NEW ECLIPSE

***UPDATED 7/2/2019***

Chapter 2: "Natural Instincts"

BELLA:

Things were getting back to normal. Edward was at my side at all times, as he promised he would be when we returned from Italy. That alone was a joy by itself. Things were ...good, we were headed back to 'pre-zombie' lives —in less time than I would have believed possible.

The hospital welcomed Carlisle back with eager arms, not even bothering to conceal their delight that Esme had found life in L.A. so little to her liking. But that just showed me how much he was needed respected and even loved by his peers. Or how greedy they were for more updated equipment if Rose's snide remarks were factored in. Either way, they were happy to have him. Which makes it a real shame knowing that he would have to move again and soon.

As for Edward and I, we have not forgotten our previous conversation, but we said all we needed to say. Although I would never allow him to sacrifice all for the sake of protecting my choice, his willingness to do so really showed me something about him. Because even though he was being absolutely ridiculous at the time, and showed me that his arrogance could still soar to heights that could surprise even me; I have to say I have never felt so loved and cherished by another when he said what he said.

He truly loved me, and I, him.

Thanks to the Calculus test I'd missed while I was 'abroad', both Alice and Edward were in better shape to graduate than I was at the moment. I would have to study harder to get my grades up.

To me, it was bad enough that Edward has advantages to me in everything already; I won't fall behind him academically. I was determined to let him show him that his one colossal brain wasn't the only one between us.

I'm sure Edward wouldn't mind being my study partner if I asked, he'll probably offer to do so soon and use it as an excuse to remain close by; and I wouldn't mind that, I wouldn't mind that one bit.

This was our senior year, so college was the priority. Everyone wanted to know who was going where and why, but I already knew my where and why. Unlike most scrambling to get applications into any college in the biggest city they can think of, I, on the other hand, had a good bead on what I would be doing after graduation. So college was plan B.

I kept the idea of it around just on the off chance that Edward's offer slash declaration swayed me from the post-graduation Carlisle option. Even If Edward was able to do so, I would only entertain the idea of a single semester and no more. There was no need for us to selfishly risk everyone's lives in a foolish attempt to ply me with as many human experiences as possible. Unless Edward wanted to add being murdered to that list.

Edward kept me amply supplied with new stacks of applications for me to fill almost every other day. Whether he was doing this as cover for Charlie and any other onlookers, or If he really intended for me to attend some Ivy League school next year, I didn't know. Either way, he is playing his role of high school senior going to college well.

Speaking of Charlie... as great as things were becoming again, Charlie was turning out to be the fly buzzing around our picnic.

Charlie was not happy with me. Specifically, my supposed ' 'easy' choice to take back Edward so quickly. Renee was not happy either. From her perspective, because of what he put me through, I should have had him on knees and kept him there for weeks while I gave myself time to think on it.

But what purpose would that serve? Would continued separation be beneficial for either of us? NO. I needed him with me, next to me, holding me, convincing me that he loved me. I needed that hole in my chest closed. No, making him beg would have prolonged all of that, and that is not what either of us wanted. So I took my parents shame and spite for my decision, knowing full well, they wouldn't like most of my decisions going forward.

Still, I needed to make time for them. If we held to the original schedule, I would be changed by Carlisle sometime after graduation, and that would be that. But with the need to get closer, I also needed to begin my separation from them.

Therein lies another sleeping issue. How do I separate myself emotionally, while trying to be close at the same time? It was a fine line, one that so thin and delicate that if I stepped off the path in the slightest, it will be as if I just have to rip myself out of their lives; and I didn't want that. They were undeserving of that pain, so I was on a personal quest to find some middle ground to showed them I cared for them while I was here, and at the same time, try to make myself as insignificant to their day to day lives as any daughter who knew she was going away and never coming back could.

Speaking of parents, another issue I was having was my shrinking independence. I was eighteen years old, and have been taking care of myself and raised my mother since I was nine, and now I was 'grounded'. It seemed almost too ridiculous since I've been the adult in our relationship for years now. Okay, Yes...I was wrong to just leave for three days, and the fact that I did so after one of my father's oldest friends just died, and topped that by coming back with Edward; didn't win me any awards either.

But I can't believe that Charlie would be so transparent. His punishment was clearly designed to keep Edward and I separated. Edward was allowed—during my designated visiting hours—inside the house. But I wasn't allowed out of it, and that's the way it would stay until I was thirty if Charlie had his way.

School and work were the only exceptions, although Charlie tried to sweet talk Ms. Cobb into removing Edward from any of my classes, but that failed. It was our good fortune that the same excuse that didn't allow Edward to transfer out our biology class when we first met, was the same excuse that he couldn't be moved out of my classes now. All other classes were filled.

When Edward brought this to my attention, Charlie went without dinner that night. He said nothing, but I know he knew why I was letting him go hungry.

It was funny, the dreary, dull yellow walls of my classrooms had become oddly inviting to me lately. That had a lot to do with the person who sat on the desk beside me. Edward blessedly keeping his schedule from the beginning of the year put him in most of my classes again. Thank god for small miracles. Because that's exactly what he was, my own personal miracle.

But all that glitters is not gold. High school's lifeblood is gossip, and what could be better gossip than the return of the Cullen's.

Specifically, Edward Cullen's return to the broken girl he left behind without a word or a way to keep in touch.

If we were determined to forget and move on; the student population of Forks was equally determined to remind us every chance they got. As I said, my classes were better because of Edwards's presence. But the journey to those classes was like walking a gauntlet of stares and whispers and the occasional disapproving head shake. And that was every day, 5 days a week.

It was twice as bad when Edward and Alice didn't come to school on sunny days. Those days I had to face alone with no relief whatsoever.

Still, the knowledge of knowing Edward was not here to hear the thoughts of others and seeing everything that he did to me while he was away was small comfort. I wanted us to put it behind us as quickly as possible, but with a constant barrage of reminders, I really don't know how he could.

For once I had to agree with Edward, his gift was truly a curse when it came to situations like this.

The disdain most of the students had for my choice to forgive Edward 'so easily' for everything he has done, matched that of my parents. They too would like to have seen him beg or grovel. From what Edward has told me, some of the male population wouldn't have minded in the least if I used them to get back and Edward. Ugh, a disgusting idea.

Mike Newton, the assumed leader of the use me Bella squad, was always eager to take any advantage. He had kept a safe distance from me since Edward was back in his place at my side. But I don't think that will last much longer. The natives were growing restless.

Rumors all the way down to '6th person hearsay' weren't going to be enough anymore. They would all want details, and in copious amounts; and they would want it soon.

Not that we cared.

Today was Friday, and school just let out for the week. Due to my curfew, Edward no longer drove like a maniac. Our time after school was limited and he was in no rush to go to my house, so he really took his time. He did is so much so, that he chauffeurs Alice to their house first just so he had an excuse to extend our time together.

Fine by me.

Alice got out of the car after cheerfully after thoroughly debriefing us down to the minute details about her day, and after a few pecks on the cheek, we were on the way to my house. Looking at him now, I decided to take a chance, and ask about the day.

"So... how was it today? Getting any better?"I carefully prodded.

He took a moment to run his hand through his hair, then just shook his head.

''No, they all wish to see me humiliated in some way. After so many days of this, I would normally be angry, if I didn't agree with them''. I shook my head, and then he continued. "And I would understand that need to see me punished, 'if most truly cared for you at all', but to them, this is all just a source of amusement. A show if you will. They don't care what happens to the actors, meaning you or me. They just want a scene".

"What kind of scene?" I asked.

"Just a scene, any scene at this point. Just something that fits the crime". He answered tiredly. "Yelling, crazy hand gestures, throwing a drink in my face, something".

"And you really think they are right? You really think you deserve that?" I asked.

"Yes". He said. He turned to then looked at me. "Bella... I shouldn't have been able to just walk out and then walk back into your life like that. I see it in their minds the devastation that I left behind. Bella, I'm so sorry, I'm so, so very sorry.

"I'm sorry, that sorry is the only word there is, and that there is not another I can use to convey the true depths of my regret and remorse. And I'm sorry that words seem to pale in light of my deeds; so since words are insufficient, I will make it up to you in action. Because I promise you, I will never leave you again. And I will tell you every day that you are wanted, and loved, and needed. Because you are loved Bella, you really are. I love you. I want you. I need you. I truly do".

"Pull over," I said quickly and provocatively. And he did.

I reached over and placing my hands on either side of his beautiful face and pulled him into my own. I kissed him slowly and deeply, showing him that he was not the only one that can use, action to convey feelings. I let all my pain over what he was going through, my forgiveness and love flowing through my lips into him. So we kissed and kissed.

I knew we needed to reassure one another that we were all that matters. But that pretense was getting harder and harder. Especially when it was constantly under assault from all sides.

We broke our kiss, but I still had a need to get closer to him. I leaned in and laid my head on his shoulders. Then I placed my lips to his neck. I don't know where the urge came from exactly, but I began to lick his neck with small petting licks. It felt...right. It felt like it was as common as kissing.

Edward began to growl softly. So softly in fact, that it would be more accurate to say he was purring. That gave me new courage and spurred me on further. I began to lick him with more intensity. His scent, taste, and purring kept increasing my confidence and made me bolder. I was in a semi-trance state; the only thing my body was registering was what each lick did to my Edward, and storing the memory of it away for later. I began to move to the other side of his neck and proceeded to lick there as well. The purrs got softer and softer. Edward sounded so wonderfully relaxed, I began slowly, going deeper and deeper into my trance state.

I lifted my head once more and began to softly lick his throat from the base to tip. Edward began to shiver and purred even louder now. After a few more minutes of this, Edward leaned away. He immediately proceeded to softly lick me as I did him. Soon I found myself in a state of utter contentment. This action didn't bring any sexual needs to the surface or even bliss, just contentment to just be in the moment.

After a while longer, Edward leaned away and stared at me.

"Bella... that was...Bella, who told you to do that?" He said in a soft relaxed but deep whisper.

"Ah... no one. I just... it was just a feeling that overtook me. It felt like that is what I really needed to do so my body just acted." I said uncertainly, slowly returning from my previous trance state.

"Bella, it sounds like your instincts took over. Did it feel like your body was moving on its own and that everything felt... 'acceptable', no matter how out of character the action seemed at the time?" He asked intuitively.

"Yes, that's exactly how it felt" I replied enthusiastically gaining confidence from his understanding. "I had no thought, I had no reason to do what I was doing, I don't even know where the urge came from. But it felt like it was exactly what we both needed, so my body just... did it. What was that exactly?"

"It was two things really, I have seen it done with my parent and siblings, and it is only done with mated vampire couples. It's only used to comfort one another in times of extreme stress or pain. Secondly, it is used as another way to mark your mate."

"Well, I'm fine with either reason. It felt...perfect."

"The only thing that surprised me is the fact that your human and it happened anyway. I honestly wasn't expecting you to do anything like that, but I don't mind that it happened the way it did. Because you're right, it was perfect." He said looking at me lovingly.

We stared into each other's eyes, giving each other soft smirks as we reflected on our new level of intimacy. I reached out and took his hand into my own, and with that, we were back onto the road.

After a few more moments we were at a light in the middle of town. I decided now was a good time as any to air some things out.

"Edward, about your leaving..." I paused as he stiffened beside me. I quickly rest my hand on his and entwined our fingers. I didn't want this to be a heavy conversation if it didn't have to be.

"We have spoken about this already, and I'm not trying to bring up painful memories". I explained. "I just want to let you know, that from what you described, it seems to me that it all could've been avoided if you had simply just talked to me about it first".

"Yes, you're probably right," He glumly agreed. "I should've said something to you. I should have listened to Alice or Esme or Carlisle or even Emmett. But my arrogance only allowed me to see my own rightness. I was so sure that our thirst made us too dangerous for you to be around, that I didn't listen and did want to listen. I felt they were speaking only for their own benefit and that staying was just a selfish indulgence for them. I thought, why wouldn't they be selfish? Esme gets a new daughter, Alice gets a new sister and best friend, and Emmett gets an angry newborn to play with. Not one of them took your humanity into consideration. Well except Rosalie of course''.

Rosalie caring about my humanity. That would've sounded endearing if I didn't know better. The only reason I could guess that she cares so much about my humanity was that it kept the irritation that was my presence limited to a number of decades.

"Edward, I understand all that. But I want to talk about why you didn't come to me, and why didn't you talk to me before you made our choice for us".

He sighed heavily then

"Well that answer is simple, I just didn't want to be talked out of it''. He said quickly, then took some time to center himself trying not to make this conversation too heavy.

"You were not at the time, what I considered the best decision maker when it comes to what was safe. You were dating a vampire for one thing, and hung out with a coven on a daily basis.''. He said with softly trying not to cut me with his barbed word in regards to his perspective on my intelligence. "Then add the fact that when we were gone, you just so happened to find the only pack of werewolves in all of these United States, then debated to us how 'safe' you were with a pack of newly turned wolves." He said shaking his head fighting an eye roll.

"But truthfully I didn't want to be deterred from a path that I felt was right by the only person who could've completely shattered my resolve. I felt that me staying would've have been completely selfish and that if I truly loved you as I claimed, then protecting your life should mean more than my own personal happiness" He explained.

A fool, a sweet fool, but still a fool.

Still, how could I not forgive him? He was willing to burn away all the joy in his life to make sure I kept my own. He just grossly miscalculated the love I had for him, and the fact that there would be no life for me without him.

I felt I already knew the answer to my next question, but I had to ask...

"Edward, wouldn't it have been easier to just change me so you didn't have to leave? If the desire for my blood was so much, wouldn't had changed me solved that problem for everyone?" I asked verging on an incredulous tone, "Would it really have been so bad?"

"Bella, it's wasn't that simple". He stated flatly. I was about to interrupt before he put his hands up to halt me. "First off, I was not in the right frame of mind at the time to even consider that as an option. Your change was something I didn't even want to even think about let alone mentally work on accepting. I didn't want this life for you. How could I? I didn't even want this life for me. Because to me, I wasn't simply changed, I was demonized. I was literally turned into a murderer. It took me years to come to terms with that. Then my existence consisted of endless tedium of school, fighting blood-lust, moving, fighting blood-lust, more schooling, fighting more blood-lust, more moving, fighting even more blood-lust. Only to pause with the occasional visit to our extended family in Alaska. I literally spent a hundred plus years just going through the motions if you will. So why would I have wanted that for you?"

"So you feared me becoming a murderer and boredom? Is that what you are telling me right now? You ran away from me and caused us both so much pain because you didn't want me to live a life murder and boredom? " I said, slightly losing my temper at the end and regretting it.

"No of course not. If boredom had any real part to play it was because I was doing it to myself, at least that is how I see it now. But as for your question, yes that played a part in my decision making as well. But there is so much more to it than that."

"Like?" I quickly prompted

"Like what I already said. The fact that I never accept this existence for myself. I told you over and over how I felt about this life and I don't know whether you chose not to listen or just outright ignored me, but was it really a surprise to you that every time you brought up wanting to be changed, you found that I was somehow against it?"

After reflecting a bit on his question, I found myself shaking my head. He was right, he never kept that a secret. Self-loathing was practically part of his personality.

"Looking at it like that I guess...I had no right to be upset with your responses back then"

"No love you didn't, because if you saw things from my perspective then you wouldn't have wanted this life then either. A life that turns you into a creature of madness and forces you upon what you once were, like a vengeful beast." He said glumly "Biting to either propagate our madness or to take life. To me, venom had meant more than most. To me, it was a curse that shouldn't even be given to your worst enemy. They were better off being utterly destroyed to take their chances as to where they might end up. Because to me, venom was the curse of the half-life. It sends its victims into purgatory. Leaving you out of place, a ghost, only to exist as an observer of the living, and leaving you just far enough outside of time, that you get to watch the sons makes the same mistakes as their fathers before them, watching humanity repeat itself like an endless loop."

He paused taking another moment,

"Bella, when you said words like, forever, and Immortality, it scared me. Because all I heard and thought at the time were words like 'imprisoned, frozen, impounded,...stuck'. It just didn't feel like this great blessing you made it out to be with your romanticized perspective on our lives at the time. Because to me, imprisoned was exactly what this existence felt like once. It felt like I was locked in a cell; one made out of my body, and If I were to ever free myself of it, I would find my self damned in hell for the effort. It seemed so unfair. Everyone else was going to get their peace and quiet once consciousness abandons them, but not me. So I did what I had to do to make peace with the warden as much as I could. So when you asked me then, it was like asking me to imprison you with me, and at the time, the idea was too repulsive to not be scoffed at."

I didn't want to dismiss anything he said like I did before he left, but I had to get clarification. "At the time?"...

"Yes Bella, at the time." He said, giving me a small smile. "As you can tell there is no choice in your change now. The only choice left is who will be doing the changing. And if the offer is still available, I would like you to allow me to try?"

"Yes, yes, Oh my God are you kidding? Of course!''. I replied with a burst of joy, smiling ear to ear. Still smiling "What brought on..."

"...The change of heart?'' He asked finishing my sentence. I nodded excitedly. "Because like I said I existed for a century, but only in the last year or so did I really begin to live. My perspective was changing slowly, and with them my truths as well. They were dissolving one by one, and that was all due to you, Bella".

I kissed him for that. And did so hard and meaningfully. He chuckled sweetly and continued.

"I see now that with you in my life, I no longer have to just exist, I can have a life. And more importantly, I was made to see that my past does not have to be your future. It doesn't have to be a half-life, not with you here. Now I can have what my parents and siblings found. And as long as we have each other in our lives and in our arms, one lifetime would not be enough. You were the strength I needed to carry on and see this through, and you were absolutely worth the wait."He smiled genuinely.

I returned his smile with an enormous one of my own. To say I was giddy by his newfound change of heart would be an understatement.

I sat silently in the car wearing a wide tight grin as we turned down my block. I tried not to say anything more, out of fear that I will say the wrong thing a jeopardize this new growth I saw in my mate.

But Edwards smile fell regardless,

We had pulled into my driveway behind my truck, and Edward grimaced slightly at the sight of it.

I guess for a car enthusiast the sight of 'the beast' was worth a grimace or two. Still, I couldn't believe that we got here without me noticing, especially with Edward taking his time driving. I guess bliss blinds you to your surroundings just as well as depression does. So we sat in the car a few more moments.

Turning to look at him, hoping that I wasn't about to speak too soon, I spoke up,

"I don't think we would have to worry about me finding this life anything else other than blissfully happy, especially if I have you there. But that couldn't possibly the only reason, could it?''.

"No, there is more. Had to consider the factors of the situation. And by factor and mean people that would be suspicious if your sudden death were to occur. People like your father." He replied

Yes, of course, my father. I still don't know how I'm going to make a clean break.

"Of course Charlie. I don't know why I keep forgetting about him". I said.

"I would like to think I might be the problem there," Edward said, leaning in to steal a kiss.

Yep, he was most definitely was suspect number one if my increased heart rate and temporary short term memory loss were any clues.

"Most definitely''. I agreed giddily.

"Come on, let's get you inside and I'll explain the rest of my meaning". Edward said jovially.

Opening my door and holding out his hand for me like a gentleman, I place my hand in his as he used his other hand to hold his coat over my head to protect me from the elements.

I smiled to myself. It was little things like this that Edward does that really lets me know that I'm loved.

Once inside we made our way to the living room. Charlie wouldn't be home of another few hours. Plenty of time for me to relax with Edward in our own world. I sat down my legs across Edwards lap leaning on the arm of the chair, while I faced Edward beautiful face, and awaited his explanation.

"Like I was saying" he continued. "Your father played a role in whether or not you were able to make the change back then as well. At the time, the family still went ahead and tried to plan for your change behind my back. But none of the planning amount to more than speculations of 'what if scenarios'. Alice, Esme, Jasper, and Emmett were throwing out suggestions one after the next, but couldn't come up a viable reason for you to disappear that wouldn't raise instant suspicion with your father. For example, If the change was allowed to continue in Phoenix, there would've been no way to explain the paper trail that would've undoubtedly lead back to us. Not to mention the hotel and airport video footage showing you, Alice and Jasper arriving and checking in. So to just disappear out of the blue while waited out the allotted time for you change and blood-lust to come under control was out of the question. And this is where fathers role comes in. You're not just 'someone's' daughter Bella. You're the daughter of the Police Chief. If something happens to you, he will use every tool and special favor he is allowed to find you, dead or alive. A simple phone call was not going to keep him at bay. He would want more evidence than that. He would need to see things with his own eyes; his very perceptive eyes. I would if I were him. I wouldn't believe anything until I made sure you were truly gone".

"I won't make another mistake like that again. But if it was true, and I confirmed it for myself, then I would find a way to join you." He stated determinedly

I leaned in and kissed him softly. I was about to argue that last part but decided not to. I didn't want Edward killing himself If I wasn't around. I would want him alive trying to find new happiness. But I knew the truth. If one of us is missing the other, there can be no happiness. Isn't that why after Jacob tried his best to be my sun, I still found myself at the edge of a cliff, then jumping off that said cliff.

No, debating this would be an act of hypocrisy. And I won't be a hypocrite.

Taking all that in and breaking it down. It made sense. If you live in a world where the only law was to 'keep the secret'. Changing and kidnapping the Police Chief's daughter before she graduated high school and left for a college far-far away was a big no-no.

Why couldn't my dad be an accountant?

But not to get sidetracked from my original reason for bringing up this conversation. I needed to make sure that we make one change in our relationship, so we wouldn't repeat the mistakes that almost destroyed us before.

"Edward, the reason I brought all this up is that I want us to be more open with one another. Lack of communication almost doomed us, and I want to avoid any possibility of that in the future. And if the remedy to that is openness and honesty, then that is a small price to pay, wouldn't you agree?"

"Yes, love, I absolutely would". He smiled at me.

Smiling back "Well, in the spirit of our new open dialogue, let me be the first to say, I love it when you call me 'love'". I smiled at him.

His lips quickly found mine, but they were not so quick to leave.

After a few more pecks and longing stares, that started another quick round of sensual kissing, I found myself walking into the kitchen for an afternoon snack. Edward and Carlisle have been on me about getting my weight back up to healthy levels, so they made sure I ate and ate a lot. I didn't mind, it never was my intention to lose that much weight in the first place.

"Ugh..." I said looking at the kitchen table.

I had grown to be best friends with Jacob Black throughout my zombie phase since he was one of the only ones I could tell my whole story to, and that alone gave him a special place in my heart. I needed him. I needed someone to talk to, I needed a place to get some of the weight off my chest, and he really came through. Then he the others went further saved me from Laurent and protected me against Victoria's attempts on my life. So, of course, I had missed them as well. But I wasn't at liberty to go to La Push due to my lockdown status, and Jacob wasn't coming to see me for whatever reason. He wouldn't even answer my phone calls, and now my letters are coming back unread. I didn't want to accept that this could all be about me just leaving with Alice, but since that was the last thing we talked about, I had nothing else to go on.

Still, with so much else going on, why not add another log to the fire, burn it all at once. I will have to make time to sort this out, but later.

"What wrong, love?" Edward asked, feeling my frustration.

"Nothing, I just got back all the letters I sent to Jacob, unopened". I explained as I shook my head at the stupidity of it all. "I don't know what is going on with him. All of a sudden, he no longer wants anything to do with me. It's strange since he was the one that helped me out while...'' I paused looking at Edward quickly, then turning away "...you were away."

"Come, love, the rain has stopped, let's go outside for a walk, I think I may know the reason why your friend is unresponsive,'' Edward said.

"What? how would you kn...?".

"Get something to eat first, and I will explain I promise." He said smiling softly, pointing to my growling stomach.

''Okay". I said struggling to hold off my curiosity. "sure, let me get something to eat first".

After I rush down a quick bowl of cereal, much to Edwards dismay, we went out the front door into the woods across the street. Walking silently holding hands we walked for about 5 to 10 minutes just enjoying one another's presence. I took some time breathing in the wet woods and watching Edward do the same. But I was pretty sure; it didn't smell the same to me as it does to him.

Edward slowed in steps, the stop altogether. He looked like he was thinking about where to begin his explanation.

"Love? Do you remember the feeling you had when you first saw me?" Edward asked.

Confused, but nevertheless smiling at the pleasant memory

"Yes, of course, I do. It's one of my most cherished memories of us". I replied because it truly was.

"Yes, and for me as well, love" Smiling back at me.

"But what does... "

"...That has to do with this?" He finished for me. I nodded. "Just this. When we met, we experienced was nothing short of love at first sight. As preternatural creatures, our instincts are acute enough to detect all we want and need in another. It is how we are able to find our mates so, unfailingly. But nature is balanced in all things, and if there is a way to instinctually acknowledge what is safe, then there is a natural way for us to sense what is a danger to us. A way to acknowledge our natural enemies."

I suddenly didn't like where this was going.

"Are you telling me that Jake hates you or something?''. I asked shakily

"Not me particularly love. He doesn't hate who I am, more like 'what' I am''. Edward said carefully as he measures my facial expressions. ''Bella, he is a type of werewolf, and from what history and experience show us is, they are predisposed to hunting and killing vampires, and we... I am afraid...are a similar threat to them as well"

I definitely didn't like where this was going. Especially since I half-remembered Jacob telling me something similar not too long ago. Something along the lines of 'what he and the other Quileute's were made for.'

"And you both do so...naturally?"

"Listen, love, we don't know much about each other, but we do know that much. And as long as we are in this area, they will stay to themselves for safety, and we will do the same.'' Edward explained

"Bella I think its time you knew about the Treaty."

My eyebrows shot up, but I just nodded for him to continue.

"To make sure that we keep separated from one another, back in the late '30s, Carlisle and the Chief at the time Ephraim Black, Billy Blacks grandfather, put a treaty in place that was meant to keep the peace between us".

"How were you able to put a peace treaty in place? If they naturally hated you, wouldn't they have attacked you first?'' I inquired

''One reason was, once I let it be known these creatures were sentient, Carlisle sought to converse with them rather than immediate attack. Which was a miracle in itself? You see, they found us while we were hunting. A dangerous time to be around a vampire since we let our natural instincts take over; as you've just recently experienced. We just act on blood-lust then. Which is why I never allowed you to come hunting with me. Too dangerous for me to even chance it. But instead of attacking blindly, Carlisle decided to speak with them instead. The rest of us were poised to attack and I couldn't really say what held us back; the urge to attack was that strong. Even Esme was ready for a fight".

Well, there really must be something to all of this. Remembering how my own instincts took over. Werewolves and vampires must be like oil and water if kind sweet and motherly Esme was ready to bite and tear heads off, just by looking at one.

"But I think you should also note that another reason for the stalemate was that back then the so-called 'pack' numbered only three wolves, whilst we had five. Carlisle, Esme, Emmett, Rosalie, and myself. So it was to 'their' advantage that we allowed the treaty in the first place''. Edward explained. "Lastly, Carlisle didn't think it right to attack the natives of this land since we would undoubtedly be moving on soon anyway. He felt it would've been an unjust waste of life not to find common ground."

This information was making me nervous. I already knew what a pack of wolves could do to a vampire. And I quickly added that to the fact that they naturally hated Edward and the rest of the Cullen's for being just being what they were; and after putting those pieces together, I quickly saw that the signs were all there. I was beginning to see that Jacob not coming had less and less to do with me, and more to do with who I was associating with.

''Edward what are the particulars of the Treaty? I asked as innocently as I could.

Edward growled lowly when he picked up on my bad acting and true intention. ''You want to know if its the cause behind your friends absents?" he answered my question with a question.

I didn't miss the sneer as he said his name.

"Yes,'' I replied evenly. But I registered his pain and possible jealousy nonetheless.

"Yes, it is'' He said trying to show no emotion. ''They are not allowed in this area as long as we are here, and we are not allowed to go to La Push, First Beach, St. Johns Island, and some of the surrounding forest. The treaty line in place is monitored by either them or us at any given point and time, and the consequences of crossing that line are serious.''

I was liking this less and less

''So what am I supposed to do now? He won't return my calls and he sends back my letters unopened''. I asked Edward.

"Bella, can I ask why do you need him so badly?'' Edward asked frustratingly, trying to hide the hurt in his voice.

"That just it... I don't. I used to spend a lot of time with him when you were gone. He helped with some things I was going through. But I don't 'need' him. It just seems rude to just ignore him now. Especially after all his help. I feel like should be paying them all back for looking out for me and keeping me afloat. Him especially. Without him, I don't think I would've made it long enough to set my eyes on you again'' I said earnestly, but that still didn't seem like enough of an explanation.

"Without really meaning to do it, he kinda saved me. He saved us''. I stressed, hoping the understood the perspective I was using.

After a pause, he nodded his head in understanding and pulled me in for a hug me and kissed my forehead. "I get it, I understand. He's a friend, I'm sorry if I doubted that." He said giving my forehead another kiss.

"In the spirit of honesty, I have to say, it is difficult for me as your mate to get around the idea of you needing 'something' from another 'male'... just make me feel..."

"You don't ever have to doubt us, Edward". I said quickly cutting him off and turning my head to places soft kisses

He has no reason to think that. I had no plans on giving him any. Because with Edward near me, it was hard to think about unhappy things—even if my thoughts landed on my friend, who was probably very unhappy right now, due to my associations.

But to be honest, when I did think of Jake, I always felt guilty for not thinking of him more. But what purpose did he serve now? As selfish as that sounded it was a legitimate question. With my life changing so rapidly, and preparation underway for my actual change, what justification can I come up with for keeping Jake in my life? We would undoubtedly be leaving this area soon and everyone here behind. And If I could leave my father and mother behind, just like that, then what makes Jacob so special? I needed to be cutting ties, not strengthening them.

But, I just can't seem to shake this guilt.

The fairy tale Prince returned, and the bad spell was broken. I wasn't sure exactly what to do about the leftover, unresolved characters. Where was his happily ever after?

After a while, Edward broke our closeness, And he placed both hands beside my face and began looking me straight in the eyes, as he looked to be deliberating whether or not to say something. I began to feel nervous.

''Bella, I know you said I don't have to worry about us..." Edward started.

"No, Edward you don't''. I said quickly.

"I know, but I still have to worry about you Bella. Because I know how you are, and how guilt makes you act. Bella, being around werewolves, especially young ones is dangerous Bella, they can hurt you. And if you're on the reservation there would be nothing I could do to save you without breaking the treaty and starting a war."

''Then don't do it, you mustn't..." I said panicking at how the idea of Edward throwing himself literally to the wolves over me made me feel. I felt like I was back in Italy all over again.

"What choice would you have left me?! You would've taken all from me when you placed yourself in harm's way. I won't...can't let you be hurt while I did nothing. Especially if all that was stopping me was an imaginary line in the sand and a piece of paper. I would come to you no matter where you are. Just like you did for me.'' He began angrily but calmed down towards the end.

"Edward, don't worry about me, please. I have been to the reservation plenty of times, and Charlie goes there all the time as well, and nothing has happened to us yet."

"Yet Bella? yet?! Bella, it was only due to blind luck that you haven't been injured by one of them yet." He debated. "Are you forgetting about Emily the woman you told me about? The one who was injured by her own lover.''

No, I didn't forget about Emily. Of course not. Anyone that has seen the damage that Sam has done to Emily wouldn't be able to forget about her either. But I have to stick to my guns on this. If Jacob wasn't going to come to me, then I would have to go to him. We owed him that much.

"Edward, I don't have any intentions of going to La push searching for trouble. But I won't ignore people who looked out for me when I wasn't at my best".

I really don't want to do this, but...

"Edward, It was Sam who picked me up and brought me home from the woods where you left me." He cringed back, I step towards him to make up the distance and continued. "Edward, It was Emily's cooking I ate when I found the appetite to eat anything at all. It was Jacob keeping my mind busy by refocusing it on building motorcycles, and silly conversations about nothing. And without those conversations, I wouldn't be standing here". I said again. I hated reminding Edward about things we both wanted to forget about, but I felt guilty deliberately trying to ignore the people who saved my life. That is just not who I am.

"Bella, you are right, they haven't hurt you, yet. But remember what happened on your birthday last year Bella?"

I fought off an eye roll. How could I possibly forget that?

"Jasper didn't want to try to leap over the six of us to get to you, but he did Bella, he did". Stopping to take an unnecessary breath. "What I'm trying to say is, they don't want to hurt you, not deliberately. Because I'm sure this Sam didn't want to hurt his lover either, but it happened. And Bella if that happens to you.." He paused looked pained and close to tears "Bella, I would destroy anyone that hurt you like that. No matter what debt I owe. And if you are on La push when it happens, I will guarantee you that I will make my way there."

I was about to protest this again but his look sharpened, and I quickly chose to hold my tongue instead.

"Bella, I'm not trying to control your actions, I respect your decisions, and I know I will never make our decisions for you again. But... I am asking that you at least respect the danger they represent, and the potential repercussion to all if an accident were to ever occur."

"Bella, you have been asleep too long to the dangers around you. You need to wake up. This is no longer about just visiting friends anymore Bella, we are on the edge of a knife with the wolves, and you have made your choice to be changed. Pending accident or not, I don't want you over there once they figure that out." He said staring into my eyes trying to force my understanding of his words, "I don't want to put it this way, but since you made your choice, it really has become a, them and us, situation.''

I couldn't formulate a rebuttal. I didn't like the, them and us part, it seemed like such a limited perspective on things, but I couldn't disregard it. Edward was trying to make me see sense, and I couldn't overlook that either.

I won't lie, what he said about them finding about my decision, especially if the hostility levels were what he says they were, then any decision I make to visit, could be disastrous, and that scared me.

I honestly don't know how they would react. And thought of the consequences of my need to live guilt free inadvertently causing a fight between the wolves and my future family was not something I think I could live with.

OK, a decision made. No more La Push for Bella Swan.

Let that be my first tie to cut. I will still find a way to repay those I feel helped me, but I won't be making any journeys past the line to do it.

"Okay, Edward you win, I won't be going back to La push; I won't ignore those who helped us, I just will have to figure out a way to do it from here," I said resigned.

"Bel-la, I wasn't trying to win. I was just trying to give you all the information you need so you can make your own decision. I love you and would've respected the outcome of any decision you would've made. But, I am happy about the one you did make. Without knowing it, you did both groups a huge favor." He said as he leaned in; place a gentle kiss to my forehead.

I looked at him and thanked him for going about this that way. Our time apart really made him grow as a person. And for that, I'm truly happy.

"Okay". I said. Touching my lips to his.

But Edward quickly stiffened beside me and broke off our kiss. I looked up and he was looking over our head behind me, back towards my house.

I slid closer, clutching his arm as I followed his gaze to try and see what he was seeing. I don't know what I expected—maybe Victoria? her flaming red hair blowing in the wind, or a line of tall black cloaks, maybe my luck was so bad, that they decided to wait days instead of months or years…

...and if not them, maybe a pack of angry werewolves who lost their way in the woods and decided to take out a lonely vampire and his girlfriend slash mate.

Now I was concerned about Edward's safety. He's all alone with no backup. But with my eyes, I didn't see anything at all.

"What? What is it?" I asked failing miserably at hiding the panic in my voice.

He took a deep breath. "Charlie…He's looking for you."

"My dad?"

He looked down at me then, and his expression was calm enough to ease some of my panic.

"Charlie is probably not going to kill you, but he's thinking about it," he told me. He started to slowly walk us towards the direction of my house.

"What did I do?" I said confused by the cryptic warning.

Edward glanced back at the direction of Charlie's house. I followed his gaze. "You nothing. It's Jacob Black. He's here as well. He has crossed the line to bring your motorcycle back, and Charlie is livid".

"No!" I gasped. "Why? Why would Jacob do this to me?" The sting of betrayal washed through me. I had once trusted Jacob implicitly—trusted him with every single secret that was mine to give. He was supposed to be my safe harbor—the person I could rely on. Of course, things were strained with the return of the Cullens, but I didn't think that affected how we felt about each other.

I guess that's my answer right there. I just didn't think.

Charlie was going to be mad, not like he wasn't already. But worse than that, He would take it all out on Edward in the form more restrictions and earlier curfews. Ugh!. Didn't I have enough to deal with?.

I would have never imagined that Jake could be so petty and just plain mean. Tears sprang into my eyes, but they were not tears of sadness. I was suddenly so angry that my head throbbed like it was going to explode.

"Is he still here?" I hissed.

"Yes. He's waiting for us there." Edward told me, nodding toward the slender path that divided the fringe of the forest.

I began to launch myself towards my house, with my hands already balled.

The first punch was going to be mine.

[END CHAPTER]

Hit me. I know you will have questions about my natural enemy theory. I just feel that what I said was accurate. Nature finds a way to balance everything. So if love, at first sight, is possible, why not it's opposite?.

What do you think of Bella's decision concerning La Push?.

I personally wanted a more reasonable understanding of Bella.

If only SM version of Edward would just open his mouth, what would he say to debate his views on her 'need' to go to La Push?

So please comment I would like to hear your views. I won't be changing a thing, but It would be nice to hear. LOL.

ASLO chapter 3 is already done, will be posting soon, but no ETA.

A/N: Listen up Readers. I am really 'trying' to concentrating on the action in my fanfic. The romance and stuff are good, but if you had any Idea about what was to come you would most def be sticking around. I'm talking detailed brawls all over the place. Just like most other authors writes about a little bit of vampire action, just to cover up all the smut they were really trying to push. I have to write some smut to cover up all the action I'm trying to push. It's only fair right?.