3 months later

Charlie's House: Bella

"So movie tonight babe? There's a place showing the Dawn of the Dead." Jacob laid on my bed arms behind his head relaxed absently scrolling his phone. I was at my desk writing.

"We just went to the movies last week." I frowned without looking over from my seat at the desk. I deleted a few lines and looked over my shoulder, "What if we went for a hike later? Maybe just by the preserve nearby? Its not too far. Or visited La Push? I haven't seen the others in a while."

Jacob snorted, "Come on Bells be serious, we can't go hiking with the state everything is in. The others are on patrol and Victoria is still at large."

I bit my lip, "Right...maybe the library?"

Jacob sighed, "If you want, it's not the sexiest date but I can dig it."

"Nah, nah its fine."

It had been three months since Victoria had entered my house. The Cullens and Vampires had made a pact to work together to track down the vampire. I barely had a moment alone since that day. From Alice visiting to 'study', 'go shopping' or 'sleep over' to Jacob's 'date nights', 'school tutoring' and 'la push campfires'. Sometimes Jasper or Rosalie relieved Alice, and sometimes Seth or Leah relieved Jacob. Thankfully it was never Edward, since our conversation I felt a noticeable distance from him. Even in Biology, with Mike back to being my usual lab partner, our interactions were minimal if not non-existent.

Most of it went unnoticed by Charlie. The police station had been keeping him most preoccupied. There was a higher count of missing teens and he was being looped in to help monitor the Forks area. Every night he came home tired, distracted, and relieved to have a hot meal. He barely saw the others as they came by to watch out for me, and when he did, he was relieved to see I was being social.

"I'll tell you what." Jacob said, his hands were on my shoulders and his lips softly spoke in my ear, "What if we hung out in La Push Friday? We could take the bikes out, make a day out of it…maybe play hooky?"

The thought of the smallest bit of freedom was tempting. "Friday? It's a date." I smiled, though it didn't quite meet my eyes. Jacob spun to kiss my lips.

As we cuddled together with Jacob's warm arms wrapped around me later that night, I felt too anxious to sleep. I quietly shimmied out of his arms as Jacob slept and tip-toed to my backpack. I pulled out my pile of mail that I was waiting until I was alone to open. There were 3 large envelopes from Forks Community, UCLA and University of Chicago. My fingers trembled as I carefully opened the UCLA envelope first. I held my breath and bit my lip in anticipation

Accepted.

My eyes widened, I gasped in shock. UCLA had felt like a complete shot in the dark when I applied, and I somehow made it in. I stared at the paper for a while in the dark. It was a beat until I opened the other two applications to also see I was accepted.

I let out a deep sigh...now what was I going to choose?

Forks Borderline: Alice

It was dawn when I met Jacob Black again at the Forks borderline. This time it would just be the two of us alone.

I leaned against the 'Welcome to Forks' sign and stared at my cuticles. It had been a few weeks since we last checked in. My headaches were getting worse and flashes of new visions kept tormenting me.

Right on time, 5am, Jacob's motorcycle roared as he sped towards me. I was un-phased as he parked.

"I'm glad you wear a helmet." I said casually as he got off the seat, "At that speed you could really hit the pavement."

Jacob rolled his eyes at me, "What's up pixie?"

I shrugged, a familiar quiet flooded my mind, the visions were always less loud when hanging near werewolves, "So far we still haven't had a good reach on Victoria." I shook my head, "Edward and Emmet lately have been finding traces of her in different parts of the woods, but no sign of her and not enough to track her down."

Jacob shrugged, "We haven't caught a trace of her yet." he frowned, "But I don't think she's far. Can you see her at all?"

Shaking my head I paced, "No I barely catch a glimpse her. I still can't figure out how she's staying so well hidden."

"I called you here because I am still having visions of Bella's life in danger. I don't know how or when, but its coming."

"I'm doing the best I can here." Jacob snapped, "Not all the wolves are on board with monitoring Bella, we actually need sleep occasionally."

"Do you want us to take more shifts?" I asked worried, "We can alternate more if it helps?"

"No-no-that's not." Jacob groaned, "Sam's just up my ass about putting so much focus on Bella. He wants the pack to pull away from helping with Bella. He thinks I'm just making excuses to spend more time with her instead of tightening boarder patrol."

"What a bum." I rolled my eyes, "I don't get how you can be second banana to Sam, he gives you so much shit."

"I know right?" Jacob huffed, "Even with prom its like he wants me to stay glued to his side. Like what the hell? And Bella just-I don't know."

I perked up, "What about Bella?"

Jacob shrugged, "She's kind of meh, I can't get a read on her. Like she doesn't seem phased by Victoria or any of this stuff going on, I don't get it."

The sun was rising higher in the sky. I could feel the warmth on my face and took a breath through my empty lungs. "I don't think she is completely numb to it, Bella sometimes acts like an old lady in a teenage body. She doesn't get worked up all that easily."

Jacob sighed, "Yeah, I guess..."

A beat passed, a few birds chirped over head.

"Let me give your team a break today, we can take the weekend as well if you give us Friday to feed." I offered, "Give you and the gang some time to recharge?"

Jacob quirked his eyebrow, "Thanks pixie, ya sure?"

I winked, "I'll take Bella shopping for prom dresses, give you something to look forward to."

That Morning: Bella

Ding ding

I lowered the heat on the oven and checked on my muffins browning. Pulling out some ingredients I started on some bacon. I cherished the time alone. Ever since the encounter in my room months ago, I constantly was surrounded by Jacob or Alice. It was an early morning, but I wanted to share my news with Charlie before I saw Jacob or Alice

A text message pinged on my phone, it was Alice, texting and asking me to go prom dress shopping with her. "Prom shopping after school? You can't hold out on me forever! ;)"

Trying to think of an excuse, I paced the kitchen waiting for my bacon to cook.

"Something smells good!" Charlie said walking in, "Breakfast this early? Everything ok?"

I nodded turning down the oven, it was 6:15, which was an hour earlier than I usually rose, "Wanted to catch you before you head off." I smiled meekly as I passed him my acceptances, "I got into some of the schools I applied to."

Charlie squinted then his eyes grew wide, "Wow Bells" He laughed, "That's really something."

I smiled, looking over my shoulder as I plated the bacon, "Thanks Dad."

"You'll have to call Renee, she'll be so excited." Charlie said, "Any idea which one you'd want to go to?"

I shrugged, carrying the muffins to the table sitting, "I still have no idea where I'm going, Could stay home and go to Forks Community for all I know." I felt the acceptances I received weighing heavily on my mind. Could I just leave Forks and leave everything behind for a school like UCLA? It felt impossible.

Charlie grabbed a coffee and sat down at the table. "You're young. You should go somewhere that has some job opportunities. Here-" he shrugged, "What are you going to do here? Even if you went to Seattle at least you could intern and get a real job there." Charlie shrugged, "You can always transfer in for Spring if worst comes to worse."

I bit my lip. "I don't really know what I want anyway, why spend the money on a city school?"

"Because you'll be around other kids that can help you figure it out." He sighed, "If it's about the money I was saving for your college. I'm sure we can afford it."

I frowned, "Dad no I-"

"It's not much, just weigh your options." He paused, "Don't let anyone hold you back. If they really love you they can handle it." He looked through me.

The timer went off for the chicken and I pulled it out of the oven.

"Seeing Jacob this week?" Charlie asked as I served the food. "Should be getting together with Billy tomorrow for the game."

I shrugged, "Not sure. Maybe."

Charlie winced, "Things not going well?"

I felt uncomfortable, "No I'm just too busy. I should be seeing him at some point."

"Right." We both are in silence. I felt my shoulders relax. I had been holding off making plans with Jacob while I tried to sort out my feelings. Thankfully he wasn't patrolling my home tonight, it was Seth's turn. I couldn't imagine how Jacob would take the news about UCLA.

On one hand, I wanted it to work with Jacob. It would be so easy for us to be together. I could picture a future with Jacob. I envisioned us years later living on the reservation. I could become a teacher and work in the area and he'd work on cars. We'd have a small family of kids and a home in the woods.

But then I often pictured another path, traveling the world researching new mythical and historical findings. I imagined moving to London and having a small flat with a large library. I pictured listening to classical music while I read in an overstuffed armchair.

And then, sometimes when I pictured my vision on London, my mind flashed to Edward. I tried to repress this vision but part of me still missed his presence. I imagined us together, somewhere, somehow. Maybe walking down the cobble stone paths and talking about our adventures...

Charlie cleared his throat and I snapped back to the present. The only thing that felt certain, was that none of these things went together.

"Alice asked me to go shopping with her this weekend, to look at prom dresses" I said conversationally

"Sounds like fun, I like Alice." He took a bite. "I'd avoid Seattle though there has been some strange activity around there and it doesn't seem safe."

I frowned, "Strange activity?"

Charlie nodded, "A few teens have gone missing and the murder rate has gone up over the past few weeks. It's awful. Maybe you and Alice can stay more local?"

"Oh yes." I agreed, "We can stay local. Maybe Port Angelos, would be furthest."

"Local is good." he nodded, "Another teen went missing, Bree Tanner, a 16 year old." he shook his head, "Be careful, don't stay out too late."

I nodded, pouring myself some coffee, 16 years old? So sad...

"Gotta go Bella." He tapped my arm, "Good job kiddo."

I nodded absently, tucking the acceptance papers back into my bag. Knowing I couldn't hide it forever, I didn't mind keeping it to myself until I knew what direction I wanted to go in.

School

After my morning, class was a complete drag. As graduation drew nearer, Class had already felt slower lately as the end of the school year felt closer and closer. I walked to class with Angela and Jessica as they chattered excitedly about Prom. It was only a few weeks away and it was all anyone would talk about lately.

'Bella is Edward into low necklines?" Jessica asked, "I'm torn between these two…" she held up her phone. I was so used to Jessica showing me dress choices I wasn't phased by the fact she mentioned Edward.

Since my run in with Edward, there was a quiet line drawn between us. A week or so later I went to school to Jessica's squeals of delight when Edward caved and agreed to go to prom with her.

I had heard the news via text, "Bella hope you don't mind but Edward is taking ME to prom. Hope you don't mind since you're seeing someone else ;)."

When I had bumped into Alice in class afterwards, she merely rolled her eyes, "You know he's just doing it so he doesn't have to go alone or with Mom." She said absently as she doodled into the edge of her paper, "I mean either way he looks pathetic but it's not a cute look for him, ya know?"

Deep down I felt sad that Edward had chosen Jessica, but I tried to focus on school. Though I was surprised, I was clear with Edward that we were not together. Maybe he'd be better off with someone like Jessica anyway? I figured dismissively.

"Still on for dress shopping after school" Alice asked as I sat next to her in English, her eyes hopeful, "You can't repeat dresses for prom, that's tacky."

I sighed throwing my book bag on the ground, "I wish I could skip prom all together." I grumbled.

"You only live once babe." Alice smirked, "Jessica riling you up today?"

I scoffed, "No, I just don't like shopping." Liar, I thought.

Alice wagged her eyebrows, "Come on, lets shop this week. At the very least we will make 'him' a little jealous, at best you actually enjoy yourself hanging out with Me." She batted her eyelashes, "Plus you gotta hunky wolf boy that'll appreciate it…"

I blushed, "Come on Alice it's not like that-"

Alice shrugged, "Everyone wants it Bells, it's ok to be a little thirsty for the wolf." She smiled.

"Seriously though, we both need dresses and there's a great place I know in Seattle-"

"Not Seattle." I cut her off, "Charlie's worried with all the missing teens-"

"Port Angelos?" Alice asked, "It's not as great but we'll find something?" She squinted at me, "How do we feel about a low v cut? Or maybe off the shoulder? You have a great collarbone!"

I laughed out loud. Class thankfully was just starting.

The day was relatively uneventful. Edward was missing from Biology, which I very subtly noticed. I handed in my paper on The Odyssey and felt the hours slowly pass.

Later, Port Angelos

"You need something dramatic for senior prom." Alice insisted looking through the racks in port Angeles. "I wish you'd let me order something more custom. It's so limited here!"

I sighed as I looked through a rack at a blur of satin and chiffon dresses. None of them registering to me.

"Sorry, Charlie is worried about Seattle. I'll wear my dress from last year. It's not a big deal." I groaned, "I don't even want to go."

"You HAVE to go." She dismissed me, pulling out a few options. "You need one last college party before college."

I winced at the large pile of dresses Alice pulled together. "Do I have to? Can't you just predict which one I pick?"

Alice stubbornly pushed them into my arms. "That's not how it works, besides I can't see you when your future involves Jacob Black. Remember?"

I stepped into a fitting room and started changing into the first blue gown.

"If you can see the future then do you ever feel like your decisions belong to you?" I asked as I zipped the back

Alice pushed a pair of heels under the curtain, "These too please!"

"Honestly." She said as I strapped in the shoes, "It makes me feel more in control since I can look ahead to see each option."

I stepped out awkwardly, "So like a cheat sheet?"

"Turn?" She instructed, "it's basic. Let's see the black one."

I left to undo the zipper.

"I guess it's like a cheat sheet." Alice continued, "But after a point you can only look to the future so much...you have to choose SOMETHING. Or it'll be too late and there will be nothing there to predict."

I tied the back of the black dress, it intricately wove around my body. "Must be nice to have it though."

"Why do you ask?" She said quietly as I stepped out of the dressing room.

"Sometimes I wish I could see what would make me happy." I turned around in the dress, trying not to trip on the bottom.

"I like it, makes your waist look thin. Try the red one." She took my shoulders. "Not knowing is part of the fun. You're lucky you still have some things to look forward to." She giggled. "That's why it's good to be young. You can change your mind, try careers, travel, date around, you name it!"

I laughed hollowly, "but I feel like I need to know what I want." I sighed, "what if I choose to stay home and it's all for nothing? Or go away to find out I miss it here?"

"Good lord Bella just go for it." Alice groaned. "You can always transfer."

I nodded and went back to try on the red dress. It was a deep crimson and was probably the sexiest dress in the batch. I came out in it and Alice smiled.

"That's it! That's the one!" She jumped up and down giddily.

I went over to a mirror and looked at my self carefully. It showed way more skin then I'd usually show. "Alice I can't wear this."

"Why not? It looks perfect on you!"

I looked at the back where so much skin was revealed. "But I look so plain in it."

Alice frowned, "No this is IT. You should have something that shows you off."

I thought about it

"Come on!" Alice said, "It's Prom! Just go for it."

I looked again and straightened up my posture. I imagined myself more confident in it. The red made my pale skin look whiter, my lips redder and my hair dark and full. I imagined my hair up to the side and how long my neck looked.

I sighed in defeat and Alice cheered hugging me. "It looks good! You won't regret it!"

Alice already had her dress so after the shop we went to dinner at a bistro around the corner...of course I was the only one eating. Alice filled me in on the Cullen's.

"Rosalie is thinking of going for mechanical engineering at MIT." She filled me in "Emmett is between coaching or working as a trainer."

"Massachusetts huh." I replied, "wont that be a little tricky for hunting in the city?"

"Actually there's some good spots for deer and coyote outside the city." Alice pointed out. "I think they want a taste of east coast living."

"And Carlisle and Esme? How are they?"

The line for the tables was quieting down.

"Carlisle is back at his old position, he definitely missed it. Esme has been volunteering at the nursing home in town and is rem. Trying to keep busy, I think she's building a greenhouse. You'll have to see it next time you come over."

"That's great, greenhouses are cool." I didn't acknowledge her request that I visit, I doubted I'd return any time soon.

"So any progress on the college admissions?" She asked as we sat down to eat. "Any news?"

I shrugged "Well I got into UCLA, Forks Community and University of Chicago...but I'm not sure what I'll land on."

"Those are good schools." Alice said smiling, "What would you have picked if you never came to Forks?"

I thought about it as my turkey burger arrived. "Probably would have looked into somewhere in Phoenix with a good research department or LA...maybe Chicago for the historic. May have tried studying abroad in London for a few months."

"That sounds cool, why not now?"

I bit my lip. "It just doesn't feel right. I don't really have any connections to Arizona or LA, and Chicago is far. I like having roots here."

"Why because it feels safe?" Alice asked,

I didn't say anything. We sat in the quiet for a bit

"Any choice you make will be ok." Alice said quietly. You just need to pick one."

"But what if I'm wrong." I felt my anxiety rising in my chest. "I know I'm just going to screw it up anyway, why can't you just tell me what my choices are."

"That's not how this works." Alice said, "I don't need to see the future to help you here."

"Then what's the point!" I asked angrily, "what am I supposed to choose."

"You don't have to be with Jacob just because it's easy." Alice snapped.

"What?"

"You don't need a relationship to be happy. He's so immature, aren't you bored?"

"No I-"

"He's got nothing in common with you. He's not going to move from Forks or go for a degree. He likes it here. HE has roots here. YOU don't."

"But I owe it to him." I snapped, "he helped me when I needed him. He needs me. I should stay for him."

"Why?" Alice asked "He's strong, he knows what he wants. Why on earth would you owe him anything?"

I froze.

"He'll be ok. If he really loves you he can wait for you."

"It's selfish." I whispered. "I'm selfish."

"Oh come on." Alice scoffed, "You're not selfish, but you will be bored and miserable if you play your life safe. We both know it."

She shrugged, "I need a vacation. I'm thinking of taking a trip to Europe this summer. Why don't you join me?"

I laughed, "You are nuts. What about the Voluturri?"

Alice scoffed, "At worse I'll change you. But we can stay away from Italy if it helps."

I cringed a little

"Unless you really have no desire to be a vampire." Alice cocked an eyebrow

I could feel her studying me. I said nothing.

She stared back at me. And I finally knew what she really wanted to hang out for. This is what she was after, did I have any desire left to enter her world.

"You could have just saved us a shopping trip and asked me this earlier." I said dryly, "I'm not a big fan of these games Alice."

"Its your life, not a game." Alice said expressionless. "And no one is going to make you make a decision."

"But?"

"But you can't run away from it forever." Alice said, "Have you thought about it?"

I said nothing, she knew I had.

"If you died, would you want to be turned?"

I said nothing, and let it hang in the air.

"Why Alice. Is my life in danger?" I asked frustrated

Silence.

"Right, it's coming soon, isn't it Alice." I said quietly.

Silence.

"I know why you're spending time with me, why you want to know what I want. Something bad is coming." I looked at her in the eye. "Isn't it?"

She took my hands. "It doesn't have to make any difference."

"Does anyone else know?"

Alice shook her head. "You have some time but I've been having visions. The Voluturri will come, Victoria will come... It'll happen-"

"Don't tell me." I shook my head. "I don't want to know."

"Bella-."

"If it's going to happen, my knowing won't make it any easier. We've gone through this before, a year ago." I held her gaze. Her eyes were sad. "It's ok."

I patted her hand and took a bite of my burger.

"You still didn't answer my question."

Alice insisted. "What do you want?"

"How long do I have to make a decision?"

Alice shrugged, "Weeks? Months? I don't have a date."

I took a bite, "but not today right?"

"Nope."

I nodded, "I'll get back to you then."

Alice frowned, "Is it really just because of Edward? Please tell me that isn't why."

"It's not."

"Then why?"

"I don't even know what to do while I'm alive, what would I want to do so badly while I'm dead?" I asked, "Yes dying stinks. It would be awful to leave but what would my purpose be in staying?" I shrugged. "Sure originally I wanted to live forever to be with Edward, it's true, but I don't want to live forever alone and without purpose."

Alice looked back at me sadly. "Bella I don't want to lose you. Will you please think about it? There are so many reasons worth staying, even if Edward isn't one of them."

I thought about it, and looked back at her quietly. "I'll think about it."

I finished my burger quietly. "Do you think what's happening in Seattle is vampire related?"

Alice shrugged, "Its possible but I'm not sure yet. Either way you should keep you windows locked and have someone near you for safety. If Jacob isn't there or Charlie isn't around, call me and I'll come over"

I shook my head, "You don't have to do that-"

"It's that or I tell the Cullen's and Edward will be watching you." She arches an eyebrow "and I know you aren't ready for that right."

I shook my head violently "No way."

"Good." She took the check before I could stop her.

I shook my head with a light smile. There was a knot in my stomach that didn't exist before. My time was limited.

The Next Day: Bella

The next day I was relieved to have an excuse to play hooky. I still agreed to meet Jacob at school since he was patrolling nearby. I left my truck parked in the school parking lot and avoided making eye contact with Alice across the way.

"Hey Cutie." Jacob said pulling up to my high school. He revved the engine as it came to a stop. Helmet tossed, he steadied the bike waiting for me.

I smiled fitting the helmet to my face as I hoped on, holding onto Jacobs back tightly. The smell of musk and pine hit me as I got closer to him.

As we began to ride off I could see Edward and Alice in my peripherals watching. Alice was speaking to Edward and he watched with a serious look.

The drive to La Push was windy and fast. We passed few cars and the trees swayed past. As Jacob drive there were moments I saw hikers on paths. A hiker with bright red hair briefly caught my eye.

Jacob turned the corner and the hikers faded away. I felt the sun hit my face and my hair flowed behind me. It was a warmer day then it had been in a while. I briefly thought about Renee in Florida and I longed to visit her. Was she settled into her new home? I couldn't remember the last time we spoke. I still had to share the news about the schools I got into.

I sighed, I had to tell Jacob. He needed to know I might not be in Forks this fall...

We finally arrived to the reservation. Jacob helped me off the bike and took my hand leading me towards the garage. He leaned to kiss my lips and I softly met his. He pushed a little trying to engage me longer, lingering. I smiled lightly but parted. "Want to show me what you've been tinkering with?" I asked smiling lightly.

Jacob smirked grabbing my hand to steer me towards some of the old cars he was fixing. Some were rusty and worn looking "These look like a lot of work." I observed touching the chipped paint on the side of an old corolla.

Jake shrugged, "There's still some life in them, they just need some engine work."

I watched him life the hood and talk shop. I nodded along trying to keep up but not totally focused. He tossed me a water bottle and I drank while he showed me around his old rabbit he was fixing.

"So what do you want to do this summer?" Jacob asked as he leaned against the car he had been working on

I sipped my water, swallowing hard, "Well I may try to visit my mom in Florida. See how she's settled in there. Then probably prep to start school."

Jacob smiled, "Yeah are you taking any classes before starting at Forks Community in the fall?"

I bit my lip and met him with silence.

Jacob glanced up at me, "I know at one point you mentioned taking one of their creative writing classes over the summer-is that still the plan?"

I sighed tucking my hair behind my ear, "Actually, I received some good news this week. I got accepted to some of the other schools I applied to."

"Wow Bells that's great!" He leaned in, "Anywhere exciting?"

I shrugged smiling bashfully, "I actually got into UCLA. I didn't think I'd get into their research program and I made it."

"...Wow Bells."

I could hear a distant edge in his voice. I found myself blinking rapidly, this was harder then I thought it would be. I could feel myself getting sad over leaving.

"So that's it then? You're leaving Forks?"

My lips parted, was I actually going to leave Forks? I had been so sure of staying and leaving felt so strange

"I don't...I'm still thinking about it." My mouth dried up. My hands sweat

"So what you just applied for the heck of it?" Jacob's voice had an edge. "That's a pretty big school to not be sure of it."

"I didn't think I'd even get in." I said quietly, "I was late applying and I just-"

Jacob was in my face I could see his eyes darkening. He grabbed my shoulders. "So you had thought about it? I thought you wanted to stay with me here? Why didn't you tell me you didn't want to stay? What the heck Bella!"

I frowned, "Jake I said I was applying to schools and wasn't sure where I was going yet. Why are you so angry with me?"

"What did you just lead me on? Just so you could leave!"

"I didn't-"

"Is it the blood sucker? Did he do this? I bet he rigged it-"

"What like I couldn't get in on my own? The hell Jake-"

He grabbed the sides of my arms "You said you wanted to stay close to home." His grip was tight. "You said you didn't care what school you went to. You liar-"

"Jake you need to calm down." My eyes were tearing and I was angry. "You need to let go of me."

"I'm fine. You're the one with the problem." He growled

I wrenched myself away from him. "You aren't well Jake. I'm leaving."

I left Jakes in a huff and slammed the door behind me. Quick on my heels I grabbed the handles of my bike and pushed off the ground hard.

The wind rushed to meet me as I sped down the road. The road of the engine filled my ears and I tried to clear my head.

He's a child. I squinted and bit my lip. He's just being an immature child.

I watched the trees blur away. The dirt road turned to paved. The reservation was gone before I knew it.

Of course I was going to go to college. I thought, clenching my hands against the handlebars. I never promised I'd stay home. I had every right to go to a good school. It had nothing to do with Edward or the Cullen's.

I shifted right as I hit a sharp turn. I forgot how steep some of these turns came in on the road. The path coming always seemed less steep.

He's a young werewolf. I reminded myself. He can't control his anger. He is still learning.

I sat up straight and picked speed.

Oh come on. I shook it off. That's ridiculous. I can't make excuses for him every time he gets angry with me. How many free passes does anyone get?

I turned a big corner and felt the wheels slant against the dirt road. A flash of red caught the corner of my eye from the pines.

Victoria? I thought faintly, my breath caught and my hands shook.

Ommph

It happened fast. The motorcycle slid out, my hands lost grip, the whole right side of my body skid as I the ground hard.

Damn it. I scoffed. Everything hurt. But I felt adrenaline in my veins forcing me to move. I got up awkwardly and crouched over the motorcycle. The whole side of my leg was bleeding. My hands hurt so badly. If victoria was around she must be able to smell the blood going down my leg.

Pure adrenaline filled my system. I grabbed the stake in my pocket and held it tightly. My eyes darted to the woods. I couldn't see anything yet. Without looking away I gingerly reached into my pocket for my cell phone, my hands searing with pain as I gripped it. I felt around for the buttons and started to dial for help.

My eyes were wide and I tried not to breath. The trees rustled in the wind. It was hard to see anything in the woods. So dark and green. How far could she be by now.

A screeching of brakes rang in my ear as a silver Volvo stopped near me. I looked in the corner of my eye and kept my stance.

"Bella?"

I looked over and gasped out loud.

"Edward?" I winced as I tried to move. "Stay back there's blood everywhere. Call for help."

He ran over to me ignoring my request. He assessed my bleeding body and trembling stance "You ok? What happened?"

"I saw Victoria." I groaned as he started to helped me up. "Went off balance and I can't see where she went."

Edward crouched in front of me and looked around. He scanned the forest and the streets. His eyes were wild and squinted. I tried to ignore the stinging across the side of my body that seared hot and raw. I needed to get off my knees, I was starting to feel lightheaded. Blood dropped down my forehead and I felt sticky. Repressing the urge to cry out a whimper escaped me as I tired to stay still.

After a moment Edward turned to me and looked over my damaged skin. My jeans were torn to shreds. The blood was grizzly but not fatal. I gasped thinking about how appetizing I must smell to him now.

Edward took my hand still gripping the stake and gently took it away from me. My hand felt hollow and empty without it. It trembled, burning fiercely from the sting.

"She's gone." Edward frowned, pocketing the sharp stick. He tried to keep eye contact, his eyes amber and concerned. "You must have a concussion. I need to get you to a hospital now." He touched the blood dripping down the side of my face and tipped my head to check the bleeding. I felt a wave of nausea overwhelm me as he surveyed me.

"My bike-" I croaked. I felt weary and disoriented. Exhaustion was starting to hit.

I felt cold hands around my body. Edward ignored me and lifted me gently under the legs. "I'll call Carlisle. We need to keep that leg elevated." He tucked my body into his and untangled us from the bike. I leaned into him without thinking my body tense from the pain.

"But the smell-" I murmured, my eyes squinted in searing pain. His sweet smell of his shirt flooded me and I tried to breathe deeply.

Edward ignored me, he didn't make eye contact with me as he kept his eyes on the forest. Gingerly he carried me toward the Volvo. He opened the backseat of the car and laid me across it. His cold hands on my limps were strong and cold.

"Stay with me Bella." His amber eyes filled mine once more. "I need you to stay awake." I tried to nod but my head hurt too much to move. Edward seemed satisfied with the motion. He closed the door and disappeared into the front. I felt myself sink into the seats. My body starting to throb. I felt ready to pass out but bit my lip to stay focused.

Edward hit the gas and we sped along in the opposite direction towards the hospital. He broke our silence after a few minutes of driving. "How long have you been riding that thing? You know motorcycles are dangerous!"

I winced as we took a turn, "My truck is slow and I like my rabbit."

"You could have been killed on that trail." Edward growled, "Its risky."

I grasped me leg breathing through my teeth, "I would have been fine if Victoria didn't show up!"

"About that, why on earth are you carrying around wooden stakes?! Are you out of your mind?" He asked driving faster

I clenched my jaw frustrated. "Stakes are like knives, they're supposed to work against vampires."

"Yeah where did you read that, Dracula? It's way harder to kill a vampire then with a stake." He laughed hollowly, "Geez Bella, Did you know Victoria was looking for you."

"Hello? I've been attacked by vampires three times this year, she isn't dead so yes it's possible she could be here. I swear I saw her." I groaned. " And how am I supposed to know stakes don't work, it's not like there's a vampire slayer manual out there. I know a gun won't work on her, and it's better than nothing!"

"She shouldn't even be here." Edward turned sharp and I gripped the seat. "I tracked her north. Why'd she come back?"

"Tracked her?" I was puzzled.

Edward sped along aggressively, "What did you think I was doing those past few months?"

I cringed but this time not from my leg. "And what's that supposed to mean? For all I knew you were screwing around with Tanya!"

The front seat was silent. I felt a sinking feeling that I wasn't wrong. Maybe my suspicions of Tanya were always valid. I closed my eyes and tried not to think about how sad that made me. How I wish I didn't mention it.

Forks Hospital

Soon enough, Edward pulled into the parking lot and moved to lift me from the car. I didn't bother resisting him this time. I leaned heavily on Edward. My hands felt weak as I grasped his shirt. I shuddered a little-but I wasn't sure if it was out of sadness or pain. The smell of Edward burned through me and caught me off guard.

We walked through the entrance of the ER. It was a painful walk but now I was upset on top of it. The ER wasn't very crowded. Edward guided me past the entrance and towards the rooms. My eyes started to flutter and my leg hurt so badly my eyes burned with tears.

"Edward bring her here." Carlisle gestured as I hobbled along. I was led into a bed and Carlisle got to work examining my leg. I leaned into the hospital bed and let out a long held breath. We made it.

"Edward go take a walk." Carlisle ordered as he started prodding my head. I kept my eyes shut, afraid of tearing.

"But Carlisle-"

"Just give us some time." Carlisle smiled as he left. I opened my eyes and felt relieved for the privacy. I wiped my eyes and smiled weakly at Carlisle.

"That's better." He smiled back and handed me a hospital gown. He got to work grabbing bandages and cleaning the wounds. Thankfully I didn't need to be cut out of my clothes.

"Rough fall?" He asked off hand "you are going to need some stitches."

I grit my teeth, "I'll be ok."

He worked quietly and carefully. After some time he gave me something for the pain and began stitching me up.

"We miss you Bella." He said as he was half way through. "Not the same without you around."

I dismissed that immediately as a nice sentiment. I pursed my lips, "I'm sure you guys have moved on."

Carlisle taped up part by my calf. "No one moved on, how could we?" He stopped and looked at me. There was a deep look of serious in his face, it aged him from the seemingly young doctor to an old man.

I stared in wonder, never truly seeing Carlisle as old before.

"My son is still young in many ways." He said slowly.

"For someone with mind reading abilities. he doesn't seem to understand how deep emotions run. Or that he can't always have control over everything." His Amber eyes looked harsh and conflicted. He looked like a father whose son ran away. Defeated and resigned.

He looked down at my battered body and shook off the mournful expression. He pursed his lips and looked at me thoughtfully. "Hopefully it's a lesson he has learned the hard way."

I said nothing and watched him continue.

"That's not to say what he did was right or fair to you." He admitted, thoughtfully. "And you owe him nothing after what he did."

I said nothing, I felt awkward.

"But he will always love you." Carlisle said quietly.

I felt my eyes grow heavy. "That's not the problem."

Maybe I felt loose from the pain medication. I relaxed "It's hard to be with someone you can't trust. And who won't make decisions as a team." I smiled, "Once that's gone it's hard to go back."

I felt loopy. I didn't know why I was telling Carlisle all this but it kept flowing.

"I've changed." I admitted, "Months ago I would have begged for him to come back. But now I know we can never go back. He hasn't changed."

Carlisle smiled sadly, "I understand. We all just want you to be happy."

I nodded

"Are you?"

I felt idiotic, "Am I?"

"Happy, are you happy?" Carlisle asked

I shrugged, "I don't know. Just trying to get through graduation."

He laughed.

Was I happy? I wondered. Could I be happy? After all this time was I actually happier then I was before Edward left? Or was I just doing what I felt I was supposed to. Going through motions and trying to cope.

I sat quietly pondering this as Carlisle finished. If Edward could fix everything and make up for what happened, would I be happier with him? Could I be happy with or without him?

Deep down I knew the truth. I just didn't want to believe it.

When Edward came to find me I had the strangest feeling he heard our whole conversation. His face was downcast and his eyes looked sad. I was free to go home but needed to stay off my leg s few days. I leaned on a crutch and hobbled.

"All good?" He asked, watching me limp.

I smiled lightly, "Just stitched up. Now just gotta stay off it a few days.

"Want a ride home?" Edward asked,

"I already called Charlie."

"Bella."

He was looking at me with old weary eyes, "When I left. I didn't leave you for another person. I left and went looking to find Victoria."

I processed what he said for a minute. "Why would you do that?"

"To protect you." He said earnestly. "I didn't want her to be a threat to you any more."

"Why are you telling me this now?" I asked blankly.

Edward touched my shoulders, "How could I leave you to be with anyone else? How could you think that?"

And that did it. I shrugged my shoulders and crossed my arms. "It's none of my business what you did when you left me, just like it's none of YOUR business what I did."

I could see Charlie in the distance, "You said you left me because you didn't want me and I was too human for you. Maybe you were right. I bleed, I ride a motorcycle and I carry my own stakes." I felt sad, "I have to live my life with or without you in it. I can't wait for you to save me."

Edward handed the stake back to my sighing. "There's nothing wrong with you being human."

I took my stake and he didn't let go. "I lied to you. I let you go. I told you I didn't want you so that you'd be safe. I screwed up. Will you ever forgive me?"

I felt hazy. I didn't respond. Edward disappeared. I vaguely remember Carlisle greeting Charlie and Charlie helping me into his car. I mentally checked out and felt numb.

"Bella?"

How much of it was a lie exactly? Did it matter now? I was with Jake, I was planning for college. Did it change anything?

"Bella we're home."

As Charlie left me to my room and I charged my phone to see all Jakes missed messages it hit me.

Yes it did, it changed things a little.

Alice

"See you soon Edward" Jasper hung up. I barely registered his voice as I sketched furiously

"Sounds like your vision came to pass." Jasper said wringing his hands, "Edward was there just in time to look out for Bella.'

"Hmm" I erased a few lines and layered in a few more lines.

"Guess Bella's life isn't in danger anytime soon huh?"

"Hmm."

"Alice?" Jasper touched the square of my back comfortingly, "What's wrong?"

I shook my head continuing to sketch the vision out. "There's more." I said quietly drawing quickly, dark colors etching into the page.

Jasper squinted. "Is that-" He leaned in closer as I winded down, "Is that a graveyard?"

I nodded leaning back with him to look at the image. It was a dark night in a cemetery, the headstone were barely visible in the darkness. A particularly large stone under a tree was being inspected by a large wolf.

"Why would the werewolves be at a cemetery?" I asked puzzled, "What are they looking for?"

"What are you up to Jacob?" I said quietly.

Up Next: Higher Stakes

That night when Jacob said goodbye I pulled out my phone and relooked at my text with Edward.

It wasn't just about feeling safe around vampires anymore. I realized as I typed a response. I needed to feel safe around werewolves too, or whatever creatures were out there. Jacob kept slipping between himself and the wolf, and I needed to be able to avoid putting myself in danger.

'Ok.' I texted. "I can use your help, if you are still offering." I paused before I hit send. Rethinking if I should say more. I sighed and sent it. Rolling over in my bed.

As I expected, he texted back quickly.

'Morning at dawn. I'll pick you up.'

I closed my phone and rolled over to sleep. My heart thudding, hoping I made the right choice.

Author's Note:

Due to health and family conditions changing, my ability to post every Friday has been a little delayed. I will do my best to still post as regularly as possible. Thanks for reading and following!