CHAPTER EIGHTY-TWO

JESSICA'S POV:

"What are you doing here?" Edward sneered at me when he opened the door. I was taken by surprise to see him here. Bella's been home from the hospital now a significant amount of time. I figured he had returned to Chicago already. Then again, it's not like people have been keeping me in the loop thanks to Jacob. Edward's reaction to me had me flustered. I was in such a rush to get over here and talk to Bella that I hadn't really even taken the time to fully think my actions through. Maybe I should have called first? Either way, it's too late now.

"Edward. Calm. Please," I heard from Bella, reminding me of my true purpose for being here. I was here for Bella. This was Bella's house. Edward couldn't dictate if I could or couldn't be here. Only Bella could. I can only hope that she would listen to what I had to say.

"I know I'm the last person you want to see right now, but I swear I'm here as a friend, not foe," I explained.

"And where is your beloved husband? Does he know you are here?" Edward countered, obviously not trusting me. Hell, I'd be cautious too if I were in his place.

"I doubt my husband cares about where I go and what I do. But that's besides the point. I came across some new information that I wanted to give to you. Bella, I have no beef with you. I've always considered you a friend, and I don't want what Jake's doing to ruin what we have."

"What's he doing?" Edward practically cut me off getting right to the point.

"Can I come in?" I asked, not really wanting to have this discussion on the porch.

"Yes. Please," said Bella. I made my way into the living room, and sat on the couch. I turned my body to face Bella full on. She was who I was here to see. Before I could begin, she addressed Edward, "Get my. Whiteboard?" Edward hesitated, obviously not wanting to miss anything, before heading off to retrieve what she asked for.

"I'm sorry for just stopping by without notice, but I just didn't know what else to do Bella. I needed to see you. Getting to you was the only thing I could focus on. I didn't even think about whether you would want to see me or not. I didn't even stop to think you wouldn't be here alone."

"Its. Okay. Jess. Not mad. At you," she explained. I was pleased to see that her dialogue was getting stronger. Edward handed her the whiteboard, and took a seat on the coffee table, where he could be closer to Bella in her chair.

I ignored him and his scowling, and continued to address Bella. "I wasn't sure if you would lump me together with Jake or not. I know spouses are supposed to be together through better or for worse, but I do not support what he is doing right now. I don't even recognize this man anymore Bella. It's truthfully scaring me."

"Saw that. In hospital. You didn't. Like what. He was saying."

I breathed a sigh of relief to know that I hadn't lost my friend through all of this. That relief was short lived when Edward interjected, "What news do you have Jessica?"

"Edward. Please." Bella tried to get him to calm down, and not treat me like a hostile witness.

"It's okay Bella. He has every right to doubt me. I hope that will change though once I explain things." I hesitated, before addressing just him. "Just remember Edward that I didn't have to come forward with this information. But I want to do what is right, and helping Bella is what is right. I'm not here for you; I'm here for Bella and Tony." He went to speak but I held up my hand to stop him. The adrenaline coursing through me gave me the courage to say what I had to say, and he was going to have to wait until I was done. "I don't like you personally. I don't exactly hate you like my husband does, but both of you acted horribly in the hospital, and I haven't been around much to see if your character has changed any. But if Bella is willing to work with you, then I will trust her judgement. If you are going to be here, then please give me the courtesy of getting my side of things out before you jump down my throat."

Edward was glaring at me, but smartly kept his mouth shut. I hope I hadn't overstepped here, but I was tired of being treated like a doormat. Maybe I was displacing my anger at Jacob onto him, but it didn't mean Edward didn't deserve a dressing down.

"Go ahead Jess. Take your. Time," Bella said, causing me to redirect my attention to her.

"Okay, so after we left the hospital, Jacob and I had a row over the Tony situation. He was determined to get to Sam, and get the proceedings started to get custody of him. I told him point blank that I didn't support him, which caused him to storm off."

Bella nodded, then said, "Saw Sam. He told us. About Jake's visit." I was glad to see they were more aware than I had thought. You'd think Jacob would rethink things considering his friends are siding with Bella.

"Good. I'm glad he kept you informed. Anyways, Jacob came back a day later and apologized for always putting you before me, and said that he wanted to fix that. He wanted us to go off and finish our honeymoon. Obviously, we weren't going back to Australia, but we could play tourists in Seattle, and just regroup and reconnect. We went off for a week in Seattle, and things were great. I was hesitant to forgive Jake right away, but he really was putting all his attention on me, and was working hard to treat me better. I couldn't hold a grudge forever. Especially because we are newlyweds, and this is supposed to be a blissful time for us. I thought everything was on the up and up. However, I was stupid to believe that."

I stared at my hands that I was wringing nervously in my lap, feeling really sorry for myself. I can't believe he fooled me. How did I miss this? Yes, he was acting night and day from when we fought, but I just assumed that he was trying hard to make things up to me. He seemed to be like the old Jake, the Jake I married. But it was all a lie. He just didn't want me to know what he was really up to. Was he that convincing? Or maybe the better question is, did I not see it because I didn't want to? Did I want the old Jake back so badly that I ignored all the warning signs?

"Jess," I heard, breaking me out of my self-pitying thoughts.

"Sorry. I'm still a little flustered. Anyways, we had a great week away, and had come home. I was worried that coming home would cause us to regress, especially being so close to you again but he was still acting like the perfect husband. I had no reason to doubt him. And I didn't. Until I stumbled upon an email thread this morning. I wasn't snooping or anything. I definitely don't think Jacob meant for me to see what I did. I guess I was just in the right place at the right time, or maybe the wrong place at the wrong time, depending on how you look at things." I realized that I was starting to ramble, so I took a deep breathe to center myself, and started the story of what happened today.

"He left this morning to go to the gym with Embry. I had already done all the household chores, and didn't have much else left to do, so I figured I'd treat myself. I wanted to check my email to see if there had been any updates to the stories I've been reading on fanfiction. I went and grabbed my tablet, but it wouldn't turn on. You know how bad I am when it comes to keeping technological things charged. Anyways, I really didn't want to abandon my plans, so I went into the office to use Jake's computer. I opened up Gmail, but Jake was still logged into his account. No biggie. I was going to log him out, and log in under my name. Jake wouldn't mind that. But before I could log out, I saw several emails with your name Bella as the subject. I know I probably shouldn't have looked, but now I'm glad that I did."

"Apparently, while we were in Seattle, he slithered off and saw a lawyer. His name is Laurent something. I don't remember. But this Laurent guy doesn't exactly seem like someone on the up and up, if you know what I mean. Anyways, they decided to hire a private investigator to get dirt on Edward and his family to make their case stronger. It seems that Laurent wanted dirt on you too Bella, but Jake wouldn't hear of it."

"What does he think he is going to get on my family? It's not like we're hardened criminals with records," Edward said, his arms crossed to show he wasn't happy with this new information.

"Well, that's the thing. It didn't seem like Laurent had much to report back on, but said that his guy could find anything for the right price. The anything was underlined and bolded. Jake responded back that he didn't want falsified information, but Laurent just sort of shushed him, and said his guy would keep looking. He seemed to think the best place to look was where you worked Edward. Something about a nurse and sexual harassment? Sounded like the guy was going to track the nurse down and get her to say the right stuff."

"You have got to be kidding me. I didn't sexually harass her—she harassed me. I had to get her written up for it. Its all documented," Edward explained, imploring to Bella his innocence.

"Relax," was all Bella offered him. Clearly, she didn't know about this, and had no real recourse to give an opinion otherwise.

"I doubted it was true Edward," I clarified, "I only mentioned it to show you what type of things they were outlining. I didn't think Jake had a case to start with, but if they're going to make things up, it is going to get a whole lot messier. I just didn't want you guys to be unprepared."

Bella picked up the white board and began to write her response. While she was doing that, I was surprised when Edward focused on me. "Thank you Jess. I'm sorry for being rude when you first came here. You were right—you didn't have to come and tell us this. This will help us tremendously."

I waved him off. "Like I said Edward. I'm doing this for Bella and Tony. They are my family, and I want what's best for them. Jacob may think he is doing the right thing here, but he is sadly mistaken. I can't stand by and watch him tear this family apart."

Bella turned the board towards me so I could read what she had to say. "I'm sorry that he tricked you Jess. It sounds like you did have a nice honeymoon before you were duped. And though I'm sorry that you stumbled upon your husband's deceit, I am glad that you saw it and were able to tell us. We really didn't think he had much of a case, and it sounds like this new lawyer is willing to do anything to help their chances. It makes me nervous."

"It worried me as well Bella. I copied the emails, and put them on a flash drive. I'm not sure if that is legal, or could be used as evidence to show their plan to falsify evidence. But I wanted you to have it just in case." I took the drive out of my purse, and set it down on the table next to Edward. "I just don't understand why he is continuing to move forward on this Bella. Everyone is telling him he is wrong. Me, Sam, his father. This lawyer is the first person who seems to be on his side, but for all we know, he could just be using Jake for financial gain too."

"He's always been stubborn Jess. But I really don't know what to tell you. I've never seen him this out of control before. How are you handling it? Are you going to confront him?"

"This is not the man that I married Bella. I'm starting to think marrying him was the wrong thing to do. I mean, I always knew he carried a torch for you, but we've been together for so many years. And the fact that he was marrying me felt like I had won, and he was finally putting me first before you. But this tantrum has shown me his true colors. I will never be first to him. You and Tony, you guys will always be who he really wants."

"Sorry Jess." Bella offered, truly bothered by this revelation.

"It's not your fault Bella. It's not like you have ever led him on, or was nefariously trying to steal him from me. This is all a delusion in Jake's head. I'm just sad that we went forward with the wedding. Now I don't know what to do. After I read the emails, I packed a bag and left. I didn't even stick around to see him, or confront him. I was just so shocked by what I saw that I reacted. I knew that I had to get out of there, and I knew that I had to get to you. That was all I was able to process."

"Where will. You go?" she asked, reaching forward to take my hand in hers.

"Tonight, I'll probably head to my parents place. After that, I don't know. That will be the first place he looks once he realizes I'm gone. I just need to figure out what I'm going to do. The ink on our marriage certificate is barely dry, and I'm seriously considering divorce? It seems crazy to me, but I don't think anything else will get through to him that his actions have consequences."

"I understand how conflicted you must feel. Jacob was my best friend. It seems with all our history together, I should have a hard time writing him off. And yet, I truly don't think I can forgive him for his behavior here. I understand not agreeing with how I'm handling things—being best friends doesn't mean we have to agree on and like all the same things. But he is being mean, and abrasive. And he is honestly scaring me a bit."

"Is there anything we can do to help you Jessica?" Edward offered. I was pleased by how quickly his attitude towards me had changed. I guess once I was able to show what side I was on, he was more willing to give me a chance. I'm glad that my visit wasn't a waste on that front.

"No, I don't want to bother you guys. You already have enough on your plates. I just wanted you to be aware of the situation so you could plan, and counter attack if necessary. Don't worry about me. I'll figure things out."

"Going to worry. You're my friend." Bella explained. She was too kind hearted sometimes.

"Once I figure out what I'm going to do, I'll keep you informed. I promise. But you need to worry about you and Tony right now Bella. Put yourself first for a change."

"Trying. To." She said, while sparing a side glance at Edward. Edward was looking at me, and had thankfully missed it. Bella would have been embarrassed if he caught that. I was dying to know what was going on, but I was worried if I asked, they would just think I was fishing for information.

"I'm glad Bella," I squeezed her hand to show just how happy I was for her. Not wanting to draw more attention to the silent conversation we were having, I changed the subject. "What are you going to do with that guy sniffing around?"

"Not much we can do. I'm glad now that Alice will be here with you Bella while I'm gone. If this guy is as shady as he seems, I wouldn't put it past him to try breaking and entering," Edward surmised.

"Whole thing. Is. Ridic-ulous." Bella huffed.

"I know sweetheart, but at least we know what is going on now. It's better to know than to be completely defenseless. You need to be alert to what is going on around you. Anything, and I mean anything that seems out of the ordinary, and I want you to call the police Bella. We can't take any chances here."

"I agree with Edward Bella. The guy was determined to prove you were a bad mother. I wouldn't put it past them to engineer a situation to see how poorly you handle it. Having another adult here while you are healing is very smart."

Edward didn't like what I said. His expression froze, before he quickly added, "We may want to look into you and Tony coming to Chicago sooner rather than later. I know I planned to come back one other time before we discussed this, but maybe we should think about you coming back with Alice. If your doctors give you the okay, of course."

Chicago? They were going to Chicago? Permanently? I seriously hate not knowing things. The confusion must have shown on my face, because Bella quickly explained, "My rehab is going to be long, and there are more options in Chicago doctor-wise. Plus, Edward shouldn't be the only one doing all the flying for visitations, especially when I'm out of work right now."

"That makes sense. And honestly, it might be safer for you guys to be away from Jake right now. I'd like to say he isn't capable of doing anything rash, but with the way he's been behaving, putting distance between you guys is the safest thing you can do. Plus, with all the Cullen's around you, it'll be safety in numbers too."

"Think so. Too." Turing to Edward, she said, "We'll talk. More Later." Edward just nodded, probably understanding that this wasn't a topic Bella wanted to have in front of me.

"I'm going to go and check on Tony. He's Skyping with his cousin and grandparents. I'll leave you two to catch up." Standing from the couch, Edward addressed me. "Again, I'm sorry Jessica. I am quick to react sometimes. You didn't deserve that welcome, especially with what you have gifted us. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to repay the favor."

"It's okay Edward. This situation is going to heighten everyone's nerves right now. It's understandable. But I appreciate the apology." With a final nod, he left the room, and headed for the stairs. Once I was sure he was out of ear shot, I gushed, "Girl, that boy loves you. I thought he was going to lay down and take a bullet for you when I showed up."

Bella chuckled at that. "Protect-ive. Jacob enemy. Number one."

"That may be true, but have you two bonded over this shared enemy?" I queried.

She picked up the white board, and wrote, "I'm not sure where we stand Jessica. We are trying to be friends and are working on co-parenting Tony. He has expressed his desire for more, but I told him I couldn't do that right now."

"Silly girl, don't blow this chance! You said you were trying to put yourself first. That doesn't sound like you are!"

"Angela has already been on my case about this. I'm not opposed to more with him. Maybe when things have settled down, I can explore what more exactly will entail. But right now, we're just trying to get reacquainted."

Not wanting to push her too much, I switched topics, "How's Tony handling having him around?"

"Tony loves it. We explained to him that Edward was his father, and that he didn't know Tony existed, but now that he knows he wants to be in his life. He doesn't want Edward to leave. He's been acting out more now that time is dwindling."

"When does he leave?" I asked. "I actually was surprised to still see him here."

"Tomorrow." I could hear the sadness in her voice. Seems like Tony isn't the only one who doesn't want him to leave.

"Oh Bella. I'm sorry. What a lot to unleash on you on his last night." I really went and mucked things up.

"It's okay. Needed. To know." Bella shrugged, as if that explained everything.

"I'm sure Tony still doesn't fully understand why Edward has to leave. But it sounds like he plans on coming back a bunch. And that you guys are going to go there. It seems like you have it all figured out to make it work."

"I hope so. I still have so many doubts that this isn't going to work out. It seems a little too perfect. But waiting for Edward to fuck up, or lose interest isn't exactly fair to him, especially when he has done nothing but show he isn't going anywhere. I just need to push through those doubts, and allow for this relationship between them to grow."

"And your relationship?" I asked, trying to finagle more information out of her.

Bella gave me a hard look; she was on to me. "Not. Now."

I held up my hands in defense. "Okay, I hear ya. Just wanted to check. Just, please don't make him wait too long. Like I said, he loves you Bella. Its blatantly obvious. I sincerely doubt he is going anywhere."

She nodded to show that she heard me, but didn't respond. I took that to mean the conversation was closed. So, I asked, "So, Alice is coming back?"

Bella rolled her eyes, then explained, "Need. Adult here. To help."

"That's nice of her to come. I'm sure Tony would like to see her again. And it'll give you guys a chance to catch up too. You were so close—it would be nice to get that back."

"I'm worried about her being meddlesome. Like I said, I've already heard it from Angela, and now you. I don't want to hear it from her too. Obviously, she has her brother's interest at heart, but do I really want to hear how miserable he was without me? Not right now. It'll frustrate me more than help her case."

"You just have to set boundaries Bella. I'm sure she is going to want any type of relationship she can get from you. Spell it out what is and is not okay. If she can't accept that, then you have your answer of if a friendship can be had."

"Easier said than done with Alice. She's like a hurricane sometimes. Blows right in, and takes over."

"And you're not the same person you were five years ago. You have a backbone, and can put your foot down when you need to. She is a guest here. You just need to remind her of that. I doubt she is going to do anything to jeopardize rekindling your friendship."

"We'll. See."

"Anyways, I'm going to head out. I've already intruded on your time enough already. Again, I don't know what's in store for me these next couple of weeks, but know that I am here for you if you need anything Bella."

"Thank you. Jess. Same to you. Keep me. Informed."

"Will do hun. Take it easy, and continue getting better. You already seem healthier than when I last saw you."

Bella blushed, as she usual does when people compliment her. "Thanks. Slow going."

"Slow going is better than being in a coma. Your speech is coming along great. You barely needed the board today. Soon, you won't need it at all!"

"Looking. Forward. To it."

"For what its worth, despite the shitty cards we've been dealt in this situation Bella, I'm glad that I still have you. My life may be falling apart right now, but I think if you showed me the door, it would be exceedingly worse. You've given me hope again."

"Take break. Think it over," she said, before finishing her thought on the board. "Divorce is so final. Maybe all it will take is a trial separation. He may still come around. You never know."

"I will. I'm sure I'll have nothing but time to think about it all. But I will let you know where I end up."

"I'd offer for you to stay here, but…" I held my hand out to stop her from writing the rest of that thought.

"That would be like leading the lamb to slaughter, and I wouldn't do that to you Bella. My cousin lives in Tacoma. Maybe I'll see if I can stay with him for a while. Or someone from work who won't judge how quickly this marital distress came on. We'll see."

"Good luck. Jess," she offered, as she followed me to the door.

"You too. Reach for the stars Bella. You have the potential to have it all right here—don't squander away your chances." And with that last bit of advice, I left her humble abode.

I felt lighter after accomplishing what I set out to do. I may have burnt all my bridges and loyalty to Jacob in doing so, but I know I did the right thing. I only hope that Bella and Edward can come out ahead in all of this. But I couldn't worry about that now. I had to figure out how I was going to explain all of this to my judgmental mother. Maybe I'll just tell her Jacob and I had a lover's tiff, and I was taking a night off. That would spare me her criticism for tonight at least. I would definitely have to get in contact with my cousin Demetri sooner rather than later if I was going to survive this.