hey guys! thanks for some of the reviews! it means a lot! :D this chapter goes by kinda fast. im new at this thing so i am trying! so stick with me while you can!

disclaimer: i do not own twilight at all. SM that amazing chick owns all of it. And i don't own the song: Don't dream it's over either. dang.

Chapter: The aftermath

The pounding took place in Bella's head, the aftermath of the booze taking effect. As she opened her eyes, she suddenly felt like a thousand pins were stabbing at them. Bella groaned forcing herself to glance at the clock; it read 11:25 AM. She sighed, her head falling back on her pillow taking the time to reflect back on last night's events. After Phil came and bailed her out, he didn't say anything the whole ride. Bella felt guilty and she wanted to pay Phil back for what she had caused. She offered it, but Phil said she was having fun and told her to not say anything to her mother. She all but giggled and agreed to his decision.

Bella looked around her room. Her bedroom was spacious enough for two people, not one. Her bed was huge, covered with gold blankets and gold thread sheets. She had a small canopy attached to the head of the bed. Her room had plush carpets to the touch and had a few pieces of furniture around the room with a master bathroom connected and a huge closet. She loved the princess feeling to her room, as she loved princesses growing up and wanting to carry that up with her. Bella knew she had a lot of money from her job and Phil was basically a billionaire and he gave her gross amounts of money annually. He was basically a second father to her.

Bella smiled softly thinking back to Edward. She thought he was the most amazing person she has ever come across. She silently hoped that Edward wasn't drunk in the cell. She would never forgive herself if she saw him again and treated her like shit. Bella heard the soft meowing of her cat, Peyton, breaking her from her negative thoughts.

"Hey baby," Bella cooed in a soft, tender voice. Peyton sat and looked at her. "Do you need to be fed? Can you wait an hour?" Payton got up and rubbed her head against Bella's head. "Oh Pey, what am I supposed to do with you? Let mommy shower and change and I'll feed you."

Bella giggled and petted Peyton a little. Bella forced herself to get up and Peyton jumped off the bed and ran into the bathroom to wait for her owner. Bella groaned and thankfully praised herself that she had a glass of water and two aspirin on the table. Phil must have provided it for her and Bella has never felt so thankful. Bella went to her walk in closet and picked out a pair of jeans, a white tee, and a blue hoodie. Bella heard Peyton meowing and she walked in the huge bathroom, to turn on the shower. Peyton paced the countertop and Bella rolled her eyes at the bundle of fur.

"Why do you always have to come in here?" Bella giggled and patted her head.

Bella turned on the shower and waited till it was hot. She peeled off her clothes from last night and stepped in the shower, instantly relaxing. She massaged her back and sighed to the feeling, the water rushing down her body. Bella's face stung in the water and she started to cry silently. Why did life have to suck? Jake tore her heart out. Was she expected to go through this alone? Alice was being the bitch; Phil would just lecture, and her mother would yell at her for letting Jacob doing that to her.

Bella sighed and dumped her strawberry shampoo over on her head and rubbed the shampoo in. Bella felt better after showering and got out. She wrapped a big fluffy towel around her body and saw Peyton on the floor, rolling around. Bella laughed at her cat and stepped over Peyton. Bella dried off and got dressed for the day. Her gaze turned to the window and looked outside to the streets.

It was snowing a little, typical in December. Bella licked her lips and took the view below her. Bella loved the city life, she was lucky to choose such a fabulous city to live in. Bella saw the people walking in an out of expensive stores carrying massive shopping bags. People were also yammering on their phones, even though it was a Saturday. In New York, people worked everyday just to earn their fee to live here. Bella breathed on the glass of her bay window and saw the glass frost up. Bella giggled and turned to her dresser. She put her wet hair in a ponytail and walked down the stairs, Peyton hot at her heels.

Bella walked in her spacious kitchen and opened the fridge to take a banana out. She peeled and ate it in 30 seconds flat. She rummaged through the kitchen closet, finding the cat food. After pouring some in Peyton's bowl, the fur ball sat down and ate her food. Bella laughed quietly and saw her phone in the view and picked it up. 10 missed calls. 15 texts. They were all from Jake. Bella went through the phone and deleted it all, not wanting to hear it. Bella dialed a familiar number and knew she was going to get yelled at.

"Hullo?" A voice said sleepily.

"Thanks for calling Phil last night." Bella said hurriedly, wanting to cut to the chase.

"Huh? Oh yeah. No problem." Alice sighed.

"I owe you," Bella looked over at the clock.

"You do," Alice said. "I can't believe you broke that bitch's nose." Alice laughed a little.

"She deserved it," Bella laughed along with her.

"So, what are you doing today?"

"Let's go shopping."

"Wow. Did I hear that come out of your mouth just now?" Alice was now wide awake, squealing in Bella's ear.

Bella's ear felt like it was going to blow so she put the phone away from her ear. "Calm down!"

"Sorry!" Alice giggled when Bella put the phone back to her ear.

"I'm going to go Starbucks to pick up two coffees. Ok?" Bella bit her lip.

"Yeah! Meet you at Saks in 30?"

"Yep, I'll see you there, Alice."

Bella smiled and hung up her cell phone. She walked to her hallway closet and threw her jacket on quickly. Bella then grabbed her huge purse and car keys, and walked out the door. Bella thankfully took a cab last night, knowing that she would get drunk and wouldn't be legible to drive her car back home. Bella walked down the hall to the stairs. Her apartment building was pretty big; only housing 15 apartments in them. They were all two story apartments and they were pretty luxurious. Bella walked down the two familiar flights of stairs and walked in the garage to her Audi. The drive to Starbucks was only 5 minutes and Bella hoped the line wasn't going to be long. Alice would have her head if she was one minute late. Bella didn't choose her friends very wisely, but she loved Alice.

Bella walked in the small coffee shop. It smelled like heaven and Bella licked her lips in pleasure. Bella looked around the small coffee shop. People were yammering on their phone, while the other people typed fast on their Mac books. A woman, about 30, was yelling in her phone in Spanish tongue. Bella rolled her eyes at the troubling lady. She walked to the line and ordered her usual. She normally got a white chocolate mocha while she ordered Alice a black coffee with hazelnut. Bella thought that Alice didn't need the coffee, but she didn't question it.

While waiting for the coffee, Bella looked around once more, and landed on the familiar flop of hair. Bella's breath caught. It was Jake. He was in the corner sipping a coffee while typing frantically on his phone. He looked like a mess, his hair was messy and his outfit looked like it was thrown on in a hurry. Bella bit her lip and quickly turned around, seeing the scalding coffee ready. Bella picked the two up and walked to the door, as quickly as she could without spilling the contents. Bella saw Jake once more and he looked up and saw her. Bella gasped and opened the door fast enough to rush out of the store.

Bella heard the door open behind her and rushed to her car which was luckily, a few feet away from her.

"Bella, please wait up!" Bella heard Jake's voice behind her.

Bella didn't take the authority to look back at him. She opened her car's door and put the coffee in the cup holders. Bella wanted to cry in frustration knowing she wouldn't out run Jacob. Bella turned to step in her car when the door closed behind she could go in. She was pressed to the door and saw Jake staring at her in angry eyes.

"Why did you run away?"

"Did you seriously just ask me that question?" Bella gasped in annoyance.

"I want to know why you ignored me." Jake said sternly.

"Like you don't know, asshole," Bella snapped. "I broke that slut's nose. And trust me; it wasn't for your benefit."

"Yeah, I heard about that. Tanya and Kate were screaming on the phone for about an hour." He rolled his eyes.

"Let's see if I care!" Bella snapped at him again. "Look, I don't want to waste life by talking to you right now. I'm in no mood to talk to you."

"Bella, please just hear me out!" Jake yelled at her.

Bella's breathing stopped, "You're not getting a second chance."

Bella stared at Jake's eyes. Being as pitch black as they were, it didn't hold much promise. Bella wanted to look away, but she couldn't help but cave in. She was not going to give him a second chance. No way in hell she wasn't going to get hurt again from the bastard.

"I love you Bella. I'll try to prove it to you."

"How, exactly? Banging a slut behind my back for three months? No," Bella said shakily.

"Bella, please…" Jake said pleadingly.

"No. Goodbye Jacob." Bella whispered and stepped in her car slamming the door.

Bella took one last at her used to be future and turned the car on. Bella sighed and scratched her fore head and peeled out of the parking lot. She looked in the review mirror, seeing that Jake was watching her leave. Bella took the moment and cried, and quickly wiped her tears away, wishing it didn't end like that. She couldn't stand looking at Jake that way. Bella wiped the hot tears streaming down her face. Bella took a deep breath and prepared herself to see Alice.

She watched as Alice stepped in Saks ten minutes later. Bella smiled at her best friend and gave her the coffee. Alice squealed and took a hefty sip of it. Alice then oooed and aaaaahed at the outfits. Alice did ask her about her face and Bella told her what Tanya did. Alice growled and threatened to kill her if she saw her again. Bella laughed at her antics, but she agreed with her.

"This is adorable!" Alice squealed and picked up the leather clutch.

"Wow," Bella said and looked at the price of it. "It's not in my price range."

"Whatever, Bella. A girl always needs an expensive purse!"

"I do, remember?" Bella held her brown bag up.

"Oh hunnie, it's out of season. You need a new bag," Alice rolled her eyes.

"You know, Alice, I invited you here. So I could un-invite you." Bella's eyebrows rose.

"Roar!" Alice yelled and curled her fingers in response.

Bella simply laughed and looked through the racks of clothing. The truth was, she really wasn't on a budget, she just didn't really want another purse around her house. Bella's eyes landed on a yellow and tan sweater. It had a deep neckline, long sleeves, a cropped hem, and plus it was backless. Bella gasped and eyed the clothing. She decided to get it and looked around some more. Alice ran on the other side, and Bella could not give a damn.

After three outfits later, Bella was very content of what she picked out. Bella went to the other side of the store, seeing Alice trying on shoes.

"Bella! Aren't these cute?" Alice giggled like a school girl.

"Oh yes," Bella smiled.

"I'm so glad I can afford this stuff." Alice sighed happily.

"Yeah, I know how you love spending a lot." Bella laughed.

"It's fun," Alice stated with satisfaction.

"I know it is. But money is an option." Bella said with a thumbs-up.

"Bella, I do have a lot of money."

"Are we really going to talk about this?"

"I hope not," Alice said, taking out another pair of shoes.

"Good," Bella responded.

"So, what happened, in the jail cell last night?" Alice said rather loudly and one of the workers gave Bella a dirty look and walked away.

"Um…" Bella trailed off, wishing that Alice didn't bring up this subject in this store.

"Tell me!" Alice smiled.

"I met someone," Bella twirled a loose piece of her hair around her finger.

"Some as in a yummy kind of someone?" Alice giggled again.

"You could say that," Bella blushed.

"I can't believe this! Was he one of those drag queens? Wow Bella," Alice laughed nervously.

"Wait, no!" Bella said, taken back. "He's very sweet. He seemed like one of those non dirty rats."

"Really?" Alice leaned forward, intrigued.

"Yeah. He was very gorgeous. He said he was musician." Bella smiled and bit her lip.

"Oh," Alice said and leaned back.

"What?" Bella said with a little cold in it.

"Don't you want to date a man who can provide for himself?" Alice cocked her head to the left.

"He said he lives around here. I'm guessing he can provide for himself." Bella scoffed and looked at her nails.

"Sorry," Alice whispered sadly and put the shoes back in the box and put it on her pile of shoes.

"It's fine." Bella assured her friend.

"I just don't want you to get hurt again, Bella."

"I know. But, this guy… he was perfect." Bella bit her lip again.

"Are you going to start dating again?" Alice asked; her tiny little head confused.

Bella looked over this question. She just got her heart broken yesterday. Yes, Bella thought Edward was perfect, but she didn't know him that well. She only talked to him for an hour, and he actually listened to her. Bella did believe in love at first sight, but she experienced that with Jacob. Well, maybe she thought she did. Bella maybe could find Edward and be friends with him. Not more than that. But Bella knew she couldn't just be friends with him. Her insides tingled. Maybe she wasn't in love with Jake? Bella shook her head silently to herself. She knew she was in love with Jake.

"Not right now," Bella rushed out.

"But, if you claim this guy is amazing…" Alice trailed off.

"He is! He would be a good friend at first. I'm going to wait a couple months to get to know him. If I find him, that is."

"You have to find him! I've never seen you blush so much," Alice giggled.

"You think?" Bella giggled along with her friend.

"Yep," Alice popped the 'p'.

"Remind me why you're my best friend?" Bella said, feeling better.

"Oh honey, it's because I know all the great shopping stores." Alice joked.

Bella and Alice shopped for another hour, Bella had 5 bags and Alice had 12 bags, and Bella wasn't surprised. After they got hungry, it was around 2 o clock so they went to their favorite sushi bar for a late lunch. Bella groaned in pleasure while she ate her favorite sushi and Alice just ate one at a time, picking at it.

"If you're not going to eat it, I will." Bella suggested; she was very hungry.

"Um, no," Alice snapped and ate the sushi whole.

Bella just laughed softly and continued to eat her fish. She took a sip of red wine, her favorite. Pixie on the other hand, ordered a pina coloda and drank it greedily.

"Whoa, calm your tits Tinker Bell," Bella laughed and took the glass from Alice.

"Hey," She whined in response.

"Do you want to get drunk again and start dancing over sushi?" Bella leaned in.

"No," Alice whined again and took a drink of water, feeling guilty for her actions last night.

"Have you set the date yet?" Bella asked, referring to Alice's wedding.

"Yes!" Alice giggled. "We were thinking the 5th of June,"

"That's awesome. Do you know the location?"

"Jasper wants to go to Texas," Alice groaned, rolling her eyes. "I know he loves it there, and I don't want to hurt his feelings. I want a wedding on top of the cliff. With doves flying in the wind, with the perfect sunset." Alice said, dreamingly.

"That sounds like a fairytale," Bella said, amused.

"That's the point, darling!"

"Well, whatever you decide, I will be happy with what you pick. It's your day," Bella reassured Alice.

"I love you Bells," Alice smiled.

"Love you too,"

Alice smiled at Bella once more and went back to her sushi. Bella felt happy for Alice. She had nothing to worry about. Alice has been stressed over the event and she would be on high end for the next 6 months. The dresses had to be picked and Bella was worried for it.

"So, when I go back to work, I think they are going to fire me." Bella said, changing the subject.

"The hell they're not! You are one of the best secretaries."

"I guess? And plus, I have to see Jacob…" Bella looked down at her lap, suddenly not feeling the urge to eat anymore. She suddenly wished for a split second s he

"You two work on each side. He's on the left, you are on the right! If he bothers you, all you have to do is tell the boss." Alice reassured her.

"It's not that easy," Bella shook her head. "We see each other during meetings because I have to copy the stuff down."

"I know, honey. And I know you can't quit."

"No, I can't. I can't depend on Phil's money all the time," Bella bit her lip.

"You're lucky he does give you money," Alice sighed.

"I need it. I feel bad for taking it, but I do need it." Bella said, trying to change her thoughts.

"Don't worry about it, Bells," Alice hugged Bella with one arm. "We will figure out this Jacob shit,"

"Promise?" Bella turned to look at her friend.

"Promise!" Alice giggled and turned all her attention back to her sushi.

Bella took one step at a time up the flight of stairs to her apartment after a long day. All she wanted to do was lie in bed with her fur ball and take a long cat nap. Bella hated the days she shopped with Alice, Alice would constantly bother her about which shirt to choose or shoes. Bella normally wouldn't mind it even though Alice was her best friend. But, on this day, Bella enjoyed escaping reality just for a few hours. Bella felt terrible about not telling Alice what happened between her and Jake that morning, but she didn't want to think about him.

Bella opened her door and closed it after her. She took her jacket off and hung it up neatly in her closet. After discarding her shoes, she sighed as she trudged up the stairs. Peyton was sleeping on her bed, which was no surprise. Peyton heard her owner and immediately raised her head. She meowed softly, and started rolling around.

"Oh baby, mommy is home. You ready for a nap?" Bella sighed happily.

Peyton meowed in response and curled back into a ball. Bella giggled and put her sweat pants on and changed out of her shirt to put a sweatshirt on. Bella stretched and went into her big bed and curled under the covers. Bella petted Peyton and she purred in response. Bella closed her eyes, hoping sleep would take her.

Bella thought about Edward. Her green eyed god. She had to see him again. She thirsted for his touch once more. Bella never knew she could feel about someone this way she just met. And the weirdest part of all is that she met him in a jail cell. Bella never thought she would end up there in the first place, or even thought she would meet such a man there. But, what if he was bad? Did he rape people and he was lying to her face? Bella shook the thoughts from her head and thought about how soft his hands were. Bella smiled and knew that sleep would not come to her if she was excited about this man.

Bella opened her eyes and saw Peyton sleeping soundly right next the pillow that Bella occupying at the moment. Bella attempted to close her eyes and fall asleep, but Edward came to mind. If she did find him; would he ever give her chance? He sounded hopeful about seeing her again, so of course he would give her chance! Bella tried to shift her thoughts to sushi and shopping. Bella knew it was stupid to think about, but she had to sleep. Bella giggled at the thoughts. Both of them stressed her out entirely. Bella kept thinking, and in matter of time, the sleep over took her.

The view came closer, the bright greens were vibrant and the sun reflected on the grass. Yellow flowers surrounded the mesh area, adding a serine view to it. The smell basked in her lungs, making her feel bright. The fresh air smelled like the flowers and trees. She giggled and walked around, picking stray violets off the ground. She sighed, basking in the air once more.

She turned around and saw the sight in front of her. The man she called her forever for so long came toward her. He was wearing jeans with a ripped white flannel shirt, showing his toned muscles. He took each step as the last, coming toward slowly, wanting the nature to take in his looks. She smiled brightly wanting to capture his kiss.

The man came closer and closer. The closest he got was 10 feet away from her; it was too far. She took the risk and got closer. She smiled the whole time, wanting to touch his face. She got closer, when she suddenly stopped, seeing another woman coming towards him. She had beautiful long hair and blue eyes that could light up the sky even more. She came towards the man, a smile playing on her thin, pink lips.

The sky suddenly turned black and the grass disappeared. The goddess kissed the man on the lips and the girl cried out in agony. She wanted him! She had to feel him! The girl ran towards the happy couple, her hands out to touch the man. The goddess simply laughed and kissed the man again.

"Don't you see? He doesn't want you." The goddess ran her hand on his stomach and the man moaned in response.

"It's too late," The man said in a honey voice.

The couple disappeared and the girl had tears, streaming down her face. She gasped and stared at her hands, the red liquid appearing from her eyes to her hands. The last words echoed around her, patronizing her. She looked everywhere, hoping for the escape from this nightmare she was living.

"No!" The girls screamed, again and again. No one heard her. No one came for her. The man was gone and she lost the game.

Bella shot up in bed, gasping for her breath. The nightmare got her in a cold sweat. It was almost dark out and the sun was going down. Bella glanced at the clock. It was 4:45. Bella looked over to her right and saw Peyton, sleeping soundly. Bella put her hand to her fore head, rubbing it slightly. Bella reached over to her nightstand and took a drink of water thinking to herself. When will this nightmare end?

-TJB-

In the empty apartment, all you could hear was a male snoring in the bed. The time passed since he came home in the early morning hours. He plopped on his bed and fell asleep, soundly. The noise outside couldn't be heard, the building to far up. The figure dreamed of the girl who caught his heart, and he couldn't let go of the figure that went through the dreams.

"Dude! Wake up!" A voice sounded, in the doorway of the bedroom.

"Huh?" The guy responded, sleep filling his voice.

"It's 2 o clock, man!" The voice sounded again.

"Fuck off," He groaned groggily and closed his eyes.

"Edward, come on! I'm starving. I want some food before we hit the pub tonight."

"Emmett, there has to be something in the fridge." Edward whined.

"There is, but it's all out of date. I have a stomach to look after, you know." Emmett laughed and patted his hungry stomach.

"Ugh, fuck," Edward whispered and shot up in a sitting position.

He glanced at Emmett, his huge form taking in the whole doorway.

Emmett had a shit eating grin on his face and Edward just flipped him off. Emmett laughed a deep hearty laugh.

"Someone is going to act like a chick tonight." jeered Emmett.

"Fuck off Emmett," Edward groaned once again and glared at him.

"What's up your ass?" Emmett stopped laughing and frowned.

"Long night," Edward said simply.

"I bet daddy Cullen was happy to bail you out."

"Oh yeah, he was…" Edward said sarcastically, his thoughts going back to the moment.

"Is there a reason of why I got a call to bail you out?" Carlisle Cullen snapped at his son.

"I'm not dead, am I?" Edward muttered, walking to his father's car.

"I don't appreciate of what you're doing." Carlisle said, not wanting to look at him. His son was disgracing him at this moment.

"I'm fine, ok?" Edward clarified, looking over at his dad.

"If you keep this up, you're not." Carlisle responded, coldly.

"Do you see me doing drugs?" Edward snapped.

"Maybe the next time I bail you out, you will be doing drugs."

Edward didn't respond to his dad. He was fed up with being accused of what he did for a living. He didn't live the lifestyle his father had; he didn't want it. He just wanted to do what he did best. And he could give a flying fuck what anyone thought of it.

Edward opened the car door to his dad's Mercedes, and sat on the cool leather. Carlisle did the same, starting the ostentatious car and drove down the streets.

"I do not want to get a call for this anytime soon. I cannot be late to work because of your behavior." Carlisle's eyes focused on the road.

"Lighten up," Edward's accent got heavy.

Edward was born in London and he was the only one in the family with an accent. They decided to raise him in London for the first 6 years. He always wished that he could always move back; but his heart was in New York. Carlisle was tougher on him to get his English accent in order, but Edward didn't give a fuck about English grammar.

"I want you to get a job," Carlisle stated firmly.

"What? I do have a job," Edward responded.

"A real one,"

"Piss off." Edward snapped once again.

"I'm serious. You get a job at the company to pay off this bail."

Edward gaped at his father. He wanted him to work, but he wanted him to work at his company? Edward thought about his answer. He certainly didn't want to do it.

"No," He responded simply, shrugging.

"Edward, you have no choice. I will cut off your grandfather's money."

"You wouldn't," Edward snarled. "Why can't I use grandfather's money to pay it off?"

"You need to learn how to work at the family company. You are getting it after I retire anyway,"

"No. Just, don't do it."

"Do you want the job, or not?"

"Honestly No" Edward thought to himself

Edward did agree to the job that his dad offered. Edward would have to be an assistant to his father; while he did deals with other companies. Edward glanced at Emmett who was still frowning at him.

"Get your ass up, asshole." Emmett muttered and walked out of the doorway.

Edward got up and stretched, going to his closet to get his clothes for the day. Edward played at the pub every Saturday night from 6 to 9. Normally on a good day, a crowd usually formed to see the amateur band play. A crowd of drunken girls, formed on the night just to try to get him in bed. He always disagreed, not wanting anything to do with them. Edward wasn't exactly a player, but he did date casually every once in a while. He never wanted a woman to tie him down. In the end, girls would get jealous because of the other girls forming on him. He had his heart broken countless of times, not the other way around.

The snowfall outside the window was coming down harder, making the outdoors look like a winter wonderland. Edward peered outside and made a dirty look. He hated the snow on these type of days. The snow disgusted him at one point during the cold season. The snow made a blanket of white over the streets and the tall buildings that surrounded the New York City. From a long distance, he could see the trees all white at the park. His apartment building was 20 stories high and he lived in a nice penthouse that overlooked the crowded city. His money was from his grandfather who left him a trust fund when he passed away.

Edward at first didn't accept the pity money. The money had at least millions in the account, from his grandfather owning the company that his father owns now. He never expected so much, from a man who knew so little about. Once Carlisle retired, the company would be handed down to Edward. He didn't want the company or the money, but the tradition was to pass down the company to son to son.

Edward shook his thoughts and got dressed in a blue plaid shirt that was un-buttoned to show the black tee shirt underneath. He slipped on a pair of jeans with some holes in them. To top it off, he slipped on his back converse and ran his hand through his unruly locks of bronze hair that lay atop his head.

His thoughts switched to the brown haired beauty that caught his eye in the early hours. He never felt so captivated from a human being before. She was beautiful and she had a soft smile that made him smile in response. Her hair, that he wanted to touch, teased his mind all night while she played with it. The twirling of her finger over the curly locks turned him on. She bit her lip when she was nervous and the red color returned to her cheeks each time. Edward never wanted someone so much in his entire life. He loved playing for her and she smiled at him the whole time he sang for her. She simply wanted to relax in the disgusting space and he provided it for her. Edward hoped that he would see her again, and he had to make it happen.

Her giggle was the best of all. Her laugh wasn't annoying; it was addicting. Her giggle was girly and it had a nice soft tone to it. Edward always licked his lips and smiled when he heard her laugh 20 times in the morning. He never knew he could have so much fun in a jail cell. After the girl who caught his heart left, he felt bored and a little empty. Edward had to wait at least two hours before his father was due at work and to pick him up.

This was not to first time Edward ended up in the slammer. The last time he was in, he got into a bar fight defending an innocent girl in the bathroom, minutes away from getting raped. He felt like a hero and the girl felt like she was on cloud nine from Edward saving her. The girl, Allie, followed him around for a week before he decided to take her out on a date so that the helpless girl would stop following him. Edward liked Allie, but he didn't see her as girlfriend material. They dated for a month till Edward dumped her because she was too clingy. The last time Edward saw her, she was walking in a therapist office. Good riddance.

Edward picked up his leather jacket and walked out of his bedroom to go the living room. He walked down the long hallway and saw Emmett, who was sitting on the couch. Emmett turned around and smiled.

"Ay bastard! Let's get going!" Emmett yelled, happily.

Edward rolled his eyes at the big buff of skin and walked out the door. He turned and locked the door in one quick swift motion. They both walked down the flights of stairs instead of taking the elevator that was provided for them. Emmett kept telling Edward stupid jokes that he thought were funny and Edward just ignored him the whole time. They both stepped out in the cool air, the snow coming down a little faster and harder. Edward squinted his eyes and nose and looked up at the sky. The pure white substance blinded him and he looked down to shake the stray flakes from his face. His hands scratched over his 2 day stubble. The two friends walked down the street, not feeling like driving. They both reached a walk in place that served hot dogs and other bar food that was quick and easy to make. Edward ordered his usual; which was a BLT and Emmett ordered a huge hamburger with fries and a large famous milkshake they served.

Emmett stared at the greasy food hungrily and dug in like he hadn't eaten in days. Edward chuckled, shook his head and took a bite of the sandwich. They both walked down the street, food bags in hand.

"Dude, what is up your ass? You've been acting like a chick," Emmett muffled, with food in his mouth.

"There is nothing wrong." Edward said, confused. "And thanks for reminding me."

"Yeah there is. You haven't acted like this since that chick was following you around."

"What the fuck?" Edward raised his eyebrows.

"I know these things." Emmett surrendered.

Edward stopped in his tracks and stared at Emmett with a stupid look across his face. Emmett realized 10 seconds later that Edward wasn't with him so he stopped eating and walking to stop. He was about 10 feet away and looked over at Edward.

"What?" Emmett asked, with confusion.

"You are an idiot." Edward scoffed walking up to Emmett.

"You're not going to call me a bloke this time?" Emmett nudged Edward in the ribs.

"Don't sound so disappointed," Edward laughed and took another bite of his sandwich.

The two guys walked down the street a little ways back to the penthouse. Emmett lived with his girlfriend, Rosalie, which he has been dating for 3 years. Emmett never had enough guts to actually propose to Rosalie just yet. Edward did feel a little left out when Emmett and Rosalie came over for drinks. The couple usually ended up getting drunk by the end of the night, and make out and dry hump like animals on the couch. Edward usually pushed the couple out of his house and he drank to drown his sorrow.

He knew he was being a pussy about the whole single situation. Girls dumped him and he couldn't stand the thought of being dumped again. The girls who flocked to him were usually older or even younger. He remembered being attracted to an 18 year old girl. She claimed that she was 21, so of course, he believed her. They both went out for two weeks until her mother walked in on both making out in her pink fluffy room. The mother was outraged and she startled the couple by yelling. Edward ran out of the room while the mother hot on his heels. When he reached the door, the mom started flirting with him and he ran out of the house, scared as a little girl.

"You need a girlfriend." Emmett wiggled his eyebrows.

"I don't," Edward seethed the lie through his teeth.

"I'm going to set you up!" Emmett chuckled, walking in the tall building.

"Please don't," Edward turned on his thick accent.

"Are you being a pussy?" Emmett turned to him.

"Shut up you big oaf." Edward slapped him across the head.

"Ow! Edward! I get that enough from Rosie." Emmett groaned and rubbed the spot.

"Maybe if you weren't such an ass, I wouldn't have to smack you." Edward responded, taking another bite from his food.

Emmett just laughed and followed Edward into the elevator. Edward knew he couldn't date other girls; he just wanted one. Her laugh played softly in his mind. He wanted more. He actually wanted to touch her again. Edward smiled and looked forward while Emmett groaned and ate his food. Edward mentally rolled his eyes for Emmett ruining the moment by being a pig that he is. Her name played softly on his lips.

Bella,he mouthed.

-TJB-

The downtown pub was pretty busy. Jack, the owner, was at least 60 years old with women hanging off of him all the time. It was a shame that his wife had to stay home, just watching TV. Edward was in the backroom, tuning his guitar. Emmett was currently banging his drum sticks against the counter, shaking his hips. He beat boxed a drumming tune to warm him up. Edward laughed at him and kept playing the guitar.

"Hey sugar," Came a high pitched voice coming towards Edward.

Edward looked up and saw the local waitress that worked at the pub every night, Lauren. Lauren was an old fling of Edward and the only reason why she asked so many questions, was because she loved his accent. Lauren was the town whore and Edward could not give a flying fuck. She was currently wearing a black leather skirt, high knee boots, and a white tank top that showed her belly button.

"Hey, Lauren, You lost?" Edward said, trying to add humor in his voice. He honestly couldn't be more agitated.

Lauren giggled, "No silly! I came back here to see you."

"Great," Edward fake smiled.

"I miss you," Lauren came up to him and fingered his chest hair.

"You saw me last night." Edward pointed out and grabbed her hand and placed it by her side.

"It seems like forever ago!" Lauren giggled again.

Edward looked over at Emmett who stopped playing, to look at the interaction with a smirk on his face.

"Yeah, um, Lauren I still have to warm up. Maybe you should go back to work?" Edward said in a tone for little kids.

"Ugh, Fine!" Lauren giggled and rolled her eyes. "Find me when you're done." Lauren whispered the last part and strutted out of the room.

"Aw! Eddie, I love you so much!" Emmett mocked, making kissy faces. "Oh Eddie, you are so handsome!"

"Shut up, you ass." Edward growled.

"I was just joking!" Emmett laughed.

"That bitch is so annoying." Edward stated matter- of- factly and started tuning his guitar again.

"Tell me about it," Emmett responded and played with his drumsticks.

Lauren's reputation at Jack's Pub wasn't a very clean one. Edward usually caught Lauren making out with someone random or every once a while, he would see her making out with Jack. It seems as she pleases him to keep the cruddy job. Lauren flaunted her eyelashes too much, and all the guys seemed to hit on her every night.

Edward really didn't care about her. He just shooed her off every time she came looking for him. She always felt him up or tried to kiss him, but he wouldn't have it and he pushed her off him each time. The girl could not take a fucking clue.

"Hey guys," A voice sounded coming towards their way. The voice belonged to Riley, one of the bass players for the band.

"Riley! It's about damn time dude!" Emmett yelled.

"Emmett, you're going to attract a stray with that voice," Riley chuckled.

"Don't be so cocky." Emmett warned playfully.

"We have a full house tonight." Riley put his hands together and smiled.

"Really?" Edward questioned, surprised.

"Yeah! I bet Lauren is going to repay them in blow jobs." Riley joked, taking his bass out of the case.

"Maybe she'll give me one?" Emmett laughed.

"I wonder what Rose would say if she heard that." Edward shot a knowing look in Emmett's direction.

"She'll probably be turned on and want to join!" Emmett boomed.

Edward shook his head in disbelief at his friends and got lost in the soft tune of his guitar.

The crowd finally calmed down, taking the scene before them. The bright lights shone on the trio in front and they all had concentrated faces on. The leader looked down, only to look back up. Some people looked bored and some looked awe struck. He got prepared; the background music starting. He opened his mouth, the soft melody pouring from his lips.

There is freedom within, there is freedom without
Try to catch the deluge in a paper cup
There's a battle ahead, many battles are lost
But you'll never see the end of the road
While you're traveling with me

The drums added; giving it a rock authentic to it. The bass followed behind the guitar musings, getting easily lost in the tune. The lead singer sang the song with no hesitation, knowing the words by heart.

Hey now, hey now
Don't dream it's over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they won't win

He looked in the distance; the crowd had their arms up, swaying to the music. He smiled to himself, the crowd following him and the tune of the song. He was in triumph of accomplishment. It was like a dream to him, a dream come true.

Now I'm towing my car, there's a hole in the roof
My possessions are causing me suspicion but there's no proof
In the paper today, tales of war and of waste
But you turn right over to the TV page

The tone of his voice was soft, matching the music perfectly. He got lost in the words, the song taking him away. His long fingers were strumming the strings perfectly.

Hey now, hey now
Don't dream it's over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they won't win

Now I'm walking again to the beat of a drum
And I'm counting the steps to the door of your heart
Only shadows ahead, barely clearing the roof
Get to know the feeling of liberation and release

His eyes scanned the crowd trying to find any people who weren't looking on. His green eyes raked over the figure that caught his eye. Her hair was long and brown, her eyes shining. It clicked. It was the girl who he thought about the last 12 hours. She was here. Her facial expression matched his; the shock covering her beautiful face. He couldn't stop. He had to finish the song. No distractions. His grin widening with the thought of her presence.

Hey now, hey now
Don't dream it's over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they won't win

Well, don't let them win
Hey now, hey now
Don't let them win
Don't let them win, yeah

They all stopped playing, the applause coming in like thunder. The crowd cheered nothing but good words. The lead singer smiled and waved to the crowd. His head bowed in happiness from the reward. He looked up, hoping to find her. He scanned the crowd over and over again. He couldn't find her. He frowned and looked down again, the disappointment filling him. Maybe he was just hallucinating that she was actually there. He let his hopes up too high. Sighing again, He touched his guitar, feeling the smoothness underneath his finger tips. He looked up again, smiling, only to find the brown eyed beauty; smiling back at him.

The grin that was now there felt like it never left.