Carlisle leaped the river in one jump to be away from my family's prying ears. "What happened Carlisle? Is everything all right? Why did you called me?" I demanded as soon as I was in front of my father.
Will you calm down for a minute? Take some deep breaths and relax your mind. There is no current danger.
I scoffed at Carlisle's words but did what he said. After a few breaths, when my mind was able to think properly, I looked at Carlisle.
Sit with me. He was sitting on a wooden log where he patted asking me to join here.
"How are you feeling now?" Carlisle asked loudly when I sat down.
I was feeling better. Though my thirst was not at all saturated, it was better. I was still very thirsty, but that will have to wait. "Fine and a little confused." I muttered looking at the him.
"Can I know the reason why you were reluctant to go for hunting yesterday?"
"Emmett is big enough to complain like a kindergarten child." I objected.
"Edward!" He scolded. I know you are still feeling guilty for what all happened but this all have to stop. You can only protect Bella when you are strong yourself. How are you expecting to protect her when you are fighting with your needs? You cannot bear getting this thirsty in front of anyone, and especially not with Bella.
"I am fine Carlisle. Her blood doesn't appeals me the way it used to do." I blurted out in defence, without thinking about it.
Care to explain. He asked with raised eyebrows.
"You can say I have grown somewhat immune to her blood." I explained slowly, explaining him the best way I can. "Her blood still smells the same to me, but the thought of her not existing anymore, it changed many things."
"Hmm, interesting. I have never heard anything like this, to get immune to your prey, but there have never been any others like you and Bella. It all makes sense. I think your leaving have done something nice. I don't think she will even be in a danger with you regarding your lust for her blood." I smiled. Carlisle was always the optimistic. He would see good in every one. Just like Bella.
Edward, I wanted to discuss something with you. About Bella. My eyes grew wide realizing where this conversation was going. "I wanted to ask you is there is anything that you both are hiding from me and wish to discuss with me."
I shook my head keeping my eyes on the grass, avoiding it from him. I didn't want to discuss Bella's hallucinations with him.
You have to tell me son. He pressed. "I am Bella's physician, and I have a right to know all this stuff. You know I can ask this directly to her, and I will make her answer me, but I don't want to embarrass her. This is a thing which should be between you two only, but being her doctor and your father – and you know I consider her as my daughter too – I need to know."
I was still shaking my head. Even if Carlisle was right, it was a thing which I didn't wanted to discuss with anyone.
"Do you want to know how many times have Bella visited the ER in the last two months. Do you want to know who used to bring her here." I could see through his thoughts the file of Isabella Swan – she had visited the ER more than twenty times – each time she came with Jacob Black and went with new stitches on her head or hands.
Bella riding a motorcycle, doing hiking alone in the woods, cliff diving, it is not so Bella, son. I know it was something serious. "Please tell me. I want to help you both."
I was still looking down and shaking my head a little.
"Edward." He murmured and placed a hand on my shoulder.
It took me a few minutes to look from the grass in his eyes, and when I did, I broke down. I swallowed my pride, my ego and laid my guard down as I leaned my head on my father's shoulder.
"She was risking her life dad." I started and all the words started flowing out of the floodgate. "She said that whenever she did anything risky, she could hear my voice properly, as if I was standing just beside her, yelling at her to not do this, to protect her. She did all the things, just to hear my voice! That day, when she jumped off the cliff, she said that she did that to hear my voice, but when she jumped, the currents turned wild. She was ready to... die, Carlisle." I shuddered just by saying this. "She decided it in the water that she would end her mere existence, just to avoid the pain I inflicted on her. She would have... di-died that day if that wolf wouldn't have been there to save her."
While I was telling him all the truth, he considered my words, and rubbed my back to sooth me. When I was able to control myself, I straightened myself and looked in his eyes before looking down at grass.
You mean she was having hallucinations about you protecting her. I nodded. Poor child, what had happened to her. Your leaving helped her transforming from a responsible girl to an adventurous girl who is ready to do anything just to hear the voice of her loved one. You know, if you were already not feeling guilty or I would have not known your intentions, I would have definitely thrown you out of the town.
"Then, I think you are thinking on the same line of Charlie." I muttered with shame and guilt shining in my eyes, still playing with the grass with my foot.
You should be happy that Charlie is not taking such drastic measures, else even I would not be able to help you. After all, who want to get against the chief of police, and especially a girl's father. Carlisle teased lightning the mood. I sighed but couldn't help but smile with him, though it was a tight smile.
"What should I do Carlisle? It breaks my heart to see her like this. She is still so wary that I may not come back. Even in her sleep she shudders when I move even half a inch."
"As a doctor and a father, my only answer to this will be make her believe in you again, that you will never leave her nor you will go away." I acknowledged that he was indeed right. The only way for this was to make her feel loved again.
Now, about your hunting. We will plan it in a short time.
I punched a fist on the wood in disgust. The wood groaned against my pressure. "I am not going for hunting anytime soon Carlisle."
I was not asking you to go for a hunt today or tonight, son. I was suggesting that we will be going for quick hunt today. Then, on Saturday, as Bella would be busy at Newton's store, we will go for a full day hunting and be back by seven in the evening.
Though I knew that I have to hunt again, I had promised myself I will be with her. She is my first priority I will not leave her anytime soon. I was still shaking my head. Carlisle chuckled, but it sounded off.
I know she is your first priority son, and you know it too that everybody here would look after her, but your brothers had missed you too much. Don't you think you should give your free time – when you are not with Bella – to your brothers. I know they will say nothing, but I also know that they won't have to. You will read your thoughts yourself.
Carlisle was trying to hide from me, but I could say that even he missed me like hell.
I haven't even apologized him properly for my silly mistake of leaving them or going to Volterra.
"I'm so sorry Carlisle. I think you are right. I'll come with you Saturday, but before that no hunt."
"If you think so, then I am fine."
Carlisle was my mentor, my friend, my companion and definitely my father. And my near death in Volterra had shocked him beyond words. He could hide it well from me, but not entirely. I was still feeling guilty. If Bella was a second late, or if the Volturi had said yes at my first visit... I shuddered. I kept my head in his lap finding comfort in my father's arms just like a seventeen years old boy does.
Don't feel guilty. Be pleased that nothing happened. I nodded in his lap and buried myself more in him. He kissed my head and stroked my hair. "I am really glad you denied cutting your hair. It looks best in their natural way."
I chuckled. "Yeah. Even I think that."
No one of us said anything. He was remembering our time together, since I joined this life and him, and I was relieving those memories.
"Now, I can predict that I will not be able to see you till evening." I smiled. If I could blush, I am sure my face would have been in the most delicious pink colour. "So let me tell you now that we – you, your brothers and I – will be going to check the trail of Victoria once again. Alice had already informed us that you would be kicked out of Bella's house when Charlie comes home, by Bella of course, so we will be using your time there." I nodded my assent, though it was not necessary. Carlisle was not having a no for an answer this time.
I stood up from my former position. "What had Alice seen? About Victoria." I asked curiously.
"Nothing it seems."
I wanted it badly to kill her. I wanted to release some energy so I started pacing on the wet ground. "I wish I can kill her. Due to her, my Bella had to find shelter under those dogs." I spat that word.
"Edward!" Carlisle scolded. I know you want to finish that Victoria herself, which I think is becoming a necessity now, but don't you think it is a bit rude to think of those wolves like that. Vengeance is never good, son. You should be happy that due to them Bella is safe. Don't you realise what could have happened if the wolves were even a second late when Bella was with Laurent, or when Victoria was chasing Bella.
I cringed listening the thoughts of my father. He was right. I should be grateful to the wolves, and especially to Jacob Black. Due to him Bella was able to at least laugh in the last three months. It was due to him and his pack that Laurent had died without harming Bella and Victoria ran off, not to forget that he saved her from the water during her stupid stunt of cliff diving.
"Did Alice see anything about her?" He shook his head. "And were you able to make out why Alice cannot see the wolves."
"I am still not able to figure it out yet, but my best guess is that they all are new to this life, and as werewolves are generally volatile creatures, they become unpredictable. Even a small thing makes then upset and they loose their control. They are not able to control themselves in regular, so there is no way Alice would be able to see them." He put his one finger on his chin. But I know that my theory has some flows and it is not properly reliable.
"And I agree to some instant that Bella was at great risk in staying with those wolves. We are old at this lives, but still you know what one paper cut did. Now just think what would have happened if any of those wolves had lost their control, when they were near Bella. They all are young, Bella told Alice that Jacob is barely a few weeks old as a wolf. They lack control – even a small thing trigger them." He shook his head in amazement. "She is really lucky that she survived living with the wolves and that too properly unscathed."
I had to agree with him on this. She was in more risk and challenging death at more times than I previously thought.
He thought about a girl, Emily Young, from LaPush, who was attacked by the bear – this was the official story – and due to which she had her whole right side of her face destroyed. But as per Carlisle it was not a bear attack. It was clear now – a boy had morphed in a wolf when she was near him, through the marks of nails which were now on her right side up of the face and down to her right arm.
She just became a victim of her nearness with one wolf.
"So, you knew that there were wolves nearly a year ago."
"No, I didn't knew that. But something was off with her smell, and I drew a conclusion that it was because of their heredity. But after Alice told us about the wolves, I knew that my old theory was right. It was an attack by a wolf and not a bear."
"Oh." I was now getting more anxious to go to Bella. After getting all these information, I just wanted to hold her and never let her go. I wanted to feel her again, to make myself believe that she was safe and out of danger.
I shifted my weight from one foot to another. Though it had not been even ten minutes since our discussion started, I was getting more eager by each second to reach Bella.
"Oh!" He laughed. I guess someone is being impatient.
I ran my hand in my hair. I had counted on him to not tease me, but he could get as bad as my brothers if he wants to be.
"You can go now. This all talk can wait."
I nodded and thanked him before we started running again to the big mansion. Alice was still in her room. Jasper was reluctant to let her go away, just as I was to let Bella away from my sight.
You go. I'll bring your bag with me. Meet me in the forest half mile away from the school in twenty three minutes. I'll be there waiting for you. Charlie will be out in four minutes.
"Thank you Alice." I murmured.
No worries. See you soon. Now go!
I laughed and ran towards my Volvo in the garage after telling bye to Esme and kissing her on cheek.
I was getting impatient to be back in my love's arms.
Getting anxious. Emmett snickered. "Tell my hello to Jessica and Lauren."
Some things don't change.
"And don't forget Mike. I'm sure they will be ecstatic to see you back." Rosalie added.
I glowered on Rose and Emmett. Yeah, everything was back to normal in a way.
I hit the Volvo off and was on the road in two seconds.
The car was not as same as it used to be once because Bella's breath – taking mouth – watering scent was not lingering in the car's seat. It was as if the most essential part of the car was missing. I cannot wait for the day when the interior of the car will again smell of her.
When I was half mile away from Bella's home, I parked the car in the woods in such a way that Charlie would not find it in any way. I looked for any thought to check if it was fine for me to run. When I was sure of that, I ran at full speed and was in her room in just a few seconds.
Bella was with Charlie, sitting in the living room having her breakfast with him. It had just been twenty four minutes and six seconds since I left her.
A long twenty four minutes!
"Bella, I'm going honey. Take care of yourself." Charlie said as he took his gun. I could see Bella through Charlie's eyes. The blood from her face had cooled down, and her eyes held some emptiness. I just hope... That bastard!... My honey!
"Go dad. I'll be fine and safe. I promise." Bella called as she went to the door and waved him off. Charlie was still reluctant to go as he knew that Bella would meet me today in the school, and there was no way he would be able to separate us there. He was thinking about killing me for even being within five miles radius of her. For a second he was actually thinking the same thing Bella dreamt about.
Only if he knew I was just five feet away from her!
"Bye honey." Charlie said the last time kissing her on her forehead, and drove out of the lane in his cruiser.
I silently went downstairs and there saw my Bella looking anxiously in the driveway waiting for me. She had her arms crossed over her chest and her shoulders were slightly shifted forward as if in defeat, or it looked like she was holding herself just like I used to do, just like I saw in Charlie's memories.
It broke my silent heart in million pieces when I saw that it was all my doings. She was still wary that I will not come, that I will leave her again. Carlisle was right. First I have to make her believe that I am not going anywhere. I would do whatever in my power to show that I am still here, waiting for her, and would always be here.
I silently went there, walking on my tip-toes – not that I ever make any voice while walking or running, but it made me feel more human. I went near her until I could feel her warm body just inches away from mine, and bent down to whisper in her right ear, "Missing me?"
Bella didn't disappoint me. She jumped a little uncrossing her arms and her breathing became more ragged. Her heart was beating at such a rate that for the one tenth of a second I was scared that her heart may jump out of her chest. I bent down to the left side of her neck and shook her hair from her shoulder to kiss her below her ear. There were tiny goose bumps all over her neck and shoulder.
"You know you almost gave me a heart attack." She tried to sound angry, but her breathing was not supportive. It came out like she was murmuring inaudibly.
I chuckled. "I missed you." I mumbled and kissed her neck.
"You know it is not a good idea to scare a girl like this."
I ignored her and travelled kissed to her shoulder. "I love you."
"But still, you shouldn't scare any girl to death like this." I guess I have lost the power to make her incoherent. I will have to work on that.
"All the proper rules doesn't stand for my girlfriend, you know, she is special."
"Oh! I see. Then in that case, you should spend your precious time with her, and not on a simple, not-so-special girl like me."
How dare she! How can she underestimate her like this!
"Bella." I said abruptly and turned her around so that she was facing me. I cupped her cheeks with both my hands and made her look in my eyes. "Don't you ever say that again, do you understand." I told her in a strict tone and sighed with frustration. What can I do to make her see how amazing she is? "I wish I could show you how special you are. How beautiful you are. How beautiful your soul is."
She was dazzled. She shook her head after a moment – to clear her mind, I guess – and her eyes found their focus again. She saw me like she was seeing me the first time. "I missed you too, so much."
"I know. I could see that." I mused, but there was some sadness in my tone which I was not able to hide. She leaned back and looked in my eyes. Her brown eyes became concerned and she leaned her face to rest on my chest. I placed my chin on her head and pulled her more closer.
"Is it always like this when I am not around?" I asked quietly.
She was quiet for a minute before answering. It looked like she was trying me to tell the truth without hurting my feelings.
She looked in my eyes with a tiny hint of smile. "No. Not always." But her eyes gave her away. I could tell by her eyes that it was much worse when I was not around.
What have I done to my precious angel?!
I leaned my forehead against hers. "I am so sorry, love. Sorry from the core of my heart." Sorry for leaving her seven months ago; sorry for leaving her this morning; sorry for underestimating her love for me; and more sorry for hurting her beyond measure.
She smiled and nudged my nose with hers. It was her way go say the unsaid words 'I had already forgiven you'; 'There was nothing to forgive'; or 'You were trying to do the right thing.'
I sighed. I was grateful that she is so forgiving, and at the same time angry with her for the same reason – why is so forgiving. I should never be forgiven for what I did, but neither my family nor Bella were angry with me. They understood me and my actions.
Bella went out of my embrace. I frowned. I was not ready to leave her yet, not ready to leave her anytime. She saw my expression and touched her fingers to my lips. I parted my lips tasting her flowery smell on my tongue. "I'll be back in a few seconds. I just have to bring my bag."
"Allow me." I said and ran upstairs without waiting for her answer. I opened the door of her room and I could say that my Bella was now coming back from that ghost Bella. Her room was looking exactly like I saw seven months ago – disorganized but not untidy.
Her sheets were still not managed. There were clothes on the floor and on the rocking chair, and her books were now on the desk. There were also some CD's on the desk. I picked up her bag from her bed and was downstairs. It took a mere three seconds in which I went and came, but those three seconds were precious – I could finally say that my Bella was recovering.
I encircled Bella in my arms again as soon as I was back to her. She smiled and returned my embrace.
"Do I really have to ride alone?" She asked quietly.
"I'll company you till school, and then run back here to fetch my car to come to school." I suggested. She nodded without looking at me.
"Can't we just bunk the school and stay here?" I looked at her and saw that she was not mentally ready to go to the school yet.
"I'm sorry love," I answered morosely, "but Ms. Cope would definitely find it amusing that neither I am at the school and neither you. And I don't think I can see you in more trouble than already you're in."
"Can't you work your dazzling skills on her?" She moaned in my chest.
I chuckled. "Nope. I would rather try my dazzling skills on the person who is now in my arms." I breathed on her face and bend down to gently kiss her.
But when had my Bella gone with gentle? She buried her hands in my hair and tried to pull it with all her strength and pushed herself near me as much as she could, trying to deepen the kiss. I kissed her for five seconds and sighed in her mouth – a clear symbol it was going out of control. I gently removed her luscious lips from mine and kissed her cheeks in an order to calm my overexcited body. It was becoming more agonising to part our bodies from each other, but between the two of us, I was the only responsible one who worried about her. She never had any sense of self-preservation, and now it had become more worse. She was always demanding more, ignoring her safety.
"I guess we have to go to school." I changed the topic.
"Yeah. We have to go. No one can dazzle Miss Cope." She snorted. She was trying to seem happy, but was still not ready.
"Bella, if you don't want to go, then you won't. I'll talk with Carlisle. He will find a way to convince Charlie." I promised and pulled my cell phone out to call Carlisle.
"No way." Bella shouted and pulled the phone out of my hands. "We're going to school."
"Are you sure?"
She nodded and sighed. "We have to face the school, either now or later. So let's go already."
"If this is what you want," She nodded. "then let's go." She interlaced her fingers with mine.
"Let's go. Everybody is waiting for the impeccable Edward Cullen." Bella teased. I grimaced. "What?"
"You are sounding exactly like Emmett." And Rosalie, I added in my head. Bella laughed and started walking towards her truck.
We walked together to her truck. I walked with her to the driver's side and opened the door for her. She climbed in the truck with a smile. While the time she was working with her seatbelt, I was already seated on my seat, waiting for her to complete her work, watching her with satisfaction.
She must have sensed my stare as she asked, "What?"
I shook my head. "I love you." I murmured. She flushed a light pink and I kissed her cheek.
"Edward, if you keep staring me like this, I will not be able to drive." She warned me. I laughed.
I stared out of the windshield. A little mist was formed over the glass, the sky above was covered with grey clouds – there was no trace of sun. As soon as Bella turned the ignition, the thing – which Bella called her truck – made a huge sound before coming to life.
I laughed at the noise. "I really missed this sound." I mused and moved my gaze around the truck when I saw the space where once a stereo was there. There were marks of screwdriver all over the area and also her nail marks. I quickly averted my eyes. The whole movement was so fast that I doubted Bella had even seen it. She said nothing and looked outside.
She drove in comfortable silence, and I was content in this silence. I again stared at her. What else should I look at, when the most beautiful thing of my existence is sitting beside me! Bella again looked at me and I smiled showing my whole teeth. If it would have been any other person, he would have recoiled from me, but not my Bella. She was dazzled. I chuckled.
"Edward, stop it." She yelled with a glint of smile. "Do you want me to drive or not?"
I shrugged. "Sorry love. But there is nothing more interesting than you anywhere." Bella obviously blushed and escaped my gaze.
We reached the school in ten minutes – thanks to her slow driving and the truck's old pace. Bella seemed pleased about something. Wish I could read her mind to find out! I kissed her head and promised to be there in no time and ran towards my car. I was a mile away from school, when Alice joined me on the road.
Can I get a lift?
I laughed. Alice climbed in the car and together we went in the school. Alice was thinking about Jasper, as usual – she was reluctant to leave Jasper. As soon as I was in the school premises, the mental babbling started.
Is this the Cullens' car?
Are they really back?
Do I look nice today?
I hope he is over with Bella to look at me?
Like that is ever going to happen!
I parked the car in once my usual parking place. Alice was sitting confident in the passenger seat. I looked at her. "It will be fine. The mental chatter will last for three days, and it will get a pause on Monday. And don't worry about Bella, she is a strong girl. You just worry about yourself." You have not hunted since you know. Take care of yourself. With that she opened the gate herself and jumped out of the car. I too opened my and stepped out of my car.
They are really here.
How did I forgot how handsome he looks?
Wish I get a chance to date him!
Where is he going? No way!
I was headed towards Bella, who was still seated in her truck – with a look which said that she may throw up anytime – which was five cars away from me. Alice was walking beside me, trying to give me the support she thought I needed, but in actual I did not want.
All these mental accusations and babbling was important to me. By these I can find out what Bella is hiding from me.
Bella relaxed her fixed position when I gently knocked on the door, signalling her that I am here. She sighed a sigh of relief and finally opened the door. I took her hand and helped her out. She smiled gently – but still a tight smile with many worries for me in her eyes – and entwined her fingers with mine. I encouraged her to not get afraid by looking in her eyes.
Alice, who was till now standing beside me, took the other side of Bella. This whole arrangement made me remember that day in Volterra, when we were near death, and I squeezed Bella's hand to reassure myself that everything is perfect for now – as perfect as it should have been, if I have not made a rough decision.
Our small exchange had not gone unnoticed. The whole crowd in parking plot had stopped their work and were watching our little exchange – clearly in a deep shock. They have made an assumption – Bella had went to L.A. to plead with me to take her back. Little did they knew that I was the one who pleaded her to be back with her!
They are back together!
How can she forgive him?
I would have never forgave Bill if he had done anything like this to me.
What does he sees in her?
The most loud and recognizable mental voice were of Jessica Stanley, Mike Newton and Lauren Mallory.
How are they back together? I can bet that Bella pleaded with him to take her back, and he must have took pity on her and did an obligation on her. I wish now Mike pays full attention to me. Jessica.
How can he be with her again? I am far more beautiful than her, and he deserves to be with someone so good looking like me and not a plain and always sulking girl like her. Lauren.
No way this is happening! How can she take him back? She should know he is not right for her. He is dangerous, why doesn't she understands it. He doesn't even deserve her. Mike.
Ha! Like I don't know all these. Tell me something different, Mike, that I don't know.
All of they remembered Bella, sitting like a zombie in their table, eating next to nothing and never talking. I shuddered witnessing those petrifying images of Bella.
It have just been ten seconds since I was back in the crowd, and already the day has started getting on my nerves. God knows what will happen to me till the school gets over for the day!
Bella witnessed the tension in my body. She had a big grimace on her face, her teeth were constantly biting her lower lip. She was looking so nervous. I rubbed her lower lip with my index finger, escaping her lip from her teeth, and smiled looking at her.
"How bad is it?" She asked me looking at the crowd which was eyeing us incredulously.
"Not worse." I soothed. I did not want her to worry about me.
She must have seen my half lie as she moaned in a small voice. "I don't want to go."
Alice placed a hand on Bella's shoulder and spoke in her ear. "We have to face them either now or later Bella, so why not today? I can tell that it will stop or you can say get reduced to minimum by this Monday."
"Are you sure?" She asked tentatively.
"Absolutely." I grinned and kissed her hair. She looked around to see that every person had it's eyes only for us.
"I am getting nervous." She said.
Was I making the day more difficult for her? Was my presence making her more nervous? I didn't know should I ask her or not, but after watching her sick face, I couldn't help myself and asked her. "Do you want me to leave?"
Her reaction was more frightening than I thought. Colour faded out of her cheeks and her eyes now looked glassy with the hint of tears in her eyes. Her heart started beating at a frightening pace. Her shaky and sweaty hands grabbed my right hand. What a good question Edward. This is what was left. Alice and I thought at the same time after observing her reactions. "Don't go. Please don't. You promised." Bella cried.
"Shh love." I shushed her tracing her cheeks with my finger. "I was just referring to the school. I was not going to leave you. Never again."
"You promise?"
"I promise." She relaxed listening to this and leaned on my side.
Ugh! How can she tolerate him.
They are going to be more cosy from now on.
I can't believe this is really happening.
I ignored all the mental accusations and walked with my girlfriend and sister towards our class. Alice had her government class for the first hour, so she left us as soon as we were at the sixth building. She waved us bye after squeezing Bella's hand. Bella's face became impossibly more smaller as soon as Alice left us. Her grip on my hand increased.
I squeezed her hand. "Don't worry. No one will give a damn to any one of us." I assured her.
She nodded and together we started walking towards our English class. When we entered the class, every face jerked up to look at us, their thoughts suddenly incoherent seeing us together. They were expecting that we will never be together again.
Bella became more conscious and she stumbled more. I left her hand and the colour drained from her cheeks. It was a very wrong move on my part. I put my hand at her waist – she relaxed visibly. I smiled at her and guided her towards our previous seat. After putting our bags down, I sat on the chair – such that there was no space in our arms – and interlaced her left hand with my right on the table. Bella looked down to escape the scrutiny of the peeking eyes.
"Don't be conscious Bella. It is all right. It was to be expected." She said nothing, just smiled slightly. "Do you want to go home." I asked watching her face. She shook her head, but again said nothing. "Are you sure." She didn't answer. I was about to ask her to talk something, but Mr. Berty chose that time to come in the class. His head was a safe place to be. He already knew I was back and was eager to complete the chapter he started two days ago as he was going out for a two day vacation.
He started taking the attendance. After announcing five names, he said loudly "Cullen Edward?"
Every face in the small class turned their head around to glance at me. "Present sir." I answered. Bella had leaned her head on the table, her heart beating frantically.
Mr. Berty nodded to himself and moved to the next name, for which I was excessively happy. He took the attendance and then asked "Swan Bella?"
Just like at my time, every head turned towards us. Bella looked up and said in a small voice. "Present sir."
After taking the attendance, he started the chapter. No one was paying attention to the story. Every head was trying to make their own assumptions. The only reason I was able to ignore them was Bella, who was continually fidgeting. Though she become a little relaxed after some time, but still not completely composed. Every time when a head turned to look towards us, she became conscious again and leaned her head on my shoulder to find some comfort. The whole time I rubbed her palm with my thumb, to make her calm, but only to some extent. Even when we had to take notes, she didn't left my hand, so I wrote my notes with the left hand – not that I minded it.
She sighed happily as soon as the class ended and everyone stood up from their seats to leave. I kissed her hair. Our second class was not together. I was having gym whereas she had calculus. "Do you want to go for the second period, or want to go home. You just have to say, and I will ask Carlisle to find a way out for you." I offered.
She shook her head and stood up from her seat. "I am ready for the second period, are you?" She asked me instead.
"Only if you are." I hedged.
"Then, let's go already. I don't want to be late. Mr. Varner is already pissed off with me." She muttered and took her bag. I smiled and stood up. When we reached building four for her calculus, she unwillingly removed her hand from my grasp. Mr. Varner was about to start the class, which meant Bella had to hurry. I told her the same, and she glowered at Mr. Varner.
"I will be fine. You go for gym. I'll meet you after this hour?" She tried to sound confident.
"I will be waiting for you." I murmured and kissed her hand before releasing it. She frowned – disappointment was clear on her face – and slowly moved in the class. I watched her going away from me – though she will be away for only one hour, still it was like the hole in my chest was slowly making its presence back.
It was going to be a very long hour!
As I had predicted, the whole hour seemed like a whole day. Time passed very slowly, even for a vampire. I had never been so anxious for the gym to be over.
I received the same reception I got in English. Every head was turned towards me and were trying to make their own assumptions.
Alice – who was also having this class with me – knew that I was not mentally present in the class.
Today, we were playing volleyball, a game which I liked to play, even if we had to play at a very slow pace and with human strength, but even this game held no interest of mine. I was busy keeping an eye on Bella, in which Jessica was very helpful.
When Bella had entered in her calculus class, Mr. Varner eyed her with disappointment, as she was late by three minutes, though he hadn't start anything. Jessica saw Bella coming towards their table, her eyes down, and she decided to ask her about me, but then she remembered that she was angry with her.
And then I saw the clear memory of Bella in her head.
They had went to Port Angeles to watch a horror movie about zombies – Bella never had any taste about horror! – and when they were out of the movie theatre, she saw four man sitting over a bar. Jessica got frightened, but Bella started moving towards them. She said that she knew them. Jessica tried to move her back but to no vail. And then suddenly Bella stopped in midway, her eyes sparkling for the first time in four months, and then she was as normal as she was then.
The whole memory was so unnerving, that I was not able to concentrate on anything. If my guess was correct, then it was the first time Bella hallucinated my voice. The thoughts of Jessica were also not helping in any way.
Creepy. I bet she needs hospitalization. First she gets all depressed, then she suddenly acts suicidal, starts hanging around with those Quileutes', and then she disappears, and now she is again with that Cullen. If I was in her place, I would have sent him to jail. I am really happy, for once, he dumped me. I would have definitely killed him if he had done anything like that to me.
Even Mike Newton was not helping. I wish he was here when Bella asked me for that date. It was one of my best days, which would have ended properly if I haven't fell sick during that horror movie.
The whole idea was making me sick. Bella watching a horror movie, and that too with Mike as a date – I felt like throwing up. I really hoped that Bella had a good choice when it came to boys. Not that I had any say in the matter. I had left Bella with hope that she may find any normal human, and Mike clearly qualified for that, if we ignored his offensive thoughts.
Alice saw my anxiousness and tried to keep me up from jumping around by comforting me by soothing words or showing Bella's happy future, but the only thing in front of my eyes was Bella in present, her knee bouncing with nervousness. So it was not a surprise for my sister when I had ran to the changing room as soon as the bell rang.
He is really being crazy. I hope he gets back to his senses in a while. Alice.
God knows what is with Edward Cullen today. I have never seen him so out of mind. Ms. Clapp.
Alice met me outside the gym class when I had changed. "Your abnormal behaviour today was catching everyone's attention." She asked fervently.
"I am so sorry Alice, but I hope you can understand why."
"I know." She sighed sympathetically. "That's the only reason I am not stopping you. But take care. I'll see you at lunch. It is going to be more hard for both of you at lunch." She warned and started walking. Now go. Bella will start getting queasy if you are late for more than one minute. She thought as she started walking and smiled. I smiled back and ran towards Bella, who was still packing her bag.
I leaned down casually against the wall while I waited for her. All students who passed me glanced at me and shuddered seeing my pitch black eyes. They all had just one word in their mind for me. Creepy.
Jessica came first and she also glanced at be. But he is still the hottest boy I've ever seen. I think I may have forgave him. I am sure it was Bella's mistake due to which he left and then she would have begged him go take him back. Come on Jessica, you cannot let him go like that. Maybe he now realize that I am much better for her than that psycho.
Bella came out after Jessica. She was still looking out of the door when our eyes met, and both our face lift up watching each other. Jessica saw our silent conversation and grunted, leaving with all the words she knew shouting at Bella in her head.
Bella came near me. Her warmth soaked in my cold body as she gripped my hand. I kissed her hair and together we went for our third class.
"How was your class?" I asked her as we were walking.
"Slow." She replied.
I smiled and replied "Same for me."
She noticed the tension in my body as she asked, "What's wrong? Why are you so tensed up?" I didn't wanted to argue with her in the lobby, but it was important for me to know. Should I ask her?
Alice saw my hesitation in her vision and answered me by screaming in her mind. Edward! Don't you start now. I have seen that if you ask her now, she would get upset and you both may start having a fight in front of the whole class. Ask her when you are alone. She will answer you when both of you are ready for it.
I decided to tell her thank you. Alice saw it and answered it anyway without the actual words being said. You are welcome big brother. Though if you want to thank me, I won't mind a yellow Porsche as a gift. I smiled. Bella noticed the change in my mood – though our conversation was over in two seconds – and smiled back. She was very perceptive. "It was nothing. I just hate being away from you." I answered her question.
"I know." She sighed happily. "Same here." She mumbled in a very small voice.
We reached our next class, and the next three lectures were the same. It was during lunch when the pattern changed, as Bella was even more scared to face the people over here face to face. I and Alice tried to reassure her that everything will be fine, but she just nodded and said nothing.
When we entered the cafeteria, every head jerked up to watch the three most popular gossip of the town walking in here. It was enervating to walk down the aisle for both I and Alice, so undoubtedly Bella was getting more keyed up to sit far away from the scrutiny of the gossiping pupils. Even when we were standing in the queue for lunch, Bella's grip on my hand didn't loose. She was far too nervous about the mental and verbal murmuring in the whole school.
Alice was trying to distract Bella in her own way, for which I was imagining tearing her body apart. "Being a Cullen always attracts attention, so don't be nervous. You are going to be a Cullen soon. You should take it in a positive way as your future practice."
Bella smiled slightly. Don't overreact. This is bound to happen, so it is high time you also accept it. Alice shouted in my head. I imagined giving her a blue old model Porsche on the Christmas. Alice's face covered with horror and she huffed loudly. Fine! "I'm sorry Bella, but I guess we have to end this topic soon, else I will never get the thing I want the most." She stuck her tongue out at me.
"I already guessed that much." Bella giggled freely for the first time since we entered the school. Alice joined her and I couldn't help but join too. Though we were not laughing loudly it caught everyone's attention and many more accusations were thrown at me, mostly pictures of Bella never laughing in the past seven months, each from a different angle, a different prospective.
My laughter died quickly. Bella saw this and she again turned conscious and looked down as I bought food for her. After taking sandwiches and juice for Bella and granola bar for me and Alice, we walked to a vacant table – a little far from the table where Jessica, Lauren and Mike were glaring daggers at us with the others.
She is more twitchy than I previously thought. Alice saw the continuous fidgeting of Bella and sighed sadly. "Don't worry about them Bella." She tried to calm her as soon as we were seated. "They will all get new to gossip about this Monday. Don't get worried about their reactions."
"It is easier said than done Alice." Bella muttered. "I know that they are trying to find a new gossip to share, but I am actually worried about you." She turned towards me. "Firstly, you have not hunted – I've never seen you so thirsty – and secondly, I know that the mental gossiping is much more louder than this, and you are suffering more than you are showing." She put her free hand on our entwined hands. "I am so sorry. Due to me, you have to hear all of these."
Alice and I looked at each other with raised eyebrows at Bella's confession. I can understand now how you feel when she answers what you have not expected. Alice smiled amusingly. I rolled my eyes at Alice and turned towards Bella. I cupped her cheek with my free hand and she leaned in my touch. "Bella, never worry about me, I can take care of myself. You just have to worry about yourself, and no one else."
"But..." Before she could say anything, I placed a finger on her lips silencing her.
"Shh, now eat, or should I call Carlisle?" I challenged. Bella resigned and started eating her lunch.
I was busy with Bella, that I didn't heard the thought first. "Can we join you?" An unexpected but familiar voice asked. We all looked to see Ben and Angela standing over our table with their lunch trays in their hands.
"Sure, why not?" Alice said eagerly and motioned with her hand to them to sit. She was excited seeing Ben and Angela here with us.
They both eased up on the table. "How are you Edward, Alice?" Angela asked politely.
"We are good." Alice replied for both of us. "What about you?"
"We are fine." Angela then turned towards Bella, scolding her, just like a best friend does. "And you Bella! You got all of us scared! Never do that again. You cannot even guess what your father went through those three days."
"I am sorry Angela. It was a sort of emergency." Bella explained.
"It's okay Bella, but don't do any such thing again." She pleaded without demanding for any explanation. Bella nodded and swore with her hand on her heart. Angela and Ben laughed seeing her act and Alice joined too.
God knows what happen last fall, but I am happy to see Bella back and okay. Even Edward looks terrible. I knew he was not going to be away from her for a long time. Angela.
Bella looks better today. Even Edward doesn't looks good. I can bet they both have gone through the same phase. Ben.
"What happened there that you came here?" Alice asked curiously.
"I know." Angela sighed. "They are being so noisy about all the fuss that I and Ben decided to leave them alone and join you. Looks like you all needed some company."
"Thank you so much Ang, really." Bella said relieved. If I was reading her face properly, then she was relieved to see that her one friend was ready to accept me back.
"No problem Bella." Angela smiled and Bella and Alice smiled back.
"You know, I really feel a little smug saying this," Angela said, "but I knew that you both will reunite soon. Anybody who have ever seen see you both together could say that. And I am so happy for both of you."
"Thank you Angela. It really means a lot." I murmured with awe clear in her voice.
Bella squeezed Angela's hand and murmured a thank you in her ear. Alice was feeling a little left out, so Angela removed herself from Bella's arms and hugged Alice tightly. "I missed you too a lot Alice." Angela said. For the first time Alice was speechless and she returned Angela's affection with gratitude. Alice had never made friends except for Bella. Listening Angela's words Alice heart melted.
"So how was L.A.?" Ben asked me as the girls started talking about random things such as shopping and gossips. Bella was trying to be a good sport with them and was clearly relived that her school friends are not abandoning her.
"It was good, but not interesting to hold our interest for a long time."
"You look bad." He noted.
I sighed. "I know. Being away from Bella didn't work for me as well." I said and kissed Bella's head. She turned towards me, smiled and again resumed her conversation with the others.
"I can guess that." He said and smiled. I smiled back. "Even she was the same as you." My smile faltered from it's place. Ben saw it and smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you sad." He added. Ben may never say it allowed, but he was also happy to see Bella smiling again.
"It's okay Ben. I deserve it. I did very wrong with her." He nodded and this topic was never approached again. We both talk about some random things. He was not as comfortable with me as Angela was with Alice, but he was trying to put his all effort for Angela – for which I liked him very much.
Mike Newton and group were all buzzing continuously, and jealous that Angela and Ben were sitting with us. They were trying to find out a gossip to share, but were not able to.
"You look sick, like you haven't eaten in a long time, are you alright?" Ben asked me suddenly without thinking. Alice and Bella turned towards us to see my reaction and I had to stifle a chuckle. How to tell him that I am very thirsty for blood and I haven't really hunted properly since a couple of months. Bella and Alice also smiled. Angela and Ben became confused and looked at each other.
Just say the real reason and then add 'Just kidding.' Alice.
Have I said anything wrong? Ben.
What is all this about? They seem to be enjoying some private joke. Angela.
"Sorry Ben, your sudden question took me off guard." I apologized with a chuckle. "Actually I was not able to look after myself since I left." That was true enough.
I think so. I have never seen him so sick.
Our awkward conversation was ended as the bell rang signalling the end of lunch period. Ben and Angela stood up along with us and together we walked out of the cafeteria. "See you guys." Ben waved bye and with that Angela and he left us. Alice had her history while we were heading towards physics.
"What would have happened if you'd tell him that you were thirsty rather than hungry?" Bella asked teasingly with a big smile.
I chuckled. "Nothing. He would have ran from the cafeteria. Not everyone here lacks self – preservation, you know." She laughed too.
"Just two hours more and then we can be alone again." Bella sighed happily. I nodded and kissed her hair. She seemed delighted after seeing that Angela and Ben were ready to accept me and Alice back with open arms. "I have to study calculus after school. Mr. Varner will be taking my test this Friday and I have to prepare for that." She sighed.
"Don't worry. I'll tutor you."
"I know. This is why I'm not freaking out at the name of calculus test." She smiled at me. I smiled back. The way she trusts me was so amazing. I kissed her head again. Some things were said easily by actions rather than words.
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I know the pace of the story is too slow, but it is to cover all the things which happened in there.