Chapter 4
Remember when I said that Alice Cullen seemed composed and proper?
I can't even begin to tell you how foolish that observation was. After pulling me from my bed the modern-day version of a pixie danced around me for the better part of an hour; trying on various dresses, deciding whether or not to put up my hair.
"Please, I'm not made for this sort of treatment." I tried to insist, but the look I received in return made me wish I had never spoken. She looked hurt. Hurt that I didn't think myself worthy of her way of life.
"I never had a sister…" she spoke softly, but with purpose, "I guess… I just thought I might have the opportunity to treat you as one, as a friend. If you don't feel comfortable with a friendship I understand, and—"
Oh how could I fight off this adorably kind-hearted girl?!
I cut across her, not really caring about the rudeness of the motion, "I would love your friendship. I just don't think I'd be a worthy friend to have." I tried to keep a light tone to my voice, but I couldn't help hear the sad twinge it had towards the end of the sentence.
Her smile softened at this, and she looked like she might begin to cry— for me!
"Everybody is a worthy friend to somebody. I have a feeling that you're going to make a wonderful friend, and trust me," she giggled a little, her laugh brightening up the room, "My feelings are rarely wrong."
I felt terribly out of place, constantly trying to tell Alice that I wasn't used to such attention and that I should be thrown back in my original, plain filthy dress and sent home. But I couldn't bring myself to say the last part.
Oh, that's right. For those of you wondering… I'm now in the Cullen home— Fairvale Manor. Alice, his little sister was the woman who had found me the night before.
She told me that when she had called for help, Mike arrived almost immediately and on instruction went off to find her older brother, Edward. When her brother arrived, Alice explained that she had never seen him look more shocked.
"I must admit, you gave me a terrible fright." She spoke softly, brushing my knotted, brown hair gently as I sat facing the front window. The estate was beautiful. The cobblestone path led up to the house from the gate, a small bridge built over the peaceful river flowing into the woodland on the opposite side to the entrance. I would have loved to find myself walking those paths under canopies of green; the sun streaming through the gaps in the leaves above, speckling the ground with little fantastical shapes.
But I was only here as a patient as far as I was concerned. It would not be long before Jacob ordered my return, and then I would be back to normality, and such foolish dreams would be kept at bay once again.
"I'm so sorry you had to be the one to find me, Miss Cullen—" I wanted to continue, to explain, but she cut me off; scolding my calling her by Miss and insisting that Alice was much more appropriate.
"But, I—" I stopped myself this time, my understanding of Alice already kicking in. I wore a smile as I turned to face her, and surprised myself by how genuine it was, "Thank you, Alice. If you hadn't found me…" I shook my head, not wanting to think about what may have happened.
Alice gave a small laugh, "Thank the fact that my ability to understand directions is so terrible!"
I found my voice shaking in an unusual manner. I was laughing— from the heart. This Alice was some kind of miracle worker.
When she had finished with my hair and clothes, Alice took my hand and led me from the room. I felt my cheeks redden as we passed the housemaids, each one watching me with a mixture of curiosity and, admiration and… envy? Surely they weren't looking at me with such intent.
We walked down the hall a little further, passing five more maids, before Alice opened one of the many white doors on her right, leading me inside and closing the door behind her.
"Now, how about you see the result of my enjoyment?" he beamed with excitement, and I tried to return it at least halfway. But I was more anxious.
As she pushed me towards the full length mirror I prepared myself as was routine. Prepared myself to see the bruises, the swollen cheeks and lips, the closing wounds.
But I was not prepared for what I found.
And I couldn't prevent the gasp that left my lips.
Before me stood a woman similar to me, but not resembling myself in any way. She wore a long, midnight blue dress that reached just above the floor; matching flat shoes. Her hair was in a half-bun, with a few precise strands falling just where they should so as to add definition to… her face.
There I saw a few, very light, small bruises. There was no swollen lip, no grotesquely healing marks.
I watched as the woman before me shed a single tear.
Alice watched my behaviour warily, "Y-you don't like it?" she sounded a little upset herself.
I shook my head furiously, "No, no," reaching up I dabbed my cheek with the back of my hand, "I… I look…" I didn't know what to say. I've never described myself in such a way. I've never considered myself to look…
"Beautiful."
My eyes widened at the young woman, her expression, her short black, spiky hair added to the appearance of a perfect pixie. She reminded me of the girl that I had always wanted to me. Not lost, not insecure…
Just original; the way I had been designed.
"Come on," she spoke with a softer tone, a kind tone, "Let's get some food in you."
I felt some how even more self-conscious now that I know how I looked. I usually didn't bother with my appearance, but now, with the eyes of countless maids following me, I felt strangely exposed, and found myself trying to walk taller and more fluently— so as not to disappoint.
Alice's small giggle caused me to flush scarlet as we descended the staircase.
"You don't need to worry." She assured as the doors of the dining room were opened.
My eyes immediately found emerald.
He held my gaze for a moment, before returning to conversing with the beautiful blonde to his left. She looked quite taken by his attention, and spoke in what I felt was a seductive manner; though I could not quite hear her.
I couldn't understand why my chest suddenly felt heavy, but I made my way after Alice and sat where the chair had been pulled out for me— opposite Edward.
Trying to avert my stare from the strong jaw line, and smooth copper hair I began to take in the rest of my surroundings. By now I could safely say that most, if not all of this house's design is based on varying shades of white. The dining room was no exception. We sat at a beautifully set mahogany table, draped with a fine silk table cloth. In equal intervals were baskets, beautiful arrangements of white roses and pinkish tulips within.
Above us were three pristine crystal chandeliers running a line down the centre of the ceiling. My eyes never lingered on one magnificent feature for long though and I was quickly gazing at a new detail of the room that had caught my attention; the silk curtains, the wonderful view of the front yard from the far window, the fabulous paintings that covered the walls of this room as they had in the hall.
When I complimented Alice on her home, I had expected a bored wave of the hand, but instead she gave me a smile that you could tell came from the heart. She went on to tell me that her mother had designed the house years ago, before they died. She had even painted most of the pictures I had been eyeing admirably.
"You're mother sounds like a wonderful woman." I spoke honestly. I would very much have liked to meet a woman with such talent. I dared not admit my own interest in painting, music and the like.
I noticed from the corner of my eye that Edward was no longer speaking with the blonde woman his attention seemed to be on our conversation. I could already feel my face begin to flush.
Alice didn't seem to notice though, and she went on, "So do tell, Bella, what interests have you? Are you a follower of the arts like some," she made a brief, uninterested yet smiling gesture towards Edward.
So he was interested in the arts?
"Or are you the type of woman who likes spending her time in town; eyeing the latest fashion and trends?"
I smiled, though it didn't quite reach my eyes, "Well, I'm afraid I don't live quite the life of luxury. Thus, dress shopping is mostly out of the question. Though that doesn't mean I don't admire the gowns I see the guests wearing at my Master's parties."
I swore I heard a growl coming from where Edward sat, and by the time I looked over he was already making his way out of the room.
My eyes followed him until he was no longer in sight. Alice let out a small cough, retrieving my attention. I gave a small smile of apology, "S-sorry… I enjoy walks and music."
"Do you play?" her voice did not hide any excitement.
I shook my head lightly, "Very little… and what I do know, not very well." I could feel my blush come on as I saw the blonde woman who was speaking with Edward before. Her eyes were now pinned on me. Scrutinizing me; my appearance and my speech.
Then, suddenly I heard the front door being thrown open and the joyous bellow of a young man. The blonde reacted to this sound more than Alice. The bellow turned into a call, "Rosalie, darling!"
And there he stood. Tall, very well built, but with an adorably kind face. I recognised this man— Emmet Cullen.
Behind him appeared another man, about the same height, but with a much smaller frame. I immediately heard Alice's giggle as she stood up and danced over to him, planting a quick kiss on his lips before embracing him fully.
The blonde— Rosalie and Emmet were in the middle of a much more passionate embrace. It only occurred to me then that both women had startlingly beautiful diamonds on their wedding fingers.
Alice turned towards me, still in the Blonde man's arms, "Bella, I'd like you to meet Jasper Hale" — placing a hand on his chest— "Rosalie's brother, and my fiancé."
I quickly stood up, curtsying as he bowed to me, though he seemed extremely awkward in doing so. Despite this, I felt a sense of comfort in his presence. I was going to like Jasper Hale.
Emmet quickly spoke up, "This a friend of yours, Alice? Or did Eddie finally find himself a bride?"
Not sure about Emmet though.
My blush returned yet again full force, and I quickly found myself staring at my feet.
Alice explained that I was simply a friend of hers— she then added something I had not expected.
"And, on Edward's invitation, she will be staying with us for a while."
My eyes widened. Edward's invitation? I certainly wasn't given any invitation, or any offer of refusal!
Emmet shrugged, hearing enough on the subject so that it now bored him, "Well it's nice to have you here, Bella." He gave me a wide grin that reminded me of a school boy— mischievous, "Do you mind if Jasper and I steal these beautiful women away from you for a while though? We've been gone all morning, and I can't tell you how much I don't feel right without Rose around."
I could hardly say no, not that I'd want to deny them time with their wives, "Of course."
Alice actually looked a little uncertain, "I-I'm not sure Bella should be left on her own. I mean… she doesn't know the house properly yet, and—"
Rosalie gave an impatient sigh, and then turned on me, "You said you liked reading, right? And music?" she offered in an all-but-friendly manner.
I confirmed what I had said before.
"Good." She said firmly before explaining to me that the library was in the east wing at the end of the corridor, and the music room was situated on the second floor left of the landing.
"If you need help finding anything, you should find maids on every floor. Please don't feel bashful when asking them for assistance." Alice added kindly, hugging me quickly before linking arms with her husband and leaving with Emmet and Rosalie.
I soon found myself lost in the silence.
I must have stayed sitting there for twenty minutes, just wondering.
What happened last night? Surely more happened than what Alice had chosen to tell me.
Where is Jacob? I wasn't complaining… but it wasn't like him to let me leave his service for very long. I was certain he would have stormed on this manor by now.
And last of all… though certainly not least…
What was Mr. Edward Cullen's issue with me?
Don't get me wrong. I was extremely grateful for all his help. The way Alice spoke of him, and what he did… I wasn't expecting such a cold feel from him. Was he always like this? Or was this unfriendly face reserved for just me?
I tried not to dwell on this for very long, and soon found myself exploring. I followed Rosalie's instructions and quickly reached the library. My eyes widened at the sight before me.
The most extravagant library I have ever seen— let alone inside a house. The walls were lined with book cases, all filled. The tables held neat stacks of various novels, indexes, text books and the like. I wandered so far as to find myself inform on a shelf filled with beautifully covered novels. I gently lowered one from the shelf above me, and sat in the vacant seat beside the open fire at the opposite end of the room.
I, unfortunately, never got around to learning how to read. Not much further than the basics anyway. That however, never stopped me from allowing my eyes to dance across the page, following a story I would probably never know.
There was a sudden creak of a floorboard from behind me. Shocked, I jumped at the noise only to meet…
Those emerald eyes…
Edward Cullen looked almost as startled as I was.
Remembering that though this man obviously cared about me as much as he would a grain of rice; I was still a guest at this house. I bowed, "Mr. Cullen."
He did likewise, "Miss. Swan." He stopped, looking around the room, almost nervously, "I didn't think anyone was in here…"
"I-I was just leaving." I spoke quickly, feeling suddenly very awkward under his gaze I swiftly made my way to the door.
I don't move swiftly… not very well anyway.
My toe caught the corner of the rug, sending me cascading to the floor.
He caught me.
And for some reason… I've never felt safer.
I think I zoned out, because I didn't really move from his hold until he cleared his throat somewhat.
"Are you alright, Miss Swan?" he asked me with the heir of serenity, though I couldn't help but think there was a double meaning to his question.
I nodded my head slowly, standing on my own once again, "Thank you."
I went to move passed him, but he suddenly held out his hand and gently took the book I had been looking at from my hands.
"Wuthering Heights," he sounded impressed, "You have good taste."
My blushing betrayed me and I immediately felt my face heat, "A-actually… I don't read…"
I didn't want to meet his gaze this time, so I kept my eyes focused on my feet. When, after a long pause he still had not spoken, I forced my self to look up at him.
He had been looking at me. His brow furrowed slightly, his face unreadable.
"Not at all?" he asked, though not with a shocked tone, nor sympathetic. He made it seem like a passive conversation. And for that, I was grateful.
My voice didn't falter now, "No. At least... not much more than a few basic words."
He nodded slowly. Then, he made his way over to the fireplace with the book still in his hands. He stopped at the mantle, leaning against it as he gazed from the book to me.
"Would you like to learn?"
My expression must have been humorous, because I swore I saw the corner of his lip twitch. Then his face broke out into a smile.
That smile. That crooked, dazzling smile! I lost my breath!
Damn you, Edward Cullen!
I felt myself nodding slowly. I must have looked dazed. How demeaning…
And it was gone, the smile was replaced just as quickly with a cold, uncaring expression.
"Alright then. Meet me back here this evening."
His voice had a tone of finality.
Nodding once, trying to hide my look of resentment, I turned on heel and went straight for the door.
"Miss. Swan…"
I stopped, but didn't grace him by turning.
"Welcome to Fairvale."
Oh… I certainly did feel welcomed (!)
Once I left the room I stormed down the hall and outside.
I had a feeling of where everything was due to the view from my bedroom window. The stables weren't too far from here, I thought. Perhaps I could run.
Run where?
Back to Jacob?
I had to face it, Edward Cullen may not be the most hospitable person, but he would better Jacob any day.
Despite my change of opinion on running away, I still made my way over to the stables. They were similar to those of the Black family, but still so different. Like everything else, they seemed… brighter.
I pulled open the main door, careful not to damage the dress Alice had given me to wear, and walked inside.
It smelled of hay and horse manure, but I welcomed the scent! I felt so dirty inside the house, and out here… I was in my element.
Not that I considered horse faeces to be my element, but I certainly felt easier in here than back at that house.
"I was wondering when you'd show up." A familiar voice began behind me.
I twirled around to come face to face with the owner of that voice, "Ben!" I ran over and embraced the man, smiling like a lunatic, "How are you?"
He laughed a little, "Hey, Bells. I'm good, thank you," he pulled away and held me at arms length, "But I should be asking you that. Angela's been worried sick, and Mike… well, he's a little miserable without you."
They missed me. How could I have forgotten about them! Mike and Angela. Oh how horrid I was being by staying here. How selfish! I couldn't stay here. I couldn't leave them.
Ben looked a little wary. I smiled reassuringly, "I'm fine… they took very good care of me…"
"And?"
I paused for a moment, and then decided that if I planned to go home, I should probably leave now. I could mail back the clothes Alice lent me, and I would get Angela to write a letter of thanks to the family, and return to my own.
My mind finally done making the decision I told Ben, "And… I'm ready to go home."
I waited for him to smile, to nod eagerly, but he didn't.
"You're ready to go home?" he asked nervously.
"Yes." I decided I needed to lie, "I've already said my thanks to the family."
Ben shook his head, sighing, "You're a terribly liar, Bella."
I would've laughed, only for what came next, "Sorry, but Mr. Cullen already told me that you were not going to be leaving any time soon. Also, that if and when you did try to go back I was not to allow you…"
I froze for a moment, my mind taking in what Ben had just said. When I realised... I saw red. "What? Preposterous! How dare he! That man has no right to hold me here!" I stomped my foot for emphasis. I turned on Ben, "You can't listen to him! I need to go home, Ben! Please!"
He gave me a sorry smile, "I can't Bells… I just can't. I shouldn't have told you about Mike and Angela. I'm sorry."
Just when I felt like I was about to break into tears, Ben spoke up once more.
"Angela wrote this for you, though. She was worried, but when I told her that I had the knowledge of your being in good health, she wrote this."
He handed he the crisp white envelope. I took it gently.
Of course… I never told Angela I of my inability to read. Curses…
I didn't want to ask Ben to read it for me. Instead I thanked him as best I could before returning in the direction from which I came. Back to the house.
Back to Edward Cullen…
A/N: Wonder how Edward's going to take it.
Sorry if this was a slow chapter for some of you, but I got lots of PMs asking for a more in depth description of Bella, her personality, where she is, the others in the Cullen family. So I decided to spend this chapter getting the surroundings in check.
I hope you guys liked this update. And though I write for your enjoyment, and my own personal sense of achievement— I live for reviews! hehe
So please, if you will! Tell me what you think!
Kamikaze Watermelon
