Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended.

Chapter Forty-One

The driveway was empty.

The sprinklers were on.

The porch light was off.

Edward didn't mention a word about the empty driveway, but he did look somewhat relieved.

"I'll walk you to the door."

"You don't have to do that. You're late enough as it is..."

"I know I don't have to. I want to." He gave me a look and we exited the car. "Besides, it's getting dark out here and the porch light is off. I'm sure you'd struggle to stick the key in the hole."

I snorted. "And you think you'd be better at sticking the key in the hole?"

This was all kinds of wrong.

Edward shook his head in amusement as I did, in fact, struggle with unlocking the door. It had less to do with the dimly lit porch and more to do with Edward's proximity.

He placed his hand over mine and unlocked the door for me. "You know, you can always change your mind and come with me."

"I should shower," I mumbled.

"Shower at my place."

"I need to eat."

"My cereal choices rival the grocery store."

"Edward..."

He handed me the keys and ran a hand over his chin. "Am I coming on too strong?"

My stomach fluttered at his words.

"No."

Edward laughed so quietly that I would have missed it if I wasn't staring, listening so intently. "Well. Call me later, okay?"

I briefly nodded, which seemed to convey I was disregarding him.

Edward stepped closer and palmed my cheek. His warm, minty breath intoxicating. He used his other hand to grab my waist and pull me into him.

I gave in.

Our lips met.

My hands were in his hair; on his chest; around his neck.

Then my back was suddenly against the front door and I was breathless.

Edward pulled back and I kept my eyes closed. "I'm serious," he murmured against my lips. "Call me. Even if it's just to say you're going to bed."

His lips and gaze and warmth made me agree.

Edward could ask to murder the dog that just ran by and I'm pretty sure I'd agree.

It was all kinds of wrong.

After Edward left, I cleaned up the house a bit and showered. It was a little after eight and Renee still hadn't home, nor did she answer her cell when I tried calling.

I grabbed my laptop, locked my bedroom door and threw myself on my bed before passing out.

Sometime later, my phone began ringing.

"Hello?"

"Where are you?" Edward's voice was frantic in my ear.

I looked around my room. "I guess I fell asleep. I'm at home. Why?"

"Come downstairs, please? I'm at the front door," Edward said quickly before hanging up.

Confused and half awake, I walked downstairs and opened the door to a frazzled Edward.

"What are you doing here?" I rubbed my eyes.

"Bella." Edward walked in and I stole a glance outside to make sure the driveway was still empty. "I'm trying not to pry. I'm really trying here," he said in a strained voice. "You're not giving me much to work with."

"Um. Okay. I'm not sure what-"

"The truth," he interrupted, cupping my face. "I want the truth. Even if it's going to confuse or terrify me. Nothing you say will make me think differently of you."

So much for omission.

"Okay," I replied, hands shaking.

"Okay?" He visibly relaxed.

"Yes. I'll tell you."

A/N: No dogs were harmed while writing this chapter. Thanks for reading.