a/n: Quick question; are you guys sick of this story yet? Be honest! Sorry my updates have been coming sort of slow over the past few days. I have been incredibly busy lately, my sincerest apologise for making you guys wait for chapters. No reason to fret though, I don't plan on just disappearing on you guys like some authors do, I will finish this story and re-write it in Edward's point of view, as promised, even if it takes a little time. Thank you all for your constant patience and wonderful reviews.
Dedication- silver sniper of night: Your review was amazing and well thought, thank you so much. I'm glad the element of fear I was attempting to portray with the father got through. It's hard to determine what readers will feel and if they will feel the way I want them to, so I'm glad that came across well. It didn't sound like criticism at all, I completely understand what you are saying, and I promise that Bella will...react...I don't really want to give to much away, but eventually you will see what I mean. I'm glad you believe in me and that I have your support for a re-write in Edward's point of view. I really want to give that a try, it sounds like a nice challenge. Thank you very much for your review, it means so much to me.
Nevaeh09: I'm sorry to hear about your past experience, I hope all is well now. As for relating to that last chapter; It's very surreal when you can relate to a story. I hope I didn't offend you in anyway, and my sincerest apologises if I did.
Unseen Wonder:I know many people that visit a physiologist; and everyone of them say they lie to them all the time. I'm like 'doesn't that sort of defeat the whole purpose of attending the sessions?' and my answer is, 'No way, those people are quacks.' Thanks for the suggests, but I have no idea how to get to my inbox for my PMs or how to send them...sorry...lol.
Bethany Knight: Your wish is my command. Of course Edward's step-father will be severely punished for his actions, I promise you that.
Twilight24Cullen: Thank you very much, nice to see a new reviewer. I was a little curious though, about your user name. It says Twilight24Cullen, and I was curious, does that little 24 between Twilight and Cullen have anything to do with the show 24, or just a random number. You have to understand, as much as I love Twilight, my true love is 24. Kiefer Sutherland is my all time hero and that show is so addicting. You have no idea just how in love with him I am. Excuse my mini-rant, don't get me started on 24. I was just simply curious if you watch the show lol. Now I want to know, does anyone else watch 24 or like Kiefer Sutherland?
lakepup: Yes I have been incredibly busy, but I love writing this story, so it's a good way to pass whatever free time I have. Most of my work is over now, Freshman came in second, (behind the seniors of course, this things rigged lmao) which never happened in our school yet, so all my hard work paid off! Yes, if you were uncertain of my age, you now know I am a freshman in high school, surprise? Every story I have written so far, when the reviewers find out I am only a freshman, they are shocked. Writing as I do, I guess they expect me to be older for some reason lol. It's honestly not that hard, I write everything, and leave the smuttish style writing to my partner in crime, Jimmy, that's his specialty lol. Sadly, I speak how I write, and everyone finds it humorous that I speak proper and everyone goes around correcting my sophisticated words and editing them into much smaller words, but enough on my age and speech preferences lol.Those are very good questions, but also questions that will be answered by a conversation between Bella and Edward not to long from now, promise. Bella reacts eventually, it might not be how we expect her to, but she does react, you'll see. Thanks so much for your review, it means a lot.
piratehannelore: Unique is what I aim for, so I'm very glad you think it is. I try to write my stories from a different angle than anything I have ever read. It's more enjoyable to read and write because the idea has never been explored before, so it's all new. It's nice to hear that you think it is amazing, I'm flattered. Very glad that you are enjoying the story as much as I am enjoying writing it! Thanks for your review!
Olympic1340: My sincerest apologises for making you cry, but I'm sorry to admit that, that was my goal while writing this lmfao. Oh I most definitely agree with you there, when I'm reading, I'm in the zone, don't try to talk to me. If I don't scream at you to go away, all you get is maybe a slight nod or an 'mhm', but that is incredibly rare. Ah, yes, of course Edward's step-dad would make an entrance at such a time, wouldn't make sense if he didn't! lol. I think even the smallest amount of help is good for Edward here, even if the abuse doesn't stop, at least he will have a little something to numb it. As for the picking up on something, I am very curious to see what you think you caught, you should e-mail it to me or something lmfao, my e-mail and myspace is in my profile. I think it was very logical for Edward to lie about it, it's understandable how afraid he is. I did a little research, (Of course I did, this kind of story couldn't be written unless you are properly educated on such subjects) and I found that children who have suffered from abuse, tend to shy away from even the thought of any kind of pain. I also read that they tend to have a very closed mind, so explaining to them that they won't be hurt if they tell someone basically does nothing. I can't wait to write Edward's side, as I write more to Bella's I get more and more excited! I can't wait! lol. Thanks for your review, they are always a treat.
icefang7, Bella595, jacobequalslove, katykat18, holliewooddream1, VampireCat3, and World Of Peace: Thanks very, very much for your reviews guys, they mean a lot.
The long awaited Chapter 25...
--
I was jolted awake by a quiet cry. The clock next to the bed read '11:23pm', had we really been asleep all day? That didn't surprise me; we both had long night. What did surprise me, was Edward. His feet were tangled in the sheets, his gown damp with perspiration. Quiet gasps left his mouth repeatedly while his head turned from left to right; his hands clutching me tightly. "Edward?" I whispered in his ear quietly; brushing my fingers over his face gently. "It's only a dream." I kiss down his jaw to his ear, whispering calming phrases into it. They seemed to work finally and his eyes snapped open, his breathing slightly uneven.
"Are you okay?" I was worried about him; he needed rest. "I'm fine, just a bad dream is all." He smiled slightly, but something told me that everything wasn't as okay as it seemed to be. "We really slept all day?" His eyes were on the digital clock that now read '11:29pm'. "Apparently, but it was well deserved rest; we have both been through a lot." Our eyes met, both of us just gazing into each others eyes.
"I woke up once at around 1pm, a nurse was putting something in my IV line." I slept like a rock; I didn't feel or hear anything that was going on around me. Being with Edward twenty-four seven was a tiring job, but worth it. I knew when I got a little more used to it; I would be just fine. I placed myself back in his arms and he happily complied, pulling me closer to him and snuggling against me. "I love you," his skin ghosted over my skin and I shuddered. "I love you too," no words could describe my feelings for him
"Edward, can I ask you something?" He nodded, kissing my neck gently. "How did your father pass away?" Edward was still for a moment, "A car accident," was all he said, and I didn't push for details. "I never told you how sorry I was for everything," The sympathy in my voice was raw. "I told you love, I don't want your sympathy." His voice was still calm and loving; something told me that the medication they put him on was already working. "I know you don't, but I still feel bad." Edward's head fell to my shoulder and he nuzzled it slightly. "My dad left me alone to deal with everything by myself. I'm not alone anymore though, now I have you." He seemed honestly grateful to have me in his life; it was rewarding to know I was making a difference, even if it was only a slight one.
"He didn't leave you alone on purpose. Besides, things were okay when he was around, right?" I felt his mouth pull up into a smile against my skin. "Oh my dad and I got along perfect, but not everything was okay. I still had problems, but my dad was patient, he really loved me." His voice was playful, but I could still hear the great amount of respect he held for his father; it was humbling. "Why do you bother to treat your step-dad with respect? I mean, you call him 'dad', when he isn't worthy of such a title, why bother?" His warm breath tickled the hair on my neck when he sighed, "It just makes everything easier. He told my mom that he wanted me to call him that, and to make things easy for her, I just did. It's no use trying to control the uncontrollable."
I sighed; both out of frustration and sadness. He shouldn't be forced to do anything he didn't want to do. Obviously, Edward was still suffering greatly from the loss of his father. Did it ever occur to anyone that some of his problems were caused by the fact that he was forced to except a new man into his life before he was ready? I pushed myself tighter against his chest; the beating of his heart vibrating his chest against my back. "Are you still tired?" "No, not at all, I am just thinking." He planted a gentle kiss on my neck, "Thinking about what?" I rolled in his arms; turning my body to face him. "I was thinking about how much I love you."...
...Edward's family returned the next morning. Edward and I spent the rest of the night talking and taking little naps on and off, only stopping so I could fetch us some food. Esme was the first one through the door in the morning. "They are ready to release you; they gave me the medication they want you to take, but you are aloud to leave." She sounded just as relieved as I felt. We signed papers and took care of some business before we headed out to Esme's car. I noticed someone was missing suddenly, "Where's Alice?" She was the first one I expected to see here, and she wasn't here at all.
"She stayed back at the house; she's been tired." I could hear the smile in Esme's voice, and I started to catch on, so I kept my mouth shut. The drive back to the Cullen's was a happy one. "I think I need to call Charlie." I suddenly remembered I had my own home and that today was a school day; which had already started. "I actually took care of that for you. I spoke with your father and he called the school; you're all set to stay."
I smiled gratefully, that was one less thing I had to worry and stress about. Edward seemed quiet suddenly, like he was thinking. "Mom, where's dad?" The car fell silent when Edward spoke. He had a right to know where his step-father was at all times. "He told me he was leaving for awhile. He only left a note that I found when I got back." Edward's brows pulled together in confusion and excitement. "He went away? Do you know where?" His voice was anxious, I could understand why. "Yes, he went away. No, I'm not sure where. All it said was, 'I'm leaving town for now, I don't know where I am going or how long I will be gone. It's not a good idea for me to stay right now, take care.'
The bastard knew Edward was going to be speaking to people now, and he was afraid. Good, he should be. Even though Edward lied, that monster of a man deserved to fear that any moment, cop cruisers were going to pull up to where ever he was staying and arrest him. I smiled at the win and Edward grinned at me, winking.
The mood in the car boosted even more. Emmet's booming laughter shook the whole vehicle while Jasper and him laughed about songs on the radio. The mood was so contagious that even Rosalie was having a good time. The ride went by way to fast, but I was excited to see Alice. We made our way to the front door which Esme unlocked. Everyone made sure Edward was the last one inside and turned on the lights. Alice decorated the living room; a big welcome home banner hanging across the doorway to the kitchen.
Edward and I both laughed, leave it to Alice to think of something cleaver to do for each and ever occasion. The Cullen house was buzzing with life; happiness seemed to seep in through the cracks in the walls. Edward seemed very calm and relaxed; something I never saw before. He seemed completely at ease for the first time since I had known him, and I wasn't sure if it was the medication he had in him or the fact that he was seeing hope for the first time in years, but I think it was a little of both. Esme, Rosalie, and Alice cooked while I finally got to play Wii with Emmet and Jasper.
Edward and I were forced on a team while Jasper and Emmet had fun kicking our asses at every game. It was much harder than it looked, hitting the tennis ball back and forth. Edward was a pro at it; he had no problem making up for my lack of skills, but Jasper and Emmet were simply gods at the game, and we were no match. After many unfair rounds of play and rounds of childish name calling by Emmet and Jasper, Esme finally called us up for food.
As we ate, I watched Edward closely, adding little to the conversation. He seemed like a completely different boy; in such a short period of time, I didn't think such a change was possible. He seemed to have lost all of his shyness and uncertainty, even his skin seemed much more tan. His eyes danced and sparkled with happiness, even the bruises on his face were fading. The constant fear that lingered over him and brought him down was finally lifted for now, and he could try living again.
By the time we all finished eating; it was nearing 2pm. Charlie usually stopped in for lunch around 2:30pm, and it had been awhile since I had been home. "Edward, would you mind taking a ride over to my house with me? I haven't seen my dad in awhile and he is not the best cook and he should be stopping in for lunch soon." He got my shoes for me, "Sure, one thing though; I drive." I had never seen him so free; it was like someone unlocked him from the jail cell that was his body.
He drove fast; as usual. The radio turned up so high that I could feel the bass vibrating in my chest; it was a nice feeling. For once, he played music that I knew, and we both sang along to each song. Our hands were intertwined together, resting on the center consul. They fit together like a puzzle piece, we were meant to be. Sure enough, Charlie's cruiser was parked in the driveway.
We both went to the front door, a bounce in our steps. I let go of his hand before I opened the door and went inside. "Hey dad!" I hugged him tightly, I missed him. "Hey Bells. Edward, I'm glad to see you're well." Charlie smiled at Edward, patting him on the back. Edward grinned back, his eyes flickering back to my hand. I could tell he wanted to hold it, I knew he did, but now wasn't the time to break the news to Charlie. We had been through enough stress for one week, that could wait a little longer.
I made Charlie some spaghetti while Edward and him chatted about some sports game. I could tell Edward didn't really know what he was talking about; but he didn't seem to mind playing along. I saved Edward from the conversation by handing Charlie a nice warm plate; that always shut him up. "Edward, it's a beautiful day, would you car to head out into the back yard?" "Do you have any paper?" I got him my art sketch book and a pencil. I never really used the sketch book; I was bad at art, so only the first 2 pages were used.
We sat outside in 2 lawn chairs facing the woods on the far side of the lawn. Edward drew the scenery while I read a book. It was peaceful, the 2 of us together on such a beautiful day. We stayed outside for hours; I didn't even notice Charlie had left because I was so relaxed. I swear I was in my own little world, my own little heaven. Of course, anywhere Edward was, was my own little heaven.
The sun was starting to set before I closed my book and looked over at him, a small smile on my face. "You almost filled my whole book." He nodded, but didn't look up. He wet his lips in concentration and continued to shade in the beautiful drawing of the woods. "You have a beautiful yard, perfect for drawing." I reached for the book and he added a few last minute touches to the page before he handed me the book.
He had close to 15 different pictures. Many of them were of the woods, each shaded differently as the sun changed position in the sky. A few others were of the small garden that Charlie planted next to the house years ago, but they were all amazing. "Edward, you are so talented." He smiled slightly, "They are for you, hang them up in your room so that every time you look at them, you will think of me."
I looked over to him, leaning to kiss his lips gently. "I am always thinking of you, I don't need any reminders, but I will hang them up." He smiled his beautiful smile that was just as amazing as the pictures he drew. His whole face seemed to glow with happiness, a happiness that he hadn't experienced in forever. It made me just as happy to know that I was part of the reason he felt such happiness and that I got to experience this with him. Here, with him, was truly my happy place.
--
a/n: Little hint; there was some foreshadowing in there somewhere, but I am giving no hints, so think hard. If you think you found it, tell me in your review, I want to know if anyone finds it. It's actually very hard to spot, but if you do find it, it's going to play a huge roll later on in the story, it's going to change everything! Tell me what you think it is; I'm not going to say if you are right or wrong until I get to the chapter where 'it' happens, but I still want to know. Sorry this took so long, I made it a little longer to try to make up for it. I love you all!
