A/N: Alright on to part 4. I'm thinking probably 2 more chapters, making it 6 chapters total, but my beta is still holding on to 7. We'll see where my brain takes me with this story. There will be a little drama/angst in the remainder of this story. I don't think I can write a story without making at least one person cry. But I promise in the end, everything always works out for the best. I'm going to have to take a step back from finishing this story for a little while, I need to update my other story and write 3 stories for my fandom gives back winners. It shouldn't be a very long wait, maybe a couple weeks or so, but I just wanted everyone to know. I will finish, though, promise.
Also in case anyone is interested, I'm hosting a oneshot contest with a couple of my friends. If you want to write about a wedding, check it out. http:/www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/u/2448273/Wedding_Oneshot
Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight or the characters involved.
When we pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, Edward hopped out, holding out his hand to help me out of the cab. I smiled up at him, as I took his hand to get out. He squeezed it, before letting go when my dad came around the side of the truck.
"Are we ready?" My dad asked.
"Yep," I replied, taking his arm. He led me in, proudly on his arm, with Edward following close behind.
He let the hostess know how many. She said there was a short wait, so we sat down on the bench, waiting for a table to open up.
"I hope the wait isn't too long. I'm starving," my dad expressed. I laughed, as he rubbed his belly dramatically.
"Charlie, Edward," a voice shouted. We all turned towards the voice. I recognized the man who walked towards us, as Jake's dad. I met him briefly at the barbecue.
"Billy," my dad greeted. "What are you doing here?"
"We're having one last family dinner before Rebecca has to go back to school. She leaves early Monday morning," Billy explained.
"I'm sure it's tough to see her go. I don't think I've even seen her since she's been back," Charlie said.
"It's so tough watching your kids go. Sarah is having a really tough time with it. But what time hasn't she? I think she'll be a mess once Jake is gone too and we've got an empty house."
"You'll have to find some way to fill up your time," my dad suggested.
"Sure, sure, I'm already trying to come up with things to keep us occupied," he assured. "So how long is your wait going to be?"
"I don't know. I hope it's not long, but they seem rather busy tonight."
"Well, why don't all of you join us?" He offered. "We just sat down at our table."
Oh, no, we couldn't impose on a family dinner," Charlie declined.
"Nonsense," Billy argued. "You're all practically family anyway. Besides, I'm sure Rebecca and Jake would love to see all of you and we haven't had much of an opportunity to get to know Bella." He directed his attention towards me. "Jake has told us so much about you, but at the barbecue, we didn't have a lot of time to visit." I smiled politely at him. "Come on. I insist. We have plenty of room at our table." My dad glanced at both Edward and I, for approval. We both shrugged, letting him know it wasn't a problem if he was okay with it.
"Well alright." We followed Billy through the room and over to his table. Jake was sitting at the table with his mom Sarah, and his sister Rebecca, while they looked over the menu.
When we reached the table, Jake looked up at us nervously. "Hey, Jake," my dad, greeted, taking a seat at the table. "Rebecca, Sarah, it's nice to see you both again. I think you all know Edward. This is my daughter, Bella. I believe you've already met her, but I haven't had the privilege to introduce her myself."
"It's nice to see you all again," I greeted. Edward held out the chair next to my dad for me. I was a little surprised he was being so open in front of everyone, but no one seemed to even notice he did it. He took the chair next to me and on the other side of him, was Rebecca. In the corner of my eye, I saw her give Edward a flirty look. I wanted to rip out her hair.
"Can I start you all off with some drinks?" The waiter asked. My dad and Billy both ordered a tall glass of beer. Edward ordered a bottle of Corona. Sarah ordered a glass of white wine. Jake and Rebecca both ordered a soda. I ordered the mineral water.
"So Billy, since you invited us to sit with you, does it mean you're paying too?" My dad joked.
"Ha, ha," Billy played along. Everyone at the table laughed. I grabbed the menu in front of me and started looking over the selections. There were so many steak and seafood selections. I hoped I could find at least one thing I'd eat.
Edward reached over, turning the page in my menu. "There are pasta selections and a large list of salads. Anything you don't want on the salad you can have them take it off," he informed, quietly.
I nodded my head and smiled at him. "Thank you."
"So why are all of you here?" Jake asked.
"Bella rode Midnight today," my dad answered. I glanced over at Edward, sharing a smile with him.
"Wow," Sarah expressed.
"Congratulations Bella," Billy said.
"You seriously rode him?" Jake asked, unconvinced.
"She did Jake," Edward cut in. "You should have seen her. She was amazing with him. I've never seen anything like it before. She definitely has a gift." Edward smiled, looking at me proudly. It made me blush. I hated blushing in front of people.
"Bella and I went on a ride later in the day with him," my dad added. "I couldn't have been more proud, watching my daughter accomplish something everyone thought was impossible. When Edward first told me he wanted to teach her how to break him, I thought he was crazy. But when I saw how excited Bella was to learn and how much it meant to her, I had to give in." My dad put an arm around my shoulders, squeezing lightly. I smiled up at him. "I'm just glad Edward was such a good teacher and taught her so well." I glanced over at Edward, who was shaking his head, like it was no big deal.
"I didn't do anything but give commands, which most the time she didn't follow, anyway," he laughed. "I think most of the praise goes to Midnight and Bella. I just supervised."
"You don't give yourself enough credit, Edward," I argued. "You and I both know I could have never done any of it without you. Midnight is starting to like you too. He doesn't try to step away from you as much anymore."
"He only does that when you're around. He gets very jealous when you're with other people. If you're gone, Midnight and I have a great relationship," Edward smirked.
I raised an eyebrow at him. "Sure you do." Neither one of us realized how everyone's eyes were on us, until Jake broke in.
"Next week, we'll have to go on that ride you've been putting off. I'd like to see you ride Midnight," he announced. I turned my attention to him, noticing the enthusiastic smile on his face.
"Sounds like fun, Jake," I agreed.
"So Bella, Jake tells us you're a vegetarian. How did you become a vegetarian?" Sarah asked. Everyone at the table stared at me, waiting for me to reply.
"I didn't really become one. I just made a choice not to eat meat. I think it's cruel to kill animals, just so we can eat them," I answered.
My dad laughed. "You and Edward are so much alike, it's quite humorous. You're both as stubborn as an ox, yet so protective when it comes to animals."
"How many of your rich socialite friends made this same choice?" Rebecca asked, changing the subject from me and Edward. In a way, I was grateful, but also very irritated with her comments.
"Actually, I'm the only one," I replied, rudely. "Just because I live in Hollywood, doesn't mean I follow every trend." She ducked her head, noticing my distaste for her question. Edward smirked, as he continued to look over the menu.
"So, do you eat seafood at all?" My dad asked.
"I've never really cared for seafood or fish, so no, I don't," I replied.
"What do you eat then?" Rebecca asked, with an annoyance in her voice.
"There are actually quite a few things you can buy at a store, that are vegetarian friendly," I replied with the same irritated tone she had. "Even Edward was able to find me vegetarian items." She glared at me when I mentioned Edward's name. Edward cleared his throat, uneasily. "Right here on the appetizer section is something considered vegetarian. It's called Hummus and Olive Tapenade."
"Sounds sort of disgusting," Jake cut in.
"It's actually really good. You eat it like a dip with pita bread or crackers."
"Maybe we should all try it," my dad suggested, just as the waiter walked up, placing our drinks on the table.
"Are you all ready to order?" She asked.
"I think we are," Billy answered, letting Sarah and Rebecca order first, who both ordered the Sirloin Steak meal.
The waiter looked at me next. I hadn't actually had enough time to look over the menu, since everyone was asking me so many questions, so I glanced down quickly, ordering the first thing I saw, without meat. "I'll have the Pasta Primavera."
The men ordered next. Billy and my dad both ordered Rib Eye Steaks. Jake ordered the Steak and Lobster dish. Every time someone ordered a steak, I cringed. I was used to being at restaurants with people, who ate meat, and I never judged them for choosing to, but I still didn't like seeing it. I didn't even want to look at their plates when they came. I assumed Edward would order a steak too, which in a way bothered me.
"I'll have the Pasta Primavera too," he ordered. My head turned quickly to stare at him. I wasn't the only one who did, either.
"Can I start you all off with an appetizer?" The waiter asked.
"Yes," my dad started. "What was that called again, Bella?" He picked up the menu searching the appetizer section.
"It's called Hummus, dad."
"Right, we'll take the hummus stuff and how about some crab cakes too."
"Alright, I'll have those right out for you," the waiter said, taking down our orders.
"So, what's up with you, Edward?" Charlie asked, curiously.
"What do you mean, Charlie?" He countered, chuckling.
"You don't ever order pasta," Jake interrupted making the same comment I'm sure my dad was planning to make. "You always order steak."
"You aren't turning into a vegetarian too, are you?" My dad teased.
"No," he laughed. "I'm just not very hungry tonight. I wanted something light." I smiled, knowing he was doing it for me.
While everyone seemed to be busy with conversation, I reached under the table, rubbing Edward's leg, covertly. He grabbed my hand, squeezing it and linking our fingers together. I could see him smile in the corner of my eye.
"Remember the time you brought me here and we ordered that Greek pizza, Edward?" Rebecca reminisced. "I wanted to try it so bad and you wanted to order a steak, like usual. But to humor me you ordered the pizza and we shared it." She laughed, remembering the memory. "You hated that pizza. You complained about it for days, after we had it. I thought it was actually pretty good."
"I just didn't care much for the lamb sausage," Edward added. I was really curious about this apparent date they had. I knew Rebecca was quite flirty with him at the barbecue. But was there more to this, than just a little playful flirting?
"Well, you didn't seem to mind the dessert afterwards," she cooed, rubbing his shoulder. I wanted to reach across and rip her arm off. But instead I tried to keep my cool. "We didn't have much time to see each other while I've been back. I wish we could have spent some time together like old times."
"I guess we've both been kind of busy," Edward observed.
"I don't have much to do tomorrow, besides packing. Maybe we could get together for a couple hours," she suggested. She was talking in a hushed voice, but I could still hear her every word.
"Sure, I'll have to see how busy I am, tomorrow. But I'll try to come over, to say goodbye," Edward agreed. I was furious. I took a deep breath, trying to hold it back. I released my hand from Edward's, bringing both my hands to the top of the table and leaning forward.
"Jake, I forgot to mention last week, I'm having my birthday party in Seattle, next weekend. You're invited, if you'd like to come. I thought maybe you could invite some of your friends as well. They were all so nice to me at the barbecue. They might get a kick out of mingling with some of my friends," I smirked. "It's the least I could do. Mr. and Mrs. Black, you're both welcome to come also. My mom's planning it and she's invited a bunch of my friends from back home to come up. It's should be a lot of fun and I'd love, for all of you to come. I'd invite you, Rebecca, but it sounds like you'll be gone by then."
"I wouldn't come anyway," she scoffed. "I don't do the Hollywood scene."
"I wasn't aware there was a Hollywood scene," I argued. "It's just a bunch of my friends, getting together, to have fun."
"Well, I'll come," Jake interrupted. "I have nothing against rich people."
"We'd be honored to come to your birthday party, Bella," Sarah cut in. "Thank you for inviting us." I smiled at her politeness. She was much different than Rebecca seemed to be. Or maybe Rebecca was just jealous.
"When do you go back to California, Bella?" Sarah asked. I was hit with knots in my stomach when she asked the question. I knew I planned to go home and everyone expected me to, but I didn't want to.
"I'm supposed to head back, shortly after my birthday," I answered. I noticed Edward, divert his eyes to across the room when I said it.
"Well, I hope you plan to come back and visit often," she said.
"I do. I want to come back as much as I can," I answered, enthusiastically.
"You know you're always welcome here, Bella. You can come visit me as much as you like," my dad informed. I smiled, nodding my head at his offer.
A little bit later the appetizers came out and Billy decided to order a pitcher of beer, since both he and Charlie had already finished their first. Everyone grabbed a crab cake, eying the hummus, cautiously. I grabbed a piece of the pita bread and smeared a small amount of the hummus on it before taking a bite.
"You have me curious," Edward announced. "I want to try this stuff and see what it tastes like. He sat up, grabbing a piece of the pita bread. "So all I do is spread a little bit of this on the bread?"
"Yes," I laughed. "It's like a peanut butter consistency." He raised an eyebrow, smiling crookedly at me, before picking up the knife and sticking it in the hummus. He spread a small amount on the bread, while everyone watched. He took a deep breath, bringing it to his mouth. Everyone stared, with breaths held. He took a small bite of it, chewing it slowly. I could tell he was nervous. I smiled proudly, as I watched him.
"Wow, that's actually really good," he said, taking another bite. My dad dug in next, piling it on his bread. He also said he liked it, as did Sarah and Jake. I couldn't stop smiling at the way everyone was eating something I liked.
Rebecca joined in with everyone, taking a small piece of pita bread and spreading a little bit of the hummus on. She took one bite, before spitting it out into her napkin. "It's awful," she expressed. "How does anyone eat like this? Why would anyone willingly choose to be a vegetarian?" My head fell from her words. Normally I'd have some great comeback to say, but I was hurt and embarrassed by her words.
"Come on Becca, it isn't that bad," Edward argued. "You obviously don't know good food when you have it."
"That isn't food," she disagreed, sarcastically.
"I'm not putting you down for eating a defenseless animal, so why are you making it sound like such a bad thing, to be a vegetarian? I'm not forcing you to be a vegetarian or even forcing you to try my food. So, get over yourself," I asserted. She glared, glancing back and forth from me and everyone else at the table.
"Now that's the Bella I know," Edward chuckled, breaking the tension. "You might as well give up now Becca, you won't win an argument with her. Believe me I've tried." It was silent a little longer, before Billy cleared his throat and poured himself another beer. The conversation changed to the weather, putting the topic of vegetarians behind us all. Edward reached under the table, rubbing my leg. I glanced over at him briefly, giving him a weak smile, so he knew I was okay.
When the food came, I noticed Rebecca, scrunch up her nose up at Edward's plate. "Are you actually going to eat that?" She asked, whispering so I wouldn't hear, but I did anyway. Edward smiled, picking up his fork and digging in. She looked at him with a shocked expression, when he put a bite in his mouth.
"It's really good. You should try it sometime," he argued. I grinned, knowing in a way he was sticking up for me. He ate every last bite of his food, just to prove a point, I think.
We stayed almost until closing, chatting, and laughing at Billy and Charlie's stories. They both had probably drunk more than they should have, and it was definitely showing, as the night went on.
When we finally left and headed out to the parking lot, I watched as Sarah and Jake put Billy in the passenger seat of their car. Rebecca grabbed Edward's arm, pulling him aside. I stood close enough so I could hear what she was saying.
"I drove my own car here and I was thinking maybe you and I could go somewhere for a couple hours. I miss you. You've been so busy this summer, I haven't been able to spend any time with you since I've been back," she whined.
"Rebecca, I need to get Charlie home. He can't drive the way he is right now," Edward declined.
"Can't she drive him home?" She asked, tilting her head in my direction. "Or does she not drive. Is she used to being chauffeured around everywhere?"
"Becca," he began, but stopped. He sighed heavily, shaking his head. "I've got to go. Have fun back at school." He walked away, coming towards me and my dad.
"You are still going to come by tomorrow, right?" She called.
"I said, I'd see what I could do, but I can't promise you, I'll be able to." He came to the side of Charlie, guiding him to the truck. He made sure he was in the seat closest to the door, just in case we needed to pull over. I guess I hadn't noticed how much my dad had drunk during the night. It didn't seem like a whole lot, but for my dad it probably was more than he was used to. He even did a couple shots with Billy, so I'm sure that contributed quite a bit to his drunkenness. I don't think I've ever seen hard liquor in my dad's house, so it was probably rare for him to drink so much.
I followed Edward around to the driver side of the car, once my dad was securely in his seat. Edward held the door for me and took my hand to help me in. I slid into the middle spot, before Edward climbed in, in front of the wheel.
My dad was fast asleep before we even got a mile or two down the road. "You're awful quiet," Edward observed.
"I don't have a lot to talk about."
"You don't even have any comments about how Rebecca was rude to you?" He asked.
"She not worth my time to stress about," I said. He smirked. "I'm more curious if you actually liked the hummus and the pasta dish?" I wondered.
"Did you not believe me when I said I did?" He countered.
"I'm just curious why you chose to stick up for me in front of everyone like you did and not order steak like everyone else."
"Why wouldn't I stick up for you Bella? " He asked.
"You were in front of everyone. I thought you wanted to keep things secret?" I questioned.
"I keep a lot of things secret. It's a survival technique, I guess."
"What else have you kept secret?" I wondered. He didn't answer me. I crossed my arms over my chest, turning my attention back to the road in front of us.
We pulled up in front of my dad's house right around midnight. We both got out, helping my dad out of the truck and up the stairs to his room. I pulled off his boots and covered him up with the blanket, before going back downstairs, quietly.
"I'm going to bed. Are you coming out?" He asked, cautiously.
"I don't know," I answered shortly. He nodded his head once, before heading out the door. I watched out the window, as he slowly made his way across the yard to the barn.
As soon as he was out of site I went upstairs and changed out of my dress. I lied down on my bed for a little while, trying to go to sleep, but I couldn't. I wanted to know what was going on with Edward and Rebecca. I got up and slipped on a pair of shoes, before making my way out to the barn. I walked up the stairs to Edward's room. I could see a light coming from under the door, so I didn't think he was sleeping yet. I opened the door and stepped in.
He was lying on his bed, reading a book. When he saw me he smiled that crooked smile, which always made me think he knew something, I didn't want him to know. "Are you ever planning to tell me what happened between you and Rebecca or is it always going to remain a secret?" I blurted.
He chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "Are you jealous?"
"No. I'm just curious." He sat up, patting the spot on the bed next to him. I hesitated, but eventually walked across the room and sat down next to him.
"There isn't much to tell, Bella," he began. "We dated for a while, a couple years ago, but then she left for school. So things ended between us. Every time she comes back to visit, she expects I'll just fall right back in to the same mode, we were in, before she left. But things have changed and I don't have any intention of being with her ever again."
"Why?" I asked. He shrugged his shoulders.
"Why would I want to be used by her for a few weeks, while she's here, and watch her leave again and again? I'm not for the long distance thing. Its better it ended when it did." Even though he was talking about his relationship with Rebecca, it hit home. If I left and came back to visit occasionally, it would be the same thing. He wouldn't want to be in a long distance relationship with me. I wouldn't want it either. However, I didn't even know if we were in a relationship.
"Did you love her?" I asked, timidly. After the words left my mouth, I felt stupid for asking. He didn't need to share personal information with me. "You don't have to tell me."
He laughed, falling back on the bed. "Bella, I was never in love with her. I cared about her and I still do, but it wasn't love. I've never loved anyone."
"Never?" I questioned, biting my lip as I looked into his eyes.
"I've never had a reason to love anyone. Obviously there are lots of people I care about; your dad, the Black's, Harry Clearwater and his family, Carlisle…." He named off a few. It didn't go unnoticed my name wasn't mentioned. He did say he cared about me once before, but he didn't say it now. "I just find it easier not to get too attached to people, because you never know when you'll have to leave them. Or they'll leave you." I nodded my head sadly. I wanted to tell him I loved him, but I couldn't tell him if he didn't love me in return. His words made sense though. How can I possibly tell him I love him and then leave? It would be such a selfish thing for me to do. The long distance thing would never work.
"Are you planning to stay with me tonight?" He asked. "I'm pretty tired, so I'm thinking of turning off the light and going to sleep." He pulled back the covers on his bed, climbing under them. He watched me, waiting for me to decide what I was going to do. I waited for a few seconds, questioning if I really should be getting myself in deeper with him. But I couldn't help it. I crawled across the bed, climbing in next to him. He had a smirk on his face, when he reached up to turn the lamp off. I curled up into his side and he wrapped an arm around my shoulders, pulling me closer.
He fell asleep within minutes of turning off the light. I laid awake through the night. I thought about where my life had been and where my life was now. But most importantly, I thought about where I wanted my life to go from here. On the first day I arrived, my dad asked what my plans were, now that I graduated from high school. At the time, I had no plans. However, now I felt like it was time to make those choices. I could go to college. I didn't really care for school much, but I got good grades for the most part. I just didn't apply myself, or so my school counselor used to tell me all the time. If I could find something I really wanted to do, I could work as hard as I needed to. I wasn't the type to give up, so I knew I could do it. Although, I didn't have anything in mind, as far as career, so I's have to figure that part out.
As I thought about it, the more I kept coming back to how I could stay here. I could go to school in Seattle or maybe somewhere even closer. I could stay here with Edward and Midnight. I knew my dad would love for me to stay. My mom probably wouldn't like the idea at first, but I'll be eighteen in less than a week and I can legally do as I please. I'd have my trust fund to pay for school. It's more than enough to support me.
If Edward didn't love me now, then maybe he would if I put in the effort to stay here and show him how much I loved him, instead of just saying it. I knew Edward had a survival mode from all he'd been through, but I was sure, given time, he'd learn to love me. I wanted him to love me as much as I loved him. If we just try, we could make it work.
The alarm went off right at four like normal. I hadn't slept at all during the night. Edward groaned, rolling over to stop the alarm. I sat up on the bed, looking for my shoes.
He reached over, wrapping his arms around my waist and pulling me back to him. "You're dad is probably going to sleep in. I'm sure he's going to have quite the hangover when he wakes up," he said, softly, nuzzling the back of my neck. "You could stay a little longer." I smiled at the thought.
"I really should go in. My dad might need help, getting water, or some Tylenol." I stood up, wrapping my sweatshirt around my shoulders. He stared at me intently, with furrowed eyebrows.
"You look tired. Did you sleep at all?" He questioned.
"I'll be fine," I answered, diverting away from answering his question honestly. He stood up, slipping his shoes on as well. "You don't have to walk me to the door if you don't want to. It's not that dark out anyway."
He gave me a perplexed look, sitting back on the bed. "Is something wrong?"
"No, everything's great," I plastered on a fake smile, trying to ease his mind. "I'm just tired, like you said." I walked to the door, heading down the stairs. I waited at the bottom of the stairs, to see if he followed behind, but he didn't.
I walked down towards the end of the barn, checking in on Midnight. He perked up as soon as he saw me. I walked in his stall, petting him and feeling comfort, just being with him. After a few minutes, I saddled him up and led him out to the yard. I mounted him, steadying him underneath me before we headed out in the field. I had him walk slowly, so as not to wake anyone or spook him. I headed up on top of the hill, watching the sun come up over the mountains. I hadn't watched the sun come up in years. I forgot how peaceful it was.
I closed my eyes, letting the sun warm my face. I was enjoying the quiet, until the sound of horse hooves hitting the ground in a gallop interrupted the peacefulness. I opened my eyes, turning my head to see who it was. Edward rode up next to me with a panicked look on his face.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" He shouted. I was caught off guard by his tone. Midnight whinnied, thrashing his head. He backed up a few steps, trying to get away from Edward shouting at me.
"I went for a ride. I don't understand why you're so upset. And will you please keep your voice down so I don't get thrown off of him?"
"Bella," he began, quieter than before. "You can't take off on a horse by yourself, when he's just learning how to be ridden. He's not like Apple. Anything could set him off and he could buck you. You have to take things slow and not do too much with him."
"I didn't go far," I argued. "I went slowly too. Nothing happened."
"Still, you have to be careful or at least let someone know where you're going," he countered. "Do you have any idea how worried I was when I walked through the barn and saw Midnight gone? I knew he wouldn't be gone if it wasn't for you."
I sighed, knowing he was probably right about taking Midnight out. "I'll go back, so you don't have to worry." I led Midnight around him and slowly headed towards the house. Edward followed close behind.
"Something's bothering you. What happened?" He wondered.
"Nothing," I answered. "I've just been doing a lot of thinking and trying to figure out where I want my life to go."
"Come up with any conclusions?" He asked.
"I came up with a lot of ideas. However those ideas come with more questions, than conclusions. I just have so much more to think about and try to figure out."
He didn't say anything more on the ride back. Once we got back to the yard, he took Midnight from me, leading him back into the barn, while I went to the house.
I walked up the steps and opened the door. My dad was sitting at the table, drinking a cup of coffee, rubbing his temples.
"Please don't slam the door," he whined.
"Sorry." I sat down at the table across from him. "Did you take anything for the hangover?" He nodded his head, taking a sip of his coffee.
"Where have you been?" He asked.
"I went for a ride early this morning. I had a really hard time sleeping last night," I admitted.
"Why is that?"
"I've been thinking a lot about my future." He sat up, his attention grabbed, by talking of the future.
"And what have you been thinking?" He asked.
"Well, I've been thinking about a lot of stuff. Midnight has a lot to do with my decisions. I'm going to feel guilty if I leave him. He's just now began to let me ride him, but what if he doesn't let anyone else ride him? Now I just did all that work for nothing and he's going to hate me for leaving him. I can't come back once or twice a year and expect everything to go back to normal with him. I'd have to start all over. Or there's always the fear he'll be so mad at me for leaving him, he won't let me near him at all." It wasn't only Midnight I was scared this would happen with. I feared Edward would be the same way.
"So, what's your plan, Bella?" He questioned. I sighed, smiling at him sheepishly.
"I think I need to do a little more thinking before I make a plan," I said. "Besides, I think you should have a clear head when I discuss anything with you." He chuckled lightly, which caused him to rub his head from the strain the laughing gave his head. "I'm going to try and get some sleep. Maybe we can talk later today?" I stood from the table, going to the sink to get a glass of water, before I went upstairs.
"So, I saw you riding in with Edward just now," he revealed. "Did you two go on a ride together this early in the morning?" I hesitated, by drinking the water slowly.
I turned around, facing him, to answer. "Actually, I went on my own, but I guess as soon as he saw Midnight was gone, he came searching for me. He wasn't very happy, how I took Midnight out without letting anyone know where I was going. He seems to think Midnight may still get spooked and try to throw me off."
"He's right. You need to be careful, Bella. He's not completely tame, just because he lets you ride him. You still need to take precautions," he informed.
I rolled my eyes. "You sound like Edward."
"Bella, you need to listen to Edward's advice. He knows what he's talking about."
"I've been listening to him. I've done everything he's said. I just wanted to go somewhere I could think this morning."
"Well, from now on, if you want to go somewhere, either tell someone, or take Apple instead," my dad ordered.
I rolled my eyes, walking out of the kitchen. "Whatever," I mumbled. I headed up the stairs and crawled into bed to sleep.
I slept most of the day, only waking when I heard my dad's truck pulling out of the driveway. I got up, running downstairs to see where he was going. In the state he was in early this morning, I wasn't sure if he should be driving anywhere.
I walked out to the barn, seeing Edward instantly. "Where did my dad go?" I asked. He looked up at me, when I asked.
"He said he was going into Port Angeles to talk to someone. I guess there's a buyer in town who wants to buy a few of the horses," he explained.
"Which horses?" I asked, panic rushing through me.
"Don't worry. He won't sell Midnight. He knows how important he is to you."
"Well, what horses, is he interested in?" I questioned.
"I don't know. I'm not sure he's really picked any out specifically. Your dad is planning to bring him back here so he can check them out. He'll be back in a couple hours. He asked me to have all the horses put away and cleaned for the day, so whoever this guy is, can look at them and make a decision on what he sees."
"Can I take Midnight out? I don't want this guy to even look at him."
"Midnight is in the last stall of the barn. So are Chester, Apple, and Cupid. I don't think your dad even plans to show the buyer any of them," Edward assured.
"Well, why does he need to sell any of them anyway? What does this guy want to buy them for? Is he trustworthy and going to treat them right?" I wondered.
"Bella, I don't know the answers to your questions. All I know is what your dad told me. If you want to know more, ask him when he gets back." I let out a frustrated sigh.
"I'm sorry about this morning. I guess I was just tired and maybe a little upset about some stuff," I apologized. He walked over to me, brushing the hair off my shoulders, and bringing me into a tight embrace.
"You don't need to be sorry. You just need to be careful." I nodded my head, as he pulled back, looking me in the eyes. "You should get cleaned up before this guy comes. Your dad wants to make a good impression," he suggested. I nodded again at his request. He kissed my forehead, before releasing me to go back to the house.
I rushed upstairs, taking a shower and changing into a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and slipping on my boots.
My dad had just pulled in, bringing with him, a man who was very well dressed in a western style suit with fancy, rattlesnake boots, topped off with a black suede cowboy hat. He had a large mustache across his upper lip, curled up at the ends. He looked like he belonged in a different era. I had to hold back from laughing at him.
"Edward, Bella, this is Mr. Jenks. He has come all the way up here from Dallas Texas, to see a few of the horses and possibly purchase one or two of them," he explained. Mr. Jenks tipped his hat at both of us. I smiled, not knowing what else to do. Edward tipped his head in return. "If you'll come with me, I can show you around." My dad walked into the barn, followed by Mr. Jenks. Edward and I stayed behind, trying our best to listen in.
My dad walked him down to every stall, explaining every horse to him. Their name, where they came from, how old they were, what their best qualities were. It made me sick, knowing this man was going to take one of my dad's horses.
My dad and Mr. Jenks stopped at one of the stalls and began talking. "What are they saying?" I asked in a hushed tone.
"I can hear just as much as you can," Edward said, sarcastically. I huffed, rolling my eyes. I headed down the path of the barn to get closer. I wanted to know what was going on.
I walked over to my dad, looking up at him with questioning eyes. He gave me a reassuring smile, putting an arm around my shoulders.
"I don't know, Charlie. All these horses look well cared for and nice enough, but are they fast? I need a fast horse for the races. I'm not one to lose and with my best horse out with a broken leg, I need a new one. I've brought my jockey along on this trip. I'd like to bring him out tomorrow sometime to try a couple of them out. I want to see if any of them are fast enough for my liking," Mr. Jenks suggested.
"That'll be fine," my dad agreed. Mr. Jenks walked a few feet more, looking in each and every stall. I could hear Midnight at the end of the barn, whinnying. He could probably sense me nearby. I hadn't been out to see him since this morning. Mr. Jenks noticed and walked the rest of the way through the barn to the area where the horses, not for sale, were at. I took in a deep breath, tensing up when I saw what horse he was looking at.
"How much do you want for the black one?" He asked.
"I'm sorry, he isn't for sale. He just recently came here and we haven't been able to get him to let anyone ride him quite yet," my dad lied. I let out a sigh of relief.
"I'm sure with the proper training, which I can provide, he can be ridden. He looks strong enough and definitely fast. I'd like to offer you thirty thousand dollars for him," Jenks shouted.
"Hell no!" I shouted. He raised an eyebrow at my outburst. "Like my dad said, he's not for sale."
"I'll be the judge of what's for sale and what's not, little girl. Everything is for sale when you can offer the right price," he smirked. I glared at him.
"I'm well aware of what money can get you, Mr. Jenks," I smiled. "So go ahead and offer all you want. I'll offer more."
"Bella," my dad scolded. "Let me handle this."
"You should listen to your dad, little girl. This is business and none of your concern," he intimidated.
"Mr. Jenks, like my daughter said, he's not for sale."
"You drive a hard bargain, Charlie. But I'm afraid I don't give up so easily. I want that horse and I'm willing to give you thirty-five thousand dollars cash right here, if you let me take him today. It's as much as I can offer and I know you need the money. No other horse here is even worth my time," Mr. Jenks offered.
My dad sighed, running his fingers through his hair, frustrated. I could tell he was thinking it over. "Dad, please," I begged. "Don't sell Midnight to him. I'll buy him from you. I'll take care of him from now on."
"I can't take your money, Bella. It's not yours to begin with, it's your mothers and I refuse to take money, if it's somehow connected to my ex-wife," my dad rejected.
"But dad, Midnight means everything to me. You can't sell him," I cried.
"Midnight is his name? How original," Mr. Jenks mocked.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Jenks. Apparently we're done here," my dad said. "If you need a ride back to town, I'd be happy to drive you."
"Forty thousand is my final offer. This is your last chance Charlie. I won't be back." He tried one last time to sway my dad into giving him Midnight. My dad looked pale and almost like he was going to throw up.
He glanced in my direction with pleading, sad eyes. "Dad, please?"
"Charlie, I'll buy him," Edward announced from behind us. "I have forty-two thousand dollars in the bank. I'll buy him from you." I stared at Edward, with a confused expression. What was he doing?
"Sold," my dad accepted. He didn't look very happy and still looked sick. "Mr. Jenks, if you'll follow me, I'll drive you back into Port Angeles."
My dad walked out of the barn with Mr. Jenks following behind. I could still hear him trying to persuade my dad into selling him Midnight. I stayed frozen in spot, while they pulled out of the driveway. Edward glanced in my direction, sighing and shaking his head, before turning and walking away.
"Edward," I shouted. He didn't turn around or acknowledge me at all. I'm sure he was just as confused by what was going on as I was, but I needed to thank him for saving Midnight.
I followed him up the stairs, stopping at the door. I wanted to thank him for what he did. I wanted to be with him. I opened the door, walking in and locking the door behind me.
Edward was lying on the bed, with his hands over his face. I took a deep breath, taking my shirt off and grabbing the lame cowboy hat, Edward had hanging on a hook by his door. I put the hat on my head and walked over to the bed, straddling Edward's lap. He removed his hands from his face, and rested his hands on my hips. He looked up at me and instantly started laughing.
"Nice hat," he teased.
"I thought it went well with my boots. Every cowboy needs a cowgirl, right?" I asked, grinning at him.
"True," he agreed, grabbing my face with his hands and bringing me down to his face. "But I'm not a cowboy." He kissed my lips softly, opening his mouth to deepen the kiss. His hands roamed down my back, unlatching the hook on my bra. He brushed the hair out of my face, looking into my eyes.
"Bella," he began.
"Yeah," I urged him to continue. He opened his mouth, like he was going to say something, but he didn't. Instead, he brought my lips back to his, kissing me again, passionately. As soon as he released my lips, I sat up, removing my pants. I undid his, pulling them down off his legs. He laughed at my obvious struggle to get them off. Eventually I did get them off with a little help from him. I crawled back up on the bed, but he sat up, stopping me from coming any further.
"Put the boots back on," he requested. I smirked at him, raising an eyebrow. "Please."
I stood up, slipping my feet back in my pink boots, before straddling his lap once again. He grabbed my hips, roughly, moaning as he did. "I love those boots on you," he cooed. I smiled at the words he chose. I leaned down, kissing his neck, and nipping at his earlobe.
"Why do you think I bought them?" I whispered. I could feel him chuckle underneath me.
"You are such a tease," he accused.
"And you love it too, don't you?" I taunted.
He wrapped a hand around my head, bringing the side of my head down to his mouth. "Absolutely," he whispered. I couldn't wipe the grin off my face, as he began kissing across my neck. He may not have said he loved me in so many words, but he said enough for me to know it was possible. Maybe he already did. For right now though, he just wasn't ready to say it.
I sat up, digging through the drawer next to the bed, searching for a condom. He watched my every move intently, while rubbing my legs. I ripped open the condom, rolling it on him. I squeezed at the base of his penis. He moaned, digging his fingertips into my hips. I adjusted my position, sliding down on him.
I rocked slowly at first, but the more the orgasm built and Edward urged me on, I sped up my movements, riding him hard.
"Oh God, Bella," he breathed. "You feel so good. Ride me baby. Come for me." He snaked his hand down between us, rubbing against my clit with his fingers. The sensation was making the orgasm build even more.
"Edward," I cried, breathlessly.
"That's it baby. That's it. Let go." I screamed, clenching around him. His face contorted as his own pleasure came over him. I collapsed against his chest, both of us breathing heavily. He wrapped his arms around my body, holding me close to him. I laid my head on his chest, running my fingers though the hair at the base of his neck.
He pulled the hat, I was still wearing, off my head and laid it next to us on the bed. He brushed the hair off my shoulder, rubbing my arm with his hand.
It was such a peaceful moment we had, while we laid there together. I didn't want to leave his arms.
"Thank you for saving Midnight," I said, against his chest.
He tensed up, before he spoke. "I didn't do it for you." I sat up so fast, my head started to spin. I blinked over and over at him, trying to make the dizziness go away and make sense of what he was saying.
He sat up, leaning against the back of the bed. "What do you mean?" I questioned.
He sighed, diverting his eyes towards the window. "Your dad is losing the ranch. He doesn't have the money to keep it running. We've had to sell a bunch of supplies over the last few months. Your dad hides it by saying we have too much so we need to sell it to make room, but I know he's lying. I know your dad pretty well and he's been different the last year or so. I don't know what happened, but he's hurting for cash. He needs to sell some of the horses to be able to keep the place running."
"Why didn't he tell me? I can help him. I can give him money to keep it running."
"You heard what he said, Bella. He doesn't want to take money from you, if it's connected to your mom. I don't blame him for not wanting your money," he said.
"Then why did you offer to buy Midnight?" I asked.
"Because I could see how it was tearing him apart inside. He didn't want to sell Midnight, because of you, but he didn't feel like he had any other choice. So I gave him an out. I don't even know if he'll accept the money from me, but I'm going to do my damnedest to make sure your dad doesn't lose this place," he replied. He sighed, moving me to the side, so he could stand up and get his clothes back on.
"So if you buy Midnight…" I began, letting the question linger.
"He isn't going anywhere. I'll make sure he stays right here," he replied. I sat on the edge of the bed, grabbing for my clothes.
He walked out the door and down the stairs, leaving me in his room alone. I put my clothes on slowly, thinking over everything Edward had told me. If he was right, I needed to find some way to help my dad. I didn't care if my dad was too proud to accept my money, I'd figure out a way somehow.
I walked down the stairs from his room, just in time to see him take off on his horse. I called his name, trying to get his attention, but he didn't stop. I thought about following him, but something was bothering him and I figured he needed some time to himself.
I walked over to the house, sitting down on the steps to wait for either my dad or Edward to get back. I wanted to know what exactly was going on and why both of them seemed so upset.
My dad didn't return until well after dark, far longer than it should have taken him. Edward still hadn't returned and I didn't know why.
My dad climbed out of the cab, of his truck and walked towards the barn. I ran across the yard to follow him.
"Where's Edward?" He asked, noticing me standing behind him.
"I don't know. He took off on Chester shortly after you left. He didn't say anything to me about where he was going," I answered. He sighed, rubbing his hands over his face.
"Did he say anything about what he did?" He asked.
"He said you needed to sell the horses to be able to keep the land. Is it true?" He nodded his head, sadly. "Dad, why didn't you tell me? I could have helped you."
"I already told you, I don't want your mother's money," he said, through clenched teeth
"It's not mom's money, its Phil's. And to top it off, in less than a week I'll be getting a pretty hefty trust fund, which will be mine. I could have bought Midnight. I wanted to talk to you about it anyway. I want to keep him dad. Whether I stay here, or I go home, I want Midnight to be with me."
"I'm not taking your money. I'd rather you use it for college or to better yourself some way. Midnight is already yours. He has been from the minute he got here. It wasn't exactly my intention, but it's what happened."
"What do you mean, it wasn't your intention?" I wondered.
"The whole reason for bringing him here was to train him, so I could sell him and save the ranch. I knew Edward would be able to train him. I knew once Edward got him trained someone would pay big bucks for him. Thirty thousand dollars is a lot of money for a horse. It's an outrageous amount, but some people are willing to pay that much for a good horse. When Edward told me he planned to have you train him, I didn't understand why. I never expected you to become so attached to him. If you hadn't been here, I would have sold him. However, seeing the pain and sadness in your eyes at even the thought of selling him, I couldn't do it. That horse somehow brought everyone together. You and I are in a much better place. You and Edward don't want to kill each other anymore. I can't possibly sell him now. He's found his home and this is where he wants to be," he explained.
"So are you going to sell him to Edward then?"
"No," he answered, turning to leave the barn.
"Why?" I shrieked. "Dad, if you don't take it, and you lose the ranch, than Midnight won't be able to stay anyway. You have to accept it."
"Earlier you didn't want me to sell Midnight, now you do?"
"Earlier I didn't know you were losing your ranch. Dad, you're more important to me than Midnight. And if you sell him to Edward, Midnight will still be here. I can still ride him and be a part of his life," I assured.
"Edward has been saving that money for years and I can't possibly take it from him. I don't know what he's saving the money for, but it has to be for something important. It would almost be worse than taking money from you." It hit me suddenly, why Edward was so upset earlier and why he took off, without returning. He was saving the money for the land he showed me. If he gives the money to my dad, he's giving up his dream.
My dad went to the house, to eat something, while I waited on the porch for Edward. I knew my dad was waiting for him too, but I wanted to talk to him first.
Just before ten, I saw a shadowy figure riding across the field. I jumped up, running out in the field to meet him.
"Where did you go?" I asked, once I reached him.
"I just had some thinking to do."
"Edward, I can't let you give up your dream. Let me help. I'll figure out a way to get the money for my dad," I cried.
"Bella, let it go," he ordered, angrily. He walked past me, heading for the barn. I saw my dad walk out a few seconds later, following him in. I walked back to the house, wishing so bad I knew what they were talking about.
I sat on the couch, flipping through channels, waiting for my dad to come back in.
I must have fallen asleep on the couch, because the next thing I remember was waking up to the sun shining through the window on my face. I pulled the blanket off of me and sat up, rubbing my eyes. My dad came walking down the stairs slowly.
"You're up," he stated.
"Did I fall asleep on the couch?" I asked. "I was waiting for you to come in. I wanted to know what happened. How late were you and Edward talking?"
"Everything's fine, Bella," he assured. "Edward and I came to an agreement."
"What's the agreement? What happened?" I urged for more information.
"I tried to refuse his offer at first, but he's stubborn, probably even more than you are. He wanted to help me out, like I did for him. He feels like he owes me. I tried to tell him he doesn't owe me a thing, because I don't think he does at all. But he wouldn't take no for an answer. So for right now, he's going to let me borrow the money to keep the place running for and I'll pay him back when I can. It's not the ideal situation, but like both you and Edward said, if I don't take him up on his offer, all these horses have nowhere to go. Edward and I would have nowhere to go," he explained.
"So then, everything's fine? Edward is okay with this?" I asked.
"He seemed okay," he replied, while pouring a cup of coffee. "He said he didn't have anything to use the money for anyway and he saw this as a good investment, seeing as he lives here. Midnight is on the line though, Bella. I just want you to know that. As of today, Midnight belongs to Edward. He said he won't move him or sell him to anyone, and I believe him, but you need to be aware, Midnight is his from now on." It hurt to know Midnight wasn't mine and he probably wouldn't be mine for a long time. But it hurt even more, knowing Edward gave up his dream for my dad, and lied to him about it. "I've got to get to the bank. I'll see you in a couple hours."
"Okay. When you get home though, I'd like to talk to you about some stuff, if you have time," I said.
"I always have time for you, Bella. I'll be back soon."
He headed out the door and minutes later, I heard him pulling out of the driveway. I ran upstairs to change my clothes, before I went out to the barn. I wanted to talk to Edward, to get his side of the story. I wanted to know he was really okay with what he was doing.
I walked out to the barn, but stopped right at the entrance, when I heard Jake and Edward in a heated discussion.
"It's nothing, Jake," I heard Edward say. I wasn't sure what they were talking about, but I had a feeling it was about giving my dad money. I wanted to know more of what happened.
"So what, you're just using her?" Jake asked.
"No, Jake. It's more like we're using each other. It's just sex. She needed something to entertain her during the summer and I wasn't going to complain. I mean, come on. If some hot, rich, girl came walking in and was willing to take her clothes off for you and keep your bed warm at night, are you going to turn her down?" Edward asked.
"You're sick. I could have been a good boyfriend for her. I could have made her happy. We hit it off really well at first. She was so close to wanting me. But you come in and treat her like she's nothing more than a whore and she chose you. Why?"
"I just bought her fucking horse for forty-two thousand dollars, just so he can stay here and she can come visit him once or twice a year. I might as well get something out of the deal," Edward argued. "She's not looking for a boyfriend, Jake. She's a spoiled, rich, bitch, who needed some kicks to get through the summer, without going insane. She's leaving in less than a week. Did you think she would magically choose to stay here, just to be with you? You're dreaming if you thought she would."
"What if Charlie finds out? He'd kill you, if he knew."
"Charlie isn't going to find out. He has enough to deal with right now. So keep your mouth shut. She'll be gone in a few days and it'll all be over. Just let it go and get over her. Find a girl who would actually make the effort to want to be with you. Because girls like her, have one thing on their mind; themselves."
The weight of his words hit me so hard. I felt like my heart was breaking in two. There was this huge pressure on my chest and I couldn't breathe. The tears streamed down my face, as I ran back to the house and up to my room. I threw myself on the bed, crying my eyes out for the rest of the day.
How could he say all of that? It wasn't true at all. He knew me better than anyone. He had to know how I felt about him. Was he telling the truth when he said all I was to him was sex? I was sure it was more. I was planning to talk to my dad about staying and going to school here. I was going to stay for him. Now there's no reason to. I need to go home.
Don't hate me or Edward for what he did. He's just really mad and frustrated right now. I think we all know, when we're mad, we say things we don't really mean. And I promise he doesn't mean it.