Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Summary:
Bella and Charlie Swan change their identities with each new zip code. But will the town of Forks bring her the safety she always needed or will the past she is running from finally catch up to her? Rated M for language and future lemons.
Flightless Bird
Chapter 1
We had been driving most of the night and the sun was just starting to rise as we pulled into the sleepy town of Forks, WA. We left Denver quickly and quietly under the cover of night and stopped only once to get gas. I had slept most of the way, but now the questions would begin.
I should be used to this by now. Six cities in the last four years, and every one of them started like this. Each time we moved the pattern would repeat itself – pack up our few belongings, ditch the car, buy a car in cash if possible – if not boost one that would draw the least bit of attention, make stops only when necessary, keep my hood up and sunglasses on, and pay attention to my surroundings.
"What's your name?" Dad sighed from the driver seat. He leaned his head to the side and rubbed his forehead with his left hand that was propped up on the window of the door by his elbow. He knows how much I hate this, but it's necessary.
I say nothing as I read the signs on the stores we pass going through the center of town. Cullen Urgent Care, Newton's Outdoor Gear, Angela's Diner, Cullen Creations, Stanley's Stop and Go, Cullen Pharmacy. I swear the towns get smaller and smaller with each move. We will no doubt be in a remote Alaskan village next. I shiver at the thought and return to reality.
"Come on Kiddo" he says, gently nudging me with his elbow.
"Bella Swan" I grit out with no emotion. I feel like a robot, just going through the motions. I roll my eyes as the corner of his lip turns up slightly in a sympathetic grin. He knows that I hate this, I have told him since our first move. At least this time he is not insisting I dye my hair. In Phoenix he made me bleach my hair, told me it would help me blend in better. We were only there for six months before we moved on.
"What's my name?" He asks. His eyes return to the road as the questions resume.
"Charlie Swan" I sigh and resume my inspection of the town.
"Where are you from?"
"Dad, do we really need to keep doing this? I know the drill, I promise I won't mess up." I plead as my head falls back against the seat as I gaze up at the faded blue material of the roof of the car.
"Where are you from Kiddo?" He repeats, pretending he didn't hear me.
"Denver" I groan.
"No, Kiddo, its Portland, remember?" He sighs, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Right, sorry." I say closing my eyes and praying he doesn't start from the beginning yet again.
"Let's start over," he says, "What's your name?"
"Bella Swan" I repeat.