A/N: I apologize for such a long wait. I hope you all aren't too upset with me. School and life in general have kept me rather busy. I hope you all enjoy this chapter, though, and I promise to update quicker from now on! Reviews, of course, are welcomed and appreciated. Much love to you all.
Ch. 6
ALICE'S POV
After standing at the door for a little while longer, I finally decided to get the talk with my brothers over with. I knew Edward would hear the thought in my head, so I didn't bother calling for them to come to the living room. Shortly after I took a seat, he and Jasper walked in. Edward still looked angry about what he'd come home to, but he relaxed a bit after Jasper sent out a wave of calm. I felt myself relax, as well, and gave Jazz a thankful grin. As soon as they were seated, the questions began.
"Why was that mutt in our apartment, Alice," Edward asked. I rolled my eyes, but answered his question.
"She happened to be passing by on her afternoon run, and stopped to say hi. Being the polite person that I am, I invited her in for some water."
He huffed at my response, and Jasper only nodded. It still baffled me as to how Jasper put up with Edward's bitchiness. I knew Edward had a nicer side, but that side of him came around very rarely and only for brief moments. I truly hope he behaves better when the two of them are alone.
"Alice, I'm not going to try and tell you what to do, but I do hope you are being careful about this friendship you seem to have formed with the girl. Have you at least gotten to know more about her," Jasper said. He was certainly the perfect southern gentlemen, even after all of his years as a vampire.
"I am, Jazz, no worries. Bella is actually very kind. The incident with Edward was a misunderstanding, and she is sorry for that," I said, glancing to Edward, who had crossed his arms and pursed his lips in a disbelieving gesture. What a diva.
I continued on to explain more of how Bella and I came to be friends. "She and I have actually been getting to know one another for about a week now. We've hung out after the class we share together and talked a lot. She moved here with her father and brother from Forks. I don't think her brother and father would be quite as accepting of us as she has become, but they have their reasons. I don't believe they will be a threat unless provoked, though. From what Bella has told me, her father seems to be a passive man. He'd rather they all avoid us, instead of confront us."
Jasper took in the information with a few quick nods, and Edward continued to look out of our living room window. I understood he was being protective of our family, but there was no need for him to be so rude to me. I paid him little mind, though, as was usual.
We spoke a little longer, and agreed that I should meet with Esme and Carlisle the tomorrow to give them what little information I could of Bella's family. After the talk, we all retreated to our rooms for the night, taking on our usual activities. Jazz and Edward usually worked on music together (or did other things I'd rather pretend did not happen with me under the same roof). I sat on the edge of my bed and began thinking of what all I would tell my parents when I met with them. I had decided not to share the story of her mother, as that was not my story to tell. I doubted Bella would have told me so soon, if at all, had it not been for the situation we were in. Tonight had certainly given me the opportunity to see a different side of Bella. I had gotten to see the talented and almost child-like side of her, with how giddy she was about my guitar and how amazing she was at playing. I could watch her play forever and never cease to be amazed. Of course, I would also love to kiss her forever. No words could express how magnificent that kiss felt. If she could play guitar while also kissing me… now that would be perfection.
Okay, Alice, calm it down.
What was this girl doing to me?
Honestly, I didn't really care. She was amazing and I couldn't get enough of her. It seemed she was beginning to feel the same way about me, and that thought alone put a massive smile on my face.
I heard a few light knocks on my door, and stood to go open the door. Jazz was standing on the other side, with a small smile on his face.
"May I come in," Jazz asked, and I stepped aside and motioned for him to enter. He took a seat on the floor, across from the foot of my bed, which was where I chose to sit.
"What's up, Jasper," I asked, curious as to why he was here, not that he wasn't welcome. He and I spent a lot of alone time together, he was my best friend, after all. But something seemed to be bothering him a bit.
"Alice, what are your intentions with Bella? I apologize for asking something so invasive; it's just…well, I'm just curious. I hope you don't mind."
I was a little surprised by his question, but I could understand his curiosity, seeing as how they happened to walk in to find us all over each other.
"I like her, Jazz. She's interesting and we get along great. I enjoy spending time with her. I think she and I will become very close," I answered. I wasn't sure how else to answer, since I wasn't even sure where my relationship with Bella was going. Sure, we kissed, but we hadn't exactly discussed what we were going to do about whatever we were feeling.
"'Like' seems to be a bit of an understatement, there, Ali," a grin began to grow on his face, soon becoming a full-blown smile. A devious looking one, at that. "You two looked like you were ready to ravish each other." We both laughed.
"Yeahhh, sorry you had to see that," I said, and we laughed some more.
"Alice, I couldn't help but feel what you were feeling when we stumbled upon you two," his face grew serious, and I looked to him with a questioning look, but allowed him to finish what he was saying. "Aside from the lust, of course, there was something else. Have you considered that Bella may…be your mate?"
My jaw dropped. I knew something was special about Bella, and I knew how she made me feel, but I hadn't considered that she could be my mate. She was a wolf. Was it even possible for a vampire to mate with a wolf?
"I'm…but…she…what?" Obviously my brain was still trying to catch up with this idea.
"Jazz, she's a wolf. I'm a vampire. How could that be possible," I asked, sincerely hoping he could give an answer.
"I wouldn't have thought so, but I'm familiar with the feelings that come when one has found a mate, and that is what I felt from you. So, it seems it is possible. In this case, at least."
I took a deep breath to steady myself. I had waited so long to find my mate, and the thought that I may finally have found that person made me want to jump up and dance around and hug Jasper to pieces. But part of me wondered if it were possible that Bella may not see me as her mate. I wasn't very well educated on werewolves, I had no idea how mating worked for them. She had said she was drawn to me, but that didn't necessarily mean I was her mate. If I were human, I would have a major headache right now.
"I suppose I need to talk to Bella about this," I said. Jasper nodded, and began to stand up.
"That would probably be wise. Don't worry, Alice, everything will work out properly," he held is arms open, and I stood to wrap my arms around him for a tight hug.
"I know. I need to go out, would you and Edward mind going hunting with me?"
Jasper took my hand and gave a smile and nod, then led me out of the room. We gathered Edward from their room, and headed out for our hunt. I would keep everything off of my mind for now, but I knew I needed to get in touch with a Bella as soon as possible. Neither of us had classes on Tuesday, and I didn't feel like waiting until Wednesday after class to talk to Bella again. I'd text her when I got home and see if she was willing to meet with me in the morning so we could talk.
Oh, goodness.
BELLA'S POV
I made my way home with a smile on my face. It seemed impossible to remove it, but I didn't really bother to do so. I replayed the night's events over in my head; the music we had made together, the kiss, and even the not-so-enjoyable parts. I was happy with the end result, though. Alice obviously had feelings for me. I knew I had feelings for her, too, and it was a relief to have finally accepted, as well as admitted, my feelings for her. As impossible as the entire situation seemed, I was looking forward to seeing what was to come. But as I drew closer to my home, I remembered that I would have to keep these feelings a secret. Jacob and Charlie would certainly not approve. My family had known about my orientation for years now, so that wouldn't be the issue. The fact that Alice was a vampire would be. It would be a challenge to even get them to consider being civil and friendly with Alice and her family, much less approve of the things that were happening between the little pixie and myself.
What was happening between us, anyhow?
I'd never felt like this for anyone before, and I would certainly have never expected to feel this way for a vampire. It didn't seem possible. We were fated to be enemies. I'd heard of wolves mating with humans before, but never vampires.
No matter, though. I felt the way I felt, and I had no desire to fight it anymore. I'd take things as they came, and not question it anymore.
As I made my way up the front steps of my house, I could see Charlie and Jacob sitting in the living room, watching television. I never thought I would hope to be sweaty, but I was definitely hoping that my run home and been enough to cause my scent to cover the scent of the vampires enough that I could make it up to my room without them noticing it. That would certainly be a hard one to explain. Maybe not to Jacob, but he knew that I had been hanging out with Alice. Only he thought it was still just "part of the plan." Charlie, however, had no idea, and would flip his shit if he knew I had been anywhere near a vampire.
I opened the front door, and headed straight for the stairs. I gave a quick "hey" to my father and brother, and raced up the steps to my room. I'd take a quick shower, change clothes, and head back down to talk to them, that way I could be clear of the scent and not seem suspicious by hiding out from them.
Good plan, Bella.
After getting cleaned up, I slid down the banister of the stairs and made my way to sit beside Jake on the couch.
"Hey, Bells," Charlie greeted, with his eyes still glued on the baseball game playing on the massive television.
"Hey, dad. How was your day?"
"Same old, same old. Yours," he asked. I, of course, left out anything that had to do with Alice, and continued making small talk with Charlie. After a little while, I heard my stomach grumble.
"Have you guys had dinner yet? It's late, I hope you haven't been waiting on me this whole time."
"Nah, we ordered pizza a few hours ago," Jake said, also keeping his eyes on the game. "There's a few pieces left in the fridge."
After the long run I had tonight, I was going to need more than a few pieces of pizza. What I really needed was to go hunt. I wouldn't be allowed to go on my own though, and my chances of getting Jake or Charlie away from the tv right now would be next to impossible. I opted to make some hot wings to go with my pizza, and after I finished all of that, I still had room for a couple of sandwiches. After my belly was finally satisfied, I felt my eyelids begin to grow heavy, and figured it was time to call it a night. I was thankful to not have classes in the morning. I could use a few extra hours of sleep.
After telling Jake and Charlie goodnight, and giving them both kisses on the tops of their heads, I retreated to my room. As soon as I plopped down onto my bed, I heard my phone go off, indicating a text. I smiled, knowing it had to be Alice.
Hey, Bella. It was nice seeing you tonight.
I wasted no time responding to the text.
You, as well, Alice. We should hang out again sometime.
I don't know why, but I felt somewhat nervous. It felt as though my stomach was full of fluttering birds.
Within seconds, I had another text from Alice.
That's actually why I was texting you. I was wondering if you'd be interested in coming by sometime in the morning? Edward and Jazz are going car shopping, and that is bound to take all day. I wouldn't mind a bit of company while they're out.
Psht, as if she had to ask. Charlie would be at work, so I wouldn't have to worry about him knowing I was out. And I wouldn't have to lie to Jake. I had no other plans, anyway.
Sounds great. What time should I head over?
Is 9 good for you? I'll even make you breakfast. ;)
Well, so much for sleeping for a few extra hours. I wouldn't mind getting up early for Alice, though. That statement alone says a lot…
Sure. I'll see you at 9. Oh, and btw, French toast is my favorite breakfast. Just saying. :P
After making the plans, we said goodnight and I fell asleep still smiling. I don't think I've ever smiled so much in my life. What was happening to me?
I woke up at 8:15 and started getting ready for my morning with Alice. I'd never been one to fret over what to wear, but I wanted to look good for Alice, and was having a hard time picking out a shirt to wear. I had no intention of compromising my comfortable style, but I did want to step it up a little.
15 minutes later, my previously clean room was now a mess, but I had finally found something to wear. I went with my grey lace-up vans, dark blue skinny jeans, and a grey button up with white vertical stripes. I quickly brushed through my wavy hair, brushed my teeth, and headed down stairs.
"Where you going all dressed up, Bells?"
I jumped a little, not expecting Jake to be up already. He was sitting on the couch, with a mouthful of cereal.
"Going to Alice's. I uh…I think she's starting to warm a bit," I answered. If only he knew just how much she had really warmed up to me…
"Good, good. Let me know if you start finding anything out. And be careful."
"Yeah, I will. Call me if you need anything. I should be back in a few hours. Later, Jake."
I grabbed my board from beside the door and headed to Alice's. At exactly 9, I was at her place. I was about to knock, but the door swung open just before I raised hand to do so. Alice opened the door with her biggest smile. I felt my own smile form, and before I could even say hello, the little pixie had a hold of my hand and was jerking me through the door. I chuckled at her excitement, and she sat me down at the kitchen table. Without another word, she disappeared into the kitchen, but quickly returned with a plate full of French toast in one hand, and syrup in the other. I picked up the knife and fork off the table, ready to dig in. By the time the food was in front of me, I was practically drooling.
"This looks great, Alice. Thank you," I said, giving her a quick grin before I began devouring the food.
"Thank you very much," she said, in a pleased tone, "I hope it tastes as good as it looks."
She took a seat across from me, and it took me a few more bites to realize she was staring at me.
"Whabr oo rookin aht?"
Wow, Bella. How about we not try to speak with our mouth full?
Alice giggled at my attempt to speak, and I swallowed my food and asked again.
"Sorry. I was asking what you were looking at?"
"Oh, don't mind me. I'm just watching you eat. It's rather entertaining," she said, giggling some more.
"Ahh. Well, glad you think so." I shrugged my shoulders and got back to inhaling my breakfast. She really could cook pretty amazingly for someone who didn't eat food.
"So, what would you like to do while we hang out," Alice asked. "I've got tons of movies, there's games around here somewhere, or we can just hang out on the couch and talk. Or whatever else you may have in mind."
Oh, I can think of something I'd like to do…
NO. STOP.
BEHAVE.
"Um, I don't know. You pick. I'm cool with whatever," I answered. Which was true. I was positive I could enjoy doing just about anything with Alice.
"Well, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk for a little bit first. Then we'll see what else we can come up with," she said, looking a little nervous. I was curious as to what she would be nervous about, but nodded and finished my meal.
She took my plate to the sink, and returned to lead me to the couch.
"Is everything alright," I asked as we sat down. There had to be a reason she wanted to talk.
"Oh, yes, everything's fine. I'm just…I suppose I just have a few questions." She looked so cute when she was nervous. It was still strange to see her this way, since she's usually so bubbly and confident.
"Alright, well, what's on your mind?"
"I've just been wondering, about us. After everything that happened last night, I've been curious as to how you feel about it all."
I smiled at her, and thought for a moment about what to say.
"Well, it was certainly unexpected," I chuckled," but if you're asking if I like you, the answer is clearly a yes. I don't understand it, how it's possible, but I do. Quite a lot. What are your thoughts on the matter?"
She was grinning at me, and our eyes locked as she began to speak.
"I like you, too. A lot. I can't explain it anymore than you can, but I know I've never felt this way and I'd like to explore this feeling a bit more." As she finished speaking, I caught her eyes glance down to my lips. Reflexively, I licked them. Her eyes grew darker at that, and I couldn't help but grin a little. I slowly reached out my hand, and began lightly tracing circles on her knee.
"I'd like that, too, Alice," I said, my voice sounding surprisingly husky. Her eyes locked on mine again, and in an instant her lips were on mine, and I was pushed back until I was lying flat on the couch. The heat and sparks spread throughout my entire body, and I couldn't stop the moan that escaped my lips. This only caused Alice to moan and wind her fingers tightly in my hair. My hands made their way to her hips, and I pulled her closer to me. Our tongues fought for dominance, and I made sure to win this time. After a few moments, I swiftly flipped us so that I was on top. She seemed surprised at this sudden movement, and pulled back to look at me. I grinned at the surprised look on her face, and leaned back down to place a soft kiss on her delicious lips. After a few more soft pecks, I let my tongue trace her bottom lip slowly. I pulled back this time, and she whimpered in displeasure. I gave a light laugh at that, but I had stopped for a reason.
"Alice, does this mean you would like to be my girlfriend," I asked. Her face looked like it could break in two with how big her smile was.
"I would, very much, Bella," she whispered. Our lips met again, but the kisses were slow this time.
After another 15 minutes of making out, Alice and I decided we needed to calm it down. Instead, we laid there and held one another and just talked for the next couple of hours. I had ended up back beneath Alice, and she laid with her head rested atop one hand on my chest. The other hand lightly traced up and down my cheek and neck, and I did the same with one hand on her back, while my other one rested at her hip. Neither of us had stopped smiling for the entire time we'd been talking.
"Oh, shoot! I forgot I'm meeting my parents at the café. What time is it?" Alice sat up, and I pulled my phone out of my pocket to check the time.
"Uh, it's 12:07. What time are you meeting them," I asked, wishing she didn't have to go. I didn't want to end our time together so soon.
"12:30," she sighed. Then she seemed to think about something, her head tilted to the side. "Hm…Bella, would you like to meet my parents?" She gave me another huge smile, and waited for my answer.
Her parents? We'd only just started our relationship and she already wanted me to meet the 'rents?
God, Charlie would flip if he found out I had been with not only one, but three, vampires today. Then again, I didn't plan on saying anything about it. And it's not like her parents would harm me. If they're anything like Alice, maybe they'll actually be alright. Hopefully.
I thought about it a little bit more, then finally decided.
"Sure, I'll go. Will they be okay with me, though?"
"Carlisle would be very interested in speaking to you, I'm sure. As long as you behave, I don't see that there will be any problems," she said, giving me a wink and another smile.
"Why does it have to be me? Your parents could behave just as badly as I could," I replied, a little defensively. Why would she think I wouldn't behave?
"I was only kidding, Bella, calm down. And my parents would never misbehave, silly. Now let's go, I don't want to be late."
She gave me one last quick kiss before pulling me off of the couch and leading me out of the door.
I was about to meet Alice's parents…
Fuck.
