Hi, I'm back! Here's the chapter. Now bear in mind that this took up 6 FULL NOTEBOOK PAGES!!
Now to some people who FLAMED ME: Just because a cliff hanger sounds bad doesn't mean that the character will follow it! Don't flame until the crime has been commited. And everyone, I would prefer language not be used in reviews. If it's a good review then fine, but no language in a bad way.
Ok, Enjoy!
iluvtopazeyes
disclaimer - I don't own Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, or now Breaking Dawn.
Chapter 22 – What's Best for Them
Edward's jaw drops; I immediately feel the sting of tears waiting to spill over. No. No. No. I avoid everyone's piercing gazes. I whisper hoarsely, " No."
Jared's voice says, " It's the only way." I'm suddenly overcome with anger. "How do you know it's the only way? You've been the only one to explain the phenomenon." He looked at me and almost yelled, " Because we've tested this for years! We tried to change one at fifteen; she died. We tried different ages; they died. Only two survived. Neither of the fathers were alive. Mine wasn't either. I think the research says all."
I stared at him, my voice monotonous as I stated, " Those children need their father. They need him to tell them stories about their heritage. They need him to be their coach and homework helper. And he needs them more than he realizes. And I need to know that he's safe no matter if we're enemies or not. I will never stop loving Jacob! People who love each other don't kill each other. I would rather die than see him or my children get hurt!"
Jared seemed flabbergasted by my outburst. Then, he smoothly said, " Well, if that's how you feel, then I can't help you."
I put my head up high as I walked by him and out of the pub.
--
Edward and I sat on the floral comforter in our room. We were both sitting in an understood silence. I chewed on my lip until I drew blood. It was only for Edward's sake that I stopped.
What am I supposed to do? I can't leave the Cullens; I belong with them. I can't kill Jacob, though. It's not fair to him or the kids, and I love him. I bounce between these thoughts many times before realizing something: I had to do what's best for them.
--
We arrived home to hopeful smiles, but black eyes. I tried not to let my anxious emotions escape. My plan had to work, and for it to work I had to act natural, and hopefully they'll go hunting.
Edward led me straight to Carlisle. He closed the door to his office and inquired, "So how'd it go?" I looked at my feet as I answered, " Not so well. Turns out there was a catch – one that I wasn't willing to do." Carlisle was obviously confused.
Edward explained, " Jacob has to be dead for it to work."
Carlisle nodded gravely. He asked, " Are you going to tell the rest of the family?" I nodded and said, " Yes. I'll tell them now."
" Bella, they're out hunting. They just left." I smiled on the inside. That's perfect. I looked at Carlisle and Edward; black eyes.
" You should go too. You're both hungry." Carlisle stood without hesitation, and Edward kissed me on the cheek before following him. I smiled, only letting a tear escape after they left; that was my last vampire kiss.
--
It didn't take long to pack everything in the car and go. Before I left, I wrote a note to the Cullens:
Dear Everyone,
I'm so sorry for doing this. Maybe we'll meet again, but it has to be this way for now. I've got to do what's best for my kids, not for me. I've got to put their happiness first. I love all of you. I'll miss you.
Love,
Bella
P.S. – Edward, I'll always Love you – no matter what.
I was on the road, headed to Port Angeles for the airport. I knew where I was headed: Renee. I knew she would help, unlike Charlie had. Tears flowed freely as I drove out of the city limits.
--
EPOV
I knew something was wrong when Alice stiffened mid-bite. I saw the vision in my mind; Bella was crying – driving out of city limits.
I cried out in agony and started running. I had to catch her. Alice ran with me and suddenly the whole family was trailing behind. I saw the van in my line of vision, contemplating how to stop it without hurting any of the passengers.
I decided to just run with it until she stopped. She drove to the Port Angeles airport. I was opening her door as soon as she parked. She just looked up at me and asked, " What the heck?"
--
BPOV
I heard myself ask, " What the heck?" Then, before he responded, he swept me into a huge hug. He then wiped a tear from my eye. I didn't even realize I was crying. Then, he asked me, "Why did you leave?"
I looked at him and stated, " I can't stay with you. It's what's best for them." I looked at all the sleeping faces inside the car. He looked at me and reminded me, " Bella, we still have fourteen years." I smiled.
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