FULL CIRCLE
By WynterC
Author's Notes: This takes place after the battle with Victoria in Eclipse. My intention is to each month publish a story in this series, taking the reader through a year. There will be some months that will be written from a different POV that I will indicate in the beginning. I hope everyone will enjoy.
Disclaimer: All characters associated with the Twilight series belong to Stephenie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended at any time.
Chapter 1
December
BPOV
I woke up to find the ground covered in snow. The sunless days had become more frequent making me want to stay in bed. The only reason I got up was because Alice was going to pick me up in less than an hour to go Christmas shopping.
I had counted myself lucky on being able to avoid such events since knowing the Cullens. Alice and her damn visions. She had seen me going shopping without her last week, and quickly came to the house to stop me as I was leaving. She begged for me to wait and go with her, claiming I was making all the wrong choices for my gifts. With Christmas only a week away, I couldn't put the task off any longer.
I threw on some clothes and stomped down the stairs, cursing myself for being such a pushover.
"Dad, what are you doing?" I walked in the kitchen to find Charlie on a chair hanging Christmas ornaments on the curtain rod above the sink.
"I'm trying to make this house look a little more festive," he replied, ignoring my scrutinizing gaze.
Charlie was under strict doctor orders to relax for the next several months. Over the summer, he had responded to a call of suspicious activity at one of the businesses in town. When he arrived, there were a couple of guys from California trying to break into the store. They were armed and opened fire on Chief Swan. He received three gunshot wounds: One to the hip, one to the shoulder, one to the heart. Luckily, Dr. Cullen was able to keep him alive until the hospital could fly him to Seattle where a cardiac specialist was waiting. The specialist said if Charlie's heart hadn't been so strong, he would have never made it through the surgery.
He accepted early retirement, but wasn't happy with it. He walks with a limp now, and has difficulty moving his left arm. The physical therapist said it could take a year, if not more, for him to fully recover from such a tragic accident. Not only is it the physical wounds he has to recover from, but the mental ones as well. He blames himself for being too relaxed on the job; allowing himself to get shot. Everyday, he calls the office to see if they caught the culprits, and everyday the answer is no. I would like to tell him they no longer existed, but to do that would incriminate the Cullens.
I was at their house when Alice got the vision of Charlie dying. Carlisle ran to his rescue taking only Rosalie and Esme to help him. No doubt the large amount of blood that was spilt was the reason behind Carlisle's decision. Edward, Alice, and Jasper stayed by my side, and took me to the hospital to wait for Charlie. Edward held my hand, Alice gave me updates on his condition, and Jasper kept me calm.
All Edward had to do was get close enough to Charlie to read his mind and see who shot him. Edward, Emmett, and Jasper passed judgment on the suspects, while Esme and I flew to Seattle to be with Charlie.
"I could have done that. All you have to do is ask," I said grabbing the chair.
"You do too much as it is." Charlie took my hand and eased himself to the floor. It made me worry to see how much he had aged in the past five months.
"If you push yourself too much, you're going to be worse off," I warned him.
He sat down at the table. "I'm sorry. I just feel so useless," he said putting his head in his hands.
"Nonsense. You keep me company."
"Which I shouldn't have to do. You should have gone ahead with your wedding plans, Bells. You should have gone ahead with your life. This isn't being fair to you."
My life was a sore subject. Charlie got shot two weeks before I was supposed to have married Edward. A month before I was supposed to have become a vampire. Edward completely understood my wanting to postpone the wedding when Charlie was hanging on to life by a thread. Edward didn't understand when I broke-up with him all together.
Once again, I placed my parents needs before my own desires. Charlie asked very little from me: Graduate high school, which I did, and obey the law. He needed someone to be with him and help him until he could get back on his feet. I couldn't take care of him if I was struggling with the craving for blood. His rehabilitation was going to be a long journey, and it didn't feel right to drag Edward along on a string. I didn't know when I would be able, if I would ever be able, to set a definite wedding date.
What really annoyed Edward and Charlie, was when I cancelled my college plans. The money wasn't there and I wasn't going to take the Cullens offer to pay. They had already been too generous in helping with Charlie's medical bills. I decided to hold off on going to college and took a job working in the cafeteria at school. Not a glamorous job, but it paid well and the hours were great.
"Dad, you aren't the reason Edward and I broke up. How many times do I have to tell you that? Promise me, you won't do anything while I'm gone. I would like to enjoy my time out, without having to worry about you falling off of chairs or ladders."
"Sure."
There were three quick knocks on the front door, and I yelled for Alice to come in. She skipped into the kitchen and lightly planted a kiss on Charlie's cheek.
"Good God, it must be freezing out there," Charlie shuddered.
Alice winked at me, "Don't you love it?"
"What is your family planning for Christmas?" Charlie asked, motioning for her to sit.
"Mom and Dad are staying with some friends in Alaska. It's not often Dad gets off from the hospital, and there were some -- complaints -- about their friends coming here, so they're going there. Rosalie and Emmett left this morning to fly to Paris for Christmas. The rest of us are staying home. Would you like to come and spend Christmas Eve with us?" Alice batted her eyelashes at Charlie.
"I think I'm going to stay home. This cold weather make my joints ache." Charlie gave an apologetic grin. "Bella should be free. No reason she can't spend Christmas Eve with you guys."
Alice beamed her bright teeth at me.
"Dad, how do you know I don't already have plans?"
"Oh please, Bella." Alice rolled her eyes. "Sipping hot coco while reading a book doesn't count. You can do that anytime."
"It just so happens, the Blacks have asked Dad and me to their house Christmas Eve, and I've already accepted their invitation."
"Billy hasn't mentioned it to me," Charlie said.
"Jacob asked me a few days ago. I didn't figure you would object."
"No, that's fine." Charlie turned to Alice, who had started pouting, "Why don't you and your brothers join us there?"
"At La Push?" Alice asked in shock.
"I know they aren't overly friendly toward you guys, but can't we be willing to put differences aside? It's Christmas, for Pete's sake."
Alice threw me a glance that caused my breath to catch in my throat. "I'll ask Jasper and Edward, but you better clear it with the Blacks first. Their rules." Alice jumped up from the table and headed towards the door. "Don't wait up for us Charlie. If you need anything, Edward said to call him."
I grabbed my bag and followed Alice to her yellow Porsche. She was out of the drive and down the road before I had time to secure my seatbelt.
"Well, that's a fine mess you've gotten us into." Alice took a sharp turn that slammed me into the passenger door.
"What?"
"Can you see us opening presents with that pack of dogs?" Alice's laughter rang like a bell.
"I'm sure if Charlie understood the reasoning behind the hatred you all share, he wouldn't have suggested it," I bit back. The myths had been correct: Vampires and werewolves didn't get along.
"Bella, Bella, Bella." A slow mischievous smile spread across Alice's face. "You're getting brave in your old age."
That was a low blow. Alice knew how delicate the topic of age was. I was acutely aware that I was now nineteen years old; two years older than Edward.
"Take me back home," I demanded.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that. I'll behave from here on out, I promise." Alice crossed her heart with her index finger and held her pinky out towards me to swear on it. I couldn't stay mad at her for very long and grabbed her pinky with mine.
With Alice driving, the trip to Seattle took less than an hour. I had gotten used to the Cullens driving habits, among other things they did. The mall was crowded with several holiday shoppers. We walked into the main entrance and Alice beamed with excitement.
"Let the fun begin," she jubilantly announced. I moaned as she locked arms with me, and pulled me towards the multitude of people.
We started in one of the most expensive stores in the mall. Alice was adamant that I should get everyone, except Jacob, a trendy outfit. However, personal gifts were more my style, so I disagreed with her. Why Alice wanted clothes for her and Rosalie was preposterous. They had clothes in their closet with price tags still on them.
"Why don't we go our separate ways and meet back at the food court in three hours?" I pleaded, not wanting to see Alice's disapproving frown at every item I picked up.
"I'm here to help you, Bella," she explained as if I was a child. "It doesn't make sense to split up."
"I don't want to get clothes for everyone, Alice. If the gift is from me, it should be my idea, not yours."
Alice fumed, staring at me for a few moments.
"Okay, okay," she moaned. "But trust me when I say you have no taste. Will you at least let me pick out what I want you to get me?"
"No. If I buy something hideous -- like it anyway. It's the thought that counts. And don't be peeking." I warned referring to her visions.
Alice glared at me. "Fine. Three hours," she growled and stormed off into Victoria's Secret.
I walked the isles of the mall, set out to find the perfect gift for the loved ones on my list. I took out the tightly folded piece of paper and pondered on how to spread five hundred dollars among thirteen people.
The gifts for Billy and Sue were from Charlie. I managed to find a new hat for Billy, and got Sue a small turquoise jewelry box along with a pair of earrings. I picked up a new video game for Emmett. For Carlisle, I found a painting of a man gently tending to a small girl. Esme's gift was wooden wind chimes to hang in her garden. I bought Jasper a pocket watch with the rebel flag on the front and got Rosalie some candles. I giggled at the register when I bought the movie Confessions of a Shopaholic for Alice. I also bought her a plaque that had a poem about sisters and two girls holding hands. Renee's mother figurine, and Phil's World Series book, would be sent by air.
There were only three more people I had to buy for. The three most important people in my life. I ended up getting Charlie a hunting game that plugs into the television. Since he wasn't able to get out and hunt, I thought it would be nice to bring hunting to him. I came across an old, sterling silver wolf ring that reminded me of Jacob, so I bought it. I was at a loss on what to get Edward. I laughed to myself at the thought of going to a blood bank and having them give me a bag of my own blood to give as a Christmas gift. I settled on something little less personal; a CD of Frank Sinatra's best collection.
Alice was waiting on me in the food court with an untouched frappuccino sitting in front of her.
"Did you have fun all by yourself?" she asked, obviously still upset not being able to watch my every move.
I sat down and bit into my slice of pizza. "It wasn't that I didn't want you around, Alice, I just wanted to be able to pick out my own gifts."
Alice waited for me to have my gifts wrapped. During Christmas, the mall offered to wrap gifts for a donation fee only. I put in the remainder of what money I had left in the donation canister. After the gifts were wrapped, we grabbed our bags and headed back to Forks.
My heart dropped to my stomach when we pulled up to the house and the silver Volvo was sitting in the front yard. I bolted out of the car and ran inside to see what was wrong with Charlie. When I flung the door open, Edward and Charlie turned from the football game that was on and stared at me. Edward was immediately at my side.
"What's wrong?" he asked, grabbing my shoulders.
"Nothing. What's wrong here?" I responded trying to get my emotions under control. My heart was already pounding from the fear of thinking something had happened to Charlie. Being so close to Edward only it pound that much harder.
"Bells," Charlie called from his recliner, turning his attention back to the game, "I wish you would stop worrying about me. Edward brought over some food, and no doubt to keep an eye on me while you were gone."
Edward relaxed his grip on me, backed away, and sighed a relief when he realized I was fine. It frustrated him not being able to read my mind.
"How was your shopping trip?" His smile was irresistibly devastating.
"Exhausting," I replied, turning my eyes away from his gaze.
"Don't expect a fabulous gift from her," Alice chimed in as she sat down on the couch. "She refused to let me help."
Edward ignored his sister. "Sit down and rest. I'll bring your bags in." He headed towards the door and I followed him outside.
"Thanks for bringing Charlie something to eat. I was going to fix dinner when I got home."
He grinned over at me, grabbing the bags out of the Porsche. "I figured you would be dead on your feet by the time you got back from shopping with Alice."
"You don't have to keep doing this, Edward." He quirked his eyebrow questioningly. "I don't want you to feel like you still have to rescue me. Charlie is my concern, not yours."
"We're still friends, right?" I nodded my head to his question. "It's been a long time since I was human, but if I remember correctly, friends help friends."
"You're always helping me, Edward. I'm at a disadvantage here."
"Consider it returning a favor. You took Alice shopping so Jasper and I wouldn't have to. I brought Charlie food so you wouldn't have to cook." Even though I was sure he was appeasing me, I considered his excuse and determined it was an even trade.
"I really am thankful," I said as we walked back in the house.
Edward placed the bags down by the tree, and I knelt down to place them underneath attempting to get into the Christmas spirit.
"Bella," Alice said standing up, "thanks for a wonderful time. I need to head to the house and get my gifts under our tree." She gave Charlie and me a hug before she left.
"I guess I need to be on my way also." Edward looked at me hesitantly.
"Thanks for the company, Edward." Charlie smiled at him. Since his accident, Charlie seemed more appreciative of Edward and his family. "Anytime you want to come by, come. You don't have to get permission." Charlie looked at me and gave a quick nod towards Edward.
I sighed. "Yes, Edward -- anytime."
After they left, I went upstairs to take a long, hot bath and relax. I didn't know how much longer my charade with Edward could last. I had been without him before and the memories of the pain I felt then were still fresh. I took the time to look deep inside myself. Maybe I was using Charlie as an excuse not to marry him. Maybe, somewhere deep inside, I wanted to keep my humanity.
When I finished, I joined Charlie in the living room.
"Alice walk you to death?" Charlie grinned over at me.
"It wasn't too bad. I went my way and she went hers."
"I called Billy Black today about Christmas Eve." I gave a low chuckle imagining Billy's face when Charlie asked if the Cullens could join the Christmas dinner. "I explained to him that it was only going to be three of the Cullens since the rest were out of town."
"And?" I urged Charlie when he got side tracked, mesmerized in the game again.
"He said there could be some complications if they came." Charlie shook his head, "I just don't understand what some of those people have against them. Billy said he didn't mind, but that it might offend some of the others."
"Don't worry about it Dad," I said trying to ease his mind. "I doubt the Cullens would accept even if the invitation was open."
"I expected Billy to stand up for them. After Dr. Cullen helped Jacob with his injuries over the summer, then with mine. …"
"Dad, I'll invite them over for Christmas Day. It'll be fine."
The next few days flew by. I stayed busy, putting in extra hours at the library for the holiday season. I worked there every Friday night and Saturday morning. I decided to volunteer for extra hours for the holidays to keep my mind off the lack of Christmas joy I felt.
Christmas Eve, I was awakened to the sound of Christmas music blaring through the house. I put my robe on over my pajamas, and went downstairs where Charlie was bustling around in the kitchen.
"Did I wake you?" he asked smiling.
"No, the music did." I moped to the fridge for the milk carton. "What are you doing?"
"Trying to make a cheese ball." I laughed at the mess on the kitchen counter. "I said trying."
I sat at the table with my bowl of cereal, and watched Charlie attempt to make his cheese ball.
"No ones going to eat that, you know." I grinned as Charlie slowly turned around with an agitated look on his face.
"Them boys down at La Push will eat just about anything."
I was able to get a few chores done before it was time to gather the gifts and head to La Push. Despite the cold weather, the guys were outside playing football when we pulled up to the Clearwaters. Jacob ran over and helped carry in the gifts.
"Your friends aren't upset they weren't welcomed, are they?" Jacob asked once we got inside.
"No, they wouldn't have come if they had been invited. Their feelings are mutual," I replied feeling the need to defend the Cullens.
"Sure, sure."
A Christmas Story was blaring on the television. The adults were gathered in the kitchen sharing their tales of Christmas's past. The smell of food floated through the house.
"The gift you got me -- is it something I can open in front of everyone, or should I open it in private?" Jacob asked grinning ear to ear.
"I won't be embarrassed if you open it in front of everyone if that's what you're implying."
"Are you going to spend Christmas Day with the bloodsuckers?" I shot Jacob a warning glance. "Sorry, I meant to say Cullens."
"You said what you meant to say. And yes, I'll be seeing them tomorrow. Alice said they are going to come to our house. Something about Charlie's gift."
"Humph. Figures they'd try to kiss up to your old man. They probably bought him some expensive, one of a kind gift." Jacob's displeasure for the Cullens was genuine. Even if they weren't vampires and he a werewolf, they wouldn't get along. Maybe if I was out of the equation. …
"Jacob," Sue called from the kitchen, "tell everyone it's time to eat."
There was no need for a heater or a fire with the wolf pack crammed in the small house. Sue Clearwater had not been skimpy on the food. There was enough to feed an entire army -- or seven werewolves. Everyone piled their plates up high; stuffing their mouths before they sat down. I sat next to Seth at the old table they set up for the younger ones. There were several conversations going on at once and laughter rang throughout the house.
"You going to see Edward tomorrow?" Seth asked with a mouth full of mashed potatoes.
"I think so, why?"
"I have a gift for him in my room. Will you give it to him?"
"Sure."
Seth and Edward had become friends over the summer, thanks to Victoria's attempt to kill me. Seth was the only one in the pack that Edward could tolerate, and Seth was the only one that didn't have a problem with the Cullens.
"Who brought the cheese ball?" Quil asked turning his nose up.
"Dad made it," I replied. Quil gave a slow, understanding nod before cramming the rest that was on his plate in his mouth.
After everyone made sure there were no leftovers, we piled into the den and gathered around the Christmas tree to open gifts. They allowed Charlie the honor of playing Santa -- handing out the gifts. I hung around near the back, leaning against the wall with Jacob standing next to me.
"To Jacob from Bella," Charlie yelled over the sound of ripping paper. He threw Jacob the small box and continued his job, picking up another present from under the tree.
Jacob shook his gift, smiling. "Wonder what this could be?"
"Open it and find out," I said anxiously waiting to see his reaction.
He tore the paper off and opened the small gift box.
"If it doesn't fit, I'll take it to a jeweler and have it fixed," I said as his big fingers held the small, sterling silver ring. He placed it on his left ring finger and held it up for me to see.
"Fits perfectly -- sort of like us." Jacob's dark eyes gleamed with enjoyment. "Thank you." He leaned forward, his lips closing in on mine.
"To Bella from Jacob," Charlie yelled, giving me a reason to step away from Jacob.
"Better let me get that," Jacob said. "It might be too heavy for you." He crossed the room and took the large package from Charlie, placing it in front of me on the floor. "I've been wanting to give this to you, but I know how you don't like gifts."
Jacob's voice trailed off as I knelt down and slowly started to unwrap the gift. I opened the box and pulled out a shiny red motorcycle helmet. Underneath it was a black leather biker jacket.
"You really shouldn't have," I said trying on the jacket. "Charlie is going to blow a gasket." I smiled up at Jacob as I slipped the helmet on. "How do I look?"
"Like a hot biker chick. Now there is no excuse for you not to ride with me."
"As soon as the roads clear, I promise to go on a bike ride with you." I glanced over at Charlie who was frowning in my direction, not liking the gift Jacob had given me. "Charlie's mad at you."
Jacob looked over at him. "If this is going to get me some quality time alone with you, I'll live with Charlie's dislike."
Since my broken engagement with Edward, I didn't spend much time with him or Jacob. My days were filled with work and Charlie. The thought of being on an open road with Jacob, having the wind blow through my hair, brought a thrilling sensation.
"Thank you." I wrapped my arms around Jacobs waist to give him a hug. He gathered me into his large arms, holding me snugly. His body was so warm -- I closed my eyes, resting my head against his chest.
"Jacob, do you mind helping me carry this to the car?" Charlie asked interrupting our embrace.
"Sure, sure." Jacob sighed releasing his hold, and helped Charlie take his new hunting boots and rod and reel to the car, along with my helmet and jacket.
Jacob and I stood by the car, waiting for Charlie to say his goodbyes. Up and down the road, houses were lit up with Christmas lights. I leaned against the car, bundled up in my jacket, while Jacob stood in front of me only wearing a t-shirt.
"What are you doing for New Years?" Jacob asked.
"Probably watch the ball drop in New York from inside a warm house. You?"
"We're planning on doing some fireworks and having a party on the beach. Why don't you join us? You can be my date." Jacob smiled down at me.
"It's going to be a difficult time for Charlie," I said, averting his gaze.
"Bring Charlie. He can watch the ball drop with my dad and some of the other adults."
"I'll see."
"You've never seen anything more beautiful than fireworks over the ocean. Well, I lied," Jacob said as he took a step closer to me, "you see something more beautiful every time you look in a mirror." He reached in his pocket and pulled out a mistletoe. He dangled it over my head. "Merry Christmas, Bella."
"Merry Christmas, Jacob."
Jacob bent down. His warm lips tenderly touched my cold ones. He placed one of his hands on my waist and pulled me towards him. The sound of the screen door slamming in the background, rattled my senses and I gently removed myself from his warm embrace.
"Bella, Bella." Seth yelled running out to the car. "Don't forget this." He handed me a Christmas gift bag. "It's not much, but I'm pretty sure he'll like it."
"What is it?" Jacob asked trying to take the bag out of my hand.
"It's Edward's," Seth warned.
Jacob rolled his eyes, "Oh, please. What time are they suppose to be making an appearance at your house tomorrow? I might just show up with some gifts of my own."
"I don't know when they're coming, but I don't want any trouble."
"Thanks, Bella," Seth said as he turned around and ran back towards the house.
"What did you get him?" Jacob asked in a nonchalant tone as he looked at his new ring.
"A CD."
A grin spread across Jacob's face.
"Sorry it took me so long. Billy and I were talking about plans to use my new rod and reel in the spring." Charlie slowly sat down on the passenger side of the car.
"Bye. Thanks for the helmet and jacket." Jacob opened the door for me to get in.
"Bye. See you tomorrow," Jacob said slamming the door shut. He took off before I had a chance to protest.
"Jacob coming tomorrow too?" Charlie asked as I pulled away from the house.
"He was just trying to get under my skin." I hoped Jacob wasn't being serious.
We got home and I carried in my gift and Charlie's boots, and he carried his new fishing toy. We each said goodnight, and headed off to bed. I was thankful that I didn't have to spend all day in the kitchen preparing for the Cullens visit tomorrow.
I dragged myself out of bed Christmas Day, hoping to be able to make it through the day without any glitches. I showered and straitened the house, awaiting the arrival of our guests. Charlie was seated in his recliner in front of the television.
"Dad, why don't we go ahead and exchange our gifts while we're waiting?"
Charlie agreed and I handed him his gift while I grabbed my card off the mantle.
"I know you hate gifts, and I'm not a great shopper. I figured a gift card would be the easiest thing to do," Charlie explained as I opened the card.
"It's perfect. Thanks, Dad."
Charlie opened his and laughed. "I can put on my new hunting boots while I play this thing and it will be just like I'm really hunting, huh?"
"That was the idea."
I fixed us a couple of steaks with baked potatoes for our Christmas dinner. Charlie was asleep in his recliner, and I was cleaning up the kitchen when the carbon black metallic H3 Alpha pulled up in the front yard.
"Whose vehicle is that?" I asked Alice as I greeted her at the door.
"I don't know. I think it belongs to all of us." She kissed me lightly on the cheek and walked in the house with ten Christmas gift bags.
"Who all did you buy for?"
"Oh, these are yours," she said smiling and placing them under the tree. "Charlie, we're here."
Charlie jolted awake. "Sorry, I must have dozed off. Where are the boys?"
Just then, Edward and Jasper came walking through the front door, to my horror, carrying more bags.
"Merry Christmas," Charlie said raising up and offering them each his hand. "I would offer you something to eat, but Bella said you were going to eat before you came over."
Jasper smiled over at me. "Yes, sir."
"Alright, Jasper." Edward turned and eyed the television. "We have to move this out of the way."
Jasper got on one side of the television and Edward on the other. They picked it up and started towards the front door.
"Where are you taking my television," Charlie yelled, eyes wide in surprise.
"Don't worry, Charlie," Alice assured him. "They're going to bring one back."
Not long after they left with the old television, they came back inside with a 55" flat screen television.
"What the hell?" Charlie sat back in his chair speechless while Edward and Jasper set up his new gift.
"Hope you don't mind," Edward said stepping back to admire the big picture on the screen. "That smaller one you had was making my eyes go bad. A technician will be here next week to install your satellite."
"Edward," I said, "we need to talk about this before you have him hook it up."
"Don't worry about the fee. Carlisle is going to put on his bill."
I stood staring dumbfounded at his smiling face.
"Edward, I can't accept that." Charlie continued to stare and drool at the television. "Getting me this TV is too much as it is, but paying for my monthly bill -- I won't let you do it."
"Charlie, please," Edward's gleaming topaz eyes turned to Charlie. "My family wants to do this for you. We wouldn't be paying for another whole account. It will just be a few extra dollars a month. But if you were paying for it, you would be paying close to eighty bucks extra. It's a deal we were able to get with the satellite company."
Charlie glanced uncertainly towards Alice who offered him a smile. "If it's a good deal, but I'm going to pay you the difference." Edward gave a short nod and sat down on the couch next to Alice.
"Bella, you want to pass them their gifts?" Charlie asked unable to take his eyes off his new Christmas gift.
I walked over to the tree and dug behind all their Christmas bags to find their small gifts. I handed Jasper his first and he patiently waited for me to give Alice and Edward theirs before they opened them together. Alice giggled when she saw the movie I had got her. Then she was speechless when she read the sister plaque. Jasper thanked me for the rebel pocket watch and placed it in the inside pocket of his wool jacket.
Edward opened his gift and smiled. "I love to listen to Ole' Blue Eyes sing."
"You're a little too young to like his music, aren't you?" Charlie asked taking the CD from him and looking at the songs.
"You're never too old for truly great talent," Edward answered.
"Your turn, Bella." Alice jumped up and sat me down on the couch between Edward and Jasper. "Five of the bags are from me, then there are three from Carlisle and Esme, one from Emmett, three from Rosalie, two from Jasper, and two from Edward."
"I can't take all of those."
"It's Christmas," Alice argued.
"Alice --"
"Bella." Her fierce eyes bore into mine.
"Jasper, you hunt?" Charlie asked, his voice strained.
"Yes, sir."
Charlie reached down and handed over his hunting game I bought him. "Bella got me this for Christmas. How about hooking it up to the fancy TV and let us play a couple of games." Jasper got up and did as Charlie requested.
I jumped up off the couch and went outside for some fresh air with Edward following right behind me.
"You had no right to buy such an expensive gift for Charlie without talking to me about it first." I whirled around to face him, my words hot with anger.
Edward looked baffled. "Why should we have to ask you if we can buy your father a gift?"
I felt restless and irritable. "A very large, expensive gift for a man that happens to be your ex-fiancé's father," I explained, my tone sharp and short.
"I didn't think you would mind. I guess we can take it back. I'm sorry if we upset you."
I shook my head wearily, some of my anger resending. "No, he looked like a toddler on -- Christmas morning. Just because I don't like it doesn't mean he should suffer for it. I just wished you would quit treating us like a charity case. It's embarrassing."
"Embarrassing?"
"With all those clothes. I work in a cafeteria, when and where am I going to wear all those clothes?"
"Bella, Alice loves to shop." A small smile played at the corner of his lips. "She's always buying us clothes. What do you think she got us for Christmas?"
"What about the bags from everyone else?"
"Alice put our names on the gifts. She bought it all -- except this." He pulled an envelope out of his jacket pocket. "This is from me -- personally."
I paused before reaching out and taking the envelope from his pale hand. Cautiously, I opened it and pulled out two tickets for a Caribbean Cruise.
"What's this?"
"I thought you would enjoy taking a week off to do nothing but relax. After the hard winter we're expecting, a cruise in the sun should be welcoming."
I looked at the tickets. There was no date posted on them, all I had to do was call and make arrangements when I planned on going. The last time I went on a vacation was when Edward and I visited Renee in Jacksonville my senior spring break. Edward had to stay indoors during the daytime because of the sun.
"Who does the second ticket belong to?"
He answered me in a smooth tone. "Whomever you wish for it to belong to."
"So, if I took Charlie, you wouldn't mind?" He smiled and shook his head no. I knew I shouldn't have, but I tested the waters with Edward a little further. "What if I decided to take Jacob Black?"
His smile vanished and was quickly replaced with a frown. "I would prefer you didn't take him."
"But its my tickets."
"Yes, they are," Edward said through clenched teeth. He closed his eyes and took a breath, "If you wish to give the second ticket to Jacob, that would be fine also." There was silence between us as the snow continued to lightly fall to the ground. "What did he get you for Christmas?"
"Clothes," I whispered. Edward disliked my motorcycle riding as much as Charlie. I glanced up at him to find him staring at me with an amused look on his face. "What?"
"Clothes?" Suddenly, his eyes lost their amusement and the grin froze on his face. "What kind of clothes?" he asked hesitantly.
"A helmet and biker jacket," I said firmly.
Edward's eyes flashed with outrage. "Why did he get you something so -- senseless?"
"We're going to take a bike trip as soon as the weather clears up," I said lifting my chin and meeting his icy gaze.
"Does Charlie know about this?"
"Not yet. Are you going to run in there and tell him?"
"I'm not a tattletale like Jacob Black," he responded cold and challenging.
"No, you're just a control freak," I mumbled bitterly back at him.
"Forgive me if I don't want you getting hurt."
"What do you want to do, Edward? Roll me up in bubble wrap and store me safely away in a padded room?" His eyes quickly shifted away from my glare. "Oh my God," I whispered as reality sank in. "That is exactly what you would do."
"Don't be ridiculous, Bella." The edge he had in his tone earlier was gone. He rolled his eyes and scoffed at my accusation. "How many times have I encouraged you to live a full life?"
"Sure, sure. You want me to experience all of life's stepping stones, as long as I am under your watchful eye."
My comment caused a pained look on Edward's face.
"Can't you understand why I am so protective of you?" Edward pleaded. His cold fingers lightly brushed against my cheek sending a jolt of electricity to my heart. Reluctantly, I turned away from his touch.
"I'm not your responsibility anymore." I couldn't look him in the eye. I would lose all courage if I had any contact with him at all. "I think we need a break from seeing each other. I hoped we could be normal friends, but it isn't working out." If it hadn't been for the northern winds freezing my body in place, I would've collapsed.
"I understand," Edward said in his smooth, velvety voice. "Is it just -- me -- you don't want to see, or the whole family?"
"I think a break from the whole family, for now, is what is best." I stared off into the dead forest, resisting the rise of hysteria that was threatening to overtake me. Edward had used the words -- "clean break" -- when he abandoned me a little over a year ago. Now, here I was freely walking away from my life.
"We better get inside before you turn into a popsicle."
Edward held the door open for me as we walked in the living room to join the others. Jasper was still playing the hunting game with Charlie. My eyes darted around the room looking for Alice.
"Alice," Edward said just above a whisper, "we need to leave."
Alice came skipping downstairs with an arm full of empty Christmas bags.
"I hope you don't mind, but I rearranged your closet," Alice said.
I sighed and shook my head. "I don't guess I have a choice now, do I?"
Alice's bright eyes quickly glanced from my face, to Edward's, then back to mine. "Are you two okay? It's Christmas. Why the gloomy face? You worked things out, right?" her voice sounding shrilled and panicked.
"Alice," Edward started, "we are going to take a break from each other." I watched as Alice's eyes widened with alarm. "Yes, all of us," Edward answered her telepathic question.
"Is it me?" Alice asked grabbing my hands with her stone ones. "I'll take all the clothes back and I promise I'll stop."
"Alice, it's not just you." I pulled my hands from her grip and wrapped my arms around myself. "I just feel like I need a break. This isn't forever."
"I don't know that," Alice said with bitterness in her tone. "Because of some of the people, you hang out with, my visions aren't as clear as they used to be."
"My decision doesn't need a psychic reading. I just need a few months of me time. I haven't had that since Italy." I could feel Edward's body stiffen next to me.
"You almost beat me, Jasper." Charlie got to his feet and turned off his new game. "We'll have to really go hunting next year when I'm able to walk better."
"Yes, sir," Jasper replied.
"Well guys," Charlie said as he joined us at the foot of the stairs, "this has been fun, but I'm afraid this medicine I take makes me a little groggy. I have to go lay down, but you can stay as long as you want."
"We need to be leaving." Edward held his hand out to Charlie.
"Feels like you stayed outside too long," Charlie said as he shook Edward's hand. He leaned down and gave Alice a hug. "Thanks for the gift. I'll be sure to send Dr. Cullen the difference in the satellite payment. Tell your parents I hope they had a merry Christmas and maybe they can join us next year."
"Merry Christmas," all the Cullens said in unison.
Alice grabbed Jasper by the arm and led him to the door. Edward was behind them with me tagging along. My inner self was pleading with me not to let them leave. If they walk out this door, you're not guaranteed they will ever be back, the voice insisted.
"Bella, Merry Christmas. I'll watch the movie tonight and find a special place for my plaque." Alice gave me a hug then got in the back of the Hummer.
"Merry Christmas, Bella," Jasper said offering a smile and joined Alice in the backseat.
"Thank you for the CD." Edward stared at me, his eyes the shade of ancient amber. "Please, be careful. I'll always love --"
"Don't," I said quickly cutting him off. "I'm going to move on. You need to do the same." I couldn't stop him from hearing my heart beating heavily, rebuking my words. If he had heard my thoughts screaming for him not leave -- to love me forever just as I would always love him, he would have laughed at my outward display of stubbornness. But he couldn't read my thoughts.
"Merry Christmas."
There was no kiss goodbye; no one last touch. Edward turned and started walking towards the Hummer as I stood frozen, fighting the overwhelming desire to be with him.
"Wait," I yelled as Edward opened the driver door. I ran inside and grabbed the thin, unopened gift from under the tree. "I forgot to give you this." I handed him the gift. "It's from Seth."
Edward's fingers gracefully opened the gift without ripping the paper. A smile replaced his frown.
"Tell Seth I said it was a lovely gift and I will definitely use it." He held in his hand a brown leather bonded journal. "His gift should be arriving in a day or so."
I took the paper from him and watched him as he pulled out of my yard and disappeared down the road. "It's not forever," I repeated in low whisper, encouraging myself not to go running after the Hummer.
I'm not sure how long I stood motionless in the snow. My body was frozen on the outside, as well as on the inside. The only thing that pulled me back to reality was the steady ringing of the phone. Somehow, I managed to break free from my hypnotic state, and went inside. My numb fingers wrapped around the receiver as I placed it to my ear.
"Bella?" I heard Phil's distressed voice at the other end of the line.
"Phil, what's …"
"It's Renee." His voice choked on saying my mother's name. My breathing became labored as I waited for Phil to continue. "We came to Colorado Springs to the ski resort to spend Christmas. I'm so sorry, it's all my fault," he wailed.
"What is your fault?" I asked, squeezing my eyes shut, not wanting to hear his answer.
"She was going too fast. I couldn't stop her," he continued to sob.
"How bad is it, Phil?"
There was silence as Phil tried to get his breathing under control. I anxiously awaited to hear the diagnosis of my mother's condition. I guess I can bring her here and watch after her and Charlie. I've cancelled my life, why not, I thought as depression and stress washed over me.
"She's dead." I stood in the kitchen staring out the window in the dark night. There were no stars shining; the moon was covered with clouds. "Bella, Renee is dead."