America when I was eighteen.

Jacob and I got into a lot of trouble then. Which I got out of, but fell into anyway. Jacob disappeared for a while. I didn’t hear from him and neither did his family. This was around the time I started dating Bella, and when I thought less and less of my best friend. When one day, about a week before I left my angel, I got a call from Jacob.

He told me he’d borrowed money from some man in New York City. Jacob was unable to pay it and was now doing dirty work for the guy. Dirty work as in, chasing after people when they didn’t pay this guy back. Jacob had refused to run after his girlfriends brother (who was somehow connected) and the man sent some other guy to kill his girlfriend. So now they were going to kill Jacob if he didn’t get help. And I being the friend I was, agreed.

I’m sure you can fill in the rest. Now I sit here having sinned so many times where I feel guilty with every breath I take. Jacob is still in New York, no longer needing me. He’s considered killing himself because of this. Somehow, I got out of it. I convinced the man causing this to just let me go home. Maybe he decided my guilt was enough punishment for not doing anything. And I’ve decided there is no way I deserve my Bella.

She doesn’t need someone who’s sinned so many times that it’s like poisoning her every time he touches her. We were perfect together, but now she just doesn’t deserve this.

I’d explained it as best I could to her, leaving out any gory details. Bella grabbed the chain on my neck with the ring. Crap, I hadn’t told her about that. “What is this?” she asked, eyeing the ring. “Nothing.” I said quietly, trying to pull away. Bella crawled into my lap anyway. Why couldn’t she just understand that something as good and pure as her cannot be sitting in the lap of some thing that’s hurt innocent people?

“Bella please get off.” I choked, as much as I hated to say those words. “Aiden you aren’t getting rid of me that easily. I know you’re guilty, but I understand it.” She said. How could she be so confident in that? “Bella, you don’t. I’m not proud of what I’ve done, and you shouldn’t be either.” I said as she picked the ring up and played with it.

“Aiden I’m not proud of you at all. I’m disappointed that you had to do that. But you did it because you care about this Jacob guy. I understand that. So stop being guilty. Because none of this is affecting my decision right now. You’re still the old Aiden.” She said. “But you aren’t the same Bella.” I whispered, instantly regretting those words.

“What are you talking about?” her eyes narrowed as she stared at my face. “The old Bella wouldn’t have moved on.” I said quietly. I was upset about it, even though I had no right. Man, I was screwing this up. “I did wait Aiden. I waited a few years to move on until Edward somehow came into my life and accepted how broken I was. I haven’t felt this complete in the two or so years you’ve been gone.” She snapped at me. “I’m sorry.” I ended the argument before it started.

Bella passed it off and played with the ring again. “Are you going to tell me what the ring is for?” she whispered softly, not looking in my eyes. “I’ll give you one hint.” I almost laughed, grabbing her left hand and placing the ring over the tip of her ring finger.

A euphoric smile spread across Bella’s face. “Are you serious?” she said excitedly, pushing it all the way onto her finger. I couldn’t help the grin that came on my face. I’d waited so long to see that ring on her finger, to see her smiling like that. It made me melt, and almost forget about everything I’d done. Like it was in the past and the only Bella knew was an innocent Aiden who’d never committed a crime in his life. “Will you marry me.” I murmured, resting my forehead against hers. Bella’s smile disappeared suddenly. Her face was blank, and no matter how many times I tried, and no matter how close I looked, there was nothing there written on her expressions.

“Bella?” I murmured, staring into here eyes. She was staring at her hand. “I…I…don’t know Aiden.” She said slowly. “Edward.” Was all she choked out. I understood that. She needed to decide.

I pushed her off of me. “Bella. You need time to think. Call Alice when you’re ready to talk to me.” And I sped out of her apartment faster than I’ve ever ran before.

Edward POV

“No no no.” I said to Emmett on the phone. “He didn’t.” I almost shouted. I put my hand on my face as if to block out all the angry thoughts running through my head. “Yep, she came to Rose’s apartment and started crying her eyes out.” Emmett said.

I was going to murder Aiden. I was going to make sure I picked him apart piece by piece and then burn him until the only thing left was his ashes that I’d probably try chemically disintegrating.

“Why didn’t she call me?” I growled into the phone. “Dude, you told her not to until she was ready with her decision didn’t you?” Emmett probably had that stupid ‘I’m right for once and you’re wrong’ look written on his face. I wanted to smack it off.

“That doesn’t count. She needs me. Now. I’m coming over.” I said, hanging up and not giving Emmett a chance to stop me. I got to my car in a blur and arrived at Rosalie’s apartment in a blur. Everything was blurry. The only clear thing I could see was Bella. I wasn’t mad anymore, I just needed to make sure she was okay. I needed to know she was happy, and this Aiden idiot wasn’t helping with that situation. I sprinted upstairs and ran inside, happy the door was unlocked. “Bella?” I called, I heard sniffles from the living room and I ran in. Emmett was leaning against the wall, carefully watching her, and Rosalie was holding Bella on the couch as she cried.

I couldn’t watch it, but I walked over to Rose and pushed her off Bella. Bella looked up at me and made some sort of effort to stop crying. I chuckled at her and pulled her into my arms. I didn’t care why she was crying, I didn’t care if all she needed to do was cry. But I had to make it stop. I couldn’t stand it knowing she was upset, especially if it was because I was making her make a decision. Rosalie and Emmett had left the room, leaving me saying things I had know idea I would say.

“Bella please, you don’t have to choose. We can always resort to polygamy and you can have two husbands if that helps. Just be happy Bella, I’ll take you to France again and you can live there and we can eat chicken and snails all day. You don’t have to choose Bella.” I kept saying random things.

While my face was resting on the top of her head, I realized she was laughing now. “Edward Cullen what is wrong with you?” she laughed. Mood swings much?

I stuttered with my mouth open, completely unsure of what to say. “Just…be…happy?” I said, my rant coming to a close. Bella was sitting there, laughing at me.

I frowned at her. “Stop laughing. I’ll leave.” Her laughing disappeared as soon as it had arrived. “Sorry.” She smirked. I looked away from her, knowing what exactly I had to say. “What are you going to tell him?” I asked, afraid of the answer. Please Bella, just forget about that idiot. I will never leave you, I can’t leave you. Don’t leave me. Thoughts rang through my head.

Bella touched my cheek and made me look at her. “If you think I’m stupid enough to say yes to someone who left me for about three years and then came back and expects me to marry him…well…maybe I should choose him.” She said, humor behind her words.

I knew what that meant. “So…you’re choosing me.” “For now. Aiden’s changed, but he’s going to think I don’t love him anymore for the wrong reasons. So we’ll have to work on that…” she said. I grinned, this was exactly what I wanted. More time to convince her I loved her more and I always would. I grabbed Bella’s chin and kissed her softly, making sure every ounce of my happiness was drowned in her.

“DUDE I’M THE ONLY ONE WHO MAKES OUT ON ROSIES COUCH!!!!!” Emmett boomed suddenly. I turned around to see a frowning Emmett and a giggling Rosalie behind him. “Emmett relax. We’ll just have to show them how it’s done.” Rosalie grabbed my brother suddenly and started ravishing him. “Eww.” I murmured. Bella took my hand and got up. “We’ll just leave then…” she said, almost running to the door.

I don’t think they heard us.

“Bella. Get in my car now.” I ordered, pointing to my car that happened to be next to her dingy old truck. “No. We’re going to my apartment.” Bella pouted. “But would if he’s there?” I crossed my arms over my chest. “Then we’ll kick him out.” She argued.

Why were we having this argument? “The only reason we’d be going to your place is to get all your stuff so you can move in with me.” I told her, smirking. “Oh so just because I’m choosing you we have to live together?” she frowned. This was too easy, Bella refused to lose this argument. “Fine Bella. I’ll just go home and you can be with him.” I smiled, walking over to my car. “WAIT!” she shrieked, running over to the passenger side of my car. I laughed and got in the car.

Bella didn’t realize I was completely kidding until we were right outside my apartment. “You play dirty.” She pouted. “No my Bella. I’m actually quite a clean person. I just don’t play fair.” I laughed. I couldn’t help it, she was too adorable when she was mad about ridiculous situations. Bella grumbled all the way up to my apartment. We went inside and she looked out the window. It was getting dark out. “Is that why you wanted to go back to your apartment?” I asked, suddenly putting two and two together.

She probably thought I wanted to get into her pants. But Bella shook her head and continued staring out the large sky view. I walked up behind her and wrapped my arms around her waist. I always felt better when she was with me, like I was protecting the one thing I had to keep safe. Apparently I was doing a good job of it because she leaned against me, reaching up to run a hand through my hair.

“I’m sorry you’ve been put through so much.” I murmured to her, kissing her neck. “It’s not your fault. It’s not anyone’s fault. It’s just how it happened.” She said quietly.

“Bella?” I whispered against her neck. I don’t know why exactly I asked her this, but I did anyway.

“If it had been me asking for your hand…would you have said yes?”

Bella POV

I stood there slightly in shock. Did he really just ask me that? “Um…I don’t know.” I murmured, a blush creeping up onto my cheeks. Edward merely sighed, suddenly throwing me over his back. “PUT ME DOWN!” I screamed. “Nope. You’re staying here for the night.” He told me, walking into his bedroom. Edward threw me down then crawled on top of me.

“Edward…” I warned, I seriously had enough drama today, and I wasn’t going to end it with Edward all over me.

“Shh, Bella just go to sleep.” He whispered, kissing my neck. “I can’t go to sleep if you’re doing that!” I murmured, although I had no reason to be using a quiet voice.

“Doing what?” he said against my neck. I could picture him clearly, smiling and flashing his glowing white teeth.

“That!” I hissed, trying to push him off. But Edward wouldn’t have it. He simply grabbed my hands playfully and placed them above my head, and held them there.

“My dear Bella, I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He smiled, complete humor in his voice. I tried struggling against grip.

“Edward stop.” I said simply. Apparently, something in my voice made him react. Before I knew it, Edward had flipped us around so I was laying across his chest. “Sorry.” He murmured, wrapping me in his arms.

I think I fell asleep sometime after that, but I can’t be sure. All I know is that I woke up to an empty bed that was full of Edwards scent. I was too lazy to open my eyes and I felt around to try and find Edward. However, I found the end of the bed and fell off, hitting my head on the nightstand. “Good morning to you too.” I growled at the night stand.

I got up and lazily walked through Edwards apartment and found him in the kitchen making something that smelled incredibly amazing. “Food…” I moaned.

Edward laughed and turned around, he laughed harder. “I know I slept in the same room as you in France but you’ve never looked this…ridiculous.” He smirked, placing a plate on the table. I shrugged. “Get used to it. When I have bad days, this is the result.” I snapped at him, my head still sore from the fall. “Get up on the wrong side of the bed?” he asked as I sat down and stuffed some eggs into my mouth. They tasted absolutely amazing.

I moaned in response. “You even cook.” I smiled as I wiped my mouth. Edward sat down across from me and touched my cheek.

“The Food Network taught me a few things. Usually I just go with cereal and call it a day.” He murmured, observing me. I felt a blush flood my cheeks as I ate.

“Well then the Food Network did a good job.” I looked down at myself then and suddenly realized I was in my clothes from yesterday. “Not good.” I murmured.

Edward smiled. “You can borrow a t-shirt or something. Or I’ll just drop you off at home and you can change.” He said, getting up and washing my almost clean plate.

“What will the neighbors think?” I said sarcastically. Edward chuckled and returned to the table and picked me up from the chair. “Who cares?” he murmured in my ear, sending a chill up my spine.

When we did get back to my apartment, I was relieved. Aiden was gone. And so was all his marriage ideas.

Edward had taken a shower while I was asleep, which left me to take mine. I happily ran to my bathroom as I ordered Edward to stay in the living room and watch the news or something.

I took a long shower, needing the alone time, and the time to wash away all my unhappy memories of the past few days. All of the drama was taking a toll on me. And work wasn’t for another two weeks. As seeing the show had gone so well that they didn’t need me around while it was going on every night.

I sighed and stepped out of the shower, throwing on some clean clothes. I walked back into the living room to find Edward gone. “Edward?” I called, looking around the corner. He seemed to be missing.

“Edward?” I called again, turning around and running right into someone. I toppled backwards, but two very strong arms caught me. “Don’t do that!” I hit Edwards arm. He merely laughed at me and massaged my shoulders. Edward picked me up and tossed me on the couch. “What is it with you and making me angry?” I snapped at him.

“Ah…love don’t be mad. You don’t see how adorable you are when you’re mad.” He smiled crookedly at me. My anger vanished.

Edward leaned down and brushed his lips against mine. “I love you.” He hummed into my ear. What was he doing? Trying to lure me to bed again? If so, it might have worked if my phone hadn’t started ringing. Why did my phone interrupt everything.

I snatched it out of my pocket and brought it up to my ear. “Hello?” I asked shakily, completely aware Edward was attempting to distract me. He ran his lips along my jaw, placing gentle kisses there. “Bells! Hey, you know Thanksgiving is coming up! I was wondering where you were going to go this year…” my father said at the other end of the phone.

I immediately tried pushing Edward out of the way. I did not need him distracting me while I talked to my father who thought I was still four years old and played with dolls.

However, Edward chuckled at me and picked me up, bringing me to the couch and continued to kiss me. “Dad I already told you I would go to Forks this year. It means less traveling for me.” I tried to keep my voice steady, but Edward was putting up a fight. He kissed my free ear and began nibbling on my ear lobe. I couldn’t suppress the moan that escaped.

“Um…you okay Bells?” my dad asked. Edward heard it, he began chuckling. “Yeah dad I’m fine. Could you hold on for a second?” I asked, not waiting for his answer I took the phone away and covered it with my hand. “Stop it Edward! I’m not going to let my father know my boyfriend can’t keep his hands to himself. He’s the chief police officer and I know for a fact he won’t refrain from using a gun on you!” I scolded him.

Edward smiled victoriously, but backed away, playing with my hair. As I put the phone back to my ear, I heard a very upset dad. And that’s when I realized my yelling had been slightly loud and that I was covering the wrong side of the phone.

“You’re boyfriend!” my dad shrieked at the other end. I glared at Edward. “WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE CAN’T KEEP HIS HANDS TO HIMSELF!!!!” my dad roared.

Edwards eyes went wide, like he was remembering something. “Forks…” he murmured. “Bella! My parents live in Forks!” he started cheering like five year old girl. I groaned. “He’s coming with me anyway dad…” I groaned into the phone. My dad sounded like he was going to have a heart attack. “I’ll see you at Thanksgiving…” I growled, hanging up the phone. I was in no mood to let my dad ruin Edward for me.

“Bella we can go to Forks together!” Edward smiled, taking my hand. I was glaring at him, and he soon caught on. “What?” he stopped, a frown taking over his perfect face. “Oh don’t give me that look mon ange…” he started, “You’re father isn’t going to kill me.” Edward stated, kissing my nose. I still glared at him, earning a sigh from Edward.

“Bella, I remember your dad. Once he knows I’m Carlisle’s son, he’ll stop freaking out on you.” Edward smiled. That eased me a little. But only a little.

“Fine.” I said, leaning back in the couch. Edward leaned on me, his face inches from mine. “So what do you want to do today?” he whispered huskily.

It amazed me how he could go right from bouncing in his seat to trying to lure me to bed. “Edward…” I groaned, kissing his temple.

“Bella…” he smiled, my name rolling off his lips.

“Did I ever tell you I believe in sex after marriage.” I said, staring into his eyes. Edward immediately got off of me. “You mean…Aiden?” he stuttered. I shook my head. “Never.”

A smile spread over Edwards lips. “Good. That makes two of us.” He laughed. My mouth dropped open.

Edward has never had sex. A perfect man like him could probably land ten girls in the same night for crying out loud! Edward merely smiled at me and blushed. Wait, did I actually just see that?

Edward Cullen actually blushed. “Don’t look at me like that.” He murmured, pushing my chin up. I had an evil smile on my face. “So do we share the same beliefs, or were you really trying to lure me to bed?” I asked, moving on top of him.

Edward’s blush didn’t disappear. “Same beliefs.” He muttered. “So why were you trying…” Edward cut me off. “To see if you actually did believe in that. I wasn’t going to plain out ask you.” He said. I almost sighed. He was such a gentleman. A very sneaky gentleman.

“So really, you’ve never had sex?” I laughed. Edward had turned about fifty shades of red by that point, and I was enjoying it to the fullest. I had discovered his weakness.

“Hmm…is that Alice at the door. Maybe I’ll go get it…” Edward said, trying to push me off. But I held him down. This was far too much fun. Besides, I would know if Alice was at the door.

“Hold it. All I want is a yes or no answer.” I said innocently. “I wanted a yes or no answer when I asked you if it was me asking you to marry me, if you would say yes. But I didn’t get that now did I?” Edward snapped. Was it just me, or was he hotter when he was angry and blushing?

“Fine, I would have said no because I’ve only known you for a short amount of time. Now give me my answer.” I said, pouting at him.

Edwards face went blank. “You would have said no?” he asked quietly. I groaned. “For good reasons! One day…” I stopped to kiss his pout. “One day I will marry you. But really Edward, we’ve fallen in love so fast. I want time.” I said. Edward wrapped his arms around my waist.

“But…if we know we’re spending forever together…” Edwards sadness was written all over his face. I sighed and sat up, bringing him with me.

“My parents got married when they were eighteen. They didn’t know each other very long and look at how that turned out. They had me and then split up. I just don’t want that to happen to me.” I said quietly, looking away from him. Edward took my chin and stared into my eyes. I got lost again.

“But they were eighteen. We’re in our early twenties.” He said. “Doesn’t make a difference.” I murmured, pushing his hand away.

Edward was quiet for a while. “So if I pulled out a ring right now…you would say no?” he muttered. My eyes went wide. “Please don’t tell me…” I turned to look at him.

“I was going to ask you opening night. However, someone else interrupted my plans.” Edward glared at the floor, obviously upset.

I moved over and sat in his lap. “Edward just give us time. I’m not doing this because I don’t love you or because I plan on leaving you anytime soon. Trust me, you’re stuck with me for life. But just give me some more time being your girlfriend.” I said quietly, kissing his neck.

Edward looked at me then. “Do you want to see that.” His hand went to his pocket. I smacked my forehead. “No. Let it be a surprise.” I growled the word.

It was one surprise I could live with, and it obviously satisfied Edward. “You mean Ms. I-can’t-stand-surprises-just-tell-me-where-we’re-going, is asking me to surprise her? Ooh, this must be a touchy subject.” Edward laughed. A blush flooded my cheeks.

Edward chuckled and kissed my cheek. “So no work for two weeks huh?” he smiled. “It’s Sunday.” My voice rang. I had two weeks off to do nothing. So that gave me…fourteen days off. I was going back two Mondays from now. Great.

“You never answered my question.” Edward said. I looked up at him and frowned. “What are we doing today?” he smirked. I shrugged in response.

Edward rolled his eyes and grabbed my mouth. This time I knew he wasn’t going to push me too far, so I gave in. It felt good letting my guard down around him. And he obviously could tell I did, as seeing he too full advantage of it.

Edward moved me under him and attacked my mouth. I swiped his bottom lip with my tongue, and he quickly granted my wish of entrance.

I’m not sure how long we sat there making out, but time was lost as I heard a knock at the door.

I groaned and pushed Edward off of me. His hair looked even more disheveled than usual, causing me to laugh. I opened the door and frowned.

“May I help you?” I asked, the tall woman smiling at me. “Yes, my name is Tanya, I’m looking for Edward…is he here by any chance?” she asked. I felt a very strong wave of jealousy take over me. I looked like a piece of trash compared to her.

She had strawberry blonde hair, tall, pale skin. Basically fit the image of a “perfect” person. “Um…yeah…uh…hang on.” I said unintelligently. I turned around and called Edwards name, and he appeared almost instantly. “Edward!” Tanya smiled, and threw her arms around my boyfriend!

Edward patted her back and pushed her off. “Tanya. Nice to see you. Might I introduce my girlfriend Bella?” he said politely, with an inch of venom in his voice. Tanya backed up a few feet and glanced at me. “Oh.” She said smoothly. “Nice to meet you Bella.” She said.

I stood there awkwardly. “Edward I was wondering if I could talk to you…for a while in private.” Tanya continued her eyes flashing to me for a short moment.

Edward looked at me hesitantly. “Of course. I was going to be leaving anyway.” Edward said, his voice shaky. What the heck was going on?

Edward took my hand and ran back inside the apartment to grab his keys. “I’ll be back tonight. Do not worry your pretty little head off. I’m taking you to dinner to explain this. I love you.” With that, Edward was gone. I was left alone in my apartment.

I don’t know what emotions flooded me. But this seemed completely unfair. Some gorgeous woman appeared at my door and took away the most perfect man I had ever held in my arms. And he just willingly took off!

I sat on my couch and couldn’t stop a few tears as worst case scenarios flooded my head.

My phone rang after an hour, and I randomly picked it up, miserably muttering a “Hello?”

“Hey Bella! It’s Emmett, Rose ditched me to go shopping for her moms birthday and I have these tickets for an afternoon concert.” He said. I felt bad for him. “What kind of concert?” I muttered. “Whoa, Bella. You okay?” Emmett suddenly realized my miserable tone. “No.” I answered.

Emmett was quiet for a moment. “Where’s Edward?” he asked quietly. “With some blond girl that showed up at my door.” I said angrily. Emmett cursed on the other end of the phone.

“Go put on something warm and I’ll pick you up in ten minutes.” Emmett said, hanging up the phone.

This added to my thoughts. Edward had a past with this Tanya. That much I knew.

And before I knew it, Emmett was at my door, all bundled up, making him look even bigger than he was.

“Let’s go my sis-ta!” he said excitedly. “What concert are we going to?” my mood somehow influenced my his enthusiasm. “I don’t know. Some rock concert. Rose and I were planning something to do last week, but she decided to ditch me last minute. And Alice would probably be crushed in the crowd.” Emmett laughed.

I let out a laugh myself, I could only picture Alice getting run over easily by a mob of people, and Jasper frantically trying to save her.

For some reason, I laughed at the thought.

“So…some blond chick?” he asked as we got in the car. Way to ruin my improving mood Emmett!

I nodded as he started the car.

“Any more description?” he asked. I glared at him. “Tall. Strawberry blond. Beautiful. Happy?” I growled. “Bella don’t get pissed. It was probably Tanya.” He almost spit the name.

I nodded. “See you left that out didn’t ya?” he laughed. I glared again. “And why is Tanya significant?” I asked, looking out the window of his gigantic jeep.

“Edwards longest and only relationship. She was pure evil. He broke up with her two years ago, hasn’t gone on a date since. Well…I guess she was the only person he ever went out with.” Emmett said. “She’s evil?” I asked.

Emmett nodded. “She took advantage of Edward way too much. She got him into a lot of trouble too sometimes. Jasper and I finally knocked enough sense into him to break up with her.” Emmett explained. I nodded. “Why is she back?” I asked.

“Probably to use him again. That was the only reason she was with him anyways. And because he wouldn’t get in bed with her, she cheated on him constantly. But he would always overlook it and try to find some sort of good in that bundle of evil.” Emmett explained.

I nodded. “Will he leave me?” I asked, hurt coating my voice. Emmett laughed. “If he does, I’ll kill him. You’re the best thing to happen to him…ever! But no…I don’t think he will. He loves you too much. And if you hurt my little bro, well I might just keep you myself. He deserves it for staying with that witch since high school.” Emmett grinned. I couldn’t help but grin back at him

Emmett made complete sense when he wanted to, and he was like the older brother I never had. “Thank Emmett. You’ve help a lot.” I smiled.

Emmett laughed, “No problem my sista.” He said.

The concert wasn’t so bad when you were with Emmett. He had gotten it completely wrong. It was a country concert with some unknown band and singer. And it hurt my ears. However, Emmett made so much fun of it, it was impossible not to stay and listen to him.

However, we eventually left and got something to eat. We got pizza, and it was an incredibly nice change from the cold outdoors. Emmett was a great guy, and I could get used to spending time around him.

But the hour hit five and I realized Edward would probably be waiting at my apartment to take me out to dinner. And to explain a few things. Although I had a good idea of what was going on now.

I got home and thanked Emmett about fifty times for cheering me, then changed into some more suitable clothes.

I waited for about half an hour. Then checked my phone to see if I had any missed calls.

I didn’t so I waited some more. I think I waited so long I forgot I was waiting.

The last time I checked the clock, it was about eleven. And I finally knew, Edward wasn’t coming.

Bella POV

At the current moment I hated Edward. Well, maybe not hate, but I was definitely mad at him. And it wasn’t just because he blew me off. No, he just had to leave me for that Tanya.

I almost growled at the name.

I woke up around eleven the next morning on my couch. Stupid Mondays. I got up, took my shower, and took some time for myself. I started getting pissed off again. He wasn’t even calling me by two in the afternoon!

I got up off my couch and decided to stop pouting at my phone. Before I knew it, I was at the one place my train of thought was leading to. Edwards apartment.

I almost groaned as I parked. What was I doing here? I for sure seemed like some crazy stalker girlfriend now. But I was pissed off and I wanted, no, demanded answers.

So I buzzed him from below, and heard a quick, “Come on up.” I carefully walked inside and found his apartment, softly knocking on the door. In a way, it was the calm before the storm.

He opened the door quickly, and I noticed something as I walked in. He was frantically putting clothes on. “Crap, I’m late.” Edward was muttering, putting his usual attire on. “Late for what?” I asked, my tone sharp.

Edward pivoted around and his eyes went wide. “Bella…” he stopped, dropping his tie on the floor.

He advanced towards me, but I put a hand up. Despite the fact I wanted nothing more than to throw my arms around him and spend hours upon hours on his couch with him.

Great, I was transforming into a hormonal teenager again.

Edward looked at me carefully, but backed away. “I’m so sorry I didn’t…” I stopped him. “Why?” I asked. That was all I wanted to know anyway. There was no chance I would win this fight if he started apologizing to no end.

Edward buried his face in his hands and breathed deeply. “Bella I don’t have time for this.” He murmured, resuming his dressing.

“Oh, you don’t have time to explain anything to me, but you have time to leave me to talk to Tanya.” I emphasized the name.

Someone walked around the corner. And it was all I needed to see. I resisted the urge to slap Edward and run away. But I just did the second part. I got in my truck, and sped away to who knows where. Before I knew it, I was at the edge of Seattle.

Tears gently ran down my face as I turned my phone off. I didn’t need anyone calling and finding me like this.

Why did he have to do that? What had I really done to deserve such a heart break?

Oh right, maybe it had something to do with Aiden.

Okay world, I learned my lesson! Are you happy? Of course the world wasn’t happy, the world was never happy. So I leaned on my steering wheel and just let the tears pour out. I hated my life at the moment. And then I looked at the pictures I kept on my dashboard. One caught my memory.

“No no no!” I cried. Angela put an arm around me. “Bella, it isn’t going to kill you!” she laughed, getting out of the car. Thank goodness Angela was such a good friend, taking me to the dance with her and Ben.

“Angela, seriously, why couldn’t I just stay home?” I asked, pouting. “Listen Bella, every guy is going to be cracking their necks when they see you. So stop pouting and hurry up!” I glared at Ben who was laughing behind me.

Prom. Eww. Never make me say that word again. I hate dancing, I hate being here. I. Hate. It.

So I stood in the corner, waiting for it to pass over. Somehow, I had convinced my beloved friends to let me get a not so attention-grabbing dress. So I didn’t stand out.

But then I saw a familiar face, one I was actually glad to see. “Jacob!” I shrieked. He came over and hugged me, like he always did.

“Bella…is at prom?” he asked sarcastically. I swatted his arm, even though it did me more damage than him. “Blame them!” I pointed to Angela and Jessica swaying in the middle of the dance floor. Jacob laughed and grabbed me as a slow song came on.

“May I have this dance?” he asked smoothly. “Jacob…” I groaned.

He merely laughed and hoisted me up, so my feet weren’t even touching the ground. He twirled me around in a circle effortlessly, and much like I was five. “Thanks Jake…” I growled as he put me down.

Jacob smirked and flicked my nose. “Wanna get a picture?” he asked, grabbing my hand.

So I did, and I promised myself I would keep it. My memory of the boy who made Isabella Swan dance.

My breathing stopped for a moment. Jacob. Jacob. Jacob.

JACOB!

Aiden. Jacob. Aiden. Jacob. The two names mixed together. Maybe it was another Jacob, but the last I had heard, my Jacob disappeared. “No.” I murmured, my smile faded from my reminiscing.

I marched into my apartment and dialed the familiar number. Even if I hadn’t dialed it in over five years. “Hello?” an old raspy voice said at the other end of the phone.

“Hey Billy! It’s Bella. Um…by any chance is Jacob there?” I asked quietly. “Erm, no Bella. He hasn’t came back since he finished high school.” I almost started crying at the pain in his voice. “Oh.” I murmured.

From that point on, Billy caught me up on how things were going in Forks and La Push. A way to “prepare” me for the people…and weather. Apparently they had been getting some early winter storms. But Billy wished me a safe trip, and hoped I might stop by when I got to Forks. That depended.

My suspicions were almost confirmed, maybe I would call Aiden just to make sure.

Around midnight, I heard a faint knocking on the door. Who was bugging me this late? I wasn’t really trying to sleep, more like laying down and thinking about my old friends who had gone off to who knows where.

So I got up, and smoothed my hair out as if it would help, and answered the door. The person there almost made me jump.

“Bella!” he smiled, all too familiar. I stuttered slightly. “Jake…?”

He wrapped his monster arms around me and almost broke me in half. “Wh…what are you doing here?” I asked as he set me down, and walked in. I scoffed at him and he merely laughed. “Visiting.” He smirked. “At midnight?” I asked, closing the door.

“Sure.” He said, plopping down on my couch. “Jake…why are you here?” I asked. “On a ‘mission.’” He wouldn’t wipe his dumb grin off his face.

“So I’ve heard.” I said, tapping my foot as I stood in front of him. “Aiden?” he asked.

I merely nodded. “Don’t get me wrong Bella. I was happy you were with Aiden. But I’ve just gotten you and him in a lot of trouble and…well…he sent me to do something I really don’t want to do.” Jake murmured.

“What’s that?” I asked, confused. Jacob stayed silent for a few minutes, then reached into his pocket, and pulled out a very sharp knife. “Jacob no.” I said quietly.

I knew what was going to happen. I was going to die because of money. Not something I had in mind.

I could see the pain in Jacobs eyes. “I don’t want to Bella…” he murmured, a tear running down his face. “Then don’t” I murmured. But Jacob ran towards me anyways.

I was pinned beneath him, and there was nothing I could do. What had I really done to the world to get this?

“Bella…I don’t want to.” He said again, his weight crushing me. I couldn’t stop the few tears that escaped.

“I’m sorry Jacob.” I murmured.

My world went black.

Edward POV

Five minutes. Five minutes and I could rush to Bella and beg for her forgiveness. I hadn’t slept with Tanya, she knew me better than that. But did Tanya just have to come out dressed like that.

She was only doing it because I told her she looked hot in my clothes when we were in our senior year. But in front of Bella? Tanya knew better than that. In fact, she knew too well, that Bella would freak out. Maybe even break up with me. But I wouldn’t let that happen.

So after my shift ended at 11:45, I rushed to Bella’s apartment. And for some weird reason, the door was open…which was oddly strange. I walked inside and found Bella’s apartment door.

Before I knocked, I listened, and what I heard made me break down the door. I ran in to find some idiot on top of my Bella. “Get off!” I yelled, running to him and forcing him off of her. I gasped as I saw a trail of blood run down her neck. It was a tiny cut, but she passed out anyways. Note to self: Bella + Blood = not good.

I fought off the large man, although it was merely impossible, but I somehow got him on the ground, in enough pain to make him not fight back.

Bella POV

I woke up dizzily. And not a good dizzy either. I groaned as soon as I realized I was still alive. Wasn’t I supposed to be dead? All I remember is seeing blood…wait, that explained it. I pass out at the mention of blood.

So I sat up and looked around. Anger raged through me as I realized where I was. Stupid Edward. Just had to come to my rescue and stick me in his apartment. Mondays really did suck, and Tuesdays were getting on my bad side as well. I groaned and got out, still a little dizzy.

As soon as I entered the hallway, I knew what he was doing. Cooking. I walked in and glared at him as I leaned on the entryway. Edward turned around and smiled at me. I continued glaring. “What? Can’t I at least have a thank you?” he asked innocently.

I narrowed my eyes if it were even possible by that point. “Bella. I know you’re mad but…” I held up my hand, and he stopped.

“You should have let me die.” I said quietly. With that, I regretted my words. Edward dropped everything and picked me up in his arms and dragged me to his stupid couch. Everything about Edward was stupid. More like I was stupid. But I wasn’t going to admit that now was I?

He sat down next to me and pointed a stupid finger in my face. “If I ever hear you say that again, I’m sticking you in a recovery center for a year.” He threatened. I pushed his finger away.

“Well then I guess it’s a good thing you won’t be hearing from me anymore now is it?” I snapped.

My words were totally false. I would probably drop down on my knees and beg him to stay with me forever. I’d beg him to put me in some suicidal recovery place if it meant I could stay with him. But I said them out of anger. And when I was angry, I wasn’t always truthful.

Edwards face dropped. “You never gave me a chance to explain.” He murmured. My anger went up ten levels.

“Yes I did. Sunday night and yesterday. Obviously you had other plans with Tanya Sunday night, so please forgive me for intruding.” I glared.

“You know how I said you’re adorable when you’re angry?” he asked, averting his eyes and staring at a stray lock of hair.

I grabbed his face with both my hands. “Don’t change the subject. This is you’re last chance or I’m walking out the door right now.” I said, my tone sharp. Again, this was another lie. But it still worked. Maybe I wasn’t actually that bad at lying.

Edward sighed and didn’t take his eyes off my hair. “Tanya was my girlfriend in high school, but I broke up with her a few years ago.” He started. “I’ve heard this part.” I glared.

Edwards face darkened. “Who told you?” he asked, his tone growing on me. “I want my explanation first.” I snapped, pulling back from him. Edward nodded, but his dark look didn’t disappear.

“She came back on Sunday to ask for me back. She didn’t have a place to stay, and I offered her my spare bedroom. However, I woke up to find her in my bed, dressed in my clothes. I didn’t plan it. And that’s the truth. Now who told you?” he demanded.

I stopped him. “It doesn’t matter who told me. I’m leaving.” I said, getting up. Edward pulled me right back down to him though, and on his lap. I glared at him some more, and struggled. However, he had enough muscle to hold me in place without any effort.

“Bella, I love you and I always will. Tanya is just some regrettable part of my past that unfortunately is there. Whether you want to accept that or not is up to you.” He said, glaring right back at me.

“I accept you have a past Edward, whether you can keep that past out of your pants or not…” Edward stopped me.

“Do you really think I’m idiotic enough to let Tanya rape me in my sleep? Bella, I would never let that happen, I told her to leave in the morning. She’s gone. And she isn’t coming back.” He said.

I stayed still on his lap. I couldn’t leave, I wouldn’t leave. But part of me was telling me to not give in. To just run, and leave the troubles behind. “You can’t run away Bella.” Edward murmured. “Stop running away from your problems.” He said.

I shook my head, choking back a few tears. “I know you’re hurt. I know you have a past as well. That’s why we need each other Bella.” Edward said, stroking my hair.

“How do I know you won’t leave?” I asked. That’s when I knew it. Some lady getting to Edward wasn’t my problem. It was when he decided to leave me, whether it was for someone else or not, that would break me. Aiden did that, and I was completely closing myself off because of it. I was building myself up, so I wouldn’t fall when one brick went away.

Edward took my hand. “I will never leave you Isabella Swan. Never.” He promised, kissing my hand.

For some crazy reason, I believed him. “Never.” I repeated, grabbing his mouth with mine.

Ah….Happy Endings.

Bella POV

I rubbed my eyes slowly. Getting up was becoming too much of a hassle, especially if you’ve been sleeping in Edwards apartment for one straight week, and actually waking up with him next to you.

Edward and I had still held onto our beliefs, and received a lot of scolding from Emmett, but that was directed towards Edward more than I. And to my luck, we were meeting up with everyone today. Tuesdays had officially been made, “Love Edward Day,” declared by the perfect man I loved himself.

He seemed to think that if there was such a day, the world would be perfect on Tuesdays. Our friends had other plans that night.

So after hours upon hours of Edward convincing me to get out of his very comfortable bed so he could go to work for a few hours (he was getting out early so he could spend time with our friends), he gave up and let me sleep by myself for the fifteenth time in the past week.

Maybe being off work wasn’t so bad…

After five minutes of Edward gone at work, I gave up trying to sleep. The bed and ultimate comfort level just wasn’t the same without him there.

Edward had given me a key to his apartment, somehow crazy enough to trust me not to lose it. I loved him so much.

I decided to go back to my apartment to get ready. Unfortunately, Edward wouldn’t let me go there alone and had kept me locked up for the past week. But as of yesterday, he said I could leave his apartment. Normally, people would find this over-protective. But I knew Edward was just some lovable man who wanted to keep those close to him safe. So I played along.

As I walked back to my apartment, I thought over where exactly I was.

I was with the man I was starting to love more than I ever loved Aiden, whom had sent his best friend (and my old best friend) to kill me. Jacob was in jail. I had earned some new friends after my closed off life of working as much as possible. And my father was out to kill Edward.

I suppose other than Aiden still out there trying to get rid of me, and my father so “anxious” to meet Edward, the other events in my life were making up for it.

Then something else hit me. Would Edward make me meet his family? If he didn’t, Emmett for sure would. And I’d rather have the devil drag me to hell than be introduced to Edwards parents by Emmett.

I slowly walked up to my apartment, thankful someone had come by and cleaned up the blood. It seemed as if nothing had happened to my apartment, other than me leaving it alone for a week.

It was just me and my home. Even if Edward did purpose something different for that.

Flashback

“Puh-lease Bella!!” Edward pouted ridiculously, literally getting on his knees. I looked away from him. It was a Monday night and Edward was pathetically begging me to move in with him.

“Edward get up. I’m not moving in with you!” I told him, avoiding his eyes. I would give in if I looked there. And Edward knew it too, so he kept trying to get me to look at him by acting amazingly adorable.

“But Bella! I can’t protect you if you’re living there!” he whined like a child. “Edward I’ll be perfectly safe. I’m not moving out of my apartment.” I told him for the billionth time that night. He wouldn’t give up, and he kept throwing the same reasons at me.

“You said you wanted time to get married. I’m giving you that. Can’t you at least live with me so I can make sure you live to see the day I purpose to you?” he asked. That was a new one.

I hesitantly looked at him, “Is that what this is about? Are you trying to speed up time or something?” I asked, my eyes narrowing. He looked down sadly, and I just about gave in and purposed to him myself.

“Maybe a little.” His pout was clearly defined. I grabbed his chin and stared into the most beautiful and emotional eyes I had ever seen. “I love you Edward. Moving in with you isn’t going to change the fact I want time.” I said quietly.

Edward got frustrated. “But how much time Bella?” he growled, sadness still hidden in his voice. I pulled away a little. “I don’t know Edward. As much time as it takes.” I said, looking away.

“Time to get over Aiden or what? Seriously Bella, you left him and he tried to kill you! I would never do that even if I had purposed to you and you refused!” he groaned.

“Maybe it has something to do with Aiden, but I also don’t want to rush into a marriage.” I said. “Who says we would be rushing? Can’t you just accept so I know for sure that one day you will marry me?” he asked, the pout becoming more defined again.

I groaned. “I will marry you one day Edward! I’ve told you that millions of times!” “But I want it done the right way, I want the proof on your finger!” he said sadly, picking up my hand and rubbing the bottom of my ring finger.

“Want, want, want. Be patient young one.” I said in a very poor “monk” accent.

Edward glared at me. “Lets go to bed.” I smiled, crawling under the covers.

He slid in next to me and started murmuring. “Why can’t it always be like this?” he said to himself (I think) while he stroked my hair.

I never answered, I just snuggled closer into his side and thought, “It will be.”

End Flashback

“Bella!!!” Emmett yelled from across the street. I crossed the street carefully, aware Edward was standing next to Emmett and everyone else, looking like he was going to bite his head off. He wrapped me in his arms as soon as I was all the way over there.

“Edward…we know you’re extremely protective of Bella, but she learned how to cross the street when she was six.” Alice sarcastically told him, hugging Jasper. Edward scowled at her, causing me to laugh.

We were going out to dinner one last time before Alice and Rose went off to their families for the holidays. It was terrible for the guys and I, well, everyone. I couldn’t bear to lose my two girlfriends and be stuck in Emmett’s giant jeep for a few hours with the Cullen boys.

Edward assured me that I wouldn’t be the only female around once we got to Forks. That his mother Esme would keep me company. That’s when worst case scenarios ran through my head. Such as his parents would hate me, or Charlie would rip his head off, etc.

It was like a horror movie designed just for me in my head.

So after about fifty billion goodbyes, my two best friends took off, leaving me with an exhausted Jasper who could really care less we were leaving at eleven that night, Emmett who was promising to make as many sex jokes as possible as I slept, and last but not least, my over-protective and fidgety Edward.

I grabbed my bag and threw it in the backseat. I was very thankful that Jasper was riding in the front with Emmett.

“Okay you two, no getting busy on my backseat!” Emmett laughed, starting the jeep. Thanksgiving was this Thursday, and we would be there by tomorrow morning. I’d probably be tired and cranky, but I didn’t care, I had an Edward pillow for the entire trip.

Edward growled at Emmett and smacked the back of his head as he growled something no child’s ears should be allowed to hear.

I fell asleep about an hour into the ride, with Edward humming in my ear. At least I got to keep him the whole night.

Waking up was an entirely different story. I woke up against some huge thing that had it’s arm around me. It took about two seconds for me to realize who it was. “EMMETT!!!” I screamed, trying to struggle. It was beginning to get light out.

He laughed and pulled my head towards him. “Morning Bella!” he cheered. “Wh…why?” I stuttered, looking around for my Edward. He was driving.

“Sorry love, we were taking turns and Emmett got stuck in the backseat.” He apologized, his face turning a little red.

I could never be angry when faced with the “Edward blush.”

“Would you like to resume your canoodling with me Bella?” Emmett asked oddly, puckering his lips. “GET OFF ME!” I screamed. Emmett laughed and continued to tease me. Edward slowed down. “Emmett if you don’t stop, I’m coming back there and kicking you out.” Edward threatened darkly. Emmett took his arm off me and crossed his arms over his chest. “Fun ruin-er.” He glowered.

I laughed at Emmett for a while as he pouted. “We’re here.” Edward murmured, his smirk taking over his face. I looked outside. This was not Charlie’s house. Edward noticed my confusion. I knew exactly what he was doing. “I’m not staying with you Edward!” I whined, jumping out of the jeep and into his arms when he got out of the drivers side. “But Bella…” he started.

“It’s one thing to be over-protective, but nothing is wrong with me being at my dads house.” I glared at him. “At least meet my parents?” he asked, his own pout protruding.

“At six in the morning?” I murmured, staring up at the magnificent and beautiful house. It was like nothing I’d ever seen, like it could only exist in fairytales.

Edward turned my attention back to him. “They’re morning people. And you look fine.” He smiled as I tried to straighten out my hair. I probably looked terrible.

Edward grabbed my hand and started leading me towards the house as Emmett and Jasper grabbed the luggage.

“Are you sure…?” I asked as he started leading me up the steps. “Positive.” His amazing smile flooded his face. I closed my eyes as he simply walked into the house. I was met by amazing smells, and a view so amazing, I think my heart stopped beating.

I’m surprised it didn’t. Everything was bright and clean. Not to mention perfect. A large piano centered towards the corner as matching furniture decorated the living room. I gasped as I saw how the back wall was covered in glass. “Mom! Dad!” Edward called, actually leaving my side.

I tried reaching for his arm but he had already disappeared, and was scared when Emmett came in behind me carrying suitcases. “Impressive huh?” he wiggled his eyebrows, causing me to giggle. “Very.” I answered, looking around again.

“Mommy!” Emmett shrieked as Edward returned with two people. I was unable to look at them however because one very heavy suitcase was dropped on my foot.

“OW!” I shrieked, pulling my foot up immediately. Edward was right next to me suddenly, muttering and trying to grab my foot so he could look at it.

The pain disappeared quicker than it came. “Emmett Cullen! How disrespectful!” an elegant voice scolded, and I heard a sharp smack. I looked up and was met by two very attractive looking people.

Edwards mother had flowing caramel hair, her appearance was more stunning that five twenty-one year old models put together. The man next to her was a blonde and very mature, yet attractive man. I almost left Edwards side to gaze at him. Edward obviously noticed my blush, and who I was looking at and placed an arm around me quickly. That made me laugh, he was jealous of his dad.

“Oh Bella! It’s so nice to meet you!” Esme took me away from Edward and wrapping me in a tight embrace. “It’s nice to meet you too Mrs. Cullen.” I said, slightly patting her back. “No need to be so formal dear. Esme.” She said, pulling away and looking at me. She handed me back to Edward and nodded at him. Wonderful, she approved.

To be honest, I hated it when mothers looked at you and “approved.” Sure it was better than her disapproving, but it still annoyed me that they were analyzing me in some way.

I shook Edwards fathers hand next and smiled at him. He smiled back and introduced himself as Carlisle. I couldn’t help but beam, and Edward wrapped me right back up in his arms. “Let’s take your stuff upstairs…” he murmured, grabbing my suitcase. “Edward I told you I was staying with my dad. He’s going to be hurt if I don’t stay with him.” I said, watching his parents leave. “Bella…” he groaned. “We aren’t having this conversation.” He said, beginning to drag me up the stairs.

I complained the entire way up. Not to annoy him so early in the morning, but I really wanted to see my dad. I didn’t notice it when he shut a door and I realized I was in his room. I turned around and began arguing again.

Edward walked towards me, the suitcases resting on the floor, and captured my mouth with his as I kept talking. He pulled away, “You really just need to shut up sometimes.” He murmured against my lips. I glared at him, but he continued to kiss me.

When he finally pulled away for the last time, I looked around. His room was almost more amazing than his entire apartment. The room was white, but decorated with a king size bed, and red and gold carpeting. Not to mention the wall of CD’s.

“Wow.” I smiled, admiring the sight. Edward picked me up and placed me on his bed. Remember, Edward plus a bed plus me equals nothing good. So of course, he started to kiss my neck, distracting me as I enjoyed his window view. I groaned, it was my turn to shut him up.

“Stop it. I can’t stay here.” I said, and was met by the saddest but most beautiful pair of green eyes. “At least rest up. Then you can go to your dads house in the afternoon.” He pleaded. It sounded good enough to me. Charlie could wait a few more hours.

However, we did anything but rest up. He attacked me with his lips for at least another hour until Esme told us to come downstairs to eat something. I was talking (well he was talking and I was admiring) Carlisle as we ate the most delicious food that had ever gone down my throat.

In reaction to this, Edward put his arm around me and tried directing my attention away from him. Esme didn’t seem to care I was so infatuated. There was one reason I was doing this, make Edward jealous. I had to release those feelings of envy I had against Tanya somehow…

After breakfast, Jasper gave me some grand tour of the house while Emmett and Edward argued. They were arguing about giving me a tour. Emmett said he was more interesting and Edward simply placed his claim on me as his girlfriend. Jasper and I got so sick of it that he decided to show me around.

And before I knew it, the afternoon was there. Esme insisted we that we have lunch first, and I was really beginning to like Edwards parents, and I think they liked me for a first impression.

Edward had me in a black Mercedes, something his dad owned, as he drove me. He repeatedly glared at the suitcase in the backseat, and I stayed quiet. “Are you coming inside?” I asked as we pulled up to the house. “Do you want me to?” he asked, getting out and grabbing my suitcase. “It’s better he shoots you now than later.” I said sarcastically, leading the way up to the house. I knocked on the door (for no real reason) and Charlie quickly opened the door. “Bella!” he smiled, pulling me into an awkward hug.

I felt Charlie go stiff. “Is this your boyfriend?” he pulled away, and glared at Edward. I nodded, and felt suddenly worried. “Edward Cullen.” Edward held out his hand politely, Charlie shook it thankfully.

Maybe staying at Edwards house wasn’t such a bad idea.

Bella POV

I twiddled my thumb as we sat in the living room. Edward and I were on the couch and Charlie was in his chair. We were drowning in awkward silence. Edward seemed nervous for once. Like he was at a loss for words.

At least I found another weakness. Note to self, Edward is uncomfortable with sex and talking to your father.

Edward was practically a statue. His face was filled with worry, and Charlie wouldn’t stop glaring at him. I wanted to run from the room. “Erm…so….” I started, an attempt to break the silence that was overwhelming me. However, my father cut me off.

“Can’t keep your hands to yourself huh?” he directed to Edward. I stopped Edward from answering. “Dad! That was my fault, I was over exaggerating!” I scolded.

My father didn’t even glance at me, he remained silent and glared at Edward who was looking at his watch. Oh no, he was leaving.

“Well um…my parents want to spend some time with my brothers and I so I should be going…” he murmured. That raised my suspicion. It was almost nine at night and they were “spending quality family time” together? I kissed him quickly as he left, darting away from Charlie.

“I’m going to bed.” I said quietly as soon as the door closed. That had gone horrible, and the last thing I needed was Charlie interrogating me about Edward. Luckily, I ran up the stairs fast enough.

I climbed into my old bed, now in some warm night clothes. I tried erasing the thoughts of what had just happened from my memory. I tried thinking of Edward.

Epic Fail.

Jacob grabbed my throat, pushing me up against the wall. “Aiden wants you to die Bella.” He hissed, pressing the knife to my throat.

“Why?” I murmured, afraid they’d be my last words. “You don’t deserve to live.” Jacob murmured back, he was fading. The knife was gone, as was Jacob.

“Bella why did you turn me away?” Aiden asked from behind me.

I realized I was in a different setting. It was the lobby of the theatre. Why was I there? Edward was next to Aiden.

“Why did you turn me down?” he asked, both pairs of eyes glared at me. “Bella choose.” They said in unison.

“I…I can’t!” I cried, trying to turn and run away, but my feet were almost welded to the floor. “I CAN’T!” I cried again, trying to break free.

Aiden and Edward moved forward. They didn’t say anything, they just moved closer, until they were gone.

And I was left in the darkness.

I woke up, gasping. “Bella, Bella, shh.” A soothing voice, murmured, their arms around me. I immediately tried to scream. It was like a horror movie that wasn’t a nightmare. Someone was covering my mouth, probably trying to kill me. It was dark and cold. Wait…it was cold? I thought the heat was kept on at night…

Crap, the window was open. Then the two arms pulled me close to a muscular chest. “Shh…” the voice said again, as they uncovered my mouth that had been trying to hide my almost screams.

“Edward!” I let out a small sigh. I collapsed in his arms, not even caring how he had gotten there. I had to erase the dream from my head.

He stroked my hair and whispered nonsense to me as I shut my eyes again. I was too afraid to go back to sleep however. The nightmare might come back.

“Go to sleep Bella.” He told me, kissing my head and throwing an extra blanket around me. He cradled me in his arms. “I can’t. I don’t want to…have a nightmare.” I felt like I was five. Afraid of nightmares again.

“I won’t let them get you Bella. As long as I’m here, the nightmares will leave you alone.” He said against my hair, rocking me gently. I felt the sleep overtaking me and finally gave up. I found myself in darkness once again. Only it was a light darkness, because I had Edward with me. My sleep was peaceful with him there.

I woke up around five in the morning to someone moving away from me. I shivered at the loss of body heat. “I’m sorry Bella…I have to go.” Edward murmured, kissing me quickly. “Mmm…” I moaned, reaching my weak arms out to empty space. He chuckled and covered me up again. “Don’t go.” I murmured with my eyes closed. “I’ll see you later today.” He told me. Before I could say anything else, I heard my window snap shut.

Was there something this man couldn’t do?

“Bella my sista!” Emmett laughed as I walked into the house with Edward. He had picked me up once Charlie had left for work.

“Emmett.” I greeted him, plopping down next to him on the couch. I was tired for some reason, maybe nightmares just wore me out. Edward sat next to me and wrapped an arm around me.

“I miss Rosie.” Emmett pouted, watching the news. I almost laughed. But I shrugged Edwards arm off. “Well I’m no where near the standards of Rosalie, but I’ll fill in for a few minutes.” I said, leaning on Emmett for a while.

“Hmm…my sister filling in for Rosie? I don’t know Bella…it sounds kinda sick when you think about it…but okay!” he laughed, wrapping a giant arm around me. I laughed at Edwards face. His jaw was open, and his arms were extended towards me, like he was trying to bring me back.

“Edward, you can’t hog my replacement Rosie!” Emmett shouted at him, tightening his grip on me. “Her name is Bella. And she’s my girlfriend.” Edward glared at him. Oh no, it was starting again. The brother fighting.

“You know, she offered. So back off.” Emmett glared back. “You back off! She is no replacement for your girlfriend. If you need her so badly, go get her!” Edward grabbed my arm and tugged. Ow.

The fighting only got worse. Until Jasper came in the room. He told me to duck, which I did, and he banged his brothers heads together. They were both slightly dizzy, and let me go completely. “Thank you.” I said to Jasper who smiled and left the room.

What would we do without Jasper?

Emmett and Edwards fighting over me didn’t stop. I immediately regretted even mentioning Rosalie’s name when Emmett constantly pestered Edward. Finally, Edward just picked me up and threw me in his room, locking it. At least it was nice with him inside of it.

With Thanksgiving the next day, Edward had insisted that Charlie and I come to his house for dinner. But I told him no. Over and over again. I was finally going to have a chance to make Thanksgiving my way (my mother always hogged the kitchen on Thanksgiving) and I wasn’t going to give that chance up.

Edward had of course pouted and begged me to change my mind. It was becoming extremely difficult to tell him no.

Edward had his arms wrapped around me when I told him I had to leave. It was practically eight pm, and he had been hogging me all day. “Don’t leave.” He murmured, resting his head on top of mine. “I have to. I’ll see you on Friday.” I said quietly, trying to escape his grip. However, Edward was making it a point he didn’t want me to leave. He wasn’t going to let me go until he was willing.

“Edward please…” I pouted, trying to pull away. “I have to live without seeing you for one whole day?” he pouted right back at me.

I sighed. “Maybe this will be a good thing. I think you’re becoming way too attached. It won’t kill you to leave me for one day.” I said, distracting him enough to stand up and get off his bed. “But Bella!” he whined. He knew I was right.

I kissed him quickly, and he got up to take me home.

Once I had pried Edward from me at the door, I greeted Charlie who appeared to not have cared where I was. Or he did and was hiding it. Thank you Charlie for not making me explain my day at the Cullen’s.

I walked up to my room and plugged my ipod into a small set of portable speakers I brought with. It was on shuffle, and “Mr. Hurricane” by Beast started playing. While I was changing, I started moving myself a little. Until I was full out dancing around my room.

When the song ended, I stopped and started laughing at myself. I hadn’t done something like that for a long time. Maybe reliving being a teenager wouldn’t be so bad every now and then.

I finished getting ready for bed and climbed underneath the blankets. It was a nice feeling suddenly. I knew that my boyfriend was amazing, and life was just plain awesome.

Minus the fact my phone started ringing. “Hello?” I asked pleasantly, yet sleepily.

“Bella! Open your window now!” I heard a struggling voice. I looked at the caller id. He was obsessive.

I walked over and stuck my head out. “Go home Edward.” I said, while his face popped up with a smile. His smile turned into a frown and reached an arm up to stop me from closing it. “Bella.” He pouted.

Okay, I wasn’t that mean to shove the window down in his face, so I let him get all the way in.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, crossing my arms over my chest. “Going to bed.” He faked a yawn and collapsed in my bed. I threw my head back and groaned. “Charlie will catch you.” I said, trying to shove him out of my bed. “He didn’t last time.” Edward smirked.

“Edward stop stalking me!” I glared. I never thought I’d say it…ever. But I was getting sick of Edward. Like I was on an over-dosage.

“I’m not stalking you Bella!” he glared. “Just go home.” I murmured, laying down and staring at him. “You don’t want me here?” he asked. Before I opened my mouth he continued. “You aren’t worried that Charlie will come in here…you just don’t want me here?” he asked. I think that my feelings were clicking together in his head.

It wasn’t that I didn’t want him. Trust me, I needed him to even keep my heart beating. But I’d been attached to him for the past week, and I needed some space.

I didn’t say anything. It was enough for him to get up and walk towards the window. “I’m sorry.” He muttered, leaping outside. I felt instantly bad. I hurt his feelings.

I closed my window and lay face down on my bed. Guilt had ruined my perfect mood.

I woke up staring at the ceiling. I felt like I hadn’t gotten a drop of sleep last night. I decided to get up and act like everything was perfect. Downside was, everything was terrible. I took a shower, greeted Charlie and started on dinner.

Cooking thankfully distracted me all day, and I had a pleasant dinner with Charlie. It was nice to finally talk to him again. Like we had for practically every summer. Charlie didn’t bother asking about Edward at all, which I silently thanked him for.

By the end of the night, I was doing anything possible to distract myself. Edward was mad at me, and he was probably dwelling on it. I considered calling him to apologize. Although I had a feeling he’d hang up on me. But at least I would try.

I walked upstairs slowly and dialed the familiar number. It rang a few times and was met by Emmett oddly enough. “Hey Bella…” he sounded sad. “Can I talk to him?” I asked, sitting on my bed.

“Sure…let me find him…” Emmett said. I heard him walking through the house. There wasn’t much noise going on in the background. I thought that was kind of strange. “He’s been moody all day.” Emmett said, still looking. “I feel terrible.” I murmured.

“He feels worse. Please tell me you weren’t calling to break up with him. He’d kill himself.” Emmett said, I heard him opening a few doors. “No, I’m apologizing.” I said, trying to think of what I would say to Edward.

I heard a loud crash on the other end of the phone. “EMMETT GET OUT OF MY ROOM!” Edward yelled. I heard it loud and clear. “Edward you’re a….” I heard the line go dead as Emmett’s voice was cut off.

Bella POV

I put my phone down and fell asleep. I considered many things at that point, running away, killing myself, moving on, forgetting about life. However, I knew what it was like running away from my problems, and I would regret it if I did that now.

Around nine am the next morning, my phone went off. Emmett was calling me. “Hello?” I asked, as I finished getting ready for the day. “Bella…um…do you mind if Jazz and I come over?” he asked slowly. “Sure why?” I asked, remembering Charlie was gone. Friday.

“We need to talk.” He said quietly. Emmett hung up after that and I ran downstairs to greet them when they got there. Not ten minutes later, Emmett and Jasper were at the door, both with extremely sad faces on. “What?” I asked immediately as they came in.

“Remember when we were talking on the phone?” Emmett asked, referring to when Edward had yelled. “What happened?” I asked, sitting on the couch. Emmett sat next to me, and Jasper looked out the window.

“He walked into Edwards room and almost killed him.” Jasper said, interrupting Emmett.

“What did he do?” I asked, wanting the point of the conversation. Emmett looked away. “Remember Tanya?” he didn’t wait for me to continue. “Her parents are friends with our parents, and they came by for dinner yesterday. When I went upstairs to get Edward, I found them…” Emmett trailed off. I had a pretty good idea of what happened. Jasper finished for Emmett, “They were hooking up.” He said.

I felt about a million emotions run through me. Guilt, sadness, and anger were the main few.

I looked away from Emmett and Jasper. “Bella…I swear, I’ll go beat him up…” I stopped Emmett.

Maybe I did deserve this. I had turned Edward away and he cheated, Aiden is trying to kill me…maybe I should just give up. When I was involved with work so much, none of this happened. I never had to feel so many emotions. It was just me, doing what I loved.

Maybe I would just go back to that, and forget about Edward and Aiden, and everyone on the planet.

That was probably the best thought I had all day.

Somehow, I managed to get Alice to get me from Forks, she wanted to see Charlie anyway. So I rode back to Seattle with her, blocking all thoughts of my emotions away. Alice noticed, having gotten all the information from Jasper.

I could tell she was disappointed, she was happy when I was out of my world that revolved around work. But that world was where I needed to be.

We stayed quiet in the car.

“Thanks.” I said, getting out of her car at my building. Alice helped me get my stuff out of the back end of her car. “Bella?” she asked, turning to look at me.

“Don’t go back. You don’t have to go back to your work obsession. There are other people out there.” She said taking my hand. “Alice…” I groaned, picking up my bag.

“There is no one else. Even if there was, I don’t want to get hurt.” I said, leaving it at that.

I just couldn’t do it. I could not face the world of social lives ever again. I knew where I was meant to be, and that was working. I just wasn’t cut out to be a social butterfly that let the smallest remarks pass over her head.

So I was leaving that life behind forever.

Working actually did turn out to be the perfect distraction when I went back that Monday.

Every night, I would go home and curl up with a book, and my life felt normal again.

I knew I wasn’t waiting for Aiden to come back this time. My hope was gone, and that left me complete for some weird reason. It felt better to not have to rely on anyone but myself.

By Saturday, I hated free time. So I sat at home, reading my fourth book that week. My phone beeped.

We need to talk

-E

Text message from Edward. Great. I didn’t text back, I just put my book to my face and concentrated. Beep again.

Bella stop ignoring me. We need to talk now. I know you aren’t busy.

-E

Why couldn’t he leave me alone? Wasn’t him cheating enough to say we were over. I thought that was a signal he never wanted to talk to me again! It was coming back. I tried pushing the social life away. My phone beeped.

I know you’re in your apartment. Let me up.

-E

Great. Now he was stalking me. I texted him back this time.

Go home. Now.

-B

He replied almost instantly.

Bella, we need to talk. Please let me up.

-E

I groaned as my bell rang. I would tell him to leave, and never talk to me again. That was obviously what he wanted wasn’t it?

He came up in a matter of minutes, and I opened the door, not letting him get in.

“Go away. You don’t want to talk to me.” I glared, trying to close the door. He stopped me. “Bella, please just let me talk.” He said, his eyes trying to capture mine.

I backed away from the door. “Two minutes. I’m busy.” I said, lying through my teeth. “I can see that.” He muttered to himself.

I glared as he walked inside. “Start…now.” I said, looking at the clock. He rolled his eyes, but started talking.

“I know you don’t want to talk to me at all right now. I know you’re mad at me, but I’m extremely sorry. I don’t know what happened, but Emmett came in at the exact wrong time. Tanya had walked into my room while I was in there, and she…you know…attacked me.” I rolled my eyes. “Stop lying.” I said. I didn’t want hear this. It was only excuses, and false excuses.

“Bella I’m telling the truth. I love you.” I stopped him. “Do not say that! If you loved me you wouldn’t have been hooking up with her. If you loved me, you would have understood that all I needed was some space. I never said I didn’t want to be with you, I just felt I was around you too much! Don’t ever say you love me!” I said with edge to my voice.

“Bella…I knew that, I just reacted badly. The way you were saying it made me feel like…you didn’t want me. I realized that later…I’m sorry.” Edward said quietly.

“So you cheated on me?” I asked, pain in my voice. This made no sense. He realized that I wanted space, and then cheated on me because of it?

“I didn’t cheat on you!” venom was in his voice. “Emmett just walked in at the wrong time, and she came onto me!” Edward yelled. I had never heard him yell at me before. I wanted to hide in my world again, I wanted him to leave me alone.

“But you let it happen!” I murmured, feeling a tear slide down my cheek. Leave it to me to cry. I was too scared to yell back.

“I stopped it as soon as Emmett walked in!” he yelled still, oblivious to my tears. “Then why did you tell him to get out?” I looked away, it hurt too much to see him yelling.

“Because I could handle it myself!” he snapped, his yelling dying out. “If you could handle it, why did it happen in the first place?” I asked. For sure, Edward could have stopped her at any given time, but he didn’t. “Bella, I didn’t expect it! It just happened! And he saw it at the wrong time, so it looked like it had gone on for longer than it did!” Edward growled.

“Oh and how long did it last? Half an hour?” I wiped away a tear. I could tell his self control was slipping. He’d probably kill me.

However, he was controlling himself, he crossed his arms over his chest and looked down. “She jumped on me, I landed on the bed at the exact moment Emmett walked in. I kicked her off and yelled at Emmett so I could tell her to get out.” He said, the anger in his voice growing.

“If I asked her, what would she say?” I asked. “She’d lie Bella! Her entire life is made up of lies! She lied to me! She lies to everyone!” he said, still trying to hold himself back.

I believed him though. I had no choice but to believe him. I nodded. “Are you mad at me still?” he looked up, hope filling his eyes. I was done with hope however. “I’m not mad.” I said, looking away from him. Edward took it as an invitation anyways. He walked towards me, about to take me into his arms. I wanted nothing more than to just fall into them, and be lost in the sea that was Edward.

But I stopped that feeling. “I can’t do it anymore Edward.” I stopped him. Edward let his arms drop to the side. “I can’t…deal with this anymore.” I said, wiping a fresh tear from my eye.

“Bella…don’t say that. It was just a misunderstanding…” he said quietly, trying to wrap me in his arms again. “Edward no. I’m tired of getting hurt.” I choked.

“I’m not hurting you.” He murmured, his hands on my shoulders. It only made me cry harder.

“No you’re not. But the drama that comes with you is hurting me.” I wiped away my tears. Edward pushed my hands away, and began wiping my face. “I’ll make it stop. I’ll make sure nothing hurts you Bella.” He said quietly. I tried looking away from him.

I had promised myself I wouldn’t do this. My small world was so much safer from pain than his world was. When he came into my world, the sun got brighter, and everything seemed so much better. I didn’t need to worry about anything, but our pasts collided and caused so much more destruction. I wanted it to stop.

I needed it to stop.

“I can’t do it Edward. It causes too much pain.” I murmured. He wouldn’t let it go though. “I’m not leaving you. I can’t.” With that, he pulled me into his arms. And now matter how much I struggled, I couldn’t break away from him. It only proved his point further.

He wasn’t going to leave. He was going to be a permanent reminder of my pain and happiness. There was no way to get rid of him. I was now president of “life with Edward club.”

I gave up and fell limp into his arms. I didn’t know what I was doing, but the fact I could rely on him, and he promised to make the pain go away, made my hope come back to life.

He picked me and brought me to my bedroom, laying me down gently. “I won’t let anything hurt you.” He promised, holding me in his arms the entire night, as I cried.

Bella POV

Edward made me stay home the next day. He said I owed him at least one day of attention. I couldn’t deny him that. It was Sunday. However, we didn’t spend the day talking. More like cuddled on the couch, lost in our own thoughts.

“I hate Tanya.” He said suddenly as I buried my face in his chest. I didn’t say anything. He’d told me this rant about fifty times already today. “She’s brought nothing but trouble into my life, and now she’s ruining the one perfect thing I have.”

“You have a perfect family.” I reminded him of the truth. “But my family wasn’t complete without you.” He said quietly, more lost in his own thoughts again.

I didn’t really think about anything, just enjoyed being with him like this. We didn’t exactly need to say anything to each other. If it needed to be said, it was spoken silently. “What happens now?” I murmured to him when I looked at the clock. It was about four thirty pm.

“We move on. Bella…will you please consider moving in?” he asked. I nodded. If I had learned anything, it was to just give into Edwards ridiculous requests. “Really?” he asked, excitement in his voice.

“Yes.” I answered, making him calm down again. I could tell him mood had lightened up again.

Just as Edward opened his mouth to probably rant about me moving in with him, I heard a soft knock at the door. Edward closed his mouth and frowned. He didn’t like being interrupted like this.

I didn’t bother making myself look presentable. I opened the door and immediately closed it once I saw who it was. He knocked harder and Edward was at the door almost immediately. “Go in your room Bella.” He murmured, knowing exactly who was at the door. I shook my head and tugged on his arm. “Just don’t talk to him.” I said, fear filling me.

Edward pulled me closer to him. “I’m just going to tell him to leave us alone. Go in your room.” He said quietly, placing a gentle kiss on my lips. “Listen to music or something, I’ll be there in a few minutes.” He told me, turning me around and pushing me towards my room.

“Edward don’t do it!” I snapped at him, my voice hushed. He smiled at me and waved his hand, telling me to go away.

He knocked harder on the door. “Bella let me in now!” his demanding voice echoed into my living room. I almost ran into my room at that point, turning on some sweet, soft song that filled my ears.

I thought of Edward as I crawled under the blankets. My thoughts went to me living with him, how every night, we’d come home, and spend time together.

And then we could crawl into our bed, and fall asleep in each others arms. We’d even wake up together, every day. The thoughts were extremely pleasant, and kept my mind off of what could even possibly be going on outside of my room.

In the middle of some fantasy about our future living together, I heard the door open. I looked up and almost fell off my bed. “Let him go!” I sat up, glaring at Aiden.

“I thought it might be worse for him to die rather than you.” He said, his voice ringing throughout the room.

This couldn’t be over. “Let him go Aiden!” I repeated, frantically searching for some way to fix this. My phone was in the living room.

“I want you to watch him die!” Aiden spat, anger pouring through his voice.

“Aiden stop…just let him go.” I begged, Edward keeping his eyes on me. He just stared at me, no emotion crossing his face. Aiden was roughly bigger than Edward, and could easily hurt him.

“What will you do for me?” a sick smile crossed Aidens face. I couldn’t believe he was doing this to me. My Aiden, the one who I had spent so much time with, was trying to hurt me in the worst way possible.

“Anything, just don’t kill him.” I said. Edward started struggling against Aiden, causing Aiden to push the knife more into his neck. “Bella…don’t.” Edward growled, trying to get Aiden off of him.

“Anything?” Aiden repeated. I nodded slowly, my hands trembling. “Let him go.” I said, reaching out towards Edward.

“If I let him go, you come with me.” Aiden said clearly. I nodded, not caring about what I had just agreed to. I just wanted Edward safe.

Aiden released Edward, but not in the way I expected. He quickly jammed his head against the wall, knocking Edward out.

“No!” I screamed, as Aiden grabbed my wrist and dragged me out of the room.

Edward POV

It’s been exactly six months since Bella’s disappeared. I’ve been looking frantically, and every night I can’t sleep. I need her with me. Emmett and Jasper have tried getting me to move on, but they both know how special Bella is to me. Alice and Rosalie even seem to be depressed about it. But I know it’s hit me the hardest.

I worry about the simplest things, to the worst case scenarios. That she’s being abused, to the fact she’s not getting enough food. I need her with me to keep my sanity. Unfortunately that was lost a while ago. I’ve been staying at my parents house, frantically taking every moment to look for her. However, no matter how much I search, she’s gone.

So today, Emmett, Jasper, Alice and Rosalie are taking me out for some clubbing. I don’t want to go without her. All I can think about is her being there with me.

“Edward please just act happy!” Alice pouted next to me as we walked in the club.

I ignored her and glared at my surroundings as I usually did. Nothing had changed in the club. Other than the fact Bella wasn’t there with me. I almost started crying when I realized she wasn’t sitting next to me when we got a table.

I hated tables for five.

For the majority of the night, I sat at the table and thought about her. It was how I always spent my night. The other part of the night was me turning away girls. None were even comparable to Bella.

The name hurt to think about, but she was always on my mind. I continued glaring for some time until I looked towards the back right corner of the club.

My heart fluttered with hope. My eyes landed on Jacob Black. He was my new lead. I got up immediately and made my way towards him. He knew I was there, he’d been watching me.

“Hello Edward.” He smiled at me, his arms crossed over his chest. “Jacob.” I greeted with venom in my voice. “Where are they?” I hissed. “No need to be rude. I’m afraid I don’t know who you’re talking about.” He smiled at me, playing dumb.

I grabbed his shirt and dragged him to the back of the club, making sure no one was around. I shoved him against the wall, hard.

“Where is she?” I growled, somehow holding him down. “Six feet under.” He smiled. “Liar. Where is she?” I pushed on him. “What are you willing to do to get her back?” he asked. “Alive?” I countered. “Alive.” Jacob agreed.

“Anything.” I answered. It was true, I would do anything to get my Bella back. I needed her. And I would die trying to get her back to me.

“Follow me.” He said, easily pushing me off him so I fell against the other wall. I stumbled, but regained my balance. I followed him carefully around the back of the club.

“Get in the car.” He ordered, pointing to the passenger side as he got in the drivers side. This was dangerous, and stupid on my part. But my mind was focused on Bella. The thought of her being with me again drove my insanity further.

I got in, and he took off quickly. I couldn’t see where we were going until we stopped. It was some old looking apartment building. I got out when Jacob did and followed him inside. We walked up a few flights of stairs to the third floor and he opened the first door we saw.

I followed him inside. This better not be a mistake.

What I saw however, horrified me. Aiden was there, by himself. I heard someone moving around in the kitchen.

“Edward?” Aiden questioned loudly. I heard something drop in the kitchen, then the running of feet. “STAY IN THERE!” Aiden yelled at the person. The person obeyed and retreated. I couldn’t see them. “I want Bella back. Now.” I said slowly.

“And what are you willing to do for her?” he smiled.

“Anything.” I responded. I at least wanted to see her. Aiden smiled slightly. “Good. Bella come out here.” He said softly. I heard the footsteps in the kitchen again, only this time, they came into the living room.

“Edward.” She breathed. Before I knew it, Bella’s arms were around me. It was her. A smile spread across my face as I held her. It wasn’t until I pulled away, what I realized her physical condition was in.

She was in clothes she normally wore, long sleeves with jeans. However, they didn’t hide the numerous bruises all over her body. “Bella.” I breathed, pulling her closer again.

However, Jacob tore her away from me, causing her to scream. “Let her go.” I said, reaching towards her.

“If I let her go, you have to do me a favor.” Aiden said over Bella’s shrieks. “Anything.” I said. “Edward don’t do it!” Bella yelled over me.

“I don’t need it now, but I’ll be sure to let you know soon. If you refuse later on, Bella belongs to me again.” Aiden said simply. I nodded. “Deal. Jacob…” he motioned for Bella to drop to the floor. Which she did.

I picked her up immediately, and almost ran out of the building. My focus was getting Bella away from them. She needed to be safe. I ran with her crying in my arms until we reached some sort of gas station that hadn’t been far away. I walked inside and asked the clerk, “Do you have a car?” He nodded, and glanced at Bella. “Is she okay?” he asked. That was such a stupid question. Did she look okay?

“I need your car.” I told him. The clerk pointed outside, where a bus waited. “You came at the right time.” I rolled my eyes and walked outside, glad the bus was mostly empty.

I set Bella in my lap as the bus took off. She cried still in my arms, and I tried to keep her calm. “You’re safe.” I murmured. “But you aren’t.” she told me. I wondered what that meant.

Bella POV

“Shh…Bella.” Edward told me. I had moved in two days ago, and the nightmares wouldn’t disappear. The tears poured out of my eyes still. “Bella, please stop crying.” He begged. Once, I had even made him cry. He blamed himself for this completely. But I knew it was my fault.

“I…I’m…s…sorry!” I stuttered, grabbing onto his neck. Edward rocked me in his lap as he sat up. “Don’t be sorry Bella…I’m so sorry…that never should have happened.” He murmured. I felt his tears on my face. “Edward don’t cry.” I murmured, wiping away my tears.

That was the weird thing, whenever he cried, or was upset, my unhappiness disappeared until his did.

“I’m sorry. I’ll be right back.” He told me, through his tears. Edward pushed me off his lap, laid me down, and covered me with the covers. He disappeared into the bathroom, probably to mope.

I shut my eyes and passed it off. If I went in there, things would only get worse.

The next few months were quiet, as I had hoped, but I knew Aiden was going to steal Edward soon. I prayed that it wouldn’t happen. That maybe Aiden would forget, but he even told me, “I’m not letting you two get away.” I hated hearing that voice in my head, so I shook it off.

Edward had finally stopped talking about how everything was his fault. In fact, we didn’t talk about it ever. And every one else seemed to ignore the fact I was back. Well not “ignore,” but they didn’t question where I had been.

So now I was with Rose and Alice who were preparing me for this “big” date with Edward. I didn’t get how it was “big” though. It wasn’t our anniversary, or our birthdays, nor was it Valentines day. In fact, it was the middle of May.

Edward picked me up from Alice’s apartment, and beamed when he saw me. At least I was getting reactions out of him again. My bruises had disappeared completely about a week ago.

Edward took me to some sort of fancy restaurant. And as usual, we had a fight about who paid for what. He insisted it was his turn, when I knew for a fact, that last time he paid the whole bill.

But I lost the fight when he looked at me and said, “Don’t ruin this for me.” With his giant emerald eyes taking their full force on me. But what was I ruining?

Edward didn’t take us home after that, he instead stopped in front of the bookstore. “Why are we here?” I asked, getting out. “You’ll see.” He smiled, taking my hand and walking inside.

It was empty, there wasn’t even a person at the check out area. “Edward…why are we here?” I asked again. Edward smiled even wider. This couldn’t be good, he only smiled like that when he was hiding something from me.

Edward led me to the left side of the store, and to the exact place I had been looking at books when I met him.

I smiled slightly, reaching out and touching my favorite Jane Austen Books. “Why are we here?” I asked turning to look at him. But he wasn’t there.

I looked down and gasped. He was on one knee, holding my hand.

“Isabella Marie Swan, I love you with all my heart, and want to spend every moment of my life with you. I promise to love you forever, and keep you safe forever. Will you marry me?” he asked, confidently.

I’d given myself enough time. “Yes.” I choked as he stood up. Edward pressed his lips against mine and pulled me closer to him. “I love you.” I whispered against his lips, feeling the tears pour down my face.

“FINALLY!!!!” I heard Alice’s squeaky voice behind me. Rose, Alice, Emmett and Jasper came out of no where, hugging both of us. I blushed a bright red and looked at Edward. He looked amazing, more so than usual.

Edward pulled me back into his arms and led me out of the store. “Let’s go home.” He smiled, opening the door for me.