Disclaimer: I don't own it. Stephenie does.
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The next morning greeted me with, what a surprise...rain. I wasn't crazy about the soggy weather, but it was better than snow, which we had been blessed with the previous week. I was becoming used to always being slightly damp, as I learned quickly that no one here really took any protective measures from the rain. The Washington natives had a term of endearment for people carrying umbrellas or wearing rain slickers. They called them tourists.
The day passed easily and typically and soon I found myself sitting at lunch at my usual table, with my usual friends, staring at the usual vision of perfection across the room. He sat alone, picking at a muffin with his pale fingers. I wondered briefly where his siblings were. He looked impossibly delicious in a cream colored turtle neck and a pair of loose fitting khakis. His brown leather jacket was slung casually over the back of his chair. I realized that I hardly ever noticed what he was wearing. That would involve looking away from his face which I found incredibly difficult to do.
"Hi guys." My view was abruptly blocked, and my eyes struggled to focus on the tiny, spiky haired girl now standing in front of our table. Alice. Edward's sister Alice. She stood, smiling as usual, clutching a large stack of envelopes. "I'm having a Valentine's Party at my house, hope you guys can come." She passed us each a red envelope made of heavy, high quality paper. This was definitely no invitation purchased in an economy pack in the gift wrap isle of Wal-Mart.
"Thanks," we murmured, as Alice beamed and moved along to the next table. We opened our invitations, all lace and pink and hearts inside; red heart shaped confetti dropping on the table as I opened the card. Alice had obviously put a lot of time and effort into these invitations. I suspected that Alice was the type that never did anything half-way. The party was set for Saturday night, Valentine's Day, only 4 days away. Jessica and Lauren exchanged a loaded glance, smiling and giggling. Sensing my confusion, Angela leaned over to whisper is my ear.
"They like to go to the Cullen Parties. They're hoping that one day the Cullen boys will get drunk and take advantage of them." I almost caught myself before I laughed out loud, quickly disguising my outburst as a cough. "Absurd," she added as she shook her head and smiled again to me slyly.
And it was absurd. Not only were the Cullen's all …so…out of reach, but they were all taken. Well almost all taken - by each other, which was a favorite topic of were all adopted or foster kids or something like , Alice and Emmett weren't related, but Rosalie and Jasper Hale were brother and sister, adopted together. Jasper and Alice were a couple, as were Emmett and Rosalie. I really needed a cheat sheet to keep them all straight. Dr. Cullen and his wife were gracious enough to take all these teens in, and rumor had it they were quite young themselves, and also impossibly gorgeous. One thing was for certain...I was dying to go to this party. But also terrified. I couldn't possibly pass up a chance to see where Edward lived, and talk to him in a social setting. At the same time, what would I say? What if I fell and broke something? What if I finally got his attention and I couldn't speak and ended up just staring at him. Like I was right now.
Shifting my attention to Alice, I watched as she flitted gracefully, too gracefully, around the room until everyone held a heavy, pretty red envelope. After making the rounds she returned to her family's table where Edward still sat, staring into space and demolishing the poor, innocent pastry. She sat down across from him, eyes alight with excitement and began chattering. I noticed that she didn't bother with a food tray today, which didn't surprise me since I never actually saw any of them put the food into their mouths. She leaned in close to Edward, locking eyes with his. He nodded, a slow, smile spread across his face. It was almost as if they were having a silent conversation. Her smile turned smug, and her eyebrows rose slightly as she took some obvious satisfaction in his reaction. So quickly that I couldn't be sure I saw it at all, her eyes shifted to me, and darted away. Just then his arm shot across the table coming to rest on her wrist. His smile was gone, replaced with a look of concern. His lips moved quickly, barely. Alice stared off behind Edward for a moment, seeming to fix on a point of the ceiling behind him. I followed her blank gaze, but could find nothing of consequence she could be looking at. After a few seconds her focus returned to her bronze haired brother and she smiled lightly at him. He seemed to relax a bit and released her arm running his hand through his bronze hair and shaking his head slightly.
*****
"Hi Edward." He looked up from his Biology textbook, already open on the lab table in front of him. His lips curled into the smile I had come to expect and adore. The one I would imagine meant take me now, but was probably just his run-of-the-mill polite smile.
"Bella," he nodded.
I sat down at the lab table, rummaging through my bag to fish out the notes I…uh…borrowed the day before, inwardly feeling a little giddy and a lot embarrassed about the last time I had laid eyes on these pages.
"Here are your notes. Thanks again." He must have found something in my response amusing because a curious expression crossed his face, head tilting slightly to the side as he took the pages from my hand.
"Of course," he replied, "I hope you found them…useful." I nodded, unable to trust my voice. I kept my gaze firmly fixed forward but watched as he moved the pages across the table toward his notebook, and then , slowly, almost discreetly raised them slightly toward his face and - oh my god did he just …sniff?! Blood flooded my cheeks and I strongly considered running from the room. I felt his eyes burning into me. Gathering my courage, I turned my head to the side to find him indeed staring and smirking, eyes smoldering with mischief and curiosity. He couldn't possibly be thinking what I deeply feared he knew. How could he have known? And if he did know, he certainly didn't seem upset. He continued to regard me with this look that, had I been standing, would have brought me to my knees. I smiled meekly desperate to break free from this awkward yet incredibly arousing moment.
I was too busy being horrified to notice Mike approach our table. "So Cullen…your sister is having another party eh?" Mike sat himself casually on the edge of the table.
"It would appear so." Edward replied, reluctantly breaking our gaze as he turned toward Mike. Perhaps only I could sense the annoyance in his tone. Mike either didn't notice the annoyance, or didn't care because he persisted without missing a beat, turning his attention to me.
"You're going right?" I felt Edward stiffen next to me, and could have sworn he stopped breathing.
"Um...yeah, I think so," wouldn't miss it for the world. "I'll have to check with Charlie first."
Mike fidgeted a little and my stomach sank in anticipation of where I suddenly realized this conversation was going. His fingers tapped randomly on the table top, his eyes down for a few seconds before he finally spoke again.
"Do you want to maybe…go together?" Edward had not yet moved a muscle. I joined him frozen in panic. "I've been to a few parties at the Cullen place, I know how to find it. It's a bit tricky to get to. I could give you a ride."
"Oh…" I would have to do better than that. "Actually Mike, I already told Angela that we would ride together." Angela's head lifted, and she turned from her seat directly in front of us, smiling knowingly in my direction.
"Mike…don't be trying to steal my date! Besides, I happen to know that Jessica has serious Valentine eyes for you. You should totally ask her to go with you." God I loved that girl. Angela Webber, my savior.
"Oh…ok," he replied. "But I'll see you there right?"
"Sure."
Mr. Banner called our attention to the front, and Mike returned to seat. Angela stole a quick glance over her shoulder winking at me as I mouthed I love you.
The rest of the week passed quickly and uneventfully and everyone was buzzing with excitement over the Cullen party. Apparently, the Cullen's had a huge, beautiful home and the parties were always quite the event with music, dancing and elaborate decorations. I spent the week wondering if Edward would be there and trying to decide what to wear. I felt like such a girlie girl. If only I had something to go on when trying to figure out what would catch the eye of the mysterious Edward Cullen. Does he like sweet girls? If so, I had the perfect skirt and sweater ensemble I could wear. Or…does he like sexy women? I hoped for this option since I wanted nothing more than for him to ravish me. I finally gave up trying to figure it out since it really was ridiculous of me to assume that I would be able to catch his eye, regardless of my attire. Or lack thereof. All I would accomplish with skimpy clothing is more attention from Mike Newton, which was exactly what I didn't want. Adding to my frustration, the Cullen's were absent from school the rest of the week. All of them. Angela had said that they like to go hiking and camping when the weather was nice, but I was hoping Edward would be back before the weekend. The shining sun did little to console my sour mood.
Angela and I decided to spend the whole day together Saturday getting ready for the party. Since neither of us had a proper Valentine, we opted to spend the day pampering ourselves, and enjoying some girl time. Angela came over early and we took turns doing each other's hair and make-up and going through countless outfits trying to decide what to wear. I finally decided on a silky blue blouse and a pair of casual jeans. Of course, we also talked about boys. Angela was the only one who knew of my obsession with Edward. And in turn, I was the only one who knew that her sun rose and set with Ben Chenney. Angela insisted we wear lacy underwear, proclaiming it a good luck charm. I couldn't argue with her logic, as I needed all the luck I could get. Normally, I wouldn't be bothered with the female beauty rituals, but it gave Angela great pleasure to primp and fuss and really, I felt like I owed her one for the Mike save. Besides, it was nice to have someone to talk to and keep my mind busy so I didn't work myself up over seeing Edward, in a social setting, in his house. Angela must have sensed my panic because she placed a calming hand on my shoulder and smiled.
"Relax Bella, it will be fine," she assured me.
"I am going to talk to him. I have no idea what to say."
" Hmmmm…" She mused. "Ask him about the house, I bet it has an interesting architectural history or something. It is absolutely breathtaking." I grumbled. "Ok….then tell him you want him to take you upstairs immediately and make love to you until you can't walk straight."
My eyes popped open and my mouth dropped as I grabbed the nearest pillow on the bed and smacked her with it. We both collapsed in a fit of giggles at the sheer absurdity and utter honesty of that suggestion.
We arrived at the party to find most of the school already there. Angela was right about the Cullen parties being popular. I was hard pressed to find someone from school who wasn't there. The house was spectacular, huge, and modern. The inside looked like a night club with a dance floor, full compliment of refreshments, and thumping music. Edward's brother Jasper met us at the door, taking our jackets. As I shrugged out of my coat, and scanned the room for Edward as I handed it to Jasper.
"You're Bella right?" Jasper asked, his voice gentle, but confident with a hint of Southern drawl.
I turned to answer him, but was suddenly startled by his eyes. They were the exact same golden shade as Edward's. I stared for a moment, transfixed not only by his eyes, but his beauty. He was tall, well over 6 foot with honey blond hair and an easy smile. I'd never seen any of the Cullen boys up close, aside from Edward and wondered if they were all so…captivating. He spoke again, breaking my trance.
"I'm Jasper. It's a pleasure to finally meet you, darlin'" A perfect gentleman. I smiled and blushed at the sentiment.
"Hi Jasper." I should have said more, but I was still staring into his eyes and struggling with actual thought.
"You're Edward's lab partner, right?" My pulse quickened at the mention of his name.
"Yeah." Again, I should have said more, but first the eyes, then the Edward. My brain was mush.
"Well, I hope you're keeping him in line." His eyes twinkled playfully "He can be a handful." I'd love for him to be a handful, I thought. Jasper's eyes narrowed slightly, his lips spreading into a knowing smile, as if something had just occurred to him.
"Enjoy the party ladies" he eyes scanned the crowd again quickly, looking for Edward. By the time I turned again Jasper was gone.
We moved through the crowd saying hello, and settling with a group of our usual friends on an oversized sofa near the drinks. I noticed Angela's eyes scanning the crowd and saw the excitement cross her face as she spotted Ben, sitting alone across the room.
"Go talk to him" I prompted, nudging her side. She sighed, looking conflicted. Instincts told me that I would only need to push a little harder.
"What about you. Where's Edward?" She whispered our heads close together.
"I haven't seen him." We both scanned the crowd of familiar faces, not finding him.
"Do you want me to go ask Alice if he's here?" She knew I was too shy to ask about Edward myself.
"You're awesome you know?" Have I ever mentioned that I love this girl?
"I know," she grinned smugly, and made her way into the crowd.
I finally spotted her coming towards me a few minutes later, and I searched her expression desperately for a clue as she approached. Her poker face gave nothing away. She sighed as she leaned toward me.
"Sorry Bella, he isn't here." Her eyes were gentle, she shared my disappointment.
"Alice said that he had somewhere to go." She patted my hand consolingly.
"Maybe he'll come later?" I wondered a loud. He did live here after all, he would have to come home sometime.
"I don't know…it didn't sound like it." She was trying to make me feel better. Bless her. Her consoling hand wrapped around my shoulders, pulling me into her side.
"Stupid boys," she muttered, and we both chuckled.
I took a deep breath, pulling myself together for the sake of my incredible and selfless friend.
"They aren't all stupid," I motioned toward Ben. "Go get'em, Tiger."
"What about you?"
"I'll go mingle, maybe look around a bit. We'll catch up later. Go! At least one of us is going to get the guy tonight!" She squeezed me tightly for a moment before smoothing her dress and fluffing her hair.
"Do I look ok?" Silly girl, she looked phenomenal.
"Fine! Now quit stalling and GO!" She giggled, turned on her heel and headed toward the shy boy still sitting quietly across the room. I watched as she approached him. His eyes lit up, and he smiled widely. Oh yeah, he liked Angela. I could tell from here. They fell into an easy conversation, and I could soon see that she would be there for a while. She waved to me from across the room, and I gave a thumbs up. I couldn't help but smile for my dear friend. This would indeed be a good night for her. I, other the other hand wondered if I could find some booze to ease my suffering. I mingled through the crowd a bit, but found the loud music and jovial atmosphere irritating. I needed an escape.
"Hey Alice!" I called. She spun toward me quickly, a knowing smile lit her face. Weird. "Uh…where's the restroom?"
"Oh hi Bella, enjoying the party?" She moved closer to me, still smiling demurely, and took my hand leading me toward the stairs. Her hand was cold and firm, but so smooth. She had to have noticed my distraction by her touch but didn't pull away.
"Yeah...you have a beautiful home," I managed while still staring, fascinated by her grip.
"Thanks." She led me to the top of the stairs and down a short hallway stopping next to another staircase leading upwards. "The main bathroom is right there," she motioned to a closed door, "but it's occupied, so just go ahead up to the one on the third floor. It's nicer anyway, and it's quieter up there." Quiet? I was sold.
It was a gorgeous bathroom, by bathroom standards - immaculate, classy. It reminded me of an expensive spa with the elegant tiles, plush carpeting and large soaking tub. I took my time exploring the room that was easily twice the size of my bedroom, lazily running my fingers along the smooth marble counter top. My mind wandered, and I found myself distracted by images of Edward. Imagining him here, running his fingers through his hair in front of this mirror, soaking in this tub, or better yet lathering up in the large, glass shower. Arousal tingled through me, centering between my legs. My body ached for him, and frustration bubbled at his absence. How could he not come to a party at his own house? Why would he choose this party to miss? What errand was so important on a Saturday night? Valentine's Night. Oh. Realization hit me like truck. My breath caught and my heart sank as my mind mulled over the obvious answer. He had a date. Maybe a girlfriend. Someone special. Just because none of the girls at school had caught his attention didn't mean that no one had. I felt silly, and sad, and lost. Then I felt silly and sad and lost over feeling that way.
I collected myself determined not to let this ruin my night. Angela was downstairs, enjoying Ben's company, and I was happy for her. At least one of us was having a productive evening. I finished my business quickly, washed my hands, and dried them on the plush towel hanging by the sink. I checked myself in the mirror, fluffing my hair a few times. Content with my completely unnecessary appearance, I quietly slid out of the bathroom, turning off the light.
I was immediately surprised by the darkness of the hallway. It was in fact rather quiet here. I could hardly hear the thump of the bass from the first floor, and only occasional, loud voices broke through the peace. It was a small hallway, with only a three doors, the bathroom behind me and two more. The door at the end of the hallway stood open, the room illuminated by a gentle light I couldn't distinguish. As my eyes adjusted to the darkness, I could make out shapes through the open door. A wall of …books maybe…and a large flat screen television on the wall. I figured it was some sort of office or study, then a familiar sight caught my attention. Draped over the arm of what must have been a sofa was a brown leather jacket. Edward's brown leather jacket. I froze, my heart beat quickening and without thinking my feet began to move toward the familiar object, in the unfamiliar room.
I knew it must be Edward's room, and I couldn't help but take a look. Just a quick peek. It was quiet enough that surely I would hear someone coming up the stairs and could just pretend to be lost. Not stalking, just lost. I paused at the door, hesitant, my eyes scanning the large room. It was meticulous, just like the bathroom, clean, organized and immensely beautiful. The light filling the room was moonlight, as the entire south wall was made of glass and held a breathtaking view of the forest and river below. The sky was perfectly clear tonight, the moon full. My fingers trailed across the jacket that was draped over the arm of a large, leather sofa. There was a massive bed in the center if the room which was perfectly made, reminding me of a bed in a model home. I had a hard time imagining Edward, or anyone for that matter, making the bed to that level of perfection every morning. I moved across the room, stopping just inches from the glass wall, completely mesmerized by the view before me, committing it to memory. Edward saw this majestic sight every night, and when I closed my eyes at night, I wanted to see it too.
I was so completely at peace here, in this moment, basking in the moonlight and surrounded by Edward's scent and belongings, that I barely heard the sound of the door closing from the across the room, and the click of the lock turning into place.
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A/N - Reviews are love- and we all need love
