Happy Mardi Gras!

Ch 24: Other People

~ Bella's POV~

To the outside eye, it probably looked like I was completely relaxed as I laid naked tucked into Edward's side, my head on his chest. But inside, my mind was active, tense even.

I was trying to think of a gentle way to tell Edward that it was time for me to go home. I'd been staying with him for most of the week after the incident with my dad. Edward hadn't wanted me to go back, and to be honest, I hadn't either. So I'd stayed with him every night.

It worked out well since Carlisle was working night shifts and Esme was out of town, but I was feeling like maybe it was time for me to go.

"Working up the courage?" A husky voice asked, making my brows raise as my eyes met his. He was giving me a knowing look, though I had no idea how he could possibly know what was on my mind.

My eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"You know what I'm thinking?" It was a challenge of sorts, but when his eyes softened looking me over, I realized I must have looked sad.

"You've been acting funny today. Not to mention you usually keep me at arm's length until after your homework is done, instead of jumping me the second we get back." He smirked referencing my behavior from earlier today. "I figure, the only reason you did is because you weren't going to be sticking around to have fun later."

I felt my lips turn down in a contemplative frown. I hadn't consciously done it.

"Oh."

He stroked my hair pulling me in tightly.

"I wasn't thinking that way. I mean, it wasn't so intentional." I attempted to explain, hoping he would understand I hadn't been trying to use sex a way to soften him up or anything.

"It's okay Bella. I'm actually surprised you haven't tried to go home sooner."

"I just- wasn't ready." I sighed, rubbing my face in the crook of his shoulder. "I like this." My hand flattened against his chest and rubbed gently.

"I like it too."

We were quiet for a moment, then I looked up to watchful eyes.

"Part of me doesn't want to go back, but I can't stay here forever. And I think it would be a good idea to see other people."

He stiffened instantly in my arms, concerning me. I knew he wasn't going to be happy about it, but the reaction was a little more than what I was expecting. I replayed the words in my head, wondering if I had been a little too aggressive, and felt my eyes go wide as I realize the double meaning.

"Not like that!" I groaned loudly and laughed at myself depreciatingly. "I meant; I think we should spend more time with our other friends." He relaxed instantly.

"For my peace of mind, can you please never say you want to see other people ever again?"

I laughed again, nodding into his chest.

He played with my hair, pulling it lightly until I looked up again.

"I guess we have been pretty wrapped up for a few days." He admitted with a sigh.

"I don't think we've been too bad, but you've been blowing off Emmett all week, and I realized I've hardly talked to Angela. I just don't wanna be that couple who forgets their friends when they get in a relationship."

He sighed loudly again.

"Okay. But you could still stay here at night." There was a tense tone in his voice, and I heard all the things he wasn't saying. That he was worried about me. That he didn't want me to be alone. That he wanted me to feel wanted.

It warmed me to know how much he cared.

"I could, but eventually your dad won't be working night shifts. And you have no idea when your mom could come back. I'm just not comfortable with trying to hide or sneak around." I spoke honestly.

"You don't have to sneak around. Dad knows you've been staying with me."

This was news to me, and I wondered if that meant he told Carlisle about my dad, which made me very uncomfortable.

"I didn't say anything Bella." His eyes were so earnest.

"Sorry. You have every right to. It's just not easy for me."

He cupped my cheek and bent down to kiss me sweetly.

"I know. And I also know that having permission wasn't your biggest concern. I'm sorry if I'm making you feel bad about wanting to go home."

I sighed against him yet again, glad that he understood.

"You'll call me right?" He asked suddenly. I knew my face was confused. "If anything happens, just promise me you'll call. No matter what time it is."

My heart constricted as I nodded my consent. He was too good to be true sometimes.

We took our time getting dressed and moving downstairs to say our goodbyes. We were lingering on the porch, really drawing it out, when car lights appeared, and a cab pulled up in the drive.

Curious, we watched and realized Esme was back.

Talk about good timing.

But suddenly I was nervous.

I hadn't talked to Edward's mom in years. We had seen each other in passing of course, but never gave more than a head nod as we walked by.

I wondered what she thought of me. If she knew Edward and I were dating. If she was okay with it.

Wow, I was getting really anxious about it.

"Hey sweetie, how are you?" Esme asked as she walked up to Edward, giving him a big hug in the process.

"Hey mom. I'm good. I didn't realize you'd be back so soon."

Esme made a face, as if to say she hadn't been back soon enough.

"I'm gone for a month and its too soon?" she quirked a brow at him, making him smirk. "You're a brat, you know that."

He just grinned.

And then Esme's eyes shifted towards me, and my mind was screaming at me to get out of there.

"Bella," her voice held a hint of surprise, "its been a while. It's good to see you."

I smiled nervously.

"It's good to see you too. Sorry, I don't mean to be rude, I'm actually heading out now though. I'll see you tomorrow Edward." I gave a small wave and walked away as quickly as I could without drawing suspicion.

Once I was inside, I backed against the door, forcing myself to breathe evenly. I wasn't sure what it was about Esme that had me feeling so panicky, but I was glad I had gotten away quickly.

I felt bad about leaving like that, but I just really didn't want to face her. I hoped Edward understood. I sent him a quick text letting him know I was tired and heading for bed.

I prayed I would be able to sleep now that I wasn't in his bed, but somehow it seemed doubtful. I was likely in for a long night.

~Esme's POV~

"Is she okay?" I asked watching the poor girl nearly run back to her house. She looked like she might want to vomit.

Edward looked just as concerned and confused as I felt.

"I think so."

But he didn't sound sure. In fact, he was watching the house with a look that told me he was restraining himself from running over. A quiet chirp from his pocket proved to be a message. But whatever it said didn't seem to fully convince him that everything was fine. I almost asked, but then he turned, walking into the house.

I followed him in, feeling a sense of welcome at finally being home. I fell into a kitchen chair, kicking off my shoes, wishing I had a glass of red wine in my hand.

"So how long you back for?" Edward was leaned casually against the kitchen doorway, but I could tell he wasn't as nonchalant as he appeared. Those watchful eyes were too much like my own. Almost calculating at times.

They do say children show you all your flaws.

"For good." I finally answered, surprising him.

"Really?" His tone was more than a little doubtful. It made me hurt and laugh.

"Really."

His frown deepened.

"Are you sick?"

I guess I should have expected that, but I shook my head.

"No. I just decided I was tired of running around the country while my family was here." I could tell my honesty surprised him. "I know it might not seem like it, but I never wanted to be gone so much."

Edward walked deeper into the kitchen, choosing to sit at the bar, just across from me.

"So what happened?"

It was difficult being a parent. Wanting so much to shield your children from hurt, but also knowing you can't. And that sometimes in an effort to protect them, you hurt them just the same.

"When I first started to travel it was just nice to get out for a little while. I loved being here, but with your father at the hospital all the time, and you going to school, I just felt a little empty to be honest."

His brows rose, and he waited patiently for me to continue.

"Your father and I were getting into a lot of arguments too, and I felt like maybe it was because I didn't feel satisfied. So I took up the company offer to do some travelling. Just a few days, here and there really made a difference. I was happier."

Edward was listening intently. His eyes watchful, a sort of sadness radiating from them.

"So I kept taking on more trips, thinking it was better for everyone, before I realized it, I was gone more than I was here." I had truly been blind to my own absence. "It took me too long to realize how much I was missing out on. I decided to cut back, but the company was ramping up. They kept telling me it would be for just a little longer. If I could just hold out for another year, then it would calm down."

I thought he might resent me for that. For choosing my job over our family, but I was surprised too see how much understanding was in his face.

"Sounds like they did a good job of manipulating you into staying."

Despite all his flaws, I saw how lucky I was to have a son like him.

"You're smarter than I am. It took years of them telling me that for me to figure it out." I sighed. "But no more. I'm not leaving again."

"You quit?" his voice was shocked.

I nodded.

"Yup."

Edward moved to sit right beside me now.

"I guess dad knows?"

"Not exactly." His eyes widened. "I told him I was tired. And that I couldn't keep traveling anymore. He knew I was nearing the end of my rope, so I doubt he'll be surprised."

"Wow."

I could agree with that.

"I know I'm pretty late to the game here, but I don't want to miss out on your life anymore. Not that I plan on being that overly involved parent from here on out, but I want you to know that I am here if you need me." I rubbed his cheek, more than a little surprised he was letting me.

"So, you're gonna be a stay at home mom now?" His brows rose to his hairline, it made me laugh.

"Hell no! I have another job lined up working for the courthouse. But it's totally local, normal hours, and no travelling."

He seemed a little stunned, then his eyes turned contemplative.

"Will it make you happy?"

Wow, what a great kid.

"Being here more will make me very happy. There are plenty of other things I can do with my time, but at the end of the day, coming home to you and Carlisle is what I want most."

He gave me half smile.

"I don't know. You sure you made the right decision? Dad can be kinda cranky when he gets home. And I'm a moody teenager."

I rolled my eyes laughing.

"I'm sure. Besides, now I get to annoy you with typical mom questions. For instance, what's going on with you and Bella?"

I could tell the turn of topic caught him off guard.

"We're dating." He said simply, but I could see a hell of a lot more in his eyes. And honestly, I was pretty surprised. Last I heard, they weren't on speaking terms. I really had been missing out.

"I see. How long?" he shifted somewhat uncomfortably.

"Officially, since Saturday."

Interesting.

He was telling the truth, but I could tell there was a lot he wasn't saying too.

"She's a sweet girl from what I remember." Though her behavior tonight was a little strange. Was it because of me? Maybe she thought I wouldn't approve? That made my heart ache.

Edward hadn't responded, instead he was looking away, his featured marred with concern.

"Maybe we can do a dinner together. I'd like to get to know her better, it's been a while since she's been over."

I thought back to the times when she had been over. She was a bright, cheerful, excited child. She loved playing with Edward, and at the time they seemed perfect for each other. I often wondered if they would fall in love.

But when Renee left, Bella stopped coming around. The rare times I saw her after that, she always looked so sullen. It was sad to see someone so young lose their spark like that.

I hated Renee for what she did. We had been great friends until she decided to abandon her family like that. And poor Charlie, he looked so lost. I'd wanted to help, but it was about the same time Carlisle and I were having marital problems. Renee's leaving is actually what inspired me to do things that made me happy. So that I would never get to a point where I would want to walk away from my family.

Unfortunately, I still managed to mess it up. Go figure.

"I don't mind if you wanna have her over for dinner, just promise me you won't pry too much?" he looked so concerned. It made me wonder what else the poor girl had been through. I'd have to ask Carlisle about it later.

"Of course." He nodded.

"Well, I'm glad you're home." With that he kissed my cheek and headed upstairs, leaving me feeling completely shocked and loved all at once.

Man did I have a good kid.

I was planning to let Edward invite Bella to dinner, but I must admit, when I saw her the next morning, I couldn't help but need to speak with her.

After talking with Carlisle the night before, things were starting to make a little more sense. He informed me about Bella's panic attack accident just couple of weeks ago, and his growing suspicion about Charlie.

It didn't look so good.

Carlisle also told me about what was going on between our son and her. I hadn't exactly been happy to learn about some silly pretend thing, but Edward at least seemed genuine when he mentioned they were now officially dating. And the look in his eyes last night when she'd walked away had been very telling.

My son was very much head over heels for her. Unfortunately, I wasn't sure how serious Bella was about him.

So when I saw her exiting her house, as I too was making my way to my car, I felt the overwhelming urge to talk with her.

"Good morning Bella." I called calmly, watching her head whip up in surprised confusion. When she saw me, her eyes widened, and she grew nervous. Just as she had last night.

"Oh. Hi Mrs. Cullen." She was polite and much more soft spoken than I remembered. As I drew near, I watched her eyes grow more worried and turbid. And suddenly my stomach sank as I recognized the look.

It was the same look I had seen in the face of many children during my time as a lawyer. It was this horrible mixture of fear, shame, and this sense of knowing that they weren't worthy. It was a look brought on by years of neglect, and little to no support from the people who were supposed to give it.

It broke my heart.

It was almost downright painful to look at her. I could see every thought flashing through her mind, written plainly on her face.

Like she thought I knew her darkest secrets, and because of that I could never want her around my son. That I was coming to tell her to stay away from Edward. That she wasn't good enough.

Renee, Charlie. What did you do to her?

I wanted to pull her into a hug and give her the world. Because that's what she deserved. But I imagined she'd probably be startled if I grabbed her, even just for an embrace. So instead, I put on my warmest smile.

"Sorry to catch you so early, I wanted to invite you over for dinner tonight if you're interested. Edward told me you two are dating and I thought it would be nice to catch up."

She didn't appear calmed by my friendly smile or the invitation. If anything, she looked even more nervous.

"Oh. Umm, sorry, I already made plans to stay with my friend Angela this weekend." She stumbled a little over her words and I wondered for a moment if the excuse was made up because she was so nervous. "But, I could do another time. I'll be back Sunday."

Her offer was sweet and she was obviously scared of messing up.

"Sunday would be great. To be honest asking you tonight was impulsive, I was a little overexcited about catching up. I didn't even ask Edward if he was free."

I laughed hoping to ease some of the tension in her shoulders. It worked a little, she gave a small smile.

"Well anyways, I know you have to be off to school. I'll let Edward give you the additional details, but let's plan for Sunday, say around 6?"

She nodded her head dutifully.

"Can I bring anything? I make a pretty good monkey bread." Her eyes were hopeful, as if she wanted to make a good impression.

"That's sounds lovely." And because I couldn't resist, I did lean in to give her a hug. I needed to reassure her that I just wanted to know her better. That I wasn't going to judge. There would be nothing to fear.

She was stiff only for a moment, before she gave in and hugged me back warmly.

It was a good start.

"Alright dear, I've taken up enough of your time. Have a good day at school!"

"Thanks." Her words were soft as I walked away. And I decided it would be my mission to make her feel loved and welcome in our home.

~ Bella's POV~

Esme talking to me this morning was one of the scariest moments in my life. I was sure she was going to tell me to get lost. But then she'd been so warm, and kind. And the offer to dinner was so unexpected I hardly knew how to respond.

I was baffled. And excited, but also terrified. I had no idea how much she knew, how much Carlisle had told her.

Though I was nervous, I was glad she seemed to be okay with Edward and I dating and I couldn't blame her for wanting to get to know me better.

"You look happy this morning," Angela nudged me while we waited for class to begin.

"I am happy." I gave her a small smile. "I get to spend this weekend with my bestie."

She grinned.

"I am pretty awesome huh?" she winked.

I loved how silly she could be sometimes. And since she started dating Ben, she'd been coming out of her shell a little more. It made me so happy to see her so confident.

"You know you are." We quieted down as class began, but we snuck notes to each other between the lecture. I told her about dinner with Edward's family. She thought it was a pretty big deal. Which to some degree I knew. She wanted to talk more, but after having almost been caught passing the paper back and forth, we decided to wait until tonight to get into it.

The day passed much like the others had. People were still getting used to me and Edward dating again. Jess was making a particularly big deal about it at lunch today.

"I'm still not sure I trust that y'all are dating again," she eyed me suspiciously, her eyes darting across the lunch room to where Edward was sitting. A fact that did not sit well with her.

I laughed.

"Jess, calm down. They are dating. Trust me." Seth rolled his eyes at her and smirked at me. No doubt remembering the previous weekend's truth or dare session.

Which reminded me, I wondered if anything happened between him and Quill. I really hoped so, but I didn't want to ask with Jess there. Seeing as how Seth hadn't come out, plus I wasn't sure if it was something he'd be comfortable talking about even if he had.

But damn I wanted to know.

"I meant to ask. How was the rest of your weekend?" It was innocent enough, and left room for him to talk about whatever he was willing to share.

His eyes darted to mine, and I could see he knew exactly what I was thinking. His smile was small, but very telling. I wanted to do a little happy dance.

"It was nice. I spent more time on the Rez than I planned."

Fuck yeah! My smile was wide and genuine. Seth had a small blush coming on that made me want to jump up and down with joy. But I was well aware Jess was getting curious about what made me so happy, and Seth embarrassed.

"I bet that was cool. I'm sure you got to spend more time with family than usual," I added to redirect Jess's thoughts.

"Oh yeah. I forget that you have family out there," she added. "By the way y'all are both shitheads for not inviting me. I'm pissed." She really wasn't though.

Seth patted her head gently.

"It wasn't planned. We told you that on Monday."

She pouted slightly.

"Uh huh. Just leave me out. It's fine."

"Aww, come on Jess. Don't be a pouty petunia."

Seth giggled and Jess stuck out her tongue at me.

"Ange and I are having a sleep over at her place this weekend. Do you wanna join?" I asked knowing Ange would be happy to have Jess come too.

Her eyes perked up.

"Really?" Then she narrowed them suspiciously. "This isn't a pity invite right? Because I'd rather stay at home and watch Buffy if that's the case."

I shook my head.

"No pity here. Just an invite to a girl's weekend. Only rule is no boys allowed. Although plenty of boy talk is encouraged."

She tapped her chin thoughtfully.

"This is a tempting offer," she hummed playfully.

"We're gonna make penis shaped cookies," I added with a grin.

"Well damn, you should've opened with that!" Her laugh was deep and full. "I'd love to come over. I'll call my mom real quick."

She pulled out her phone and walked over towards the windows, I'm assuming to get better signal. The cafeteria didn't have the best reception.

"So," I whipped my eyes to Seth, who now looked like a deer caught in the headlights. "You gonna spill?"

His blush was immediate, and his smile turned shy.

"It doesn't bother you?" His voice was hesitant, and I just wanted to snatch him up into a hug.

"Why would you finding someone that makes you happy bother me?" I countered. His shrug was small, but there was a lot of emotion behind his eyes. "I get it. We don't live in the most progressive place, but times are a changing. I can't speak for everyone, but I don't think there's anything wrong with your feelings."

His smile was soft and hopeful.

"Thanks Bella." He paused for a minute before looking at me with a coy expression. "We kissed."

I almost screamed.

I threw my hand up in the air for a high five, which he returned promptly.

"Oh my God! I'm so happy for you I could die." I'm pretty sure my eyes turned into heart emojis.

"You really are happy for me, aren't you?" his voice was amazed.

"Of course I am. I'm happy for all my friends who find someone that makes them feel like a princess." He rolled his eyes, but blushed. "So tell me, do you feel like a princess?"

He laughed, but nodded.

"Ugh, I wish I could invite you over to Ange's too." Seth grinned shaking his head, but I meant it.

"Me too."

We smiled at each other regretfully. It was too bad the no boys rule applied.

"My mom is cool with it," Jess announced as she flounced back to the table. "What time are y'all getting together?"

"Right after school. I have my bag packed already. But you could join us whenever."

"Can't wait!"

To be honest neither could I.

AN: Thanks for your patience in waiting for this chapter… I've been dealing with a minor hand injury which made typing take forever (also please excuse typing errors… it's been a struggle)

Hope you enjoyed!