Disclaimer: All characters belong to Stephenie Meyer.

In Six Months I Lost My Mind But Found My Heart

Chapter Twenty Six: Rollercoaster Two Days

May 6th

2 Months & 1 Day Left

Edward's POV

Carlisle pulled me into the office and I guessed he wanted to talk to me about last night. The stunt I pulled on Bella was completely innocent but I guess it didn't sound that way. From any one's opinion standing outside that door it would seem Bella and I were reaching new levels of our relationship.

"Edward, have a seat." He said kindly, leaning back in his chair. "Something has come to your mother and I's attention and we were wondering if it was true."

This had to be about me and Bella. There were certainly enough 'rumours' going around that we were a couple. It most have been brought up and dismissed but after last night they might have seen the truth behind the accusations.

"How do you and Bella get on?" That was the coy question for asking are you friends or do you date.

"We get on rather well." No need to give him more than he's asking for.

"And you and Tanya?" He inquired.

"Well, she's a very friendly girl."

"Last night…the moans coming from the billiard room…" He left it there, hoping I would know what he was indicating to.

"Nothing happened. We played pool and I gave her a massage. The wine had got to her and she was very responsive."

"Honestly?"

"Honestly."

"Because if there was something going on that wouldn't be a problem Edward. I've seen a change in you recently, a good change. We all see it when we look at you; I think that girl brings out the best in you. So if you two were dating that would be okay with your mother and me. All that we would ask is you sort out the situation with Tanya or any other possible fiancées. Anything you want to add?"

"Would I have to marry Tanya or anyone else like her?" My father smirked and saw straight through my question.

"You mean do you have to marry someone with wealth and a title or is it alright if you wanted to marry Bella. Correct?" I nodded once and waited for him to continue.

"No, Edward. You do not have to marry Tanya. You could marry someone without high wealth or a title. It doesn't matter particularly to me or your mother. We just want you to be happy. Edward I would never have pushed for this if I knew you didn't want it."

"That's the thing I did want it. I did want to find a wife at this age and be set for life. That was until I met Bella."

"You like her?"

"Very much." Carlisle smiled.

"So what do you want to do?" He pulled an engagement ring out from his desk and slid it over to me. "You can either give that to Tanya or wait and give it to Bella."

"Bella won't marry me." I stated as I put the ring box in my pocket.

"Nonsense. She might not marry you right now but you do have years ahead of you. Just think it over Edward."

"Thanks." I rose and left his office, shutting the door quietly behind me.

Bella's POV

Alice had spent the whole afternoon making me up for a stupid party tonight. It is ridiculous how many of these things they have to go to. Since Alice had me under lock and key I had barely seen Edward today. I saw him when I woke up and then again very briefly at breakfast.

I was told I wouldn't see him again until we arrived but I was then pleasantly surprised when Edward snuck into my room. He gave me a crooked grin and pulled me into his embrace.

"Hi." He mumbled against my hair.

"Hi. Where have you been all day?"

"Around, Carlisle wanted to speak to me. You look fabulous by the way."

"Thanks." I blushed as his eyes roamed over me. "So what did Carlisle want?"

"He was curious about that stunt I pulled last night."

"Oh god your parents heard that?" I hid my head in his chest.

"Yeah. My parents now know that there is something going on between us."

"Are they annoyed?" I asked worryingly.

"Nope, not at all." I was completely relieved. At least they didn't go crazy that we were dating. Charlie would go through the roof.

"I need to tell you something." He said seriously which worried me a little.

"Okay, you're scaring me. What is it?" After his parents being okay with us I didn't see what else there was to be worried about so with his serious tone I was a little stressed.

"I want to tell you that I'm-"

"EDWARD OUT! You're not meant to see Bella until later." Alice screeched, completely cutting Edward off as she barged into the room

"No I need to talk to Bell-"

"Nope! Get out." She grabbed Edward by the shoulders and pushed him out of the room.

"Alice! I needed to know what he was going to say." I protested as she pushed me into a chair.

"He'll tell you later. We have more important things to discuss." She sat down on the bed, practically bouncing off it.

"Like?" I prompted.

"Well it's about you and Edward. I know you guys like each other but I was curious about just how much you like him." I bit my lip nervously. Although I trust Alice I don't want her to know that I am in love with her brother if he doesn't feel the same way, which he doesn't.

"Bella, you can be honest with me. We're friends and whatever you say will stay between us."

"I like him…a lot." I sighed. "I love him and I know that it's foolish since this will never work and he doesn't feel the same way-"

"Stop right there." She held her hand up to halt me. "Don't say it can't work because it could. I know these things so trust me."

"You can't know that." I said sadly.

"Bella I knew that Edward would meet someone amazing by going on the exchange, I knew you two would go out eventually and I knew that you were in love with him. Don't doubt me. Also I was wondering about your physical relationship." I blushed bright red.

"Alice do we really need to talk about that, he is your brother."

"Exactly. If you wanted to take it further you're going to have a hard time, Edward's a prude. So if you need any help don't hesitate to ask as me and Rose will be honoured to assist." She winked and then pranced out the room.

A short while later we all left looking rather good if I say so myself. In the car Alice briefed me that many students from our school will be there. She also assured me the James would be there but that all of them would make sure he stayed away from me.

Edward escorted me in to the grand hall which just blew me away; I don't think I would ever get use to attending these things. Glancing around I noticed a lot of familiar faces from school, many of whom didn't like me. Oh this is going to be one eventful evening.

I would later realise how true that statement was.

Edward's POV

I was going to tell Bella I was in love with her before my all seeing sister barged in. I'm at the point where I just want to tell have and make the most of the time we have together. Obviously I don't expect her to say it back and I don't think we will be jumping into marriage anytime soon.

After entering with Bella on my arm I had a look round the room. Most of the student body was here with their parents. Among those students was James who was standing by the bar with his lackeys. I also noticed Tanya sitting with her father and sisters.

I led Bella to our table and sat down with her. Alice, Jasper, Rose and Emmett quickly joined us as our parents went round the room greeting everybody. We were quickly served drinks and light conversation initiated. I saw Tanya by herself at the table so decided now was a good enough time as any to talk to her.

After excusing myself from the table I made my way over to her and sat down. She smiled softly at me before we did the pleasantry greetings.

"Nice to see you here." She said kindly.

"You too, I didn't know you were coming."

"Either did I until tonight." She took a sip of her water as I spoke.

"What are you doing tomorrow?"

"Nothing, why?"

"I have something important to talk to you about and was wondering if you would come over some time during the morning. If that's okay with you?" I asked nervously. I was sure I was making the right decision but I my mind still had doubts.

"Of course, that would be lovely." We spoke for a few moments after, she updated me on the situation with the Earl, and everything was going fine although he did seem a little discouraged when he heard a Marquess was interested. If only he knew how little I was interested in Tanya.

I walked back over to our table and invited Bella to dance; luckily we weren't expected to waltz so I could simple sway if she wasn't prepared enough to try that. She had one hand on my shoulder and the other in mine as my other hand rested on her hip.

"You look amazing." I whispered, being captured in her beauty. The compliment only made her more beautiful as she blushed that beautiful crimson colour.

"Thanks." She bit her lip nervously and looked at me with her big brown doe eyes. The gentlemanly thoughts just ran out of my head and the teenage hormones briefly took over at how innocent and irresistible she looked.

"Edward…" Bella said cautiously. "Have you ever…have you ever had…sex?" She was completely red now and my stomach was doing back flips at her question. I coughed nervously before answering.

"No, not yet…have you?" She was no longer looking me in the eyes but now seemed interested in the buttons on my shirt. Bella shook her head softly and turned away again. I brushed my hand under her chin so she gave me eye contact.

"Don't be embarrassed talking about this with me please. Tell me though, why did you ask?" I kissed her cheek encouragingly.

"Em…I was…wondering if we…we would ever…do…that." Well now she was officially blood red. I swear she couldn't have blushed more even if she tried.

"Do you…want to?" How can I ask her not to be embarrassed when I am?

"Not this minute." She said quickly. I chuckled lightly and got her to smile too.

"Obviously. But…"

"Yeah, I'd like to." She was still blushing and looking down at the floor. "But only if you want to."

"I do." I lifted her chin again and kissed her lovingly. Bella's arms wrapped round my neck and ran her fingers through my hair.

"Earlier you were about to say something but Alice cut in. What were you going to say?" She reminded me. I figured this was as good a place as any.

"I wanted to tell you that I'm head…heading to the bar." I looked past Bella to see James talking to Tanya. There seemed to be something wrong and I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to her. I quickly walked away from Bella and moved over to the bar.

"Is everything okay here?" I asked Tanya with my hand on the small of her back.

"Eh…why don't we go sit Edward?" She asked worryingly. I shot a glare at James who was smirking and led Tanya away.

"What was that about?" I asked cautiously.

"He was just bragging about some of his conquests. I never who he and Bella-"I growled deep in my chest.

"He and Bella haven't done anything. He's convinced that she will sleep with him whether she wants to or not."

"What are you going to do?" Tanya asked as she sat back down at her table.

"Kill him." I growled.

"Be serious Edward. What are you going to do? It's not like you can just get rid of him."

"I'll think of something. He won't hurt her, I won't let him." She gently rubbed my arm, trying to calm me down.

Bella's POV

I watched Edward walk away from me feeling rejected. He walked over to the bar and met a girl before leading her away to another table. Looking around the dance floor I noticed I was just standing there by myself.

Deciding to get a drink I walked to the bar. I didn't feel like going back to the table for my water with everyone sitting there. I just needed to be alone right now. I know Edward says that he wanted to sleep with me but since he walked away right after I can't help think that he's put off by me.

I asked the bar man for another water and sat at on the stool waiting patiently.

"Well look who it is?" A familiar voice slurred from beside me. I looked over to the side to see James smirking at me. "How are you Bella? Still screwing Edward?" I ignored him completely and turned back to the bartender handing me my water.

I took a few gulps of water, drinking all most half of it as James scooted closer, his lips just millimetres away from my ear.

"I have the other half of your payment."

"What payment?" I blurted out before I could stop myself.

"I gave you fifty pence in advance for letting me screw you senseless and I have the other fifty pence which you will get after. So where would you like to go, bathroom, closet, my car, Edward's car or Edward's bed?" I shivered involuntarily at his chilling tone.

"I'm thinking Edward's bed, which would be most exciting." James grazed my arm rather roughly causing me to flinch. I slid off the bar stool and walked off to the bathroom quickly. Unfortunately James followed me there.

I walked into the ladies bathroom and went to lock the door but a foot was pushed through and jammed between the door. I was practically shoved backwards when James forced open the door and made his way in, before locking the door behind him. I dashed towards one of the cubicles and locked myself in there. It wasn't a foolproof since he could probably kick the door in if he wanted.

"Out you come Bella. Let's not make this difficult. You'll enjoy it more if you come nicely." I could hear the innuendo in what he said and could tell he was smirking at his joke. There were a few minutes of silence before James spoke again.

"You know what; I'll come back for you later. I don't have time to waste." From what I could hear he walked away and left the bathroom. Unfortunately from where I was I couldn't see if he had actually left or if he just made it sound like he had.

Slowly I undid the lock and walked out into the bathroom, looking around carefully. He wasn't there, thank god. I walked over to the sinks feeling scared at what could have taken place. I was assured that James wouldn't get near me but it turns out they were really wrong.

I turned the tap on and dabbed my face with the cooling water, trying to take the nerves off and get myself composed before heading back out there. The door opened and in walked an exceedingly pretty girl. She used the sink next to me and washed her hands before applying some makeup.

"Are you okay?" She asked calmingly, noticing my ragged state.

"Yeah I'm…I'm fine." I said shakily.

"Do you want me to get anyone for you?" I shook my head and tried to calm myself down before I broke into a fit of tears. "Well at least tell me your name?"

"Bella." I said smiling just for the sake of it.

"Nice to meet you Bella, I'm Tanya." I blinked twice, taking her in. I recognised her now; she was speaking to Edward earlier. It couldn't be a coincidence; she had to be the girl he's meant to be marrying. "You're the girl staying with the Cullens aren't you?"

"Yeah, that's me."

"How are you finding them?" Maybe she wanted to know some more about the family she would be joining.

"They're really nice and friendly."

"How do you get on with your exchange?"

"Which one? Alice or Edward?" I leant against the sink, drying my hands.

"Edward." Yeah she definitely wants to know what she's getting into. I wonder if she's aware that I know she's going to be marrying Edward, my boyfriend.

"He's a great guy, was a bit of an ass at first but after awhile I got use to him and he's incredibly sweet." She smiled softly at me and nodded before saying a quick goodbye and walking out of the bathroom.

God with competition like that I don't stand a chance of staying with Edward.

Alice's POV

Bella came out of the bathroom looking a little worse for wear than the last time I saw her. She sat down at our table and sipped a little bit of water. Something had to be wrong with her.

"Bella are you okay?" She just nodded but her eyes were glazed over with emotions I couldn't work out. I turned to Jasper and he answered before I could ask the question.

"She's hurt." He was frowning when he said that.

"Physically?" I asked, worried if James had got to her.

"No, or at least I don't think so. If she had been hurt that way she would be in shock and probably hysterical. No she's upset about something but I don't know what." Jasper was always good at reading people's emotions. I don't know how he did it but it was always accurate. "Don't worry Alice, maybe her and Edward had a fight or something." Jasper shrugged and wrapped his arm round me.

Speaking of Edward, I glanced around and noticed him approaching. He sat down next to Bella and tried to talk to her but she gave half answers. Something definitely was wrong with the two of them. This shouldn't be happening, not now, not when they are so close to admitting how they feel about each other.

Hell it took them months just to get together but now it's going to take forever for them to say those three words to each other. I know Edward loves Bella; the evidence is in his eyes. Since Bella already admitted that she loves Edward I know that's a fact too.

They are both just too stubborn and scared of getting hurt to tell each other. I'll have to help them out on this. Everything has gone to plan so far but I will not let then fall at the last hurdle. Whether they know it or not they are perfect for each other and they will stay together. No outside commitments interfering, no problems and protests with them being together, which means I'll have to convince Charlie.

Other than the obvious problems arising for these two like James, Tanya, Edward's predicament with his title and wealth, the travel distance between where they both live, they actually stand a chance of making it. I'm pretty sure I could get Rose to help out aswell and make sure the happy couple stay together.

For the rest of the night I watched Bella and Edward barely talk to each other. I hated seeing them like this and so did everyone else. Rose automatically picked up that something was wrong when Edward stroked Bella's arm and she flinched from his touch. Emmett only noticed something was wrong between them when we made our way home and they sat rigidly next to each other.

When we arrived home, Rose and Emmett were staying over, we all decided to get changed and come down to watch a movie. Edward and Bella both went upstairs and came down changed and as far as I could tell they didn't say a word to each other.

Throughout the whole movie it was awkward. Rose and Emmett were laying across the couch wrapped in each other, Jasper and I were cuddled up on the floor in a heap of blankets and pillows but Edward and Bella were sitting at opposite ends of the second couch, which can seat five people.

They looked completely ridiculous but nobody said anything. At the end of the movie they both went upstairs after helping us clean the room up. It looks as though their relationship is now on the rocks.

This is just not meant to be happening.

Edward's POV

I walked up the stairs behind her thinking about her during that movie. All I wanted to do was reaching out and pull her into my embrace yet I don't think she would be too pleased about that. I have no idea what I've done wrong but whatever it is it has to be pretty serious or she wouldn't be acting like this around me.

When she flinched under my touch at the party I was horrified with myself. Was I really that repulsing to her? I knew I didn't deserve an angel like her and now God's taking her back. I would have to do everything in my power to get her to talk to me again.

We reached the top of the stairs and both walked towards our bedrooms. I wonder what's going to happen tonight, will she sleep in my room or her own? I was about to find out.

"Goodnight." She mumbled, heading in to her room. I couldn't have her sleeping in there, not without making it clear I wanted her to join me in my bed, whether she was speaking to me or not.

"Bella." I said as I softly caught her wrist. "Please stay with me tonight."

"I can't sleep in your bed Edward." She said quietly.

"It's not my bed Bella. It's our bed. Please, sleep in our bed tonight." I pleaded with her. Ever so slowly she lifted her head and looked into my eyes. I felt lost looking into her deep brown ones, as though I was caught up in all her emotions.

"I can't."

"Why not?" I wasn't going to give up that easy.

"Edward…we can't do this anymore." My heart was breaking.

"Why?" My voice cracked and she looked up into my eyes. She must have seen the pain inside them.

"With Tanya and me leaving, this just doesn't seem plausible anymore."

"But I want to make this work with you Bella. I lo-"

"No Edward. We can't keep kidding ourselves. Goodnight." She cut me off from telling her I loved her and then walked away into her room, shutting the door softly behind her.

I felt like I had been hit by a train. She no longer wanted to be with me and in some way I should be glad that she will move on with her life and not have to deal with all this craziness but the other part of me is annoyed that I won't be a part of her life.

Slowly and pathetically I walked into my bedroom. That night my bed felt empty and cold without her body next to mine, in my arms. I missed her already and she was only across the hall but yet I felt miles away from her.

I guess all good things have to come to an end. I just wish it wasn't so soon.

May 7th

2 Months Left

I never fell asleep and at six am I decided to get up and go for a run round the gardens. This did not help as it was quiet and left me with all my thoughts about Tanya and Bella. If I had to choose the choice would be obvious, Bella hands down, but now that I know she doesn't want me, well it's a whole new game now.

I didn't see Bella at all and I was a little relieved. Seeing her would only bring back the pain and love I have for her. Whether she knows it or not but she has my heart and no matter how this ends between us she will always have it.

Tanya arrived at around eleven and we went out to the veranda to talk. I had spent my whole day deciding what to do about us, this situation, and this predicament we were in. We sat down on the bench together and looked out over the gardens.

I pulled out the engagement ring and played with it in my hands. "I'm out here to ask you to marry me-"I paused unsure whether to continue or not. If I ask her I'm doing everything that is expected of me, if I don't I risk everything, including Bella since she might not feel the same way about me. I sighed loudly and ran a hand through my hair.

"Let me make this easier for you. I won't marry you Edward." Tanya stated with a small smile playing on her lips. "It doesn't take a genius to work out that you are head over heels in love with her." She nodded her head towards Bella who was being dragged through the gardens by Alice.

"I couldn't marry you Edward when I know that the only girl you want to marry is over there. Plus what type of marriage would it be? I don't love you and you don't love me but we have to have children together. Somehow I just don't think that will work."

"Thank you." I said relieved. "You have no idea how grateful I am that you're turning me down. What will your father say?" I asked nervously.

She paled slightly before answering. "He'll be pissed but I already have another engagement offer so he can't be that mad."

"The Earl?" She smiled brightly and nodded.

"The Earl."

"Congratulations."

"Thank you, I'll invite you to the wedding and you can bring your…fiancée?" I smiled but shook my head.

"Bella won't marry me. I don't think she likes the idea of marriage and what's the rush, we do have our whole lives ahead of us. But that would require her to be talking to me which…she's not."

"What happened?"

"Well she doesn't think it's a good idea for us to still be dating when I was meant to be marrying you."

"Do you need me to talk to her?" Tanya asked kindly, trying to help me out.

"No don't worry its okay. I'm sure this will blow over and things will eventually go back to normal."

"If you're sure."

"I am."

"Okay then, well I better go and break the news to daddy dearest. Have an ambulance on standby he might just have a heart attack." I smirked and shook my head before following her into the house.

Bella's POV

I saw Edward lead Tanya out of the house onto the veranda. They looked really good together and I knew they would be a perfect couple. I couldn't be angry at Tanya because she was being forced into this aswell but I was slightly jealous. She's going off into the sunset with the guy I love and he doesn't even know. But it's not like I could tell him.

Alice insisted on showing me her new car that was parked further down in the estate as there was an open field where she could just open the engine up. I looked back over at Edward and saw him pull an engagement ring box out of his pocket. I abruptly felt sick to my stomach.

He was proposing to her.

They were now engaged.

Suddenly it didn't seem wise to drive around in Alice's new death trap at speeds well over one hundred miles per hour when my inside are about to come spewing out. I froze in the path when I saw him take it out of his pocket, Alice who grew impatient dragged me on, not realising the breaking of my heart at that precise moment.

He certainly moved on fast. Good to know how little I mean to him.