A/N: The description of the cottage belongs to Stephanie Meyer. I do not own it at all.
Cottage Grove; Ro River – http:/www . city-data . com/picfilesv/picv20535 . php (remove the spaces)
Bella's outfit when she leaves Portland, OR: http:/i53 . tinypic . com/vikxvd . jpg
Here is a link of the characters I picture: http:/tinypic . com/r/314wcue/7
Chapter Twenty Nine – (Back to Where it Began)
BPOV
Tanya and I wake up at 7am to get an early start on heading back to Forks. We both have a shower to wake ourselves up. It takes half an hour for us to move our ten big boxes with all of our stuff in them, into the back of my truck. I didn't have much when I traveled down here in the first place, so it's mainly all of Tanya's things and a whole heap of books, paintings and ornaments I fell in love with and insisted we take.
We head up toward Stockton, leaving not long after 7:30am. Tanya wanted to be the one to drive first, and it takes six hours to get to Stockton from Hermosa. So we decide to take a pit stop every two and a half hours. Not that I did that on my way up, but Tanya is a complete road safety freak, so she's pretty much forcing me to do it. We drive 157 miles to Lost Hills, stopping to stretch out our muscles and get some energy drinks. We don't stay for long, only fifteen minutes.
When we leave, Tanya wanted to continue driving but I wouldn't have it.
"You are not driving anymore. It's my turn," I tell Tanya, taking a quick glance at her. She rolls her eyes at me.
"Don't be such a child; I'm perfectly fine to keep driving," she insists.
"I don't care, we said we would switch every two hours. And it's my truck anyway."
"Fineeee," she whines, poking her tongue out at me.
"Now who's being a child," I tease her, shaking my head at her as a snort escapes me.
I continue to head north, heading up to Stockton. It's only three hours away so we might as well just stop there. Tanya begins to complain about me not stopping after two hours, which causes me to laugh hysterically. She narrows her eyes at me before laying back further into her seat.
"Are we doing another pit stop soon? I'm starving!" she asks impatiently. I laugh lightly at her before a smile forms on my lips.
"Yeah, we're not that far away from Stockton, we'll stop there."
I pull up to a small park that is across the road from a series of take away shops. Tanya and I grab our wallets before I lock up my truck. We cross the road quickly, Tanya in more of a hurry to get food into her stomach than I am. It's nearly midday, and I know how she gets when she doesn't eat at the usual time. She becomes a crabby little bitch.
We head into a small pie shop. Tanya and I both decide to have a cheese and bacon pie with a small carton of iced coffee with it. We pay the old man at the counter before walking back to the park where I parked my truck.
We sit on one of the picnic tables, watching the ducks swim in the small pond, and the families having picnics together. There are a few young couples walking along the path, hand in hand – kissing each other and exchanging whispered conversations. I let out a sad sigh before pulling my legs up to my chest and wrapping my arms around them. I rest my chin on my knees. I can feel Tanya's gaze on me, I glance over at her to see her eyes are filled with concern. She reaches over and places her hand on my arm.
"You okay, babe?" she asks concerned.
"Yeah, I guess," I reply quietly.
"What's wrong?"
"Just really miss Edward," I mumble.
"You'll see him soon," she reassures me.
"You don't know that. He may not want to see me," I tell her sadly.
"Well, you'll have Alice and everyone else back," she says confidently.
"Yeah," I reply, a smile forming on my lips at the thought of seeing Alice again.
Tanya takes my hand and pulls me into her side, wrapping her arm around my shoulders.
"We should get going," I tell her.
She pulls out of the embrace and steals my keys out of my hand before smirking at me and running to the driver's side. I roll my eyes and shake my head before a grin forms on my face and I run to the passenger side, eager to continue our journey back to Forks.
Tanya is yawning by the time we end up in Medford. I give her the directions to Motel 6, the place I stayed at when I left Forks. She pulls into the parking lot and turns off the engine. We both grab our overnight bags before jumping out of the truck. She locks up the truck before throwing me the keys as we head over to the front office. I see the woman who looked after me the time I came here. As we get closer, I can see that she's filling out a stack of paperwork again. I knock on the door lightly and she looks up, smiling brightly at me before gesturing with her hand for Tanya and me to come inside. I return her smile and walk up to the desk.
"It's nice to see you again, dear. Who's your friend?" she asks kindly.
"Hi. It's good to see you too. Still doing paperwork, I see," I joke, laughing lightly before I continue, "This is my friend, Tanya."
"Nice to meet you, sweetheart," she greets Tanya.
"Nice to meet you too," Tanya replies politely.
"Now what can I do for you? Just a room for the night again?" The lady asks us.
"That would be great," I reply.
She smiles at Tanya and I before she begins to tap on the computer keyboard and opening one of her draws, handing me the key to my room. I look down at her to see that it's the same room as last time.
"Have a nice night," she says kindly.
"You too," Tanya and I reply in unison before smiling at her and walking to our room.
Tanya and I are both exhausted so we don't waste any time getting ready for bed. Tanya has her shower first, so I take the opportunity to put my phone on charge and text Alice.
Hey, It's Bella.
We're at a Motel in Medford.
Should be back tomorrow night.
- B
Tanya walks out of the bathroom just as I put my phone back down on the bedside table. She crawls into bed as I head into the bathroom to have my shower. I keep my shower quick as a yawn escapes me. Man, I'm exhausted. Once I've finished showering, I change into my pajamas. I hang my towel on one of the chairs and tie my hair up into a messy bun before climbing into bed. Tanya has already fallen asleep. I pick up my phone to see a reply from Alice.
That's great!
Omg, I can't believe you'll be back tomorrow, that's so soon!
I can't wait to see you. I miss you so much :(
- A
A smile forms on my lips at her excitement. I write a quick reply before settling down in bed, my phone resting on my chest.
I miss you too, Ali.
Going to bed now though.
We'll have to meet up the next day though.
Is that okay? xx
- B
Yeah, that's fine :)
Night, Bella.
- A
A laugh escapes my lips at her enthusiasm. God, I've missed her terribly. I can't wait to see her again.
I wake up to Tanya stroking my fringe away from my forehead.
"Hey, sleepy head," she greets me.
"Hey," I reply, my voice still thick with sleep. "What's the time?" I ask, a yawn escaping my lips. She smiles down at me and chuckles lightly to herself.
"It's nearly nine thirty, we have to be out of the room by ten. So, chop chop," she says, snapping her fingers as she gets off the bed.
I groan before pulling the sheets back and climbing out of bed. I get changed and pack up my stuff while Tanya orders room service, leaving me with a mini box of coco pops with some milk. I eat it quickly, then grab my bag and follow Tanya out of the door. We hand in our room key and thank the lady for having us.
"It was really nice seeing you again, honey," she says sweetly.
"You too. Maybe I'll come back again one day," I tell her.
"You're welcome here anytime, dear."
"Thanks," I reply, smiling at her before turning away and meeting Tanya at my truck.
It's 10:15am by the time I pull out of the parking lot. We continue to travel north, our conversations small and light, but comfortable. We talk about what we're going to do when we get back to Forks, discussing whether I'll go back to school or just get a job instead. Tanya is pretty pushy about me going back to school and finishing. I'm going to be so behind, thinking about all the make up work I'll have to do scares the hell out of me. Tanya is set on getting a job as soon as she can.
"Why don't you go to the community collage? Study or something?" I ask her.
"And what am I going to study?" she asks.
"What are you passionate about?" I ask her honestly.
"Well, I've always wanted to own my book store that's also a coffee shop."
"That sounds great. So, go do business studies."
"Really? You think I should do it?" she asks uncertainly.
"Definitely. You're smart, you're great with customers, and you would be a great boss," I tell her honestly.
"I'll think about it," she replies quietly.
It's around 12:15pm when we pass a sign that says 'Welcome to Cottage Grove, Oregon.' It's a beautiful place. I drive past the Cottage Grove Hotel, making my way down the street to find some place for Tanya and I to get some lunch. I pull over to the side of the road and park my truck. We grab our handbags and head down the street. We find a little diner that reminds of us of our work back home.
"God, I miss Gazza already," Tanya mumbles as we walk through the door.
"Me too," I reply, smiling at her sadly. She lets out a sigh before returning the gesture and heading over to the front counter.
We both order a chicken burger with chips on the side. We sit in a comfortable silence in a booth by the window that looks out onto the street. The waitress comes over about 20 minutes later, placing our orders in front of us.
"Is there anything else I can get you girls?" she asks.
"Can I please just have a cup of tea?" I ask kindly.
"Same here, thanks," Tanya adds, smiling at the young girl politely.
"Of course, I'll be right back," the waitress replies, returning Tanya's smile before walking away.
"So, do you want to hang around for a few hours or get straight back onto the road?" Tanya asks, before popping a chip into her mouth.
"I think we should stick around for a bit, just relax and stuff."
"Sounds good," she replies, winking at me before eating another chip. "Where are we heading next, anyway?" she adds.
"Portland. There's a hotel I want to stay at. I stayed there on my way up here – I met a guy there. His parents own the hotel."
"Oh, yeah? And does this guy have a name?" she asks mischievously
"Demetri," I tell her. My lips automatically turning up into a smile.
"You seem fairly fond of him," she says, quirking my brow at him. I roll my eyes at her.
"It's not like that at all. He was a very nice guy."
"Mmmmhhm."
"Tanya," I say pointedly, grabbing her attention. "You know I'm in love with Edward," I add quietly.
"I know that. Stop being so sensitive, I was only mucking around."
"Yeah, well, it hurts when you say things like that. Especially because of my situation with Edward."
"Right," she says softly. She reaches her hand across the table and places it on top of mine. She squeezes my hand lightly, causing me to meet her gaze. "Sorry," she adds, smiling apologetically at me. I give her a small smile in return and squeeze her hand back.
"You know me, no filter from my brain to my mouth," she jokes through a chuckle. I laugh lightly before a small smile forms on my lips.
"That I do know," I joke in return.
"Hey girls, here's your teas," the waitress says before placing them down on the table.
"Thanks," Tanya and I say in unison. She smiles at both of us before walking away again.
We eat the rest of our meal, having a comfortable conversation. Tanya asks about Demetri. I tell her how he was really sweet and gave me breakfast on the house.
"God, he is so into you," she says through a laugh.
"No he isn't!"
"Yes he is, are you blind?"
"Okay, maybe he was a little interested," I mumble.
"Dude, he gave you a free breakfast, and didn't want to miss saying goodbye to you. He was more than a little interested."
"Oh, God." I groan. "Won't stopping in there again give him mixed signals?" I ask
"It shouldn't… I mean, it's just a hotel, you've gotta stay somewhere. Maybe just talk about Edward or something? Say you're heading back home because you missed your boyfriend."
"But when I stayed there last, I looked like a complete wreck because I cried so much about leaving… What if he says something like "why are you going back if he's the reason you left in the first place?"
"Did you even tell him anything about why you wanted 'a new scenery'? she asks confused.
"No…"
"Well, then everything will be fine. He can't ask questions about things he doesn't know about, Bells," she reassures me. "And if he acts all weird toward you at all, I will rough him up, okay?" she adds jokingly, winking at me.
I let out a sigh of relief before a giggle escapes me. I pick up my cup of tea and lean further back into my seat, finishing it off before placing it back on the table.
"You finished?" I ask her. She nods her head at me.
"Yep. You wanna go for a walk or something?" she asks, sliding out of the booth.
"Sure," I reply, sliding out of my side of the booth as well.
We walk over to the front counter to pay for our meal. Tanya links her arm with mine as we walk out of the shop. We walk down the street to the national park. We decide to take a walk down a small bush track. Further down the track, we come across a small place with a sign that says Row River. It's a beautiful place, a long river surrounded by trees and beautiful green bushes and rocks cascaded down the right side. The river flows down under a bridge that is built into the pathway.
We sit down on top of a small picnic table, leaning on the back of our hands with our legs entwined as we face the river. We get a few odd looks by some of the people who walk by and two young girls who beam at us before yelling out "Gay pride!" in unison.
"Hell yeah!" Tanya yells out before grabbing my face and pecking me on the lips and doing a fist pump in the air.
"What the?" I ask confused. The young girls hoot and cheer with happiness before walking away.
I continue to sit there in shock, which causes Tanya to laugh hysterically.
"Sorry, babe, I couldn't help myself," she says through a chuckle.
"No, it's alright. I didn't think about how our positions may look to people on the outside. I guess two best friends can't sit like this without people thinking they're lesbians these days. We must look amazing as a couple or something."
Tanya stares at me, a small smile on her lips. She shakes her head before her smile turns into a full blown grin and she begins to cackle with laughter again. She clutches her stomach as she leans forward, trying to get control of her laughter.
"Will you calm down? You're going to fall off the table!" I scold her through my giggles.
"Shit, you are so funny sometimes!"
"Why, thank you," I reply, a grin on my face.
"Oh my god, I can't breathe," she groans through her laughter.
"Deep breaths, sweetheart," I reply, patting her on the back before jumping off the table.
"What are you doing? You can't just leave me here!" she says hysterically.
"Calm your tits, woman. I'm not leaving you anywhere."
"Oh."
"You fool," I tease through a giggle.
"Shut yo mouth," she replies, her voice a ghetto tone before jumping off the table as well.
"Ergggh, it's nearly three thirty, we should probably get back on the road."
"Okie dokie," I reply, smiling at her before we make our way back the way we came. When we get closer to my truck, I run ahead of her.
"What are you doing?" she calls out to me.
"I'm driving!" I yell back, before picking up my pace knowing she'll soon be hot on my heels.
"No way! You drove here!" she exclaims.
"I don't care, it's my Truck!"
"You can't keep playing the 'it's my Truck' card, you unfair bitch! Give me the keys!' she complains as she catches up to me.
"No," I reply, holding the keys out of reach from her.
"Yes!" she says, narrowing her eyes at me before lurching for the keys.
"Get away, you beast," I say through a giggle before swatting her hand away.
"I am not a beast, now give me the keys!"
"Portland is only two hours away. We've had a three hour break, I'm fine to drive," I tell her smugly.
"I hate you," she says through a huff, flipping me off before walking around to the passenger side.
"I love you too," I reply through a laugh before opening the truck door. I hop inside and start up the ignition. Tanya taps on the window, I look over to her to see her eyes narrowed at me.
"Do you still hate me?" I ask.
"Don't be a bitch. Let me in," she complains in a whiny tone.
"Oh, so now I'm a bitch. You aren't going to get anywhere calling me names," I say through a laugh.
"You won't leave me stranded here," she says confidentially.
"Oh, won't I?" I ask, changing the gear into first and letting the clutch off before pressing my foot down on the accelerator a little bit.
"Bella!" she exclaims. "Fine! I'm sorry okay? You're not a bitch. You're the most kind, amazing, beautiful person on planet earth and I would be lost without you. Now, will you please let me in?" she complains.
I laugh hysterically as I lean across the seat and unlock her door. She climbs in, her eyes narrowed at me once again.
"You do realize now I'm inside this ancient thing I can take all that back…"
"No hating on my truck. And no you can't take it back."
"Yes, I can," she says seriously.
"I can easily kick you out of my ancient truck."
"I'd like to see you try, you little weakling," she jokes, punching me in the side of the arm for emphasis. I wince from the pain and rub my arm.
"Owe! Are you right there? You fucking behemoth."
"What is with you calling me all these beastly names? Jesus Christ, I am a human being, not an animal," she complains.
"I don't know about that. Sometimes I have trouble figuring out what you are."
"Oh, Ha-ha."
"No, seriously. I have to look up Zoo animal books and everything," I tease.
"Screw you," She mumbles.
"No thanks," I reply through a giggle.
"You are such a pain in my ass. Will you please just shut up and drive?"
"Who do you think you are? Rihanna?" I ask through a laugh.
"Jesus Christ. Really, Bella? Have you always been this annoying?"
"Whatever, you love me," I say confidently, poking her in the arm.
"Unfortunately," she mumbles as I pull out onto the road and begin our journey to Portland, Oregon.
A smile automatically turns up on my lips as we pass the 'Welcome to Portland, Oregon' sign. Demetri was such a nice guy; I can't wait to see him again. It's six PM by the time I pull into the parking lot of Demetri's family hotel. When I park my truck, I glance over at the front door to see Demetri standing outside with a huge grin on his face. I get out of the truck and grab my overnight bag from the back. I wave at Demetri as I make my way over to him.
"You're back!" he exclaims before closing the distance between us and engulfing me in a hug.
"I told you I'd stop by if I was ever this way again," I tell him, my voice muffled by our embrace.
I step out of his arms and smile at him politely. I glance over to Tanya to see that she's looking at us closely and eyeing up Demetri. She quirks her brow at me causing me to roll my eyes at her.
"This is my one of my best friends, Tanya. Tanya, this is Demetri."
"Hi, it's nice to meet you," he says kindly, extending his hand out to Tanya.
"You too." She takes his hand in hers and shakes it, a polite smile on her face. He returns her smile before looking back at me.
"Come inside, I'll get you guys organized," he says before turning around and walking inside.
Tanya and I follow behind him and wait at the front counter. He sits down in the chair and types something up on the computer before grabbing a key off the hook behind him and placing it on top of the counter.
"So, did you find the place you were looking for?" he asks.
"Yeah, I did. That's where I found Tan. But I'm ready to head back home now," I reply kindly.
"Oh yeah? What's back home?" He asks nonchalantly. Tanya elbows me in the ribs and looks at me pointedly.
"Uh, my um, boyfriend. And his sister, who is also my best friend," I splutter out.
"Oh," He says quietly. "I didn't know you had a boyfriend."
"Well, we're not really together anymore, but I plan on getting him back," I reply confidentially.
"Well, I hope that works out for you," he replies sweetly, a small smile on his face. I return the gesture before looking over at Tanya.
"See," I mouth to her silently.
"Whatever," she replies in the same way, rolling her eyes at me.
"So, Tanya," Demetri addresses her. "Are you single?" he asks, his voice seductive. Tanya scoffs quietly before putting a kind smile on her face.
"Sorry, honey. I don't bat for your team," she says with a wink.
"Oh," he replies shocked. "Sorry," he adds in a mumble.
"Nothing to be sorry about,"
"Well, no. I mean, you're a beautiful woman. So, I'm sorry I can't have you."
"That sounds a bit possessive, don't you think?" she jokes.
"Tanya," I scold her quietly.
"What?" she asks nonchalantly.
"I didn't mean it like that, I swear," he says shocked.
"Don't pay any attention to her, she's a shit stirrer," I tell him.
"Excuse me? I am not," she denies, picking the key up off the counter and walking away.
"Great friend you have. She's fiery," Demetri jokes.
"She is pretty feisty, but I wouldn't have her any other way," I reply honestly.
"It's nice to see you again, Bella," he says, smiling kindly at me. I return his smile and close the distance between us, giving him a quick hug.
"I'll see you in the morning. No giving us breakfast on the house again either," I tell him seriously. He holds his hands up in surrender.
"I won't, I promise," he says through a laugh. "Have a good night," he adds.
"You too," I reply before walking down to mine and Tanya's room.
"You're right, he is a sweetheart," Tanya says as I walk into the room.
"I told you."
"I can't get over that he seemed so into you, but as soon as he found out you were interested in someone else, he moved onto me," she says through a laugh.
"Well, I think it was sweet of him to respect that I have feelings for someone else," I reply, a smile on my face. "And It's not like Demetri and I got together, and he moved on to impressing you, after breaking up with me," I add, raising my brow at her.
"True," she ponders, pursing her lips together trying to keep herself from smiling.
"I'm gonna have a quick shower." I tell her, pulling out my pajamas and a pair of clean panties out of my suitcase.
"Okay."
I make my way into the bathroom, turning the shower dials on, before tying my hair into a messy bun and stepping into the shower. I let out a sigh as the spray of hot water hits my skin, instantly loosening my muscles. I lather my body quickly before rinsing off and getting out. I dry myself quickly, and then change into my panties and putting my grey sweat pants and green jumper on. I pull my hair out of it's bun as I walk out of the bathroom and over to the kitchen.
"Do you want a cup of tea?" I ask Tanya.
"Sure. Thanks."
"What's the time?" I ask before there's a knock at the door.
"Nearly seven thirty," she replies as she makes her way to the door. She opens it to see Demetri on the other side.
"Hey," he greets her, his tone soft.
"Hey, what's up?" Tanya asks.
"Nothing much. I was pretty bored, so I thought I'd come say hi."
"Right."
Demetri stands in the doorway, looking and no doubt feeling, extremely awkward. Tanya glances over at me, quirking her brow. I narrow my eyes at her for being so rude.
"Hey, Demetri. Do you want to come in?" I ask, smiling at him kindly.
"Oh. Yeah, thanks," he replies sheepishly before stepping inside. Tanya goes back to the bed and continues reading the second Hunger Games book, Catching Fire, by Suzanne Collins. I got it for her for Christmas. A smile forms on my lips as I think back to the memory.
x-X-x
"Bella, hurry your ass up, would you? We're going to be late!" Tanya yells from the living room.
"Will you calm down? We are not going to be late," I call back.
"We are if you keep going at the pace of an old lady! It's Christmas dinner. If we're late, Kate is going to tear us to shreds."
"I am not going at the pace of an old lady!" I scold her as I walk into the living room. "And don't act like you're scared of Kate. You just want to get there to open your presents," I add.
"Well excuse me for letting my inner child come out."
"You do realize we aren't opening any presents until after dinner, right?" I ask, a smirk on my face.
"What? Why?" she whines.
"Because I said so," I reply through a giggle.
"Ergh, it's Christmas day, Bella!"
"So? You don't see me having a cry about wanting to open my presents."
"That's because you're the one who refused to let us open them. You're meant to give gifts in the morning!" she says exasperatedly.
"That's when you're a child," I reply, rolling my eyes at her.
When we arrive at Garrett and Kate's, we have a beautiful Christmas dinner together. It's been a long time since I've had a family Christmas dinner. It felt a little foreign at first, but everything about it was perfect. The meal, the conversation, the company. I can't keep the smile off my face the entire night.
"Okay, time for presents!" Kate says excitedly.
"Finally!" Tanya says through an exhilarated sigh. I can't stop the laugh that escapes my lips. I reach down into my handbag and pull out the bunch of presents I got everyone, placing them on the table.
"Let's relocate to the living room," Garrett says as he stands. We all follow behind him. Tanya and I sit on the lounge while Garrett sits in the arm chair, Kate on his lap.
"I haven't had a Christmas for a long time, so I'm bit out of practice with the Christmas shopping," I say quietly before handing Kate her present. I bite down on my lip as I watch her rip the wrapping off.
"I didn't really know what to get you, so I just got those photos printed out and put into frames," I tell her, my voice anxious. I glance up, letting out a sigh of relief as I see her lips turn up into a genuine smile.
"I love them, thank you," she whispers, climbing off Garrett's lap and embracing me in a hug. I hug her back before handing Garrett his present.
I got him a silver plaque with a passage engraved in it. When his eyes meet mine, I can see the emotion clear in them.
"What does it say?" Tanya asks.
Garrett clears his throat before looking down at the plaque and reading out what it says.
"I listen to your advice because it's the best I can get.
I love your personality, your wit and good humour.
I love your smile and I love your laugh.
I love the way you go out of your way to make my days better when they're down.
I love the laughs and the silly fights that we have together.
I love everything that we have done together.
I love the way that you are, and everything that you are.
I love all the good things that you have done,
I've seen more than you think I've seen, I've heard more than you think I've heard.
And I have done more than you think I have done, but at the end of the day, I know I'll always be okay with you in my life.
Everything you are, and everything you will be in the future is amazing.
You are my best friend, my everything, but most of all, you're my brother that I love with my whole heart.
I write this to you to show you how much you have impacted my life in a positive way.
Our friendship is proof that blood is not always thicker than water. You don't have to be biologically related to someone to be apart of their family.
I love you big brother, thank you for everything.
Love always, Bella."
"Wow," Tanya says in awe.
"Bella, that is so beautiful," Kate whispers, her voice thick with emotion.
Garrett stands and closes the distance between us. I wrap my arms around his waist. He pulls me close to him, my cheek resting on his chest. "Do you like it?" I ask, my voice a whisper.
"It's the kindest thing anyone has ever given to me. Thank you, Bella." He squeezes me to him tightly for a quick second before stepping out of our embrace.
"You're welcome,"
"I feel the exact same way too, by the way," he adds, a smile on his face. I feel my lips turn up into a smile.
"Good to know," I reply through a light laugh.
"Okay, myyyy tuuuuuuurn!" Tanya chimes in a sing song voice. I roll my eyes at her as Kate and Garrett laugh at her enthusiasm.
I pick up her present and hand it to her. She rips the paper open in record time, her eyes going wide and lips turning up into a massive grin as she lays her eyes on the book I gave her.
"Oh. My. God," she says, her voice sounding out of breath.
"Am I forgiven for making you wait now?" I ask through a laugh.
"Yes! I love you!" she squeals before jumping up and wrapping her arms around my neck. I wrap my arms around her waist as I continue to laugh. "I can't believe you got me this! When was it even released?" she asks, stepping out of the embrace.
"What is it?" Garrett asks.
"The second Hunger Games novel by Suzanne Collins," I reply.
"The what?" he asks confused.
"Only the best action slash love story ever!" Tanya exclaims.
"Never heard of it," Garrett says nonchalantly.
"What?" Tanya, Kate and I say simultaneously.
"How have you not heard of it?" Tanya asks, horrified.
"You know that book I couldn't put down? About the kids going into a game arena and having to kill the other contestants and fight to the death," Kate tells him.
"Oooooh, that," Garrett replies.
"Yeah, that. Tanya is extremely obsessed with it, so, it was kind of the perfect gift for her," I tell him.
"It's more than perfect, it's fantastic!" Tanya says, her voice filled with excitement.
"Oh, and it was released in September. I've had it for a while…"
"What? How have I not found it around the apartment?"
"Because I have brilliant hiding places," I reply, giving her a wink.
"Okay, okay. Time to give Bella her presents now," Kate interrupts.
I sit back down on the couch as they all place my presents on the coffee table in front of me. I can't stop the smile forming on my lips as I begin to open the first present. It's from Garrett and it looks pretty big, and it's heavy. I open it to find a box, a picture of a long, black, rectangular shape with a clock on it on the front.
"It's a radio clock, with a built in cd player."
I look over to Garrett and smile at him thankfully.
"Now you'll finally be able to tell the time and listen to some good music in that ancient thing of yours," he jokes.
"Hey. No hating on my truck," I scold him playfully. 'Thank you. I love it," I add before standing and embracing him in a hug.
"I'll install it tomorrow," he replies, patting my pack.
I open my present from Kate. It's a small jewellery box. I open the lid gingerly to see a beautiful silver necklace with a Swan situated in the middle of it. I take it out, holding the chain by the tip of my fingers as I rest the swan in the palm of my hand.
"Wow. Kate, it's stunning," I say breathlessly before embracing her in a hug as well.
"As soon as I saw it I thought of you. It's beautiful just like you."
"I love it, thank you."
"You're welcome, honey," she replies, kissing me on the cheek.
"Okay, this is from me," Tanya interrupts eagerly.
"Thanks captain obvious," I joke.
"Don't be a smart-ass, open it," she replies, poking her tongue out at me before shoving the two presents in my hands.
The first present is a silver charm bracelet, the letter B already situated on it.
"Thanks, Tan. It's gorgeous," I say before smiling at her.
Her lips turn up into a grin before she replies, "Open the next one."
I open the box to see a small plaque that says "A best friend is someone who knows all about you and your crazy quirks, and loves you anyway. You're the best friend I could ever ask for." With three charms placed on top of it.
"That is the sweetest thing ever, Tanya. Thanks," I say, wrapping my arms around her. She returns the gesture and kisses me on the top of my head.
"You're welcome. I got you a Bell, because well, your name's Bella. Get it? Bell."
"Yeah, I get it," I reply through a laugh.
"Then I saw the tea cup and treble clef one and thought I had to get them too, because you absolutely love tea and music, so it was kind of perfect."
"It is perfect, you know me so well. Thank you," I reply before hugging her again.
x-X-x
"Hello? Earth to Bella," Demetri says, pulling me out of my memory. He leans up against the kitchen counter and quirks his brow at me.
"Sorry, what?"
"Where have you been for the past five minutes?" he asks through a laugh.
"She always drifts off into her own little land like that," Tanya says.
"Whatever. Do you want a cup of tea?" I ask Demetri, smiling at him kindly.
"That'd be great. Thanks," he replies, returning my smile. I turn my back to him and continue to make our cup of teas.
"So what where you saying?" I ask.
"Nothing special really, I was just asking how you've been."
"Oh. Well, I've been great. What about you?"
"I've been okay…"
"Why only okay?" I ask, turning around to face him.
"Mom and Dad have a lot of stuff going on at the moment, so I've been helping out here a lot more than I'm meant too. I'm kind of falling behind in collage," he replies, his voice sad.
"You shouldn't be here so much if you have such a heavy study load. Once you begin to fall behind, it's harder to catch back up," Tanya says.
"Tanya, he can't help falling behind in school," I say as I walk over to her and hand her, her cup of tea before sitting down on the bed.
"Have you been to collage?" he asks Tanya.
"Yes, I have. And I fell behind as well. I missed out on a lot when I thought I wouldn't, and I couldn't catch back up."
"You didn't tell me about that," I say, my voice soft.
"Not something I like to bring up, Bells."
"What's going on with your parents?" I ask Demetri, looking over at him.
"They're going through a divorce," he replies quietly.
"Oh. That's horrible, are you okay?" I ask concerned. He sits down next to me on the bed, looking down at his hands.
"I'll be okay. Seeing you again has lifted my spirits," he looks up into my eyes and smiles at me sadly. I smile back at him before placing my hand over his and squeezing it lightly.
"Okay. I can't take this anymore," Tanya says through an annoyed sigh.
"What?" he asks confused.
"You have a thing for Bella, don't you?" she asks straightforwardly.
"Are you jealous?" he asks, quirking his brow at her. She rolls her eyes at him.
"Oh, please. I already told you I don't bat for your team. Are you deaf or something? Bella also already told you she's in love with someone else, and that she plans on getting back with him. Yet, here you are, making her feel sorry for you with your sob story."
"I'm sorry if it seems that way, it certainly wasn't my intention," he says quietly.
"Tanya, what is wrong with you?" I scold her. "Demetri, don't feel bad, I didn't take it that way."
"That's because you're blind," Tanya says through a sigh.
"I think I should go," Demetri says, getting up off the bed.
"No. You don't have to. You're my friend, I want you to stay."
"Well, Tanya clearly doesn't."
"Don't make me out to be the bad guy. I'm just calling it how I see it."
"You want the truth? Okay, yeah. I do have a thing for Bella. But I respect that she has feelings for someone else. I didn't come up here to make her feel sorry for me so she'll be with me."
"Demetri, you don't need to explain yourself," I say, cutting him off.
"No, I clearly do," he replies before looking back over at Tanya. "I came here because I needed a friend. Believe it or not, I don't have many of those, because I'm either too busy with school work or too busy helping out here. My parents getting a divorce isn't a sob story, it's actually really hard on me because my parents have been together for twenty five years, and all I've ever seen from them is pure love and to see that fall apart right in front of me, it hurts."
He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. I reach out to him and wrap my hand around his wrist. He breathes out slowly before opening his eyes and looking over to me. "I'm sorry if it came across as an ulterior motive or something, but all I wanted from you was for you to be my friend and listen. I'm not the kind of guy to be persistent and force my feelings onto someone when I know they don't feel the same. I'd rather have you as a friend than not have you at all," he says softly.
I smile at him sadly, sliding my hand into his and pulling him towards me. I wrap my arms around his neck as he wraps his hands around my waist and holds onto me tightly.
"Right. Well, sorry. I'll just go have a shower and leave you two alone then," Tanya says through a sigh before walking into the bathroom.
I step out of mine and Demetri's embrace, sitting back down on the bed and pulling on his hand to sit down next to me. I slide into the middle of the bed and cross my legs. Demetri turns around and sits in the same position.
"I'm really sorry about that, she's just very protective of me."
"It's alright. I get where she was coming from," he replies, smiling at me.
"So, do you know why your parents are getting a divorce?" I ask, my voice soft.
"Not really. They just said they're not in love anymore. But I don't believe it – you don't have the kind of love my mom and dad had to just suddenly not feel the same anymore."
"Do you think it's because of something else?"
"What do you mean?" he asks suspiciously.
"Well, something had to have caused them to feel like they do, maybe something happened between them…"
"What are you trying to say? That one of them had an affair or something?" he asks, horrified.
"I don't know, Demetri. I'm just trying to help come up with a conclusion as to why they're getting a divorce if you're so hell bent about them not falling out of love."
"They would never do that to one another," he says sternly.
"Okay, well, I can't think of anything else. Maybe they did just fall out of love? Things change, people change as time goes by. You think someone loves you, but then one day you wake up and they're a completely different person, or they leave you with no explanation at all," I reply, my voice breaking on the last sentence.
"Hey, are you okay?" he asks concerned.
"I'm fine. We're talking about you. Look, I know it's hard, but maybe they're just not happy anymore. Wouldn't you rather them be apart and happy, rather than them stay together, continuously fighting, and eventually resenting each other?"
"Good point," he mumbles, letting out a defeated sigh. He reaches out and takes my hand in his. I look into his eyes and see the sadness in them. I squeeze his hand before crawling over to where he's sitting on the bed and wrapping my arms around him. "Thanks for listening, and giving me advice," he whispers before winding his arms around my waist and holding me close to him.
"You're welcome," I whisper back.
I hear the bathroom door open as Tanya walks into the room. I pull out of the embrace and Demetri smiles at me sheepishly before climbing off the bed.
"I should probably go," he says quietly.
"Okay, I'll see you tomorrow morning."
"How long are you staying this time?" he asks.
"Just for the night again."
"Okay," he replies, his voice sad. "Bye, Tanya."
"See ya. Sorry abut before."
"Don't worry about it, its fine," he replies kindly, smiling at her before turning around and walking out the front door.
I climb over to my side of the bed and slip under the sheets. Tanya hangs her towel over the chair before getting into bed as well. She rolls onto her side to face me.
"Is he okay?" she asks sincerely.
"He's alright. He's really upset about his parents situation, and about you thinking he had an ulterior motive for talking to me about it."
"Great. Now I feel like a complete insensitive bitch," she mumbles.
"It's alright, he knows you were only being protective of me," I reassure her.
"I heard some of what you guys were saying. You gave him some pretty good advice. We're you referring to anything in particular?"
"My mom," I reply honestly, my voice quiet.
"Thought so. How are you doing?"
"I'm fine. Why?"
"We'll be back in Forks tomorrow," she says softly before asking, "Are you excited? Nervous? Scared?"
"All of the above," I mumble.
"I am a bit too," she admits.
"Why?" I ask confused.
"I haven't seen this part of my family in a long time. Ringing my Aunt the other day, asking if we could stay in the cottage, was the first time I've spoken to her in about four years."
"Why so long?"
"There was a bit of family drama developed when I came out," she replies through a sigh.
"Wow. You came out when you were just fifteen?" I ask, shocked.
"Yeah. Some family members didn't take it too well, they were convinced I was just going through a phase. But then when I got a girlfriend and bought her home to meet the parents, let's just say some members of the family changed towards me."
"As in your parents?" I ask horrified.
"No. My parents were actually fine about it after they saw how upset I was when everyone kept saying it's just a phase. It was dad's side of the family that weren't happy, they're very religious," she replies with a roll of her eyes.
"So, was it your Aunt that wasn't happy about it?"
"Yeah. But when I called her the other day, she sounded so happy to hear from me. She apologized about the way she acted and felt horrible about treating me the way she did. She was more than happy to let us stay in the cottage."
"Well, that's good then."
"When I told her about you, she got so excited. She thought you were my girlfriend. I couldn't believe my ears," she says through a laugh.
"Maybe she wants to make up for not acting that way in the past."
"Maybe. Anyway, that's my life story told. Let's get some sleep."
"Sounds great. Goodnight."
Tanya picks up my hand and plants a kiss on my fingers. "Goodnight," she whispers before rolling over, facing her back to me, and turning off the lamp.
I close my eyes, letting exhaustion overtake me. My mind filling with dreams of my reunion with Alice and Edward.
The next morning I'm woken up by someone stroking the hair away from my forehead and tucking it behind my ear. I open my eyes, blinking a few times to adjust to the morning light shining through the window, to see Tanya kneeling beside my bed. She smiles at me kindly before standing and pulling the sheets off me.
"Morning, sleepyhead," she greets me cheerfully.
"What time is it?" I ask, my voice still thick with sleep.
"Nearly ten thirty. Do you want a cuppa?"
"Please," I reply through a yawn.
"Morning, Bella," a small voice greets me.
I sit up abruptly, snapping my head around to the direction of the greeting. Demetri is sitting at the small table across the room, a sheepish smile on his face. My cheeks flush red as I realize I'm only wearing my green oversized jumper. I took my sweats off during the night because I got too hot. I pull the covers back up over the lower part of my body before smiling back at him.
"Oh. Hey, Demetri."
"How was your night?"
"It was fine."
"Just fine?" he asks, a smirk on his face.
"Uh, yeah. Um, excuse me," I mumble, pulling my pants back on under the covers before getting out of bed. I walk over to the small kitchen where Tanya is.
"Thanks for ripping off the blankets while I was only in my jumper and underwear," I hiss at her.
"What are you talking about?" she asks nonchalantly, a small smirk lifting at the corner of her lips.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about. Do you know how embarrassing that is?"
"I don't see where the problem is. You guys are friends."
"That doesn't mean he needs to see me in my underwear! Especially when he has a thing for me and is being really sweet not to act on it. Stop being such a pain, Tanya," I scold under my breath.
"Jeez, someone thinks they're simply irresistible," she scoffs.
"You guys know I can hear you, right?" Demetri says awkwardly, causing Tanya to snicker quietly.
"Um, I'm just going to get changed," I mumble, grabbing my clothes out of my overnight bag and walking over to the bathroom.
I quickly glance over at Demetri, he smiles softly at me and I return the gesture before closing the bathroom door. I turn the tap on, placing my hands under the flowing water in a bowl position. I lean over the sink and splash the water over my face. I take a deep breath and let it out slowly. How can life get anymore embarrassing than that? How could he even hear us? I swear, he must have bat ears or something because I was speaking very low under my breath. I shake my head at my ridiculous thoughts, changing into my clean clothes. Because we're going back to Forks, where the weather is ridiculously cold, I decide on wearing a pair of dark blue jeans, a black long sleeve shirt, with a black leather jacket over the top, a white cotton scarf around my neck. I look myself over in the mirror before walking back out into the room.
"What?" I ask Demetri, stopping in my tracks as I take in his expression.
"Nothing. Just, you do know hot it is here, right?"
"Yeah, but we're going back to Forks. It's freezing there."
"Oh. Right," he replies quietly.
"You should come down and visit us some day," Tanya pipes up, walking over to me and handing me my cup of tea.
"Thanks," I say quietly, taking the cup from her carefully, smiling at her gratefully before looking back at Demetri. "Yeah, you should. That's be great," I add.
"Really?" he asks hesitantly.
"Why not?" I ask confused.
"Wouldn't that be weird with your boyfriend there and all?"
"He's not my boyfriend."
"Yet," Tanya interrupts, snickering beside me. I roll my eyes before sitting down in the chair across from Demetri.
"Anyway, why does that even matter? You and I are friends, right? I mean, it's not like you're going to be trying to court me and make me your girlfriend."
"Yeah," he replies quietly.
"Demetri. Are you able to be just friends with me? I really want to be friends, but if you're uncomfortable with that, then, well, I don't really know what to do," I say quietly.
"Awkwarddd," Tanya says under her breath, causing me to look in her direction and scowl at her. She pokes her tongue out at me before walking out of the front door, leaving Demetri and I alone. I let out a sigh before looking back at Demetri.
"Bella, I'm fine with it," he replies, meeting my gaze and smiling at me softly.
"Then why are you so worried about Edward when you come to visit?"
"I don't know," he mumbles. "I guess I just, well, look at Tanya. She can tell I have a thing for you straight off the bat. What if you do get back with Edward? He'll be able to see it too."
"So?" I ask confused, breaking eye contact with him and looking down at my hands.
"I don't want to come between you two. I can tell that you care about him a lot. I don't want to be the reason you get hurt again if he becomes jealous and assumes something far beyond what it really is," he replies quietly.
"Oh. Demetri, I'll just deal with that when it happens."
"But I don't want it to happen in the first place."
"What are you trying to say?" I ask warily. When he doesn't answer, I look up at him to see he's also looking down at his hands. I place my hand on his cheek, willing him to look at me. "Are you saying you don't want to be friends?" I ask sadly. His eyes shoot up to mine.
"No! Of course not!"
"Then tell me what you mean," I say quietly. He places his hand over mine that is still cupping his cheek. He removes my hand but doesn't let go as he places it on his knee.
"It doesn't matter. I'll come visit you, I promise," he replies, smiling at me sadly.
"Demetri…" I say hesitantly.
"Honestly, Bella. I'll be fine. I just didn't want to be a burden to you, or cause any trouble between you and Edward."
"I know exactly how you feel, but you wouldn't be a burden. And too bad if Edward get's jealous. I know I've hurt him a lot already, but I'm allowed to have friends."
"I don't think he'd care that we're friends, just the me liking you part," he mumbles. I let out a frustrated sigh before removing my hand from his.
"Look, you'll get over me, you will. I mean, honestly, we don't even really know each other that well. Argh, that sounded so horrible," I mumble, running my hand down my face. "What I mean is, I'm not the girl for you, Demetri. You'll find your girl one day, but I'm not her," I add quietly.
"I know," he replies. "I guess it's just because you're not like other girls I've met," he adds, his voice quiet.
The font door opens, Tanya walking inside. Demetri and I look in her direction. She's standing there with her hands on her hips and her brow quirked.
"Are you guys done with your heart to heart?"
'Ha-ha," I reply sarcastically.
"I'm serious. Are you done so we can get on the road?" she asks impatiently.
"Do you always have to be so annoying?" I complain.
"Whatever. You love me, I'm fabulous."
I scoff at her before shaking my head. I walk over to my overnight bag and pull out my white vans. I sit down on the bed and put them on before zipping up my bag and grabbing my phone and the keys to my truck off the bedside table. I look around the room, making sure I have everything. I didn't notice that Tanya took most of the stuff out to the truck when I was talking to Demetri. I hang my bag over my shoulder, walking over to Tanya.
"Come on, then," I tease her before looking over at Demetri. "Are you coming?" I ask him. He smiles attentively at me before standing and walking outside with us.
"Well, It was nice to meet you. Sorry again about last night. Make sure you come see us!" Tanya says cheerily before engulfing Demetri in a hug. He pats her pack awkwardly before answering.
"Don't worry about it. I understand where you were coming from," he smiles kindly at her before glancing at me.
"Take care," I say quietly, closing the distance between us and wrapping my arms around his neck. He winds his arms around my waist and holds me close to him.
"You too," he whispers back.
"You will come and visit, right?" I ask uncertainly, stepping out of our embrace. His cheeky grin is back in full force before he takes my hand in his.
"Of course I will," he says through a laugh.
"Good." Tanya and I reply simultaneously, causing all three of us to laugh.
"Give me the keys, lady. I'm driving this time," Tanya says seriously. I roll my eyes, letting out a sigh before handing my keys over to her. She runs over to the truck, throwing her bags into the back before jumping into the driver's seat.
"You better get going then," Demetri says, smiling sadly at me.
"Yeah… Oh, wait," I say abruptly, scavenging through my bag to find a pen and paper. I write down my number and hand it to him. "This is my number. Text me so I have yours, then I can harass you about coming to visit," I joke, laughing lightly. He takes the paper from my hands, smiling appreciatively at me.
"Thanks, Bella," he says softly. I quickly embrace him in another hug before smiling at him and running over to the truck.
I throw my bag in the back with Tanya's before climbing into the passenger seat. I glance over at Demetri to see him looking down at the piece of paper with a content smile on his face. He must sense me looking at him because he looks up, his eyes meeting mine. I smile brightly, waving goodbye to him as Tanya pulls out of the hotel parking lot and onto the main road, continuing the last few hours of our journey to Forks.
Tanya and I stopped somewhere around 1:00 PM to get some lunch, staying there for an hour before continuing to drive again. By the time Tanya and I pass the 'Welcome to Forks, Washington' sign, the digital clock on my stereo system says it's 5:30 PM. Butterflies begin to flutter throughout out my stomach, making me feel wrecked with nerves and excitement. We drive through the town, my thoughts all over the place. I wonder if my truck will tip everyone off that I'm back.
Tanya continues to drive towards the deserted area of Forks, which we have to drive past Charlie's house to get too. I tense up as we drive down the street. Tanya notices this and takes a quick glance at me. I look out the window, noticing Charlie's cruiser isn't in the drive way. I visibly relax and let out the breath I didn't realize I was holing on to.
"Are you okay? What was that about?" she asked concerned, taking quick glances at me.
"Yeah. That white house we drove by is Charlie's."
"Charlie as in your dad?" she asks surprised.
"Mhhm," I hum quietly. She smiles sympathetically at me before looking back onto the road. As we continue to her Aunt's cottage, my breathing becomes laboured as I realize the road we're on.
"Oh dear god, please don't tell me your aunt's name is Esme," I panic. Tanya glances at me with confusion on her face.
"Uh, it isn't. Why are you freaking out?"
"Um, this is the road towards Edward's house."
"Oh, really?" she asks, surprised.
"Yeah," I reply, swallowing the lump that's formed in my throat.
"Well, the turn off is just here," she says, pulling into the dirt road.
"Edward's turn off is just down the road," I tell her, my voice cracked from nerves.
"Wow. I wonder if my Aunt knows his parents," Tanya muses to herself.
"Wow, indeed," I reply letting out a heavy sigh.
Tanya continues to drive down the winding road, weaving in out of some trees. We eventually arrive at our destination, my jaw going slack and nearly dropping to the floor as I take in the sight before me.
Tanya's description of the cottage didn't do it any justice. It is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. It's like something out of a fairy-tale. Honeysuckle climbs up one wall like lattice, winding all the way up and over the thick wooden shingles. Late summer roses bloom in a handkerchief sized garden under the dark deep set windows. There is a little path of flat stones, amethyst in the night, that lead up to the quaint arched wooden door. Which is a crazy quilt of smooth, flat stones. The low ceiling has long exposed beams that someone as tall as Garrett would surely knock his head on.
Tanya and I grab our things out from the back of the truck and head towards the front door. I can't keep myself from glancing all around, this place is so stunning. I follow behind Tanya as she unlocks the door and walks inside. If I thought I was in shock from the view of the outside, it's nothing compared to the beauty of the inside.
The walls are warm wood in some places, stone mosaics in the others. There is a beehive fireplace in the corner. The cottage is furnished in eclectic pieces, not one of them matching another, but harmonious just the same. One chair seems vaguely medieval – while a low ottoman by the fire is more contemporary and the stocked bookshelf against the far window reminds me of movies set in Italy. Somehow, each piece fits together with the others like a big three dimensional puzzle. There are a few paintings on the walls. Priceless originals no doubt, but they seem to belong here, too, like all the rest.
"Whoa. Tanya, this place is… It's so beautiful," I tell her, my voice soft.
"I know, right? I've seen pictures and things like that, but, seeing it in person is a completely different thing."
"So you never came down here for any summers?"
"Nope," she replies, popping the P. "That'd be so weird, right? If I came here one summer, and we ran into each other, not even knowing it," she adds, turning to face me.
"I think I'd remember you," I reply, smiling at her.
"I'd remember you too," she says, smiling back at me. "Come on, lets dump our stuff in our rooms," she adds before walking down the hall. I follow after her before we reach the end of the hall. She stops, opening a door on the left.
"This can be yours. I'll have the one across the hall," she says smiling at me again before turning around and walking into her room.
I walk inside and glance around, taking in my surroundings. The carpet floor is a light cream colour, the walls crossed between a dark blue/teal color. A huge king size bed lays in the middle of the room, the sheets white and blue stripes with numerous pillows placed on top. In the far left corner, two blue couches sit in front of three glass windows, white panels placed between them for separation and light brown timber blinds attached to each window. White cotton curtains are placed on each end of the rod. A cream foot rest is situated in front of them, a small white table with a vase sitting on top of it, is placed between the two couches.
A glass door is to the right side of then room. I walk over to it, to see that it leads out into the small backyard. I feel my lips beginning to turn up into a small smile. I walk back over to the bed, placing my bags on top of it before sitting down on the edge of it. I lay backwards, placing my arms behind my head, using them as a pillow. I close my eyes, letting out a content sigh just as my phone begins to ring. I snap my eyes open, lifting my hips up so I can get my phone out of the back pocket in my jeans. My heartbeat accelerates as I take in the name flashing on my screen. Edward. How did he get this number? Could he have heard about me being back in town? I'd like to think that Alice wouldn't give him my number without asking me first, but who know? This is Alice we're talking about. Maybe she caved into him. He is her brother, after all. I take a deep breath, answering the phone.
"Hello?" I answer, my voice a questioning tone considering I'm not meant to have his number.
No one answers.
"Hello?" I say again.
All I can hear is someone breathing softly. I close my eyes and take a deep breath before speaking again.
"Edward?" I ask. There's a sharp intake of breath before there's silence once again. "I know it's you, I still have your number," I say quietly.
Still no answer.
"Please say something," my voice begins to break. "How did you get my number? Did Alice give it to you?"
"Alice." he hisses under his breath angrily, the line going dead straight afterwards.
Oh, no. Maybe she didn't give him my number? I quickly scan the contacts in my phone and find Alice's name, pressing the green call button.
"Hey, Bella! Are you here yet?" she asks excitedly.
"Did you give Edward my number?" I ask straightforwardly.
"No. Why?" she asks confused.
"Alice, he just rang me…"
"What?" she asks shocked.
"I think I may have gotten you in trouble. He wouldn't speak to me. I told him I knew it was him and then asked if you gave him my number. Then he just said you name under his breath and hung up on me. I'm so sorry."
"No, Bella. It's not your fault," she reassures me. "Damnit! He must have seen it on my desk when he was grabbing my History book. I knew I shouldn't have left it there! I'm so sorry, Bella."
"Hey, it's alright. Does he know I'm back?"
"No…" There's a loud knock on a door on the other end of the phone. "I think that's him," she whispers.
"Don't tell him I'm back. Not yet, please," I beg.
"Alice!" I hear him call out to her.
"Shit," she mumbles. "Hang on a second," she says quietly before I hear muffling on the other end before Edward begins to yell.
"How long have you been talking to her?" He asks angrily.
"Well, hello to you too, Edward," she replies sarcastically.
"Don't screw with me, Alice," he says in a warning tone.
"What on earth are you talking about?" she replies, feigning innocence.
"HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN TALKING TO BELLA?" he yells angrily.
"Not long, I swear! She rang me the other day!"
"Why didn't you tell me?" he asks, the hurt clear in his voice.
"I don't know. I didn't think you would want to speak to her!"
"Why would you think that?" he asks, his voice rising in volume.
"Oh, I don't know! Maybe because when you got her letter you told me you don't know how you feel!"
So he did get my letter.
"You still should have come to me!"
"Just because she was your girlfriend and you're in love with her, does not mean you own her! She is my best friend, Edward! I don't have to tell you anything!" she yells back, her voice raising an octave.
"That's exactly why you should have told me she contacted you! You seen how fucked up I was after she left! You should have told me because I love her!"
I cover my mouth in shock as what he tells her hits me straight through my chest. He's still in love with me? A small smile forms on my lips.
"So, you are still in love with her?" Alice asks, her voice softer now.
"Of course I fucking am. You should have told me," he replies. I hear a door slam loudly in the background before Alice picks up the phone again.
"Bella?" she says quietly.
"Hey," I reply, my voice filled with shock.
"So, I'm guessing you heard all that."
"Yeah."
"He's going to hate me for not telling him you're back," she mumbles quietly.
"I'm sorry."
"Don't worry about it. So, you are back right?" she asks uncertainly.
"Yeah, I am. Do you want to come over tomorrow?"
"YES!" she squeals with excitement, causing a laugh to escape my lips.
"Come over about lunchtime? I'll text you the address later. I'm actually closer that you think."
"What does that mean?" she asks suspiciously.
"Never mind," I reply through a laugh. "I'll see you tomorrow. Bye, Alice."
"Bye, Bella," she replies softly before hanging up.
I let out a shaky breath as I sit up, resting my head in my hands. I run my hands through my hair before standing and unpacking my things. I hang my clothes in the closest, placing my shoes on the little built in shoe rack. I pull out my box of framed photographs, placing them around my room.
"Did you ring Alice?" Tanya asks. I glance in her direction to see her leaning against the doorway.
"Um. Yeah," I reply quietly.
"Oh, god. What happened?"
"What do you mean?" I ask confused.
"Something's happened, I can tell," she says, quirking her brow at me.
"Edward rang me," I tell her, my voice close to a whisper. I sit back down on the edge of the bed. Tanya walks over and joins me.
"How did he get your number? Did Alice give it to him?"
"That's what I thought. But when I asked him that, he said her name very angrily and then hung up," I tell her, my voice sad. She places her hand on top of mine and squeezes it lightly. "I rang Alice afterwards and she said he must have seen it on her desk when he was grabbing her History book," I add.
"Jesus Christ. Well, what happened?"
"He ran into her room and yelled at her for not telling him I contacted her. I feel so bad," I groan, placing my head in my hands again.
"Hey, it's not your fault."
"Yes it is! I should have contacted him," I reply exasperatedly
"Bella," she addresses me pointedly. "You weren't ready to talk to him. It wasn't your fault he found out this way."
"He told her he's still in love with me," I tell her, my voice quiet.
"That's great," she replies, her voice just as quiet.
"He's still hurt though. I could hear it in his voice."
"Of course he's still gonna be hurt, Bells. You just need to see him and explain everything," she says encouragingly.
"What if he doesn't want to listen?" I ask sadly.
"He will. He might not want to listen the first time he sees you, because he'll probably be shocked to see you. But he'll get over it. He'll eventually hear you out."
"Are you sure?" I ask hesitantly.
"I'm positive," she replies confidentially. "Listen, it's nearly nine O'clock –"
"It's that late already?" I ask, shocked. Cutting her off.
"Yeah, and I'm completely beat. So, let's just get some sleep and we'll work out the rest tomorrow," she says, patting my thigh before standing up off my bed.
"Night, Tanya," I say quietly.
"Night, Babe," she replies, smiling at me before walking out of my room.
I get changed out of my clothes, changing into a clean pair of panties before putting on my pajamas. I place my bags on the floor, deciding to unpack the rest of my stuff tomorrow morning. I quickly text Alice the directions to the cottage before taking all the pillows off the bed and lay them on the floor. I pull back the bed covers and climb into to bed.
My phone chimes with my text message tone. I reach out to my bedside table and grab my phone, smiling as I read Alice's reply.
OH MY GOD! You are closer than I thought!
I can't believe you're back!
I'm having extreme trouble staying here at home instead of rushing over there right now!
I'll see you tomorrow, I can't wait to see you!
Goodnight, Bella!
- A
I close my phone and put it back on the bedside table before rolling over and snuggling into the comfy warm sheets. I let out a light breath before closing my eyes. I can't stop the smile forming on my lips as I begin to fall asleep.
Hey guys! This chapter was originally going to flow into Bella seeing Alice, Edward and the rest of the Cullens, but it's already so long, so I decided to split it.
Thank you to everyone who is continuing to review! I hit 100 reviews not long ago, and It really means a lot to me!
Thanks to everyone for adding this story to their alerts and favourites too!
And thanks to my beautiful Beta, Jenndur. She is amazing xx
- Nat x
