You Didn't Have me At Hello

by pmvb11

Bella tortured by the Cullens and Hales for 7 years. Bella's parents die in a terrible accident. She is adopted and taken away by Tanya and Liam Denali. What happens when she comes back to Seattle as a beautiful and smart woman trying to conquer an evil.

2. Chapter 2

You didn't have me at hello

A/N Don't own Twilight.. boo hoo hoo

Chapter 2 – Starting over

January 2008

Bella POV

I cannot believe I am back in Seattle. I haven't called Seattle my home for over 10 years. I missed it a lot. Thank God that the weather reminded me of London. I have been so lucky to have two sets of parents in my lifetime. Charlie and Renee were my biological parents and provided me with so much love and care within those few years we had together. They taught me to take things slow, don't sweat the small stuff and never to rely on money for happiness. Though I lived a miserable life at school, my life at home was peaceful and perfect. We didn't need much and I had the honor to have a special brother who was the world to me.

When I lost everything, a set of parents adopted me and I became their daughter wholeheartedly. They accepted all my faults, all my ugliness and all my insecurities. They treated me like their own flesh and blood and gave me everything and anything any girl would think of. They gave me so many educational opportunities that I would never be able to re-pay them for. They allowed me the opportunity to show me the world and so many cultures that I was so fascinated. Mum and Dad gave me Bella. They taught me to be who I am today, a strong, independent and beautiful woman. They have helped me bypass my insecurities without being obnoxious. I will always be in debt to them.

When I graduated from Oxford, it was my proudest moment ever. It wasn't because I graduated first in my class or because I had graduated from the prestigious Oxford, but because my mum and dad were so proud of me. All my sacrifices were for them. They had given me the world and I knew that one way I would be able to repay them is to graduate from mum and dad's university.

After a few years of working extremely demanding hours at the laboratory and making successful progress, my dad called me into his study.

"Sweetheart, I have to talk to you." "Yes, Dad. Anything wrong?' He smiled as he pulled me in a huge hug. "First, I have missed you very much. How is everything going?" I missed our talks and I missed his hugs. Mum and dad were always very affectionate with me and I adored that from them.

"All is well Dad. Work is great and I think we are progressing well." We sat down in our usual spot, he at his cherry wood desk and I across from him.

"I received a very interesting phone call today from an old friend and school mate. It was concerning about you."

"Dad, me? Why? Did I do something wrong dad?"

He laughed. "Sweety, first of all, we love you and you will never lose us ok. I know it is hard after so many years to still believe this but you are our daughter. You are my baby girl and you will always be. Now, concerning the call, Carlisle called me from Seattle and had heard many great things on your work at the Lab. He called hoping that you were my daughter and we got to talking. He is very interested in meeting with you. He is the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President of the Seattle Laboratory Research. He is interested in you coming to work for him."

I saw dad was so proud telling me this. I couldn't believe it. This lab was world renowned for their work. Many strides had come out of the lab in every field of medicines. "Dad, are you telling me that they want me to work for them?" He nodded. "Do you want to take a chance? I mean, you know Mum and I will miss you dearly and it means going back to the place you were born, but Mum and I would visit you often. "

Wow, me, on my own completely. I had gotten used to being with my mum and dad here. I loved my life here too. I loved the few friends I had and I loved the atmosphere in London. I was Bella Denali. I was well loved here and I was thought of highly. I would need to start all over again. I knew I could do it. I knew I had enough confidence in myself that I would never go back to what I was in school.

"Honey, I know what you must be thinking. You can do this. Mum and I believe in you. We would set you up in an apartment and you wouldn't have to worry a thing." I looked at him and I knew he believe in me. "Ok, Dad. I will interview for the position." He clapped his hands and ran over to hug me tightly. I knew he was sad to let me go, but he knew I had to start living my life. Many times they had reminded me that they wanted to be grandparents.

That night, we went out to eat at our favorite pub. We usually dressed down and we wanted to have a couple of beers to celebrate. Dad had contact Carlisle on my decision for the interview and advised him that we would be there the last week of January. Dad and I talked to my bosses and though I might be leaving for the states, my work for the lab would continue. We decided that I would have direct connection with them and complete any work with the help of a separate lab Carlisle would provide me if I would take the job. Mum and I had decided that week that we would go shopping for clothes. I needed new suits and shoes and accessories for the U.S. I loved shopping with my mum. We both did. It was our time to be girlie girls and have our talks. My mum didn't go to crazy on shopping either. We loved window shopping too and taking long walks and get lost in the city. "Dad, may I ask you a question?" "Sure honey anything." "This Dr. Carlisle – is that his last name?" "No sweety – that is his first name. His complete name is Dr. Carlisle Cullen." I almost choked.

Liam POV

I had completely forgotten about Carlisle's last name. I had remembered Bella's stories of torture from the Cullens and the Hales when Bella lived in Seattle. I never reproached him on it since that was prior to Bella's adoption, but I knew that period in her life affected her a lot. It took a lot of work from Tanya and myself to change Bella's belief in herself. "Bella, if you don't want to go, say the word. I will call him immediately and cancel it and let him know why." My wife, Bella's loving mother was just holding her hand and trying to comfort our daughter. "I'm sorry dad on my reaction. It's just that name is something I haven't heard for a long time." Tanya kept comforting, "Bella, if you don't want to go, then stay with me and dad. You know you can continue your work at the Lab." I saw Bella's mind work very quickly. I knew she was so determined to find the cure to everything she could think of. I never forgave myself not being able to adopt Bella's brother. I knew it was going to be hard enough to bring Bella's in our world, but Steve needed more help than what we could offer or want to offer. Financially, we could have provided him with the best care in the world and probably he would still be alive today, but Tanya and I were deathly afraid.

"No Mum and Dad, let me interview first. I had heard excellent things about Dr. Carlisle and the progress he has made in SRL. I can defend myself and I have to thank you both for that." I couldn't have been prouder of her than at that moment.

Tanya POV

I was going to miss my little girl so much. She had become my best friend and my confidante. She helped me so much with Liam and understand how to be more romantic. Yes, believe it or not, my daughter help me, her mother. Menopause didn't treat me very well and my poor husband suffered the brunt of it. Bella taught me that change wasn't going to end my sexual history with Liam. It was a new beginning. She taught me how to be a better person and to be a better wife and mother. Now, I must let her go and let her live her own life. I want her to find a love in her life. She deserves a gentleman to sweep her off her feet and adore her. She deserves only the best. She had gone out with 2 or 3 boys in her lifetime, but she was more dedicated to her studies.

When she came to our lives, she was heartbroken and broken down. I helped her get out of that mold. If I could, I would have literally and physically hurt the Cullens and Hale kids for destroying my Bella's heart and soul. I thought she was never to get out of that but I knew my Bella was a strong and beautiful woman. Not only was her physical beauty outstanding, but her inner beauty was more outstanding. She was smart, funny and a dear. I know she is going to have a few challenges if she takes the position in Seattle, but she would be a success.

January 25th 2008

Time flew by quickly and Liam, Tanya and Bella had arrived at Seattle. They were at their hotel unpacking and getting ready to order some dinner. Carlisle had invited them over for dinner, but Bella didn't want to start on the wrong foot and they requested that they would meet for dinner on Monday night. Bella's interview was early on Monday and she needed to prepare. They ordered a large pizza and the three just hung out in their rooms watching old movies and relaxing. They didn't know who Bella was going to meet other than Carlisle, but Liam and Tanya were worried for Bella.

Monday came around and Liam, Tanya and Bella were about to get the limo they had ordered. Liam and Tanya were dressed in business casual clothes, but Bella was dressed to impress. She wore a red power suit, short suit jacket that accentuated her small waist and hips and her pencil skirt accentuated her all. She wore her 3 inch black pumps because it made her feel very powerful and in control. Her long hair had been straightened and neatly settled. Her makeup was done tastefully and she wore her lucky platinum diamond studs her parents have given to her for her 21st birthday. She wore her platinum Tag and a delicate platinum bracelet her mother gave her on the plane over to the states. She had also wore her thin platinum necklace and cross which her father had given to her during her confirmation so many years old.

Bella POV

Nervous was not the word that could describe my state. I wasn't nervous. I had decided that I would come into this lab with my head held high and with pride. I knew my stuff and I knew it well. I worked efficiently and I didn't mind the hours. I was dedicated to my work 120%. We got to Carlisle's office in downtown Seattle. The secretary welcomed us and showed us to Carlisle office. It was huge. A corner office overlooking the waterfront. We went in and my father and Carlisle enveloped into a hug. Carlisle then embraced my mum and made small talk. I didn't notice anyone else in the room because I was so touched to see my parents were dear friends with this man. Carlisle had this look that he was kind and gentle. He had passion in him that was indescribable.

Dad spoke then, "Carlisle, it gives me the greatest honor to present you my beloved daughter, Isabella." I smiled and extended my hand and Carlisle smiled. He took my hand and pressed a kiss on my cheek. "Any daughter of Liam is like a daughter of mine." I thanked him. Carlisle continued, "Liam, Tanya, you had stated your daughter was beautiful. You didn't say she was exquisite." I blushed. "Please let me introduce you to my family. As I turned around, I gasped so quietly that only my mum and dad heard. Dad looked at me and gave me a reassuring look and mum held my hand. Edward, Emmett and Jasper were there. The tormenters were actually there. Ok Bella calm down. You can do this. This is for the better good of the world.

Jasper POV

Dad and mom were really excited on seeing their old friends Liam and Tanya. They were more excited at the prospect of getting this Isabella Denali in working for SLR. As senior vice president of research, I knew we were in shortage of excellent scientists and Isabella was one of the bests. Not only did she know her stuff, she was known to be relentless. She wasn't a quitter and made strides in her profession in such a short time. She was also well known for being a selfless person. She was helpful to her collegues around the world and was considered to be one of the most pleasant, friendly and open hearted around.

When dad told us about the interview, we cancelled everything so we can woo Isabella to stay. During the weekend, I did research on her and found that she was originally from Seattle and had been adopted by Liam and Tanya when she was 11 years old. Her origins were very limited, but the few interviews I had read on her, I came to find that she did have a younger brother who died from complications from DS. As I read more on her and looked at more pictures of her, I kept feeling like I knew this girl from somewhere. During the weekend, Emmett, Edward, Emmett's wife and my dear friend Rosalie and my dear wife Alice had dinner together. We need to research on Isabella Denali and we all felt that we knew this woman from somewhere, but we couldn't pinpoint it.

When Liam, Tanya and Isabella entered Dad's office, I was taken back. Isabella was a beautiful woman. She exuded self-confidence and poise but wasn't cocky. I looked at her as she spoke with my dad and I could immediately tell that she was dedicated to her family and to her work. Then, right before dad introduced us to these three, my cell phone buzzed with a text message. It was from my wife:

Isabella Denali is Bella Swan. Remember, Billy Black's Bella.

OMG. We are dead. She isn't going to take this job.

"Liam, Tanya and Isabella, these fine gentlemen over here are my sons. Emmett and Jasper are my oldest and are twins and Edward is my youngest." We all said our hellos and shook hands but I was uncomfortable. I thought she was going to remember us, but she didn't show any indication that we had been so bad towards her when she was young.

Carlisle POV

Make note to myself - speak to Jasper on his reaction to the Denali's. "Please sit down. Now Isabella, we had stated that we wanted to interview for this position. Actually, we really don't want to interview you, but offer the position of Director of the Research Labs here in Seattle. We believe you would be perfect in working with our staff and provide the most excellent service and work. I know it is a lot to think about and leaving your work in London must be difficult, but I believe you can do so much here. You would have full reign over the lab and preside over the decisions on the project. The salary and benefits would be to your liking and I do hope you would consider coming with us." I handed her the envelope that entailed the information on her salary and benefits. Since I knew she would have to practically have to start her life over in Seattle, we had found her an apartment and car. Other benefits would include gym membership, membership to museums, concert venues and opera house. I wasn't surprised of Isabella's many questions on the current projects within the lab. Her knowledge amazed me and the boys.

I had advised her that she would be working closely with my wife Esme, my two daughter-in-laws, Rosalie and Alice and my future daughter-in-law, Lauren in raising funds for the laboratory. After about 20 minutes on how very close Isabella would be working with the women as well, I noticed there a little tension between everyone.

"Liam, Tanya – is there something wrong? Really, I am your first, first and foremost."

Liam looked at Isabella and Tanya and was about to speak but Isabella interrupted. "No dad I will speak." She gave her father a tender look and I saw a hint of a tear in her eyes.

Bella POV

Ok, I have to do this. I can't let dad do this. It is my problem only. Not my family.

"Dr. Cullen, first, let me take this opportunity in thinking of me for this position. I am very honored you have even chosen me to be a candidate and your establishment is wonderful. It would be a great honor and privilege for me working here, but I first must inform you of my past especially since I feel a lot of tension from your sons. See, Dr. Cullen, before I was Isabella Denali, I was Isabella Swan. I was born and raised here in Seattle and I attended school with your children and with Rosalie and Alice Hale…and he interrupted me and gasped:

"Isabella Swan. Bella. Oh my god." The most surprising thing came about then. He stood and just took me in his arms and held me in a big hug. "Bella, I know who you are. Oh my god, the world is so small isn't." He knelt next to me which I was shocked and I saw his sons stand up and look around us. "Bella, Billy Black and gave me every little detail on what my family had done to you. Esme and I had tried to find you but to no avail. We wanted to help you out and more so apologize for what my sons and what the Hale girls had done to you. Liam, Tanya, we go way back. You know where I came from and how I was brought up. You will never imagine how hurt I was to see my boys, the same boys I had thought I brought up correctly were doing to this poor girl.." I saw dad put his hand on Carlisle's shoulder. "Isabella. ..Bella, I know I have no right to beg of you, but please consider this position. These boys have changed as well as Rosalie and Alice. I had even thought that you and they would become fast friends. Please Bella, please accept this position." I saw tears in his eyes. He was crying for me. Why? I was just simply Bella Swan here now. The Denali left me the minute I spoke to him on my past. I fought my tears but took Carlisle hand tightly in mine. "Dr. Cullen, I will give you my decision tonight. I need to think it through if that would be good for you." He hugged me and told me to take all the time I needed. "No, I will make the decision tonight. It don't want to waster your time or the time of the SLR."

He hugged Liam and apologized he profusely. Edward, Emmett and Jasper didn't know what to do. I was looking at my father and his best friend and I was in awe at their friendship.

"Dr. Cullen, may I ask you a question?" as I was standing up. "Any thing my dear." "Do you know where I can get in touch with Billy Black and his son, Jacob. Billy was my dad's best friend and Jacob was my best friend." He smiled, "Well I can do better than that, I can invite them to dinner. Jacob is our resident technician here." I smiled and stated, "Sir, if it is too much trouble, I can speak to them on my own." He laughed, "First, may I call you Bella?" I nodded. "Bella, please don't call me Sir or Dr Cullen, please call me Carlisle. Secondly, Billy and I became very good friends after our meeting together. I won't tell them anything so you can surprise them." I was so happy. I was going to see my old friends.

After that meeting, my parents and I left Carlisle and his sons and decided to meet at Carlisle's apartment around 7:30pm for dinner. Mum, dad and I had to talk about his, but I knew whatever decision I would make, I couldn't make it without my heart.