Author's Note: I'm so very sorry to everyone who really liked my story, Deep Within. I wasn't into it after chapter two; I actually started hating it. Again, I'm sorry for losing interest, but I just didn't feel the need to keep going with a story I didn't really like. So I deleted it.

Ten Feet Off the Ground

Author: Missy64

Romance/Tragedy

Summary: Takes place in the early 1900's. Bella is a shy girl, and the daughter of the owners of the famous Bakery in town. While working at the register her parents' store, she meets Edward Masen, well known son of Dr. Edward Senior. Bella has a hard time breaking her shell, but Edward will not cease to make her love him.

One year later, they marry. And everything seems perfect. Until a terrible flu strikes the state of Washington and across the country, threatening to take the life of Edward. How hard will Bella fight, how far will she go to save the one she loves before it's too late?

My first romantic tragedy! I hope you like it!

Chapter One.

September 10, 1917.

Dear Journal,

My birthday is in three days. I don't want much…nothing at all, actually. My parents want to make this a big thing, turning 16. I don't want them to spend all their money on something as silly as that. We have a hard time making ends meat as is, even with a popular bakery.

Business today is slow, so I decided to write. I love writing; it's what I want to be. But I may not be able to go to school. I may have to take over this bakery when I'm older.

Bella.

I sighed, closing my journal and setting it aside.

"Isabella, sweetie," my mom called from the kitchen. I turned to her.

"Yes, mother?" I asked.

"Here's an order for Elizabeth Masen." Elizabeth Masen was the nicest woman I know, aside from my mother, of course. She's a regular here, and a big fan of my mom's cooking and baking.

She's also my mom's best friend.

Also the wife of a very rich doctor, Edward Senior.

"She should be here in a little while," she said, sitting the basket of muffins beside me. The delicious smell of blueberry invaded my nose, and I took a deep breath, inhaling the wonderful scent. She headed back into the kitchen, and I caught a whiff of cinnamon.

Being here brought me peace. It was my escape.

Like I said, business was awfully slow, so I doodled absentmindedly on my journal. I heard the bells of the door when it opened. I didn't look up until a voice knocked me out of my daydreaming.

"I'm here to pick up an order."

I quickly looked up and fought the urge to gasp. This man, who actually looked my age, was beautiful. Bright green eyes, hair that was neatly styled with the weirdest shade of red. Like a burnt penny.

"Um," I cleared my throat, looking at the order sheet. There was only one name on there, and I gaped at it.

Elizabeth Masen's order. This was her son.

Edward Masen.

I've never seen him before, but the way my mother talks about him make him seem like the perfect gentleman.

"Yes," I said nervously. "Um, Elizabeth Masen's order?" Well, of course…

He smiled politely. "That's the one." I nodded and handed him the basket. "I don't think we've met," he said. "I know our mother's are great friends."

"That they are," I said with a smile.

"I'm Edward Masen, like my father."

"I'm Isabella Swan. But I prefer Bella." he smiled and held out his hand. I shyly took it and he shook it. His hand was unbelievably soft.

"Firm handshake," I said. "My father appreciates those." I blushed and looked down once I realized what I said. Edward laughed.

"It was how I was raised also," he replied. I nodded, smiling timidly. He looked behind him and back at me. "I'm sorry. I have to leave now. It was nice meeting you, Bella." he smile was genuine before he handed me the money. "Take care."

"Have a nice day," I said, before he left. I stared at the door for a few minutes, trying to digest what happened.

"So I see you met Liz's son," my mom said, coming from the kitchen with flour on her apron. She was smiling at me. My cheeks were hot again.

"Yes," I said. "He's really nice."

"Oh, he's such a gentleman. And very nice looking." I nodded in agreement. "Any plans?"

"Mom, I just met him. That's not how it works," I reminded her.

She chuckled. "I was just messin' with ya. I was seeing how responsible you really are." I grimaced.

"Where's dad?" I wondered.

"He already went home," she said. I nodded. "We're about to close up shop."

I started wiping down the tables and counters. Mom came out with two baskets of pastries. I shot her a questioning look.

"For the Weber's. I heard that Mr. Weber is sick." I gasped.

"That's too bad," I said, finishing up sweeping. Mom turned off the lights and locked up. It was already getting dark out.

"Hey!" a voice said from behind. We turned toward the source. It was just Dad.

"Honey, what are you doing?" Mom asked, walking toward him. I wrapped my coat tighter around myself before catching up with them.

"I couldn't let you two walk alone. Do I ever?" he asked. I smiled when they kissed. I briefly imagined someone by my side, giving me kisses, making me happy.

But only briefly.

Dad insisted on carrying the baskets. We made a stop at the Weber's and passed on our "get well soon" to them. And then we walked home.

It was unseasonably cold outside tonight. It was only fall, but it felt like the beginning of winter….

Dear Journal.

Today was very peaceful. I love my mother's bakery. But then I met this guy; and he was such a gentleman! He was nice, and the great thing is, he's my mom's best friend's son! I'll be seeing more of him; I'd love to become friends.

Bella

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