Hey everyone! The response I've gotten for this story is amazing! Thanks to all those who read, reviewed and added this to your favorites. And big thanks to everyone who recommended this story. I swear, I have the best readers. (I'm not biased or anything. No siree, Bob!)
I'm glad to have finished this chapter. I started and stopped it a couple times. Honestly, this has been kind of a shitty 2 weeks, so I'm glad I could at least post this chapter. And your reviews are the best! I love hearing how some of you have started to talk like Bella. Saying, 'Holy Toledo' and 'No siree, Bob!'
***For those who don't know, I posted an outtake for this story about a little bit ago. You could click my name to get to it or if you want to do it the harder way, here's the link: http:/www (dot) fanfiction (dot) net/s/6392719/1/Suspicions_The_Tale_of_the_Maybe_Vampire_Extras
Also, thanks to MaggieCullen and HopeStreet for betaing this chapter and putting up with all my questions. :)
(Edited and re-posted 11/7/10)
Enjoy…
Chapter Ten: An Apple A Day Keeps The Doctor At Bay
I couldn't believe him! Who did he think he was? Telling me what to do just because he was a vampire. I bet if I was a vampire and had the same hypnotic skills as he did, then he would have to listen to me!
Alright, I would admit it; I was just slightly…slightly fuming mad! My ankle wasn't even broken. I've had that happen to me twice already. This was probably just some excuse for Edward to bring me to his leader. Why else would he insist on bringing me to the father vampire at such a late hour?
My eyes widened, and my heart rate accelerated.
It was probably their feeding time! No wonder Edward hadn't "taken me out" yet; they probably have to feed the leader first. Yes, that must be it! This was their plan all along. Lure me in with false sense of security and BAM, right when I let my defenses down, a la Bella for dinner!
"Bella?"
I withdrew my attention from the car window and whipped my head around to look at Edward.
"Yes? Ow." Head rush. I need to slow down my movements. I'll work on my range of motion exercises when I return home…if I return home.
Edward looked at me with concern. "What? Are you okay? Is it your ankle?"
"Whoa! Hold your horses! You're talking way too fast. I am only human, you know."
Edward smirked and looked straight ahead. "Yes, you are. I apologize."
"I'm fine. My ankle is fine. We really don't need to see the father v—your father."
I faked yawned and stretched my arms out wide, making sure he was made aware of my movements while still maintaining an ambiance of nonchalance, of course.
"Oh, golly, I'm just so tired. I bet I could fall asleep for a day. Well, not really a day. I'm just saying that as an over exaggeration because I'm that tired. I bet if I don't lie down within the next seven minutes, I will surely fall asleep."
And I just so happen to be seven minutes from my place of residence.
I waited for Edward to reply, but he just continued to smirk and drive ahead.
"Yes…so very tired." Was he not listening to me? Must I yawn again? I could lean closer and speak louder this time…
"Nice try, Bella. You're seeing Carlisle."
I huffed and crossed my arms.
In no time at all – and I really mean it could have been no time at all, I was too busy protesting to realize the speed in which Edward was driving – we made our way up to the Cullen Manor. It seemed weird to me that I was just here the previous day, so much had happened since then. Time really seemed to go slowly when you are in the company of a vampire. Maybe it's because they live so long.
I might as well stop protesting. Edward already pulled up to the house and stopped the car.
While Edward proceeded to turn off the car and get out, I contemplated the likelihood of winning a physical altercation against a vampire. I couldn't force him to bring me home. Until I obtained more concrete data, that wasn't something I was willing to test, yet.
"Fine, Edward. At least let me walk myself—"
Before I could even finish the statement, Edward had opened my car door and lifted me into his strong vampire arms.
"We are seriously going to have a long discussion after this."
Edward just chuckled again while he carried me through the house, bypassing the living room and headed down the hall.
"Where are we going?"
"Carlisle's office. He will need to examine you."
Oh, Carlisle's office...
A smile formed on my face at the thought of what the room contained. All those books…my Achilles heel, I mean really, does one being need so many books? I would be more than happy to take some off his hands.
Edward placed me on a sofa. Why would the father vampire need a sofa in his office? It wasn't as if he needed to sleep on it; they have their coffins to do that.
Hmm, I wonder what kind of coffins they have. Are they all the same type? How do they know which one is which? Maybe they are color coded…or they labeled accordingly and sorted by age or rank within their coven.
Well, that's how I would have done it.
"Carlisle! We're here."
"How does he know who we are?"
"I called him from the car."
Is that smoke I smell? Because surely someone's pants are on fire.
"I didn't notice."
"Well, it was during the time you were 'not talking to me' and while you listed all of your previous hospital visits, the varying medical books you studied and your qualifications for evaluating yourself to not be injured." Edward shrugged noncommittally. "One might surmise you didn't notice."
I scoffed. Yeah, sure. They probably have some sort of vampire telepathy or something. I'm pretty sure I would have noticed him calling the father vampire.
"Be right there." A voice rang out, of course sounding equally as melodious as Edward's.
I wanted to roll my eyes, but quickly stilled my actions. I would not resort to acting like imbeciles such as Lauren, Jessica and – did I mention Lauren?
I needed to prepare myself. I was about to meet their leader, the big cheese, the head honcho, top dog, the big kahuna, the—"Oh my, Christopher Columbus!"
In walked – who, at the time I could only presume – was…I don't know, was more handsome than that Bradley Pitts actor. I think that was his name. I remembered viewing him in that vampire movie when I was compiling data.
I heard individuals describe Carlisle Cullen, but I think they need to have their eyes checked, or maybe they were talking about someone else. Honestly, how could he be huge, like they stated? He seemed to be very fit looking to me. Also, he doesn't resemble a horse in any way shape or form. Though, that one slightly confused me. I never knew horses to be hanged, so how could someone be hung like one?
So this was Edward's "father?" I guess it made sense…Edward Cullen was perfection, and his father must have fallen from the same tree, except they weren't related. Yet, they had so many things in common. So, they fell from the same vampire tree — yes that was it, the same glorious, intelligent producing tree full of smirkers and hugging vampires.
"No, sorry, just Carlisle Cullen, but you got the initials right."
I will not be distracted by his overwhelming good looks, his seducing smile…I've only just become somewhat immune to Edward's. That's it! I'll just draw my attention to Edward instead — no, that wasn't good. I'm getting smirked at on both ends! Not to mention, the magnificent wall of books is just taunting me to read them.
Most overcome…obvious…ploy….to distract…me.
Taking a deep breath, I thought back to the relaxation techniques I learned during that online seminar – which, I must say, hasn't really helped – they would be getting one heck of a review written in the comment box!
Closing my eyes, I started with ten and worked my way backwards.
Tyler, Harrison, Buren, Jackson, Adams, Monroe, Madison, Jefferson…
"Bella?" Edward questioned.
I looked up and opened my eyes. For some odd reason he was looking confused.
"Oh, one sec." I held up my index finger before looking down and resumed my count.
…Adams and Washington.
With a quick nod of my head, I concluded my list and looked up smiling.
"Sorry about that, I didn't want to forget George Washington."
What my pediatrician called obsessive-compulsive disorder, I called paying attention to detail.
Carlisle gave a quick laugh – just like Edward's – and turned toward Edward displaying a smile and two raised eyebrows.
"Edward, did she hit her head?"
"Hmm, I don't know…" Edward ran a hand through his disheveled hair making it…actually making it appear more tidy.
Of course everything is backwards with him.
Wait…are they speculating that I, Isabella Swan, have brain damage?
I scowled at them. "I have not suffered from any lacerations, abrasions, or blows to the head. Thank you very much!"
"Of course not, Bella. Now just do me a quick favor and look ahead."
"Where did you get that pen light from and so fast, too?"
"From my pocket," Carlisle said as he moved the pen from my right to left eye.
A likely story.
"Now, look from my finger to a spot on the wall behind me."
I let out a slow breath. I might as well give in. The sooner this examination is done, the better.
I did as he asked. I looked over at Edward, then back Carlisle. He was holding his finger up in front of him, so it only made sense to look at him.
Edward, Carlisle, Edward, Carlisle…I don't know what this was doing, but my heart rate was definitely increasing.
"Well, your pupils are equal, round and reactive to light and accommodation," Carlisle said in a matter of fact kind of tone.
"Umm, yes, of course they are. I wouldn't expect less from them."
Carlisle laughed a lot louder than Edward did, but his smile seemed just as sly and charming as Edward's.
Most definitely a vampire trait.
Vampires may have to rely on blood to live, but they surely get a lot of perks. Long lives, undeniable good looks, a high IQ, and if their voices sound this melodious when they talked, they could indisputably advance in music careers.
Too bad they waste such talents with their lurking around town, waiting in the shadows, and hanging upside down. I'm sure they could be way more productive with their time, plus all the blood they consumed would indubitably rush to their heads.
"I'm going to check your ankle now, Bella. But please inform me if you experience any headaches, blurred vision, dizziness or anything out of the ordinary."
Carlisle moved to the end of couch and proceeded to examine my leg. I couldn't let him affect me like Edward did. I will be strong, I will overcome!
My best bet was to divert my attention to reduce the risk of being swayed by their vampire lure. I stared at the wall of books. Not only could I distract myself, but also I could view something I love!
It was a win-win really.
"Tell me if you feel any pain."
I nodded, but still kept my attention on the books. There were just so many of them! This was every scientist's dream.
It was odd, it was almost as if I could feel Edward's gaze on me. His concern was anomalous. He was a vampire, so why did he care if someone lower on the food chain was injured? This was not how the animal kingdom worked. You didn't travel into the wilderness and witness a lion bandaging up a hurt zebra.
Not that I should be complaining. I was quite fond of my life and the numerous achievements I was destined to accomplish. This was just an observation.
However, what would be the reason for a vampire to keep a human safe and protected? Honestly, that concept seemed quite silly if you ask me.
Again, I was not complaining.
"Well, Bella. It doesn't seem to be broken."
I, of course, immediately gave Edward a smug "I told you so" expression.
Some people could just be so stubborn sometimes. You just couldn't talk them out of something they believe to be true.
Edward just smiled and shrugged. "Can't be too careful."
Carlisle cleared his throat. "Yes, nevertheless, you should keep pressure off the ankle; you may have twisted the muscle the wrong way. I'm sure if you relax it enough, you will be in tip-top shape for school on Monday."
I couldn't argue with that. I wouldn't miss school if I contracted malaria.
"Thank you, Carlisle. I'm sorry to bother you at such a late—oh my! That's the Omano OMPCB-23/99, isn't it?"
Carlisle perked up and turned his attention to his desk. Turning back with a smile on his face, he said, "Why, yes it is! You know microscopes, Bella?"
I snorted. "That's like asking if the average mean temperature in Antarctica is -49 degrees Celsius."
Carlisle smiled. "That's an 'of course,' if I ever heard of one."
The father vampire and I laughed, while Edward looked at us almost incredulously.
Carlisle stood from the couch and walked toward the device. "Here, let me bring it to you. It's quite a wonder, you know."
"True, that's what The Scientist said in their December issue last year."
Carlisle handed me the microscope. "Oh, yes. I remember that one. I take many reading recommendations from that magazine."
"Me too! It's a shame that our library doesn't hold all of their suggestions. I've contemplated buying them online."
If I could ever figure out how to use that E-Bay website.
"Why bother," Carlisle said, happily. "I have plenty books here for you to borrow. You seem like someone I can trust."
"Oh, well no...I couldn't. It would be too much—okay, I guess if you insist."
It's important not to anger the father vampire…yes, that's it! I would probably be considered rude if I didn't accept his offer. It's best to get in the good graces of the Cullens. Carlisle seemed like a logical man…well, he is a man of science. I'm sure he can fully relate to my search of the next scientific discovery – "The Existence of Vampires: Not a Myth Anymore."
"Let me see." The father vampire stood up and skimmed the huge selection of books. He grabbed three before returning to the couch. "These two were recommended in the last issue, and this, well, this is one of my personal favorites."
He placed the last book on top of the pile, and I looked down.
Ancient Egyptian Artifacts from the Early Dynastic Period.
My heart skipped a beat. Best. Day. Ever!
~*~#~*~
If I didn't think the day could get any better, I was mistaken, and it was one of those times I was alright with admitting it. Edward, Carlisle, and I spent the next hour looking through his book selection and discussing our views on a variety of subjects.
Edward just seemed to laugh and shake his head every time Carlisle and I would get into a heated discussion.
It ended far too soon. Esme was scheduled to call and talk to Carlisle soon. Apparently, she left earlier today to visit Rosalie and Emmett and was going to call once she arrived.
Edward put Carlisle's books in my bag and carried me into the living room.
"Bella, I'll be back soon. I need to speak to Carlisle for a moment before we leave."
Edward placed me gently on the couch. It was as if he was purposely ignoring my protests of not wanting to be carried.
After he left, I scanned the room, trying to figure out if I had enough time to investigate or uncover something before he got back.
"Bella? Back so soon?" I looked up so see Jasper descending the stairs. He smiled at me and made his way to sit down on the other end of the couch.
How convenient that Jasper just happened to show up once Edward left the room. I wouldn't be surprised if this was planned. Don't leave the human alone for too long, must make sure the secret remains safe. I do not need a babysitter or a guard!
I sighed. "Yes, Edward made me come."
Jasper smiled and cocked his head to the side. "Did he now?"
"Oh yes." I nodded. "He was quite persistent until I did."
"And you didn't want to?"
"Oh, no, it's not that."
I didn't want to give the impression that I disliked coming over to their home. They were surprisingly wonderful hosts, for vampires that is, and I, most definitely, wanted to return to obtain more information…and Esme's cooking wasn't bad…not at all.
"I enjoy it and all. I just didn't think it would happen so frequently."
Jasper bit his upper lip and then cleared his throat. He nodded a couple times and took a deep breath. "So, you don't want it to happen so much?"
Fear shot through me. That couldn't happen! I can't let any of the Cullen's think I don't want to come over.
"Yes, I mean, no! I mean that I don't mind coming." I waved my hands frantically in front of Jasper. He leaned back slightly, trying to avoid my frenzied motions.
He held up both of his hands in surrender. "Okay, don't worry, Bella. No one said you couldn't come."
I released a breath in relief, and my shoulders fell. "Sorry, I don't mean to act so irrational. It's getting late…" I trailed off, hoping that the statement would explain my behavior.
"Edward tired you out then?" Jasper said, and the corner of his mouth turned up.
"Yes, most definitely, he and Carlisle both!"
Jasper's eyebrows rose. "Oh, really? Carlisle as well?"
"Yes, we were in his office for over one hour. He is very knowledgeable."
Jasper chuckled and shook his head. I looked at him in confusion. I couldn't see why Carlisle's intellect was humorous. Maybe Jasper was insane, maybe he knew something I didn't, or maybe this was some sort of vampire thing. I could almost picture their motto – to laugh, to smirk, to confuse. Oh, and to drink blood, but that was a given.
I was going to wait for Jasper to respond, but it seemed as though he was still attempting to compose himself. Plus, I noticed something else that was a bit confusing.
I arched my neck, looking past Jasper to view the stairs, then – as best as I could from the spot I sat – looked into the other adjoining rooms.
"Where is Alice?"
From what I could remember, Alice was always with Jasper, and Jasper was always with Alice. Yes, of course there were times I've seen them apart, but Jasper very well couldn't enter the girl's locker room, no matter how many times I heard Jessica wish that wasn't so.
It's almost disconcerting to see Alice and Jasper apart.
"Oh, she had things she needed to take care of. She'll be back soon."
I nodded. "Edward said the same thing." I pointed in the direction Edward left.
Jasper looked contemplative for a moment. "In all seriousness, how are you…enjoying your time with Edward?"
In all seriousness? When were we apparently joking?
I tried not to read too much into his statement, which was hard to do. My advanced brain was always looking for truth, justice, and the scientific way!
I thought back to the past couple of days with Edward. Pushing aside my study and quest to prove his vampirism, things were quite enjoyable…actually, more than enjoyable. I would say it was quite the hoot!
We worked wonderfully together, and we were able to complete our assignment in a timely fashion. We were able to make good use of our spare time and take leisure in pleasurable activities.
Edward even bought me…I mean; I obtained a wonderful piece of evidence in the form of a Gerber daisy.
A smile formed on my lips, and I felt my face grow slightly hot.
My head snapped up when I heard Jasper clear his throat. He was giving me a knowing smile, almost identical to the one Alice gave me the day before. It wasn't until he arched his eyebrow and gave me a look that I remembered he asked me a question.
"Oh, yes, my time with Edward. It is very…nice."
He laughed. "Well, I'm glad that it's nice. If you excuse me, Alice should be getting back shortly."
With a quick nod, Jasper departed, and I was left with more questions than answers.
Nothing new there…
~*~#~*~
I sighed. It was hopeless, hopeless I say!
"What's wrong, Bella?"
"Edward, how do you not see?"
His confused expression told me that he did, in fact, not see what I was referring to.
Sometimes he could just be as blind as a bat.
Oh! Blind as a vampire bat, that is! I made another humorous joke and I can't tell a living – or nonliving – soul.
I would just have to write them down for later. I could use them for my acceptance speech when I win the Nobel Peace Prize – amongst my many other awards. The winners were known to crack a joke or two…all in good tact, of course.
"You're carrying me again." Did I really need to point that out?
"Oh, right. That," Edward emphasized with a head nod.
"Yes, that."
"I know you are…opposed to me holding you, Bella; however, Carlisle said to keep as much weight off your ankle as possible so it will be fine come Monday morning for school."
What was with his disconsolate expression?
I guess he is just trying to be helpful. I must make him aware of my gratitude.
"Edward, I'm not opposed to you holding me. I just don't need you to."
"I understand, Bella." Edward looked everywhere but at me. If I knew Edward – and it's safe to say after almost three weeks of observations, I do – his next move would be running his hand through his hair.
In this instance, I wouldn't mind being wrong again, since I am currently in his arms and that action would involve dropping me on the ground.
"Bella?"
"Hmm?"
"You ready to go in? We have been standing in front of your door for a couple minutes now."
I reluctantly looked away from Edward to take account of our surroundings.
Huh, we are in front of the door.
I really couldn't be blamed for my lack of notice. It was hard enough to look away from Edward on a normal occasion, imagine what it was like when he was less than a telescope away.
"Your keys?"
"My keys? Oh, right my keys." I reached in my purse, which happened to be resting in my lap.
I passed the keys to Edward. "It's the one marked with the number 3 on it."
"Got it."
We headed through the door. I guess I didn't have to invite Edward in again. The first invite must have been good enough to last. I did make it quite good…
Edward walked through the kitchen, then through the living room, and started to head up the stairs.
"Um, what are you doing?"
"Bringing you to your room," Edward stated, as if it were the most obvious answer in the world.
Before I could protest, Edward had already pushed open my bedroom door with his foot and was placing me gently on my bed.
I didn't quite know what it was, but I had the strangest feeling when I realized that someone was in my room, and not just anyone, but Edward Cullen! It was probably due to the fact that only a handful of people have entered my room.
Edward stood up straight. His posture was impeccable! He closed his eyes and took a breath. I wondered if he was practicing the same relaxation techniques that I tried earlier. The only difference was that he probably was around to meet those presidents.
His eyes snapped open. His gaze was so intense I couldn't help but stare at his ey—
"Bella. I—" Edward stopped and looked around the room. Maybe for a little inspiration?
"I was thinking…I wanted to t—"
I just stared. I wanted to help him; however, I didn't know what he was trying to say.
Edward then sighed. His shoulders slumped slightly in defeat…or maybe he became tired of holding his posture…either answer was plausible.
His attitude seemed like he was giving up. I didn't have any personal experience of such an act, but I've seen rivals experience that feeling quite often. Maybe if I gave him some words of encouragement—
"Bella, I've got to go."
I was about to protest, but Edward gave me one of his signature smirks, and my mind went a little foggy.
"I'll see you Monday."
"Okay, see you Monday, Edward."
With that, Edward was out of my room, down the stairs, and I could hear the door close behind him.
Covertly, I peeked out the window just in time to see his silver Volvo disappearing from view.
I couldn't help the smile from forming on my face. It must be the vampire in him, but he never ceased to amaze me. Today was…quite pleasurable. I obtained plenty of data, and my time with Edward wasn't disagreeable at all.
He did leave in an atypical way, but I had come to accept that Edward just acts plain peculiar sometimes. I'm sure whatever he wanted to tell me would come up at a later time.
I have much to document!
I was about to hobble over to my filing cabinet to retrieve my red notebook, but halted my steps.
I had one important thing to do first.
I reached into my bag and pulled out the Gerber daisy Edward had given me. For one, this important piece of evidence needed to be preserved…it risked becoming damaged if it stayed in the confines of my purse. Second, my room may or may not have needed a little more color.
I retrieved my notebook from the filing cabinet and sat at my desk. I couldn't help the smile on my face as I gazed at the perfect symmetry of the petals and recalled the pleasurable events that had transpired.
There are some questions I've been asked a couple times and since I was unable to reply to all of the reviews in time, I figured I would just answer them here:
-Posting schedule: I don't have a set posting schedule. I do try to post at least one chapter within two weeks, sometimes less depending on my work schedule.
-The length of the story: An author's note a while back mentioned this story being around 10-20 chapters. As of now, if I had to guess, it's going to be around 15-20 plus an epilogue. This very well could change, but that's what it looks like as of now.
-Edward outtake: People have asked if I would ever do an Edward outtake. Possibly, once the story is done.
-Lastly: The questions I've been asked the most: Is he a vampire or not? And what is his eye color? Well, that's easy. They are…going to be revealed to you within 5-10 chapters. :)
