Who's excited for Halloween? I know I am. :D
Thank you all for your continued support of this story. It means so much!
This chapter is a bit of a long one, so I'll just let you get to it ...
Fran, Monica03 and Mr G and Me, thank you for all of your help and support. It means a lot. (Any mistakes you see are my own.)
SM owns everything Twilight.
When Rose and I arrive at the hospital, we're immediately wheeled into a private room, where a nurse in her late thirties is waiting, clipboard in hand. She asks the EMTs a series of questions, writing their responses down with a quick hand.
Dr. C arrives seconds later, his white doctor's coat billowing behind him like a cape. A relieved sigh leaves him as he sees us, a small, sad smile gracing his features.
Quickly, but with softness and compassion, the nurse helps us out of the wheelchairs and onto the hospital beds, quietly asking if we're comfortable.
I can't speak for Rose, but I know I'm not. These beds aren't made for comfort.
Not wanting to complain, I merely nod and thank her as she hands our charts over to Dr. C, who begins reading at once.
"Thank you, Jackie," he murmurs as she steps out of his way, but remains close enough to help.
He steps up to us, placing a comforting hand on each of our shoulders. I flinch away, not from pain, though I have enough of that rushing through my system, but because I can't stand the memories that come through with being touched right now.
Seeing my distress, Dr. C keeps his gaze on me, making sure I can see him taking his hand away. For some reason, the action is comforting, and I find myself breathing a little easier.
"I'm sorry for what happened tonight, ladies."
"Thanks," Rose and I both say at the same time.
His eyes crinkle as he gives a small smile. "Let's get started. Who's first?"
"Bella," Rose answers before I can say anything.
"No." I refuse with a shake of my head. "You lost consciousness."
"I don't care. You're going first. Dr. Cullen, check Bella first, please. I refuse treatment until she's looked over."
Reluctantly, I nod, and Carlisle steps forward, leaning toward me slightly. "Would you prefer a female doctor to look at you?"
I debate it over before ultimately deciding not to. I know I'm in good hands with Dr. C. I trust him just as much as I trust my own parents.
"No, I'm … I'll be okay."
"Are you sure?" He questions seriously. "I won't be offended."
"I'm sure."
Nodding once, he steps closer, placing rubber gloves on his hands. "All right. If you need to stop at any time, don't be afraid to tell me."
Swallowing thickly, I continuously remind myself that this is Carlisle; he wouldn't hurt me.
"I will."
"I do need to ask you a particularly sensitive question," he starts.
The reluctance and apprehension in his tone makes my back stiffen, my breathing turn shallow, and my heart gallop in my chest. Not trusting my own voice, I nod for him proceed.
"Were you sexually assaulted?"
My body painfully throbs with the memory of Royce's forceful hands, grabbing and pulling at me. All I want to do is run away and hide … and possibly take an extremely hot shower to wash away this entire evening, but that's not an option.
At least right now.
Right now, I need to be strong and get through this. The worst is now behind me.
"No. It didn't get that far."
Dr. C closes his eyes briefly, his head bowing forward as he lets out a huge breath. When his eyes are open again, relief swims through them.
"Good, that's good. Shall we begin?"
Blowing out a breath, I once again remind myself that this is Dr. C, and everything is okay at this moment in time.
He waits patiently for my nod, and when I do, he begins his examination with gentle hands. Throughout the entire process, he quietly explains what he's going to do before he does it, which is a huge comfort. I flinch as his fingers touch a particularly sensitive spot on my head and neck. Quickly, he apologizes and rattles off a series of tests in doctor-speak, which Jackie, the nurse, writes on her pad.
Once he's done, the nurse comes forward with another wheelchair, refusing my pleas to walk on my own.
"Bella, stop being difficult and get in the damn chair," Rose says from her perch.
"I'll remember that when you're in this thing."
She ignores me, focusing on Dr. C, who begins his examination, giving her the same treatment he gave me.
She's only ignoring me because I'm right. She's ten-times more stubborn than I am when she's not feeling well.
An hour later, after a series of tests, I'm being wheeled back into the room. The nurse asks if I need help getting onto the bed, but I decline her offer and thank her, looking for Rose, who is noticeably absent. When I mention this, she tells me Rose was taken back for tests shortly after I was, and should be back soon.
A minute after the nurse leaves, there's a soft knock on the door, and Esme sticks her head in, her eyebrows pulled together and a frown on her face. Her face lights up when she sees me, but it quickly falls once she sees the bruises I'm sure to be sporting at the moment.
"Hello, sweetheart. Are you up for company?"
"Yeah, sure. Come on in."
She enters the room fluidly, coming to stand by my side. Gently, she slides an arm around my shoulder and hugs me, placing a kiss to the crown of my head. Reveling in her motherly aura, I lean against her, wishing my own mother was here as well.
For now, Esme is a good start.
Jasper, Alice, Edward, and Emmett follow shortly after, shuffling into the room in a broken line. Jasper comes to stand by my free side, hesitating before he puts a hand on my shoulder. At my smile, he squeezes, staring at me for a long moment, asking me without words, how I'm doing.
I do a combination of a shrug and nod. I'm doing as well as I can, considering the circumstances.
"Aunt Renee and Uncle Charlie are with Rose," he whispers to me. "They came in shortly after you left for your tests."
Exhaling softly, I nod in acknowledgment, anxious to see them.
By the door, the Cullen's are lined up underneath mood/pain chart with a variety of different faces ranging from neutral to grumpy. Humorously, they could be the living embodiment of this chart.
Emmett looks pissed off, his eyes darting to me and the floor every few seconds; with each passing look, his lips thin and his eyes darken a little more. I shiver involuntarily, shifting in the wheelchair. The squeak of the chair seems loud in the small room, and I wince against it.
Standing next to him is Edward, who is unabashedly staring at me, his head slightly tilted to the side. I wish I knew for certain what he was feeling, but he has a blank look on his face. The only time his expression changes is when he steals quick glances at his brother. Whatever is going on there, he doesn't look very pleased.
Alice wrings her hands together, looking like she's going to burst into tears at any moment. Her mouth opens and closes several times, making her look like a fish. The mental image of Alice in a fishbowl, swimming around enthusiastically is just too much for me, and I have to bite my lip to keep myself from laughing.
My humor vanishes when Emmett speaks.
"What's funny? There's nothing humorous about this situation."
I blink in shock, surprised such an angry tone has come from him. Normally, he has a very kind voice, but right now, he's lethal.
On my right side, Jasper's grip tightens, and I can feel the rage starting to build within him. Whatever Emmett's problem is with me, I don't want it to interfere with his friendship with Jasper, but it appears the lines are crossing whether I want them to or not.
"I never said there was."
"You—"
"Emmett," Esme snarls, her eyes blazing and her lips pressed tightly together. She looks extremely pissed and ready to go into battle, which is surprising.
I've never seen her so angry; it makes me glad to know she's on my side. And now, I also know where Edward gets his temper. Sure, he and Esme aren't related by blood, but with family, blood or not, some things don't matter.
After a few deep breaths, Esme turns to me, her face now relaxed and calm, though her eyes are still hard. "How are you doing, Bella?"
"I'm okay," I reply, slow to take my eyes off Emmett. I'm not too sure he won't charge at me. "Just waiting for Rose."
"She's gone for testing," she supplies. I know this since the nurse and Jasper just told me, but I nod and thank her anyway. I know she's simply trying to be helpful.
"Bella—"
"Nope," I interrupt Alice as she starts to speak, seemingly finding her words … and I know what she's going to say, "Don't want to hear it. I already told you, it wasn't your fault."
A pained look crosses Alice's face as Emmett mumbles something I can't distinguish, but I can take a guess at what it is by the glares being shot to him by his family.
Edward gives his sister his undivided attention, turning his back on his brother, who grumbles angrily.
Alice's despondent look fades into one of anger as she glares at her brother, obviously hearing whatever he had said. The tension in the air grows thicker, and suddenly, I feel like I'm burning up from all of the angry looks being thrown around the room. Jasper and I shift, and I eye the door, wondering if it would be rude if I just booked it out of here.
The door opens, and Rose is wheeled in by Dr. C, laughing at something he's said. It stops abruptly as she undoubtedly feels the tension in the room. Dr. C immediately locks in on Emmett, a deep frown on his face, and his eyes darkening. It's kind of surprising, considering I've never seen him look so displeased before.
Rose's eyes dart from person to person, lingering on Emmett, who hasn't lifted his gaze from the ground. When she looks at Jasper and me, she rises from the wheelchair, coming to lean next to me. Crossing her arms over her chest, her eyes narrow at the group of Cullens standing opposite of us and when she speaks, her voice is hard and cold.
"What's going on?"
No one answers and Rose's hands curl into her upper arms, the skin turning pink the tighter she grips. The longer the silence continues, the more aggravated Rose gets, and soon, her foot is tapping against the metal of the bed, creating a loud, irregular rhythm in the room.
From the pained look on Emmett's face, the sound is like nails on a chalkboard to him.
Dr. C clears his throat, stepping in the middle, his attention on us. "Ladies, I have your test results. Why doesn't everyone give us some privacy," he says, looking pointedly at his children.
Esme smiles softly at her husband and us, stopping to give him a quick kiss before shooing her children from the room. Jasper trails after them and is long gone before Rose or I can tell him he can stay.
Once the door closes, Dr. C opens the file in his hands. "Okay. I put a rush on your tests; being well-liked has its advantages." He winks, and it doesn't escape my notice that Rose blushes afterward. I snicker, and she gives me a fake glare, lightly pinching my shoulder.
"Okay, let's begin. Bella, you have a minor concussion, some serious bruising, and obviously damaged fingernails. You'll be extremely sore for quite a bit, but you'll be okay. I'm sending you home with some prescriptions to help with pain and a light medication for anxiety, should you need it," he rushes to add when he sees me about to argue.
Knowing to argue is futile, I nod.
"Miss Whitlock, you have some bruising and the skin will be tender to touch, but it should go away in a few weeks. You have a minor sprain on your left wrist; just keep it wrapped and iced. I'll have a nurse come in shortly and do that for you. You also have a minor concussion, so ultimately, you're in much of the same boat as Bella. I'm sending you home with the same prescriptions and some care sheets for your parents."
"Will we have to stay here overnight?"
Dr. C taps a finger against his lips. "Ordinarily, due to your injuries, I would say yes, but I think you two would fight me on that." He chuckles when we both nod adamantly. "I thought so. As an alternative, I'll be staying with you at your house tonight."
Gaping, we stare at him, wondering why he would make such an offer.
"You've both been through a lot this evening. Sure, I could admit you, but that won't help you relax, and you need to relax in order to heal. Besides, Charlie promised me a poker game," he jokes.
His joke takes me by surprise.
I knew Dad had poker games every month with a few guys from the Res and the station, but I never knew Dr. C was joining them. Normally, Dad gossips about everyone there and who might be coming, but he hasn't said a word about Dr. C attending.
For some reason, I can't see Dr. C being there. He doesn't seem like the type to sit around for hours on end playing cards and gossiping.
Instead of focusing on the strangeness of Dr. C at my Dad's poker game, I focus on the present moment as Rose and I thank him, gratitude seeping through every word.
He waves us off, smiling softly. "Think nothing of it. I'm happy to help my favorite family."
"Where are Mom and Dad?" I question when there's a pause in the conversation.
"I asked them to get us some water. Aunt Renee was driving me crazy," Rose mumbles, rubbing her temple.
I snicker, knowing Mom was most likely fawning all over her. My humor fades as I realize she'll most likely do the same to me when I see her.
Great.
Dr. C reaches out and pats my arm. "Moms are like that. She's just—"
A loud shout from the hallway silences Dr. C's words. Rose walks to the door, throwing it open so hard it hits the wall and bounces off, nearly hitting her in the back. Thankfully for her, Dr. C manages to catch it and follows her out, with me lagging behind.
In the hallway, we find Jasper glaring at Emmett, and surprisingly, Alice and Edward are standing beside Jasper, identical expressions on their faces.
"Okay, enough. What is going on? Don't give me any BS answers, either. I know something is going on and I want to know what."
She's speaking to everyone, but she's staring at Emmett, her lips pressed together so tightly, they nearly disappear. When it's clear all he's going to do is stare at the floor, she turns to Jasper.
"Jasper?"
"Let's move this somewhere else," Dr. C offers quickly. He pointedly looks at a group of people down the hall, watching with curious eyes. "This is a hospital, not a talk show."
Yeah, don't make too big of a scene or they'll put you up on the ninth floor. I probably belong there, though.
Once more, we file back into the room and Rose waves impatiently for Jasper to continue, tapping her foot on the floor.
"Emmett is blaming—"
"I'm not … look, I was worried, okay?" Emmett interrupts. "I'm still worried. You're hurt, Rosalie."
Her head tilts to the right as she peers at him through narrowed eyelids. "Well, I'm fine. Your father just got done telling me I'm okay. A minor concussion, a little bruising … nothing major."
"Yeah, no thanks to some people."
The entire room stills at Emmett's murmured words, and every eye turns on him, mine included. I want to look around, to see if everyone in the room shares his thoughts, but I keep my gaze locked on Emmett, unable to look away.
Beside me, Rose stiffens, and I can hear her teeth clicking together as she snaps her mouth closed. Seconds later, she's taking slow, deep breaths to calm herself down, but it's not working. From the corner of my eye, I can see her face turning extremely red, which can't be good for her injured state.
Emmett looks away from Rose's angry gaze, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his jeans with a huff.
"Look, I didn't—"
"I didn't do it on purpose," I snarl, feeling my face flame and my temper rise. I feel like I should record those words since I've had to say them so much.
Do people really think I wanted Rose to get injured? I would never want Rose or anyone else to be hurt in any way because of me; in fact, I would rather take on their pain tenfold, just so they would never feel any kind of agony. again.
Apparently, that's not the vibe I give off.
Rose grabs my left hand, and Jasper grabs my right, both of them squeezing tightly three times. Their silent I love you, something we've done since we kids, makes me a feel a little better—but not by much.
"You wanna say that again, Emmett?" Rose says, spitting his name out like a curse. He flinches, but remains silent, staring at me for longer than I'm comfortable with. It's only when he looks at Rose that I release the breath I've been holding.
"No," he mumbles, quickly averting his eyes back to the floor.
These Cullens can be scary, but Rose is scarier.
"It's already out there," Rose snaps, waving an impatient hand through the air. The longer he's silent, the redder her face gets. "Might as well let it out now. So do it."
The last three words are spit out through tight lips. Emmett remains silent until the words come tumbling from his lips.
"Bella shouldn't have antagonized him! If she would have left well enough al—"
"Stop right there," Rose warns with a glare and narrowed eyes.
"No, I'm going to speak. Royce is dangerous and Bella, you should have known that."
"I screwed up, I know. But you don't know him!" I explode, my voice too loud in the small room. Everyone winces, but I don't stop. "You don't know Royce and you sure as hell don't know what's happened between us in the past. You've been here a few months; Rose and I have put up him for years. Years, Emmett. He's had it out for Rose since freshman year and me since I kicked him in the balls because of what happened freshman year. Eventually, he would have done something."
"Do you know that? Really? You could have ignored him and maybe …" he trails off, shaking his head. "Rose got hurt because of this."
The unspoken words are clear.
Because of you.
A loud gasp fills the room, followed by a series of shallow shuddering of breathing. If someone doesn't help this person, I have a feeling they're going to pass out. It's only when I glance around at the concerned and alarmed expressions aimed at me, I realize I'm the person in need of help.
Several hands reach for me, but I push them away, resting my hands on my knees as I attempt to control the burning in my lungs as the room erupts in a fury of chaos around me.
Throbbing emits from my chest, and gently, I place a hand against my breastbone, trying to quell the pain. The agony I went through earlier, the pain still lingering within me from the attack is nothing compared to what I'm now feeling. I would gladly go through a hundred brawls with Royce than feel like this.
Emmett's words repeat in my head, and something inside of me snaps. Isn't this what I had thought earlier? Isn't this what I felt was true?
I could tell myself all day and night that I would never put my family at risk and have them hurt, but that's exactly what I did. I poked the bear, and Rose was caught in the crossfire.
The room fills with the angry shouts of Emmett's name, Rose's the loudest as she begins a tirade against him, but I can't hear any of it over the roaring in my ears and the pain thundering through my chest.
I back up towards the door blindly reaching for the handle. Jasper takes a step toward me, but firmly, I shake my head, telling him not to follow. He looks pained to do so, but he nods and turns back to Rose, placing a hand on her shoulder as he whispers to her.
It's a trademark move to soothe her, but the pissed off expression he's directing at Emmett tells me the action is more one of solidarity.
In my periphery, I see Edward coming closer toward me, but I give him a look, hopefully conveying that he's not welcome to follow me.
Slipping out of the room, I leave behind the angry voices and blindly rush through the hospital with blurry eyes, trying to put as much distance as I can between myself and the room I was in.
I ignore the curious stares from the people milling about; they're the least of my worries. I'm sure I look very delightful at the moment with the smattering of bruises and dried blood on my face, but I can't go back there.
My shoes squeak slightly against the linoleum as I run, but it's no louder than the constant, steady beeping coming from some of the rooms I pass.
Finally, I find a private alcove near an empty waiting area, and I lean against the wall, banging my head against it a few times. My head throbs in protest against the action, but I don't fight it.
I deserve it.
Emmett's words reverberate around my head, and my eyes cloud over with tears. Hot streaks of wetness pour down my cheeks, leaving a burning trail in their wake. I press the heels of my hands against my eyes, hoping to stop them, but if anything, they fall harder.
I bite my tongue until I taste blood to keep the sob threatening to erupt at bay. I've already made myself look like a careless tool tonight; I don't need to add sobbing, three-year-old to the list.
"Are you okay?"
With a gasp, I jump and jerk my head up, seeing a concerned-looking Edward standing in front of me essentially blocking any view of me if someone should walk by.
"I'm fine." I turn, facing the wall and hoping to dry the wetness on my cheeks and stop any future tears from escaping.
"Yeah, you look it."
The underlying sarcasm in his voice has me whipping around to face him again, not caring that I still have evidence of my crying fit on my face.
"What do you want?"
He studies me for a long moment, his head tilted slightly to the right, his eyes slightly narrowed and a confused look on his face. His staring is unnerving and quite frankly, makes me uncomfortable. Before I can tell him to leave, he speaks.
"You're crying," he says this with awe and astonishment, as if he can't believe I'm capable of human emotion. I guess I've done a better job of being a bitch than I thought.
"Contrary to what you and your brother believe, I'm not heartless," I snap, wiping my face free of moisture. It's useless, however. Whatever I wipe away, it comes back tenfold. "I have feelings, and I cry … and yes, I feel awful about what happened tonight. I don't need any more reminders. Excuse me," I push past him and head toward the first door I see, which brings to another smaller waiting room. I collapse in a chair nearest the door, allowing my head to fall backward.
I wish there was a switch so I could turn off my brain, but my mind continues to think over the events of this evening on a loop.
I should have done so many things differently. I should have paid attention to the area; I should have been cautious; I should have just left well enough alone, and I definitely shouldn't have antagonized Royce.
Would Rose ever forgive me for tonight? The thought of her being mad at me forever has me shaking; Rose is my cousin, my family, my friend. I can live without a lot of things, but I can't live without her. I can't be without my family.
I need to get back and face the music. The only way I'll know if she's truly mad at me is to go back and face her, like an adult.
Preparing myself to rise, I take in a deep breath and heave myself up. The hallway to my left will take me back to Rose's room, but I don't budge from the door. The thought of heading back there, of seeing the disappointment, the hurt, and possibly the anger toward me for my actions tonight has me freezing.
"May I be of assistance, Miss?" a man in a white coat says tiredly, but not unkind.
I barely hear him, my thoughts running rampant with the idea that Rose, and possibly Jasper now hate me. Has Emmett changed their minds about me? There's surely been enough time for him to do so … but would they? Would they see the truth in his words?
My chest heaves and I have to remind myself to take calm, steady breaths … but it's not working.
"Are you all right?" The doctor steps closer, a worried expression on his face. He's gazing at me worriedly, his eyes fixated on the bruises on my lip, no doubt wondering why I look so terrible.
Remembering the breathing practices my mother uses, I take in a huge breath and release it through my mouth while I nod to the unconvinced doctor.
"Yes," I tell him once I don't feel like I'm going to collapse. "It's just been a tough night."
He nods and starts to say something, but he's cut off by a high pitched cry coming from the right. Whoever it is, they're sobbing loudly, and it's echoing throughout the halls.
"Excuse me." The doctor rushes away as his cell phone goes off and unwillingly, I find myself walking to the right.
Hiding behind a pillar, I immediately find the source of the crying.
A woman with messy, light brown hair clutches her husband tightly, loudly crying into his chest. He holds her just as tight, his face and eyes red as he tries to control his emotions, but I can clearly see the wetness on his cheeks.
A doctor stands off to the side, a pained expression on her face. Her hair is in a messy bun, and her lips curved down in a deep frown, her eyes glassy.
"Mr. and Mrs. Tanner, I'm so very sorry for your loss—"
"Are you sure you can't save her?" The woman interrupts, her voice choppy and hoarse with an edge of hysteria. "Save her, please! Save her! Bring her back. Bring my baby back, please! My baby!"
The doctor shakes her head. "I'm sorry. Your daughter had already passed away by the time she reached the hospital. The amount of blood loss and trauma her body endured was severe."
The doctor's apology is drowned out by the woman's sobbing, only this time, she's joined by her husband who doesn't bother to hold in his emotions anymore. He clings to his wife, burying his face in her hair, slowly easing them onto the floor.
Together, they cling to one another and sob, their cries echoing off the walls. Their heads come together, their sorrow blending seamlessly, making it difficult to tell where one begins and the other ends.
"My baby," the woman sobs. "My baby! I want my daughter!"
Feeling terrible for intruding on this heartbreaking moment, I silently step away, feeling myself getting choked up. Once I'm far enough away, and in a private space, I release the tears I was holding back as I collapse against the wall, sliding down onto the floor.
I feel so sorry for these people. I don't know what happened to their daughter, but I know losing someone you love is never easy, no matter how you lose them. The only thing that's ringing through your head at that moment is that they're gone forever.
That could have been us tonight. Rose could have died.
A heaviness settles over me, and once more, I cry.
I cry for Rose; for the parents who just lost their daughter. I cry because the pain is too much.
More than one person walks by me, their pitying stares becoming too much.
I need air … I need to be somewhere else.
Jumping up, I wildly look around for an escape, and my breathing quickens when I find none. The edges of my vision start to darken, and I feel as if my arms and legs are being bound together by thick rope. Shaking the feeling off, I start walking, scanning the area around me for a door, and in my search, I run into another person and apologize profusely, putting as much space between this other person and me as I can.
"It's quite all right." The man pauses, his eyes scanning my face. "Are you okay, Miss? Do you need assistance?"
I shake my head, intent on continuing my search for a way outside, but change my mind once I see his medical scrubs and white coat.
"Actually, I need to get some air. It's been a tough night." I attempt a smile, but immediately regret it as my lip flairs in pain.
He stares at me for a few seconds before answering. "There's a small space up ahead on your left. Just be careful, please. This is a pretty safe area, but still, be cautious."
Ire rises within me for a brief moment. Does everyone know what a colossal screw up I am? Did someone make an announcement I missed or put something in the paper?
On my next breath, I realize he's not unkind, and the probability of him knowing what I did earlier is slim to none. Instead, he's just being nice, telling me to take care, probably something he would do for anyone. Nodding, I quickly bypass the grieving couple and head toward the door plastered with an exit sign, hoping the fresh air will calm my nerves. I push against the bar, throwing my weight into the sturdy door, and slowly walk out, observing my surroundings … because I need to do that more.
The area out here doesn't lead to a parking lot as I thought—or hoped—but instead leads into a small courtyard filled with various plants and a multitude of colorful flowers. Benches are strategically placed around a small fountain with a thin layer of algae covering the still water.
I take a seat on one of the benches, slightly gasping and jumping up as the cool metal seeps through my jeans. Slowly, I slide back until I'm fully seated and wrap my arms around myself as I shiver from the cold. Soon enough, my body gets used to the feeling.
Surrounded by silence, my mind has no choice but to drift to the events of the evening. I still have no answers to my questions and leaving them unanswered bugs me. I can probably get answers if I go see Rose, but quite frankly, I'm a little fearful she blames me too.
A part of me is telling me she would never do such a thing, but I can't read minds, so how can I be sure?
Blowing out a breath, I tilt my head back and see a cloudless sky full of stars.
The last time I had seen this many stars was when I was six. My parents took me camping during the summer, much to my displeasure. The temperature and weather conditions were perfect, and my parents were excited to be out in nature after the heavy rainfall from the week before.
I wasn't very fond of spending a night outdoors, but that was mostly due to the fact I had never done it before. Like any child, I was resistant to the idea and convinced it wouldn't be something I'd enjoy.
I grumbled the entire time, but my father promised me I would love it, or we would head home as quickly as possible. All I had to do was say the word, but I had to give it a fair shot first.
Promising to do just that, I kept my doubts mostly to myself and tried to enjoy myself, but I didn't really see the appeal of camping.
It wasn't until the sun was setting that I realized why my parents wanted to come out into the wilderness. We all collapsed in fabric chairs as we watched the sky change.
The sky faded from a brilliant blue to reds, pinks, and purples before changing into an inky gray, with the stars glittering like diamonds. I was breathless at the sight and stared at the sky the entire night, ignoring the chuckles of my parents as they huddled together under a blanket, watching the sky, much like I was.
Like all those years ago, a strong feeling of peace washes over me, and everything else melts away. I'm in the moment and ready to stay here forever.
Maybe we can go again. I'm sure we all could use a vacation. That is, if Rose and Jasper want anywhere near me.
The thought is sobering and has me frowning, a heaviness once again settling on my chest and in my stomach.
The feeling of someone's eyes on me quickly replaces my peace with unease. In a gut reaction, my head snaps to the left.
"You're getting a bell for Christmas," I grumble.
Edward's lips quirk in a small smile. "You're getting me something for Christmas?"
"It's better than what I was going to get you."
"Which was?"
"Not a damn thing."
"What do you know? We had the same idea." He gives a small laugh, and unable to help myself, I chuckle lowly. "I'm sorry," Edward says after a long moment. His voice is low and soft; if we weren't surrounded by silence, I never would have heard him. He steps toward me, his hands buried in his pockets, and his head tilts down slightly as he stares at his shoes. "I hope I didn't disturb you. Are you okay?"
I scoot up higher on the bench as he sits beside me. I wrap my arms around my knees, staring at my bruises. "Yeah, I'm fine."
He looks unconvinced, but I make no move to speak again and look at him head-on. As unbalanced as I feel, I know I'll start blathering and crying again soon, and I don't want to do that anymore. Especially in front of him.
"Rosalie is looking for you," he quietly says.
My throat tightens, and I go rigid, gripping my knees with a strength I wasn't sure I had. I'm tempted to ask him what mood she's in; whether she's looking to tell me to fuck off or if she's worried.
I don't want to ask, but I want to be prepared.
"I think it's best if I keep my distance; she's probably super pissed. Right?" I murmur, my heart galloping in my throat.
The biting pain from my bruised fingernails digging into my skin is nothing compared to the apprehension I feel as I wait for his rebuttal. When he delays in responding, I fear I have my answer.
"Bella—"
Not wanting to hear it, I scramble up and sway on my feet. Edward reaches out and grabs my arm, sliding his other arm around my waist, and in one effortless move, he pulls me into his side. Surprisingly, I don't feel the need to jerk away, as I have been all evening.
Instead, I feel comfortable … and safe.
My mouth goes dry at the thought, and despite the coolness of his skin, I flush with warmth from head to toe.
Softly, no louder than a whisper, he says my name. My eyes trail up from the collar of the charcoal gray Henley he's wearing to his slightly square chin, over her his pouty lips and pointed nose all the way up to his toffee-colored eyes.
I notice, with envy that his lashes are long and full, much more beautiful than my own, which in my opinion just isn't fair.
Edward swallows thickly when we're looking at one another, his lips parting the slightest bit as his breathing accelerates slightly. I shiver with each brush of his chest against mine and find myself pushing closer to him with each passing second.
"Bella," he says again, my name coming out in a breathy whisper.
My name has never sounded so good. Wow.
"We should go inside."
I blink, the words slowly comprehending in my head. Feeling foolish and freaked out by my lapse in judgment, I break away from him and head for the door.
Edward follows silently behind me, giving me a tight smile as he holds the door open for me. He places a hand on my back and leads me to Rose's room, much to my apprehension. We pass by a nurse's station and the older nurse at the desk smiles politely at me, but her expression brightens tenfold when she sees who's with me.
"Edward, how lovely to see you!"
I pause, watching as she shuffles over to us to kiss his cheek, making him smile in embarrassment. The woman chuckles with a fond expression.
"Hello, Gertrude. How are you?"
"I'm okay, dear, thank you. How are you? It's been so long since we've seen you … too long as a matter of fact!"
"I know, I'm sorry. Things have been … crazy."
"I understand," she replies, patting his arm. Then, her face takes on a look of excitement. Her hands pressed together in front of her chest as she gazes at him with sparkling, yet pleading eyes. "I noticed you're scheduled to sing at the Fall Festival for the children and Alzheimer's patients in a few weeks. Is that right or did my old eyes deceive me?"
My eyebrows shoot up so far I'm surprised they're not caught in my hair. Does Edward sing for the patients? I never would have guessed he would do such a thing.
Sure, he sang for Claire, but that was one child … something to help a sick girl relax while his father gave her medication to feel better. But this? This is something completely different.
"You're not old, Gertrude." She waves her hand dismissively, rolling her eyes, and he quietly continues, shooting a nervous look toward me. "Yes, I am."
It's obvious he doesn't want me to know this part about him, but Gertrude misconstrues his look and turns to me, beaming. Or maybe she simply wants to brag.
"Edward has done so much for the patients … and not just here either! I have a buddy who works at Forks General; he says he's done a lot there as well. He sings, reads stories, and brings them whatever they need to make their stay a little more tolerable … and he's so good with the children! Such a sweetheart," she gushes.
Edward looks away from both of us, rubbing the back of his neck and staring down at the floor.
"I'm sorry for embarrassing you, Edward. Hey, while I have you here, there's something I'd like to run by you—"she pauses, an apologetic look on her face as she glances at me. "If it's all right with you, of course?"
I nod and step back, eager for the delay. It'll give me some time to process everything I've learned about Edward, and ready myself for seeing my family again. "Go ahead. I'll be over here."
I point toward the wall filled with flyers. As I step back, I catch Edward's knowing expression but ignore it and study the wall.
Taped and pinned to corkboards are posters for reminders to get flu shots, to wash your hands and cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. By the empty nurses' station is a bulletin board with reminders for upcoming events: a sing-along, a Halloween party, costume parade and a picnic in the sunroom for children eligible to attend.
The far side of the board contains missing person's posters, some of them I've seen hanging around Forks and Port Angeles. They were most likely put up in case one of them is brought in, so their families and the police can be notified.
I recognize none of the faces, not that I expect to, considering they're all from the suburbs of Seattle or Port Angeles.
One face stands out the most, probably because she's the youngest and has been missing the longest.
Bree Tanner. Age 13. According to the paper, her birthday was yesterday.
The missing person's poster describes her having dark brown hair and eyes, a tan complexion and a sunny smile. The memo at the bottom of the paper is from the parents, begging for any news about their daughter.
It's so sad what's happening around here, and I can only hope that those missing will be found alive and unharmed—especially Bree. She needs to be with her family.
I pause, looking at the poster again.
Tanner. Didn't the doctor say, Mr. and Mrs. Tanner?
Could it be? Is this the same girl that belongs to the grieving couple?
I stare at her picture again and swallow thickly. It has to be. She has the same eyes as her mother and the same hair color as her father. My stomach churns as I think back to their devastated expressions, and the heart-wrenching wails her mother expressed ring through my head and grip my heart.
"Bella?"
I spin around, finding Edward standing behind me with a worried expression. Upon seeing my face, he reaches toward me, his hand gently sliding down my arm, cupping my elbow.
"What's wrong?" His eyes dart over my face, lingering on the bruises there. "Are you feeling sick? Dizzy?"
"No," I reply, shaking my head. The action makes my head throb a little more, but I don't dare say a word. Instead, I turn around, staring at Bree's poster. I want to say something; I want to tell him what I saw and the anger I feel for Bree's life being cut short.
But I don't. I can't seem to find the words. Instead, I place my hand on her picture and hope I was wrong; I hope it wasn't her parents I saw grieving for their child.
Deep down, however, I know I'm right.
Edward's grip tightens on my elbow and glancing over, I see a mixture of emotions on his face as he stares at Bree's picture.
Anger. Pain. Sadness.
These emotions fly over his face so rapidly I have a hard time keeping up with them at first, but the longer I stare, the more obvious they become.
They should be, after all. They're the same things I'm feeling for her. How can someone be so heartless toward this girl? What had she done to deserve such a fate?
Nothing, in my mind. There's nothing she could have done to warrant this and I can only hope the person or people responsible will pay.
Painfully.
Stepping back, I allow my hand to drop.
"We should get—"
"You volunteer, huh?" I question, interrupting him. I take a seat in the small waiting area. Edward follows but doesn't sit. He stands in front of me, gazing down with a pensive expression.
I raise an eyebrow at his silence, and after a few moments, he sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair collapsing in the seat next to me.
"Yeah, I volunteer. It … helps them. Takes their minds off their worries and troubles. I can't do much else; I've tried though, but it never seems to be enough. Either that or it doesn't help. Singing, reading, entertaining or just being there, that helps … and it's enough … for now. Until I can think of something to help them all."
"It sounds like you're going to follow in your dad's footsteps."
"I am," he nods firmly.
I have to say, I'm impressed. I never thought Edward would be so kind and want to help people. Then again, he's nice to everyone but me, and as a result, we haven't had any heart to heart conversations.
Edward's arm bumps mine. "Don't be so surprised. Like you, I'm not heartless."
His words bring forth everything I've been trying to forget. A heaviness settles on my chest, and I gently rub at it, hoping it'll go away.
"I didn't mean anything by it, you know," he softly says, kneeling in front of me. His hands reach for me, but he hesitates, curling them around his knees. "I'm sorry for upsetting you … multiple times this evening. Earlier, after; anyway, I wasn't blaming you for what happened. I was just … trying to tell you to be careful, should there be a next time. I have a hard time with my words and tone sometimes, especially around you. I think it's your superpower or something."
Unable to help myself, I smile, and Edward returns the gesture before it falls into a serious one once more.
"And as for you crying … well," he pauses, seemingly thinking over his words. "You always look so strong and willful—"
"You mean, I'm a bitch."
It doesn't bother me that he thinks I'm a bitch, but thinking I'm uncaring and unfeeling? That is something that pisses me off.
He smiles, shaking his head at my interruption. "You can be that too," he teases. "But no. I mean confident. It seems nothing ever upsets you. I've seen you happy and pissed off, but never sad. I just figured nothing ever fazed you that way. I guess I figured you were heartless and didn't feel things like sadness. I'm naïve in thinking that way, I know, but you're … difficult to read."
I smirk but quickly mask it. A part of me is glad he seems so upset by me being hard to understand, while another part of me understands him a little bit better. It seems we've both made assumptions about each other that were based on isolated incidents and feelings in the heat of the moment.
"I'm sorry, Bella. I never meant to imply or infer that you were responsible for what happened because you're not. The fault lies on Royce alone. Do you forgive my transgression?"
Unable to help myself, I smirk and shake my head at his formal tone and words. While the apology is warranted, he doesn't need to act like I'm royalty. A simple "I'm sorry, I screwed up," would be just fine.
"What?" He questions, a mixture of curiosity and annoyance.
"You're so formal sometimes."
He rolls his eyes. "It's an apology; they're supposed to be somewhat formal when you're trying to make amends for something you did wrong. So, are you going to accept it or not?"
"Does it matter?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
There's a heavy moment of silence before he speaks. "One, because I was wrong and I want you to know that. Two … because my mother would never forgive me if she found out. She raised me to be a gentleman, and honestly, she frightens me."
The complete honesty in his words makes me laugh. From what I've seen from Emmett getting in trouble, I can imagine that an angry Esme is a sight to see, and definitely, something you should fear.
"Can I think about it until I get a translator or a dictionary? You know, so I can put it in normal words?" I tease. "I want to be sure you're actually apologizing and not insulting me in fancy speak."
He turns his head, but I can see the smile on his face very clearly. After counting to twenty in my head, I speak. "I forgive you. I'm shocked that you've apologized to me again, but I forgive you."
"I've never had to apologize so much in my entire existence."
I snort lightly. "Why? Because you're never wrong?"
"No. Normally, I can read people quite easily. I know what to say and how to say it, but you—" he pauses, an uncomfortable look crossing his features. Clearing his throat, he shifts his body away from me, looking down at his hands before murmuring.
"We should go. Rosalie and Jasper are quite worried about you."
Glancing at him, I try to gauge whether he's lying or if he's being truthful. There's nothing but honesty in his expression, but can I trust him? He's been pleasant and nice one minute, and then scary and hostile the next. With mood changes that severe, I'm not sure I can trust him.
He turns his body fully toward me, looking me straight in the eye. It's a little unnerving and uncomfortable, but at the same time, it's also oddly comforting.
I might have a concussion after all. Geez, these feelings are all over the place.
"Bella, I'm telling you the truth; Rosalie and Jasper are worried. Especially so when you left so suddenly." His lips twitch as he continues. "In fact, I wish you would have stayed. Rosalie was rather vocal toward my brother when she learned you had left. She was not pleased with what he had said and managed to tell him off very forcefully. It was quite a sight … and deserved, I might add."
The image of Rose tearing Emmett a new one and the slight relief I feel at his words has me laughing. After experiencing Rose's temper, I know she has the wrath of a pissed-off bear waking up in the winter. Once she gets started, she doesn't stop until she's done.
"I promise, she's not upset. Come." He stands, offering a hand toward me. With a shaky exhale, I place my hand in his and allow him to pull me up and guide me back toward Rose's room.
I linger outside, my hand rising to push the door open, only to drop it back down seconds later. Edward stands surprisingly patient and quiet at my side, watching me act like a total spaz. On the plus side, however, my arm is getting a workout, so that's a plus.
Frustrated at my own crazy behavior, I sigh heavily and quickly escape to the nurses' station four feet away. Leaning against the desk, I bite my sore lip and dig my sensitive fingernails into the flesh of my palms, hoping maybe with the pain will replace the uncertainty and nervousness I feel.
Very softly, Edward pries my fingers away from my flesh, his soothing the red marks there. He pulls me away from the curious nurse and stands next to me, his chest brushing against my arm with every inhale.
"Everything will be fine," he softly says, reassuring.
I scoff, unable to help myself. "You can't know that. With all due respect, you haven't given me much reason to—"
"I don't care!" I hear Rose shout from within her room. She sounds worried and almost desperate. "Find her, Jasper! I want her here. I need to see her, so find her!"
A nurse rushes past me and into Rose's room before she's done yelling and I manage to catch a quick glimpse of her before the door shuts. Her eyes are wide, and her face is a blotchy red. Jasper stands behind her, one hand on her shoulder as he speaks to her.
The heaviness in my chest comes back, but for a different reason. I haven't seen Rose look so upset since her parents died ten years ago.
Just one more thing I've done to her tonight.
Edward's head tilts to the side as he watches my face carefully. "Do you believe me now?"
In a jerky motion, I nod. "Yeah, let's go before they sedate her."
I push off the wall but immediately stagger backward as a wave of dizziness washes over me. Edward slides a hand over my elbow, the other hand settling on my waist.
"Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. I think I just moved too fast. I got a little dizzy."
"Hold on."
He holds his hands in front of me before spinning around and heading toward the nurse's station, ducking behind the desk and rummaging around. My eyebrows rise as I look around for the nurse who was there.
A few seconds later, Edward comes back and thrusts it into my hands, his fingers trailing slowly across my wrist. In my hands is a cold, somewhat pliable paper container.
A juice box.
I raise an eyebrow in question, shaking the little green box lightly.
He sheepishly smiles, shrugging a shoulder. "Normally, juice, water, and sodas are kept at the nurses' station in case of emergencies. You needed something to drink, preferably with sugar."
I'm impressed by his medical knowledge, but then again, I shouldn't be. From what I've learned, it seems Edward spends a lot of time at hospitals. Plus, with his doctor father, I'm sure he's picked up more than enough interesting facts.
I quietly thank him and open the juice, taking small sips. Slowly, I start to feel a little bit better. It's not anything drastic; I'm not going to break out in song and dance in the hallway, but I do feel more centered than before.
Once I finish the juice, he takes the empty container and throws it in a nearby trashcan, carefully watching me.
"Feel better?"
"Yeah, thanks."
I'm not sure what to say now. What do I say after everything that's happened? I'm not even sure what has happened. Never in a million years did I think Edward would be nice to me. In all honesty, I expected Alice to come find me, not him.
We stand in awkward silence, me leaning against the wall and tapping my foot against the floor and Edward with his hands shoved in the pockets of his dirty jeans. Our eyes meet each other's sporadically, before quickly looking away at something else.
I feel ridiculous, and a little bit pissed at myself. I shouldn't be at a loss for words. That's never been me; then again, tonight has been a strange night. Finally, I decide to speak.
Unfortunately, Edward has the same idea.
"Well, I—"
"How do—"
We both pause, and I wave him ahead, indicating he should speak first.
"How do you feel? Your bruises, I mean."
My fingers gently brush the discolored flesh. The skin around my throat is quite sensitive, and I wince against the gentle touch, immediately pulling my hand away.
To my surprise, Edward's finger gently follows the same path, just barely grazing the skin there.
Air gets caught in my throat, and I make a low, gasping, hiccupping sound. For a brief moment, my entire body stands on end, alert, and ready to fight. As quickly as it comes, the feeling is replaced by heat flying through my system.
The sensation isn't new to me. I've felt attraction to more than a few guys, but never to this extreme. The hormones now soaring throughout my body want me to throw myself at him.
Why him? Why Edward? What the hell is happening to me? Is it because I know he hates me? Because I know nothing will ever happen, so it's something I want the most.
In order to regain my composure, I straighten my shoulders and look at him squarely.
"I'll survive."
"You will."
I'm about to ask him what the hell is happening between us when Rose's worried voice meets my ears. I grimace slightly and take in a deep breath readying myself to go inside.
Feeling really awkward, I have no idea what to do now. Do I thank him for his support? For staying with me? Do I say goodbye? Does he even want me to?
I hate how I'm second-guessing myself now that he's been nice to me; something, I'm sure won't last. Call it pessimism or a gut feeling, I just somehow know this streak of niceness won't carry on into a new day.
Still, I feel like I should say something, so I give a sorry excuse for a wave and smile, mumbling my thanks for what he's done for me this evening.
He smiles and chuckles with a nod, shoving his hands in his pockets as he takes a step back. Suddenly, his head snaps to the left and swallows audibly, his eyes widening. I don't get a chance to see what has him looking so worried, as the door in front of me is yanked open, and a familiar gasp can be heard.
A firm hand grabs ahold of my wrist and yanks me forward into a familiar pair of arms. I gasp, seeing Jasper's amused, yet worried face standing a foot away while Rose squeezes me tightly.
"There's nothing wrong with your reflexes," I rush out in one breath.
"Rosalie, why don't you let Bella breathe?" Jasper suggests, but he's ignored as Rose keeps her stronghold on me.
"I was so worried! No one could find you, and you just left without a word," she says, pulling back and looking me in the eye. "You had me scared to death! Do you know the thoughts running through my head, huh? Do you?"
"I'm sorry," I tell her, pouring every ounce of geniality and sincerity in my words. "I just … couldn't stay."
She nods with a grimace of sympathy before it changes into one of anger. "You don't believe that crap about what was said tonight, right? That it was your fault?"
I shrug because honestly, in my heart, I feel like it was. At least in a way.
I know I'm not responsible for Royce's actions. I can't predict human behavior, and I definitely can't control what they say or do. However, Emmett and Edward both had valid points. I didn't have to antagonize him repeatedly, and I could have paid more attention to my surroundings.
Not only for Royce but for what's been happening around town. How many posters of missing people have I seen? How many times have I been told to be vigilant?
Not enough, apparently.
"Listen, I'm going to tell you the same thing I told Emmett—"
"Told?" Jasper scoffs with a hint of amusement on his face. "More like screamed."
Rose shrugs with a satisfied smirk. "Anyway, like I screamed at him—"
Holding up a hand, I stop her rant and tell her my thoughts on the matter. By the time I'm done, her lips are twisted so far to the side I'm surprised her jaw hasn't dislocated.
After a moment, she takes in a deep breath and leads us over to the hospital bed. Jasper stands on my other side, placing a hand on my shoulder while Rose takes my hands, squeezing them lightly.
"I understand what you're saying. I do. But let me tell you something: it wasn't your fault," she says, firmly punctuating the last four words, squeezing my hands. "Royce would have come after us no matter what you did or didn't do. He's always hated me and essentially you, for the aftermath of what happened freshman year. As for not being vigilant, well, then I guess I'll take the blame on that one too. I wasn't aware of our surroundings. I didn't look for anyone or anything suspicious. You didn't drag me toward that darkened alley kicking and screaming; I went willingly. It wasn't your fault." She pauses, taking a deep breath. "What Emmett implied … what Edward said, they were wrong. They were victim-blaming, and that's not okay. Did you make mistakes? Did we both make mistakes? Yes. We're human, but what happened tonight was not our fault."
Beside me, Jasper squeezes my shoulder. "Rose is right. You're not at fault. Royce is."
Sighing heavily, I lean against Rose, feeling lighter. I hadn't realized just how much I was relying on their support until now. Yes, I wanted their support and forgiveness, but to know I have it is something else altogether.
Rose chuckles, squeezing me tightly running a hand over my hair. "You weren't really worried I'd be angry and never forgive you, were you?"
My silence answers her question, and she clicks her tongue against the roof of her mouth, her fingers still combing through my hair. "You're silly," she murmurs.
Releasing a heavy sigh, I allow Jasper to maneuver us over to the hospital bed, where we both sit, still clutching one another. Jasper sits on my other side, wrapping an arm around both of us.
In the silence of the room, my thoughts start to wander back to the events of the night, and in an effort to distract myself, I recall Rose's words about telling Emmett off. I voice my thoughts to no one in particular, knowing one of them will answer.
"Oh, you should have seen it!" Jasper exclaims, with a snicker. "It was epic! Rose tore Emmett a new one. I should have recorded it. Anyway, she screamed that he was the biggest jerk in the world because he was putting on the blame on you, making Rose look like a helpless maiden in need of rescue and not being pissed at Royce. He argued, of course, but Rose shut him down so fast. She told him if he was blaming Royce, then he wouldn't have implied what he did about you. Then, she proceeded to tell him—in depth—what, and I quote, an idiotic asshole he is for blaming the victim when he should be helping you. Then, she started in on Edward, telling him he was no better and that she had heard what he said outside of the alley."
I laugh and look at Rose, who looks mighty pleased with herself. She straightens herself with the hand not wrapped around my arm and rubs her knuckles on her shirt, before blowing on them. "I'm good, huh? Making two of the Cullens afraid? Everyone else is so skittish around them."
She rolls her eyes and shakes her head, mumbling something under her breath, but it's lost underneath Jasper's excited and awe sounding tone. "True, but when Mrs. Cullen started in on them? Ooh." He fakes a wince, though a smile is still on his face. "She made them both tuck their tails between their legs. Said if they didn't apologize, then there would be hell to pay. To be honest, I was a little scared of her and prepared to apologize, too, until I realized she wasn't talking to me."
I laugh, but it fades quickly. "Did they? Apologize, I mean."
"Yeah," Rose answers. "Edward explained he wasn't trying to blame you. It just came out wrong. He seemed genuine. As for Emmett … I'm not accepting his apology anytime soon or his attempt to make things better. Honestly, there's nothing he can do to make it better. I mean, he blamed you. I don't know how he could blame you. It wasn't even your fault!"
Well, I have to agree to disagree on that one, Rose.
"Did they come to find you?" Jasper asks, breaking me from my thoughts. "They both left pretty quickly after that."
In a low voice, I tell them I spoke to Edward, finally realizing why he had come to find me. Earlier he did say his mother could be scary and he would do anything for her. Is that what his apology was? Was he doing it for his mother? Did he mean it?
As much as I would like to say he didn't mean it and was only apologizing to get his mother off his back, I know it's not true. Edward has apologized before, and he did seem completely and entirely genuine when he explained the misunderstanding about his tone and his subsequent regret for everything.
"Edward apologized?" Rose says, looking impressed. From my right, even Jasper looks awestruck and very pleased. "Good. I mean, I didn't think he would, but good. At least there's more than one brain in that family. Too bad Emmett got the short stick."
Her last words are mumbled, but I hear them loud and clear. I wonder why she cares so much about Emmett's reaction. She's made it clear in the past she's not very fond of him, so why is she obsessing over this?
Before I can ask, Rose leans forward, looking at Jasper.
"When can we get out of here? I want to go home."
"As soon as Uncle Charlie and Aunt Renee come back. I don't know what's taking them so long, though."
"Is my Bella in there?"
Speak of the devil.
Turning, I search out my mother and hug her tightly as soon as she's in reach. She holds me close, running a hand over my hair and periodically kissing my temples. Dad cautiously steps into my line of vision, obviously having been let in on my behavior tonight.
I smile over Mom's shoulder and hold out a hand to him. Softly, he takes it, rubbing his thumb over my bruised nails with a frown. Sensing my stare, he looks up and gives a tense smile, slowly leaning forward and kissing my head.
"Hey, kiddo."
"Hey, Dad."
Mom pulls away, sniffling loudly as she steps back, looking at the three of us, her eyes glassy.
"Oh, my babies! I was so worried. I hope that piece of trash rots in hell. He better hope I never get a hold of him," she spits. Dad places a hand on her shoulder, and she closes her eyes, taking a couple of deep breaths. "Carlisle assured me you're both okay," she says, though it sounds like she's mostly talking to herself. "He's coming home with us to watch over you, and you're going to be fine."
"Of course we are," Rose soothes. "We'll be back to normal in no time."
"You will," Mom replies with a firm nod. She turns, her gaze landing on Dr. C immediately. "When can I take my babies home?"
"I have the discharge paperwork right here," he tells her, handing over a stack of papers. "I'll follow you in my car."
We all breathe a sigh of relief. I'm sure everyone wants this night to be over with and going home to get some rest is the start.
With a relieved nod, Rose rushes out of the room and looks both ways as she saunters out into the hallway. Jasper and I follow behind, giving her questioning looks as she huffs, crossing her arms over her chest.
Alice steps up beside her, ignoring her untrusting glance and murmurs something to her. Rose's face pinches up, her jaw going taut. She says something in response and stalks off, muttering under her breath.
"What was that about?" Jasper asks Alice.
She brushes off his comforting words with a smile, waving toward Rose, standing at the end of the hall.
"It's fine. You should go to her and see if she's okay."
He smiles in thanks and takes off after her. I start to follow, but the combination of a timid Alice sliding next to me and my dad's voice stops me.
"I'm sorry we had to see each other under these circumstances, Esme."
Esme places her hand in his outstretched one, squeezing briefly. "I am as well."
He says his goodbyes and walks over to me with a tired look on his face. Mom is talking to Dr. C quietly in the corner.
"Nice to see you, sir," Alice says, her voice more subdued than I've heard in a while. The last time I heard her sound so down was when I accused her of using me to get to Jasper.
"It's nice to see you too, Alice. You're a good friend to come with Bella and Rosalie to the hospital."
His words make me wonder when he had seen Alice.
"I wouldn't be anywhere else, sir. Bella is my best friend, and Rosalie is … important to her."
My dad huffs a knowing laugh. He knows Rose hasn't warmed up to her, and it'll be a while before she does.
"Have you met before?" I question, thinking over their choice of words. When would they have met?
"We met when we first moved to town," Alice answers without missing a beat. "I was with my parents when he came by."
Dad nods but doesn't look pleased with my question. Thinking over it, I realize it did sound a little rude and quietly murmur an apology.
He squeezes my shoulder and smiles, telling me my apology is accepted and heads to my mother, who is talking to Esme and Dr. C.
"Maybe we can all get together sometime soon," my mother offers. "It would be so nice to erase this horrible night."
"Yes, definitely," Esme replies. "Soon, if that's all right. I'll be by, and we'll set something up then."
With a bright smile, Mom nods and hugs Esme, who returns the gesture whole-heartedly. She murmurs something in my mother's ear that has her nodding and wiping away tears before turning to my father, who is thanking Dr. C.
"Thanks for doing this, Carlisle. You have no idea how much I appreciate it."
"No need for thanks," Dr. C replies. "I'm happy to do it for you, old friend."
Dad smiles, gratefully. "Let's get going," Dad loudly says, gaining Mom's attention. "We're all tired and run-down. Who are you riding with, Bella? Me or Jasper?"
I wonder about Rose's car, but Jasper says it's already in the parking lot. Apparently, he had followed us in Rose's car when we were taken to the hospital.
"I'll ride with Jasper."
Mom and Dad nod simultaneously and give us a quick hug. I whisper an apology to Mom, feeling bad that her date night was interrupted. She merely rolls her eyes and shakes her head, moving on to Jasper before leading us out into the hall.
Jasper and I exchange goodbyes and a "thank you" with the Cullens.
"No problem at all," Esme says with a soft smile. "I'll see you later."
Nodding, I head down the hall toward Rose, giving Jasper some privacy as he speaks with Alice.
Rose leans against the wall, her cell phone in hand and her thumbs furiously gliding over the screen. Her face is pinched up in anger, and it makes me wonder what she's typing and who she's typing it to. With a satisfied smirk, she hits the screen once more before pocketing her phone.
"Ready? Where's Jasper?"
"Saying goodbye to Alice."
She frowns, her lips pursed tightly together, but she says nothing. Crossing her arms over her chest, she taps her foot against the floor, her eyes glued to the back of Jasper's head.
He looks over his shoulder multiple times as he converses with Alice, his eyebrows becoming more pinched each time he does. I nudge Rose's side, silently telling her to cool off, but she merely huffs and goes back to her staring.
"Finally," she mutters as Jasper walks over, car keys in hand.
"Everything okay?" he questions, looking intently at his sister.
"Fine. Let's go."
He looks as if he's going to question her further about it, but shakes his head a second later, changing his mind.
Outside, Mom and Dad are talking with Edward and Emmett, the latter wearing a very serious expression on his face. He nods at whatever Dad is telling them before walking away. I meet Edward's gaze for a moment, my lips quirking as he gives me a light wave. I wave in response, looking over his shoulder at Emmett's piercing gaze.
Instead of him staring at me, however, he's looking at Rose. His eyes are saddened, his lips pulled into a pout. Rose is studiously ignoring him, keeping her eyes focused on my parents.
"What was that about?"
Dad raises an eyebrow at Rose's tone but doesn't correct her. "Just having a word with them. Nothing for you to be concerned about."
She starts to argue but is cut off by Mom. "Who are you riding with Rosalie?"
"I'll ride with you two."
Mom seems pleased and climbs into the backseat of the car next to her. Rose falls into her side, and Mom doesn't hesitate to wrap her arms around her, holding her close.
Dad steps up, placing a hand on each of our shoulders. "I'll meet you two at home. Be careful, okay?"
"Of course, Uncle Charlie," Jasper answers, a serious look on his face.
Dad nods once, kissing my forehead and clapping Jasper on the shoulder.
"You doin', okay? Do you need help getting inside? Are you too fragile to do it yourself?" Jasper questions with a slight smirk. Despite the humor in his eyes, I can see worry there too.
"Yes." I sigh dramatically and fall into him, forcing him to hold me upright. I look up at him and place a hand on my forehead. "I'm so weak. Help me."
Jasper rolls his eyes and chuckles, but instead of pushing me away like I thought he would, he slings an arm around my shoulder, escorting me to the car. I eye him curiously, which he responds to with a raised eyebrow.
"What? I just want to be sure you're okay. Tonight—"he blows out a breath, looking down at the ground momentarily before continuing. "Tonight was scary. I just—"
He shrugs and looks away, rubbing the back of his neck as he stars off into the distance. A strong feeling washes over me, laced with emotions that are too heavy for me to put a name on. It's a strange combination of wanting to cry and laugh at the same time.
Jasper looks back at me with a tense smile, his eyes slightly glassy and pulls me into a hug. I hug him back just as tightly, silently telling him that I'm here and I'm okay.
Giving me one last squeeze he pulls back with a smile, looking much lighter than he did a few moments prior.
Wanting to ease the tension, I blurt out the first thing that comes to mind. "Were you this emotional with Rose?"
He laughs, nodding. "Yeah. She had to endure it, and so do you. Don't worry, though. My emotional moment is over."
"Thank goodness," I tease.
He rolls his eyes, motioning toward the car. "Let's go."
A minute later, we're on the road, heading home. The car is quiet, except for the soft music playing on the radio.
"I'm sorry," he says after a moment, remorse heavy in his tone.
I look over at him with confusion. "About what?"
"For tonight. For not being there. We were supposed to be together, and I bailed on you."
Rolling my eyes, I wave away his apology. In my eyes, he's done nothing wrong. If we're placing blame on people, it should be on Royce … and me.
While I know I'm not at fault for what happened, guilt is anchored around my ankles like an iron ball. There's so much I could have done differently. Now, all I can do is make sure I don't make the same mistakes again.
"You have nothing to be sorry about."
He scoffs and I turn as much as I can, clicking on the overhead light and raising an eyebrow in question. "Okay. Tell me then, why do you have to be sorry?"
"I told you, I bailed on you."
I have a feeling there's something more to this than what he's telling me, but I doubt I'd get it out of him. His lips are pinched together, a thin white line where his lips should be. I know that move is both physical and metaphorical.
"It's not your fault. I doubt there was anything you could have done, Jasper. Royce he was … different. He was definitely on something. You know Rose and I can take care of ourselves, but he was juiced up on something. If you had been there, you would have gotten hurt too, because he would have taken you out first."
He shrugs, not taking his eyes off the road. "You don't know that."
"Just like you don't know you could have done anything if you were there."
He groans at my reasoning but doesn't say anything else. We lapse into silence and minutes later, just when I'm about to fall asleep, he speaks.
"I'm sorry you two got hurt."
Reaching over, I pat his arm. "We'll be okay … as long as I don't screw up again."
He gives me a sharp look. "Is this about what Emmett and Edward said? Because …."
"No, no. I just …" I shrug, pausing for a moment. "I do feel guilty … and I get what Rose said, I do. I know Royce would have done something anyway, but I still feel like I should have been more vigilant."
Jasper reaches over, squeezing my forearm briefly before returning his hand to the wheel. "You need to get past this, Bella. It's not your fault."
I nod, knowing what he's saying is true. Still, I can't help but feel guilty, and I know the feeling won't go away easily.
The question now is, what can I do to make sure something like this never happens again?
The answer is clear: I'm going to be more careful and cautious, especially with people who are close to me. This, tonight, won't happen again if I can help it.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter!
I also want to give you a heads up; things in life are stressful right now, so I'm not entirely sure I'll be able to update next week. I'll try my absolute best to post next Wednesday, but I won't promise anything.