Chapter 5: new discoveries. . .
I don't really remember much of what happened that night. But I had obviously fallen asleep. But it wasn't obvious at first. I was scared, I remember that clearly and I was running down an alley way somewhere back home in New York. I was running and behind me I could hear the footsteps of people following me. I looked back and I saw three men following the trail that I was taking and when I turned back around, there were two more men walking toward me. Hey sugar, Why are you running? We just want to have some fun… I could hear one of them calling to me as I was looking for a way out. That's when the shiny silver Volvo came speeding down a darkened alley off the center of the one I was on and spun around to a deadly stop. "GET IN!" it nearly growled at me. Without any hesitation I jumped into the car and then he sped off. I would have known that voice anywhere but I allowed myself a peek at the speedometer and I was immediately screaming at the top of my lungs telling him to slow down. He didn't listen so I reach out to touch his arm but then I felt something cold on my arm… a hand? I thought to myself.
"Bella? Bella, wake up. It's okay. It's just a dream, com'on Bella, open your eyes…" I tried to pull myself out of the all too real dream, but to no success. "Is she going to be alright?" I heard Edward ask. I shot up faster than lightning and all the blood rushed from my head and the room spun sickeningly. I put my head between my knees and waited for it to subside but to my luck, it didn't. I got up and ran to the bathroom closing the door and flipping the lid all in the same moment. I laid on the tiled floor in the bathroom for a while and waited for the nausea to pass. Eventually it did and I brushed my teeth and walked out into the room again.
Edward lay sprawled out on my bed watching me as I walked into the closet to pick out some clothes. I came back out and walked over to the mini-fridge and got a bottle of water. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice was just a bit too smug for me. "Yeah -I sighed- Sorry about all of that" I said with an awkward smile. He smiled back and walked over to me pulling me into a hug. He was ice cold as usual. "Don't worry about it, Bella." and then he kissed my forehead. I shivered at the unexpected touch. He back away from me carefully and turned away from me and stared out the window. "What's wrong? Did I do something wrong?" he merely shook his head and walked over and sat on the ledge of the window. "It's not you, it's me Bella. I'm dangerous, too dangerous for you, I don't know how to be around you or how to be with you…" he let his words trail off into the silence. I walked up behind him and hugged him from behind.
"I don't understand what you mean… so, you want me to stay away from you? Is that it? Because if it is, then just tell me, don't give me all the damn cryptic clues, Edward." I glared at his reflection and dropped my arms. He turned around and looked at me with humor in his eyes. "You've got quite a temper?" he raised one of his eyebrows. I continued to glower at him, "NO, I just don't like cryptic clues like this. Either you want to or you don't want to be with me. What is it?" I sat next to him and put my face in my hands. We sat in silence for a long time.
"Bella, you don't understand. I'm no good for you, once you get that you will realize just how dangerous I am to you." I looked up at him, "And lets say for arguments sake, that… that I don't care if you are dangerous. What if I want you no matter what. The good and bad of you. Then would you explain to me what you mean?" he chuckled darkly, "No, probably not." and with that he got up and walked out of my room. I sat there, stunned. I got tired of sitting there alone letting my mind run wild and thinking about things I just wanted to let go in one ear and out of the other.
I decided to take a walk. Walking outside into the warm air did help clear my mind. I went to the main building to check my mail. It had been a while since I had last done it. There were a few things there and I quickly stuffed them into my bag and went out towards the lake. I sat under a shady tree and shuffled through my bag. There were some stuff from my mom. Pictures of her and Phil at Disney Land for their 4 year anniversary. My mother was so careful when I was living with her, except for her minor projects that lasted for only a few weeks at most. But Phil made her happy, and so I was happy for her. Then I got excited because there was one from Angel. I sat up straight and ripped the envelope open.
My Dearest Isabella,
How are you dear? I hope all things are going well for you. Sorry I didn't call you but I felt that it would be more interesting if I did it this way. I know how much you hate simple things and everything. Everyone here is doing just fine, so please don't flip out, hon. Anyways, I'm writing because me and the gang are going to come up and over to visit you (lol). By gang I mean Roger and Mimi, Me and Collins, and Mark. Joanne and Maureen are out on a "vacation" with each other. So I guess that that is a good enough reason for them not to be here. I'm bringing pictures of Roger and Mimi's wedding. It was beautiful in its own kind of ways. I wont tell you the exact date of my arrival. I'll get directions. Love Angel oxox
I was practically gushing with excitement by the time I finished reading this. I realized that I was crying… ha-ha how dumb of me. But I couldn't help it. My best friends were coming to see me - me of all people. How could they send a letter? Although it was clever, now I knew they were coming but I had no way of knowing exactly when…
I got up and started to walk back to my dorm. I was tired of being outside and I figured I would do some research about Edward and Alice, to see if there was some terrible disease that they had that I couldn't know about. I walked into the room, and to no surprise, Alice wasn't there. Her and Jasper seemed very serious. I laughed to myself. Of course, who couldn't be serious about each other when they were so beautiful. I sat on my bed and pulled out my laptop and went to my favorite search engine. I typed in the symptoms (or whatever you wanted to call them) into the search bar and let it do its work. There were a lot of sites that came up, but I quickly grew tired of it and shut it down. Then there was a knock at my door. I jumped up to answer it but before I could even pull the door open all the way Angel had me in a bear hug. "GIRLFRIEND! How are you? Oh my gosh I cannot believe it's you. In the flesh!!" "I know!!" we stood there hugging and shouting. I moved along the line hugging everyone, especially Mimi. I forgot how much I missed her. It was a shame at how long it had been since I'd seen them all last. "How are you guys? How was your trip?"
We all started laughing and skipped the traditional greetings and catching up and quickly fell into memories of the good old days and everything else. They admired my room and everything about it. I don't remember what time it was, but Alice came gliding through the door, twirling with Jasper in hand and Edward following behind them. I jumped up and walked to him. He smiled and caressed my face "How are you love?" I smiled, "Good, and you?" he smiled my favorite crooked smile and leaned down to give my a quick peck on the lips. I heard people clearing their throats but I really didn't care. He pulled away and I smiled, blushing the whole time. He took my hand, "Are you going to introduce us to your friends?" I heard Roger ask. "Of course, this is Alice and Jasper -I waved a hand toward them and they smiled and greeted them- and this is Edward -I blushed and looked up at him-" "Hello. I've heard so much of you. You must be Angel -he walked over toward Angel and took her hand- Bella talks so fondly of you all." he smiled shaking hands with the rest of them, getting to know their names. They hung around and we all chattered happily, but then they insisted that it was getting late and that they would see me tomorrow. I waved goodbyes to them all and closed the door sliding to the floor. Across the room Edward was watching me. "How are you feeling?" "Fine -I lied- I'm just a little hungry is all. Do you think they will deliver a pizza to the dorm?" I asked dismissively and he reached into the mini fridge and put something into the microwave. "No need -he took the phone from me and hung it up- I brought you dinner, love." I smiled and it did smell delightful. I ate quietly while Edward flicked through the CD's in our radio.
"So, what do you want to do tonight? It's spring break and I don't think you want to stay in the dorm all the time." I thought for a moment, "Well I was thinking of going to visit my dad for a couple of days and everything. Visit some old family friends. You can come along if you would like?" I offered. He seemed to be thinking hard about this. "I think I will, it will give me a chance to visit Carlisle and Esme as well." I laughed a little laugh, "Well, I think that sounds like a plan. We can leave tomorrow. My friends are headed back to Forks to visit my dad anyways…" he smiled and walked over to my bed and sat down next to me, moving the plate and everything out of the way. I scooted over towards the wall and made room for him. He tucked his arm behind my back and I cuddled up into his chest. "I Love you" he whispered into my ear. I smiled "I know. I love you too." I began to hum, it sounded so much like a lullaby. But I couldn't relate to the notes that he was singing. All I remember was him pulling a blanket gently over me and then I succumbed to my droopy eye lids and dreamt peacefully that night.
The dull morning light shown through the window and I stretched my arms out, feeling something cold beneath them. Then I heard a thud as something hit the floor. "I'm sorry, did I wake you?" I shook my head sleepily and got up and went into the bathroom. I came back and Edward was still laying on my bed -he looked different- I pushed that thought into the corner of my mind as I walked closer and stepped into the closet. I came out a few minutes later dressed in a pair of old sweats and an old t-shirt. I looked out the window as I pulled my hair up into an untidy bun. I walked over to Edward and sat down at the foot of the bed. His pale ivory skin seemed to glow in the dark. "Are you asleep?" I asked, watching him. "Hmm…?" he said as he opened his eyes reluctantly. "I guess not…" I said backing away, not consciously realizing that I was moving closer to him. "No, I'm awake… I'm not tired." he let his answer fade into the darkness. I glanced at the clock, 6:30 a.m., no reason to go back to sleep. As if I could do that anyways. "How long did you sleep?" I asked pushing the subject a little because he now had deep, dark circles under his eyes.
"So what are we doing today?" he asked, completely ignoring my previous question. I glowered at him and shrugged. "In a few hours I might -or we could- head out to Forks for the week. I was planning on visiting my father soon…" The weeks when I'm with Edward just seem to literally fly by. It was already spring break, and I have absolutely nothing better to do than hang out with my father, who I cannot really lie. I did miss him, him and my mother, dearly. "Hmm… -he paused- Sounds good to me." he finished shrugging. I nodded, "So what will you do there, when we aren't together?" I asked cautiously. Maybe I didn't want to know. Abruptly his eyes went black and his face changed and it scared me. I reached out to touch his hand and he shot up out of the bed and over onto Alice's. "Edward -I swallowed- what's wrong?" I tried to stay calm, but I started to move closer to him. "No, Bella, stay where you are please." he swallowed convulsively and flexed his jaw for a few moments. I saw his hands clench and unclench into fists, I waited. "Just give me a few more minutes, please?" he asked in a strained voice. I sat back, "What's wrong?" I asked, nearly choking back the tears I felt coming on. I glanced around me frantically for something that might have upset him and found nothing. "I should go-" I put my hand on his leg, "Please stay?" his face and eyes softened and he spoke with urgency. "I'm no good for you, but, I cannot seem to stay away from you. When I'm away, it makes me nervous… and… I miss you. So yes, I will stay. If that's what you want." he gestured with his hand for me to come over, but I didn't move an inch. Then I felt the tears run down my face. "Don't cry, Bella. Look… I'm here, your wish is my command!" he said and pretended to have shackles on. We both burst into hysterics.
The air was the warmest it had been in weeks although it was cloudy. I couldn't help but be happy. "You're quite chipper today." Edward said laughing and grabbing my hand. "It's warmer today, I love the heat." I said staring out the window of his Volvo. We were alone. Jasper and Alice took her Porsche. Rosalie and Emmett took his jeep (although it wasn't something you'd think to drive around for everyday uses)/ but I wasn't complaining, I loved being with Edward. He smiled my favorite smile and turned off the highway. "Can we stop at the gas station up ahead?" he nodded and spun around into the drive. "One of these days you are going to turn us into a Volvo pretzel." I exclaimed holding my chest to keep my heart from pounding through. He chuckled, "Don't worry, I'm the best driver. You will never, ever, be a Volvo pretzel on my watch" he said parking near the back. I got out of the car and looked for a signal.
"Hey, dad! How are you doing?" Charlie sounded exhausted, so I tried to make it quick. "You'll never guess what! I'm on my way to Forks now for spring break with some friends -I paused listening to him- Uh… Sure dad. I'll see about it, but they are going to be visiting with other people as well. But hey, I will call you back as soon as I can. Love you too." we said our goodbyes and I made my way back to the car. "So how is your father?" Edward asked politely, "Ecstatic now that I'm coming home for a little while." I said with a sigh. "You miss him a lot…" I felt a blush, "Yeah, I do. But this will solve some of it -I paused- But how would you know? I mean I never really talk about them with you… or anyone." he smirked at me, "Anyone with eyes could see this Bella, and - he laughed- you talk in your sleep. You miss your mom, Renee and all your friends back home. The wind and rain makes you restless and sometimes it takes you back to nightmarish times. Times you wont talk about with me, but I wont bring them up until you're ready." I put my hands up to my face in embarrassment. He reached his hand up and caressed my cheek and I blushed again, "Don't be ashamed" he murmured. "Well, it's too late, you've already heard -I paused- what else did you hear?" I asked, irritated now. He smirked at me again, "Well you said you loved me, and I already knew it. But then, I'm guessing you've had dreams about you being my wife -he chuckled- and well yeah…" he let it drop, and laughed at the shock that played across my face. "What?!" I practically screamed in horror. He stopped laughing and grabbed my hand, I tried to pull away. He pulled over to the side of the road and turned the car off. "Bella, please don't be ashamed. I think it's cute and very sweet of you. But not to put gas on the fire, but I don't think that we could ever get married." I looked away, feeling the tears run down my cheeks. He sighed and pulled back onto the road. He never let my hand go. I kept my eyes closed and pretended to be asleep until we reached the city limits of Forks, Washington.
We pulled in front of Charlie's house and I saw the curtains move. I got out the car and grabbed my bags (with Edward's help) and walked up to the door. "Are you sure about me, Bella?" I nodded to him and just as I was about to knock when the door disappeared and I was taken up into a big bear hug. He was smiling from ear to ear, "Boy, you haven't changed a bit!" Charlie exclaimed in my ear. I laughed at him and smiled, "Neither have you dad…" I glanced up at Edward at the same time my father did. "And this -I gestured toward Edward- this is… this…-" Edward chuckled softly, "I'm Edward Cullen, Chief Swan." he shook Charlie's hand. I blushed and watched Charlie's face. "Are you two dating or something? I've never seen her turn that red since she fell and got stuck-" horror struck my face, "YES! Yes we are dating dad, Phew -I wiped my forehead- long drive, aren't you going to invite us in dad?" I asked laughing nervously.
We walked inside, "So, you're Dr. Cullen's boy?" Charlie asked. "Yes sir…" Edward answered setting my bags down. I grabbed them up and headed up the stairs. I could hear them talking about me downstairs but I couldn't quite make out what they were saying. I came back down slowly, not sure if I wanted to walk into an awkward conversation. Edward smiled up at me and walked to his side, he took my hand and squeezed it gently. "So…" I let it die off into the silence. "I was just telling Edward here, how he better take good care of you. I'd hate to have to -he eyed his gun deviously- take matters into my own hands. Edward laughed and I stared embarrassingly at my father. "Okay, that's enough threats for one day. Are we going to stand here all day?" Charlie smiled awkwardly and led us to the living room. Edward sat in the only chair, forcing me to sit with Charlie. I got up and decided that I would make dinner. I overheard Charlie telling stories about my clumsy childhood while the mariners played on the television. After a while I got tired of the laughter at my expense and turned on some music while I finished up dinner. "Dinner's ready" I announced moments later as I finished touching up the food. Charlie walked into the small yellow kitchen. I noticed that it was the same yellow that my mother had painted it so many years ago. "Edward, are you staying for dinner as well?" I glanced at him anxiously as I began to fix Charlie's plate. "Sure, Chief Swan-" Charlie interrupted, "Call me Charlie…" Edward nodded, "Charlie… I'd love to, as long as you insist". Edward took a seat next to Charlie and I quickly brought their plates to the table. I made my plate and joined them. We ate in silence for a while and then Charlie spoke. "So…-he paused awkwardly- how long have you two been dating?" I looked down at my plate and shoved the food around. "About 4 months, Charlie." Edward replied happily. I saw Charlie nod. I looked up to study Charlie's face when a knock came at the front door.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
"Coming!" Charlie shouted out to the door. Edward grimaced slightly and I studied his face. I got up and started clearing the table. Edward got up and dumped his full plate into the trash can. He went to the sink then and began washing the dishes. I started to dry and put them away. We did this for a while, until Charlie came into the room with a man in a wheel chair and a young boy following close behind. "Bella, you remember Billy Black? And his son, Jacob, don't you?" I studied their faces for a moment.
Billy was an elderly man -in his mid 50's I guessed- with worry lines and wisdom in his eyes. As for the boy, his face had childish curves and dimensions. But he carried the same wisdom in his face just like his father. He seemed like a very happy person. "I'm sorry, but I don't quite remember you both." I threw in a friendly smile. "But it's nice to meet you -I paused- again." I watched as Billy assessed me, I suddenly grew self-conscious. That's when Edward turned around, and Billy's face grew black with fury. I glanced up at Edward and the emotion in his face was like a mirror of Billy's. Edward's eyes studied Billy for a moment before changing from a warm liquid topaz to a deep coal black.
"We didn't realize you had company. We will come back-" Edward grabbed my hand, "Not necessary, we were just on our way. Nice to meet you Charlie-" I smiled sheepishly, fear the dominant emotion on my face, "See you tomorrow Charlie" I said hugging Charlie awkwardly and waved goodbye to Billy and Jacob.
I followed Edward out the door and out to his car. I had to run to keep up with him. "What's wrong?" I asked breathlessly while I was getting into his care. "Don't worry about it, how do you feel about seeing Carlisle and Esme again?" he asked as he sped down my street and out of the city limits. I smiled into the darkness. I had always liked his parents. They were very nice and I had had the best time the last time we had dinner together. They were friendly and warm, insanely beautiful…just like the rest of them. "Sure…" I said messing with the radio and settled on some station that was playing my favorite band, MUSE. Edward cocked his eyebrow up, "Debussy to -he dug through a compartment and held up a CD case- this?" he had their latest album. I bit my lip and nodded, "What's so funny?" he sounded like he was lost in thought. "Hmm…?" he replied as he made a sharp turn down a hidden road.
The drive seemed to take forever. It was almost as if the darkness would never end. Then it, we turned around a small curve and it hit me. It was like a small -or a pond- in the dark, with the pools of light spilling from the windows of the house. I couldn't even imagine how this would look in the daytime. From what I could see, the house was a grand 3-stories and there were beautiful fixtures all over the yard and house. I couldn't make out what they were, I hadn't realized we had come to a stop until Edward cleared his throat. I looked for him in the car but realized he was holding the door open for me. I got out hesitantly, biting my bottom lip. I was nervous, but being here with Edward seemed to make it a little better.
"Bella? Bella, Are you okay?" Edward asked taking my face between his icy hands. I nodded and patted his hand -still staring out into the darkness at the house- he kept mine and lead my up the stairs of the porch. "Bella-Edward! You've finally made it." Carlisle greeted us with a friendly smile. I smiled back as he ushered us into the house. It was even more beautiful inside than outside. Everything on the inside was so bright from the white plush carpet to the extravagant jade walls. The furniture was timeless and the paintings priceless. "What a lovely home you have!" I said in an awed voice. "Thank you, dear." Esme replied as she walked up behind Carlisle and rested her round on his shoulder. He patted her hand and smiled at her then back to me.
"Edward -he said- Rosalie and Emmett went off to the cottage for the week. Alice and Jasper should be here sometime tomorrow or the next day." Edward nodded and smiled down at me. I felt my heart begin to race so I looked away and out of the corner of my eye I saw the ivory colored grand piano. "Is this yours?" I asked Esme. "Oh, goodness NO! Hon, didn't Edward tell you?" We both stared up at him as he smiled down at me. "Let me show you". He walked over to the piano and sat down. He stroked his long ivory fingers across the keys and the room was filled with a fast tempo that gradually slowed into that intriguing lullaby he was always humming. It sowed some and then sped up slightly, weaving in and out of the intricate notes of the different melodies as the intertwined together.
I felt my jaw drop open but I couldn't say anything. I stared, awed into silence. I forced my mouth closed as the lullaby came to an end. He smiled up at me. "You inspired that one." he said as he walked toward me. I held my hands out and he took them and pulled me into a hug. "That…was amazing. You wrote that…for me?" u asked astonishment filled my face and voice. He just nodded and kissed my forehead.
"Edward, why don't you show Bella around? I'm sure she is dying to see the rest of the house." Carlisle said with another friendly smile. "If you don't mind…" I looked up at Edward and he smiled a crooked smile. We walked up the grand staircase -it reminded me of the one that was mentioned in Gone with the Wind- and down a huge hallway. "Down here there is Carlisle's study, Esme's office, Alice's design room and the library…" he led me up another flight of stairs. "Here are Esme and Carlisle's bedroom, Jasper's art studio, and at the very end is Emmett and Rosalie's bedroom" -interrupted him- "Wow, your house makes mine look like a cardboard box left out in the rain to rot away." I said with a shaky cough as I was lead up another flight of stairs. "Over there -he pointed to a room at the end of the hall- that's Alice and Jasper's bedroom" I smiled. "And over here -he led me down the right side of the dim hallway- This is my room." I stared at the door for a few minutes and the I twisted the knob and swung it open.
His room was beautiful and so simple. He had golden carpet with matching tapestries. I walked into his room slowly, observing everything my eyes laid on. He had a bookshelf filled with nothing but timeless classics. Most of which I hadn't even heard of. In a corner was a high-tech CD player and the entire wall behind it was completely filled with CD's. they ranged from classical to heavy metals. I turned back around and found him laying across a humongous bed. I worked over to him slowly and stopped out the foot of the bed leaning down on the bed frame. He put the book down and watched me. "So this is your room?" I asked, flabbergasted. He chuckled and flipped himself to the bottom of the bed. He propped himself up on his elbows. "Yep, this is my room. How do you like it?" he smiled and kissed me softly on the lips. I just nodded and climbed up next to him. "What are you thinking?" he asked in a strained voice.
"Nothing…" I lied. I didn't know how he would truly react if I revealed my trued thoughts and feelings. He nodded, almost as if he could see though what I was saying. He rolled over to face me and traced circles on my cheek. I sighed, "What are you thinking?" I asked closing my eyes. "I was thinking about how beautiful you are, actually." he said laughing to himself, "No, honestly, I'm just thinking about what I'm going to do tomorrow." I opened my eyes. "What are you going to do?" I asked as I sat up and took my shoes off. I laid back down and rolled to face him. "Well, I planned on hanging out with Jasper for a while if they make it here… and then if that fails, I'll just hang around the house." I was beginning to doze off. "Bella, are you asleep, love?" I head him but couldn't find my voice. "Hmm…?" is all I could manage.
My dreams that night were off. I dreamt that I was walking in the woods, but no matter how fast I walked I couldn't break free of the darkness. I woke up with a jolt as I walked off a cliff. I shot up with a gasp and I immediately felt Edward's cool hands on my face. He brought me into a hug and rubbed soothing circles into my back. There was a light knock on the door and I quickly buried my face into his chest. "I'm sorry" I mumbled as the door opened. "Edward? Bella? Is everything okay?" I saw Edward reach over and flick a light on. "Everything is okay, she just had a nightmare." he kissed my forehead and I watched as Carlisle walked out shutting the door back behind him. I was so embarrassed, "The bathroom is…?" I asked sheepishly. He told me hot to there and I went to splash water on my face. It was relaxing to have something cool and refreshing. I sat in there for a few minutes then headed back. I knocked on the door -feeling out of place if I didn't- and waited. "You can come in…" I paused, took a deep breath, and walking in. Edward stood by the glass wall -I hadn't noticed this earlier- and was staring outside. In the darkness, the wall was like a canvas of everything outside. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice was unsure and torn once again. "Yeah -I paused, walking to sit on the bed- I'm sorry about earlier. Sorry for waking you and Carlisle." he laughed a dark laugh and turned around to walk toward me. "You didn't wake us, Carlisle was just getting ready for work and I -he paused- I was reading." I smiled weakly and jumped further back onto the bed.
"Bella -he said climbing onto the bed as well- I don't know how to be close to you. I'm just afraid that I'll hurt you…" he let it trail off. I hated how he was always so cryptic with me. It was kind of aggravating because I had absolutely no idea as to what he was talking about. "You do realize I have absolutely no clue to what you are talking about right?" I asked in an aggravated tone. I thought I could hear him smiling. "Yes, I do know. I always talk to much when I'm with you. But I don't know… it's complicated." he sighed and I stared at him. "I just wish I could figure out what you are. Why you say that you are so dangerous…" I stretched a little and he answered, "I really wish you wouldn't. it's better if you don't know anymore about me." his voice had turned acidic with the anger in his words. "Is it not enough?"
"Is what not enough?" I asked, irritated now. "To just be with the parts of me that you know about, rather than, the part -he paused- that you don't know." I sat up and glowered at him. "I have no idea what you mean. Like usually you speak so cryptically and yet I don't and never will know, will I? It's like every time you talk to me you are trying to say goodbye." he chuckled and pulled my face down towards his, "You've got quite a bit of a temper -he paused again- an untamed on." I got up from the bed and went and laid on the couch. "Goodnight, Edward!" I said through clenched teeth. I closed my eyes and I felt someone near me. "Don't be mad at me, Bella. I'm trying to do what's right, but, its more difficult for me and…well… you make it harder than I think it should be…" I smiled a little and he leaned down and kissed me. I gave in, "Come back to bed with me?" I didn't get a chance to really answer him, when, he began to lift me up off the couch and into his arms.
"Bella, my love, time to wake up…" I heard Edward almost coo to me through my sleep-filled ears. Then I felt his cool lips on my neck-they lingered there for a moment- and then they moved up my jaw and found my lips. "Mm…" I said as I stretched out. My muscles were stiff. "Morning" I said, wiping my eyes and squinting into the brightly, sunlit room. There was a soft knock at the door. "Come in." Edward said quietly.
Alice can through the door with Jasper close behind her. "HEY BELLA! -she exclaimed when I sat up- I didn't know you stayed…" I got up off the bed and she hugged me. She squeezed tighter than usual and I just laughed. "How are you, Alice?" she beamed a huge smile and the sunlight twinkled off her sparkly white teeth. "Good, as always." We chatted briefly until she down to business.
"Edward, Carlisle wants to leave with the hour so that we will be back before this evening." she looked over and winked at me. Edward nodded as he got off his bed and pushed both Alice and Jasper out of his room. He tossed me a pair of keys and I stared at them. "What? NO-" he sighed, "Bella, yes. Yes you can, and I don't mind. What's mine is yours." he said with my favorite smile again. I threw my arms around him and he suddenly went rigid. I notice the purple circles under his eyes were worse than I had ever seen. I backed away and he smiled a tight smile at me. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to be rude…" and he walked out of the room. I stood there like an idiot and I finally gave up and went downstairs. It was even more beautiful in the daylight. I stood mesmerized by the sight. I stood near the window and watched as the sun played across everything that could hold a reflection. I walked into the kitchen where I heard the news going and people talking amongst themselves. I swallowed and walked into the room. "Can someone help me find the garage?" I asked in the most friendly tone I could manage.
Alice laughed her bell-like laugh and led me out a side door in the kitchen that led out to a huge garage. It was dark in there. She turned a switch and three fluorescent lights came on illuminating the room. "HOLY CROW!" I basically yelled. She chuckled and grabbed my hand and led me down the isle of cars. "Here you go… -she stopped in front of a very, very expensive looking car- The Guardian. Edward said he preferred you to drive this. Here -she took the keys from me- let me show you how to work this." I stood there but couldn't form one coherent sentence. She slid into the passenger seat and then, I slid into the driver seat. "Wow…" I said, "I cant… I mean… geesh, this car is over the top." she shrugged. "Don't worry about it, Carlisle -she paused- well really no one minds." she said with a smile.
I watched Alice as I pulled out from their massive garage. It didn't take me as long as I thought it would to find the highway again. This car was fast, but it seemed durable enough. It took me long than I expected to get back because I was afraid of the speed in this car.
When I pulled up near Charlie's house, the police cruiser was in the driveway. I got out and walked in the door. "Dad?" I called out and I heard the television on in the living room. "In here" he called back. "Hey Dad, What's up?" I asked as I walked in and sat down. He smile a wide, happy smile. It made the skin near his eyes crinkle up. "Not too bad, Bells, not bad. Just getting up actually. How's about you?" he turned the television off. "Same." I said smiling. We talked for a good while before I excused myself to go take a shower.
The water felt amazing combine with the sense of home that I felt. The hot water began to run out after a while, so I called it quits. I dressed quickly in a pair of jeans and my favorite deep navy tank shirt, accompanied by my favorite red blouse. My hair was another story, so I just pulled it up into a messy bun. I went back to my room it hadn't changed much since the last time that I was here. My toddler bed had been exchanged for a full sized bed and a desk was added as I grew older. I walked over to my purse and rummaged for some jewelry then headed back downstairs.
"Bells, what do you want to eat? Or… -he paused- have you already eaten?" he watched my face. "Whatever you're having is good with me." I said staring out the window. My cell phone vibrated across the table, I picked it up. Text message from Edward:
Miss you already. Cant wait until
I see your face later. I love you
Edward
My heart nearly melted after I finished reading it.
Awe, I miss you too. Cant wait until
Later. I love you more! P.s. why did
You leave in such a hurry this a.m.?
I smiled up at Charlie who stood in front of the stove. "Important?" I laughed, "Yeah he was." I simply replied. He cocked an eyebrow, "Edward?" I nodded and continued to stare off and out the window. My cell went off again. "Dad, what do you plan on doing today?" he thought for a second, "I'm going down to La Push today, why?" I smiled a little, "Well -I paused- I just wanted to hang out with you is all." he smiled his eye crinkling smile. "I'd like that a lot." we laughed together and he turned back to the stove.
Nonsense! You cant possibly love me more.
You compare me to one of the many trees and
Yet when I look at anything, I see you. You
Are more extraordinary than you see yourself
For, Bella. What are you doing today? I cant
Really explain earlier, Late though. Love you
Edward.
I laughed to myself and saw Charlie glance my way…
Okay. Later then. I want all the details though
Later… going down to La Push with Charlie.
Talk later, Bella 3
Charlie brought the food to the table. Breakfast with him was a silent event. I could live with that. The food was okay, it wasn't the best, but it's the thought that counts. "So, I was thinking we could have lunch at Billy's today. You and Jacob could go down to first beach like in the old days." I bit my lip and blushed -embarrassed of course- "Sure, dad. That sounds great." I lied, but added a smile to help with the facade.
After breakfast I helped Charlie clean the dishes and waited downstairs for him to get ready. He came down a little while later. I grabbed my purse and keys and walked out behind Charlie. I locked the door and I heard Charlie let out a low whistle. "Wow, some car…" he said smiling and running his hand down the paint job. I shrugged, "I guess, Edward lent it to me."
The drive to La Push wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Charlie was quiet as usual and the distance was pretty short. I heard the ringer go off on my phone but I ignored it. "Aren't you going to get that?" Charlie asked. "Chief Swan, taking a call while driving…? Geesh…" I said in a fake horrified voice. We laughed again and then lapsed back into silence soon after. "So how's about this Edward guy? He seems…nice. He sure adores you, nice respectable family as well. How do you feel about him?" I shot a glance at him. "Really dad? I mean I adore him too, well a little more than adore… but yeah…" I sighed, "He's amazing." I heard Charlie sigh. "Just be careful, Bells, you're still my little girl and I'd hate to have to use -he paused- well, just be careful. I don't want to see you get hurt. Guys-" I laughed, "Will be guys. Yes I know dad, and… I promise to be careful. If I get hurt, it will be on my and I'll just learn from it." I tossed a smile his way. "Okay which house is it again?" he pointed to this small red barn type of house. I mouthed the word "wow" and pulled up into the driveway next to a red car. I saw Billy and Jacob waiting out on the porch
"Hi Bella!" I heard Jacob say. "Charlie, Bella" Billy said as we walked up to the door. "How you doing buddy?" Charlie asked as he wheeled Billy back into the house. I followed, with Jacob close behind. There were family pictures lining the far back wall near the kitchen area. The house -I noticed- was smaller than a usual house, but still cozy. "Bells, why don't you and Jake go down to the beach. Maybe he could show you around and catch up on the times. You guys used to play all the time when you were younger." I rolled my eyes, "Yeah, sure dad." Billy agreed and I heard Jacob groan. I had to laugh because he seemed like it was such a bad idea. "I promise I wont bite" I offered as we walked outside and stood in the yard. He laughed. It was warm and friendly. "So how old are you, anyway?" I asked following him to the red car. "Nice ride. I'm 16 and you?" I laughed, "Sorry, I'm 17 and thanks." I smiled as I got into the car. He smiled too, "yeah I get that a lot. I look a lot older than what I really am. I got to school on the res. How's about you?" I looked at him, "I go to an art and dance school in Seattle." he smiled and stared out the windshield. "Oh, I see, you're one of those uptight ballerina types…" he said. I laughed and became irritated, "Real smooth, but no, I'm not really uptight." We sat in silence for a while, and then he started up the engine and drove down the road. I remembered dinner from last night and I let my mind wander.
"Hey, Why did your dad like freak out last night?" I asked cautiously after a while. "Oh you noticed?" he said in a tight voice, "Well yeah, sure. Who didn't?" he sighed. "People on the reservation -he paused- don't really like the Cullen family much." he finished. "Why not?" he parked the car and turned the engine off. "It's just that… well the Cullen's aren't your ordinary family. They have a long history. But I think It's mostly superstitions and old age." we both laughed. "Will you tell me about it?" I turned around to face him and tucked my legs up to my chest. I watched him with curious probing eyes. He thought about it for a while, "It's really like a stupid scary story they tell us to keep us in check I think. The Quileute tribal members -our elders- ran into them about a century ago. We caught them hunting on our land. Hey -he paused- did you know that the Quileute's are said to descend from wolves? Pretty cool, huh? -I shook my head and interrupted- "You said feeding, what exactly do you mean?" he smiled, "Well the elders have said that the Cullen family were different from the others. Or at least that's what they told them. They said that they didn't want to hurt the humans, that they had found other ways to survive. They said they only drank from the animals…" his voice turn into a creepy whisper. I felt the goose bumps rising on my arms.
He smiled a devious smile and his face grew serious. "Why does it matter?" I thought for a moment, "It doesn't matter, I was just wondering. And besides, if we didn't do this, we'd have to be out in the rain…" I looked up at the sky. "Do you not want me here?" I asked looking for all of the possible exits. He laughed, "No, I was just wondering. I don't mind you being here." I laughed with him. "So tell me, what exactly are the Cullen's?" I asked in a quiet voice. I felt my stomach roll and perform summersaults. My hands were shaking so I crushed them into my ribs to hold them steady, and out of Jacob's view. "They're bloodsuckers… leeches…" I felt the confusion lighten my face, "They're vampires." he said.
I felt my world crash down around me and Suddenly everything Edward had been telling me was making sense. How he was dangerous. I immediately felt sick to my stomach, but then I basically had an epiphany. I didn't care what Edward was. I knew I was in love with him and without him, I don't know what would happen. But then fear hit me like a blow to my chest. "Jake, Can you take us back to your house?"