Disclaimer
I hate these! I am in denial! Why can't I own Twilight and not Stephenie Meyer? :(
OMG!! 60 reviews for my first chapter! Thats amazing :) YAY! You guys made my eyes pop out my head when I saw that number!!
IVE SEEN NEW MOON TWICE! IT CAME OUT HERE THREE DAYS AGO! ITS AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AARRGGGGG!!
Do I Know You?
Previously....
"Bella, are you listen...." Jess's voice trailed off as I found what I was looking for and my smile grew so side I think my face will actually ache for a while.
Because as our eyes met across the crowded cafeteria, I felt only happiness. Everyone else went on laughing, totally oblivious to the fact that my life had shifted so greatly that I doubted it would ever be the same again.
It's nice to meet you miss Swan I watched the famous one sided smirk grace his lips as he sat facing me, ignoring his family and everyone else as I was. My smile widened, impossibly at the sound of his voice.
It's nice to finally meet you too Mr Cullen
Now....
"Bella, what are you.... Oh, that's Edward" Jess stopped halfway through her sentence, but I was barely listening to her. I had found Edward. Edward was right there, across the cafeteria staring right back at me.
"Why is Edward Cullen staring at you?!" She asked, sounding rather annoyed. Even her insult couldn't make my smile falter. Edward however was a different story. I heard his growl through his own mind, and I saw with my own eyes as several students turn to see what the strange noise was.
"Edward! People. Do. Not. Growl" I hissed urgently, knowing he would hear me. His eyes remained dark, even after he stopped growling at the arrogant girl on the table.
Come here The darkness in his eyes faded to their beautiful butterscotch as he looked back at me, softening as he watched me stand up.
"Bella, where are you going?" Mike called, and I was suddenly hit by the fact that everyone had stopped to watch the little exchange. Damn it!
I ignored Mike and walked towards Edward, the students getting out of the way as though I was some sort of celebrity on the red carpet. I didn't even care enough to blush at all the attention. Edward was here!
Remember what we promised we'd do if we ever met each other? I smiled as I quirked an eyebrow.
When I was younger, Edward and I had made a pact. We were best friends, but despite this, meeting would probably be impossible. Or so we thought. I know it was childish, but... eh. It is Edward.
I watched as he looked deep in thought for a moment before a huge smile lit up his face. I paused three tables away as Edward stood up, his arms by his side as he cocked his head to one side.
Come on then He taunted as he opened his arms slightly. I giggled a little at the absurdity of it all before running the rest of the distance, my path clear to Edward. He laughed as I jumped into his arms and he spun me around, both of us laughing.
I can't believe you're here He thought happily as I felt him kiss the top of my head.
I can't believe you're real I retorted as I tightened my arms around his neck. He's definitely solid.
Of course I'm solid silly He chuckled as he set me back on my feet, keeping me steady with a hand on my waist and poking my nose childishly. I stuck my tongue out at him, making him chuckle once again as he pulled me into a rib cracking hug.
It's good to know I'm not crazy too He thought quietly, more subdued than before.
I know the feeling I admitted as he let me go and held me at arms length, looking me up and down as I did the same to him.
"Not bad Isabella Marie Swan" He teased me again, knowing how I hated the use of my full name.
"Not too bad yourself Edward Anthony Masen Cullen" I poked him in the stomach, amazed at how toned he was.
Sorry I never mentioned it He rolled his eyes at me and I giggled again. Since when was I such a giddy school girl?
"Sit with me" He asked suddenly, basically begging me with his eyes.
Honestly Edward, like I would sit anywhere else I took his hand as I walked back towards my table, but only got so far before I was pulled back.
Bella, what are you doing? He asked, looking rather confused as he looked at our hands. I turned to him slowly.
"Edward, I just found you, do you think I'll let you go that easily? You might disappear into a puff of smoke for all I know" I told him honestly. He simply shook his head and nodded his head, urging me on. I turned promptly, dragging him quickly towards our table. I slowled once I felt him hesitate, and I couldn't blame him.
You see, I hear what Edwar hears, and Edward can hear other people's thoughts. So... you get the picture. The only thing was before, I would hear the voices, but unless they were from Edward's family, I didn't know who they belonged to. Plus, I only heard the extra voices if I concentrated on them, or they were screaming in their heads. I could block them if I wanted. But now, I have a face for the 'voice' that had tormented Edward, and Jess was throwing herself at Edward.
I cringed as her thoughts slowly became more explicit, suddenly feeling very sorry for Edward, having to put up with this five times a week.
"Sorry guys, but I'm going to sit with Edward today" I told them quickly trying to get away from Jess, who was staring at Edward and not even making an effort to hide it. Yet the smile would not fall from my lips, no matter what I did. I quickly bent down and retrieved my bag, slinging it on my shoulder.
"That's okay Bella" Angela smiled at me, her eyes flashing to Edward quickly before settling back on me. It looked like she was the only coherent one on the table, but from the looks on Mike's and Eric's faces and how they were glaring at Edward, I didn't want to know what they were thinking.
I heard Edwards rumble in his mind before it could escape his throat, and I quickly elbowed him in the stomach. It wouldn't hurt him, but he got the idea.
"See ya Ang" I smiled as I turned around and walked with Edward back to his table. My eyes settled on his family, and I couldn't help but freeze.
Edward, I know them but they don't know anything about me. They don't know I know. I'm not supposed to know! I panicked a little, or a lot, before Edward turned around and looked me straight in the eye.
Bella, just meet them. I know you know them, but.. well I'm not exactly sure how to handle this. They won't do anything to you Bella He promised me seriously, and I knew better than to argue with him. When Edward gets that tone of voice, its better to just go along with it, because Edward is very stubborn when he is determined.
Hypocrite He shot at me as he pulled me along again. I know, I know. I'm stubborn too, but Edward took it to a whole new level. He simply chuckled at my train of thought as we arrived at his table. He literally pushed me down into a chair beside him before sitting down himself and looking at his family as if nothing where wrong. I gulped rather loudly, Edward picking up the gesture and taking my hand and squeezing it under the table.
I almost started laughing as I finally looked around at his family.
Alice looked horrified, probably because she didn't see any of this. Emmett looked so strange. He had his head tilted to one side, and we looking between Edward and I like we were some sort of puzzle that he had to solve. Jasper looked so confused, it was almost cute. The poor soul looked to lost. And Rosalie... well she was glaring at me. I didn't need Edward's gift to know she already hated me.
But in a strange way, I liked Rose or I had a great respect for her. She is so confident, so protective and fierce when to comes to the ones she loves. If only I was that strong. I had had many arguments about her with Edward. He just put her behaviour down to pig headedness. Stupid boy.
"I'm not that bad, surely" Edward turned and pouted at me looking so childish that I had to laugh a little.
Whoa, since when does Edward mess around?
I turned to Emmett as I heard his loud thought, and we ended up frowning at each other, both confused by the other. Edward was always like this with me, sure we had our.... disagreements and all that, but we were always joking around.
Edward laughed again, his mind showing how strange Emmett and I looked staring and frowning at each other.
"Stop frowning at him" He laughed again and I looked at him finally.
"Sorry Emmett" I said quietly, not wanting to make him uncomfortable. I knew I was human, and he was a vampire, and to have your food sit in front of you and stare at you might be a little unnerving for him.
"What... how...." He stuttered, and I turned to him in confusion. All the Cullen's were watching me with slight shock on their faces, but also... fear? I could feel my cheeks glowing as they continued to stare, unblinking at me, not offering an explanation as to why. It was Edward who finally explained the reason.
You said his name. They don't know you know. They're scared of how much you know and what you might do He told me quickly, my eyes widening as I realised I had messed up big time.
"Fuck" I cursed quickly and quietly, making Edward flinch in shock. He was such a gentleman, I doubt he has ever actually cursed out loud, he only curses when he is angry, or really annoyed. Usually at Emmett.
"Since when do you curse?" He asked seriously.
"Since you started ignoring me, thank you by the way" I spat at him, my old anger coming back.
"Bella, I didn't have a choice" He sighed but I didn't buy it.
"No way. We always stick up for each other, its what we do, and then suddenly you're gone? You could have at least told me" By the end I was whispering to the table as my eyes filled with tears.
I never felt so alone. I thought I'd never hear you again I thought sadly, the fact I was being stared at my four vampires fading to the back of my mind as I told him the truth. This was how Edward and I were. No matter how much pain or embarrassment it caused the other person, we told each other everything. They would find out eventually anyway.
I'm sorry I hurt you so much Bella, I thought I was doing the right thing He squeezed my hand as I didn't reply.
"Okay, what the hell is going on here?"
Edward and I both looked up at Emmett, who was now scowling at the two of us. Damn! I guess we had to get used to speaking normally now and not in our heads. I guess it would seen strange, the two of us reacting as if we were in a conversation, yet no-one was speaking.
"Er..." I chewed my lip as I looked back at Edward. How do we even begin to explain all of this?
I have no idea what to tell them, but they need to know. We have to explain why a human jumped me in the cafeteria He smirked and I rolled my eyes at him.
I did not jump you, I was simply playing out a promise I smirked back, remembering how I had been laid in bed with my eyes closed, totally immersed in Edward and his world. I saw what he saw, heard what he heard. So I saw Emmett and Rosalie making out in the kitchen, and I could also hear the bed springs about an hour later.
Thankfully, Edward had kept my mind away from those things, distracting me with questions of 'what if's'. What if both of us got a puppy? (His answer was Jasper would probably eat it, which made me laugh) What if we won the lottery? - He said it wouldn't matter to him anyway. Stupid rich vampires.
But then he asked what I would do if we ever met, and I told him I would run at him, jump on him and he would spin me around. Keep in mind, I was seven at this point.
I thought meeting Edward was the last thing I would ever get to do, and I also had no idea what why the bed springs were making that annoying noise. Now, I am glad I never actually asked him what it was. That would have been embarrassing. But he agreed to my guidelines of what would happen if we met. I can't believe he even remembered. I was seven!
Yeah, I also thought Santa came down the chimney and that I was getting a unicorn for my birthday. Still, if this happened, maybe I could still get that unicorn....
"Bella, you aren't getting a unicorn" Edward chuckled at me, bringing me back to reality and probably listening to what I was thinking.
"Why not? It could happen?" If I found you, anything is possible I added mentally, watching him nod in agreement.
"Are you ever going to reply or just stare at each other?" Rose basically growled out, glaring at me. I was used to it by now. I had been subjected to that glare many times when she had glared at Edward, it used to scare me... but now? Not so much.
I rolled my eyes dramatically "Jeez calm down" I shook my head as Edward chuckled beside me.
Stupid little human! How dare she talk to me like that! Her glare reached new levels of hatred as she thoughts spat at me. I knew I should be scared. She was a vampire, I was a human, and I pissed her off. But... I have 'lived' with Rose for all of my life, and I wasn't scared of her. Besides, Edward wouldn't let her do anything to me.
Too right I wouldn't Edward chimed in, sending me a smirk and a wink as we both chuckled at a very angry Rosalie.
"Aren't you going to get something to eat? All you had was an apple" Edward asked, still smiling and holding my hand and totally ignoring his fuming sister.
"Spying on me now are we Cullen? Nice" I teased, happily.
"Sue me Swan" He stuck his tongue out at me and I chuckled a little.
"I might actually, imagine all the money I'd get. Though you'd probably hire some lawyer extraordinaire and end up winning" I mused, knowing I was right. There was no way in hell, anyone could win in court against any Cullen. Heck, any of them could act as a lawyer and still win.
"Very true, but you are avoiding the question" He pointed out "Aren't you hungry?" He asked with a concerned frown.
I swear you're bipolar I thought before I spoke.
"Not really, had a big breakfast. Besides, its cafeteria food. That's not what I call edible food" I grimaced as I saw the lunch lady slap a pile of... well I don't know what it was. It was brown, lumpy and watery. Maybe stew?
"Good point, but you should still eat something" He told me, pushing his untouched tray towards me. I still thought it was stupid that they actually bought food and sat it in front of them. It only makes it more obvious that they aren't eating anything.
He had a plate of mashed potato and the brown mush. It did not appetise me in the slightest.
"I'll do you a deal Edward. I'll eat this..." I looked at it a little closer "Goo, if you do too" I leaned back and crossed my arms, knowing he would never do it. Food tasted like dirt to them, I knew what he meant. Every time he saw me eating something, he would remember when he was forced to eat a piece of pork for appearances sake. The memory of the taste made me want to gag.
Edward cocked an eyebrow, a grin spreading on his face as he picked up the fork. My eyes widened as I leaned forward again.
If I go down, you're coming with me He sang in his mind, smirking wider.
I glared at him as I realised what he was doing. He would make me live through the horrifying taste, and then I would have to watch and listen as he puked it back up again. It was not something I care to witness for a second time.
"Drop the fork" I ordered as he shoved it into the 'food', making a quiet squelching noise. He didn't stop smirking or drop the fork.
"But I'm hungry Bella" He joked innocently, knowing full well I knew he was lying. I knew he wasn't hungry, at least not for human food. Besides, his eyes were gold, not black.
"Please" I rolled my eyes as I shook my head, thanking the stars that he stopped moving that stupid fork towards his mouth.
"Edward, if you do this, you will have 'Sweet Like Chocolate' playing for the next three months" I threatened, loving his grimace as he narrowed his eyes at me.
"I hate that song" I mumbled as he dropped the fork like a sulky child.
"Aw, poor Eddie" I teased, giggling as he huffed in annoyance at my use of his hated nickname.
"Hey, how come you can call him Eddie and we can't?" Emmett asked, sounding like a very spoilt child.
"Because Bella's nicer than you" Edward shot at him evenly, leaning back in his chair, the picture of ease. His hand never moved from mine, something I hadn't failed to notice.
"Edward.... can you explain this?" Alice chirped up, looking almost scared. From what I knew of Alice, which is a lot, she is not like this. She is bouncy, unstoppable and wrathful if you get on her bad side. She looked almost shy as she leaned against Jasper's side, looking so small I thought she may disappear.
I turned to Edward, honestly wondering what he would come up with.
"Maybe..." He turned to me and I shrugged, not knowing how we would do it anymore than he did "But definitely not in the space of lunch time" He explained as he sighed.
"But... you can explain.. how this girl knows Emmett's name, and seems to be... rather close to you?" She questioned, looking between the two of us.
If only she knew how much I really know.... I smirked, wondering how they would take it. They took the fact I knew Emmett's name badly, Godknows what they'd do once they figure out I'd been listening to them for all of my life. Maybe a heart attack?
We don't want to scare them Bella, but it would be funny He admitted with his own signature lop sided grin.
"The girl's name is Bella, and yes we can explain. It might take a while though" He told them, squeezing my hand gently.
"We have a while" Rose spat out impatiently, and I couldn't resist rolling my eyes.
If she carries on glaring at you I'll tear her eyes out I heard Edward's growling voice in my head and I turned to stare at him in shock. If anyone should be angry, it would be me. Edward was not an angry person in any sense, but can be very overprotective of his family. I watched his eyes turn from gold to pools of blackness within the space of a second, his eyes fixed on the perfect blond across the table from him.
It was my turn to squeeze his hand this time, wanting him to calm down. I didn't want them to argue over me, or cause a scene in the middle of the school cafeteria. Two fighting vampires would not look good in a room full of humans.
Edward, calm down. She has a right to be angry, she sees me as a threat and is treating me as such. You can't blame her I urged him, tugging on his hand as I saw his jaw flex. I kept my thoughts from Rosalie's insults, pushing them to the back of my mind like I had done with Edward's earlier. Her shouts and cusses were dulled to a mere murmur.
"Just watch me" Edward growled out beside me, never turning or looking at anyone else. I saw Emmett realise what had happened in the past two seconds, a deep growl rising in his throat as he glared at Edward, his own eyes darkening.
"You'd do the same" I told him quietly, hoping to get through that thick skull of his. It was true. If he saw something as a threat, we wouldn't be all smiles and hugs either.
I breathed a sigh of relief as he unclenched his jaw, his eyes lightening to a dark butterscotch. It wasn't good, but it was better than black. Emmett relaxed too as he saw Edward's eyes lighten.
Edward you can't go attacking your sister because she doesn't like me I told him evenly, watching as his eyes never left his sister. I knew she was still glaring at me, but I ignored her. She was trying to intimidate me, to scare me off but she would never make me run. I had found my Edward, and I wasn't about to run away because one vampire didn't like me.
It's nice to know you aren't scared of her, though maybe you should tell her that. I'd love to see her reaction Edward finally tore his eyes from Rosalie to look at me, his eyes dancing as he imagined her reaction, of course I could see it too. Rose... growling, stomping away, slamming doors, lots of swearing and insults...
"Bella? Can I ask you something" I turned as I heard Alice squeak my name, smiling kindly at her. It was slightly strange to see a vampire being scared of a human.
They aren't scared of you personally, their scared of what you know He comforted me quickly as I nodded at him a little to show I had heard him.
"Of course Alice" I sighed, giving up on dancing around the subject. I heard a gasp as her eyes widened at me.
"You know my name too?" She whispered, Jasper's arm wrapping around her and hugging her closely to him as he scowled at me. I knew that Jasper used to be a soldier, and that he strategises. If he saw a threat, he would take that threat out of the equation. I also knew that he was fiercely protective of Alice, and would do anything to keep her safe.
I sighed again "Yes, I know your name is Alice Brandon Cullen, I know all of your names"
"Bella!" Edward hissed out , squeezing me hand again, but this time in restraint.
"What? There's no point in hiding everything is there? They're going to find out soon" I rolled my eyes as I turned back to a rather exasperated looking Edward.
"You know all of our names?" Jasper questioned quickly, staring at me intently, then turning to glare at Edward for a moment before turning back to me. I knew he was 'reading' my emotions, no doubt the crease between his eyebrows was from confusion at me beingsurrounded by vampires and feeling no fear. I knew he constantly struggled withhis thirst, but he still thrust himself into the world of school. This dark eyed quiet man staring me wasn't Jasper. I saw Jasper at home, messing around with Emmett and Edward. Jasper was battling his monsters head on, and I had a great respect for him for it.
"Yes I do" I smiled slightly, knowing what was coming.
"Go on then" He challenged equally, making me smirk as Edward sighed beside me once more.
"You are Jasper Whitlock Hale, your wife is Alice Mary Brandon. Then there is Rosalie Lillian Hale and Emmett McCarty Cullen. Plus Edward of course" I smirked as I noted all of their wide eyes and slack jaws. I decided not to mention Carlisle and Esme, I didn't want them to be too scared.
I decided to peek inside their heads for a moment, curious as to what they thought.
... ward must have told her, that's the only explanation. I will rip him apart when we get home. Humans can't know about us! Did he forget about...
... does she know? We never stay in any one place long enough for people to know us as closely as she knows Edward, no-one even knows our real names apart from the family, they change every time we move somewhere new. How....
I pulled out of Emmett's and Jasper's minds, knowing the others would be along the same lines. Maybe I had been a little too obvious with the whole hugging thing, they were supposed to be lying low after all. No wonder they were shocked when a human ran up and hugged their brother.
I picked up my bag from the side of my chair as the bell rang loudly in the room, standing up with Edward as he picked his own bag up.
What lesson do you have now? He asked me, and I frowned, trying to remember by schedule. I missed English, went to German and Math, so that means I have Biology.
Me too Edward's smile almost blinded me as he beamed.
He turned back to his family, but none of them were looking at our faces, their eyes were fixed on our entwined fingers that we held between the small space between us. I could feel my face burning as I realised what this must look like, yet I couldn't make myself pry my hand from Edward's grip.
Does Edward go out with Bella?
How long have they known each other?
I ducked my head as I shuffled my feet, Edward however simply smiled even wider, holding me hand even tighter in his iron grip.
I love that blush, it's nice to finally see it with my own eyes He commented, and I looked up to find him staring intently at me. Embarrassed by his compliment, I elbowed him again causing him to laugh at me. He turned around and started to walk away, only stopping once he found I wasn't going with him.
What's wrong? He turned back to me frowning.
"One minute" I told him before turning around and looking at Alice again.
"You had something to ask me before we got distracted with names?" I asked, feeling Edward come and stand behind my left shoulder, waiting for us to go.
"Oh er..." I watched her eyes widen as she glanced around nervously before gulping and actually speaking coherently.
"I was just wondering... if you and Edward can't explain here.... are you coming to our house after school?" She asked quietly, trailing off at the end. If it wasn't for Edward's good hearing I wouldn't be able to hear her at all.
"Sure" I smiled, thinking that this was the time to meet Esme and Carlisle. Even though I have never met them, I think of them as my parents. Not that I would tell them that, it might scare them a little.
You know Esme won't mind Edward told me, pulling me around to face him, still smiling all the way.
Maybe, but it might be a little strange for me to turn up at their house and hug them, calling them mum and dad I joked as we walked out of the cafeteria, leaving the Cullen's sat in a state of shock behind us.
I noticed, as we walked through the hallways, that people actually stopped and stared at us with wide eyes and open mouths. I couldn't help but giggle at it, earning a tut from Edward.
Well, here you are, the dark, brooding and mysterious Edward Cullen, holding hands and walking the new meat to class I laughed out loud lightly, happier than I had been... in a rather long time.
I don't brood He chuckled as he pushed me a little, keeping his hold on my hand and pulling me right back to his side, making me bump into him a little, only making him laugh a little at my clumsiness.
A thought struck me and I frowned at him as we carried on walking.
Are you okay Edward? I know how... tempting my blood is for you, is it hard for you? Should I- I made to take my hand from his, but all he did was tighten his hold, shaking his head at me.
I told you Bella, I'm past my blood lust with you. Being attached to you for seventeen years has made me basically immune to it actually. I think even if you bled in front of me I'd be fine, but lets not put that to the test just yet... He smirked and I pouted at his teasing. He knew it was only a matter of time until I trip up or cut myself on some insignificant thing, and I would end up having to have stitches, bleeding everywhere. It wouldn't be the last time, and it would never be the last.
Yeah yeah, whatever smarty pants I smiled as he stopped a door, letting go of my hand and opening the door, motioning me inside with a flourish of his hand. I rolled my eyes at him, giggling as he winked behind me before letting the door close and making his way to his seat.
I approached the teachers desk, my cheeks reddening as the fifteen students that had already arrived started to whisper and stare at me, then at Edward. Edward wasn't fazed by it, as usual. He simply sat there, his elbow on the desk as he put his chin in his hand and smiling at me. I shook my head before turning my attention back to the teacher.
"You must be Miss Swan" He stood up from his chair, shuffling a few pieces of paper around on his messy desk before clearing his throat and handing me three pieces and a text book. I extracted the little slip from my bag and handed it to him, watching as he scratched the back of his neck as he looked at the small piece of paper as though it offended him.
Using Edward's talent, I took a peek inside his mind, wanting to know what was so offending about a piece of paper.
...is it? I haven't seen one odthese before, but when was the last time we had a new student? I thought we would be notified of stuff like this? What do I even do withit? What's with all the dotted lines? I can't ask the new student, I'll look like an idiot He rambled on and on, and I pulled out and looked at him with sympathy as a sheen of sweat shone on his forehead.
"Mrs Cope said something about.. getting every one of my teacher to sign it...." I trailed away acting as if I didn't know as well, not wanting it to appear I was belittling him. He visibly relaxed as he put it down on his desk and smiling at me.
"Of course. Now Miss Swan, I'm afraid we only have one seat left available..." He sounded truly sorry about it, but I smiled brightly. I new from experience in Edward's mind that he hated Biology, and that he was the only one without a partner. He was a vampire, and although girls fawned over him they still felt the natural urge to run away from him.
"That's okay sir" I sang happily, surprising him as he stuttered slightly before motioning for me to take my seat. I quickly walked to my new seat next to Edward, setting my book on the desk with a thud before dropping my beg to the floor and kicking it beneath the desk.
Hey partner I chirped in my mind as I turned to Edward.
Hey yourself. Well, at least I won't be bored anymore He smiled lightly and I was slightly distracted. Here, without his family watching our every move, I actually took the chance to look at Edward.
I had seen him in mirrors, and through his families thoughts but never through my own eyes. I didn't know what I expected, I knew he didn't age or change in any way.
His skin was white as snow, his lips a lovely shade of pink, his bronze hair its usual mop of disarray that would make anyone else look like a tramp, but Edward made it look like a runway style. He was beautiful, but every vampire was.
Edward was different. I think the thing that made him even better than the others was his smile.
Edward could be dangerous, and when he glared at you and when he actually meant it, you peed your pants. But a smiling and happy Edward was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Whether it was his small mischievous smile, or the lop sided one, or even the one he was currently sending my way, the face cracking smile.
It made him look so free and natural....
Done analysing me? I poked fun at me and I blushed and looked away once I realised I was still staring. Damn it!
He didn't say anything out loud or in his mind, which shocked me. Edward always said something when he embarrassed me, he always teased me about it. I was brought back to the present by something cold brushing against my burning cheek. I gasped at the temperature, my mind registering that the only people that were that cold, were vampires.
Edward.
Why wasn't he teasing me? Had I gone too far? I knew how Edward hated what he was, how he thought he didn't have a soul. He hated how people liked him for his beauty, because of the 'curse' that had been put upon him. How could they love a killer? I had argued with him many times on the subject, but he remained stuck in his way of thinking. Didn't he like me thinking he was beautiful?
You have no idea....
I watched with a frown as he dropped his hand and turned back to the front with a sigh, his hand holding his chin still, but his smile was replaced with a deep frown, making a crease form between his eyes.
I leaned over and pressed my finger to the spot, watching as it smoothed out and he stopped frowning. He sighed before thanking me with his mind, and I sat back down in my seat. I watched the last few students filter through the door and hurriedly take their seats as the teacher wrote 'Cellular Mitosis' on the white board.
Sorry Edward's soft voice filled my mind and I sighed.
It's okay Edward, its bound to be weird I admitted, noticing how he seemed to be rather distracted now.
I left him to whatever he was thinking about and...
Wait. Whatever he was thinking about? I... I didn't know what he was thinking about. I looked over at him, seeing the frown set on his face again as he stared at the front of the class. He was definitely thinking, but... he was hiding from me. Again.
Why would he hide it from me? I never hid anything from Edward, ever. Why would he hide what ever this was from me? I was hurt that he didn't trust me enough to let me in anymore. Maybe it was because he knew I was real now, and that I might tell someone whatever I heard.
It wasn't true of course, I would never tell anyone anything that Edward told me unless he said that I could.
I bit back the hurt and turned my eyes to the front of the class as the teacher stood up and began the lesson. I honestly wasn't paying attention at all, and I knew I should be. I was trying to find a way into Edward's mind, but coming up empty. This was my first day, I should be making a good start, but once again Edward was on my mind and I was worried.
What if he didn't want me to be part of his life? Was he happier with me as just some stranger in his head? Did he even want me here?
I felt someone grab my hand, squeezing it gently, and I didn't need to look up from the worn wooden tabletop to know it was Edward. I stared at a dint in the wood, pushing back the tears as I went over my thoughts, not caring that Edward was listening.
He didn't want me here, he was hiding from me just like he did before.
Bella, meeting you is the best thing that has ever happened to me He told me gently, playing with my fingers beneath the desk.
Then why are you hiding from me Edward? What's changed? We never used to hide anything from each other, and now suddenly you're shutting me out. What did I do? I begged him, tears once again forming in my eyes.
Did my best friend not want me anymore?
Bella, of course I want you. I'm only hiding my thoughts.... because I don't want you to know. It's nothing bad Bella, and I certainly don't want you to go away, just some of the things I think about... I don't want you listening to He explained, and I knew now that he was staring at the side of my face. Even his mental voice sounded desperate.
Edward, I've seen you hunt, I've seen you attack someone in anger, I think I can handle whatever it is I thought indignantly, a little offended that he didn't think I could cope with whatever it was. He and his family were vampires for Gods sake! If I could handle that, I think I could handle most things.
Trust me, okay? If you don't hear anything from me, its only because I'm shielding you from this... mess. I'll try to stop it He promised and I nodded, feeling a little guilty I was making him control his own thoughts around me.
I sniffed quietly as I raised my head and turned to the teacher. I watched as he motioned to the board, flinging his arms around as his jaw moved quickly, but his words didn't reach my ears. I sat in my own little bubble, and when the end of school bell rung out in class, I reflected and realised I hadn't heard a word the teacher had said.
Don't worry about it, if you need a tutor, I'm here Edward told me as he waited for me to pick up my bag, never letting go of my hand the entire time. Everyone stared as we walked passed, but I was past caring. I was no longer smiling, I just stared at the floor in front of me as we walked out of the class.
Bella I felt a tug on my arm before Edward pulled me to one side of the full corridor, pushing me against the wall and shielding me against the many pupils that were running and shouting about the up and coming weekend.
"Bella, please, you're my best friend. You know I would never to anything to hurt you, not unless I didn't have a choice" He told me, his eyes becoming intense as he crushed me against the wall, his face centimeters from mine.
"We always have a choice" I whispered, still hurt by his ignorance.
"Not always Bella, sometimes.... sometimes things happen that you can't control and everything gets so much more complicated.." He trailed off as he closed his eyes for a long moment, drawing in a large breath before opening them again and staring me in the eyes once more. He stood, his golden eyes wide as I tried to find an answer to that.
"Edward... I have no idea what you're talking about" I told him quietly, frowning as I saw his tormented gaze move to the ground for a moment.
Of course you wouldn't... His thoughts echoed around in my head, his sad voice hitting me more than anything else. He seemed so defeated and sad as he raised his eyes again.
"What is it Edward?" I asked gently as I put my hand against his cheek. His eyes swam with emotions I couldn't comprehend for a moment before his expression cleared and he smiled that lop sided smile once more.
"How about we do a deal? I don't mope about it, if you don't mope about it?" He asked with his eye brows raised.
"Edward... if its got you this worried maybe we should talk about it..." I suggested, not wanting to see him so hung up over this thing. I had never 'seen' Edward like this. He was always so calm, so laid back. What could have changed all that?
"Bella, I'll be fine. It'll probably pass soon anyway" He sighed as he pulled away, taking my hand and pulling me with him. I noticed that the hallway was empty, and I wondered how long we had been stood there.
I let Edward guide me through the corridors, me having no clue what so ever. I smiled once I saw the doors out to the car park, rummaging around in my pocket and fishing out my car keys as we walked outside.
It was still grey, still dark, but at least it wasn't raining. It was however, rather windy, making my hair flap about everywhere. I huffed in annoyance as it blocked my eyes, making Edward laugh.
"It would be better to be bald" I muttered as I flipped my head, making it move to its correct position for a moment before it wafted back over.
"If you cut your hair, I'll hunt you down" He said, faking offense as he took a loch of my hair in his hand.
"You try having it so long, its not to easy to handle as yours. Not everyone can just run their hand through it and be done" I poked him in his side as we stepped off the curb, Edward dropped my hair and letting it whip around in the wind. Only two cars were left in the student car park, mine and Edward's, who were actually sat beside each other. How did I not notice that before?
I frowned as I saw all the Cullen's stood around it, leaning on it, waiting rather impatiently as they stared at the two of us.
For people who have forever, they don't like waiting do they? I smirked up at Edward who nodded back to me, chuckling in agreement.
"I'll ride with Bella" He smiled as Rose gave a huff, glaring at me once again.
"You could have told us that before we sat here waiting" Jasper rolled his eyes, Edward merely shrugged, reaching into his jacket pocket and throwing them to him. Damn vampires and their good reflexes.
I felt the weight of the key disappear from my palm and I turned to glare at Edward, finding that I had turned to thin air.
"I'm glad you went with my advice. It's a good car" His voice sounded smug as I turned around again and spotted him leaning on the bonnet, tapping it gently with his index finger.
"Why thank you Edward" I huffed as I made my way over to him.
"Did it have to be orange?" He cringed as he looked at me sadly.
"It was the only colour they had, and besides, its grown on me" I told him as I came to stand in front of him, palm out and waiting.
"Yes Bella?" He asked, smirking as he twirled my car keys around his finger.
"I will not let you drive my car" I hissed sternly. There was no way he was getting behind the wheel of my baby.
Edward rolled his eyes "Bella, I am an excellent driver"
"Do you still drive like a maniac?" I asked, watching as he nodded unabashed.
"Well then, you are a monster driver. One- you will hurt my baby, and two- my dad is the Police Chief and he would not be happy if I got a speeding ticket on my first day of school, thank you very much" I knew I had him when he sighed, pushing off the bonnet and walking around to the side of the car, dropping the keys in my palm as he went.
I smiled as I went around to the drivers side, poking my tongue out at Edward before sliding in, shutting the door behind me. Edward was already there, a pout on his lips as he stared out of the windscreen like a child. I shook my head slightly, making my hair fall back into place.
I turned the key in the ignition as I watched Edward's family zoom passed in Edward's Volvo. I watched them worriedly for a moment before Edward shook me from my worried mind, taking my hand once more.
"It'll be okay" He soothed me as I pulled out of the parking space and turned onto the road.
"Yeah" I muttered, taking a deep breath.
I knew every Cullen, the real people they were, not the characters they showed to other humans. I knew them like they were my family, and I think of them as that. But they have no idea who I am, they don't even know I exist. This might get a little uncomfortable for them. A human knowing everything about them? I couldn't picture them taking this well.
I took the familiar road to Edward's house, familiar because I have seen Edward drive it so many times. Edward left me to my thoughts on the ride there, keeping quiet, and I thanked him mentally. I needed some time for my own thoughts. Never in a million years did I leave the house this morning and expect all of this to happen. Never.
I smiled as I broke through the long winding driveway, the forest no longer obstructing my view of Edward's home. I could never understand how Esme could build all of this herself.
She's amazing like that Edward commented as I killed the engine, getting out quickly.
"It's still beautiful" I sighed, craning my head to see the top of the three story house. Edward met me once more at the front of the car, walking towards the house with me, hand in hand once more.
I don't know what was with the hand holding, but I wouldn't knock it. It made me feel... safer, even closer to Edward. If that was even possible...
The gravel crunched beneath my feet only, Edward's footsteps not even disturbing them in the slightest.
They're all inside apart from Carlisle. They've called him from work and he'll be home in about five minutes He told me as we climbed the few steps to the porch.
Did they have to pull him out of work? It's not that important I thought worriedly. I knew how seriously Carlisle took his job, and didn't want anything bad to happen to him because of me and this whole mess of a situation.
Don't worry about it He rolled his eyes as he opened the door They are all going mad not knowing. It's driving them crazy He smirked, pulling me inside and shutting the door behind me.
Good crazy or bad crazy? I asked, knowing full well which one. They were going bad crazy, they were scared of how much a human knew and what I could do with that information.
"Edward?" I heard the familiar tones of Esme ring out in the entrance, and turned to find a very curious but happy looking Esme, her eyes flitting between the two of us, then settling on our hands.
Oh my! Edward she's beautiful! You'd be perfect for each other! I don't care if she's human, I can see how happy you are! Her thoughts screamed at me, breaking through the barrier that was around my mind. I couldn't help but blush as I ducked my head in embarrassment, Edward squeezing my hand, his thoughts slightly more mortified than mine.
"Esme, please-" Edward began but Esme chose that moment to imagine our wedding.
I had to admit, it was a beautiful image, but me and Edward? Married? The very thought had me fighting back a snort of laughter. I made sure to turn my head away from Esme, not wanting to offend her and make her think I was laughing at her. I peeked up quickly, noticing everyone else minus Carlisle, had come to see what the fuss was about. Once again, they were all frowning between my grin, Edward's frown and Esme's glazed look.
Bella, go get a drink He pushed me away slightly, his mental voice annoyed as I bit my lip to keep from laughing.
"Okay" I whispered as I quickly made my way away from them, to the huge kitchen. I knew where everything was, I even knew what they had in the fridge and cupboards.
Take a Fanta, they won't get used otherwise Edward told me as I thought about what to drink. I nodded as I opened the fridge, cringing at the smell of off ham as I grabbed a bottle of Fanta, shutting the door behind me. They really needed to check this food more often.
I leaned against the counter as I tried to 'listen' to Edward. He was blocking me again, but I let him this time. He was talking with his family now, he should be able to have some privacy. Still, I wondered what they were talking about. Me probably. I cursed my lame human hearing, not only deaf to Edward but the rest of his family too.
I took a sip of the lovely drink, but almost choked as a picture flashed before my eyes.
Children. Esme was picturing mine and Edward's children. Oh dear Lord...
I had to set the bottle on the counter to stop myself from dropping it. My shoulders shook as I laughed silently, my mind basically hysterical as I focussed on the image of our children. A boy and a girl, they were beautiful of course. The girl had Edward's golden eyes, long brown hair, pale complexion and Edward's smile. The boy had Edward's hair, my nose, my smile.
Still, me and Edward? Esme was getting quite exuberant about this, which was only adding fuel to the fire.
"What, may I ask, is so funny Bella?" I heard Edward say, but my eyes were shut as I leaned on the counter for support. I couldn't answer him even if I wanted to.
Me... and you.... kids.... Esme.... I thought.... you're kind... were... infertile I choked up on the last one sliding down and sitting on the floor. I must have looked crazy, sat on a kitchen floor, my knees to my chest, tears running down my face as I laughed silently.
"Bella, this is not funny" Edward laughed slightly as he picked me up, holding me by the tops of my arms as he smiled down at me.
I cleared my throat, reminding myself why I was here in an effort to control myself.
"There" I said, taking a deep breath to calm myself but was unable to take away the smile.
"Finished?" He asked, smiling with me as I nodded. In a blur, he handed me the bottle of forgotten Fanta, keeping a hand around my waist as we walked towards the living room. I didn't know if I could face Esme without laughing ever again.
Hang on a moment He thought suddenly, stopping his steps and turning to face me.
Bella.... how are you? He asked, his brow crinkling as he frowned at me. I understood a moment later, taking a deep breath, and looking down at the floor.
I'm fine Edward I sighed, knowing he would never believe me.
You're right, I don't. Bella... He sighed at me After.. after what happened in Phoenix, all the repercussions, then moving to Forks with your Dad, meeting me... You can't be okay Bella He set his hand on the side of my face, looking tenderly into my eyes. I knew he was concerned, my Dad was too.
I'm fine Edward, I'm getting through it. Yes, it's going to be hard, and take a long time but I'll get there eventually I promised him with conviction. I wouldn't let what happened hold me down, but right now it was pinning me beneath it. In time it would get easier, but right now... it was hard.
It's weird, I almost picked up the phone and called... I forgot I nodded to myself sadly as I bit back the tears, not wanting to dwell any longer than necessary.
"It's bound to be hard Bella, but it will get better" He pulled me into a strong hug You've got me He added quietly, and I nodded again. Edward had helped so much over the past few months, I doubt I would have made it if it weren't for him.
Please don't think like that Bella He requested, grimacing as he stepped back and led me towards the living room.
Time to get down to business Bella He told me as he sat me down next to him on one of the sofas, his hand going to my own once more and ignoring the rest of his family. I couldn't.
I was being stared at, with varying degrees of hate, curiosity and fear by five vampires. It was slightly unnerving. No-one spoke, and I was very aware that the only noise was my own breathing and heartbeat. I was suddenly eager for Carlisle to get home and dispel this tense and horrible atmosphere.
Calm down Bella Edward squeezed my hand, and I realised my foot was bouncing quickly. It's something I can't help, I always do it when I'm nervous.
But what if they don't like me? What if after we tell them, they think I'm a liability and get rid of me? It's definitely possible Edward. I'm a human that knows way too much about your kind I rushed out, looking at him with wide eyes.
If any of them try to hurt you, I will kill them myself He snarled out, a real growl rumbling in his chest.
Edward, you can't. If its a choice between me or your family, your family should win every time I told him strongly. He couldn't give up his family for me, it wasn't fair on any of them.
Edward remained silent, but I knew he wasn't blocking me, he just didn't have an answer for me. He glared at Emmett, Jasper and Rose harshly, probably because they are the ones that would be against me the most. The confusion on their faces was enough for me to kick Edward from his anger.
I swear... if she gets hurt I'll kill them. I don't care who they are, I'll rip them to shreds before they even get near her.. any of them Edward growled to himself, and I was slightly taken aback. He would never hurt Esme, Carlisle or Alice voluntarily, and they would never hurt him. But I knew he would attack the others out of anger, he had done it in the past.
Why are you so... defensive? I asked, truly puzzled, but trying to calm him down by changing the subject.
Bella, do you think you're the only one who's been searching? I've been hoping for this too and I'll be damned if I loose you now He gripped my hand tighter as he closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
I understand Edward, honestly I do. But you can't just glare at them, they haven't done anything I told him as he opened his eyes and finally turned away from his confused family to look at me.
"It's difficult. If they did-" He began, and I knew he was going in circles. He was stuck in 'what if's', going round and round.
"But they haven't, and if it comes to it then.... " I'll leave I looked him squarely in the eye, and I meant it. If I caused Edward and his family that much hassle, then I would move away somewhere else. I would never loose contact with Edward, I don't think it was possible.
"You're not going anywhere" He whispered Not without me, you're not He smirked a little guiltily. Did he think I wouldn't want him to go with me?
"What is going on Edward? I don't understand..." Esme burst our little personal bubble as we both turned to look at her. She looked scared, apprehensive. I couldn't blame her.
"The others haven't told you anything?" He enquired, looking at his siblings.
"We know as much as she does" Emmett pointed out, and I could tell that he was quickly loosing patience with the situation.
"But Edward.... a human? How could you? You know the rules, you know what will happen if anyone finds out" Esme whispered, her voice too low for human ears to pick up. It's a good job then, that I had Edward's ears to use.
"Edward didn't tell me anything, I swear" I told her quietly, watching her eyes widen as she realised I had heard her. There was no point in trying to act human now, it was a useless effort.
"Then how did you find out? How do you know about us?" Jasper shot at me, his eyes dark and narrowed as he tightened his arm around Alice who was cuddled up to his side.
"It's.... complicated" I gulped under his gaze. Jasper had the worst control, and although I respect him for his efforts and battles with it, I didn't like being on the receiving end of one of his dark eyed glares. Not in a room with five possibly hostile vampires.
"Jasper" Edward growled out, making him drop eye contact and look to the ground. I shuddered as I thought about the content of Jasper's thoughts, and was glad I kept out of them.
Why do you have to smell so good to our kind? Edward hissed in frustration as he scooped me up and sat me in his lap. I had to admit, I felt a lot safer here than sat by myself. I may call the Cullen's family but they don't call me it, and that causes a problem. They could attack me...
"They wouldn't ever get close enough" Edward whispered as he wrapped his arms around me protectively, taking my hands into his and setting them on my lap, pulling me flush to his chest, my head against his shoulder. Frownes coloured the faces of his family as they stared at the two of us.
All of us looked to the door as we heard the gravel crunch and the sound of an engine. Carlisle is home.
Edward traced circles into my hands with his thumb when I tensed. This is it. Carlisle gives the vote, if he says I die, I die. He decides my fate. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.
Bella, it'll be okay. Carlisle will understand He tightened his arms even more, thinking I would try to escape. Instead I pressed myself into Edward, trying to hide from view of the doorway Carlisle will be standing in in a moment. Childish I know, but I couldn't help it. Edward didn't stop me as I crushed my back into his chest.
Thanks to Edward, I could hear every step he made on the gravel, I could hear the stone he caught withthe toe of his shoe as he climbed the steps to the porch, I could even hear him as he stood on the other side of the front door and took an unnecessary deep breath before opening it.
I held my breath as he closed the door behind him, the thud sounding rather ominous now. I watched him without blinking as he walked towards the living room slowly, looking around. No doubt he heard my heartbeat and breathing, by now he knew something was wrong and he knew it had something to do with a human. I wouldn't be surprised if he ordered me to be killed immediately.
Don't be silly Bells, Carlisle is much fairer than that Edward told me and I nodded slightly in acknowledgement. I did know that, and I did feel slightly guilty for thinking such things about such an extraordinary man. Like th others, I respected Carlisle for different reasons than I did the others.
I respected Alice for her strength and bravery when she was a newborn and she denied her thirst because of a vision of the Cullen Coven. I respected Emmett for his childishness, but also for his fierce protectiveness of the ones he loves. He may act stupid sometimes, but I would never want to get on the bad side of him.
But Carlisle... is amazing. He denied himself the very thing he thirsted for, just like Alice. However, he had no visions of what would happen or what he could do. He did it simply because he didn't want to be a monster. I cannot imagine the pain and struggle he must have gone through those months.
I watched him walk towards the sofa's, not seeing a vampire, but someone who was a saint in a sinners body. He's still a saint, I don't think anything could stop him and his morals, but he had been 'cursed' with this affliction that left him a sinner by nature.
"Rosalie, I got your call. What is this about?" He asked, his golden eyes alight with curiosity but also strength and determination. I couldn't help but grimace at the news that it was Rose who had made the call. God knows what she had said.
"Edward and some human he seems to know rather well. We witnessed their little reunion at school" She spat out rather rudely at Carlisle, before turning and glaring at me once again.
It's not a reunion if you've never met before Edward thought, and I wondered why he didn't say it aloud. Probably not wanting to freak them out even more.
Carlisle either ignored Rose's rudeness or was too used to it to care anymore. He spotted Edward and I, walking towards us and standing in front of the sofa opposite, beside where Esme was sitting, looking between the two of us. If it weren't for Edward I would have bolted there and then.
He won't do anything, he's just curious "Dad, this is my friend" He took a breath, looking down at our hands before looking back up at Carlisle again, his mind a blur of images and voices of memories and thoughts. I stopped trying to understand after I began to feel dizzy.
"Isabella Swan" Edward said strongly, as though it meant something, like he expected something to happen. I rolled my eyes and smiled a little at the dramatics of it all, but frowned once I heard Carlisle's gasp. I met his eyes and leaned back even further. He was staring at me, his eyes and mouth wide in shock.
"But... No.... it's not possible that.... she..." He took a deep breath, stepping forwards and gulping before coming to a stop in front of us,
"Bella?" He asked rather breathy. I could see the others exchanging confused glances, Rose simply glared at me again. I was going to comment on that, but Carlisle's presence reminded me of what was happening at this moment. A comment to Rose could wait till later.
"Hey Carlisle" I whispered out, watching as he seemed to struggle for words.
Ha! I told them I wasn't crazy! And did they listen? No! Served them right! Edward was mentally doing a happy dance, the smug smirk on his face giving his thoughts and feelings away to those who weren't in the know.
Is that why you did all this? Just to prove you weren't crazy? Honestly, you are so juvenile sometimes! I rolled my eyes as he poked my stomach lightly, chuckling but agreeing with me.
"Are you... can.... is it.... This can not to happening. This isn't possible. This isn't true. It can't be" He continued to stare at me and I felt the fear drain away. I knew Carlisle well enough to know that if anything, it would be question after question. He would never allow anyone to hurt me.
A sudden realisation made me frown How does Carlisle know about me? I thought you didn't mention it after they all thought you were crazy? I shot at Edward.
"I didn't, but he asked me a few weeks ago about it... and I told him. I didn't like to keep secrets from them" He spoke aloud, confusing everyone else except Carlisle, who simply smiled rather reverently.
"Is that... why you..." Why you were ignoring me? I looked from Carlisle to Edward.
"He told me to... to try to stop it" He whispered out as I turned to glare at Carlisle, who surprisingly enough actually stepped back.
"What?! It's his fault! Why did you even do what he said? You knew yourself it didn't work! You are such a jackass!" I yelled at him, slapping his chest though I knew it would not hurt him. I sat up and turned to him, and he had the sense to look guilty about it.
"I know, but I thought I would give it a go and see what happened" He told me softly, taking my hands in his and holding them tightly.
"You know what would happen Edward, we tried it before. It doesn't work. It's not hurting anyone, so whats the problem?" I shot at him, my sudden bout of anger subsiding quickly.
"The problem is that it isn't normal Bella" He sighed We shouldn't be able to do the things we do. Vampires may be able to because of their enhanced abilities, but humans? It's not natural.
"So what? You want to get rid of me?" I asked, once again ignoring the others. I doubted anyone but Carlisle would understand what we were saying anyway.
"No. No, never" He hurried to say "But Bella, remember what you thought, what we both thought?" He asked.
"That we were crazy and the other was imaginary" I sighed in understanding.
"Exactly. I didn't know what it would do to you, I didn't even think you were real" He let go of my hands to tuck a piece of hair behind my ear.
"Now do you understand?" He asked softly, and I felt quite stupid for my little outburst.
"You have every right to be angry Bella" He told me, pulling into another hug. I wrapped my arms around his neck tightly, never wanting to let go.
"I hurt you, and I'm sorry. I left you when you needed me the most" He whispered into my hair as I buried my face into his shoulder, his hand stroking my hair.
"You're forgiven" I pulled back, looking him in the eye. Besides, it not like I could hold a grudge against you. I'm stuck with you for the rest of my life I shrugged as Edward chuckled at my logic. I turned and sat back down in his lap, his arms winding around me again and holding my to him closely.
"Carlisle?" I frowned at him, watching as he stuttered before answering.
"Yes Bella?"
"Please don't ever tell Edward to ignore me again" I requested nicely, sighing as he nodded.
"Wait. So Carlisle knows as well?!" Emmett proclaimed, looking between the three of us.
They need answers Edward I sighed as I told him, feeling his own chest expand and contract as he sighed.
I know, but how do we tell them?
I'm sorry I didn't get the explanation in this one. I wanted to, but this chapters already over 12,000 words and my p.c. is slowing down.
I'll update quickly, I promise, or I'll try to.
Tell me what you think!!
Is an Edward chapter in order? Or do you want to keep it all in BPOV?
