Chapter 12: New York City. . .
The flight didn't take as long as I was expecting. We got off the plane and went to find our bags. I saw Angel and Collins standing near a pillar in the huge airport of New York City. I smiled, waving to them, then I looked up to Edward, "There's Angel and Collins. Ready?" he smiled down at me and squeezed my hand. Angel spotted us and waved her hands above her head and I smiled even wider. "ANGEL!" I squealed as we embraced. She hugged me tighter and I felt tears spring to my eyes as I felt the shoulder of my shirt grow moist. "Wow, you look great, Bella." she said, through a rough sob. I nodded and smiled, "So do you. So do you." I choked out and we hugged again. I heard Collins laughing behind me, followed by Edward's musical laughter.
"Hey, Collins. How are you?" I asked him as I reached for a hug. He smiled and kissed my forehead. "I'm doing fine, Bella. Just living life." he finished and I hugged him tight and backed away. "Collins, this is Edward. Edward, this is Collins. And Angel you must remember him from the last time you were here." she nodded and gave him a hug as well. "Well, Bella, I suppose you have something to show me?" Angel asked in the most innocent voice. I felt confusion sweep over my mind, covering my face. I looked up to Edward for help and he squeezed my hand. My left hand. Realization hit me, Oh. "Of course -I lifted my left hand- Here, isn't it gorgeous? It was Edward's mother's ring." I shifted it in the light to fancy her likings. She gawked at the ring and I shrugged her questions off. Collins saved us when he said that we should get going or we'd be late for the dinner reservations they made for us.
Edward and I sat in the backseat of their newest Escalade. It was nice and spacious. I held Edward's hand the whole way to their apartment. It was nicer than I had remembered. Angel was an amazing designer. Her sense of fashion and design were beyond belief. She had a true knack for creating and blending to make a masterpiece out of about anything. "Wow, Angel, this place looks better and better every time I come here." I said, in awe. I walked around the living area, admiring the colors and the portraits that lined the walls. "Amazing, isn't it?" Collins asked, placing a hand on my shoulder. I nodded, open mouthed. "I hate to intrude on you guys. . ." I said, fidgeting with the zipper on my bag. He shook his head once, "Always so modest, Bella, but you aren't intruding. We would be honored to have you and your fiancé stay with us while you're here." I smiled at him, "Okay."
Edward appeared at my side. "I was just telling Angel what a beautiful home you guys have. I was surprised at how wonderful everything looks together." Edward said; his voice both polite and appreciative. I smiled up at him. "Should we unpack? I'd love to take a shower and try and get in touch with Mimi…" I was cut off. "Don't you worry about Mimi; she will be at dinner tonight." Angel called from the kitchen. I laughed, "Okay…" I grabbed my bags up and followed Collins to a bedroom near the back of the loft apartment. "Wow, this is so… Beautiful." I said, laughing and setting my bags down on the floor at the foot of the bed. Edward set his on the floor at the side of the bed. "I agree…" Collins nodded and began to walk away. "You two get settled in, we'll be out here if you two need anything…" he said and disappeared into the darkness of the hallway.
"Well, they sure are nice enough. And this house… It's to die for." Edward said, sitting on the bed. "How are you feeling, love?" he asked after I long moment. I shrugged, "Alright I guess. I'm just a little nervous. I haven't seen my mother in almost seven months and let alone everyone else it's been a good three months…" I said, turning to face him. I walked to the bed and lifted one of my bags onto the bed next to him. He pulled me by my waist and I stood between his legs. "Everything will be alright, just fine. Don't worry about anything. And your friends, they will still love you even if you haven't seen them in years." he finished, standing up and tilting my head so that he could kiss me. I grew lightheaded and wrapped my arms around his neck. He ran his hands up the small of my back, to my shoulders and back down. I kissed him deeper, nibbling on his bottom lip, when we heard someone clear their throat. "Sorry to interrupt this cute… Romantic scene, but you have a phone call." Angel said; who was standing in the hallway in front of the door. I nodded and walked over to the side table and picked up the phone, Angel yelled behind her for Collins to hang up the phone.
I sighed to myself when I found out that it was just Charlie. I assured him that I had arrived safely and that Edward was with me and we promised to be safe. We talked for a little while longer and then I hung up, claiming to be jet lagged and having dinner reservations -which was true to some extent- with Angel and the gang.
Exhausted from the conversation, I plopped down on the bed next to Edward and closed my eyes. He pokes me in my side, "You should probably take a shower, Bella. It's been a long day and it will help you relax…" he said, wrapping his arms around me. I sighed, "Yeah, you're right. A hot shower would be nice…" I said rising from the bed and moving toward my bags on the floor. I felt Edward's eyes boring into me as I moved, "What's wrong?" I asked him after a few moments of shuffling through my bag. I found my toiletries.
I looked up in time to see him shrug, "Nothing, really. I'm just worried about you… This is a lot, and I don't want you to like have a mental melt down or something…" he finished, smiling. I shook my head, "To be honest, I'm alright. I mean I'm still kind of nervous about what I might have to face at the hospital, but I do have you… And I have the rest of my friends here. But most of all, I have you and I know you will be there for me." I got up and sat next to him, running my fingers down the side of his face; I bent in and kissed his lips. A feather light touch was all it was and then I walked out of the room.
Their bathroom was extravagant. The walls were pale sea foam green with a mahogany wood paneling. A luxurious bathtub was set up just beside a window with blinds that opened from the top rather than the bottom. Next to that was a walk in shower, it was nice and had expensive shower heads in the walls of the shower. I walked in with my mouth dropping. I set my clothes on the counter and turned toward the toilet to relieve myself. I walked to the shower and started it. All the shower heads turned on and I closed the door and went to undressing and gathering my soaps. I stepped into the shower and it was heavenly. The tension in my shoulders and back seemed to just melt away. Then there was a knock at the door.
"Who is it?" I asked, louder than usual. But I heard the door open but couldn't see who it was and I never heard the door shut. Then before I could say anything, Edward was sliding in next to me. I inhaled sharply and backed away until I bumped into the wall. "What. . ." I was at a loss for words. He put his lips to mine and stopped the sentence that was making its way to my lips. I lost all my train of thoughts and concentration became impossible. "Have I ever told you how much you mean to me?" he asked, nuzzling my neck with his nose. He kissed along my jaw line all the way to my hairline. I shivered and pulled him closer to me. "What's this all about? We can't… you can't…" I tried to get my thought out but I lost the thought as soon as it was formed. I wrapped my arms around his neck and began to kiss him more passionately. He ran his hands down my sides, hitching my leg up around his hip. I moaned against his mouth and kissed him deeper. I ran my along the outline of his lips, kissing his neck and then his shoulders. He made an animal like sound and placed himself inside me. I moaned softly and held onto his neck for support. He smiled his crooked smile, and thrust himself inside of me.
I was overcome with pleasure and soon forgot where I was. Edward kept his lips to mine, roaming and exploring my mouth. Keeping me from becoming too loud, he took his time and I felt as though I couldn't hold on for much longer. I climaxed against him, clutching his shoulders. I felt my could feel myself gasping for air, but Edward claimed my mouth again with his, while he climaxed. He fell slowly to the floor of the shower and took me with him. I sat on his lap, my head limp on his chest. He ran his fingers up my back and I sighed. "Wow… I can't believe we just did that." I said laughing. He chuckled with me and helped me to my feet. "Can you hand me the soap from behind you?" I asked as I stepped into the water again. I lathered my body quickly and got out, leaving him to wash.
I brushed my teeth and washed my face, applying a smidge of make up to enhance, but not completely overdo my features. Edward sat on the toilet watching me. I smiled in the mirror at him and he smiled back, getting up and walking towards me. "I love you, Isabella…" he whispered with my favorite smile playing across his lips. I blushed and looked down at the sink as I finished packing up my stuff. Edward took it in his arm and waited for me to walk out into the hall. "Oh…" Collins said as he walked past the bathroom, on the phone it seemed. I blushed again and walked as fast as I could without actually running, to the bedroom. Edward shut the door silently as I walked over to my bag. He set my toiletries on the dresser and sat on the bed, rifling through one of his bags. I dressed quickly in a deep blue dress that was tight in the bodice area and then flowed gently down to my mid thigh. It was a gorgeous dress and it was perfect for this evening. I pulled my hair up in a loose bun and sprayed a small mist of some expensive brand of perfume that Alice had given me a few months ago. "How do I look? And be honest…" I asked Edward as I turned around from the mirror in the closet. He shook his head, "You look beautiful, like always Bella. Why must you torture me with these silly questions when you know I will say the same thing every time..?" he finished, waving his hand in front of him in a sign of dismissal of the conversation.
"I'm sorry. It's just that I want to look devastatingly beautiful like you for once." I said, filling my purse with my lip gloss and basic essentials. I heard him chuckle darkly and I turned to face him, leaning against the wall. "What?" I asked, watching him shake his head. "Bella, you are absurd. You are beautiful, so beautiful that it drives me crazy sometimes to just be around you. And don't envy me, I'm a monster, this is the look of a killer…" he said, his face going glum. I walked over to him and sat in his lap as he wrapped his arms around me. "I'm sorry; it's just that I feel so plain… So ordinary compared to you. And Edward -I grabbed his jaw between my hands- you are not a killer, you know this. You can't help what you are… Either way, I love you and your killer skin…" I said laughing. His eyes were sad, but he still laughed. "Alright… We should get going, I have a surprise for you tonight…" he said, helping me to my feet. I smiled and grabbed my purse, heading out into the living area to join Angel and Collins.
"Wow, Bella… You look amazing!" Angel exclaimed when Edward and I emerged from the hallway. I blushed, "Thanks, you look good yourself." Collins stood up and walked into the kitchen, "You guys want something to drink?" he asked, grabbing himself a beer out of the refrigerator. I shook my head and Edward declined politely and took a seat on the love seat by the window. I went over toward Angel and began to admire her jewelry she had made. "These are… Beautiful." I said, speechless. She laughed and brushed the comment off, "They aren't anything special… Just something I made on a rainy day…" she said, sighing. I laughed and walked over to where Edward sat and stared out the window. He smiled up at me and I smiled, walking back across the room. "So when is this dinner party supposed to begin?" I asked after a moment. Collins walked back into the room with a beer laughing, "Whenever Roger and Mimi decide to come here… They are carpooling with us to the restaurant." he said, laughing and sitting down next to Angel. I went and sat on the sofa across from them and scooted over so Edward could sit next to me. "Edward, have you ever been to New York before?" Angel asked after moment. "Actually, my father is a doctor so we've traveled a lot. I stayed here in New York two years prior to meeting Bella.." Edward said politely. "Oh, really? Well then you're like a native aren't you?" Collins said, a mocking smile playing across his lips.
I never really noticed how old Collins and Angel were getting. I guess it's because they never really acted old therefore I always saw them as really young. "Bella, do you miss being in the big city? Or do you like living up there with Charlie?" Collins asked. I glanced up at Edward and then back to him, "I miss being around you guys, but I love living in Seattle.. And near Charlie for that fact." I answered, in a matter-of-fact tone. We chatted in a comfortable zone for a while, the skyline outside was beginning to light up and then there was a knock at the door. "I'll get it.." I volunteered as I rose from the sofa. My legs were stiff and in dire need to be stretched and used for a while. I opened the door and smiled. "Bella? Is it really you?!" Mimi exclaimed as she scooped me up in a bear hug. I laughed and hugged her back. "Yep, it's me. In the flesh, oh gosh I missed you so much.." I pulled away and gave Roger a big hug as well. "We've missed you too!" she squealed and walked past me. Angel and Collins had walked up behind me and were giving them hugs now. I walked back to Edward and took his hand. "Hello." he said as Roger walked toward him, his hand extended. Mimi threw me a devious look and then licked her lips, winking at me. I stifled a laugh and shook my head. "Well let's get going, I'll call the others and let them know we're on our way." Collins said and started out the door. I smiled up at Edward and squeezed his hand. He leaned down and kissed me once softly and then a second time with more passion. I blushed and walked forward.
It had cooled off considerably since we had arrived earlier this afternoon and I shivered in the night air. "Bella.. -his voice disapproving- .. Take my jacket, love. I don't want you to catch a cold." Edward said as we began walking further outside. I was about to object, but he was already taking his jacket off and putting it around my shoulders. "Thanks.." I said, scowling at him. Angel turned around, "Do you kids mind if we walk? The restaurant isn't very far. It would take longer to start the car and get out onto the road.." I shook my head, "I don't mind.." I looked up at Edward to see him agree. Off we went, down the cool, crowded streets of New York City.
I forgot how beautiful and romantic the city was at night. The buildings seemed to come to life even though they were fast asleep until the early waking hours of the next day. I forgot that Edward was walking next to me until I saw a group of girls ahead ogling over him. It made me furious and I looked up at him, stopping in front of them. I stretched up on my toes and kissed him, slowly. Then I pulled away, smiling internally as I flashed my engagement ring to them, before trying to catch up with the group Edward shook his head in disappointment, all the while an amused smile played beautifully on his lips.
The restaurant was beautiful. Full of life but not too crowded, not typical for your usual night out in New York. It was set up like a night club, but had an elegant touch to it. The tables were spaced apart and set up in various ways. It was more from the future yet kept its place in time. "Fancy place.. I love the way its set up.." I whispered to Edward as we walked in behind Mimi and the others. I spotted Maureen and Joanne sitting at a huge table with Mark. I waved and smiled and the exuberant Mark who was now standing trying to get my attention. I smiled to myself and headed over to the table, Edward trailing behind with Roger and Collins.
"Hey, Oh my gosh, how are you guys?" I asked as I gave them hugs and waited for the others to get to the table. Edward reached it before the rest, his Adonis figure standing out from everyone else. I smiled and he took my hand gently. "Hello. I'm Edward Cullen. I'm with Bella.." he said, shaking hands. I watched as Maureen drooled over him, and jokingly said, "He's mine." and touched her arm lightly. She laughed and Joanne rolled her eyes. I laughed and the rest of the gang made their way over to the table. We greeted each other and took our seats. I had forgotten how much fun they were when we were all together, not that when we weren't together we didn't have much fun.
"So, Bella, if you weren't under the circumstances, would you be excited to be back in New York?" Joanne asked me as we placed our drink orders; I was surprised that Edward ordered anything. "Even though I'm here because mom and Phil are in the hospital, I still love being back. You guys are like my best friends and I miss being with you.. Although I love being in Seattle as well. I have new friends there, they are amazing. And I have Edward.." I flashed him a smile before I looked at everyone else. Maureen laughed and I blushed, Edward just smiled, lifting up one half of his mouth. The waitress brought our drinks back and smiled too friendly at Edward. I turned away and started to listen to what Mimi was talking about. Her and Roger were thinking of adopting a little girl; they passed pictures around and she was adorable.
"Edward, so what's your family like?" Maureen asked after sipping on her drink. I was still talking with Mimi about her adoption ideas. "My father, Carlisle, is a doctor in Forks. My mother, Esme, well she's an interior designer. She likes to restore old houses from the 18th-20th centuries. But they aren't my biological parents, I was adopted. My parents died a long time ago.." he said after a while. I smiled and turned to listen in as Mimi had done. "Oh I'm so sorry to hear, that must have been terrible. They seem like nice people. Do you have any siblings?" Mimi asked. He nodded, "I have 2 biological siblings and 2 other adopted siblings. We all live together. Alice and Emmett are my blood relatives and Rosalie and Jasper aren't, but I still think of them like that because we have been through so much together." he finished, smiling at her. She smiled back. "Wow, I hope to be like them -she winked at Roger- I think they are wonderful people." she nodded and sat back in her chair. "Edward, um could I speak with you for a moment?" Collins asked, getting up from the table. Edward nodded and smiled my way, "I'll be back.." he kissed my hand and walked away with Collins. Everyone awed at me for the gesture.
I blushed a deep scarlet and went back to the conversations at the table. A few moments later, Edward and Collins came back, laughing. I looked at Collins suspiciously and he just winked at me. Confused, I turned back to the Angel and gave praise to the pictures they had taken when they went to Egypt for their anniversary. I laughed at how silly some of the pictures were and I was awed by the beautiful architecture they saw. Edward sat on the other side of me and swapped our drinks. I smiled over my shoulder at him. Everyone had pretty much gone into their own directions with conversation, but they didn't seem to be having a bad time.
The waitress came and took our orders and promised it would be no longer than thirty minutes. While we waited we talked about how school was going with us and then how my mom was doing as of lately and what the doctors had said. We were moving on to the good old times we all used to have and it kept us all in laughing fits. I couldn't really concentrate because I was super aware of Edward sitting next to me. It was like there was an electric current flowing between us again and it was hard to keep my mind straight, let alone whenever he laughed. His laugh was whimsical and just.. Beautiful. The waitress came back with a cart and passed our food around. I saw Edward slip her a piece of paper that was folded up. I frowned to myself and turned away. Making a point not to notice him, even though I was pretty sure I was failing miserably.
Dinner passed smoothly, laughing in bits and reminiscing about when I was younger, so much embarrassment involved on my part. Edward would nudge me ever so often and just smile at me, his eyes alight with happiness and full of gentler emotions. I couldn't help but smile back. I guess they had already ordered deserts. But I wasn't in the mood for tiramisu, but I tried it anyways. We talked for a while and then everyone got quiet and began to stare at me, feeling self conscious I looked around. Edward had stood up and was turning to face me; I stared at him.. My eyes studying his every move, suspicious of what was going on. He got down on one knee…
"Isabella Marie Swan. From the moment I saw you I knew I couldn't stay away from you. I tried to push you away, by being a jerk and ignoring you while you hung out with my sister -he laughed darkly- but when the end of the day came rolling around, it was you who was on my mind when I rested at night and it still is. You're the first thing to come to my mind when I wake up in the morning, and I go crazy when you're not around me. I love you, Bella. And I always will. Forever, and on this night, here with your friends.. The ones who mean the most to you.. I want to ask you.. Will you marry me?" he finished, staring up at me. His eyes were a warm, honey brown color. Adoration covered his face, and I was pretty sure if he could cry, he would have became emotional. I blushed and felt tears spring my eyes, "Oh Edward, yes. Yes, I will." I said, tears rolling down my face, I stood up and hugged him. He lifted my feet off of the floor and pressed his cool, hard lips to mine. Once. Twice. A third time, more passionately before placing me down again and he took my hand in his and rubbed my ring on my left hand. I smiled up at him and he wiped away my tears. "Bella, you're being utterly absurd. Don't cry, mon cherie." he said in a whisper and sat down, pulling me down into the chair next to him. I dabbed at my eyes and smiled to everyone. They were smiling and laughing at my reaction, "You bums knew about this, didn't you?" I asked, laughing and still dabbing at my eyes. "Oh hon., we had to keep it a secret. Edward here, he wanted it to be really special, and we're sorry Renee and Phil couldn't be here, but I'm sure they will be extremely happy with your choice. Take care of her.." Angel finished, tearing up a little. I laughed and reached over to give her a hug. "Awe, you guys are amazing.. Thanks." I said, making a note of smiling at each person around the table.
Shortly after the proposal, we all decided it was time to head out. Edward offered to pay the bill, but Angel and Collins tried to refuse, but he used the power of his dazzling gaze on them, and they gave in sooner than later.
I walked close by Edward in the chill of the early New York morning. Angel leaned into Collins, half asleep. I laughed and Edward wrapped his arm around my shoulders, blocking me from the cold. I sighed, "I love you.." I said, he leaned down and pressed his lips against my forehead, "I love you, more.." We walked past the same group of people that we had passed on the way to the restaurant. "Hey, bitch, you got something to say?" a dirty woman said. She was dressed in a mini-mini skirt with stilettos on an a shirt so low cut it barely covered her breasts. I saw Angel turn to say something, but Collins stopped her and we continued to walk. We fell behind in step from Angel and Collins. Edward turned and glared instinctively at them, I could have sworn I heard him growl under his breath. The group scattered, fear apparent on their dirty faces.
"Edward…" I whispered, "Come on, lets go.. Please?" I asked, my voice was full of urgency. "I'm sorry, Bella. Let's catch up and get you home. You're freezing." and with that said, we walked faster to get out the cold. The walk seemed longer on the way back, maybe it was because I was cold and scared and exhausted from all of the excitement of the evenings events.
The apartment was warmer than it was outside, and for that, I was thankful. "Wow, tonight was.. Interesting. I enjoyed being around everyone again. It was just like the old days." I said, slipping my heels off as I walked deeper into the living room. "I second that, it's been so long since we've all been together. Almost a year…" Collins said. Angel barely made it in the door before she collapsed into sleep mode. I laughed and kissed her goodnight on her forehead. "Goodnight Collins, I'll see you in the morning." I said around a yawn and headed toward the hallway. "Thank you for having me, I enjoyed having dinner with you all. Goodnight." Edward said and followed behind me.
I changed into a t-shirt and laid my dress across a chair near the closet. I watched as Edward undressed and laid his clothes next to mine. He climbed into bed with me. I tried to cuddle closer to him before he pulled a blanket between me and his skin. "Edward, last night… what do you think allowed you to fall asleep?" I asked after a hesitated moment. He shrugged, "I'm not really sure, I heard about it being possible if we try hard enough, but I wasn't trying anything, I was just.. Tired." he said after a little while. I nodded, "I see. I like it when you sleep, we seem more alike that way." I said, smiling up at him. He looked down and kissed me. I reached up and put my hand to the side of his face and then ran it down his neck to his chest. "Sleep with me…" I said, snuggling up to him. He chuckled and pulled me closer.
It was bright when I opened my eyes. I looked out the window and saw clouds, I smiled to myself. I looked over my shoulder and Edward was laying on his side, breathing deeply. I smiled to myself and slid out of bed gently. I stepped over to my bag and pulled out a pair of sweat pants and a form fitting t-shirt. I pulled socks on, grabbed my purse and then walked out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. No one was up yet so I decided I would make some coffee and then sit in the window. Today I decided I would go see my mom, I needed to see her and Phil.
I walked out into the kitchen and searched the cupboards for some coffee and found instant. That would work, I made a cup and went and sat at the window with my cell phone. I decided I would text Jessica…
Hey Jess, what's up? How's Seattle? New York is amazing,
And I'm having loads of fun. I hope to talk to you soon, I'll bring
You a souvenir or something, talk to you later. Love B.
I sent the text hoping she didn't have her phone on in class or anything like that, maybe she wasn't even in class because of the time difference, maybe she was still asleep since it was only about 7 a.m. here and everything. I shook my head and laughed at myself. The coffee was good, I finished the cup. Then I heard someone moving around, Angel came out from the hallway, shocked to see me up so early. "Well, good morning." she said, walking into the kitchen. I got up and followed after her, "Good morning. I hope you don't mind, but I used some of the instant coffee." I smiled, sheepishly. Angel stopped dead in her tracks and turned to face me, about to burst into a laughing fit, "Whatever you find in here, you are more than welcome to. The same goes for Edward." she said, turning to the teapot and setting it on the stove. I smiled, washed my cup and then put it away.
I sat and talked to Angel for a while before heading back to the room with Edward. It was silent, but that didn't mean anything. "Edward?" I whispered, as I pushed the door open and closed it behind me. He was laying on his back, his arm thrown over his eyes. His chest heaved in slow, even rhythms with his breathing. I tip toed over to the bed and sat next to him. I touched his shoulder and his arm fell off his face. His face was twisted, as if he were in pain.. Or scared. More frantically I shook him, calling his name. he shot up and knocked me off the bed. I grabbed at the back of my head and sat up slowly. "Oh god, Bella. Bella? Bella are you okay?" Edward came around the bed and reached for me. "I'm fine, don't worry about it." I pulled myself up to my feet. "I'm so, so sorry, Bella." Edward said, enveloping me in a vice grip hug. I hugged him back, laughing. "Don't stress it, I'll be alright." and I walked over to the bedside table and picked up the items that were knocked over.
I went over and picked up my dress and placed it back in my bag. I pulled out fresh clothes, grabbed my bathroom bag and headed down the hall. I showered and began to blow dry my hair. Angel knocked on the door as I was putting on some make up. "Come in…" I said, putting my stuff away back into my bag. "Hey hon. How are you?" she asked, walking in and sitting on the toilet. I shrugged, "Alright I guess. Kind of tired is all, how are you?" I asked, eyeing her suspiciously. "I guess.. I'm okay. I've been feeling kind of different lately, but I'm alright. Collins went out with some friends this morning, so I was going to clean up around the house." she said after a while. "Oh, I see.. I could stay and help you if you would like…" I offered, turning and sitting on the counter. She shook her head, "Oh god no, honey. You and Edward -a huge grin forming on her lips- are going to go visit Renee and Phil at the hospital. I can handle all of this by myself, its what I do." she patted my hand and I reached around to hug her. "Thanks for having us here, and thanks… for always being there for me when I needed it the most." I said, smiling. She returned my smile and walked out. I sighed and made my way back to the room. "Edward, I was wondering if after we visited a while with my mom you…" I saw he was on the phone. "…Yes, I know how dangerous it is. I will see what I can do, Alice, there's nothing I can really do but…" he cut his sentence off and stared up at me, then he looked down -placing his fingers on the bridge of his nose- "Alice, I'm going to have to call you back." and with that he hung up the phone. "Sorry, I didn't mean to barge in…" I muttered and walked over to grab my bag. "Bella, we need to talk." he said, his voice weary. "What about?" I asked, attempting to be nonchalant. "There is some trouble here, I think we might have to go back.. But I don't want to ruin your chance to be with your mom." he said, sighing and staring at the floor.
"What do you mean?" I asked, growing confused and frustrated. "I mean that I'm probably going to be really protective of you, I want to be with you at all times.. Please?" he asked, his voice pleading. I shook my head as I sat down next to him, "I don't understand. Just because there is trouble here, why do you have to…" I paused and realization struck, "Oh! There are other vampires here?" I asked, my eyes wide from fear. He nodded and stared out the window. "I just want to be sure you're safe.." he said, his voice strained. I shook my head, "No. No, I don't understand why you have to be with me. There's no reason, if they are just here.. Then there's nothing to worry about. I bet there's plenty of vampires everywhere." I said, standing up and grabbing my purse. "I'm going to visit my mom, today. Do you want to come?" I asked, walking towards the door. "Bella.. don't be absurd, of course I want to.. And I'm sorry." he followed me out into the living area. "Well, we're off to the hospital. Is there anything you want me to get..?" I asked as I walked to the counter and leaned up against it. Edward walked up behind me, rubbing soothing circles into my back. "Um, no not really. I have everything I need for now.." Angel said, filling the sink with water. "Okay, well.. Call me if you need anything, alright?" I said, touching her arm and heading to the door. "We'll see you later." Edward said, opening the door for me.
It was cool outside, cool for it to almost be summer. "So, why do you think the vampires are here in New York City?" I asked after a few moments. He shrugged, "I-well We cant be sure. Alice thinks that they are just passing through, but it doesn't make sense, because, well its usually sunny in New York.." I felt him shrug again as he put his arm around my shoulder. I leaned in to him and focused on keeping up with him. "I see…" I said, biting my lip. "Here, we can take the subway straight to the hospital she's at. It will be faster than catching a cab." I finished, steering us toward a stairwell underground. He laughed softly as he paid for our tokens. "Thanks, but I could have paid for my own." I said, smiling up at him. He shook his head, "Silly, Bella. Look, here it comes." he grabbed my hand and towed me toward the doors of the subway car.
The ride there didn't take as long as I thought-rather remembered- it would. A lot of people stared at us as we were lost in our own conversation. He made me laugh a lot and despite me being mad at him earlier, the anger soon disintegrated. We walked off the subway car, hand in hand, headed for the exit. As I remembered, the hospital was right above the station.
It didn't take long for us to find my mom's room. When I peeked in through the window on her door, she was sitting up with her arms around her knees. "Hey, Mom…" I said, walking in slowly, leaving Edward outside. We figured it would be better to introduce him after we had some alone time. I couldn't argue with him, I would never win. "Bella?!" she asked turning in her bed to face me. I nodded, "It's me mom. Gosh, how are you?" I asked, sitting down on her bed. I reached around to hug her, she squeezed back. Desperately kissing my cheek, I felt tears rolling down my face and sinking into my shirt. I was pretty sure they weren't just mine. "Oh god, mom.. I'm so sorry.." I said, gasping for air. "Oh, Bella, I'm sorry. I'm so glad that you are here. I was so scared I was going to .." I put my finger up to her lip, "Don't mom, its alright now -I smoothed the hair away from her face- you're alright now. That's all that matters. How's Phil…?" I asked after she calmed down some. "He's alright, they are joining our rooms soon. He was hurt.. He was hurt .. More than I was." she finally got out after a while. I hugged her tighter and let her cry on my shoulder. We sat there for the longest, twined within each other. I sat crossed legged on her bed and listened to her stories. After a while she asked about school, and my life in Seattle, and Charlie. I told her about everything, hesitating to tell her about Edward. I was afraid of what she would think. "Well, mom, there's this guy. Edward. He's amazing, and smart, and funny, nice, caring.." she beamed from ear to ear, listening to me talk about him. "Well, are you guys like.. Together-together?" she asked after a while. I hesitantly held up my left hand to her. "I'm engaged to him, mom." I said after a long moment. She grabbed my hand and twisted it in the light and pulled it close to her face. Her mouth hung open and I laughed, shakily. "Say something.. Anything, mom." I said, smiling at her reaction. She looked up to me, a wide mouthed smile on her face. "Bella, honey, wow! So you're really sure about this guy?" she asked. I nodded, "Oh, I'm in love with him, mom. He is truly my other half. I cant imagine my life without him.." I said finally. She smiled and pulled me into a hug again. "Oh, Bella. My baby, you're growing up so much." she wiped at her eyes, "So when do I get to meet this Edward?" she asked. I smiled shyly, "Well, he's here with me today. He came to New York City with me.." I said, rising from the bed and walking to the door. I opened it and walked out to get Edward. I held his hand and we walked in together.
"Mom, this is Edward-Edward, this is my mom, Renee." I said, moving it between the two of them. "Hello. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Bella has told me so much about you." he said, politely shaking her hand. She smiled at him and turned to me, winking when she thought he wasn't looking. "It's a pleasure to meet you too, Edward." she said after a minute. I blushed and looked away. "So, I think I'll let you two talk a little while, and I'll go see Phil really quick.." I said, listening to my mother as she told me how to get to his room. "Why don't we go visit him together?" Edward suggested as I headed for the door. I turned and saw my mother's eyes light up. "Oh really? I haven't been able to see him lately. Bella?" she asked, her childlike face pleading with me. I smiled and nodded, heading over to get the wheel chair in the corner of her room. "I don't see how it could hurt anyone." I helped her into the chair, I hadn't realized how bad of shape she was in.
Phil was laying down in his bed, his breathing was labored. I felt tears spring to my eyes when I saw him lying there. My mom wheeled herself over to his side and took his hand, crying silently. "Phil, honey, guess who's here?" she said, softly. I saw his eyes flutter and they fell onto her face, he smiled weakly and squeezed her hand, "Who?" he asked in a raspy voice. She turned and motioned for me to come over. I squeezed Edward's hand and let go, joining her by Phil's side. "Hey, Phil.. How are you doing?" I asked, holding my mom's hand and touching his arm. He tried to laugh, but I could tell his throat was dry. I walked around and got him some water, and helped him to drink it. "Thanks…" he said, leaning back again, breathing heavier than before. "Honey, you'll never guess what news Bella has… you see, she's fallen in love. Yes, that's right, she's engaged.. To a wonderful young man named Edward." she said, holding back tears. "Isn't that exciting? Our little girl is growing up, so fast.." she kissed his hand. I leant down and kissed his forehead, he smiled, and I saw how much effort it took for the small action.
I squeezed his hand one last time, "I'll see you soon, Phil. Take care.." I turned to my mom, "We should get you back to your room, mom, we don't want them to think we kidnapped you." I said, forcing a shaky laugh. She nodded and I helped her away from the bed. "Can I speak to Edward?" he asked in a soft, raspy voice. We all turned, and Edward looked to me and my mom. She nodded, and he walked to the bed. "You guys go ahead." Phil said, raising his hand and waving.
I left with my mom and walked back down to her room. "He looks good, I mean.. well you know what I mean." I saw her nod at my comment. "Mom, are you okay?" I asked, concerned. She nodded, "I'm just a little tired, is all. Don't worry hon." she said as I helped her into her bed. "Okay, well you can call me if you need anything. I have to fly back to Seattle tomorrow, I cant afford to miss too much school. But I will stay if you need me to…" I offered, sitting back onto her bed. "I will stay for you, if you need me, mom, you know this. I'll send Edward back to Seattle.." she shook her head, "No, don't be stupid, Bella." she laughed " You are going to go back to Seattle, and I will call you and tell you about everything. You will get your education.." she finally finished and hugged me. Edward walked in, his face soft, but I could see how hard he tried to hold himself together.
"Bella, love, I think we should let your mother rest now. Besides, we have to get back to get packed and everything.." he said, with a frown in his voice. I nodded, tears in my eyes, "Goodbye, Mom. I'll see you soon." I kissed her forehead and walked out.
"What's wrong?" I asked him as soon as we were clear of the hospital. He looked down at me and studied my face for a long moment. "He's not going to make it, Bella. He told me so himself. He just doesn't want to hurt her with the news, so he has the doctors lie to her, to keep her from suffering even more than she is .. Now." he finished. He sighed and wrapped his arms around me. I clung to him with every ounce of my being. I hadn't realized I was crying until he leaned away to wipe my tears with his fingertips. "Bella, don't cry. It will be alright, you're mother is strong. She will make it through. When we get back to the house, I'm going to call the school and arrange for you to be able to complete some of your work online while you're here. I'll explain the situation…" he said after a while. We caught a taxi and I rested my head on his shoulder, while he cradled me in his arms. "I cant .. I just cant believe he's.." I felt new tears fall down my cheeks. And I buried my face into his chest. The cab driver asked if I was okay, although I was barely aware of anything else. Edward assured him that I would be and to just keep driving.
I was like a zombie when we reached Angel's house. I walked up the stairs ahead of Edward and walked into the house. Angel was there, cooking supper. It smelled amazing, but I couldn't appreciate it. I walked straight into my room and laid down on the bed. "Bella, do you want anything?" I heard Edward ask, his voice barely a whisper. I shook my head and rolled onto my side. "Can I just lay with you for a little while?" I asked after a moment. I felt his cold, hard arms wrap around me and pull me into his side. "Shhh now, everything will be alright." he said, stroking my hair.. My face.. My back.
I assume I fell asleep because when I awoke Edward was sound asleep and I could see the late afternoon sun shining in through the window. "Edward?" I shook his shoulder, he startled awake. "Hmm?" he asked, sitting up. "Could you get me a glass of water?" I asked, feeling stupid, but I couldn't face Angel and Collins just yet. He nodded and rolled himself out of bed. I pulled my jeans off as soon as he disappeared through the doorway, laying back down and pulling the covers up over myself. "Here." he said, closing the door tightly behind him. "Water, and two Tylenol. Take them, and please.. Eat this banana." he asked, sitting down on the bed again. He took his shoes off and laid under the covers with me. "I'm sorry.. I should be better at dealing with this. I need to be strong for my mom." I said, sighing and biting into the banana. I was hungrier than I thought, and I blushed, feeling embarrassed at how fast I had eaten the banana. I felt Edward laugh, it shook the whole bed. He wrapped his arms around me again. "You're aloud to grieve as well, Bella. Grieving is part of life.. And in order to take care of her, you have to take care of yourself first. By the way, they said not to worry about making the work up, it's considered an excused absence and they wont hold you accountable." he said, half his mouth raising into a smile. It didn't touch his eyes though. I nodded.
"So, where do we go from here?" I thought out loud. Edward dozed back off, and I decided that I would call Charlie…
Bella: "Hey dad, how are you?" my voice sounding tired.
Charlie: "Hey Bells, I'm good. You sound tired, how's everything?"
Bella: "Well dad, not so good. I'm in New York right now. Mom and Phil got into a bad car accident and I'm here visiting. I already worked it out with school.. Well Edward helped. But she's doing fine.. It's Phil who isn't doing well…" I let the statement hang in the air.
Charlie: "Phew.. That's a lot to deal with Bells. I'm sorry to hear, please, give Renee my best wishes."
Bella: "I will, but the thing is, Phil had the doctors lie to her. He doesn't want her to suffer more than she has to already. But I'm struggling to decide if I should tell her or not.."
Charlie: "Let it play out Bella, I know you want to help. But think about it, would you be hurting her more if you told her now? Or if she just found out? Maybe he will tell her?" he mused over the idea.
Bella: " You're right dad, thanks. Hey I will call you later when I know more. I love you, dad.." I said, my voice breaking.
Charlie: "I love you too, Bells. But don't cry over spilled milk. Good things come from things that are tragic. And tell Edward I said hello. I miss you and I'll see you soon. Bye."
Charlie hung up and I slumped back on the bed, staring at the ceiling. I decided I had to face Angel. It was now or never…
I walked out of the room, tiptoeing softly down the hall. Angel sat at the counter working on some sketches. She had a glass of wine sitting next to her and she looked up when she heard my approach. "Hey." I said, meekly. She pushed her books aside and motioned for me to come sit next to her. "Hey, what's up? How are you feeling?" she asked, placing her hand to my forehead. "I'm fine, now. I just, well I don't really know how to really deal with any of this. But I guess.. Well I was wondering if we could stay here a little bit longer…" I finally managed to get out. Angel nodded, "I see, well I heard about Phil, poor Renee. But you, you can stay for as long as you may need." she said, patting my arm. I rested my head on her shoulder. "Thanks.." I replied.
She showed me her newest designs she was working on; gorgeous, like always. I gave her suggestions and we laughed and talked. We talked a little about my mom and Phil, but it set such a dark mood that we decided to push it away until absolutely necessary.
Edward walked out from the hallway. His hair disheveled, yet he still looked amazingly beautiful. "Bella.." he said, walking to my side. I turned and smiled at him, "Hi, sleepy." I replied, but his eyes held no humor. "What's wrong?" I asked, feeling my face drop. I stood up, shaking my head. "No.. God, please tell me.. NO!" I said, dropping to my knees and shaking my head. "This cant be.. What about my mom.. Oh dear.." I kept saying through sobs. "Bella.." I felt his cold, stone arms wrap around me. "It will be okay.. She was there when he passed.." he said, smoothing my hair and pulling me tighter to his body. I heard Angel get up and then I heard Collins' voice. "He's gone.." I heard her say. I got up and got my purse and walked out the door.
The night air was crisp, yet still warm. I walked faster, wrapping my arms around my body, tighter. I felt tears rolling down my face and then someone pulled me off the sidewalk. I screamed, but cool-stone lips pressed gently to mine. "Don't run away Bella, I know it must hurt.. So much. You loved Phil and he loved you.." Edward said, his voice gentle and as smooth as velvet. I pushed away from him, "You can act like you know how it feels, but you don't know.." I growled at him. I saw his face drop and a deep, ancient sadness came into his eyes. "I do know, I do know what it's like to lose someone.." he took my hand and walked to the edge of the sidewalk by the street. He whistled and waved down a cab. He ushered me in and followed behind me. He informed the cab, and we left.
I stared out the window. Why couldn't I catch a break in life? every time I picked myself up, and things were going good-something else happens and pushes me right back down. "I'm sorry about what I said, you know more about loss than I would.." I said, taking his hand in mine. "I was being a total bitch, you didn't -nor do you still- deserve it." I squeezed his hand and he raised our hands to stroke my cheek. I leaned into him, bringing his arm around me. I paid the cab driver, against Edward's protests. Then we walked up to my mother's room. She sat at the window, staring out at the busy city night. "Mom.." I said, walking up behind her. "I knew I should have never listened to them.. They didn't know.. He was so young.. A good person.." her sentence broke off with a sob. "Mom, it's going to be alright, I promise. Lets get you back into bed.." I pulled her arm, moving her to the bed. She slumped down and laid under the blankets.
