A/N: Hi again. I'm glad to see you all so soon! Since chapter 8 was ready I figured I'd take time to put it get it publshed and not keep you waiting any longer.

Chapter 8

Present day…Suburbs of Seattle, WA

Bella's POV

I opened the envelope and read over Edward's amended agreement to the divorce papers. I was shocked. He was asking for nothing! Not the house, none of our marital property, and only one-third of our bank accounts. My hand shook as I re-read the papers to make sure I hadn't made a mistake.

Rensmee and I each were to receive one-third, and the entire house went to me. I couldn't believe he was being this generous and especially that a divorce lawyer, who he was paying, would draw up papers being this one-sided. The only firm stipulation in this agreement was that if I no longer wished to own our home, I would be required to sign it over to Renesmee. He actually wanted me to have the house… Tears pooled in my eyes when I realized how unfair this was to Edward.

After all, I was divorcing him and yet his version of the agreement was almost entirely in my favor. I knew he was considerate and he had proven it many times…like the night he came and told me he had paid off the mortgage and wanted me in the house during our separation, instead of him. But I had no idea that he would simply sign it over in the divorce. He had told me numerous times that he still loved me and now it appeared he was showing it…

Or maybe not. Maybe he just wanted this over and behind him as quickly as possible. I would have been foolish not to sign this agreement immediately and send it back to the lawyers and on to the courts so we could get a finalization date for the divorce. This was way more than I could hope for. But then why was my heart throbbing in pain?

I had already gone to Alice for advice and she was no help. So this time I picked up my phone and went to the one person I knew would give me the guidance I neeed.

"Hello?" His strong voice answered.

"Hi Dad!"

"Bells! It's so good to hear your voice. How have you been?"

"I'm doing okay. Staying busy at work and taking care of the house. How's retirement treating you?"

He chuckled, "Retirement? I'm so busy now I don't know when I ever had time to work." He went on to tell me how he went fishing almost every day and was still helping the new football coach at the school. His voice became solemn when he asked, "Are you going through with the divorce, Bells?"

I nodded my head stupidly, obviously knowing he couldn't see me through the phone. "Yes, Dad I am. I…" My voice broke as I tried to explain.

But, being a loving and understanding father, he shushed me. "You don't have to say anymore. I know how long you've been hurting. You and 'Nes have spent too many nights crying over that man. Hell, I remember that one birthday…"

I cut him off. "I know, Dad. No one knows better than we do. He missed out on a lot."

"So, do you need this old man to come and help you with anything? Are you going to have to move soon?" I choked back tears and explained the divorce agreement to my Dad and he comforted me over the phone. "Listen, if you need anything…anything at all, you call me and I'll be there as soon as I can. I love you Bella. Give my love to 'Nes too, okay?"

"We love you too, Dad. I'll call you again soon."

We ended our phone conversation and I wiped my tears, took out a pen and signed the divorce papers. I slid them into the envelope and without hesitation went immediately to the mail box, returning them to Edward. There was no use waiting, it was time!

xoxo

Since my tutoring didn't start until late afternoon, I woke up early and began working around the house. The windows needed washing inside and out. I began upstairs and by noon I was headed downstairs with cleaner and paper towels in hand. As I lifted open the kitchen window, my phone rang from my pocket.

"Hello," I answered.

"Hi Mrs. Cullen…uh…Bella." I listened as Jacob's awkward voice spoke. "Listen, I have class and Nessie is sick. I was hoping I could bring her over to your house. She has a fever and I don't want her alone." He explained that she had woken up in the night with a fever and a deep cough. He suspected she had the flu and didn't want her to stay alone while he was away.

"Yes, I'll stay home and take care of her. I'll just run to the store and pick up a few things."

He thanked me and I hung up, quickly removing the bandana from my head and jumping in the shower before heading to the store. On my way, I called the office and let them know I wouldn't be in that afternoon and asked them to reschedule my students for later in the week.

By the time Jake pulled into the driveway an hour later, I had stocked the fridge with juice and the cupboard with chicken soup and herbal tea for my sick daughter. She was visibly sick when I saw her. Her face was flushed, her hair was messy and matted, and she was wearing what looked like Jake's sweatpants and flannel shirt.

"Why don't you lie on the couch and take a nap, 'Nes?" I suggested as she nodded and collapsed. Jake thanked me gave her a gentle kiss before he left for class. I covered my sick girl with a blanket before touching her forehead. "Can I get you anything?"

"No, Mom. I just need to sleep." She whispered. I placed a kiss into her forehead and sat beside her until she fell asleep.

I spent the majority of the afternoon sitting in the easy chair next to the couch watching her sleep just in case she needed me for anything. I stayed busy on my laptop, checking email and reading the news. I heard a "ching" sound indicating there was a new message in my inbox. When I opened the email I saw it was from work.

Hi, Bella.

I heard you're coming to work today.

I hoped I didn't scare you away after our date last night.

I had a wonderful time and hope you did as well.

Looking forward to taking you to dinner soon,

Lee

How sweet of him! So he did consider our meeting for coffee as a date. I took a second to message him back.

Hi Lee,

Thank you for your message.

My daughter is sick so I stayed home to be with her.

You didn't scare me away at all.

I also had a nice time.

Just let me know when you'd like to go to dinner.

Looking forward to it as well,

Bella

As soon as I hit send I heard Renesmee start moving on the couch. She sat up and appeared confused. "Hi Honey. Did you have a good rest?"

Her voice was still hoarse and whispery. "Yes, Mom, thank you." She stood up to go use the bathroom and asked me if I'd make her some tea. Within a few minutes the tea kettle was heating in the kitchen as she returned to the couch.

I brought her in two Tylenol and a glass of water while I was heating the water for her tea. "You've been working too hard, honey. Between classes and your apartment, you're wearing yourself out. It's time to take a break."

She shook her head. "It all has to get done, though. Jake's just as busy as I am with classes so when we have free time we like to spend it working on the apartment. At least we're together."

I chuckled, understanding her point. "Since you're inherited your Dad's work-a-holic behavior, I'm glad you at least spend your free time with Jake. I still think you're working too hard."

We sat together on the couch watching old movies all evening. Mostly I watched while she dozed in and out, her head in my lap. I watched her sleep and felt so helpless as she lay there sick. It doesn't matter how old your child is, when they're sick you feel like you need to make them better. I reached over, pushing her hair away from her face and noticed her skin was clammy to the touch. Her fever must have broken.

I remember every time she was sick as a child, sitting with her just like this. It always brought my thoughts back in time…

1987…Forks, WA

Bella's POV

The Spartans had just won the state championship and nearly the whole town went to the Pizza House to celebrate. Sitting beside Edward, I couldn't be prouder.

"I love you, Bella." He leaned over and whispered in my ear.

"I love you too." I told him, resting my head on his shoulder.

Our waitress delivered the pizza to our table and the minute I smelled the spicy, greasy aroma, my stomach lurched and I darted to the bathroom, ready to vomit. I heaved and purged until my arms ached from the strain.

When I joined the group back in the restaurant, I quickly excused myself to go home. "I think I've had too much excitement for one day. I need some rest." Edward and Dad both offered to bring me home but I declined, wanting to drive myself.

I stepped into the house and was shaking as I went to the bathroom. The home pregnancy test I bought seemed complicated and I was nervous trying to use it alone. But at the same time I didn't dare tell anyone, even Alice. I followed the instructions and waited…

Present day…Suburbs of Seattle, WA

Edward's POV

I walked down the steps from 'Nes and Jake's apartment, confused. It was almost dark and I knew they both had classes today but I thought they'd remember I was coming over to begin replacing the hinges on the kitchen cabinets. I waited for a while but it was clear they weren't home. Maybe they got tied up in traffic…I pulled out my phone and sent a text message to Renesmee

Hey, 'Nes.

I stopped by to work on the kitchen but you're not here.

Any idea when you'll be home?

I sat on their front steps and waited for a response. My phone vibrated and I looked at the display…

Hi Edward, it's Bella.

'Nes is sick and Jake's at class.

I immediately texted back…

Is she okay?

The message came back…

She has a fever. Probably the flu.

Jake brought her here before he went to class.

She's asleep on the couch right now.

My fingers quickly typed…

What can I do?

Does she need anything?

Damn! I hated when she was sick. I realized she was a grown woman, technically. But she was still my baby girl. It was difficult seeing her sick.

I don't think she needs anything.

I bought her soup and tea.

Her fever looks like it's broken but she's still sleeping

I took my keys and jumped into my car. Before pulling away I texted back…

I'm on my way.

Just as I pulled into traffic and onto the highway I realized…This wasn't my house anymore! I couldn't just barge in, even though Renesmee was sick. I had ask or be invited first! Dammit! I bit down hard on my tongue and asked…

I'm sorry, Bella.

Would it be okay if I came and saw her?

Her reply was nearly instantaneous.

Of course

I drove as fast as I was able, not wanting to exceed the speed limit any more than necessary but arrived at Bella's house in about twenty minutes. I jumped out of my car and up the porch steps where I hesitated momentarily. I lifted my hand to knock when Bella opened the door abruptly.

She smiled warmly. "She's still on the couch." She held the door open and stepped aside for me to enter. I walked in and darted to her side, kneeling on the floor and touching her hair with my hand. Bella appeared over the back of the couch and whispered. "She's been asleep most of the afternoon."

"I don't want to wake her." I whispered, "I was just worried."

"Would you like some coffee? Maybe she'll wake up soon." Bella offered.

I looked up at her and nodded, standing so I didn't disturb Renesmee. I followed Bella to the kitchen and looked around the house as I walked. It was exactly the same. I shrugged inwardly as I sat at the island and watched Bella pour water into the coffee maker. She sat across from me and we stared at each other in awkward silence. I saw her swallow uncomfortably. "I didn't ask Jake what time he'd be back," she commented.

"They were supposed to be home an hour ago so I could work in the kitchen."

"Maybe he'll call when he's on his way."

"Traffic was pretty heavy. Maybe he's stuck somewhere." I shrugged.

Bella stood and poured us each a cup of coffee and handed me mine. "If she ever wakes up, she'll be glad you came."

I nodded in agreement. "Damn, I hate it when she's sick." I chuckled lightly. "It never gets easier, does it?"

Bella smiled, "Not at all."

Tipping my mug up, I took a sip of the steaming liquid when we heard our daughter's voice from the other room. "Mom?" She sounded raspy and hoarse.

"We're right here 'Nes," Bella called out.

I put my cup down on the counter and followed her into the living room. Renesmee was sitting up, peering over the back of the couch looking as sick as I had ever seen her. She squinted her eyes and shook her head, apparently confused. "Dad?" She questioned quietly.

I laughed lightly, "Yes 'Nes. It's me. I texted when you and Jake weren't home and your mom answered, saying you were sick." She smiled weakly and I sat on the footstool beside her, reaching my hand out to stroke her forehead. "How're you feeling?"

"Better, I think. I've been shivering since last night."

I kissed her forehead and agreed with Bella. Her fever must have broken. Even though her face was pale and sweaty, she still was beautiful. "Is this the way you get out of working on those kitchen cabinets?" I teased.

"Shucks!" She teased right back. "No, honestly, I wanted to get them finished. Maybe tomorrow."

"That's enough from both of you," Bella scolded us. "You're going to rest up tomorrow and you…" She turned from our daughter and stared directly at me. "… Need to quit working on their kitchen until she's all better." Her brows furrowed as she cast a scowl back and forth between the two of us.

I looked at the two of them and smiled. Bella, dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, hair up in a messy bun, was still the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. Renesmee was also stunning, but still a little girl in my eyes.

My heart pitched sideways, reminding me how much I loved both of them. No matter how strong I seemed all week long, being in the same room with the two of them made me long to have our family unit back.

It wasn't long before Jake was knocking on the door. He had been stuck on the interstate behind an accident and left his cell phone in his laptop bag in the trunk. "How're you feeling Nessie?" He sat beside her on the couch, taking her hand in his.

"A little better. Mom made me some tea and I slept a long time." She stretched and yawned, making Jake laugh.

"Are you ready to come home with me, or are you going to stay here and have your mom and dad take care of you?"

I shook my head and chuckled awkwardly. "I'm not staying. I have to get home. I'm glad you're feeling better. We will get back to work on the kitchen when you're up to it." I pulled her into a hug and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I love you 'Nes. Call me if you need anything." I stood up to get my coat, realizing how sad it was that I had to leave. Out of the corner of my eye I noticed Bella's posture seemed sad as well.

Is it possible that has this hurt her as much as it has me? I shrugged it off realizing that it was her who filed for divorce after all. If she wanted to change this at any time, she certainly could. She had all the power. The ball was in her court. I shook Jake's hand, reminding him to take care of my little girl and then looked at Bella's sad eyes. "Thank you for letting me come over Bella."

"You're welcome," she smiled slightly as she opened the door for me to leave. I walked out onto the porch and heard her clear her throat, "Edward…"

I turned around and our eyes met, "Yes?" There was apart of me that I hoped she changed her mind. I wished she would say... I have been so wrong. I love you Edward and I want us back

Her face suddenly flushed with embarrassment. "…Never mind. Have a good night."

"You too." I answered, spinning back around and walking toward my car. Damn that felt so close too! Or maybe I was just hoping.

My ride home was as painful as any other time I had to leave Bella. But seeing our daughter so sick, made the pain of leaving even worse. Of course I knew she had Jake to take care of her. It was clear to me that he loved her, but I still couldn't help but realize how much I wanted to take care of her. It felt like I had missed out on so much over the years and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't go back in time.

I thought back to the moment I found out Bella was pregnant for Renesmee. Both of us seventeen, in high school and neither of us had any idea where our own lives were going. Let alone how to make a life for our unborn child…

1987…Forks, WA

Edward's POV

I went to check on Bella after we were done at the Pizza House. I knocked on her door and waited for her to answer. "Hey, Beautiful," I smiled and reached to kiss her as I stepped in the living room. "Coach went out to the bar with the other coaches… I can take care of you till he gets home." I held her hand and walked with her to the couch. "Are you feeling better?"

She shook her head no and suddenly jumped up from the couch, running for the bathroom. I ran after her, only to hear her heaving into the toilet. "Bella? Can I come in and help you?"

"No," she gagged. "Don't come in here."

Trying to give her privacy, I waited outside. She opened the door and looked at me with tears in her eyes. "Edward I'm scared…"

"Hey, I'm sure it's nothing serious." I assured her, putting my arm around her shoulder and guiding her back to the couch. I sat down and slid her down so her head was in my lap. I ran my fingers through her soft hair, trying to soothe her.

"I don't know how to tell you this. I know this wasn't planned and there are so many things I want for our future…"

I stared down at her nervously. "Bella you're scaring me. What is wrong?"

"I'm pregnant." Tears over flowed her eyelids and down her cheeks.

I was instantly frozen with fear. My God! I was nowhere near ready for this. We were so young, we both had college to think of and…I suddenly realized she was scared too and I wasn't helping.

I pulled her to a sitting position and looked deeply into her eyes. I swallowed hard and began, "Bella, I love you. I know it'll take a lot of planning, but I want to have this baby with you.

She sobbed and I pulled her into my arms. "I can't believe this is happening to us! I'm so ashamed. Our parents are going to die with embarrassment! Having a child when we're not even married…"

I pulled her chin up and gently kissed her lips. "Bella, I want us to be parents together…and I want to marry you…" ...

In that moment, I got down on one knee and right there in Coach's living room I proposed to Bella Swan. I didn't have a ring, or anything else to show her how much I loved her. But I made a promise to her. A promise that I would love her until the end of time… that I would care for her always. A promise that I still held in my heart but one that we had both decided to ignore as we moved forward with our divorce.

How could I have been so blind and not see what was right there in front of me? I mean when we started out, she was with someone else, but I didn't let that stop me from going after her. I started thinking...how could I have given up so quickly when she asked for this divorce? I mean back at the house while she was caring for 'Nes it looked like she wanted me to stay. Did I give up too quickly on our marriage? Should I continue to fight for her? Fight for our family?

A/N: There is doubt creeping into both of their minds. What will happen? Will they going forward with the divorce or finally communicate like they should have all along? It's anybody's guess.

As of now, I'm hoping to finish this story within a month. We'll see what happens though. Quite often I think I'm finished and my characters won't shut up...Stay tuned.