AN: Disclaimer – none of these marvelous characters belong to me; they are all the creation of Stephenie Meyer. Thank you Stephenie for letting me use them.

Okay, I know it took a while, but here is Edward's PoV of Bella-Sitting. It is the longest chapter I have written so far. I hope everyone enjoys it. I also hope the next chapter is not quite as long. Thanks for being patient.

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Chapter 13 (The first part is a repetition of Chapter 11)

Bella-Sitting- Edward

I realized Charlie was also gone; he would never have let Bella drive herself, and if someone else had driven her, he would have gone looking for her when she didn't come home. I decided Charlie probably drove Bella to our house, but they never arrived back home. I called home immediately and asked for Alice. I filled her in on what I knew and asked her if she could see anything about Bella or Charlie, but all she saw was blackness. She said the blackness was different than seeing nothing, so it had to mean they were both alive but probably unconscious. I had her tell Emmett and Jasper to both follow the road and look for signs of an accident, and to carry a cell phone with them. I cursed myself for not having one with me, but I was not going back home to get one. I would start from this end and watch for signs of the cruiser.

I couldn't travel as fast as I usually did because I didn't want to miss anything. A flash of color or marks on the road or the side that looked like a car went off were what I carefully watched for. My thoughts focused on Bella. On her lilting laugh, her gorgeous smile, her beautiful face, her luscious lips, her radiant blushes, and effervescent personality – everything that made Bella Bella. I had to find her; I wouldn't allow her to leave me this way.

I felt like I had been on the road forever with no sign of the car, until I caught a slight scent of blood, not Bella's blood but still human blood. I followed the scent and found the car. The front was wrapped around a tree and I could see an airbag on the passenger's side, but I noticed there wasn't one on the driver's side. As I rapidly approached the car, I could distinguish two heartbeats, one slower than the other. Please, Bella, be okay was the only thought running through my mind as I approached the car. Her window was slightly down but crackled into millions of tiny lines. I would have to be careful that the glass did not fall on Bella's inert form. She was so still, flaccidly leaning back against the seat.

When I reached Bella's side of the car, I carefully pulled the splintered window out, being careful to direct the falling glass out of the car. I leaned in and softly called Bella's name. At first, I wouldn't hear what she was saying even though I saw her lips moving. Then, very faintly, I thought I heard her say, "The wolves are here." I called her name again, trying to make her aware of the fact that I was with her and that everything would be okay.

Her eyes finally flutter open just a fraction and she whispered. "You came."

A laugh escaped my mouth, it was a Bella comment, and I felt relieved. I knew she would be okay once we got her out of the car.

I heard someone moving noisily through the woods and called out, "Emmett, Jasper?" I figured it was Emmett because Jasper is generally quieter.

"We're almost there," I heard Emmett reply.

"Call Carlisle and then an ambulance and the police. Jasper, you'd better stay back, Charlie has lost a lot of blood." I warned. I knew he had just satisfied his hunger but felt it wasn't wise to tempt him with fresh blood.

"I'm going to get Alice. She wants to be here." He replied before I heard him moving away.

"They're on their way." Emmett stood beside me looking at the wreckage. "Can we get them out of the cruiser?"

"No, it's best not to move them. We wouldn't want to cause more internal damage, if there is any."

"So what do we do? Just wait?" Emmett was frustrated. She looks so vulnerable just laying there. Why doesn't he do something?

"Emmett, even though I want to take her out of the car, it is best not to." I felt as frustrated as he sounded. I hated seeing Bella just lying there, I wanted to pick her up and cradle her in my arms.

"Well, it just doesn't seem right. She looks so helpless, and we can't do anything to help her. What if she were dying? She's not is she?"

"No Emmett, her heart rate is steady, and she hasn't lost any blood. I think she's just unconscious." Or passed out from the scent of the blood, I thought. "Charlie is the one who was bleeding, and if you'll notice, there was no airbag to stop him from hitting his head on the steering wheel."

"The scent is really strong." Good thing I'm not hungry. What's taking them so long?

I needed something to keep Emmett occupied until help arrived, then I remember Bella saying something about wolves. "Emmett, Bella mentioned something about wolves coming. Why don't you look around and see if there are any tracks?"

"And maybe have a snack," he chuckled.

Leave it to Emmett to find humor even in an emergency.

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"How is she?"

I had been so focused on Bella, that I didn't hear Carlisle arriving. "Her pulse is weak but steady, but Charlie's is weaker and he seems to have lost a lot of blood."

"Head wounds are like that. I'd like to get them out of the car. Have you tried opening the door?"

"I didn't want to move her until you got here." I reached for the door handle and was careful not to pull harder than a human would, but I found the door would not budge. "The door's stuck."

"Try Charlie's." Carlisle reached through the window to check Bella's vital signs.

"Can I help?" Alice danced over to Charlie's side of the car.

"Yes, why don't you go home and retrieve the car so we can drive to the hospital. It might look awkward with all of being here without a car." I should have thought of that earlier.

"Already taken care of, Carlisle and I came in the car. What's Emmett doing?"

"Looking for wolf tracks; Bella mentioned seeing wolves before she passed out."

"Okay, I'll go help him look," and she danced off in Emmett's direction.

"Carlisle, this one's stuck also."

Carlisle came over and checked Charlie's vital signs, and then checked the wound on his head. "The bleeding seems to have stopped, but there is a nasty gash. Why don't you hand me my bag and I'll see if I can clean some of the blood off of his face."

I retrieved his bag from Bella's side of the car. "It would help if I could remove the doors off." I admitted.

Emmett had walked up behind me. "Why don't we just yank it off? It'll save time." Emmett suggested.

"No," Carlisle said, "We don't want anyone asking awkward questions about how we got the doors off, especially since this is a police car, and I suspect, it will be examined closely because of the driver's airbag."

I heard the sirens in the distance and knew it wouldn't be long before Bella would be lying in a bed and Carlisle would be able to determine if she had any serious injuries.

It took the emergency assistance crew half an hour to get Bella and her father out of the car because they had to pry both doors off. Carlisle assured me that Bella had only minor injuries and she would able to go home sometime that afternoon, but he said Charlie was in worse shape and might even be in a coma. While the crew was working on the doors, Carlisle called Bella's mom to let her know about the accident. I was glad he didn't ask me to make the call. It was bad enough having to watch and wait while the emergency crew took forever to get Bella out of the wreckage that I don't think I could have calmly told her mother about the accident. More than anything, I wanted to hold Bella and touch her angelic face.

I also began thinking about the last time Bella talked to her mother. It was right after she sent the email telling her mother she intended to marry me. I had never thought that far ahead in our relationship. I liked the idea; no, like was too simple a word. The idea of being married to Bella was heavenly; it would be my heaven on earth, but it would be a hell for her. Even though I would be happy married to Bella, it wouldn't be in her best interest. She didn't deserve this existence, she deserved a real life with a real future, and I could never offer that to her. Looking at her as she lay in the wreckage only reminded me of how I was jeopardizing her life and her future. If I were fair to her, I would leave her while I still could, but inside my heart was willing me to stay. For a dead organ, my heart seemed extremely active where Bella was concerned. It might not beat but it did ache when I wasn't around her. How could I stay with her, yet how could I leave her? I needed to confront this dilemma in the near future before I ruined her life forever.

Bella and her father were finally situated in the ambulance with Carlisle, and Emmett, Alice, and I followed it to the hospital in my Volvo. Bella and her father were in adjacent rooms, and Carlisle was quick to reassure me that Bella's only real injury would be the bruises on her arms.

I sat quietly at Bella's bedside patiently waiting for her to regain consciousness. Carlisle was sure her condition was caused partly from the shock of the accident and partly from exhaustion. I had to inform him about her aversion to the scent of blood because I was sure she had passed out from being so close to the scent for so long.

As I waited, I would occasionally caress Bella's face. I longed for her to open her eyes and tell me she was fine even though she wasn't. In fact, I wanted to hear her argue that there was nothing wrong with her and that she was ready to go home. I remembered that Bella didn't like hospitals and would be more than happy to leave as soon as possible, even if she couldn't walk out under her own will power.

At one point, I noticed Bella's breathing change and I knew she had entered a deep sleep stage. It relieved me to know she was no longer classified as unconscious but only sleeping. I caressed her face more often; when she woke up, I wanted my touch to be the first thing she recognized.

After waiting about four hours, I noticed Bella turning her head slowly toward me.

Then, in a dry cracked voice, she said, "Hello. I missed you."

I was elated that her first words were directed at me, but I reminded myself that I needed to attend to her health. Carlisle had mentioned that she would be thirsty when she woke up so he placed a cup of water beside her bed. "Here, drink this." I carefully lifted her head and held the cup to her dry cracked lips.

Bella drank deeply, but then became agitated. "Charlie! Where is Charlie?" I could hear the panic in her voice.

"Calm down, Bella. He's here, but in another room." She needed to lie back down, and there was no way I would allow her out of bed until Carlisle gave his approval.

"But how is he? He was bleeding a lot."

I saw concern and panic in her eyes. How did she know he was bleeding a lot? I knew she could smell the blood, but did she see it also?

"It made me nauseous and light-headed, and the smell was stronger. I think I kept passing out because of the smell. I think it attracted the wolves."

I kept wondering had she really seen them; neither Emmett nor Alice found any tracks in close proximity to the accident. "I didn't see any when I finally found you." I assured her.

"I saw a number of wolves walking round outside; I was afraid they would come through the windows. They had funny looking eyes. They seemed to glow." She stared fixedly at the ceiling.

What was she seeing or thinking? "Bella, I didn't see any wolves. I didn't see any tracks of any animals around the car. Are you sure you really saw them?" I watched her face for any confusion about what she saw or remembered. It was possible that the wolves were something she imagined while unconscious.

"I'm sure Edward. I may have blacked out right after that, but I'm positive I saw them, and you didn't answer my question about Charlie. Is he okay?" She grew more agitated.

It was time to tell her the truth, and I hoped it wouldn't upset her more. "He's in a coma."

She sat up quickly and her fear instantly registered on her heavenly face.

"Calm down, Bella. Carlisle says it's not surprising considering the injury to his head. His airbag didn't deploy and his head struck the steering wheel. He obtained a gash on his head and that's why there was so much blood."

I heard her heart rate becoming more erratic and her breathing was more labored. "Will he be okay? Will he come out of it?" Fear gushed forth from her voice.

"He'll be fine, really Bella. Just give him time to heal a little. Carlisle thinks the coma may last a day or two and then he should wake up. You'll be fine too. You haven't asked about your injuries?"

Bella reached up and touched my face, and I felt her warm caress that started tingles down my spine.

"I haven't asked because I don't feel any pain. Am I hurt Edward?" Her love reflected through her smile.

"What am I going to do with you? You worry about everyone but yourself. I want you to be more careful with yourself. I don't want anything bad happening to you ever again, but the magnet in you just draws in every bad event it can find." She was so selfless. She always put others before herself.

"But I didn't go out looking for an accident. We were only leaving flowers for Esme and Alice. How was I supposed to know something like this would happen? Why didn't Alice see this?"

"When did you decide to go over to the house?"

That was an insightful question to ask, and Bella was always more perceptive than other humans. "Saturday around dinner time."

"I think Alice was too busy hunting. Remember how I said that we lose control during those times? Alice would have been too busy concentrating on her . . . um . . ." Without being graphic, how could I put this delicately?

"Dinner?" Bella prompted as she smiled slightly, but a laugh danced in her eyes.

"Okay, dinner." I enjoyed her offer, but that wasn't a term I'd normally use to describe our feeding habits. "She was too focused on her dinner to see anything connected to the accident. When I found your house empty, I was scared." Scared? I felt much more than that. I panicked and visions of Bella lying on the dance floor broken and bleeding flooded through my mind. "I couldn't fathom where you could have gone, but then I remembered the flowers and wondered whom you found to help deliver them. I decided I would back track to the house and carefully scan the surrounding areas looking for what happened." I remembered creating a visual picture of Bella leaving the flowers and smiling as she walked toward a car. Then my mind shifted to Bella slumped seemingly lifeless in the wreckage. "When I saw you slumped over in the car – Bella, I thought you were seriously injured because of the smell of the blood, but then I realized that none of it smelled of you." Even though it wasn't Bella's blood, the scent hit me as I neared the car; my overwhelming concern for Bella's safety helped override the scent of Charlie's blood. "You weren't moving, but I could hear your shallow breathing. I thought the worst. Bella, you can't keep doing this to me. I don't ever want to see you like that again. Phoenix was the worst, but this wasn't good either. I don't want to lose you like that." I reached out and took her in my arms.

Bella tightened her hold on me making me wonder what was going through her mind while I had been sharing with her.

I noticed a difference in her scent and it worried me. "How are you feeling?"

"My arms hurt." Her face was buried against my chest.

I felt her words vibrating against my chest and I enjoyed the sensation. "It's because of the bruises."

"What bruises?" She mumbled but stayed nestled in my arms.

She was so selfless. She always put others before herself but that scared me because it made her careless of herself. Maybe that was why she had so many mishaps. "You see, I told you. You worry more about others than yourself. When the airbag deployed, the panel must've hit your arms. Did you raise them during the crash?"

She paused fleetingly before giving her disjointed answer. "I think . . . I vaguely remember . . . raising them in front of my face."

"Well, bruised arms are better than a broken nose." I kissed her forehead.

"Edward, did you go to my house before you found us?"

"Yes. Why?"

"How come you didn't see us on the way to my house?"

Once again, her question showed just how perceptive she was even though she was recovering from the accident. Bella never ceased to amaze me, and that fact made her more endearing to me.

"I was in such a hurry that I took a short cut through the woods. I missed you, and I couldn't wait to be by your side. If I had followed the road, then I would have seen the car even though it had gone off the road a bit and was further in the trees. Any other passing car wouldn't have seen it, but I would've if I had gone that way." Had I followed the road, I would have found Bella much sooner, but that fact still wouldn't have prevented the accident. Why hadn't I ask Alice to check on Bella Saturday evening in time to prevent this accident from ever happening? Once again, I had let Bella down, and as a result, she was lying in a hospital bed slightly injured, but the slight injuries were still a result of my negligence.

"Edward, can I see him?"

"Not until Carlisle says it's okay for you to leave this bed." I wouldn't allow her out of bed until Carlisle informed me that Bella would be fine, yet I continued wondering why her scent smelled different. I remembered the Port Angeles incident and knew the reason for the change, but this was different and I couldn't decipher how it was different.

"This bed is lonely and uncomfortable." She sounded so forlorn that it tugged at my cold heart. My heart may have ceased beating over ninety years ago, but with the appearance of Bella in my life, my heart has gone through a number of emotions I wasn't aware it could experience.

I answered her subtle request by slipping instantly on the bed beside her. I held her and enjoyed the warmth radiating from her body. Her scent still troubled me because I knew there was something different, but the softness of her body and the rapid beating of her heart focused my mind on just her body and I began to ignore her blood. My mind began imagining what it would be like to hold her without the fear of crushing her and wanting to sink my teeth into her soft tempting neck. I began to imagine caressing her skin and roaming my hands over her entire body; to explore all her hidden attributes and to taste her lips in a way I've never allowed myself to taste them before. It was during my reverie that Carlisle walked into the room. If I had been able to blush, this might have been the instance when I would have.

His first words were, "Good thing it wasn't the nurse who found you like this." Then he focused and Bella and asked, "Is this the prescription I need to write so you recover more quickly?" None verbally, he added Are you truly willing to give this up when the time comes?

Considering what I had been thinking, this was a more loaded question then even he realized.

With a luscious pink blush, Bella answered, "It wouldn't hurt."

"And how are you feeling?" Has she mentioned any other problems? His eyes flashed toward me fleetingly and I gave a quick shake of my head.

"Safe, loved, comforted. Edward is my panacea." Bella's answer revealed she had no thoughts of being injured.

"Well, I'm glad to see there's no permanent damage." He smiled broadly.

"Can I see my dad?" It didn't surprise me that Bella asked; it was only right that she was concerned for her father's welfare. Her concern for others was one of the things I loved about her.

"Yes, but go easy. Remember, your leg is in a cast, and if you get dizzy, stop and sit down. I don't want you receiving anymore injuries while you're in the hospital." Carlisle filled out her chart at the end of her bed, and then he added, "Oh, one more thing, you can go home in a little while." Then he left.

"Can you help me out of this bed, Edward?"

"And I was just getting comfortable." Given the chance, I could have spent all afternoon lying in bed with her, but then again, with the images that had been forming in my mind it was safer to take her to see Charlie.

"So was I, but I would like to see Charlie." It was rewarding and worrying that she felt the same way about staying in bed. It made me wonder what she had been thinking; definitely not the same thoughts I just had, I decided.

I couldn't resist kissing her before helping her out of the hospital bed. I made sure she walked slowly to Charlie's room. As we entered, she sat down in a chair next to Charlie's bed. He looked almost as pale as Bella on a normal day, and he had tubes coming out of his arms that hooked up to a monitor. I decided to give her some time alone with her dad, so I kissed her forehead and told her I needed to run an errand. In fact, I wanted to talk to Carlisle about the change in her scent. It was still bothering me that she didn't smell quite right.

I managed to find Carlisle in the hallway between patients and quickly mentioned the alteration in Bella's scent. Carlisle's response was to watch her for manifestations of any other symptoms that might help identify why her scent had changed.

I returned to Charlie's room as quickly as possible, but as I reached for the door, I heard voices. I stopped, before entering, to listen and discover who was in the room with Bella.

I recognized Bella's voice instantly; it seemed slightly stressed. "Dr. Cullen says he is in a coma because of the head wound."

"Are you sure you want Dr. Cullen looking after your dad?" I didn't recognize this voice. It was gruff, and his thoughts were easily discernable. How could she even consider allowing that cold one to touch her or Charlie? Bella is treading on dangerous ground. Charlie must be warned as soon as possible.

It had to be one of the Quileute. What had Bella said about Charlie having a friend who belonged to the tribe?

Bella's voice became stronger and more determined. "I trust Dr. Cullen with my life and my dad's despite your distrust of him and his family. Jacob gave me your message, but for someone who would be 'watching' me, it wasn't you who found me and called an ambulance, it was Edward."

It was Jacob and his father.

Doesn't she realize how dangerous these creatures are? She is jeopardizing her life and Charlie's by placing so much trust in these things. They are unnatural and inhuman. Doesn't she realize that? "Bella, I'm only looking out for your best interest." His voice was more demanding.

"I know you're one of dad's best friends Billy, but what's in my best interest is up to me to decide. It was in my best interest that Edward was beside me when Tyler's van nearly crushed me. It was in my best interest that Edward was able to find dad and me after the crash." Bella's voice had taken on a defensive tone; she was fiercely defending us in front of this man.

"And what about Phoenix?" Jacob's father sounded like he was verbally attacking Bella and his thoughts continued the attack. You would never have been injured if these creatures hadn't put you in harms way. I'll never believe it was an accident. I have to make her see that her life is in continual danger as long as she keeps company with these bloodsuckers. This would be easier if I could convince Charlie of the danger posed by these demons.

Jacob's thoughts were all about the old legends and his feelings of disappointment that his dad was offending Bella. He wanted her as a friend and was afraid his dad was ruining any chance of Bella wanting to remain his friend.

"It was in my best interest that Edward and his dad were both present when I was clumsy enough to trip and fall through that window."

I was proud of Bella for standing up for herself and my family, but I too, feared for her safety every time we were together. But this man had no right to belittle and verbally berate her.

As I continued to listen, Jasper, Alice, and Emmett approached me. I was surprised to see Jasper because of the amount of human blood that was discernible in the building, but I knew he too was concerned about Bella's well-being. The fact that we had just returned from hunting probably helped as well.

Very softly and quickly, Alice asked, "What's happening?"

"One of the Quileute is in the room with Bella. Just listen." I replied.

"Look Billy, Edward is the most important person in my life. In fact, without him, I wouldn't have a life. To me, Edward is my life and my life belongs to him."

She was so adamant about her feelings, that I chose that moment to enter the door. I sensed the rest of the family following me.

I finally had a face and name to match the voice. Jacob I'd met at the prom, but his father, Billy, I had only seen once before when I was parking with Bella in her driveway. I smiled at both of them as I walked in, and because of my pride in Bella for standing up for herself, I put my arm around her shoulder, leaned over and kissed her flushed cheek. I decided to play ignorant and asked her, "How's your dad?"

She just smiled up at me and replied, "The same. Your dad says it may be a day or two until he wakes up."

Her scent seemed more off than before, so I asked, "And how are you doing?" I wanted her to explain why she smelt different, but I knew she didn't realize that her fragrance had changed.

"I'm fine, just some bruises; no broken bones or other injuries."

She was doing a good job of filling everyone in on her current condition but was leaving my concern unanswered.

"Billy and Jacob stopped by to see how dad was doing. I just pointed out it was you who found us and called for help." She smiled at me. "Billy, I'd like you to meet the rest of my extended family. These are Edward's brothers and sister." She did have courage.

She once compared herself to the cowardly lion, but her admission that we were her extended family proved she had the courage of a mother lioness protecting her cubs.

I caught a few of the thoughts from the rest around me as Bella introduced of us as her extended family.

I can't believe she told him that. Why would she take such a risk? Being further away from his humanity, Jasper still struggled with some of Bella's comments and actions.

Way to go Bella. That's my little sister; stand up in the face of the enemy. Emmett's response was very predictable.

I'm so proud of Bella. She 'is' my sister and Rosalie had better not badmouth her in front of me ever again. Alice has a wide smile on her face.

Carlisle walked into the room just as Bella finished introducing us as her extended family. Carlisle, alert to the tension in the room, looked directly at me; Is there something I should be aware of? I wanted to answer, but he couldn't hear my thoughts.

Bella, however, jumped right in as if she too had heard Carlisle's question. "Dr. Cullen, I'd like you to meet Billy and Jacob Black. Billy is a friend of dad's."

"I'd like everyone to step in the hall; I need to speak with Bella alone for a moment." Carlisle spoke with definitive command in his voice.

I looked questioningly at him wanting an immediate response. His thoughts supplied my answer. Nothings wrong. I just want to speak to Bella without the human audience, especially these two humans.

Being reassured that no impending problems existed, I decided to distance myself from Jacob and his father. I walked down the hall a ways and Alice, Jasper, and Emmett followed. I could hear Jacob arguing with his father about his treatment of Bella, and asking him to remember that she had just been in an accident. It was obvious that Jacob did not believe the tribal legends, but I wondered if at some point he might change his mind. For now at least, he had Bella's well-being in mind.

Why are they here? Emmett glared in their direction.

I positioned myself so my back was to Billy and Jacob. Since I would be the only one who really needed to speak, I wanted to do it quietly and quickly without being seen. "Billy is Charlie's friend. I suppose he heard about the accident and came to find out how he and Bella are."

He knows about us. Jasper's thought was a statement rather than a thought.

"Yes. He's an elder of the Quileute."

He could be a problem. Emmett stated the obvious.

"Maybe," I began, "but I think his son is warning him to stop badgering Bella. Billy may listen and back off to give Bella time to recover from the accident. There is also the matter of the treaty. If Billy tells Bella or Charlie about us, he would then be faced with admitting he broke the treaty the tribe made with us."

But Bella already knows, and it seems like he has figured out that she knows. I knew what Alice was getting at. "What is he thinking?"

"Just because he thinks Bella knows about us, isn't enough for him to jeopardize the treaty. He will be careful about what he says because what he says will affect his entire tribe. I don't think we have to worry about him right now because he is thinking through all of this. He is trying to decide what he can and cannot say, but he does intend to talk to the other elders. He is also worried about losing Charlie's friendship and alienating him. He tried warning Charlie about us once before but was met with a hostile response; he now knows he will have to consider carefully what to say around Charlie." I stopped and listened, I heard Bella mention Billy's name and wondered what brought up the subject. It seemed she was apologizing to Carlisle about the awkwardness caused by Billy's presence. I heard Carlisle response about not violating the treating and his intent to warn us. His thoughts became very clear; If you're listening Edward, warn the others to be careful about what they say.

"Carlisle wants us to be careful about what we say in front of Billy, and we can go back into the room." I noticed Billy and Jacob also had gone down the hall a ways, but in the other direction, so I walked over to the door knowing Carlisle was on his way out. I met him at the door and gave him a slight nod as I heard, Did you warn them?

I was the first one through the door and smiled as I sat down next to Bella. Once again, I noticed the odd difference in her fragrance. I really wished I could place what was wrong, that above all things bothered me. "How are you doing?" I wondered, could she tell me what was wrong, or did she even know.

While she answered, everyone else was filing into the room. "Edward, I'm fine – a little disoriented maybe but fine. Your dad said they'd continue to monitor dad for changes. He'll know more when dad comes out of the coma."

As soon as Bella finished talking, Billy inquired, "Did you see what happened?"

"You mean what caused the accident?" She looked directly at him.

"Yes." Billy positioned himself at the end of the bed while Jacob took a chair on the other side of it.

Emmett, Jasper, and Alice positioned themselves around Bella and me. Bella sat like a queen with her guards protectively surrounding her. I wondered if she realized how protective we could become if the need arose.

"No, I didn't see what caused the accident. I wasn't really paying attention." Bella glanced over at me and I knew about whom she had been thinking. "It wasn't until I felt the car swerve that I realized something happened. I instinctively threw my arms up in front of my face when I saw the trees in our path. That's why I have the bruises on my arms. Dr. Cullen said I was lucky I didn't have a broken arm, and that my arms protected my face. I passed out right after that partly from the shock and partly," as she looked at me again, I knew she didn't want to admit her weakness, "from the smell of the blood."

"You smelled the blood?" Billy sounded as surprised as I had the first time Bella revealed this to me.

"Yes, I can smell blood and it makes me light-headed and dizzy among other things."

Jasper and Emmett both chuckled softly.

That could be a problem when he changes her. It wasn't surprising that Emmett still thought along those lines even with my vehement denial that it would happen.

The blood in this room alone is so strong, how can anyone resist . . . What? It causes her to faint. I wonder if Alice saw that, and if she sees how that could affect Bella after the change . . . Even Jasper couldn't believe I wouldn't ever change her.

Bella has some unusual qualities. To actually smell human blood is rather special. I heard Billy thinking. He too had recognized she was special. I didn't like that fact, it made me uncomfortable, but then I almost smiled as a heard Jacob's reaction, That's disgusting, Smell it, I wonder how it smells to her . . . I wonder if . . . but he didn't finish his thought.

There was a momentary silence, which became awkward, so I thought I would mention Bella's wolves and see how Billy would react to the comment. "Bella, one thing you said was that you saw wolves. Emmett and Alice looked but didn't find any wolf tracks around the wreckage," I watched Billy's eyes widen at my comment. I needed Bella to confirm what I was saying. "Are you sure you saw wolves?"

"Yes." She paused as if searching for the right words to use. Was she going to edit her response? "I remember reaching over to see if dad was still breathing. Because of the strength of the scent, I was worried. The scent was overwhelming, and I thought I was going to blackout again, but then I heard a growl and . . ." she paused again, but looked at me as if she were trying to tell me something.

Once again, I was frustrated by the fact that I could not hear what she was thinking.

She continued, "It was followed by another, and that's when I looked out the window and saw the wolves circling the cruiser. Before I could do anything, I blacked out. I did notice that they had funny glowing eyes," as she described their eyes she began staring off seeming unfocused on anything or anyone in the room.

Billy's face registered surprise and disbelief. I focused in on his mind. Wolves . . . it couldn't be. Maybe I should ask . . .no tracks . . . not possible . . . that shouldn't be . . . but would it be right? His thoughts were too disordered and fragmented to allow me to know what they meant. Jacob on the other hand just fidgeted in his seat and wished they could leave. He was afraid his father would say or do something that would embarrass him.

Billy finally broke the silence by asking, "Are you going to be okay Bella?"

Bella stared at him as if she hadn't heard his question.

"Being alone while Charlie's in the hospital," he explained.

"Oh, I won't be alone. Carlisle is allowing Alice stay with me. My mom doesn't want me to stay alone, and when Carlisle suggested that Alice could stay at Charlie's, mom was very pleased. She met Alice in Phoenix and said she was 'a pleasant young lady.'"

I wondered if it was wise of her to tell him so much, but mentioning her mother was good touch. Alice smiled at the comment, but Emmett chuckled and, in response, Jasper punched in him the arm. I ended up laughing into my hand so no one would hear. It then dawned on me these might all appear as human reactions and that might help confirm to Jacob that the legends were just that.

Billy, however, wasn't pleased with the information Bella just shared. Her mother is just as ignorant about these monsters as Charlie is. They are both thrusting their daughter into a very dangerous situation. Aloud, he warned, "Well, you take care of yourself, and keep me informed of any change in your dad's condition. Jacob, I'm ready to go home." The look he gave me told me as much as his mind did. We'll be watching.

"I will let you know as soon as I know." Bella replied.

As Billy started to leave, Jacob told Bella, "I'm sorry about your dad and I hope he is better soon. I'm glad you're okay."

"Thanks Jacob." Bella smiled at him pleasantly.

When Billy was out of the room, Jacob softly whispered to her, "I'm sorry about what he said," and then Jacob rushed out after his dad.

After the door clicked shut behind Jacob, Emmett murmured, "Well, that was interesting." To which everyone laughed quietly.

"Are you really okay, Bella?" I put my arm around her waist and pulled her close. Her fragrance still bothered me. If I didn't discover the reason for it soon, I was going to ask Carlisle to run some tests. There had to be a reason for the change, and it might be serious.

"Actually, I'm fine although I feel a little faint." She then slumped in my arms. She had passed out.

"Alice, find Carlisle. I'll take Bella to her room." I gently picked Bella up and carried her to her room where I laid her on the bed.

After I settled Bella on the bed, Emmett asked. "Do you really think Billy was here only to see how Charlie was doing?"

"At first, yes, but he will probably keep a closer watch on her from now on. You realize he sent his son to the prom just to deliver a warning message to Bella."

"And what was the message exactly?" Jasper asked.

"We'll be watching."

"Watching for what?" Alice asked as she walked into the room. "Carlisle will be here shortly," she added.

"They'll probably watch for signs that we're endangering her or that we've changed her." As if I would ever allow either to happen to her.

Emmett laughed. "How can they tell the difference? Some dangers Bella causes herself just by being Bella."

"Not funny Emmett!" I growled.

"Actually it is," Jasper contributed. My growl deepened. "But in a good way sometimes," Jasper hastily added.

"Stop picking on Bella. She can't help it if she's a magnet for danger." I defended her.

"Is Jacob the one who told Bella about us?" Alice diplomatically changed the subject.

"Yes."

"Does his dad know he broke the treaty?" Changing to a more serious topic helped wipe the smile from Jasper's face.

"I don't think so, or I would have heard it in his thoughts. I don't think he would have been as worried about breaking the treaty if he knew it had already been broken."

"How did she get him to tell her about us?" Emmett would ask the one question that would bring us back to Bella and her attraction to danger, since it was dangerous of her to cause one the Quileute to break the treaty.

"According to Bella, she flirted with him and he told her the whole legend."

"Oh man, I wish I could have seen that. Bella flirting! I just can't picture it." Emmett laughed.

"And what does Emmett find so funny?" Carlisle asked walking into the room.

"Bella flirting with a boy," Jasper informed him.

Carlisle just raised an eyebrow in disbelief. "So, what happened?"

"Bella fainted." Emmett said.

Carlisle looked at me. "Is her scent still off?"

"Yes, and it has bothered me all day that I can't figure out why her fragrance has changed, or even what about it has changed."

He turned toward Alice, "Alice, would you get a wash cloth from the bathroom and run it under cold, then bring it here?" Then he turned back toward me. "I think I have an idea about why she fainted, and if I'm right, then it may be what caused the change in her scent."

Alice handed him the damp washcloth. "Here place this on her forehead." He hand me the cloth and I did as he said.

I gently wiped her face, and laid the cloth on her forehead.

"I think she's coming around." Alice observed.

Bella's eyes fluttered open and she looked around at each of us, and then focused on Carlisle.

"Bella, when was the last time you ate?" He asked.

Very quietly, she replied, "I don't know."

"Did you eat dinner last night?" He probed.

"Well, I cooked dinner, and I sat down at the table with Charlie, but I don't really remember the meal. My mind was elsewhere." She was looking at me when she offered the last piece of information.

I couldn't help but smile. "From the food left on your plate in the kitchen, I'd say you didn't eat anything."

Carlisle probed deeper. "So the last time you ate was lunch yesterday."

"No, I forgot to eat lunch, but I did have half a bowl of cereal for breakfast." Again, Bella answered quietly.

That's a little worse than I thought. She's past hunger. Audible Carlisle said, "Okay. I have pretty good idea of why you just fainted." He turned to me as I heard his thoughts. That's why her scent is different lack of protein especially. "You and Alice take her home and make sure she eats something." Then he turned back toward Bella. "Then I want you to rest, and I'm going to write you a doctor's excuse for missing school tomorrow because I want you to stay home and rest some more, and please, don't skip anymore meals." Love can cause a person to do some silly things, but not eating can be harmful.

She looked up at him shyly and quietly asked. "Can Edward stay with me?"

Carlisle looked at me. She does have it bad.

Emmett laughed aloud and Jasper chuckled quietly. "I guess you'll be Bella-sitting tomorrow Edward." Emmett teased.

"Do you want me to stay and chaperone?" Alice asked Carlisle. "I wouldn't want Bella's mom to think I'm not watching out for her daughter properly." She laughed.

"I think Bella will be safe enough if you go to school tomorrow. Rosalie can stop by the house and pick you up because I want you to stay at Bella's tonight . . ."

I raised an eyebrow at that remark. What, didn't he trust me to be alone with Bella?

". . . just in case Bella needs help with any personal needs." He concluded. "You should also be aware, Bella, that an officer will probably be stopping by the house later today or tomorrow to ask you some questions about the accident, but if I were you, I wouldn't mention the wolves." Carlisle smiled reassuringly at her. "We'll take good care of your dad, and if there's any change, I'll call. Otherwise, wait until tomorrow afternoon before you come back to visit."

"Is there anything we should watch for?" Alice asked.

"Yes, she had a slight concussion, so watch her this afternoon; if she falls asleep, wake her up every hour. Edward should know what to watch for. You'll be in good hands Bella just take it easy and rest." You keep a close watch on her and make sure she eats; his eyes were focused on mine for a few seconds before he walked out of the room.

"Would you like me to bring you anything?" Jasper asked Alice.

"Well, that depends." She replied. Can we stop at the house? We do need to drop off Jasper and Emmett.

Sometimes I wondered why my family thought at me more often than talked to me, and then I realized I would never have thought of this if it hadn't been for Bella. Everything from her was verbal because I couldn't read her mind. "We can stop by the house on the way to Bella's. Besides, we can drop Emmett and Jasper off at the same time." I turned toward Bella realizing she might want a little time alone with her dad before we left. "Would you like time alone with your dad before we leave?"

"No, I'll just say goodbye and then we can go." Bella stood up and walked slowly to Charlie's room, leaned over and kissed his cheek, and said, "I'll see you tomorrow dad." Then she turned, took my arm and walked out of the room. She leaned wearily against me and I wondered if she would pass out again.

I decided it was better to play it safe, so I picked her up and carried her out of the hospital. I had realized I was right earlier that she would leave even if she couldn't walk out under her own will power. I allowed her warmth to soak into my cold skin as she leaned her head against my shoulder and relaxed in my arms. I set her in the front seat of my Volvo as Alice, Jasper, and Emmett slid into the back seat.

"You know, we were really worried about you," Emmett started. "When Edward called Alice and said you were missing, we all went out looking for you. Of course, Edward found you, but we were all there when the ambulance and police arrived. Carlisle started treating you both as soon as you were safely removed from the wreckage."

"How badly was the car damaged?" Bella asked.

Jasper chuckled, "They had to use 'the Jaws of Life' to remove the doors. Carlisle wouldn't let Emmett or Edward rip them off before help arrived."

"It would have been so simple." Emmett growled.

"The car is totaled; even Rosalie couldn't fix it." Jasper supplied.

I wondered what Bella was thinking as Emmett and Jasper filled her in on the details. She was almost too quiet as they spoke.

"Don't worry Bella, your dad will be fine," Alice informed her.

She turned toward Alice and asked, "Are you sure, Alice?"

"Yes, I am, and so will you." Alice replied.

"Thanks Alice, but I know I'll be okay; I have to be because I promised Edward I would stay safe."

Only Bella could make me laugh with a comment like that. "You call being in an accident staying safe?"

"Well, there's no permanent damage, just a few bruises." She took a deep breath as she paused. "All things considered, Mr. Cullen," she said seriously, "I'd say yes. I wasn't driving . . ."

I couldn't help but mutter 'Thank goodness' under my breath.

". . . by myself, there were no muggers around, and . . ." she took another pause and I saw her shiver slightly, ". . . and the wolves didn't get me." She smiled lightly. "See, I stayed fairly safe."

While the back seat filled with laughter, I couldn't help but wonder what made Bella shiver, the wolves or something else she hadn't mentioned.

Emmett reached up and ruffled her hair. "I don't think Edward counts that as staying safe, but knowing you, I'd say it could have been worse."

"By the way, that was a truly brave thing you did standing up to Billy and declaring you were a part of our family," Alice declared.

"Yes, the look on his face spoke volumes," Jasper added.

"Well, it bothers me that they are so close minded and see only one side." Bella flared.

"That's the side they need to see," I interrupted. "It's the side you refuse to see. We are dangerous; they should be weary of us."

Jasper added, "He's right Bella. It isn't easy to fight our natural urge, but Alice is also right, it was brave."

"Hey, you can stand up for me anytime." Emmett tousled her already messed up hair.

"Thanks Emmett, but you can be intimidating enough. I don't think you really need me to defend you."

"True, but it is the thought that counts and you think enough of me to defend me to the Quileute." Emmett added.

"And why not; you're like the older brother I never had." Bella replied.

"And that's how I want you to think of me. I'm now your older brother, so if anyone ever hurts you, just let me know and I'll correct the situation. That includes Edward as well."

I growled, but Bella actually giggled. I'd never heard her giggle before; it was a new experience.

"Oh, and Bella, the next time you flirt with someone, can I watch?"

Jasper and Alice tried to hide their laughs and Bella glared at me.

"Edward, you didn't!" she accused.

I looked at her repentantly. "I'm sorry Bella. I was explaining why Jacob broke the treaty."

Bella blushed at the mention of Jacob, and I was saved from any further reproaches because we had reached the house. I saw Esme walk out the door and approach the car.

As soon as I stopped the Volvo, Alice, Jasper, and Emmett were out of the car, and Esme opened Bella's door and hugged her. "I'm so glad you're okay and don't worry about your dad, Carlisle is one of the best doctors around."

"I know Esme, and thank you for caring." She softly replied.

"I'll always care dear. You're one of my daughters now, remember, and the flowers were beautiful. Thank you," she kissed Bella affectionately on the cheek. "Are you both coming in?" She looked at me. Can you stay awhile?

"No, Carlisle instructed Alice and me to take Bella home so we can feed her," I looked meaningfully at Bella. I knew she needed to eat. I wanted her regular fragrance to return because this on bothered me for some reason. I also knew she needed more rest. "And make her rest. Alice won't be home tonight. Carlisle thought it would be best if she stayed at Bella's in case Bella needed help with anything I wouldn't be allowed to help with." I smiled wickedly at Bella to discover if I could make her blush and if her heightened color would add normalcy to her scent.

Bella did blush much to my pleasure, but her scent was still off.

Esme realized what I had done and reprimanded me. "Edward Anthony, behave yourself." To Bella she softly said, "Bella, you take care of yourself. Do as Carlisle tells you and don't' worry about anything. She kissed Bella's cheek before she walked back toward the house. Jasper was escorting Alice out as Esme went in; I saw Bella looking in their direction.

When they reached the car, she said, "You know Alice, you don't have to stay all might; you can slip out after dark."

"No, Carlisle said I should stay all night, and I don't like disobeying his requests. Beside, I'll see Jasper tomorrow."

With a hint of guilt in her voice, she offered, "Jasper could come over and stay as well. I don't mind."

"Thanks Bella," Jasper smiled, "But I think it would be better if I didn't."

I couldn't see Bella's face, but she must have given him some type of look because he added, "The smell."

"Oh," was Bella's only reply.

I turned away as Jasper kissed Alice, and then I heard him helping her into the back seat. As soon as I knew she was in, I turned the car around and headed to Bella's house.

As I drove, Alice leaned up against the back of Bella's seat. "Bella, I really like the flowers. That was nice of you to do."

I didn't have to look to know Bella was blushing; I could feel her increased warmth from it. "Alice, I must confess, it wasn't me who thought of the flowers as a thank you. It should've been because of all your help the past few months, but Charlie was the one who suggested I buy you flowers. He was right, and it was remiss of me not to find a way to say thank you sooner than this." Bella sounded repentant.

"That was sweet of him. I'll have to tell him thank you after he wakes up." Alice couldn't stop her enthusiasm from bubbling over. "Do you realize this is my first sleep over? I've never spent the night at a friend's house. Of course, I've never had a human friend before either. Thanks Bella."

Alice's mind kept repeating, in a singsong tone, I'm going to a sleep over. I knew she was extremely excited. Bella's presence had allowed Alice to sometimes indulge in human type activities. The kind Rosalie would not participate in with her. The whole prom makeover was Alice's idea, and she spent days planning every part of how to dress and groom Bella. It had been a long time since I'd seen Alice that excited or happy. Alice missed all her human events and she was using Bella as a way to live them, but it made me realize, even more, what I'd steal from Bella if I'd change her. I knew I just couldn't take those special moments away from her. Her whole life would be filled with special moments and that is what I wanted for her.

Bella interrupted my thoughts. "Well, it won't be a real sleep over because I'll be the only one sleeping, and unless you spend the night in my room, it also won't be a real sleepover," interrupted my thoughts.

"Hey, that's an idea. We could stay up and talk and I could do you hair and your nails, and . . ."

"Stop right there." No, that was my special time with Bella, and I didn't feel like sharing it with Alice. "Bella needs her rest. Besides, I'm the only one who gets to spend the night in Bella's room."

Bella's blush was extremely deep. Her warmth and scent made my head spin.

"Edward, look what you did to her?" Alice admonished. "I've never seen anyone turn that shade of red before. Bella," Alice hesitated, "what does it feel like to blush?"

"Alice!" I whipped around to look at her, I was shocked she'd asked such a personal question, and I couldn't afford to have Bella blushing again. Very quickly and quietly, so Bella couldn't hear, I said, "That's an inappropriate question. One that is too personal to ask."

"Edward, eyes on the road please." Bella pleaded.

I hadn't looked away from the road that long, but to keep Bella happy, I turned and fixed my gaze once again on the road.

"It's okay for Alice to ask; I don't mind." Bella was all kindness. "I'll tell you inside," she finished softly to Alice as I pulled into the driveway.

I sped around to Bella's door to help her out. I waited for her to unbuckle her seat belt and then helped her out of the car. "How are you feeling?" The oddity in her scent had increased slightly. I hoped it didn't indicate that she'd faint again.

"I'm okay, Edward, really. A little hungry, but other than that, I'm really okay." Her voice sounded a little shaky and that too worried me.

"You're telling me the truth, right?" I focused on her eyes for the truth. I notice her gaze locked on mine and the looked deepened.

Bella took a faltering step and I was afraid she'd fall or pass out, so I caught her in my arms. "See, you're not alright. Why didn't you say you felt weak and needed help?" I scolded her.

"Because, until you dazzled me with you're eyes," she smiled, "I felt capable of walking. You have to learn to be more careful about how intensely you look at me, it just . . . oh, I don't know what words to use . . . I guess, I just go . . ."

"Weak in the knees?" I grinned at the fact that I caused this rather than her hunger.

"That's one way of putting it, but it's even more than that."

I loved that I could affect her so profoundly but also castigated myself for the fact. To keep her from more injury, I carried her into the house and proceeded up the stairs to her bedroom. I was determined she would lie down and rest while Alice and I waited on her.

"Where are you taking me?"

"To bed." I made her blush again. I hadn't meant to do that.

"That statement can be interpreted in different ways depending on whose listening." She replied as she quickly looked at Alice who was following us.

"Edward, do you always say things to make Bella blush? That's twice now in the last few minutes," Alice teased.

"Okay," I chuckled, "so I'll rephrase my statement. I'm going to lie you down in your bed so you can rest. Better?" It was what I had meant to do all along. Why would Alice have interpreted it in any other way? Why did Bella think she would interpret in any other way?

"I'm hungry, Edward," she pleaded. "Can't I eat first?"

"Alice will fix you something to eat and you'll dine in bed." I gave her a serious look, "And no arguments."

I loved her pout; it made her lips look more luscious and tempting. Her pout was also a warning sign that she was ready to argue with me about my decision, so to deter her, I said, "Alice, why don't you go down and fix Bella something to eat."

Really, Edward, you're so bossy. At first, I thought Alice was going to argue with me, but then I sensed her turning around and going back down the stairs.

I carried Bella into her room and gently laid her on the bed. I pulled my cell phone out of my pocket and handed it to Bella. "Here, call your mom. Carlisle told her you'd call as soon as you arrived home." There was a slight sparkle in her eyes, so I added, "And no, you can't go downstairs to call her, you'll talk to her and rest at the same time."

She stared awkwardly at the phone and then asked. "Edward, how did you know I'd ask that?"

"I read it in your face. Sometimes, but those are limited, I can tell what you're going to do or say by your look, but most of the time what you say and do comes as a complete surprise. Now, be a good girl and call your mom." Then I ruffled her hair like Emmett had. I was truthful about her face. There were times when it was easy to read, but the majority of the time it was a mystery just like her mind.

I must have struck a nerve with my comment because Bella replied by sticking her tongue out at me. I couldn't repress the laugh, but I noticed she ignored me. Then I saw her entering a phone number. Maybe I would retrieve that number later and add it to my contact list. It might come in handy sometime.

At least I wasn't limited to a one-sided conversation. It was easy to hear her mom's worried voice, "Hello?"

"Hi, mom."

"Bella! Where are you calling from?" I could hear the concern in her voice.

"I'm at home in bed, and I'm fine mom. Nothing's broken or out of place." I could tell Bella was trying to keep all stress out of her voice. I knew she didn't want to worry her mom unduly.

"Oh, I wondered if you were still in the hospital because a different number registered on the caller ID."

Bella laughed as she looked in my direction. "Edward's loaned me his cell phone. He's making me rest while I'm talking to you."

Another voice intruded into my mind. Edward, get down here right now. If it had been verbal, it would've been shouted. Alice was agitated about something, so I knew I'd better go down and see what happened. I mouthed to Bella, 'I'll be right back.'

"Edward is there with you?" I heard her mother ask as I walked out the door. I smiled at myself as I realized I was leaving Bella to face her mother's concerns without my disrupting presence.

I found Alice standing in the kitchen with a tray in her hands. "What's that for?"

"Well, I knew we'd need to bring Bella her food in her room, so I brought this from home. I knew we wouldn't find one here. What I failed to realize is that you'd expect me to fix her something to eat. Edward, I've never even fixed myself a meal before being changed. I don't know where to start."

It was funny to see the lost look on Alice's face, and I smile broadly at her. "I'm sorry Alice; I just wanted to get you away from Bella while she talked to her mom."

"So, what are you going to make Bella to eat?" She smiled sweetly. "This will be a new learning experience for me."

I stood and looked around the kitchen. The remains of the dinner Bella had cooked the night before reeked, so I scrapped the plates off, threw all the remaining food away, and washed the dishes.

"You look very domesticated." Alice commented.

I just snarled at her, and her response was to laugh.

I began rummaging around in the refrigerator looking for any leftovers but found none. I reverted to the cabinets and finally found a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread. Next, I located the jelly in the refrigerator and decided I'd make Bella a sandwich.

As I was carrying the peanut butter and jelly to the table Alice elbowed my in the ribs so unexpectedly that I dropped both the jars. "Now look what you did." I turned on her.

She had a mischievous look on her face. "They didn't brake. So, what are you going to do with them?"

"I'm going to make a sandwich," I replied.

I'd watched Bella eat a number of times and knew she never indulged in large means, so I figured a sandwich would be about all she'd eat. After finishing the sandwich, I remembered she needed fluids as well. I knew she liked milk, so I filled a glass I found in the cupboard. I placed the sandwich and the glass of milk on the tray and smiled at Alice. "See, that wasn't very difficult. Even Emmett could make a meal like this."

Alice laughed, "That would be something worth watching."

I picked up the tray and carried it up to Bella's room. As I walked in the door, I saw Bella preparing to get up. "Oh no you don't. You lay right back down. I told you not to get out of bed."

"What broke?" She asked innocently.

"Nothing broke. Maybe dented a little, but not broken." I smiled.

"Edward, how could you send Alice to the kitchen? Did she take cooking lessons from the food channel with you?" She asked teasingly.

"That's why I went downstairs to help. She had no idea what to make or how to make it." I smiled back at her.

"Really Edward, you need be more considerate of others. Of course, Alice wouldn't know what to do, just like the first time I asked you what you were making for my breakfast. Remember?"

How could I forget? It was the first night I spent in Bella's room with her knowing I was in the room.

"So, what am I getting to eat? No irritable grizzly, I hope."

I glared at her and heard Alice stifle a laugh. "No." I replied gruffly, "a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a glass of milk." I placed the tray on my lap.

"Is that it?" She sounded disappointed.

"Well, leftovers from last night are out because they sat out all night, and there isn't much in the refrigerator that isn't frozen. This was the best I could do on short notice. Eat this and let's see if you're still hungry afterwards." If she were still hungry afterwards, I would fix her something else to eat. For the moment, I just wanted her to eat.

Alice sat down in the rocking chair and I sat on the bed. I'd watched Bella eat before, but the way she devoured that sandwich reminded me of how ravenous even humans could become. In no time at all, the sandwich disappeared and she'd finished every drop of milk. I found myself surprised and speechless.

"Bella, I never saw you eat that fast before." I did notice that her aroma altered slight for the better.

"I told you I was hungry."

It hadn't been enough food to return her to her normal fragrance so I began to wonder when her last full meal really was. So I asked, "When did you eat last?"

"Uhm . . . Thursday," replied she hesitantly.

"Bella!" How could she deny herself nourishment? Didn't she realize what that would do to her?

"Don't shout." She hung her head.

"I wasn't shouting." I hadn't meant to shout. I was shocked by her admission.

"Yes you were." Her voice was so quiet.

"Now, now children," Alice reprimanded. I could tell Alice was enjoying this. You did shout Edward. Can't you see she's sorry, let up on her. We'll find more food for her."

"I'm sorry, Bella. I didn't mean to yell. It just shocked me. Why haven't you eaten?" I couldn't hold back my concern for her well-being.

"I don't know. I wasn't hungry and every thing I tried to eat tasted like cardboard, so I didn't eat it."

"This is because of me, isn't it?" Without meaning to, I had jeopardized Bella's health yet again.

"No Edward." Her voice was stern. "This is because of me. I can't help but miss you when you're gone and I lose interest in everything around me. And if you start to blame yourself for my emotions, then I'll . . ." I was totally at a loss of what I could do about it.

Her hesitation told me she had no idea what she'd do. "You'll what?" A smile spread across my face.

Her face became determined. Maybe I shouldn't have smiled when she hesitated, but then how bad could her threat be.

"I won't let you kiss me and I won't kiss you for a week."

Could I believe what she said? Did she really mean that? "Really?"

"Really," she smiled sweetly.

Could I dazzle her out of her threat? I decided it was worth a try. "Really?" I leaned in closely placing my lips only an inch from hers. Then I slowly breathed out.

I could see her weakening and I allowed myself a slight smile, but then I heard her stomach rumble and I knew I'd lost the argument.

"I'm still hungry Edward. Can you get me a pizza?" She smiled brightly into my eyes dazzling me in return.

"Okay, you win this time, but only because you're the invalid and you need nourishment." I wouldn't let her know how she out dazzled me. I brushed my lips lightly against hers and ordered Alice, "Keep her company but make sure she stays in bed and out of trouble." Then I left quickly.

Before I got out the front door, I heard Alice ask, "How did you do that?"

"Do what?"

"Resist Edward . . ."

I wanted to stay and hear Bella's reply so I could learn just how she did resist my dazzle, but her need for food was more pressing than my need for an answer. I spent as little time as possible obtaining a pizza for Bella. I made sure I ordered one with an abundance of meat because I recognized her need for more protein. Even though peanut butter was a protein, I admitted to myself it was not enough.

As I walked in I heard Alice ask, "So why are you blushing now?"

Bella's laugh carried down the stairs, "You're as bad as Edward wanting to know what caused it."

"So?" Alice has a way of drawing out a word for emphasis.

"Because the fact that he kissed me still embarrasses me."

Kissed? Kissed by whom, I wanted to know. Who had been kissing Bella besides me?

"Alice, I'm not accustomed to being kissed by boys; well, Emmett's not really a boy, but anyway, those of the male persuasion. I still find it embarrassing to be kissed and especially in public. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice kiss as kisses go, but it'll never measure up to Edward's."

At least she clarified that, and I was relieved to know she wasn't speaking about Newton. As I reached for her door, I chimed. "Well, I'm glad to here that, but why are you talking about Emmett kissing you?"

I noticed Bella turning a deep shade of red. "I was only answering a question about blushing for Alice."

I couldn't refrain from adding. "See, kissing Emmett was a blushing moment for you. It must have been memorable kiss."

Bella cocked her head and then paused before stating in a very determined tone, "One a scale of one to ten, I'd give it a nine." I noticed she was not smiling.

Alice found humor in the comment and laughed. I just growled in displeasure.

"Oh come on Edward," Alice piped in, "she's only teasing just like you were teasing her. So Bella, how would you rate Edward's kisses?" A lilting laugh erupted from Alice.

"Hum, give me a moment to think." She tapped her finger against her full lips temptingly, making me want to taste her lips against mine. "Well, if I were to grade his on the same scale, then I guess . . . I guess . . . I'd probably give it a . . ." She was carrying this too far. I wanted to hear her answer. "Okay, I'd definitely give Edward's a twenty."

I was pleased with her answer, but I reminded myself she still needed to eat. "Are you still hungry?"

"Yes, I'm ravenous." A sweet smile crossed her face as she looked up at me through her lashes. "Edward, could I have another glass of milk please?"

I was very happy to oblige her, so I rushed downstairs, filled her glass, and was instantly back at her side.

Bella could have put Emmett to shame the way she wolfed down half of the pizza I brought her, but with every bite, I noticed her scent was returning to the sweet delicious fragrance I remembered. I decided to store this memory away for future reference. If Bella's scent ever changed in this manner again, I would know it was due to starvation.

We spent the rest of the late afternoon and evening talking about whatever subjects came to mind. I made sure Bella stayed in the bed, and I remained at her side with my arms wrapped around her. Alice sat in the rocking chair. Bella asked us about school and places we'd lived, and we talked about Charlie. As we spoke about Charlie, stray tears rolled down Bella's cheek. Alice, when she saw one was quick to reassure Bella that Charlie would be fine. Every now and then Bella would gaze into my eyes, and I would see her love shining out from them. Around dinnertime, we took a short break while Bella had supper. This time I made her an omelet.

At nine o'clock, I decided Bella needed to get some sleep. Alice decided to spend the night downstairs. After she left, Bella withdrew to the bathroom to attend to her human needs. I patiently waited for her in her room. I turned down the covers on her bed and then sat down until she hobbled in. Every time I saw the cast on her leg, I was reminded of how close I had come to losing her and I knew it would have been my fault if I'd lost her. Bella crawled into bed and snuggled up to me as those thoughts raced through my mind.

"Are you tired?" I knew she would deny it, but I knew the truth. I could see how tired she was by her face.

"No, I want to enjoy you're company for awhile. I was so lonely while you were gone."

I smiled as I heard her denial but didn't confront her with the lie. Instead, I asked, "What about your friends at school?" Surely, she spent some time with them.

"Oh yeah. How could I forget about Mike? I should've invited him over to keep me company while you were gone." Her scowl affirmed the fact that she didn't think much of Newton, and this piece of information pleased me. "Yeah sure, that would've been fun."

"I meant the girls you're friends with." I corrected but with a pleasant voice.

"Well, Jessica only talks about Mike, which gets boring, and if he knows she's going to talk to me, he tags along and stares at me longingly. That gets annoying. Lauren doesn't like me so I avoid her. That leaves Angela and I did spend some time with her Saturday after she took me to buy flowers."

I hadn't realized that she counted so few of the schoolgirls as her friends, but at least Angela seemed to be someone she liked. I wondered what had they talked about. "Did you talk about boys?" I heard curiosity in his voice.

"No, we talked mostly about books and school. Maybe that's why I like Angela over the others. I can have a real conversation with her." She snuggled closer. "Did you miss me?"

Missed her? If only she knew how much I ached to be beside her, how empty I felt while away from her, or how much I loved holding her. This feeling I knew was safe to share with her. "Terribly. I couldn't wait to come home. If it had been up to me, we would have left late Saturday rather than Sunday morning. I was anxious to see you, to make sure you were okay, and what did I find upon my return – you missing." I carefully tightened my hold on her. "Do you know what that did to me?"

"No what?" She breathed softly.

"I was scared that I might not find you, or that I'd find you had left me." That thought had crossed my mind and I knew if it was true, that she had left me, my life would be over. There would be no reason to continue my existence. "If I had a heart that beat, it might have stopped completely." The relief I still felt at having found her made me chuckle and I kissed the top of her head.

She turned slightly to face me. "Edward, it will never be me who leaves you, unless I am unwillingly dragged away by something unstoppable." She buried her face into my neck and began kissing it.

"Bella, don't even talk like that. One day you may find that you crave a normal life of sunshine and a family of your own." I didn't want to lose her, but I refused to take away the life she deserved.

She continued to kiss my neck as she spoke. "I already have sunshine . . . your my sun and I'll bask in your light . . . and I have a family . . . you're my family . . . you're all I want . . . you are my life." She slowly moved her lips up my chin and kissed the corners of my mouth.

"Bella, what are you doing." Her lips on my skin were so delightful and as they teasingly move around the outside of my lips, a small groan escaped them.

"Exploring." She murmured. "Don't you like it?"

Could she even imagine what she was making me feel? Every sensation burned as it coursed through my body. I felt on fire, but it was a pleasant fire of desire. I finally said, "I like it too much," and that was the absolute truth.

"Should I stop?" She was at the corner of my mouth and then kissed my bottom lip.

"Yes . . . no . . . I don't know." I breathed out heavily; her lovely fragrance overwhelmed my senses and I felt briefly light-headed.

My self-restraint melted away. I kissed her on the lips and started moving them over her eyelids, nose, and down into the crook of her neck, but I couldn't stop there. My lips traveled across her soft lovely shoulder and across the front of her throat. The whole time I felt her quickening pulse and the unsteady beat of her heart. When I reached the dip in the front of her throat, I heard soft moans issuing from her. My lips continued up her neck and over her chin until they found her sweet warm lips. Bella immediately entwined her fingers in my hair and pulled my mouth as close to hers as possible. I felt her tongue touch my lips and suddenly realized I was losing control. I left so quickly she had no time to react. As I looked back at her, I saw shock registered on her lovely face and then silent tears flowed from her eyes. She then threw herself into her pillow and I heard her sobs. Her body shuck as her sobbed increased.

I'd done it again. I had caused her this new pain.

"Bella!" I swiftly moved to her side and pulled her to me as I sat down. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you or upset you."

Between sobs she said, "Not you, me."

"What?" Did she think I was blaming her for what just happened?

"It wasn't your fault. It was mine," and she cried even more.

"No. It's never your fault. I should have more control of my emotions. I should never endanger you by letting them control me." How could she even think that? How could she blame herself for my lack of control?

"Edward," there was a slight sternness in her voice and a small sob escaped as she spoke. "I'm just as much to blame as you are. You will not blame yourself. I started this, and if I'm truthful, I wanted this. I want you Edward. I want to feel you kissing me, touching me, and holding me so close that I can't breathe. These are normal feelings when someone is in love."

Did she realize what she was saying? Did she realize how much pain I could have caused her if I had allowed my emotions to take over? I could have easily killed her in a moment of passion without ever realizing I was doing it. I wasn't going to let her take any blame for my actions or lack of control, but before I could say anything, Alice knocked softly on the door. "What?" I growled.

"Is everything okay?" Alice asked softly. Edward, what happened? Is Bella okay?

"Go away," I replied.

At the same time Bella called, "Come in."

Alice glided in through the door, but I was shocked that Bella allowed her in. Why would Bella want Alice to see her crying? No, crying was too light a word; it had sounded like Bella's was in terrible pain, but a pain that came from her heart.

"Are you okay Bella?" The concern in Alice voice was extremely apparent.

"Yes, we're both fine. Just a misunderstanding." Bella offered, and then she hesitated as if unsure whether or not to say something she was thinking. "Alice, you really love Jasper, don't you?"

"Yes, very much." I could hear the emotion in Alice's voice.

As I watched her face, I wondered if she missed him. I reached out to her mind and found her thinking of Jasper and wondering what he was doing and if he was missing her.

"When the two of you are extremely close . . . uhm, do you . . . well, do you lose control . . . you know, emotionally?" I detected a slight nervousness in Bella's voice.

Alice laughed lightly. "You mean do I physically and emotionally become romantically inclined." Alice was enjoying this question and picturing Jasper and her locked in a romantic embrace.

"Well . . . yes." Bella turned a healthy shade of pink, her fragrance intensified, and her skin became warmer.

"Yes, I do." Alice reassured her, but questions were forming in her mind. What has been going on in here? Did Edward try something that shocked Bella? She looked at me questioningly.

"Is it more your fault or Jasper's when that happens?" Bella prodded.

"Neither, why? Did I miss something interesting?" She chuckled. Something did happen. Edward, what have you been doing to this poor girl?

"No." I wasn't about to answer Alice's question. "You can leave."

"Edward," Alice started hesitantly and looked from Bella to me, "If I understand, even a little, what might have happened," you can stop me only if I'm wrong, "then I should tell you, what you and Bella are both feeling is absolutely natural and mutual. It is not one-sided." From the flush on Bella's face, I would say you were both sharing a very intimate moment. "This is just as hard for her as it is for you; I mean the passion part, not the thirst part. Don't get mad at her for feeling that way. She . . ."

"Alice, I'm not mad at her, I'm mad at myself," I interrupted; I would never blame any of this on Bella.

"I'm mad at me," Bella also added. "But I'm also upset at Edward that he tries to take all the blame on himself."

Alice laughed again. Typical.

Now what did she mean by that – typical – typical how I wanted to know.

"I can see that the two of you have a lot to learn about sharing, even blame has to be shared at times. Edward, we all get carried away when we're in love. This would be so much simpler for both of you if you . . ."

"Don't even go there Alice," I warned.

Well it would be, but at least hear me out. "Okay. Then realize this Edward, these feeling are not something that will just stop. They will always be there under the surface waiting to rise up and spill out, and they aren't anybody's fault, they just are. It is a part of truly being in love with someone."

"Thank you Alice." Bella seemed relieved.

Was she worried because she had these feelings, or because I had them? Was she uncomfortable having these feelings?

"You're welcome Bella. I'll see you both in the morning." Alice turned and walked out the door. Stop being so hard on yourself, can't you see that that is what is upsetting Bella.

Could Alice be right? Is Bella upset that I get angry at my own lack of control?

Bella's eyes focused on me. "See, I'm just as much to blame as you are, so stop trying to take all the guilt. I'm sorry I lost control, but I'm not sorry that I felt that way. Edward, whether you believe this or not, I love you more than life itself."

Maybe Alice was right. Maybe this is natural for both of us, but I still feel I should have more control over my emotions so I don't jeopardize Bella's life, and I definitely don't want her giving up her precious life for me. "No, Bella. I don't want you to choose me over life. You have your whole life in front of you and I don't want to steal that away from you."

"Edward, don't you understand. You're my life; without you, there isn't anything, just a big empty lonely whole."

"Bella . . ."

"No, don't argue with me. I know what I'm saying and I know what I mean. I'm just sorry that you can't accept it as the truth."

Bella would argue this all night if I let her, but she needed to sleep. It was time to end our disagreement but not in anger. I kept my hold on her so she would know I wasn't angry with her. I would never be angry with her. She was the only thing worth existing for and I didn't want to ruin the time we had together arguing. Beside, she had had enough stress for one weekend.

"I think you need to sleep. This had been a trying weekend for you, and Carlisle will be upset if you walk into the hospital tomorrow looking exhausted." I helped her lay down comfortably with her back to my chest. Then I wrapped my arms around her waist and held her close to me.

"I love you with my whole being Edward; that will never change." She said as she rested against me.

"Shhh . . . sleep now," and I did the one thing I knew would calm her down and help her sleep; I hummed her lullaby.

After Bella fell asleep, I reminisced about what almost happened this evening. I had come as close as I ever had of letting my emotions take over. I realized every time we were close, it became harder and harder to pull away from her. I was continually endangering Bella's life being so weak, and I knew I had to do something about the problem. If I left her, it would be best to do it over summer break. She had talked about seeing her mom this summer. Maybe I could encourage her to go visit her mom in Florida and while she was gone, I would leave. Yes, that's what I would do; in fact, that would be the easiest way. My mind was made up; I would not change my mind.

I decided I would spend as much time making memories with Bella while I had time left. My first task would be to etch her face on my mind forever. As I was memorizing her every feature, I heard Alice call my name. At first, I ignored her, I didn't want to lose a minute of the time I had left with Bella, but then I heard urgency in her tone.

I slipped out of bed and rushed downstairs. I found Alice sitting on Jasper's lap and wrapped in his arms. I stared in surprise since Jasper had said he wouldn't come over.

"She called and said she needed me." Jasper answered.

"What's this all about Alice?" I inquired. I knew she'd tell me or she wouldn't have called me down.

"Edward, I want to talk to you about Bella."

"I'm not changing her." Alice was Bella's biggest support for changing her, and I was not about to have this conversation with her again.

"That's not what I want to talk about. I want to talk about her, who she is, about something Jasper and I learned in Phoenix. Jasper is here to back up what I'm saying. Edward, do you really understand how special Bella is?"

I was ready to snap at her. How could she even ask that of me?

"Don't interrupt, just listen. The whole time she was being hunted, she never once considered her well-being. She was constantly worried about everyone else's safety. Even when it first started, in the truck, she thought of Charlie first. On the drive to Phoenix, she worried about Carlisle, Emmett, and you. She worried about Esme and even Rosalie. Jasper had a hard time keeping her calm because her fears were not for herself but for everyone else. At times, it confused him because he would send calming messages that she'd be fine only to be met with confusion and resistance."

"Edward, she resisted me a few times. That doesn't happen often but it did more with her than anyone else I've ever encountered." Jasper added.

"On the tape James made," a low growl escaped from me at the mention of his name, "all she talked about was your safety, never hers. Edward, she was sacrificing her life first for her mother and then for you. This is an extremely determined girl. She knows what she wants and if it's taken from her, it could kill her. Maybe not physically but emotionally; she'll be an empty shell." Alice paused.

"Why are you telling me all this?" There was something behind this and I needed to know what.

"Because you've decided to leave her." She accused.

Why deny it, she probably saw it, but I wasn't going to let her or Jasper talk me out of it. "This summer sometime."

"Don't glare at me Edward. I thought you'd want to know what I saw." She looked at Jasper for support. When it was an especially horrendous vision, you turned to Jasper for extra support.

I looked at her skeptically. Did she really see something or was this a ploy to make me change my mind? Her mind confirmed the truth.

It's true Edward; I'd never lie about a vision.

She was right about that. In all the time Alice had been with the family, she had never lied about a vision. She might hide them, but never lie.

"If you don't believe me, you can look for yourself."

I didn't doubt her; I knew she'd tell me the truth. "Just tell me Alice."

"Bella will get married," I noticed there was no trace of a smile on her face. "But it won't be happy. Three months after the wedding she'll be dead."

"No, you're lying!" I knew she wasn't, but I refused to believe it.

Her eyes took on a look of fear. "Edward, he beats her to death."

"NO!" I roared.

"Calm down Edward," Jasper's voice was soothing.

"The neighbors may not be close, but they can still hear. Jasper, go check on Bella and make sure she's still asleep." Alice gracefully moved off Jasper's lap and he rushed up the stairs. "Edward, as hard as it is to believe, you can see it for yourself."

Her look should have warned me about what I'd see, but I knew if I didn't look, I would never really accept it. It was something I would regret for a long time. I pulled from Alice's mind an image of Bella's lifeless body battered beyond recognition and covered in blood. I wouldn't have believed it was her accept for the chocolate brown eyes that stared lifelessly at me. "Why?" I cried. I noticed Jasper had returned and nodded his head at Alice confirming Bella was still asleep.

"Why what Edward? Why did she marry him or why did he do it?" Alice asked quietly.

"Both." I felt emotionally drained after that brief look.

"I told you, she gave up. She became an empty shell. Life had no meaning for her after you left and it was easy for him to convince her that he could fill the void she felt. She gave in never realizing what type of man he was; no, what type of monster he was. She would call out your name in her sleep and it angered him beyond all reason. It wasn't the first time he beat her, but his anger goes beyond his control the last time. Edward, that's what a real monster acts like. Besides, he never really loved her, he just wanted her."

I buried my face into in my hands. I couldn't allow that to happened to Bella. "I won't leave, not if that's what will happen."

"Edward, there are worse fates for Bella than being changed and remaining with you forever."

"Why, what else have you seen?"

"Every time you decide to leave, I see Bella dying and when you decide to stay, Carlisle changes her for one reason or another. It's like her life has only two tracks. You keep saying you want what's best for her, but from whose perspective are you looking?" Alice had settled back on Jasper's lap and his arms were once more wrapped around her body.

I envied Jasper being able to hold Alice without worrying about crushing her. Every time I touched or held Bella, I had to keep in mind how fragile she really was.

"Edward, we all know you're trying to do what's best for Bella, but there are other factors you need to consider. Alice explained what happened earlier tonight. She understands what Bella's feeling, but I understand what you're feeling. I doubt these feelings will go away unless for some reason you suddenly lose all interest in Bella, but I don't think that will happen." Jasper smiled knowingly.

I agreed with him; it was unlikely my feeling for Bella would ever decrease. In fact, I was positive they would only increase over time.

"I know it's hard to control those emotions, almost as hard as it is for me to control my desire for human blood at times, but getting mad only upsets you which in turn upsets Bella. Whether or not you realize it, Bella sees your anger as her fault because she couldn't control her own emotions."

"So what should I do?" This is a questions I've been asking myself for some time and my answer tonight was to leave, but I couldn't endanger Bella's life more that I endanger it every day I'm with her.

"Well, the simplest solution would be to stop touching and kissing her." I scowled at him. He laughed. "I see that's not an option, so all I can say is to monitor your responses, but hold in your anger. Maybe you should back off sooner if things even seem to be intensifying." Jasper shook his head. "I'm glad this is your problem and not mine." He pulled Alice tighter to him and kissed her neck. "I don't think I could refrain. I'm struggling with the thirst, but not being able to be intimate with Alice would send me over the edge. I don't envy you. Maybe Carlisle could be of some help."

"Thanks."

"I know we've overwhelmed you with information," Alice apologized, "but as far as Bella is concerned, remember, this is an extremely stressful time for her because of the accident and her concern for her dad and you. She won't be thinking of herself or her health, so be as considerate as possible with her emotions."

"I'll remember that." I left to give them some time alone.

I returned to Bella's room and sat in her rocking chair to think. Alice generally wasn't wrong about what she sees, but it was disturbing to know that she only saw two paths for Bella's life. Was Bella right about me trying to circumvent fate by keeping her alive? Was I trying in vain to give her a normal life? I couldn't accept that; I refused to give up on the idea of Bella having a normal happy life full of love, family, and children. As for my feelings for her, I was going to have to be more careful in the future. I would have to stop sooner even though I enjoyed those new emotions. I would have to be careful, also, not to push Bella to far.

As I looked on Bella's sleeping form, I felt my desire for her rise. I wanted her, but I would deny myself the one thing in this world that I really wanted. I would believe that at some point Bella would choose to leave me, and then she would be safe. I could do this if it meant keeping Bella safe; I could allow myself to suffer these losses; the loss of a physical relationship, the loss of self-satisfaction, and eventually the loss of Bella's love.

Bella stirred slightly, and with the stirring, her fragrance intensified, but I smiled as I recognized her normal luscious fragrance. No longer was her fragrance tainted like it was before. My mind wandered back to the accident and Bella's brief look when she first saw me. All the love and trust she had in me shown through her deep brown eyes.

Then I remembered her comment about the wolves. It was doubtful any wolf could have been in the area without leaving some type of tracks, and if there really had been more than one, then they would have left other evidence than just tracks. The only scents in the area that I detected were Bella's tainted scent and Charlie's blood. Even Emmett and Alice detected no other life forms in the area. Whether Bella believed it or not, she had to have imagined the wolves; no other explanation was possible.

I spent the rest of the night staring at Bella and imagining what our life together could have been if I were human.

I kissed Bella's neck as she woke up. I felt her pulse quicken under my lips. Her skin was soft, supple, and fragrant. I wanted more, but held back not wanting to push Bella or myself past the safe point of contact.

"Good morning angel of my life," I whispered softly into her neck.

"No, you're the angel in my life. I, on the other hand, am just a constant temptation in your life." She ran her hand up my arm.

I slowly moved my lips across her neck. "Should we argue about that statement?" She was a temptation that I would not deny, but I wasn't an angel; I was a monster who had temporarily interfered with her real life.

"No because it's a subjective point of view. I see it one-way and you see it another. We would never agree and I don't want to get mad at myself for ruining a beautiful day by arguing with you. Besides, I'd rather have you kiss me than argue with me."

"I like that idea." I carefully flipped her around so we were facing each other. Then I rolled us both over so I was on top of her and using my arms to brace myself above her. "Are you hungry?" I asked.

Bella giggled. It was a light airy sound. Then she offered, "Only for your kisses."

Tasting her lips was a tempting idea, so I tasted them carefully and with restraint. Upon completion of tasting her luscious lips, I refocused on her need for nourishment. "To rephrase that question, are you hungry for food?"

"What time is it?"

"Noon." I said before kissing her again.

"Your kisses are delicious, your scent is delicious, your nearness is delicious – so who needs food." She breathed. Then she tensed and said "Oh!"

"What?" I drew back quickly in case I had unintentionally caused her pain.

"Edward," she added swiftly, "has your dad called about Charlie at all?"

"No. Is that what the 'oh' was about?" I was able to relax. She was justly concerned about her dad.

"I feel so guilty," she confessed. "I woke up this morning and didn't even think about him. How could I do that Edward?"

"Easy. The last two days were very stressful for you. First, you were missing me, then the accident occurred, and finally waking up in the hospital and finding your dad in a coma. All of that was stressful, and last night you slept so deeply that you never uttered one word. It is perfectly reasonable for you to have temporarily forgotten about yesterday's events. Of course, it didn't help that I occupied your mind with other emotions as you were waking," I needed to keep in mind that she was in need of my tender care and concern. I wanted to make things easier for her, so I got up with the intent to make her some lunch.

"Where are you going?" She sounded hurt by my desertion.

"To make you some lunch and to let you have your human moment. What would you like for lunch?"

"A piece of pizza and a glass of milk." She smiled at me.

She wanted cold pizza? How appetizing could that be? I thought. Verbally I said, "Okay, I guess. Will you eat it cold?"

Bella's smile brightened and widened. I very much wanted to know what she was thinking. I walked over to the bed and pulled her to her feet. "What are you smiling at?" I said as I wrapped my arms around her warm supple body.

"The look on your face." She smiled as she kissed my chin. "I want my piece of pizza heated up. Just put it on a plate, drape a piece of paper towel over it, and put it in the microwave for about twenty seconds."

"Is that all there is to it?" I grinned because that would be simple. I kissed her forehead.

"Yes, but it will take me longer to shower and brush my teeth."

"Maybe I'll wait here until you're done in the shower and then heat your lunch while you're brushing your teeth." I lifted her until her mouth was even with mine.

"Okay, but I can't do anything until you put me down." She murmured pleasantly.

"Do you really want me to put you down?" I chuckled. I enjoyed our contact.

"No, I like this. Anything that includes me being in your arms is heavenly to me. Lunch can wait, I'm in no hurry."

"Are you sure?" I placed a few kisses on her soft white neck.

"Yes." She relied and leaned her head back exposing more of her neck.

Did she realize how tempting that action was? My desire for her alone was stronger than my desire to taste her blood. I carried her back to the bed and gently laid down with her. We spent some quality time just kissing and cuddling, but I continually monitored my desires and her response so a repetition of last night would not occur. We continued in that manner until her stomach grumbled about not being feed. That was my cue to send Bella off to have her human moment and for me to choose the right moment to prepare her lunch.