Edward's point of View
It's been nearly 3 months, since Emmett and Rose left. They kept in contact; it was usually Rose that would call each day – around midnight. She was very cryptic with the details of where they were and when they would return. But I couldn't care less. The further Emmett was from Bella, the better I felt. I never thought of myself as a jealous man in the past – but clearly, I could no longer hold up that pretense. However, I knew, as much as it may pain me, if Bella was to choose Emmett, I would have no choice but to let her be happy. Her happiness mattered more than anything else. I just hope that it will be me, that will make her happy. No one else.
Tonight, was different, it wasn't Rose calling, it was Emmett. Carlisle and Esme still haven't returned from their vacation, but they were caught up to speed on what was going on. They had been tempted to return home – to support Rose and Bella. Carlisle and Esme were very opened minded and accepting people. They understood Rose's point of view and Bella's. But they decided to remain on their vacation and stay neutral.
Emmett knew better than to call me, he knew that I wouldn't answer him. I didn't want to talk to him, see him, or even think about him. As long has he harbored feelings for Bella – he would be my enemy. Instead, he called Alice. Out of everyone, Alice showed him the most understanding. She had seen a vision of this happening after all, she could see something in this situation that no one else could. Perhaps that's how she was able to accept his mistake.
The phone was buzzing in her hand, but she paused as Jasper and I moved closer. I wanted to know everything Emmett had to say. There was no such thing as a private conversation in this house. However, I didn't want Bella hearing what was about to be said. I had sent her out into the woods to start hunting. I told her that I would be right behind her and that wasn't a lie. I just needed to hear this phone call, then I would return to her side as soon as possible.
It was pure agony being away from her, even for a second. I've waited, a very long time, for her. It was worth all the loneliness and solitude. Now my life was filled with purpose. And that purpose was to keep Bella safe, I would protect her with my life.
Alice answered the phone with a cheerful tone. "Cullen residence, Alice speaking."
Emmett's annoying laugh was the first thing that we heard, along with a sad sigh in the background. I suppose Rose must be in the same room as Emmett at this time. Although, it didn't sound like she was enthused.
"Is Bella around to chat?" Emmett asked casually.
I closed my jaw tightly together to hold back a growl, but it still managed to slid through my teeth. Jasper noticed and began to hit me with waves of calmness. I allowed the feeling to embrace me – I wanted to remain calm. But any mention of Emmett being close to Bella, sent me over the edge.
"Afraid not, she is out hunting." Alice said throwing me a look.
"That's too bad, I wanted to deliver the good news to her directly." Emmett said with a huff. I could tell just by his voice that whatever he wanted to say was incredibly stressful. I could hear the grit and strain in his tone.
"What's the good news Emmett?"
"Rose and I have decided to get a divorce." His tone now sounded full of sorrow. I didn't see this coming. Neither did Alice. This news didn't thrill either one of us. We could hear Rose's sobbing in the background. I don't know how they decided on this, but it sounded like both of them were heart-broken.
"Emmett that is awful news. How did the two of you reach this – as the answer to your problems?" Alice said with a frown coming to her face. "This can't really end from one kiss, could it?"
"It isn't because of the kiss Alice. We opened up and talked about some things that we have been avoiding to talk about for a long time. It's clear that we just don't really know each other. Let's just say, I wasn't the only guilty one in this relationship." Emmett said quietly.
Alice, Jasper and I exchanged looks.
I wasn't sure what Emmett meant by that. I've never heard any thoughts from Rose – about an affair on her part. There is no way should would be able to hide something like that from me. And I know for a fact that Alice hasn't had a vision of something like that happening.
"What? You can't be serious Emmett, are you telling me that Rose cheated on you in the past?"
"That's what she just admitted. It was a very long time ago – when our relationship had been new. But it has crossed her mind to do it on occasion."
"And you really think the two of you can't work through this?" Jasper spoke up – raising a brow. "I know that the two of you had ups and downs, but your feelings for one another was always... passionate."
"A relationship should mean more than sex. That's all I see, when I look at her. And that's all she sees when she looks at me. I don't think either one of us was ever in love. It was raw physical attraction." Emmett muttered.
"That's not true Emmett, I promise, I really did love you, more than anything. I still do... it's just..." Rose said quickly in the background. But Emmett didn't appear to respond to her words, instead he interrupted her.
"Anyway, I guess Rose will be heading back to Forks soon. Just make sure she doesn't try to blame Bella for this. Bella opened our eyes – she isn't the cause." Emmett said softly.
"I won't let anything happen to Bella; you don't have to worry about that." I said, attempting to sound calm. But I could feel jealousy knotting up in my stomach.
Emmett snorted. "Of course, you would say that. Consider yourself lucky that I'm not coming back home yet. If I did, I think both of us already know that Bella would choose me."
Alice was quick to get the topic back on track. "When are you coming home Emmett? Why aren't you coming back with Rose?"
"I need some time to myself. Bella deserves me at my very best. Right now, I'm really... lost. I don't know who I am. I don't know what I want. My marriage has just ended, I need time and space to figure everything out. I'll be home as soon as I can. Tell her to wait for me."
That wasn't going to happen.
"Emmett, I'm really proud that you don't want to jump right into another serious relationship, but it isn't fair to ask Bella to wait until you are ready to start dating again." Alice said with a sigh.
"I know, I'm selfish, but please do this for me Alice."
Alice bit her lip, glancing over to me now. With one look at my expression, she turned back to her phone. "Alright Emmett,"
Alice knew that I wasn't going to allow her to say anything. In truth Bella and I had already taken a step forward in our relationship. We haven't put words to what we were right now, but the fact remains – we were together. We were taking things slow, getting to really know each other. We were rarely separated. I would have rubbed that into Emmett's face, but I was afraid if I mentioned it to him, he would return home sooner and get in between our happiness.
I wouldn't allow that. I just found the love of my life; I would do anything it took to keep her to myself. For as long as possible.
"Thanks, it will be a while before I'll call again. I'm going to start traveling around. I'll check in periodically." He said with a bit lighter of a tone.
"Alright, be careful and make sure you update Carlisle and Esme, they are pretty worried about the both of you." Alice said with a heavy sigh.
"Alright shortie, talk to you later." With that Emmett hung up.
"Well, this is an interesting development." Jasper said looking between Alice and I – he appeared to be amused by all of this. But I failed to see the humor. Emmett and Rose always had this strong relationship that I had envied. Not because it was Rose – she held no appeal to me. But just the fact that they had each other, they were always together. I had thought their relationship was solid. But all it took was a simple kiss – to ruin everything.
"Don't breathe a word to Bella about any of this." I hissed to them both.
Alice put her hands on her hips, narrowing her eyes at me slightly. "What do you think Bella is going to think when Rose returns without Emmett? She is going to instantly blame herself."
Jasper nodded slightly. "She is right Edward, why don't you put your trust in Bella? Be open with her, if she chooses to wait for Emmett... then I guess you know where you stand."
"I'll figure something out, just let me talk with her." I said pinched the bridge of my nose. I breathed in and out slowly – trying to collect my thoughts.
"Talk with me about what?" A soft voice called out to me.
I slowly turned to see Bella standing in the doorway. Her eyes captured me, I felt completely powerless in front of her. She didn't even know how irresistible she was. It's best if she doesn't realize it – I would become a slave to her every whim.
"Bella - I thought that you were going to wait for me, you haven't finished hunting yet, have you?" I eyed her carefully. There wasn't even one drop of blood on her clothing, that suggested that she hasn't even started yet. As much as she tried, Bella couldn't manage staying clean after a hunt. She has gotten much better, at least her clothing was staying intact now.
"Well, I was waiting – but I got worried." She said moving to my side. I felt her hand slid into mine. "Is there something you wanted to tell me? You all look a little tense."
She was so observant, even for a vampire she had such sharp senses. It really impressed me. She could easily see-through pretenses. It was useless to try lying, I knew that she wouldn't be fooled.
"Well, Emmett called with an update." I started sheepishly. I was afraid to make eye contact. I was worried that I would end up seeing hope in her eyes. I didn't know if Bella still held some kind of feelings towards Emmett... I was a coward. I didn't want to know how she felt.
"So, what's the update?" Her voice didn't seem to change, so I had to take in a breath of courage and look her in the eyes.
I could see curiously in her expression; her brows were pulled together – as if she was beginning to get stressed out. I wished more than ever to know what she was thinking.
"Rose is on her way back today, but Emmett isn't ready. He would like to travel the world and rediscover himself." I said carefully.
Alice bounced over to where Bella stood with a sad look. "Emmett and Rose have decided to get a divorce. But Emmett wanted you to know that it has nothing to do with you... or that kiss you two shared."
Bella didn't blink, she didn't move a muscle. I caught her eyes flashing up to me for just a second before turning to Alice.
"Well, that isn't my business – I hope that he... finds what he is looking for." She said simply. She wasn't showing any emotions. I couldn't tell what was going through her head and it was driving me insane.
I looked over to Jasper for some help. I wanted to at least know what she was feeling right now. He made eye contact with me with a raised brow. He thoughts reached out to me.
She is feeling a lot of guilt, but also a bit of relief. Jasper's thoughts relieved me. At least she wasn't sad about Emmett not returning home. I might not have been able to bear the thought.
"Emmett wanted us to pass along the message that he would like you to wait for him. He wants to clear his mind and be a better man for you, before he returns home." Alice said touching Bella's shoulder.
Bella frowned slightly. "I'm sorry, but that is completely out of the question." She squeezed my hand, peeking up at me. "I admit, Emmett really means a lot to me. He saved my life. But he just ended a long-term relationship with his wife. There is no way he is going to be ready for another serious relationship so soon."
I forced myself to not breath out a sigh of relief. Her words were music to my ears.
"We all had similar thoughts, but we promised Emmett that we would relay the message." Jasper said with a tiny smile on his face. "Emmett has always been a bit over-eager."
"So, Emmett doesn't have a chance?" Alice asked.
Bella now leaned into my side. I wrapped my arm around her, pulling her closer. I watched her closely. "I don't think so. I-I mean... Edward and I have gotten really close these past few days... and I thought... well maybe... our relationship is becoming... more."
The embarrassment that came to her face – filled me with secret delight. I slowly leaned down to peck her cheek. I was rewarded with a breath-taking smile. It was a kind of smile that I could get lost in. I wanted her, so much more. I wanted to do so much more with her. But I was a gentleman, I would fight the temptation to ravage her. It was a never ended battle with my hormones – I didn't even realize that I still had such human feelings. It has been dormant inside of me for so long I forgot that at the end of the day, I was a man – with several different types of hunger.
Did you hear that Edward, you didn't have anything to worry about after all. Alice's thoughts called out to me.
I couldn't contain my joy. It was nice to hear that Bella feelings may be reciprocated. But there was a feeling deep in my gut, Emmett wouldn't easily accept this. He was a fighter. And he wouldn't stop until he wins. When he returns, I'm afraid of what will happen. What if he declares a fight with me, for Bella's affection? I didn't want to fight my brother. But I wouldn't hand over my mate either. Bella had a say in all of this – and for the time being, she made it clear that she wasn't interested in courting Emmett.
All of a sudden Alice froze and her eyes went cloudy. We all knew that she was having a vision. Jasper became tense – not letting his eyes off her. I focused on the images running through her head.
The vision was of three vampires entering Forks. A blonde man, a red headed female and another man with dreadlocks. They all looked to be vampires that drank human blood. They were walking through the woods – entering La Push territory. I could see them attacking innocent people. This had to be dealt with. Carefully. The residents of Forks wouldn't be safe. They most likely were nomads, just moving through. But the vision didn't end there, I saw the one blonde vampire about to attack one of the La Push locals – but Bella ran forward and got in the middle of the fight. I didn't see what the outcome fight. That's where the vision ended.
There was no way I was letting Bella get in the middle of a fight like this. My instant reaction was to get Bella as far away from this threat as possible. But it wouldn't be that simple. I had to take my time and find a way to convince her.
Alice and I exchanged looks. Let's not say anything to detailed to Jasper or Bella for the moment. They will worry – and possibly want to take immediate action. Let's way our options for now, until Carlisle and Esme returns.
I gave her the quickest nod – neither Jasper or Bella caught our little exchange. However, they appeared suspicious.
"Alice, what did you see?" Jasper asked calmly, stroking her cheek delicately. "Did it have to do with Emmett?"
Alice shook her head. "No, it's nothing I'd like to get into at the moment. Nothing really to worry about."
Bella pouted with a slight huff. "Come one Alice, can't we get just a little hint?" She now turned to me. "You saw what her vision was, right?"
I had to avoid meeting her gaze – I knew with just one look; she would have me reveal everything. I had a very hard time resisting her. I wanted nothing more than to give her everything – every piece of me. I didn't want to lie to her, she was a woman that believed heavily on trust and openness. But this was her life. If she was in some kind of danger, I would do anything to protect her. Even if it does cause her to not trust me.
"I didn't get a very clear picture of the vision, but Alice is correct. I don't think it's anything to concern ourselves with." I said, trying to keep my expression light. I forced a smile on my face – it didn't feel natural. And judging by how Bella was watching me, it wasn't believable either. Thankfully she let it drop.
"I think I'm going to call it a day. Shouldn't the two of you go out hunting? It's Bella's first day of school tomorrow. She is going to need to stock up on some blood." Alice said effectively changing the topic completely.
Bella smiled brightly at the reminder of her first day at Forks high school. "That's right, maybe we should get going Edward. You're still coming along with me?"
"Nothing would make me happier." I stated – allowing her to lead me towards the doors. I was still tense – but I didn't let it show. I would just try to focus on keeping Bella out of the loop. No reason to make her worry. I just hope I am doing the right thing.
Bella's Point of View
It was clear to me that Edward and Alice were hiding something. It was something bad – so bad that they didn't even want to get Jasper and I involved in it. I didn't appreciate being left out of it. I wanted them to feel that I could be trusted with important things like this. I wasn't weak... I was in the past, but I've found my strength. I've found a new purpose for my existence. I haven't told anyone about my discovery yet, but I found out that I do have an ability. I was just waiting for the perfect time to share it with the others.
I planned on showing Edward tonight. But now I was having second thoughts. With Emmett's call and now this secret vision, I wasn't sure if I should.
Edward and I ran together through the night – with only the light of the moon overhead. I knew Edward was running much slower, just so he could stay by my side. I've learned recently that he was the fastest runner of all the others. I could never beat him, when we would race. We never split up, we hunted side by side. We stalked our prey together. It was oddly a very intimate part of our day. When we were at our most primal state of mind, it was incredible to see how our bodies took control – we danced around each other, working as a team.
It was several hours before we ended our hunt – as usual we made our way to Edward's secret spot. It was meadow; miles away from the house. We would visit this place after every hunting trip, just to lay down and stare up at the stars. Although the ground was covered in snow, and even now as light snowflakes fell from the sky above, we laid down next to each other.
I gently began to trace random shapes against his arms. He was lying on his side – watching me with a content grin on his face. I enjoyed every second I had with him. Eternity didn't seem long enough. But with everything going on – I needed answers.
"It's been a pretty hectic day, hasn't it?" I started out with a long sigh.
He paused, taking a moment to breathe in and out. "I suppose it was."
"Did Emmett's phone call upset you?"
"Did it upset you?" He replied with a raised brow.
"Honestly, it was a little disturbing." I allowed, moving my hands now to his face. I traced his jawline, using a little bit of pressure to pull his face towards me. He leaned in – until his lips just barely touched mine. "But I do feel guilty."
"And why would you feel guilty?" He muttered against my lips.
"I feel guilty that I am so happy right now, with you. Emmett's relationship just ended, even if he doesn't admit it – he is hurting. But as for me... I'm the happiest I've ever been. It almost feels wrong."
"You shouldn't feel guilty for being happy Bella." Edward said softly moving a few strands of hair from my face. "It may not have been very long since we have met... but Bella Swan, I love you."
This was the first time that he ever said something like that. He may not have noticed it, but I sure did.
I felt the same way, it just felt so much more real when he said it out loud. There was no doubt in my mind that I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him. I don't know how deeply his love went for me, but this much was true.
"I love you too," I whispered.
Edward's hand swept through my hair as our lips came more firmly together. I melted into him, enjoying how our lips moved against each other. I felt breathless – I didn't want to pull away for a moment. I felt his tongue slowly slip into my mouth – the taste was euphoric. I felt heat rush down my body, I rolled myself onto his chest. His hands were resting on my hips, but as I was about to take my shirt off – he stopped me.
"As much as I would love to continue this... I can't." He said as he caught his breath. The way he was looking at me right now – he looked like he was about to rip my clothes off himself. I could see the hunger and yearning – and I felt it in myself.
"I-I'm sorry... I thought... I mean if you think we aren't ready for a relationship like that..." I was now the one embarrassed. I moved off him quickly.
He reached out and pulled me back to him. "Believe me, I want nothing more in the world, then to be with you in that way. But there are some customs that come before... making love."
I knew what he was talking about before he had even finished speaking. "So, you're telling me that you would want to wait for marriage before having sex?" I felt a frown tugging at my face. "That is a little old fashioned, isn't it?"
"I guess it would be considered old-fashioned nowadays." Edward admitted sheepishly.
"So, you have never... been with anyone else?"
"Never... and you?"
"Never," I said with a sigh. "To be honest – you're making me feel like some dastardly villain, trying to destroy your virtue."
"No silly girl, I am trying to protect yours. And you are making it shockingly difficult." He said with a chuckle.
I leaned in and gave him one more long kiss. "I can accept that. But marriage isn't something I see in the near future."
To be honest, the thought of marriage was frightening to me. After seeing how Charlie and Rene's marriage went, I was apprehensive. But I respected Edward's wishes. Maybe I would change my mind on the whole ridiculous notion, but if I was to place a bet on it – I believe I might be able to try to seduce him.
The very thought was laughable.
Edward leaned in to speak in a husky voice. "I can be very persuasive."
Shivers rolled down my body in response. He wasn't playing fair, but two could play that game. With some strength I pulled him on top of me, moving his hand to cup the side of my breast.
"So can I," I purred back at him, before capturing his lips again.
Edward's body was tense for only a second, before kissing back – deeper, with more passion. I could feel the desperation pouring off of him to get closer. His hand gently squeezed my breast. My hormones were raging within me, I was going insane.
I wasn't sure how long we stayed in that position, we made out until the sun was beginning to creep up into the sky. When our skin began to glow and sparkle, we knew that it was time to return to the house. It was hard letting go and pulling away from each other. I just wanted to stay here in the meadow for the rest of eternity. I would be happy.
It was only as we began the run back home that I realized that Edward had completely distracted me from asking him questions about Alice's vision. Now I wouldn't really get the chance to ask about it until after we returned from school. Edward was a crafty guy; I couldn't deny it.
"I'll meet you at the car." Edward said leaning down to plant a kiss on my cheek, before heading up the stairs. Seconds later, I heard him enter the bathroom and turn the shower on.
I was tempted to sneak up there and take a peek, but I resisted the urge. I had to get myself ready for my first day of school. It probably wouldn't be a good idea to show up with some blood splatters on my pants and the smell of blood on my breath. I had to blend in. I never had much trouble doing that when I was human, but now that I was a vampire – I was sure that it would be nearly impossible now. Still, I would give it my best.
As I made my way up to my room, Emmett popped into my head. I wasn't sure why I was thinking of him. I hadn't seen him in months. I haven't given him much thought until today. But what the others told me, was stuck in my head. He wanted me to wait for him. But it was too late. So much time has passed, I had given up waiting on him. Would it be a different story when he returned?
Thanks for reading! If you are enjoying this story so far let me know. It sounds like Bella may have made up her mind. That's easily said when Emmett isn't around to tempt her. Will she hold onto her resolve and settle only for Edward? Keep reading to find out!
