Hey guys I'm back! Sorry for the too long wait, I've been really busy. This is the first of two epilogues so essentially its the beginning of the end. I hope you like it. I do plan on writing some outtakes that I will put to a vote of which ones people would like to see after the final epilogue, so hopefully when your choices are up you'll vote.
For anyone who didn't know they released the teaser trailer for Breaking Dawn P1. I've put a link to it at the bottom of my profile. If you opt to see it first before reading this chapter I will not be offended, I understand haha.
Anyway, enough talking from me. Enjoy the chapter :)
Epilogue Part 1
I walked off the plane with my carry-on bag snug on my shoulder, and followed the heard of people moving towards baggage claim. I stood there amongst the throng of people until finally I could hear the conveyer belt burst to life and spin slowly as the first set of luggage came through. I waited patiently, trying to avoid being squashed, as people rushed to get their things. I decided to wait for the crowds to thin a bit before grabbing my two massive suit cases. A few small boxes would be arriving tomorrow from a carrier service so today all I brought was my clothes, toiletries, a pillow and a blanket. The bags were heavy but luckily they both has wheels, so after making sure they were in perfect condition I made my way to the exit and hopefully to flag down a cab.
When I stepped through the automatic doors of Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport I was met with a blast of heat that I was no longer accustomed to. Even under the shade of the building the heat was oppressive and I began to sweat. I was making this journey alone as my parents were called away last minute for some business that could not be avoided. They felt terribly guilty that they couldn't come with me but I assured them I would be fine.
There was a line-up of people waiting for the available cabs so while I waited I grabbed my phone and turned it on. I called my mom, but it went to her voicemail so I assumed she was busy at the moment with work. After leaving a quick message that I arrived safely I hung up and dialled another familiar number.
"Bella?" I could hear the relief in Edward's voice and I smiled despite feeling the now familiar pang in my chest that seemed to have made its home there when he drove away. Still, when I heard his voice it lessened just a bit. Edward had made me promise to call him when I arrived so he knew I made it safely.
"Hey, I just got in safe a sound like I promised."
"Good, how was the flight? What are you doing now?"
"The flight was good, the movie sucked." I chuckled and I heard his laugh through the phone. "I mostly just listened to my iPod so the flight went fairly quickly. Right now I'm waiting in line for a cab to take me to school."
"That's good, I'm glad it went smoothly. I wish I was there, I miss you." He said softly.
I will not cry…I will not cry…I will not cry. "I miss you too." I whispered. I cleared my throat to try and dislodge the lump that formed. I changed the subject before I got too depressed. "You wouldn't believe the weather here, you could cook an egg on the road." I fanned myself with my hand but it did little good. I was still in my jeans and a t-shirt, and I wished I had changed into shorts and a tank before leaving. The line was steadily moving forward and now there were only three people ahead of me; I was anxious not just so I could get on my way but to get out of the heat.
"Hey I'll take that over the rain currently pouring outside, though I don't recommend cooking any eggs on that ground, I doubt its very sanitary" He joked.
"I'll keep that in mind."
"Are you nervous?"
I shrugged even though he couldn't see me. "A bit but I'm not freaking out just yet. How about you? Have you gotten everything in your apartment set up?"
"I'm a bit nervous but like you said I'm not freaking out yet. The apartment is pretty much done, just a few small things. I met the neighbour beside me finally, Garrett, and he goes to Dartmouth too, though he's a junior. Seems like a cool guy."
"Well I'm glad." The line moved up and suddenly I only had one person ahead of me and she was about to get into a cab. "Hey my cab is just about here so I should probably let you go, can I call you tonight?"
"Of course. Good luck settling in and I hope you like your roommate, one of the perks of having your own apartment." I swear I could see his smirk through the phone, the cocky ass. Oh how I missed him. "Call me when you can, I love you."
"I love you too."
We said our final goodbyes and I hung up, tossing my phone back into my bag just as another cab pulled up. The man kindly got out and helped me with my bags, putting them into the trunk of the car. I got in the back, not entirely comfortable with the idea of sitting upfront, and sighed at the blast of cool air that hit me.
"Where too sweetheart?" He asked nicely, luckily not in a lecherous manner.
"Arizona State University please."
"Ah good school, my little sister is going there, first in our family. Studying philosophy, though I don't exactly know why. Any-who, you'll like it." He nodded to himself in agreement and began driving.
We occasionally made idle chit-chat back in forth but mostly it was silent as I watched my new home pass by me. It was so different from both San Fran and Forks. I was used to green and lots of it but this place was mostly sandy dirt with snippets of palm trees and other pockets of green plants, many spiky looking. I guess in its own was it was beautiful, just completely different than what I was used to.
It seemed like almost no time had passed when we pulled onto the campus. I had a little map that I had printed out to bring with me that detailed the whole campus so I instructed him where to turn and after a minute we pulled in front of the red brick and green building that was Coconino hall, my new home.
There were others around, many with boxes or luggage in their arms as they made trips to their rooms. There were stations where people were lining up to get their room information, each booth servicing a different group of last names, starting with A-CR.
The cabbie helped me with my bags again, wishing me good luck and a good year, before taking off. I rolled to the station that would have my name and waited my turn. I got a temporary student card, I would have to go within the next five days to have my picture taken and put on my permanent one. I was given a package full of papers with general school information and other helpful things like the best places to eat and so forth. Lastly the girl gave me my key card for my room before wishing me a good day.
I walked down the hall with my bags rolling behind me as I scanned the room numbers, looking for 209. The hall was crowded with both guys and girls moving in and out of their rooms. People smiled and said hello as they passed but everyone was too busy to stop and chat. I found my room roughly in the middle of the long hall. I leaned my bags against the wall and pulled out the key card, sliding it in quickly and relieved when I heard the door click open.
The room was empty when I entered but I saw luggage and a box on top of the bed on the immediate right of me. A pink striped comforter was already neatly on the bed as well as a very worn stuffed bunny that I assumed was a childhood toy.
Separating the twin beds, which were slightly raised with space underneath, was two desks, side by side. At the foot of the beds were small drawers that left room at the end wall for my own small closet. The room was square and pretty small, maybe the same size of my room back in Forks but the difference was I would have to share it and I had no private bathroom.
I wheeled myself over to the bed on the left side and put my smaller bag on top, leaning my luggage against the side. The pillow was a bit flat and god knows how many people have slept on it so I took it from the bed and threw it into the closet replacing it with my own. My new comforter set would be arriving tomorrow with some other stuff because it was too thick to fit in with my clothes so for tonight a lighter blanket would have to do. I was about to begin unpacking my clothes when I heard the door open.
"Hello?" I heard a feminine voice behind me. I turned around and saw a pretty girl standing in the door way, a box in her hand. She blond hair with steaks of highlights throughout and it was straightened so it lay smoothly down her back. She had sparkling light blue eyes and her make-up was minimal with some mascara and light pink lip gloss. Like most people here she had on a pair of jean shorts, wedge sandals and a white and pink tank top.
"Hey, I'm Bella." I said quickly, holding out my hand.
She smiled brightly and put the box down on the dresser and instead of shaking my hand pulled me into a quick hug. "Oh so you're my roomie!" She said excitedly, "You're not a psycho are you?"
I blinked at her in shock before letting out a surprised cough. "Ummm no."
"Okay then, we'll get alone just fine then. I'm Irina, by the way, I hope you don't mind that I already chose a spot earlier, I could move if you really want it."
I laughed and shook my head. "Nah it fine."
"Alrighty then. So you a local?" she asked moving back over to her box and pulling out some picture frames.
"Nope afraid not. I'm from a little town called Forks in northern Washington and before that San Francisco. You?"
"I'm an Arizona native but I grew up in Flagstaff which is north of here."
As we both started putting our things away we talked, learning a bit about one another. She had a younger sister named Anastasia and her parents were originally from Russia, moving to the United States only months before she was born. She was a classical studies major, having a deep fascination with the ancient world, particularly the role of women. It wasn't hard to guess that her favourite colour was pink as her bedding, her clothing and much of her accessories were either pink or at least had pink in them. She had a bubbly personality that, while not as strong as Alice's, was a bit comforting as I was missing my friend also, not just Edward. We were both commenting on the heat, as apparently it's not as hot where she is, when I heard footsteps behind us.
"Hey baby, where do you want this?" A deep but friendly voice came from the doorway. When I looked behind me there was a guy juggling a larch box in his hands, peering over top of it. The guy had skin like rich chocolate, dark brown eyes and dred-locks that reached his shoulders. He looked like he was around six feet with a build similar to Edward's. He was smiling and his teeth seemed like an impossible white and remarkably straight. His clothes hung comfortably on him, consisting of a light green t-shirt and grey shorts paired with white and red sneakers. Though no one would compare to Edward in my eyes I had to admit he was quite good looking.
Irina's eyes lit up when he arrived and she walked quickly towards him. "Just put it on my bed for now, I want you to meet Bella." She said happily. He did as she asked and as soon as his hands were free she claimed them with her own, dragging him towards me. "Bella, I would like you to meet my boyfriend Laurent, Laurent, this is my roommate Bella."
"It's nice to meet you." I smiled and held out my hand to shake but instead he delicately took it in his and raised it to his lips, kissing the back of it.
"Bella, un beau nom pour une belle fille. Le plaisir est tout le mien" He crooned smoothly in French. I had no idea what he said but I blushed any way.
Irina rolled her eyes before smacking him lightly in the gut, causing him to grunt and let go of my hand. "Don't mind him Bella, he is a notorious flirt but really he's harmless. He even tried that crap on my grandmother and she's like 85. I swear he would pull his moves on mother Theresa herself if he had the chance." While she tried to sound annoyed I could detect the affection she had for him in her voice. "You know, you're not as charming as you think you are."
He turned to her and kissed her gently, so much so I looked away to give them a bit of privacy. "Oh but I am and besides you know I have eyes only for you, mon amour." When I looked back he was whispering in French to her and she giggled and blushed worse than I did. The way he looked at her told me she was serious that while he flirted a lot he truly only saw her. The physical contrast between them was dramatic but they complimented each other and truly made a good looking couple.
After their little moment they seemed to remember I was there. "Sorry about that Bella, blame him." He jerked his head toward her but he just grinned unrepentantly.
"It's no problem. If you don't mind me asking, where did you learn to speak French?" I asked, curious if he took classes or was French by decent.
"I was born in Montreal, Quebec," oh wow he's Canadian, I thought France or something, "but my mom got a really good job offer up in Flagstaff when I was ten so we moved. I've been in the U.S. ever since. Good thing too because if we hadn't I would have met my Irina."
The hopeless romantic in me wanted to just sigh and let out a long 'awwwww' but I refrained…barely.
"Is there anymore you need me to get?" He asked her but she shook her head. "Do you need any help brining stuff up?" He asked me.
"Nope this is all I have today, I sent the rest of my self yesterday and it should arrive tomorrow but thanks anyway."
"No problem. So hun I should go help Shawn get our new couch into the apartment, its been stuck in the back of his truck since this morning and if I wait too much longer I'll never hear the end of his complaining. I'll see you later kay?" He kissed her quickly before putting his hand out to me to shake. "Nice to meet you Bella, I'll see you girls later." With a wink and a wave he was gone.
"Shawn?"
"His roommate and fellow history major."
"If you don't mind me asking but why don't you two just live together, why live in a dorm?"
"I don't mind ummm I guess there's a few reasons. My parents would freak if their underage daughter lived in sin with her boyfriend and since my birthday isn't until December I figured I'd wait a year until I'm 18 and an adult and hope they accept it more. Also I hear that living in dorms your first year is better because you make friends faster. And third well I don't think I'm quite ready to move in with him just yet. I love him and in a year I believe I will be but not until then."
"Oh, okay." It made sense.
"So Bella, you got a boyfriend?" I smiled and nodded. "Ohhh I know that smile, he must be a great guy to do that to you just by mentioning him. What's his name?"
"Edward and ya he's a great guy, I miss him a lot."
"I take it he went to a different school."
I sighed. "He's a Dartmouth."
She whistled and gave me a sympathetic smile. "That sucks. At least he's at a great school; Dartmouth, I'm impressed."
"Ya I'm really proud of him, I know he'll do great."
We spent the rest of the day and evening un packing and talking before going out for a walk around campus to scope out our classes and to find something decent to eat. Even though I miss Alice I knew Irina would be a great friend. Before bed I called Edward again and we talked for well over an hour, Irina even managed to wrestle the phone frome me and speak to him for a minute. While he talked she mouthed 'sexy voice' and i tried not to laugh, though I nodded in agreement, pulling out a photo and showing her. She fanned herself and said goodbye, handing me the phone. After i said goodnight, as it was much later where he was, Irina and I giggled and talked about our guys.
It felt nice and for the first time since Edward and the others left, I didn't feel so alone.
~*~OO~*~ September 13th
I loved University. My classes were great, even my business ones, and even though I spent more time than I would like reading and typing up essays I was still enjoying what I was learning. Overall the people were great, especially Irina and Laurent who have quickly become my best friends here. Still, I miss Jasper and Alice fiercely and talk to them as often as I can.
Today was my birthday though that didn't prevent the fact that I had to go to my classes today. I had to purchase lighter and more Arizona friendly clothing in the last few weeks so now my daily wardrobe consisted of mainly shorts and t-shirts with some sandals and flip flops. Even after a few weeks I was still having trouble adjusting to the heat but each day it got a little better.
Tonight Irina and Laurent were taking me out for a birthday diner along with some other people we hang out with including Tia, Benjamin, Collin and Brady. While they wanted to have a party and make it a late night, I simply couldn't because it was a Monday night and I still had to finish reading some course material for tutorials tomorrow. While I would be working on much of it when I got back to my room, before we had to leave, I still couldn't afford to be out for the whole night.
My phone vibrated from my desk and when I picked it up I saw that I had a text from Edward.
E to B: Have you checked your mail today yet?
I tilted my head a bit in confusion as I answered him.
B to E: No, why?
E to B: I sent you something, it should be there.
B to E: Okay, let me go check.
I left the room and jogged down the steps and made my way to where the mail was received. After showing my student ID they student worker went into the back and came back a few minutes later with a package. After I signed on the line as proof I received it, I thanked him and went back to my room.
I put the package on my desk and quickly opened the plain brown paper only to reveal a nicer package in pretty purple wrapping. I smiled because it quickly became apparent that he sent me a birthday gift.
There was an envelope taped to the top that when opened revealed a note. I started tearing up almost immediately as I read.
Happy 18th Birthday my love!
I wish I could be there with you today so I could celebrate the day the most important person into the world. While I'm saddened that I couldn't celebrate with you I plan on spoiling you in many birthdays to come.
I was taking a walk when I arrived to find my way around the neighbourhood and I came across this in a store. It screamed you though I maintain your work will always outshine anything else I find out there.
This is a small token of my love for you and so that you know you that even when I can't hold you in my arms you are always in my mind and heart.
Love you always
Edward
Wiping my cheeks I opened the gift to reveal a simple picture that had a baby blue background with white swirls with a poem running down the middle. It was in a black frame and would be able to go on my desk, which is good because I wasn't sure if I was allowed to nail anything to the walls; probably not.
With the start of each new day~
I find myself thinking of you~
In the middle of my busy day~
My mind wanders and I see your smile~
Hear your laugh and I think of you~
Life is beautiful now because I've fallen in love~
All over again each time I think of you~
I grabbed my phone and speed-dialled him. As soon as I heard his voice and just repeated. "I love you, I love you, I love."
He laughed. "I take it you liked it."
"I love it, both the note and the picture. Thank you."
"You're very welcome. I wish I could give you more but I didn't want to risk sending too much in the mail."
"Edward this is more than enough, its perfect."
"I just wish I could be there with you. I finally find you and your first birthday with us together and I'm on the other side of the country. I hate it." He sounded so sad but truthfully I understood.
"I do to but it won't be forever."
"I know, I just miss you like crazy, especially a day like this when we should be going out for a night on the town. You letting me spoil you."
I chuckled and looked out the window facing eat wistfully. "That would be nice though in reality when have I ever let anyone spoil me?"
"Oh you would let me after some persuasion." His voice was low and husky and I felt my heart beating faster.
"You're cruel. Is Thanksgiving here yet?"
He laughed, knowing exactly what he did to me the handsome jerk. "It'll be here soon love and then you and I are going to go somewhere…alone, and the others can keep visiting. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you to myself, at least for a little while." I could just imagine the devious smirk on his face because I know it would match my own.
"That sounds great." It really did.
~*~OO~*~ October 19th
Irina guilt tripped me into going to a party tonight with her and Laurent. While I adore them both I do sometimes feel like the third wheel, even though they go out of their way to make sure I don't. Luckily there will be quite a few people there, some I know through Irina and a few others from my classes so I'll be able to mingle with more than just the two of them.
I finished getting ready a few minutes ago, dressing in a black one shoulder shirt with a thin belt and jeans paired with yellow and grey platform sandals. In addition to my charm bracelet that I never took off I had a simple necklace on of blue, black and clear stones that I bought at a little kiosk here on campus who were selling the jewellery for charity. My hair was in a pony-tail and my make-up minimal.
While I waited for Irina to finish getting ready I logged onto my msn, knowing she was going to be a good twenty minutes at least. I smiled widely when I saw Edward online and before I could click his name a message came through.
ECmusic: Hey love, how are you?
Bclassics: I'm good, just getting ready to go out. You?
ECmusic: Same, busy working on a paper due Monday :( Where are you going?
Bclassics: Collin and Brady are having a party and Irina is dragging me along with her and Laurent. Apparently I need to get out more…
In the last few weeks our communication has reverted back to its original state, taking place mostly online. We talk at least once a week and text throughout the day but the computer has been our main avenue to talk, usually in-between working on essays. While we slipped back into our online relationship flawlessly, like we never stopped, I miss him immensely. We still had just over a month before we would see each other again and I was counting down the days, literally; I had a calendar in my room that had a series of X's on it.
ECmusic: How are you getting there? Is it far? Are you drinking?
Oh Edward, ever worried.
Bclassics: We're walking since it's only a few blocks away from campus. Not sure on the drinking, well my participation in it anyway. I'll probably have some but not much, I have my own essay to work on tomorrow.
ECmusic: Well just be careful, those parties can get out of hand.
I rolled my eyes but humoured him.
Bclassics: I know and I promise to be careful. Anyway, how was your day? Anything interesting happen?
ECmusic: I had another visit today from Jane 'cougar' Conner.
I laughed, I couldn't help it. On Edward's apartment floor there was a 40 year old woman named Jane Conner who was a complete cougar. She had been making advances on Edward within the first week of his moving in. She also goes after the male students who happen to also live there, as its close to the school, but she now seems to have a particular thing for Edward. Not that I blame her, he is perfection. If she wasn't 40 and apparently Alice's size I would be more jealous but surprisingly I just found it funny. He avoids her for the most part, usually pretending he's not home or sneaking past her door when going to his but sometimes she still catches him.
Bclassics: What did she do this time?
ECmusic: She actually knocked on my door and asked for a cup of sugar. She tried to invite herself in but I was able to convince her I was heading out and to wait in the hall. I gave her the sugar and then left and spent sometime in the Starbucks down the street doing to some reading.
Bclassics: My poor Edward, what was she wearing this time? Let me guess, mini skirt, too tight shirt that doesn't cover her belly, 5 inch heels and a crap load of makeup.
ECmusic: It was actually 4 inches of heel.
Bclassics: Oh, my mistake.
ECmusic: Don't worry, its an easy mistake to make. I don't think any less of you
I laughed and shook my head.
Bclassics: Thank you
ECmusic: Any time my love.
Irina came out in a one shoulder hot pink dress that had a jewelled belt right under her bust. It came down to about mid-thigh and she had on underneath black leggings with a circular pattern in them that were cut off by her black ankle boots. She accessorised with a heart necklace that she said Laurent gave them for their first anniversary and cute gold and pink flower earrings. She left her hair down and her make-up was heavier than mine but not trashy, making her blue eyes stand out even more.
"You ready to go?" She asked, picking up her smaller bag and transferring some of her stuff into it.
"Ya give me a sec to say goodbye."
"Ohhh are you talking to Edward-cougar-bait-Cullen?" She joked, making meowing noises and clawing at me. Irina knew about Jane and thought it absolutely hilarious just like Alice and I. Those two, I think, would get along well. They did the one time we did three way calling and I was glad my best friend and my new friend got along. Privately Alice expressed how she was glad that I found Irina and Laurent and Edward had Garrett and his girlfriend Kate, as she hated the idea of us being alone while she at least had Jasper.
"As a matter of fact yes so try not to be too jealous that my boyfriend brings out the inner minx of all women." I retorted with a grin as I typed.
Bclassics: Hey Irina is ready to go so we're gonna head out.
I heard Irina scoff behind me. "Whatever, he's too pretty for my taste, I want a rugged looking man like my Laurent. Anyway, say hi to Eddie for me." Ya, I'm not going to put the eddie part because he hates it, which is why she says it.
ECmusic: Alright love, text me when you get back so I know you arrived safely.
Bclassics: No problem, Irina says hi btw. I'll ttyl, love you.
ECmusic: Tell her I say hi and to try and not to get my girl into any trouble tonight. I love you more. Bye
Bclassics: We'll be fine but I'll relay the message. Bye.
I closed down my computer and grabbed my bag. "Edward says not to cause trouble tonight."
She gave an innocent look. "Me, cause trouble? How could he think such a thing?"
I laugh and poked her side. "Because he's heard enough about you from me to know you."
"Alas, he is right. Fine, I solemly swear I am up to only good. Happy?"
"Yes, now c'mon Laurent will be here any moment."
I was still getting used to the weather here as even in October it can go up to 88F/31C during the day, something that you are hard pressed to find in either San Francisco or Forks. The temperature does go down significantly at night though even then it's merely a more comfortable 60F/16C.
As we walked up the driveway to the modest two story stucco home I could hear the loud music blasting through the open door and windows. Collin, Brady and Jared were the three guys who owned the house, though I have only been around the first two. Laurent had been friends Brady throughout high school and later with Collin. There appeared to be around two dozen people or so though it was only 8:30 so there was plenty of time for more people to show up.
When we walked in Collin immediately saw us and smiled, walking over. "Hey guys, welcome to de casa party." He pulled Laurent into a man hung before kissing each of us girls on the cheek. "Hey baby, come say hello!" He called over to Brady, who grinned broadly when he saw his best friend.
Collin and his partner Brady were cool guys who I would have never known were gay if Irina had not told me ahead of time or if they hadn't been holding hands when I first met them. Brady was a lot like Emmett in the looks department; tall, 6'2 and muscled with a head of dark brown hair and blue eyes. He was studying kinesiology, hoping to work within the athletic community when he graduated. He currently assists on the ASU football team.
By contrast Collin was 6 feet exactly, blonde hair and blue eyes and while not wimpy looking he nothing compared to his partner in the muscle department. He was in a pre-law program, and a year older than Brady as he was a junior. They were both fairly tough though, not fitting in that stereotypical gay man image, but when it came to each other they were very sweet and affectionate.
Of my male friends, they were Edward's favourites for the shear fact that they had no chance of developing an interest in me other than friendship. I had rolled my eyes when he said that but otherwise ignored his stupidity.
Irina dragged me into the living room to dance for a while, a few other girls and a few guys joining us. I had to politely decline a few guys who asked to dance but luckily they backed off and merely asked someone else. It was actually a lot of fun and even though I tripped once I managed to keep up with the others, though I don't think I've ever seen anyone grind like Irina could. We eventually migrated into dining room that had bowls of snacks laid out on the table. I saw Laurent down the hall talking with a few guys. When he spotted us he gave us a smile before returning to his conversation. We talked with people, some I knew some I didn't, while sipping on our drinks and munching on the junk food.
We were there for about two hours, having a good time, when Irina spoke.
"Stefan keeps looking at you." she said, though not in a teasing tone just in a matter of fact kind of way.
I groaned and glance behind me slightly and see he was indeed staring. Stefan Salvator was in my Principles of Business Administration tutorial and seemed to have latched himself to me day one. After every class he asks me out, even after I politely told him I was in a relationship the first time he asked. He had black hair, cropped short, and dark brown eyes. He was about 5'8 but clearly worked out to try and make up for his lack of height. He wasn't bad looking but the more he bothered me the uglier he grew to me and not just because he asked me out constantly but because he looked at me like I was something to be conquered; he wasn't interested in me, just my body.
"He can't get the hint that I am in a relationship; A happy one at that." Of course I had to get my own Tanya wannabe here but with no Edward to scare his ass away. How is that fair?
"Oh he gets it he just doesn't care." She laughed but I can also see her glare a bit in his direction. Like Alice, Irina got protective of those she cares about.
"I don't know what else to do. I've shot him down every time he asks me out and blatantly said that I have a boyfriend and therefore have absolutely no interest in him." I growled. Edward knew about Stefan—though I downplayed it a bit so he wouldn't get on a plane to start a fight, even if it was tempting just so I could see him sooner—and he was not pleased with the situation at all.
"I guess you just have to keep shooting him down and hopefully he'll get the message. You know, I'm sure if you we asked, Laurent, Collin and Brady would have no problem with setting him straight." She grinned and cracked her knuckles. I'm pretty sure she was envisioning joining them in whatever tactics they would use in 'setting him straight."
"I rather avoid a fight, but if he doesn't stop soon maybe I will get them to talk to him. Just talk." I emphasized.
She sighed. "You're no fun sometimes you know that." She grumbled, taking a sip of her beer. I rolled my eyes and tipped my cooler back, draining the little bit that was left. It was only my second one but I could feel it start to affect me, giving me a slight buzz, so I decided to switch to water for the next hour or so; I still had a paper to start tomorrow that was due on Tuesday and I didn't need a hangover getting in my way.
"Bonjour my beautiful ladies, how are enjoying this evening." Laurent said, appearing beside Irina and snaking his arm around her waist. I had become accustomed to his flirting to the point that I barely even blushed around him anymore. It was just part of who he was and it was rather enduring. Edward was a little hesitant at first but eventually agreed that Laurent was no threat. The occasional flirty comment aside he had never acted inappropriate towards me once.
"It's been okay." Irina shrugged her shoulders and leaned into his chest. "It would be better if someone would ask me to dance."
"Well we can't allow you to have just an okay time. Would you honour me with a dance mademoiselle?" He smirked and held out his hand, bowing a little.
"Certainly good sir." She curtseyed and I laughed at their antics. They were cute couple. She turned to me. "You going to join us Bella?"
"Maybe in a bit, I have to use the washroom. Want me to toss that for you?" I asked, reaching for her empty beer bottle.
"That would be great, thanks!" Once it was safely in my hands she dragged Laurent onto the dance floor, the sounds of Katy Perry's E.T. filling the room loudly. I first took a detour to the kitchen and quickly found the recycling bin that was overflowing with bottles and cans. Around me people were chilling and talking, with one group of both guys and girls in the corner playing beer pong on the table. Chuckling I lightly tossed the bottles into the bin and made my way out in search of the washroom.
I found it just down the hall but had to wait a few minutes for not only the person inside to finish but for the two people waiting before me to have their turn. While I waited I just leaned against the wall and texted Alice, bobbing my head a bit to the beat coming from down the hall. Finally it was my turn which was a relief since I felt like I was about to explode if I had to wait a minute longer.
With my business done I washed my hands and headed out into the hall that was empty except for one person. I didn't realize who it was until they blocked my path.
"Hey Bella." Stefan said, grinning lazily at me while holding the wall for support. I would have been afraid if it wasn't for the fact that he was clearly drunk and seemed have trouble standing on his own two feet.
"What do you want Stefan." I crossed my arms across my chest, partly to make myself look tougher and partly to block his gaze from that particular area.
"You look soooo good. When are you going to let me take you home to my place?" He slurred. He once again looked at me in a way I was not comfortable with.
"When the sun rises in the west and sets in the east. Actually, no not even then. Now if you don't mind I would like to re-join the party so if you would just move, that would be great." I sneered.
"You're such a tease, c'mon just one kiss and I know you would be mine." He made a grab at me but with his lack of coordination and my quick movement he only managed to graze my side.
"I said no Stefan so leave." I growled, looking for an opening and hoping someone would come down the hall.
When he tried again I brought my knee up and slammed it into his crotch. "I said no!" I yelled. He grunted in pain and fell to the ground with a loud thump, his hands quickly cupping himself as he assumed the fetal position.
My voice must have attracted some attention because soon Brady, Collin, Laurent, Irina and a few others were crowding in the hall. The boys took one look at the scene-me in a defense position and Stefan lying on the ground groaning my slurring curse words at me—and quickly put the pieces together about what happened. Their eyes darkened and became hostile while they looked at him and I had a vague idea what they planned to do.
"Bella, you alright?" Laurent asked just as Irina squeezed passed him and to my side, pulling me away from the crumpled man on the floor.
"Ya seriously B, you okay?" Irina's eyes were wide, checking me over.
"I'm fine." I took a deep breath. I'll admit I'm a bit shaken but I just had to repeat in my head that I was okay and that nothing would have happened. I took care of it and by the looks of it the boys planned on finishing it. "Though I think I will turn in for the evening."
"We'll walk you back." Irina said. I began to protest, not wanting their evening to be ruined but she slapped her hand over my mouth. "I don't want to hear it. I wanted to spend the night at Laurent's anyway so now we'll just get started on our evening that much sooner." She winked at him and he grinned in anticipation before frowning.
"But I wanted a piece of him too." He said, despondent at the thought that he wouldn't be able to help deal with Stefan.
"Well how about you girls go grab a drink of water and wait out front for let's say five minutes while we take Stefan out back. You can have a minute with him buddy, before you walk Bella home." Brady said, clapping Laurent on the shoulder.
"Guys what are you planning on doing?" I said, worried. I didn't want them to hurt him too badly nor did I want them to get in trouble. They tried to look innocent but it just served to make them look more guilty. "Really guys, I took care of him pretty well on my own. He's going to be hurting no matter."
"You did amazing, I'm impressed." Collin nodded in approval.
"Don't worry about it beautiful, you just have yourself a good sleep." Brady kissed my cheek and lightly pushed me towards the end of the hall where a group of people were still watching.
"But…"
"No buts!" Irina and Brady said at the same time before turning to grin at each other. Irina grabbed my arm and dragged me away. Before we turned the corner I saw Collin roughly pull Stefan up and start dragging him towards the back door. I tried not to think about what they were going to do.
We grabbed bottles of water from the fridge, avoiding the stares and the few questions people asked, before making our way out front. Irina left me alone with my thoughts as we both slowly sipped our drinks. Laurent didn't take long to join us though I didn't bother to ask why he had a satisfied smile on his face and slightly red knuckles; it wasn't hard to guess. The walk was silent and leisurely and soon our dorm came into view.
When we made it to the doors I looked at them. "Bella, if you want me to stay with you tonight I will, no questions asked." Irina said, taking my hand.
"Nah I'll be fine." They looked sceptical so I pulled them each into a quick hug. "Really, I'm good. I'm just going to hit the hay. You two go off and do whatever it is you want to do, that I really don't want nor need details for." That seemed to break the tension as we all laughed.
"Alright then, I'll probably be back sometime around noon. How about we do lunch, just us girls."
"Sounds great. Now go, the night is still young."
After another quick hug they left and I headed upstairs, saying hello Cassey who was one of the college 'moms' who watch over the people in the dorms. When I got into my room I jumped onto my bed face first, letting out a gust of air. After having a quiet moment I looked at the clock seeing it was just after 11:30. I grabbed my phone and to send Edward a text like I promised.
B to E: Got home safe, love you.
I went to go change into my pjs when my phone rang. When I glanced at the screen and saw Edward was calling me which was confusing because it was nearly three in the morning where he was so I assumed he was asleep.
"Hey." I said softly into the phone. "What are you still doing up?"
"I lost track of time writing my essay. I was about to crawl into bed when you texted. How was the party, you're in kinda early. Well for a Friday night anyway."
"Ya well for the most part it was great, well till the end. I just wanted to turn in early."
"What happened?" He asked, clearly concerned. I chewed on my nail, quickly debating if I should tell him. I would eventually but maybe now wasn't the best time when we were both tired. I must have hesitated too long because he seemed even more upset. "Bella what happened?"
I knew I wasn't going to be able to get away with waiting to tell him so I sighed and did my best to downplay it. "Nothing serious, Stefan…" All I had to do was say his name and Edward growled.
"What did he do?" His voice was lethal on the other line and part of me was glad he wasn't here because I had a feeling if he was, I would be spending the night at the police station trying to get his ass out of jail. I may have punched Tanya but I stopped there and didn't go any further, even though I wanted to; Edward I know would not have stopped.
"He got a little drunk and came onto me." I heard his intake of breath but continued talking faster so he wouldn't interrupt me again. "He tried to grab me but I kneed him in the crotch and ended his attempts pretty quickly. People were there soon after that and the last I saw him Brady, Collin and Laurent were taking him out back to further deliver the message to stay away from me. Nothing happened and I have a feeling he won't be bothering me again."
When I heard nothing but silence on his end I got nervous. I was about to start talking again when he finally found his voice. "You're sure you're okay?" He was angry, clearly, but I detected his genuine concern for me in his tone.
"I am fine, not a scratch. He could barely stand on his own two feet he was so drunk. And besides, there were people nearby who heard me yell. I wasn't in any real danger."
"Bella, please don't say you weren't in danger because you were! What if he wasn't drunk? What if he pulled you into a room and prevented you from screaming? God to think what could have happened…"
"But it didn't happen and he was drunk. He won't come near me again, the boys will see too that. I. Am. Fine."
"You're not going to one of those parties again." He growled and I found myself narrowing my eyes at the wall.
"Excuse me? If I want to go to a party then I will go to a party, you have no say in the matter."
"Bella, it's not safe!"
"Edward one drunken frat boy who could barely stand on his own two feet came onto me. I took care of him quite well on my own and was quickly in the company of friends who further drilled in the message. I was fine and I will continue to be fine."
"Yes you will because you won't be in a situation like that again, I won't allow it." What did he just say!
"Won't allow it? I'm sorry, I missed the memo about you taking the place of my father. Did it get lost in the mail?" I said sarcastically. He was being completely unreasonable.
"I'm trying to keep you safe so I stand by what I said, you are not going!" I was sooo close to reaching my hands through the phone and strangling him. I knew I shouldn't have told him tonight, I knew it! God, stupid, stupid Bella.
"You can't tell me what to do Edward, I am a grown ass woman. Or is that it? Because I'm a woman I can't take care of myself? Are you going to go to parties still, put yourself in danger from any girl who wants you?"
"That's different, I would be able to take care of myself, I'm larger."
"I seem to recall you being pulled into a room by a certain Tanya Denali and you being unable to stop it. And who took care of that situation? Oh that's right, me! Who effectively defended herself tonight? Oh what a shocker, me again! There are many ways to incapacitate a guy Edward, drugs included." I heard him about to speak but I didn't give him a chance, I was on a roll. "And I am going to continue to take care of myself because contrast to popular belief I am neither weak nor a child. We are in a relationship Edward, not a dictator ship, and I won't continue to listen to you if you're going to act like a controlling ass!" I yell.
"Bella, you're being irrational." I swear I could almost see him rolling his eyes. Oh he did not just say that too me!
"I'm being irrational? I'm being irrational?" I laughed but it was a bitter sound. "Are you even listening to yourself? You know what, if you're going to continue acting like this then this conversation is officially over." I growled.
"Bella…" I cut him off before he continued to dig himself into a deeper hole.
"I'll call you sometime tomorrow and maybe by then someone will have knocked some sense into you."
"Bella…!"
"Unless your next words are Bella I am so sorry for acting like a jerk off and will never tell you what you can and cannot do ever again then I don't want to hear it." He mumbled a bit but all I heard was 'stubborn' and 'doesn't understand' and at that I was officially done with him for the evening. "Good night Edward." I spat out and shut my phone before chucking it into my pillow.
I started pacing, mumbling to myself at his audacity. My phone kept ringing and I knew he was on the other end. After the tenth time I growled and picked it up, not surprised I was right about the ten missed calls from him, 5 voicemails and 4 texts. I deleted them all without looking or hearing them, knowing both of us needed to cool down. I shut the ringer off just in time for the phone to start up again. I was too mad to speak to him right now as I knew I would say something I would regret. I would call him tomorrow, like I said I would, and not a moment sooner.
I really wanted to talk to someone, who wasn't my stubborn and currently in the dog house boyfriend, but it was so late. Irina would be busy with Laurent and no way in hell am I interrupting that and Alice, like Edward, was three hours ahead of me and most likely asleep. It wasn't quite midnight yet and only one other person may be still up. Hopefully she answered.
I grabbed my phone, seeing I missed yet another call from Edward. I went into my contact list and found who I wanted, pressing send and hoping she picked up. I almost lost my nerve after the fifth ring, about to hang up, when she answered.
"Bella?" She sounded surprised.
I sniffled, trying not to cry. "Rose? I know its late but I could really use someone to talk to right not and Irina is gone and Alice is most likely asleep since its three in the morning there and I didn't know who else to call and…"
"Bella, Bella calm down. Take a deep breath…there you go. Of course I can talk, now what happened?"
I explained everything, from what happened to the party, to Edward's response leading up to our fight. Finally I began to express the fear that had been gnawing at me since I hung up on Edward.
"Rose, it hasn't even been two months yet and we're already fighting and oh god what if he decided we can't make it work? That's it's too hard or not worth it? Or what if he gets more controlling? I don't think I could deal with that. Rose, I don't want to lose him." A sob broke out at this point and it took Rose a few minutes to calm me down as I cried. I grabbed a tissue and wiped my eyes and nose as I was leaking profusely from both.
When I quieted down I suddenly heard Emmett's voice in the background. It was a little unclear but from what I gathered he was asking who she was on the phone with and what was wrong.
"I'm talking to Bella and she's upset because of your stupid brother." I let out a watery laugh.
"Not that I would disagree with the stupidity part but what exactly did he do?" Emmett asked, clearly closer to the phone now as I was able to make out what he was saying fairly easily.
"Can I tell him Bella or do you want this between us?" She asked and I was touched by how protective she sounded. If Rosalie was anything, she was loyal and she would keep my confidence if I asked her too, no questions asked.
"No it's okay, you can tell him."
"Alright." She quickly gave the gist of what happened, a slightly shorter version of what I gave her. When she finished I heard his booming laugh.
"Oh wow, my little brother really dug himself deep this time."
"Damn straight. Actually, how about you call your brother right now and talk some sense into his head, maybe help him understand exactly why he's an idiot." I laughed again, their conversation making me feel a bit better.
"Alrighty, I can do that." He sounded cheerful and I can just imagine how their conversation would go.
Emmett must of left the room because I second later Rosalie was yelling, "And tell him to stop trying to contact Bella for tonight, she'll talk to him tomorrow when she's ready." I didn't hear his response but I assumed he said okay. "Okay, sorry about that. Now where were we, oh yes you were spouting your own bit of stupidity."
I blinked in shock. "What?"
"Bella, I understand your fear but its unfounded. One fight, especially one over something as stupid as this, is not going to ruin your relationship."
"But that had to be the worst fight we've ever had." And it was true. We've had spats before, some I've caused others he has, but we always manage to work it out fairly quickly and it never escaladed as far as this one did. I've never hung up on him, or refused to listen to him.
"And it probably won't be your last. You should see some of the fights Emmett and I have gotten into in the past. I've kicked him out of the apartment before and you've heard the lungs on him. Trust me Bella, your fight, while seeming like the end of the world right now, really isn't and down the road you'll see that. Fights happen, you talk and you move on."
"If you say so." I said, with doubt in my voice.
"Bella, do you doubt Edward's love for you, be honest."
"No."
"And do you believe, when you truly think about it, that he would break up with you over this?"
I sighed. "No."
"Good. Now while I totally agree with you and that he was in the wrong, I can understand his point of view."
"What do you mean? You said you agreed with me."
"And I do. While what he said and how he said it were completely out of hand I can understand why he was acting like that. You yourself just said that he was going to break up with you even though past evidence said otherwise. So why did you think that? You were scared right?" I hummed in agreement, staying silent. "Well so is he. He's on the other side of the country and this is the first time he's truly had to realize that he couldn't be there for you, at least not physically. Its probably freaking him out and he acted in the heat of the moment, playing off his fear. Does that make sense?"
I thought about it and nodded, even though she couldn't see me. "Ya I guess. I still wish he didn't act like that though, or went about it a different way."
"And I agree with you and its something you two are going to have to discuss and address. I just want you to think about his side too. It doesn't justify how he acted but it does help you understand why he reacted."
"When did you get so smart?"
"Are you telling me it's taken you this long to realize I'm a genius?" We both laughed and I was feeling much better. "Just get some rest, reboot the batteries and call him tomorrow. I can hear Emmett talking to him still and there's not yelling, or laughing for that matter, so I'm sure by tomorrow Edward is going to be a little more rational. Just talk and you two will sort it out."
"Thanks Rose, I mean it. I don't know what I would have done without you. You're a life saver."
"Any time, now go to bed and hopefully Emmett will be done soon so I can do the same."
"Alright, good night and thanks again."
"Night."
I hung up and put my phone on its charger. It was 12:37 at this point and I was really feeling the exhaustion from the emotional evening I had. I grabbed my sleep shorts and tank and headed to the bathroom to wash off the makeup and brush my teeth. Once changed and feeling a bit fresher I crawled into bed. I thought I would have trouble sleeping with all the thoughts in my head but soon after my head the pillow I was out like a light.
I didn't wake up until 10:30, even though I had originally planned to wake earlier to start my essay. I felt better, no longer feeling the world was about to end. I took a quick shower and after drying my hair, and tying it back into a pony tail, I dressed in my now usual shorts and t-shirt. Irina said she would be back around noon so I spent the next hour creating an outline, going through the books I had and the books I needed to get later.
I had made good progress when Irina came in just after twelve. "Hey, you ready for lunch?"
"Ya let me just finish a few sentences and I'll be good to go."
"Don't rush, I want to change anyway." I turned and looked at her, supressing a smirk when I saw she was wearing one of Laurent's button downs and a pair of his basketball shorts. Within ten minutes we were walking down the street to one of the local hot spots, Chuck Box. It was mainly a burger place and both of us wanted something greasy. It was decently busy when we walked in, mostly with students, but we managed to get a small table in the corner. We took turns going up to order our food, so we didn't lose the table, and soon we were both munching down on burger goodness.
"So how was the rest of your night?" She asked, taking a bite out of a fry.
I stopped eating and swallowed carefully. "Could have been better. Edward and I got into a fight."
"Seriously?" I nodded. "Wow, how did that happen?"
It seemed like I had repeated this story a million times when in reality it was only once but I did it anyway, also including my conversation with Rosalie.
"Bells, you should have called me, I would have come back."
"I wasn't going to ruin your evening. Besides, don't tell me you would have actually heard your phone let alone answered it." I raised an eyebrow, daring her to contradict me. She blushed and gave me an evil stare before smiling and shrugging in defeat.
"Probably not. She's right though." When I gave her a 'huh?' look she clarified. "Your friend Rose, everything she said is right. Are you going to call him when we get back?"
"Ya, the sooner we talk the better."
"Good, I hate seeing you so sad. It'll work out." She nodded to herself and gave me a grin. We finished our lunch with lighter talk before making our way back to our room, saying hi to a few people along the way.
When we made it to our room she went to her desk and started piling books into her backpack.
"I'm going to go do some work in the library, unless you want me to stay? I figured you wanted privacy but if I'm wrong I'll forgo going to the library."
"Thanks but I think I need to have this conversation alone." I sighed and tossed my phone around between my hands. Her arms came around me, squeezing me tightly for a second.
"It'll be alright. Just remember you love him and one stupid fight isn't going to change that. In the end, you two will be stronger for it." She paused and grinned mischievously. "That being said, don't hesitate to put his ass in place. Just because you can forgive him doesn't mean he should be completely off the hook."
I laughed. "Thanks. Oh could you do me a favour and take out a few books for me?" She nodded and I wrote them down, handing her the paper. "I was going to go later but I don't know how long this will take."
"No problem, I'll see you later." She grabbed her stuff and gave a small wave before shutting the door behind her.
I took a deep breath before pressing 2 on my speed-dial. It rang a few times before I heard his voice. "Hey." His voice was quiet and subdued, even a little awkward.
"Hey."
The silence stretched on for a few minutes, both of unsure of what to say and how to begin.
"I'm sorry." He finally said, sounding choked up. "Bella I am so sorry for how spoke to you last night, I was out of line."
"You were." I agreed softly. "Why did you act like that Edward?" I had Rosalie's belief but I needed to hear it from him.
"Bella all I could picture when you told me was you being cornered by him before he forced himself on you. No matter how many times you told me you were fine I couldn't get the image out of my head. Then I imaged getting a call of how you were beaten or raped and in each scenario the truth that I wasn't there was like a blaring alarm."
"I'm fine Edward and you can't always be there to save me, even if we went to the same school, there would be times when we wouldn't be together."
"I know that but it doesn't make it any easier that I'm three thousand miles away and that you were, for even a second, in danger. It was like dagger to the heart. I have never felt so helpless in my life, thinking of what could have happened. Bella I love you with everything I am and if anything happened to you…I don't think I would recover. I know I acted irrationally but my only thought was to keep you safe."
"You could have told me that and then we could have discussed it and perhaps come to a compromise. I would have been fine making sure I never went to the washroom without and friend or carrying pepper spray on me, but for you to outright tell me I couldn't go out with friends to a party? It was insulting and demeaning, like I was your dependent not your partner. I understand where you're coming from I really do but I didn't like how you spoke to me."
"I know and I am sorry. Emmett spent a good hour talking to me about where I went wrong, which he took too much pleasure in doing, before handing the phone to Rosalie who proceeded to effectively call me and idiot and then coach me in how to fix it." I chuckled and I heard him laugh too.
"I'm still a little peeved at you. I don't want you to act like that again Edward. If you have concerns talk about them to me instead of making my decisions for me. I worry about you too so it's not one sided. If our relationship is going to survive we need to communicate."
"You're right. I spoke without thinking and while I can't promise I'll never put my foot in my mouth again I will try. I love you Bella, I will do anything not to lose you."
"I'll take try. I love you too and I miss you, so much."
I wish I could wrap my arms around him but for now I would take listening to his velvet voice. We spoke for a while longer, communicating better with our fears and concerns before getting onto lighter topics. He asked for Brady and Collin's e-mails so he could personally thank them for helping last night, expressing his regret he couldn't have joined them.
Eventually we both needed to get off, having essays and readings we needed to get done.
"I'll talk to you later. I am sorry and I love you Bella, don't forget that."
"Never, I love you too. Bye."
I sent a text to Rose saying things had been worked out and also sent an e-mail to Alice, telling her what had happened in the last 24 hours.
Irina came back an hour later with my books. We talked for a few minutes and she gave me a happy smile when I told her we worked things out.
The weekend was spent on mostly on school work, with two conversations with both Edward and Alice on Sunday. I was nervous on Monday as today I had my tutorial with Stefan. I was a bit early and sat near the front where the T.A. would be, taking out a book to read. People slowly trickled in. I thought he wasn't going to show when he walked at the last minute, sitting at the back and avoiding eye contact with me, something he never did.
He had some bruising on his cheek and at first I thought they really did just speak with him, assuming the one bruise was from Laurent, but I saw he winced a bit when he sat. It didn't take a rocket scientist to guess that they just hit him where it wasn't really visible. When class was over he left the room as quickly as he came, head down.
Stefan Salvator never spoke to me again.
~*~OO~*~ Wednesday, November 24 (Day before Thanksgiving)
I was finally almost home. I had just landed at Sea Tac and was waiting to get off the plane along with the other 150 passengers. The trip was a long one not merely because I couldn't wait to see everyone but because I was stuck behind a child who would not stop crying and stuck beside some guy you had some gas issues.
It was not a pleasant flight.
I left the plane and entered the airport, squished between the others unbording in the Thanksgiving rush. I took in my first breath of untainted air and repeated the process I did months ago as I waited for my bags.
When I finally grabbed my small bag I began moving towards the exit, scanning the crowd for my parents. It took a minute but I finally saw them standing off to the side together. My dad smiled and my mom squealed a bit when our eyes met and I picked up my pace to get to them faster. I dropped my bag to the floor when I reached them and allowed my mom to pull me into a bone crushing hug.
"Oh Bella, I'm so happy you're home." Mom whispered.
"Me too." I said back. Mom gave me one last tight squeeze before handing me off to my dad. He hugged me just as tightly before pulling away and holding me by my shoulders.
"You look good Bells, even got a bit of a tan which I must say is a first for you." He chuckled while swallowed back a retort. "I missed ya kiddo and while I would love to stand here all day and hear all about college life, there is a young man back home that is going to have an aneurysm if I take any longer in getting you home."
That got me into gear and I quickly grabbed my bag before walking quickly towards the automatic doors. "Well then we should get home, like now!" I said anxiously, wanting to see Edward. I knew Edward arrived early this morning, around eight, while it was close to three in the afternoon now. I wish we could have met here but I can understand my parents wanted some alone time with me, and his parents with him, before he stole me away.
My mom laughed and even my dad cracked a smile as they followed behind me, a little too slowly for my taste. I just threw my bag into the back seat and piled in after it while my parents took the front. It would be a few hours before we made it home so I spent that time telling my parents about life at ASU. While I had talked to them every week and exchanged e-mails I was able to go into more detail about some of the happenings and the people. They didn't know about the Stefan incident and I hoped to keep it that way, for fear my dad would enlist the help of Edward to exact revenge.
I wish I was exaggerating on that thought but alas I wasn't.
I was practically vibrating in the back seat, willing dad to drive faster, as we got closer and closer to our house. I texted Edward when we passed the Welcome to Forks sign so he knew we were only minutes away and he responded with a drive faster. When I asked dad to do as Edward asked he rolled his eyes and said he was going the maximum speed legally allowed for this road. I rolled my eyes at that and sat back resigned that I would have to wait a little bit longer.
When we turned onto our street I could see our home and the Cullen's home, and even from a distance I could spot Edward's unique hair as he waited for me. Esme and Carlisle were beside him smiling. He looked just as anxious as me, rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet, his eyes intent on our approaching car.
As soon as we pulled into the driveway and came to a complete stop I was out of the car, not even bothering to shut the door behind me, and sprinting towards him. He met me half-way caught me in his arms, my feet leaving the ground as they wrapped around his waist. He buried his face in my neck and I did the same to him, finally feeling like I was truly home. We both held on for dear life, not saying a word for a moment while we just basked in being together again. No one existed at this time but him and I.
Not able to wait anymore I kissed him deeply, causing him to groan and hold me tighter. "God I missed you so much." I panted against his mouth.
"Me too love." He said back, kissing me again that was most definitely not appropriate for public. He smelled just as I remembered and as I ran my fingers through his hair I couldn't help but think he needed a hair-cut; nothing major, just a trim. When we finally broke apart, for air mostly, I noticed we were alone on the lawn. While part of me was embarrassed that our parents witnessed even part of our intense re-union I was glad they gave us some privacy.
Eventually I untangled my legs and dropped to the ground, though my arms stayed around him. He rested his forehead against mine and for a few minutes we just stared at each other.
"Should we go say hi?" I asked, titling my head towards the house.
"If we must, we only have an hour before we're supposed to meet Alice and Jasper at the lodge for dinner."
"Oh ya, I almost forgot." I shook my head before taking his hand and pulling him towards my place, where I assumed they all went. The car door had been shut and a quick glance indicated that they took my bag inside too. As we reached the front door he released my hand and wrapped it more securely around my waist, his hand going to its usual spot on my hip. I couldn't help but smile that even after two months we both fell into our usual rhythms, no awkwardness.
Both sets of parents were in my living room, talking. They stopped and smiled at us when we came in, Esme coming up and pulling me into a hug as she told me how much she missed us both. It was a big hug fest then, with us moving between each parent and exchanging hugs and or hand-shakes, in the case of Charlie and Edward.
Edward took the chair so I sat on his lap as we all got talking about things we've missed and in our college experience so far. Forty-five minutes later Edward and I said good-bye and that we would see them later. Since we were having Thanksgiving together tomorrow they didn't protest when we told them last week that tonight we would be hanging with Alice and Jasper.
Since Edward's car wasn't here we had to take mine and I can't deny it felt good to drive again, missing my little red car. Edward looked at me driving longingly and I rolled my eyes. "No I will not let you drive, you've had your car all this time while I have had to walk or bus everywhere. So suck it up." I laughed when he grimaced but he nodded anyway, taking my hand and kissing the back of it.
We beat Alice and Jasper there as we were about 5 minutes early so we sat down and ordered our drinks while we waited. We were talking and cuddling a bit in our booth when the main door swung open and the unmistakable form of Mary-Alice Brandon appeared in the doorway.
"BELLA! EDWARD!" Alice yelled excitedly, causing a few people to turn their heads curiously while others did so in annoyance. I jumped from the table and embraced my best friend, so happy to see her. In my periphery I saw Edward and Jasper exchange an affectionate hug and hand shake, talking in low voices. "I missed you sooo much Bells."
"I missed you too Ali. Now lets order, I'm starving."
"Me too."
We untangled and moved to the table where the boys were. "Jasper!" I said happily, pulling him in for a hug while Alice did the same for Edward. "I missed you guys."
"Us too. New York I great but it just isn't the same unless you and Edward were there with us."
"I know, Arizona has been awesome, once you get used to the heat, but it would be so much better if I had you guys there. Any chance you'll jump ship from New York, its much warmer where I am." I joked and everyone laughed as we each took our seats. The waitress came and took Alice and Jaspers drink order before telling us she would be back in a few minutes to see if we were ready to order our food.
"The heat would be nice but I'll admit I've become quite attached to the city." Jasper admitted.
"Totally, Bella you wouldn't believe the shopping options there. It has been heaven! Even if I can't buy half of it, just to be able to stand outside some of their boutiques and look has been like a religious experience."
"Real shocker, Alice happy around clothes." Edward muttered good naturedly.
"Oh shut up Edward, I bet even you would enjoy it, the variety of everything is unreal. I'm just glad to see you haven't switched to sweater vests and loafers while you've been away at your fancy Ivy league school." Edward rolled his eyes but smiled.
"So when are Emmett and Rose supposed to be in?" Jasper asked, browsing the menu.
"Not until later tonight, probably around nine or ten. Rose had a group project meeting that she needed to attend before they went on break so they weren't going to be leaving until later than they wanted too."
"Well that sucks, I wanted to see them." Alice pouted and I agreed with her, I missed those two as well.
"Well why don't we all catch some late desert with them? We can get something to go and chill at Edward's when they arrive for a little while. If that's okay with you Edward."
"No that sounds great." He smiled and I could tell he was excited to see his brother.
After we ordered our food the conversations continued and never stopped as each of us had plenty to say. While Jasper was telling a story I took a moment to drink it all in. I had missed this so much. The feel of Edward's palm in mine; Alice's infectious smile; Jasper's comforting presence. Don't get me wrong, I love Irina and Laurent but these people right here are like my family, no one could ever take their place.
We got a cheese cake to go and made are way back to the Cullen house. Esme had no problem with us chilling in the basement and volunteered to put the cake in the fridge for us. When Rose and Emmett arrived each of us received air stealing bear hugs from the Terminator himself. Luckily they ate in the car along the way and thanked us for getting cheese cake; Emmett was particularly grateful.
The next day we were over at the Cullen's early with some of our own food including my grandmothers sweet potato pie that I made that morning. It was a great day full of stuffing our faces, watching the Macey's Thanksgiving Day parade and just overall family time. We left rather early only because Alice and our moms were dragging me to Seattle at four in the damn morning for the Black Friday sales.
That day I learned that Alice Brandon was in deed not human but an Alien from another planet who had infinite energy supplies, a nose for sales and short temper for us humans who had trouble keeping up. I didn't buy all that much yet I ended up carrying a million bags with a collective weight that had to have been over a hundred pounds. By noon, when we stopped for lunch, I felt like I was about to collapse.
That night, when we finally got home, I snuggled with Edward in my basement and watched a movie. We made out for a little while but eventually I fell asleep in his arms, too tired to stay awake. Apparently Edward fell asleep to because I woke up with him cradled behind me, his arm keeping me in place. I was surprised to find that our parents let us stay there together for the night but I was glad they did, I missed waking up in his arms.
Saturday we spent the afternoon alone together, making use of my decently sized back seat. It was amazing to physically be with again not just for the obvious reasons but the emotional ones; the coming together as one being. That's one of the things I missed the most from our separation.
The evening was spent with our friends in Port Angeles, each of us knowing that the next day we would all be boarding planes to go back to school before Monday classes. We went out for dinner at a cute jazzy club with a live band that I loved. We danced, we ate and we talked. None of us wanted the night to end but when it was approaching midnight we all knew we should leave as we had another early day tomorrow.
I appealed to my mom, and Edward to his, for us to spend the night together at his place. After reminding them, specifically my dad, that we were eighteen and with promises to keep the door open they agreed. Even when we fell into his bed exhausted we were both reluctant to close our eyes, for fear of the next day would come faster.
Eventually we did succumb to our exhaustion, the two of us wrapped securely around each. Even in our sleep we didn't want to let go; it would never be close enough.
The morning came whether we wanted it to or not. As my parents couldn't get away, nor could Carlisle, Esme was driving both Edward and I to the airport. Alice and Jasper would meet us there as our flights were close together. Jasper and Alice would depart at three, Edward at 4:45 and I would be leaving at 5:30.
I had to go back to my house for a little while so I could not only make sure I had everything but to spend a bit of time with my parents before they had to leave. I said goodbye to Rose and Emmett before we left, telling them I would see them at Christmas. I was happy that during these last few days I was able to take a few minutes and pull Rose aside and thank her to her face for helping me and Edward weeks ago. We hugged and after she told me to stop acting like a girl, causing us both to laugh, we re-joined the group like nothing happened.
At 11:00 we were on the road and headed towards Seattle. We grabbed lunch along the way and sooner than I would have liked we pulled into the drop off/pick up. Esme couldn't stay but made up for that in hugs.
"Now you two have a good flight and call more often, I miss the two of you so much when you're gone."
"I promise." I whispered, kissing her on the cheek.
We found Alice and Jasper at a small café within the airport and joined them with our own drinks. We talked but we all subdued, not wanting to say goodbye. Alice and I cried when we hugged moments after their flight was called.
"You have to call me more often Bella, I mean it."
I laughed and squeezed her tighter. "Promise but remember it works both ways powerpuff."
"True. Edward, hug me before I cry again." He picked her up and hugged her tight while I hugged Jasper. I leaned back and kissed his cheek.
"You take care of her, you hear me."
"Of course."
"And try not to miss me too much."
"I will try but I make no promises."
Soon they were both gone and Edward and I were left alone, me snuggling into his lap as he sat on one of the uncomfortable airport chairs. When his flight was called I slowly eased off of him, though he made no move to leave, pulling me into a hug.
"I have to go."
"I know." Unfortunately.
He kissed my forehead tenderly, taking a deep breath. "Four days wasn't long enough." He whispered.
"God will it ever get easier to say good bye?" I asked, knowing the answer.
He sighed. "Probably not but remember this isn't good bye, its see you soon. It'll never be goodbye."
"You're right, I'll see you in a few weeks."
"Can't come fast enough love." He kissed me then, just as the final call for his plane was announced over the speakers. "I love you and I'll call when I land."
"I love you too, have a safe flight."
"You too." He pecked me on the lips, grabbed his bag and jogged over to the dwinfdling line. He handed his ticket to the flight attendant and moved to the doors, looking back one last time to wave. I waved back, tears in my eyes that I refused to let fall and then he was gone…again.
We couldn't keep doing this, every time I had to say goodbye I died a little but more. I needed to find a way for us to be together…
No matter what.
~*~OO~*~TRANSLATIONS
Un beau nom pour une belle fille = A beautiful name for a beautiful girl.
Le plaisir est tout le mien = The pleasure is all mine
Mon amour = my love.
Bonjour = hello.
~*~OO~*~
So, what did you guys think? Please review and let me know, a moment in the back seat of a car with our favorite guy if you do hehe. It's almost over *tears* and I'll try to get the final epilogue up faster than this one. Part of it is written so hopefully real life will give me time to work on it :) I hope you liked my Laurent and Irina and that the Stefan situation wasn't too bad. His original character is actually the Stefan from Breaking Dawn but for some reason I couldn't stop thinking of Vampire Diaries so if it helps to have a face use him hehe. I thought they needed to really have a bump in the road to overcome because lets face it, relationships even in the same town are hard. They made it through though :) I have a vision for how it will end, any guesses? I also put a little Twilight quotew in there, changin it slightly to make it fit. Anyone know what it was?
Links to outfits and other timbits on my profile. Just a reminder, the Breaking Dawn trailer is on my profile