Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or anything associated with it. I am merely using the world for my own enjoyment. I do own my original characters, Ella and Adrian.

AN1: This week I received a review which irked me. I'm all for constructive criticism, in fact I love receiving help that will better me as a author. As with everything there are dos and don'ts for reviewing. Being a member in several book clubs has helped me to hone my own review writing.

Minanira22 - Repeated a few chapters how? I'm all for constructive criticism, in fact I welcome it but it you're going to give a point at least back it up with an example. When you say some chapters are a copy of another what do you mean? Are you referring to themes? Dialogue? Plot aspects? Again would have been better had an example been given. I don't edit my stories as I've stated many a time, that's how I get a chapter a week out. If I did edit - properly - updates would be much slower. The Halloween Contest was open ended, it was more of a 'reader pick your own winner' than anything else. I understand where you're coming from but as I've said I don't have time to edit. In future when you post a constructive review make sure you include examples of what you're talking about otherwise the review is meaningless and will be forgotten. Or worse you might stumble across and author who might take offense. Critiquing works better when you give examples otherwise it just reads like you're slagging off the authors work :)

AN2: I'll say this once before it's on with the chapter. All authors like reviews but there are different times of reviews and different rules to writing a good one. Before you post a review, think about what you've said, how you've worded it. Look at it at all angles before posting. If you want to point something out make sure you have evidence to prove it. The worst thing you can do is offend an author because you haven't taken care and consideration with a review. Anyway, on with the chapter, I wrote this while eating a giant bag of Swedish Fish sweets so if it reads like an over excited child, that's why ~ Hannah

AN3: This last week & this week have been ridiculously busy at work! I'm going to try and get another chapter out this week but no promises! ~ Hannah

Chapter Twenty - Banking on Him

It was surreal the next morning when Edward arrived to drive me to school. Bella had just smiled secretly in my direction and made her excuses to leave without me while I stood gobsmacked on the threshold of our house. The night before had felt like a dream yet here was the proof that it had been real. Things still hadn't sunk in yet. Once again I questioned whether my life was real or not for it felt too like a teenage film plot. In the blink of an eye, Edward stood before me, his cool hands wrapping themselves around my and thus capturing my attention.

"Good morning Ella," he said.

Was his voice always smooth like honey or was this a new development? It was turning my body to jelly that's for sure.

"M-morning Edward."

He grinned. It was his scary grin, the one that looked caught between being feral and being cheeky. I shivered.

"I didn't know you were going to pick me up for school."

"Can't have my girlfriend arriving without me."

Girlfriend. This was the first time he'd said that word. We'd never really discussed things past the kiss we shared. Girlfriend. Edward Cullen's girlfriend. Yes, it had a nice ring to it.

I smirked at the thoughts in my head, my grin becoming wider when I saw the look of confusion on Edward's face. I still found it amusing that he couldn't hear my thoughts.

"You know everyone is going to talk right?"

"Let them talk. Just because their lives are pathetically empty doesn't mean we have to fall to their level."

"Edward, that was mean."

"What did you expect? I am many things Ella but I am not the most patient or forgiving."

I pursed my lips, I wouldn't say that Edward was either of those things but there was a darkness lurking behind his eyes that suggested Edward wouldn't be pushed on the matter. Darkness aside, I got into the car and willed myself back to my happy state of mind. No boy had ever driven me to school before. Yes, I had had boyfriend's before, unlike Bella who had been blissfully ignorant of relationship woes.

Edward's cold touch bought me out of my silent musings. He smiled at me and I could clearly see his happiness. I was happy as well for I had gotten what I had wanted. I was very grateful for this chance with Edward and I knew there would be many obstacles standing in their way.

The drive to school was relatively quiet, the radio hummed in the background and I tried to regulate my breathing and hide my nerves.

"How's your Dad since your grounding ended?"

"Fine for the most part. I know he's still a little disappointed in me but he's trying to let it go."

"You've never been in trouble with your Dad before?"

I shook my head, "never to this degree. He always jokes that I'm older than my age. I have always been 'well put together', but I think seeing this made him remember that even I have my limits."

"Things will get better Ella."

I nodded, I knew they would but it didn't stop the sadness I felt at having disappointed my Dad. For me, we arrived at school too early for my liking. I wanted to stay in the car, contained in our own little bubble of happiness. I knew that as soon as we stepped out of the car the student body would descend on us like bears to honey and I knew I wasn't prepared for the onslaught of questions I'd have to field.

"Are you ready?"

"Nope."

"Just think, you share every class with at least one of us Cullen's. We're all here for you. Besides if we get through today the gossip mongers will find something better to talk about by tomorrow."

"You're right. We aren't really that interesting anyway."

Edward smiled in assurance and I felt a part of my anxiety lift from my shoulders. If Edward thought, I could do this then I could. I really should get used to people talking about me as I wanted to pursue a creative career and if I became famous then I'd have to get used to the pressure.

We stepped from the car, Edward had his arm wrapped around my waist and I leaned into his embrace. At first no one seemed to notice but I could pinpoint the exact moment where the air changed and the whispers started. It felt like every available eye was on us. People were staring with such intensity that I was surprised their eyes hadn't dropped from their sockets. A shiver ran through my body and while Edward squeezed me in reassurance I didn't feel particularly confident about the day.

"You two sure do know how to make an entrance," said Alice as she came waltzing over to us.

Jasper was hot on her heels and the rest of the Cullen's followed suit.

"Are you ready for the day?" asked Rose.

"Not really but I'd rather just get things over and done with."

"You've certainly worked up a cocktail of emotions for me to try and wade through," said Jasper.

"I'm sorry Jasper, I didn't think about how this would affect you."

I felt bad for Jasper, I really did. He was so brave and strong yet he suffered so much. His gift was a curse in his eyes.

He smiled to let me know things were fine.

"If you need a bodyguard for today, Emmett will crack his knuckles and glare menacingly at anyone who stares," said Rose.

"Thanks."

I had creative writing class first and though it was one of my favourite classes, I only had it twice a week. I supposed there were those teachers who didn't think it was a studious class or something. The only downside to this was that the class was small, the teacher wasn't strict and I was bound to be bombarded with questions. Oh and to make matters worse, Jessica was in this class.

No sooner had I sat down did the whispers start. I knew that this was going to be a long hour.

"You and Edward are together now?"

"Yes."

"Like you're dating?"

"Yes."

"Why though?" asked Jessica.

I turned to stare at her in outrage, had she seriously just asked that question? Was there anything in her brain at all or was it just an empty space.

"We have feelings for each other, why would we not date?"

"Well Edward has never dated anyone before. I just wondered what made now any different."

"I believe I've already answered that."

"Yeah, I know, 'feelings'. Really though, he could have anyone here. Lord knows girls throw themselves at him so why has he settled with you. I might not be a vicious as Lauren but I can't see what he sees in you, you're just plain and boring."

"Do you ever think before you speak Jessica?"

She looked at me dumbfounded and I suddenly realised how small her life must be. I felt sorry for my generation that were bought up with social media and all the weight of what is the 'perfect body' on our shoulders. It was no wonder that Jessica had turned out the way she had in a world that was led by gossiping magazines and teenage films that taught children that this sort of behaviour was acceptable. I tried to live in a way where I treated people how I wanted to be treated myself and I tried not to judge too much. Jessica was judging me on my appearance not on me as a person. In her mind she saw Edward with a stunning Hollywood model and not someone as average as myself. Things were so material to her and lacked substance.

"I was just saying," she replied.

"Jessica, I get it. You love to gossip and you think your life is meaningless if you are not judging another person but life doesn't have to be like that. Right here in this school, this is real life and your actions will shape your future. Do you want to be known as a vapid girl who cares more about gossip and bullying than being a better person? Or do you actually want to make something of your life?"

"Whatever! I just wanted you to know that most of the female population think that Edward is scraping the barrel by dating you. You didn't have to get on your podium and start preaching. Jeez, like get over yourself."

I shook my head, obviously I wasn't going to get through to Jessica so I might as well stop trying. I could see other girls in the class had been listening to our conversation and though I could tell that some shared the opinion of Jessica it seemed that the majority of them were uninterested. I clung to the latter like my salvation. It was, the only way for me to get through the day. Surely by the time that lunchtime dawned, people would realise that my life really wasn't all that interesting and would back off. Realistically speaking that probably wouldn't happen but I could dream of a world where gossiping didn't exist.

I'd never clock watched so hard as I did during that first hour. I was beyond relieved for the lesson to come to an end and almost sprinted out of the class in an effort to escape the stares I felt heating the back of my neck. I sought out the comfort of my friend's but was surprised when the one to offer me comfort wasn't a friend but my beloved sister.

"It'll get better you know," she said.

We were doing partner work in class and the teacher had allowed for quiet chatter.

"What will?"

"The stares, the gossip and the judging."

"It's just all so annoying. Why is my love life such news worthy gossip?"

"It's high school, not everyone is thinking of the future and being an adult. Some people aren't as emotionally developed as others. You know that phrase 'big fish, small pond'?"

I nodded.

"Well don't you think people like Jessica or Lauren fit that phrase? They're so wrapped up in their lives here at school that they don't see the bigger picture. In the grand scheme of things nothing here matters. Just ignore the whispers, I did and eventually people stop gossiping when they realise it doesn't affect you."

"I never thought you'd be wise to this Bella."

"I never thought I'd get a boyfriend before you," she replied.

I nudged her shoulder and started to laugh. After a minute or so she joined in. It was nice, a private moment between sisters that made me realise we hadn't drifted so far after all.

"Are you going to be home after school?" asked Bella.

I shook my head in the negative, "no, I'm going over to the Cullen's. I've got to sketch out the outdoor portrait of Jasper and then work on my music project with Edward. You and Dad are still coming to the music gala right?"

"Of course, we wouldn't miss it and we know it's important to you. We've been looking forward to it and you know how Dad likes to boast about out talents."

"Do you think Dad is still disappointed in me over the fight?"

"I don't think so but I do think he's more concerned about you. He has been asking me more about what happened while we were living in Phoenix."

"What have you told him?"

"The truth. You might not have wanted me to tell him Ella but he does deserve to know the truth and Dad cares for you, he wouldn't throw away your feelings like Mum would."

"I know."

"Look I know we haven't spent much time together recently because we've been so busy but I miss not being around you constantly. I was thinking after your music and art projects are over we could do something fun."

"Yeah, that sounds good. I'd like that," I replied.

"I swear you practically live at our house now," said Rose.

She was driving me to the Cullen's house after she'd kidnapped me in the school carpark and complained about how the boys were monopolising my time.

"It's not my fault I share so many classes with you guys and keep getting paired in projects."

She smirked, obviously finding great humour in my response.

"So which project are you going to work on first?"

"Art with Jasper."

"Ooo, I don't think Edward will like that."

"Well Edward will have to get used to it. I need the light to paint Jasper so that has to come first. If I can just get the full portrait sketched out, then I can come over anytime and use the art room to paint. Have I ever told you how great it is that your house has an art room, I'm telling you it's a godsend and I'm very jealous of it!"

"You don't need to tell me, we already know and Esme is very chuffed that you use our house so."

"You guys are my extended family and I appreciate any time I get to spend with you."

I felt like we were getting soppy again and just repeating things that had already been said so I changed the conversation topic to fashion. It was the one topic other than cars that could have Rose talking for hours. It was good because I didn't have to talk much, I just sat and listened and in no time at all we had arrived at the Cullen's house.

I wasted no time in departing from Rose's company though she did huff at not getting to spend any more time with me.

I was pleased to note that someone had already set up an easel in the garden with a large canvas ideal for the full portrait I'd be creating. I just thought it was a good think I had so many things at my disposal, if I came from a poorer family I would have failed my art class as I wouldn't have been able to afford so many art supplies.

I had already started to sketch out some of the background by the time Jasper waltzed into the garden in the outfit that Alice and I had picked out for him. I'd drawn a large oak tree in the right side edge of the canvas and had sketched the top of a prominent upper class family across the top left of the canvas. Seeing Jasper in his costume momentarily stunned me and I felt a slither of envy engulf my body. It wasn't fair that the Cullen's looked so good in everything that they wore.

Jasper was wearing beige breeches with black boots that came up to mid-calf. He was wearing a white shirt with a charcoal grey waistcoat and black cravat. I wore a red coat with black buttons. His hair had been swept back and his face was serious but in a smouldering way that could actually be rather attractive. I had him standing with his hands clutching either side of his red jacket and got him to place one of his feet up on a nearby rock so his leg rested at a ninety-degree angle. He looked sinfully attractive like a rich Lord of the Regency era. Alice was a lucky lady indeed.

Jasper was King of sitting still and not moving. I suppose it was rather easy for a vampire to sit still for long periods of time as they didn't get distracted like a human would from stiffness or boredom. Jasper made a very good model, and followed every direction I gave him. I was quite satisfied almost three hours later with the sketch I'd produced. Since I wasn't going to be painting till a later date, I wrote the colour I would paint down on parts of the canvas much like the numbers on a 'paint by numbers' canvas. It was mostly so I didn't forget or paint one part the wrong colour when I came back to it later.

Watching Jasper move again after so long of him being still was quite unnerving. Like when you have a dog whose sleeping and you have to watch to check their breathing and haven't died, seeing Jasper move after so long was both startling for me and filled me with relief. If Jasper had somehow put himself in a vampire coma I knew Alice would have killed me!

I said goodbye to Jasper though he didn't notice as Alice had just arrived and was making inappropriate 'lovey' eyes at him and returned to the house. I knew my way around the Cullen house like the back of my hand and as I couldn't hear any piano being played I found myself walking to Edward's room in search of him. I found him in his room luckily, for it would have been awkward if I'd gone in and he wasn't there. He was reading, his brow furrowed in concentration. His concentrating serious face amused me because he looked like a wounded puppy. I knew much of his vampire life came easy to him and he was still unaccustomed to things not being so.

"You all done with Jasper."

I shouldn't have been surprised that he knew I'd blatantly been standing and ogling him so openly but I was slightly surprised. I had thought I'd been super quiet in walking up here but I should have remembered how sensitive a vampires hearing was.

"Yeah, the painting is all sketched out but I didn't want to paint it just now as my hand was beginning to ache."

His furrowed brow deepened this time with concern.

"Are you alright?"

I waved him off, "I'm fine Edward. Do you want to work on our music project now? I know we haven't got a lot done and our music gala is fast approaching."

"You sound like you have an idea."

"I've been playing around with some song lyrics. I was hoping that together we could come up with some music."

"Is that what you want to do? Sing?"

"Only if you accompany me on the piano," I replied.

"Of course. It would be my pleasure."

I smiled at his old-worldly manners. They never ceased to amaze me.

"Are your family coming to the gala?"

"I have managed to persuade them to come yes. They wouldn't usually and I think they're coming more for you than me but we still have to keep up appearances so it will do our family good to appear."

I nodded but inside I was delighted that the entire Cullen clan would be coming to watch us perform. Edward could spin it anyway he liked and I knew he was trying to make it sound like it wasn't a big deal that they were coming but I was overjoyed that they'd decided to come and support us.

We walked to the music room and I sat near the piano while Edward sat down on the piano stool. I got my lyrics out and began reading them allowed. I watched as Edward listened and as his hands began to glide over the keys of the piano. Together we worked hard to pin down some chords and work the lyrics into a song. We were going with our theme of passion and so far I was impressed with what we had come up with. It was very powerful the song we were creating and it really connected with me and what I was beginning to feel for Edward.

Having never felt so strongly for a man before you'd think I would have been a little scared about the depth of my emotions but strangely I felt like I was strong enough to accept them without having to shy away from them. I knew that if Edward was to be ripped from my life in one way or another the heartbreak I'd suffer would be hard to come back from and that thought alone made me realise how deeply I felt for him. Even before knowing we were 'destined' for each other I felt like I could be with him for a long time.

I was fully determined to get this song written and completed that I was in no hurry to stop what we were doing. Even when my tummy started to rumble I didn't pause for a moment and ignored my hunger in favour of working on our project. It was only when Edward forcibly guided me from the music room and into the kitchen did I realise the time and how hungry I really was. Esme had put a bowl of steaming tomato and blue cheese pasta in front of me and glared at me in a way that dared me not to eat the whole bowl full.

Sheepishly I glanced back at her and began tucking in. Esme was Queen of making food. I felt kind of bad because I knew the smell of food was unpleasant to vampires but it just made me appreciate Esme all the more for taking time out to make me food. She was best at making Italian food and Italian food was my favourite so I was always ready to be her food guinea pig.

My thoughts wandered as I ate, as they always tended to do. I thought about Aladdin and what I would do if I had a magic lamp. I decided that I use my three wishes to first make human food appetising to vampires – because being able to eat would make it easier for them to blend in – next I would take away a vampire's 'sparkliness' because frankly that part about them was laughable and really added a whole new meaning to 'sun burning'. Lastly I'd like to use my last wish on myself and assure my family was well loved and looked after for all their years on earth. I must have had an odd expression on my face for Edward was soon commenting on it.

"Just thinking," I told him when he asked.

"About Aladdin's lamp."

His brow furrowed as it so often did, it was becoming quite a feature for him much to my amusement.

"Why?"

"Just because."

I sensed he wanted to ask me more about it but he was interrupted by the whirlwind that was Alice as she came flying into the kitchen with a smile on her face and mischief in her eyes. Whatever she was planning to do or whatever was about to come out of her mouth I could only guess it was something that was going to make me narrow my eyes and glare at her in a playful manner.

"You'll never guess what Jasper just told me…"

Up Next: Chapter Twenty-One – The Gala