A/N
This is Part One of the three part story What Your Eyes Can Do. A whole lot of action goes down in the days leading up to the Forks Dance and this is what happens!!!!Read and enjoy!BTW This is unedited, rough draft srry I haven't had time to edit it yet!!!!
I dont own Twilight, and its impossible to own Missy so I cant have a claim there either...so I get nothing......fail.
"The Greek gods, were the crowned jewel of Greek mythology, every part of the culture was centered around these spiritual leaders." I sighed, thinking of my own god. Edward Cullen was the star athlete on the basketball team, tall, muscled, perfect in every way, with those emerald green eyes I melted for, and the perfectly messy bronze hair I adored. He was also taken. Spoken for by none other than the cheer-leading captain. The bouncy, blonde, was the bane of all that was evil and perky. Her outward attitude had always been one of caring and happiness, but trust me, never spend five minutes with her alone. She'll trash everything about you so hard, she even made our resident bully come to tears. Poor girl. Lauren. Ugh, the name was a disgusting word on my tongue. Unfortunately she did all this behind, the perfect Cullen's back, to him she was an angel, to the rest of the student body she was the devil incarnate. Much to her pleasure and the up most disgust of everyone, she was looked upon as the shining glory of Forks, and all the adults did anything she asked, just as soon as she fluttered her fake eyelashes.
"Miss Swan, were you paying attention?" The teacher asked. I grimaced.
"Yes sir." I answered quickly, ducking my head so my blush wouldn't give me away.
"Then tell me Isabella, who was the minor god of wine?" He asked. I was tempted to snort at the simple request. I got bored easily, and as a result had decided to skip ahead in the school books, plus all of my extra reading gave me an advantage over my fellow classmates. Attacks like this rarely happened anymore, the teachers all knew, that i knew the answers.
"Dionysus." I replied curtly. My gaze scanned the room, looking for anyone to object to my statement. Confident in my answer, I turned my head back to the window, watching as the consistent rain drew patterns on the pane of glass. The trees seemed to have given up wrestling with the wind long ago and now just swayed aimlessly.
"Well thank you." I ignored the teacher's muttered reply, clearly he was flustered at not being able to catch me off guard, but I really didn't care.
My thoughts drifted to safer subjects, in an attempt not to think about the forbidden fruit, and focus more on the fruit I needed to buy this afternoon when I went grocery shopping for Charlie and I. As was expected, they quickly moved to the unattainable, think about the game I had gone to last night, just to see him play. He was almost catlike in his movements. They were graceful, and measured, and perfect. He had scored the most out of all of the players and it was easy to see why. His unexpected speed gave him a clear advantage over his opponents.
The bell rang, shrilly, interrupting my daydreams and warning me of the approach of my own personal torture. I sighed and shifted my weight do I could stuff my unopened books into my bag and stood, nearly tripping over my own feet. Edward and I were exact opposites. I was the clumsiest person at Forks high. The halls were the same as they were everyday, a boring greenish gray color, that reminded me of a hospital, which reminded me of Dr. Cullen, which reminded me of course of Edward. I hate school.
Taking a deep breath to steady myself I pushed open the cafeteria door and there he was. It was just my luck that my best friend happened to be Edward's younger sister Alice Cullen, the chirpy demonic, pixi like creature, that refused to except my opinion on anything, and when she did, she usually over rode it with her own my important ideas. So I walked carefully across the tiled floor, towards my table, well out table, where he and his perfect princess sat. Also occupying our little gathering space, was his other brother, the overtly toned, weight lifter Emmett, who received great pleasure from my usual clumsiness, and my tendency to blush when ever practically anyone talked to me. But I had to admit, I loved him like a brother, an older brother that never let up the constant teasing. With us also sat his girlfriend, the 'oh my god she can't be real' Rosalie. With looks to kill any girl's ego with one glance, not even a full look. Also Alice's boyfriend, Jasper, who happened to be Rosalie's twin brother. He was tall, well built, and seemed to know every single thought Alice had. They were all so perfectly matched, it was absolutely painful, but some how I endured.
My chair screeched as I pulled it out, announcing my arrival to the group. Alice was short, with a halo of black, spiky hair and sharp, beautiful features, but I cringed when she looked over at me with that mischievous grin of hers. I groaned.
"Spare me please Alice." I requested, but she was already vigorously shaking her head back and fourth, her smile widening.
"Guess what Bella?" She exclaimed. I looked around, pleading with my eyes for assistance from anyone there. Jasper looked at me apologetically and I assumed he already knew what was going to happen.
"What Alice?" I asked, resigned to my fate.
"Were going shopping! You, Rose, and me, were going to look for our dresses!" She yelled. I whipped around to see half the kids looking at her questioningly.
"What dance?" I hissed. Totally spacing out.
"Prom silly." She giggled. I groaned.
"Don't look so put out Bella." Edward chuckled. I flinched at the sound of it. "It's one night. Trust me, with Alice's help you'll really have fun." I didn't believe his fake enthusiasm.
"I can't wait to see you in those heals, Bells!" Emmett boomed. Rosalie smacked his arm, but grinned slightly herself. I shook my head.
"Oh, Bella, don't worry, Rose and I will help you, you'll look so pretty!" Lauren gushed. meanwhile giving me the stink eye that clearly said 'but not prettier than me'. Yup, torture, painful, continuous torture.
Edward's POV
I stoked my angel's hair effectionatly and listened to the conversation at the table. Bella seemed out-of-it lately and I wasn't surprised she had forgotten about prom, not to mention it would be something she tried to block. I knew she didn't like dances, or dressing up, or really anything that involved attention. I smiled at this fact, some things never change. She had been this way since kindergarten when she would solemnly refuse to be the leader of the line, because everyone would stare at her. Alice was chatting her ear off, as she tried to plan the shopping trip. Going on and on about colors and cuts. I didn't understand any of it and I doubt Bella did either.
I also felt bad for her. Her lack of knowledge also said that no one had asked her, though I couldn't really see why. She was quite beautiful actually. With deep chocolate brown eyes, that displayed her every emotion, a heart shaped face, framed by billowy mahogany hair, with pale ivory skin that turned rosy when ever she blushed. She was relatively short, but not as short as my adoptive sister. I shook my head, trying to rid myself of the images it conjured up. I loved Lauren, sunny, perky, smart, giving, gentle, kind, selfless, Lauren. I smiled thinking of how she was all mine. I twirled a piece of her hair around my finger.
I grinned at the idea that struck me, and turned to look at her. "Hey Lauren do you have a date yet for prom?" I asked.
She looked shocked, her beautiful features saying 'WHAT?'. I chuckled. "Uh, i guess I don't." She stuttered, she was so cute when she was confused.
I smiled at her and pulled the tickets I had purchased earlier out of my pocket and handed one to her. "Would you do me the honor of accompanying me?" I asked, In the old fashioned manor I usually used. I had picked up a few things from reading.
She smiled brightly, and I was vaguely disappointed I couldn't make her blush. "Of course, Eddie." She answered wrapping me up in a hug. I inhaled her lemon grass scent.
There was a collective "Awe" from the group but I distinctly heard Emmett snort at the nickname she had given me, only because he knew I hated it, from his continuous attempts to use it himself. Regular conversation resumed, until the bell rang and it was time to go to biology. I pecked Lauren on the cheek and stood up to leave, Bella stood to. I couldn't place the look in her eyes, it was distant, and sorta like she was preparing for something awful. Did she hate being with me that much? I had always thought we had a great friendship, I had known her since kindergarten, when she tripped over my Lego robot and fell right on top of me. Alice had quickly stolen her away from me. I watched as she tripped over seemingly nothing and sent herself spiraling towards the ground. I quickly snatched her up around the waist, and stood her upright.
I chuckled to myself. "Yup," I muttered. "Some thing never do change." She glared at me, when she heard, and I snickered.
"Thanks." She replied icily. I smiled crookedly and her frown disappeared and was replaced by that all too familiar blush. She quickly scurried towards the door and arrived before I did. When I walked in she was sitting at our lab table, doodling on her notebook. Mike sat perched on the side chatting her ear off, but she seemed to be ignoring him.
I walked up behind them and caught the end of the conversation. "So will you go with me?" Mike asked, towards a clearly sidetracked Bella.
"Huh?" she asked, looking at him for the first time. I watched his confidence falter slightly.
"I asked if you want to go to prom with me?" He stated, slightly angry. My brow furrowed, he was being mean to her!
"Oh, sorry Mike, I'm, ah, going with my group of friends." She forced out, looking for an excuse. She had never been good at lying.
"Why can't you just go with me?" He asked again. I cleared my throat and Bella looked up at me appriciativly.
"Mike, class is about to start. Can you please vacate out desk?" I asked kindly.
"Uh, okay." He answered clearly intimidated.
I slipped into my chair, and was slightly angered when Bella put her hair down, like a wall between us. The teacher came in wheeling a television set, the atmosphere lightened at the prospect of a movie today. When he wasn't looking I scribbled a note to Bella.
Why don't you want to go to prom? I asked, though I already knew the answer.
I don't like slasher films. She wrote back. I grinned as the lights flicked off, surprised by her response.
Alice could be compared to Freddy or Jason, except with a credit card, I replied. Do to my father's profession and our already large amount of inherited money, she could shop endlessly.
Exactly, finally someone who gets it! lol. I snickered at her response and was shushed by a bodiless voice from the dark. I heard Bella giggle in response. I loved the sound.
Of course I get it Izzy. I answered, using the old nick name I gave her in second grade. Even in the dark I could see her cheeks darken. I smiled satisfied.
Right, Edwardo. I grinned at her use of my nick name, it wasn't one I really liked but gave it to her.
The rest of the class past in quiet, I tried to focus on the movie, but couldn't easily. I tried to focus on Lauren, on our date to the beach this weekend, and worked to plan the entire thing out, sorta difficult with Isabella Swan sighing lightly every few minutes right next to you.
BPOV
Dear God I think I'm gonna freaking faint. How can someone actually smell like sunshine? How can someone from Forks smell like sunshine? It seems impossible right? Wrong, nothing's impossible for the unstoppable Cullen, I sighed...again. This was becoming painful. How on earth I can stand being next to him is beyond me. I had secretly liked Cullen for ten years. Yes ten. Ah, love in second grade. That was when he started calling me Izzy. He hadn't used the nickname in forever, and It made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside that he actually remembered it. Finally the lights clicked on just before the bell rang. I had gym next, with Alice, Lauren, and Emmett.
I scooted my chair back and went to stand, once again thanks to Cullen I avoided serious injury. He snickered still finding my klutziness still extremely funny. You think he would have gotten over it after I ruined his Lego robot in kindergarten, but alas here we were in high school, with him still laughing at me. That's all anyone ever really did. I was the person to be laughed at. We separated in the hall, where he kissed Lauren lightly on the cheek before she sauntered over to my side and he got lost in the crowd behind us.
"Hey Bella." She said, surprisingly nice.
"Hey Lauren." I mumbled, still saddened by my lack of courage, after all these years.
"I can't wait till prom! I'm going to be the most beautiful thing anyone has ever seen!" She declared, rather snobbishly. There goes that nice streak, how long did we last, half a minute...at most?
"Yea, I'm sure you will be." I answered, I had learned long go, to just go with it, unless you want to be publicly humiliated.
"Don't worry, you'll be pretty..ish, too. Trust me after a few hours in our care you'll look absolutely decent." Yea me? Ugh, self absorbed much.
"Thank you Lauren." I replied, eager to get away from her.
"Your welcome, I'm just so nice, aren't I? I mean, waisting my time with you has got to count for something, right? I really don't see why Eddie enjoys your friendship so much, you're really rather dull." I sighed, had anyone ever noticed how nasally her voice sounded, like a rat, if rats could talk.
"You are wonderful." Hmm, I wonder if she knows sarcasm?
"I know! I'm like perfect in every way! I know Eddie agrees, he tells me all the time. Our relationship is so strong we can tell each other anything! We truly can. It's a shame that you've never experienced love, I guess you don't know what I'm talking about. Don't worry Bella, someday, maybe someone will want you. Maybe." She patted me on the shoulder, like a child that needed comforting.
I plastered a fake smile on my face and went to change. The school uniforms were blood red and bright gold, my happened to be two sizes to big and swallowed me. Lauren's was a size to small. Alice tackled me as I went to leave the locker rooms.
"Oh my god, Bella guess what!" She held onto my arm and bounced up and down as we made our way across the gym floor. Her loud voice carried, so that all eyes were on us. I blushed and kept my head down.
"What?" I asked, trying to get her to stop.
"Jasper and I are going to Port Angeles tonight! The shopping trip is defiantly off....for now! He's taking me to dinner, and then for a surprise! But I ease dropped so I know that we're going to the new dance club that opened up there, for underage teens. She squealed in delight.
"You have no limits, do you?" I asked. Astounded by her approach to things.
"None whatsoever." She replied happily, as she plopped down on the bleachers. All eyes had left our conversation, and most guys were fawning over Lauren, like they regularly did.
"Hello Ladies!" Emmett boomed, running up to us and squishing himself into the nonexistent space between Alice and I. "What are we gossiping about now?" he asked, with a big grin on his face.
"Surprises goof ball." I answered, Alice and I exchanged a look and at the same time pushed him off the seat and onto the ground. He made an 'oof' sound as he hit the floor.
"Now ladies, ladies that was not nice! Now my butt hurts." He complained, but stayed down there, as the coach came in.
"Okay, my mini athletes today we will be playing kickball. Team captains are Lauren and Emmett." She blew a shrill whistle and the two in question ran up and stood in front of the class.
Lauren started. "Mike." She called. Oh my god!!! Did she just wink at him? Alice looked at me clearly saying she saw it too.
Emmett, "Alice! Pixi can kick!" He called.
Lauren, "Tyler."
Emmett, "Bella."
"Really?" Both Lauren and I said at the same time.
"Yes really, Bells, get your bahooty over here." Emmett said, acting exasperated. The picking continued, after the coin toss the teams went off to plan strategy. "Okay." Emmett said, addressing the group. "Bells, you're our secret weapon, you're going to be first base coach. Your cowardice will keep our players in the game." I looked at him shocked.
"I'm insulted." I said playfully.
"Good, use that anger! Ben, you're first to kick, Angela, you're going to be second base coach, we'll leave third open. The rest of you can do what ever you want, except Alice, you and I little lady are going to be third and fourth, by then we should have someone on the basses, so it's not going to be just two home runs it will hopefully be four, if not, three. Break!" He called.
We all took our respective positions, having won the coin toss to kick first.
I watched as Ben hit it high into left field and sprinted around the basses, judging by the time, he would be able to at least make it to third, so I encouraged him to run. I was right. Next up to kick was Johnny, who I had first period with. The outfielders moved further back, fortunately he kicked it right into the open space they left. While they floundered for the ball, he made it to second and Ben got home. Alice was next. Almost dancing up to the plate she smiled angelically at Lauren who happened to be the pitcher. When the ball came towards her, she did a spin thingy and sent it flying out to the right field. All of the catchers just stared at it as it flew. Meanwhile Alice was actually dancing from plate to plate, twirling, and giggling. We got two more home runs. Emmett came up next, when he kicked no one bothered to go and get it, they just ducked. We got another run, just like he predicted. The game continued, and I was actually having some fun, enjoying my team taunt the other one especially Lauren, I loved the appalled look she had on her face, as if she couldn't believe it.
After class was over, our team was yelling and chanting the "We are the champions." song, enjoying our victory. I ran to my truck smiling and climbed inside, extremely excited for the shopping trip I had gotten out of and the revenge my classmates had received.
The Thing was extremely old, with a rumbling engine, rust, and flaking red paint, but I loved it dearly, despite the comments it got, and the stares. It roared it's way out of the parking lot and towards the super mart, where I went into food shopping mode, and picked up everything we needed at home.
Edward POV
My eyes found patterns in the ceiling that weren't really there. A cloud, a horsish looking think, a banana, Bella, Lauren. I was absolutely torn. I loved Lauren with all my heart and soul. We were perfect together, complimented each other. But there was something about my childhood friend that kept creeping into my mind, begging to get the attention it wanted, that I refused to give. Musci blared from my stereo and I lost myself in the words. It was the radio so I didn't know who sang it or why I was even listening, but the rough voices gave me an odd comfort.
The chorus started playing and I mumbled the words as I started to recognize it.
"Don't stay
Forget our memories
Forget our possibilities
What you were changing me into
Just give me myself back and
Don't stay
Forget our memories
Forget our possibilities
Take all your faithlessness with you
Just give me myself back and
Don't stay" But that was just it, I didn't want to forget all of the things that Lauren and I had. We were a matched set. Basketball star and head cheerleader. That's how it's supposed to be, right? I'm not supposed to be with the geek of the school, even if she was gorgeous. I rolled over and gasped. Alice was sitting right there, with her face right in mine.
"Hi!" She squealed, grinning.
After I caught my breath I replied "Hello, I didn't know the 'knock before entering' rule didn't apply to you."
She giggled. "Silly, no rules apply to me." I childishly stuck my tongue out at her. She climbed up on the bed and laid down next to me. "What's new Romeo?"
"Nothing, I guess." I sighed heavily.
"Liar." She accused, like she had said nothing but, 'okay'.
"How so?" I asked, knowing she was right, but not going to agree.
"It's obvious you have feelings for Bella." She explained. I hated how she practically knew everything I was thinking.
"No, I don't. We're friends, that's it, end of story. I'm going out with Lauren, and I have been for the last two years. I love her Alice, that's not going to change." She sighed heavily, seeing that i was not to be swayed.
"But you want it to be more. Don't tell me, you don't picture Bella in Lauren's place. Edward, she was your friend first. She was your first love too. Remember how you used to walk around the house singing 'Edward and Bella sitting in a tree, k-i-s-s-i-n-g' when you were in first grade, you would always pester Emmett to tell you the rest of the song, and when you finally found out, you would sing about you two getting married." I grimaced at the memory, not because it was unpleasant, but because I still secretly liked the idea. Life was cruel, how could you love two people at once.
"Uh huh." I grunted, letting her now I remembered. She giggled.
"You do like her!" She announced proudly.
"No I don't, that was second grade." I countered.
"I said you liked her in first. Are you telling me it went on longer than a little crush." She grinned evilly. Shoot!
"No, I just couldn't remember what year it was." I covered.
"Right, so you mumbling her name at night has nothing to do with it?" She countered. I glared!
"I do not!"
"Oh, really? Tell me, 'My Izzy' Isn't Bella." I was shocked, no one but Bella knew about that nickname and how would she know what I said in my sleep?
"No, I don't know anyone named Izzy." I stated firmly. "Besides how do you know what I say when I'm sleeping?"
"The microphone I hid." She replied nonchalantly. "And you're going to say that Izzy isn't short for Isabella?"
"Yup!" I replied curtly.
"Right. I don't believe you." Her grin grew. "Alright then, Edwardo, we can play this game." My mouth hung open, I surely didn't mutter that at night! She jumped off the bed and skipped towards the door. "Oh, and your notes should go somewhere safer than the front pocket of your book bag." She threw my red and black bag at me and shut the door behind her.
BPOV
Today was Saturday or as I called it Savior-day one. I didn't have to spend anytime with Cullen, but just my luck I was woken up by a bouncy thing yelling in my ear. I was positive I didn't have a dog, or a jack rabbit, or any crack in the house, so I assume the logical culprit. Alice. "Alice get off." I moaned.
"No! Bella you have to get up, we have to go, come on!!!" She yelled, still bouncing, I was surprised I didn't have a concussion yet.
"What?" I groaned!
"Come on! You have to get up! He'll be here soon! You can't answer the door like that! She will kill your ego! Come on Bella!" She wasn't making sense!
"What time is it?" I asked taking the pillow off my head.
"Eight in the morning. Did you stay up late last night?" She asked, pulling on my arm and actually dragging me out of bed.
I thought back quickly, I couldn't remember what happened last night. Then I remembered the massive migraine I got after banging my head on one of the cabinet, maybe I did have a concussion? "No just a headache." I replied, as she shoved me into the shower.
I took a little longer than necessary letting the water wake me up and relieve the tension in my muscles, before I got out. When I walked into the room Alice was shoveling her way through my wardrobe. I gasped that meant she would find......"Bella, what are these ice skates doing in here." Stupid jinx.
"Uh..." I searched around for an excuse if she found out, everyone would know, and then they'd want me to..in front of them. Uh huh. That was not happening. "Charlie got them for me for my last birthday." I lied.
"But they look used." She came out, holding the skates in her hands. They were well used,they all thought I spent Saturdays down in Seattle visiting family. I had done this every weekend since third grade, when really I had learned to ice skate.
I sighed, knowing I would have to tell my best friend. "I like to skate." I confessed. "I go up to Port Angeles every Saturday, by myself."She gasped.
"How come I didn't know about this!? We're best friends, you should tell me everything! Besides... not to be mean or anything, but aren't you a little..." she trailed off but I understood.
"Cordnationally challenged? Skating is different though. It's all about how you move your weight, you don't really have to be graceful, until you start doing tricks and stuff." I explained.
"Wait! You can do tricks?" She asked stunned.
I nodded, scared of what was coming, but the door bell rang downstairs. "We will talk more later." She declared before handing me some clothes. "Quick put this on, I'll go get the door." She said before darting out of the room. I looked down at what I was holding. A short jean skirt? I didn't own that? I ignored this fact and just put it on, along with a dark blue, V neck sweater, and a shimmery belt. Then I walked downstairs barefoot. Standing in my kitchen was god and the devil, and they were holding hands.
"You ready to go Bella?" Edward asked. I felt like those dear who see in the commercials, the ones with their eyes wide because a car's about to hit them.
"Uh, Where are we going?" Was my brilliant response.
"Silly, we are going to Port Angeles. Emmett want's to go Ice skating." Alice gave me a meaningful look, like 'This is what I wanted to tell you'.
"I can't, i have to go to Seattle." I explained quickly, used to this lie.
"No you don't!" Emmett boomed from my living room. "Already talked with Charlie, said it was alright with him!" Shoot!
I don't think I was breathing. The idea of people watching me skate froze me in place. It was my personal time. My alone, no one else time. Where I imagined what it could be like if Edward actually liked me, and how it would feel to run Lauren over with a dump truck. Lauren! If she found out I was dead meat. "Who's all going." I squeaked. They were surprised by my response but answered.
"Jasper, Alice, Emmett, Rosalie, you and me." Edward said, looking at Lauren apologetically. "It's just us, we're going to pretend like it's old times. Lauren has to go to California for the weekend, while we're up there I'm dropping her off. I released a breath. I could handle my childhood friends. I think.
Alice noticed my problem. "Can I talk to you upstairs Bella?" She asked. My savior! I ran after her, up the stairs.
"You have to go." She declared once we reached my room.
"I can't, Alice, you know how I am with attention." I said.
"I'll distract them. I like skating too remember?" She winked. That was right, Alice was the most graceful person I knew, probably in the world, if anyone could distract the guys from me actually skating it was her.
"Thank you." I said.
"You could always not skate." She mentioned. GO to the ring, where the ice I cherished was and not put on my shoes and glide across it. That was impossible, it couldn't be done, it required more strength than I had.
"I'm not that strong." We giggled then descended the stairs. The entire group had gathered in my kitchen, I smiled brightly at them. "Lets go." I declared, slipping on a pair of flats and grabbing my purse. They had rentals there, though I preferred my own, they would do. I only hoped that Missy wouldn't say anything. We loaded up into Edward's Volvo and Emmett's jeep. I somehow ended up in the middle seat, in the back of the Volvo squished between Alice and Jasper, who refused to ride in separate vehicles. I would have rode with Emmett, but Alice dragged me into this car. They turned the radio on and Alice started singing along with Disturbia by Rihanna. We all were doing the background music. I laughed the entire way there, Alice continuously sang whatever song came on including Poker Face, Know Your Enemy, and So What by Pink. We were soon at the airport. We graciously dismissed Lauren and grinned as we watched her walk away, Edward trailing behind like a pack mule, carrying all of her bags.
After that little show, we proceeded to the rink. Where Missy worked the rentals stand and the drinks/hot dog counter. She smiled brightly at me, we had become friends in all my visits. She was a little old lady, with wrinkly skin and a big smile for whoever wanted one. "What will it be dearies?" She asked as we approached the counter.
"Uh, six pairs of skates." He answered. We then took turns telling her our shoe size. When I walked up to the counter she leaned over and made sure no one was looking.
"Where are your skates, hon?" She asked kindly.
"They don't know I skate." I whispered. She nodded her head in undedrstanding.
"Some things are private." She agreed. "Don't want the attention?" She asked, knowingly.
"Yes, ma'am." I replied sheepishly.
"Oh, don't call me ma'am, you know it makes me feel old. I told you to call me Missy." She said with mock severity.
"Okay Missy." I said smiling. She handed me my shoes and went to go get Emmett's, it amused me that she didn't seem the least bit intimidated, though he had to be at least two feet taller than her. I then remembered the time she had chased out a group of 'hooligans' out of the rink because they were trying to brake into the coin exchange for the arcade, using nothing but the broom. That was the day I discovered not to mess with Missy, or her fine establishment, because granny is fast, and has a hard left swing. I finished tying up my shoes, and Alice winked at me, signaling that it was okay. She glided out onto the ice, and started twirling and spinning, in the way only Alice can. My friends started to go out onto the ice too.
Rose was pretty good also, but Emmett was just hilarious. The moment he hit the ice he managed to fall backwards, grabbing a hold of Edward's shirt, who grabbed the rail, and as they fell the momentum sent Emmett sailing across the ice, but when he stopped, he leaped into the ice, screaming about it being cold. Somehow he managed to run across the ice screaming "GET ME A FURNACE!" and toward the padded bleachers. I was clutching my side laughing so hard. Emmett turned to glare at me. "I'd like to see you do better klutzy." He growled. I was suddenly very confident. I had the sense that I could actually do this. It would be fun if this became a tradition just the six of us.
Sighing I stepped out onto the ice, and stood still. I was kind of scared. I was very aware of everyone's eyes on me. Alice nodded her head in encouragement. I glanced at Missy, who smiled warmly and shook her head too, telling me that this was the right thing.
Edward POV
I watched Lauren boarding the plane replaying our conversation from a few minutes ago.
"Eddie, I wanted to tell you something before I left. I don't think this is working out between us. I love you I really do, but I feel we're moving to slow for my liking. I want to be free and try other things, see other people. Two years is a long time. I want more options." She explained. I could feel my face fall, I was crushed. I wanted to say something, but they called her plane and she left. I was tempted to go after her but I knew it was pointless.
I plastered a smile to my face and went outside to the car, where my friends were waiting. I looked at the possibilities being single gave me. But I was also careful. I didn't want to start another relationship only to have her come back in two days and change her mind. I couldn't believe she actually broke up with me. I had wanted to use the time in there for something else. I fingered the useless promise ring that was in my pocket, before opening the door to the car. Jasper had moved up front and they were chatting away about skating, I pretended that I was happy, when really my heart was breaking inside.
Bella was poised on the ice, i was surprised she hadn't fallen yet. She looked around nervously. I wanted to go over and comforter her, but I knew that wasn't what she wanted. I could tell by her slightly defensive stance. And then she skated, moving forward, gliding. it was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. It looked like the ice didn't exist it was just Bella flying and her eyes were closed! My mouth dropped when one of her legs lifted up and back behind her, so it looked like she was laying down, balancing on one leg. Then she brought the leg down and jumped into the air. This is it, I thought, horrified at the prospect of her falling. But after twirling around three times she landed gracefully and then came to a complete stop. Her eyes opened and she looked elated. It was the happiest I had ever seen her. She was practically glowing. She looked around the group and grinned at our astounded expressions. Alice giggled and skated over to her, they grabbed hands and started spinning around, like none of us existed.
Who was this girl?
Where was Bella?
Why do I want to go over there, scoop her up, and take her far away?
I was dizzy with all the questions. I had just seen the real, unfiltered Bella and it had blinded me, like unprotected sunlight. Rose had joined their group and Bella was actually teaching the girls how to do the jump.
"She's one special girl." Someone said from behind me. I turned around to see the little old lady from the concessions stand. "She comes here every Saturday since her mom left." She continued. "I've watched that one grow into a fine young woman, love her like my own daughter." I looked at her shocked. This is where Bella went?
"Do you know why she lied to us?" I asked, confused.
"Maybe she was uncomfortable. Some people are very shy, Bella is no exception. It's like asking why you lie to yourself?" She said, I wanted to call her Yoda, but restrained myself.
"What do you mean?"I pushed, confused by what she was saying.
"You know what I mean. You're a jerk Edward Cullen, by denying it to yourself, you're making her suffer. Love is not a think you can fight." She explained. I stood there gaping at her.
"I'm not in love with her!" Why was everyone saying that!? She threw her hands up in the air in exasperation.
"Look there." She said, pointing at where Bella was sitting on the ice, surrounded by Rose and Alice, they were laughing hard, I guess they all fell. Jasper was trying to figure out what was going on and Emmett was attempting to get back out on the ice, but hadn't made it five feet from the benches.
"What am I looking at?"
"Stupid boy." She said grabbing my chin and forcing me to look at Bells. "There is one heck of a girl. You and any other person with a Y chromosome would be an idiot to not love her. But then again, most of you men are idiots anyway." She let go and turned to walk away, I caught up with her, eager not to end this conversation.
"But I love Lauren." I said honestly. "I don't want another relationship. I spent two years with her, what if Bella does the same thing?" I asked.
"Oh, the Wilders girl?" She asked, I nodded my head. She looked at me suspiciously. "Well, do what your heart tells you boy, before she's snatched up." With that she left. But that was just it, I couldn't distinguish what my heart was saying compared to what my head wanted, I didn't know what I really wanted.
I decided I should at least talk to Bella. I started to walk her way when my cell phone rang. I pulled it out and flipped it open not bothering to see who it was.
"Hello?" I asked.
"Oh Edward, I'm so sorry. I love you Eddie, please, please.." She sobbed into the phone.
"Okay, slow down, now what's wrong Lauren?"
"Eddie, I want to get back together, I already miss you! I wanna stay together, we can work this out some how." She plead. I glance over at Bella, and sighed.
"Okay Lauren. I'll see you when you get back. I love you." I replied.
"I love you too. Forever and Always Eddie." She replied before the phone shut off.
Bella's POV
Flashing strobe lights blinded me and the music seemed to rock my very core. "Alice are you sure this was a good idea?" I yelled, trying to be heard over the noise. After skating Alice had declared we needed to go the club her and Jasper had gone to the night before. She grinned and pointed to her ears. Of course she couldn't hear me. I pointed to the bar she nodded and then ran off to dance with Jasper, I envy the way he so easily held her and they swayed together.
I sat down on one of the stools and plugged my ears. I shouted for the bartender to get me a root beer, and he grabbed a glass and started pouring. The music slowed down so that it was quieter and I could actually hear myself think. "Alright all of you couples these next few song are for you! I WANT TO SEE YOU MOVE!" The D.J. yelled before putting on He Said She Said by Ashley Tisdale. Edward came over and sat next to me as the chorus came on.
He smiled. "Don't you wish sometimes it could be that easy?" He questioned. My brow furrowed, trying to figure out what her meant. He noticed and explained. "To be carefree, with no worries, no doubts."
"Yea, I guess, but what does the Golden Boy of Forks have to worry about, he's got a perfect girlfriend, gets good grades, the town's favorite person, money, good friends. You should be worriless my friend." I said, faking interest. He wasn't crushing on the unattainable.
"Head and heart." Was all he said, he really did look stressed, in an atempt to help him I blurted out out-
"Wanna dance?" I couldn't believe I had actually asked. I wasn't coordinated to actually pull it off. He grinned and surprisingly nodded his head. A song started playing and I immediately recognized it, much to my embarressment. Edward snatched my hand off the counter and lead me onto the floor. My cheeks were red and got hotter when he put his hands on my hips and started swaying.
"Well I'm not paralyzed
but I seem to be struck by you
I wanna make you move
cause you're standing still
if your body matches what your eyes can do
you'd probably move right through me
on my way to you" i tried my best to moved appropriately but I felt like I was betraying Lauren by doing so. He tried to encourage me to dance but I was paralyzed or at least it felt like it. Sighing he leaned closer. His breath was hot, as he whispered in my ear, but I unconsciously shivered. "If you're going to dance with me Miss Swan, I suggest you dance. Where's the graceful girl saw out on the ice. Move." He commanded.
I tried doing as he said, looking around, I spotted Alice. She was swaying her hips, jasper moved beside her like a perfectly synchronized machine. The chorus played again and i decided to improvise.
"Well I'm not paralyzed
but I seem to be struck by you." I locked my eyes with his and jabbed him in the chest with my pointer finger.
"I wanna make you move
cause you're standing still" he grinned wickedly and held onto my hips tighter making them move himself, along with his.
"if your body matches what your eyes can do
you'd probably move right through me" I moved my finger up and traced from my eyes down my neck, ignoring how awkward this felt. I pointed back to myself as the chorus finished.
"on my way to you" I so had to put this song on my iPod.
He started singing, actually singer the song, his eyes never wavering from mine. Those Emerald gems were the only reason I was still breathing right now. "this club will hopefully be closed in three weeks, that would be cool with me, well I'm still imagining a dark lit place, or your place or my place." He sang, i gasped at the implacication. This was getting to be too much for me. i wouldn't be able to ignore this. On Monday i wouldn't be able to act like nothing had happened. but he was still singing the chorus, and I didn't want him to stop. I wanted to stay like this, swaying together to the beat of the music, our eyes locked, and him singing in his velvet smooth voice. No one could 'just forget' this.
The song finished and I quickly stepped away, out of the grip of his hands, as Just Dance by Lady Gaga came on. A flushed Alice came running over. She didn't even say anything, she just grabbed my hand and drug me back to the bar, where my soda was gloriously waiting. Alice ordered a drink for herself before she addressed me.
"Oh my god. That was so hot." She said.
I giggled. "You and Jasper did look really close out there." I said. her eyes widened.
"Oh no, I was talking about you and my brother. I saw the way you were looking at him. And he couldn't keep his eyes off of you." She explained shaking her head.
"We were dancing, aren't you supposed to look at the person your dancing with?" I asked, refusing to believe that.
"Yes, but it doesn't require he hold onto like you're going to vanish." She answered sternly.
"He was just trying to get me to dance. Besides he wasn't holding on that tight." I defended.
"Right, honey you're gonna have bruises in the morning and did you see his face when you left. He looked heart broken!" She giggled again. I glanced over to where the boys were leaning against the wall talking. He looked so beautiful.
"I will not." I answered stubbornly. "And he was probably sad that the song was over, he seemed to like it."
"Really?" She arched her eyebrow at me suspiciously.
"Yea, he was singing along." I said nonchalantly.
"He sang Paralyzer to you!" She gasped, I rolled my eyes, she made it out to be such a big deal. "That boy his so head over heals." She stated. I rolled my eyes agian.
"Stop being so over dramatic Alice, it was one dance."
"One extremely hot dance." She countered.
"Whatever." I was secretly giddy inside though.
Alice's POV
Their all idiots, blind as a bat, senseless, moronic, flat out stupid! Was i the only one who saw the obvious sparks between the two of them. It had been like that forever! And Ever! I had never met two people who fit together so perfectly, who complimented each other so wonderfully. Their relationship would be even better than Jasper's and mine! And trust me that's saying a lot. Look at Bella, sitting there all lonely like and staring at the black wall, like it would giver her all of the answers. Ha! That's very unlikely. But hey, when I offer her exactly what she needs to get those answers, 'oh no Alice he doesn't like me' blind as those mole things, you would think they didn't even have eyes! Plus, Edward is being so pathetic about it. He obviously was just hitting on Bella, but doesn't have the guts to even make small talk afterwards! Ugh, I'm divorcing my family.
"Get a room." I snapped at Emmett, who was in the corner making out with Rose. He looked up at me surprised by my furious tone. I rarely released the full force of my anger on him, but tonight they were all doomed! Mwahaha. My cunning little brain started pushing it's gears. I had a job to do, and it was no easy feat. I, yes me and all my miniatureness, by myself had to break up Edward and the SheDevil, then give him and Bella enough courage to get together. Tsk, tsk, tsk. This would be much easier if the two would just admit what they feel! You can't spend thirteen years with someone and no have feelings. Cooties or not, they should have been together in first grade. I was sure about that, no positive. It didn't take an evil genius -like myself- to figure that out.
My head bobbed uncontrolably to the music, my rage needed some so of outlet for it's energy. Strong hands started rubbing massaging patterns into my shoulders, and I melted back into Jaspers chest. "What's wrong darlin'?" He asked, using his southern accent that I absolutely loved. I hated the fact that Rose had learned how to mask hers.
"Jasper!" I whined. "Why do they have to be such idiots?" He chuckled behind me, and rested his chin on my head.
"I really don't know hun. I figured them a-shoe-in' for a couple from the moment we moved here." He answered, I agreed wholeheartedly, by then we were in fifth grade and cooties was not a good enough excuse anymore.
"I really hate Lauren." I confessed, I had told him this before, but it seemed I could never say it enough. She was just a all around deceitful person.
"I know." He answered, clearly in agreement.
"No you don't Jasper! I think she's cheating on him!" He spun the barstool around so that I was facing him.
"Who?" He asked, his brow furrowed. I reached up and smoothed out the wrinkled skin, a smile teased the corner of his lips, though he was still clearly angry.
"Mike." I answered, grimacing. Newton was awful, he was the star player for the schools baseball team, and we had gym with him.
"Newton?" He asked, trying to clarify.
"No Micheal Jackson." I replied sarcastically.
"You're funny darlin' but I'm not laughing. We need proof." He replied, his brown furrowing again. I frowned.
"Will you help me tackle the world's hardest task, Mr. Whitlock?" I asked, a plan forming in my brilliant mind.
"I'd be much obliged darlin'." He replied.
I stoked his cheek effectionatly. "Okay, operation Mrs. Isabella Cullen is ago." I smiled wickedly. "Your job agent lover-boy is to acquire proof of the backstabbing currently in progress. I, agent fashion4life, -with the number instead of the word of course-, will work to increase affection between the two people in question. Objective understood?" He saluted me like a proper soldier and my grin widened. "Alright then, stage one to be started."
"And what is that sweetheart?" He asked, snaking his arms around my waist and pulling me closer.
"We, are going to have a sleepover." I declared, already planning out the perfect outfit, to not only get Edward starstruck, but i might pick on jasper a little bit too.
"Alrighty then. Lets round up the troops, we have a mission to accomplish." He declared, dragging me to Emmett and Rosalie, who we filled in. Unsurprisingly Emmett wanted his code name to be BigBear, Rosalie was just Blondie, because she refused to have any of the idiotic names we had. Fortunately they were both in on it, and we split up to announce our little get together to Edward and Bella. I hung back to arrange it with Mom, dad, The Whitlocks, and Charlie. I was practically bouncing with excitement and eagerness. A good game of truth or dare was clearly going to be in order and because Esme was the wonderful mother she was, she offered to help with the plans. She didn't think much of Lauren either, which gave me great satisfaction!
Bella's POV
Emmett was like a bulldozers, everyone cleared the way as he practically ran towards me, through the highly crowded club. When he finally got to my seat he started jumping up and down. "Bella guess what, guess what, guess what!" He repeated.
"Emmett, sit still or you're gonna shake the entire club to the ground." I said frowning. He finally stopped but put his massive hands on my shoulders, looking intently into my eyes.
"Bella! Guess What!" He said all serious now.
"What Emmett?" I asked, rolling my eyes.
"But you didn't guess!" He complained. I raised my eyebrows at him and he sighed. "Oh alright! We're having a sleepover at my house!" He exclaimed like a two year old. "Alice is calling Charlie to arrange it right this minute!"
"Emmett, I have nothing to wear, plus are you sure that's a good idea?" I asked, throwing a quick glance at Edward, who was a few seats down, leaning against the bar.
Emmett looked at me like I was out of my mind. "Clothes? Do you seriously think that will be a problem? And of course it's a good idea! How could you think otherwise?"
"I don't know Emmett, I guess it comes from spending too many nights at your house." I said warily, I distinctly remembered the other instances. "Wait, didn't the cops ban you from having sleepover, after that time...you..ah...you know?" I asked sheepishly.
"No, they said I wasn't allowed to have sleep overs, unless somebody locks the doors and hides the key where I can't find it, before we go to sleep." He replied grinning. "You can hide the key if you want?" I shook my head in disapproval.
"Emmet, what were you thinking?" I asked, still astounded by the whole situation.
"I like the oranges from the neighbors tree better than the ones from the grocery store." He replied defensively. "Plus he said I could come over any time I wanted."
"I don't think he meant at one in the morning, wearing nothing but your underpants and a ski mask." I scolded, we had had this conversation before, and he knew I was right, but refused to admit it.
"Whatever." He brushed it off. "Anyway so, we're leaving in about fifteen minutes, I'm gonna go have one last dance with Rosalie, and Alice with Jasper, why don't you ask Eddie to dance?" He suggested a little too nonchalant.
"It's his turn." I stated firmly. He rolled his eyes but darted off. I doubted dancing was what occupied his mind.
I noticed Jasper talking to Edward, and I assumed he was filling him in. I froze for a second when his eyes locked with mine, my whole body went rigid. He smirked, a crooked half smile, he had been using on me to get his way forever. His eyes never left mine as he stood up and seemingly floated over to me. I swallowed, trying to get the lump out of my throat. I focused on his shirt, hoping I would gain composure. He was wearing a once crisp white button up, and dark wash jeans. The sleeves of the shirt were rolled up, so that they exposed his perfectly, muscled arms. I was tempted to follow those muscles with my eyes but was rudely interrupted. "Bells can we talk?" Edward asked, in his smooth velvet voice that no female on the face of the planet could deny....okay maybe Missy could, but that's besides the point.
"Uh, yea." I stuttered, still focusing on anything but his face. The stool next to me screeched in protest as he pulled it out and sat down.
"Okay, I don't know exactly what's going on between us." He confessed, I finally looked up and his face had 'utterly confused' written all over it.
"That's easy to answer, what do you want to be going on?" I asked, finally finding my confidence.
"That's the problem, I don't know what I want. I'm in love with Lauren." I flinched at his words, and hoped he didn't see. "But she said before her plane left that we were moving too slow for her. Bella what does that mean? You're a girl, I need help." He stated his eyes seemed to be somewhere far away like he was thinking.
"Edward, you don't need me to tell you what that means. You're intelligent, you'll figure it out." I was curious now. "What else happened?" I pushed.
"Well she broke up with me, but while we were at the rink she called back and said it was a mistake. I don't know what to do." He laid his head down on his folded hands on the bar.
"Have fun." I stated simply. Isn't that what your teenage years were supposed to be about? Having a blast, doing stupid stuff, and getting caught. He grinned slightly.
"I guess I can do that. Wanna dance?" He asked, his grim morphing into his crooked smile. I narrowed my eyes at him.
"If you refrain from giving me bruises this time." Alice had been right, my hips did have slight bruises.
"I didn't want you to run away." He stated firmly, but as we went to stand, Alice appeared in the way only Alice could.
"Guys we're leaving!" She announced proudly, before snatching our hands and dragging us towards the door. Everyone was waiting outside on the sidewalk. When we got there, they started walking towards the cars, not even acknowledging our presence. When we reached the Volvo Alice declared she was riding in the jeep with Emmett and Rosalie, Jasper of course followed behind her faithfully. Edward shook his head but opened the passenger side door for me.
"Thanky you." I murmured too late for him to hear. Soon he had climbed into the driver's seat and we took off towards his house. Something about this felt wrong. Alice. The silence in the car grew, until it was quite unbearable, I decided to voice my concerns. "I think we're being duped."
"Is that so?" He asked, with a smirk in his voice.
"I think Alice is running this show, if she is, we've completely lost control over our lives." I stated matter-of-factly.
"Izzy, I lost control over my life the moment my parent brought that little devil home from the orphanage. Did I ever tell you she had me in heals that first week?" My mouth gaped open.
"No!" I exclaimed. "Really?"
"A tea party every morning, a fashion show every afternoon, and before bed, she always had to plan out MY clothes for the next day. This is when she was five, Bells you have no idea. For awhile I swear she thought I was her older sister. To her boys didn't exist." He smiled shyly, I just grinned.
"That's okay." I stated. "Remember in third grade when Alice's lunch box somehow got pudding all over the inside, because her pudding cup had been open?" I asked.
"Yes." He nodded his head.
"I did it."
He looked at me skeptically. "Really?" He asked, doubtful. I glared.
"Yes really, that little shrimp and decided to wanted to play Barbies the day before, little did I know, that I had to play the part of Barbie, she made me change clothes every five minutes." I knew he remembered it, because he had had to play Ken.
"I remember." He muttered. I giggled.
"It could have been worse." I warned and he nodded his head, Alice was the Tasmanian devil on red bull when you put her with clothes.
We pulled onto the winding drive that led to his house, and I started get getting anxious. We pulled up in front of their beautiful white almost plantation style home, and the jeep pulled up besides us. We all got out and Emmett let out a wolf whistle. "PARTY TIME!" He yelled before swooping up Rose in his massive arms and running her inside.
I laughed as we heard her haller- "You better not mess my hair up!" Jasper ducked his head to Alice as she giggled, before he repeated Emmett's gesture and they took off. Edward and I ran after the happy couples.
Inside was just as beautiful as the outside. Alice was already in command when we got there, barking out orders. "Girls, you come with me! Emmett you take the boys to get their jammies on. Remember what we talked about earlier." She winked at Emmett. Great! "When we come back first, truth or dare then a movie." She declared. I paused and looked around.
"Alice, where are your parents?" Edward nodded, agreeing with me.
"Mom and dad are having a night to themselves." She declared before grabbing my hand dragging me up the stair towards her room. Once there, she had Rosalie and I sit down on her bed. Then she proceeded to rifle through her closet, sending articles of clothing flying about the room.
"Eureka!" She yelled and brought over three pairs of pajamas.
"Eureka? Really Alice?" I questioned.
"Oh just go get dressed." She commanded throwing the outfit at me. I looked down at it stunned. I held up the tiny silk nightgown. It was dark blue with white lace borders, short, and low cut.
"Alice, there is a serious lack of fabric here!" I said, worried.
"Oh you're so freaking shy. It's not like they haven't seen you in less." She said flatly. I looked at her horror struck.
"The last time I wore a bathing suit in front of them, it was a one piece and we were in fourth grade." I informed her catching on to what she meant.
"Whatever." I was dismissed that easily. Sighing I went and changed into the outfit, pulling my hair out of it's bun and letting it drape across my shoulders, and down my back. I took a deep breath and prepared for an Alice sleepover. Oh joy.
Edward's POV
"Romeo, Romeo get your butt in here." Emmett called from his room.
"Em, I've got my own P.J's." I said, walking in. They both were wearing matching sets of blue and red plaid pajama bottoms, and nothing else. Their chest stood bare. "Guys put some clothes on!" I complained.
"Nope, Alice's rules. Were playing truth or dare, no shoes no shirts. Girls don't wear shoes, guys don't wear shirts." He declared, throwing me a pair of matching bottoms.
"That seems highly unfair." I commented. Emmett smirked.
"Don't worry, room what I've heard you're going to be a very happy guy soon." He commented.
"What did you hear?" I asked suspicious.
"Bella, distinctly whine 'Alice there is a serious lack of fabric here.'" Jasper said, with a really poor imitation of Bella's voice. I stopped breathing for not even a millisecond before I recovered.
"And why would I care about that?" I asked trying to sound nonchalant.
"Ugh dude, you so have the hots for her." Emmett stated plainly, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. I sighed heavily. Was it written on my forehead?
"But I'm going out with Lauren, and I love her." I stated firmly.
"We'll see about that after tonight." Jasper challenged. I groaned.
"What is Alice up to?" I asked.
"Nothing, Now go change." Emmett commanded. I rolled my eyes and marched off to my room.
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