A/N: Don't own Twilight….Don't own Hancock…Don't own Snow…Easy as that

Well this is probably going to be one of my longest chapters, but I don't think you'll mind. It will certainly have a bit of Edward and Bella. Also keep an eye out, I might be posting a new fan faction called Behind the Lies. In fact if you review at the end I'll send you the preface of the story.

Before I thought Serenity was the only person who could get excited about snow, hands down. Only I was wrong, way wrong. After today I would never be able to eat slushies again, not that I would mind much. But honestly it was what all the kids in the entire school were talking about as if because it snowed the world would now end. Later on though, I found out through Jessica it was the first snow fall of the year, and apparently that was a big deal to them. Not me though. Wet, cold all mixed in to one that could melt in your shoes if it got the chance, that's what I always thought about snow.

Yet, even though I wanted to scream my lungs out the next time I heard the word or any sort of reference to snow, I had to admit it helped take my mind off certain…issues.

:..:..:..:..:

"Bella? B-e-l-l-a? Jeez, what's up with you today?" Jessica said shaking her head as she kept her pace in front of me.

"Snow," I mumbled holding tightly to my binder. People didn't seem to understand the concept of keeping the snow outside along with the fights.

"You don't like snow?" Angela asked besides me. She was the only one that day not chatting on about the snow, but she certainly didn't mind it either.

"No, it means it's too cold to rain," I replied as Jessica laughed.

She looked back at me and said, "You are really far away from home then. Well, you better get used to this anyway. There's hardly ever a bright, sunny day."

"Don't remind me," I grumbled.

We were only a few feet in front of the cafeteria doors before Mike caught up to us. He was shaking his hair roughly as melting snow flung that way and this. I backed up cautiously trying to stay away from hitting distance. Angela stood in her spot smiling as Jessica moved closer giggling.

"Don't remind me what exactly, Bella?" Mike asked.

Jessica's smile twitched slightly and there was no missing the jealousy in her eyes. Well except for a clueless boy, this would certainly be Mike Newton at the moment.

He was still starring at me before Angela intercepted for me. "She doesn't like the snow all that much. She misses her sunny home state."

Mike gaped at me as Jessica tried to keep a smile on her face. Unfortunately, that wasn't easy considering Mike's attention was still on me. At least Angela tried to help out, but this guys attention isn't going to be easy to get rid of or at least pass on.

"How can you not like snow? I didn't think that was humanely possible," Mike joked as I tried to keep a straight face. "Your sister, Serenity, was practically rolling around in it this morning and she certainly isn't shy when it comes to the snowball fights either. She was excellent at throwing the balls and even better at ducking."

"I know she can get excited about anything really, and well, besides Noah, she's the athletic one in the family." I shrugged my shoulders.

"Oh that reminds me. I heard your sister made the basketball team?" Mike said more like a question. I nodded my head. "That's great, tell her congrats from me."

Jessica looked as if she was about to burst a blood vessel before she finally jumped in. "Yes, well that's great and I'm sure were all happy for Isabella's sister, but if we don't go inside the cafeteria we're never going to get any food." Her voice just like her face was tight, but Mike still didn't seem to notice. The guy certainly was thick-headed.

"Jess is right. We should go get our food," I agreed.

"Bella?" I heard Serenity call. She was walking towards us now with Katie in tow. "Are you busy?"

Jessica answered for me before I even had the chance. "No, not at all. We were just going to go eat," Jessica practically snapped causing Katie to back up and Serenity stare at her strangely. "Come on Mike, Angela," Jessica said entering with Angela following.

"Congrats, on making the basketball team Serenity, and this late in the season to. The coach is usually really tough," Mike said to Serenity who smiled wide. "Good look on your next game…next weekend," Mike finished before joining an aggravated Jessica.

"Well someone certainly isn't happy with the extra interest a certain sister to a basketball star is receiving," Serenity noted smugly.

"Serenity, what is it and you're not a basketball star…"

"Yet," Serenity said holding out a finger as I tried not to roll my eyes. "And I came to ask if we can eat lunch with the Cullens today?"

I looked at her completely puzzled as Katie shifted around on her feet.

"I thought we were going to have dinner with them. Now you want to have lunch with them too?" I asked as she nodded.

"Well, yeah. They seem so lonely sitting at the table by themselves, and like I said before I like Alice. Especially compared to all the other girls I've talked to. They are all so…"

"Superficial?"

"That and boring, one talked five minutes straight about fish, which reminds me I'm never eating Sushi again."

Since when did Serenity eat Sushi the first time? She certainly didn't accept it at the Japanese restaurant. She almost threw her plate out the window because, apparently it wouldn't stop moving. But the girl talking nonstop about fish is what concerns me the most. Is it that the younger grades are all talking about fish while the older grades are talking about snow? Yeah, that makes a lot of sense, not.

"Well, okay. Just this once, wouldn't hurt," I said caving in yet again. I was starting to give in to my sister's every whim, only now it might be out of guilt.

Serenity smiled, hugged me quickly saying a quick thanks, before practically prancing through the cafeteria doors. Katie went next before I followed when realizing Serenity hadn't said a thing about my binder/shield, which is not like her.

I stood in the lunch line with Serenity and Katie willing my eyes not to look in the direction of the Cullens. The more I thought about them and all the problems that could resort from the planned encounters, the more I felt ill. Not physically, that wasn't possible. It was mental, just so much so that it actually felt physical.

"You okay Bells? You have a death grip on your binder and…," Serenity looked around quickly. "I promise you there aren't any snowballs being thrown this way, you're safe. Especially with me as part of your defense." Serenity smiled trying to lighten up the mood, but it still wasn't much help.

"I'm fine, but I think I'll just have a coke today," I said grabbing my drink. Serenity eyed me carefully before grabbing a soda for herself as well.

"You're not hungry?" Katie asked. It was then I felt a pair of eyes watching me, or maybe I was just being paranoid. Either way I shook my head subtly letting my hair fall providing me with a second shield, just in case.

"I feel a little sick today," I said as Serenity coughed shooting me a look. She knew something was up, because physically I couldn't get sick or injured at the moment. If only mentally could work the same way.

Serenity and Katie quickly finished setting their food on their tray. While Serenity almost grabbed fish sticks before cringing and switching it with carrots. At least she'll eat healthier this way, maybe she'll even start going vegetarian.

I looked over to the Cullens who all seemed to be laughing, well, except Rosalie. She was leaning away in disgust, but the rest of them looked to be having fun with the snow like any normal person would, or maybe it was an act. Although, they genially looked happy as all the guys hair glistened wet and Alice was holding her tray up while laughing. They certainly looked healthier as well, the shadows under their eyes were not as visible along with more flushed instead of pale faces. On top of all that their eyes were a bright golden, identical to the sun, which made me curious as to why their eyes were like that.

Serenity walked immediately over to the table with Katie right beside her as they passed by several curious eyes, which they simply ignored. In the corner of my eye I could see Mike and Jessica pausing midway to their table watching as I went the opposite way. And as much as I hate the spotlight the closer we got to the Cullens the quieter the lunch room got. It was eerie quiet when we finally did reach them.

"Serenity," Alice greeted my sister with a hug leaving her tray on the table. The rest of the Cullens sat there and watched as the cafeteria noise started to pick up slowly, but of course it was mainly centered on this visit. "Katie. Bella," she said smiling her eyes twinkling with a secret.

"Hi Alice, it's nice to meet you," Katie answered holding her hand out. Alice shook it and Katie flinched surprised at the temperature. Alice gave her a sadden smile as Serenity nudged me.

"Yes, it is nice to meet you Alice. Even before the dinner your family was invited to," I said shooting Serenity a look as Serenity fidgeted.

Alice smiled and said, "Thank you, it was nice of you to offer. Come, why don't you sit and we can chat."

"Yes chat, how lovely," Rosalie said sarcastically without even bothering a glance at us.

Alice ignored her as she went back to her original seat and Katie cautiously took her seat with Serenity.

I could feel eyes boring in the back of my head along with whispers. Sighing, I took a seat confidently in between Katie and Serenity, resting my binder on my lap.

"Traveling, is that why you came here?" Rosalie asked still without looking.

"Yes, our parents make us travel constantly. It's…annoying," I said pausing as I saw a block of ice next to a crack in the brick wall. Could they…no it would be too obvious…wouldn't it?

Rosalie scoffed and mumbled something too low for us to hear.

I shook my head and turned my attention back onto Alice. While cautiously glancing at Edward, who was currently watching me carefully. "Do you keep up with friends you've made during the moves?" Alice asked.

"There are a few here and there. Not many, but still," Serenity answered.

Alice nodded and I wondered if the pixie ever frowned or stopped smiling for that matter.

"Most are Bella's friends though."

"Really?" Alice asked as all eyes were on me. Great, center of attention, twice in one day.

"A couple not many."

"What are their names?" This time Edward was the one to ask in a very serious tone almost business like.

"Riley, John, and Karina," I replied before take a sip of soda.

"Do you guys have any good friends you keep in touch with from your moves?" Serenity asked.

"Yes, there's a family from our last move in Alaska. And Jasper is good friends with Peter and Charlotte from a move before," Alice replied.

"Alaska, huh, you guys must be really used to the cold then."

Alice chuckled before replying, "You could say that. Have you guys ever lived in the cold states?"

"No, not recently. Bella, here, doesn't like the cold, the rain, and especially the snow," Serenity said enunciating slowly as she grinned at me.

I narrowed my eyes at her before suddenly becoming terrified. Emmett was suddenly very alert in the conversation with a wide grin. "Really?" he asked as Edward was shooting him a look. I gulped as Serenity chuckled beside me. Great, now I really am feeling sick.

"You know what I think I'm going to go home early," I said standing up quickly as everyone looked at me concerned. "I'm starting to feel really…under the weather. Serenity, Katie, I'll come pick you guys up later." I didn't give them a chance to say anything as I left hearing Emmett trying to make several apologies.

I walked by all the whispering and staring as I'm sure it didn't look good that I suddenly left like that. I got even more relieved when I saw Mike stand half-way up only to have Jessica talk him back down. At least I didn't have him to worry about, yet.

Stepping outside the cafeteria I walked down the long, deserted hall towards my locker. Opening it I grabbed what I needed and left what I didn't as quickly as I could. Shutting it I jumped slightly seeing Edward standing there watching me with his golden gaze. Damn, vampire speed.

"I don't need your help. I'm fine," I said more curtly then I wanted.

I walked past him only to have him grab my forearm. As much as I want to I can't deny that I didn't like the feeling of his ice-cold fingers pressing down into my skin. It actually sounds contradicting considering I hate the cold, but somehow its different. Besides that it did seem to simmer down my anger, just a little.

He dropped his arm quicker than I wanted as I breathed in a sharp breath. "Sorry, if my brother frightened you. He's not one for subtly."

I shook my head before turning towards him. "He didn't frighten me…," I said as Edward's eyebrows rose slightly. "Okay, maybe he did, somewhat, but I really do feel ill."

"Then maybe you shouldn't drive home," Edward replied. I did not like where this was going.

"No, it's fine. I can drive myself, it's no big deal," I said way too quickly.

"You said your parents and brothers were out of town, right? There's no one there to watch you."

"Yes, but if you do drive me there in my truck, and that is an if. How will you get back?" I asked as he smiled smugly.

"Who said anything about your truck?" He dangled his keys in his hand before passing me and walking out of the school.

"Edward, wait, this is ridiculous. What about my truck I can, not just leave it sitting here," I said running after him. He laughed his voice ringing musically velvet.

"What are you afraid someone is going to steal it while you're away?" He looked back at me smiling fully.

"No, just how am I supposed to get back up here to get Katie and Serenity. I do need the truck to go places, if you didn't know," I said trying to match his long strides.

"Oh, you can actually go places with that breakdown waiting to happen," Edward said as we came closer to his Volvo.

I narrowed my eyes at him. "Yes, just because it's a senior citizen doesn't mean it still can't work."

"Right, but its working days have long been shot. It's time for him to retire." We reached his car as he opened the passenger door for me.

"I don't know," I said looking at the pristine condition of the car. There was nothing out of place.

"Alice would be glad to drop your sisters off in your truck," he whispered leaning down. I looked at him as he added, "Trust me."

Sighing I said, "Okay," and got into the car.

Edward closed the door swiftly and went to the driver's side when I realized there was a part of the plan missing or that I was uniformed of.

"Edward, how is Alice going to get home if she's driving in my truck?" I asked as he started the engine. His face was straight and he didn't say anything as he backed out. "Edward?" I asked again as we left the parking lot. It was too late to go back.

"You don't actually think I'm leaving you there to attend to yourself."

"Edward, no, you can't cut your classes," I argued.

"Is that not what you're doing?"

"It's different; I have a good reason not to go I'm sick."

"Yes, and I'm going to be there to help you or did you forget that I'm the son of a doctor?"

"Adopted son and I'm not deathly ill," I replied glancing out the window. Watching as the trees passed by a little too quickly.

"Still it's healthier to have company," Edward said in a grave voice.

The rest of the car ride was silent and before I knew it we were at my house, which was when I realized I didn't tell him where I lived.

"Edward how did you know my address?" I asked.

He looked panicked for a moment, but it was too brief to tell. "Serenity gave it to us yesterday, to Alice specifically. I memorized the directions, because I'm usually the one who drives in the family."

I nodded still not convinced as I headed away from the house towards the back.

Edward watched me in confusion as he said, "Bella, why are you going to the woods?"

"I'm not. I'm going to my room," I replied loving the adorable look of confusion on his face.

It wasn't until he saw the mini house did he realize what was happening.

"You live…out…," Edward started to say but was unable to put his thoughts into words. It had to be one of the first, if not the first, time I saw him speechless. It was a moment I wouldn't forget.

I rested my books and bag near my desk before shuffling the papers on top of it. Just so the room looked a little nicer and it also gave me something to do. It was crazy but…I was actually nervous.

"Yes, it wasn't my decision. My parents surprised me with it. I think…it's more of a bribe then anything," I said. Before cursing myself in my head afterwards, for allowing that private thought to slip out. It wasn't something I could explain to Edward easily without letting him know the secret. No, not yet.

"Bribe you, why would your parents have reason to do that?" Edward asked walking over to me.

Just as I was afraid of. I let my head fall, closing my eyes, before saying "Let's just say there was something my parents left me out on and because of that I made a mistake. When they finally came out with the truth it was too late and the damage had already been done." I looked up to see Edward watching me intently, fully interested in what I was saying. I tried hard not to smile about this fact as well as ignore the light-headedness feeling.

"And what was that they left you out on?" he asked.

I smiled at the words that had suddenly popped into my head. "The Easter Bunny," I replied before walking over to the couch. "I guess I should have known. After all, the chickens are the ones who lay the eggs not the rabbits."

Edward shook his head, half-smiling trying not to laugh. He looked over to me and said, "You're not going to tell me are you?"

"I'd rather not," I replied, turning my attention quickly to the coffee table as I randomly moved items.

"And you're not really sick, are you?"

I bit my bottom lip, thinking about it. "Depends on your definition, I guess."

He came over and sat next to me a good distance away, but still. "Are you going to tell me the truth?" he asked as I looked over at him swiftly.

I was confused, but he was dead serious. The look on his face was verification to that. "On what?"

"Everything, Bella. You either say nothing or only tell half of it, leaving a great deal to question."

"And is that not enough?" I asked before averting his gaze. Letting my hair fall I continued, "Because to be quite honest, even though, yes, I might be telling half of the truth it's more then I tell others. And what I said a few minutes ago about my parents, I haven't told anyone about. Not my friends, our family. You're the first to know those thoughts."

I waited for him to reply but nothing came. It was silent for several minutes and just before I was going to speak again, I felt his ice-cold hand. I froze as he pushed strands of my hair back behind my ears, my shield suddenly gone.

"Why are you always hiding yourself?" he asked. He was certainly all about the questions today.

I turned to look at him noticing that he moved closer. "I could ask you the same thing? Your family's rich, beautiful you could certainly have a lot of friends maybe even the whole school. Yet, you choose not to. You choose to stay on the sidelines, to hide."

He nodded while saying, "True."

"I guess then we both have that in common. Hiding ourselves and not telling the whole truth, right?" I asked raising my eyebrow.

He looked at me saddened. "Ever heard of the phrase too smart for your own good?"

"Indeed. I guess I'm living it, huh?" I joked.

"Unfortunately," Edward agreed, unhappily and serious.

:..:..:..:..:

Two hours later the roar of my deafening engine could be heard. I smiled happy for the unintentional signal. Before the smile turned south when I thought of the reason it was coming.

"What's wrong?" Edward asked as I held my book closer, tighter looking above the rim.

"Nothing," I replied as he gave me a disbelieving look. I shrugged as he sighed.

Looking back over he asked, "Didn't we already talk about this hiding yourself? It's just me, you know."

I smiled before setting the book on my lap letting my face be fully revealed.

"Better," Edward said as the engine was killed. He looked at the door, "I better get going, see you in a few hours, Bella."

"Bye…," I started to say but he was out the door before I could finish. "Edward," I whispered to myself.

I looked around the empty room my mood rapidly dampened by the loneliness. The two hours had flown by way too fast and it would certainly be the only time alone we would have together, which maybe was the best thing. It certainly wasn't bright to crave for more, but that wouldn't change. Not in a long shot.

Hearing the sound of a Volvo speeding away I sighed. Maybe it was just my imagination, but I was certain I could feel my heart start to break for the second time.

(Noah's POV late in the day)

Victoria was long gone, thank god. Only when mom and dad get home and thanked her did she leave. I still couldn't believe they actually thanked her, nor did they even have the nerve to tell me the truth. To tell me what was happening. What would make them send someone like her over her?

I would have exploded on them as I usually do at times, but something about the way they looked stopped me. Exhausted, mentally and emotionally drained, you could tell by the looks of their faces. What was the real reason we were here in Phoenix?

Creaking the door to the living room open, I watched them closely for the second night. Last night I hadn't received much information from their conversations. Only words and phrases I didn't understand, I couldn't piece. This time it might be different. I tried hard not to feel guilty for spying on my own parents.

"Rene, we have no choice. Not anymore, we need to start taking action," my dad said pacing.

My mom stood leaning against the counter sipping tea. She looked the worse out of both of them, almost as if she had gain several years overnight. "I know Charles. Still, we have to wait. It's all too soon, all so unplanned. Everything…unplanned." My mom took a deep breath trying hard not to let the tears spill.

My dad went over to her, wrapping his arm tightly around her for support, and he kissed the top of her head. "Yes, indeed, but maybe…" His voice faltered as mom looked up at him swiftly.

"She won't be happy about this, far from it."

"Maybe it's for the best. Maybe this all will be for the best," dad tried to reason as mom shook her head at unease. "Well, why don't we go get some sleep? Talk about this more in depth in the morning with fresh minds. We both need it greatly and then we can make a call to the Blacks, later."

"You're so sure they'll help us. How do you know they even remember, or know for that matter? It was generations ago Charles, people change, customs change. We know that, we've seen that, we've lived it. You're putting too much faith into them," mom replied leaving her tea on the counter before walking to the bedroom.

Dad followed closely, "You might be right, but…we don't have the time anymore. We're running out as we speak."

They were gone all too soon as I sat there going through the conversation over in my head. It still was confusing, but it was something more to go on. I ran into my bedroom writing what I remembered as Robert watched me closely, curiously. His eyes showing that he was smarter then he looked.

There the Blacks are in the story now. I bet it shocked you on how I used them. Well review, please. I'll try to update when I can, but so far this year has been crazy. And not so much in a good way, it seems all I've been getting is bad news. Especially since my last update, my former Chemistry teacher lost her brother to cancer and a friend at school just lost another sibling, her only sister. This year is being real rough so far.