Hello Everyone! I hope you enjoy my own personal take on two character I personally wanted to see together. It is a bit OOC but that was a bit necessary to create the story I wanted to work with. Stay tuned to see what happens next and let me know if you like it or not. Constructive criticism is always appreciated. With no further delays! To the story!
Bella felt like her world was whole again as she held onto Edward tightly while pushing him back into the shadows. She had made it just in time and he hadn't exposed himself as a vampire to anyone. His look of pure shock and disbelief as she called to him before tackle hugging him was enough to make the burning in her lungs from running and the ache in her heart be forgotten.
She held onto him like she never wanted to let go and when his arms securely wrapped around her and he placed a chaste kiss to her forehead, everything felt right in the world.
"Bella" He sighed happily as he wrapped his arms securely around her.
"Edward" she smiled and nuzzled further into him
"But how Bella? I saw you in Alice's vision. I saw you die.." He said sorrowfully as his grip on Bella tightened "I-I.. I couldn't go on without you.." He whispered mournfully " I should have never left you.." He pulled her even closer and rested his head on top of hers.
Bella had been waiting to hear Edwards voice for so long and to hear him saddened at the thought of losing her made her heart swell. He really did love her. She let out a small content sigh as she laid her head on his chest.
As Bella was nestling into Edward and enjoying how close they were the sound of someone loudly clearing their throat could be heard behind Edward.
Surprised by the sudden intrusion of someone interrupting their sweet reunion Edward quickly placed Bella behind him and shielded her from whoever was trying to get their attention and loudly growled at the offending person..
"Whoa there buddy" said a hulking man in a black robe with a V pendant adorning his neck. Bella couldn't see much from around Edward but she could tell the man had brown hair that was short on the sides and medium long on top, piercing red eyes with sharp jawline that made him look rugged and he was built like a tank. He smiled lopsidedly as he spoke "We aren't here to fight you unless we have to"
At this Edward prickled and began to crouch in a more defensive manner "No laws were broken here so we will be taking our leave now" He stated as he reached behind himself and grabbed Bella's hand. "We don't want any trouble"
The large man sighed as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Well you see that's gonna be a problem cause we were ordered to take you to the throne room to talk with the Queens."
Edward straightened out from his crouch and stood tall "Queens? What do you mean Queens?" He questioned as moved forward towards the large man.
A sigh could be heard from behind the large man facing off with Edward.
"Felix, we don't have time for this" came the voice of another man who moved passed the larger male who was also dressed in a black robe with a V pendant "Jane is expecting us and you know what will happen if we are late"
Felix shuddered "Dont remind me Dimitri"
Felix shook off his feelings of worry and with a large smile brightly then said "Alright let's get going folks, we don't have all day" he suddenly appeared behind Bella and started ushering them further into the tomb Edward had almost come out of.
Felix reminded Bella of Emmett. He seemed like a big teddy bear and it made Bella feel at ease even though she had no idea what was going on. Edward on the other hand was rigid and held tightly to her hand. He looked to be fearful and ready to run at any moment.
Just as they were about to start making their way down to the catacombs a sweet voice called out.
"What is taking you so long?" A blonde girl no older than 15 years old appeared out of the shadows with a displeased frown gracing her features as she looked between Demetri and Felix.
"Well you see what had happened was… " Felix began but was interrupted by Dimitiri " Felix was taking his sweet time instead of just having them move forward"
"Hey!" Felix pouted "I just didn't want to cause a scene with all the humans around Jane." He looked at the shorter blonde girl with puppy dog eyes "Forgive me?"
Jane crossed her arms over her chest and rolled her eyes as she sighed "Whatever, let's just go. We don't have time for this anyways."
The now group of five started to make their way through the catacombs in relative silence except for a few growls from Edward. Bella supposed he heard something in their minds he must have not liked. After the third growl though Dimitri turned around and snapped at him "If you don't like what we are thinking then stay out of our minds"
Edward let out a small snarl "It's not as easily done as you think it is"
Jane let out a humourless laugh "That sounds like a weak excuse for someone who has had years to train their ability and chose not to"
"OOOO! Burn!" came from Felix who snapped his fingers and laughed heartily.
Jane just grinned wider as Edward shook with anger and huffed indignantly.
Bella squeezed Edwards hand to try to show him some comfort and it seemed to work as he looked back at her and smiled sweetly.
The rest of the trip was made in silence as Dimitri and Jane led Edward and Bella further down as Felix took up the rear, deeper into the catacombs. At this point it was pitch black and Bella had become more fearful since she couldn't see. She held tightly to Edwards hand but still managed to trip on uneven cobblestone. Thankfully Felix caught her and placed her back down softly.
Edward turned around and growled at Felix. "She doesn't need your help"
Felix just huffed "Calm down man, I was just trying to help" He crossed his arms over his chest and looked down at the copper haired vampire.
Edward quickly picked Bella up, gave Felix a quick glare then carried her bridal style "I've got you my love" he whispered sweetly into her ear.
Bella smiled and nuzzled into him. She couldn't help but feel thankful to Felix though and when Edward was looking around she quickly faced Felix and mouthed a thank you. She couldn't see his reply but if he was anything like Emmett she imagined he would have given her a thumbs up with a wide smile.
Once they made it up the ladder and out the catacombs Bella was temporarily blinded by the sunlight again. Just as she was adjusting to the darkness she was reintroduced to the sun.
As she finally adjusted, they entered into the large entrance to a castle. In the front sat a human receptionist who smiled brightly at the group. "Good to see you Jane, Dimitri and Felix. The Queens are awaiting your arrival with our new guests, please go right in."
"Thanks Valentina" Felix said happily as he waved to her.
Valentina waved back and smiled widely as she used her other hand to press a button under her desk.
A click was heard and the doors slowly opened up. Jane, being impatient, forcefully opened them wider and waited for everyone to enter before closing them and staying near the entrance.
Bella was in awe as she looked around the room. The hexagon stone grey tile complimented the royal blue curtains that framed three large windows off to her left. To her right there was a stand made of dark wood that held several gold trimmed chairs with royal blue plush seating. Bella couldn't help but think that it looked like a much more comfortable courtroom. As she looked ahead of her she saw three large desks all aligned horizontally with a few feet separating them. They had large gold trimmed armed chairs with royal plush backing and seating. Each occupied by a different woman who looked intently at her and Edward.
The woman in the far left seat had blonde straight hair that fell loosely around her heart shaped face and round red eyes. She was dressed in a burgundy pantsuit with a black v neck shirt that tucked into her pants. She looked to be in her early thirties as she had her arms crossed over her chest and rested back against her chair as she crossed her legs with a look of boredom painted on her beautiful features.
The woman in the middle looked to be in her mid twenties with olive toned skin and almond eyes and black hair that was pinned back in a tight bun. She wore blue blue dress that went down to her ankles and had a slit that went up to her knee. The top of the dress graciously tied behind her neck. A slight frown on her full lips as she looked at Edward before her features lightened into a soft smile and her red eyes shone with adoration and excitement when they met with Bella's. She slowly rose from her seat with both her hands placed down her desk as she leaned over it.
"It can't be" she whispered with tint of disbelief and joy
The woman on the far right who looked to be in her late twenties with black hair that was tied in a braid that was fair skinned with round eyes and sharp features thanks to her high cheekbones. She was also in a pant suit but an all back one with a blue v neck shirt that was untucked. She looked confused as she looked between the new girl and her fellow Queen.
"What is it Didyme?" She asked the middle Queen who was now making her way down from her throne and towards Bella. The soft click of her heels echoing through the throne room as glided across the stone flooring.
Didyme didn't respond though and kept her walk towards Edward and Bella at a slow pace so as to not frighten the human.
Edward had started to back away with Bella still in his arms as he let out a lowly growl towards the approaching Queen.
The blonde queen rose from her chair and looked at the other queen who remained near her throne "Well isn't this a development, Sulpiscia, Didyme has found her daughter" amusement lacing her voice as she moved around her desk to sit on top of it and lean back with her arms crossed over her chest and her legs crossed "I can see the bonds between them, how unexpected"
Sulpicia gasped and covered her mouth with her hands. "What a rare occasion! I must see it for myself!" Sulpicia quickly moved to Didyme's side and reached over and grabbed her hand.
Didyme smiled at Sulpicia as she came to "What a wonderful occurrence! We will need to celebrate!" Sulpicia hugged the slightly taller Didyme tightly before turning her attention to Bella "Welcome to the family my dear!" She went to envelope Bella as well but a loud disapproving roar from Edward had her stay in her place.
"She already has a family and she will not be staying! My mate and I will be leaving! No laws were broken and as such there is no reason for us to sta-."
A dry laugh interrupted Edward's heated speech. "No law was broken, how laughable!" Athenadora said as she moved from her desk with a sneer on her face and down towards the snarling Edward who clung to Bella even tighter."You are a petulant child! We deny your request and what do you do?! You decide to try to showcase yourself infont of humans and expose the entire vampire race!" Athenadora marched towards Edward and Bella and with every word her voice grew lowder. Edward tightened his grip on Bella which caused her to let out a small pained breath.
This caused Didyme to lunge towards Edward for Bella but she was held back by Sulpicia and Athenadora who quickly made it to her side.
"Guards!" Athenadora called out as she held Didyme's arm close to her body to restrain her.
Before Bella could even register what had happened Edward was on the ground face down being held down by Felix who held one of his arms behind his back and was kneeling on his lower back.
"We should not be entertaining this BOY!" Athenador spat out as she looked down at Edward who only hissed back in pain.
"Athenadora.." Sulpicia begged "Please let us convene about this and discuss this rationally"
Athenadora sighed heavily as she rubbed her temples "Fine…" She relented
Didyme was let go of by Athenadora and Sulpiscia who stayed at her side but were whispering to one another in a semicircle.
Bella then noticed she was in the arms of someone else who was now purring softly into the side of her ear. For some reason they felt warm to her, they smelled of rose water and the purring was putting her more at ease. It was a sweet yet earthy fragrance that invaded her senses and it made her swoon slightly. She looked up and saw cascading red hair that ended in gentle curls that flowed past a heart shaped face, with full lips and almond eyes that looked directly back at her. A smile spread slowly across this new woman's face as she purred softly "Hello amica mea, my name is Chelsea."
Bella looked at this woman confused. "My name isn't Amica Mea, It's Isabella Swan." she giggled. Why did she feel so giddy?
Chelsea laughed as she gave Bella a gentle nudge with her head and purred once again "My apologies Isabella, It is a pleasure to finally meet you." Her voice was soft and captivating. The way she said Bella's name had her heart speed up. She could hear this woman say her name forever and it would never get old.
Edward roared with anger as he fought against Felix "Get away from her! She is mine!"
Felix held him down harder causing the tile to crack under the pressure he was putting on Edward "Woah there buddy! Just calm down." Felix tried to reason "Let's not get out of hand, okay?"
"Let me go! My Mate and I are leaving! We did nothing wrong!" Edward raged on as he kept struggling against Felix.
Chelsea growled and bore her fangs at Edward "Your mate?!" she challenged "You must be delusional!"
Aftering hearing Edward was so upset it brought her back to reality. She looked between this Chelsea woman and looked to Edward. Her Mate was face down in the tile with Felix holding him restrained. How could she let herself get caught up in anything else but Edward. She scolded herself for her lapse in judgement and guilt quickly replaced her feelings of contentment.
She fought to get out of Chelsea's grip and reluctantly Chelsea let her down. "Isabelle, please.." Chelsea pleaded but it died on her lips as she saw Bella frantically run to Edwards' side and try to soothe him.
"I'm here Edward, It's going to be okay. I love you" Bella said reassuringly to him as she ran her fingers through his hair.
Chelsea felt her heart break as she watched Bella continue to whisper sweet nothing to Edward who only turned to look at her with a cocky grin on his face.
Felix gave Chelsea a sad look as he looked between Bella and her.
Chelsea had to look away as she could feel her heart breaking. Her mate was comforting someone else and was even in love with this other person.
Before she could dwell on it further Didyme cleared her throat to get the attention of everyone.
"We the Queens of Voltera have come to a decision based on the current predicaments that have taken place here" Didyme announced.
"Edward, you will leave Voltera to inform your Coven they are to come here no earlier or less than 3 months from now. You have this time to get your coven together to present themselves in front of us to stand trial for your misdeeds." Athenadora asserted as she looked Edward down.
"What crimes have we committed?!" Edward demanded " I did not expose myself to anyone, no offense was committed!"
"Perhaps you didn't show yourself to the Humans out celebrating Saint Marcus Day but Isabella seems very comfortable around vampires. So it seems you have shown one human about vampires and you have yet to change her which violates one of our most sacred laws." Athenadora answered as she moved closer to Isabella and Edward with a glare thrown towards Edwards' way.
"Isabella, do you mind if I touch your hand? I would like to get your side of the story if you are okay with that" Sulpiscia asks kindly as she extends one of her hands out to Isabella.
Bella knew she didn't have a choice in the matter and she laid her hand in the Queen's hand. She had heard that the previous king Aro could see everything about your life and even your thoughts from a single touch and imagined that Sulpicia probably had something similar.
A few moments go by and Sulpicia opens her eyes with a shocked "Oh my!" she covers her mouth with both her hands as she backs away.
"What is it?" Athenadora asks as she moves quickly beside Sulpicia "What did you see?"
"Nothing.." whispers Sulpicia " I saw nothing… she must be a mental shield of some type and the best one I have ever known considering she is still human" Suplicia's look of shock turned to astonishment as she looked Bella in the eyes and bounced excitedly "What a wondrous discovery!"
Didyme moves next to Bella and smiles pridefully at her. Bella didn't know why but seeing Didyme look almost proud at her made her feel really good about herself. She felt herself liking the attention and feeling strong. She wanted Didyme to be proud of her, she didn't know why she did but the fact that she was made her feel incredibly good about herself.
"Stay away from her! She has a family! She will not be staying here" Edward growled out
"I grow tired of your bickering Edward, you are in no position to make any sort of demands. You are lucky to even be alive right now" Athenadora said with annoyance. "If it wasn't for Isabella you wouldn't be to be honest."
"Athenadora!" Didyme exclaimed as she saw Bella's face grow fearful
"What?" Athenadora said nonchalantly "He deserves to know what is saving his sorry ass"
"Athenadora!" both Didyme and Sulpicia exclaimed as they looked to the blonde queen who huffed and returned to her throne and sat down heavily and put her feet up on her desk and she leaned back.
Felix chucked and loosened his grip on Edward for just a moment but that was all he needed.
Edward threw Felix off at the expense of breaking his arm and rushed to Bella. Before he could make it though he collided with Chelsea making a thunderous crack as she tackled him to the ground.
"Get Isabella out of here!" Chelsea ground out as she struggled with Edward to the ground. Felix was quick to help her restrain Edward once more. "Get off of me! Bella is my Mate! She will be leaving with me!" he screamed out as Felix and Chelsea lifted him off the ground and held him in place.
Didyme looked to Bella who was frightened and shrunk into herself. She hadn't moved or made a sound. She was almost like a statue. It hurt Didyme's heart to see her like this. "Take him to one of the guest rooms and keep him under surveillance. I don't want him out of your sight until he is safely on a plane back to Forks, Washington."
"No!" Bella finally made herself known "Please don't take him from me!" she cried out. Once again Chelsea felt herself falter but she didn't losen her hold on Edward. Didyme also felt herself crack at the desperate tone in Bella's voice.
"Isabella, my love" Edward sweetly said to her "I won't leave without you. I won't ever leave you again"
"Again?!" Chelsea asked incredulously "You left her to begin with?!"
Edward ignored the red head holding him and smiled charmingly at Bella " I love you"
Bella felt tears in her eyes. She had wanted to hear those words for so long and they were finally here but why did it feel so bitter sweet as she looked at Chelsea then at Edward.
Before she could respond back Chelsea growled at Edward who only smiled more at her and then at Bella triumphantly.
Felix nudged Chelsea away with his shoulder as he took Edwards hand from her and placed both of his hands behind his back and escorted him out of the courtroom. "I've got this Chelsea, you go handle your own thing" He said as he winked at her and quickly left the room with Edward trying to fight against him and failing.
"No Please!" Bella begged as she tried to go after Edward but was stopped by Didyme holding her from behind "Please dont hurt him.." she silently sobbed.
Didyme held the now slumping girl in her arms as she tried to reassure her "We aren't going to hurt him. I promise you this. Please do not fret, you will get to say goodbye to him before he leaves."
Chelsea was close by, not wanting to leave Bella's side.
Sulpicia clapped her hands loudly and laughed "Well wasn't that eventful! My what an exciting day full of new revelations." Her tone was cherry and happy. "How about we all sit down and take a moment to collect ourselves, hm?" She quickly moved around and gathered two large gold trimmed and blue plush sofas that were off to the side and placed them in front of the window that showed the slow downpour of rain.
Athenadora just rolled her eyes and sat on the closest sofa with Sulpicia who had grabbed some tea and coffee and set it up on a small table between the two sofas. Didyme carried Bella to the other sofa where she set her down in the middle and sat on the right side of her. Chelsea took her seat to Bella's left and grabbed a cup of warm coffee and added some sugar and creamer before taking a sip. Everyone started to serve themselves but Bella remained still.
Bella felt hollow, defeated and utterly alone. Her body just caved into itself once again as she curled into a ball and slowly began to cry. "Why are you doing this to us" she quietly pleaded "We just want to start our lives together again. We could be picking up where we left off and be happy with each other once again." She couldn't hold in her emotions any longer. She would usually keep it to herself but if she was going to be stuck here she might as well let everything out and in the open. This may be her last chance to.
"Oh Isabella" Didyme said quietly "We aren't trying to hurt you or Edward"
"Maybe just Edward" Athenadora said under her breathe as she cleared her throat
"Anthy!" Supcia exclaimed as she elbowed her fellow queen.
This only caused Bella to hold onto herself tighter and place her head on her knees.
Athenadora held up both her hands in surrender "Alright, Alright.. I'm sorry… That boy just irritates me." she sighed
Supicia and Didyme just rolled their eyes as Chelsea held in a small laugh. Chelsea couldn't help but completely agree with Athenadora. It didn't help that he lied to Bella and had her believing she was his mate when she was actually hers. If it wouldn't hurt Bella she would have disposed of him already but she couldn't do anything that would hurt her mate. So she slowly sipped her coffee.
"We have done nothing to you… please just let us go" she begged
"Oh Isabella" Didyme whispered "You have done nothing wrong."
Athenadora cut in "The Olympic Coven have though. They have revealed themselves to a human and did not turn you. They left a human alone with that knowledge and not to mention they put you in danger by leaving a vengeful vampire alive after killing her mate. They knew she would come for you and what she is willing to do to accomplish her goals are equally their fault for not handling the matter sooner or even reporting it"
Sulpicia sighed tiredly "We cannot excuse the danger they put you in or even Forks for that matter. They have been careless with your life and the life of other humans. Honestly you think Carlisle would be more cautious."
Bella lifted her head up to look at them "If I did nothing wrong then why are you keeping me here? Just let me leave with Edward and I'm sure Carlisle and the rest of the coven will come back to speak with you. You don't need to keep me here." She tried to reason with them and looked at each one as fiercely as she could. "If I really did nothing wrong as you said then I have no reason to stay here. I haven't and I won't tell anyone about vampires."
"Isabella there is more you need to kno-" began Didyme but was interrupted by the large double doors to the courtroom opening. Jane quickly moved aside so as to not be hit. She threw a dirty look at the arriving golden eyed vampire who had a pixie haircut and a small stature.
"I hope I'm not too late" Alice said merrily
"Alice!" Exclaimed Sulpicia as she quickly rose from her seat and over to the pixie vampire and embraced her in a hug "How delightful to have you here!"
Alice laughed heartily "It is so good to see you too Queen Sulpicia, you seem more like yourself"
Sulpicia smiled widely and twirled a moment "I feel like myself again."
Athenadora cleared her throat to get their attention "Not to break up this joyful reunion but would you mind telling us what you are doing here?"
Bella turned at the sound of Alice's voice and a wide smile broke across her face as well as a sigh of relief. If anyone could get her and Edward out of her it would be Alice. She was always their saving grace.
"Alice!" Bella sighed happily as smiled brightly at the golden eyed vampire.
"Bella, it is so good to see you are safe!" My vision of you was in and out so I got a bit worried and made it here as soon as I could. I should have known you would be alright though" Alice skipped over to Bella and gave her a hug over the sofa.
"Oh Chelsea! It is so good to see you too!" Alice turned to smile at the red head who smiled back and put down her coffee "It's good to see you too Alice, you should visit more often. I do miss our shopping sprees and Jaspers chest matches. Even if he did cheat" Chelsea smiles cheekily and Alice rolled her eyes "He didn't cheat, you are just a sore loser"
Chelsea feigned hurt as she placed her hand over her heart "Why me?! Never!"
Alice and both Chelsea light hearted laugh. Alice quickly rose from her hug with Bella and curtsied to the other two Queens "My Queens, it is a pleasure to see you once again and also my congratulations."
Athenadora smiled victoriously as she puffed out her chest "A congratulations indeed! It is so good to see you Alice. You must come back for our celebration later this year."
"Of course my Queen! I would not miss it" Alice replied "I'm sure Jasper will want to hear all about it as well."
Bella was taken back by how comfortably they were talking to one another. It was like they had expected her to show up and it confused bella.
Didyme noticed Bella's confusion and pulled out her blackberry phone. "Alice alerted us earlier today she would be making a surprise visit. Although she did keep Edward and you a secret. Alice you gave us quite the surprise of the century today." Didyme smiled towards Alice "Thank you"
Alice laughed at Bella's surprised face "Don't thank me yet. The future is always changing."
"B-but… I .. why…" Bella stuttered out "Why didn't you warn Edward and I this would happen?!" Bella said frustrated and glared at Alice accusingly "You could have given us some kind of warning!"
Alice sighed as she walked around the sofa and in front of Bella where she kneeled and grabbed her hands in hers. "Bella you have to understand, what is happening now is what is supposed to be for you. You just have to be open to this change and willing to let your heart guide you. You will know what is right for you when the time comes but give yourself time to figure it out for yourself and make your own decisions." Alice smiled sadly at Bella who just let her head fall again
"I just don't understand…" Bella confided "Can someone please explain all of this to me. I feel so lost. Edward is gone, I'm suppose to stay here, you all know each other, and you even drink coffee?!" Bella looked at Chelsea who sheepishly smiled.
"Well.. that is an easy explanation" Chelsea began "Since we drink human blood our bodies can handle food and normal human sustenance better because the blood we drink helps our organs function like they used to. Mind you it's not like we can handle alot since the blood we drink is rationed out. It isn't like we can fully taste what we consume either. Athenadora could go more into it." She looked to Athenadora who smiled "We can discuss it at full lengths at another time but for now I think we should all retire. It's been a long day and we have an even longer day tomorrow."
Everyone but Bella nodded in agreement.
"Will I get to see Edward tonight? Can I stay with him?" Bella asked as she looked to the Everyone "Please?"
"Bella.." Alice sighed
Chelsea let out a sad whimper but rose from her seat "I can take her to see him, if you want my Queens"
Athenadora looked appalled at the idea, Sulpicia looked hurt for Chelsea and Didyme had quiet furry behind her eyes but sighed in defeat after seeing Bella's crestfallen features "Fine… One goodbye before bed. By tomorrow morning he will be gone though so say what you need to."
Ddiyme looked to Chelsea "Make sure after her goodbye she gets something to eat and is set up comfortably in her room please."
"As you wish my Queen" Chelsea replied with a bow then extended her hand to Bella "Shall we?"
Bella at first looked nervously at the offended hand but took it and rose from her seat.
Alice quickly gave Bella a hug "I will see you again real soon I promise. I just have to make sure my idiot brother doesn't do anything rash on the way home." She smiled cheekily
Bella couldn't help but smile back at the pixie vampire, her smile was contagious "I will miss you" she admitted as she hugged Alice back.
"Hey if you ever want to get ahold of me, you can have Chelsea message me. She has my number." Alice reassured her "I'm just a phone call away"
Bella nodded and followed after Chelsea who led her out of the throne room.
Once Chelsea and Bella was far enough Sulpicia rose from her seat and her face became serious. "Alice we need to know the extent of what has happened and what is to come." She held out her hand to the younger energetic vampire. "Please"
Alice gracefully walked up to the Queen and put her hand in hers.
A few moments went by and Sulpicia backed away quickly holding her hand to her chest af it was burned. "Oh god…" she whispered in shock and horror. "The poor girl... "
"What is it?" Athenadora asked
Didyme rose to her seat "Did it have anything to do with my Bella?" she asked laced with worry
Sulpicia turned to her other Queens "I'm afraid it does. She has been through so much and yet there is more to come… We need to start preparing."
The queens sat down and started to discuss what their future plans would be with Alice.
Meanwhile Chelsea was still holding Bella's hand leading her down to their holding cells.
Bella looked down at their hands and even though she should have let Chelsea's hand go, she didn't want to. Her hand was soft, felt warm and comfortable. Edwards hands always felt like they were going to engulf hers, they were hard and immovable while also being cold to the touch. She never wanted to complain about it out of fear he wouldn't hold her hand any longer but after feeling Chelsea's hand in hers she couldn't help but find herself thinking back negatively on all the times she held his hand.
She looked to Chelsea who caught her look and smiled at her "Penny for your thoughts?" She asked Bella as she light squeezed her hand and caressed her hand with her thumb.
Bella felt a loss for words. She shouldn't feel this way for someone. Not after all she has been through for and with Edward. He was her mate, IS her mate! Ugh.. Even in her mind she was fighting with herself.
She didn't know how long the Volturi Queens would keep her at this castle or even how long she would survive so she might as well be brutally honest.
"I don't understand any of this" she breathed out "I feel so torn and confused."
She stopped walking and looked down at their interlaced hands
"I shouldn't feel how I feel with you…" She admitted "but it feels so right and I feel so guilty"
This made Chelsea smile for a moment until she noticed Bella's brow furrow in frustration
"Bella" she started and moved closer to the shorter brunette and held their hands close to her chest "Whatever questions you have I will answer them honestly and truthfully. So please don't be afraid to ask, I'm here for you and I won't lie to you." She was being completely ernest and looked Bella in the eyes. She really wouldn't lie to her mate, even if it upset her. She deserved the truth no matter what.
Bella could feel herself grow frustrated and upset. The problem was she KNEW that Chelsea wasn't lying to her and she trusted what she said yet she had NO reason to! She could see it in those gorgeous red eyes that were so enchanting she could get lost in them. She shook herself out of that thought though and felt guilty once again.
"That's part of the problem!" Bella exclaimed as she pulled her hand away from Chelseas and held it against her own chest as she looked down at it. She couldn't look Chelsea in the eyes as she admitted this to her and even to herself. "I know… I know you wouldn't lie to me and I trust you to be honest with me but I don't know why… and I'm afraid"
"Why do I feel this way about you.." Bella quietly asked herself and out loud.
Chelsea tentatively walked up to Bella and wrapped her around her shoulders and brought her into her while laying her head on top of hers. "I will tell you if you want or I can give you time to figure it out." Chelsea purred as she nuzzled into Bella "I will respect your decision though and I won't push you. I just ask that you let me know If I do something you don't like or want. I want to be selfish with you. I always want to be near you, touching you, and be the one you go to but if you need time or space I can also do that for you."
Bella was taken back by her words. Once again she was comparing her to Edward and the stark differences were so blatantly obvious she couldn't ignore them. When she asked Edward for time to herself he would stay outside her window and watch her. When she wanted to go with her friends he would try to isolate her and not respect her decisions. He could even barely stand kissing her… Yet Chelsea was here only knowing her for a couple of hours and being so kind and considerate. Maybe she was giving the girl too much credit as it had only been a little time and it was easy to make those quick promises but why did she still believe her. She still felt that Chelsea would live up to her word and do it easily.
She didn't know what to say. She let her heart speak for her. "Thank you Chelsea" she spoke with so much gratitude that Chelsea couldn't help the happy smile that spread across her face.
"Anything for you amica mea" She whispered to Bella as she gave her a gentle squeeze.
Bella couldn't help but smile "Amica mea, again? I feel like that isn't a name you mistook me for but something else" she said teasingly
Chelsea couldn't help but laugh "It definitely isn't someone else's name. It does have another meaning but that is for a different time. I believe we were on our way somewhere and then to get you food and some rest." Chelsea loosened her hold on Bella and stepped back from her. "Shall we go?" She offered Bella her hand once again.
Remembering they were on their way to see Edward she should have felt guilty but Chelsea's happy smile and demeanor made it impossible for her to let it sink in. She out stretched her arm and grabbed Chelsea's hand in hers with a light blush adorning her cheeks "Let's go"
If Chelsea's heart could still beat it would be racing. She couldn't be more overjoyed to see Bella slowly meeting her half way. She wanted to take this slow and do it right. Did she fight her vampire instincts to just tell Bella she was her mate and kiss her. ABSOLUTELY! But Bella was worth it. She was worth over a 1000 year wait so she could wait for however long the brunette needed or wanted.
As they made their way in comfortable silence Bella couldn't help the nagging at the back of her mind that she should be ashamed. She spent months in a comatose state over Edwards departure and now she was comfortably holding hands with this woman she just met as she was about to say goodbye to him.
Everything felt so different though. She wasn't the one being left really, she was the one staying and Edward was being forced to leave because in reality he left her to begin with. This revelation made her stand a bit straighter and huff in defiance. The thoughts of what he said to her when he first left were swirling in her mind like a torrent storm. She could feel it, she was on the edge of a great revelations but was interrupted as Chelsea opened a large iron door. She groaned at its weight as she pulled it back to allow enough room for Bella and herself to enter.
A hearty laugh could be heard further in the large holding area "Maybe you should start lifting more Chels!"
"Shut it Felix" Chelsea replied back with a huff as she closed the door behind both Bella and herself once they were in.
Felix waved to Bella "Hey Bells!"
Bella couldn't help but laugh and smile "I already get a nickname?" she teased him
"Don't go around telling everyone alright" He said as he put a finger up to his lips "I don't want to make anyone jealous, it's because I know we are gonna be the best of friends" he smiled and winked at her.
Chelsea couldn't help the eye roll that almost possessed her entire body
Bella however loved the banter between Felix and herself. She could really see herself growing a friendship with the gentle giant.
Before she could respond back though Edward was at the cell door that was holding him in.
"Bella!" he exclaimed with excitement "Oh Bella! How I have missed you! Have they hurt you?!"
He growled out the last part and death glared at Chelsea who only gave him a bored expression and crossed her arms over her chest.
"I wouldn't dream of ever hurting or LEAVING Bella" Chelsea declared with confidence as she stared him down. She smirked when she noticed that the emphasis about her not leaving Bella made him flinch. As it should!
Edward sneered towards Chelsea but refocused his attention to Bella "My love, My MATE. I will get us away from her, I promise you this."
Bella knew she should be happy about his declaration of love and his promises to keep them together but.. As she looked around at the room she found it impossible to see him even escaping for himself. Felix was an immovable man when he wanted to be and thats exactly where he wanted to be when it came to Edward and his freedom. So even if he could somehow make it past Felix, there was the heavy door, the other Volturi guards that were somewhere in the castle. It just didn't seem likely to her. She saw he promise for what it was for the first time, empty..
"Edward I-" She began but was cut off "Bella my love, I swear nothing will keep us apart again" Edward proclaimed "I will not leave you again"
There it was, him interrupting her again. She wanted to believe him, she really did but even as he stated, he had left before and even if he didn't want to go this time, it wasn't up to him.
"Edward we-" she tried again but once more "We should have never come here, I'm sorry my love. I should have fought harder to get us away from here." Edward sorrowfully confessed "Once we are away from here though, we can pick up right where we left off. Just the two of us." He smiled his signature lopsided grin at her that used to make her just fall for him all over again.
She didn't feel that way anymore though. Why didn't she feel that way? She tried to give him a reassuring smile but it died on her lips and she sighed tiredly. In her heart she didn't want to go back to how it was. She wanted to be heard, to be cared for, to be considered. Edward spoke over her, decided what they should do and how they should do it. It started hitting her that she never really got a say in their relationship. That she was never really asked what she wanted. She looked to Edward then to Chelsea. Chelsea was only a few feet away from her but she felt so much further and she didn't like it.
Chelsea moved closer to her as if sensing her thoughts and reached out for her hand but didn't grab it. She was letting Bella make the final decision and meet her the rest of the way. As Bella began to reach out and look at Chelsea smiling at her a loud growling stopped her from fully reaching out to the red head.
"She's manipulating you Bella!" Edward roared "She has a special gift that allows her to change a person's bond between people! She's done it for hundreds of years to keep people in the Volturi from leaving! Especially those with special gifts like you and me!"
Bella looked up at Chelsea and quickly took her hand back and held it to her chest "Is it true Chelsea?" shock and horror in her voice
Chelsea felt could feel her face fall and her heart drop "I-I.. "
"Is it true?!" Bella demanded as she looked Chelsea in the eyes before turning away from her
"Isabella…" Chelsea whispered "I can explain I promise." she pleaded "Please just hear me out"
"IS IT TRUE!"
"It is.." Chelsea sighed defeated "I can change the bonds between people and I once did it for the Volturi.."
Felix glared at Edward who smiled triumphetly. Felix made his way to Chelsea and hugged her
Chelsea let herself fall into Felix as she covered her face with her hands and her shoulders shook with sobs that would never produce tears.
"It's not what you think though" Felix said with sadness as he continued "The Volturi kings used Chelsea to keep people loyal like myself so we wouldn't leave or go against them but Chels was being manipulated too. There was another vampire known as Corin that made us all content and complacent. They even made Chels believe she was ma-"
"Felix no.. Please I" Chelsea begged as she fell to her knees holding herself
Felix backed away but stayed close. He knew she needed this moment and looked to Bella who looked torn between wanting to run away and towards Chelsea.
Bella slowly made her way to Chelsea and knelt down next to her. Chelsea looked up at her, defeated, empty, and so broken. Bella realized that is what she probably looked like after Edward left her and all the pain she must have put her friends and family through to see her go through that. Someday she would have to thank them for still being there for her because now she could be here for someone else.
Bella grabbed Chelsea by the shoulder and pulled her into her chest and wrapped her arms around the redhead. She held her closely and just laid her head on the other girls and whispered to her softly "It's going to be alright. I know it's hard right now but with time it will get easier and I will be here for you"
Bella had said everything she had wanted to hear when she was in that state. She was following her heart and doing what she believed was right. She wouldn't let someone go through what she did if she could help it.
Chelsea closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around Bella's midsection and pulled her even tighter "Thank yo-"
"Get away from my MATE!" Edward screeched "She isn't yours! You godless monster!"
"Hey!" Felix yelled back
Chelsea rose to her feet and helped Bella up as well. She held up a hand to stop Felix from retorting back "It's fine Felix" she reassured him.
She turned to face the young Cullen ``She isn't your mate either Edward. Why don't you tell her the truth since you want to be so open and honest about everything." she said calmly "Or do you only give out information that benefits you"
Edward snarled "She is my Mate!"
Chelsea was growing tired of his delusions and it was time to end them here and now. "If she was your mate you wouldn't have been able to leave her."
"You don't know what you are talking about!" He yelled at her "I was doing what I needed to, to protect her!" His knuckles went white as he held onto the bars holding him back as tightly as he could.
"You can't leave a mate behind! Especially if you know it will hurt them.. That's why I - I ".. Chelsea faltered. She looked away while clenching her jaw.
Edward smiled wickedly as he read her mind "And you can only be mated once. So she can't be your mate"
Felix quickly moved in front of Edward "You watch your mouth! That wasn't-"
"I'm not your mate…" Bella whispered in disbelief and turned to her and watched her as she started to pace "But all this time.. "She looked up to Edward who looked at her intently "You told me I was your mate. Yet you left me though. Even Carlisle said how he can't be without Esme, yet you left me.."
"Bella, my love. I did it for your own go-" Edward began to plead
"Stop it!" Bella screamed "You always say that! But did you ever consider what I wanted or how it would affect me?!" Her jaw began to clench and her hands balled into fists. "No you didn't!"
This was the first time she let herself be angry with him and she could feel all the times he ignored her request for space, for time, to be heard, to just be considered thrown to the side. She grew angrier and angrier until she moved in front him and looked up at him seething.
"This was never about what I wanted! It was about you!"
"Bella, please be reasonable!" He begged
"No!" she slapped the hand he had tried to use to reach past the bars to touch her face.
Her hand hurt from the contact and she was reminded about the pain she had gone through with him. Her broken leg, all the bruises from where he had touched her, the scar on her arm from when he throw her back so carelessly after she got a papercut.
Her anger had hit a point where it was not settling and she sighed heavily
"I can't do this with you right now. I need time to think." Bella breathed out tiredly "Goodbye Edward" She turned and made her way towards the door.
"Bella please!" He cried out "Bella my love! Come back!"
Chelsea had quickly appeared ahead of Bella and opened the large door and as soon as Bella made it passed she left as well and closed it behind them.
"BELLLA!" Edward screamed one last final time as he fell against the bars of his cell.
This isn't over he thought to himself. I will get my Mate back, I will not lose her again...