Chapter Two,
Comptine D'Un Autre Été
(Edward POV)
As the final note dissolved, tension took its place in the peaceful aura I had created for myself; it was almost tangible. The music had helped me think and relaxed me; there were more to the harmonies and rhythms than just notes and scales. Each ivory key my fingers pressed down on meant more than just a sweet sound – it trigged a new sentiment I wasn't entirely familiar with.
I glanced around the room, musing, and studied the faces of my family. Each of them had a different thought running through their head, a different something flickering in their eyes. And just as the music made me feel, I could tell it affected them differently, also. It was hard to believe that an improved piece of composition could do this to me and them alike. It was almost like a magic lure – something you're so fond of, but don't necessarily understand.
The silence that followed the music was almost painful. And though each one of them wanted to break it, they thought there was nothing to say. Questions, joy, criticism, beliefs flooded their thoughts; they had their own opinions formed already, and they knew that I would easily hear it.
I sighed and looked down at the piano. The keys were saturated in the dim sunlight, and shined with the smooth exterior. I placed my right hand on the appropriate ivory, and it started to sparkle faintly. I stared at my incandescent fingers for a brief moment, wondering if it was right to tell her, and began to fumble around with the notes. I was trying – unsuccessfully - to recreate the song. But I was feeling a jumble of things – frustration, passion, slight anger – and it was hard for me to get the notes just right. I was trance-like when I was playing the song for the first time, completely unaware and thoughtless; obsessed almost, with the images of the song.
The odd contrast of my attempts cut through the air, and an abrupt wave of calm inundated me. It was a calm similar to what I experienced while I was playing.
I hit the keys in dissatisfaction – surprisingly not breaking the piano - and looked up at Jasper. He smiled softly at me, just as the rest of them shrugged into the chairs scattered around the open living room.
I decided now would be the best time to talk, if I wanted to, so I took a deep breath. "Is it wrong to get myself caught up in something like…her?" I struggled for the right words, and hoped what I said made sense.
"Not necessarily," It wasn't Jasper's quiet voice that answered, but Esme's gentle one. "Just do what you think is right,"
Sighing, I began to play around with the notes again, pensive. But no matter how much I mimicked the original melody, I didn't get quite the same mood. The "mood" was alien to me – it was always lurking, but I never prominent. I didn't need to feel love for anyone in my time, except my family when I was young. But even with the lack of experience, I knew it was wrong to show any feeling toward a delicate human like Bella; but was this love or just an obscene liking to her blood?
My fingers trailed to a stop, and the room fell silent. I stared at the keys, wondering if the music could bring my mind to any sort of peace. Each time I played the song over, it sounded different – darker as I grew more frustrated and lighter as my mood softened. Just like my feelings for Bella.
I realized then what my plan for the night was, and every night after this one. Alice cleared her throat, and I looked up to see her mouth twitching into a small smile; of course she would be watching the future for me. I gave her a small nod, standing up, and took a slow step away from the piano. The light from the sun was disappearing slowly, giving way to twilight, but I knew that I would have to wait until at least midnight to leave, to be safe.
Sighing, I stood up from the piano, and walked slowly to the door. It was only drizzling lightly, but I didn't necessarily want to be soaked from staying outside until midnight. I had no idea what I was going to do to pass the time, but I knew that it was going to be a long night of waiting…
I personally don't think it's that great, but I guess you can decide that. Read and review for me? I wrote this chapter for everyone that wanted me to (and Nora!!). I have another chapter already planned out. So, there will be at least one more update on this story, if you guys want me to. Kay? :D