Happy New Year! Hope everyone had a safe and happy one!

Who was excited to find out that Rob & Kristen were together in London over the New Year?!? ME ME! :)

Hope you all enjoy this chapter...Let me know!

Don't forget all these wonderful Characters belong to Stephanie Meyer...I just like to play with them!

BPOV

"I have a confession," Edward said looking at me with an almost scared look in this eyes.

"Oh no!" I belted. "This isn't where you tell me you're some sort of mystical creature and your only here to suck my blood? Is it?" I said sarcastically. I was secretly worried that he may disappear in to thin air. Edward had been my saving grace today, and I didn't want him to tell me something that I didn't want to hear.

Edward sighed. "Something like that," his act faltered slightly as a small smile played on his lips. "Actually, I was going to tell you that we are going to be neighbors."

Neighbors? He had mentioned that before. I couldn't help but to wonder what he was getting at.

"I could probably deal with being your neighbor," I admitted honestly. "As long as you invite me for dinner when you come over asking to borrow a cup of sugar."

"You would have dinner with me?" Edward asked. He looked embarrassed.

"Sure, but TV dinners don't count!" I would love having Edward for dinner! Why is he blushing? I should be the one blushing at the ridiculous thoughts in my mind. Is he some sort of mind reader?

"Hey, I'm really sorry about Jake. He can really be an ass sometimes." I tried apologizing to Edward.

"Bella, don't worry about it. Jacob was fine. I feel a little sorry for him actually." Edward looked at me with his breathtaking crooked smile. "He has no idea what he's losing yet. But he will know, and sooner rather than later, I'm sure."

Que the blush.

"Its just that sometimes he doesn't know his boundaries where I am concerned. He felt threatened by you for some crazy reason. He's the one who ended us, or took the steps to end us anyway." I looked away from Edward's piercing eyes. "I'm sorry for dragging you into all of this, Edward. You've been a real sport, and a great friend. Thank you."

"It's my pleasure, Bella. I've actually had fun. Now, lets get this stuff unloaded, shall we?"

Edward got out of the car and quickly made his way to my side. I was already making my way from the car. I hadn't expected him to come help me out.

Hours passed as Edward and I separated boxes and took them each to their corresponding rooms. Luckily, my OCD came in hand when I packed the boxes, each was labeled with the name of the room in which they belonged. We worked quickly and comfortably together, not realizing the time passing. It was nearly 8:00 p.m. when Alice came bursting through the door.

"I brought the brew and pizza to get this party going!" Alice sang, bringing in her goodies.

"I know, I know, I'm the best, no need to fawn over me guys!" she continued. Jasper followed closely behind her.

Edward and I were famished and very thankful for the break and for the help. I didn't mention that Alice was late; she was supposed to be here by 6:00 p.m. to lend a hand. But better late than never I suppose, and she did bring pizza and ice cold beer.

We finished our work much more quickly with the four of us working together. It was nearly 11:00 p.m. when we decided to call it a night. Alice insisted I sleep at her place since we hadn't had the chance to get my bed up yet. Edward offered to give me a ride back to campus to get my car since he had picked me up there. I agreed, and told Alice I would meet her at her place in a little while.

The car ride to the campus was quiet. I was exhausted and I'm sure Edward was too. He seemed to be deep in thought, but I didn't ask what was on his mind. I already felt as if lines of our relationship had changed throughout the day and I couldn't afford myself to get too caught up in it. For one, Edward was my teacher, second, I just got myself out of an exhausting relationship and didn't have it in me to try to even figure all this out.

"Well!! Tell me all about your day with the wonderful Edward Cullen!!" Alice chirped as I walked in the door.

"There is really nothing to tell, Alice. It was great having his help today. When Jacob tried to show his ass, Edward was a perfect gentleman," I said as I shrugged my shoulders.

"Bellllaa!" Alice Squealed. "You know that he's totally into you right?!"

"Whatever, Alice. I don't have the time or heart for that right now. Besides, he doesn't treat me any different than he does any other student," I said, buzzing past her on my way to my room.

"Be serious, Bella. Does he help all his students move all day?" She smirked.

"I don't know, but maybe!" I shot back.

"Does he cancel classes to help other students move all day?" She may have me there. I knew what Edward had done for me today was out of the norm for a teacher/student relationship. I didn't know Edward all that well, but what I did know of him, he would be more than willing to help anyone who needed it. How was I to say that he wouldn't do just the same for another student?

"You'll see!" Alice sang. "By the way, you are joining Jasper and I this weekend right?!" She asked, hopeful.

Alice and Jasper had gotten into some weird sort of underground masquerade party. Apparently it was invitation only, and they only held these parties the 3rd weekend of each month. Alice had rambled on and on about how amazing it was, including the food and drinks. The whole atmosphere was to die for. I had to admit, I was a bit impressed by a social event that could get Alice's approval. It must really be something to see.

"Not this time, Alice; I've got way too much to do tomorrow." I pointed toward myself.

"Moving remember? Besides, I don't want to go alone, and I have nothing at all to wear."

"Bella, 75% of people that go, go alone. Silly girl, they meet people there. You know how exciting it is to meet masked strangers! And as far as your costume, you know I would have no problem correcting that dilemma," She smiled smugly.

"Really, Alice? Masked strangers?! You really are committable, you know that? I wonder if there is a reward for those that turn in the crazies…" I trailed off.

"Funny, Bella," Alice said, glaring at me.

"Alice, not this time. I've got too much going on this weekend. Maybe next time," I said finally.

"That's what you always say. Forget it, I won't ask again." Alice pouted and left the room.

The next few weeks passed quickly. I had easily settled into a routine with my new place. I took the bus to school each day and stayed late two nights a week grading essays for another teacher, earning some extra spending money. Sundays were spent at the library with Edward. Even though my grades were doing very well, and the studying wasn't really necessary anymore, I enjoyed having some company, and he seemed to as well. I hadn't heard a lot from Alice since I'd moved out. I assumed she and Jasper were making up for lost time. We did speak briefly each day, but not for more than a few minutes, or a quick text here and there. She was still a little sour with me since I had turned down her invitation to the masquerade ball. I promised her I would make it up to her.

Saturday morning I was woken up by my cell phone ringing relentlessly in my ear. I looked at the caller ID and cursed under my breath. It wasn't 6:00 a.m. yet, couldn't this wait?!

"What is it, Jacob?" I hadn't heard from him since I left over two weeks ago.

"I'm leaving Seattle, Bella. I can't stay here anymore." I could tell that he'd been up all night, and most likely was wasted.

"Why?" is all I had for him.

"I've really screwed things up, Bells. I don't think I can stay here and continue as I have," he sobbed into the phone.

Screwed things up for sure, I thought to myself. I wasn't really sure what he wanted from me.

"Okay, you going back home?" I formed it as a question, but I had no doubt that was exactly what he was doing.

"Yeah, I don't have anywhere else to go." He was trying to compose himself a bit more.

"When are you leaving?" I asked, but I didn't really care.

"I don't know, maybe Monday. Do you think we could have lunch before then?" He actually sounded hopeful.

"I don't think that's really a good idea, Jake. I'm sorry that things aren't working out for you, but I'm just getting settled into my new place and feeling good about starting over." I told him honestly.

"Okay, Bells. I just thought I would let you know that I wouldn't be around here anymore," he said solemnly.

"Alright, Jake. Good luck with whatever you choose for yourself once you get home." I really did wish him the best.

"Thanks, Bells. If you ever need anything, please let me know. Guess I'll see ya next time you make it home."

With that, our conversation was over. I felt sorry for Jacob, but part of me was glad he wasn't going to be a constant reminder here. I was being selfish, but I was anxious to start over, and him not being close will help me. Finally some much needed closure there.

When I checked my mail Saturday morning, there was a small black envelope that didn't have a return address listed. It was a bit strange, my address was hand written in elegant script. I hadn't lived at my new address long enough for many people to know my address. I skimmed through the rest of my mail on my way back upstairs. Just the usual, bills, junk mail, and my grades.

I was distracted reading over my grades when I bumped into Edward in the hall. I mean, I ran directly into is chest. I felt his strong arms catch me as I looked up into his deep green eyes.

"Oh my gosh," I laughed. "I'm so sorry! I was just looking over my grades."

I could feel the blush creeping up on my cheeks as I tried to forget the solid chest and strong arms that had not yet released me from their hold. Honestly, I didn't mind if they never released me.

"Hey, Bella. How's it going? Anything to worry about in there?" Edward looked down on me unleashing his devastatingly beautiful smile on me.

"Um, no," I flustered. "All looks pretty good." I tore my eyes from his and back to the paper in my hands as Edward released me.

"That's really too bad," Edward smirked. "Does that mean no more Sundays?"

"I certainly hope not! I must maintain those great grades right?!" I mocked terror in my eyes.

"I guess your right, Bella. So, I guess I'll see you tomorrow?" Edward asked, walking toward the elevator.

"Same bat time, same bat channel." I smiled back at Edward, still lost in his presence.

Flustered, I hurried back to my apartment. Once safely inside, I opened the little black envelope. It had beautiful gold script on the inside.

Dearest Ms. Isabella Swan:

You are cordially invited to join us this Saturday eve at 9:00 p.m. for a Masquerade Ball. This is a personal invite from one of our honorary guests. If you wish to accept this honor please call us at 555-125-5885. More information will be given to you at that time.

Best Wishes

ALICE!!! I could kill her! What the hell was this?? Some sort of guilt trip? I told her time and time again I did NOT want to do this. Masquerade Balls just doesn't seem like a thing for me at all. I couldn't imagine standing in a room full of strangers, dressed like a clown. I already knew from what Alice had told me that most people go there and the idea is that everyone wears masks, so you can meet new people without having the pressure of beauty. You can talk freely and get to know them for who they are, without feeling less than, as I would no doubt feel, speaking to people as beautiful as Alice. She has said since Jacob and I broke it off that this would be perfect for me to feel more comfortable in my own skin and meet someone new. She and Jasper met this way almost a year ago and they still go just for the fun of it. Since she is so big into extravagant events, she has named herself planner for the group and couldn't be more proud of herself.

I on the other hand have no interest in going. I can't believe she would do this to me. Wait a minute, yes I can believe she would do this. I just really hate her right now for it. I could just trash the wrecked invite and say nothing of it, maybe she would drop it. Then again, this is Alice I thinking of after all. Geesh, what am I supposed to do with that.

I decided to put the offending envelope out of my mind for the time being and continue my day. I did research for a class project, even though I knew it wouldn't be do for two weeks, but I like to stay ahead of the game. I decided to call Renee' and Charlie, it had been a while since I spoke to either of them, and I'm sure by now they've heard all about Jacob and I. Of course, neither were too upset about the news. Yes, they were upset that I had to feel that pain, but Renee' made it clear a long time ago that I was entirely too young to be in a serious relationship, and Charlie, well, he never trusted Jacob with his daughter.

Sunday finally came and I couldn't wait to get to the library. I dressed quickly throwing my books into my bag and rushed out the door. I was slightly disappointed when I pulled into the lot and saw that Edward and I would not be alone today. There was just one other car there, so hopefully they wouldn't be around for long. I know it was selfish of me to expect one on one attention from Edward; he did have other students that may need the help. I was more upset over the loss of 'talk time' we would have. Since my grades have been much better, Edward and I spent most Sunday afternoons just chit chatting.

I walked in to see Edward sitting across the table from a drop dead gorgeous blonde. I recognized her immediately as Bree, another girl from our class. She was obliviously flirting with him, and he seemed to be enjoying her company as well, judging by the smile that never left his face. I was surprised when I started to feel my blood boil. I wanted to run from the building crying like a child, but instead, I took my original seat in the back of the library.

After just a couple hours, I cut my study session short, unable to handle watching what was unfolding in the same room. Though I knew all along that Edward was treating me just as he would any student, I was holding on to the hope that there was something more between us. I have my fears confirmed and it was more than I wanted to see.

I raced home to my warm and bubbly tub, with my bottle of Merlot in arms. I wouldn't be driving tonight, what could it hurt to drink the bottle by myself. Who needs a glass? I let myself relax in the inviting freesia scent with Stevie Ray Vaughan singing my worries away.

Well?? I got rid of Jake. And Yes, Bella had to see Edward with another student...Sad Sad. Will he turn out to be nothing more than a player? Guess we'll see. And how about that Ball...Will Bella go and meet the man of her dreams??

Special thanks to AllorNothingKR she's the best non-beta a girl could ask for! xoxo

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