Charlie helped me sit more comfortably on the couch with a pillow under my right leg, as he started on the dinner. I asked him if I could chop something, but he declined my offer and instead asked me to fill him to with the details of my experience in the hospital.
Though we both preferred silence over chatting, for the moment we talked and laughed about my time in Phoenix. He even made some comments, showing his dislike of that place and I laughed too.
And this is how we spend the evening.
I filled him with the details of my stay in the hospital, about Renee, and Alice.
I didn't tell him anything about Edward, as I thought this wasn't the right time.
But I did clarify something to him on the Edward topic.
"Dad? Please don't be difficult on Edward." I pleaded.
He stopped his work of chopping the salad as he turned to stove to pull out the bread, facing away from me.
"Dad?"
"Bella? Can I ask you something?" he asked instead, his back still facing me. .
I nodded.
He left his work over there, checked if he was missing something that would spoil the dinner, and came to sit by my side. "Bella, honey, I do not have any aversion to that boy. Yes, I did have, at first, but that was because he was responsible you left from here abruptly. And after three days I get news that you are hurt, very badly, and that Edward was over there too. Do you think it is hard now to not like him when you think it in my way."
He was right. If I was in place of Charlie, I too would have reacted the same way.
"But, dad. It wasn't him due to which I left away in a haze." I explained, reciting the same public story. "I left because I panicked over something foolish and wanted time to think over it. Also, it was Edward too who saved me." I emphasized over the last part.
"I wish it were that easy for me to forgive him, after what happened to you." He said, shaking his head in denial, but then I heard his small mumble, "Because of him."
"Dad, please?" I requested in a small whisper. "Please, try to be easy on Edward."
He sighed. "Okay. I'll think about it. But till that, you are not allowed to think so much. You must rest. Do you want to go upstairs?"
"I am fine. Thanks." I said as I hugged him close again. "Dad, always remember I love you. No matter what." I just wanted him to know that.
He engulfed me in his arms again and kissed the top of my head. "You too, Bella. Never forget that. And if next time anything like that happens, promise me you'll talk to me first."
"I promise, though I'll make sure it never happens again."
"Good."
The microwave made its sound and Charlie stood up to serve us dinner.
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Charlie POV
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Bella was sitting on the recliner with her leg on the pillow, trying to understand the game. But I could see in her eyes that her mind was elsewhere. And I knew where.
On Edward Cullen.
I stiffened a growl.
I let my mind think about what Bella had said to me earlier today. About giving one more chance to Edward. She trusted him completely. Even after knowing that he was the reason which made her flee in a shocking trance, whether she accepts it or not. And over all that, got her into a horrible accident.
But it wasn't that which worried me. It was her attraction towards that boy which bewildered me. If to be precise, then I couldn't lie to myself. She loved him. It was clear in her eyes. The way she talked about him, looked at him.
It felt so wrong. So fast.
I have been there, once, with Renee, and it ended with an everlasting hurt on my side. I don't want my baby to feel that pain. Ever.
I was taken out of my mind proceedings by the door bell.
"This must be the Cullens." She announced with a broad smile, unable to hide it.
I hoped that the boy in question wasn't here. I haven't thought about it, not yet.
I opened the gate and found three Cullens standing over the entrance. I was happy that Edward was not here.
Out of the three people standing, one was Carlisle, whom I knew. The one beside her was Esme, I guessed, as their hands were interlaced, their unusual chalky white skin moulding properly, not giving any chance to distinguish between their hands.
Esme was about my height with caramel hair, golden eyes, pale skin, and an impossible beauty.
The next lady standing beside her must be Alice Cullen. She was a small heighted girl, smaller than Bella, had the Cullens' skin colour, dark black short hair with spikes pointing at each direction and a broad smile on her face. Her beauty competing her adopted mother's.
"Hello Charlie." Greeted Alice like we have not met for the first time. " Where is Bella? There she is!" She mumbled to herself as she found her sitting at the recliner. She invited herself in and danced her way to her.
"Sorry for her behaviour, Mr. Swan." Came the sweet voice of Esme. "She gets excited easily."
"Oh! It is nothing, Mrs. Cullen." I waved my hand dismissively and welcome them inside. "She seems a jubilant soul."
"Esme." She said as they both came inside. "And you're right. It is next to impossible to stop her. Here"
I laughed as my gaze settled on Bella sitting with her new friend, chatting. Her smile warmed my heart. She did love Forks. "I think I'll get used to her."
Esme nodded in understanding. "I am really sorry, Charlie. For whatever happened. With Edward and Bella, with her fall. I am sorry. So sorry!"
"It wasn't your fault that Bella fell off the stairs."
"Still."
"Please, come in." I said and welcomed them in.
They both entered the house and made the way to the living room. I and Carlisle sat on the chair while Esme walked to the couch where Bella was sitting and greeted her with warmth.
"How are you, sweetheart?" Esme murmured in a motherly tone as she hugged Bella close.
"I am fine, Esme. What about you?" She asked politely.
I didn't have any idea that Bella was so close already to the Cullens. They looked sometimes intimidating, but still she welcomed then with warmth and feeling of welcome. But it was Bella I was talking about. She knew how to love a person unconditionally.
We all talked for a good time. I offered them beer but they both declined the offer politely.
Esme and Carlisle were very good and lovely, not at all how Billy had described them. Alice was a very excited girl, the exact opposite of Bella. She was an irresistible force of nature. And the way she talked to me like we already knew each other since a long time. But the way they bonded like sisters told how much they were fond of each other already.
Which increased my concerns more about Edward and Bella.
After a while, Carlisle turned to Bella in his doctor mode.
"Bella, is it paining anywhere?"
Bella rolled her eyes. "Nope, doctor."
"Are you sure? You are not hiding anything from me?"
"Absolutely."
"Great!" He allowed with a nod. "Though I would prefer you take your medications properly." Bella nodded with a grimace making all of us chuckle. "Jokes apart Bella, but call me the instant you feel any dizzy or feel any kind of pain in your skull or your leg. And try not to wash your hair."
"But it has been about two weeks, Carlisle!" Bella groaned. "My hair is stinking."
"Bella, you just had your stitches removed, I don't think any substance like soap or shampoo will be useful."
She sighed. "Fine."
"Why don't you go upstairs?" Carlisle offered. "It's already near ten, and you still need your rest."
Alice tugged at Bella's arm and helped her upstairs. When they both were gone, Carlisle turned to me.
"Charlie, can I ask you something?" He asked, seriously.
I was already anticipating a bad news.
I put my beer down on the table. "Sure, Carlisle. What happen?"
"First of all, we are really sorry for how the things turned out between Edward and Bella and she had the urge to flee."
"It's not your fault that things turned out that way." Anyway, it was someone else's fault – clearly.
"We want to ask for your forgiveness for Edward." Esme said sweetly. "He is very sorry for whatever happened." I knew whom they were talking about.
"He should be." I muttered in a very small voice, but they both still heard it. Damn, they have sharp ears. I sighed. "I know it was not entirely Edward's fault. Bella too acted childishly."
If they wanted, they could have blamed Bella too for flying all the way over without thinking of consequences. Shouldn't I act like an adult and forgive Edward and give him another chance. After all, he too is a child.
"I know. And sorry, I was rough to Edward. If it wasn't for him, maybe Bella would not be with me."
Esme looked at Carlisle and gulped, clutching his hand tightly in hers. "You are right." Why was she so pale thinking that. I was just speaking rhetorically.
I shook my head. "He can come visit Bella." I allowed.
"You should tell that directly to him. He would be coming tomorrow to pick Bella up."
"Where to?"
"Actually, being her physician, I was thinking about checking her at my house for her. The hospital will be quiet daunting, especially as she herself asked me to not ask her to come to hospital as she is fed up of those." I laughed. She always had a fear of hospital and needles. "And we could do her physiotherapy over there. I have all the equipments, and anyway, I am having nigh duties running. That is the second thing I wanted to ask you."
"Are you sure you are fine with that."
"Of course, Charlie." Esme approved. "She is a magnificent girl. And we would love her to be around. My boys are already fond of her," well, one is more than I would like to. "and Emmett is eager to meet her again."
I thought about it. Bella would get bore with her being alone as I was going to be in the station. And she could use the company. And Esme will be there too, so nothing to be scared of.
"I think that will be fine."
"Great!" Esme clapped her hands.
"I'll have Edward pick her up, if that's fine by you." He added.
"I think it will be fine." I allowed.
"Thanks Charlie." Carlisle stood up. "We should leave now. I have to go to the hospital."
"Yeah."
Esme looked at Carlisle. "Let me say good night to the girls. I will be down in a minute." I showed her the way and she headed upstairs, while Carlisle and I walked to his car.
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Bella POV
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We were sitting in the bed, where Alice was disappointed by my collection of clothes.
"Really Bella? Don't you have any sense of fashion?"
"Alice? If you are going to nag me about my collection of clothes, you are more than welcome to walk out of the door."
"Seriously? I'll have to purchase some good clothes for you. Maybe tomorrow. I cannot let you wear these hideous clothes in the school." She kept on rambling while I again got lost in Jane Austen's Emma.
There was a knock on the door and it slowly creaked open with a slight noise to show the silhouette figure of Esme standing on the threshold.
"Mind if I join you?" She asked sweetly.
I laughed. "Why not, Esme. Come in. Your daughter was already giving me a hard time for my clothes."
This time she laughed as she glared at Alice, making her pout. "Sorry, but in that matter I cannot help you in any way, honey."
"I already knew that." I sighed and stuck my tongue out at Alice. She rolled her eyes at me but didn't stop her work of finding one suitable night dress for me, according to her.
"How are you, honey?" Esme asked again.
"I am fine, Esme, really. More than fine." I murmured.
"I'll take your word." She affirmed.
"Though I am fed up of this already." I pointed at the stupid cast which was still stuck to my leg.
She laughed in her musical voice as she sat with me on the bed. "I have no words to say how sorry we are that this all happened, sweetheart. I am really sorry. The first time you come to meet us, you get in such a big trouble."
"Stop it Esme. It is not your fault. It could have happened anytime. Anyway, I am well know as a danger magnet. Don't you know it?"
She laughed and kissed my cheek. "Edward had done a wonderful job in finding his mate. I am so happy for both of you."
My forehead creased as I killed over her words.
"Aren't you mad at me? Because of me your family had to step into harm's way."
"Don't be ridiculous, Bella! We fight for our family and you mean everything to Edward, so you mean so much to us too."
I knew Edward loved me so much, but for his family to consider me as family and look after me, even after knowing that I may be a trouble for them. It was so much overwhelming.
I bosomed in Esme's embrace as she held me tightly. "I have talked to Charlie and you are staying the whole day at Cullen Mansion."
I leaned back, confused. "He agreed?" I asked, suspicious. Wonder what Esme did to make Charlie agree.
"Yes, he did. I'll see you tomorrow. I should leave now. Some one is being impatient to be with you." She winked and was out of the room closing the door before I could ask or say something.
A few minutes later a jolly Charlie came in my room, a small apology in his eyes. "I am sorry, Alice. We don't have enough space."
"Don't worry about that, Charlie. We will manage." She smiled angelically at Charlie.
It was impossible to not get fond of Alice's joyous nature. Even Charlie was fascinated by it. Alice treated Charlie like she knew him since birth.
Charlie smiled apologetically as he closed the door, leaving us to have some fun girl time. Alice helped me in my shower, combed my hair and helped me wear my nightdress she had brought for me today. It was blue shorts with light orange tank-top. I had – thankfully – gotten rid of those holey sweatpants. I didn't want to wear that with Edward staying with me for the night.
But today he was not going to stay, and that was why Alice was here. Edward wanted to have a good hunt before he was near me. He said that it would make it more easier for him if he took every precaution, just for his peace of mind.
"I should leave too." Alice mused in a small voice as she helped me climb the stairs. It was quiet comical to watch the small frame of Alice carrying me in her arms.
"But why? You were about to stay, weren't you?"
"You'll know about that." She promised as she teased, climbing the last stairs.
Before I – or she – could open the gate, the gate flew open. Behind the door was the person I wasn't expecting but also whom I wanted to see the most on the other side. My personal miracle, wearing my favourite smile on his face, his eyes the lightest golden that I have seen in the past few weeks, after hunting, dressed in a white button down with blue denims, his unruly hair could be seen still trying to settle down from his recent run, looking exactly like my personal Adonis. I instantly got lost in his butterscotch orbs as his eyes held mine, both of our eyes locked, forgetting that we had an audience.
He held my eyes with his golden orbs, sending chills through my body. Would I ever be able to get out of his beauteous trance? I wondered as I shook my head.
"You're early." I mused. He was quiet certain he won't be able to come until tomorrow morning.
"Yeah. We finished fast." He replied, flashing me a dazzling smile. "I can take from here, Alice. You should go." He murmured, breaking our gaze slightly to look at Alice, taking me in his strong arms like I was a parcel that Alice had brought for him.
Alice rolled her eyes but grinned as she let Edward carry me. She said something to Edward by her thoughts to which Edward rolled his eyes, then she kissed my cheek and was out of the room by the window in a blur.
"I thought you will be out for hunting tonight." I mused as he closed the door and settled us on the bed very carefully and let me adjust my leg.
"I was out, yes, but I returned soon as I was already full and also because I was missing you already."
I chuckled. He was getting too sweet, but I knew what he meant by that. He was still worried that I may trip over something – maybe while hopping – and hurt myself more. It was so Edward – taking every precaution.
He sat beside me and slightly massaged my other leg. He knew that since I broke my leg, my other leg was usually tired due to all the hopping.
"What will you do when we are in school then?" I asked him with another smirk. "I may trip over there, when you are not with me."
He ran his hand through his hair – amused and irritated both – as he gazed into my eyes. "Do you really think that I will ever let you fall?"
"I know that, but in school you cannot use your usual speed. Remember?"
"Of course I do. And that's why I'll make sure that wherever you go, I am with you. As I said earlier, it's better if we don't tempt fate in your case. You have already done enough." He was teasing.
I laughed lightly and he chuckled too, sitting closer to me, kissing my forehead and then my wrist where I had James mark. "How are feeling? Dizzy? Nauseous? Any problem?"
"Carlisle told you to ask this? Didn't he?" He smiled apologetically. I rolled my eyes. "Tired, I guess, and a little bored. Charlie wants me to take tomorrow off so that I can rest. And he is all set on not forgiving you so you are not allowed here – at least not by the main door. And I am not allowed to move – thanks to the vampires here – so that means I am going to have a very boring day tomorrow." He shook his head, a small playful smile on his lips. "What?" I asked, puzzled.
He shook his head again, his eyes twinkling with excitement and love. "Carlisle insisted on giving you a day off so that you can rest. He wants you to come over at my house so you get have your physio session."
I already knew that. Esme had just told me.
He told me about what he wanted to do tomorrow – just stay with me and enjoy the unguarded time. He also told me that he had a surprise planned for me tomorrow but he was enjoying it too much to even give me a small hint about what he was planning. I pouted and pointed but to no success. He was too good at dazzling me now and then that I forgot what we were talking about – which was quite often. He also told me that he was too taking a leave tomorrow and so was Alice. They wanted to play the charade that they were exhausted and had a jetlag.
I wanted to ask him if Charlie had forgiven him but I didn't want to spoil his good mood, so I kept that to myself and instead we talked about not so particular things. After some time, when it was near to midnight, we both laid down on the bed – because he didn't want to keep me up just for him – and I cuddled with him, laying my head on his chest, eliciting a sigh of content. It felt good, complete, lying with him like that. I missed this in the hospital because of Renée's constant presence.
He kept running his fingers through my hair, none of us saying anything, enjoying the tranquil silence.
"What are you thinking?" He asked abruptly.
I laughed and kissed his cheek. "Nothing in particular. Just how much I love this." I squeezed him to emphasize my point.
"Me too. It's the part of the day I am very eager about."
I looked up at him and found him looking at me. I leaned up and gave him a small peck on his lips. He smiled and resumed his nonchalant stroking of my hair. A yawn escaped my mouth after a while. He sang my lullaby then. I closed my eyes to feel the music and was asleep in no time.
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I woke up a nearly dreamless night. I was happy to not have any nightmares – I didn't want Edward to see me in fear. But I was a little disappointed by the time I woke up. He was not beside me – on in my room for that matter – to greet me. Then I recalled that Alice was supposed to have a night-over with me.
I decided to walk down the stairs and use the bathroom, saving Alice from her supposed work. But before I could put my feet on the floor, Alice's small figure came inside. "Really Bella?" She chided in her high pitched voice. "I don't need to be a psychic to know you'll fall."
I rolled my eyes. "Thanks for your confidence in me, Alice." I muttered a little sarcastically, yet knowingly that she was right.
She rolled her eyes too but helped me in getting up and in my daily morning routine. She told me it was still early, just seven in the morning, but I told her that it was because of my long stay in Phoenix. She considered it as she filled me with other details. She informed me that 'Charlie will be out only after someone picks us up'. When asked about who will pick us up, she grinned playfully. "That's the main surprise." She cheered excitedly and joyously. I rolled my eyes again as I already knew that she would say something like that. "Esme is very much excited to have you there again, you know." She murmured lovingly. She also told me that Emmett was excited to be with me and Jasper wanted to be fully prepared so Edward and he had went for small hunt.
"But hasn't he hunted just yesterday?"
She knew whom I was talking about. "He is mainly afraid that you may hurt yourself again that it becomes hard for him to concentrate fully on hunting."
"Am I hurting him?" I asked, berating myself for not thinking about it. Of course I was hurting him. He himself told me my blood maddens his senses to think anything properly. I could never live with myself if I was the reason he was hurt. He had left his hunt yesterday too to be with me.
"Don't be ridiculous, Bella!" And she had succeeded in diverting the topic, but not from my mind. I knew I only had to talk Edward through it.
It was after two hours, when I had my breakfast and Alice also had to eat it – reluctantly, making faces at me – and Charlie was ready to go, but still he didn't leave the house. Seemed like he was waiting for someone. I had asked him if he was waiting for someone, but he denied, saying he just didn't feel like going now. Alice had rolled her eyes then, making me suspicious.
"What is this all about? Is there something that I should know?" I asked Alice who was making an innocent face.
"I told you already. It's a surprise." I huphed, showing my dislike of all this suspense.
When it was near to ten – I and Alice were sitting on the couch – when there was a knock on the door. Charlie seemed eager to greet whoever it was. There were some hushed sounds and mumblings – I wasn't able to hear any thing clearly, neither I could decipher any meaning – and after a good five minutes entered the pale white figure of Edward in the living room, waving at me slightly. Charlie was standing behind him, a small grim expression on his face – neither a perfect smile nor a frown, but a grimace of worry.
"Hey?" I said but it came in a disrupted manner as I was confused about what just happened and what did Charlie told him and why was Alice so quiet.
"Are you ready? Carlisle is waiting for his patient."
I gave him a look which said explain me what's happening. He winked as an answer.
"Shall we go, Bella?" Edward asked again when I was silent, not saying anything. Alice had already stood up and was talking with Charlie.
I made a face but did as he said. He helped me walk by putting his hand at my elbow rather than on my waist. And I knew why he was keeping a distance now.
"Bye, kids." Charlie said as he waved us bye. Then he looked at me specifically. "Try not to hurt yourself. Okay."
Like that was in my hand, and with Edward near me. I rolled my eyes. "I'll take care, dad. Go now. The chief shouldn't be late." He laughed but did go, but after he made sure that I sat properly in Edward's silver Volvo.
Both the cars hit on the road. – Charlie finally went to the police station and Edward drove the opposite way to his house. Just as Charlie's car was out of the view, Edward stopped the car and Alice jumped out of it. "I have to go to Port Angeles for some errands. See you soon." And she was out of the sight in a blur.
"Now, explain me what just happened!" I demanded looking at him.
He rolled his eyes, a big smile forming on his stony lips. "Carlisle and Esme talked with Charlie, and he allowed me to drive you to my house. Of course he is still cautious, and I have to work on that, but he is at least ready to give me one more chance."
"He is ready to forgive you?" I asked to clarify. He was so upset about the whole Edward thing yesterday. Esme must have really worked her magic on him. "That's so huge, Edward!"
"Nope." Edward replied with a small frown, making my excitement fall. "He is not ready to forgive me, and neither trust for that matter. He respects Carlisle too much to decline his offer, and is trying to be good to me just for his sake."
He said all this too nonchalantly, like it was nothing, just some daily routine. It just be upsetting him from insides too.
"I'm sorry."
He snorted. "C'mon Bella, I already knew something like that would happen." I searched for his eyes, to make sure he was fine with this. He turned fully towards me and flashed a crooked smile, melting my heart.
"If you say so."
"Believe me, it's all fine." he assured me, lifting my hand from my lap to his lips. "We both love you too much to see you in any harm."
"Look at the road, Edward!" Because if he doesn't, then I may hyperventilate under the scrutiny of his eyes.
He laughed and twined our hands on my lap, driving the whole way single handed.
We soon entered the woods and crossed the river and were in front of his house in no time.
I recalled the first time I was here. I was scared to death, not because of my safety but with fear that they may not like me. But this time is so more different than that. Now, I am going over there once again, but it already felt like I was going to meet my family. One who fought for me, who took care of me. It felt like Edward's family had already accepted me wholeheartedly, not minding if I was a human. A small smile tugged on my lips as I pondered over all this.
"What are you thinking?" Came the voice of Edward as he opened the door for me.
I rolled my eyes. His obsession with listening my thoughts was sometimes so endearing and sometimes irritating.
"Nothing in particular. Just some musings over my first time here and now. So much have changed and yet nothing changed." I elaborated, hoping he understands what I was trying to say.
Another big smile plastered on his face. "True." was all he said as he bend down and in a fluent motion had me cradled in his arms. I gasped at his sudden movements. Didn't he know that I wasn't accustomed to such fast actions?! "What is all this for?" I couldn't help but ask a little annoyingly.
"Nothing." He replied as he walked towards the entrance. "Just making sure that I follow the chief's rule. I don't want to be in front of his gun."
"Like that could harm you, and what do you mean by following his rules. He didn't tell you to carry me like a toddler."
"But he did tell to take care of you, and I ain't upto missing a chance for this." He squeezed me to his hard body, emphasizing his point. Making me flush deep red. "So just relax and enjoy the ride."
"Yeah." I muttered, thinking what will Esme or Carlisle think seeing him carrying me like this.
I looked ahead as we entered in the living area. The whole room was the same, not that I was expecting any changes. The space, the tranquillity, the openness, everything was the same. I now knew why Edward liked this place. It not only had a charm, but it also provided with serenity, calmness and warmth.
But it was very silent here. Mainly because there was no one. No Carlisle waiting for me in his doctor mode as Edward had said, no Esme to welcome me in with her warm smile. Alice was out in Port Angeles, and I knew that Jasper would not come near me. I wasn't expecting Rosalie to come and greet me but I thought that Emmett would be here as Alice had said he was eager to see me again.
"Where are everyone?" I wondered looking around.
"Jasper and Alice are out. They wanted to have some alone time. Emmett will be down in a few. Esme is in the lawn watering the plants. And here is Carlisle." He pointed as he carried me to the dining area, where Carlisle was sitting for me on the chair, reading the newspaper.
Carlisle looked up as Edward brought me closer to him and made me sit on a chair near Carlisle, sitting beside me on the other one. "Good morning, Bella." He greeted, putting his paper down. "How are you today?"
"Carlisle?" I muttered. I had told him many times in the hospital in Phoenix that I hate it whenever he asks me questions like these in his doctor mode.
He chuckled and so did Edward. "What? I am asking just as Edward's father." He retorted with a smile.
I rolled my eyes but did told him that I was fine. Esme entered the dining room then and gave me a hearty hug, kissing my head. "How are you?" I repeated the same: I am fine and little impatient to get rid off of the plaster. They all had chuckled at that.
She sat beside Carlisle and told me some of the things which she thought I had missed in the past time. And it was easy to forget that I wasn't sitting around with normal people but with supernatural beings – it felt natural, like I was born to be a part of this.
Emmett came down to sit with us after a half hour, his mood as jovial as I had seen the last time in the match.
"Hey little human," he greeted from the chair he was sitting on, "how are you?"
I rolled my eyes. "All fine, all fine."
He huphed showing his displeasure in getting this answer from me. "C'mon, what happen? It isn't like I am pranking you."
"It would be much better, Emmett. I am very bored. Thanks to your stupid brother's obnoxious thinking that I may fall down." Emmett was unable to hide his laughter at that and Edward's accusing glare was quite comical to hide my cunning grin.
"Which brings us back to the topic I wanted to discuss with you, Bella." Carlisle broke in, stopping us. "Shall we first check on you, till then Alice will also come, and then you kids are free to do whatever you want." I looked at Edward to see what he had to say in this. He smiled at me assuringly, telling me that wherever I decide was fine by him. So I nodded, affirming to Carlisle's request. "Good. Shall we go to my study?"
"Fine." Before Edward could again try to find a way to carry me, I stood up. Edward did roll his eyes, knowing that I was rather uncomfortable in showing affection to him in front of his parents and abided by my request. He helped me walk and climb the stairs to Carlisle's study.
"I didn't know I am obnoxious." Edward mused on his way up. I knew this would come back to me.
"Well, I wasn't completely wrong. And you have to agree in that."
He laughed and kissed my temple. "Well, that is true."
Carlisle had sat up all the equipments that he might need for my physio. There was the big air ball, rope, crunches, steppers, and many other things, making me scare by their sight. He was sitting on the couch placed at the far end of the south of the room, facing the window, waiting for me. Edward sat with me on the other couch.
"Now Bella, try to lift your right leg and place in on this table." He ordered in a subdued manner. I was able to do that, but not without any pain. The pain was not enough to knock me out with tears but not even faint to ignore it. I had squeezed Edward's hand as tightly as I could.
Carlisle too saw that.
"Good. Now, try to stretch your leg by curling your toes." And he told me what to do and I did it again, and again. But it was a good start. And also interesting. He made me do some exercises with the big ball and the steppers, made me lift my leg, telling me that I was showing some improvement, not that I noticed it.
Edward had sat with me the whole time, sitting silently, letting me hold and squeeze his hand whenever I wanted to.
Then it was time to practice with the crunches he had bought.
"No way, Carlisle. I'm not using them. You were not there to see me stumbling with these."
"Trust me, Bella, it will be fine. And anyway, it's just for precaution."
I sighed giving up and nodding a yes to his request. He made me walk with the crunches, firstly with Edward walking beside me, helping me, and then asking me to walk to Edward who was standing in the opposite corner of the room. I was astonished by my success in both the tasks.
But the feeling of victory did come with an immense pain. My legs were hurting very much by the constant exercises. It felt like my legs would burst anytime.
This time when Edward carried me, I did not show any resistance and let him carry me to his room on the third floor. I put my head on his shoulder on our way up, exhausted. He kissed my forehead lovingly and made me lie on his black couch comfortably, while he sat on the golden carpet.
"You rest, I'll be back in a minute." And he was gone like wind out of the door in a blur. I sighed, thinking I may never get used to his speed, and closed my eyes. Trying to relax after a tiring workout. I wanted to look around at his room, but my body was not supportive. It just wanted to sleep for a moment. So I gave up.
He came after a few good minutes, this time carrying a glass of water and some medicines with him. I had a good idea that he had gone to talk with Carlisle about something related to me which he didn't want to talk in front of me. He gave me the medicine and I dutifully took it with water, though my frown was enough to make him laugh.
He played some music – early seventies, I guess – and sat on the couch, placing my legs on a cushion over his lap. I sighed again and closed my eyes, trying to concentrate on music. He too busied himself in playing with my hair. I had to slap his hand many times, to keep him from constant soft tugging of my hair – it was adorable but also a little irritating. Each time he grimaced and again resumed his work after a few minutes. But even this small teasing and playing was enough between us. There was no need of words between us. And I liked that part.
And the main reason why I didn't feel like anything was because of his topaz eyes. The vivid colour of his eyes was still so new to me, and yet so familiar. Like a deep ocean in which I wanted to drown, willingly, never wanting to resurface. His eyes spoke for him, able to communicate without any words. They still held a little remorse, but it wasn't as large as it was initially. But along with remorse, there was a certain tranquillity in his eyes. A certain warm-heartedness, indescribable yet irresistible. I could look into them completely.
"You seem to be in a very good mood, today." I noted.
"Maybe it is because of the company." And he winked, making me blush again.
His stupid tactics!
"I am sure boring you. We should probably do something." I mused as I started to get up. But he softly pushed me down again. "Just rest, Bella!" He'd said. But I didn't want to sit just with him but also spend some time with his family so I revaluated. "We should go down." As an answer he rolled his yes.
But this time I gave him a glare as I stood up. He sighed with resignation and helped me walk down to the hall – this time I had insisted to walk, and he let me.
In the hall, everyone was spread in the area. Emmett and Rosalie were sitting by the Ottoman near the window facing the lawn, their face serious. Seemed like they were talking about something important.
Edward found me looking at them and told me, "They are planning for a weekend getaway this weekend. Or I should say they are waiting for Alice to tell them where they should go." I was still looking at Rosalie but I guess I saw her rolling her eyes. Edward then snorted and a cunning smile came on Rosalie's perfect face. I then knew that what was happening. They were having their one of those silent conversation.
Though Emmett seemed busy, he took the courtesy of turning towards me and wave a hi. I liked the gesture and waved him back smiling, but Rosalie didn't like it, I guess, as she didn't even look at me. Maybe she is still angry with me for pushing her family in danger. It was understandable.
Alice and Jasper were no where to be seen. So I guess they are still busy. And then there were Esme and Carlisle. Esme was busy with some papers while Carlisle had busied himself with some magazines and books – a pile of them was arranged on the table.
"See, I told you." I heard Edward's voice behind me, and I could hear him trying to hide his smile. "There is nothing you could do down."
I huphed, hating that I was wrong. It wasn't that I was bored, but rather I don't want to disturb them.
My gaze fell on the elegant black piano lying in the further away area, totally untouched. That day he didn't complete his music because I wanted a tour of his house. But today I wanted to hear the whole song he had written for Esme and me and the others. Undisturbed.
"Want to sit by the piano?"
"I thought you couldn't read my mind."
"But I can now assume correctly what is going on in it." He answered casually like he wasn't just discussing his mind reading – or in my case, face reading – abilities. I couldn't help but roll my eyes.
He again helped me walk the way to the grand piano. He made me sit on the bench and sat beside me, lifting the cover. He first looked at me and nodded to himself. His eyes never left mine but his fingers lightly brushed over the keys, caressing them, and simple but soothing music started to fill the silent environment in the house.
The song he played was the one I recognised. It was 'Clair De Lune'. It was playing in his room when I had first time came to his house.
He smiled at me. "Remember, the song was still left unfinished."
I chuckled. "Nice thought." I could have assumed nothing better of him.
Somewhere in between the second song, Alice and Jasper came and sat by the couch, cuddling.
He played some other songs as well. At one point, when he was playing 'The way you look tonight' Esme and Carlisle both left their work and started swirling on the beats in a waltz. Soon Alice and Jasper joined on the floor too and so did Emmett and Rosalie. I had to twist fully so that I was facing them while they all danced in oblivion.
"It is the song I had played for them at their wedding." He told me as he looked sideways at me. "At all of theirs."
"Really?" I asked, amused.
"Yeah. The tradition started when Carlisle was speechless watching Esme walk down the aisle. He forgot he had to still perform his wedding. To play this song was a spontaneous decision. And the same happened at Emmett's wedding and so at Jasper's. You know, just like a tradition."
I laughed and put my head on his shoulder, watching them enjoy their partner's company. Also joyous knowing that even when I was not dancing, I was with a partner. I felt a soft icy touch on my hair. I twisted my head slightly to look at him and found him looking at me. "You want to dance?" He asked mischievously, already knowing what my answer is going to be.
I frowned. "Like my broken leg is not enough to make me fall." And he laughed.
Soon it was near to one. By the time, we all – except for Rosalie who did a quit good job in acting like I wasn't here – had did some dancing, watched some sports, or rather Emmett watched some sports and teased me – he always needed a chance to make some harmless fun on my account – about my clumsy nature. Soon I joined him too and together we laughed everytime. Esme had made lunch for me and made me eat it full. Edward had said "She likes to mother us, and now you are on the top of the list." Making everyone laugh with a nod.
Alice had later took me in her room, telling me that she had something interesting piled up for me. And I hated her definition of interesting.
Her room was much more bigger than Carlisle's office, coloured in hues of purple and yellow. It too had one glass wall which had full sized openable windows, just like Edward's room, a recliner placed idly near the glass wall, a couch lying near the foot of the king sized bed. But she didn't stop there. She took me further inside another door, continuing the suspense.
She showed me her closet – though I had no idea if this particular room should be classified as a closet. If I had thought that her room was big, then her closet was even bigger. It was insanely huge. I wondered if she ever lost in this room. As there were many racks of different things. Many racks of the same thing. There were shoes, skirts, sweats, gowns, lingerie, clutches, accessories which she never used, and many other things.
"Alice?!" I could only mumble, still looking at the large room with opened mouth.
"I know, but don't worry. You won't have to wear this." She pointed at the large pile of clothes in front of me. "They are mine. Anyway, you can wear them anytime you want. But this are specifically for you." She pointed at a small – yet not so small – pile of bags near the dressing table.
"What are these?" I wondered.
"Did you really thought I would let you wear those hideous things you call clothes?" She muttered, like I was the one who is insane and not her.
"Whatever." I huphed.
"We'll see."
"But why did you brought me up now? I am not going to change into anything."
"I know. Remember?" She pointed at her forehead. Like I could forget that she had small visions of the future. I huphed a 'whatever' again making her scoff. "Anyways, Edward wants to spend some alone time with you – not that I blame him with us hijacking you – and so I thought you could use some makeover."
I did like the idea – even if to a small extent – to get ready for Edward. I remembered the last time I got ready for him was me wearing just a skirt with no makeup "Like?" I asked, enthused.
"You sit over there," she pointed at the dressing table, "and I'll do all the work for you."
And she did it very thoroughly. I had half expected that she may not know or wouldn't have any experience in how to ready a human. She didn't do anything much. Just add a little eyeliner to my eyes and combed my tangled hair to make them smooth.
"You look descent." She announced when she was finally done.
"Where is he planning to take me?"
"It's a surprise."
"Any hint?"
"It may spoil the mystery."
"I hate you!"
"I know. And I love you too."
I grinned without my consent. She was an easy company to be with, and a difficult person to be angry with.
There was a knock on the door. "Alice?" Edward's voice was clear. "Is she ready? Or you aren't done yet?"
"Don't be too impatient, Edward. She'll be there in a minute." She told him. Then she looked at me. "I know you may hate it, but remember he loves you too much to see you ever fall again. So don't be mad when he walks carrying you."
I rolled my eyes, but nodded anyway. It wasn't like I was not enjoying that. "I'll do that."
"Good. Don't make him wait more. I'll see you tonight."
"You are coming for a sleepover again?"
She chuckled like I was missing something vital. "No, Bella. Remember you still need my help in your girly activities."
"Yes." How could I forget that?
"I'll see you later." She told me as she opened the door and then her room's door, showing me an impatient Edward who was pacing slowly around the passage.
Edward smiled hugely at me and gave me his hand which I took eagerly. "Shall we?"
"Whenever you say?" Was all I could say.
As long as I had to walk a path with him, to no matter what destination, I was ready.
New chapters on the way. Stay tuned. Also, do review.