Paradise~~

I took a deep breath as I stared at the clear water in front of me. The waves crashed as the wind blew my hair out from behind me. My tears streaked down my cheeks as I took in deep breaths to calm my sobs. I felt him beside me before I actually heard him. The water made everything difficult.

His warm fingers intertwined with my hand as I let out a shaky breath. Clearly I needed the support, I was just glad he knew it too. I turned my head and looked into his direction, not willing to stare into his golden eyes. I could feel them on me, though. His gaze burned into me, but I lacked the courage to look into his eyes.

"Everything will be okay," he promised me.

I nodded my head and finally dared to look up. Just like I knew, his eyes were on me. Once trapped by his crystal gaze, I felt myself gain peace somewhere deep inside.

"I know," I finally managed to say.

"I'm right here," he spoke.

"I know," I said once more.

"I always will be," he kissed me on the forehead, wrapping his arms around my waist and pulling me in for an embrace.

"Bella, I promise you that no one will ever hurt you again."

I was touched by his words, but I knew that this was a promise that he couldn't keep. As much as he wanted to protect me and keep me safe, it wasn't possible. I was a target to things that were uncontrollable and unforgettable. But I was thankful to have Edward there for me, even when I figured it was just me.

"I need to go home," I declared.

I felt his body grow tense. "No, you're not going back there."

I pulled away from him, looking up into his eyes. "I have to. You know that."

He was full of complete shock and anger. I bit my lip to hold back the sob I could feel building up. I knew that he was upset after what I had told him only minutes before. It was a complete bi-polar move. I didn't want to go home, really, but I knew that if I didn't it would only make things twice as worse than they already were.

"Bella, you can't be an idiot. Look at me!" I had started to turn my head away from his accusing glare. "I love you."

He said it with so much passion and determination that for a second I forget where we were, what we were doing, and who I was.

"I'm not going to let you be put in harm's way again. I need you to trust me." His mouth came to a firm stop and he stared deeply at me, just waiting for my response.

I nodded my head and blinked back the tears. "I do trust you."

"Then what's holding you back?"

"Things happen, Edward. Things don't last," I stated.

He smiled slightly. "Is that what you're worried about? Us not lasting?"

I nodded my head regrettable.

His lips were on top of mine, leaving me breathless. He pulled away, resting his forehead on mine. I ran a hand through his bronze hair, bringing him closer to me.

"I won't let that happen."

A smile grew on my face and I pressed my lips against his.

I would never doubt us.