I didn't get as much response to the last chapter as I have for others - it made me very sad ):…but oh well, lets try on this one instead! XD
Just so that you guys know, I'm writing this while I'm very ill. Sorry if there's any mistakes, but I'm in pain, and haven't got the energy to check it over.
I have had a request to do a chapter in Edward's POV, so people can see what he's thinking. Would everyone like that? Tell me in your review at the end, and if people want me to, then I will do one of the next chapters in his POV.
So, back to Bella, and she's just realised that she likes a certain 'someone' (wink wink).
Anyway…LETS DO THIS THING XD
BPOV
I let out a sigh as I walked out of my third interview of the day - a little coffee shop on the corner of the street.
In the first shop earlier I had managed to trip up the manager, and then send him flying backwards into a door. In the second I had fumbled my words in a panic, and as I had left I was sure I had seen the woman shaking her head in disgust.
The third had gone the best of all, because they were impressed with my 'easy going nature' and 'customer appeal'. I could only assume that that was a good thing to have. The guy I would be working under if I got the job - James - seemed moderately nice, but I could see that if you got on the wrong side of him then you wouldn't like the consequences. There was also a glimpse of something more menacing in his eyes, something that I couldn't quite place.
As I walked slowly back down the street with my hands in my pockets, my mind drifted back, once again, to the revelation that had caused me to run out of the house earlier.
Edward.
Even thinking his name in my head gave me a feeling of security inside, and I smiled slightly.
I couldn't feel that way about him already, could I?
With a humourless chuckle I smirked. I didn't even need to think about the answer to that one - because I knew already.
I was falling deeper and deeper in love with Edward Cullen, and there was nothing I could do about it.
A shout from behind me pulled me from my day dreams.
"Hey! Hey Bella!"
Turning, I saw James from the coffee house running down the road. When he caught up with me he slowed down and eventually stopped, panting only slightly from run down the road to catch up with me.
"Look, I know I said that I would give you a call about the job thing later, but I've already decided that your hired."
"Really? Oh that's great! When do you need me to start?"
At this he shifted almost uncomfortably, and I felt my nose scrunch up in confusion. He finally replied, and I had to bite my lip to hold in a giggle that threatened to emerge at his anxiety.
"Well that's the thing - could you start now? You see we just got a call from Angela, and she can't make it in…"
His voice trailed off uncertainly at the abruptness of the question, but I merely shrugged good naturedly. As long as I could make a text to the girls, then I was totally cool with it. I just needed to let them know what I was going to be doing, and that I wouldn't be back until later.
"Sure! I haven't got any plans, and that's fine! Will I need a uniform or something?"
"Don't worry about that - we've got plenty of stuff at the shop. "
We walked in silence back to the corner, and he quickly caught me up to speed on everything that I needed to be able to do. Angela was going to have been making the drinks today, and I was fine with taking that job over. I was extremely creative when it came to the kitchen and food, so making coffee would be a piece of cake.
James threw me a black top from behind the bar, with the name of the café - Java - written in white across the front. Slipping into the staff area I pulled it over my head, and shoved my previous blouse in one of the cupboards along the walls. Glancing quickly in a small mirror on the wall, I pulled my hair into a messy bun, and smoothed down the wrinkles in the top I had been given. It wasn't loose, but thankfully it wasn't too tiny.
When I walked back out behind the bar, I was once again hit with the smell of fresh coffee. The little shop was small but comforting, and had a cosy feel about it. The air was thick with the smells of coffee and fresh pastries, that immediately brought a smile to my face and make me breathe in deeply. I could definitely get used to working here.
Before I started work I quickly pulled out my cell. In all the confusion I had forgotten to text Alice, and I knew that I would have to do it now, before she got anxious.
Hey Alice, I've been offered a job from one of the interviews. They were short a couple of staff on the shift now, so I said that I would start right away.
I took a quick look at the clock on the wall to judge how long I would be. It was 1.30.
I will probably get off around 5ish, so I'll be back after that. Don't worry - I'll still make you dinner! B x
Hitting the send button, I shoved the phone in my pocket and turned to the counter, where there was already a man waiting for service.
_ _ _
I had been on shift in the new job for about an hour when he came in.
That's right. Him.
The guy that had been filling most of my thoughts for the entire day. The guy that I had known for little over 48 hours who, in that short space of time, had taken over my life.
Edward.
I was just finishing collecting the mugs from the tables, when I looked up at the door as the bell rung. He sauntered in with his head buried in a book, and an intense look on his face. Without looking up from the book in hand, he made his way through the crowded café to a table in the corner, where he sat down and made himself comfortable.
I couldn't help but admire his perfection, until I was shaken from my gaze by a loud cough by the bar. Turning bright red, I hurried back behind the counter and automatically began to place the orders - mixing the drinks with an already practiced ease, while my mind was on other things.
Why is he here? There's no way he could know you work here…you haven't told anyone yet.
I sighed. So, it must just be coincidence. He wasn't here to visit me, he just wanted a drink of coffee.
Well, what did you expect? That he would come in and sweep you off your feet? I don't think so.
At that thought I mentally yelled at myself to stop. Apparently, it wasn't enough that I was falling for Edward, because now I was turning myself mad by holding an argument with my own mind. And the sad thing was - I was losing.
Okay Bella, just breathe. It's only Edward. Just walk over and ask him if he wants anything to drink. Go now - before there's another customer at the counter!
Sucking in a big breath, I ducked skilfully under the counter, making sure to keep my head low. I wasn't going to take any more risks after earlier, when I stood up to soon and smashed my head against the bar.
Rubbing my head tenderly as I remembered the incident, I carefully picked my way to the other side of the room, gathering plates and used cups from the empty places as I went. For a small shop, this place sure did get a lot of dishes to clean.
I finally got to Edward's table, where he was still immersed in the book he had earlier. Only now I realised that instead of a book of literature, he was clutching a book of half blank music sheets, and was rapidly marking notes on the page with a pencil, whilst muttering under his breath - no doubt trying to make sure the piece he was obviously writing would sound okay.
Clearing my throat to get his attention, I spoke softly, holding back a carefree laugh as he jumped.
"Can I get you anything sir?"
I stressed the sir, hoping to surprise him with my presence.
"Umm yes please," he murmured distractedly - head still bent. "Could I get a-"
The words died in his throat as he looked up, and the expression on his face was priceless. His jaw literally stopped moving mid-word, and the surprise in his eyes was evident.
"Bella?"
"Yes Edward?" I said with amusement.
Shaking himself from whatever he was thinking, he returned to his usual, playful self.
"Why are you here? I thought you were going to-oh. This is the job interview then?"
"Yes. I also went for a shift in the bookstore down the corner, but I might have accidentally tripped into the guy who owned it, and I think he was worried what I would do to his books. Anyway - what can I get you?"
"Surprise me."
"Edward Cullen, you are going to wish you never said those words."
I let a devious smile appear on my lips as I thought of all the delicious concoctions I could make. Turning to go, I was suddenly shocked as a hand lightly grabbed by arm. Stifling a shriek I spun back round to Edward, but lost my balance unexpectedly and toppled backwards. Two warm arms embraced me before I could hit the floor, but the same could not be said for the tray of crockery that went falling to the floor, most of which smashed with a deafening crash.
"Well damn."
I swore under my breath, and then became hyper aware that Edward's face was extremely close to mine, and his breath was fanning lightly across my face. Resisting the urge to close my eyes in bliss, I pulled myself upwards, ignoring the look that flashed through Edward's eyes.
"This is not good, not good, not good. My first day…oh crap I'm dead."
Realisation slowly dawned in his eyes as he watched me slowly panic, and then our attention was caught by a shout behind us.
James was striding up to the scene, glaring at me with almost intense ferocity.
"What happened here?!"
"Oh god, James I can explain, it was-"
"It was my fault."
My eyebrows shot up as I heard Edward's voice behind me.
"I'm sorry, she was doing a perfectly excellent job, when I knocked the tray from her hands. There was nothing Bella could have done to stop it."
At Edward's confession, James turned to him, looking even more menacing than he had before. That was when I realised that maybe he wasn't such a nice guy after all. I was suddenly forgotten, and when I tried to open my mouth to protest Edward's innocence, I was ignored completely, or cut off before I could begin.
"No, James it wasn't -"
"I'll be happy to pay for the damage, or work it off - but just don't blame Bella - she was being an excellent server."
He shot me an almost imperceptible wink as he spoke, and I replied with the childish action of sticking my tongue out at him. I let the conversation between James and Edward fade into the background. What did he think he was doing? It wasn't his fault after all! And he shouldn't have to stick up for me!
Yeah, a voice spoke in my head. But you like it. His protective side is so attractive. NO! Stop it. You will NOT think like that Bella Swan!
Great. Now I'm talking to myself again. Shaking my head subtly, I caught the end of what seemed like negotiations.
"-dishes. You can start now. There are a load out the back, and the machine's broken. I was gonna get the new girl to do it, but you can instead. Just go through to the kitchen - Bella will show you where."
I bristled at being called the new girl, but let it go. With a curt nod in my direction, James retreated back to the staff area, where he was probably relaxing with his feet up on the side.
Still trying to stay mad at Edward, I grabbed his hand and pulled him through to the kitchen, where I promptly spun round and crossed my arms over my chest. I gave him a stare, but he continued to smirk at me with that damn sexy crooked smile.
"Well? What do you have to say for yourself?"
"Where's the soap?"
"Edward! It wasn't your fault! Why should I let you take the blame for it?"
"Is that why you're mad?"
"Well, yes!"
"Oh Bella! I said that for two reasons. One - it was partly my fault. You can help me wash if you want, but I did make you smash everything."
I felt my resistance crumbling - he did only want to help after all.
"Ann reason number two?"
At that he walked forward slowly, pushing me against the wall before leaning close to my ear. Brushing a lock of hair out the way with one hand, I could feel the smile on his lips.
"And two - I couldn't resist some alone time with my new favourite coffee girl."
His whisper made my knees go weak, and I inwardly cursed my easily swayed nature.
"Urgh. Fine. Your forgiven…for the moment. Now - how about those dishes?"
He pushed backwards and walked over to the sink. I followed behind and we quickly got into a comfortable rhythm - he washed and I dried.
Time passed quickly, and we kept up an easy flow of banter between us while we worked. It felt so right, to just stand their talking with Edward, and having no secrets. I felt totally at ease, because I knew that he wouldn't laugh at me - or if he did, then it was all in good natured fun.
When we finally managed to get everything clean, I slumped backwards onto a stool that I had pulled over from the corner. Edward propped a leg up against the wall and rested there.
"You know what Bella?"
"No, but I'm sure you're going to tell me…?"
"I'm kind of surprised really."
"Surprised?"
"Yes. You see, since I've been here I've noticed something…you haven't done anything clumsy apart from falling over once outside - which was mainly my fault anyway."
There was a cheeky grin on his face the entire time he spoke, and although I knew he was kidding, I had to get him back for that crack at me.
"Mr Cullen - you are SO dead!"
Stalking forward, I dipped my hand in the numerous bubbles that had resulted from the washing up liquid. This time it was Edward that had to back up, and I grinned at the role reversal situation.
With a quick flick of my wrist, I threw the handful straight forward at his face.
"Serves you right." I sang in a teasing tone, "That'll teach you to make fun of my ability to walk. OH!"
With a mischievous beam playing across his lips, Edward had dived forward and smeared a handful of bubbles across my face and hair.
"This means war."
Giggling uncontrollably as we ran around the kitchen of the café, I let out the occasional shriek. Bubbles were flying back and forth, and after five minutes of rolling madly around on the floor, we both eventually called a truce - admitting that this would never end.
I sat up trying to catch my breath, and that's when I noticed the state he was in.
Edward's hair was in even more of a casual disarray thank usual, and there was a few loose bubbles caught in the strands. His jacket hung loosely around his shoulders, and his jeans were hanging just a little bit lower than they were before. His chest was heaving ever so slightly after our exercise, and my gaze shifted to the muscles defined by his button down shirt.
I could suddenly feel the electricity in the room. The tension was almost painful - for me anyway.
I wonder if he even realises what I'm feeling? Probably not.
The moment was suddenly broken as a girls voice floated back to us. We both pulled apart and stood up awkwardly, and Edward cleared his throat.
"Hello? Is there someone called Bella back here?"
"Yeah?" my voice held curiosity. "In the kitchen area…"
Just then a girl with brown hair and kind eyes pushed the door open, grinning when she saw the state of the room.
"Oh sorry, am I interrupting something?"
I felt my cheeks heat up, and I'm sure the blush was evident on my face. Edward on the other hand looked calm and collected.
"No, no, it's fine. Come on in - I'm Bella."
"Angela. I couldn't come in earlier - so I've dropped in now so you can get off sooner."
Seeing that I was going to want a quick chat with Angela, Edward made his excuses and ducked out the door, pulling it closed behind him. The moment he was gone, Angela turned to me excitedly.
"Is he your boyfriend? He's gorgeous Bella! You make such a cute couple!"
I sighed internally. I wish.
"Oh no, we're not involved or anything. He's just a friend."
She looked at me knowingly.
"Oh honey, you're going to be much more than friends. Anyway, I must get back to work. James says that you can have tomorrow off - because of the mix up today. I'll see you the day after tomorrow, when I'll need all the help I can get - it's always busy on Fridays."
With a friendly wave she walked back out to the counter, and I dipped through the door after her. Grabbing my blouse and quickly changing back into normal clothes, I walked over to the door, smiling as I saw Edward out on the street.
The bell on the door rang as I pulled it open, and Edward turned to me, answering my questioning glance in his smooth voice.
"Alice called - she told me to tell you that you need to make 'fun time' food, because all six of us are having a mess about night tonight."
Ah okay. Fun nights with Alice and Rose were always good - they were a regular occurrence in their old flat. We would all change into comfy clothes, and then the games would begin. It would usually end with all three of us curled on the sofa after coming down off of a sugar high.
Like I said - fun.
"Okay. So, do you have a car, or did you walk here earlier?"
Without waiting for an answer, I grabbed his hand and pulled him down the road so that he would start walking with me.
"I walked earlier - it's really not that far back to the house."
Just then the familiar buzz of a cell phone went off, and I checked my back pocket. At the same time, Edward pulled out his own cell and glanced at the screen. Going back to my own I read the message from Alice.
Bella,
How slow are you?!
Hurry up - fun night starts at 5 sharp - and it's already twenty to!
MUSH Bella, MUSH!
A x
I laughed quietly, and then turned to Edward, who had an amused expression on his face. At the same time we said one word that would explain it all.
"Alice."
"She got to you as well then?" I turned my body sideways to talk to him - but this wasn't a good idea when walking forwards. Suddenly I was pitching forwards, only to be caught by Edward again. Blushing profusely I mumbled a thanks, ignoring his silent laughter.
"Yep. She also told me that if I didn't get you home by 5, she would make me wear make up. And I know that that scary little pixie will do it - so sorry about this Bella, but hang on tight.
Huh?
"Hang on tight? Why?"
And then I was flying. Edward had picked me up and swung me quickly on to his back. I latched my arms tightly around his neck, only loosening them when he indicated that he couldn't breathe. Ooops.
He ran swiftly down the sidewalk, bouncing me slightly as he set an even pace. I realised that I was letting out a stream of carefree laughter as my hair fanned out behind me, and for once in my life I wasn't embarrassed by the stares that were coming my way.
All too soon we were outside the house, and Edward dropped me from his back. I held back a slight moan of disappointment at the loss of contact, but managed to control myself. God Bella, get a grip! At least PRETEND like you aren't completely obsessed with someone you only just met!
Great. Now I feel like a stalker as well.
The minute I walked into the house I was met with Alice's voice screaming my name, and before I knew it I had been pulled upstairs, handed a pair of jeans and a blue top with a black band round the middle, and shoved into a bathroom.
"Just get changed in there Bella, I want you downstairs and ready to have fun in ten minutes!"
I sighed internally. I had forgotten just how mad Alice gets when you she's planning something. Luckily for us, she usually calmed down quite quickly, as soon as she saw nothing had gone wrong. I made my way back downstairs and into the large lounge where everyone was gathered.
I noticed there was an array of various sweets, popcorn, drinks and snacks in the middle of the table, and all three boys were eyeing them hungrily.
"C'mon Bells, lets get this party started!"
I rolled my eyes at Emmett's childlike whinge, but nevertheless bounded over to the couch where he was sitting. He looked startled at my approach and then shot me a warning look as if he thought I would try and steal his seat. I waved my hands lazily to show that I wasn't interested before grabbing a handful of couch cushions and placing them on a space in the floor. I then proceeded to sit in the middle of the cushions and lean back on my hands.
Once I was in a comfy position, I nodded at Alice. The others had been silent throughout my entire show of weirdness, but decided not to comment - merely contenting themselves to shoot me a strange glance and then forget it.
Alice was perched with Jasper on the loveseat, while Rose and Emmett had now taken over the entirety of the couch. I noticed Edward sitting in a similar position to me on the floor, and couldn't help but notice my heart begin to race as I caught his gaze. Cursing inwardly for what seemed like the tenth time today, I averted my eyes back to Alice, who had her hands behind her back.
"Okay! To start off with, I want all of you to agree to go along with ANYTHING that we do tonight, unless it becomes exceedingly dangerous, or mad. I know for a fact that none of you have to work tomorrow, so we can recover then. Besides - I think I'm going to start you off easy - tonight will be gentle, nothing too extravagant."
I snorted under my breath - I didn't think Alice even knew what extravagant was, but apparently she just chose to ignore it every time she made plans.
There was a chorus of general mumblings that Alice took for agreement, then she whipped out a camera from where she was hiding something, and snapped a picture of the group.
"There!" She sounded pleased. "Now we have one for before, and one for after!"
It was at that moment that she chose to utter three words that, whenever we played, never failed to embarrass me miserably. She was smirking evilly, and there was a mischievous glint in her eye.
"Truth or Dare."
Before anyone says anything - I know that the whole 'truth or dare' thing has been used countless times - but come on! It could be fun, you never know! I have some funny (hopefully) things up my sleeve.
Nice reviews make me smile, and I love the ones that tell me if you had a favourite line, or if something made you laugh. I love it when people make ME laugh as well!
SMILE TIME! XD
