Disclaimer: I don't own anything. Wish I did, but I don't

I know it's short, but sometimes that's necessary. Enjoy!

It's 2 a.m. Standing at my bedroom window looking out over our small street, I can't help but let the day's events play over in my head. We had finally made it to the grocery store and picked up some staples for the house. After my meltdown in the coffee shop, Renee had gratefully kept the conversations for the day much lighter. My emotional well being and the family I missed so much were left off the topic list. I guess even my mom could understand a girl can only handle so much in one day.

I hadn't even realized my bedroom door opened until mom was standing next to me with a hot cup of tea extended in my direction. Gratefully, I accepted, momentarily wondering where she had managed to find tea in Charlie's house. We stood in silence for a few moments both looking out at something that wasn't really there until I finally heard her speak. "Why don't you come to Jacksonville for a little while? A few days with a change of scenery might do you well."

As much as I hated to admit it, a change of scenery did seem like a good idea. It's been nearly impossible lately with every single thing reminding me of him. "I actually need to head back tomorrow," she continued, "there's this party that's being thrown for the team, managers, owners, and sponsors the day after and I promised Phil I'd be back in time. Of course he would understand if I need to stay longer, but maybe this is good timing."

A party. Great. That's exactly what I needed right now. Still, the idea of getting a way for just a little while, on a completely nonpermanent basis seemed like a good thing. "All right mom," I conceded, "For a few days. That sounds like a good idea. Can we still get me a plane ticket for tomorrow?"

"I kind of already bought you one. I guess I was hoping you would say yes. Oh, and the event is pretty formal, so we can go shopping for a dress for you once we get to Jacksonville." Perfect, as if the idea of a party wasn't bad enough, now she was expecting me to go shopping. Well, it's not exactly like I own anything that would be suitable for a formal event. Or do I? While I'm not relishing the idea of ever wearing the dress again, it would get me out of having to shop for something new. And it would mean Renee wouldn't have to spend anything on me more than she already had.

"I have a dress." I offered before I could talk myself out of it. Seeing the skeptical look on Renee's face at the idea her daughter could own anything other than jeans, tank tops, and t-shirts, I made my way over to the closet and reached to the back wall. Once my hand landed on the only silk-like item I own, I moved to the hanger and pulled it out of hiding. Holding it up for Renee's approval I could hardly suppress my laugh at her shocked expression. This moment alone was well worth the torture of having to wear this dress again. I'd never seen my mother in more awe.

"Bella, that's beautiful. Where did you get that?" Where did I get it? That answer was probably a bit trickier than I had anticipated. To let her know where the dress had come from, I would have to talk about his family again. I had pretty much hoped to leave that topic dead for the next century or so – or at least for the rest of the night.

Then again, it is 2 a.m. and it's technically already the next day. With a sigh, I reached down to my closet floor and pulled out the pair of shoes I was sure Alice would have included with the 'flats' she promised. I wasn't disappointed as my hand landed on a satin ribbon wrapped stiletto heel. It's not like I had any other shoes that would go well with this dress. Pulling them out, my mother's eyes grew even wider. "Alice had some fun playing Guinea Pig Barbie with me for Prom last year."

"It's the most beautiful blue I've ever seen." She seemed to almost involuntarily move to grab the garment. "Did you find this in Seattle?"

My laugh came out just a little too loud. "No, I'm pretty sure Alice bought it in Paris." Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure it's actually one of a kind. Then again, how could I possibly know since I can't even read the label.

"Alice bought this?" she said, her voice sounding slightly strained. My mom has always hated the idea of people spending money on us even more than I do. "I can't imagine her parents were very pleased with her spending this type of money on someone else. Even if that someone is as wonderful as you are."

"So, I've got the dress and the shoes." I offered in a lame attempt to change the direction of the conversation. I didn't really feel like talking about their family anymore tonight. "I guess we could go get our hair done before the party with all that extra money you'll save from not having to buy me a dress."

Once again, Renee's eyes lit up and I knew the topic had been successfully switched. "Well, then, you really need to try and get some sleep. I already talked to Charlie about taking you with me to Jacksonville for a little while and he seemed to like the idea as much as I did." She paused for a moment and then continued on quickly, "Not that your father wants to get rid of you by any means – we both just thought a change of scenery would do you well."

Nodding in agreement, I waited for her to continue. "So, our flight leaves at 11 a.m. from Seattle. Charlie offered to drive us to the airport. We have two layovers and should get in to Jacksonville around 10 p.m., where Phil's picking us up. Which, means we'll need to leave here around 7."

Five hours and I'd be leaving for Jacksonville. If this was anyone other than Renee I'd be surprised by the short length of notice – but with my mom it was to be expected. She always had a tendency to do things last minute.

So, to Jacksonville I go.