AN: Chapter by MinaBR.

Thank you to SunflowerFran3759 for betaing this chapter.


Gathering my courage, I gently knocked on the door. I had spent the better part of the former night trying to dissuade myself from visiting Rosalie's room. But as I entered, a feeling of relief washed over me. It was as if I was where I should be.

The warmth in her gaze when she greeted me had my heart pounding painfully within my chest. A small smile graced her sweet lips, a way of signaling that I was welcomed. Bella was brushing Rosalie's hair, softly humming a song unknown to me. Surprised by the tears prickling my eyes, I nervously tried to conceal my burst of emotion by engaging in mindless, incessant chattering.

Something in her eyes told me that she wasn't fooled by my diversion technique. But she refrained from commenting, thus allowing me to keep a shred of my dignity intact. Our conversation was punctuated by long pauses, each of us lost in our own private worlds. In those unguarded moments, Bella's beauty transcended the boundaries of appearance; it emanated from within, from an abnegated soul and a giving heart.

And suddenly, I knew why I had broken my promise to Dr. Swan. My heart had fallen in love, while my mind was busy plotting ways to gain the Chief's favor.

Confliction was running rampant ...