A/N: First of all, I want to apologize for the long freakin' wait for this update. The last few weeks have been crazy for me, work wise. Also, I ask that you forgive any spelling errors or whatever, because this was written while I was working the midnight shift. I think I've managed to go through it and double check but I'm sure there are some mistakes that have slipped by me. As an apology for the long wait, this chapter is super long.

Chapter Thirteen

I was a firm believer that one of the worst things in the world was to be sick. Especially when it was a lingering illness, like mine apparently was. What had started out as an incredibly annoying tickle had morphed into bronchitis within three days, and now, nearly 2 weeks later, I was still fighting that hacking cough.

There was, however, an upside to my illness. Edward. He refused to leave my side. It was, of course, a little tricky keeping that bit of information from Charlie. He was completely unaware that Edward would spend the night in my room, holding me in his arms while he did whatever vampires did in the nighttime hours. Poor Charlie was still none the wiser. But that was for the best. The last thing I wanted to do was give him a heart attack.

The major drawback of this illness was the gallery open house that I'd promised Alice I'd go to. I really did want to go, but at the same time, I couldn't see how I'd have any fun if I was choking on my own saliva the entire time. Besides, how gross would that be for me to interact with the public, all the way hacking in their faces. I'd consulted Alice several times on the matter, and she assured me that while I would still have the cough and sore throat, it would not be contagious and I would be fine at the opening. She said she even saw me having fun.

Edward, on the other hand, wasn't so sure.

"Are you sure that you're going to feel up to going tomorrow night?" He asked for what felt like the millionth time. "You don't have to let Alice bully you into going."

It took every ounce of strength I possessed to contain my eye roll as I crawled into the bed beside him. "Alice isn't bullying me into anything. And besides, I really feel a lot better than I sound. If I could just get this stupid cough under control, I'd be fine."

"Well, you may not feel terrible, but you sound absolutely horrible. It's painful to even listen to you speak."

Didn't bother containing the eye roll on that one. "Wow, thanks Edward. You sure do know how to make a girl feel all warm and fuzzy," I responded. Though I feigned annoyance, the smile on my face contradicted the tone. I turned on my side, snuggling up against his body, resting my head against his marble chest.

"I really hate that you haven't felt well. It's torture to see you ill and know there's nothing I can do to make it better. It makes me feel completely useless."

"You're far from useless," I promised. "If it weren't for you, I think I would have died from boredom by now."

"Well, we certainly can't have you dying, so I'm glad I could at least be of some use."

Lifting my head, I gave him a smile as I gazed at his face. Even now, after seeing it constantly over the last two weeks, I still couldn't get over how painfully beautiful he was. I lifted my hand, fingering the deep purple bruises under his eye. The only flaw. They were even more pronounced than usual, and his eyes, normally a warm butterscotch color, were pitch black. A twinge of guilt surged through me as I realized that he hadn't eaten–er, drank anything since I'd been sick.

"What's the matter, love?" He asked, having picked up on the change of my mood.

"You're thirsty," I mused quietly, my mouth turning down slightly in a frown. "Is this too uncomfortable for you right now?"

"It's not too unbearable. No worse than usual, anyway," he said cheerily, though it wasn't enough to convince me. I knew what the scent of my blood did to him, how it tortured him more than anyone else. He usually took better care to stay well-fed so that he didn't become overwhelmed by the scent. It wasn't like him to be this careless.

"Are you sure you don't need to leave? I could probably survive without you for a few hours while you hunted."

"I wouldn't dream of leaving you. I've gone this long, another few days won't hurt anything. Besides, I'm more in control than you would believe right now."

"Oh really?" I asked, cocking an eyebrow in his direction. Well, let's just see how "in control" you are, Mr. Cullen, I thought deviously. I leaned forward, pressing my lips gently to his neck. His skin was cold, but that never stopped me before.

Very carefully, I slid my hand down his chest, coming to a stop just above his belt. I heard his breathing hitch slightly, and I was unable to contain my smirk.

I moved my hands slightly, sliding under the cotton of his t-shirt. I could feel his body tense under my hand as I tickled the smooth plane of his stomach with my fingertips.

I was amazed that he'd yet to stop me. Edward seemed to have some policy that we should never become too physical with one another in case he should ever lose control. The fact that he'd failed to stop this encouraged me and I decided to continue. I kissed his neck once more before moving up to his jaw line. A soft groan escaped his lips, urging me to continue this sweet torture.

Oh, how I loved the sounds he made. My fingers paused on his stomach as I continued kissing along his jaw line, coming to a rest on his full lips. I didn't dare look into his eyes, afraid if I did so, it would snap him from his trance. He opened his mouth slightly against mine. I allowed my hand to creep slowly down his stomach once more, reaching his belt buckle. I'd nearly had it undone before he came to his senses.

He hissed, his marble fingers catching my wrist, putting an end to the madness.

"Well, I'm not that in control." I didn't bother to hide my smirk as that. Ceasing my torture, I pulled my hand away from him, before I pressed a chaste kiss to his lips.

"That's kind of what I was counting on."

Xoxoxoxoxoxox

I had grown so accustomed to waking up next to Edward that I felt out of sorts when I opened my eyes to find myself alone. I had to admit, I'd definitely taken things a little farther than usual with him the previous night, but really, could you blame me? I had a beautiful Greek God sharing a bed with me on a daily basis. There would have been something wrong with me if I didn't try to take advantage of that fact.

But unfortunately for me, Edward had this weird thing about "protecting my virtue". I'd actually snorted when he brought it up. Apparently, he forgot that not only was I twenty-two, but that I'd also spent four years at college, away from any parental guidance.

I wasn't quite as… virtue-less as other girls my age, but I wasn't as innocent as he'd believed me to be. I just couldn't break that to him though, so when he would stop things from going too far, I pretended to be grateful.

But now, with him nowhere to be found, I was afraid I'd offended him. He hadn't indicated that I'd done so, but I had groped him quite freely and without his consent. I nearly turned hysterical at the thought until I spotted the piece of paper folded neatly on my nightstand.

I yawned slightly as I reached for the piece of paper, groaning as my stiff joints cracked in protest of the movement. With a sigh, I propped myself up against my pillow and unfolded the paper, a small smile forming on my lips as I gazed at his elegant scrawl.

My Darling Bella,

You were simply too peaceful to wake. I hope you aren't terribly disappointed at my absence, but in an attempt to keep up the charade of you actually sleeping alone, I thought it best that I depart before your father woke. Please forgive me for not being there when you opened your beautiful eyes this morning (or afternoon, should that be the case). I look forward to seeing you tonight.

All my love,
Edward

"Wait a minute—what?" I scowled as I re-read his words. Tonight? Did that mean I really wouldn't get the chance to see him until he picked me up for the gallery open house? My scowl darkened as I threw the covers from my body, my mood souring drastically at the thought of going a whole eight hours without him. Ridiculous? Absolutely. But I'd had him to myself for 23 hours out of the day for the last two weeks. That's three hundred and twenty two wonderful hours with him, and he dared leave me alone for eight?

Then, I remembered the dark bruises under his eyes, indicating how thirsty he'd become. The twinge of guilt jolted me once more and I found myself unable to be annoyed at the lack of his presence. I suppose eight hours wasn't that bad. I grabbed my robe from the back of the rocking chair and tied it loosely around my body as I headed downstairs.

"Dad?" I called casually, my voice raspy from a combination of sleep and soreness, peeking around the wall into the living room.

"In here Bells," he called from the direction of the kitchen. Hopping off the last step with more grace than I'd ever displayed, I headed into the kitchen to find him sitting his usual chair, a bowl of cereal in front of him. "Good morning sunshine," he greeted, never looking up from his paper.

"Hey," I responded, plopping myself down in my usual chair. I sniffled slightly, rubbing a tired hand across my eyes. "Little late for breakfast isn't it?" I asked, glancing up at the clock on the wall. It was almost lunch time now.

"I got a late start this morning myself," he responded with a shrug. "You sound a little better. How are you feeling?"

"Less dead than I did yesterday, I suppose. I think it's finally starting to clear up."

"Just keep up with your medicine."

"I know that dad."

"Good. By the way, Alice called here for you a little while ago."

"Did she say what she wanted?"

"Just that she was coming to pick you up at one, so be ready."

I didn't try to contain my groan. "The freakin' gallery open house doesn't even start until seven. What the hell reason would she have for wanting to pick me up so early?"

"No clue, Bells. And watch your mouth."

"Freakin' is not a bad word and Hell is a place," I responded childishly, resisting the urge to stick my tongue out like my inner five-year-old begged me to do.

He lowered his paper, cocking an eyebrow at me. "Fine. Whatever. I won't say it again."

"Thank you. You feeling up to breakfast?"

"No, not particularly," I grumbled. "Can't I call Alice back and tell her you've grounded me until 7?"

"What's the big deal?"

"The only thing I can think of is that she wants to go to the mall for last minute accessories or something equally stupid."

"It can't be that bad."

"You've never been shopping with Alice, dad. Trust me, it's torture."

With a resigned sigh, I lifted myself off the seat and headed out of the kitchen. "Where are you going?"

"To hang myself with the pantyhose she made me get on the last trip."

He lifted his paper back up, stifling a laugh as I trudged out of the kitchen, my mouth set in a grimace. "Hey Bells?"

"Yeah?"

"The rafter in the attic would probably hold best."

Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

"It's not that bad, Isabella! A little pampering never hurt anyone."

"But Alice! These nails… I could poke my eye out with one of them!"

"The acrylics make your fingers look even longer and slimmer. They really suit you."

"And no one is going to be looking at my feet! Why do I have to get my toenails painted?"

"Because I will be looking at your feet and I can't stand crusty toes. So shut up and let them work their magic."

I sank back in the plush seat in the salon with a scowl. I knew I should be grateful. I was never privileged enough to get this kind of quality "girl-bonding" time with Renee, it just wasn't me at all. I felt like a loser sitting here in this swank, upscale salon while Alice barked orders at the stylists about how she envisioned me. Apparently, fake nails and freshly painted toes were only the beginning.

Now, I sat in the stylist's chair, my freshly washed hair hanging limply around my shoulders while Alice tried to describe the look she wanted to accomplish.

"How opposed are you to a haircut?" She asked, cocking an eyebrow in my direction.

"Are you nuts? Absolutely not. I've had long hair ever since I was a kid!"

"What better reason to cut it then? You need a change of pace! The long hair is boring!"

"No. I'm not cutting it."

"Compromise?" With that, she jutted out her lower lip in that stupid pout that no one in the world was able to resist. I rolled my eyes and slouched dejectedly in the chair.

"What kind of compromise?"

"We'll keep the length. But how about some layers? And maybe some highlights? Ooh, and bangs. Long, side-swept bangs."

"I thought bangs were "so last year"?" I asked with a scowl.

"Well, yeah, but they're going to make a comeback. Trust me. You'll be a trendsetter. And stop scowling. You're going to have wrinkles before you're thirty."

"Whatever. Let's just get this over with."

"So we agree to the compromise?"

"Is there any other choice?"

"Of course not," she responded with that alarmingly bright smile before she turned to the stylist, sealing my fate.

Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

I had to admit; she was good. I hadn't been sold on the whole idea of cutting my hair, but I couldn't complain. It wasn't even noticeable, really. The stylist (Tony, I was told was his name) had added subtle highlights to give my hair a sun-kissed look, a feat that was nearly impossible in the dreary town of Forks, but it looked natural. He'd trimmed the split ends and added layers to give my hair more volume than I ever thought possible. It looked and felt so soft and I couldn't believe how freakin' shiny it was.

I still wasn't too keen on the fake nails, but I had to admit, the lady who'd done them had done a good job. No one would even be able to tell that they were not real. All in all, I was pleasantly surprised, but slightly curious. "Why am I getting so dressed up, Alice?"

"I told you that this open house is a lot more formal than the last."

"But why? What's so special about tonight?"

"A few of the artists' that have contributed to the new selection are coming. It's always a big deal when they come."

My interest was piqued. "Would I know who they are?"

"Probably, but unfortunately, I don't. I can't recall who the heck she said was going to show up. So I guess you'll just have to wait until tonight to see."

"What time will Edward be picking me up tonight?"

"Oh no," she responded with a grin. "Edward will not be seeing you until we get to the gallery."

"What?! Well how the hell am I getting there?"

"I'm going to make you walk," she responded dryly. "Jesus Bella. We're swinging by my house to pick up my clothes and some other essentials and then we're getting ready at your place. I will drive us to the gallery and then you're free to attach yourself to Edward's side until the end of time, as far as I'm concerned."

"Well why couldn't he pick me up?"

"Because," she responded cockily, "by the time I'm finished with you, Edward will want to have his wicked little way with you. You'd most likely never even make it out of the driveway."

"Fair enough."

Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

"Almost done," Alice said with a smile as she reached up to tuck a stray curl behind my ear. "You're going to die when you see yourself in the mirror, Bella. I swear. You need to fix yourself up more often. All the men are going to be drooling over you tonight."

"There's only one man I'm concerned with and I'm pretty sure he doesn't produce saliva."

"Well that's true. I always thought that was a pretty disgusting saying anyway. But regardless, you look absolutely stunning. Even Rosalie is going to pale in comparison to you."

I snorted in an unladylike manner. "Yeah, okay Alice. And pigs will fly tonight."

"I'm serious, Bella. You don't give yourself nearly enough credit."

"I'm so plain, Alice. Sometimes, I look at Edward and just… what could he possibly see in me?"

"You're only plain because you hide yourself, Bella. You don't want to stand out. But if you even just pulled your hair out of your face on a daily basis, it would make such a difference. You really are a classic beauty. A total babe, even! I mean, look at your figure! Do you know how many women would kill for a figure like this? And there you are, hiding it behind too-big t-shirts and hoodies."

"You really think I have potential?"

"You have more than just "potential", Bella. You need to stop being so down on yourself." She wrapped her tiny, ice cold arms around my shoulders, pulling me into a sisterly embrace. "Trust me. You're going to knock the socks off of everyone there tonight."

"I hope you're right, Alice."

"When am I not right? Now come on. Let's get you into that beautiful dress." With a nod, I followed after her into my bedroom, refusing to look into the mirror just yet. I wasn't quite ready. "I think I'm going to have you step into the dress. That way, your hair stays perfect. Go ahead and get out of those ratty old clothes. Also, don't forget the new bra and panties."

I rolled my eyes, but didn't argue as I crossed the door to my dresser. Positive that her back was to me, I quickly stripped out of the old t-shirt and sweats, tossing the clothes in the general direction of the closet. I grabbed the lacy undergarments from the dresser, cringing as I turned them over in my hands. There was no way I was going to comfortable in these. "Alice, are you sure about these?"

"Trust me! Besides, it'll give you more confidence. A sexy little secret no one but you knows about!"

I couldn't help but laughed as I stripped out of my cotton granny panties and white bra before I slipped on the lace. Though I expected it to be scratchy against my skin, I was pleasantly surprised. "Hey, these aren't too bad!"

"Told you," she responded smugly. "Are all your lady bits covered?"

Glancing down, I cocked an eyebrow at my scantily clad body before I shrugged. "I guess you could say that. This is about as covered as they're going to get."

"Excellent. Now get your skinny butt over here," she commanded. She crouched down, holding the dress for me to step into. Using her marble shoulders for support, I stepped into the dress, praying that everything looked perfect when we were finished. I really wanted to look pretty for Edward for once.

Alice slid the fabric up my body before I held in place so she could zip it. "There," she said with a satisfied grin as she took in my appearance. "All we need now to make you perfect is the shoes. You grab them and slip into them while I go get dressed. Back in a flash!" She said as she dashed out of the room.

As I trudged over to the closet to remove my shoes, it took every ounce of self control to keep from looking in the mirror that hung on the door. I wanted desperately to make sure I didn't look like a wreck, but I couldn't bring myself to look at my reflection. I grabbed the shoes from the box in the bottom of my closet and closed the door before the temptation became too much.

As I turned around, my breath caught in my throat at the sight of Alice. On anyone else, the dress she was wearing might have been an incredibly tacky, laugh inducing number. But on her… there were no words. It was an impossibly short strapless deal that hugged every curve of her tiny body. The opaque taupe under layer was covered by black lace, much like the undergarments I was currently wearing. Paired with the black stilettos that clicked against the hardwood floor when she walked, the outfit was simply scandalous and yet she made it work.

"What do you think?" She asked as she spun around like a trained model. "It's awesome, isn't it?"

"Alice… there are… there are no words. You look…"

She grinned up at me through her thick lashes before she threw an arm around my shoulder. "Let's go dazzle them."

Xoxoxoxoxoxo

The ride to the gallery was excruciating. The entire time, my heart was pounding in my chest, which of course, did not go unnoticed by Alice. She thought my discomfort was hysterical.

"What are you so worried about?"

"What if he hates the way I look, Alice? This so isn't me. What if I fall on my face? What if I spill something on my dress?"

"Oh for God's sake. You're being ridiculous. First of all, you could wear a potato sack and Edward would still love it. You don't fall down and you don't spill anything on your dress, but if it'll make you feel better, I'll hold onto you until you're safely in Edward's arms and I'm sure we can find you a bib."

I scowled at her and sank back against the seat, glaring out the window. I heard her snort in amusement, but didn't bother looking in her direction. "What are you so angry about, Bella?" She asked, a hint of amusement in her voice.

"I'm not angry, but God, Alice. This… all of this is so effortless for you. For all of you. You don't… you don't have to worry about looking like an idiot or falling flat on your face, or… or…"

"Hey," she said, all traces of humor gone. "First of all, this is not easy for us. We may not have to worry about trivial things, but don't you forget that one mistake on our part, and everything we've worked to build could be ruined. It never gets easier being around humans, Bella. So if you don't mind, I think I'd take the trivial issues."

"Oh Alice. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to be a huge crybaby about everything."

"I wasn't trying to be cross with you Bella and I apologize if it came off that way. I just wanted you to understand that while it may appear that our lives are glamorous, that's not the case at all. We put on a good show, but you must never forget exactly what we are."

"I'm really sorry."

With a dismissive wave of her hand, her smile was back in place. "Now please, have some faith my dear." As she pulled into the already packed parking lot of the gallery, I felt as though my heart would pound right through my chest. Sensing my rising panic, Alice rested her cold hand on my knee. "You see that car over there?" She asked, pointing to the sporty red vehicle parked closest to the door. I nodded dumbly. "Edward's already here. He's inside waiting for you. Just focus on him, Bella."

With the visual of him in my mind, waiting for me with that crooked smile I adored, I could feel my heart rate slowing to a much normal speed. I took a deep breath in an effort to calm my nerves and turned to her, offering her a smile. "Thank you," I said quietly. "For everything. I think I'm ready now."

"Then let's go knock them dead."

Xoxoxoxoxoxo

"Alice!" I hissed, my eyes narrowing as I glared at the little pixie. "I thought you said this was a formal event!" She merely shrugged at my side as I took in the casual dress of those in attendance.

"Oops?"

It was like the parting of the Red Sea as we entered the gallery. It reminded me of the first gallery opening I'd attended, the way everyone's eyes gravitated towards the three Cullen siblings as they'd entered. Only this time, their eyes were on me and Alice, who were completely overdressed.

True to her word, Alice's hand never left mine as my eyes searched the room for him. When I spotted his mop of bronze colored hair, my heart thudded in my chest and even though I was still fuming with Alice, the smile that formed on my face was so wide, I felt as though my head would crack right open. It took every ounce of strength I had to resist running to him and flinging my arms around him.

Appearing much more confident than I actually felt, I allowed Alice, the traitor, to guide me towards the back of the room where my Prince Charming was waiting for me. Okay, that was really corny, but whatever. I'm embracing my inner romantic. "Now watch his face when he sees you," Alice demanded under her breath.

Per her instructions, I locked my gaze on his face and certainly was not disappointed. I think at first, he didn't even recognize me. But after a second, the look of confusion on his face was replaced by a look of recognition as he took in my appearance.

"Bella…" He greeted me breathlessly, holding a hand out for me to take. I released Alice, sending her a smile, before I slipped my hand into his. "You look… Exquisite does not even begin to cover it, my love."

I dropped my gaze slightly, offering him a shy smile. "Thank you Edward," I responded quietly.

"The dress isn't looking like such a bad idea after all, now is it?" She asked smugly before she pranced off, no doubt in search of Jasper.

He leaned over, his lips dangerously close to my ear. "Look at how everyone stares," he commented, his breath tickling me. "They're all green with envy tonight. I have the prettiest woman here."

A slight blush crept onto my cheeks at his comment as I pulled away to get a good look at him. The smile fell slightly as I noticed the seemingly darker bruises under his eyes. "Edward," I chided softly. "I would have thought you would have made use of our time apart today."

"Think nothing of it, my love."

"Are you positive?"

"Does it frighten you?" He asked quietly. "Are you afraid of me when I'm like this?"

I almost snorted. "Don't be ridiculous, Edward. I know that you would never hurt me. My biggest concern is your discomfort. I don't want being close to me to be any harder than it needs to be."

His hand cupped my face carefully in his hands, leaning forward for a kiss. I closed my eyes, my arms snaking their way around his neck as I pulled him closer to me.

"There you are, my dear!" Esme greeted. While I was able to contain my groan at the interruption, Edward was not. He pulled away slowly, a slight pout forming on his full lips. "Oh dear. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt anything."

"Don't worry about it," I assured her. I saw her give me an appraising look before a smile settled on her lovely face.

"Bella, you look absolutely beautiful this evening."

"She always does," Edward corrected, sending me that crooked smile that made my knees weak. "Was there something you needed Esme?"

"It's time, dear."

I didn't bother to hide my confusion as I watched Esme retreat. "Time for what?" I asked.

"You'll see," he promised, before he leaned down to peck my lips gently. "Come on. Let's get a closer look."

Our hands clasped tightly together, Edward made his way through the crowd, while I followed close behind. He came to a stop towards the front of the gallery, tugging me to his side. "What's going on?"

"Esme is about to introduce the artist."

"Excuse me," Esme called out quietly into the microphone that had been set up, waiting patiently for the chatter to quite down. "First of all, I'd like to welcome all of you to La Galerie. My husband, Dr. Cullen and I, are pleased that all of you were able to make it for this very special event."

"Before we unveil the newest piece of artwork to hang in La Galerie, allow me first to introduce the incredible artist whose passion for art is evident in every stroke of the brush. This particular piece of artwork embodies everything that I, as a collector, look for in a piece. Though I've been told that since the completion of this piece that the artist has retired, I sincerely hope that she will once again find the passion to return to the arts so that her work may touch other people as it has touched me and my family.

"Without any further ado, please allow me to introduce the wonderful and talented Isabella Swan."

Her words didn't sink in at first until I felt Edward nudge me gently. "Go," he whispered quietly, my eyes widening as I realized what had just taken place. I could feel the tears spring to my eyes as Esme held her hand out for me. It made sense now, why Alice had insisted that I dress to the T, even though casual attire would have been perfectly acceptable. I was the guest of honor.

Xoxoxoxoxo

"How did you pull this off?" I asked, laughing quietly with Esme as Emmett and Edward got to work hanging my painting.

"I was curious about your work," she responded. "So I contacted the school. I was interested in collecting a couple new pieces, so I flew down to Arizona and had a peek for myself. When I saw this, I absolutely feel in love with it. You are incredibly talented, Bella." The now semi-permanent blush on my cheeks deepened slightly at her compliment. "I didn't know until afterwards why you had stopped painting and I was so worried you'd be terribly upset with me."

"No way. This is seriously the… highest compliment I've ever received as far as my artwork goes. I can't thank you enough for this, Esme."

"There's no need to thank me, dear," she responded, wrapping me in her motherly embrace. "Now, don't let me hog all of your attention, darling. This is your night. Go mingle with your new fans. I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't have people lining up to commission you."

Unable to keep the smile from my face, I gave her another hug and thanked her once more before I went in search of Alice, the little brat. I had to thank her.

As I made my way through the crowd, my confidence was surging. I couldn't believe what had transpired here tonight. Though I'd always hoped my artwork would hang in a gallery someday, I'd never expected it to happen so soon. Especially considering I'd "retired", as Esme put it, before I'd even gotten started.

I'd jokingly thought of Edward as Prince Charming earlier in the evening, but now, it felt more like a fairy tale than ever. When I'd first moved to Forks, I was literally a nothing. A shell of my former self thanks to a boy who'd broken my heart and stolen my passion for what I'd loved best, aside from him. But suddenly, none of that mattered.

I had found my knight in shining armor (though he was more likely to eat the horse than to ride off in the sunset on it). And though my story was far from over, I just knew that there was a happy ending waiting for me.

And then, with one word, one stupid, insignificant nickname, it all came crashing down.

"Izzy?"

I would have known the husky voice anywhere. It was exactly the opposite of the velvet voice that I'd grown so accustomed to. Though I wanted more than anything to run in the opposite direction screaming, my body froze without my consent. That stupid burning sensation that usually signaled the start of tears began behind my nose as I turned, coming face to face with my worst nightmare.

"Jacob?"

A/N Numero Dos: Haha. Back during the scene with the first open house, someone mentioned that it would be cool if Bella's piece was being added to the gallery. That's where I got the idea from. Also, sorry for the slight cliffhanger, but it was necessary. Please review, as I'd like to get to at least 100 reviews before this story is over!

Also, not that I'm holding the story hostage, but reviews help me write faster =)

.