AN: I want to thank everyone for the wonderful reviews; I received more reviews on this chapter than on any other. I guess cliffhangers encourage readers to review. I hope the ending of this one helps those who wondered what happened to Bella.

As always, these characters are not my creation but that of Stephenie Meyer. She gets all the credit for their creation.

Enjoy!

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Family – Bella

At first I wasn't sure where Edward was taking me, but it soon became evident we were headed to his house. I wasn't sure why he was taking me there, but over the past month or so it began to feel like home to me. Since the accident, I had spent as much time at the Cullen's as I did at Charlie's, so both houses felt like home.

As we pulled up to the house, I saw Carlisle and Esme standing on the porch. I wondered how they knew we were coming.

I looked over at Edward to see if there was any indication in his facial expression as to what was happening, but it only looked like he was concentrating on listening. I had noticed lately that when he was hearing someone's thoughts his face became serious and he actually looked like he was listening to an actual conversation – the same intense look of someone who was intently involved in an actual discussion with someone else. Sometimes the look was obvious and other times it was subtler, but I always saw the look and knew what he was doing. Every so often, the look would come over him when he was trying to hear my thoughts, but it was always followed by a look of defeat because he couldn't hear anything from me.

From Edward's look, I knew Carlisle was speaking to him as we parked because I saw Carlisle lips moving, so I fastidiously listened. I had picked up the habit of listening carefully from being around the Cullen's. If I paid close attention, I sometimes caught bits and pieces of what was being said. From Carlisle I heard, " . . . leading . . . astray . . . skip . . . her," and it had the intonation of a question. I interpreted it as a reprimand of Edward for skipping school with me in tow. Maybe Carlisle thought Edward was a bad influence on me, but I didn't feel Edward's influences were bad.

Edward was at my door in a flash, and he helped me out. I smiled as we walked up to Carlisle and Esme. I felt awkward being here when I knew we should've been at school, but I also knew Edward had a reason for bringing me; I'd just have to wait to learn what the reason was.

"We need to talk," Edward told his parents as we approached the porch.

"About?" Carlisle asked.

I felt the color rush into my face. Was he going to say anything about Emmett kissing me; was he upset about that or was there something else about which he was upset?

"Family," Edward's reply was simple, and I wondered if it had anything to do with my comment about feeling like an outsider.

"First," Esme held out her hand me, "Let's make Bella comfortable." Esme was great; I could hear the concern in her voice.

I smiled as I took Esme's outstretched hand and replied, "Thank you." Her concern meant a lot to me.

Esme ushered me into the living room and made sure I was comfortably seated on the sofa. Then she sat down on the sofa facing mine and asked, "Is everything alright?"

I blushed. It wasn't my place to complain about Rosalie's dislike of me, so I hesitantly said, "As best as can be expected."

She looked at me waiting for more, but I couldn't bring myself to say anything else. That's when Edward and Carlisle walked in. I could see from the look on Carlisle face that Edward had told him about the incident at lunch, and I hoped he'd refrained from telling about the kissing incident.

Edward sat down beside me and grasped my hand. He looked up at his parents and began, "I thought it would be helpful if you shared your views about Bella's place in our family."

I felt rather awkward about Edward's bluntness. In my opinion, he was putting his parents on the spot making such a request.

Carlisle, who was seated by Esme, smiled over at her and then focused his attention on me. "Esme and I have talked about this, and we want you to know that we consider you a part of our family. To us it doesn't matter if you're human or not, what matters is who you are, and in our eyes, you're as much a daughter to us as Alice and Rose."

I was amazed and pleased that they had taken time to talk about this and already considered me a daughter. That fact made me feel warm all over. I knew part of the warmth was from their acceptance and part was from the blush rushing into my face. I disliked blushing because everyone could see it, which made me feel more embarrassed, and then Edward squeezed my hand, so I looked up at him and he smiled reassuringly. I felt extremely comforted by his actions.

Very softly, because of my embarrassment, I replied, "That's very kind of you," but I knew that I wasn't accepted unanimously into the family. Without thinking, I added, "But not everyone feels that way. I don't want to intrude on your family. I never meant to intrude. All I've wanted for months now is just to be with Edward." With all my heart, I knew that last comment was absolutely true.

For whatever reason, maybe to reassure me of his sincerity, Carlisle came over and sat beside me. "Esme and I both know how you feel about Edward, and we know how Edward feels about you. That fact aside, we still want you to be a part of our family. Of course, the decision is yours. You don't have to include yourself in our family. You're free to choose. I know you have a human family of your own and we're not trying to take you away from them, but we would really enjoy being your adopted family and having you as an adopted daughter."

Esme smiled and added, "I feel like you're my daughter already. Having you accept us as family is very special for us. We've never had a close attachment with a human before, but you're a very special person and we're proud to accept you into our family. Of course, as Carlisle said, if you're uncomfortable with that idea and don't want us as a family, I can understand that also."

Their sincerity touched me and caused me to cry. I was so moved I could only stammer, "I . . . I very much want to be a part of your family." Hesitantly I looked at Edward, and his crooked smile helped me to continue. "I would like to be a real member of your family, but since Edward has no intentions of changing me, yet," I peeked at him quickly to make sure he wasn't mad, "I'd be happy to be an ephemeral daughter for as long as you will allow me to be."

From his reaction, Edward didn't seem upset, so I relaxed a little.

"Bella," Carlisle took my hand in his cold one, "Never doubt the fact that everyone in this room already feels that you're a real member of this family. You'll always be welcome in my home, and we'll always look out for you." Then Carlisle surprised me by leaning over and whispering softly, "And I too wish Edward would make this permanent."

I knew Edward heard him but I noticed he shot Edward a quick glance that stopped Edward from making any reply.

I felt overwhelmed, "Thank you. I appreciate your support and acceptance." I hastily wondered if that meant Carlisle might consider changing me if Edward wouldn't, but I didn't want Edward to know I had such a thought, so I added, "I just wish everyone else in the family felt the same way."

Esme smiled. "Bella, even in natural families, sibling rivalry exists. Think of Rose's rejection as just that. Older children sometimes resent the addition of younger children, but eventually they get over it."

I wondered if that would really be the case with Rosalie, but I was grateful for Esme's comment so I smiled and replied, "Let's just hope that she does get over it."

"Believe it or not Bella, Emmett is your biggest supporter on the Rose front. He has tried valiantly to help Rose see that you're not a threat to us or our way of life, and he constantly reminds her that everyone else in the family has accepted you as one of us." Esme added.

"Maybe that's part of why she's upset. Maybe Emmett talks about me too much and she thinks I'm a rival, although how anyone as beautiful as Rosalie could ever perceive me as a rival is beyond my scope of imagination." I sometimes thought that maybe Rosalie was upset with me because everyone talked about me. Maybe she thought I was taking the attention of her family away from her.

As I looked over at Edward, I saw him frown. Whenever I saw his frown, I instantly felt he knew my thoughts and they displeased him. Even though he couldn't read my mind, I believed my face gave away my thoughts. A second later, however, I noticed his frown was replaced by his lovely crooked smile so I was unsure of what caused the frown.

I saw Esme gracefully rise from the sofa and walk over to me, "Welcome to the family, my dear," then she kissed my cheek causing me to blush yet again.

Would I ever get over that embarrassing habit, I thought.

Carlisle added, as he looked over at Edward, "Now, to give you an excuse for ditching class bring Bella up to my office and let me look at her leg. And, Edward, let Bella walk up the stairs." Carlisle added with emphasis.

I tried to walk as quickly upstairs as possible, but the walking cast slowed me down more than usual. I felt Edward's impatience with my slowness and I sympathized with him. For someone who loved speed as much as he did, this had to be torture for him, and yet he didn't utter one word of despair about having to follow me slowly upstairs.

Poor Edward, I thought, how this must be killing him. And then I remember he was already dead, and then it struck me how funny that was.

I hadn't realized I had laughed out loud until I heard Edward ask, "What's so funny?"

For some reason I found that even funnier and couldn't help but laugh more. It took me a moment to compose myself and reply with feeling, "This must be very tedious for you."

"In what way?"

"You love speed, but now you're walking at a snail's pace because of me." I stopped and slowly turned around. "If it helps, you can run ahead. You don't have to wait for me."

I smiled down at Edward wanting him to know I really did feel sorry for him to have to put up with my sluggish pace, but then his face took on an incomprehensible look. I was convinced I had done or said something that upset him.

"I'm sorry Edward." I looked at him repentantly.

"Bella, I'm not upset with you." He answered very softly, but with an astonished look on his face. "It's just that right now you look like you're glowing. You look like a heavenly creature. It's amazing." He took a few steps toward me, and we were standing on the same step.

I couldn't help but laugh. Here was my angel saying I looked heavenly. It seemed absurd. "Edward, I'm not heavenly."

"To me you are. Pure, innocent, and truly remarkable, and I'm a monster that lusts after you blood, body, and soul. I'm not good enough for you."

"Edward." I was shocked. How could he think that? I never saw him as a monster and I wouldn't allow him to call himself one. "You're not a monster. Don't ever say that again. As for being pure and innocent, well, has it ever occurred to you that I might be lusting after you as much as you're lusting after me? Remember, I'm only human and I have natural human desires." I couldn't help but reach out and touch his divine face; I also shocked myself for being so bold as to confess all of those feelings to him. Did he really think he was the only one affected in that way by our relationship and physical contact?

"Do you really?" I could hear doubt in his voice.

I couldn't figure out how he could doubt those feelings. He heard my heart race whenever he touched me or kissed me. What did he think caused that reaction? I didn't want to dwell on my feeling because I knew I would begin blushing again and he'd only want to know why, so I decided to change the subject.

"Why don't you run up and down the steps a few times so you don't become frustrated with my slow movements?" I felt that would distract him and to add to his distraction from my outburst, I ran my hand down his firm alabaster cheek and smiled. "Or at least walk down, then up and open the door, by that time I may reach the top of the stairs." Then I gave him a big smile.

I was glad to see Edward take my advice; I knew he could actually go up and down the stairs five or six times at his speed before I'd reach the top landing, but I noticed he walked them at a normal speed and he still made it to Carlisle's office door as I was reaching to top. That was when my clumsiness kicked in; just as I reached to top step I lost my balance and tip backwards. I knew I was going to fall down the stairs. Edward must have seen it too, because he was behind me before I could complete my tipping and start falling. The near miss caused two reactions, I stopped breathing and my heart started racing, both of which Edward had to have noticed.

Instead of voicing his concern, he said, "Bella, are you trying to shorten your life intentionally?"

I had no time to get upset by his comment because I was still stunned. I took a few minutes to catch my breath and compose myself. Then I thought about what he said earlier about looking heavenly. "Remember what you said about the sun making me look heavenly a few minutes ago?" My voice was barely audible due to the shock.

"Of course, and I meant it."

I decided this was only another instance of fate attempting to take away my life. "What if it was an omen of my impending doom, and you thwarted death once again?" I was seriously beginning to believe this fact. How could I not help thinking that? I had been in Forks for less than half a year, and I'd come near to death at least five times.

Edward helped me to stand upright on the hall landing and then held me close while leading me down the hall. "You can't really believe that." He was just as serious as I was, and I think determined to convince me otherwise.

I decided to share with him a thought I'd for a while. "I have given death a lot of thought since Phoenix, Edward. I don't think you were ever meant to save my life. Maybe change it, but not save it. This is only another example of fate attempting to take what no longer belongs to me." I looked up at him to see his reaction.

I could tell he was startled by my comment and his words confirmed my impression. "Don't say that Bella. You have so much life ahead of you; don't give up on it."

Well, he was right and wrong about that; I'd given up on a human life, but not on spending eternity with him in his form of life, so I just said, "I haven't given up on life, Edward; it has given up on me." To stop him from replying, I opened Carlisle's office door and walked in.

"Bella, have a seat on this stool. I'll just give you a quick check-up to make sure everything is okay." Carlisle pointed to the stool and Edward was right beside me lifting me onto the stool.

Carlisle then took off my shoe and started moving my foot around. "Have you had anymore cramping since this morning?"

"No," I replied as I looked at Edward. He must have been more concerned then he let on. "I thought you said it was normal?"

As I watched him, Edward just smiled and shrugged his shoulders.

Carlisle smiled at me and explained, "It's normal only when someone carries you around too much and does not let you exercise the leg enough."

"Oh, I see." I decided he was referring to the fact that Edward carried me every chance he got. I liked being in Edward's arms, but sometimes I felt I needed to show him I could get around on my own without his help.

"I think your leg is doing fine." He picked up his stethoscope. "This is going to be a little cold."

"Like Edward's touch." I chuckled at the thought and then blushed as I realized I had said that out loud.

I heard Edward laugh and noticed a slight smile on Carlisle's face.

As he was checking my heart rate, I felt Edward run his finger down my arm. Instantly my heart skipped a beat and then sped up. I couldn't believe he'd do that in front of Carlisle. Edward knew what his touch did to my emotions; there wasn't any need to share that with the rest of his family.

To affirm the fact of what happened, Carlisle warned, "Do that again and I'll ask you to leave."

I smiled slightly as I saw Edward take a step away from me.

Carlisle checked my lungs after checking my heart. After pulling my shirt up a little in the back, he said, like all doctors, "Take a deep breath."

So I took a deep breath and let it out in Edward's direction.

Then Carlisle said, "And again," after he moved the stethoscope to a new place.

As he stepped away from me, I noticed his serious expression.

"What's wrong?" I wondered if there was something wrong with my lungs or the examination he just gave me.

Carlisle smiled. "Nothing. You're doing fine; just make sure you do some walking every day, but don't over due it."

I felt relief wash over me, but wondered why he had looked so serious if my check up was fine.

Before I could ask, I heard Edward say, "What was the serious look for?"

"The rest of the family just came in. I think we all need to sit down for a family talk." He put the stethoscope away and walked toward the door, then turned around. "That does include you Bella. You're part of the family now."

"Oh, yeah. I'll be there as fast as I can." It felt nice being included. I made sure I carefully got down from the stool; I definitely wasn't ready to fall on my face even with a doctor near at hand.

I saw Carlisle looked over at Edward with a smile and say, "You can carry her this time," and then he left.

I hobbled over to Edward and asked, "Wasn't that rather redundant?"

"What?"

"The stethoscope. He can hear my heart just as well as you, why bother with using the stethoscope."

"Habit. He wouldn't want to accidentally check a patient's heart without one."

"I see," I figured that made sense and then laughed as the image of Carlisle flashed into my mind telling a patient their heart rate was a little high without using the stethoscope to hear what normal people couldn't hear.

"You heard Carlisle; let's not be late," Edward grinned wickedly as he lifted me into his arms.

I instantly closed my eyes. I knew he would make this a very short trip.

Just before he raced out the door, he added, "And after the family meeting, you and I are going to talk about what you just said on the stairs."

Almost before I took my next breath, we were down stairs and Edward was setting me down on the sofa next to Alice. Jasper, I noticed was seated beside her, and Emmett, Rosalie, and Esme sat on the sofa facing us. Edward sat down right beside me.

Carlisle started right in. "As head of this family, I will make this news crystal clear; Bella is now a member of this family. Esme and I have invited her to become a member and she has accepted."

I began to feel a little embarrassed, but I refused to allow myself to blush. I didn't like being the center of attention.

Carlisle paused and looked around at everyone in the room. "Now, it has come to my attention that someone in this family objects to our newest member, but I want everyone to know she deserves all the same considerations as any other family member, and," I saw him turn toward Emmett, "even though I want you to make her feel like a part of the family, let's keep the kissing to a minimum. Okay?"

Emmett nodded slightly, but smiled over at Edward. "In my defense, it was brotherly," he laughed playfully. I think I heard him add, "But it was fun." It was said so softly that I couldn't be sure, but I knew he said something because I saw his lips move.

Whatever his comment was, I notice it caused Rosalie to jab him in the ribs with her elbow. Emmett's response was to broaden his smile and lean over to kiss her.

"Despite that fact," Carlisle replied to Emmett, "Let's avoid embarrassing Bella in public, or starting family rows." I noticed the last was directed toward Rosalie. I didn't dare look toward her for fear of her look.

Carlisle finished by asking, "Are there any questions? Good. I'll be in my study if anyone needs to talk to me," then I noticed he looked pointedly at Rosalie, "and if anyone has any objections, I'd better hear them first before anyone else. Is that understood?" He looked around at everyone for confirmation.

I observed everyone but Rosalie nodding in agreement. As Carlisle left, he motioned to Rosalie to follow him; I saw Rosalie sneer at me as she got up and flounced quickly upstairs.

Alice was great. She leaned over and hugged me. "Welcome to the family. I for one have considered you a member since Edward saved you in the parking lot. In fact, it was right after that incident that I saw you as part of our family. Remember Jazz, I told you about it." She turned and looked at Jasper.

Jasper grinned. "Yes, I remember. I also remember that I wasn't too pleased." He looked at me with wide eyes. "It was nothing personal, Bella. It was just hard to know how I would react to being that close to you." He looked at Alice and smiled. "Alice has used this as a way to help me become more desensitized to the scent of human blood."

I couldn't help but smile. I remembered Edward's comment about his struggle with the blood issue since he was still new to the lifestyle. So I asked, out of curiosity, "And has it helped?"

"With yours it has, and to some extent with others, but there are times when it's still hard." He hung his head. I noticed he quickly looked up at Edward as if he had said something wrong, and then added, "Sorry."

I wasn't definite if he was apologizing to Edward or me, but I felt sympathy for his plight, so I reached out and briefly touched his hand. "I try to stay away when I notice you're hungry." I watched everyone's eyes for hunger, so I looked around at everyone present and added, "I truly don't want to make my presence uncomfortable for any of you." And I meant that with my whole heart. I never wanted to jeopardize their presence in Forks, and I didn't ever want to be the reason for them being forced to leave.

"Anyway," Jasper added, "Welcome to the family, and I do mean that."

Jasper and Alice then rose and ascended the stairs.

Emmett was the next one to welcome me to the family. He walked over, leaned down, and gently kissed my cheek. "I for one am glad to have you as a kid sister. You make me laugh, and don't worry about Rose. She'll come around eventually."

"Thank you." I couldn't help but blush. I don't think Emmett was aware of how thankful I was that he was willing to stand up for me to Rosalie. I just hoped she wouldn't misconstrue his support of me as anything other than support. I knew Emmett only loved Rosalie, and I hoped she realized that also.

"I think I'll go have another talk with Rose." Emmett was turning to leave.

Before he could walk off, I laid my hand on his, "Please Emmett, don't say anything to Rosalie about me. Find something else pleasant to talk about." I didn't want them to fight again, especially since he had just proposed to her at lunch.

"Like what?" Emmett turned and asked.

That was easy to answer. "How about your wedding?"

Emmett beamed and grasped my hand and kissed it. "I like that idea. Thanks Bella," and Emmett swiftly ran upstairs.

I decided Emmett could be very funny at times, and he did some of the oddest things. I was totally surprised when he kissed my hand; I thought it was so unEmmett like.

"Bella, I think you make an excellent addition to the family. I'm sorry if this sounds trite, but you're like a breath of fresh air." Esme came over and also kissed my cheek. Then she too went off to another part of the house.

"I would say you have made quite an impression on everyone." Edward smiled and wrapped his cold arms around me.

"Except Rosalie." I murmured dejectedly.

"Well, you can't win everyone over in a day," he laughed.

"But I've been around for more than a day." I couldn't help but feel disheartened by her rejections. As odd as it seemed, her acceptance of me was important. I needed to be cheered up, so I said, "Let's not talk about this anymore. Let's talk about something more cheerful. Cheer me up, Edward."

"Anything you ask," he answered. Then he brushed his cold lip gently against mine, but his lips didn't stop there. After kissing my lips, he continued kissing down my chin and then my neck. If Carlisle thought Edward's brief touch made my heart race, it was a good thing he wasn't in the room while my heart was thumping hard enough to feel like it would break out of my chest. When he finished with my neck, he slowly moved his lips back up to mine, but just before he reached my lips I heard him exhale. His scent was so overwhelming that I felt dizzy and had to push him away because I couldn't breathe. I heard a slight moan escape my lips.

I needed to breathe and take control of my rampaging emotions, so I whispered, "A moments pause, please. I need to breathe."

"How about we continue this upstairs?" He murmured.

My knees were so weak that I didn't think I could safely get up off the sofa. I warned Edward about my lack of mobility. "I don't think I can walk that far."

"Easily remedied." He commented before gently picking me up and carrying me to his bedroom door. "By the way, can you read minds?"

I had my eyes closed as he raced up the stairs, but his question took me totally by surprise and my eyes flew open and looked into his. "What?'

"Your comment to Emmett about not talking to Rose about you. How did you know that was what he was going to do?" I could see the curiosity in his face.

"It was the look on his face. Edward, did you really think I could read his mind?" I couldn't believe he thought I was capable of such a feat. There was noting special about me, I was just a normal person, rather boringly normal accept for my near death mishaps.

"Well, yes. It was what he was thinking, so I knew what his intentions were and it surprised me when you seemed to know them also."

I laughed at the absurdity of the idea. "That'll be the day, me reading minds, it's laughable." I continued to laugh as he carried me into the room and set me down on the sofa.

"And another thing; what did you mean when you said life has given up on you?" He sat beside me.

I turned and looked at him. "Just that. I've encountered death numerous times since moving to Forks more than ever before in my life. I had a lot of time to think while in the hospital, especially when you weren't around." I ran my fingers around his firm cold lips and then across his alabaster cheek.

My eyes locked on his and I had to remind myself to breathe. His eyes were so expressive and captivating that is was easy to lose myself in them. Maybe that was why it was so easy to forget to breathe. When this happened, I always wondered if he knew he had this affect on me. It was extremely hard to look away from him when he stared at me that intensely.

I had to force myself to breathe so that I could complete my thought. "All these near death incidents made me examine my life. In the past, I had a lot of minor accidents and a fair number of serious ones, but none of them were as near to death as the ones I've experienced since I came to Forks."

"You see . . ." I put my finger on his lips because I needed to finish my thought without interruption.

"Let me finish. I've thought about this a lot, and I've finally come up with a theory."

He groaned, as he commented, "Not another theory."

A laugh escaped because I remembered a few of my early theories about him, "Yes, but this one is about me, not you. You see, I theorized that all this time fate has kept me alive so I could meet you, but once I met you, fate was ready to take me, one way or another." I continued to stare deeply into his eyes, causing me to become more lost in them.

"No." He growled.

He didn't want to accept my theory, but I wouldn't let it drop. "Think about it Edward. Why would so many fatal events happen to a person unless it was their time to die? Nobody, in the natural course of their life, has as many accidents as I; at least nobody normal, and let's face it, I don't seem to be normal. If I were, you'd be able to read my mind. I'm beginning to think there is a reason behind that fact as well, but I haven't had time to completely decide if I'm right or wrong. And it isn't dangerous for me to be around you; despite what you think, that is not where the danger comes from."

"Are you sure you can't read my mind?"

"No, I can't read your mind, but I can read you. You keep telling me how dangerous it is for me to be around you, so it just made sense that when I was talking about danger you would connect it to yourself."

"Bella, how does your mind function? I thought you had decided to tell me everything you were thinking and now I find your thinking more than you're sharing."

"I did say that, but many of my thoughts are incomplete. They kind of flitter around forming vague ideas but take time and consideration to form complete comprehensive thoughts. Some need extensive contemplation before they even begin to develop into a coherent idea and then more study and consideration before they begin to progress into a shareable thought." I wanted him to understand, but it was hard to find the right words. "It's hard to share those disjointed images and ideas because I don't know where their leading or if they're leading anywhere. Maybe that's why you can't read my mind because most of what I'm thinking hasn't really formed yet."

"You must have some fully formed and developed thoughts, or you wouldn't be talking to me right now, and some of those thoughts must be simple and clear enough that I should be able to read them."

"Edward, there are some things too embarrassing to tell even you." How could I admit to him that my desire for him lately was growing stronger? I could admit to myself that I wanted more, but I couldn't tell him that. Even thinking about these emotions caused my pulse and heart to quick and my face to flush.

Edward looked at me intently and then he leaned in and exhaled slightly.

"That's unfair." I meant to say more but I felt the room beginning to spin and I became lightheaded. All I could think at this time was it was good thing I was sitting down because standing wasn't an option.

"Bella? Bella, are you okay?" Edward's voiced sounded muffled, as if it was coming from a long distance away.

A small moan escaped my mouth and I was still slightly dizzy. "You really shouldn't do that," I complained softly. "It is so unfair."

"Bella," he asked in a low soft voice, "What caused you to blush?"

"You." Maybe it was vague, but maybe he would understand that his nearness and touch were playing havoc on my emotions.

"What do you mean?"

"You." Could it be that he didn't understand the full affect he had on me?

"I still don't understand."

I decided he needed to figure this out on his own; I just couldn't bring myself to admit how much I longed for our relationship to develop a little further, but I knew that wasn't possible because of his fear of hurting me. "If you think about it, it should come to you. Now, I either need to call Charlie or you need to take me home."

"I'll take you home. You need to eat supper."

In order to avoid a return to his topic, I asked, "Will you help me with Trig afterwards?"

"Of course, but first I have something for you." He got up, pulled me off the sofa, and led me to the closet. "Now stand here and close your eyes until I tell you to open them."

"Edward, you know I don't like surprises, and you'd better not have n me another gift."

I could hear him moving around but I dutifully kept my eyes closed and wished he would stop giving me gifts.

"You can open them now."

"Oh, Edward, they're beautiful."

"And they smell like you."

"Freesia?" That was what he kept telling me I smelled like.

"Yes."

I held the flowers to my nose and took a deep breath. "They're lovely. Do I really smell like this to you?" I had always wanted to smell myself like Edward smelled me, and now he had given me the opportunity to do just that.

"Actually, even better, but I was right, you do smell like freesia." He walked over, leaned toward my neck, inhaled, and affirmed, "Yes, you definitely smell better."

"They're beautiful Edward. Thank you."

"What, no reprimand for buying you another gift?" he laughed.

I imagined he found my response confusing after my protests about gifts, so I explained. "No. You've given me something more special then you might've imagined. I always wondered how I smelt to you. Now I have an idea. That's very special to me. You're very special to me." I laid my hand on his cheek and softly kissed his lips. "Thank you."

"You're welcome. Would you like to leave them here or take them home?"

I wanted to enjoy their fragrance. "I'll take them home. I know just where to put them." I smiled and then he took my arm and led me downstairs to the car.

"Thank you Edward, for everything," I said as he helped me into the car.

"You're welcome," he replied before shutting my door and getting in on the drive's side. "What do you consider everything?"

"The flowers, not getting upset about Emmett's kiss, bringing me here to talk with Carlisle and Esme, and loving me." I smiled as I looked down at the beautiful pink flowers lying in my lap.

Edward reached over and tipped my face up towards his, "The easiest part is loving you." Then he kissed me before driving me home.

As always, it was a quick drive. Edward helped me out of the car and walked me to the front door.

Edward made me fix dinner before allowing me to sit down and do homework. I think this was his way of having an excuse for not sitting down to dinner with Charlie; he could just say he and I had eaten earlier. While I fixed dinner, Edward took care of the flowers.

Trig was my least favorite subject and I had a hard time with some of the problems. Edward was very patient with me, but I could tell from the expression on his face that he found my way of working out problems unusual. It did help when he would walk me through the solutions and I could see where my errors were. Why couldn't the Trig teacher do that instead of just saying my answer was wrong?

Charlie came home rather late. I was surprise he hadn't called to let me know he would be late. Usually he did, so I wondered if something important had come up that kept him too busy to call. Edward seemed a little upset when Charlie came in, but I couldn't decide what made him upset.

After Trig, we took some time to study for the Biology test Mr. Banner was giving us Thursday. It was ten o'clock when we finished and Charlie was right there to see Edward to the door. As he ushered Edward out, I slowly made my way upstairs.

It took me a little while before I was ready for bed. Wrapping my cast took longer when I didn't have Edward's help. As a result, Edward was already lying on my bed when I entered my room.

"You're absolutely gorgeous." He smiled at me.

I turned and frowned. "My hair is wet, my attire leaves a lot to be desired, I have a cast on my leg, and you think I'm gorgeous. You need your eyes examined."

He laughed softly. "I'm not looking at your attire or cast, I'm looking at your face which at this moment is radiant. However, now that you mention it, you could use some new pajamas especially since you had to cut the leg on that pair of sweats."

"Well, they may not look nice," I said as I sat beside him, "but they do keep me warm at night."

"Unfortunately, I don't warm your bed for you," he offered. "In fact, I probably make it colder for you at night."

"Believe me, you warm up my bed more than you realize." I blushed as I realized I verbalized my thought, so I hastily added, "Oops that slipped out." I wanted to take back that comment. "Let's forget I said that."

"Let's not. Maybe you could explain what you mean." He encouraged.

He stared at me and I felt my blush deepen. I couldn't answer his request; it was too revealing.

Edward sat up, reached out and pulled me closer. I found myself nestling against his chest. "Since you aren't answering my question, let me make a guess at what you meant."

"No, don't," I murmured.

He whispered, "Bella, is this contact as hard for you as it is for me?"

Was he really admitting that he was experiencing the same strong physical sensations that I was experiencing? I instantly looked at him and searched his eyes for an answer.

"Not in a bad way, but in a good way. I love your touch, and I love touching you, but sometimes my emotions . . . well, lets just say, sometimes they're hard to keep under control." He admitted to me as he gazed into my eyes.

"Really?" Could my angel really feel this strong an attraction to me?

"Would I lie to you, Bella? I once told you that my human emotions were being reawakened by you, and that despite what I am, I'm still a man. Yes, Bella, you do arouse feelings I've never experienced before, and sometimes I find them very hard to control."

My heart began to beat a little faster at his admission. "Edward, those are the thoughts that are fully formed in my mind," I felt myself blushing more. "The ones I didn't want to share because I thought you might get upset with me for having them. They are hard to control, and I've had no experience with them before. Maybe that's what makes them harder to control, because I don't know what to do with them. You've made it obvious I can't react to them, so I have to keep pushing them away, but I'm afraid one day, in a moment of weakness, they'll take over and then I'll do something that'll drive you away from me forever. I can't lose you Edward." It felt good to admit my feelings, but it scared me that he would leave and I would never have these desires fulfilled. I tried to resist crying when I thought about him leaving, but one traitorous tear escaped and rolled down my cheek.

"Well, it's nice to know this is something we'll be able to struggle through together." He held me closer and kissed my forehead. "I do have one more small gift for you."

"No, Edward," I groaned, but he put a finger to my lips to stop my protest.

"Just wait before you protest. I found this while I was helping Emmett select a ring for Rosalie, and it called out to me. So before you turn it down please look at it." He pulled out a beautifully wrapped package and handed it to me.

"Okay, but you know how I feel about you spending money on me. Don't get me wrong, I really love the flowers, but you were in a jewelry store, and I know Rosalie's tastes run high."

He gave me a quizzical look.

"Alice told me," I supplied to answer his look.

I took the package and carefully unwrapped it. It was a beautiful red box but I was hesitant to open it for fear of what I'd find. I wasn't afraid I wouldn't like it because I knew Edward had impeccable taste; instead, I was afraid I'd like it too much and I wouldn't want to convince him to take it back.

"It won't bite," he encouraged.

I cautiously opened the box and slowly lifted out a beautiful necklace. I was right; I wouldn't be able to make myself refuse the gift.

"Bella, don't you like it?"

"Like it. Edward, it's beautiful. It's you. Well not exactly you, but it reminds me of you."

I held the necklace up to the light. It was beautiful. A black lion with the topaz eyes hanging on the chain. I was so moved that I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him.

"I take it, you'll keep it?"

"Oh, Edward. It's beautiful. He has your eyes. What's he made of?'

"Onyx. It would've been better if there'd have been a lamb on the chain with him. Remember the day we were in the meadow?"

"How could I forget? It was the day my dream came true."

"What dream?"

"The one where you told me you liked me. When I realized you weren't going to tell me to get out of your life forever, I was the happiest person in the world. It became even better when you told me you loved me." I felt so happy I wanted to cry.

"Oh, Bella. How could I have told you to leave? I was afraid you would be the one who would run from me and never want to see me again. By that time I was so in love with you that I couldn't leave, but I'd promised myself that if you left, I would let you go."

"I'll never leave you. It would hurt too much," I got up from the bed to walk over to the dresser.

"Where are you going?"

"To put this on the dresser. I'll wear it tomorrow, but not now, I might damage it in my sleep, or it might damage me. He has sharp points and I'd don't want to risk any injuries." After I laid it in the dresser, I switched off the light and joined Edward in the bed.

"So, it was a good choice?" He asked.

"Yes, it was a very good choice. I'll keep it. Thank you." I was so tired that I nestled down next to him and drifted off to sleep while he hummed my lullaby.

I wore the necklace to school everyday that week.

The best part of school was lunch and Biology because I shared each one with Edward. I had always enjoyed school, and I still did – except Trig and gym of course – but having Edward near me was even more enjoyable.

As the week progressed, I noticed that Rosalie wasn't becoming any friendlier, but she was also not frowning at me as much. Maybe Carlisle had said something at least to stop her animosity towards me.

I also noticed as the week wore on that Edward's eyes were becoming darker each day. The golden butterscotch color I loved was slowly changing to the color of my onyx lion. Being with me, I knew, was going to become harder on Edward. I also noticed Jasper and Emmett's eyes were darkening as were Rosalie and Alice's eyes, but theirs were changing more slowly. I knew it would soon be time for the family to go hunting.

As Edward was quizzing me for the upcoming Biology test during lunch Thursday, I asked him, "When are you leaving?"

I saw Edward's mouth drop open, and laughed because I realize he mistook my meaning. I clarified by adding, "To go hunting. I noticed your eyes getting darker. I figured it must be about that time."

"Oh, well the family is planning on a trip tomorrow. I was going to talk to you about it tonight."

Why didn't he mention this earlier? I felt so depressed, but I also had to admit that I knew it was coming. "Will you be gone all weekend?"

"No, we'll be back sometime Sunday morning, and as soon as we're back, I'll be over. It will be a long two days, and I'll miss you."

"I'll be in pain until you return. I know this is necessary, but every time you're gone, I feel like a part of me is ripped away, and I hurt until that part is returned." I had to look down at my hands because if I looked in his eyes, I knew I would start crying.

Edward put my fingers under my chin and tipped my face upward. His eyes penetrated deep into my heart. "I'll miss you too."

He touched the lion hanging around my neck and sent a shock wave through my body.

The he added in a littler tone, "At least he can keep you company while I'm gone."

"It won't be the same, but every time I look at him, I'll think about you, and Sunday is not forever." I knew he meant to cheer me up, but I was hard to be cheery when I knew I'd be spending the weekend without him.

"Come on, we don't want to be late for our test." Edward walked me to class after he'd dumped my lunch tray off of which I had eaten very little.

That evening we spent some quiet time alone. Charlie had to work late, so I left him a plate of food to heat up and a note that said I was turning in for the evening. Edward warned me that he would still look in on me, and as usual, he was right. Around eleven o'clock he quietly opened my door to make sure I was actually in bed asleep. Just as I was falling asleep, Edward reminded me he wouldn't be there when I awoke. It was a depressing thought to be left with, as I feel asleep.

Friday was miserable. I missed Edward more that I thought imaginable, and it didn't help matters that Mike seemed to gloat over the fact that Edward wasn't around, and neither were Emmett and Jasper who would sometimes run interference with Mike when Edward was absent. Also didn't help that Jessica would glare at me if Mike became too friendly. Lunch was the worst. I had no one to sit with and I wasn't about to sit at a lunch table with Mike and Jessica, so I ended up sitting in my truck during the lunch hour.

When school was finally over, I at least was able to escape from the mindless chatter of the others students and Mike unwanted attention. Of course, home was also empty without Edward. I know that at one time I found plenty to keep me busy, and I never felt lonely, but with the arrive of Edward in my life, that all changed. I discovered what true loneliness entails and the emptiness caused by it.

Friday afternoon I found myself wondering around the house looking for ways to stay occupied; as a result, I cleaned house, did the laundry, started supper, and cleaned out the refrigerator while supper was cooking. After Charlie came home and we ate dinner.

While we were talking he asked me about my plans for tomorrow. What could I tell him, I planned to mope around the house missing Edward? Then I remembered that Sunday was mother's day. "I'm going to go to the flower store sometime tomorrow to have flowers sent to mom for Mother's Day. Other than that, I will work on my homework and stuff." At least the trip to the flower store would help fill a little time.

"Do you want me to take you? I know you can't drive yet. I could easily postpone my fishing trip."

"No dad, that's not necessary. I'll call one of my friend's and have them take me. I really don't want to ruin your day of fun and relaxation."

"Why don't you pick up some flowers for Alice while you're there," Charlie smiled. "She has been such a help with your limitations, and that would be a nice way of saying thank you. In fact," and he pulled out his wallet, "I'll help pay for them," and he handed me two twenties.

"Dad, isn't this a bit much?" I asked as I took the money.

"It'll help with your mother's flowers, too." He smiled. "I realized I haven't really given you much money to help you take care of your own needs. Besides leaving money for groceries, I hadn't thought much about what you might need personally. I guess I figured you'd ask if you needed something, but I never realized I should just ask once in awhile if you need anything."

"Dad, I haven't really needed much, and I still have some money left over from not having to pay for a car. Really, I'm doing okay."

"Bella, your my daughter, I want to help more. If you ever need some money, please ask. Okay?"

"Sure dad." It was odd having Charlie act fatherly all of a sudden; I wondered why it had come up, but it was nice know if I needed some money, I could ask even if it felt awkward to ask.

As soon as we finished dinner, I did the dishes and retired to my room for the evening. I thought going to bed early would help, but I found I could not sleep. I missed Edwards strong arms wrapped around me, and his sweet voice humming my lullaby. I tossed and turned until early morning before I finally drifted off into a fitful sleep.

My restless late night did not help me to sleep in. I thought I'd be able to sleep until noon, but found myself awake by 8 am. I decided to prolong my stay in the shower to help pass the time, but even dragging out my normal bathroom routine only occupied an hour and a half of the morning. Even eating breakfast only took fifteen minutes because half way through my bowl of cereal I discovered I was no longer hungry so I cleaned out the bowl and washed it.

With the morning not yet half over, I decided to email mom, make my bed, straighten my room, and do my homework. The rest of the morning was spent the same way, looking for things to occupy my empty lonely time.

Right after lunch I called Angela to see if she could take me to the flower store. I decided on her rather than Jessica because she was quieter and wouldn't bombard me with questions about my relationship with Edward. Beside, I felt a little uncomfortable around Jessica lately because of Mike. He was still dating Jessica, but he continued to hint that he would dump her if I agreed to go out with him. Why couldn't Mike except the fact that I didn't feel that way about him? Couldn't he see that Edward was the only person I would ever love? Boys can be so dense at times.

Angela was happy to chauffer me around. We stopped at the flower store first. I had flowers sent to mom, found a beautiful flower arrangement for Alice, and then thought about Esme. I had just been accepted into her family, but she always treated me like a daughter, so to show her how much I appreciated her, I also bought a flower arrangement for her. I attached a card to it that "Happy Mother's Day" and signed my name. I felt very happy about my decision. Angela then took me to the grocery store to pick up a few things I had noticed we needed. After taking me home, Angela helped my carry the groceries and flowers into the house. I liked Angela; she was quiet like me, more reserved and shy. She stayed a while and we talked about school and books, so it helped time pass more quickly. I was grateful that not once did she ask where Edward was or how things were going between us. Jessica would have showered those questions on me, and then some.

As I fixed dinner, I decided I'd ask Charlie to drive me to the Cullen's so I could leave the flowers on the front porch. I could've waited until after Edward returned to deliver the flowers so I could see the look on the faces of Alice and Esme when I gave them the flowers, but I decided I would rather spend the day with Edward alone. Yes, time alone with Edward was just what I needed, it would help ease the pain I'd felt during our separation.

I thought about being alone with Edward the entire time I fixed dinner. I imagined his cold lips on my neck and lips and the tingling sensations his lips would cause. I imagined his strong arms wrapped around my waist and holing me close to his body. My body even felt the sensations I knew would result because of our closeness; I could feel my pulse quicken and my lungs restrict, which caused a shortness of breath. It amazed me that I could react in this manner to Edwards touch without actually having him nearby to touch me. I decided this then was love; the ache of his absence, the emotions I experienced when I imaged him with me, and the longing desire for his quick return; I decided these were all signs of missing someone you truly loved.

As soon as Charlie came in, I asked him about driving me to the Cullen's house after dinner. He said he'd be happy to, so I rushed through my meal, and when Charlie finished, he said to leave the dishes until we returned.

The drive was short, well, not as short as when Edward was driving, but it didn't take long, and I carefully placed both floral arrangements on the porch near the door. I made sure they were both visible when the Cullens pulled up near the house.

On the drive back home, I spent my time dreaming of Edward's return. I was so caught up in my dream that I never saw what caused Charlie to swerve, but I did see the trees coming at us. Instinctively, I raised my arms in front of my face. The last two things I remembered before the blackness engulfed my world were the crunching of the metal and someone screaming, "Edward!"

I tried to open my eyes, thinking, Is it morning? Is Edward coming over today? Then I moved slightly and realized I wasn't in my bed. I slowly opened my eyes and realized my arms hurt. Why did my arms hurt? And where was I? As my eyes focused, I noticed a big white pillow in front of my face, but I was sitting up not lying down. Then, slowly, the events of the evening played themselves out in my head.

Charlie had driven me to the Cullen's to deliver flowers and on the way home – holy crow, we crashed. The big white pillow made sense; it was the airbag. I pushed slowly away from it and then the scent of fresh blood assailed my senses. It was sickening, but the only things that hurt were my arms and I felt no sticky wetness on them. Charlie, I suddenly thought, where's Charlie? I turned my head to look in his direction and the scent intensified.

"Dad?" I moaned. "Can you hear me?"

There was no response, but the scent of the blood was making me nauseous and lightheaded. My last thought before I blacked out was, Edward, where are you?

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