Chapter 2

I didn't matter how tired I felt. I lay in bed, well Jake's bed, for hours after saying good night. I just lay there staring at the ceiling. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't stay here. It was too dangerous. Not for me, I wasn't worried about myself. It was Jake I was worried about. He couldn't protect himself, especially if he didn't know what was gunning for him. And it wasn't like I could tell him. That would only add one more death threat to his life.

I knew what my options were. Tell him or leave. But where would I go if I left. Jake was my only family. Renee and I had had a falling out a few years back and I couldn't bring myself to talk to her again. Billy had notified her of Charlie's death, leaving out the specifics of course, and told her it was probably best if she didn't come down. That was via my request of course. I just couldn't deal with my overbearing mother, especially now.

Jesus Bella. Whining much? You know what needs to happen. Just make it happen and quick, before someone else gets hurt because of you.

There goes that voice again. I becoming quickly aware of the fact that the voice knew what it was talking about, even if I didn't. I only had one option. Leave.

Silently I pulled myself out from underneath the warm sheets. It took me a minute or two to locate my bag in the dark. I exchanged my pajamas for a pair of jeans and a long sleeve shirt. Packing everything up nice and tightly, I looked around for the final things I would need. My shoes and jacket were by the door. The jacket had my wallet in it. I didn't have much money on me but I had enough to last until I could reach a bank.

Lastly I found a piece of paper and a pen on Jake's desk. I quickly scratched out a note in my messy scrawl.

Jake,

I know I can tell you anything but truthfully my reason for leaving is one thing I can't tell you. I can honestly say that I is not because of you. I do this to keep you safe. As long as I am around you can never be safe. I promise it will be better this way.

I will never forget you Jacob Black. You showed me happiness when I thought there was none. You gave me love when I thought it wasn't possible. You will find the one for you eventually. I just isn't me. I love you. Hopefully our paths will cross again when the time is right.

Goodbye, Bella

I folded the note in half and wrote Jake's name on the front. I slipped my shoes and coat on and, with one quick glance, left the room with bag and note in hand.

I felt like a criminal as I crept down the stairs. I stopped just before I reached the door and turned to my left. Upon entering the living room I saw Jake sprawled out on the too small couch. I just stood there for a moment and stared. He was half on the couch, half off. His eyes were closed and a slight smile graced his face. The blanket was tangled up in his legs. I had seen him sleeping hundreds of times over the last year. But something was different about this time. This time I felt a tug in my heart, knowing this would probably be the last time I would ever see him. Without a sound I placed my note on the coffee table in front of the couch so he would find it when he woke up.

Then, without a second glance back, I left the Black house and entered the world.

Well there you have it. I know i had a second chapter up before, and for those of you who read it i'm sorry. but i really felt the need to re-do the chapter. I think it is much better now. But that is for you all to decide. Review! constructive criticism is very welcome. :) -Essie...