A/N: Thanks to all of you who continue to read, review, and add me to your favorites/alerts list. And since I haven't done one in a while....
Disclaimer: All characters from Twilight belong to SM. Dr. Smithwick belongs to me along with this crazy plot.
Chapter 25: Mission Critical
EPOV
Beep...Beep...Beep
What the hell is that noise?
Beep...Beep...Beep
Oh yeah, it's satan...also known as my alarm clock.
I slowly crawled out of bed, trying desperately to ignore the pounding in my head. I managed to make it to the bathroom where I found the Tylenol. It was going to be a long day if I didn't get rid of this massive headache. After swallowing three of the pills, I made my way back to my room, sitting down at my computer I took a few minutes to reflect.
What the fuck happened yesterday? How could one of the best days of my life turn into an absolute nightmare. Well that's an easy one word summary, Jessica. I was on such a high after spending the afternoon locked in a practice room with Bella, a piano, and my composition notebook. I haven't felt that alive in god knows how long. Spending time with my friends afterwards just made the day even better. But then the she devil herself had to appear and ruin it all for me.
I've known for a few weeks that she was desperate to talk to me, about what, I had no clue. In my mind there wasn't anything more she could possible say to me that I'd want to hear. I thought I made myself painfully obvious when she approached me in the coffee shop the first morning I met Bella there. Damn if I was wrong. To make matters worse, Alice literally walked right into the confrontation. By some miracle, Alice had never really released her wrath on Jessica. She was too concerned with keeping me together to process her own anger. I thought I'd hit the ground when she slapped Jessica. And poor Jasper, I can't imagine what was going through his head.
I didn't try to stop Alice though. She deserved to have her say after all these months of holding back. Jessica had hurt Alice as well. Even after both Alice and I had our turn telling Jessica to 'fuck off' I'm pretty sure I haven't seen the last of her. I've always known she'd find a way to get back into my life, but I never thought she'd throw herself at me with claims of still being in love with me. She must truly be psychotic if she thinks I'd ever remotely consider taking her back after all the shit she put me through.
By this time the Tylenol was working it's magic and I knew I needed to find some breakfast. After a quick shower I grabbed a granola bar and sat back down at my computer. I had intentions of looking for Bella's birthday present but I couldn't focus on a single task. My brain was on overdrive and there wasn't a thing I could do to slow it down.
The longer I sat at my computer desk stewing about this, the more pissed I became. Good thing Dr. Kym was making time for me today. I have to blow off a class but my mental stability is much more important than an hour long lecture. I can always get the notes from a classmate.
As pissed off as I am, I'm also terrified. I've made good progress over the past few months and I don't want any set backs. I also don't want to cause any potential problems for Bella and I. If I told the truth, yes, I really did want Alice to call Bella and ask her to come over last night, but I didn't think I was in the right frame of mind to tell her the whole history of Edward and Jessica. I was also unsure of how she would handle the entire truth. She is obviously dealing with her own traumatic past and I don't want to burden her with mine, but Bella has a way of calming me down that even I don't understand and I could have really used that yesterday. I know I'm going to have to talk to her soon and give her all the dirty details. I want her in my life, in whatever capacity I'm blessed with, but she needs to know about my past. It explains so much about who I am today.
I didn't have any intentions of picking out a song for my session with Dr. Kym this afternoon but as I was listening to my iPod I found the perfect song. Alice must have downloaded it on one of the many occasions she swiped it from me. Our taste were quite different but I could appreciate the lyrics. Jasper woke up and decided he needed to go on a quest for food. He didn't say anything about what Alice told him but he did remind me that he was here if I needed a male to talk to. After our manly heart to heart, we made our way to the cafeteria for some real grub...the granola bar just didn't cut it.
By ten I was sitting in my first class of the day, but I couldn't concentrate. I noticed a girl that was in my one o'clock class sitting a few rows in front of me, so I graciously asked her if she would mind if I borrowed her notes for today's class, later in the week. She agreed before giving me a smile and winking...I think she was trying to flirt with me, but it did nothing for me.
I had to rush to make my next class. The professor piled on the assignments and I knew that if I wanted to go to Bella's party this weekend, I'd have to hit the books hard for the rest of the week. After all, my sister hadn't just planned a day to celebrate Bella's birthday, she planned the whole weekend. After class was dismissed I sprinted back to the dorm to get my car. Today was definitely a day I needed the entire time with Dr. Kym so I didn't want to be late.
I was surprised to see Dr. Kym in the waiting room as I stepped off the elevator. She silently motioned for me to follow her. She barely had the office door shut behind us when she started speaking.
"Edward, are you any better today?"
"Yes...and no. It's been an emotional roller coaster."
I walked over to her iPod docking station, plugged in my iPod, and selected the song. The sounds of 'Don't Wanna Think About You' by Simple Plan filled the room.
Can you leave me here alone now
I don't wanna hear you say
That you know me
That I should be
Always doin what you say
Cuz I'm tryin to get through today
And there's one thing I know
I don't wanna think about you
Think about me
Don't wanna figure this out
I Don't wanna think about you
Or think about nothin
Don't wanna talk this one out
I won't let you bring me down
Cuz I know
I don't wanna think about you
Don't wanna think about you
When I wake up here tomorrow
Things will never be the same
Cuz I won't wait
Cuz you won't change
And you'll always be this way
Now I'm gonna get through today
And there's one thing I know
I don't wanna think about you
Think about me
Don't wanna figure this out
I don't wanna think about you
Or think about nothin
Don't wanna talk this one out
This time I won't let you bring me down
Won't let you shut me out
This time I know
I don't wanna think about you
Run away
Run away
Running as fast as I can
Run away
Run away
I'll never come back again
Run away
Run away
Don't wanna think about you
Think about me
Don't wanna figure this out
Don't wanna think about you
Think about me
Don't wanna talk this one out
I don't wanna think about you
Think about me
Don't wanna figure this out (figure this out)
I don't wanna think about you
Or think about nothin
Don't wanna talk this one out
This time I won't let you bring me down (bring me down)
Won't let you shut me out (shut me out)
This time I know
I don't wanna think about you
Run away
Run away
I don't wanna think about you
Run away
Run away
I don't wanna think about you
Run away
Run away
I don't wanna think about you
"That's a good song choice Edward. It's very straight forward. No need to explain your feelings behind this song."
"Well, it was either this or Kelly Clarkson."
That got a laugh out of Dr. Kym, but I wasn't joking. Right after Jessica and I broke up, I walked into Alice's room one day and she was playing 'Behind These Hazel Eyes' and I admit, I laid on her bed and cried like a baby, something I would only ever do in front of Alice. For some reason I felt like sharing that with her.
"Well actually, one of her songs was pretty fitting to me after the break up and the more I think about it, it probably is still somewhat fitting."
"Would you like to play it?"
"I'm not sure if it's still on my iPod, but I'll check. I think Alice created a play list of her own for when she swipes it from me."
It was still there so I played it, feeling more than slightly embarrassed. I mean, how many guys have Kelly Clarkson on the iPods? Even if it was put there by their sister. When "Behind These Hazel Eyes' started playing I couldn't help but go back to that place I was a few months ago.
Seems like just yesterday
You were a part of me
I used to stand so tall
I used to be so strong
Your arms around me tight
Everything, it felt so right
Unbreakable, like nothin' could go wrong
Now I can't breathe
No, I can't sleep
I'm barely hanging on
Here I am, once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it, can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up, deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
I told you everything
Opened up and let you in
You made me feel alright
For once in my life
Now all that's left of me
Is what I pretend to be
So together, but so broken up inside
'Cause I can't breathe
No, I can't sleep
I'm barely hangin' on
Here I am, once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it, can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up, deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
Swallow me then spit me out
For hating you, I blame myself
Seeing you it kills me now
No, I don't cry on the outside
Anymore...
Here I am, once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it, can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up, deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
We sat in silence for a few moments before she spoke. I had never played this song for her and I suspect that it gave her a better idea of how the situation weighed on me.
"Thanks for sharing that song with me. It really tells me a lot about how you felt and are still feeling about the situation. So tell me about yesterday."
And I did. Not only about Jessica but about the time I spent with Bella. I also told her about the weekend and that 'Maria' and I worked things out. She was ecstatic, especially when I told her that we were working on composing a duet together. She really didn't say much during the session, just listened. She let me get it out of my system, which helped tremendously. I think I talked more during this session than any other time I'd ever been to her office. I noticed it was getting close to the hour mark, so I started to gather up my stuff when Dr. Kym stopped me.
"Edward, I blocked off two hours for you today. I wanted to make sure we had enough time to discuss what happened yesterday. I know this has been tough for you and I just want to make sure you're dealing with it all in a healthy way. I hope that's okay."
"Thanks, I could use a little more time."
"Well I've let you have nearly an hour to talk. Now I want to ask you some questions. Please be open and honest with your answers. You probably won't like some of my questions but I only ask them because it's important."
I nodded my head and she continued.
"How do you feel about Jessica?"
"That's easy enough. I hate her. I can't stand her. I loath her."
Dr. Kym paused for a moment while rubbing her pen top across her lips. She usually did this when she was deep in though. She finally looked at me and sighed.
"Is that 100% true Edward? Take a moment to think about your answer before speaking."
I did as she asked and the longer I thought about it the more I realized those things weren't true. I'm not the type of person to feel those things.
"No that isn't true." I admitted reluctantly.
"Will you elaborate for me?"
"I hate her actions, what she did to us, that she lied to me, that she made such a life altering choice without even talking to me about it. I know in the long run that it really wouldn't have mattered what I thought, but those few months were agonizing for me. I miss the person that I spent all those months getting to know. I miss her friendship. I miss the companionship that we once had. But most of all I'm resentful because I don't know if I ever really knew the real her. I regret all the time I spent forging a bond with her for it to only be broken in such a drastic way. I can't help but think about all the other friendships I lost because I was too wrapped up in her. I never really enjoyed my first year of college. I was so focused on her and our relationship."
"I know this will seem like a redundant question to you, but do you still have feelings for her, love her?"
"I don't love her anymore. That, I'm very certain of. Sometimes I wonder if what we had was really love at all. I think we were just really good friends who read too much into the relationship we had. We were a novelty to each other. I had never really had a 'real' girlfriend and she had just gotten out of a pretty intense relationship. We didn't know a lot of people when we moved to Seattle so we naturally clung to each other. Sometimes when I look back, I realize that once we decided to try a romantic relationship, it was strained. Our friendship was always so easy, but the romantic part took way too much work. I know relationships take work but don't they usually feel somewhat natural and not forced? I mean, what normal teenage boy has to be pressured into having sex with his girlfriend?"
"Why do you question if you ever really loved her?"
"Because I've been happier with my friend Bella, who I've only known for a very short time, than I ever was with Jessica. I met Jessica when I was still in high school and in all the time I've known her, I've never had as much fun, been as happy or content with her as I am around Bella. And Bella and I are just friends. That says a lot about the relationship I had with Jessica. But as much as I want to hate Jessica, I can't. I'm not that person, at least I wasn't before I met her. That's the type of person I was after I found out what happened and I did not like that person. That person nearly destroyed me and all of those that love me. I don't ever want to be that person again."
"I'm glad you recognize that Edward. In life, you have to learn something from all relationships. Try to focus on the positives that they have had on your life, not the negatives. I know the negatives seem to out weigh the positives in your relationship with Jessica but at least you learned what type of person you don't want to be. You also learned what you want in a relationship, how you think it should feel. I'm not saying that's right or wrong but it is something that will help you when you decide you want to try again. How did it make you feel to hear her say she still loves you and wants you back?"
"It made me feel sick and angry. It made me question her motives and whether she was sane. It also made me question if she felt any regret for what she put me through. Why did she wait so long to approach me about her feelings? She's never really apologized for anything and has never shown any remorse. Does she honestly think that is something I could just overlook? It's almost like she knew that I was finally moving on and was happy and she decided to try to take that away from me."
"Do you think you'd ever want to try another relationship with her? Don't look at me like that Edward, I promise I'm not trying to be cruel."
I tried really hard to wipe the scowl off my face before answering.
"Absolutely not. There is not a chance in hell that I'd ever try a relationship with her. Never again. I have no desire for her what so ever, in any capacity. Any feelings I once had for her, whether love, lust, friendship, whatever, are completely and utterly gone. As hard as I am trying, just the thought of it makes me feel all sorts of negative feelings and you said I'm supposed to focus on the positive." I couldn't help but smirk.
"Okay, well let's talk about something positive then. Your music. You said that you and your friend Bella are working on a composition together. Would you like to tell me about it...and her?"
"Well I already told you the crazy story about how we met. We get along really well, have a lot in common, and I feel at peace when I'm around her. When we met I was blown away by her. I actually sat down at my piano and started composing the first day I met her. I hadn't written anything since Jessica. Bella was able to get me to do that again. I admit, I felt betrayed by her and Alice when I found out that she had lied to me, but I did the same thing to her, only I took things a step further, well maybe a bunch of steps further, with the way I reacted to seeing her with her guy friend. She is such a caring and compassionate person. She forgave me much too quickly in my opinion, but that's just how she is. She always seems to put others first. And she is incredibly talented too. I suggested writing the duet together for multiple reasons. One, I just wanted to spend more time with her, getting to know her and witness her talent. Two, it was my way of apologizing for being such an ass. And three, I thought it would be nice to share a part of me with someone who can actually understand and appreciate it."
"How do you feel about your friendship with Bella now? Previously you said that was all you were looking for, but do you still feel that way?"
"Wow, Dr. Kym, just jump right in there." I laughed.
"That's an easy but yet a hard question at the same time. I could definitely see something more with her. We get along so well, have so much in common, but there are things in her past that she hasn't told me about, things that I'm scared have caused irreparable damage to her. As much as I'd like more than friendship, I don't want to push her and then lose her. On top of her own issues, I have no clue how she'll react when I tell her everything about my relationship with Jessica, and I do mean everything. I'm scared too. Jessica and I were great friends and look how that turned out. So for now, friendship is enough. Before we can move past that stage, both of us have to open up and learn to trust the other. If we ever make it to that stage, we'll have to reevaluate to make sure that we aren't projecting and confusing feelings of friendship for more. I want to be damn certain this time around. But for now, I'm just thankful to have a true friend."
"That's wonderful Edward. I'm so glad that you have that in your life right now. Sounds like you need your friends more than ever."
"Yeah, I do. I've also learned that I need to loosen up and act my age a bit more. Luckily all of Alice's friends have quickly become my friends and they won't allow me to be that reclusive person I came to be in the last year. I'm so happy that she has met such a wonderful group of people. There is never a dull moment and they all truly love life. Each person in the group is so different, yet they mesh so well together. They are all already so close and Alice thinks the world of all of them, especially Bella. I'm so happy for Alice. If anyone deserves happiness, she does. She has put up with so much for me. But I guess she finally got her say. After all these months she finally got to tell Jessica exactly how she feels. Am I a bad person for letting her do that?"
"No Edward. Alice is a grown woman, not a child. Do you think Alice is still hurting from all that happened?"
"Yes, although she is much better at putting things in perspective and dealing with them than I am."
"Do you think it might help if she talked to me? You could bring her with you one day. It would even give you a chance to fully express how much you appreciate her."
"I'll talk to her about it. But I think that may be a good idea. She spent so much time trying to put me back together that she hasn't had much time to deal with things herself."
"Well time is almost up Edward. Just remember what we've talked about today. If Jessica does approach you again, try to keep the anger level to a minimum. I know it will be hard but be the bigger person. Don't let her get to you. Hell, bring her to therapy too. She may need it worse than any of you involved. Keep your friends close. Don't push them away. Keep up with your music, don't push that to the side again. As hard as running into Jessica again has been for you, I think it will go a long ways in helping you finally close that chapter of your life. My door is always open. Call me anytime you need me, night or day. For what it's worth Edward, I'm really proud of the progress you've made over the past month. Let's plan to meet next week. Sound good?"
"Sounds great Dr. Kym. I'll make my appointment on the way out."
I felt much much better walking out of her office. It's amazing how something as simple as vocalizing your feelings can be so cathartic. I was in a much better mood for the rest of the day. Jasper was in the room when I got home and I decided it was time to be open and honest with him.
"Hey Jasper, sorry about yesterday. Didn't mean for you to walk into a powder keg when the fuse was already lit."
"No worries man, Alice told me a little of what was going on. But only the basics. I'd rather wait until you are 100% ready before I know all the gory details. But I will admit, I did get a thrill out of seeing tiny Alice ready to fight. She is a firecracker."
I couldn't help but laugh. No one would expect that type of action from my sister.
"Yeah, Alice is a force to be reckoned with if you mess with her family. Jasper...I think I'm ready to talk. If you are willing to listen. But the same rules apply. Please don't tell anyone, especially Bella. That's a conversation that I need to have with her personally."
"Doesn't leave this room."
So I spent the next hour or so telling him about how Jessica and I met, how our relationship started, how it ended, and the fallout from it all. It wasn't as hard to talk to Jasper as I thought it would be. He was a great listener and offered some pretty sound advice.
"Don't let Jessica continue to push you into that place you don't want to be. If you allow her to do that to you, she wins regardless. Keep your head up. Remember, you have friends who are more than willing to support you through this. I will say that she seems very persistent, so I'm pretty sure you haven't seen the last of her."
"Don't I know. I don't know how many 'fuck offs' it will take before she gets it. I mean, what will it take to get her to back off and leave me alone. I have no idea how to deal with her in that respect."
"Well then you need to learn to speak girl language, no words involved." He smiled mischievously.
"What do you mean by that?" He had my full attention now.
"Well let's look at it from Jessica's perspective, and keep in mind, she seems a little obsessed with you. If she's been watching you then she has seen a sad, depressed, lost, hurt, lonely, non functioning man since the two of you broke up. So in her mind, you are all of those things because you aren't with her anymore. You haven't dated, you haven't exactly been the social butterfly, you spend most of your time buried in a book or engrossed in other school related activities, you aren't living the life of a normal college student. You are these things because you no longer have her in your life and she thinks she can fix it all, if you would just take her back."
"But that's a load of shit. Yes I've gone through all of those things but not because I'm not with her, but because I was. Because of what she did."
"I know that, but if she is convinced that she still loves you, she is going to take what she can and convolute it to fit what her mind needs to believe. Basically she is going to see things that aren't really there, just to suit her purpose."
"Okay, well how do I 'speak girl' then?"
"Easy, start going out, having fun...and the ultimate fuck you would be dating. Words don't seem to phase her so you need to get your point across to her through your actions."
"I'm not ready to date."
Jasper looked at me with a raised eyebrow and a knowing smirk across his face that I swear looked just like Alice.
"Is that the truth Edward? Are you not ready to date or are you afraid the girl you want to date isn't ready?"
He had me there. But how the hell did he know? He took in my slack jaw expression and continued.
"Come on dude, we can all see what's happening between you and Bella. You both can pull the 'just friends' shit all you want, but you can't hide it from us. You two like each other...a lot."
"You've been talking to my sister I see."
"Actually, I haven't. I'm not blind, neither are our friends. We haven't been around you and Bella that much but it isn't hard to see what's happening. You two gravitate towards one another whenever you are together. It's almost like we can see the pull that you two share. There is definitely something passing between you two, whether either of you will acknowledge it or not. But I'll lay off for now. How about just recruit your friend Bella into helping you. Explain the situation, well as much as you are comfortable with. I have no doubt that she'd help you out."
I chose to ignore his thoughts on what was developing between me and Bella and instead focus on his plan.
"I'll think about it, but first, what kinds of things would she need to help me out with?"
"Nothing major, just hanging out in public together. The campus isn't that big, so you are bound to be in places that Jessica could see you. Maybe a little hand holding, a hug here and there, a kiss on the cheek. Whatever Bella is comfortable with. Plus it may help the two of you see what the rest of us already do." He said suggestively.
"You are evil Jasper."
I spent the rest of the day thinking over the things that Dr. Kym and I talked about as well as the conversation I had with Jasper. I wasn't sure about his 'girl language' theory but at least it would give Bella and I something funny to talk about in the morning. It was such a stressful day and I was so exhausted that I found myself falling asleep over my anatomy book. I packed it away, sent Alice a quick text letting her know I was okay, and then got ready for bed. Tomorrow was going to be a good day, I just had a feeling.
BPOV
I hate getting woken up from a peaceful slumber by that stupid beeping of the alarm clock, but I knew I had no choice.
True to her word, Alice was up bright and early with me. I didn't question anything she said this morning and just went with it. It made things so much easier. Alice already had everything waiting on me when I emerged from the shower. Even had a cup of tea sitting on my desk.
"Thanks Alice."
"No problem. I'm just glad you aren't giving me a hard time this morning."
"Like you said, I'm learning. But can I at least ask why you felt the need to get up this morning and get me ready?"
"I just have a feeling today is going to be a good day. I just want you to feel confident today. You are going to be even more stunning than you usually are when I'm finished with you this morning."
"Whatever you say Alice."
"When are you going to wake up and really see yourself? Don't believe me, just watch my brothers reaction to you this morning. Oh don't give me that look. I know you two are just 'friends' but that doesn't mean you can't appreciate each others looks." She smirked. "And just so you know, I'm not buying this 'friends' things. But we won't talk about it right now, you have to leave in a little bit. Not enough time to devote to the topic this morning."
I just nodded and left it alone. It was somewhat chilly outside and I was glad that Alice picked something out that was weather appropriate, even if it was something I'd never thought to wear myself. Laying on my bed was a blue cashmere sweater dress that stopped about two inches above my knee. She paired it with a pair of charcoal colored leggings, black boots that came mid calf, and finished it off with a matching belt that she cinched low on my hips. After the outfit was complete, she moved on to accessories. She pulled out a gorgeous silver chocker, silver bangle bracelets, and silver hoop earrings from her jewelry box. I was definitely feeling out of my comfort zone but even I could admit I looked good. She curled my hair slightly, just enough to give it some bounce and finished off the entire look with very light make up. Alice really knows what she's doing.
"So do you feel beautiful and confident yet?"
"Yes, Alice. I think I do. I'm not even afraid of these boots you put me in."
She laughed before running to my desk and grabbing my bag. She glared at the offending object in her hand before thrusting it at me.
"This bag is hideous Bella, but we'll talk about that later too. You're running late. You need to get going." She stated as she literally pushed me out of the door.
"Meet me for lunch. Same time, same spot. I just know we are going to have lots to talk about." She yelled at me as she closed the door.
I couldn't help but notice the stares I received as I made my way to the coffee shop. I was anxious to see Edward. I knew Alice told me that he was fine, but I knew until I saw him with my own eyes, I would continue to be worried about him. I hated that such a wonderful day was ruined for him. He seemed to come to life right before my eyes while we were in the practice room. He's smile was even more breath taking and his laughter made my heart skip a beat. Friends Bella...focus...friends. I kept chanting to myself. I had to stop myself from running to meet Edward. I may feel comfortable walking in these boots, but running in them would almost certainly cost me a trip to the ER. I may not be nearly as clumsy as I once was but there is no reason to push it.
The coffee shop was already filing up with the morning rush and I found myself hoping that Edward had already beaten the crowd and found us a table. I walked in and immediately scanned the shop for him. What I saw stopped me dead in my tracks. Edward was sitting at a table with his hands wrapped around the wrist of a somewhat pretty brunette with curly hair. I found myself getting very upset at the scene before me. I was getting ready to walk out of the shop when Edward's head jerked up and our eyes met. Wow, talk about reverse deja vu.
I took a moment to really assess what was going on. The last time this happened, it nearly cost us our budding friendship. I have no claim on Edward. I shouldn't get upset that he has his hands on another female. But upon further inspection I could tell that Edward was distressed. His eyes gazed pleading into mine. My eyes shifted down to where they were joined and I instantly realized that he wasn't holding on to her, he was prying her hands off of him.
Something in me snapped. I needed to get this girl away from Edward. It was pretty damn obvious that he didn't want her touching him. I straightened my back, picked my head up, pushed my shoulders back, and walked purposefully towards his table. I was thanking Alice with every step that she dressed me this morning because I was exuding confidence. Edward's eyes never left mine. I swear it felt like he was drinking me in.
As I approached the table I could hear Edward talking to the girl.
"Jessica, I've asked you to leave me alone several times. I have nothing to say to you. Leave me the hell alone." I could hear the venom in his voice as he spoke to her.
So this was the infamous Jessica. I didn't know all the details but I knew she had hurt Edward, and that just wasn't acceptable. I don't know where my sudden boldness came from but I just went with it.
I walked up to the table, completely ignoring her, planted myself in Edward's lap and wrapped my arms around his neck. This shocked even me...there was no hesitancy or anxiety. But it felt natural.
"Good morning sweetie. I missed you last night." I purred in what I hoped was a seductive voice as I kissed the side of his neck.
I think I managed to put him in shock because he didn't speak. Instead I heard a cough interrupt us.
"Who the hell is this, Edward." She was shooting daggers in my direction.
Edward still seemed unable to form a thought so I took care of introductions.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't see you sitting there. My name is Bella. I didn't mean to interrupt your meeting. Edward, you should have told me you were meeting with your study partner this morning." I glanced up at him. He seemed to snap back to reality at that moment.
"No problem love, she isn't my study partner and you aren't interrupting anything." He smiled at me. I was thankful he was playing along and didn't throw my off of him.
"The hell she isn't. If you would excuse us Bella, me and Edward have some unfinished business to take care of."
"Jessica, I've told you to leave me alone. How much more clearly do I need to state it for you to get it. There is nothing left for us to talk about. Please leave. Bella and I have plans this morning. Plus, I'm pretty positive you don't want to get into this now. Even if I had anything left to say to you, this is not the time nor the place." Edward stated in a very cool and calm voice.
"What's wrong Eddie, trying to get away before your friend here figures out who I am to you?"
I'd reached my limit with her and decided to go in for the kill.
"Oh, I know who you are, Jessica. Edward has told me all about you, and from the looks of it, he was right. You are pathetic. Don't you know when to give up. You'll never have him back. He isn't yours anymore. You are nothing to him. And just for the record...I'm not just his friend...and I'm the only one that is allowed to call him Eddie."
She gaped at us, struggling for words. I took her moment of silence to make our break. I stood up from Edward's lap, instantly missing the contact, and he followed grabbing his bag and the two cups that were sitting on the table. He handed me one of the cups and smiled.
"Ready to go babe?" I asked as I laced our fingers together.
"More than ready." He replied as he lowered his head and placed a kiss on my cheek.
Jessica was fuming by this time and all she could manage to do was glare at us. I knew she'd be back, that she wouldn't give up, but at least I managed to get Edward out of this situation without him getting hurt again. Mission accomplished.
We walked out of the coffee shop hand in hand and didn't stop or speak until we made it to the music building. My boldness was wearing off I started to blush as I recalled how forward I was with Edward. What if he didn't appreciate that? I didn't want to make him uncomfortable.
"Edward, I'm so sorry. That was very inappropriate of me. I shouldn't have invaded your personal space the way I did." I looked at him, hoping he could see how truly sorry I was for possibly upsetting him.
"Bella, you did nothing wrong. Feel free to invade my personal space anytime you see that bitch around. Thank you for that. I swear, it's like you were reading my mind." He said as his crooked smile graced his face.
I couldn't help but breath a sigh of relief that he wasn't upset with me. I also felt giddy that he had given me permission to practically maul him if Jessica was around. Friends Bella...just friends. This is becoming my new mantra. I shouldn't be having these feelings for my friend Edward.
"Reading your mind? How so?"
He laughed before launching into his story of his run in with Jessica and his subsequent talk with Jasper. I had tears streaming down my face as he told me about Jasper's theory on 'girl language' although I had to admit, he was on to something. I knew Edward was leaving out major plot details but I also knew that in time, he would trust me enough to let me into his life a little more, or at least I hoped he would.
We were having a great time discussing Jasper's theory when Edward suddenly got quiet and he appeared to be nervous.
"What's wrong Edward?"
"Well...Jasper had some suggestions about how to 'speak' to Jessica in a way that she would comprehend. He thinks that I need to show her that I don't want her, that I've moved on. He suggested that I hang out more, start acting more my age, and even suggested dating. He thinks that if she sees me having a good time with my friends, and especially enjoying the company of the opposite sex, she might get the picture."
My heart nearly stopped. I didn't want Edward to date anyone. If he started dating then we wouldn't get to spend time together and I was starting to value our time together more than just about anything.
"So...you're going to start dating?"
"Nope. I don't want to date. I told this much to Jasper, so he gave me another suggestion."
"Which is?"
"Well, he suggested...ummm...well exactly what you did this morning, you know, acting like we are part of a couple when we're in public so she'll see us if she's around. I know it seems childish but nothing else is working. No matter how many times I tell her to leave me alone and that I want nothing to do with her, she keeps coming back. I'm really starting to agree with Jasper. If she thinks I'm dating again, maybe then she'll realize that I really do mean it when I tell her to stay away and that I don't want her anymore. The thing is, I don't want to date and I don't want to pretend with someone I barely know. So Jasper suggested that I talk to you about it and see what your thoughts on the subject were."
"So, he suggested that we pretend to date? What does that entail?"
"Well, I guess mostly what you did this morning. But nothing that you are uncomfortable with."
This was very intriguing to me, however juvenile it was. I knew I was setting myself up for potential heartbreak, but I wanted her to stop hurting Edward and if this would get her to back off, then I'd risk it. Everyone was always telling me to take chances so here's me jumping off the cliff and hoping I don't break when I hit the bottom.
"I think I could help you out with that. But we have to let our friends in on this though."
"Are you sure Bella. I don't want you to feel like you have to do this for me, like you are being used. I'm sure I can figure out another way to get her to leave me alone. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I realize it's a bad idea. I don't want to involve you in this. You don't need to be the target of her wrath. I won't allow her to hurt you too."
"Edward, relax. I really don't mind. That's what friends do, we help each other out when they are faced with a problem, and from what I've seen and heard, she is a major problem. Oh and just so you know, I only know what you've told me about the situation. I don't want you to think that Alice broke your confidence or anything."
"I trust Alice and Bella, it isn't that I don't trust you, I'm just not ready to talk about it yet. We are still getting to know one another and for now, I just want to stick to the positives. Which brings me back to this crazy ass plan of Jasper's. Really Bella, I don't want you to get involved."
"Well, how about this. We don't have to pretend we are dating. We spend a lot of time together as it is. And I have a feeling that we'll be spending even more time together from now on since you've met the group. How about we just keep our eyes open and if we notice she is lurking around, we'll be sure to send her a message. You won't be using me, I'm offering. I can be like your shield, you know, blocking all her advances. I only have one condition, we have to tell our friends. Especially Alice. They can help us keep our eyes open for her too."
He laughed and after a little more assurances that I was truly okay with it, he finally agreed. I reminded him about supper tonight before we parted ways, he to his first class of the morning and me to my lesson with Dr. Smithwick. While I was waiting outside of her office, I shot a quick text to Alice.
Definitely have a lot to talk about. You were right.
~Bella
She texted me back not ten seconds later.
I usually am. The tides are changing my dear friend.
~Alice
I've said it before and I have a feeling I'll say it a lot more often...damn cryptic pixie!!!
My lesson with Dr. Smithwick went perfectly. She really is becoming a wonderful mentor. She mentioned the dinner she was planning for us the following week and asked if I'd talked to Edward about it yet. Of course, with all the excitement of the morning, I had completely forgotten but made a mental not to talk to him tonight over dinner. Before leaving her office, Dr. Smithwick pulled out an envelope and handed it to me. I opened it and then looked at her in shock.
"It's for your birthday Bella."
"Dr. Smithwick, you really didn't have to do this. This is too much. You've already given me tickets to see Yo Yo Ma."
"Bella dear, those tickets were freebees. Think nothing of it. I gave you this because I wanted to. I know you haven't had a chance to hear them play and they really are wonderful."
She had given more four tickets to see the Seattle Symphony Orchestra in December.
"I know the concert date is a few months away, but their Christmas arrangements are always spectacular and they sell out of their tickets pretty quickly. They haven't gone on sale yet, but I know people. I want you to take some of your friends with you and enjoy the night." She stated as she smiled at me.
"Thank you so much." It seemed like so little to say for such a thoughtful and perfect present. I couldn't stop myself as I threw my arms around her neck.
She squeezed me before letting go.
"I hope you have a wonderful birthday Bella and enjoy the surprise your friends are putting together. I can't wait to hear all about it." I had told her about hurricane Alice on Tuesday.
My morning classes seemed to take forever as I was anxious to get to lunch so I could talk to Alice. Right before my last morning class was released, I got a text message from Alice.
Sorry Bella. I have to meet with my advisor unexpectedly. Jasper and Edward are going to join you for lunch. I'll see you later and yes I know I have to hit the store.
~Alice
No worries. I'll keep the girls away from Jasper for you. Let me know if you can't make it to the store. I can always stop.
~Bella
Thanks wingman. I owe you. No girls are allowed within ten feet of him.
~Alice
So I made my way to the food court and waited for Jasper and Edward to arrive. Just as I suspected, they drew the attention of nearly every female in the place. I couldn't help the grin that spread across my face as they made their way to me. I was surprised when Edward pulled me into a hug and planted a kiss on the top of my head.
"Bella, please forgive me. I never got a chance to tell you how beautiful you look today." He said as his eyes traveled up and down the length of my body.
Yep, there goes that crazy blush again. Did I mention my knees nearly disappeared from under me. I just stared at him like some star struck crazy fan girl before Jasper broke the spell.
Jasper just laughed while looking at us knowingly.
"I see Operation Jessica Fuck Off is in full swing."
I couldn't help but laugh at him and neither could Edward. Apparently Edward had already filled Jasper in on the events of the morning. He seemed pretty smug that his idea was being used, even if in a modified version. Of course when I mentioned Alice, he froze up, not really sure how she would take this little scheme of ours. We chatted about nothing of consequence for the rest of lunch and then said our goodbyes as we all headed off in different directions. I reminded them it was taco night tonight and not to be late because Jake and Emmett were likely to eat everything if they were.
The rest of the day passed by quickly and before I knew it, I was standing in the kitchen, preparing supper for my friends. Alice remembered to pick up everything that was needed and Emmett brought over the blender and was in our suite making margaritas for us all.
"So Bella, are you excited about the weekend?" Angela asked as I was browning the taco meat.
"I guess. I'm not really used to surprises and I'm especially not used to people making such a big deal over my birthday. I feel bad that Alice has done all of...well whatever it is that she had done."
"Nonsense Bella. I live for this kind of thing." Alice answered as she made her way over to the counter to start shredding cheese.
"Besides, it's time we all got out and had a little fun." The twinkle in her eye never went away.
Ten minutes later, everyone was present and accounted for, the food was on the table, and Emmett was serving up the green goodness. Not much talking was happening due to the massive amounts of food that was being consumed.
I quickly learned that all the boys could put away large quantities of food. Good thing we only cooked once a week or we'd go broke trying to feed everyone. After we finished eating and cleaned up the kitchen, we decided to play some rock band. Jake's set ended up staying in our common room permanently since Emmett already had the game. Those two were really enjoying rooming together. Since Emmett was an upper classman, he was able to get his own suite. They didn't have to share with anyone.
Before we got into our game, Edward and I decided it was time to let the rest of the group in on our ploy. He told everyone a little about Jessica, nothing more than she was an ex girlfriend who cheated on him. He also told them about the confrontation he had with her on Tuesday, and letting everyone know that his sister had Rocky tendencies. I wrapped it all up by telling everyone what happened this morning. Alice was ecstatic that her outfit had done it's job.
"See I told you Bella." Was all she managed to say through her grin.
Jasper decided to fill in everyone on his theory of 'girl language', and everyone had pretty much the same reaction I did..to laugh until they cried and then finally saw the wisdom in his words. He was a strategist, that was for sure. Surprisingly Alice thought it was a great idea, as did the rest of the group. I noticed that all the girls had the same look in their eyes and all the guys were wearing the knowing smirks. I'd definitely be asking them about that later.
After a hour or so of rock band, Edward had to head back to study and Jasper went with him. I still hadn't had a chance to invite him to dinner with Dr. Smithwick. At least I'd be seeing him this weekend. Jake and Em left not long after leaving us girls all to our own devices. Of course all they wanted to talk about was the situation with Edward.
"Nice work Bella. I like your game." Rose stated.
"What are you talking about Rose. I'm just helping him out."
"Sure, whatever you say." Angela chimed in.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Can you honestly say the thought of seeing what it would be like to be 'with' Edward hasn't crossed your mind?" Alice raised her eyebrow at me.
Of course my traitor blush chose to appear.
"See, I'm right." She smirked.
"Damn it Alice. Fine, but who wouldn't have those thoughts about your brother? He's smart, funny, caring, talented, and yeah, he's hot. So of course that went through my mind."
"Just admit it Bella, you like him...and not just as a friend. I don't know why you two just won't fess up to each other." Rose stated in a huff.
"Rose, right now, a relationship just wouldn't work between us. There is too much about my past he needs to know and I have a feeling the same is true for him. Until then, friends we stay." I left it at that.
Alice however, wouldn't.
"Bella, I think that's a wise decision but don't be so blinded to what's right in front of you. I'll leave you alone for now, but I do want to thank you for helping my brother. That bitch really did a number on him and in the past after a confrontation with her, he basically barricaded himself in his room. But today, you really helped him and I'm really glad he has a friend like you." I couldn't help but notice the emphasis she placed on the word friend.
"Okay, enough about this. I have a busy day tomorrow and from what I gather a busy weekend, so let's hit the bed ladies." I knew mentioning the weekend would wipe the topic of me and Edward from their heads.
"I'm so excited. I can't wait for the weekend to start. And Bella, I've already picked out all your outfits and all the plans have been made. All you have to do is show up, look gorgeous, and have fun." Alice was literally bubbling over with excitement.
"Now, off to bed. We don't want to have dark circles and bags under our eyes this weekend." Alice stated as if she were commanding her troops.
"Night everyone."
I made my way to our room, pulled on my pj's, grabbed my iPod, and finally crawled into bed. For once, I was actually getting excited about my birthday, but I wasn't quite prepared to admit it to my hyper best friend who was still bouncing up and down on the bed next to me.
"Good night Alice."
"Night Bella. It's going to be a wonderful weekend. I promise, this will be a birthday you will never forget."
"I know...never bet against Alice."
"Young grasshopper, you have learned."
A/N: Bella's birthday weekend is up next. I know some of you are getting anxious and for Edward and Bella to get together, I promise it's coming.
Who has plans to see New Moon this weekend? Funny story, I'm actually going to see it three times. I had plans to go with a group of people and for one reason or another, the group kept getting smaller, so I was invited to go with multiple groups...and I said yes to all of them!!!!
You know the drill. I like reviews. The more I get, the drunker Bella will get at her birthday party.........