A/N: Hello, everyone...
Guess what? I have fractured a bone in my foot. Perfect. I tripped on the steps. Ugh, sound like anyone? Goddamn it. I am needing to get a cast, when I get to New Zealand. I am not looking forward to it, seeing I have to start back at school soon after summer.
Anyway, here is the next chapter. Cue drama :)
I hurried to biology class, already being ten minutes late.
It has been a year since Jacob got hurt, and now, Edward, Alice and I were sixteen. The others were all seventeen, in their junior year. Rosalie's seventeenth birthday had just passed a few days ago, and now, we were all driving. I got my license quickly, unlike some people...
Not much had happened over the years. Nothing big, I guess. Edward and I had gotten closer, as had the others. And, my love for Edward had become something stronger, something deeper. I could never live without him, now.
I had told everyone to leave without me this morning. I didn't want to get up, not caring about being late. They waited for me, but eventually left, after being five minutes late themselves. We always took Rosalie and Emmett's cars- the convertible and the Jeep.
Jacob and I... Well, what could I say. By the looks of it, and the clue in from Emmett, Jacob had a thing for me. I didn't want to lead him astray, but I just loved being with him...
We had all developed a love for baseball- A lot of the time we all gathered in our favourite clearing, and played in the rain for hours on end. We had all grown, but our personalties hadn't changed a bit.
I hastily parked my rusty, red truck in a spot at the back of the parking lot. I sprinted through the rain, seeing the cars that I would usually ride in, in our usual spots. I'm sure Edward was worrying about me, so I ran ever faster.
I ran through the halls, and screeched to a halt at my classroom. I stood at the door, while my grumpy biology teacher stood at the whiteboard, scribbling something. I caught sight of Edward's beautiful face, only perfected with time, and I felt my heart quicken.
"I'm glad you decided to join us, Ms Swan," Mr Snow grumbled, and turned to me, his glasses sliding down his nose.
"I'm sorry, sir," I said, and began walking to my seat next to Edward. Mr Snow called for me half way, and I turned to him. He pushed up his glasses, and looked at me accusingly.
"Not so fast," He said, putting down his text book, and taking off his glasses. "I have a job for you."
I frowned; this guy didn't like me. He'd make me scrub the toilets or something.
"Yes, sir?" I said politely, my bag sliding off my shoulder. I pushed it back up.
"We have a new student," He said to me, and gestured to the right of the room. My eyes locked with a blue eyed, dark haired boy. His skin was tanned, his eyes the color of the ocean. His hair was a charcoal black, like the midnight sky. He smiled at me, and I smiled back. "His names is Lucas Green. I would like you to show him around."
I nodded, and caught site of Edward's face morph into annoyance. I frowned, and ran my fingers through my hair. I nodded, "Sure."
"Thank you, Bella." Mr Snow said, and returned to his work. I wondered why he made me show this boy around, not someone else like Jessica or Angela. See, I told you he didn't like me.
I took my seat next to Edward, and rubbed my eyes. I was still tired, my eyes stinging like I had swam in salt water. Edward touched my back, rubbing it soothingly.
"If you like," Edward whispered. "I can offer to show that boy around."
I shook my head. "No, no. It's not that. I'm just tired."
Edward nodded, and looked down at his notes. I opened my book, and began copying down the notes off the board. I caught Lucas smiling at me, and I smiled back. I thought I saw Edward roll his eyes, and that I wasn't meant to see. I ignored it, though.
After class, Mr Snow held me back. I walked to his desk, as he put down his books. "Now, Bella, Lucas is from California. He knows nobody here, so make him feel welcome."
"Of course I will, sir." I nodded, throwing my bag over my shoulder. "Is that all?"
"Yes." He said, and I wondered why he had called me just to tell me that. Huh. I think he just liked to get me in trouble.
I walked out of the classroom, and Edward wasn't there. Instead, Lucas was waiting for me. He held out his hand, and I took it, shaking it firmly. He shake was firm, also.
"Lucas," He said simply, smiling at me. He had long lashes, framing his clear blue eyes. His tan skin said his was definitely a West sider.
"Bella," I said, and we began walking. "What do you have now?"
He took out his timetable, and looked at it carefully. "Trigonometry."
"So do I." I said, and another smile spread across his face. I looked away from him, wondering where in the world Edward had gotten to. We walked together in silence, until Lucas sparked up conversation.
"So, how long have you lived in Forks?" He asked me, as we slowly strolled to Trig. It was as if I was the new student.
"Since I was seven. I lived in Phoenix, before that, but I was born here." I said, nodding. I clutched the handle of my bag against my shoulder.
"Oh, right. Are your parents divorced?" He asked me, and I wondered if it was a little too personal to ask someone who you just met.
"No," I shook my head, looking down. "My Mom died when I was younger."
"Oh," He said in surprise. "I'm so sorry."
"Don't worry about it." I said, and sighed. "Happens all the time."
We arrived into Trigonometry, and I saw Edward sitting next to Alice. We had all Trig together. I guess I wasn't going to be sitting with them today.
I led him to a seat, and we sat in the same row as my friends. The teacher arrived, and began the lesson.
When class finished, Lucas had English with me. Man, I think this kid arranged the classes to fit with mine. He was a very nice guy, I have to admit. He was beautiful, just like all my friends. I liked him a lot, I have to say. He seemed like a great friend, after talking to him all through my classes.
"So, Bella," Lucas looked over at me, smiling. He doodled on his notebook as he looked at me. "Do you have friends here?"
That sounded a lot like an insult, but I shook it off. "Yeah, I do. I have my boyfriend, Edward, my brother, Jasper, Alice, Rosalie, and Emmett. Alice and Emmett are related, and Rosalie and Edward are related."
He looked at me, with an expression that confused me as he looked down. "You have a boyfriend?"
I nodded. "Yes. He's just over there." I gestured towards Edward'a back in the row ahead of us. "You sat with him in Trig, remember?"
He shook his head. "Right."
The bell sounded loudly, and the whole class jumped out of the seats, eager to get to lunch. We stood up slowly, and Edward spun around to face me as I packed up my books.
"Hello, Lucas." Edward said politely, nodding to him as we began filing out the door.
"Edward," He said curtly. I frowned at the tension hovering over me.
"So, you'll sit with us at lunch?"I asked Lucas, as the three of us walked out the classroom, me in the middle. Edward draped his arm over my shoulders, and I bowed into his, naturally. Lucas' face was expressionless, until he smiled tightly.
"Yes, if I'm welcome."
I thought I heard Edward grunt, and we entered the cafeteria. We stood in the lunch line, being patient, as it moved sluggishly from student to student. I held the handle of my bag firmly, Edward's arm still around my shoulders. No one looked at us, used to our close contact.
I held my tray firmly in my hands, when it was taken away by Lucas. He held it in one hand, balancing his with the other.
"Lucas, what are you-"
"Allow me."
I looked down, as we got to the table. Lucas put down the trays, and stood behind a chair, while I introduced him. I put a hand on his shoulder, and said, "Gang, this is Lucas. He new here, from Los Angeles. Do you mind if he sits with us today?"
They all sat back in their chairs, arms folded, assessing the boy. I waited for their verdict. Any way, if he can't sit with us, I'd sit with him. I didn't want him to be alone on his first day...
"There's Emmett, Jasper, Alice, and Rosalie." I gestured around the table. Lucas, didn't show the same reaction to Rose as most boys do. He looked past her, as if she was ordinary. As if she were... Me.
"Take a seat," Emmett said sternly, and Lucas sat down beside me and Alice. Edward sat on my other side, his hand clutching mine on my knee. "So Lucas... Why'd you decided to come to Washington?"
"My brother travels, and I decided it would be fun to visit somewhere that's not so hot for awhile," He said, trying to make it humorous. Nobody laughed, so I let out an hysterical giggle. He smiled at me, un-phased. He had this odd look in his eyes...
"How many classes do you have with Bella?" Jasper asked suspiciously.
"Don't mind my brother," I whispered behind me hand into Lucas' ear. He laughed lightly, and muttered an "I won't."
"I have everyone except one." He said confidently. "Pure coincidence. I don't have... Gym with her."
Thank god!
"Ha. Bella is a klutz. She will likely hit you with something." Ali giggled playfully, and I turned to glower at her.
"Thanks, Alice."
"Now that I'd like to see," Lucas chuckled, looking down at his un-touched food.
"No, you wouldn't," I laughed nervously.
"Yeah, I would,"
I sighed, and noticed out of the corner of my eye, Jessica and Lauren attempting to wave me over to their table. I looked at them in confusion, and excused myself. I walked slowly, still unsure.
"Hey, Bella," Jessica said, but it sounded more like a question. "You're leading around Lucas, right?"
I nodded, narrowing my eyes. "Yeah. Why?"
"We were just wondering if he's... Single?" Lauren said, and yet she was still unable to hid the hatred I could hear in her voice.
"I'm not sure. I guess so," I looked back at him, as my whole table of friends sat in silence. I turned back to them. "Why don't you ask him?"
They turned to me, as if I was insane. "You can't... Ask someone that."
I shrugged, and waved a half hearted goodbye before walking back to the table. The edge of my boot caught on someone's chair, and I went flying forward, only to be caught by Edward.
I looked up and into his emerald orbs, lost for words. He chuckled lightly, and lifted me off the ground, before setting me back onto my feet. He pushed my hair back off my face, and smiled crookedly at me. I smiled back, in time to see Lucas somewhat irritated face staring at Edward's back. I ignored it, and leaned up to kiss Edward. He seemed to laugh, and lift up my fingers, and entwine them with his own.
"I think that Lucas boy has a little crush on you," Edward whispered, trying to be teasing, but coming out angered.
I moaned softly. "Ugh."
"See? Every boy in this school is head over heels for you." He said knowingly. "Including me, of course."
"Well, every girl is this school is head over heels for you, to." I said in the same tone as he had used. "Including me."
He laughed, and kissed my quickly once more. He lead me back to the table, the women glaring at me in jealousy and curiosity, the boys glaring at Edward jealously as well. What a world.
We sat down, more exuberant than before. The others smiled at the both of us, while Lucas sat uncomfortable in his chair, arms folded.
"So... Lucas, you were saying you love baseball. Well, so do all of us," I said, trying to spark some conversation. They all glowered at me as I bit onto my forks packed with fruit.
"Oh, really? The Angels are great," He nodded. "You guys play?"
"Sure." I said knowingly. "All the time. You should join us sometime. In fact, I think we're going to play this afternoon, right guys?"
The all looked at me in annoyance, and I felt Edward's hand tighten around mine. I winced.
"Mmm... Yeah, mmm..." They all murmured grumpily.
"Well you're coming," I said, smiling at him. "It'll be great."
He smiled back happily, while the others shot me a we-need-to-talk look. I took the chance, and got up to buy a lemonade. They all agreed saying they wanted sandwiches, and followed behind me.
Jasper groaned. "Bella! What are you doing?"
"What?" I snapped innocently. "Aren't I allowed to have other friends?"
"Sure you are," Rosalie groaned. "But why do you attract the... creepy ones? No offence, Edward,"
Edward frowned. "None taken. I agree. That kid freaks me out."
"Well, I like him," I said, holding my head up high. "He's my friend."
They all looked in me as if I won, and I smiled at them sweetly before returning to the table with only Lucas.
"What happened to your lemonade?" He asked me.
I shrugged. "Didn't want it."
He made a sort of huh sound, and the others returned, looking irritated again. I looked down, and when I looked up, I met Lucas' ocean blue eyes. I looked the other way, seeing Edward's green eyes. I found myself clutching to Edward's shoulder, and resting my head there. He stroked me hair, while Lucas sat, uncomfortable once more, in his seat.
"STRIKE TWO!" Emmett shouted, as Rosalie swung her bat, missing the shot. The rain came down around me, saturating all of us. Lucas stood next to me, watching the others field and practice batting and pitching. We had all developed our skills, well, except for me... I was usually hopeless.
Alice bowled the next bowl, her leg flicking up in the graceful movement. The ball whistled towards Rose, and she smashed it with such strength that it flew through the air towards the trees. I watched as Edward sprinted out after it, and Rosalie ran around the bases like a lightening bolt.
The ball came whistling the through the air, and Jasper jumped up to catch it. He caught it in both hands, and Rosalie hurled herself towards first base. Edward ran back into the clearing, puffing, just as Jasper ran to last base to try and get Rosalie out. She lid onto the base, just as Jasper got there with the ball.
"You're out," I said. Rosalie stalked past me, glaring. I glared back, knowing she was joking. We broke out into a smile, and by then, it was my turn to bat.
I took the bat from Rose, and stepped up the the plate. As many times as I'd done this, I still got nervous. And I never improved.
"C'mon, Belly, Belly!" Emmett yelled from behind me.
I held up the bat, as Alice pitched it towards me. I missed, swinging the bat into air. Emmett caught the ball, and threw it back to Alice.
Concentrate, I thought to myself.
"Go Bella!" Lucas yelled, and I looked back to see his smiling face.
I could hear the ball sail past me, nearly hitting me in the head. I shook my head, just as Lucas shot me an apologising look. Emmett threw it back to Alice, and she began to pitch again.
"Last chance, c'mon, Bell!" Edward yelled in encouragement, although he was on the other team. At that moment, Alice threw it, and I swung the bat, sending the ball flying high into the air.
I dropped the bat, and ran for my life, hearing the cheers of my team mates behind me. I stumbled, catching myself with my hands before I could fall on my face.
"Just a little further!" Rose yelled from far away. The water pouring down my face, getting in my eyes. I sprinted past third base, watching last base get closer and closer.
Then, as if fate wanted to ruin my day, my foot caught on a root, and I went flying forward. I caught site of Jasper sprinting for last base, and we collided, my head hitting his shoulder, my leg crashing into his head. We both yelled, but began laughing softly, rubbing our sore spots.
"Can we count that?" I asked, looking around at everyone. Emmett was in stitches to my right, while Lucas was fighting a smile. I felt covered in mud and grass, my hair covered in sticky soil.
"Sure, why not." Edward shrugged, taking my hand and helping me to my feet.
"Thanks, a lot, Edward," Jasper grumbled sarcastically, and pulled himself off the ground. Edward smile at him.
I dusted myself off, feeling even more inadequate to the others now then ever.
"Nice run, Bella." Lucas commended me with a high five.
"Thanks," I grinned. "But now it's your turn,"
It turns out, Lucas is very, very fast. He ran around the bases before I had time to think about it. His swing was amazing, too- He hit it further out then any of us. Emmett didn't like that very much. Actually, all the guys got pretty jealous when Alice, Rosalie and I watched after him in surprised. Not awe, surprise.
It was time to switch, and Emmett forced me into pitcher. I was no Alice, but I could try.
First to bat was Jasper- He stood up at that plate with such confidence it made my knees shake. I hurled the ball at him, and missed by one metre. He laughed, and got into position again.
The next time, I clipped his shoulder, and gasped, worried I'd hurt him. He was fine.
"Make it good, Beany bear." Emmett said, using one his many names for me. Lucas chuckled. He was fielder, seeing he could run so fast.
I threw it again, this time, hitting Jasper below the belt. He fell the the ground, howling in pain, as we all raced over to him. I stood over him, not sure what to do. This cause guys pain, right?
"Oooh, ouch," Emmett winced. He much know how it feels. Alice has kicked him before.
Edward looked over him. "Jeez. There goes McCarty-Swan babies,"
"I'm so sorry, Jasper," I gasped. "What can I do?"
"Nothing. Don't touch... Anything." He gasped, curling further into a ball. "It would only be creepy."
"Wasn't planning on it." I said, cringing at the thought. "Do you need Carlisle?"
He loosened up his ball, beginning to stand up. Alice steadied him carefully, when he swayed.
"Nah, I think I'm fine," He choked. "I'll just... sit out for awhile."
I nodded, as he walked unsteadily to a rock on the side of our diamond. I bit my lips, worried I had really, really hurt him. I probably had. Stopped the Swan gene. Besides me, of course.
"Okay, let's continue," Emmett called. "Edward, you're up!"
Edward eyes grew wide, and he shook his head madly. "Ooh, no. I don't want to stop the Cullen gene, as well."
I pouted.
"Okay... Alice! She's a girl!" Emmett said cheerfully. "It's your turn, sis."
Alice danced gracefully, to bat, and swung it slowly, practising. She nodded, and I threw it at her. Okay, that sounds bad. She hit it only just, and it went cascading into the forest. Lucas ran after it, as Edward came and wrapped his arm around my waist. "It's nothing personal,"
"Sure, sure," I murmured, using one of Jacob's terms.
"You know who's gene I wouldn't mind stopping?" He said, venom in his voice, and I pulled out of his embrace. I stalked over to Jasper, and of course, Edward followed, apologising.
Of course I had to forgive him. After a kiss, a smile, and just the sound of his voice, I was sold.
"How are you feeling?" I asked Jasper, and just realised the rain has stopped.
He grimaced. "Okay, I guess. Still hurts,"
"I am so, so, so sorry," I breathed. "I didn't mean to..."
"I know," Jasper smiled softly. "It was an accident. We have a story to tell in fifty years when we're all sitting on a porch playing go fish till the cows come home."
We both laughed, and Edward's hand entwined with mine. We had decided that enough was enough today, and plus, Jasper was in pain. I forced Jasper not to drive, and took the wheel of his car. We had brought Jasper and my car, only because it was raining, and none of us want to get wet. Especially now, when the rain was pouring down like there was no tomorrow. But, we were all soaking any way, so who cares?
I jumped into Jasper's car with Edward and Lucas, while Rosalie, Alice and Emmett all squeezed into my truck. We followed each other home, dropping Lucas on the way. Then, we headed to Alice and Emmett's house, parking our cars in their driveway beside Alice's porsche and Emmett's Jeep. Why we hadn't taken Emmett's massive car was beyond me.
We all walked inside, my hand firm in Edward's. He clutched me to his side, because I was shivering. Although, he was just as wet and cold as me--–We kept each other warm.
Alice and Emmett supplied us with a change of clothes, and Rose and I squeezed into Alice's blouses and wet pants. The boys came out with too big clothes- Seeing how big Emmett was. I was tugging uncomfortably on my tight blouse that was all little too tight around the chest area. I was flushing a bright red as the three girls padded out of Alice's room, and into Emmett's. Emmett and Edward's eyes widened, making me go even more red then before.
Edward pulled me onto his lap, nuzzling into my cheek as I sat down. I slouched over, trying to hide my chest which looked massive in this tight blouse. Ugh. At least we were dry.
"Nice top," Edward smiled. I looked down.
"Nice pants," His pants hung down way past his feet, and were beginning to fall down around the waist. Jasper's was the same.
"Thanks," Edward murmured, frowning at his legs. I continued to tug at my stupid tight blouse, scowling and blushing when Edward's eyes dropped.
"... So, did you guys change your mind about Lucas?" I asked them after a few moments. Everyone's head shot up, except for Rosalie and Emmett, who were kissing on the love seat.
"Hey guys! Stop!" Alice snapped her fingers next to them, and they both groaned and turned to us as if we had interrupted someone important.
"This better be important," Emmett grumbled.
"Did you guys change your minds about Lucas?"I demanded. They all shrugged, while Edward shook his head frantically.
"Why don't you like him?" I growled at Edward, coming out a little sharp. I was annoyed that Edward didn't like such a nice kid.
"It's because he's jealous," Rose said matter-of-factly.
"No," I said, shaking my head. "Edward knows better to be jealous of...," My voice trailed off as I thought about it. Maybe he doesn't know better. He has gotten of Jacob, and still is, apparently.
"That's stupid," Edward spat nervously. "Nervous? Me? No?" His voice cracked.
I wrapped my arms around his neck, and fluttered my eye lashes, attempting to flirt with him. He blinked, and swallowed hard as he looked into my eyes. "Now, Edward," I stroked his cheek, running my other hand through his hair. He swallowed hard again. I heard the others giggling behind me. "You're not jealous, are you?"
He stared at me for moment longer, his eyes wide. "I'm very, very jealous."
He shook his head then, as if he couldn't believe what he had revealed. The other all burst into laughs, while I smiled in triumph, kissing him lightly. "I love you."
"I love you to," He said, with his crooked smile, and kissed me again. "I'm sorry I'm jealous."
I giggled lightly. "Don't worry, you have nothing to worry about. Even if Lucas...,"
"Dude, that guy is obsessed," Jasper scoffed. "Never stops smiling."
"I can't blame him." Edward murmured into my ear. My face went red.
"I'd keep her close, Eddie," Emmett said knowingly, wrapping his arm around Rosalie's shoulders. "That boys trouble,"
"He is not!" I spat. "He is just a normal human boy!"
"Sure he is," Emmett said with a grin. "We'll keep an eye on him."
"There is no need." I mumbled, looking down. They were all overreacting.
Then, Linda McCarty walked into the room, her hair bobbing around her shoulders. She smiled at all of us, reminding me of Esme and my Mom. All of our Mom's were alike.
"Would you kids like to stay for dinner?" She asked us. "We're having soup."
"Sorry, Linda," Jasper said, and I looked at him in confusion. He usually always stays at Alice and Emmett's for as long as they will have him. "Bella and I have to go home tonight, Dad's orders,"
I pouted. Damn. That means Edward won't be with me, because he'll stay here...
"Oh, well that's too bad. Edward, Rosalie?" Linda chirped happily, and turned to Edward and Rosalie. They both looked at each other, and said, "Sure."
I folded my arms, and Jasper began to get up. Linda left the room, and Jasper kissed Alice sweetly. Edward turned to me, and kissed my lips softly. I held him there, as I noticed Jasper waiting impatiently from the corner of my eye.I unwillingly climbed off Edward's lap, and waved everyone goodbye. We both left, then, and we got into our cars and drove home.
When we got home, and after dinner, I practically ran up to my room, and watched the clock tick slowly, while I waited for Edward to come home. It didn't feel like the clock was changing every minute, but every hour... It's pretty sad I can't be without him for more then a few hours. Can you imagine if he broke up with me? I shuddered at the thought, but I wasn't cold.
I sat at my window, sick of watching the clock, and rested my head on my hand. The icy Fall air blew on my face, blowing strands of my hair around my waist, tickling my skin. I watched a bird in the trees, a chipmunk munching on a nut on the lowest branch, and jumped when I heard footsteps in my room.
"Bella?" It was Charlie. "What are you doing?"
"Just soaking up some fresh air," I said, turning to him as he crossed the room, and sat by me.
"Waiting for Edward?"
"How'd you guess?"
He chuckled half heartedly, and looked down at his fiddling his hands on his lap. I wondered what he was getting at. "Well... You two are, close,"
I nodded. "Very close,"
He narrowed his eyes, and squeezed my knee before getting up, and smiling at me. "'night, Bells. Love ya, kid,"
I wondered what was the point to this. Maybe he just came to tell you he loves you?
"I love you to, Dad," I smiled back, and as soon as he closed the door, turned back to face out the window, my face resting on my palm again. I felt my eyes slip closed... And then when I woke up, I was lying in my bed, still fully clothed, under my blanket. Edward's neck was at my eye level, and I kissed it, so thankful he was home. Jeez, it's like he's be gone for years, rather then hours.
I watched his head move, and peer down at me. He looked tired, his eyes dropping. I looked up at him, entwining my hands with his. I realised he had no blanket, and draped it over him. He frowned, and tossed it back over me.
"When'd you get home?" I whispered sleepily.
He thought. "About a half hour ago. You were asleep at your window sill,"
I blushed, burying my head into his neck. "I... I was waiting for you."
"You shouldn't have." He whispered.
"Well... I can't sleep without you here with me." I mumbled, being embarrassed at finally admitting it, not only to him, but myself as well.
"I can't sleep without you either," He mumbled. "You keep away the bad dreams,"
"I wish I could say the same," I sighed, stroking his chest. He sighed also. "How was dinner?"
He shrugged. "It was okay, I guess. It wasn't at all the same without you there,"
I leaned up to kiss his cheek. "I missed you."
"I bet you I missed you more," He chuckled. "So much more."
"Nuh huh."
"Yeah uh." He laughed quietly. We sat in silenced for awhile, and I leaned over him to check the time. Twelve thirty. Gosh, no wonder I'm always tired and grumpy. I don't get enough sleep... But of course it is so worth it to be with Edward.
"Bella, your eyes are drooping," Edward whispered softly. "Go to sleep, Love."
"But... I... don't want...," I began mumbling, but soon slipped off the edge into unconsciousness.
My dream was different tonight, but worse then they ever have been. And I'm not exaggerating. This was more terrifying then any dream I have ever had.
Because Edward left me.
Lucas told me Edward didn't love me, and he didn't want me any more. That he was going to take me into the forest and break up with me, cruelly. I felt my heart slice into pieces, although I was dreaming. I felt my world crashing, crashing so fast, I couldn't breath. And as Edward walked away... I saw nothing in his eyes that proved he ever loved me.
My eyes snapped open, eyes running like a waterfall down my overheated cheeks. My cries of pain were muffled by my pillow, as I sobbed. My throat was sore, my chest hurt – Was the pain real?
I felt a set of arms wrap around me, and hushing me. I continued to cry, not being able to imagine anything worse then my recent dream. Not vampires, not werewolves... Not even death. This was death itself, wrapped in a little package sent to end my life.
"Bella, sweetheart, shh," Edward whispered, shaking me softly, and I was in a sitting position on his lap. I grabbed a handful of his shirt, and pulled him close to me. I snuggled into the nape of his neck, making sure he was there and real. Making sure my dream wasn't true. "Tell me what happened,"
I shook my head, tears wetting his shirt.
"Please?" Edward asked me, looking into my eyes, still filled with tears. He wiped them away, and I looked at him, feeling like a little child. I'm sure I was acting like one.
"You... you...," I sobbed. "Y—You left me."
I thought I heard him gasp, as he looked down at me with worry and surprised his kind eyes looked sad, and he hugged me closer to him.
"That would, never, ever happen," He whispered softly, into my hair. "Not as long as I am alive."
"But... but...," I sobbed.
"But nothing. I would never hurt you." He interrupted. "Don't even say it."
I sighed, the tears beginning to dry on my face, the tears stopping. I fell asleep to the rain lightly pattering outside against our roof, and I hoped to God I do not get a repeat of my most recent dream.
Two weeks has passed since that unfaithful night. The night that caused me more pain then I had ever felt in my life. And that was surprising, seeing there were all sorts of monsters lurking around. That showed how much I had to be with Edward.
Lucas and I had become good friends, very close, actually. He told me everything, I told him... Most things. None of the others warmed to him, and I wasn't sure why. Because I could trust him; and he could trust me. No matter what.
I walked with him to lunch, and we got funny looks from everyone around us. I just looked down, as we entered the cafeteria. And there they all were – Sitting at our table, frowning about having to endure another lunch with Lucas Green. Is he really that bad?
Whenever I walked with Lucas, Edward usually said he's meet me at the cafeteria. He didn't like him at all... something I couldn't understand when Lucas was so likeable. So I tried not to walk with Lucas... but it was inevitable when he seemed to like me so much. A little too much. According to the boys.
We both sat down with our trays at the table, and we began talking as we do. Nobody talked directly to Lucas, but he interjected comments now and then, not that anyone took any notice.
I visited Jacob after school last week. He came over, actually. So, really, he visited me.
I told him about Lucas, and how he and I were good friends. He didn't like that very much, and demanded to meet him. I didn't let him... he was just like Edward. No doubt he would be a complete jerk to him.
Jacob also told me Billy and Charlie were going to Alaska for a fishing trip in Canada in a couple of days. They were both excited, and Jacob was going. I was invited, and begged to go, but I declined, and so did Jasper. As much as I wanted to go... it upset Edward, a lot. He's afraid I'll fall in the water and drown, or something. How ridiculous. So protective...
I got shook "awake" by Alice, who was jutting out her lip when I didn't respond. When I finally did, her face turned excited. "Hey, Bella?"
"Yes?" I said, expecting to be told something I didn't want to hear. She was using... that tone.
"What do you say about coming to my house this afternoon? I have a plan for your make over." She said cheerfully, but her face fell when mine did.
"What make over?" I said in confusion. "I didn't know about a make over."
"Well, now you do. Please? I need to fix your hair and clothing. I went shopping for you last week, and got you this brand new wardrobe. Jasper let me in to put all in your closet...," She explained. Aah, that explains all the new clothes I had never seen before when I was getting dressed this morning...
"Any way, so I figured, new nails, new hair, new make up... What do you say?" She asked, bouncing. I shook my head... I already had plans. I had told her this!
"Sorry, Alice," I said, and watching her face turn upset. "I promised Jacob I'd see him today. I'm going down to La Push."
"But Bella!" She moaned, and I caught Edward's expression change while he was talking to Jasper and Emmett. "You told me you were seeing Jacob tomorrow!"
"No I didn't Ali," I said to her, shrugging. "You just heard wrong."
"You saw him last week," She crossed her arms over her chest, pouting.
"Last Monday. It's been a week. And I promised him." I said softly, touching her arm. She sighed dramatically.
"I guess we can do it tomorrow," She said sadly. "You better not object,"
I sighed. "I promise."
I felt Lucas touching my shoulder, and I turned to him. His piercing blue eyes met with mine, and a smile slid onto his face. I looked at him, waiting for him to speak. He shook his head, as if breaking out of a trance. "Who is Jacob?"
I looked away, and back again. The whole table had gone silent. "He is-"
"Her boyfriend." Rosalie said suddenly, wide eyed. My eyes widened, to, and I shook my head as Lucas' face changed. Edward smile smugly, and I glared at them all. They had planned this.
I threw my arms around Lucas' neck, when I saw his sad expression. Edward's smile vanished, as I leaned away from Lucas. "No, no he's not. He's just a good friend."
"Just her best friend. Second to Edward, of course," Emmett said knowingly. "They're pretty tight."
"Guys, shut up," I mumbled, and turned back to Lucas. "He's a friend, okay?"
He nodded, and looked down at his lunch tray. The bell rang, and I hadn't realised how fast lunch went today. I stood up, grabbing my bag off the back of my chair, and stomped to gym, annoyed at the past events that went down at lunch. They were trying to make his sad. It's not nice. They know he... likes me, so why do they try to hurt him like that?
I gripped harder onto my bag, and heard footsteps and voices behind me. I walked faster, knowing those voices. I threw open the gym door, happy this was the only class Edward or any of the others had with me. I tripped over something, my own feet probably, but kept on walking. I began getting changed into my gym clothes, when Alice and Rosalie burst through the door. The other girls watched them in awe, and I rolled my eyes.
"Guys, do you mind, I'm getting changed," I grumbled, sliding my t-shirt over my head.
"Bella... there is no need to be upset. It was just a joke." Alice said.
"A pretty cruel joke," I mumbled under my breath. "But it's done now. Forget about it."
They both nodded, and kissed my cheeks, before hurrying out of the gym room. My shorts went up to just above my knees, my t-shirt a little too tight for me. I shrugged, and headed outside with Angela at my side.
"Hi, Bella," She said shyly. "Am I allowed to talk to you?"
I frowned. "Why wouldn't you?"
"Because you're known as a Cullen." She said quietly. "You're like royalty."
"I know," I said, taking a seat on the hard wood floor. She sat next to me, a metre apart. I patted the seat closer to me, and she slid over. "But that doesn't mean we can't be friends like we have been since middle school."
"Okay," She smiled at me. "It's just... you're exclusive about who you talk to."
"No, I'm not. I talk to new students sometimes," I explained. And by her look, she could tell I meant only one new student. Lucas. And I was forced to be friends with him. But I'm glad I am.
I remembered Lucas had American History with Edward right now. I wondered how that was going, seeing they were forced to sit next to each other. Alice was with him, so she should keep him in line...
"How is Lucas going?" Angela asked, not sounding nosy. Just sounding casual.
"He's good," I nodded. "We're good friends."
"That's good, cause your friends didn't seem to like him." She said. "Jessica talks about it."
"Really? Well, they're not as close to him as I am." I said, shrugging.
Coach Clapp walked in then, and we both got ready to endure gym. Mike came to sit next to me. It seems he had forgotten the dare I was assigned a couple of years ago... or just forgave me. Surely he couldn't like me any more. Mike's theory about the guys of the school was becoming more and more real. And I didn't like it.
"Pair up. We're playing indoor hockey," Coach Clapp said in his deep voice, after reading the role. Mike looked at me expectantly, and Angela shrugged, and moved over to pair up with Ben. We all walked to get our equipment, and I grabbed a hockey stick, worrying what kind of damage this could do to Mike and myself. "Let's start with drills. One person at each end of the gym. Dribble it around the cone, and back to your partner."
My voice morphed into worry, as Mike and I walked towards one side of the gym. I had the ball first – Dang! I should have given to Mike. Maybe he would get as injured if he started.
I stood with my stick, my legs feeling like jelly as coach blew his whistle. I was in a row in between Angela and Ben and Jessica and Lauren – Uh oh. I began hastily dribbling up with my stick, falling over it although it was in front of me. I never really fell on my face, just on my knees. It didn't hurt too bad. I went round the cone at the other end, the ball nearly flying out of control. I kept it steady shakily, and began dribbling back to Mike.
I made it back, and attempted to hit it to him. It went higher than I expected – Way higher – And hit mike in the forehead. I gasped. "Are you okay?"
"I'm cool." He shrugged, and began gracefully to the other end of the gym. He was fast, and made it back to me in twice the time I did. I frowned, as we waited for everyone else to finish. I took my awhile to figure out everyone had finished a long time ago.
"Okay, next drill." Coash yelled, and began explaining to us what we had to do. This one took me longer than the first – We had to dribble it in and out of the cones. I fell over a cone, landing on my chest. I landed with an oof, and heard Mike yelled to ask if I was okay. I nodded, and began making my way back to him.
After several more drills, I had managed to hit Mike in the head twice, and myself once. But I got it in the head with my own stick, somehow – Don't ask why. Now I could feel a bruise forming on my chin. Ugh. Not only that, but in the group game, I hit Lauren in the leg. I didn't mind that much, as mean as that sounded. But I did have a nasty bruise on my shin. Ugh.
Afterwards, I got changed quickly, wanting to see Edward before I left to go to Jacob's. Like clock work, he was waiting for me, leaning against the wall, looking like a God. I walked a little too fast to him, throwing my arms around his neck, and kissing him roughly. He hugged me around the waist, clearly, missing me to. I pulled away gasping, and he took my hand as we walked to my truck.
"How was History?" I asked causally. He shrugged, frowning. "Not too good?"
"Never when Lucas is around. But I am not rude to him, because I know you like him." He sighed sadly. I smiled up at him, nuzzling into his shoulder. His fingers entwined with mine, and squeezed.
"How was gym?" He asked. I noticed him looking over me, and seeing the bruises all over me. He rubbed my bruise under my chin, and leaned down so he could kissed it. It felt better instantly.
"Painful. I hit myself and Mike so many times, we both have bruises everywhere." I said, slight humour in my voice. He chucked, and we walked into the light rain. The others waited by Edward's car, him being their ride home. Alice was frowning; I knew what she was thinking about. Our could-be make over session. Huh.
"Whoa, Bella, what happened to your chin?" Jasper asked. "Wait, it was gym, wasn't it?"
I nodded, rubbing my chin as I unlocked my truck. I swung the door open, careful of Edward's Volvo, and sat inside. I chatted with the others about my day, wondering where Lucas went off to.
"I couldn't stop laughing when Tyler Crowley told everyone he was saying Bella was in love with him," Emmett laughed, and he stopped, realising what he had said. The others stared at him, as if he wasn't meant to share that. I felt my face go red hot.
"What?" I gasped, angry. "Why the hell would he say that?!"
"Because he likes you." Emmett explained. "So he suddenly thinks you like him to. Stupid kid."
"Who doesn't like her?" Edward muttered in annoyance. "She is mine. And only mine. Why doesn't any of the idiot men in this school get that? Does our public display of affection mean nothing?" It seemed like he was mostly talking to himself now.
I fumed. "What... he has the nerve to do that?! What an idiot! Emmett, you have to tell him I'm sorry, but I don't."
He put u[ his hands. "Okay, okay,"
I folded my arms over my chest, and Edward blocked my view of the others when he stepped in front of my door. He unfolded my arms, kissing my wrists as he did so. "Don't be mad. It's not his fault."
"Yeah, it is."
"Normal girls would love all this attention from the men of the school." Edward chuckled.
"Well, I don't. It just means more broken hearts," I pouted, sighing loudly.
"That is so you," He laughed, stepping closer. He stepped in between my legs, seeing I was sitting side ways out of my truck. I wrapped my arms around his waist, trying to pull his down to me so I could kiss him. He understood, and put his hands on the frame of the truck, and leaned down. He kissed me softly, but passionately, and we were soon being coughed at impatiently by Jasper. I looked around Edward, glaring at him. He pointed a finger at me, as if in warning.
Edward moved back, and leaned against the frame with his right side now. He glared at Jasper, as if he had interrupted something important. Well, he had. According to us.
"I'm sorry, if I don't feel slightly uncomfortable if my little sister and her boyfriend are practically fogging up the windows right in front of me." Jasper defended himself, his arm around little Alice's shoulder.
"In front of us," Emmett corrected.
"Like you and Rosalie aren't even worse." I said, eyeing him and Rose. Emmett's arm wrapped around Rosalie's waist, and she kissed his cheek. "Exhibit A."
"Well, it's different. You are the youngest. It seems to me like it's the little seven year old Bella doing it." Emmett shrugged. "It's creepy."
"She's sixteen!" Edward spat. "She isn't seven any more."
I smiled up at him for defending me. And plus, he was right. I was far from seven. I was a young women, now, not an infant. So they should treat me like one.
"But still." Jasper said.
"Alice and I are fine with it, right, Alice?" Rosalie said, shrugging, and winking at me. I smiled at her, while Alice nodded. I grinned at her, too.
"Whatever, not gonna change anything," I said quickly, and pulled Edward down so his lips were crushing to mine. I realised the time, and remembered I was going to La Push today.
I unwillingly pulled away, and turned around so I was facing front ways, towards the wheel. I shut my door, and rolled down my window, giving up at half way. Edward leant on the frame, his eyes looking sad and disappointed. "I'll wait for you."
"Okay." I pecked his lips, and flashed him a smile, while pulling out. I waved to the others, while Edward stood still where my car used to be, and waved at me, his mouth forming into a frown. "Don't miss me too much!" I yelled out my window, as I took off out the school gates.
I turned up the radio so the booming was shaking the frame, trying to block out the thoughts of turning around, and speeding back towards Forks. But, as I got closer and closer to La Push, I couldn't wait to see Jake again.
As I got closer to the little barn house, I turned down my music. I'm sure they could hear my loud truck huffing down the streets, from miles away. I had bought it off them, after all – They must be attuned to the sound.
I pulled into their drive way, and the curtains moved. Jacob appeared, his hair now long, after he had grown it, and huge smile on his face. His teeth glowed off his russet skin, his eyes dark as coal. I left the truck in the drive way, and slammed the door hard enough so it would close. Jacob ran to me, looking excited, and grabbed me a hug. He swung me around, making me feel dizzy, and I swayed when he put me down.
"Ow, Jake," I rubbed my arms. "Your hugs hurt these days,"
"Sorry," He grinned, unabashed. "I just didn't think you were coming."
He took my hand, and it was then I realised the huge, purple bags hanging under his eyes. I looked up at him in concern. "You look dead beat,"
He looked down as we walked towards the house. "Yeah."
"What have you been doing?" I asked him, but then I remembered, he was hunting vampires. Ugh. "Oh."
"You remember."
"Of course. It's not something you forget, you know?"
He nodded, and we entered the house. Billy sat at the dining room table, sorting through what looked like mail. His eyes sparkled at our hands, entwined together as we passed him, and headed for the fridge. Jacob pulled out sodas, and threw one to me.
"Hey, Billy!" I said, and shook his hand. "How have you been?"
"Great, great," Billy smiled at me, his ancient eyes smouldering against his dark skin. "Charlie has been good?"
"Sure, sure," I nodded, using the term I had adopted from Jake and Billy.
"He hasn't been around for awhile. You mind if I call him? Maybe you and him would like to stay for the game tonight. It's a big one," Billy said, wheeling himself towards the phone on the wall. I nodded eagerly.
"He would love that."
He began chatting animately to Charlie, and by the sounds of it, Charlie had agreed to come over. He sounded happy that I was already here, spending time with someone other then Edward. Billy and him must have talked about us before – Gossiping old men. Ha.
Jacob and I headed out to the garage behind the bushes, and he led me in to the familiar, rusty old shed. His Rabbit was sitting in the middle of the room, looking almost completed. We sat in it, laughing and talking about school and our friends. He had told me how Quil had had to ask out his cousin to prom, and that Embry had not yet told his Mother about him being a wolf. We laughed unhappily, feeling sorry for him. It must be hard lying to his Mom like that all the time. We moved on to lighter topics – He wanted to know about how Jasper was going.
"Has Jasper started liking me yet?" Jacob asked, laughing.
I looked down. "Um... yeah, sure."
"You suck at lying." He chuckled, taking my cold hand into his warm one. "Why doesn't he like me?"
"I don't know!" I gasped, exasperated. "I think you are very likeable! It's understandable for Edward, but not Jasper, who is like family to your family, like me or Charlie."
"Yeah, your boyfriend must loathe me," He laughed, looking down at his feet. Jacob was topless, again... and for once, it didn't make me feel uncomfortable. I guess I'm just used to it.
"Yeah, I spend a lot of time with you, according to him." I rolled my eyes. "Imagine if he knew you were a werewolf,"
He laughed, a throat laugh. "That would suck,"
"Yep. I would never see you again."
His brow furrowed, and he frowned. I don't think he liked that very much. And neither would I, come to think of it. But luckily, Edward never, ever know...
"So how is it going with that Lucas kid?" He asked, changing the subject. I sighed.
"Um... he's okay, I guess. Today when I was talking about you-"
"You were talking about me?" He asked, a smile tugging at his lips. I nodded. "Sorry, go on."
"He asked who you were, and before I could finish, Rosalie and Emmett were teasing him by saying you were my boyfriend-"
"Hmm," He murmured, deep in thought. I'm not sure I wanted to know what he was thinking about.
"Any way, I said Edward was my boyfriend, but they said you were my best friend. He didn't like that." I continued, and he was still smiling. Maybe I shouldn't have mentioned about him being my boyfriend. Oops.
"Does Edward have some competition?" Jacob teased, squeezing my hand suggestively. I glared at him.
"None."
He frowned; ugh, I have to stop saying things like that. I bet he wished he was competition... I guess he is. I shook my head.
"Any way, so this Lucas guy really likes you?" He asked me, sounding a little annoyed, just like Edward.
I shrugged, shaking my head, while staring at the ground. "I don't know."
I listened to the pitter pattering of the rain on the roof, and it slowed my breathing, so I was breathing in time with the sounds. We were silent for a moment.
"I gotta say," Jacob said, breaking the silence, "I'd rather Edward be with you then this Lucas dude,"
I nuzzled into his shoulder. "Thanks, Jake."
I don't know why I felt so happy that he felt that way. Like his opinion mattered to me, about who I date. It shouldn't, but I couldn't help that it did.
We both heard Charlie's police cruiser pull into the driveway, and we got up, beginning to gather into the house for the game. We still held hands, as we moved swiftly through the foliage around us. Once we got to the last fern, I could see Billy and Charlie talking there. Jacob still gripping my hand, he tugged me through the plant, and I fell into the mud. He fell with me, and we both burst into laughs. Charlie and Billy watched us in confusion and suspicion – Did Dad really think I was cheating on Edward or something?
We both got up, not getting too muddy. We both said, "Hi Dad," and that set us off again into another round of laughs. The two men continued to stare at us in confusion, our hands still entwined. A/N: That little scene is actually from New Moon. I thought it was cute... But Stephanie owns it ALL.
We all walked inside, getting wet from the pouring rain around us.
We had Billy's world famous Ragu for dinner. I have to say, it was delicious. I didn't really pay much attention to the game the game, but sometimes I cheered just to get into the moment. Occasionally, I would cheer at the wrong time, and Jacob broke into loud laughs. I sat close to Jake, shoulders touching, him holding my hand- I was a little freaked for Charlie being right there, but he didn't seem to care.
When the game was over, Charlie, Billy, Jacob and I walked out onto the porch. The rain continued to pour, although the sky looked clear; maybe the sun will make an appearance tomorrow. I smiled at the thought.
"See ya, Billy," Charlie shook his hands with his mate. "Nice to see you. I hope to come back down soon?"
"Any time," Billy smiled at Charlie as he shook his hand, then turned to me. His face turned serious as he looked up at me. "Now you take care, Bella."
A shiver ran through my spine, although Jacob's hot hand was holding mine. I nodded, looking down, and gave Jake a huge before stepping off the porch, and following Charlie home in my truck.
As soon as I arrived home, I ran straight upstairs, hoping and praying, Edward would be waiting. It was pretty late, and Charlie was going to straight to be, so maybe if he waited for him to fall asleep...
I slammed my door shut, after yelling a speedy goodnight to my Dad. I didn't know where Jasper was, or if he was even here. But he would probably end up at Alice's or something...
Edward wasn't in my room yet.
I sighed.
A/N: Sorry to cut it short, but it would have gone on and on and on... I love writing it forever : )
Please review : )