Hello, I know my chapter is a little late but I had way too much fun over the weekend and I didn't get any writing done. Although I will tell you I went with my seester and angel to the restaurant where Edward and Bella had their first date and enjoyed some mushroom ravioli and coke before heading to Wal-Mart to buy New Moon.
Did you buy your copy and drool all over Edward?
Thanks to all that reviewed on the last chapter. I will tell you that I plan about ten more chapters after this one. This chapter gives some information and transitions us to the final stretch.
As usual I do not own Twilight or its Characters; I just love to play with them.
Enjoy!
"Hi my name is Royce; it's nice to meet you Bella."
I can't explain it but my skin literally crawled. I look into this dark eyes and I can't help but feel something is wrong with this guy. Then I shake the feeling since I know it's probably nothing more than my loyalty to Emmett. I take his hand as I give him the best smile I can muster.
His touch is cold on my hand. I withdraw mine as I look to Rose who beams as she bounces next to Royce. Taking a step towards Jasper I feel his arm wrap around me. I look into his eyes and try to convey my feelings on this whole situation and somehow Jasper already knows. I feel his hand rub my back as the comfort he provides calms my nerves.
Royce watches Jasper and I before he whistles for his group to join us. I feel James's eyes on me till he stands a little too close for my comfort. Jasper's arm tightens around me as James smiles to the both of us. For some reason I feel like a piece of meat. The crazy red takes James's hand while two other guys' joins our group.
"James, Victoria, Stefan and Demetri this is my brother Jasper and my friend Bella," Rosalie introduces us before crashing her lips to Royce's.
"Well Bella aren't you a sweet little peach," Stefan takes a step towards me as Jasper pulls me closer into his body.
"Man by all means don't let the little hotty speak for herself instead just whip it out and piss all over her," Demetri laughs before bumping fists with Stefan.
"He doesn't own me; Jasper here just tries to protect me from the rejects of society and based on your Neanderthal performance I would say I'm in dire need…of protection that is," I smile to both of the guys as Jasper lightens his grip while Royce and James break into laughter.
"Rosalie you weren't kidding this one is something else," James gives me a wink as Victoria glares at me.
"Yeah Bella is definitely one of a kind," Rosalie laughs before walking off with Royce.
Victoria drags James off with her and Stefan and Demetri kick up some rocks before walking away from Jasper and I. I let out a breath I didn't know I am holding as I look to Jasper. Jasper watches Rose walk away as I pull my phone out. I don't know why I brought it but I hope it was because for some reason on this beach I could get a signal. I want to go home.
My phone has one bar and I internally do a happy dance. I know I don't want to leave Rose and Jasper here so I call the only guy I can think of that would balance out this whole situation. I walk away from Jasper as I dial his number and wait while the phone rings.
"When did you get home?" his voice full of sleep as I smile at its warmth.
"Yesterday; what are you and the guys doing today Jacob?"
"Nothing that I can think of; you and Jasper coming out today?"
"Actually I was thinking that maybe you guys would like to come out and hang with us at Rialto Beach," I try to play coy but Jacob's silence let me know something is up.
"Bells you know I would love to see you but we don't hang out there," his voice is sympathetic.
"I understand; Jasper and I just didn't want to be out here alone," I use my disappointed voice hoping to guilt Jacob into coming out for the day.
"Bells I know why you and Jasper are out there and all I can say watch your back. Rosalie's new friends are bad news. We've had nothing but problems with that group since they showed up," Jake's tone is ominous as the feeling of dread washes over me. "And Bells don't take anything to eat or drink from them."
"I won't; thanks Jake. Jasper and I will be out soon," I push my feelings aside trying not to alarm Jake. "Talk to you soon."
"See ya Bells."
*~*
The day is long and drags by. Jasper watches Rose carefully as the two of us keep to ourselves. James all day keeps his eye on me as if he is tracking my every move. I can't understand why he seems so interested in me when Victoria is more than willing to give him whatever he desires. I stare at the water wishing for the seconds to move faster.
Charlie calls because I had forgotten to leave him a note and he was concerned. I use this as an opportunity to go home. I tell Rose that I need to get home while Jasper's parents call asking for the two of them to come home. I can't run over the driftwood fast enough to get to the car.
Entering my house I find Charlie on the couch watching a Mariners game. I set my bag on the stairs before heading into the kitchen for something to munch on and a glass of water. Charlie must've stopped by the diner for food since I didn't see any dirty dishes in the sink. I grab some carrots before heading into the living room.
"I didn't mean for you to come home right away Bells I just didn't know where you were," Charlie lowers the volume as he sits up on the couch.
"I wanted to come home and you gave me the perfect opportunity so thank you," I put a carrot in my mouth as Charlie gives me a concerned look. I finish chewing. "Rosalie has new friends that Jasper and I met today and I didn't like the vibe I got from them. It's no big deal."
Charlie's look becomes more concerned as he turns the T.V off. I try to focus on my carrots as I look anywhere but at my father. I know what's coming. My father is slowing disappearing as the chief of police is stepping in his place; even Charlie's posture changes.
"Bella what's going on?"
"Dad it's nothing. I just…I didn't get a good vibe. But it's probably because they're outsiders and they have their own way of being," I put another carrot in my mouth praying that I am able to defuse this situation before he has background checks run on all of them.
"I want names."
"Dad I need you to trust me. I did have a bad vibe but I think I was somehow looking at the situation as if supporting Rosalie in this relationship with Royce was being disloyal to the Cullen's or Emmett. I just…wanted to be home today. If I thought for one moment that these guys were dangerous I wouldn't hold out on you," I gave my dad the most convincing look I can muster.
"I want you to start carrying around a thing of mace and I'm enrolling you in a self defense class that starts next month," his tone stern as he looks me square in the eyes.
"Ok dad, if it will make you feel better not a problem," I normally would've protested but I needed the self defense class for when Edward comes home. I am going to show him that I can handle myself. "Feel better now Chief Swan?"
"Mock me all you want Bells but you are the most important thing in my life. Don't ever fight your natural instincts you have those feeling for a reason, ignoring them would be reckless. That bad "vibe" is your instincts telling you that there's something wrong," his posture changes as the chief leaves the building and my dad comes back. "I will let this go for now but Bella if anything happens please don't hesitate to tell me."
I love my dad. I smile to him as I nod before getting up and kissing his forehead. I walk to the stairs grabbing my bag as I hear Charlie turn the T.V back on. I know it's still early but I'm tired from all the sun and lack of sleep from the previous night. I climb the stairs telling Charlie goodnight before heading to my room to get on my pajamas. Once I change I crawl into bed and dial Edward's number. This whole day has been off and I need him to make it right.
"Today was the longest day I hate it when your phone doesn't work," his voice sounds relieved as I smile understanding him.
"My phone did work but I didn't call because there was a lot going on and I didn't want to involve you in it," I didn't want to alert him but I didn't want to lie to him either.
I gave Edward the same sugar coating that I gave Charlie. I know telling Edward the whole truth would see him and his family on a plane before I could talk any sense into him. I wasn't ignoring my instincts but I also made a decision that as much as I care for Rose I don't want anything to do with her new friends.
"Well now that you told me your version how about you tell me the truth," Edward's tone is slightly irritated but still concerned. "Jasper called Alice and told her all about it. Did you think she wouldn't tell me? The guys treated you like meat."
"Edward it wasn't anything Jasper and I couldn't handle. In fact did you hear the part where I stood up for the both of us? I told Charlie," here's hoping that scores me some points.
"Hopefully the truth versus what you told me."
"I told him enough to be concerned without running out and arresting people. Edward do you trust me?" my voice is strong as I try to bring him back to me and away from today.
"Bella of course I do."
"Then hear me when I say I wasn't in any danger today. The guys were pigs sure but they are no different then Eric, Tyler or even Mike Newton. You also have to remember that Rosalie is Jasper's sister and he was overly protective today of both her and I. The guys thought he was my boyfriend. Trust me and calm all that testosterone that's coursing through your veins," I couldn't help but be proud at the fact I had defused three potential nightmares today. "Please tell me how your day was?"
"Bella this isn't over," he sighs letting today go.
I can't help but laugh at him. I know that Edward hates to be laughed at especially when he's trying to deal with something. I meant to lighten the mood not provoke him even further. I listen as he breathes heavily on the other end. His resolve is fading. I love that I know Edward so well.
"I know you are looking for any excuse to come home which I'm not going to give you. Now tell me how you day was?"
"A nonevent really; I mean I didn't even crawl out of bed until two since someone kept me up all night. I played the piano and worked on a few new compositions and helped mom make dinner but other than that nothing," his tone softens but I can still hear a hint of concern; nothing a couple of hours of talk can't cure.
Our night didn't run quite as late. That's not to say that we didn't talk for three and a half hours. My eyes can't stay open since I haven't had that much sleep. I listen while Edward hums my lullaby into the phone. I can only smile before succumbing to my need for sleep.
*~*
I wake up the next morning to my ringing phone. I hold out hope that it's Edward calling to wake me up but I have a sinking feeling that it isn't. I hear the phone but can't find it. I forgot I had fallen asleep with it attached to my ear. I find it wrapped up in my sheets on the last ring.
"Hello?" I tried not to sound too irritated.
"Get up; I'm picking you up in a half an hour," Rosalie's tone is pleasant.
"Why?"
"We are going back to school shopping. Plus I want to hear what you thought about Royce so get up; shower and I will be there shortly."
I try to tell her I can't but she hangs up too quickly. I sit stunned. Yesterday and today Rosalie has ambushed me. As much as I care about Rose her crimp in my sleep is starting to wear on me. I look at my phone before dialing a number.
"Morning doll; what's up?"
"Is she for real?" I let the lack of sleep and irritation seep into my voice.
"I'm afraid so. Our parents put the kibosh on her seeing Royce for the moment so she's venting her frustrations with spending their money and dragging you along for the ride," Jasper's tone is elated as I can hear the smile in his voice.
"Don't suppose you are joining us?"
"Sadly darling Rosalie wants nothing to do with right now. I told our parents about the way the guys were acting and that Royce seems overly touchy and needless to say my parents decided that from now on Rose needs to stay closer to home and can't go anywhere without me."
"Wait a minute; so how the hell are you not coming with us then?" irritation turns to anger cause shopping and me do not go hand in hand.
"Well Rose says she's taking you so the parents think she's ok out with the chief's daughter," I listen as Jasper laughs at how Rose being with me somehow makes Rose behave.
"So what do I do if we veer in the direction of Royce's house?" I listen as Jasper's laughter quickly dies and he exhales loudly. I'm guessing he never thought Rose would use me to see him.
"It's a good thing I love ya Bella, I'm getting ready. See you in twenty," Jasper's laughter begins as I pull the blanket over my head yelling out in irritation.
I push the covers back as I force myself out of bed and into the shower. I move quickly since I now know that Rose is going to be pissed. I don't want to deal with shopping and a pissy Rose. All I want is a fun day with my friends. I get out of the shower and quickly get dress before running a brush through my wet mop and pulling it into a bun.
I dabbed a little moisturizer on my face as I rush through brushing my teeth. I know Rosalie will cringe at the sight of me but I am up and moving against my will she will just have to put up with my appearance…at least until we leave the first store and she makes me change into whatever she happens to buy me. Like the Cullen's, the Hale-Whitlock's love to spend money on other people including their fashion victim friend Bella.
I grab my phone and my small purse with my money and head downstairs. I half expect Rosalie to be in front of my house and am surprised when I see my driveway is empty. I decide to eat breakfast and call Edward. I know I don't have a lot of time but I am happy with a pop tart on the fly and a simply "hello" from Edward. I dial his number as I grab the last strawberry pop tart.
"Good morning beautiful; what's on the agenda today?"
"Shopping, shopping, and more shopping," I fake the cheerleader rah-rah excitement as sarcasm drips from my lips. I take a bite of my pop tart as Edward laughs out loud.
"Oh my poor Barbie doll where is she dragging you today?"
"God only knows. I am nothing more then her victim although I was able to con Jasper into going since their parents put a hold on Rosalie and her new dream guy for a while," I am rather impressed that my Jedi mind tricks worked so effectively. If I have to suffer then so did Jasper; although sadly he does enjoy shopping which is another reason why him and Alice are perfect for each other.
"Will you try to have fun?" his tone sympathetic but hopeful.
"I always do. I think it will all depend on how the siblings get along today. Apparently there is something of a mutiny in their household these days. What are you going to do today?"
"I am finishing up a couple of compositions. See my girlfriend is making me stay away from her so I can work under some big shot pianist and one of the requirements is fifteen original compositions. It gives us something to work on over the year. I have fourteen right now," his tone a little sad at the mention of another school year apart form one another.
"Well I hope you use my lullaby since it's the most beautiful piece of music I have ever heard."
"I'm not using that since these are pieces that we are to working on and somehow making better. I have it on good authority that your lullaby is already perfect," Edward's smile radiated through the phone as my heart ached a little missing him. I could see him on his piano bench with his sheet music in front of him working away.
"Well no matter what this guy says your music is beautiful," I look out the window to see Rose's car pull up as I waive to her from the window. "Sorry babe but Rose just got here and I gotta go; call me later?"
"When I take a break I will try and save you from shopping hell. Love you."
"Love you too," I hang up while opening the front door in time to greet Jasper. We exchange pleasantries before walking to the car. From the looks of thing Rose seems like she's in a good mood. Maybe today will be a good day after all.
*~*
Six hours and hundreds of dollars later the three of us crawl back into Rosalie's car for the long drive home. We normally would've shopped in Seattle but since we didn't leave at the crack of dawn we went to Silverdale instead. I suggest food since the pop tart has worn off and my stomach was now loudly talking to me; besides Red Robin has the best teriyaki chicken burgers.
All three of us order food and begin a tame conversation. Jasper and Rosalie have been nice to each for the majority of our time together. A couple of times one or the other would throw a snide comment at each other but otherwise they remain civil. I try to steer us towards topics that won't start World War III.
The food arrives and we all eat in relative silence. I don't like this strain. The mood is wrong and watching Jasper and Rose my heart breaks a little. Jasper told me once that they have always been close. Rosalie has never treated him like the pesky little brother and Jasper unconditionally looks out for his sister. I decide to stick my nose into this situation and talk to Jazz when we got home.
The drive home is good. I sit in the front and control the radio station. I like something in between what both Rosalie and Jasper like. The three of us even sing along to half of the songs and my heart fills knowing that least for a brief time that it's like it was before Jazz and I went to Chicago.
Charlie is home when I get home as I give Rose a hug and thank her for all the clothes she bought against all my pleading. She laughs at me and hugs me back. Before I close the door she yells to me that she won't be calling me tomorrow and I secretly jump up and down on the inside. Jasper walks me into the house with seven bags filled clothes. Charlie greets him before poking fun at me.
"Gees Bells; did you leave some clothes for others to buy?" Charlie laughs as Jasper joins in.
"I was with Rose; like I had any say so in what was bought. I just had to make sure it fit me," I roll my eyes at both of them as if they didn't know how Rosalie is; although with Alice and Esme I would've come home with at least ten bags.
Jasper follows me upstairs to help drop off the clothes. He sets the bags by my bed as I look to him. He gives me a soft smile before heading for the door.
"Jazz you have to trust her. I don't like Royce in fact he gives me the creeps but he's her choice. What would you do if your family didn't like Alice?"
"Bella who wouldn't love Alice?" his tone is playful as I give him a stern look. "Knowing me I would date her in spite of what they said."
"This guy is a total used car salesman and if everyone just allows things to progress Rose will figure it out on her own. Emmett hurt her and she needs to work it out and we need to support her," I take his hand as Jasper wrestles with himself.
"This guy is all wrong. I would act the same way if you came home with him or James for that matter," his tone had an edge to it. I didn't think Jasper has been paying attention, apparently I was wrong.
"I think he has a nice body and nothing more," my tone is defensive as I'm filled with guilt and Jasper can see it.
Jasper pulls me into a hug. His warmth is inviting as I close my eyes. Jasper is apart of my strength and support. I love him and without him I'm not sure I could've made it through this time apart from the Cullen's. I want so much to give him all that he has given me. He pulls back from me as Rose honks her horn.
"I will try; she's my sister and I hate to watch her do this," he kisses my cheek before heading to the door.
"I love ya Jazz and I know both Rose and I will be safe in your hands," I smile at him as his face lights up.
"Love you too Bella. See you later," he smiles at me as I nod.
Jasper leaves my room as I look out the window to wave at Rose while Jasper runs out to the car. I look over at all the bags and I know I should put all the clothes away but I don't want to. I let me mind drift and for some reason it moves to James. I try to shake it off but for some reason there is something about this guy that is staying with me much longer than it should.
I think about Royce too as I try to decide what it is about him that makes me so uncomfortable. The way he looks at Rose isn't with care but possession. Rose is beautiful in fact the most beautiful girl in town but Royce is new so it's something else. I can't shake my dread but I know Rose well enough that if we fight her on this she'll marry the guy just to prove that it's her choice and we have no say so in it.
So I am going to swallow my dread and growing fear and pray to whatever's out there that we all come out on the right side of this. I mean I could be wrong. I would like that. I will give these new friends the benefit of the doubt. I will do exactly what I'm telling Jasper to do. Once again James enters my head as my cell phone rings. I am grateful that Edward is calling to bring me back to where I need to be.
*~*
September
School starts as Jasper and I move over to the High School. The school is small so moving around it is easy. I recognize all the faces as Jasper and I walk to our lockers. We are next to each other and have four classes together. I see Mike Newton walking down the hall with his arm around Jessica Stanley and I have to laugh. They couldn't be more perfect for each other. Mike waves to me as Jessica gives me a condescending greeting.
I shake my head and keep moving on to my first class. Jasper leaves me at my class as he walks to his. I walk in thankful that I at least know Mike and Jessica aren't in this class. I look around the room and find an empty seat. Next to walk in is James. I hold my breath hoping he takes an empty seat but I slowly release as I realize he's coming straight for me. I am about to make up a lame excuse when I see Angela walk in.
"May I?" James's tone is oozing with charm.
"Sorry I'm saving this seat for my friend, Angela," I wave over to her as she joins me.
James nods his head and grins as he takes the desk behind me. I'm not sure I really want him behind me but I am glad to be away from any close proximity to him. Angela sits down as we easily converse about our summer. Talking with Angela I am reminded of how great she really is. This year will be the perfect opportunity to get to know her. Normally I would be too distracted by Edward; that sadly won't be an issue.
Second period I sit with Jasper as Jessica and Lauren pepper us with questions about the Cullen's and Chicago. I give vague answers while Jasper gushes about how much he misses Alice and how Edward completely dotes on me. Jessica and Lauren both have a thing for Edward so I have to smile as their faces become less enthusiastic the longer Jasper talks about Edward's love for me.
Third period finds me stuck with Mike, Erik and Victoria. I want to cry as I listen to Erik talk about his summer of finding incredible stories that will get him on the paper this year. Mike talks about his relationship with Jessica and how she never likes to do anything other than shop, go to the movies and eat out. Victoria on the other hand doesn't talk to me at all. In fact all she does is glare at me.
Fourth period is my favorite class English. I sit in between Jasper and Angela while the teacher tells us we will be reading Romeo and Juliet, Pride and Prejudice and Withering Heights. I love all three books and have read them more than once. I am totally going to ace this class. Jasper looks at me with concern as I lean over and tell him I will tutor him.
Lunch is something new all together. Angela is sitting with Mike, Jessica, Erik, Lauren and Tyler. Rosalie is sitting with Royce, Demetri, James, Victoria and Stefan. I look to Jasper trying to figure out where we belong. Angela waves us over to her table as Jasper and I decide that one day with the bobble heads and Angela won't be too bad.
Fifth period has me in total hell. Gym for the uncoordinated is basically walking a gauntlet. Add to that Mike, Jessica and James and I want to cry. Jasper laughs as he gives James a look that suggests back off. Jasper may not be a bear like Emmett but it didn't make him any less menacing. I would have to remember to tell Edward.
Sixth and final period of the day is quite comedic. The bobble heads are there along with Angela, Jasper and of course James. This teacher doesn't like you to sit with your friends so he seats alphabetically according to your last name. I watch as Jasper walks to the other side of the room as James or James Swinton takes his seat next to me.
"I thought I would never get to sit next to you Miss Swan," his grin radiates all over his body as Victoria burns a whole through me.
The teacher goes over the syllabus as James passes a note in my direction. I pretend not to notice. I don't want to make friends with this guy. When I ignore his subtle hints, James finally reaches over and rubs the back of my hand with his index finger. I jump a little as the spark that passes through me startles me. No one notices as I look over at him. He points to the note.
Why don't you like me?
I look back at him as I shake my head and look to the teacher. James pulls the note back to him and scribbles something else before pushing the note back to me. I look over wanting James to keep his hands to himself.
Your boyfriend is so insecure that you can't even have a friendly conversation with the new guy; awfully possessive if you ask me.
I shake it off as I laugh internally. Jasper isn't the jealous type but Edward on the other hand would have this guys head. I didn't talk a lot about this guy to Edward since I knew his reaction and I didn't want him getting upset when there is nothing he can do about it. I ignore him as James pulls the paper back to him and scribbles some more.
I am a very patient person. I can hold out.
I look at him as he grins at me. I have no reaction to him but I can feel Victoria staring daggers into me. I roll my eyes as I turn back to the teacher. The teacher finishes with the syllabus as he tells us that the person sitting next to us is our partner for the rest of the semester. Why isn't this guy sitting in front of me next to Jessica?
The last bell rings as I move quickly to get to Jasper. Jasper and I walk out of the room with Angela as Lauren and Jessica mutter about how hot James is and why do I always get to be with him? I didn't see this seating arrangement as an honor as Jasper and I walk to our lockers. Rosalie walks hand in hand with Royce as we drop off our books. Rose is our ride home so we all walk to her car.
A week later and it's my birthday where I am embarrassed left and right. Charlie wakes me up with breakfast in bed before giving me my gift which is a printer for my pictures. I love it. I am spending a fortune getting my pictures developed especially the ones that I get in five by sevens and eight by tens. I wrap my arms around his neck while I tell him how much I love him.
Jasper and Rose promised not to say anything at school about my birthday. I almost made it through the whole day without any fuss. That is until I get to sixth period. I walk in to find flowers and balloons at my desk. I immediately turn bright red as I look to Jasper who is wearing a sheepish grin.
I walk over to my desk to see a card. I open it quickly and smile. Edward sent the flowers, Alice sent the balloons. I am going to get him for this. I smell the beautiful purple roses as I take my seat next to James who leans over and wishes me a happy birthday. I excuse myself to the bathroom. Once in the hall I pull out my phone and dial a number waiting before it picks up.
"You are in so much trouble mister," I try to sound angry but fail miserably.
"Happy birthday beautiful; I had an early meeting which is why I didn't call you, sorry love," his voice smiles as I am filled with warmth. "Did you get the flowers?"
"And the balloons, yes I did. Thank you for the embarrassing production, all of the girls are jealous as hell right now," I giggle as I hear him laugh. "How was your meeting?"
"Boring but I accomplished what I needed to. So birthday girl what are your plans for the rest of the day?"
"Nothing that I know of; probably dinner at the diner," I furrow my eyebrows trying to think if Charlie said anything. A teacher walks toward me as I move into the bathroom. "Ok I have to go before my teacher thinks something happen to me but I love you and I will call you tonight."
"I love you birthday girl."
I hang up the phone and head back to class. I smile thinking about Edward. How did I get so lucky? Class is over quickly as Jasper helps me carry out my birthday loot. Rosalie is waiting for us. Her excitement is written all over her face as I look to Jasper. Something is up and I know I am in trouble.
A couple of hours later I walk into the diner to find all my new friends, the boys from the reservation, Jacob, Billy and of course Charlie surprising me with a party I am so not expecting. I smile as I hug Angela before being enveloped in Jacob's growing arms. I say hello's before turning to Jasper and Rose who look like they both ate the canary.
"Thank you guys; it's really great," I make sure my tone is genuine. Even though I am not the kind of person who likes surprises I appreciate the effort and care they put into this.
Rose hugs me before leaving Jasper and I to meet up with Royce and James. I look to Jazz who gives me a smile before handing me three boxes. I take one box and unwrap it. It's a beautiful top that I know immediately is from Alice. I set the top down before grabbing the second one. It's from Carlisle, Esme and Emmett. I open the box to find paper for my new printer with extra ink cartridges and a couple of CDs. I laugh at how the adults coordinate.
The last box I open with excitement. This one is from Edward and I know it's going to be good. I remove the tissue paper to find a book. I remove the book from the box and flip through the pages. A look of shock comes over my face as Jasper asks what's wrong.
"Edward made a book out of my photographs," I whisper the words as I continue to move through my photos.
The book is beautifully crafted. I reach the end of the book and there is a picture of Edward and I and a tear comes to my eye as I ghost my fingers down the image. The only thing missing from today is the other part of my family and Edward. Jasper tells me to look at the front of the pages as I find the inscription above my photo of our meadow.
To My Bella
Your view of our world is inspiring. I look at your images and see the talent of this person you are becoming. I hate that I am not there to watch you go through this in person but I am so proud of you. Thank you for bringing me home.
Happy Birthday Bella, I love you.
Edward
I couldn't see through the tears as Jasper laughs at me. I join in his laughter as I hand him my book. He flips through the photos he already seen as I compose myself. I try to enjoy the rest of the night but all I want to do is go home and call Edward. No one is as loved as I am in this moment.
October
This month moves quickly as fall is in full swing. In September I joined the yearbook staff and news paper taking pictures. Angela actually got me to join since she is also a photographer. I like that I get to use my camera more frequently. On weekends I get out while the weather's still good and take photos that I can send Edward.
I also send him the shots I take at the football games. Edward laughs that I am actually participating in school activities but says my pictures are really good. Charlie and Billy come and watch as the Spartans get their asses handed to them every week. The only team that I can think of as bad as ours is the Rough Riders from Port Angeles.
James is still persistent as I continue to avoid him all together. I work with him but only when absolutely necessary. Victoria is an odd duck; she doesn't ever speak to me but whenever James breaths in my direction she insert needles into my eyeballs. Jasper thinks she is highly unstable which makes staying away from James all the easier.
I start taking my self defense classes in the middle of the month. Charlie signed me up so that if I have any problems with any of the boys I can take care of myself. I laugh cause apparently all I need in life is mace and self defense. The classes are on Tuesday and Thursday for six weeks. Of course Charlie would sign me up for the extensive training.
Edward's private classes are turning out to be more challenging than he anticipated. Everyday we talk about how this guy doesn't care for Edward's compositions and tries to change them. Edward's frustration some days is through the roof. I talk him down every night and every night he jokingly tells me this is all my fault; before of course thanking me for making him stay.
I get a new CD of his compositions weekly and I can see the differences. Edward's attention to detail with this guy's perfectionist attitude is bringing about a maturity in Edward's music. On the CD I get to hear the before and after and the difference at times is subtle but changes the piece dramatically. I ask if he's going to use my lullaby and he immediately says no. That piece is just for us as I tell him it's perfect as it is.
November
The weather is getting cold as the rain is constant. Football season is over but I still have to cover several events including pep assemblies and various activities around school. I have to say I didn't think I was going to be so busy. I find that I like the world from behind my lens as I start to think about colleges.
English class is also where I am thriving. I love the literature and the papers that we are writing. I tutor Jasper after school since this is not his area but it's a great trade off since he loves history and I am lousy with dates. We feed off each others work as Angela joins us to study quite a bit.
I don't think Angela really needs any help but she enjoys our company as much as we enjoy hers. I like her a lot. She's quiet but opinionated; self conscious and yet bold. I watch her as she tries to decide what she wants for herself. I think she has a crush on Jasper and soon I will have to tell her that there is no hope there.
James's games continue. I ignore him in class so he goes out of his way to do things that make me engage him in some way. Whether it's a note, a drawing, asking for a piece of paper or a pen, sometimes he bumps me with his knee or hand just so I will look over at him. I have to say that it's wearing my defenses down a little bit. How bad can he really be?
Rosalie and Royce are still pretty hot and heavy. I thought by now Rosalie would've seen through his charm but instead she seems to be disappearing more and more everyday. I know that Rose wants to be with someone who cares about her but she doesn't have to party all the time and do god knows what to be cared about.
For a week in October and a week this month Rose was grounded for ditching classes. Rosalie takes school pretty seriously. She has her college picked out since she wants to do something with cars; she told me once but I wasn't really paying attention. So for her to ditch and put her grades in jeopardy is uncharacteristic for her.
On the eighteenth I got a package from Alice. She made dresses for Rose and me. I had given her our measurements and the dresses turned out beautifully. I gave Rosalie hers as we gushed about owning Alice Cullen's originals. Rosalie and I model our new dresses while Jazz takes some pics. I send them to Edward and Alice. God I miss them and no matter how much busy work I have, it's never enough.
December
Two and a half weeks of the semester is all that remains. I have managed to speak to James only when it's necessary for assignments in class. I have fought all the notes, advances, and every other thing he has thrown my way. I truly believe at this point his only interest is the chase. Too bad I was never one for running.
Edward has this month off and everyday we plan for his escape to come visit me. I tell him it's his turn since I still have school. Using the web cam, Edward helps me with my homework and I can't help but laugh. Edward has a tutor that works with him so that he can stay at grade level. I know that Edward misses the interaction with other kids since the only people he interacts with is his family, his tutor and his instructor.
Siobhan, Liam and Alistair come by and see Edward occasionally but are busy with their own lives. Edward did say that Siobhan and Maggie broke up so he got the opportunity to comfort her through that. Siobhan told Edward she wants her next girlfriend to be like me. I could only laugh at that. Here I thought she was stealing my boyfriend but in reality she likes me. How backwards is that?
I get through my finals and say goodbye to the semester. The thought of two weeks off makes me want to climb the walls. I know I will be hanging out with Jasper and I will get to see Rose but I will be alone. I think about all the web chats I'm going to have with Edward and somehow I feel less alone.
Two days before Christmas, exactly a year since the Cullen's moved to Chicago I find myself out at their house. Charlie drops me off before heading to work. I want to dust and open the house up. I haven't been in a couple of weeks and I need to keep my end of the bargain. I unlock the front door and I am hit with their faint smell.
I walk in and look around the empty shell. In six months this house will have life in it again as laughter and love fills the walls. I can't wait for that happy day. Lately my dreams have been giving me a preview of what I hope will be life once Edward gets home. We walk the halls hand in hand, I listen for hours as Edward plays music for me on the piano and I get to feel his arms around me and his lips on mine.
I shake myself from my daydream as I open windows. The air is damp and cold so I won't have to keep the windows open for long. Then I start dusting. How is it possible to hate something so small? I mean dust has no purpose and yet you exert a lot of energy trying to get rid of it. Once I am finished I vacuum the downstairs.
I cleaned the upstairs the last time I was here so I decide to dust quickly before taking a walk. I still have a couple of hours before Charlie picks me up. I am glad I brought my coat. We haven't seen snow yet but I know it's on the horizon. The white powder can't help but torture us. I walk lost in thought before I reach my destination.
I push through the brush and see our meadow. My heart can't help but ache as I look at the empty space. The surrounding trees are still green as is the grass but the flowers are gone as the dark ominous sky threatens rain. I pull out my phone needing Edward more than ever.
"I am missing you so much right now I can barely stand it," I try not to whine but even I can hear it in my voice.
"And here I thought I was the only one feeling that today," his voice is soft and sad.
"What's wrong with your day?" I try to comfort him as I lay down on the ground.
"Aside from the fact that you aren't here; I am just done with being here and I want to come home. Where are you?"
"I'm here," I smile as tears fall from my eyes.
Silence passes for a couple minutes. I compose myself as I hear rustling on the other end of the phone and I know Edward is still in bed. I can't help but smile because Edward can be a lazy lump when he has nothing to make him move.
"Bella; are you ok?" his voice is unsure as I hear him take a breath and hold it.
"I'm ok. Why can't it be May already? I miss you so much. I miss your arms, your hands, your body, your lips, your smell hell I even miss that crooked grin you give me. What are the chances I will find you under my tree with a big red bow around you?"
"Oh Bella sadly slim to none; I tried to swing it but my parents aren't quite ready to be without their kids at Christmas," his tone is even sadder as I close my eyes. "Like I could go by myself, Alice would have a coronary."
"May will be here before we know it," I try to lighten my tone knowing that being all sad isn't going to do either one of us any good.
"So you miss my body?" his tone is mischievous as I laugh heartily. This is why I love Edward Cullen.
We talk for about an hour before I finally have to get off the ground because I am shivering so bad I can barely continue our conversation. I listen as he tells me to go to his house and get undress and put on his clothes to warm up. I can't help but feel a sensation growing inside of me as I realize that something is changing between us. It's exciting to listen to this new tone from him while this feeling burns in my core while fear creeps around the edges.
I reluctantly let him go since Charlie will be at the house in a little bit and I want to run through the house to make sure it's clean. I close up all the windows and make sure all the doors are locked. I enter Edward's room as I remove another one of his sweat shirts and pull it on. I breathe him in as the tears return.
Knock this shit off right now!
Stop being a baby and go downstairs.
I wipe my eyes as I leave Edward's room. I'm not going to do this. I have spent a year being stronger than this. It's Christmas and I am overly emotional as always. I smile to myself thinking about Charlie's gift this year. It won't top last years but he's going to love it all the same.
I walk out of the Cullen's as I see someone walking into the trees. This is a private drive and there aren't any houses around. I pull out my mace as I follow the person into the brush. Last thing I need is someone casing the house. I can hear the person breathing heavily as I gain on the person in front of me.
"Can I help you?" I try out my stern tone, it's a little weak.
The figure in front of me stops and I realize I am in the woods and even if I scream, no one would hear me. My pulse quickens as the person in front of me turns as my mouth falls. It's James and his face is bruised and bloody. I have no words as I move towards him.
"What happened to you?"
I am leaving it here. I know I am evil but all good things come to those that wait. I am already working on the next chapter and I am hoping to have it done by the end of the weekend.
Hint for next chapter: Guess whose finally coming home! That's all the tease you get.
I love your words so let me know what you thought?
What do you think happened to James?