AN: Hello, I know I have other stories but this two shot literally would not let me rest. Here's the first part of I Can Hear The Bells, it is 4,546 words and I've done what I can with editing but I'm so tired and I've reached that point where there are likely mistakes but I won't catch them. I hope you like part one, please review after reading to let me know how you think part two will go!
Bella had left Forks only a year prior, but so much had changed since she left the rainy and lush town. When she had graduated she had relatively no friends. The only one who she kept in contact from FHS was Angela, and a large part of that was due to them going to the same college. Angela's parents had been upset about that as she was the one to typically watch her little brothers while her parents worked or were away, but Angela was determined to do something for her.
"This is the start of my life, Bella; I need to do it right for me. Not for anyone else." Angela's eyes had been set upon Bella's face with the upmost serious expression. "I want to find what's out there," She motioned to the sky before motioning to her chest, "And what's in here."
So that night they decided to room together at the University of Arizona. The very next day they set it up. Bella would go for Anthropology with a minor in Writing; Angela would go for Physics with a double minor in Astronomy and Photography. The two spent the summer getting ready for the big move. They went shopping together for their dorm things, saw movies, and went to First Beach occasionally but took care as to not run into Jacob Black or his crew. Angela was always on the lookout for that, half wanting to protect Bella, half wanting to see him so she could give him a piece of her mind. Luckily, they seemed to always miss the younger boy.
As the summer progressed Bella started to come back to herself, and part of that was watching Angela go through her own break up. It was like Bella hadn't been able to do anything for herself, but as soon as her friend got hurt she was able to help both of them process their breakups.
"He's not worth your tears, Angie." Bella had hugged the taller girl a few weeks after Angela had caught Ben in a lip lock with some junior from FHS. "You aren't the one who did anything wrong. He didn't respect you or your boundaries. He was the one with the issues and, instead of talking it out with you like a mature person, took the choice of deciding what the future held for you both away. He fucked up and he's the one who's missing out on seeing you become an even better version of yourself."
Angela had let out a watery laugh and smiled at Bella, "Thanks, and it may not be the same circumstances, Bella, but don't you think these words also apply to you?"
That afternoon changed the both of them. Bella's nightmares diminished, but were still there since she knew that there was a homicidal vampire somewhere out there after her. Time passed differently for vampires, Emmett had told her so once upon a time, and so she wasn't sure when Victoria would show. The anxiety that induced was almost too much somedays, but Bella knew she wouldn't be able to outrun the vampire.
It was a month or so later— the morning after their parents had left the two to their own devices— in Tucson that she decided to live each day to the fullest. She had had a nightmare about Victoria finding her and Angela listened to what Bella felt she was able to share in her emotional, post nightmare haze. It had been like she couldn't contain it any longer.
"My dad doesn't know any of this and, well, I don't want him knowing." Angela had frowned, but said nothing, letting Bella continue without saying anything. "I'm serious, Angie."
After a minute of Angela looking into Bella's eyes, she could see the fear and the resolve; she let out a deep breath. "Alright, Bella, I don't like the sound of this but I will keep your secret."
"The thing you need to know is that part of the real reason Alice was adopted was she had this man after her," Bella looked down to her hands feeling like she needed to say what she could to get Angela to realize the risk hanging out with her would entail. "The man was, well, awful. Truly sadistic. He enjoyed torture. He made a game out of it."
Angela stayed quiet, watching as Bella rubbed at the scar on her wrist she had gotten after crashing through a window. They had said it was due to her accidentally biting down on her wrist, but that had always seemed strange to her. Bella quickly continued.
"Well, he found the Cullen's in Forks when I was with them. He picked me out as the weakest link and his game moved from Alice to me. He eventually was taken out of the picture, I was too out of it to know how and Edward always kept important shit from me, but his girlfriend wasn't gone. She kind of just vanished from their radar. She's still after me, continuing his game, and won't stop until I'm well… miserable and ultimately dead. I don't— I don't want her to get to you because of me."
"Holy shit, Bella, no wonder you have nightmares!" Then a beat, "Fuck the Cullen's for leaving you with this mess! What assholes! I swear that if there are signs of trouble then we will figure something out. We'll stage, like, a fight or whatever, but still stay in contact or something. But, Bells, are you sure that we can't tell Charlie? This seems like something he should know… Hell, shouldn't you be in like Witness Protection or something?"
"I don't want him involved, Victoria is too dangerous." Bella's breathing grew shallow as her mind raced, "I shouldn't have even said anything to you, oh god what if she followed me here and now you're in danger for knowing and –"
Angela slowly put her hands on Bella's shoulders, "Look at me Bella, that's it, now breath with me." The two girls breathed together until Bella's panic subsided. "You're my best friend Bella, my only true friend, and I would do anything for you. I hope you feel the same."
Bella let out a little sob and nodded her head quickly, "of course."
"Then we are in this together. We live to the fullest, and if danger comes we talk about it and decide what to do together. No regrets. No holding back. Remember, two heads are better than one, Bella."
Holding onto each other for a little longer until they both calmed down Bella soon felt a sense of peace fill her. Just knowing that she had someone in her corner who wouldn't leave— even though it was dangerous and was given the option— helped calm her in a way she didn't know she had needed.
"You're right, Angela. Thank you so much for being you. Thank you for being in my life; I don't know what I would do without you."
"Oh, Bella, I feel the same! Now come on, enough serious stuff. Let's walk around the campus and maybe find something to eat? I heard of this place called Robert's Restaurant from my orientation leader and I guess they have great waffles?"
"Alright, I could go for some waffles, let's get dressed and find out for ourselves."
Over the next few months Robert's Restaurant became a staple in their lives. Bella or Angela would have a craving for the homemade jalapeño bread and they would have a reprieve of the dining halls for a meal. When Bella had gotten the news that her father was set to remarry Sue, the widow of one of his best friends, she had thought it a bit too soon. When the two had actually come down during a visit, however, she changed her mind. Sue was perfect for him. Bella and Angela now lived off campus in a little apartment, and when those two looked at each other on the girls' couch it was like the room lit up with love and contentment. The two adults deserved that happiness.
Dragging the green suitcase behind her and readjusting the backpack she wore, Bella double checked that things were unplugged and that she and Angela weren't forgetting anything for the weekend they would be back in Forks, Washington. It was going to be the first time the two of them would be back since leaving. They each had internships and jobs that they couldn't get time off of during the holidays, so their families had come to them instead.
Bella hadn't been able to meet her soon-to-be step siblings, however. She would be meeting them in about 5 hours. Their trip to the airport had been full of off-key singing, minor panicking, and a lot of pictures together to document the trip. Bella had gotten used to having her picture taken for all sorts of assignments that Angela had for her photography courses, and had even okayed a few of them to go up in the apartment.
Their three hour flight to Seattle flew by for the two girls; it was the 38 minute flight to Port A. that got Bella's anxiety levels a little more prickly. Bella toyed with the hem of her short sleeve shirt, folded and refolded her cardigan, and only stilled when Angela placed her hands over Bella's.
"It'll be fine, Bella, trust me on this."
"But," Bella's voice wavered, "but what if they don't like me? I heard from Charlie that they hang with Jake and, well, what if they decide they don't really want me in their lives because of something he said? I know Charlie said that Jake was sorry, of course Jake didn't say it to me and I'm a little bitter about that, but what if—"
"Look, Bells, if that's the case then it's too bad for them, they're missing out on truly knowing a fantastic young woman. Now, take a deep breath, our row is next to get out of the plane." Angela's smile was soft and understanding.
Bella knew that so long as she had Angie she could get through the weekend. Picking up her bag from her lap Bella followed Angela out of the puddle-jumper. They made their way through the small airport to baggage claim and saw the large group waiting for them.
Angela's brothers rocketed to her, one crashing on each side of her both talking at once. The laugh she released filled Bella's heart with warmth. Her own reunion with her dad was more subdued, but the feelings were there. Sue had wrapped her arms around Bella and given her forehead a kiss.
"You look well, Bella, I'm happy to see that." It was true, since leaving Forks Bella had put some weight back on and began doing yoga, meditation, and tai chi with Angela to control the stress and anxiety that came with not only college but her life in general.
"Yeah, I'm feeling good. You look absolutely radiant, Sue." Bella smiled with sincerity. "My dad's lucky to have you in his life."
The two families left after the girls gave one last hug to each other with the promise Bella picking Angie up for the wedding the next day. This would be a bit more of a deal as Charlie had decided to rent out his place in Forks since he spent most of his time on the Res. This added income let Sue and Charlie update the Clearwater house so there was enough space for everyone. Bella was truly grateful since she had been apprehensive about sharing a room with Leah.
"Now, the Elders decided tonight there will be a big bonfire. We will be telling you some legends and more about the tribe, since you will soon be tied more deeply to the tribe. Sorry for surprising you like this, but we also figured that you wouldn't mind."
"Of course I don't mind," Bella waved it off. "This is the kind of stuff I study, so you know I'm interested, and it would just plain be an honor to listen to them. As long as I can shower and get the travel grime off before I'll be good."
With that, they went to the car and drove the hour to La Push. Sue and Charlie chattered about, asking Bella about her summer courses, and what she liked the most. Bella began talking about her Mesoamerican Archaeology course, commenting little bits of information she found interesting.
"Angie and I had this one discussion about Antonio de León y Gama the other day because he has ties to both of our studies. It's pretty neat when that happens." Bella caught her father's eyes in the rearview mirror softening up at seeing her vibrant smile.
"I'm glad you're so happy there, Bells," he gruffed out, clearing his throat at the emotion that clogged his throat over seeing her smiling with actual emotion. He had been worried about what coming back would do to her and the progress she had made. "I'm real happy you're home, though. We've missed you up here."
"I know, I know, I'm sorry I wasn't able to visit sooner." Bella looked out the window; the greenery passing by was so different from that desert red. "And I'm sorry that I can only visit for the weekend."
"It's okay, Bella," Sue turned in the passenger seat and reached her hand out for the girl in reassurance. "We understand you have commitments and not the greatest feelings about this area."
Bella squeezed Sue's hand after receiving her own, "I'm over it for the most part, I just think that what happened to me here could have been done in a less, uh, dramatic way, you know?"
This made Sue laugh, "I understand completely."
The rest of the car ride went smoothly, and soon they were pulling into an unfamiliar driveway. The house was about the same size as the one in Forks if a bit larger due to the latest addition. It was a gray color, with an invitingly worn red door. Two large figures waited on the front porch.
This is it, Bella told herself, time to meet the stepsiblings.
She took a deep breath and opened her door. She grabbed the door when her left foot got caught getting out of the car and did a little hopping before she was free and stable. Bella could feel her face flushing at the thought of the two siblings seeing that. She didn't trip as often as she used to, and had hoped that this would last up here for this meeting. Bella was sad to see this wasn't the case.
Pushing some hair behind her ear she followed Charlie and Sue to the others. Leah was gorgeous; she had beautiful short black hair, intense brown eyes, and serious air about her. Bella could feel her self-esteem take a minor hit just being around her, but quickly tried to smush that feeling. Seth, while tall, still had a child-like air around him and a large smile. He reminded her of a puppy a little bit, happy to see anyone.
"Hi, it's nice to finally meet you two. I'm sorry this didn't happen sooner, but I hope the next two weeks we can all hang out and get to know each other."
"I'm sure we will," Leah gave her a little once over before nodding to herself. "Alright, I stayed long enough to say hi, but I've got to jet, duty calls."
"Be safe, dear," Sue gave her daughter a kiss on the cheek before she left. It had been comical seeing the younger woman lean down so her mother could give her a kiss goodbye.
"Always," with that Leah began jogging off into the woods.
"Is Leah a forest ranger or something?" Bella secretly toyed with the cardigan in her arms.
Sue quickly glanced over Bella and smiled, "Something of the sort, yes."
"That's cool," Bella let herself be led into the home.
"I'm in the program too," Seth beamed, "so if I'm ever not around that'll be why. We have schedules but can get called in sometimes."
Nodding her head in understanding she quietly looked around the house. It was homey in a way that both her parents houses hadn't been. It definitely felt nicer than the Cullen's home. Their home was like a museum, always pristine with their history out in discreet ways. This home felt lived in. Though it was summer and the A.C. was on here there was a general warmth to the house. Sue pointed Bella in the direction of the room she would be staying in, letting her know that the bathroom was to the left of her door.
While in the shower Bella thought about the bonfire she was about to attend. When she was very little, a babe in arms, she had been to one. There was a picture on the old mantle at the Forks house; well, there had been one of Billy and Charlie in front of a large fire with Bella in her father's arms. She was excitedly holding a broken shell out with a gummy smile. It was one of her father's favorite photos of the time where she and Renee had been with him. Being invited to this bonfire now was a big deal, and oh man did she want to talk to Billy and Old Quil about the tribal histories and old artifacts. Maybe she could write a paper or research something that would help the tribe due to what the Elders told her. Within half an hour Bella was ready to go in a pair of jeans and UA tee, so they piled back into the car for the short trip to First Beach. Bella could feel the heat radiating from Seth and asked if he was okay or getting sick.
"I'm good, Bella, I went for a quick run while you were getting ready so I must still be warm from that." His smile was large and pure but Bella felt like what he said wasn't quite the case. However, she let it be. She didn't want to push anything out of her soon-to-be brother; she wanted a good relationship with him.
"Alright, just let me know if you need an ibuprofen or anything if you do start feeling ill. I always carry some."
"Good to know, if I ever need it I will come to you posthaste!" He chuckled then with a grand flourish they were parked and getting out.
Bella smiled at Seth sticking to her side while their parents went up ahead of them. He really was a sweet kid. He let Bella make the pace, and while it wasn't too noticeably slow to Seth since he wasn't yet aware of how quickly she moved Bella was definitely slower than usual. It was finally hitting her that she would be seeing Jake for the first time after over a year apart.
Gods, Bella closed her eyes for a moment. I wish Angie were here too. This would be so much easier knowing she was here for support. This is something that needs to be done though. Alright, Swan, it's Big Girl Pants time. You can do this.
"You okay, Bella?" Apparently she was taking longer than she thought.
"Yeah, Seth, just a little tired from all the traveling. No big." She patted the copper forearm lightly in reassurance before they continued on to where the crowd of people was.
Bella saw the Elders to one side of the fire, sitting down and talking with Sue and Charlie. She saw them glance at her and she waved a little. Before leaving for college she had found out that Old Quil had married her great aunt, so she decided to go over before attempting to say hi to the younger generation.
"Hey Uncle Quil, I hope you've been doing well." Bella spoke loud enough for the older man to hear, but was still considered soft.
The man looked at her, it felt like he was peering into her soul, and he smiled. "Glad you seem to be doing better, Little Swan. Are you excited to hear the histories?"
Bella nodded enthusiastically, "Absolutely!"
"Good, it is important that we pass these stories on to the next generation. If you want to hear more after tonight don't be afraid to come by."
A swell of happiness filled Bella, she had been wondering how to bring it up to him and now it wasn't an issue. "I will be sure to drop by Sunday before I leave, thank you!"
"Hello Bella," Billy Black's deep voice made her turn her head a bit to the left.
"Chief Black," Bella nodded. "It's an honor to be invited to this now that I'm old enough to understand."
Billy looked into her eyes, "Thank you for the respect, but it's always just Billy for you, Kid. Your father heard the legends and histories when he was about your age, your family shares this history, and your stepmother is an Elder on the council, it was about time this happened." He reached out his large hand for hers. "We are glad you are back here, you have been missed. Now, enough chit-chat with the old folks, go help Emily Uley in her effort to keep the food safe from my son and his friends."
Bella shifted from her left to her right foot before she hesitantly nodded. Bella made her way over to the large group that Seth had meandered to while she was talking. The boy was currently in some kind of headlock by one of the older guys. If she wasn't as nervous as she was Bella would have laughed about it. But she was nervous. Her stomach flipped and she fought back a physical gag.
Come on. Bella berated herself in her mind, don't be such a wimp.
As she began taking stronger footsteps over to the rowdy bunch the one who had Seth in a headlock, supporting some of the boys weight, looked up; he was smiling and oh what a smile it was. His bright grin was confident almost to the point of being cocky. He was clearly enjoying the perfect summer evening beach bonfire with his friends and family. His eyes widened when their eyes met and she felt almost frozen. She knew that her body was moving towards them, but it was like everything had gone away for a moment. Bella barely registered Seth dropping because the weight that had previously been there was suddenly gone. However, she did still register it and that's what had broken the spell for Bella. She rushed forward to make sure Seth was okay.
"Seth, are you okay?" Bella went to help him up, but he laughed and waved it off before he started swiping the sand off of his hands and shins.
"I'm good, Bella! No worries," He threw a thumbs up and she let out a little chuckle.
"Alright," Sparing a glance to Mr. Headlock brought a traitorous blush to her cheeks. She cleared her throat and looked about the group. They seemed to be a little shocked or shaken over something, but Bella dismissed it. "I recognize Jake, Quil, Embry and Sam, but I'm afraid I don't know the rest of you."
Seth threw an arm over her shoulders and started naming people, if she was completely honest she didn't really care, she knew she was likely to forget the names on a day where she didn't see a man as gorgeous as Mr. Headlock, but now? Forget it. The two names she didn't forget were Emily, as she was the one the Elders told her to help, and Paul. Seth had been about to say his name when the man himself interrupted.
"Paul Lahote, I work with Charlie and will also be walking you down the aisle."
"Bella," She reached her hand out for his with a blush and a shy smile at Paul before turning her gaze to the others. "It's a pleasure to meet you—all of you. Um, Emily, Billy told me that you may need my help keeping these wolves away from the food?"
Emily let out a strange laugh, "Did he?"
"Well, not those words specifically," a nervous chuckle escaped. "But the sentiment was there. I mean, it was definitely implied. So, uh, what do you need me to do?"
"I've actually got this all covered and you just got back, so don't worry about it! Go sit by the fire or take a walk if you want. If I really have to I have Sam to talk some sense into them."
Bella nodded, "Well, if you do need help with anything give a holler or send someone to grab me, I think I may take that walk."
With that Bella turned around, dropped her shoes off by the logs, and began walking towards the surf. She grabbed her phone out of her back pocket and once she deemed it far enough from the group she called Angela. She thought about just a text, but this required the actual voice of logic.
That moment with Paul was alarming now that she wasn't in his vicinity. She had gone out with a few people in college so far, one or two dates tops, maybe meeting up at a house party, but this felt like that silly romantic nonsense Renee mooned about, and that she herself had once believed in. Was she ready for that? Maybe? She never did like casual dating, and well, she had Angie to think about.
The cold water of the Pacific lapped at her feet as her thoughts raced.
"Bella? Are you okay?" Angela's worried voice came through. They had talked about this possibly happening and Angie had, of course, told her that if Bella needed her she would do whatever needed for that emotional support.
"Yes, maybe, I'm not entirely sure? There's a guy here and I swear to god, Angie, it was like a total romcom moment."
"Shut the hell up!" This exclamation let Bella know that she wasn't near her parents or little brothers. Bella heard someone asking Angela if everything was okay. She probably ran into someone they knew at the grocery store. "You're joking."
"Serious as Professor Hathway is about Shakespeare."
It had been their one shared "freshman only" classes that admissions put all incoming students in at random. Bella and Angela had ended up in a European Lit class with Professor Hathway. Their professor was a woman in her mid-forties, with bobbed brown hair and gray roots, these smaller circular glasses, and a turtleneck no matter how hot it got. She taught a travel course every year that took the class to the UK. There were pictures all around her office of her with different classes in or by The Globe Theatre and ticket stubs from the performances. People knew not to bring up Shakespeare around the professor or else they would be held for some time listening to Hathway's thoughts on The Bard. The woman had held their class enough times from her need to finish a rant about one play or other.
"Oh shit."
AN: And that concludes part one! Please favorite and follow for an update when I post the second part. Thank you for reading, I hope you review with what you think happens next, or if you had any questions about anything, or just to let me know if it was good or not. I'm happy to answer reviews when I can and they light up my days :)
