The Fountain Chapter 10: No more Talk of darkness, a twilight fanfic

Stephanie Meyer owns Twilight and all of its characters.

Singing

On either side of the Preston Entrance, is a garden. If you are looking at the building from the front, the garden to the left belongs to the Preston Principal. He is like the headmaster of Preston who enjoys a private condominium within the building known as the Lodge. The garden to the right is known as the Preston Rose garden though there are other types of flowers there. Both gardens are nuzzled between the foundation of Preston's front porch and a brick wall.

That night after dinner, Embry asked me to come and sit with him outside. He brought his violin outside and we sat in the rose garden in front of Preston. There was a small table and chairs in the garden beside the ivy covered brick wall. I sat in one of the chairs and Embry sat with me.

"How are you feeling Bella?" He asked gently placing his violin on the table beside us and moving the hair out of his eyes.

"I'm feeling tired still, but the soreness has almost gone away, with the exception of my ribs." I answered as I focused on the dark wood grain of his violin. Embry had started his musical career at the age of six with the violin. At age eight, he picked up the piano. It was not until high school that he began to play the guitar as well.

"I'm glad, but I did not exactly mean physically. How are you emotionally?" He asked taking my hand and gazing into my eyes. I did not avoid this connection. For once, my eyes remained focused on his.

"I am a little better. I know you have realized that I am in love with Edward. It hurts to see him with her. I was hoping that I was wrong when I felt him distancing himself" I paused and he nodded for me to continue. "I thought that he was my Rahoul." I looked up at the sky and took in a deep breath of cold winter air.

"Your Rahoul?' He asked questioningly as he let go of my hands and leaned back in his chair.

"I have always been transfixed by the story of The Phantom of the Opera. I used to think that it was because I identified with the Phantom. But the more I think about it the more I realize that I was wrong. I'm Christine. I lived in fear of James and before him Riley for so long. Edward was my sun. He was the one who helped me out of the darkness. I guess I was wrong."

"Why do you think I give him such a hard time?" He asked as he began plucking the strings on his violin.

"Because you never really liked him? I guess I never really understood." I leaned backed in the chair and relaxed. Though Embry and I were friends, we had never gone into such a sensitive subject with each other save Jake's early death.

"I mean that Edward feels the same way, or at least I think he does. I was convinced of that, but his recent behavior is causing me some doubt." He continued to pluck the strings and then he hit one that had gone out of tune and worked on tuning it.

"Well, that is part of what has been at me. I was beginning to think that he had feelings for me too until he started dating Victoria and barely speaks to me. I guess I just got my hope up, and once I was finally free of James I no longer had Jake or Edward." I said as my hand instinctively began to stroke the pendant around my neck as I often did when thinking of Jake.

"Does James and you breaking up have anything to do with why you have been so down?" He asked looking up from his violin to me as though by seeing me while I answered, he could tell if I was telling the truth.

"No. I am glad to be free of him. I will say that it is weird to me. I almost feel lost. It has been a long time since I have been single for any given length of time. That may contribute to it. I also feel like two chances I had at true love are now gone." I drummed my finger on the table but did not take my eyes off Embry.

"I would not say that. As I said, I still have a feeling that Edward cares for you more than he is showing right now. He would not have been as upset about your hospital visit if he did not care." He put his violin back onto the black rod iron table and took my hand back in his. "I am not thrilled with the way he is acting right now. I do not like it when people deny their true feelings and treat the object of their affection as anything less deserving. My point is that right now I hate him. No man should kiss a girl and then run off like a bitch. Hopefully, I can say that I like him again soon, though I am sure he hates me." He laughed at the last part. I had to smile. It was nice to have someone who was unbiased to a point give me his take on the situation.

Embry picked up his violin and began to play a soft song. As he was playing he said, "By the way, if you do not start eating like your old self again soon. I am going to have Emmett help me strap you to a chair and force feed you." He continued to play as I smiled and nodded in acknowledgement of his threat. Not a second later I looked upwards, and saw Edward's face in his bedroom window. I looked back down but could still see his shadow. I wondered how long he had been standing there. What was he making of the interaction between Embry and I? We stayed out there for a while longer while Embry continued to play songs from classic movies.

After awhile in the garden, Sam called and asked Embry and I to come to the school of music for a rehearsal. I was a little nervous, as I had never had a formal rehearsal before. Embry went and got his guitar and we went across campus to a practice room in the school of music.

"What's up you guys? How are you feeling Bella? Embry told us abut your fieldtrip to the ER." Sam was tuning his bass while sitting on a black stool. I knew my cheeks were a rosy shade with his question.

"I'll be like new in no time. Thanks." Embry wound his arm around my waist and kissed my temple.

"She is doing well. I've been keeping an eye on her. Are Ayden and Jordan on their way?" Embry asked releasing his grip on me and putting his guitar down.

"They are right behind you. You must be too distracted by Bella to notice." Jordan said laughing as he begun to set up his drums, which he had already loaded into the room.

"Hey guys. You feeling better Bella?" Ayden asked in his quiet, soft-spoken voice.

"I am Ayden. Thanks." I had met them all before when Embry had brought them around Preston. They were all incredibly friendly and I was excited to get to know them all better. Jordan and Ayden still hadn't heard me sing, so I was nervous about meeting their expectations.

"Alright. Let's start with Bella's song. We are going to start her off with our favorite No Doubt song. Everybody ready?" Sam asked picking up his red and black bass. Everyone mumbled they were ready and I sat on a stool next to Embry.

The song began and I hit my cue. I sang like I had that night in the lobby, letting all my emotions known through the song. Singing enabled me to release all of the emotions that were bottled within me. When the last note of the song played, I looked to the band for their opinions.

"You did great Bella! Have you ever sung in public?" Jordan asked still sitting behind his drums.

"I have not. Do you have any advice?" I asked, biting the inside of my mouth and attempting not to bite my lip.

"No. You seem to command attention with your singing. I can't think of anything to add. Can you Sam?" He asked setting his drumsticks on his lap and looking over to Sam. I permitted my eyes move slowly to the bass player who was looking down at his bass. Sam looked up and a grin slowly spread on his face.

"That was awesome. I think our girl needs to prepare at least one more song."

"I know a couple of songs, she knows by heart. What if we surprise her?" Byron looked to me and had a challenging look. He was testing my courage.

"I'm game, but you need to make sure I really know it Embry. I'll trust you."

"It sounds like a plan to me. We need to get some of our new stuff rehearsed tonight. Bella why don't you listen in closely and see how we do things and we'll see what we can have you perform in future shows." I smiled and nodded. I sat on the floor by the door watching the boys for another hour an a half. Embry would occasionally look and wink at me. Before I knew it, they were packing up. As we were walking out, Sam put his arm around my shoulders.

"Welcome to the group. I'll see you Friday." Sam opened the door and helped me in Embry's car. We had a quiet trip back to Preston.

After Tuesday, I went to all of my classes the rest of the week. I spent most of my time working on schoolwork and quickly became ahead in all of my classes. Alice continued to watch over me like a mother hawk. After a long conversation about how I really was doing better and proof being shown in that I was eating more and acting better than I had since before Christmas. Alice finally let me have some time alone and went to spend time with Jasper.

When I was not with Alice or doing schoolwork, I was often hanging out with Embry in the lobby. He and I would practice a variety of songs together. Embry felt that if I practiced in the lobby, where people were always flowing in and out, I would be less nervous for the big performance. Edward walked by us on one of these occasions and seeing that I was singing in public his jaw clenched. He had never really liked Embry. A large part of me was hopeful that all the time I was spending with him, was making Edward jealous.

Friday came before I knew it. I got up early that morning and took a book into the lobby to read in the hopes that I would see Byron after his morning music class. I did not have to wait long for him to walk into the lobby.

"Well, if it isn't my little stalker. It's a good thing I like you Bella, or I might have had to call the cops." Embry's said walking towards me.

"Who's to say that you are not stalking me? I just happen to be in the lobby of MY residence hall, and you just saunter up to me."

"Touché my dear. How are you today? Nervous?" He plopped down next to me on Zelda.

"Nervous? Surprisingly, I don't feel very nervous, but I am excited. How many people do you think will show?" I asked setting my book down on the coffee table and looking into Embry's hazel eyes.

"A couple of hundred maybe. I am sure however many show up will love you as much as I do." Just then I heard a coughing as Edward walked up from behind us with Victoria. Victoria walked up to Embry's and sat on the coffee table in front of him. I looked up to Edward with a questioning look and tried to ignore the panic building within me. Embry absentmindedly ran his fingers through my hair and I relaxed.

"Aren't you Embry from No Way José?" She asked as she batted her lashes at Embry. I rolled my eyes and tried not to laugh at Embry's reaction.

"That would be me. And who are you?" He said grabbing my hand as he looked over at me and winked. His jovial manner helped me stay clam in what was really an awkward situation. I could feel Edward's eyes on me gauging my reaction after the panic attack I had last week.

"Oh I'm Edward's girlfriend, Victoria. I saw a poster that you would be performing tonight. I cannot believe Edward did not tell me he knew you." She shot an evil looking glare in Edward's direction.

"We are playing tonight. We are also having a guest singer with us. You two should come out. We will be at New Brookland tonight at nine." She began bouncing up and down when she heard and I tried not to burst out laughing.

"That is so awesome. Oh my god. Edward we have to go!" I began to choke as I took a sip of my coke. How could the Edward I knew actually be happy dating this girl?

"We can go, but I have to run work on a paper for my Anthropology class. You need me to walk you back to your dorm?"

"Nah. I told Tanya that I would meet her at the Russell House. See you later babe." She kissed him and then walked out the front door. I could feel myself flinching as I watched them kiss. Edward looked back to us after watching her walk out the door.

"So who is the guest singer tonight Embry?" Edward asked sitting on the arm of the brown couch.

"If I told you that now, there would be no surprise." Embry said staring straight at Edward.

"You know who it is Bella?" He said with his piercing green eyes staring straight into mine.

"Yes I do, but I don't want to ruin the surprise. Trust me Edward. You'll enjoy it. I'm glad you are coming. Emmett, Rose, Alice, Jasper and I will be there too." I tried not to choke up saying that. I was glad Edward would be there, but why did he have to bring her? I looked back to Embry who was once again rubbing small circles on my hand with his thumb.

"Well, I better write my paper. I'll see you two there tonight." He sighed and walked into the living area.

"Are you nervous now?" Embry asked looking over to the picture frame instead of at me.

"No. I won't let their presence bring me down. Besides, the song I choose is kind of directed towards him." I played with my necklace and looked at the frame as a picture of Edward and I popped up from an old banquet. We were dancing together and my head was thrown back in laughter.

"Like oh my god Bella. Do you want to come to a party with me after the concert tonight? I forgot to tell you that Sam invited you too." Embry's imitation of Victoria was priceless.

"Totally Embry. I would love to come. You want me to drive tonight?" I asked grabbing my book and thumbing through the pages.

"Well, it's your Civic or my piece of crap. That's a tough decision." I threw the book at him as he pretended to be hurt.

"I'll drive then smartass." Embry and I spent a good deal of the rest of the day lounging in the lobby. Occasionally, a couple of other people would join in the conversation. Embry invited most of them to the show tonight promising them a show that they would never forget. He never told anyone that I would be the guest singer. The band had never had anyone but Embry sing lead.

"Hey guys." Alice said dropping her bag on the ground and plopping down into a chair by the door to the living space. "How's your Friday been?"

"Great. Embry and I have been arguing over which one of us is stalking the other. You also missed a very profound conversation with Victoria." I said playing with my book and looking over at my roommate.

"It was such a deep conversation, that it may take me a few days to recover." Embry said sarcastically.

"She came up and spoke with you guys. I thought she was the reason that Victoria was keeping his distance from you." Alice said grabbing a soda from her bag and taking a long drink.

"I wouldn't really say she talked to me. She was a little focused on the rock star sitting next to me, which is fine by me." I said as I grabbed Embry's hand.

"Yeah, but Edward wouldn't take his eyes off of you. It kind of annoyed me actually." Embry said grinding his teeth and looking away from me.

"Oh Embry, are you scared that someone is going to try to take me away from you?" I said grabbing his arm and resting my head on his shoulder. He brought his hand up to my cheek and kissed the top of my head before replying.

"I'd kill anyone who tried." He simply said before removing his arm from my grasp and putting it around my shoulders.

"Umm so what time are you going to get ready for the show Embry?" Alice asked looking a little uncomfortable.

"Ummm I have to leave here at eight. Bella agreed to drive me tonight as she is going to a band party with me after. You and Jasper are welcome to come too." Embry began playing with my hair as I continued to fidget with my book.

"I'll have to ask him. Have you too seen him today?" She asked looking at her cell.

"I haven't seen him. Does he have Friday classes this semester?"

"No. I better go up to his room and find him. When do you want to start getting ready Bella?" She asked standing up and picking up her book bag.

"I'll come now. I'll take me awhile. Are we doing dinner first Embry?" I asked standing up and leaning on the arm of Zelda.

"I typically eat alone before a show. It is kind of my ritual. Do you mind if I meet you afterward?"

"Not at all. I'll see you in a few hours." I walked towards Alice and we left the lobby together and headed to our room.

"I need to run upstairs and see if Jasper is there. Do you want to come?" If I went up there, I knew Edward would be there, and part of me just wanted to go to the room and avoid him. Another part of me knew I needed to try to be friends with him and not shut him completely out if he wanted to still try to be friends. I had a promise to keep after all.

"I'll go with you." We turned to the left and headed up the stairs. The boy's room was almost directly above ours. Alice knocked on the door, which was closed. Normally, the boys left the door open if they were in the room. Edward answered the door.

"Hey girls. Come on in." He opened the door and went back to his desk.

"Is Jasper here?" Alice asked in a short tone.

"Yeah. He is just in the shower. He woke up about thirty minutes ago from his nap." Edward focused on his computer while talking. It really pissed me off that he couldn't at least look at Alice.

"Will you tell him to come downstairs when he is done? I need to talk to him about tonight."

"Oh yeah. I will tell him. It should not be long if you two want to wait."

"I have to go get a shower as I have a concert and a party afterwards to get to. You going to stay Alice?" Edward looked at me with that statement. I wanted to tell him that contrary to his belief, I could have a life without him.

'No, I'll wait downstairs. Thanks Edward. See you later." Alice walked out of the room, I made to follow her, but turned around and looked at Edward who was still looking at me.

"Do you want the door closed?" I asked trying to remove any annoyance from my voice.

"If you don't mind, that would be great. I'm hoping to finish this paper tonight before I meet with my professor for him to review it." He said looking back down at his screen.

"Ok. I hope to see you tonight Edward. I miss you." I turned without allowing a response and closed the door.

"Well, let's go get ready for a night out." Alice said giggling and grabbed my hand to pull me down the stairs. She did not let my hand go until we got into the room. She left the door open for Jasper. "So who are we making you hot for Edward or Embry?"

"What do you mean?" I asked as I grabbed my towel and other shower stuff.

"Well, you and Embry seemed pretty comfortable on Zelda earlier." She asked with a knowing smirk.

"Ok I know when I say this, you are not going to believe me, but Embry and I are just friends. I don't know want to date Embry. I still have feelings for Edward, even with the way he has been acting."

"Well, I believe you a little better this time. Although Embry is hot, and can play the guitar." She retorted wiggling her eyebrows at me.

"I'm going to take a shower. I'll be right out." I took a little longer in the shower than normal. I really had a few butterflies in my stomach about my performance tonight, but I was still more excited than nervous. I knew Embry would keep me calm. Alice was the only other person outside of the band and my parents, who knew I would be performing tonight. I got out of the shower and put on my robe before heading out to my room. Jasper was sitting on a beanbag looking at Alice, who was messing around on her computer.

"Hey Jasper. Have you done anything today besides sleep?" I said while I grabbed my clothes out of the chest of drawers.

"Nope. Sleeping all day is my favorite part of Fridays. So I hear we are going to a party after the show tonight. You and Embry are becoming close. People are beginning to talk about the two of you."

"Let them talk. He's just a friend." I went to the bathroom and changed before going back into my room.

"Hey Bella can I ask you a questions?"

"Of course Jazz. What's up?" I said as I began combing the tangles out of my hair.

"I heard you tell Edward that you missed him. Are you still in love with him?" He looked up at me and gave me a similar look to the one Scout gives me when he is caught doing something wrong.

"I don't fall in and out of love easily. I still love him, and I am not thinking that is going to change anytime soon. Embry is well aware of this." I said picking up my hairdryer and tried to hold back the tears. I finished drying my hair and decided to check my email before finishing getting ready.

"Hey Bella. I did not mean to upset you. I'm sorry." Jasper said getting up from the beanbag and walking to my desk.

"You have nothing to be sorry for Jasper. You did nothing wrong." I got up and pulled him into a hug. "Thanks for looking after both Edward and I." I whispered into his ear before heading to the sink to brush my teeth.

"Jasper, it is going to take us awhile to get ready. Do you want to hang out with us?" Alice asked getting ready to do her hair.

"I was thinking I would go pick us some Beazer's sandwiches. That way you two could eat while you're getting ready and not have to worry about your food getting cold."

"That would be awesome baby. I'll have my usual. What about you Bella?"

"I'll have my usual. Do you remember what that is?" I asked Jasper.

"An Eli with extra mayo?" Beazer's has their own names for all their sandwiches. An eli is a ham sandwich with cheese, tomato, and lettuce.

"You know me so well. Thanks Jasper. Let me give you some cash."

"You're cash is not welcome here Bella. It's my treat. I'll be back in a little bit." He said walking over to Alice to give her a kiss before walking out of the door.

"That's sweet. I'm glad you two are coming." I said brushing my teeth.

"Does Edward have any clue you are singing tonight?" Alice asked while she turned on the curling iron.

"I don't think so. I know he has seen me singing with Embry, but I don't think he knows that I actually have the guts to sing in public." I said secretly enjoying that Edward was in for the shock of his life.

"He is going to flip. I'm so proud of you." She said as she began to curl my hair.

"Thanks Al. I'm really trying. I think Jake would be proud." I grasped my necklace in my hand and rubbed to smooth finish of the wolf.

"I do too, but he was proud of you no matter what." She said as her eyes began to glisten.

"I know. I wish he could be there tonight." I grabbed my necklace and looked to the ceiling to try to prevent the tears from falling.

"He will be. Let's get you ready. I can't keep up this mushy stuff tonight." She finished curling my hair and I worked on doing my makeup as she jumped into the shower. I was wearing my dark wash skinny jeans again with knee length black leather boots over the jeans. I was also wearing my Rolling Stones fitted t-shirt.

As I was putting on some blush and dancing along to some music, I heard a whistle from the hallway. I looked up to see Jasper and Embry standing outside.

"Hey guys. You can come in and quite staring at me whenever you would like." I said as Alice entered the room and whistled at me too. The boys walked in and Jasperhanded us our sandwiches.

"Oh thank god. I'm starving." I plopped down on a beanbag with my sandwich and began to eat.

"And Bella is now officially back. I'm glad you could join us." Jasper said as he collapsed on a beanbag across from me.

"It's nice to be back," I said and gave him a bow. "You ready Embry. I wasn't expecting to see you until right before we left."

"Well I got all of the instruments packed and ready to go and got dinner, so I thought I would come and check on you." He leaned in the doorway and ran his hand through his russet hair.

"I'm fine. When do we need to head out?" I said taking a huge bite out of my sandwich.

"About thirty minutes. You think you will be ready?" He asked coming up and taking a bite of my sandwich.

"Do I not look good enough for you yet?" I asked.

"Well, you obviously look great or I would not have whistled at you." He said fiddling with his shoestrings as he sat beside me.

"Yeah, yeah always the smooth talker. Alice do you think my hair will stay curly all night?" I asked going to the mirror. If the truth be told, I was beginning to get nervous at the thought of standing in front of all of those people. I was acting cooler about the whole thing than I really felt.

"You'll be fine girl. Your hair holds curls really well." She said finishing her sandwich.

"I guess we are going to head out then and get all of Embry's instruments loaded into the Civic. We will see you there in a little over an hour." I said waving goodbye and pulling Embry out the door.

"You're getting nervous." Embry said slowing my pace down.

"What if I am? I've heard it's natural to have a little stage fright." I answered, biting the inside of my mouth.

"You're right. Try to remember that you are a natural. Just act like you are singing just the two of us." We loaded the two guitars and the electric violin. Once we were done, we headed over to New Brookland and met up with the band.

"Hey guys here comes our diva. How are you doing Bella?" Sam asked putting out his cigarette and walking towards my car.

"Great Sam. You want to give us a hand with the equipment? Embry won't let me do a lot since my wrist is still in this blasted brace." I said as I popped the trunk for Embry to get the stuff out of the trunk.

"Let's do this," Sam said as he punched Jordan, the drummer, and Ayden, the keyboardist to come over and help. We got everything unloaded and set up. The guys did the sound check as I sat over at a side table and tried to remember how to breathe. The band went back stage to get ready for the intro. I stayed out front as I would be pulled onto stage for the third song. Emmett, Rosalie, Alice, and Jasper came in about twenty minutes after sound check ended followed quickly by Edward and Victoria, who chose a table a few down from ours, but right in front of the stage. I had to laugh when I saw how close Edward would be to me when I got on stage.

For the next ten to fifteen minutes, a slew of Preston Residents wandered in and began gathering around us. Edward would be looking right up at me, the others were a little further away. Before I knew it, the manager came out to introduce the band.

"Thanks everybody for coming out. As you know, a popular local band called No Way Jose will be taking the stage any minute, and they have informed me they a few surprises up their sleeves tonight. So give a New Brookland welcome to the members of No Way Jose! Embry will be on lead Guitar and violin throughout the evening. Sam will be playing bass. We have Jordan on the drums and Ayden on the keyboard."

The band came out to a raucous round of applause as I saw Victoria basking in the glow near the front. The band started out with a couple of originals before they broke to do some introductions. I began feeling anxious, as I knew this would be my cue. I calmed down considerably when Embry began speaking.

"Hey guys. The guys and I want to thank everyone for coming out. Over the last few weeks we have been thinking of a way to give you all, a little taste of something new. We put our heads together and could not come up with anything, besides some more original songs. Then an angel in the form of my best friend presented us all with a great opportunity." Embry stopped speaking and winked at me.

"I was sitting in my room one night and I got a call from Embry telling me I had to get over to his place right away. There was something I had to hear. I went over as quick as I could, and walked into the lobby of his place and heard something so sweet, that it would be a sin not to share it with you." Sa, stated and he gave me an encouraging smile. Embry continued the speech.

"So we need your help convincing this angel to get up here and sing with us. Will you guys help us?" The crowed replied with exuberant "yes" and "hell yeahs". "Alright guys I'm going to need you to call her up her with me. Repeat after me: Bella, Bella, Bella." He only needed three to get the crowd calling my name with him and I felt everyone's eyes on me as I walked up to the stage. I could hear the catcalls from my Preston friends. I also saw the look of total shock on Edward's face as I reached the stage, and Embry leant down to help me up.

"Good job guys. This is the angel I was telling you about. Be nice to her and she might return."

"Hello Columbia. Everyone having a good time so far?" I said strangely comforted by the kind looks on everyone's faces and the strength of response I got. "Good to hear it. I have a song to sing tonight, that is near and dear to my heart, and is honestly something I can identify with right now. Most of you will recognize it, and you won't hurt my feelings if you decide to sing along." With that the band the opening notes, as I looked at Edward. I turned away and looked down at the microphone.

You and me
We used to be together
Everyday together always
I really feel
That I'm losing my best friend
I can't believe
This could be the end
It looks as though you're letting go
And if it's real
Well I don't want to know

At that point, I looked away from the mike, and towards Edward. He stood in front of me with his jaw hanging as I continued the song. I looked towards the other Preston people before any tears came to my eyes and saw people swaying to the music and singing along.

Don't speak
I know just what you're saying
So please stop explaining
Don't tell me cause it hurts
Don't speak
I know what you're thinking
I don't need your reasons
Don't tell me cause it hurts

Our memories
Well, they can be inviting
But some are altogether
Mighty frightening
As we die, both you and I
With my head in my hands
I sit and cry

Don't speak
I know just what you're saying
So please stop explaining
Don't tell me cause it hurts (no, no, no)
Don't speak
I know what you're thinking
I don't need your reasons
Don't tell me cause it hurts

That is when I looked at Embry and got lost in the song.

It's all ending
I gotta stop pretending who we are...
You and me I can see us dying...are we?

Don't speak,
don't speak,
don't speak,
oh I know what you're thinking
And I don't need your reasons
I know you're good,
I know you're good,
I know you're real good
Oh, la la la la la la La la la la la la
Don't, Don't, uh-huh Hush, hush darlin'
Hush, hush darlin' Hush, hush
don't tell me tell me cause it hurts
Hush, hush darlin' Hush, hush darlin'
Hush, hush don't tell me tell me cause it hurts

Before I knew it the song was over, and I had done it. The crowd bursts into applause as I took a bow.

"What do you think guys? Should we invite her back sometime?" Embry asked as the crowd burst into cheers. "Well, Bella I guess there is only one thing to say. Welcome to the band!" Sam came over, wrapped his arms around me, and lifted me up while the crowd cheered.

"Well guys I hate to say that Bella and the rest us did not really prepare any other songs." There were several boos from the crowd, but that is when I saw Edward sitting in a chair with a grimace on his face. Victoria was standing by the stage, and he just sat there staring at me. I hadn't even noticed Alice run up to the stage and get Embry's attention.

"Well guys, we have a request for an encore for Bella tonight. And it happens to be a song that we both know very well. Many musical fans out there will recognize this, and those who have been to prior performances will recognize it too. So without further ado. Here we go. You ready Bella?"

"As I'll ever be Embry." He picked up his violin and began playing a song that I had memorized since I was ten years old and I saw the musical on stage. Sam began playing his viola as Edward began.

I chose to look at Embry first instead of Edward. I could not take the hatred I felt emanating from him. Embry started the duet as I focused on him and tried to forget everyone around me at that time.

(Embry)

No more talk
of darkness,
Forget these
wide-eyed fears.
I'm here,
nothing can harm you -
my words will
warm and calm you.

Let me be
your freedom,
let daylight
dry -your tears.
I'm here,
with you, beside you,
to guard you
and to guide you . . .

It was time for me to answer him, but the words were meant for someone else. I close my eyes as I sung into the mike and looked over to Edward.

(Bella)

Say you love me
every
waking moment,
turn my head
with talk of summertime . . .

Say you need me
with you,
now and always . . .
promise me that all
you say is true -
that's all I ask
of you . . .

It was Embry's turn again I shifted my gaze to Embry whenever he sang.

(Embry)

Let me be
your shelter,
let me
be your light.
You're safe:
No-one will find you
your fears are
far behind you . . .

(Bella)

All I want
is freedom,
a world with
no more night . . .
and you
always beside me
to hold me
and to hide me . . .

I was now soley focused on Edward. His face softened as the song went on.

(Embry)

Then say you'll share with
me one
love, one lifetime . . .
Iet me lead you
from your solitude . . .

Say you need me
with you
here, beside you . . .
anywhere you go,
let me go too -
Christine,
that's all I ask
of you . . .

(Bella)

Say you'll share with
me one
love, one lifetime . . .
say the word
and I will follow you . . .

(Both)
Share each day with
me, each
night, each morning . . .

( Bella)
Say you love me . . .

(Embry)
You know I do . . .

(Both)
Love me -
that's all I ask
of you . . .

Anywhere you go
let me go too . . .
Love me -
that's all I ask
of you . .

When we finished, there was a round of applause as Embry and I took our bows.

"Thanks everyone for the opportunity tonight. I think that is all for me tonight, but now I have incentive to learn some more songs and join the boys again soon." I waved as the crowd cheered. I gave the mike to Embry who hugged me and whispered in my ear, "I knew you would wrap them around your finger," Before turning back to the crowd.

"Isn't she great guys?" Another round of applause and Embry continued with their set. After walking off stage, I got surrounded by Preston residents. I looked over to where Edward had been sitting and he was gone. Victoria was still standing at the stage.

"You were great girl. Why didn't you tell us?" Rosalie said pulling me into a bone-shattering hug. I tried not to call out in pain, as my ribs still were tender.

"Embry thought it would be a great surprise, and that maybe I would be less nervous if the people I knew did not see it coming." I said smiling and talking to everyone, I knew.

"That's my sissy!" Emmett came up to me and wrapped me in a big bear hug. There was still a tinge of pain, but my ribs were finally healing.

A few people I had never met approached me to say what a great job I had done. Jake was right; there were good things that came from opening up and giving people a chance. I spent the rest of the concert watching the boys perform and even had people scream for an encore with me at the end of the night. I got back up with the boys and sung a Letters to Cleo song called "Cruel to be Kind". The band began breaking down as people began slowly filing out of the bar.

"Are you still up for the party Babe?" Embry asked as I helped load his guitars in their cases.

"Do you mind if I take a rain check? I'm exhausted." He pulled me into a hug.

"Of course I don't mind. I promised the guys that I would make an appearance or I would go back with you. I really don't like you walking by yourself at this time of night though."

"We rode here with some other friends. We can ride back with her Embry." Emmett said with a big smile on his face.

"You ok with that Bella?' Embry asked pulling the hair out of my eyes and behind my ear.

"Yep. I'll be in great hands. I'll see you tomorrow." I stretched up to give him a hug.

"You were great. I am so proud of you. Jacob would be too." He whispered as he kissed my cheek. I said a quick goodbye and walked out to my car with Rosalie and Emmett. It was a quiet ride back. They did most of the talking as I reflected on what I had just accomplished.

We got to Preston and I parked in front of the building. I made my way quickly inside. We were all heading through the lobby to go towards our rooms when I heard a familiar voice call my name.

"Bella. Do you have a minute?" I turned towards Zelda to see Edward sitting there with a look I couldn't quite make out.

"Hey guys you go ahead. I'll catch up with you tomorrow." Rosalie just shrugged her shoulders and went through the door with Emmett in her wake. I walked over to the brown leather couch and sat cross-legged.

"What's up Edward?" I looked up at him slowly and bit my lip.

"You were wonderful tonight." He said so softly that I barely made it out at first.

"Thanks. I've been working hard on it the last week or so." Edward looked at his hands a played with the class ring he still wore on his right hand from high school

"Listen Bella. I hate that there is the distance between us. I mean I cannot believe you did not tell me you were doing this. I would have supported you." I did a double take as I tried to contain my temper.

After a heavy sigh, I answered his accusation. "Edward. You are not the victim here. I did not tell you because you have been MIA in my life since that infamous day. I was not the one that created the distance between us." I said calmly.

"I have already explained that to you. I started dating Victoria again and she was not comfortable with the two of us being so close. You are the one who chose not to tell me about tonight or that that jackass broke your ribs."

"Edward I heard you, but that does not mean that I am the one that responsible for this. You gave me the best and most passionate kiss that I had ever had, and then stopped talking to me. You gave me hope and then abandoned me. I'm not the one who flaunted a relationship in your face. I haven't confided in you because you pulled away from me." I looked at him, but he would not look up at me. It was ironic to me to see a role reversal between the two of us.

"I guess I can see your point. I know I've have been distant, but that doesn't mean I don't miss you. The songs…Who chose them?" He asked with the same quiet voice the conversation with which the conversation began.

"I chose the first one, because I could identify with it. Alice requested the second one." I said confused as to why it mattered. He still focused on the coffee table in front of him and he ran his hand through his reddish brown hair.

"Are you in love with Embry now?" He looked up from the coffee table and stared straight at me. I could feel the all familiar panic rising within me, because I knew my answer to this question could either turn Edward's and mine relationship better or much worse.

"Not that you have any right to ask me that, but no. I am in love with someone, but that person is not Embry. Embry is just a friend who has helped me heal from the loss of one or maybe two best friends. I can't do this right now Edward. If you'll excuse me, I need to go to my room." I did not wait for an answer, but quickly got up and left the lobby. I did not even realize that I was holding my breath until I got into my room. I closed the door and finally lost control. I sobbed. I sobbed, as I never really had for James, Jacob, and Edward. I collapsed on a beanbag and just laid there crying until I was sure that I would be dehydrated.

It was true that I had made great strides in the last few weeks. I felt myself slowly becoming whole, but I still never fully grieved. I just wallowed in a pit of despair. I never just let go and cried as hard as I could. It felt cathartic. I was crying so hard I did not even hear the door opening.

"Bella?" Byron stood in my door that I had sworn I closed. I looked up at him and continued crying. He walked over, picked me up in his arms, and set me in his lap. I continued crying.

"It's ok babe. Let it out. It's healthy. Let it out." He whispered into my ear as he whipped the tears falling from my eyes and gently rubbed my back. I do not remember when, but sometime in the night, I feel asleep. I woke up on the pile of beanbags with Jake's blanket over me with Embry sleeping beside me. I was still wearing my outfit from last night, with the exception of my boots. I could hear Jasper's snores from my loft and Alice's soft breaths from her loft. I got up and went to get a bottle of water from my mini fridge.

"Hey dear. How are you feeling this morning?" Embry whispered and jumped at the unexpected sound of his voice. I turned to look at him and saw worry emanating from him. "Sorry I did not mean to startle you."

"I'm better, but I feel like my eyes are swollen." I said as I scuttled over to Embry laying beside him once again, and laying my head in his lap.

"Well, that's to be expected in anyone who cries that much in one night. So are we going to talk about it?" He sat up and pushed my hair out of my face, but I made no movement to sit up.

"I guess we have too. You know I never really lost it when Jacob died right?" I whispered, attempting not to wake Alice and Jasper. He nodded for me to continue. "Edward was in the lobby when I got back last night." I sat up and took a deep breath before I continued. "He asked why I did not tell him about the show and said he hated the distance between us. I essentially told him if he wanted someone to blame for that then he needed to look in the mirror."

"Well, I'm proud of you for that." Embry said while rubbing my hand softly. "I know you hate any conflict, but you stood up for yourself and you were right. Anything else?"

"He asked if I was in love with you. I guess he has seen us together enough along with heard the rumors." I said looking away from him at this.

"And you told him the truth I presume, which is we are just friends?" He said grabbing my chin and forcing me to maintain eye contact.

"Yes. I told him that I was in love with someone, but that it was not you. I could not take anymore after that. I came back here and just let loose all of the emotions I never realized I'd bottled up. How did you know I needed you?" I asked as I gathered my hair up and put it into a ponytail with the rubber band around my wrist.

"Rosalie and Emmett heard you crying and had seen you talking to Edward. They called me and told me to get over here ASAP. So I ran through the lobby, and tried not to punch Edward as he sat there giving me an eat shit and die look." He said chuckling as he grabbed my water and took a long sip. "Why don't you get a shower and get changed, and we'll go get breakfast together?"

"Sounds good. I'll be back in a second." I said grabbing my towel and some clean clothes.

"Take your time. I'll catch a quick nap." He said laying back down on the beanbags.

I took a quick shower and finished getting ready while my friends continued to sleep. The hot water felt good on my face after everything that happened last night. When I was done, Embry was up and ready to go get breakfast even though he was still wearing his clothes from last night. If the rumors were going on before, they certainly would go crazy today, but I no longer cared. We walked down the hall talking about the show the previous night. Embry was sitting outside on the porch eating breakfast as we walked by.

"So on a scale of one to ten, with ten being the most he can, how much does your boy hate me right now?" Embry asked as we walked across the street.

"Not sure, but I bet I can push it over to the ten mark." I grabbed Embry's arm and wound it around my waist.

"If he losses it and punches me, it will be entirely your fault." He said pointing his forefinger in my face. We both laughed as we walked across the street and got our breakfast, and returned to Preston to eat in the lobby. Edward was gone and I tried to focus on everyone else, who were talking about the concert. Everyone spent the rest of that day, giving requests to us for the next concert.

The rest of the weekend, I worked on schoolwork and stayed in my room. Embry visited a couple of times, but I mostly stayed alone. Monday came all too soon, and I returned to my routine of schoolwork, Preston Dining, and an occasional rehearsal with the band. I had not heard anything from Edward since the night of the concert.

EPOV

I sat in New Brookland Tavern against my will. Victoria had made me bring her here to make up for not telling her that I knew Embry. She had apparently seen them perform at a prior show, and knowing Victoria, she formed a little crush on him. Did I care that my girlfriend had a thing for another guy? No. I really couldn't considering that I was in love with someone else.

The thing that was really bothering me is sitting here watching Embry knowing how much Bella cared for him. I was fiddling around on my Blackberry trying not to look over at the table housing all of my Preston friends. I'm not sure how I worked myself into this self imposed exile, but I knew I needed to find a way back.

As I was sitting there reading Facebook, Embry starts to introduce this new mystery singer, then longer his introduction goes, the more anxious I become. When they started to scream out Bella's name, a knot formed in my stomach.

She rose up and was helped on stage by Embry. She looked gorgeous, but then again she always looked like an angel. She gave an introduction and then she began to sing.

Her voice was that of an angel and the song was being directed at me. I was hurting her in my distance. I tried not to think as I listened to the words.

Don't speak
I know just what you're saying
So please stop explaining
Don't tell me cause it hurts
Don't speak
I know what you're thinking
I don't need your reasons
Don't tell me cause it hurts

Our memories
Well, they can be inviting
But some are altogether
Mighty frightening
As we die, both you and I
With my head in my hands
I sit and cry
It was hard to listen. It was our relationship at the current time put to music. I loved her singing, but I hated the meaning. I hated that Embry was the reason she was venturing out of her shell and seemed to be healing.
Don't speak
I know just what you're saying
So please stop explaining
Don't tell me cause it hurts (no, no, no)
Don't speak
I know what you're thinking
I don't need your reasons
Don't tell me cause it hurts

It's all ending
I gotta stop pretending who we are...
You and me I can see us dying...are we?

I sat there in awe of her performance but hurt by the meaning in the song. Anyone who knew us would not be in doubt as to whom that song was directed. It was nothing less than I deserved. I tried to remind myself that I had done this to myself, but at the same time she kept her distance as well. She shut me out and did not tell me about her broken ribs or her singing. She looked over to me and I tried to wipe the pained look off of my face.

Then the encore begins playing. I hear the song that haunts my dreams. The song that was written for Bella and I, and yet she was onstage singing it with another guy. My heart broke until I realized that though her words were answering Embry's, she was looking at me as she sung them. There was still hope. I sat there in awe as she kept her face fixed on mine whenever she was singing. The connection between us was still there, but when the song ended, it was Embry who engulfed her in his embrace.

"Hey Victoria." I said lightly brushing her arm.

"What Edward?' She sounded frustrated.

"I can't do this anymore." I said motioning between her and me. "I'm through." I got up as she turned around to the stage and walked out the door trying to figure out how could get my life and friendships back on track.

I sat in the Preston Lobby in the vain hope that Bella would come back instead of going to the party. I had been there for what felt like hours, when she walked in followed by Emmet and Rose.

"Bella. Do you have a minute?" She turned towards me as Rosalie and Emmett paused for her response.

"Hey guys you go ahead. I'll catch up with you tomorrow." She walked to the brown leather cough and sat down as Rosalie and Emmett walked towards there rooms.

"What's up Edward?" She slowly looked at me biting her lip in that ever so seductive way. She was nervous of what this conversation would hold.

"You were wonderful tonight." I said what she deserved to hear and what need to be said.

"Thanks. I've been working hard on it the last week or so." I played with my class ring nervous about what else I needed to say. "Listen Bella. I hate that there is the distance between us. I mean I cannot believe you did not tell me you were doing this. I would have supported you."

"Edward. You are not the victim here. I did not tell you because you have been MIA in my life since that infamous day. I was not the one that created the distance between us." She was right. This was not her doing. I'm the one that created the tension.

"Edward I heard you, but that does not mean that I am the one that responsible for this. You gave me the best and most passionate kiss that I had ever had, and then stopped talking to me. You gave me hope and then abandoned me. I'm not the one who flaunted a relationship in your face. I haven't confided in you because you pulled away from me." I couldn't look at her. I couldn't see the hurt that I had caused.

"I guess I can see your point. I know I've have been distant, but that doesn't mean I don't miss you. The songs…Who chose them?" I asked hoping that she had chosen to sing our song.

"I chose the first one, because I could identify with it. Alice requested the second one." My hopes were dashed.

"Are you in love with Embry now?" I finally looked up from the table to her beautiful and slightly flushed face.

"Not that you have any right to ask me that, but no. I am in love with someone, but that person is not Embry. Embry is just a friend who has helped me heal from the loss of one or maybe two best friends. I can't do this right now Edward. If you'll excuse me, I need to go to my room." She left quickly and I realized that I had opened the flood gates of emotions for the both of us. Embry rushed in the door about twenty minutes later and shot me and angry glare and he ran in the direction of Bella's room. I knew it was time to make this right.

A/N I hope you guys enjoy the update we are getting to the end of what I have already written. I want to extend it however, so if you have any ideas etc. please review!