Chapter 5

Friday afternoon had finally arrived and though Edward was surprisingly pleased with how his first week of school had gone he was thrilled that it was almost over. Fridays in general had become an important day for Edward some time ago. It was the end of the school week, but more importantly it was his moment to escape. Whether he was going to spend his weekend catching up on sleep, or working long hours at any one of the jobs he'd taken back home, he'd always preferred the time away from curious stares and overhearing comments he'd rather not have any knowledge of.

At the start of this week, his focus had been on making it through the awkward meetings and questions that would no doubt surface; hoping that after the novelty of he and Alice's arrival wore off that he could settle in and become just another anonymous face in the crowd. Every day he could make it through was another day closer to the moment that he could get away from so many people and their inevitable judgements. Now he had a slightly different outlook, and that had everything to do with the girl making her way in his direction.

"Hey, don't go anywhere this afternoon until I get to see you." Bella never hesitated to reach out and touch his arm, as if she would need to physically stall him even though he was just standing at his locker switching out books before he made his way to the gym and his final class of the day.

"Anything wrong?" He wondered, refusing to move and risk severing their connection.

"Nope." Was all she said before moving on with a smile that warmed his heart.

Edward watched her go and felt himself smile as well. Since their afternoon spent at the bookstore their friendship had been making steady progress. Bella always made a point of speaking whenever they'd see one another throughout the day. Their walk to Biology together after lunch had become common place; just like their standing agreement to read at least two chapters of the novel they were working on each night, so that they could compare impressions in the parking lot before the first bell.

Alice, for her part in all of this, had been wonderful. She'd already indicated that she wanted to see her brother happy again and that she believed Bella could play a role in making that happen; now she was playing her own part in their friendship's success. In the mornings or during lunch she never begrudged Edward and Bella time to discuss whatever they'd like, even if her own interest in the subject might be minimal. Edward was always willing to let the girls have time to talk about whatever they wanted to, so it would seem that she was pleased to repay the courtesy. And while Edward was pleased that she kept her opinions and observations to herself when they were all together it was obvious that she was talking him up to Bella whenever the opportunity arose. Bella was full of questions lately, about things that only Alice would have been able to prompt her curiosity about.

"Edward, hey Edward!"

If only that girl had a volume control-or an off switch.

He'd obviously become too distracted by his thoughts to realize he was busy being stalked on his way to the gym.

"So...you and Bella..."

Jessica was barking up the wrong tree if she thought he'd give her the satisfaction of a confirmation or denial. She wasn't the only person to assume that something was going on thanks to the amount of time he seemed to be around Bella lately, but she was one of the few that were bold enough to ask about it. Fortunately for him most of the others were willing to just leave well enough alone and mind their own business, which happily included the majority of his former admirers.

"Did you need something?" He asked instead of acknowledging her desire to pry.

"Oh. Well, since you asked, I was wondering if you had plans for this weekend."

"Yep, with the family. We're still settling into our new place."
It wasn't a lie and it wasn't as rude as completely ignoring her the way he would have preferred. Still, he had no interest in even entertaining whatever alternative she had in mind.

"Didn't you guys hire movers to do that stuff for you?"
Edward felt his skin crawl at the tone in her voice. It made controlling his own that much more difficult, but perhaps a little reality check was in order.

"Why would we do a thing like that? It's a complete waste of money."
He'd been hoping to put an end to their discussion, and if his snapped response made her uncomfortable enough to finally leave him alone that was all the better in his opinion. Unfortunately, Jessica wasn't so easily swayed.

"Wouldn't let Bella hear you say anything like that. She's always been too good for anyone around here, and we all know its because none of us have the kind of money she's use to. Whether you think it's a waste or not you'd better be willing to spend some bank if you're gonna keep that one happy."

Edward was in danger of losing it. Of all the girls who had tried to gain his attention this week, Jessica had always been the most persistent and the most annoying. He was now convinced that along with all of her other faults she must be blind as well. Not only did she have the wrong idea about Bella and what was important to her, but she seemed to think that making her seem shallow in his eyes would somehow improve her chances. That and she'd just followed him right into the boys locker room, distracted as she was by her desire to talk about things she had no understanding of.

"Look."
He'd spun around to face her and even caught himself reaching out to grasp her upper arm. He didn't want to make a big issue out of his friendship with Bella and at this point he would never want to give the wrong impression, but he couldn't stand there and let this one go. She had no right to talk about anyone that way, least of all Bella; but before he could set the record straight another voice interrupted them.

"Jessica, sweetheart, come to have a look at what you've been missing out on?"

Edward had already reigned in the urge to physically shake some sense into her and he managed to relax his posture just as easily once she was made aware of their surroundings; unfortunately he was still thoroughly irritated when she did nothing more than giggle and back out of the room, as if losing track of their surroundings was her only mistake.

She's gone, it's over, she's an idiot.

Edward wanted a moment to breathe and hopefully relax, but his unexpected savior wasn't in the mood to allow him that privilege.

"You my friend, just made my entire week."

"Shut up, Mike." He growled, slamming his bag down and yanking his shirt off in frustration.

Emmett was the athlete of the family and he was by far the more aggressive personality, but right now Edward was dying for an excuse to hit something. Unfortunately for him badminton, a little racket and a tiny plastic shuttlecock, didn't exactly offer the type of stress relief he was hoping for. The fact that Mike did seem to get the memo and managed to leave him alone for the remainder of the day was a plus however. And even better was the sight of Bella waiting for him as he exited the gym.

"I'm glad to see you too."
Bella's cheerful comment made him understand that his relief must be evident. He didn't want to have to explain how frustrated he'd become since last seeing her, and how it was directly related to the type of negative perception their peers seemed to have about the both of them. Jessica had confirmed everything Bella had been complaining about the other day and he refused to be the bearer of such news.

"You didn't have to track me down like I was going to try and escape." His teasing turned into the perfect excuse to avoid any further conversation about what a terrible poker face he possessed. Still he wasn't prepared for the subject matter that took its place.

"Maybe I just wanted to be nice and run some interference for you."

"What are you talking about?"

"I see how many vultures have been following you around all week. I mean if you enjoy that sort of thing or whatever..."

"Umm no. Feel free to save me anytime." He laughed and even went so far as to casually lay his arm across her shoulders as they got headed towards the parking lot. He was hoping that his poker face in this situation was at least a little better, since he wasn't sure exactly what had gotten into him. Perhaps it was the relief of finally being free and able to regroup over the weekend. It might have also had something to do with his appreciation of her skilled observations and willingness to help, but in the end he knew that it was simply because he wanted to.

Friends can do this sort of thing...can't they?

They hadn't been truly alone since that afternoon at the bookstore and Edward had worried initially that the unintentional way he'd ended their meeting might have been ill-advised. He never wanted to overstep his bounds where Bella was concerned, but she had been nothing but kind and friendly as usual since then. With no lingering awkwardness to dissuade him, Edward was curious to see how some casual familiarity might go over with her. It was a risk, still surrounded by their classmates, but if he'd worried that she would feel uncomfortable under the circumstances all doubts were erased when he felt her arm come around his waist, hooking her thumb through one of his belt loops.

"So, I know you've got to get going so you can pass the car off to your mom, but I wanted to run something by you before Alice gets here." Bella had turned to face him and crossed her arms once they'd reached their cars and their semi-embrace had ended. Edward scowled a bit when he noticed a small group walking by not even attempt to hide their shocked scrutiny. "We've talked off and on for the past few days and she really wants me to spend the night at your place so that we can get an early start tomorrow."

Edward felt his body stiffen and more importantly he also noticed that Bella had anticipated his reaction.

"I really want to, Edward, but if you're not comfortable with it I understand. I can totally come up with an excuse for Alice."

"No, Bella please don't do that." Edward sighed.

After their talk the other day he'd had a good feeling about Bella, like she really did understand him, and her concern was more than enough validation to prove that she did. Then again he didn't want his issues and insecurities to interfere with her and his sister's relationship. Bella had been nothing but wonderful to both of them and she deserved his trust.

"Alice is probably right, and I know she'd love to have you over." Her smile never faded, even when he reminded her about Emmett.

"I told you already, I like different." She grinned.

He was informed that she was going to drag Alice home with her so that her mom could meet her and okay the overnight stay and that he should hurry up so his mother didn't have to wait for him.

After that his drive home seemed easier than usual, but that might have had something to do with his preoccupation. He was being very honest with Bella when he said that Alice would be thrilled to have her over. He was also being honest with himself when he determined that she deserved his trust. And if he wanted to continue with the honesty he should also point out how intrigued he was to have Bella in his home, staying overnight, interacting with the rest of his family. Honestly, it fascinated him and terrified him all at once.

"Hey Mom, Alice told you she's invited someone over tonight?"
It wasn't the warm type of greeting he would have preferred but it allowed him to go ahead and address what was on his mind.

"She did. Bella, I believe is her name. She sounds like a lovely girl and it seems that she's even volunteered to help with some of the painting tomorrow."

"Yeah no, Bella is great." Edward had to backtrack just a hair when he saw something spark in his mother's eyes. "I just wanted to make sure she asked permission, ya know; I actually heard about it from Bella, not Alice, so it seemed a little strange to me."

"Edward," His mother chuckled a bit after tossing her bag into the passenger seat of his awaiting car. "Alice is very aware of what our house looks like right now-we all are. I'm sure she didn't want you to try talking her out of it is all."

He hated how right his mother's assessment likely was, but he knew that he'd done nothing until very recently to make anyone think differently of him and his usual opinions. He'd even hesitated earlier when Bella had run their tentative plans by him, automatically looking for some reason why it might be better if she didn't come. So he shouldn't be surprised. But in the end he hadn't wanted to interfere. He already knew that Bella was going to come over on the following day, so what difference would in make whether she stayed overnight or just for a few hours. And maybe, just maybe, the feel of her arm being around him had helped to make up his mind. Either way his current mood was one of excitement rather than dread, which was completely out of the norm for him.

With a kiss to his cheek and a few instructions his mother was on her way, leaving him to have the house to himself for a little while. He was glad for that because it meant he had an opportunity to clean up a bit before the girls arrived. It wasn't that the house was dirty or that much was out of place thanks to their having been in it for just over a week, but he still wanted to check and make sure that Emmett hadn't left his boxers on the floor somewhere or made a mess of the bathroom this morning. He also wanted a shower and to get a small amount of homework he had this weekend out of the way if possible. It wasn't like Bella was his guest per se, but he still wanted to be available if she and Alice were to indicate a need for his company tonight. With that in mind he headed upstairs to the bathroom first.

Showered and refreshed in record time, Edward went into the room he was sharing with his brother for the time being to get dressed and was surprised to find Emmett already home.

"Hey, you're home early." He expressed his first thought to greet him.
His second thought was that he was thankful he'd thought to throw on some underwear and a t-shirt while still in the bathroom, since walking around in a towel wasn't a good idea with his brother around. If the comments didn't annoy you enough the fact that your towel would be missing the moment you forgot to hang on to it definitely would.

"Yep, gonna take an extra shift on Sunday afternoon and do a double on Monday so they offered to let me leave early today to have a little more weekend."

Edward listened to the explanation as he rummaged through the closet looking for some jeans to put on. Ordinarily he'd throw on some old clothes that he could happily destroy with paint and dirt, but today he wanted a break from that. Today he was more interested in being just a normal teenager relaxing at home on a Friday afternoon. And it didn't take long for Emmett to notice.

"Didn't want to get an early start?"

"Alice has company coming over tonight." He hoped that would be enough information, but with Emmett the basics were never enough.

"Do tell...male or female? Please tell me it's a chick. Do I need to kill someone?"

I swear if he does anything to freak Bella out...

"Calm down. Her name's, Bella and she's really a nice girl, so behave yourself tonight please. Alice is pretty attached to her already."

"And you've got the hots for her." Emmett's smile was as devious as ever and against his will, Edward felt his face turning redder by the second.

"Whatever."
He knew it was the wrong thing to say, but he couldn't confirm his feelings for Bella in Emmett's presence any easier than he could if he were all alone and talking to himself.

"It's about time little brother." Edward got a congratulatory pounding against his back that made him want to cough. "She's pretty, yeah? And you said she's nice; but she's smart and funny and all that too? She's a good girl? I don't feel like going to jail over some chick, but if she's not good enough for you..."

"Oh for God's sake, Emmett! Did you overdose on your steroids this morning or what? Just sit down for a second."

He was like a puppy hopping around chasing his tail all of a sudden.

"All natural my friend." He was flexing, showing off, and still grinning, but he did at least sit down.

"Look, I don't know what gave you the impression..."

"You showered in the middle of the day, you aren't obsessed suddenly with spending every free moment of your life completely rebuilding the house, you smell better than usual..."

"If you do anything, and I mean anything, to make Bella uncomfortable you had better never plan on sleeping again."

"Best behavior, I swear. And trust me, if you really like her I'm totally on board and happy for ya."

"I do like her Emmett, but we're just friends. That's it.

"For now."

Edward threw his hands up in the air and turned to leave the room. He'd never win this type of debate with his brother, especially since he'd already been able to see right through him.

I really have to work on my poker face.

"So, when will they be here?"

Edward was only on the fifth step headed down the stairs when Emmett magically appeared over his shoulder, still in the mood to ask too many questions. He couldn't have waited more than a second before jumping up to follow him.

"Have no idea." He grunted in response, just as they reached the bottom step.

Even though he didn't know how to answer Emmett's inquiry he didn't really have to. As soon as the two of them rounded the corner Alice and Bella were coming in through the front door. And naturally, despite his promise not five minutes before, Emmett couldn't contain his usual personality.

"Well, hello legs!"

Edward wanted to curl into himself and disappear, or possibly die, he wasn't about to be picky at the moment; but instead he turned around and smacked his brother across the back of his head. He hadn't missed the fact that Bella was wearing a pair of shorts that made her legs look absolutely amazing, but there was still no need for an announcement.

"You must be Emmett." Bella laughed with an ease that made Edward stall his murderous plot.

"That's me. And you must be Bella." Emmett turned on the charm and his mega-watt smile, taking Bella's hand and bowing slightly.

Why did he have to be the one with the dimples?

Edward had never been jealous of his brother's success with women. He'd had more than his fair share of females express an interest in him, but he'd never really appreciated or returned any of their affection. It made him realize that as much as he'd like to deny it, Bella really did mean more to him than he was ready to admit.

"Can you guys give a hand? We raided the pantry at Bella's and you wouldn't believe the junk food we were able to score."

Amazingly Emmett's smile got even brighter and the next thing Edward knew he was professing his love to Bella and her Doritos.

"I'm going to kill him." He grumbled to Alice as Emmett hooked his arm around Bella's and formally escorted her back outside. He could actually over hear the fool's excited exclamation when he caught sight of her truck parked in the driveway even with the door closed.

"It's fine. Bella can handle him. And if he gets too stupid acting we'll just remind him that he's nineteen, which means high school girls are officially jail-bait for him."

Edward couldn't help but smile at his sister's calm logic but he still hated that Bella had to deal with Emmett, period. In fact he was so out of sorts by the way their introductions had gone that he didn't even know what to do with himself right now. Should he go outside and offer to help? Or just go back up the stairs and hideout in his room?

As luck would have it Bella returned without Emmett and informed everyone that he'd be a few minutes since he was still busy drooling over her car.

"I am so sorry about him..." Edward started to apologize only to have Bella come and put her arm around him like she'd done earlier in the day.

"It's fine." She promised, not even caring that Alice had raised an eyebrow at how comfortable their proximity seemed.

"Come on, Alice said you guys have a DVD player so we brought a bunch of movies too. You get to pick since we couldn't decide."

"Hey Ed," Emmett called right as the three of them started towards the livingroom. "Let me borrow you for two seconds."

Edward reluctantly glanced down at Bella and took his arm from around her shoulders to go and find his brother. He didn't want to let Bella go, and he didn't want to leave Alice alone with her suddenly and risk her being interrogated. But he did want a moment to beat some sense into his other sibling.

"Why don't you show Bella around and I'll go kick Emmett." He smiled before leaving the girls.

"Dude, dude. Oh my God dude! I approve!"

"What the hell are you talking about?" He was back to his puppy phase, practically bouncing up and down with excitement.

"Bella. She's awesome man!"

"You just met her like three minutes ago." Edward pointed out with his arms crossed.

"And?"

"How do you know anything about her?"

"She's hot, and drives that incredible truck outside, and brought M&Ms and popcorn for crap's sake!"

"Whatever, just try and calm down a little bit; you're acting like a freak."

"If you're not engaged to that girl by the time you graduate you're an idiot."

Edward didn't even dignify that comment with any sort of response other than exiting the room. He'd known from the moment that Bella had mentioned coming over that this would be interesting at best, but he hadn't counted on his brother's level of enthusiasm nor Bella's willingness to be so friendly towards him in front of Alice. He had no doubt that there would be plenty of questions directed his way as soon as Bella went home.

"Hey." Though he'd been hoping to find her there, he was surprised to see her alone in the livingroom flipping through DVD cases. He was also surprised that he actually wanted to slap himself for having the same thoughts that Emmett had recently verbalized, but he could really help it. He'd never seen her in anything but jeans to this point and her legs were pretty amazing.

"Where'd Alice take off to?"

"She just ran upstairs to grab some more choices for movie night, thought they might still be in a box up there."

"She hasn't shown you around yet?"

Edward was mildly confused. He knew they had some movies still packed away but it didn't include anything new or very interesting. Maybe Alice was just looking for some way to contribute. Still, he couldn't understand why she hadn't taken Bella with her. It would be the perfect excuse to show her around.

"She said if she didn't make it back before you got done with Emmett you could give me the tour."

Or there was that.

Emmett was already making plans for a wedding and now Alice seemed to be finding excuses for them to be alone together. He wasn't sure whether he should be embarrassed or flattered exactly. He did know that he had no idea what to do about that right now, which meant another apology sounded better than nothing.

"Yeah, about Emmett. He's...you know."

"Different." Bella laughed while supplying his usual description. "Don't worry about it, I like him. He's fun." Bella had gotten up from her seat on the sofa and walked over to where Edward was standing near the room's entrance.

"But seriously, I still like your brand of creepy better." He was informed as Bella gave him a little wink and reached out to take his hand, silently begging for that tour.

And in that moment Edward decided that he didn't want to be just friends anymore.