DISCLAIMER: Stephenie Meyer owns the entire Twilight Series, Edward, Bella and all the other characters we've grown to know and love. No copyright infringement is intended. However, any new or unfamiliar characters in the story are figments of my own imagination. And while I'm at it . . . please know that this story's plot is all mine, too. Please do not translate, copy or reproduce any parts of this story without my express permission.
AN: Here are well deserved kudos for my friend and fabulous Beta, TwilightMomofTwo. I suppose I could try to write this alone, but why would I? Her help and amazing sense of humor gives me the encouragement I need to keep going. ;-)
Chapter 12 – Fighting For Control
BPOV
When I woke up the next morning and realized Edward wasn't in my bed, I was unable to stifle a groan. I was no longer sure if I had actually seen him or if I had been dreaming, but as I thought of him, I immediately smiled. As I slowly sat up in my bed and glanced around the room, I was thrilled by what, or rather who, I saw.
"Edward!" I called out excitedly, jumping out of bed, running toward him and vaulting myself into his lap. When my brain caught up with my actions, I froze, completely embarrassed by my behavior. As I tried to settle my racing heart, I heard him snicker as he placed his arms around me.
"Yes, I'm here. It's a pleasure to know that you're so happy to see me," he said, grinning, even though he seemed a little startled. "And I enjoyed watching you sleep. It was . . . quite entertaining."
Renee had told me on more than one occasion that I talked in my sleep. I could only imagine what I might have said. I blushed, raising my hand to my cheek to feel how warm it was. I recalled my rather stimulating dream and asked nervously, "What did you hear?"
His golden eyes became soft, almost glowing. "You said you loved me."
"You already knew that," I reminded him, smiling, relieved that my dream had somehow remained just that – mine.
"It's nice to hear, all the same," he replied, placing his hands on my cheeks and kissing my forehead. At that moment my body reminded me that a visit to the bathroom was overdue.
"Uh, I need a minute," I mumbled. I had been so happy to see Edward that all thoughts of my typical morning routine had been forgotten.
I dashed across the hall, and as I looked into the mirror, the face that stared back at me was that of a stranger. The eyes were too bright, with red splotches across the cheeks. The person I saw seemed much too happy to be me For the first time in years I truly was happy. I remembered the words my mother spoke when we first moved to Forks. ''All the happiness is gone from your eyes; they don't sparkle like they used to."
Well, my sparkle was back and it was all because of Edward. I was myself again – only better. Edward had helped me get back the girl I had once been. I was deep in thought when I heard my mother.
"Bella, honey, is that you?"
I rolled my eyes at the question and opened the bathroom door.
"Yes, I'll be down in a minute," I called out, before re-entering the bathroom and locking the door again.
I wasn't sure who else she was expecting. Maybe I should have told her that it was my vampire boyfriend. I giggled and shook my head – probably not a good idea. I knew I couldn't really tell my parents about Edward being a vampire. I wasn't even sure how I'd tell them about Edward at all which led me to wonder if I'd ever be able to introduce them to him and how long would it take before they would realize he wasn't aging. Although Edward hadn't explained precisely how he'd come to be what he was, I assumed, since he'd said he was seventeen, that it had occurred sometime in 1918 – when he was actually seventeen. I wondered how my dad would feel if he knew the love of my life was technically older than he was. I chuckled quietly to myself at the bizarre nature of the entire situation.
After I had washed my face and brushed my teeth, I opened the door and crossed the hall to return to my room. I still needed to get dressed, but then I recalled Edward was there. I'd just have to take my clothes back to the bathroom to change. As I walked in the room I instantly knew, much to my dismay, that Edward was gone. I couldn't understand why he'd left and my heart began to feel heavy. However, as I made my bed, a note fell to the floor from underneath my pillow. As I picked it up, I noticed my name written in elegant script.
My dearest Love,
I wanted nothing more than to await your return, but your mother and your grandparents are quite anxious to see you. I would love to meet them one day, but this is not that day. I was unable to come up with a believable explanation as to why I would be in your bedroom so early in the morning (having never entered the house through the front door), but I doubt they would have understood or approved anyway. We'll figure it out and one day I will call on you properly.
Do not fret nor worry in my absence, as I promise to return to your side as soon as I am able. And please remember, my heart belongs to you.
All my love,
Edward
I clutched the simple note to my chest as a smile stretched across my face. The tightness in my chest had diminished significantly. There was still an empty feeling when Edward wasn't around, but knowing that he'd come back made it so much easier to bear as I prepared for what could possibly be one of the longest days of my life.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
I was very anxious.
We had spent the entire day getting everything ready for Christmas Eve dinner and although I was enjoying my grandparents' visit, I was in no way looking forward to spending time with the Blacks and the Clearwaters. So far my parents had been unable to confirm whether or not Jake would be coming, but Sue had told Renee that Leah would most definitely be joining us. I huffed. I was not in a mood for any drama, especially when all I wanted to do was spend time with Edward. The day had been impossibly long and with Christmas being the following morning, I had no idea when I'd be able to see him again.
It was cold, but the fresh air seemed to calm me, as I stood outside on the back porch. I heard Renee answer the door. She introduced Harry, Sue and Seth to my grandparents, mentioning Charlie and Harry's fishing excursions before reminding my grandmother of her shopping trip to Seattle with Sue. I wondered for a moment where Leah was, but decided I didn't really care. I took a deep, cleansing breath and then walked back into the house. I first looked at Harry, wondering what he might say, but he remained silent as I next turned my attention to his wife.
"Hello, Bella. Merry Christmas," Sue said, walking over and giving me a cursory hug while Seth smiled and waved. Harry kept his distance, but eventually nodded, acknowledging my presence.
"Merry Christmas," I replied as cheerfully as possible before hearing my mother's voice.
"The Blacks are on their way, just running a little late. Jacob and Leah are coming, as well." Renee looked over at me and gave me the 'behave yourself' look. I shook my head and rolled my eyes.
After a short while I found myself alone in the kitchen. Everyone else seemed to be enjoying themselves in the living room. It was nice to hear my parents laughing with their friends. They deserved to be happy. I, however, felt on edge and the intensity of my anxiousness increased when I heard a knock at the door. I listened to the chatter, hoping someone else had heard the rapping, too, but when there wasn't even the slightest lull in the conversation, I reluctantly walked out of the kitchen. Upon opening the door, I was immediately greeted by Sarah Black.
"Merry Christmas, Bella. It's so nice to see you again. It's been much too long," she said, almost appearing sad.
"Thanks. Merry Christmas to you, as well."
I looked past Jake's mom as she walked in the house only to be met by the grim face of Billy. I did my best to smile, but he ignored me, turning instead to face my father.
"Billy, good to see you. It's been a while," Charlie said before extending his arm as they shook hands.
"Thanks for inviting us for dinner," Billy replied, smiling at my dad.
Rachel and Rebecca followed in after their father. I didn't see Jake and Leah. I wondered where they were until I heard a car coming down the street. I waited at the door when I heard Sue say, "Oh, that must be the kids."
A car pulled up in front of the house and I saw Jacob get out. He was much taller than the last time I'd seen him which was only about a month ago and if I didn't know better, I would have sworn he was taking steroids. Nobody got that big so fast. I was reminded of what Edward had said about werewolves. Had he been right? Could Jake really turn into a wolf?
Just as Jacob reached Leah's door, he lifted his nose up in the air, inhaling deeply. I could almost feel the hostility as it rolled off him in waves. When he turned his face towards me, I could see that his thick, black eyebrows were pushed together creating an angry, furious expression on his face, while his eyes had turned dark as night. He no longer looked like the boy I had known. Instead, Jake looked dangerous, almost menacing.
"No!" he ground out between his teeth, his voice laced with fury. He seemed to get edgier by the second as he kept his hand on the passenger side door, not allowing Leah to exit the vehicle. From where she sat, I couldn't see her face and I wondered why she didn't just get out from the driver's side. If I had been her, I would have wanted to comfort my boyfriend. None of this made any sense.
"Jake, what's wrong?" I called out, my voice quivering. He didn't seem to hear me. I started down the front steps, but stopped the second he looked up. The unadulterated rage in his eyes scared me.
"Not possible," he replied, shaking his head, as his body started to twitch. He took another deep breath as he tried to steady his trembling fingers.
"Dad, I think something's wrong with Jacob," I said, looking over my shoulder, as my father and Billy turned to see what I was talking about.
"Jacob." Billy's voice was strong and full of authority, but Jake didn't seem to be listening. "Jacob!" Billy shouted louder.
What in the world was going on?
"I'll call 911," Charlie replied. "He might be having a seizure."
By this time Jacob was shaking with such force that I thought he'd yank the handle off the car door. My father was reaching for the telephone when Billy replied authoritatively, "No. It happens from time to time, ever since the mono. He'll be okay. Sarah, please help me outside."
I could not decipher the expression on Billy's face as he and his wife retreated quickly out the front door and down the walkway without so much as a glance back.
"Is he going to be okay?" Renee whispered to Sue.
"I hope so," was all she said.
Eventually Jacob seemed to relax, but instead of helping Leah out of the car and coming into the house, Jacob got back in and drove away. Billy and Sarah came back inside. As I started to walk into the kitchen, I heard Jake's mom.
"Bella, could I have a word with you, please?"
I swallowed back some of the bile that had suddenly found its way into my throat from the pit of my stomach. I wondered if Jacob somehow knew that vampires had been at the house. Could their presence have caused such a reaction in him? Fearful of what she might say, I looked over at Sarah Black and nodded my head. Perhaps I could feign innocence; no one else had to know what I knew.
The Cullens had always prized their anonymity. I had kept silent so many years ago after Tanya had kidnapped me, before understanding what they were, and I would continue to protect their secrets now that I knew the truth. I wasn't very good at lying, but Edward had just found his way back into my life and I wouldn't jeopardize what we had for anyone – especially not for Jacob.
We walked out into the backyard. I looked over at Jake's mom, waiting for her to say whatever was on her mind, but she only stared at me.
"Is there something I can do for you?" I asked, trying to sound as innocent and polite as possible.
"Not, really. I was just wondering how you were doing and if you've made any new friends. It's been a while since you've been by," she said, trying to smile.
"Um, I'm okay, I guess. But I was under the impression that I was supposed to stay away from Jacob and the reservation," I replied, a small amount of annoyance clearly evident in my voice. I couldn't help but wonder if the question about my new friends had anything to do with the Cullens. I was fairly certain it did, but I was just going to ignore the question.
"Yes, well, that may have been a foolish thing said under duress," she stated. "You and Jacob have always enjoyed each other's company – perhaps you can be friends once again."
"Sure, no problem," I replied sarcastically. "I promised my mom I'd finish a few things for dinner," I said, reaching for the door.
Sarah was quiet for a moment before she turned and followed me back inside the house. I was sure there was more, much more, she wanted to say, but I wasn't in a mood to listen. In any case, I was fairly certain I didn't want to rekindle my friendship with her son. It would only complicate matters with Edward, and he had to come first. Jacob had made his choice and I was not about to encourage a change in the status quo.
Soon dinner was served and everyone seemed fine, as both the conversation and drinks flowed. Billy, Harry and Charlie were talking about fishing while my grandfather listened intently. Sue, Sarah, and Renee discussed the after-Christmas sales they were looking forward to as my grandmother chimed in from time to time with funny stories about past holiday sale events. The twins were involved in their own conversation which was nothing out of the ordinary and every once in a while I looked at Seth as we sat quietly, talking every now and then.
As the evening wound down I busied myself in the kitchen so as to avoid as much conversation as possible. Eventually I heard voices from the living room as the Blacks prepared to leave.
Billy looked over at me as Rachel pushed his wheelchair toward the door, an odd expression on his face. Sarah followed close behind, smiling at me before walking out the door. I couldn't help but get the feeling that they knew the Cullens had been here. Well, maybe not the Cullens, but vampires. Apparently, though, they weren't going to say anything to me. At that moment, I recalled Jacob mentioning how his tribe's legends were supposed to remain secret, yet he had shared them with me at a time when neither of us had believed in such superstitious nonsense.
Apparently, we had both been wrong.
It was not long after the Blacks left that the Clearwaters departed as well, although not soon enough for me, and after a short while my mom, my grandmother and I finished cleaning up. No one had mentioned what had occurred with Jake and I wasn't about to bring it up. I was sure I knew what had happened, but as long as I didn't have to say anything, I would be fine and no one would be the wiser. I knew I would eventually have to tell Edward, but I wondered if he would know Jake had been here, just as Jacob seemed to know that Edward and Alice had been to the house. Maybe by the time I saw Edward again, whatever smell or scent Jake may have exuded, would have dissipated.
As I walked up the stairs, I knew, before opening the bedroom door, that one of the Cullens was there, and I was certain that whoever it was knew the Blacks and Clearwaters had come for dinner. I hoped it was Edward and as such, I didn't want him to be angry with me. It was not like I went to the reservation. I hadn't even known the Blacks and Clearwaters were coming until late yesterday. And, after seeing him in my room last night, I totally forgot about everything else. I wanted to laugh, but was too nervous because something told me that what I was about to see wasn't going to be pretty. I took a deep breath and entered my room.
"Edward," I whispered into the dark. "Are you here?"
I shouldn't have been surprised when the window opened and he jumped in. I was so relieved to see him that I ran straight into his arms.
"It's good to see you, too," Edward said, attempting to smile, but failing miserably.
He released me before walking over and sitting in my rocking chair. I turned on the light on my nightstand before taking a seat on my bed. It was evident that he was far from happy.
"I see you're okay," Edward said, looking rather grim.
"I am," I mumbled. "How long have you been here?"
"Long enough," he replied gravely.
I waited, hoping he would expand on his answer, but after a few moments I could no longer stand the hush that had pervaded the room.
"Did you just decide to stop by or did you know the Blacks and Clearwaters were here?" I whispered quietly.
Again I was met with silence. Edward's eyes were closed, his jaw clenched, his hands balled up into fists. I refused to speak again, deciding instead to putter around my room in an unsuccessful attempt to ignore his unreasonable behavior. I hadn't done anything wrong and didn't appreciate the silent treatment I was getting. If he was going to be angry with me for something I had no control over, how would he react when I actually did something he didn't like. Finally after what seemed like an eternity, Edward spoke.
"When I asked you to stay off the reservation, I didn't mean to suggest that they should be invited here," he stated bitterly.
"You think I invited them? Have you lost your mind?" I asked angrily.
"It doesn't really matter who invited them. The fact remains they were here," Edward curtly replied.
I thought he said something else, but I chalked it off to my overactive imagination. As I looked at Edward it seemed his face could have been chiseled from stone. I took a deep breath, realizing that one of us had to be rational and, apparently, it wasn't going to be him. I didn't like the space between us. Hesitantly I walked over to him and sat down, straddling his lap. I looked at him, taking his face into my hands.
"I wasn't happy about it, but everything turned out fine."
I heard a low growl which seemed to emanate from his chest. His expression remain fixed, hard. It startled me, but I didn't move.
"Edward, no harm was done. I was safe," I reiterated.
This time the growl was louder. My level of anxiety increased and I found myself scrambling off his lap and retreating to the opposite side of my room.
"Bella," he said sternly.
I waited for him to continue, but he didn't say another word. He remained quiet as he stood up and walked over to the window, his head remaining down as if he was staring at the floor.
"Do you have any idea how close I came to barging into your house? What that would have meant?"
Although I didn't really understand what he was saying, I could tell from the tone of his voice that it would not have been good. When he looked up at me, I gasped – his eyes were cold and black.
"Edward, be reasonable," I begged. "I can't keep my parents away from their friends. We've been around the reservation ever since we arrived in Forks two years ago. No one hurt us then and no one will hurt us now."
I could hear him grind his teeth together. He was still standing near the window and, as he leaned on the ledge, the wood began to creak. Edward swiftly backed away from the windowsill, but remained on the opposite side of the room.
"Jacob Black was not a werewolf two years ago," he replied tersely.
That was true, but Jacob had not harmed me. At least not yet. Edward was reacting to something he perceived as a threat. I wouldn't allow my life to be governed by fear and I refused to permit Edward to make me afraid of someone who had previously been my friend. I wasn't sure how or if I'd be able to get him to understand, but I was not giving in. Not on this issue. Still, I hated the distance between us so I took a deep breath before slowly letting it out. Then I, once again, walked over to him. I watched his face as I hesitantly wrapped my arms around him.
"I'm sorry you were worried, but everyone was okay."
"Worried is a bit of an understatement," he muttered.
"Well, they're gone now, and I doubt they'll be back any time soon. There's nothing for you to be concerned about," I stated cautiously.
"I won't worry because it won't happen again," Edward replied emphatically.
"I have no control over my parents. But if the Blacks or Clearwaters come here or if I'm forced to accompany my parents to the reservation, you're not going to overreact. You just have to remember that I will be fine."
"If the Blacks or Clearwaters visit your parents, you'll find a reason to not be home," Edward said decisively.
"Ugh, you're being absolutely unreasonable," I grumbled.
"It doesn't matter. I'm not going to allow you to risk your life," Edward stated categorically.
"Being around the Blacks and Clearwaters is not a problem. Certainly they're not all werewolves," I stated firmly. Although I didn't want to spend time with them, it was getting under my skin that Edward wanted to control me. He didn't know how stubborn I could be if he forced the matter.
Suddenly I heard a buzzing sound as Edward reached in his pocket for his phone and answered it.
"Alice, this had better be important."
I watched Edward carefully as he listened to his sister without saying a word. Finally he hung up and looked at me.
"I'm sorry," he said, attempting to be calm. "I forget you don't know everything, that this is all new to you. I still have to provide you with many answers. Please believe that my only desire is to keep you safe. All I care about is that you're free from danger."
"I think you're a little too late for that," I chuckled. "I'm in danger just walking across a flat, stable surface. If you've been watching me, you know how clumsy I am. Surely you've seen my awkwardness over the years," I muttered.
"True, but your life was never really in danger before. Dealing with werewolves is a totally different story," Edward answered gloomily.
"I don't want to cause you to worry and I really don't plan on hanging out at the reservation, but if my parents invite their friends here, to this house, there's really not too much I can do about it," I moaned.
"You're right. I'm being selfish. We'll just make sure you're not home," he stated.
"Edward, I'm tired and I just want to go to sleep. I don't even have the energy to ask questions tonight," I yawned.
"Come, my love, let's lie down so you can go to sleep."
"Will you stay with me?" I asked as my eyes began to shut.
"Always and forever," Edward whispered just as I fell asleep.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
EPOV
Everyone in Bella's house was awake, except my sweet girl. Several times, both her mother and grandmother had contemplated coming to her room to make sure she was alright, but both, fortunately for me, had changed their minds before setting foot on the stairs. Each time, I was poised to skip out the window, only to return to Bella's side as soon as they abandoned the thought. Especially Renee. Flighty and easily distracted, that one. Finally, Bella began to stir as her breathing changed and she began to wake up.
I took great pleasure from watching Bella as she stretched, her slender arms raised above her head and her long legs extended. As she arched her back, my eyes were immediately drawn to her chest as I stared at her round, perfectly formed breasts. My lower regions stirred, but I willed the thought away. This was obviously not the time to sport an erection, and I had a firm word with my irresponsible and utterly inappropriate manhood. I swallowed back some venom as my hands began to twitch with an overwhelming desire to run my fingers over her graceful figure. Silently I urged her to wake up.
When Bella finally opened her eyes, she looked around, as disappointment spread across her face and a subtle groan escaped her luscious pink lips. That sound, amongst countless others I had heard during the course of the night, none less seductive, was the precise reason why I was currently sitting in the rocking chair, as far removed from temptation as possible within the confines of the small room.
"Edward!" she called out happily before scrambling out of bed, running over and leaping into my open arms. Suddenly she froze, quite possibly surprised by her own enthusiasm. I listened as her heartbeat quickened and the sweet aroma of her blood wafted into my nose, swirling around my throat. I was unable to hold back the grin that spread across my face, chortling, as I tenderly placed my arms around her. Bella's delicate fragrance was captivating, but my control never wavered, the monster staying securely locked away. The control over other parts of me, however, was a completely different matter.
"Yes, I'm here. It's a pleasure to know that you're so happy to see me," I grinned. "And I enjoyed watching you sleep. It was . . . quite entertaining."
The look on her face was priceless. "What did you hear?"
Her face glowed a stunning shade of pink as the blood traveled up her elegantly slender neck until it came to pool in her cheeks. Bella's heart rate was slightly elevated. I was certain she realized that I had, in fact, heard her and watched her while she dreamed, but I wanted to relieve her anxiety if I could so I answered politely, "You said you loved me."
"You already knew that," she replied, a shy smile on her lips as her face began to return to its usual coloring.
I didn't want her to feel ashamed or embarrassed, but was afraid that if I mentioned her dream, it would only serve to increase her trepidation so I replied, "It's nice to hear, all the same."
Cupping her face in my hands, I gently pulled her toward me and kissed her forehead. She let out a sigh and relaxed for just a moment before her body stiffened.
"Uh, I need a minute," she muttered, fidgeting in my lap before sliding herself back as she stood up. I immediately felt a tightness in my pants.
She got up quickly, skipping out the door across the hall into the bathroom. No sooner had Bella entered, did Renee call out.
"Bella, honey, is that you?" "I thought I heard something upstairs. Bella's been so tired, I hope she got a good night's sleep."
Bella opened the bathroom door.
"Yes, I'll be down in a minute," she said before shutting and locking the door.
Bella's grandmother contemplated coming up to the room to make Bella's bed. She wanted to speak privately with her granddaughter, but it wasn't clear what specifically she wanted to discuss. Although she changed her mind, Bella's grandmother was still anxious to spend time with her. I hesitated leaving before Bella returned to her room, but I also considered the fact that the longer Bella remained upstairs, the more likely it was that someone would come check on her.
I listened as Bella freshened up. Once again my instincts urged me, upon her return, to grab hold of her and kiss her all over. Unfortunately, my body responded, too. Again. I was taken aback by the twitching in my pants. For the love of all that was holy, I didn't understand why could I not maintain control over my thoughts and my body's reactions to those mental images.
I needed to leave, but I didn't want to just vanish. I took a piece of paper from Bella's desk to write her a note. She needed to know that although I would not be waiting for her when she returned, I would come back, hopefully sooner rather than later. One day I would meet her parents properly. I also needed her to know how precious she was to me.
For a moment, I once more pondered over the idea of staying when her grandmother decided to wait in the living room for Bella, but thought better of it. She needed to enjoy the time she had to visit with her family. I carefully placed the note under her pillow and left out the window. Once out of the house, my phone vibrated. It, of course, was Alice.
"The note was a nice touch," she said, giggling like a school girl. "Bella will absolutely love it."
"Thank you, Alice," I replied, grinning. "I'm going to hunt. Where is everyone?"
"Carlisle's at the hospital, Esme's in her office and the rest of us have been waiting for you," Alice stated.
I listened, hoping to learn what she was keeping from me, but she only laughed. I was still too far away to hear her thoughts so I was forced to ask. "Why?"
"Well, Christmas is tomorrow and I thought you'd like to know what you're getting Bella," she said, matter-of-factually.
"Bella doesn't like gifts so I was thinking of giving her one of my mother's pieces of jewelry," I answered.
"I think you may be rushing things just a bit, Edward. Most girls would love jewelry, but Bella is not most girls; however, she does need a cell phone and I've seen that although she'll be hesitant, she will accept one," Alice stated.
"Are you sure? That seems quite extravagant," I replied.
"Yes, it will be fine. You'll add Bella's phone to our family plan and since it will be a new number, you can get a phone at no cost or at a significant discount. Bella will be reluctant, but once you explain that not much money was spent, I see that she'll take it," Alice said. I could almost hear her grinning.
"Do I have time to hunt first?" I asked. I wanted to see Bella again later in the evening, and knew that it was imperative that I hunt.
"We need to get to Port Angeles soon, before the stores close early for Christmas Eve. There will plenty of time for you to go later," Alice replied.
Succumbing to her wishes, I ran toward the house to meet everyone before going shopping. I was excited about getting Bella a gift, I just wasn't in a mood for hours of running through a mall with my sister.
As it turned out, Bella's inexpensive Christmas gift ended up being rather costly. All the free phones were useless and not one looked like Bella, according to Alice. By the time all necessary accessories were purchased, I was afraid Bella would not accept the rather generous present, but Alice assured me everything would work out provided that I present the gift to Bella one evening after taking her to a movie in Port Angeles.
Well, and I sure as hell am not going to tell her what this cost. Ever.
After returning to the house to drop off Bella's Christmas gift, I immediately went hunting. I was anxious to return to Forks. Upon my return, I showered and changed my clothes when I suddenly heard Alice before she entered my room.
"Edward, everything has disappeared again."
As Alice walked in, I saw Bella at her home with her parents and grandparents, preparing for dinner. Another family was also in the room when suddenly everything vanished.
"Jacob Black," I muttered, my rage beginning to boil to the surface. "I need to leave now," I said fiercely.
"No, you can't go. I can't see what's going to happen," Alice insisted, concern evident on her face. I knew she saw me going to Bella's home, but then I disappeared as well which was rather disconcerting to her.
"If Jacob is a wolf, Edward, he can't know that we're involved in Bella's life. He won't understand." Alice's voice went up a few octaves as her anxiety level increased, but there was no way I was staying. I had to be near Bella.
"Yes, I know, but I don't think he'll phase in front of her entire family. They need their secrecy as much, if not more, than we do," I said emphatically. "I have to go, Alice."
"Then I'm going with you," she replied hastily.
"No," I insisted as Jasper appeared in my room. I had been so focused on what Alice was seeing that I had not consciously heard him come up the stairs.
"Edward's right, Alice. You can't go," he stated. "I can't lose her," he thought as I looked up, attempting a smile. I nodded my head in understanding.
"Alice, you've done enough. It's time I handled this. You've told me for years to have faith in you. Now you need to trust me. I will not confront Jacob Black. I just need to get close enough to ensure Bella's safety. I'm sure Jacob will not know of my presence."
Alice sighed as Jasper put his arm around her shoulder, pulling her close to him as he kissed the top of her head. He silently thanked me.
It didn't take long for me to get close enough that I could hear Bella's family. I could see her through her interactions with her family, but she remained verbally and, of course mentally, quiet. Apparently the family that Alice had seen were the Clearwaters. The fact that Alice had been able to see them seemed to indicate that no one in that family was a werewolf nor did they have any abilities which prevented Alice from seeing their futures. I took some small amount of comfort in that.
I heard Renee as she introduced the Clearwaters to Bella's grandparents. I saw Bella through the mind of Harry Clearwater.
"This is rather awkward," he thought, recalling a conversation he had with Bella wherein he advised her to not bother Jacob and to leave him alone. He also remembered that he had told her that there were things about the Quileutes that she didn't know. Little did he know how wrong he was.
Seeing Bella's face as Harry recalled how upset she was that day only served to fuel my anger and hatred toward Jacob Black and confirmed, once and for all, that it was without a doubt Jacob who had become a werewolf. Harry's thoughts then drifted to his daughter as he thought about how Jacob had imprinted on Leah. As images of their relationship ran through Harry's mind, I wondered if wolf imprinting resembled vampire mating. From what I could gather, it seemed that was the case. That was certainly something worth discussing with Carlisle.
Thus far nothing out of the ordinary was on anyone's mind except that Bella appeared rather apprehensive, regardless of who looked at her. Her dissatisfaction with the Clearwaters' presence was clearly evident on her face.
"Hello, Bella. Merry Christmas," Sue Clearwater said as she walked over to Bella, giving her a perfunctory hug as Bella responded in the same manner. I could hear from the tenor of her voice that she was trying to be polite, but I recognized the strained tone, as well.
"The Blacks are on their way, just running a little late. Jacob and Leah are coming as well," Renee stated. I immediately tensed, knowing I could not let my temper get the better of me. I had promised Alice that I would not do anything rash. I wanted to be closer to Bella, but I did not dare, especially as I was not sure how close I could get before Jacob realized I was nearby. I was already very concerned that he would be able to detect our scent as we were able to detect theirs and I was worried about a possible confrontation with Bella.
It would be your fault if something happened to her.
I shuddered to think about him phasing anywhere near Bella and all the possible implications of that action, knowing that I would be immediately at her side should that occur. I pushed such catastrophic thoughts out of my mind. I would do everything in my power to prevent Jacob Black from being alone with Bella.
Most of the thoughts centered on the holiday and the company they were enjoying. Every now and then Renee looked around for Bella, but she wasn't there. I hoped she was in her room, but knowing Bella, she was probably in the kitchen, helping to make sure the dinner was a success. My girl was very thoughtful. It was just one more thing that made me love her as I tried to convince myself that she was fine because neither Renee nor Charlie were concerned with her absence in the living room.
In keeping a safe distance from the house, it was not until the Black family arrived on Bella's street that I was able to hear them. Sarah Black was concerned about seeing the Swans. They had been such good friends and she was sad that they had not spent time together since Bella's birthday. Billy Black was concentrating on several occasions when Sam Uley had attempted to confront Jacob over the situation with Bella and Leah. He wondered if Sam had said anything to Bella, but Billy's mind was already made up and he was not going to discuss anything on the matter with my girl.
I watched as they knocked on the door and Bella answered.
"Merry Christmas, Bella. It's so nice to see you again. It's been much too long." Sarah Black tried to sound cheerful, but her thoughts gave her away. "I'm happy that Jacob has imprinted. Leah comes from a good strong family, but I know he misses the relationship he shared with Bella. I wish he could tell her why they're no longer friends. The secrecy has put such a strain on everything."
Bella responded politely. "Thanks. Merry Christmas to you as well." I wished I could hear what was in her mind. Somehow I doubted it sounded as amiable as her spoken words.
Billy entered behind Sarah, his wheelchair being pushed by one of his daughters. His thoughts focused on his wife as he pondered over the fact that she missed spending time with Renee. They had become very close and Billy had been the one to forbid Sarah from remaining friendly with Renee. He thought it would be too difficult for the two women to not end up discussing Jacob and Bella. Even though he knew how much it hurt Sarah, Billy's first priority was the tribe and their secrets.
I did not understand his way of thinking in the least. I would protect my family at all costs, but my love, devotion and allegiance to Bella came first. If I had to choose between what was best for Bella and my family, I would choose her every day and twice on Sundays.
Bella's needs, wants and desires came above all else so I couldn't wrap my head around the fact that Billy Black was willing to sacrifice his wife's happiness. Sarah certainly had to know the consequences of sharing the tribe's most well-guarded secrets with Renee Swan. He should trust her judgment. I shook my head, unable to make sense of his thoughts.
Billy was also concerned about seeing Bella again. He wondered if she realized what his son had become. Apparently Jacob had confessed to sharing the tribe's legends with Bella, but he was quick to point out that neither he nor Bella had believed them at the time and Jacob was certain that Bella still didn't believe. It was a very good thing that he didn't know how wrong he was.
Billy did not speak to Bella. In fact, he totally ignored her. A part of me was pleased, while another part was angered. She had done nothing to him and he was being absolutely rude. He was, after all, her father's friend. I saw Charlie walk up to him.
"Billy, good to see you. It's been a while." They shook hands as Billy replied. "Thanks for inviting us for dinner."
It appeared from the smile on Billy's face that the only person he was not happy to see was my precious Bella; his mind confirmed my conclusion.
Jacob's twin sisters followed behind their father. They were in their own little world thinking about college, boys, and their brother. Apparently they didn't know what he had become since they had been away at school when it happened and, as such, they were still protective of him. They were both quite confused by the fact that Leah was now dating Jacob and they had both tried to discuss this with Sarah, but she reverted to Jacob who remained very tight-lipped. Sam Uley had not been by the Black's home since their return from school for the holiday break so the twins were curious as to how he was handling the situation.
I heard a car which seemed to be heading in the direction of the Swan home. At that moment, Jacob Black's thoughts slammed into my mind. He seemed conflicted. He knew his life would always be centered around Leah Clearwater, but he wanted to regain at least some part of his friendship with my Bella. I felt defensive as the desperate need to protect my mate flew to the forefront of my mind, but I was able to calm myself because his thoughts were not the same as they had been during Bella's birthday party. Apparently he only wanted friendship with Bella. I was unable to hold back a sinister laugh. I would have loved to tell him that he wouldn't even get that.
He pulled up to the house and exited the vehicle. As he was about to open the passenger's side door, he raised his nose up in the air, inhaling deeply. His mind was instantly filled with rage.
"Vampires," he mentally seethed as his fists clenched and his eyes slammed shut. A scowl etched itself across his face and, without thinking, he inhaled again, repulsed as much by my scent as I was by his.
I began running, an innate need to be closer to Bella surpassing all rational thought. I wasn't sure how close was too close, but I stopped suddenly when I heard Jacob again.
"Nose. On fire." His mind was angry as his enraged thoughts continued.
"Burning. Pain. Can't breathe."
Jacob was trying to maintain control, using all the strength he could muster. He refused to allow his instincts to take over, but he was unable to suppress a growl at the stabbing pain that surged through his nostrils with his last breath. The fury in his mind, the pure hatred of our kind was clearly evident in his thoughts as my concern for Bella once again slammed to the forefront of my mind.
"No," he mumbled. He didn't want to believe we'd been there, but his natural proclivity screamed vampire. He wasn't sure how he knew what had suddenly caused this reaction in him, but there was no room for doubt what.
"Where?" he wondered as he looked around quickly, gulping air and wincing with each breath.
I swallowed an increasingly large amount of venom when I heard Bella's quaking voice call out. "Jake, what's wrong?" Through his eyes I could see that Bella had started down the front steps in an effort to comfort her former friend.
"No, Bella. Stop," I urged her quietly, knowing that she was too far away to hear me. It felt as if a vice had clamped around my icy heart – my body instinctively reacting to the danger involving the love of my life, my existence.
"Must. Protect. Leah."
Of course he would think of her before Bella. I didn't like him, not at all, but if I was right about the similarities between wolf imprinting and vampire mating, then I honestly couldn't fault him for wanting to protect Leah as I would protect Bella. His need to protect his imprint would outweigh even his need to protect his own family. It seemed he would do anything for that girl. I knew exactly how he felt. I was still angry at how he had betrayed his former best friend, but if I was honest, I would have to admit that, on some level, I understood.
Jacob glanced down toward the car window as thoughts of love and protection filled him before he quickly looked up at Bella. His mind remained conflicted as he thought about wanting to stay to protect everyone in the house and the overwhelming need to remove Leah from what he believed was a dangerous situation. As he looked into Bella's face, I could see the fear plainly evident in her eyes as she abruptly stopped moving toward him.
He was at war with himself, unable to believe we had been so close to the Swans as he muttered, "Not possible." He was losing control and my instinct to protect Bella kicked in again, causing me to run closer, but I was conflicted. How close was too close? It was then that my phone rang.
"Alice?" I asked before looking to see who was calling.
"Edward, stop. I'm losing your future now, too," she said desperately.
"I can't let anything happen to her, Alice. You know that," I replied urgently.
"But you know what's happening. Nothing bad will occur, I'm sure of it," she said.
"You can't be positive because you can't see anything," I argued, continuing toward Bella's home.
"Do you really think he'll hurt her with everyone there?" Alice whispered.
I slowed, listening to Jacob's mind as I heard Bella call out.
"Dad, I think something's wrong with Jacob."
As I turned my attention to Charlie and Billy, it was apparent both fathers were concerned, but for very different reasons.
"Alice, I've got to go. I'll stay here for now," I said as I hung up, not knowing if she'd actually heard me.
Billy was very concerned that his son would lose control and phase. He needed Jacob to concentrate on remaining calm.
"Jacob," Billy called out, but the boy was too focused on trying to maintain his human form.
"Settle down," Jacob thought, chastising himself. "Can't lose control. Too close to Leah, too many people."
It sounded like Jacob was losing the battle over his body as it began to shake uncontrollably. He inhaled again which, under normal circumstances, might have been a good thing, but as my scent slammed into him like a ton of bricks his rage increased, only exacerbating his body's need to phase.
"Must. Relax."
My patience was running thin. I needed to get Bella away from him or he needed to leave. I wasn't sure how much longer he'd be able to hold onto the tenuous control he had over his natural inclination to phase. He was confused, unable to comprehend why he could detect my scent so close to the Swan's home. Just as his last bit of control was about to fail, his father's voice rang out strong and full of authority.
"Jacob!"
Jacob's head snapped up, his eyes attempting to focus on his father as Billy was wheeled toward his son by Sarah Black.
Charlie wanted to call the paramedics, but Billy blew him off, stating the seizures were a result of the mononucleosis. Apparently that had been the cover story behind Jacob's initial refusal to see Bella; however, Bella's father wasn't totally buying his friend's reasoning.
"Jacob doesn't look good at all and he's gotten so big. I hope he's not taking steroids. I don't think Jake would do that, he's smart, but I've seen too much to put my head in the sand."
"What happened?" Billy asked as he and Sarah approached their son.
"They've been here, at this house, or at least very near. I recognized the sickly sweet scent instantly, even though I'd never smelled it before. I guess that part of me knew what it was," Jacob said, vitriolic hatred evident in his words.
"This changes things," Billy said, sounding alarmed. "You'll have to start patrolling Forks now, as well."
Carlisle would definitely need to get in touch and arrange to meet with the tribal elders in light of the fact that Jacob now knew we had been in Forks.
It would not be wise for us to come across one another without first having met and the treaty reaffirmed. Jacob needed to understand that we were the same Cold Ones who his great-grandfather had been in contact with. I was concerned about his reaction when he learned about Bella and me, especially in light of the facts contained in the treaty. Not only had we agreed not to kill any humans, but we had committed to never bite one, as well. For now there was no danger, but I refused to stay away from Bella so the meeting needed to occur sooner rather than later.
If you change her, you'll break the treaty.
I immediately snuffed out the vicious voice in my head. Now was not the time for an internal debate, especially since no decision had been made one way or the other. As I heard Jacob's voice, my attention was returned to the matter at hand.
"What about Sam?" he asked anxiously.
"Soon," Billy replied, effectively ending that part of the conversation. "Your mother and I need to get back inside before we arouse any more suspicion. Will you be joining us or would you prefer to take Leah home?"
"I think for everyone's sake, I should head back. I won't allow Leah to stay without me," Jacob replied decisively.
Once having decided to leave, his thoughts once again turned to the Swan family. "Why would they be here? Who do the Swans know? I'm sure if someone new moved into town, Charlie would have mentioned it, although they haven't spent much time together since, well . . . I know things have been strained for a while, but they're still friends. . ."
Jacob seemed to have finally settled down and I breathed a sigh of relief. As I continued listening to Billy and Jacob, their thoughts focused on the odds that everyone would still believe the current story. Apparently the only people who knew the truth about what had happened to Jacob were the tribal elders, Jacob's mother and Leah Clearwater who was permitted to know the truth surrounding Jacob due to the imprinting.
Billy and Sarah returned to the house as Jacob and Leah drove away. From the look on Bella's face as they passed by her, it was clear that Bella was unsure of precisely what had occurred. Certainly she had not forgotten what I'd told her about werewolves.
I was fairly sure with Jacob heading back to the reservation that none of Bella's family would be in danger. I needed to speak with Carlisle, so I called Alice.
"I'm on my way back. Is Carlisle around? We need to discuss several things, including the fact that it's a certainty that Jacob is a werewolf, and it appears Sam Uley will be the next one to phase. Jacob knows we were here and he's going to start patrolling Forks in addition to the reservation. Carlisle will need to set up a meeting immediately," I said hastily.
"He's on his way back home from the hospital now. I'll let him know and we'll see you soon," Alice replied.
Before I even arrived at the house, I was bombarded by numerous thoughts.
"I'll be there in a moment. We'll discuss it then," I replied as the house came into view.
As I explained what I'd heard, Carlisle's thoughts were grim. He didn't seem worried per se, but he was not pleased with the fact that the wolves had returned. He seemed fairly certain that this turn of events was what had caused Alice's blindness and, although the treaty remained in effect, he was wary of discussing the matter with a whole new set of elders and wolves, especially because they were friends of the Swans.
"Do you think there will be a problem?" Jasper asked.
Neither he nor Alice had been with the family the last time we confronted the tribe and all sorts of military strategies were running through his mind with regard to the potential meeting.
"I don't believe so," Carlisle responded. "I had just hoped it would not be necessary."
"We'll need to meet sooner rather than later," I said, emphasizing what I had told Alice. "There is no way I'm staying away from Bella, and who knows how much control Jacob Black will have if he sees me."
"You should be able to hear him before he's able to detect your scent – it seemed fine this evening," Carlisle reminded me.
"You're right. I'm just worried about Bella," I sighed. "I have to make sure she's safe."
"I can see Bella's future again, and I don't see anything else happening tonight, Edward. You should be fine," Alice replied reassuringly.
Saying that I was anxious was an understatement. I finally had Bella in my life and there was yet another complication. It wasn't enough that she had to learn of my true nature, and there was still so much more for me to explain, but now we had to contend with the wolves. I closed my eyes and took a cleansing breath when a wave of serenity passed over me. I opened my eyes and saw Jasper smiling at me.
"Thank you," I said.
"Any time," he thought, nodding, as he tugged on Alice's hand, leading her upstairs. I quickly turned my attention to Carlisle as he pondered over the best way to approach Billy Black.
"I'll need you to be there at the meeting," Carlisle thought knowing I wouldn't want to leave Bella's side until the matter was resolved.
"I understand, but I won't stay away from her long. And Jacob Black and Sam Uley must be in attendance or I won't be either. There's no way I'll leave her unprotected unless I know they'll be at the meeting with us."
"I agree, but I doubt that will be an issue since Jacob Black is now technically the head of the tribe as well as the leader of wolf pack, as was his great-grandfather before him. And I'm sure that while we're at the meeting, Alice would be happy to keep an eye on Bella for you," Carlisle thought, smirking at me slyly.
"Of course I'll be there," I reluctantly agreed. "But I think it would be wise to also include Jasper," I suggested knowing that Carlisle was already thinking the same thing.
"That would be helpful. Young werewolves can be volatile and, hopefully, he can keep them calm. Jasper's military background would be useful as well," Carlisle mused.
"If you need me, I'll be there," Jasper thought before his mind refocused on Alice.
"I'm going to see Bella. Let me know when a time and place has been determined." And with that said, I was on my way back to Forks.
As I ran toward Bella's house, my thoughts centered on all the things I had yet to tell her. A part of me wanted nothing more than to share everything with her all at once and then beg her to let me change her. Yet, another part of me wanted her to run away, or at least be afraid. I was so conflicted and the wolves' emergence in the situation only made matters more complicated. I couldn't help but wonder how Bella would react when the reality finally set in that we were, in fact, the same cold ones who made the treaty with Ephraim Black.
Upon arriving at the Swan's home, I remained in the tree outside her bedroom window. I recognized her steps the moment she began to walk up the stairs. I also knew she had paused before opening her bedroom door. Could she sense that I was near? Did she realize that I knew the Quileutes had been at her home? If she had deduced that Jacob knew we'd been here, it wasn't a very far leap for her to believe that I would know he'd been here, as well.
Suddenly her hear rate was a bit faster as adrenaline began to course through her. Was she afraid that I would be angry with her? Of course, I had requested that she not go to the reservation, and she hadn't. Regardless, there had been real danger although it was by no means her fault. Her physical reactions gave me enough indication to know she must have been concerned about what transpired with Jacob Black. I would just have to reassure her. Of course that and insist she not be home should they be invited to her house again.
I was anxious to see her and take her into my arms. If she did not open the door soon, I would do it myself, but that was not going to be necessary as I heard her take a deep breath as she entered her room.
"Edward, are you here?" she called out meekly.
Although I could see her well enough from where I was perched, her eyes had yet to grow accustomed to the darkness. For some reason she had failed to turn on the light. I didn't want to alarm her, so I quietly opened the window and jumped into her room. What I had not anticipated was Bella's reaction to seeing me – she ran straight at me as I opened my arms welcoming her, carefully pulling her against my cold, hard body.
"It's good to see you, too," I said.
I realized that although she had remained more than a few feet from the boy, she still smelled like wet dog which was absolutely heinous. I could still detect her glorious scent, but the revolting stench of wolf caused my brow to furrow. I tried to smile, but I was certain I had been unsuccessful in my endeavor.
I was reluctant to leave her side, but needed some space so I released her hand as I walked over and sat down in her rocking chair, hoping she would relax on her bed and, fortunately for me, that was precisely what she did. As she turned on the light, I decided to delve right into the less desirable topic of Jacob Black so that once it was over, we could have the rest of the night unfettered by such unpleasant conversations and we'd be able to focus solely on each other.
"I see you're okay," I stated, more curtly than I had intended.
"I am. How long have you been here?" Bella asked nervously.
"Long enough," I replied emphatically. I wasn't angry with her, but she needed to comprehend the gravity of the situation.
"Did you just decide to stop by or did you know the Blacks and Clearwaters were here?" she asked in whispered, anxiety-filled tones.
As much as I tried, I couldn't suppress the fury that raged like an inferno at just hearing the names of those who had treated Bella so poorly and who could harm her so easily. It was infuriating that I would be forced to meet with them and come face to face with him – the child who seemed destined to follow in Ephraim Black's footsteps. I could not lose control, nor was it Bella with whom I was truly angry and yet she was the one speaking their names. In an effort to calm myself I closed my eyes. My jaw clenched shut and my hands balled themselves into fists.
I was afraid of scaring Bella so I remained quiet. Apparently she was not easily frightened because she began to move around the room. I opened my eyes and didn't need to read her mind to know that she was upset with me.
"When I asked you to stay off the reservation, I didn't mean to suggest that they should be invited here."
I mentally cringed the moment the words escaped my mouth. I hadn't meant to sound so bitter, so indignant. I only meant to emphasize the severity of the situation.
"You think I invited them? Have you lost your mind?" Bella retorted, obviously incensed.
She was right, of course, but it seemed I was set on digging that hole a little deeper for myself.
"It doesn't really matter who invited them," I said briskly. "The fact remains they were here. As for my mental stability, I suppose that could be called into question," I muttered under my breath. I doubted Bella heard me.
If I had been of a sound, logical mind, I would have left her a long time ago. I would not have put her in such a predicament, one she was yet to be made aware of.
I heard Bella take a deep breath as she began to very slowly walk over to me. I watched as she straddled my lap causing certain parts of my anatomy to literally jump for joy. I gazed into her chocolate brown eyes as she took my face in between her soft, warm hands.
"I wasn't happy about it, but everything turned out fine," she said softly.
I suddenly hated the word fine. What was fine about him coming to her house? What was fine about her parents being friends with my enemies? I was unable to hold back a low growl from deep within my chest. I thought my outburst would startle Bella, but she didn't move.
"Edward, no harm was done. I was safe," she said again, in a meager attempt to calm me.
It didn't work. I was helpless to maintain control as a louder growl escaped from me. Only this time, I had frightened Bella as she scrambled off my lap, retreating to the opposite side of the room. My heart broke at the sight of her, fearful of me.
"Bella," I said, pausing to make sure I had her attention. I wanted to go to her, pull her warm, supple body against mine. I had to make her comprehend the severity of interacting with werewolves. I remained quiet, looking down, getting up and walking over to the window, staring at the floor.
"Do you have any idea how close I came to barging into your house? What that would have meant?" I asked, desperate for her to understand.
I was very frustrated that she couldn't or wouldn't appreciate the danger. I was becoming extremely agitated, but not with her – with myself. I was not conveying the message I needed and I could feel the rage over the entire werewolf situation take hold. I should have left, but I refused to go, believing that Bella would not let me back in if I left her upset.
Eventually I looked up at her, into her searching eyes and heard her gasp, knowing that my eyes were no longer golden, but rather black.
"Edward, be reasonable," she pleaded. "I can't keep my parents away from their friends. We've been around the reservation ever since we arrived in Forks two years ago. No one hurt us then and no one will hurt us now."
I knew the simple answer, but her refusal to cooperate and do what I asked got the better of me as I ground my teeth in frustration. Without thinking, I leaned on the window ledge and heard the wood as it began to crack under the pressure. I swiftly backed away, retreating to the farthest corner of the room from Bella. If I was not in complete control, I could not be near her.
"Jacob Black was not a werewolf two years ago," I replied brusquely.
It was clear from her elevated heart rate and quickened breathing that Bella was upset, possibly annoyed with me to say the least. She did not grasp how real the threat of wolves were – that they could injure her so easily with no effort whatsoever.
So unlike you?
I was in no mood for the vitriolic voice because I knew I would never harm her.
Never?
I reached up and pinched the bridge of my nose, an old human habit I still retained. The movement was so quick that I didn't think Bella even noticed, but the vile creature deep within served to remind me of what I could do to her if I ever lost my control. Of course there was always the possibility, regardless of how remote, that I could bite her, but that was just one problem. I was fearful that I would become so overwhelmed by my desire for her that I would completely ravage her and, in the process, break every bone in her fragile, delicate body. In either scenario, I would hurt her and, most likely, end her life.
Apparently I had been lost in my thoughts, something which must have annoyed Bella as I heard her take another deep breath before very slowly exhaling. I was about to speak when she got up and approached me for the second time since my arrival. She stared into my face as she carefully, as if she was unsure of herself, wrapped her slender, delicate arms around me.
"I'm sorry you were worried, but everyone was okay."
"Worried is a bit of an understatement," I muttered under my breath.
"Well, they're gone now, and I doubt they'll be back any time soon. There's nothing for you to be concerned about," Bella cautiously answered.
"I won't worry because it won't happen again," I stated categorically. She would not be around them regardless of what her parents wanted. I wouldn't stand for her to be in danger. I would find a way for her to be out of the house.
"I have no control over my parents. But if the Blacks or Clearwaters come here or if I'm forced to accompany my parents to the reservation, you're not going to overreact. You just have to remember that I will be fine," she replied unequivocally.
"If the Blacks or Clearwaters visit your parents, you'll find a reason to not be home," I answered decisively.
"Ugh, you're being absolutely unreasonable," Bella grumbled.
"It doesn't matter. I'm not going to allow you to risk your life," I stated categorically.
"Being around the Blacks and Clearwaters is not a problem. Certainly they're not all werewolves," Bella said firmly.
I couldn't understand why she was being so obstinate. I was about to volley a response back to Bella when my phone vibrated in my pocket.
"Alice, this had better be important."
"Edward, I can see you're just annoying her and she's going to ask you to leave if you don't stop," Alice said with a huff. "You're not going to get her to comprehend the danger tonight. She's spent too much time with them without anything happening. All you're doing is pushing her to them. You need to settle down and take a step back before the entire situation blows up in your face. You can thank me later," she said before hanging up. I pocketed my phone.
"I'm sorry," I said, attempting to regain my composure. "I forget you don't know everything, that this is all new to you. I still have to provide you with many answers. Please believe that my only desire is to keep you safe. All I care about is that you're free from danger."
"I think you're a little too late for that," Bella chuckled mirthlessly. "I'm in danger just walking across a flat, stable surface. If you've been watching me, you know how clumsy I am. Surely you've seen my awkwardness over the years."
"True, but your life was never really in danger before. Dealing with werewolves is a totally different story," I answered laboriously.
"I don't want to cause you to worry and I really don't plan on hanging out at the reservation, but if my parents invite their friends here, to this house, there's really not too much I can do about it," Bella moaned.
I knew she didn't mean to sound so erotic, but the delicate noise she made caused certain parts of my anatomy to awaken.
"You're right. I'm being selfish. We'll just make sure you're not home," I retorted, unable to hold back a slight smirk.
"Edward, I'm tired. I need some rest. I don't even have the energy to ask questions tonight," Bella said as she yawned.
"Come, my love, let's lie down so you can go to sleep."
"Will you stay with me?" she asked as her eyes began to shut.
"Always and forever," I whispered just as she fell asleep.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
AN: I hope you're having a wonderful weekend! Mine has been good so far . . . but a little love in the way of a review could make it better! (smiles)