I run straight to our room and lock the door when we return to Forks. I know, even as I do it, it is a wasted effort - he could break open the door with one twist - however I also know he will leave me be, because it's what I want. I throw myself over the gold bedspread, sobbing again; feeling rejected and disgusting, wondering what it is about me that isn't good enough. What it is that lets him think enough to stop. Because I can't think at all when he touches me. When I'm with him, no logic enters my brain, there is nothing but him.
A soft knock interrupts my musings.
"Bella?" Alice.
"Go away." I can almost hear her preparing an argument in her head. Then nothing. I sigh in relief.
Not long after I fall asleep to the sound of my own sobs.
* * * * *
The next morning when I wake, the house is quiet. Odd for the Cullen's. I wander downstairs and into the kitchen, which they have kindly stocked for our return. A huge bowl of fruit sits on the bench, and I open the fridge door to anything I could possibly consider eating. I grab a yoghurt and am in the process of hunting out a spoon when I spot the note near the fruit bowl.
Bella,
The rest of the family has gone hunting. I am going away for a couple of days to give you your space. Please don't forget I love you.
Edward.
I'm still so hurt I briefly consider burning the note. I scrunch it into a ball before I realize what I am doing, then I spread it out carefully on the bench, tracing my finger over his signature. I will always love my Edward, I just wish he would let go.