See You Again

Written By:Chiney-Whiney
You can read the original Here:
All Credit Goes to the original author

Today was the day. I was going to tell Edward that I, Isabella Swan, loved him. I loved everything about him. His untidy bronze colored hair, his breath taking smile, and his beautiful green eyes. I didn't care that he already had a girlfriend, it's been to long, and I can't keep this a secret any longer.

As I pulled up into the pizza restaurant parking lot I was jumping in my seat. I couldn't wait to see Edward. He had called me and told me to meet him here. I don't really know why? But it had to be important, because he said it was important. I parked my ancient Chevy truck and leaped out. It was raining, of coarse, so I briskly jogged to the entrance.

The spicy aroma engulfed me as I stepped threw the door. It was quiet, not very busy like a Saturday night should be. I searched the empty tables and booths till my eyes fell upon a frustrated looking Edward. I managed to walk over to him without tripping, and sat down in front of him. He looked up startled, but soon relaxed and smiled that breathe taking smile at me. I did my best at smiling back. We sat there in awkward silence for a while till he cleared his throat.

"Uh, I already ordered. If that's alright?" his velvety voice said with caution.

"That's fine. Hawiian?" I asked, a smile playing on my lips. His perfect lips turned up into a crooked smile.

"Why of coarse, you think after being friends for ever I wouldn't know what kind of pizza you like?" he said in a mocking tone. I could feel my face fall as he said the word 'friend'. His eyebrows pushed together.

"Something wrong?" he asked in a concerned voice.

“No, everything’s fine.” I lied. He nodded not convinced by my lying skills but let it go.

After about five minutes of silence our pizza came. The platinum blond waitress only spoke to Edward, of coarse, as she sat it down on the table.

“Here you go, anything else I can get you?” she asked being flirty.

“No, I think this is good, thanks.” Edward said in a gentlemanly voice.

“Well let me know if you change your mind about that.” She said slipping him a piece of paper. She slowly walked away, swaying her hips from side to side. I rolled my eyes as I went to grab a piece of the pizza. Edward just so happened to be reaching for the same piece and out hands touched. A current of electricity flew threw me. I wonder if he felt it to because we both jerked away at the same time. We stared into each other’s for what seemed like for years.

Finally I looked down, blushing crimson red. Then reached for a piece of pizza again. While we ate in silence I was debating whether to tell him now or later. It better be now, I thought, or I’ll never do it. Right when I started speaking so did Edward. I blushed and turned my head to the side.

“You go.” I said, after all he invited me here to tell me something. He cleared his throat before talking.

“This is kinda hard to explain,” he said looking down at his half eaten pizza, “ so I guess it will be easier to just show you.” While saying this he swiftly pulled out a black velvet box and opened it up in front of me. Inside it contained a diamond ring the size of my thumbnail. The million facets glowed in the dimmed lighting.

“Oh, Edward,” I gasped.” It’s beautiful!” I squealed. I couldn’t believe it he liked me the same way. I was at a loss of words.

“You think she’ll like it?” he asked hopefully. My face fell; I could feel tears welding up in my eyes. Oh ya, his girl that he was absolutely crazy about. They did everything together. They were inseparable, connected at the hip practically.

“Yes, I think Alex will absolutely love It.” I barley whispered. “Excuse me, I have to go.” I choked out. The lump in my throat getting larger, and larger by the second. I grabbed my purse and threw down a ten-dollar bill and sprinted to the door. Tears spilling down my cheeks. I could see the waitress heading towards us with a checkbook in her hand a smug smile on her face.

Once in my truck I threw it in reverse and peeled out of the parking lot. I couldn’t believe it. To think that I could end up with the greek god, Edward Cullen. Eventually the tears blurred up my vision and I pulled off to the side of the road. I curled up into a ball and cried as if I never cried before.

Edward’s pov

I pulled out the small velvet box and showed it to Bella. She gasped in surprise.

“Oh Edward. It’s beautiful.” She squealed. I couldn’t help but smile my self. I personally loved the way Bella reacted to things.

“You think she’ll like it?” I questioned her. I hoped she liked it; Bella and Alex had practically the same taste. Her face fell at once. Shoot what did I say? Maybe it was too much? Or not the right style? To modern for her taste?

“Yes, I think Alex will absolutely love It.” Her head fell, I barely heard a word she said. “Excuse me, I have to go.” She said suddenly. She grabbed her purse and slammed money on the table and ran out.

What did I do? Did she really hate it that much? The blonde waitress appeared at my side handing me the checkbook.

“You know if things didn’t work out with her, I am always available.” She said with what I think was a seductive smile. She winked, and then strode off.

I was in a daze. What had just happened? I thought Bella would like the idea of me marrying the girl of my dreams? Wouldn’t she? I threw whatever money I had and Bella’s into the folder and walked out of the pizza joint. I got into my silver Volvo and drove off back to Forks.

I sat rolled in a ball on the kitchen chair. I was rocking back in forth staring at the envelope resting on the table. On the front, written in Edwards’s handwriting, it said You’re invited.

Alex had said yes. I knew she would. Her and Edward were made for each other. She was smart, pretty, talented, not a klutz. The list went on forever. I decided that I should open it and get on with my life.

I ripped open the envelope and yanked out the thick, heavy parchment paper. Once again in his elegant handwriting it said.

You are coordinately invited to the wedding of,

Edward Anthony Cullen

And

Alex Ann Maraud

September 12

It will be held at the Cullen’s house

179 Calway Drive.

At 2:00 p.m.

A tear slipped from my cheek and landed on the fancy paper. I quickly wiped it away and set the invitation on the table, and went to start dinner.

It had been three weeks since I had gotten the wedding letter. For three weeks that letter stayed in the same spot, unmoved, untouched. I stumbled in the front door, dropping the grocery bags on the floor.

“Shoot!” I muttered as I bent down to pick them up.

“Hey Bells!” a familiar husky voice called. I looked up to find my best friend Jacob standing in the hallway, a huge smirk on his face. “Drop the grocery bags again now did we?” he said in a mocking tone.

“Ha, ha very funny!” I said sarcastically “Now help me pick these up.” He bent done and scooped all but one up in one fluid motion. I picked up the last one and followed him into the kitchen. As we passed the living room I saw Billy and my dad staring intently at the football game going on. So that’s why he was here.

Jake had already started putting the groceries away so I started to help.

“Hey Bells?” Jake asked in a curious voice.

“Ya?” was all I replied.

“Who’s getting married?”

The can of soup slipped from my fingers and made a loud ‘thunk’ as it hit the linoleum floor and rolled away. Crap! He was getting married in two days!

“What?” I whispered.

“Who’s getting married?” he said again flailing the invite in my face. “Someone I know?”

“Uh… I don’t think you do.” I said, the lump in my throat swelling up.

“Try me?” he said a smile playing on his lips.

“Ed-Edward Cullen.” I stuttered. I could feel the tears welding in my eyes.

“Oh ya? I knew he would end up with that chick… Amy?” he said staring off into space.

“Alex.” I corrected him. I felt the tears about to overflow; I couldn’t hold them back any longer. I dashed away, leaving a stunned Jake behind me. I dashed up the stairs and into my room. Not paying attention I slipped on the hard wood floors coming down hard on my butt. The tears flowed down my face like rivers. I crawled to my bed, and curled up into a ball and rocked myself back and forth. I was on the verge of sleep when I heard knocking at the door.

I shot up straight as a board. “Jake? Is that you?” I called out into the dark.

“Yup. You okay? You left in a big hurry, and I waited for you to come back down.” He started to trail off.

“Oh. Sorry about that. Your question just caught me off guard that’s all.” I assured him.

“You still like that guy Bells?” his brow creasing “I thought you were over him when he started dating Abby.”

“Alex.” I corrected him again.

“Ya, what ever. Any way, I got to go, games over.” He looked at me to see my reaction.

“I understand. Don’t want to keep Billy waiting!” I said while trying to lighten the mood.

He let out a deep low laugh.” Yes! ‘cause I am so afraid of the wrath of Billy!” I let out a shaky laugh. “Don’t be chasing something you love Bells if you know it doesn’t love you back.” Then with that he was gone.

It was the morning of Edward wedding. I sat at the table shoveling spoonful after spoonful of cereal into my mouth. I stared down at the thick paper of the invitation. I couldn’t take it anymore. I stood up angrily snatching the envelope up and stalking over to the garbage can. I opened the lid ant threw it in, slamming the lid down.

I sat there for a minute staring at the garbage debating with myself. He doesn’t care about you Bella just let him go. No don’t give up; he may like you just not knowing it yet! Shut up! I yelled at the voice. He just likes me as a friend and nothing more, so deal with it. I don’t think so. You should go; you know it’s the right thing to do. You’re his best friend.

“Ugh!” I groaned. Stupid voice always had to be so smart. I ran up the stairs, being risky taking two at a time, and tripped on the last one.

“Ommff!” I huffed as a landed on my stomach. I got up carefully and walked towards the bathroom. I started the shower. Swirling steam tickling my face as it filled up the bathroom. I jumped in the shower letting the boiling hot water relax my sore and stiff muscles.

“What am I doing?” I groaned to myself as I rinsed out my hair. Doing the right thing. You are his best friend. He’s expecting you to be there. The small voice said.

“I know, I know.” I whispered. I turned off the shower and stepped out, wrapping myself in a towel. I dashed to my room and changed quickly into some sweats.

I stood in front of my closet for what seemed like minutes but actually turned out to be longer trying to pick out an outfit! I turned to my alarm clock.

“Holy crow!” I screamed when I saw the red pulsing digits. “1:00” I ran towards the bathroom and yanked out a brush. My hair was already dry so I just had to untangle it. Once I was done it was wavy. Not the hairstyle that I intended but decided I had no time to fix it and left it that way.

Once back to my closet I was torn between two things. Should I wear the red blouse with my only khaki skirt? Or my blue blouse with it? Then it hit me like a huge reckingball!

“Man I’m so slow!” I ran from my bed, which my clothes were displayed, and to my closet. I reached toward the deep dark depths of my closet till my hands felt purchase on the slickness of a plastic bag. I yanked, and out came the cocktail dress Alice bought me for who knows what? It was a deep silk blue, with thick spaghetti straps. It came just below my knees, and fit me rather flatteringly. The edges were trimmed in a delicate silver flower pattern.

With out thinking I threw it on along with silver flats. I wouldn’t make it out the door if I wore the shoes Alice had bought for this dress. And ran out the door. I still had thirty minutes till the reception started I think I was going to make it.

I flew down the stairs bumping into Charlie as he was heading towards the kitchen.

“Whoa! Slow down there kid!” Charlie said while steadying me. “Where are you going all dressed like that?” his eyebrows raising as he said this “Big date?”

“No dad, Edwards getting married today. Said I would be there bye.” I said in a rush as a raced off to the door.

“Uh, okay.” Was his response. Once I had my hand on the doorknob and keys in hand I froze. Do I really want to do this? Go and watch my heart be ripped out again? It’s for the best… that stupid little voice responded. Reluctantly I heaved open the door and stepped out into the thick dancing mist.

I was sitting in front of the Cullen house in my truck. It was as if my body had just shut down, I couldn’t move, speak, or cry. And I so badly wanted to do the last one. I sat there watching people file in the house.

There went Eric and Angela, Mike and Jessica; all of my friends seemed to be here. Yet, they were all happy, unlike me. I decided it was time to get out; it would be starting in less than ten minutes. I heaved open my ancient Chevy truck door and stepped out. The sun was just creeping out from its’ hiding place behind the clouds.

It was beautiful, the entire main floor of the Cullen’s house had been transformed. The color scheme was burgundy and gold. Red and golden yellow rose pedals were scattered on the tables, which were draped in a beautiful gold tablecloth with red embroidery around the edges. The lights were dimmed into a warm gentle glow that seemed to enhance the colors.

As I was taking this all in there was a tap on my shoulder. I spun around facing Mike Newton.

He was wearing tan dress pants with a light blue dress shirt. His hair was done up in it usual gelled spikes.

“Hey Bella, you are looking beautiful this evening.” He said in what I think was suppose to be a seductive voice.

“Uh, thanks Mike.” I replied, wasn’t he over this crush stage yet?

“Hey, I was wondering if you wanted to be my date?” he asked while looking down at the floor.

Nope he wasn’t over it yet. “Mike, didn’t you come here with Jessica?” I asked hoping he did.

“No.” he said rushed. “We’re fighting.” He confirmed.

Shoot! What do I do! What do I do? I was panicking.

“Mike? Oh Mike! There you are!” I heard Jess yell from the other end of the room. She was shoving her way threw the crowd. “Hey. I found some seats so we all can sit together.” She said while smiling. “Oh hey Bella. I didn’t know you were coming.” She said in a shocked voice.

“Well here I am.” I said while gesturing outwards.

“I feel so bad! If I knew you were coming I would have saved you a spot to.” She actually sounded really sad.

“Don’t. I’m sure I can find an empty seat.” I assured her while peering above all the people “Somewhere.” The seats were filling up fast. Beautiful music started to fill the air, a turned towards the sound to find Rose playing the piano.

“I think it’s starting, lets go take out seats.” Jess said while towing Mike by the arm. He looked mad; glaring at the back of her head the entire way he was dragged. This happened every time they were in a fight; every time he tried hitting on me Jess got jealous and came running back to him.

The music started to fade; I took this as my cue to take my seat. I headed in the direction where the living room would be. When I got there the room was full of row after row of chairs, all fashioned in their own silk wrappings. I noticed all of the people I knew where in the section that was red, and what I was guessing was Alex’s family, on the side that was gold.

I searched the sea of red to find all the seats were full, except for one. It was in the last row on the edge. I walked over to it, managing to trip over my feet. Luckily I caught my self on the back of the chair. As people stared at me I felt my face get hot. I quickly bent my head and took my seat.

The piano filled the room with its sweet melody. Then in unison everyone seemed to turn their torsos to the left. I slowly turned my head to find Alice, my best friend, walking gracefully down the broad staircase arm in arm with her boyfriend Jasper. Her hair was done in the many spikes coming out in every direction. She wore a burgundy sleeveless dress that complimented her petite frame. And of coarse she had golden five-inch stilettos on. Jasper was in a plain black suit with a gold vest underneath.

When they were halfway down Emmett, Edwards best friend and best man, slowly descended down. He wore the same as Jasper, but had that goofy grin on his face. Hooked on his arm was Alex’s best friend Emily. She of coarse wore the same thing as Alice, but her long blonde hair was done up in a bun with loose curls cascading down.

Once both couples had reached the bottom they took their places on either side of the altar. Then, Alex and her father appeared at the top of the grand staircase. They began their graceful, yet slow, walk down. Alex wore a simple, but astounding dress. The bust had delicate beading of flowers, each center holding the colors orange and red. At her waist it flowed down in a waterfall of white silk that swayed with each step she took. Under her veil she was smiling as bright as ever.

I turned towards the altar noticing Emmett nudging Edward with his elbow. He turned towards the interruption to find Emmett waggling his eyebrows. Edward glowered and thunked him on the head. I couldn’t help but stifle a giggle as the show went on.

Alex and her father had made it to the end of the great decent. All that was left was a small aisle that led towards Edward. Faster than I expected they were at the end and the father was giving away the bride. Edward helped Alex up the small step and turned to face her.

I didn’t realize I was holding my breath till the priest said, “Edward, do you take Alex as you lawful wedded wife as long as you shall live?”

My breath caught, awaiting his answer. He looked towards the priest and then back to Alex. Took a deep breath and spoke.

“I do.” He said while flashing that crooked smile. I felt my heart being jerked violently out from my chest.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife.” The priest declared. “You may now kiss the bride.” Edward flipped up the veil and leaned in. Once their lips met he dipped her down.

I could hear the tears flowing, and everyone was clapping. I couldn’t breath, I knew I shouldn’t of come here. I finally caught my breath; it came out in shallow gasps. I had to leave; I just had to get out of here.

Edwards’s pov

“You may now kiss the bride.” The priest said with I smile. I quickly flipped over my love’s veil and kissed her. I bent her down just to add that little affect. I could hear everyone crying and clapping as I brought Alex back up. But I didn’t understand that when I opened my eyes to look deep into her ice blue eyes, Bella’s face came to mind.

Bella’s pov

I waited till the room was cleared, and everyone had headed outside. I stood up fast, knocking the black leather clutch to the floor spilling its contents on the deep rich wooden floor. I quickly scooped everything up and headed out towards the door. Before I stepped out I took one last glance in the house. Leaving my memories, and my heart. I climbed into the truck and started the engine, trying to get away as soon as possible. On my way home I promised myself to never shed another tear for Edward Cullen again.

Edward’s pov

Everyone all moved smoothly outside into the large tent we had rented so we could have it outside. And thanks to Alice’s planning we probably didn’t need it for it was sunny.

It seemed everyone was having a great time except for me. I couldn’t get Bella’s face out of my mind. It was imbedded in my mind. My brain seemed to have a death grip on it, not willing me to let go of it.

“Edward? Edward? Hello? EDWARD!” I jumped seeing Alex for the first time glaring at me, hands on her hips. “Our first dance? Ya, it’s right now! So lets go.” Her ice blue eyes piercing. She grabbed my hand and led me to the dance floor. The song started and we slowly started moving in a circle. It was driving me crazy, because the entire time my mind was focused on Bella. And only Bella. The song ended and everyone clapped. I released my hold on Alex and strode away.

“Alice?” I called out.

“Hey Edward! Everything is going as planned! I’m so happy for you!” she squealed grabbing my hands and jumping up and down.

“Uh, ya. So have you seen Bella? I haven’t seen her at all.” Her smile faded away and she stopped jumping.

“No, I haven’t. I saw her earlier on, but I can’t find her anywhere.” She seemed upset. Bella was one of her best friends.

“Oh,” I said in a monotone voice. “thanks anyways.” I was about to ask her another question when Alex yanked me by my arm.

“Come on! We have to go cut the cake!” she scolded me angrily. I never knew she could be so pushy.

As we said our last goodbyes I took Alex’s hand and we walked into my house.

A quiet yawn escaped from her lips.

“Why don’t you head up stairs and get some rest. You’ve had a long day.” I urged her. All her response was a yawn. She let go of my hand and diverged to the stairs. Emmett, Jasper, and Carlisle were already stacking up chairs. And Esme, Rose, and Alice were cleaning up the tent.

I walked up and started stacking chairs without thinking. I had stacked seven rows and I was on the last. When I looked down I saw a piece of paper folded up on the ground. Curious I bent down and unfolded it. In crossed out lines, I could still make out what it said.

Edward, ever since I met you-

Edward, since the day I saw you-

Edward, I know were friends but I can’t help but feel-

Edward, I don’t know how to put this so here it goes

I love you.

Bella

I couldn’t believe it. She loved me. This was just too much. I plopped down in the chair and stared at the crinkled piece of paper. Why would she leave this if she knew I loved Alex and not her? All the pieces started to fall into place. Her wanting to hang out anytime. The way she looked at me. Her always coming over to suffer a Alice sleep over. It was all because she loved me, and I had been so blind to that.

“Hey bro? You okay?” Emmett was waving his hand in front of my face.

“Ya, you don’t look so good man.” Jasper said while stacking chairs.

“I think it’s finally hit him!” Emmett screamed

“What?” Jasper said, confused expression on his face.

“That he’s not a free man anymore.” Emmett said, bringing his hands to his hips and cocking his head to the side. I couldn’t help but laugh, Emmett looked like he was gay.

“Well this has really been fun, but I’m gonna head up to bed.” I stood up and stretched.

“Oooo la la!” Emmett sang while wagging his eyebrows up and down. I rolled my eyes at his childness and trudged slowly up the stairs.

Alex was already asleep so I quickly changed into my pajamas and silently crawled into bed. She stirred slightly, but then relaxed and continued her silent slumber. Before I fell asleep Bella’s image popped into my mind.

Bella’s pov

It was a couple of hours since the wedding and I was curled up on the couch watching TV with Charlie. I was rocking back and forth when the note popped inside my head. I immediately jumped up off the couch startling Charlie

“Everything okay?” he said, leaning around me still watching the game.

“Uh huh!” I said as I dashed off towards my room.

I ran straight for the black clutch yanking it open. I dug around inside searching for the note. Where was it? I knew I left it in here from when I last used it. When I went to dinner with his family and I was going to tell him I loved him, even though I was a big chicken to say it out loud.

All I wanted to do was rip it up. Erasing him from my memory and life. I had already destroyed everything, pictures, music, the whole thing. This was the only thing I had missed.

It wasn’t there! It had to be, I didn’t even open it the entire time…

“No! No, no, no, no! This can’t be happening!” I dumped the whole thing on the desk now, scattering everything. It was to late though, it was gone. Probably sitting on the floor for someone to read.

“Why me?” I moaned towards the ceiling.

“Bella, Jake is here.” Charlie called from downstairs. I headed down the stairs, tripping on the last. As the floor rushed up to greet my face, a pair of tan arms caught me.

“Easy there Bells!” Jake said with a laugh.

“Thanks. What are you doin’ here Jake?” I asked.

“Awe, what I can’t come see my best friend?” he said with a smile.

“Cables out huh?” I accused. I knew him to well.

“Uh huh!” he said, slumping next to Charlie. I walked in sitting in the recliner, not caring about the note anymore. During the whole hour I just kept staring at Jake.

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2 years later. Edward is rich and a successful. (I don’t know what his job is so if you could give me ideas that would rock my socks off!!!!)

Edwards’s pov

“Yes dad, uh huh. Alex and I are on our way.” I snapped the silver phone shut and set it down. We were on our way to Harry Clearwater’s funeral, he was my dad’s best friend, he had died of a heart attack.

We had just rolled into town when Alex spoke up.

“We need to stop by the store and pick up some food.” She said as we came to a red light.

“Didn’t you make something for us to bring?” I asked frustrated. She always did this.

“I’ve been busy lately I didn’t have time.” She was getting annoyed now. I sighed and pressed on the peddle as the light turned green.

I pulled into the parking lot and shut off the car.

“You gonna come?” she eyed me as I sat there. I reluctantly opened my door and got out. The cold are enveloped me, seeming to squeeze the breath from my lungs. I hadn’t been to Forks for two years, I had forgotten how cold and gloomy it was. At least it wasn’t raining, I thought as we entered the warm mini mart.

Alex went off in some other direction so I decided to go look at the paper. I walked over towards the stack of papers, also next to the magazines. I snatched one off of the top and began to scan threw it, leaning against the wall.

“Dad, calm down! I’m on my way.” I heard a distressed person say. “I’m only late ‘cause you made me pick up this cake. Ya, I got Jake. Charlie were coming, were coming!” I looked up when I heard this. It hit me like a brick, there was Bella Swan standing right in front of me. She snapped her phone shut and took the huge box off the register counter

“Jake, come on, Charlie is getting restless.” She said heading to the door. Jake? Who was Jake? I guess I didn’t notice the guy that was standing right next to me. He set the magazine he was reading and walked of towards Bella. He was unbelievably tall, muscular and tan. It looked as if his long hair had been cropped short. (IDK ‘bout u guys, but I think Jake looks a heck of a lot better wit short hair than wit long. So he has short hair!)

Within two long strides he was at Bella. She was struggling with the huge box, so he swiftly took it from her. My eyes were on her the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. It took all of my strength not to go over to her. My eyes bore into her back till she was out the door, and enveloped by the hungry mist.

“Edward? Lets go.” Alex snapped me out of my daze. I looked down at her, in her hands was a relish tray filled with assortments of vegetables. On her face was an annoyed look.

“Sorry. Lets go.” I said in a rush, taking the tray from her hands and heading to the door.

I felt relieved once in the warm car. I couldn’t stand the cold. I had forgotten all about it since I had moved to California.

Heading down the gloomy road we came to an old red Chevy going under the speed limit. Revving the engine I quickly passed the ancient truck. I hated people that drove like grandmas.

I pulled into the Forks Cemetery parking lot and got out. I swiftly walked over to Alex’s side and opened her door. I put my hand round her waist and walked off towards the small group of people huddled up.

In the gloom I could make out Emmett’s huge form next to Rose’s. Next to them there was Alice and Jasper. And of coarse there was Carlisle and Esme. So I pulled Alex towards them.

“Hey my brotha! Long time no see!” Emmett boomed once he saw me. (Gasp! I forgot. Kay so Emmett, Alice, and Edward are siblings, Carlisle and Esme are ‘da ‘rents. Then Jasper and Rose are siblings. Rose is older. Then there’s Alex!)

“Hey Emmett.” I sighed, as people started to stare. “Hey Rose, looking good.” I said while flashing a smile. She glared at me.

“Ha ha, make fun of the pregnant lady.” She said in a sarcastic voice. (Uh okay a hope this is the last interruption. Emmett’s the oldest, then Edward, then Alice the twins. Now u may continue!)

“Edward!” a soprano voice called. That has to be Alice. Before I could turn to greet her she had me in a death hug. Man she can squeeze hard!

“Good… to… see… you… to… Alice.” I managed to choke out. She giggled and let go.

“Jasper.” I nodded in his direction. He was always the quiet type. He just nodded back.

“Is that my baby boy?” Cried a voice none other than my mom’s. (Arrggg. Okay so all the Cullen’s are married if u didn’t get the drift!) She rushed over to me, taking me into a bone crushing hug and kissing my cheek.

“Nice to see you to mom.” I said while pretending to rub the kiss off.

“She did the same thing to me man!” Emmett said. My mom slapped him on the arm.

“Oh please, you know you’ve always been a mommas boy.” She teased playfully. Emmett’s goofy grin fell as he started to glare.

“Edward I’ve missed you so much! You have to come visit your parents more often.” She was scolding me now.

“I promise.” I said. “Where’s dad?” I was stretching on my toes trying to see him.

“Talking to Charlie and Billy over there.” She said nodding to the group of men huddled in the corner of the tent we were in. I looked over to Alex who was already in deep conversation with Rose and Alice. Catching that I wouldn’t be missed I made my way over to my dad.

“Bella is doing fine, thanks for asking. How about your kids?” I aging man said. I noticed him as Chief Swan of this small town

“We are doing great.” I interrupted as I reached them. The three startled men turned towards me. My dad’s lit up.

“Edward, good to see you son.” He said while wrapping me in a one armed hug. “Billy, Charlie, I don’t know if you remember Edward here.” The man in the wheel chair, Billy, looked up to me. He reminded me of someone but I can’t remember who.

“Ah, yes Edward. The last time I saw you you were running around the house butt naked.” His wrinkle of his face pulled up into a smile, his eyes glistening. I felt my cheeks get red.

“I think your confusing me with Emmett.” I said threw clenched teeth.

He let out a gruff laugh. “Actually I think he was the one filming It. Anyway since we were talking about our kids, where is Bella and Jake?” he said peering up to Charlie.

“They should be here any minute. I just talked to Bella a few minutes ago.” Billy nodded his head, looking downward.

I froze. Bella was coming here. I was going to get to talk to her after all of these years.

“Something wrong son?” Billy had his neck craned to look up at me. Carlisle looked at me with worried eyes.

“Yes. I’m fine, thanks for asking. Now if you excuse me, I need to go speak to Alex.” I swiftly turned on my heel and made my way to the other side of the tent. Bella was coming, and I was strangely excited. (Okay Edward has forgotten ‘bout the note! Shame shame on him!) I reached Alex; wrapping my arms around her waist, chin resting on her shoulder. I started to daydream about what I would say to Bella, when a loud snarling roar interrupted my thoughts. I turned to see who it could be, but it was suddenly pouring rain that it obscured my vision.

Bella’s pov

“Dad, calm down! I’m on my way.” I said into the phone, heading towards a check out counter.

“Bells, you were suppose to be here fifteen minutes ago.” He was so stressed from what has happened over the last two weeks.

“I’m only late ‘cause you made me pick up this cake.” I tried to lighten up the mood.

“Sorry Bells, but I had to get down here early and help set up. Oh, hey do you have Jake?”

“ Ya, I got Jake.” I replied.

“Well hurry up, were going to be starting in ten minutes!” he called into the phone.

“Charlie were coming, were coming!” I slammed the phone shut and gave the money to the clerk. I hoisted up the box and headed towards the exit. “Jake, come on, Charlie is getting restless.” I called over my shoulder as I struggled to keep my footing with the box blocking my view. Sooner than expected, Jake swooped in and took the box from me. I smiled up at him thanking him.

I climbed into my truck slamming the door. The protest of the old metal shuttered threw out the cab. I started cranking up the heater as Jake pulled out of the parking lot.

Halfway down the street I heard the excel of a engine. I peeked over my shoulder to find a silver Volvo speeding up. I watched as the quickly passed us and rapidly pulled ahead. Within a few seconds I could barley see the tail lights.

“Stupid city drivers.” Jake mumbled under his breath. I turned to look at him. “I mean what California city slicker wants to come to dreary old Forks, Washington?”

“They could be lost?” I pointed out. Jake held back a snort.

“They must be pretty dumb to get lost in some small town.” I couldn’t help but laugh at this.

“I… guess… your… right!” I managed threw the montage of laughs. Soon he joined me.

My trucks loud protest drew attention to us as we pulled into the parking lot. Well not really a parking lot, it was more of a gray square covered in gravel. I was thankful it was pouring so nobody could see my face, but I’m sure they knew it was me. Jake leaped out of the cab suddenly, umbrella in hand. All I could make out was the black smudge that made it’s way around the front.

My door was ripped open causing violently frigid air and water to come hungrily pouring in. All I did was sit there, a few seconds had passed.

“Come on Bells.” Jake said.

“No I think I’ll stay in here.” I said threw chattering teeth. He sighed and wrapped one-mile long arm around my waist, hoisting me out of the cab. “N-n-no!” I protested, “I changed my mind, go with out me.” He just ignored me the entire slamming the door shut and dragging me towards the tent. Even under the umbrella we were still getting wet. Luckily I had Jake there to block most of the drops that came in.

All of Forks seemed to be crammed inside the tent, I groaned as everyone looked towards us. Jake threw the umbrella in the growing stack and pushed himself threw the crowd, me in tow. He seemed to swiftly move threw the crowd unfazed, unlike me who was being thrown around like a pinball.

I didn’t notice we stopped till I rammed my head into his back.

“You okay there?” Jake asked, trying not to burst into a fit of laughter.

“Yes, I’m fine.” I mumbled. Walking around him. There in the corner was my dad, Billy, and… Who was the third one? Charlie saw us and waved us over. I headed off in that direction, stopping next to my dad. Jake was also standing behind Billy’s wheel chair. Charlie gave me a hug type squeeze thing.

“Glad to see you two made it here in one piece.” He said in a joking matter.

“We would have got here sooner if Bella’s truck wasn’t so old!” Jake said.

“Ha ha, you’re a comic genius. And if I do remember that was your truck before it was mine.” I said.

“True ‘dat.” He said smiling.

“Bella, you remember Carlisle Cullen?” Charlie said, gesturing towards the third man. I stiffened. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Jacob clench and unclench his hands. He still never forgave ‘him’ for hurting me.

“Why yes, I do.” I said trying to smile sweetly, shaking his hand.

“My, you have grown up.” Carlisle said while letting go. All I could do was smile between tight lips. “So, what have you been doing since the last time I saw you?” I could tell he was trying to make small talk.

“I’ve been going to Washington State in Seattle.” (Idk where were else to make her go?)

“Really? What is your profession there?” he was really getting into this wasn’t he.

“Uh, literature.” I mumbled.

“I see. That is a great thing for you Bella.” His words coated with sincerity.

“Thanks so..” I trailed off when I saw ‘him’ making his way threw the crowd.

Edward’s pov

Jake, the boy I saw at the store, leaped out of the old truck we had passed on our way here. He made it to the other side within seconds, yanking the ancient door open. He stood there for what seemed like hours. His shoulders slumped and he leaned into the cab. He came out dragging upset girl out of the cab. He set her on her feet and started to tow her towards the tent. When they entered everyone seemed to turn towards there entrance.

Right before she could look down to the ground blushing, I saw it was Bella. Jake chucked his umbrella into the rapidly growing pile and pulled her along. I was frozen in my spot. Bella was finally here.

“Bro you look like you just saw a ghost, or somthin’?” Emmett said.

“Ya you don’t look so good man.” Jasper added

“Are you okay? Do we need to go home?” Alex started to pull me towards the door.

“I’m fine.” I lied. Unpleased she turned back to Alice and Rose.

I couldn’t see Bella threw the sea of people, but the Jake character stuck out like a sore thumb. Man he had to be almost seven feet tall. They stopped in the corner where my dad was talking with the others.

I don’t know what it was, but without thinking I began to drift over in that direction.

“Edward? Where are you going?” Alex called.

“Uh… I forgot to tell my dad something.” I lied once again. She nodded and turned back to her conversation.

What am I doing? I thought, as I was halfway across the tent. I was about to turn around right there when I met her deep chocolate brown eyes.

“Thanks so…” she trailed off when she started to stare back.

Chapter 6

Still Edward’s pov

So many emotions came across her face, anger, forgiveness, sad, disappointed, scared. But the one I didn’t expect was happiness. Her frown turned into a smile, her eyes brightening up. Before I knew it she was walking swiftly towards me.

Shoot! What to I do? Okay Edward, act cool. Awe, what was I saying I’m not in high school anymore. Crap, she’s almost here, just two more feet. I took a deep breath.

“Hi Bel…”

“Alice!” she interrupted me. “I haven’t seen you in forever!” she ran up to Alice, taking her into a tight hug.

“Bella! You look so good! I love your outfit!” Alice had her hands on Bella’s shoulders arms outstretched, admiring her gray knit sweater dress, a navy blue tank top underneath.

“Really?” she said looking down self-conscious.

“Yes! I give it a 10 on my scale.” Alice said approvingly

“Looks like some of your talent rubbed off on me!” Bella said with a giggle. Alice dusted off invisible dust on her shoulder.

“No problem.” Alice said. Within seconds they were in deep conversation about who knows what, I headed off towards my dad.

Bella’s pov

Alice and I were talking about colleges and what one another was doing in the past two years when I heard a booming voice.

“Is that my Jelly-Belly?” oh crap, it was Emmett. I quickly headed off in the opposite direction trying to get away. “You can’t hide from me Jingle-Bells! You know I will find you!” I could tell he was gaining by how close his voice sounded and the ‘heys’ and ‘excuse me’s’

Suddenly the ground disappeared from underneath me and I couldn’t breath.

“Oh I missed you so much Belly-Welly!” Emmett had me in a bone snapping bear hug, and was swinging me around like a rag doll.

“Emmett… can’t… bre… th.” I managed to gasp.

“Oh! Sorry!” he set me back on my feet and spinning me around to face him.

“S’okay.” I said while rubbing my neck. It was good to see Emmett again; he was always like a big brother to me. I flung my arms around his waist startling him.

“I missed you to Emmey-Bear!” I said into his chest, he hugged me back, more gentle this time. “What have you been up to?” I asked while stepping back to look at him.

“Ah it’s been awesome! I graduated from Dartmouth last month and…” (uh hi! Idk what Emmett’s job should be? HELP?)

“Wait, you graduated! From college!?” I couldn’t stop myself from laughing. I was laughing so hard I had to clutch my sides. If he weren’t there to catch me I would have fell on my face.

“I don’t think it’s that funny.” He had steadied me on my feet, his smile gone on his face.

“Awe Emmett, I didn’t mean it like that.” I tried to comfort him.

“Sure. But OH MY GOSH! How could I have forgot! Bella, Bella!” he started jumping up and down, looking like an oversized five year old.

“What!? I’m right here!” I said.

“Oh ya, right. I’m gonna be a daddy!” he had a huge smile plastered on his face.

“Oh my gosh! That’s so great Emmett. I’m glad you finally figured it out!” he stuck his tongue out at me, me copying him.

“Hey Emmett,” an authoritive voice called. We turned to find Carlisle heading towards us. “We need help lifting the casket, could you help us find a couple more people?” he asked

“Sure dad!” Carlisle nodded his head walking away towards the group of men all huddled under umbrellas, surrounding Harry’s casket. Emmett was scanning the crowd for someone.

“Yo Jasper! Edward!” he said while lunging towards them. “You need to help us put the dead guy in the ground!”

Every person turned, shocked that someone would say such a thing. Jasper stared wide-eyed at Emmett’s comment, while Edward slapped his own forehead. Rose looked down embarrassed by her husband’s stupidity. While Alice tried stifle a giggle. That is also when I saw Alex, her perfect lips turned in a perfect ‘O’.

Rose? I hadn’t seen her for a while. I headed off in her direction; using the pathway Emmett had created.

“What?” Emmett stared at his surprised family “Is something in my teeth.” His hands flew to his mouth, eyes wide.

“No Emmett. You don’t have something in your teeth.” I assured him. His hands fell down, face confused.

“Then what is it?” he asked.

“Hey! Why don’t you go over to the casket, and show them how a real man uses his muscles?” I was praying that he would go.

“Okay!” and then he bounded off. Edward and Jasper acting as if they didn’t know him, followed him.

“Bella? Oh, it is you!” Rose rushed over to me, awkwardly hugging me.

“Rose! You… look so good.” I struggled with the words so I just smiled.

“Oh you can save the act. I look like a whale.” She said sighing to herself.

“Oh don’t say that! Your still beautiful.” The truth was I thought she looked a heck of a lot better than me.

“Your such a sweetie. I’ve missed you so much!” she said

“I missed you to! What have you been up to?” I asked trying to strike up a conversation.

“Other than the obvious? Just kidding! I was going to Dartmouth for mechanics, but then this little accident happened.” She said while smiling, I couldn’t help but laugh a little.

“What about you?” she asked.

“Just going to Washington State for Literature.” I answered.

“That’s great! I knew you would go that way!” she actually seemed really happy for me, even though she went to an Ivey League school.

All at once everyone seemed to head out side into the vicious rain. Umbrellas marking where they were heading. I turned around to find Jake to find the corner empty. He must be helping with the casket, along with Charlie.

Rose, Alice, and Alex were already heading outside, umbrellas in hand.

“Guess I’m on my own.” I mumbled as I walked over to the mountain of umbrellas.

“Not if you would like to accompany and old man in a wheel chair.” I gruff voice called. I turned quickly seeing Billy sitting there.

“That would me great!” I said while opening the umbrella. I tried to push the wheel chair and hold the umbrella at the same time. But It wasn’t working out as well as I hopped.

“You push, I’ll hold.” Billy offered, and outstretched hand waiting for the umbrella.

“Thanks.” I said while slipping the umbrella into his waiting hand.

The cold seemed to rip my breath from my lungs. It was freezing. Even under the umbrella Billy and I still were getting soaked.

“Hmmm. You’d think they’d be smart enough to put the tent over the place they were barring Harry?” I questioned

“Can’t argue with you there.” Billy gruffed.

The mud that was forming on the ground seemed to suck Billy’s wheel chair down into the earth. It took several hard pushes to get him over to the awaiting crowd. Thankfully there was an open spot up front, I shoved my way towards it and parked Billy there.

Soon I spotted them coming. Sue Clearwater and Charlie were up front. Followed by Jacob and Carlisle. And at the end were Emmett and Edward.

Sue and Charlie had let go and started heading towards the hole. They both reached down and heaved with all their might, hoisting a tarp out. Water came poring out like a waterfall. Soaking my feet even more if that was possible. Then they put the casket over the hole and hooked it up.

As the Harry’s casket lowered to the ground, Sue, Carlisle, Emmett, Edward, Jasper, and Charlie headed off towards their families.

People began to leave when they were throwing the dirt in the hole.

“Ready to go?” I asked Billy threw chattering teeth.

“Nah. I think I’ll stay.” He said staring at the grave.

“You sure?” I asked.

“Ya. I’m sure.” He said, still staring at the grave. I didn’t want him staying in the rain by himself so I decided I could stay with him.

“I can stay with him Bells” Charlie came up behind me, looking down at his friend. “You and Jake can head down to the Diner and set up.”

“’K.” I said turning to find Jake’s stomach in my face.

“ Ya ready?” He asked, flashing his white teeth.

“Mmm.” Was all I replied as I headed off to my truck. I didn’t really feel like driving so I went to the passenger side and climbed in.

By the time Jake was in the car I was cranking the heater full blast. I bought me knees to my chest wrapping me arms around them. I looked over to Jake who seemed quit relaxed even though he was soaked just as much as I was. He had one arm on the wheel and was slumped in his seat.

“Your not cold at all?” I asked.

“Nope. Feel fine.” Was all he said, starting to whistle again. All I did was nod and turned my eyes back to the road.

Jakes whistling stopped. “So… Cullen’s are in town.” His dark eyes bore into mine as he looked at me.

“Ya.” I whispered looking away from his intense stare.

“Alice here to?” he asked

“Yup.” I said.

“Rosalie?” this was getting annoying now.

“Yes.”

“And… Edward.” I could practically see the acid dripping when he said his name.

“Yes Jacob! All the Cullen’s are here! What ya going to do about it?!” I was fuming by now; every time one of the Cullen’s came into town he always did this. “You going to go beat him up? Yes Jake that will solve everything! How could I be so blind? All he needs is a good smack down!” I was screaming at this point.

I was gasping for air now. I could feel my face burning red hot, the tears pooling in the corners of my eyes. Jake had a shocked expression on his face. I had never blown up like this before. It never seemed to bug me when they came to town. But of coarse he never came.

I didn’t notice we had been in the parking lot the entire time till I looked out the window. I saw tow blotches standing in place in front of the tuck. My eyes grew wide. Why didn’t he stop me from yelling? The figure began to move forward again, disappearing into the Diner.

Jake didn’t say anything for a long time, and neither did I. I huffed and grabbed the cake. I opened the door and jumped out. The downpour engulfed me once again, but Jake was there with the umbrella, a glum expression on his face.

The warm, damp air welcomed me in when we opened the door to the cramped Diner. Everyone was jabbering in his or her own conversations while Sue was trying to get everything set up.

“Need help?” I asked as she was placing dishes of food on the tables.

“Yes. That would be great dear. Chairs are in the back.” She said gesturing with her head.

“Got it.” I said heading off to the back room.

It was freezing in the room. It probably didn’t help at all that my clothes were sopping wet. I rushed over to the edge of the room where I saw the chairs. They were stacked on a trolley. I pulled with all my might barely moving it an inch. I pulled again but getting the same result.

“Arg!” I sighed. “Where’s Jake when you need him?”

“Need help?” I velvety voice called. A voice I hadn’t heard in almost three years. My breath whooshed out of me and I leaned forward a little.

“Yes, if you could take these out?” I had my back turned to him, I couldn’t bare to look at his god-like face. I heard the shuffle of shoes on the cement floor making there way towards me. ‘Clump, clump, clump’ they were getting louder and louder.

Right when he was about to reach me I turned around booking it to the door. When I was out the door I heard the squeal off metal scraping against the floor. I had to get away from here. I searched for Jakes tall frame, but found it nowhere. Where was he?

The rolling sound of the wheels was right behind me. I cursed and headed off in a random direction.

Edward’s pov

Alex and I where heading into the Diner, when we heard shouting. We both stopped at the same time and faced the direction of the shouts.

In front of us was the rusty old Chevy truck. I couldn’t make out the people in the cab, but I could hear them.

I caught the girl mid scream. “You going to go beat him up? Yes Jake that will solve everything! How could I be so blind? All he needs is a good smack down!” she stopped and I saw the girls form turn.

Was she looking at us? I couldn’t tell but I didn’t want to risk it. I put my hand on the small of Alex’s back and pushed her forward.

Once inside Alex went to put the tray on one of the tables. I stayed by the window, watching the red truck.

Minutes seemed to pass before I saw movement. The door flew open in a gust of wind and I saw Bella hope out, tears in her eyes. The tall one, Jake I think, was at her side. Umbrella in one hand, the other on snaked protectively around her waist. Unexpectedly jealousy filled up in me as I saw this. He had a weird expression on his face, as if he wanted to kill something. Or someone.

They entered the room, cold air greedily coming in. Bella left Jake’s side immediately, heading of towards a lady seeming to dance around as she set stuff up. She spoke with her for a few seconds, nodded, and headed towards the back of the Diner. I watched her till she disappeared behind a large wood door.

I turned back to the door, seeing Jake’s coal black eyes glaring at me. I quickly turned on my heals, heading the direction Bella went.

“Arg! Where’s Jake when you need him?” I heard her voice cry. I peeked in the door, seeing Bella struggling with the chair rack.

With out thinking I blurted out. “Need help?” what was I thinking? Her body seemed to stiffen as I spoke, her body swaying forward.

“Yes, if you could take these out?” she said in a stiff voice. Not turning to face me. I made my way across the small room.

Right when I was inches behind her she turned suddenly. This startled me as she dashed out. Stopping at the doorway, searching for someone.

I turned back to the rack and pulled. The screeching of the metal pierced my ears as I made my way towards the doorway. Bella was still there searching. I was about to say something when she cursed and fled in a direction.

“What’s your problem?” I wondered out loud.

I saw the lady Bella was helping and headed towards her.

“Where do you want the chairs?” I asked.

Edward’s pov

“Where do you want the chairs?” I asked.

------------------------------------------------

She turned to face me, her coal black eyes boring into mine. A confused expression came over her face as she cocked her head to the side.

“Around the tables. About nine per table.” She said nodding her head around. I nodded.

Maybe I could get Jasper or Emmett to help do this? I searched the one place I knew Emmett would be. The snack table. I looked towards the table with heaps of food on it, and found none other than Emmett shoving his face full.

“Hey Emmett?” I called out. “Want to help me set up the chairs?” he turned towards me, food flying in all directions. He nodded, probably cause he couldn’t talk, and made his way towards me. “Just put nine chairs per table. Think you can handle that?” I asked

He rolled his eyes. “I’m not five man.” He mumbled.

“Yes but you still act like it.” I threw at him. He did his goofy grin and began unfolding chairs and putting them at tables. I followed his example and begun to put chairs out.

“Last one.” I sighed as I put it into place. Once Emmett had finished he ran back to the snack table like a little kid. I searched over the tables that were now packed with people, searching for Alex. I saw her at the other end of the room sitting at a table with my family. I headed their direction.

I was halfway across when someone ran into me.

“Ummff!” I looked down to find Bella staring to the left as she bounced off of my chest. She turned her head, her chocolate brown eyes burning. “Sorry…” her eyes got wide as she looked up at me.

“That’s fine.” I said, flashing a grin at her. Her breathing seemed to be coming out in gasps. Was she all right?

“You okay?” I felt my eyebrows pulling together.

“Ya. Fine.” She said threw clenched teeth.

Bella’s pov

I was searching for Jake still. Man where was that kid? I had circled the Diner about five times and still hadn’t seen him. I came back to reality when I ran into something rock hard.

“Ummff!” I grunted as I stumbled back wards. “Sorry…” crap my day just keeps getting worse and worse. Of all the people I could run into, it had to be Edward Cullen.

“That’s fine.” His velvety voice said, flashing that crooked smile. His voice seemed to rip into me; tearing at anything it could get purchase on. I couldn’t breath. I didn’t know hearing his voice would have this effect on me. I wanted so badly to clutch my sides to hold the pieces together.

“You okay?” his voice sounded concerned.

“Ya. Fine.” Was all I could manage threw my clenched teeth.

“Do you want to sit down?” he gestured with his hand. If my mouth were working, I would have said no. But it stayed sealed shut.

I took the seat reluctantly, him sitting next to me. He repositioned his chair so he was facing me, his emerald eyes piercing. He cocked his head to the side, placing his hand under his fist.

“So Bella. It’s been a while.” his lips turned up in a smile, eyes dazzling.

“I agree.” Was all I could respond?

“Yes.” His eyebrows pulled together, his smile fading. “What have you been up to these past years?” his stare was intense.

Hating you. Yearning for you. Missing you. Despising you. Crying for you. Wasting my life for you. I longed to say these words. But I stuck with the same answer. “School. You?” was I really trying to have an actual conversation with him?

His eyes gleamed at this question. “I’m the C.E.O. of a huge company down in California.”

“Impressive.” I mumbled, looking out the window.

“Why thank you. What are you doing in school?” his eyes seemed to burn holes in me as he stared intently at me.

I sighed. “Literature.” I responded in a monotone.

“That’s wonderful!” he said with a smile. I just smiled weakly at him.

“Uh hey? Have you seen my friend? Really tall, tan, dark hair?” was I really asking him this question?

“Sure. When you two walked in, but I haven’t seen him lately.” He said while glancing around.

“Ugh. He always disappears.” I mumbled to myself.

“So? You and him are a thing?” he asked. I was in shock. Did I just hear him correctly? Was he asking if Jacob Black and me were going out? This really ticked me off. He had a wife; he doesn’t need to know about my life. For all I know he doesn’t even care about me.

“What if we are?” I said, putting as much acid into my voice as possible.

“I just don’t see it.” he said while shrugging his shoulders

“I could say the same thing.” I said curtly.

“What?” his voice was abrupt.

I opened my mouth, but snapped it shut. I felt the tears pooling in my eyes. I was just about to open up to Edward, before I realized it.

His intense stare softened, “Are you okay?”

NO! I wanted to jump up and scream. But I sat there, staring back at him. Trying to keep my glare icy. I felt a tear slip down my cheek, hearing its silent splash. I couldn’t hold back the tears any longer.

I sat up from the chair and walked away without a word. I heard the scrape of his chair against the wood, and his footsteps rushing towards me.

His hand was suddenly on my shoulder, jerking my back. I yanked my shoulder back and kept walking. The tears silently pouring out.

“Bella, did I do something wrong?” his voice was inches from my ears.

Yes! I wanted to say. For not knowing that I always loved you, cared about you. And now you come back! Expecting it to be fine and dandy between us? Well you thought wrong.

His hand found its place on my shoulder again. I tried to slip away again, but his hold was firmer than before. He spun me around so I was facing him now, hand still on my shoulder.

“Let go of me!” I screamed, slapping his arm away. Everyone’s eyes were wide, staring at the two of us. I stood there for a moment, calculating me actions, and stalked off.

Edward’s pov

“So? You and him are a thing?” I asked. Trying to strike up a conversation with her.

“What if we are?” her eyes were burning into mine when she said this.

I shrugged. “I just don’t see it.” I replied simply. Really though that kid was huge! He was probably bigger than Emmett. They just didn’t seem to match up.

“I could say the same thing.” She said after a moment.

“What?” I was confused. Was she talking about Alex and I? Sure we were perfect together. I thought

Her mouth opened to say something but she shut it quickly. Tears began to form in her eyes

I felt my face relax as I absorbed her expression. “Are you okay?”

She sat there for a while. Acting as if I wasn’t there.

She suddenly jumped to her feet and swiftly walked away from me. I quickly sat up following her. I reached out for her, finding purchase on her shoulder. I slightly tugged her back. She jerked her shoulder sharply back, continuing.

“Bella, did I do something wrong?” I asked rushing back to her. I grabbed her more firmly again, she struggled to get out of my hold. I spun her around to face me. Her cheeks were tear streaked, her eyes looking vulnerable.

“Let go of me!” she screamed, vulnerability disappearing from her death glare. Her arm came down hard on my arm, knocking it out of place.

Everyone stopped what they were doing, staring at us now. She swiftly turned away, stalking off.

After Bella disappeared, everyone began to mummer to one another. Becoming one giant humming sound. I walked over to my family and sat down next to Alex. I looked around to find Alice and Rose giving me death glares. Everyone else had their heads bent, looking down at their food as they ate.

“Are you okay, baby?” Alex was rubbing the arm Bella had smacked.

“Fine.” I murmured to her, even though it had a slight throb where she had stuck it.

“Are you sure? Its bright red, and it’s bruising!” she screeched.

“I told you I’m fine.” I hushed her. People were beginning to stare again.

“I’ll be right back.” She said while jumping up.

“Alex no!” I said in a tense voice. My hands clutching the air where she just was. I looked up to find her nowhere.

“Shoot” I muttered to myself. This can’t be good.

Alex’s pov

“Let go of me!” my head shot up in the direction of the loud voice. As I searched the crowd I saw Edward holding some girls arm. Was that Bella? The girl that had a hopeless crush on my Edward?

Her arm suddenly came up, striking him on the arm. My mouth fell open. How dare she smack Edward! She quickly turned away, stalking off. Edward stood there for a moment, stunned, his other hand clutching were she had whacked him. He slowly turned around, making his way towards us.

Once he sat down everyone put their heads down.

“Are you okay, baby?” I asked him, rubbing his injured arm

“Fine.” He mumbled to me. I didn’t believe his little charade.

“Are you sure?” I looked down at his arm. “Its bright red, and its bruising!” I screeched at him.

“I told you I’m fine.” His voice was hard. Well if he wasn’t going to do anything about this, I was.

“I’ll be right back.” I said quickly, jumping out of my seat and away from his strong grasp.

“Alex no!” I heard him cry. I ignored him, searching for Bella in the crowd. I scanned to find her heading out the door. Perfect! I thought as I headed towards her.

The rain had stopped, but there was still I thick mist in the air. Man, I hate this place. I saw Bella heading towards a red truck. She’s not getting away that easy. I ran up behind her, tapping her on the shoulder.

“I told you to leave…” her voice trailed off when she saw me, a confused expression on her face.

I curled my fist thrusting it forward. Hearing a satisfying crack, she stumbled backward. Nose streaming blood everywhere.

“What is wrong with you?” she yelled at me.

“That’s for hitting my Edward.” I confirmed her turning on my heal. Her eyes turned to daggers, her hands bawling into fists. I fastened my walk back into the building.

I was suddenly thrusted around, a fist greeting my face as I turned. I stumbled back in shock, feeling blood leaking from my lip.

“Mess with me.” Bella said. A smile playing on her lips.

I leaped at her knocking her to the ground, throwing punches, scratching and pulling hair. She was suddenly on top of me. Punching my face. The fists came again and again, it seemed that there was no end. My vision became blurred, and the darkness seemed so welcoming. Then the weight that was pressing down on me was lifted. I took in a shaky breath, and laid there.

“Let go of me! Let me at her! I’ll show her for messing with me!” I heard Bella scream, seeming to struggle against something, or someone.

Bella’s pov

I was outside now, ready to go home. Jake could find a ride back home. I was about to open my door when there was a tap on my shoulder. Hadn’t I told him to leave me alone?

“I told you to leave…” I trailed of as I saw Alex standing there instead of Edward. I felt my eyebrows pull together. What was she doing here?

Suddenly her fist made contact with my face. Making a sickening crunch. I stumbled backward, holding my nose. Fountains and fountains of blood kept gushing out.

“What is wrong with you?” I screamed in her face.

“That’s for hitting my Edward.” she sneered. Heading back towards the Diner.

“You are not getting off the hood that easy sister.” I mumbled racing after her.

I yanked her back. Punching her in the lip. Blood squirted all over me. She stumbled back, touching her lip to find blood.

“Mess with me.” I smiled at her.

She leaped at me, knocking us both to the ground. She punched me three times, then started to scratch me and pulling at my hair. I wrapped my legs around her flipping us over. I was on top now, throwing punches. I didn’t scratch or pull her hair, I wanted to do damage. Soon she stopped struggling her eyelids closing.

I was hoisted into the air suddenly. Being taken away from Alex’s unmoving body.

“Let go of me! Let me at her! I’ll show her for messing with me!” I yelled. Furiously kicking and scratching at the person taking me.

“Bella, you need to calm down!” Jakes husky voice soothed in my ear. My legs and arms stopped, swinging limp at my sides. I let my head drop, letting it sway back and forth as it wanted.I was sat down on a bench outside the Diner, Jake sitting next to me. The moment he stopped touching me I jumped up and raced back to Alex.

“Bella!” Jake called. I could hear his big feet clumping behind me. I pushed myself faster, three more feet.

“Ahhhhh!” I sreamed.

Jake had dove for me, grasping me around the waist. We flew past Alex landing hard on the cement sidewalk. The wind was knocked out of me after Jake’s massive body landed on me.I was gasping for air, struggling to breath and shove Jake off of me. He finally got the jiff of what I was trying to do, and rolled off of me. Still holding me in his iron grasp.

“What’s going on out here?” I heard that velvety smooth voice call. His face was in shock when he took in Alex’s body lying there. He ran to her side, not knowing what to do.

“Emmett. Go get Carlisle.” He ordered. I looked up to find Emmett racing back to the Diner. Carlisle came out followed by his family, Charlie, Billy. Their eyes getting wide as they took in the scene.

“Bella! What happened?” Charlie came shuffling over to me, wrinkles creasing on his forhead.

“She and that girl got in a little fight.” Jake confirmed.

“You can let me up now Jake.” I said. He still had me in his arms, like a four-year-old sitting on their dad’s stood up, me in hold. And cautiously let me go. Hand still wrapped around my waist.

“She’ll be okay.” I heard Carlisle sooth Edward. “We just need to clean these cuts.” Edward grabbed Alex by her forearm, helping her to her feet. His arm was holding her shoulders, helping her walk.

“We’ll have to take you to Bella.” Carlisle said.

“What? No I’m fine. You go take care of Alex.” I said while trying to walk away. But Jake’s hold didn’t let up.

“I think you should go Bells.” Charlie ordered. I sighed and let Jake drag me to the truck.

We were following Edward’s Volvo when Jake spoke up.

“Man Bells. That had to be ‘bout the best cat fight I have ever seen! I mean the way you punched her. Man it was awesome!” his eyes were bright and his smile was huge.

“Are you serious? I just about killed her!” I yelped.

“Ya, I saw that. That’s when I decided to step in.” he said, his smile fading.

We were in front of the Cullen’s house now. Jake opened his door, pulling me along side him. We walked up the steps, well he dragged my up the steps. Emmett was holding the door open for us. His face lit up as he saw me.

“Nice job Jelly-Belly!” he exclaimed as we passed threw.

Carlisle had Alex in the dinning room cleaning up her cuts. Apparently I had completely broken her nose, fractured her jaw, and broke her wrist. Well she broke her wrist; after all she didn’t know how to punch. She had a brace wrapped snugly over her wrist, something on her nose; I guess that was holding it in place. And had stitches on her cheek, forehead, and right above her eye.

Her eyes were swollen, and I assumed she was giving me a death glare. Edward was next to her, his head bent towards the ground.

Jake and I stood there, awkwardly.

“Okay that’s as much as I can do.” Carlisle said, slapping his knees. He turned around seeing me. “’K Bella, your next.”

His expression was grim as he checked me out.

“Well, you also have a broken nose, a few scratches and swollen spots, and a cracked knuckle. The damage isn’t as bad as Alex.” He said, securing the brace in place. “You are free to go.” He stood up and headed of towards the stairs.

“We need to sue!” I heard Alex complain. “Haven’t you seen what she has done to me? I swear she must be a guy!” we were in the room when she said this.

“Man Bella you can sure kick some butt!” Emmett said while spread out on the couch. He leaped up off the couch heading towards me.

“We are here at the scene when Bella Swan, and Alex Cullen got into a fight. Bella do you have any words about the fight?” Emmett was acting like a news reporter shoving a remote, which was suppose to me the microphone I think, in my face. I felt a smile stretching over my face, the sore muscles complaining.

“Why yes I do Emmett.” I turned toward Alex who was staring at Edward, who was staring at me. I waited till Alex turned toward me to speak. Once she did I spoke up.

“You punch like a girl.” I said taking Jake by the hand and towing him to the door. “No more questions please.”

Once outside I heard Emmett’s booming laugh echoing from the house.

Edward’s pov

“Edward, my head hurts! Can you go get me some Tylenol?” Alex complained, again.

“Cant you go get it? The kitchen is over there.” I said, not looking up from my book.

“We’re out I need you to go get me some at the store.” Her voice was wining in my ear.

“You know where the store is.” I was getting frustrated now.

“You don’t expect me to go out in public looking like this?” she screeched, jumping up from the couch. Hands flailing in the air.

“You look fine.” I sighed, not looking up.

“Edward, if you don’t go and get me something for my headache I swear I’ll…”

“I’ll go! If you will just stop yelling at me!” I threw my book down and stalked off to the door.

“Thanks honey, I love you so much!” I rolled my eyes. Sure if you loved me you could go get your own things. I threw on my coat and headed off towards my car.

The parking lot was empty as I pulled in, a few cars scattered here and there though. I stepped out into the cold and headed towards the doors. It was quit inside, except for the roar of the heater above. I aimlessly walked up and down the aisles, in search for the Tylenol.

I heard an annoying cell phone ring going off in the aisle next to me.

“Shoot! Where’s that freaking phone.” I heard a muffled voice. “Hello?”

Was that Bella? I hurried and rushed over to the next aisle, sure enough to find her standing there talking on the phone.

“Yup. I think I’ve got the pictures, you’ve called me about ten times in the last five minutes.” She had a smile on her face as she looked down at the thick yellow envelope in her hands. “Ya, I’ll just be a couple of minutes. Kay see you.” She snapped her phone blue phone and looked up at the shelf.

She was biting her bottom lip when I approached her.

“Hard choice?” what was a doing? Doesn’t she hate me or something?

“What are you doing here?” she asked reaching for the bottle on the shelf.

“Tylenol.” I said, reaching for one of the bottles. “You?”

“Same.” She said curtly.

“Headache?” I asked.

“Yup. Hitting your head on the sidewalk doesn’t really pay off.” She said, smiling up at me.

My heart skipped a beat when I saw her breathtaking smile.

“Something wrong?” she said, waving her hand in front of my face. “I know I look like crap, but that’s no reason to stare.” Her hand fell at her side.

For the first time I looked at her face and not her chocolate brown eyes. Her bottom lip was split, and she had a couple of bruises here and there. As far as I could tell, Alex had gotten the worst of the fight they got in.

I still hadn’t said anything, just kept staring at her.

“Well, I don’t know about you? But I have to get these pics to Jake.” She held up the yellow envelope, heading off towards the check out counter. I followed her, standing behind her when she set her items on the counter.

“That’ll be $7.50.” the cashier said. Without thinking I slid a ten on the counter giving it to the cashier. She looked up taking the bill cautiously.

“You’re not paying for my stuff!” Bella angrily. “Give him back his money.” She said in a stern voice to the cashier.

Confused she looked at me, not knowing what to do.

“No. I’m paying for it.” I said towards the cashier. “And there’s nothing you can do about it.” I said, looking down at Bella.

“Your change.” She said, her hand waiting.

“Keep it.” I said, barely glancing at her. Bella huffed, taking her things.

“See you around Edward.” Bella said, walking away from me. I watched her walk away, wishing I had said something.

“Edward? Edward Cullen!” the cashier practically screamed.

“Ya, that’s Me.” is said.

“Oh my gosh, I haven’t seen you in like forever.” She leaned over, showing off her cleavage on her way to low cut shirt.

“Uh, do I know you?” I asked, not sure what was going on.

“Well you should. It’s me.” she paused, waiting for me to suddenly realize who she was. “Lauren. Sound familiar.”

Oh, how could I have forgotten Lauren? The girl that was always trying to get with me, thinking she was all that. Thinking we were made for each other. That if she couldn’t have me, no one could. The list went on and on.

“Oh ya! Hey.” I said, pushing the bottle forward.

“So what have you been up to?” she asked, scanning the Tylenol.

“Uh, work?” I said, wanting to get out of here.

“Ugh, I know. Same here.” she said in a pouting voice. “To bad we never went out you know, we have so much in common.”

“Shame.” I said, not really caring.

“You know, if you want to…”

“I have to go! Family emergency!” I yelled, throwing money at her, taking the bottle and running.

“Okay! We need to get together sometime!” she yelled at me. I ran to my car, throwing the bottle in and gunning the engine. I pushed my car as fast as it would go, wanting to get away. Wait! Why am I running away from Lauren? It’s not like she’s gonna find me. I slowed the car down, barely, but still going fast.

I walked up the steps, hearing shouting.

“Give it back!” I heard Rose yell. Shoot, this can’t be good. I walked in to find Rose struggling against Emmett. “Let me go!” she screamed at him. I saw she was glaring at Alex, who was halfway up the stairs.

“What’s going on?” I asked. Not really wanting to know.

“That witch took my favorite jacket. And wont give it back!” Rose kicked Emmett in the knee.

“Umff.” He huffed, losing his grip on Rose. For a pregnant lady I had to say, Rose was quick. I grabbed her by the arm.

“Alex!” I yelled at her. “Give Rose back her jacket.

“I don’t see the point. It’s not going to fit you in two months. Even then you’ll be lucky if it fits.” She said handing me her jacket.

“I can’t take it anymore!” Rose yelled. Slapping me in the arm. “I hate Alex. I hate that ever since you married her that she thinks she’s the queen of Sheba! She takes all of my clothes, makeup, everything. She doesn’t care about us! All she cares about is money, money, money, having nice things, and a hot husband. She doesn’t love us! She never did!” She took a deep, shaky breath. “Why couldn’t you have chosen Bella? Why couldn’t you see that she loved you? We would all be a lot happier with her! Why Edward? Why?”

Her had dropped from mine. Tears streaming down her face. She yanked the jacket from my hand walking up the stairs. I heard the door slam, and more sobbing.

“Don’t worry man. She didn’t mean it. She’s pregnant, her hormones are going crazy!” Emmett said with a grin.

“Ya, it’s okay.” I said.

I needed some air. I swiftly turned around and headed out the door.

“Edward? Where are you going?” Alex rushed up to me, grabbing my shoulder. I pulled away.

“I need some time to think.” I said, running out into the rain leaving her on the porch.

Edward’s pov

The porch like flickered to life as a trudged up the steps. I opened the door to find a pissed off looking Alice standing there. Her hands were on her hips, foot tapping against the wood floor. If looks could kill….

“Uh hi?” I said warily.

“Hi.” She said threw a bitter mask.

“So are you like my mom now? Waiting for me to come home?”

“Oh, if I was your mom you wouldn’t be breathing right now. Care to explain what happened?”

“Nothing happened.”

“Really? Then why is Rose upstairs, crying?”

“I don’t know if you’ve noticed? But she’s pregnant! She’s on a hormonal roller coaster!” I said throwing my hands in the air. Her glare turned icy.

“That might have worked on mom and dad, but you can’t fool me Edward. What happened?”

“She finally snapped! That’s what happened.” I shot at her.

“I know she snapped! My question is why she snapped!”

I groaned, walking over to the couch.

“Hey! You’re not getting off that easy!” she shouted, rushing up to me.

I slumped into the couch, burying my head into the cushions. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Oh yes you are!” she grabbed me by the hair, yanking me upright.

“OWE! Alice!” I glared at her. She sat there with a satisfied smirk on her face.

“Explain.” She demanded.

“No.” I said, getting up from the couch. She grabbed my arm yanking me back.

“Leave again and the arm comes off.” She hissed, acid dripping with every word.

“I’d like to see you try.” I said threw a smirk.

“I have my ways.” She said with a sly smile. “ Now, once again, you will explain.”

I sighed. “Alex and Rose got in a fight. End of story, good bye.” I tried getting up again, but she yanked me back down.

“I think you forgot something.” She said, glaring once again.

“Like what?” I asked.

“DETAILS!” she shrieked, her nails digging into my arm.

“Alright, I’ll tell you if you stop clawing my arm off!” she released her death grip, smiling satisfied. “I guess Alex took Rose’s favorite jacket. Rose got pissed. Alex called her fat. She rambled on about Bella…” I tried to mumble the last part, but of coarse she picked it up.

“What did she say about Bella?” her eyes were wide, as if she saw a ghost.

“Something about how she liked her better than Alex. No big deal. She probably didn’t mean it.”

“What!” she jumped up.

“What?” I asked.

“How can you blow off what she said about Bella?”

“It was nothing Alice!”

“Nothing? So I’m thinking Bella, your former best friend, is just nothing?”

“You know I didn’t mean it like-“ she stuck her hand in my face.

“Would you just listen to me? Ever since you married Alex you dropped everyone. Your family, your friends. Bella. I still can’t believe you couldn’t see what you had right in front of you, but you were obviously looking the other direction.” she took a long deep breath. “She’s to good for you anyways.”

I couldn’t’ believe it! My whole family had turned against me.

“Wait! Who’s to good for me?” I looked at her. She opened her mouth to say something but snapped it shut.

“You really were looking the opposite direction, weren’t you.” She looked out the window. “ I better go make sure Rose is okay.” She turned on her heal and gracefully ran up the stairs.

I slumped back into the couch, groaning. This was a long week.

“Your home?” I heard Alex call. I opened my eyes to see Alex standing in the kitchen doorway.

“Ya, for a while.”

“Mmmm.” She replied. Crossing the room and sitting next to me. “Do you think my face will ever look the same?” she said, touching a bruise under her eye.

“You really can’t tell anymore.” I said, grazing the bruise she touched. She rolled her eyes.

“Thanks. I’m gonna go call Tiffany. See how things are going with the store.” I nodded as she got up.

“’Kay.”

I sank into the couch, pinching the bridge of my nose. I heard light, feathery, steps coming down the stairs. I opened them to see Alice walking down, a sad expression on her face. She crossed the room, falling onto the couch next to me.

“She wont let me in.” she sighed. She looked down, rubbing her hand over the stain on the cushion. “Remember that food fight we had?” she said quietly. “I never thought Bella would actually do it!” she laughed.

“I know! I couldn’t believe it!” I barely managed out, we were laughing so hard

Flash Back!!!!

Alice pov

“Okay! Everything is set!” I squealed. I had every junk food known to man, huge fluffy pillows, blankets, and the movie! “Where’s Bella?” I asked? Turning in circles.

“She refuses to come out of the bathroom.” Edward said, lounging on one of the pillows.

“Ya? What did you put her in this time Alice?” Emmett boomed from behind me, carrying a bowel of popcorn.

I stomped angrily up the stairs. “This girls fashion sense is getting on my nerves!” I walked up to the bathroom door. “Bella! Get. Out. Of. The. Bathroom!” I yelled, pounding on the door!

“Not unless you give me something that, oh I don’t know? Covers more up!” she yelled back.

“Come on Bella?” I whined. “Everyone is waiting down stairs. Come on!”

“That puppy dog pout isn’t going to work, Alice. I can’t see it!” I composed my face. Dang it!

“Fine then I’m getting Emmett!” I acted as if I were walking away. I heard the doorknob jiggle. The door flew open, Bella’s eyes wide. “Oh don’t you look adorable!” I clapped my hands, taking in my work. She had blue shorts on, and a white tank with blue pokadots.

“Ya ya what ever!” she said stomping down the stairs. I ran after her.

“Come on Bella don’t be a party pooper!”

“Every party needs a pooper! That’s why we invited BELLA! The party popper!” Emmett sand from downstairs.

“Ha ha Emmett!” Bella said, rolling her eyes.

“Enough chit-chat! Time to watch the movie!”

“What movie?” Edward asked.

“You’ll have to wait and find out!” I said, running to the TV.

I put the disk in, pressing play. I ran over to Jasper, snuggling into his chest.

Once the previews were done and the movie started, Bella groaned.

“Alice. Titanic?” she said, glaring at me. I stuck my tongue out at her. She was not going to ruin my plan of getting her and Edward together.

Edward whispered something in her ear. Her cheeks turned a pale pink, she scolded him, throwing some of her popcorn at him.

Edwards pov.

Bella had just thrown popcorn at me, a smug smile on her face.

“Bella? How could you?” I said, picking popcorn out of my hair.

“Easy, you aim and throw.” She said, smiling at me.

“Like this?” I said, throwing some cheetos at her.

“No. More like this.” She said. She grabbed a cupcake, smooshing it into my face.

“FOOD FIGHT!” Emmett boomed.

I wiped the cupcake out of my eyes to find Bella and rose jumping behind the couch.

“Heads up Eddie boy!” I looked to find Emmett chucking a brown ball at me? It hit me square in the chest. As it fell to the floor I realized Emmett had squished a bunch of cupcakes together.

I bent over picking up what was left of it, throwing it at Alice. She was heading for the couch, but I nailed her right in the head. She stumbled over looking at me. I turned and pointed to Jasper, who was throwing a cupcake at Emmett.

Her face turned into an icy glare. She found a pudding cup, ripping it open. She ran over to him, dumping it on his head. She had a satisfied smirk on her face when she stepped away.

“What was that for?” he said, wiping the pudding off of his face. She looked at him confused, then gasped.

“Edward!” she yelled, running towards me.

“Ahhhhhhhhh!” I yelped, running away from her.

“Oh, oh, get him Alice!” Emmett boomed. “Owe! Jasper!”

“Wasn’t me man.”

“Rosy?”

Right then Alice tackled me down, shoving my face in Twinkies. She hopped off my back.

“Mess with me.” she said, turning around. I grabbed her by the ankle, yanking her down.

“Edward. Don’t!” but it was to late, I was already squeezing out the chocolate syrup all over her face. “You are so dead!” she screeched.

I jumped up running away. Luckily Jasper threw popcorn at her, making her lose thought and going after him.

I saw Bella sitting on the couch; laughing so hard she was having a hard time breathing.

“What are you laughing at?” I said, standing in front of her. “You’re the one drenched in coke.”

“I’m not dre-” I cut her off, emptying the three-liter coke onto her face.

I didn’t know if it was just me, or the room got really quiet. I turned to see everyone frozen in place, wide eyed mouths open, staring at me. CRAP!

“Oh, Eddie is in trouble!” Emmett said, jumping up and down laughing.

My eyes grew wide as I slowly turned to look at Bella. Her mouth was turned into a perfect ‘O’ her eyes wide with shock. As I took in her appearance more, a saw I didn’t only get her face, but her entire body was dripping with the stick liquid.

She composed herself, holding up a finger. She looked back up at me and smiled.

“Uh, Bella? Can I just say it was an accident?” I dropped the bottle, hands up backing away slowly.

“Oh, I know it was an accident.” She said, Getting up off the couch, and walking towards me. She had an evil smile on her face.

“So we’re good now? Right?” I asked.

“You’re so silly! We are more than good!” she said, giggling.

“Well then, I’m just gonna go then.”

“Awe. Your gonna leave when we just started having fun?”

“Uh ya? I’m really pooped and- ”

“YOUR SO DEAD!!!” she yelled, running towards.

“Ahh. Bella I thought we were good!” I tried to turn around and run, but my feet got tangled up in a blanket. She tackled me, even though I was already going down. She was sitting on my chest. Smiling down at me.

“I hope you like Coke?” she said, pouring all over me. I gasped for air when the bottle was finally empty. She reached for something else. “Hey Edward?”

“Uh ya?” I asked warily.

“Got milk?”

“Bella don’t you dare.” I yelled at her.

“Oopps!” she said, tipping the chocolate milk onto my face. “ Oh shoot! It’s gone. How bout some chocolate syrup!” before I could say anything she was dumping it all over me. She started to pick up popcorn and stick it on my face. “Oh don’t you look so beautiful!” she said, clapping her hands together.

“You are so going to pay for that!” I said. Her eyes grew wide, she tried to scramble off of me but I grabbed her by the waist. I rolled over so I was on top of her.

“Edward! You wouldn’t!” she said, struggling to get out from under me.

“Don’t do the crime, if you can’t do the time. Or in this case don’t pour syrup all over me, and not get it back!” I said smiling at her.

She squeezed her eyes shut real tight. “Okay! Get it over with.” I grabbed the bottle and squeezed. But all that came out was air. “Didn’t you hear me? I said I was ready.” I looked down to find her peeking out of one eye. I squeezed again, but only air came out. “Ha! It’s gone! I win!” she yelled from under me. I glared down at her. “Sorry but you have a big head, I needed a lot of syrup.” She said shrugging her shoulders.

I leaned in closer. “You know that wasn’t very nice.”

She looked up at me. “Maybe I’m not a nice girl?” she said. I leaned my head even more, our faces an inch apart. She closed her eyes.

“My house!” my head shot up. I saw Esme standing in the doorway Carlisle behind her. I rolled off of Bella.

“Mommy!” Emmett said. “What are you doing home early?”

“I got off work early.” She explained, stepping over a pillow. “I leave you home alone for an hour and this is what happens?”

“They started it!” he yelled. Pointing at Bella and me.

“Hey you called it!” I shot back.

“You threw first!”

“You want to go?” I said.

“Bring it!”

“Boys! I don’t care who started it! I’m finishing it!” Esme yelled.

We were all frozen, Esme never raised her voice at us.

“Girls. You can go upstairs and shower. Boys you can help me clean this up!”

Bella nodded and ran up the stairs with Rose and Alice.

-------------------------------------

Alice and I were laughing so hard we were on the floor rolling.

“You should have seen what you looked like when Bella was done with you!” she said in between laughs.

“Not as funny as when you attacked Jasper!” I said.

She sighed. “Ya. Amazing, we got all of the stains out but this one!” Alice said, pointing to the stain on the cushion.

“I still don’t think Esme has forgiven us for that?” I said.

She nodded. “Everything is gonna go back to normal, huh? When you leave here soon?” she said looking at me.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“You going back to ignoring us.” She said looking down. “Since you married her you’ve blown us off. You don’t call any more. You don’t visit. You live in your own world.” She said.

“Alice I didn’t- ”

“No. It’s okay. I’m gonna go to bed. See ya in the morning.” She hopped up off the floor and walked away. As if what just happened never did.

Bella pov

I fell onto my bed with a low thud. I had just dropped Jake’s car pictures off and just got back. I rolled over so I was now facing the ceiling. The TV was blaring from downstairs, disturbing my peace. I threw the pillow over my head with a groan.

“Does he ever sleep?!” I muffled into the pillow.

What seemed like hours later I heard the TV go off with a click, soon followed by Charlie’s slow sluggish footsteps. They made their way up the stairs, suddenly stopping. His snores filling up the silence.

Soon after I fell into a dreamless, deep sleep.

Morning!

I woke up to the muffled sound of the TV. I groaned, rolling over on my stomach.

“When does he not watch!” I said out loud. Sighing, I swung my legs over the side of the bed.

I sat for a few minutes, stretching my stiff muscles. I reluctantly sat up and walked downstairs. I found Charlie sitting on the couch, shoving his face full of cereal and toast.

“Morning Dad.” I called, heading into the kitchen.

“Mornin’” he said, in between a bite.

I headed over to the cabinet, pulling it open. I yanked out a cereal box, setting it on the counter. Once I had a bowel a poured out some, splashing it with some milk.

“HA!” I suddenly broke out. I grasped my sides, bending over. Lucky me I hit my head on the counter. I stumbled back, falling on my butt. “Umf.” I managed out, before I broke into another fit of laughter.

“Bells?” I heard Charlie’s panicked voice rang. I looked up threw blurry eyes. Finding a blob making it’s way toward my. “Are you okay?” this only sent another wave of laughter threw my body.

I fell onto my back, laughing up towards the ceiling. “I’m fine, dad! I just remembered something funny!” I said in between fits of giggles.

His eyebrows pushed together, a weird expression coming on his face. “Okay.” He said, getting up and walking back towards the living room. Falling onto the couch.

I finished pouring my cereal, and ate it in a hurry, not really tasting it. Once I was done I went upstairs to get ready. I didn’t know what to wear so I threw on a pair of jeans and a blue t-shirt, and quickly threw my hair in a sloppy ponytail.

I ran down the stairs, bumping into Charlie. “Oomph. Sorry dad!”

“That’s okay Bells. Hey do you want to do me a favor?”

“Sure.” I said, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear.

“Can you take this up to the Cullen’s?” he said handing me a thick white envelope. I looked up at him, confused. “It’s a thank you from Sue. You know for the…”

“I know.” I cut him off.

“Ya. I have a lot of others you know and I don’t want to head out that far…”

“Ya I can do it. But why don’t you just mail them?”

He pursed his lips together. “Bells, I’m old. It’ll give me something to do. And all your gonna do today is slouch around. So here’s something for you to do!” he smiled.

I rolled my eyes. “Ya, what time do you want me to do this?”

“Well I was going to head out here in a couple of minutes, then go fishing when I’m done. So whenever you feel like it. But not to late, okay?”

“Ya dad.” I said, as he shrugged on his coat.

“See ya Bells.” He said, after slamming the door closed.

“See ya.” I mumbled to my self.

I walked into the living room, falling onto the couch. I threw the envelope to the side and began flipping threw the channels on the TV. I woke up to the noise of the Bad Boys theme song.

“Man, what time is it?” I said, rubbing my eyes. I reached in my pocket and took out my cell. 4:00 p.m. it said in pulsing blue numbers read on the screen. “I guess I better get this thing over to the Cullen’s” I mumbled. I snatched the envelope off the couch and headed towards the door.

There were suddenly three quick raps at the door. “Coming!” I called as I made my way to the door. I heaved the old wood door open to see a smiling Jake looking down at me. “Jake? What are you doing here?”

“What? I can’t visit my friend?”

“Charlie sent you.” I confirmed.

“Your good.” I smiled up at him.

“So you want to come with me? You know, to deliver this.” I waved the envelope at him.

“Sure! Why not?”

“I can name a few reasons.” I said under my breath.

I got to drive this time as my ancient truck chug-a-lugged down the windy driveway. We soon pulled up to their white mansion.

“Better get this over with.” I said, grabbing the envelope on the seat. Jake’s russet hand shot out, grabbing me by the wrist.

“You gonna be okay?” he said.

I rolled my eyes. “I’m a big girl now. So you be a good boy and stay in the truck.” I mocked. He returned a smile, slouching back into the seat. I hopped out and made my way up to the house.

I rushed up the stairs, tripping on the welcome matt. My head slammed into the door, I stumbled back, clutching my head. I could hear Jakes booming laugh come from inside the truck. I turned and stuck my tongue out at him. I turned back around, knocking on the door twice more.

Two seconds later the door swung open. The aroma of fresh chocolate chip cookies engulfed me. Standing in the door way was Alice. Crap! This so can’t be good…

“BELLA? OH! MY! GAWD!” she paused to take a deep breathe. “Is that you?” she lunged at me, taking me into a huge hug. I gasped, trying to hug her back. “I’ve missed you so much!”

“It’s good to see you to?” I said, patting her back. She finally let go stepping back to look up at me.

“What brings you here?” she asked.

I held up the envelope. “Thank you letter. From Sue.” I handed it to her.

“Oh! Thanks!” she said, admiring the envelope. She looked up smiling, then like lightening grabbed my arm and yanked me in.

She towed me to the couch and plunked me down. She gracefully sat down next to me, smiling.

“So… why haven’t you called me!” she shrieked, clutching my arm.

“Geese Alice! It’s only been what three days since I saw you last?” she frowned at me.

“Well three days is like three years in my years.” She confirmed. I couldn’t help but laugh.

“What is she doing here?” I looked up to see Alex draped on Edward, glaring at me. I looked up to meet his intense gaze, I quickly looked away.

“I think I should go, Alice.” She pouted.

“Don’t let that,” she glanced at Alex “make you leave. You just got here!” she whined.

“Nah, Jake’s in the truck. I should get back to him.” I said, getting up.

“Fine!” but we are hanging out before I have to leave!” she exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air.

“Okay! I promise.” I said, crossing my heart. “Now I need to get going.”

I swiftly turned on my heal and headed towards the door. I was just opening the door when Alex muttered something to Edward.

“I thought the slut would never leave.” She said, exaggerating the slut part.

I quickly turned around, glaring at her.

“What did you call me?” I said threw clenched teeth.

“Oh sorry! I didn’t know you were deaf to! I called you a slut. What ya going to do about it?” she said, raising her eyebrows.

“I could walk over there and smack that stupid smirk off of you face. But we both know how that would end.” Her face fell, and she glared.

“Alex, please…” Edward begged.

“It’s fine.” I said, looking at him. “It’s fine.” I said, looking at him. “Someone in your family had to marry the B-yotch, guess you’re the lucky winner.” and with that I whipped around heading out the door.

and with that I whipped around heading out the door.

Edward’s pov

I just pulled up to the house, stepping out of the car. When I looked around I saw Bella’s truck sitting in the driveway, and sitting in the seat was Jacob. Glaring at me. I quickly wrapped my arm around Alex, dragging her towards the house.

On out way up the walk, I caught Alice yanking Bella into the house. We continued up the steps. We walked in to find Bella sitting on the couch, talking to Alice.

“What is she doing here?” Alex whined, squeezing me. Bella quickly looked up shocked. She flashed a quick glance at Alex, then at me.

Her beautiful chocolate brown eyes gazed into mine for what seemed like an eternity, she quickly looked at the ground, then at Alice.

“I think I should go, Alice.” She said quickly.

Alice pouted. “Don’t let that,” she glared at Alex “make you leave. You just got here!” she complained.

“Nah, Jake’s in the truck. I should get back to him.” She said, standing up.

“Fine! But we are hanging out before I have to leave!” Alice exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air.

“Okay! I promise.” Bella laughed, crossing her heart. “Now I need to get going.”

She swiftly turned on her heals and headed towards the door. She was opening the door when Alex said.

“I thought the slut would never leave.” It was as if she were yelling into a microphone. I froze, my arm falling from around her waist.

Bella seemed to take no hesitation, she whipped around facing us. Her strawberry freesia sent hitting me like a brick wall.

“What did you call me?” she growled threw clenched teeth.

“Oh sorry! I didn’t know you were deaf to! I called you a slut. What ya going to do about it?” Alex confirmed. I took an awkward step away from Alex, what was she doing.

“I could walk over there and smack that stupid smirk off of you face. But we both know how that would end.” I jerked my head up to find Bella, smirking.

“Alex, please…” I begged, reaching out to her.

“It’s fine.” I looked back up to Bella, how could this be fine? “Someone in your family had to marry the B-yotch, guess you’re the lucky winner.” My mouth fell open, had I just heard her correctly? She suddenly turned around, slamming the door on her way out.

“Who does she think she is?! Coming here and insulting us! I can’t believe you used to be friends with her!” I turned, glaring at Alex.

“What?” I turned to see Alice stalking over towards Alex. “How dare you say that about Bella!”

Alice’s glare was lethal; she was still making her way towards us. Shoot this is not good! Alice lunged towards Alex.

“Alice!” I grabbed her by the waist.

“Let go of me Edward!” she growled. “If your not going to do anything about this, I am!”

“You’re not going to do anything.” I said, trying to drag her thrashing body away.

“You are so blind!” she said furiously towards me. “And you!” she looked at Alex who was smirking at the little show. “You’re the slut, not Bella!” that wiped off her smile.

“I beg your pardon?”

“Oh quit the act! We all know you think your all that! But news flash honey! Your not! And even if this idiot is to blind to see it then I’m going to smack some sense into him!”

Suddenly Alice stopped thrashing around. Then her elbow flew back and hit me in the gut. The air whooshed out of me. I let go of Alice, doubling over. I gasped for air as she stepped away. She made her way over to Alex.

“Get this straight you mess with Bella you mess with me so try it one more time and you won’t see the light of day.” She growled.

“Or what? Your gonna beat me up with your makeup of doom! Please your gonna have to do better than that!” Alex snorted.

“Actually I was thinking beating you to death with my stilettos.” I could hear the smile in Alice’s voice. There was a short pause then a sharp loud pop.

I jumped up to see Alice clutching her left cheek, Alex smiling. I couldn’t believe what I saw; every fiber of me seemed to be paralyzed. After what seemed like an eternity I finally was able to move. I rushed over to Alice, who was still clutching her cheek.

“Alice?” she didn’t respond. “Al…” I grabbed her shoulder. She jerked away, twirling to face me.

I was expecting one of her icy glares, but instead I got the opposite. Her usual harsh, sharp angles when she was mad were now softened. Her eyes large and vulnerable were watery. She didn’t attempt a glare, she just shoved past me and ran up the stairs. I stood there for a few moments. I spun around facing Alex, still smirking.

“What the heck is wrong with you!” I shouted at her.

“What’s wrong with me?! What’s wrong with you Edward? Your letting your family get to you, that’s what’s wrong.” She shouted back.

“Do you see me slapping your family?” I yelled.

“You’re the one standing there letting them insult me. If you’re not going to stand up for my I might as well do it for myself!” she snapped.

“Well if you wouldn’t insult them first then they wouldn’t insult you. Did you think of that?” I questioned.

“I don’t insult, I say what’s true.” She said.

“Well you are defiantly not the girl I thought you were and defiantly not the one I fell in love with. How’s that for the truth.” I stalked out of the house, slamming the door as hard as I could.

I jammed my keys in the ignition, and pushed the peddle to the floor. I don’t know what came over me. To go to the house I hadn’t been to in two years. (I’ve been saying two years right?) But it seemed like the right thing to do.

Bella’s pov

I opened the rusty door and slammed it with all my might. I forced my keys in the ignition. The truck rumbled to life. I threw the truck into gear and pushed the pedal down with all my strength. It jolted forward, protesting by my hasty move.

“You okay Bells?” Jacob leaned over, clutching my shoulder. I shoved it off with my hand. “What happened?” he asked, his voice soft.

I quickly wiped the tear from my cheek as it rolled down. “N-nothing.” I mumbled, trying to drive. But my vision soon blurred as the tears began to build up.

“Pull over so I can drive, you can tell me when your ready.” Jake said. I quickly obeyed. I let him lift me up and over his legs as he slid into the drivers seat.

I rested my head against his shoulder, well more his side. And cried my eyes out. He wrapped his arm around me, pulling me closer to him. I hadn’t noticed we stopped till Jake said something.

“Bella, were here.” I looked up to find us in front of the house. Charlie’s cruiser in the driveway.

“Uh, uh.” I said, barring my face in his side.

He let out a chuckle and opened the door. Cold air from outside engulfed me. “Gah!” I complained, throwing myself across the seat. I heard Jacob let out another laugh as he reached across the seat for me.

“Come on Bells. Out you go!” he said, dragging me.

“No…” I complained, smacking the air around me. Smart move on my part cause I smacked my truck. “Ouch!” I yelped, looking at me hand. There was a huge gash slicing across my palm, and gushing like a faucet. “Crap!” I moaned.

“Bella! Are you okay?” Jake yanked me, by my good hand, the rest of the way out of the truck. I smacked into his chest, sending us both to the ground.

“Umf…!” Jake choked out as I landed on top of him.

“You okay?” I asked, looking down at him. Hey that was a first.

“Yup! I don’t know about you but I kinda like this position.” He said, grinning that goofy smile.

I rolled my eyes “You’re so immature Jacob!” I said, smacking him on the chest. That just made him grin even more.

We heard the sound of a car rolling up. We both looked up at the same time to see a familiar car pulling up.

“Great what’s he doing here?” Jake murmured, his head falling back towards the ground.

“I don’t know.” I said, rolling off of him and onto the grass.

“Maybe if we just lay here he’ll go away.” Jacob said, looking over at me.

“In what world?” I laughed, Edward saw everything. Well maybe not everything since he was still with Alex.

“Mine.” Jake said, looking at me.

“Mine to.” I sighed, looking up at the grey sky. “Maybe we should get up now?” I said. Jake immediately jumped up, helping me to my feet.

I wiped the grass off of my back, while Jake picked out the pieces in my hair. I heard the slam of a car door and looked to find Edward walking up to us.

“Uh hi?” he said, looking at me.

“Hi.” I said, turning my head to the house.

“What do you want?” Jake said, glaring down at him.

“Jake…”

“No! I want to know what he wants. I’ve had enough of him hurting you like this.” Jake growled.

“What do you want Edward?” I sighed, looking up at him.

“I-I just wanted to apologize for Alex’s comments. They were rude, and I should have stopped her.”

“What did she say?” Jake demanded, looking down at me.

I ignored him, looking at Edward. “Thanks Edward, but I think she meant what she said and if she was sorry she would be here.” I said.

“Ya, I kind have figured that.” He said looking down.

“You’re welcome to come in, if you want!” I blabbed out. That caused a confused look on both Edward and Jakes Face.

“He is?!”

“I am?” they said at the same time.

“Well if he wants to…” I said.

“Bella? What happened to your hand?” Edward said, pointing down.

I gasped, looking down to find my entire hand blood red. “Crap!” I ran towards the house, kicking the door open when I stuck.

“Hey Bells, did you drop that letter off?” Charlie boomed over the sound of the TV.

“Ya dad, I did!” I said rushing to the kitchen and turning on the faucet. I stuck my hand in the water, wincing as it stung a little.

“You okay?” Charlie said, walking into the kitchen.

“Yup, just a cut. No big deal.” I shrugged, turning the water off and grabbing a dishtowel.

“Let me see it.” he demanded, grabbing me by the wrist to examine it.

“Dad. It’s not that bad!” I complained as he looked at it.

“Not that bad? Bella this thing is huge!” he exclaimed.

“It’ll be fine.” I mumbled, taking my hand back and wrapping it in the towel

“We should go to the hospital.” Charlie argued.

“No!” I shouted. “No need for that. Just a bandaged and some medicine and it will be fine.” I said, pushing past him.

As I walked past the door way I saw Jake and Edward making there way in. Jake looked ready to murder someone, probably Edward. Edward looked gloomy as he trudged up the steps.

“Make yourselves at home!” I called over my shoulder as I took the stairs two at a time.

I raced into the bathroom, yanking the cabinet door open. I dug threw all the bottles, spilling some to the floor. I finally found the gauze wrap Carlisle had given me a couple years back. (Makes me laugh that Bella is such a klutz that Carlisle had to give her, her own supply of bandages! Bahahaha)

I quickly unrolled it, accidentally dropping it. I hastily ripped a piece off, wrapping it around my cut. I bent over, grabbing up the rest of the gauze wrapping it back up. Once I got all the bottles put back I headed to the stairs.

I raced down the stairs, grabbing the railing and whipping around the corner. There in the living room I saw Jacob, and Edward on opposites sides of the room. Jake was glaring intently on Edward from the recliner, trying to burn a hole right threw him. Edward sat there awkwardly, trying not to look at him. Charlie was at ease, sitting on the couch next to Edward.

Jake looked up at my entrance and smiled. “Hey.” He said.

“Hi.” I smiled back at him. Edward looked back and forth between us as we still smiled at each other. “Uh…” I broke out of Jakes trance. “How’s pizza for dinner dad? I don’t really think I should touch and utensils till my hands better.” I said, showing him my hand.

“I still think you need to get that checked out.” He grumbled, staring at my hand. I rolled my eyes.

“Pizza it is then. Jake you want the usual?” I asked.

“Yup.” He said, not tearing his eyes away from the TV set.

“How about you Edward?” I asked, picking up the phone.

“Uh…”

“It’s fine, you can stay if you want.”

He smiled that crooked smile I loved. “What you’re having is fine.” He said, not taking his eyes off of me.

I quickly pushed the buttons and held the phone up to my ear. Bring, bring, bring. “Pizzeria, how may I help you?” it was a high nasal voice that answered the phone, that girl was still working there?

“Yes I’ll have two medium supreme pizzas please.” (Gasp! Why didn’t she order her favorite?)

“Will that be a delivery?” she asked, bored obviously.

“Yes.” I quickly told her my address, twirling the phone cord between my thumb and pointer finger.

“That’ll be about 15 minutes.”

“Thanks.” I said, slamming the phone on the hook.

“She said it’ll be about 15 minutes.” I said, walking into the living room, plunking down on the floor.

“Ugh! I’m starving!” Jake groaned, throwing his head back.

“Go home and eat then.” I teased him.

“Heck you know we have no food!” he said smiling.

“Don’t complain then.” I said.

“Hush!” Charlie commanded as the game came back on. Jake and stifled our giggles as Charlie lent intently towards the TV. Right when the game went to commercial the doorbell rang.

“Got it!” I said, jumping up. “Money.” I said sweetly to Charlie, holding my hand out.

He grumbled something under his breath as he dug around his pockets, producing a worn out wallet. “How much do you need?” he said, filling out his bills.

“Uh this will due!” I said, snatching the twenty and running to the door.

I yanked the door open, stubbing my toe as I pulled it harder when I got stuck.

“Oh owe!” I grumbled, glaring at the door. I looked up smiling at the delivery guy.

Oh my gawd! Mike Newton?! I screamed inside my head.

“Bella?!” he said, his eyes widening.

Uh crap! Pretend that you don’t know him! Ya that’s a good idea! “How much do I owe you?”

“It’s me.” he said, pointing to himself. “Mike? Mike Newton? Ring any bells?”

I stared at him for a while. “Oh Mike!” I said, dramatically. He nodded his head like a lunatic. “How much do I owe you?” I said once again.

He looked taken back, probably wanting me to jump into his arms. Telling him he was the one and I should have known. Ya in his dreams.

“$12.75” he said, handing me the pizzas, leaning against the door frame. “Hey listen if your not doing anything-” he was cut off by Jacob.

“Pizza’s here!” he came lolloping around the corner. Stopping to glare at Mike. I handed him the boxes smiling deeply to him. “Take these would ya?” I said, batting my eyelashes. Luckily Jake was fast his eyes brightening up when he saw what I was trying to do.

“Sure thing.” He said, leaning down to kiss me on the cheek. I smiled even wider, shoving him off. He laughed, running back into the living room.

“Here keep the change.” I said, handing Mike the money.

“What ever.” He said, yanking the money out of my hand.

I gasped. Mike looking up at me hopeful. “Jake! Don’t take all the pizza!” I shouted, running into the living room. “Could ya shut that for me? Thanks!” I yelled over my shoulder as a sprinted to the living room.

Once we heard the door shut Jacob sighed. “Glad he’s gone.”

“No he’s not.” I said, glancing out the window.

“What do you mean?” Jake said, his eyebrows burrowing.

“Shhhh!” I silenced him, nodding towards the window. He oh so settlely glanced out the window to find Mike peeking in over the bushes.

I jumped up racing over to Jake in the recliner. Shocked he shoved the pizza box out of the way as I leapt into his lap, snuggling into his chest. He wrapped his arms around me, playing with my hair. I could see Edward out of the corner of my eye, glaring at us.

“Tell me when he’s gone.” I murmured into his chest.

After ten long agonizing minutes Jake finally pushed my out.

“Finally I thought he would never leave!” I laughed. Jake began laughing, his whole body shaking. I was being thrown around like a rag doll and eventually fell off landing with a squishing noise.

His laughing stopped abruptly, his eyes going wide. I sat there shocked, did I just land in the pizza?! Then Edward started laughing like crazy. I turned around and glared at him.

“You think this is funny?!” I yelled at him.

He also stopped mid laugh, his face full of worry.

“Ya you better be scared buddy!” I said, getting up. I looked down to find three pieces of pizza stuck to my butt. “Well that’s just great!” I threw my hands in the air. Wait I had and idea, a evil smile spreading on my face. “Oh Jakey?” I said, in a seductive voice.

“Uh… ya?” he said cautiously, not really knowing what I was doing.

“Can you get these off?” I turned around, shoving my butt in his face.

“Sure?” he said, still puzzled. I smiled up at Edward who was now glaring.

After Jake had pulled off the pizza I went upstairs to change. I pulled out some grey sweatpants throwing them on. I walked down stairs, Edward standing up when I came into the room.

“I better get going.” He said, looking at me. His bright green eyes boring into me.

“Okay. Thanks for staying.” I said, smiling up at him.

“Thanks for letting me stay. Dinner was… wonderful.” He said, smiling. I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Anytime.” I said.

I walked him to the door, he stopped before opening it. “Thanks. Again.” He said, looking at me.

“No problem.” I said, wrapping my arms around him. He seemed shocked at first, but soon hugged me back. “It was nice seeing you again.” I said, looking up at him.

“As for me.” he said, flashing me a smile.

“You better get going. Alex might be wondering where you are.” I teased him.

“That woman will be the death of me.” he muttered under his breath.

“Come by anytime.” I said, pushing him out the door.

All he did was smile at me, before he ran out into the silver night. I watched him get into his car, and disappear around the corner. I stood there for a few more moments before I walked back into the house, and to the warm company of Jacob and Charlie.