I don't own Twilight.
Chapter 9
Bella POV
I sat there on my laptop reading some gossip article. Not exciting, but I needed something to help pass the time. Brain must've decided to make another stop. No big deal, but it would've been nice if he told me.
I stood up and walked downstairs at a human pace, no sense in running. As I made it to the last step I smelled a scent. Cullen? I sniffed the air again. Yup, Edward.
"Edward?" I called out, fully aware of his presence. I made my way to the living room, only to find the bronze haired traitor, that I loved so much waiting for me on the couch.
Without a word, he crossed the room in seconds and enveloped me in a hug. I stood there, stiff. "Why?" I asked, not being able to form a full sentence.
He let go and stepped back, "I'm so sorry Bella."
I put my hand up, "I don't want your apology, I asked you why."
During his silence I took a second to look at him. I saw the Edward I knew in high school, the Edward I loved unconditionally. Then I saw the same man that left me. Twice.
He took and unnecessary breath, "Bella, I left to keep you safe. It was really for your own good, you were much too fragile, and I couldn't risk you getting hurt."
"Getting hurt? Do you know how much it hurt me to lose you? How much it hurt me to lose you again?" I was getting angry now.
"I know, and that's why I'm here. To apologize. I still want us to be friends, and try to put the past behind us."
I took a deep, soothing breath. Maddy talked to me about forgiving him. I didn't think I could ever do it. But now, I can. I've gotten some closure. And I realize I don't love him anymore. I'm not exactly happy about it, but what's done is done. There's no going back and changing things. Edward leaving made me a stronger person.
"Look.." I was cut off mid sentence by Edwards lips. I realized how internally conflicted I am. How long I've waited for this moment, to kiss my first love, one more time. But I couldn't forget how he left me. Not only once but twice. And what about Brian? In the short time I've known him, I found how much I love him.
As if on cue, Brain walked through the front door. Shit.
