The next day was the same like yesterday, except for the school part. Charlie had left early, after preparing both breakfast and lunch. I had to think how early he would have waken up to prepare omelettes for breakfast and spaghetti for lunch. I felt guilty for not able to help him...

As Edward was going today we decided to spend the day together. I had pleaded with Carlisle to call my physiotherapy off for today as my leg was paining a little. Which was the reason why Edward put down my suggestion of going to his meadow.

We spend the whole day at my home, studying, watching movie, reading books, talking.

When it was near to five, he got a call. We were watching A walk to remember, my one of the favourite movie. When he had come to know that it was my one of the favourites, he had insisted on watching it...

Edward picked up the call. It was from Emmett – he had mouthed it to let me know.

While he talked with his brother, I leaned my head down on his shoulder. The thought that he will leave soon in about an hour was ever present in my mind. I still wondered what will I do at night. I was so accustomed to sleep with him beside me, how will I sleep soundly when he's not there to cuddle with.

I realized I was getting emotionally very dependent on him, but it felt like a good dependence. I marvelled if he felt the same way. I knew I was wrong in getting so much dependent on him for almost every aspect, I still couldn't get used to control myself.

Was it like the same for him too?

He looked down at me and asked with his eyes what happen?

I shook my head and answered, nothing.

He rolled his eyes and draped his hand over my shoulder. I relaxed under his touch, playing with his shirt while I watched the movie.

He put his phone down after a few seconds. "What are you thinking?"

I smiled. Even now he was not tired of that specific question. "Nothing. Just mulling over a few unimportant things you don't need to worry about."

He scrutinized me for a second before nodding with suspicion. He was still eager to know what specific things I was mulling over. It was weird but adorable all the same.

I sighed. He was unintentionally using his hypnotic eyes to make me spill out. "I have gotten so accustomed of you during night. I was just wondering how the next two nights will be."

"I know. This thing have been running in my mind too for a long time. You have no idea how you have spoiled me." I smacked his shoulder. He sighed and kissed my temple. "I love you."

"I love you, too." I whispered against his lips as we got engaged in a kiss.

He smiled and together we lost ourselves in the bliss we had before he had to go...

It was six in no time. Time for him to leave now as Carlisle was waiting for him.

"Have fun!" I told him enthusiastically, meaning it.

"You really don't have to do it." He proposed, his grimace too hard to ignore. "It's fine if you don't like it."

"But I really do! It's a part of you." He smiled timidly. "Go now! Have fun! Grab some mountain lions for me."

"We are not really going for lions." He smiled down at me. I looked at him, puzzled. "Grizzlies." He added.

"Oh!" I looked at him for a moment and then smiled again. "Okay. Then grab some grizzlies for me."

He looked at me disapprovingly but then shook his head to himself. "Really, Bella? Is there anything that will scare you?" He was all joking but serious too.

I poked his nose with my index finger. "Nope, Mr. Cullen. You know, I'm not really that easy to scare off."

He smiled – relieved? "I'll take that."

"You should!" I acknowledged with a kiss on his cheek. "Now go! Carlisle will be waiting for you."

He looked at me again for a second, as if capturing my face with his eyes, and pressed his lips against my forehead for a moment.

"What?"

"Nothing. I'll miss you."

I gulped and leaned my head on his chest, hugging him tightly. He too wrapped his arms around me and put his chin on my head. A dilemma between my head and heart, thinking if I should stop him or let him go. "I know." I hugged him tightly, mostly wishing he didn't have to go, but also knowing he should go.

"Be good. Don't walk more and try to relax. I really don't want you to get hurt any more. And especially when I'll not be here to protect you from your clumsiness."

Why was he still thinking about that? I wondered to myself.

"Edward?!" I looked up to see him looking down at me, his eyes sorry. He pressed my wrist to his lips and kissed the scar once again.

"Be safe." He whispered.

"Don't worry. I think I can manage for two nights."

"I wish I could say that." He joked.

I smacked his chest lightly. He muttered an ouch for my sake, making me laugh.

"Be back soon." I murmured and kissed him. "Now go." I pushed him off the couch. "Carlisle would be waiting. I don't want him to think ill of his patient." He chuckled, kissed my forehead again, and was out of my sight in a blur.

The day after that was just like everyday. I wasn't even able to enjoy the movie like I usually do. Every now and then I looked at the gate wondering if he changed his plan and if he was coming.

I was so used to have one of my vampire with me everytime that I didn't realize how difficult it was for me to be without them.

When Charlie came from his work he found me sitting lazily on the couch, watching movie. He knew I generally never watched television by myself.

"What happen?"

"Nothing. I was getting bored?"

"Oh! I had thought Alice will be with you."

"Yeah. She was. She left just an hour ago." It was Edward, not Alice. I mentally corrected myself. "She'll be back by ten."

"Okay. And what about Edward?"

How to tell him that Edward had gone for hunting. "He's gone with Carlisle to help him."

He relaxed a little. Why does he think that I will do something on his back. It was not like we were doing anything wrong. I switched off the television and looked at him.

"You should have called me then." He offered as he pulled his jacket off and hung his gun by the door. "I was, anyway, doing nothing over there."

"It's fine dad, really. I was, however, watching a movie. You would've gotten bore."

He snickered, knowing exactly that it would have been, and busied himself in preparing dinner for us. I wanted to do that myself, but Edward had ordered me to be careful me till he was not here, and after that Alice had threatened me that if I did any such stupidity, she would have Esme talk to me.

I realised, when I was watching news with him, I was out of practice of real world.

After dinner I helped Charlie in his work which I was able to do.

"What are you planning for tomorrow? Fishing?" I asked him as I helped him dry the dishes, sitting on the kitchen counter with my leg resting on the chair.

He didn't look up but answered anyway. "Actually no. I don't want to be rude by leaving you alone when you are in such a bad state. I am already doing a terrible job at taking care of you."

I shook my head. "I don't think you are, dad." I opposed, meaning it. He was always excited for his day-off so that he could be with his friends. I didn't want to sabotage his plans just because of me.

He scoffed a little, not believing my sincerity. "You're too polite to say that, honey. But don't worry. Tomorrow I'll stay home. I even told Billy and Harry that and they understand."

"What do you plan on doing tomorrow then?"

"I don't have anything in mind so I am up for options. What do you have in mind?"

Spending some unguarded time waiting for my boyfriend to arrive without your interruption. "Nothing."

"Good. We'll see tomorrow then."

"Yeah."

Later that evening, when Alice arrived for her nightstay, she spared nothing when it came to Barbie Bella. I was given manicure, pedicure, my nails were now polished in a pink colour, my dress a little short than I am used to, my hair combed in a braid – Carlisle still hadn't gave the green signal that I can wash my hair now – and many things which I had expected of Alice.

I had even asked her if she knew what Charlie will do tomorrow but she replied with a negative shake of head, saying, "He's still undecided. Don't worry. Edward won't be back before next day, and there is always the excuse of your physiotherapy. Charlie won't get suspicious as to why you are coming at my home."

"Okay." I whispered, my mind still on the fact that today I would sleep alone. I was now not habited to sleep alone – thanks to the vampire who always accompanied me here. Alice must have read it in my face as she hugged me slightly and let me dwell in my thinking. I too must have slept somewhere in between my musings.

.

.

.

The next day, as Charlie had promised, he was not going for fishing. His excuse that he wants to spend some time with you still worked for him. Alice too heard that. She also hated that she had to eat a little bit of breakfast for Charlie's sake.

For the rest of the day Charlie talked with us, played games, helped us in a few subjects he was good at. Alice liked his company so we decided to spend some time here. He was a good reception when it came to I and Alice. He even laughed and enjoyed our company – I had a big doubt that we might bore him.

When it was near to lunch time, Alice excused herself saying she has some work to do and would join me later that evening. Charlie waved her bye and arranged the lunch for both of us. After lunch, we both decided to watch a seventies movie. I wasn't a fan of the movie and as a result I fell asleep within the first half of the movie.

When I woke up, it was already near to twilight. The smell of fish very high in the house.

I walked my way to the stairs carefully, taking my time.

Downstairs, in the kitchen, Charlie was preparing fish.

"What are you doing dad?" I inquired as I stepped in the kitchen. The look in the kitchen was horrifying. The whole platform was a mess, the fish was clearly cook and was kept for overcook, while the oven was on with gravy in it being ready for use. "You'll overcook the fish." I objected as I switched off the oven.

"No, I won't."

"Yes. You will." I was very sure of that. "Let me do that."

"I can do this, Bella." And he tried to show it as he cooked the fish, and finally did it. Though it was a little overcooked, it was fine. I appreciated him when we had our dinner. "See, you are spoiling me too much." He jumped in and I appreciated his cooking.

"That's because I love spoiling you." I teased back. He laughed and together we enjoyed the dinner.

"You can go to LaPush if you want to." I told him while we ate our meal.

He shook his head. "Actually no. It's already dark, and Alice will be late today. I am not risking leaving you alone."

"Dad! I can take care of myself."

"Yeah. Sure." He was mocking me. I made a face. He laughed and stood up, clearing the dishes. "I'll go next time. Till then you say what do you have in mind. Whatever you say."

"I am going for my studies. Exams are not far away."

"Then you study. I'll watch television."

I nodded, as it was a good idea. He helped me climb the stairs.

I studied for a few subjects till it was past ten. Then Alice made her appearance – formally.

"Hey Bella!" She came in with her chirping voice, jumping as always.

I rolled my eyes hearing the high pitched voice. "You seem too enthused, Alice. What happen?" I teased.

She scoffed. "Nothing much." She answered anyway. "Other than a word from Edward."

I felt my heart skip a beat. "What? What did he say?" Why was I not able to control my eagerness.

"That he doesn't trusts me when it comes to you so he is coming tomorrow by early morning."

"Really?" I wanted to sound less enthusiastic but I couldn't.

"But it doesn't surprise me. It's really classic Edward."

"What do you mean by that?" I was curious to know about that.

She grinned mischievously. "Don't tell him I told you this, but he was obsessed with you in the starting. Stalking you almost everywhere, even when you were home. And he literally kept stalking you even in school. He used to laugh like idiot – even when you both were not on talking terms – when you did something interesting or stupid. I am actually amazed he managed to stay two days away from you."

"It's not like that."

She rolled her eyes like I was the one who was talking nonsense. "You are just naive, Bella. Think about it when you are alone tonight."

"I'm very much sure you are wrong."

"Then why do you think he ended up in your room at the first place?"

I didn't reply at first. My mind looking back at those days when we didn't talk, or why he was in my room in the first place.

The answer was obvious yet I was oblivious to it. Alice was right about that.

But the fact that he stalked me didn't make me angry, rather miss him more. My cheeks started to glow on their own as I mulled over it.

"Here." She patted my shoulder. "You have no idea how my brother has irrecoverably fallen in love with you."

If possible, my cheeks were on flame.

"Well, then, I'm glad both of us are on the same boat."

She laughed. "True. No wonder he fell in love with a human. You are the best thing that had ever happened to him."

The smile on my face then was unashamedly big. "I'm glad you think so."

"Really, Bella. He is a totally different man now. Thanks to you. Before you, I don't remember a day when he laughed so freely, so carefree, but since you, I don't remember a day when he is not laughing like an idiot."

"It means a lot, Alice. Thanks."

"Anytime, honey. Anything for him. And for you too." Her reflection on the mirror smiled at me and I grinned back. "So... Where were we?" And a small session of Barbie Bella again started.

By the time it was twelve, Charlie was already slept and Alice had left about an hour ago. I too wanted to sleep but I wasn't sleepy yet – thanks to my big nap in the day. So, to pass the time I decided to do some studies. I did for a short time but then eventually gave up and decided to continue with my Sense And Sensibility. By the time I was on chapter twelve, I don't know when, but I fell asleep.

I felt a soft brush like touch on my forehead. I was still sleepy, not ready to open my eyes to a new morning – or was it night still? I looked outside the window to see the moon still shining brightly – as brightly as it could here.

I yawned, ready to sleep again, but then suddenly I realised that the soft touch felt real. I could also feel someone's eyes on me. My heart skipped a beat, anticipating who it could be – only one name running in my mind.

I slowly turned around, making sure that my sudden movement doesn't scare him – though I knew it was a waste as he could see properly even in the night.

Behind me, laying down casually with his head on his elbow, wearing regular sports shirt and pant, was he, smirking now and then as he saw me slowly rub my eyes to confirm that I was not dreaming.

But I wasn't sure yet.

I slowly touched his face by my palm. He smiled – even in the dark his brilliant skin colour shined like white powder in the pale moonlight – and put his hand above mine, kissing my palm with utter delicacy.

"When did you came?" I cleared my throat.

"Not long time ago. You were just dreaming about me. I didn't miss it."

I smiled involuntarily. "What was I muttering today?"

"You were murmuring my name – as usual – and something like paranoid, idiot, Alice... I couldn't decipher the meaning of that."

I sighed with relief. It was already too embarrassing to confess that in my dream he was still stalking me like an idiot – thanks to Alice for that.

"Nothing."

"What did Alice told you about me?"

"It's between I and her. And you are not allowed to interfere between us." He made a face. I laughed lightly. "Not working."

"Darn it! You are getting good."

"No. Actually, dark helps."

He laughed along with me and leaned forward. I put my fingers between us, stopping him from kissing me. "What happen?"

"Morning breath. I don't like it. Let me first wash my face. I'll get freshen up and then... "

"Shh.." He pressed his finger against my lips, halting my blabbering. "Stop thinking." He ordered. I stopped thinking and just concentrated in his golden eyes which were clearly visible even in the dark.

And he pressed his chilly lips against mine.

He sighed and pulled me closer to him. I nestled in his arms and put my head on his chest. "How was your hunting?"

"It was good. I missed you very much though."

I gave him a small peck on his cheek.

"Didn't you have fun? Didn't you find anything to eat?" I mocked.

I felt him smile. "Oh, I had. But nothing was as delicious as you, you know."

"Really?" it was hard to stifle my laugh.

"You have no idea."

To prove his point, he wandered his finger over my cheeks and down my cheek, then back up to my chin and lifted my face with his finger and gave me a small kiss on my cheek. "Mmm, very delicious!"

"Edward?!" I laughed.

"What?" He made an innocent face as he leaned back. "I am just telling the truth." He kissed my other cheek then. "Very scrumptious."

I laughed again and smacked his head with my pillow. He laughed too. "But seriously, I wanted to come early myself. I just couldn't trust you alone with your crunches. With your talent of clumsiness, you have already made them a death-trap for you."

I frowned, playing a little, as I knew he was cent percent right. "I'm not that bad." He looked at me disapprovingly. I sighed and gave up. "You're right. I was in a serious problem. But thanks to you, Mr. Vampire, now I don't have to think about it. I'll have my personal human crunch with me."

He chuckled. "At your service, ma'am. But for now, you rest."

I was about to refuse but a stupid yawn came out of my mouth. He smiled. "Fine. We'll talk tomorrow."

"Sure. Till then, sleep tight."

"Don't worry. I will. Now that you are here."

"I didn't have any idea you did not have any proper sleep yesterday. I would've not gone."

"No. It was fine. What I meant was that now I may sleep more soundly."

He shook his head with a small grimace but smiled then and pulled me closer to him. I turned in his arms such that my back was to his chest, his bicep was my pillow, his other arm draped over me, running over my shoulder in a soothing manner. He sang my lullaby in my ear, occasionally brushing his lips over my earlobe.

It was difficult to give in to my slumber when I was too hypnotised by his very presence, but slowly I drifted off in my slumber.

.

.

.

The next day was just the same, even in the school, except for the many questions about how I fell or were I and Edward together. Every person knew the public story about how I fell while every person could see Edward always supporting me and walking beside me, guessing the answer of second question themselves.

The lunch break was a difficult time though.

Today all the Cullens were present, even Rosalie, who all were sitting by their corner table. Edward walked me to my table, placed my tray over there and helped me sit comfortably before going to his place with his family. We had discussed it earlier today that he would sit with his family and I would sit with my friends. He was not so keen about it but obliged to my pleas just because I wanted to keep good terms with my friends too.

"What happened?" Jessica asked curiously as soon as Edward was not there to overhear her. Little did she know how wrong she was.

"Nothing happened. Why?" I feigned innocence.

She scoffed. "Why is he not sitting with us today? Did we bore him?"

"No Jess. This is just because today his family is also here."

"So aren't you gonna sit with them?"

"Actually, no. I think I want to sit here today."

She looked at me with confusion on her eyes, a small grim on her face, and then turned to take a glance at the Cullens. I too turned to take a glimpse of them. I could see Edward smiling slightly, running his hands through his hair, whereas it seemed Alice and Emmett were having their own fun. Rosalie had a cunning smirk on her angelic face and Jasper had his back to me so I couldn't decipher his mood.

I didn't realise when Jessica had turned her head again to me.

"Is everything fine between you two?"

What made her think that? "Yup, Jess. Everything's fine. It's probably nothing. He wanted to sit with his family and I with you all. So here we are."

"Oh!" Why did she sounded a little discouraged. I let it go. She too nodded and turned her attention back to Mike, twinning their arms and eating a little part of his lunch. I averted my eyes and concentrated on my pizza.

"It's so nice of you Bella," Angela said from the side in a whisper. "you know, to sit with us instead of him during lunch."

She was good at understanding the hidden meaning, but that shouldn't surprise me. She had always been good to me in that. "Thanks, Ang. But how did you know?"

"That's just because I know you and you are, anyway, easy to read. Not too hard."

I laughed listening her. "I'll take it as a compliment." She laughed too. "I just didn't want to neglect you all. After all you all were there for me even before him."

"Understandable." She agrees, not judging me. "That was also the reason for me too when I and Ben started dating."

"Guess where did I get the idea from." She grinned along with me. "But seriously, how come no one saw it that you two..."

"I know, and I too don't know. I always liked Ben, and the day before spring dance, out of the blue, he came and asked me if I wanted to go with him."

"I'm so happy for you, Ang. But also sorry for your heels."

She laughed. "Oh, it's nothing. I'll wear them anyway. Height doesn't matter – at least not to us. You know, there is a saying that 'In love, every irrational thing becomes rational.'"

She had no idea how true this saying is. I momentarily looked at Edward and saw him looking at me. He had the ability to make me blush and my heart race just by his eyes. "It couldn't be more true." I whispered back after looking back at Ang.

"He is so sweet, isn't he."

"Just like Ben."

She blushed too and I saw her holding his hand beneath the table. He smiled and kissed her temple, again engaging in his conversation with the others.

"Did you know they all had a bet about where you will sit today?"

"Really?" I couldn't believe it, but on the other hand they all always used to bet so it was not a different thing. "Apparently, Jess and Lauren lost along with Austin and that's why she is so pissed off."

It was hard not to laugh. "Now I get why was she is not so happy about me sitting here."

"I get you." And we both laughed together.

When the bell rang Angela waited for me along with Ben. Edward helped me walk and Angela and Ben walked along with us.

"Thanks for sitting separately, you both." Ben said jubilantly. "You saved me a fifty bucks."

"You're welcome, Ben." Edward told with a smile. They both engaged themselves in a small conversation where he informed him about the other stupid bets he has made and Edward told him about his.

I and Angela rolled out eyes and talked among ourselves. "Hey, I was wondering if you would like to come for a sleepover at my place?"

"What happen?"

"Nothing. Charlie was doubting that my involvement with the Cullens' might make me lose contact with my other friends." I rolled my eyes over his stupid hypothesis. "Also, Ben informed me that you are pissing him off with your girly stuff. Thought I could help him in that. And as tomorrow is a holiday, better now than later."

She laughed. "I'll have to ask my folks, but yeah sure."

"So done."

"Yeah. Don't you want to ask Jess?"

"I don't think I can handle both Alice and Jess at the same time." I accepted guiltily. If Alice heard this then I was in a big problem.

"Alice?" She was puzzled. She tried to cover her expression though after she recalled that Edward was with us too.

Edward jumped in, trying to be a part of the conversation. "Alice has herself made her her in-charge till Bella recover from this." He pointed at my leg.

"So she'll be there tonight too to help me with my daily night routine."

"That sounds horrible?" She guessed as if she was getting it hard to believe.

"You come and see yourself."

"I don't want to miss that."

"You're going to regret it too." Edward warned. She laughed along with me and Edward joined us too.

Once we were seated in our seats in the biology class, he asked the question I knew was going to come. "What was that about?"

"Charlie was worried about me that I am not interacting with my other friends. With Angela coming over for a sleepover, at least Charlie will have a peace of mind."

"And what about me." He pouted.

The pout on his face was too adorable to miss. I looked around to see that no one was watching us. Once I was sure, I gave him a quick peck on the lips.

"Edward Anthony Masen Cullen, I think you are old enough to handle yourself for one night."

He narrowed his eyes. "Who told you about it?" I knew he was talking about his full name.

"Think of a name."

He guessed the name in an instant and growled. "Alice!"

"As much as I hate Alice, I love her too." I tried to cover up for her.

"She has the ability to make anyone like her in an instant."

I laughed. "She isn't that bad."

"Live with her for a few days and you will change your saying."

"I don't think so."

"Then why did you warn Angela then?" He countered.

"She can be overwhelming sometimes. I just gave her a heads up. It's a difference."

"Well then, that makes it three."

"Huh?" I didn't get the meaning of that.

"Three ladies I can never win from."

"You make me do stupid things all the time." I retorted with a scoff. "Stupid dazzler!"

"They are two different things."

He did it again then. Dazzled me with his eyes such that I could not look away from him. The voice of our Mr. Banner made me jump. I quickly averted my eyes from him and studied sincerely for the rest of the period. There was some cheating though when we laughed like idiots while doing our work...

Gym was relieving and boring again – relieving because I didn't have to play, boring as I had nothing to do other than watch others play. And it was the most relieving when the final bell rang.

Once in his car – today Alice was not driving with us as she had gone with the others – we went his home, where I had a small session with my doctor, Esme made me some delicious snacks, Alice gave me a little hard time in the context of clothes she had ordered for me.

The same routine repeated for the next few hours, until Angela called to confirm that it was all right with her folks to stay at my place for a sleepover. Alice already knew that and had packed for the night beforehand. Edward waved me a buy when we reached my turf as he didn't want to upset Charlie by coming in, thinking he still needed a little time. I was missing him already and told him the same. He hugged me for a moment and released me when he saw Charlie peeking from the curtains.

He frowned but understood. That's what I liked about him – he understood things easily without explanation.

After dinner when it was near to nine and Charlie had already cleaned up, Angela showed up, carrying a small back pack with her, smiling shyly at Charlie.

"Welcome, Angela." Charlie greeted her like a good host. "You're 'bout time."

"Thanks chief."

"Not a police station, dear." Charlie reminded her with a grin. She grinned and apologized calling him Charlie. We both talked over the dining while he made himself suitable near the table when Alice showed up wearing her blue denims and white sweats, a bag pack filled with dread on her back.

"You're early." I commented looking at the cloak. It wasn't even ten yet.

"I didn't want to be late for my first official sleepover." She shrugged nonchalantly.

"Same here." Ang jumped in, saying "I didn't know what time Charlie was fine with and I really didn't want to be in bad grace of the Sheriff."

"Who has sharp ears, by the way." Charlie commented, breaking in our girls' conversation, from the television without looking away from the screen. He then turned back and smiled.

"You needn't worry about the chief, Ang." I said, smiling brightly at Charlie and turned to the girls. "He will be good, I promise, else Alice will give him a good makeover."

Charlie's face turned blank for a second before he looked at Alice. He knew in a second there was a high probability that it would happen. We all laughed and he shook his head but couldn't help but laugh along with us.

"Why don't you girls take it above. Let me have some fun with the sports."

"Aye, aye, Sheriff." Alice teased, making Charlie smile again.

Angela liked this side of Alice, I realised as I saw her looking rather fascinated at Alice while she joked with Charlie.

"She is a free spirit." She noted.

"More like an unstoppable force of nature, but I love her, and her stupid things too."

"You too got really close over the time." Not a question just a statement from her observation.

"Yeah. She already thinks of me as her sister, and the same goes for me too. Edward is sometimes jealous, saying I have a better relationship with her than him. But I know deep inside he is also happy about that, seeing that Alice accepted me completely. They both are really close."

"I can see that." She nodded to herself and laughed softly when she saw Alice arguing with Charlie over something irrelevant. "She has Charlie in her grasp."

"Yeah. He thinks of her as her second daughter, sometimes making me wonder if I am the guest here or her." I laughed then watching Alice threat him with nail paints. He surrendered on whatever they were arguing about, which made Alice grin like mad, and he rolled his eyes at her. She was pleased by herself as she made her way to us and said she was now ready to go up.

I nodded and took Ang's help climbing up while Alice stayed behind to bring something – nuts, chocolates, chips and many other things.

We talked and played a few games the whole night, talked about almost everything that came in one's mind, played the words game where you have to say the first thing that came to your mind listening to a word, played never have I ever, had our beauty salon time with Alice as our beautician – Angela was not ready for that but started to enjoy after a little time. She was more than eager when she teased Alice by saying that she may need her to get ready for Prom.

And I had to no reason to see why not. Alice had been too thorough about tonight. She even had hand warmers on her hand so as to not startle Ang with the chilliness of her touch.

Alice volunteered herself for the couch, around half past three, saying she was comfortable over there and was very sleepy, but I knew better. I knew she wanted to sneak out and go to Jasper. They were meeting in the forest today, wanting to enjoy the night.

I and Ang hung till it was past five. Till then we both just talked – mainly about Alice and our men.

"She is a hell of energetic."

"I told you before, didn't I, she is unstoppable."

"And she really had a hold over everything here." It was a compliment but I could sense a little bit of friendly jealousy in the tone.

"I know. Charlie was at first reluctant about her, but in no time he came around."

"Edward is lucky to get such a great sister."

"I know. I consider myself lucky too. I had always been a single child, but with Alice," I shook my head, "it's like we are twins but so much different from each other."

"I can understand. I too don't have a sister, though a brother but I always wanted a sister. But I guess Jenny, Ben's sister, fills in for that void. She is three years younger but mature. I can talk almost anything with her, it feels"

"Ben is lucky to have such a great sister, just like Edward. He even told me many times that if it wasn't for Alice, he would've been struck somewhere else."

"Same goes for Ben. He is elder, but yet she manages to act more mature than her."

"Right."

"You know, I think I'm jealous of you. Alice is so..."

She needn't have to complete the sentence. "I know." I broke in. "It just comes handy. But I'm sure Jenny is the same."

"But she is still small to understand my problems. She acts mature but there is a difference in being one. But with Alice, you can share almost everything."

"Everything." I corrected.

"Yeah. I just wish that."

"You know, Alice won't mind looking at you like another sister."

"Means a lot, but I think I'll pass. Jenny is herself a lot to handle, I don't think I can handle Alice on that."

"I hope not. God save us!"

"Hopefully." She laughed but then slowly the sound subsided. "How's it going with Edward?"

"Everything's fine. It's different, but the best nonetheless." Suddenly I was missing him even more.

"I know what you mean. Ben is too very gentle with me, physically and emotionally. Not the way I remember him with anyone else. It's like he had reserved that side of him just for me."

"True." I sighed. "Look at us, idiot girls who are hopelessly in love."

She chuckled. "True."

After a few more talks, we decided to sleep. And we shared the bed, though it was not that comfortable. I wondered what it was with Edward that made it look like two or three people could fit in this small bed.

We woke up around eleven the next morning – we were too sleepy even then. Charlie had made breakfast for us – sandwiches and orange juice – which was sitting on the table with a small letter which said hope you enjoy it. Have fun. I smiled involuntarily. Charlie was making so much effort to prove that he can be fun too, so that I don't leave him again. It was too sweet.

Alice excused herself from eating by saying she already ate as she was too hungry and we were sleeping as dead. Ang rolled her eyes at her but ate with me. Near by twelve she left saying she has to do her brother's work, "but I enjoyed our sleepover. We should do it more often." I agreed easily and decided the next sleepover, whenever it happens, will be Angela's home. Alice wanted to chip in too, suggesting the Cullen mansion, but I knew why she stopped. She didn't want to trouble Jasper or make Rosalie more furious. Angela nodded excitedly and with that she left.

Both of us looked towards her as she walked past the gate, waving her bye with a smile which reached our eyes completely. Charlie was right. I needed time with my other friends – my human friends – too. I didn't realise how much I was craving it until spending some non-superficial or non-supernatural things with her, discussing the things just like teenage girls do – like now normal human teenage girls do.

"It all went so well!" I exclaimed with joy, clapping my hands together with delight for my success.

Alice grinned too. "I know."

But was it just me that saw the little hurt in her eyes or heard the little insecurity in her voice. Or how she wasn't as joyous or as jumpy as she always is.

"What happen Alice?" I had to ask. I ran my hands through her hair, to make sure she is right and comforted.

She shook her head. "Nothing. Just..." and a big smile tugged over her lips, a smile full of wonder and joy. "I never had any friends beside my family as I remember of. I always had Jasper beside me, even when he was just in my visions; had the most wonderful family I could ever expect of; I had Edward as my partner in crime, Rosalie as my perfect sister, Emmett as my big yet small brother, Carlisle and Esme were the best part of the deal, and you came along too. But none of it prepared me to be ready to encounter a human who was ready to be a friends of mine, try to understand me even when I scare her very often." She laughed at this one.

"Thanks." She told me, bringing me in her icy steel arms yet her warm embrace, blossoming me with her sister love for me. "Thanks. So much."

I patted her back but was glad she was happy about all this. Truth to be told, I was scared – even if just a bit – that Angela may not like her but all these doubts shattered to happiness when she welcomed Alice like a long lost friend.

"I am happy you feel that way." I informed her with a smile and kissed her cheek. "But I shouldn't be surprised. You are a quirky little monster who knows well about making way in someone's life."

She laughed. "Thanks for the snide comment, by the way."

"Always!" I announced, unruffled by her quirky remark and put her at an arm's length.

Edward walked in through the door then, dressed up in a khaki pants and black shirt which made him look more young, more muscular, more handsome...

He caught me looking at him and raised his eyebrows with a teasing smile. I too smiled up at him. "What are my girls doing?" He asked as he stepped inside the kitchen and suited himself on a dinner chair beside me.

"Trying to ease Alice down." I joked. "She was crying like a mad." He nodded in understanding.

Edward already knew what happen. He might have read it in her mind or he had been eavesdropping for a time now. He brought Alice's hand in between his and pulled her closer. She leaned into him and he kissed her forehead. She closed her eyes and let her herself bask in his embrace, smiling over something and to whatever she thought, Edward listened and smiled with her.

Now I get what Esme meant when she said they both were really close. If I had not known them better, I would have doubted them. But no. I knew them better than myself – I thought that I did – and knew what place Edward held for Alice. He was her partner in crime, her twin freak with whom she could share almost everything. An annoying sister with whom Edward loved to be with. No wonder Jasper felt a pinch of jealousy – I would have doubted him if he didn't.

"I love you both too." I echoed from the chair I was seated in to break the silence, but mostly because I felt a little left out.

Edward smiled crookedly while Alice laughed freely. He pulled my chair closer to him, his one arm still draped over her like a shield, as he took me in the surrender of his arm, kissing my temple too. "My favourite girls." He murmured softly, like a melodious song.

.

.

.

Alice had left us soon after saying she didn't want to be the third wheel. Edward had ruffled her hair then as a bye as she left from here. When alone, Edward asked me about the night and I told him everything, sparing next to nothing. I told him about the games we played, the parlour treatment Alice gave us, Angela's genuine likeness for Alice not caring she was one of the weirdos.

"So, how was your night?" I asked him then, to know what he did when I had my fun.

He shrugged. "Nothing much. We all went to Seattle for a getaway where we played and wrestled and had fun together. It was after a long time that we spent time together. Just us three."

"You're welcome, by the way." I teased him.

He grinned and kissed me on the lips. "What do you want to do today?" I knew why this offer was coming now – Carlisle had to go for an emergency in Seattle so my physio therapy for today was postponed. I didn't mind that at all.

"Studies!" I almost groaned. He grinned and offered to help me once again.

We studied for most of the past of the day – actually I studied and he taught me. He even made me coffee and snacks when I was hungry, saying "I am not such a mess in kitchen – I can do that" and I had laughed listening him pout but finally accepted his help and his coffee too which wasn't that bad, neither the snacks. He had grinned sheepishly, shrugging and laughed freely then, unable to stifle it no more.

Within no time it was dusk. And as we were just studying I asked him to stay till Charlie came over. He has to get used to the idea of Edward hanging at my place. Edward had, of course, denied my idea, saying 'I don't want to rush Charlie into something he isn't okay with', but I had told him that 'unless we aren't in front of Charlie, he will never get used to the idea'. He shrugged, unsure, but then finally said okay just to please me.

We were studying in the hall, books spread over the floor like a mess, when Charlie stepped in the house. Edward had already warned me when he heard the sound of his car.

"Hey Bella! Oh, studying!" He observed as he watched us both.

"Hii dad." I greeted him with a smile while Edward smiled at him tentatively. "Hello, chief."

"Carlisle had an appointment so we decided to study." I informed him like he should have seen it.

He nodded curtly and hung his gun over the hanger, not before giving Edward a the-hell-you-just-be-studying look. "When did Angela leave?" I replied 'by twelve'. He nodded again and went to sit by the chair. "What do you guys want for dinner?"

"Whatever you decide dad if fine by me."

"And you Edward?"

I was about to say something to give him an easy escape but he beat me there. "Anything, chief."

"Okay. So shall I order an pizza? Or make some pasta or spaghetti? Lasagne? Fish?"

"Pizza is fine." I offered of both of our behalf. He nodded and placed the order. Then he went upstairs to freshen up. When I knew he cannot overhear us, I looked at Edward incredulously. "What was that for? You could have excused yourself by saying anything. Now you have to eat. Charlie may not say anything but he is a good observant and he will doubt you if you didn't eat anything."

"You were the one to suggest give him an idea that who am going to be here now. I just followed your suggestion." He smiled crookedly. I huphed and bit my lips. I didn't think of the consequences of my decision. I should've thought thoroughly rather than being spontaneous. "Stop worrying yourself. I'll be fine. And if not, I will know beforehand when to run." He tapped his temple with a slightly wicked smile, eliciting a small giggle from me.

"Fine." I gave up.

Dinner was not as worrisome as I had initially thought. Charlie made small talks like school, exams, studies, many more with Edward and in return Edward answered to all his questions politely. He even ate a few slices of pizza without making faces. After dinner we also helped Charlie clean it and with the dishes.

After dinner Charlie settled himself in front of the television such that he could have his one eyes on the telly while other on us – we were sitting on the dining table, Edward teaching me trig. It stopped feeling awkward after a small time, like everything fell in its place automatically. When it was near to ten, Edward fake-yawned showing he was tired and went out, driving away.

Charlie helped me clear the books. "I wasn't expecting him." He commented while arranging them in a pile.

"My physio therapy was postponed so we decided to study here."

"He is good in studies." He noted. "Smart kid. And boy, did he just solved a trig question like it was nothing. And that too a hard one."

"They all are. He even volunteered in helping me study."

"Good for you." I smiled. "So is he going to be here tomorrow again?" He tried to ask it as casually as he could muster.

"If my physio is postponed again, why not?" He looked stunned. I sighed. "Only if you say it's fine."

"If you agree to be careful, then okay. I'll be fine with that."

"I promise." He grinned, but not fully. Just to please me. "By the way chief, you did good. I had half expected you to be mad at me."

"Bella, you know that I can never be mad at you."

And that's why I loved him. He neglected all those weird stuff, unnecessary stuff, crazy stuff to be with me. "I am sorry."

"You shouldn't be. And I promise I'll be good to him too."

"But?"

"Try to be careful. I don't want to see you hurt again."

"On it already, sheriff."

He laughed, patted my head, and again busied himself with his sports.

It felt so good, so natural to be with him in this way. Teasing and joking around. Not like at first when it was all weird between I and Charlie. We have come a long distance since then. I realised I felt more close to him now than ever. He accepted me, forgave me, is ready to give a try to Edward too...

I smiled and continued with my government.