Bella's Point of View
I couldn't believe what had happened. I've seen Edward shirtless and plenty of other guys shirtless. That was something that I accepted when I was adopted into this family that had sons, but I was not expecting to see THAT!
At least not again.
At first it was embarrassing, but then, it brought back painful memories of my first time. My only time of my supposed lover. I had seen his erection before, even felt it. So why did it affect me so when I noticed Edward's? He is a man and that's what makes him a man. Why am I even thinking about this? I am overanalyzing this, but it also hurts because I was hurt by a man and confirming that I do live in a house full of men is a little scary. Can I trust any male again?
As the girls and I were setting the table, they men walked in. Instead of coming all the way in, they stood by the door waiting. Rose and Alice didn't look up or acknowledge them, but when I did, that was a mistake. The other men I only blushed at, only Edward sent shivers down my spine. Both in a good way and a bad.
It was bad because his presents brought back painful memories. It was good because maybe Alice was right and that I did have feelings for him. Stupid hormones can't let me make up my mind. Am I afraid of him or am I in love with him? In love? 'Stop thinking girl.' I was making my head spin.
When we went to take a seat, they men hesitated. Again, I was thankful because I was still timid. Edward was a little bold, however. He pulled out my chair and continued to smile at me during dinner. It was comforting, but disconcerting at the same time. I couldn't explain what I was feeling so I allowed my hair to create a curtain between us. Every time I looked at him, he was looking at me with a smile plastered on his face.
My baby gave me a hard poke brought me out of my thoughts telling me to pay attention to dinner, but still made me jump which, of course, everyone noticed.
"Bella, are you ok?" I am really starting to hate that question.
"I'm fine, dad; the baby was just telling me to eat something." I answered.
"It looked like the baby kicked you hard." Edward said looking worried.
"I think it elbowed me." I answered.
"Great, that baby is going to beat your insides to pulp before he's born." Emmett exclaimed.
I laughed at him, although for him, I didn't think he meant that to be a joke. I still found it funny.
"Relax Em; I'll be fine; inside and out." I promised.
"Emmett, remind me to give you one of those pregnancy books that I have. I think they will answer your questions about the baby." Rosalie said.
"You have pregnancy books?" I asked.
"Yeah, I picked them up when we voted to adopt you two." She answered sort of timidly like she was going to hurt my feelings.
"Can I borrow them? I only know the basics, but maybe they'll include a time table of when the morning sickness is suppose to stop or how to cure it." I joked.
"Every woman is different, Bella, or each pregnancy is different. When I was pregnant with Emmett, I didn't stop until I was already at six months. The same went for Edward and Alice." Esme answered.
"What about the hormones? Maybe in the book they'll be a way to control them better." I joked again making everyone laugh along. I'm sure I have been driving them crazy.
"Again, different with each woman. For me, I would be happy one minute and the next a blubbering mess. I cried all the time that I think I drove Carlisle to the brink of insanity." She joked back.
"I was only insane for loving you, my dear." He replied giving her a wink.
It was nice to see two people in love after so many years of being together. I wonder if I will ever get that chance.
"So Bella, are you excited about school tomorrow?" Alice asked.
To be honest I haven't thought of school, mainly because of what happened at the football game and knowing the Mike Newton would be going to school with me.
"Um, yeah actually. I kind of want to get back in the swing of things. I just hope sprout here will be a little more cooperative about going though." I answered.
"What makes you say that?" Emmett asked.
"Because I got pregnant before school started and the morning sickness after I started. You kind of saw how bad it can get in the mornings, and sometimes I would have to miss school because I felt so drained and weak." I replied.
"That can't be normal, can it mom?" Rosalie was worried, and so were the others; but Carlisle and Esme didn't seem surprised or as worried.
"It can be to some women, Rose. I felt the same way some days." Esme replied calmly.
"It is a 24/7 job that takes a lot of energy out of the mother, but with a good diet it doesn't have to be that way." Carlisle answered.
I groaned at the word diet.
"What, afraid you won't be able to have your peanut butter or chocolate for a while?" Emmett teased, but I was in no mood for it.
I glared at him which put him in his place. "Sorry, it was a joke, little mama." He gulped.
I lighten the glare, but was still a little angry at what he said.
"Are you excited about the doctor's appointment on Tuesday, it will be your first chance to see the baby." Carlisle said trying to move the conversation.
"Yeah I am." I was excited, but I still couldn't decide if I wanted to know the sex of the baby.
"Your first ultrasound?" Alice squealed. Rosalie looked just as excited, but was hiding a question. I had a feeling they wanted to ask something.
"Do you two want to come and see the baby?" I asked shyly.
Alice squealed which hurt my ears and everyone else's too. "Thank you so much Bella. What time will it be at?" She asked running up to me for a hug.
"After school at 3:30." Carlisle answered.
"Would the rest of you like to come?" I asked kind of quietly.
"Do you mind?" Edward asked.
I blushed a little, but shook my head.
Esme and Carlisle looked honored while Emmett looked a little worried or scared.
"Emmett, what's wrong? I thought I'm suppose to be worried about the baby." I said as sort of a joke hoping to make him feel better.
"I…uh…will we see anything that…uh?" I got a clue of what he was saying.
"Relax Em; you'll just be seeing my bare belly. Nothing else. If so then you'll leave the room ok?" I answered.
He took a deep breath to relax and then grinned like he always does.
"Will we know if it's a boy or a girl?" Jasper asked.
I looked to Carlisle because I didn't have the answer. He knew what I was asking.
"I think it may be too soon to tell. It might have to wait until you're a little farther along." He answered.
"Nervous?" Esme asked like she knew me, but she has already gone through this—just not the same way as me.
"And excited." I replied.
For the rest of dinner we all talked about the upcoming games for the boys. They seemed really excited about their next game, but when we talked about practice, I sensed a mixture of pride and hatred. Didn't they like football as much as they said they did?
After dinner, Carlisle and Esme let us take care of the kitchen. Jasper, Alice and I cleared the table while the others cleaned the counter tops and put the pots and pans away. When we were almost done, they pushed me away telling me to go relax. I gave them a glare, but they banded together and boot me out anyways. I was not happy.
It was seven-thirty, but I decided to get my things around for school tomorrow. Luckily, I brought along my old messenger bag—which I traded up from a backpack when I found out I was pregnant—and my school supplies. It only took me 15 minutes and afterwards, I was starting to feel nervous about tomorrow.
At my old school, once word got out that I was pregnant I didn't let that bother me or my school work. With this new school, people don't know about me besides my new brothers and sisters. I didn't want to be labeled as the school slut or the poor pathetic orphan who just got really, really lucky.
I decided to go downstairs, not really feeling like being alone right now.
As I got downstairs, only Carlisle and Esme were gone. Everyone else was watching a movie in the dark. I could see, however, that Jasper and Emmett we leaning on their girls looking very tired. Edward was sprawled out on the couch face down. I came down the rest of the way and sat in the only available reclining chair. None of us moved or talked which was nice.
I don't remember the ending of the movie because I fell asleep again, waking up when I felt someone starting to pick me up.
I looked up to see Edward carrying me bridal style.
"Can I help you?" I asked.
"I'm just helping you. It's time for bed." He answered dazzling me with his beautiful eyes again. This time I could not turn away.
When we reached our level, I began to squirm wanting him to put me down.
"Think you can stand on your own?" He smirked.
I glared at him and answered, "Yes." Flatly.
He shook his head, but put me down nonetheless. As soon as he let go of me, my legs gave out. I waited to meet with the ground, but someone's arms grabbed my waist pulling me up to my feet again. I already knew who it was.
"Thanks." I mumbled not turning around then began walking trying to get out of his arms, but he continued to hold onto me.
"Edward, let go." I was running out of patience.
"Sorry, goodnight." He said kissing the back of my head then released me.
He went into his bedroom while I went to the bathroom. I washed my face and brushed my teeth, all the time thinking about how rude I was to Edward, but he didn't need to be so protective of me.
When I came out, he was waiting by the door for his turn. I felt pity on him for how I treated him.
"I'm sorry for earlier." I said.
"I understand. I need to learn to be more considerate to your feelings." He answered.
"Thanks. Goodnight."
"Night Bella."
I laid down on my bed thinking about the next two days. Tomorrow I start school, and then on Tuesday I will get to see my baby for the first time.
"I can't wait to see you little one." I cooed softly to my baby. I received a kick as a reply. "I love you too, and don't worry everything will be alright for our first day at school."
I switched on my music and set it on low to lull me to sleep. I didn't have to wait long because I was out before I knew it.
Oh great, not today. I rushed out of my bedroom and into the bathroom at 4:30 in the morning.
Why today, I need all my strength to survive the first day at my new school.
Luckily, it wasn't very bad and there wasn't much that came out. When I pulled back, someone caught me.
"Edward?" I was still groggy from sleep as well as a little dizzy.
"I'm here, are you alright?" He asked.
"Peachy." I replied which made him laugh.
He helped me to the sink so that I could rise my mouth. I didn't rely on his strength too much, but it was comforting to have him near me.
"Everything alright in here?" Alice asked running to the door with everyone, except Carlisle and Esme, behind her.
"Fine." I said after spitting. "I'm going back to bed for a few more hours."
I could feel them staring at me as I walked down the hall, but I didn't want to turn around. I was still too tired to care. When I fell on my bed, I went back to sleep.
Edward's Point of View
I heard Bella getting sick again, so I raced into the bathroom just as it was ending. I caught her when she fell backwards. This still sickened me; I don't know how dad could deal with it when mom went through this.
Her eyes were partially glazed from sleep, but she whispered my name.
"Edward?"
"I'm here, are you alright?" I asked.
"Peachy." She answered and I couldn't hold back my laugh. I loved her strong personality more and more everyday; it enhanced her beauty.
I helped her up to wash out her mouth. I was surprised at how much strength she had left, remembering the other morning when she had none at all.
"Everything alright in here?" Alice asked followed by everyone else except the parents.
"Fine." Bella said after spitting. "I'm going back to bed for a few more hours."
She sounded so grumpy from the lack of sleep and everyone rushing to her side, the extra attention probably didn't help much either.
When she closed the door, I pushed everyone back to their rooms. It was only quarter to five in the morning and I would like a few more hours of sleep.
I was soon out after falling onto my bed thinking about the beautiful angel right across the hall.
Beep…beep…beep
I groaned, it was too early for this. I was not ready to go back to school just yet. Thanks to Coach Clapp yesterday, my body felt like lead. I looked at the clock, it read 6:30 am. I groaned again, but got up despite my body's rejections. I fought with it every Monday morning after Sunday practice.
I grabbed a towel from the linen closet and made my way to the bathroom. It was already closed and I could hear Alice in hers. I waited for a few minutes then Bella emerge wearing a bathrobe and drying her hair with a towel. She blushed when she saw me. Thankfully, she was in a better mood than earlier.
"Morning." She said then turned to go back to her room before I could reply. I'm guessing she didn't want a repeat of yesterday.
I chuckled and went in. The hot water helped to loosen my sore muscles, but I still took some Motrin when I got out.
After brushing my teeth and fighting with my hair, I went back to my bedroom to get dressed.
When I came out, Alice was skipping to Bella's door with some beauty products in her arms.
"Knock, knock." She said as she knocked.
The door opened a crack, but that was all Alice needed to push herself inside.
I felt bad for Bella, but looking back at my clock I hoped Alice wouldn't take too long.
By the time I got downstairs, Jasper and Emmett were sitting at the table eating cereal along with dad.
"Morning." He said to me before taking a drink of his coffee.
I waved to him not really wanting to talk at the moment before I got my orange juice.
As I sat down with my breakfast and orange juice, the girls came down. It was 7:20 meaning we had to leave in 15 minutes, but when Bella appeared, nothing else mattered.
She was wearing another dark blue v-neck shirt that didn't cling, but didn't look baggy. The color looked beautiful against her creamy skin that I couldn't take my eyes off her. She noticed and blushed when she saw me.
"Ready for school today, Bella?" Carlisle asked bringing me back down to Earth.
"I guess. I'm going to see if the school newspaper needs any writers." She replied making some toast then biting in an apple.
"Is that all you're going to eat, Bella?" Carlisle raised an eyebrow at her.
At first I wondered if she was going to fume at him like she did to Jasper, but she didn't and grabbed a banana too. Carlisle didn't look totally satisfied, but didn't push the issue. I'm guessing he got enough practice with mom.
"So, the newspaper huh?" He changed the subject when she sat down with her breakfast. I wasn't surprise to see peanut butter spread on her toast, but was when the banana was cut up and stuck on the peanut butter.
"I was on the paper at my old school, and I wanted to do something while these guys were busy being superstar athletes." She joked.
"Hey, wait till that baby comes out then you'll be one too, Bella." Alice smiled at her.
"Alice, NO!" She retorted then shut Alice out before anything else could be said.
We were all surprised at Bella's outburst; especially Alice who curled up on Jasper's lap while he rocked her.
"Oh God, Alice, I'm so, so sorry." Bella said hiding her face in her hands.
Alice looked up at Bella who looked like she was about ready to cry. "Bella, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to push you. I'm just trying to get use to someone who is a little less hyper than me."
"Everyone is less hyper than you, Alice." Dad chuckled making everyone else laugh.
Bella pulled her head out of her hands and was also laughing, but tears were starting to come down her face. As if a reflex, I wiped them off with my thumbs. She flinched at first, but settled down under my touch.
After a few seconds I put my hand down and I swear I heard her groan in frustration. She blushed so I'm thinking my hearing was correct.
"I just hope I'm not like this at school. This is getting worst by the day." She complained.
"Don't worry about it, Bella. We'll be with you and promise not to let anyone get under your skin." Alice said bouncing back to her perky self.
"Thanks." She mumbled then continued with the rest of her small breakfast.
"Come on, we have to leave now to get Bella her schedule." Alice said jumping up and down. I hope she didn't get into the sugar cereal again.
Bella's Point of View
I got back into bed, but had a hard time falling back to sleep. I didn't want to for one; I was worried about Mike Newton going to the same school as me. Two, I kept having flashbacks of my first day of school back in Arizona when I found out I was pregnant.
"So Bella, is it true that you're knocked up?" A girl with a bad attitude cornered me before first period.
"Why do you say that?" I was already nervous about people finding out about my pregnancy, and this girl was going to make me feel worst; if I let her get to me.
"Admit it Swan, you couldn't keep a man if you wanted to and this is prove. No one wants you because you were too needy. You wanted a baby, but the father didn't that's why he left you." She sneered, but she had it way wrong.
"No Samantha, you're wrong. The father left me before he knew I was pregnant with his child. And FYI, I am not needy for someone to help me because I don't need it. I will raise this baby myself because he/she is a gift that I will cherish for the rest of my life." I practically screamed then walked away leaving Samantha and her crew speechless.
That was the first time; I realized how much I loved my baby. Before then, I was scared and confused; but after that I was not so anymore. I knew times were going to be tough, but I was going to make it through. I have a feeling now that my parents sent the Cullen's to me so that my baby and I could make it.
My alarm wasn't set to go off for another half-an-hour and sleep wasn't coming back to me. I got up and grabbed my towel and bathrobe that Alice got for me at the mall, and then headed to the bathroom.
I swear my baby could tell what we were going to do on our way to the bathroom.
"In a minute sprout." I cooed quietly when we were in the bathroom.
I turned on the water after stripping out of my clothes then carefully stepped into the shower. The combination of the hot water and the lathering of my favorite scented shampoo felt amazing. I felt that there was nothing inside my bubble besides me and my baby.
After shampooing and shaving my legs—which are getting harder to do—I got out of the shower despite the baby's protest.
"Sorry sweetie, but we have to get ready for school." I cooed as I put on my robe.
I brushed my teeth then grabbed the towel to dry my hair with.
As I went out, I heard Alice still in her shower and then saw Edward leaning on the wall next to the bathroom door. I blushed still thinking about what happened yesterday morning between us, but tried to put it behind me. I needed to keep my head focused today in order to be on my guard in case real problems arise in school.
"Morning." I said quickly then walked down the hall without waiting for his reply.
I shut the door to my room and quickly got to work on what I would look like today for I knew that Alice would be wanting to help me, but I'm not that big yet.
Luck was not on my side today. After getting dressed in a simple purple long-sleeved shirt and jeans, someone knocked on my door or actually said 'knock, knock.'
Alice. I decided to show her that I didn't need her help, but when I opened the door just a crack she barged right in carrying an armful of beauty products. I groaned at the torture.
"Don't fight it Bella or else it will last longer." She said holding out the chair to my vanity.
I rolled my eyes, but sat down anyways.
It only took ten minutes for her to finish—mainly because I wouldn't let her do my hair. I wanted to let the curls come out a bit more today. She knew my temper so she didn't push it, but she did force me to change my top because she thought it was too plain for today.
I complied with her anyways because I kind of like the color blue on me.
As we made our way down the stairs, we were met by Rosalie who, as always, looked picturesque. Next, we headed into the kitchen where everyone else was and Edward's eyes were immediately drawn to me. His jaw dropped to the floor with his eyes widened at my presents. I couldn't help but blush again, I never got this kind of attention before except for one guy, but he doesn't matter anymore.
"Ready for your first day of school, Bella?" Carlisle asked. Thank goodness snapping Edward away from me as his point of focus.
"I guess. I'm going to see if the school newspaper needs any writers." I replied putting some bread in the toaster then grabbing an apple. I felt like eating light today mostly because of nerves and my stomach was a little weak still.
"Is that all you're going to eat, Bella?" Carlisle asked in mixture of a fatherly/doctor tone.
Since he was my father-figure, I didn't want to get angry at him. Plus, I was trying to control my hormones, so I humored him by grabbing a banana planning on putting it on my peanut butter toast. He didn't look totally pleased, but he let it slide probably not wanting me to overreact.
"So, the newspaper, huh?" He said when I sat back down with my breakfast.
I saw Edward smirk at my breakfast, mostly likely because I had put peanut butter on my toast and cut up the banana and stuck it on the peanut butter.
"I was on the paper at my old school, and I wanted to do something while these guys were busy being superstar athletes." I joked ignoring Edward.
"Hey, wait till that baby comes out then you'll be one too, Bella." Alice retorted.
"Alice, NO!" I yelled, but didn't mean for it to sound harsh as it came out.
I regretted what I did immediately for everyone was staring me in disbelief and Alice had crawled up into Jasper's lap who started rocking her.
"Oh God, Alice, I'm so, so sorry." I said hiding my face in my hands. I couldn't believe I just did that to her.
"Bella, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to push you. I'm just trying to get use to someone who is a little less hyper than me." Alice tried to apologize, but I did not pick my head up to face her. I was still to upset with myself.
"Everyone is less hyper than you, Alice." Carlisle joked which I found some comfort in, but tears were still coming down my face.
I pulled my face out of my hands and as I did, Edward brushed away the tears from my cheeks. I was startled at first, but then relaxed.
After a few seconds, he pulled his hand away. I didn't realize it that I groaned slightly at the lost of his touch until it actually came out. I blushed when I did because Edward probably heard it.
"I just hope I'm not like this at school. This is getting worst by the day." I complained, I really didn't want to have a meltdown on my first day.
"Don't worry about it Bella. We'll be with you and promise not to let anyone get under your skin." Jeez, who gave Alice the caffeine?
"Thanks." I replied quietly.
Alice came to my side to get me up, "Come on, we have to leave now to get Bella her schedule." This girl is going to tire me out, and I'm already tired.
Alice grabbed both my bag and hers then raced us out to the garage. The others came in walking slower than her. Apparently, she is the only one who has this kind of energy in the morning.
She pushed me into Rosalie's convertible before anyone even made it down the stairs.
"Alice, careful; I am pregnant in case you forgot." I told her when she got into the passenger seat up front.
"Oh sorry sprout." She replied reaching back to pat my belly.
I shook my head in annoyance at her as Rosalie opened the front door. Handing me my coat and Alice's when she got in.
The back door across from me opened up as I was slipping my arms through my coat.
The guys were setting the desserts into the back seat next to me. I licked my lips looking at the treats.
"Want to ride with us so you can get out of temptation, Bella?" Edward asked smiling his crooked smile that made me forget everything until my baby elbowed me, and again made me jump.
He didn't ask—which I was grateful for—but he did look at me with concern.
I smiled reassuringly at him then picked up my bag near my feet and got out of the car.
"Aw Bella, I'll miss you." Alice exclaimed sounding so sad.
"Alice, she's just switching cars to go to the same school as you. You'll see her in a few minutes, sugar." Jasper said through her open side window.
She still pouted until Jasper gave her a kiss which made her smile.
I rolled my eyes at the sight, and so did Edward who held the passenger door open for me.
"Thanks." I said when I got in.
"Race you to school." Emmett shouted then literally jumped into the Volvo.
"Careful with the car, Emmett," Edward scolded him, "And we are not racing to school."
I raised my eyebrow at him a little annoyed that he was treating me like a baby.
"What?" He asked.
"You're doing it again." I replied.
"What?" He repeated.
I rolled my eyes and resisted my hormones to lash out at him like I did to Alice earlier.
"Nothing." I replied quietly then turned away from him to look out my window.
He sighed then started the car. By this time, Jasper got into his seat next to Emmett in the back and no one else said a word as we drove down the road to my first day of school. So far it's turning out to be a moody day for me.
The drive to school was quiet and fast. I didn't look at the speedometer, but I could tell by the blur of our surroundings that Edward liked to speed. I didn't let it bother me though because I was finally calming down.
We pulled up into the nearly empty parking lot and I got out before Edward could reach my door, but the other girls waited for their significant other to open their doors. Edward looked a little annoyed that he didn't get to perform his gentlemanly duties, but I was still a little miffed.
"Let's go take these to the coach and then get to the office." Alice suggested probably feeling the mood that I was in.
We all grabbed a plate or two then walked towards the larger building that was also taller than the others.
As we walked in out of the early morning cold, there were a half dozen other girls looking over their baked goods. They stopped and stared at us when we walked in. I blushed when I saw them and half hid myself behind Emmett not really liking the attention. He noticed this and leaned down to me, "Don't worry, Rosalie is the captain; she'll make sure they don't hurt you."
I felt a little better, but still stayed somewhat behind him.
The girls swooned when the guys walked pass them, but the guys merely nodded to them in acknowledgment. Still the girls nearly fainted when they did.
We found a table a little ways away from the small crowd and placed the desserts on it. Looking back at the small group, they were all huddled together glancing back at us when they thought we weren't looking. I knew who they were talking about by the curious glares I got.
"I'll be right back." Rosalie announced then walked up to the huddled group who stopped talking when she approached.
I didn't hear what she was saying, but by the looks on the girls' faces she was scaring them about something.
I know Rose wouldn't abruptly tell them our little secret until I gave the okay, but it still worried me about what she was telling them.
"Don't worry; she's just getting them off your back. They think you're stealing Edward." Alice whispered to me.
"I'm not, Alice." I almost growled at her. "Sorry. I'm thinking today I'll be a little more moody that usual because of the nerves." I looked down at my feet.
"Text us if you need us at all today." She answered trying to look into my eyes which were still pointed at the floor.
It made me giggle a little the way she was trying to get me to look at her.
"Everything okay here?" Jasper asked chuckling a bit at his girlfriend.
"She's just trying to settle my nerves. I hate getting attention." I admitted.
"It'll be okay, little sis. We'll guard you against the vultures." Emmett replied acting like the big tough brother he is.
"Are we all set here?" Rosalie asked strutting back to us letting the girls behind her see that she was not to be messed with.
"I think so, ready to get your schedule, Bella?" Edward asked.
I nodded my head then Alice linked her arm with mine.
We walked back to the front of the school to the smallest building on the campus. Inside was nice and warm with green plants decorating the small office. I guess people in Forks love green.
"Hello, may I help you?" An aging woman asked looking a little fluttered.
"This is Isabella Swan. She's starting her first day today." Alice replied excitedly. I giggled a little at her enthusiasm. I think she was doing it mostly for my benefit. I would have to thank her for that later.
"Ah yes, the new girl. Well give me one moment to get what you need." She replied with a kind smile then turned to go deeper into the office.
She came back after about a minute with a few pieces of paper.
"Alright, here is your schedule. I think your brothers and sisters will help you get around the campus," She blushed slightly when she looked at the guys, "You will need to get this signed by all your teachers and turn it in at the end of the day. Have a good day."
"Thank you." I said reaching for the sheets of paper.
We walked outside again, and thankfully it still hasn't started raining, but then Alice grabbed my schedule before I could look at it.
"Okay, you have Algebra 2, French 3, English, Gym, Lunch, History, and Bio chemistry? Jeez Bella, you make up for muscle with brains." She said sounding dumbfounded.
I shrugged my shoulders. "I was in most of the advance classes in my old school."
She rolled her eyes then looked back at my schedule.
"Looks like you have me and Edward in Algebra. Rose and Jasper in French. No one with you in English or Gym—sorry—lunch with us. History with Jasper, and bio-chem. with Emmett." She continued.
I grabbed my schedule from her hands when it sunk in. Oh crap, gym.
"Bella, is there something wrong with the baby?" Edward whispered for there were people in ear-shot of us.
"No, why?" I asked back when I found my voice.
"Because you're rubbing your stomach and seem worried." Jasper pointed out.
I didn't even realize I was until he said something and I looked down. I sometimes did that when I was scared for my child.
"Come on Bella; tell us what's the matter." Rosalie said putting her hands on my shoulders.
"I have gym." I stated flatly.
"So, we have to take gym all four years of high school. I know you're a klutz, but you'll be fine." Emmett said, but the others got the idea when he didn't.
"Emmett, did you forget about Bella's condition?" Edward growled at his brother's ignorance. I still liked it when he does that. No, hormones stop it!
Emmett thought about it for a second then realization dawned on him.
"Oh, oops." He said.
"It's okay brother bear; I didn't realize it until a few minutes after Alice read it out loud." I tried to reassure him.
"What are we going to do about this?" Jasper asked.
I was at a lost. I was hoping not to reveal my pregnancy on the first day of school, but it looks like I'll have to.
"Don't worry about it, Bella. Mom and dad already talked to the both the principle and the coach about your condition. She's going to do something different with you." Alice spoke up.
I released a shaky breath to relax myself. Thank God for big sisters. I felt the prickling of tears starting to form in my eyes as I felt the urge to hug Alice.
"Hey, no crying on your first day. The torture hasn't even started yet." She joked.
"Thanks Alice." I replied wiping my tears before they came out.
"But will the coach tell anyone?" Edward asked.
"No, she and the principle will tell no one. Only when you are ready, Bella." Alice answered.
"I think I'll let the baby tell them." I joked in a whisper.
Everyone laughed as we headed off for our first class.
I always despised math, but did fairly well in it otherwise. With Edward and Alice, it really wasn't so bad. The only downfall was the teacher had me introduce myself before I could take a seat besides Alice.
I felt bad for Edward because he got stuck sitting besides a blonde who dressed in tiny clothing for Forks and constantly flirted with him all hour.
"That's Lauren Mallory, she and Jessica Stanley are the biggest gossipers in school, and the biggest sluts you will ever see." Alice whispered to me when she saw me looking.
Edward looked back at us every once in a while with pleading eyes. Both Alice and I giggled when he did. The last time he did, Lauren followed his gaze back to us and widened her eyes when she saw me. I looked down at my book still feeling her burning gaze on me.
When the bell finally rang, Alice and I laughed when Edward rushed out of his chair to get out the door before Lauren could put away her things. Before he left he gave us a small wave.
As we walked out of the math room, we were met by Jasper who gave Alice a chaste kiss and a smile at me.
"I have history next, but I'll see you at lunch, Bella. Bye." She yelled dancing away from us towards the next building.
I had to wave my hand in front of Jasper's eyes to get him to focus.
"Jasper, where's our French class?" I asked getting a little annoyed.
"Oh, sorry. Come on." He said holding his arm out for me.
I giggled at the gesture, but grabbed it anyways. We were met by Rosalie on our way to the building that held the language and art classes.
We went in and I liked this teacher, she didn't make me stand up to introduce myself.
The table we sat at in the back held three, so I sat in the middle. I felt a little uncomfortable in this class because it was full of juniors and seniors who kept looking back at me. I was sure it was because I was the youngest there, but I couldn't help but feel that they knew I was pregnant.
Jasper and Rosalie must have picked up my mood for they kept whispering words of encouragement to me while shooting glares back at anyone who was looking at us.
Finally, the bell rang again, and Rosalie walked with me to my next class since she had her junior level English next to mine. Emmett met us half way and walked us the rest of the way. When they stopped for a little make out session outside Rose's class, I said bye—although, I'm not sure if they heard me or not—then walked in.
I handed the teacher the paper for him to sign and he pointed me out the last seat besides a tall, shy girl with dark brown hair in the second row. Unfortunately, she was sitting in front of Mike Newton and another guy who had the same lustful look on his face that Mike had. I cringed, but walked to the seat.
"Hi, I'm Angela." The girl said when I sat down holding out her hand.
I liked her. She was sweet.
"I'm Bella Swan." I shook her hand then I noticed she had a camera sitting on top of her notebook.
"Do you like photography?" I asked trying to come up with a small conversation until the bell rang again, and to try to ignore Mike at the same time.
"Yeah, I'm on the school paper and I take the pictures." She replied.
"You're on the paper? Do you think they have any openings?" I asked hopeful.
"We do actually. I need someone to be my partner. I'm not as great with writing as I am with taking pictures." She admitted looking a little shy about her answer.
"It's okay; it's all about how you express yourself."
"Thanks. I'll take you to meet the editor during lunch."
"Sounds great." Before anything else could be said the teacher called our attention when the bell failed to do so.
Not 15 minutes into class, a note was thrown on top of my desk. I picked it up already having an idea of who it was that threw it.
'Hello Bella. Forget about me because I haven't forgotten you. Has my mark disappeared from your hot body yet? If so, don't fret my pet, I shall make you a new one and many more to accompany it. MN.'
I knew I shouldn't have read it because now the tears of anger and humiliation were starting to threaten to spill over. I shoved them away as well as the note then tried to concentrate on the teacher's lecture which proved difficult since he was covering 'Pride and Prejudice'; one of my favorite books, and he was making it sound boring.
Finally, the bell rang again and I said my goodbyes to Angela. I raced out of the room as fast and as safely as I could to avoid Mike and his friend.
I remembered where the gym was so I didn't need any help finding it, but when I was walking near it I felt as if someone was following me. Of course, it was school and everyone was walking with me, but this person felt sickly familiar.
"Hello pet." Mike said as we neared the gym.
I didn't turn around to face him. I kept walking until I made it into the girls' locker room where he couldn't follow me.
I heard him cursing as the door closed then walked quickly to the other door to find the coach. She was in her little office. It must suck to have an office inside a smelly locker room.
"Hi, I'm Bella Swan." I said with a shaky voice.
"Oh hello Bella. I'm Coach Clapp. Sit down and let's have a little chat." She said closing the door behind me.
She seemed nice and friendly for someone who knew of my condition.
"I have to say, Bella, I'm impressed that you are taking on such a big responsibility at such a young age." She started sitting back down behind her desk.
"Thank you." I was still nervous; this could turn out bad really quick.
"I've come up with a routine for you that I believe would suit you best. You will do daily assignments from this book," She handed me a text book to add to my growing pile, I should really find my locker before lunch, "Then on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays after school I teach a maternity swim class which I would like you to attend. Do you understand?" She asked.
I nodded my head, this did sound like a good idea. Although, I was a little nervous about attending the swim class with other pregnant, married, older woman.
"You don't have to come to class this afternoon, but I will expect you there on Wednesday alright?"
"Yes."
"Ok, let's go meet the rest of the class so you can start on your work." She stood up and led me out of the locker room.
Like my first teacher, she had me introduce myself to the rest of the class. Now she was not my favorite teacher anymore because Mike and his friend noticed me, so did Lauren and her small crew who were sending me death glares.
The work for the class wasn't hard and I finished in half-an-hour. To kill the rest of the time, I pulled out my book from English and started to reread my favorite book. Barely a page in, a basketball came flying at me; missing my head by a few inches.
Of course, Mike was the one who came after it.
"May I ask why you are sitting here all alone?" He asked trying to sound seductive, but it sounded creepy.
I didn't know what to do, so I kept quiet and tried to go back to my book.
I could feel his frustration from just a few feet from me, but before anything else could be said the coach ordered him back. I learned from listening to her during class that she could have been a drill sergeant.
I kept my head in my book so that I wouldn't have to look at Mike or anyone else, but I could feel them staring at me probably whispering why I was sitting and doing textbook work while they were sweating their butts off.
'You will know soon enough.' I told them mentally.
Finally with ten minutes before the bell was suppose to ring, the coach let the others off to go change. She came up to me and told me not the leave the locker room or the gym until the bell officially rang.
I decided to stay put and enjoy some peace and quiet.
I was so engrossed with my book that I didn't notice anyone walking up to me.
"So, you know the Cullens?" A nasally voice sneered at me.
I looked up to see Lauren and her crew glaring at me.
"Yes." I answered plainly. I did not want to get into a confrontation like at my old school.
"Well, a word of advice. Stay away from Edward. He's. Mine." She spoke to me like I was in second grade.
I glared at her about ready to say something, but I had to remember this was my first day and I did not want to start it off bad.
"Heed my warning and you won't get hurt, little girl. Besides he deserves a real woman with more experience." She flipped her hair over her shoulder.
That was it. I stood up pulling my bag over my shoulder.
"You're right; he does need a woman, but not a slut like you." I retorted then walked out of the gym fuming as I exited.
When I got outside, I pulled my hood up because it was raining and had gotten colder. Then I heard high heels racing after me. How can they walk fast in the rain and with their shoes so high?
I turned to see Lauren and her crew stalking me like hunters to their prey. I walked faster, but still angry and yet scared that they would hurt my little one.
"Bella. Bella." I heard someone calling me, but it was someone I trusted.
Angela was trying to get my attention while standing under the cover near a door I presumed lead to the cafeteria. I walked as quickly as I could to reach her.
"Hey." I said when I reached her.
"Come on, I'll introduce you to Eric." She said leading me inside.
I looked once more behind me to see Lauren and her crew walking slower than before, but still headed for me.
"Hey, does your stomach hurt?" Angela asked.
I looked down and saw that I was rubbing my stomach again.
"Uh, it'll be fine." I lied hoping she would believe me. I was never great at lying.
"Okay." She shrugged. Maybe I was getting better.
"Bella." I heard someone else calling my name.
I turned to see my family waving at me to join them. I held up one finger to say I would be there in a minute. Angela noticed.
"You know the Cullens already?" She asked like they were royalty.
"Yeah, they adopted me." I answered.
Her eyes grew wide, but she quickly shook it off and continued leading me towards her table.
I remembered Eric from the game, and judging by the way he was looking at me, he remembered me too.
"Hey, your Bella right?" He asked standing up to greet me.
"Yeah." I answered.
"Um, Bella use to be on the paper at her old school and wants to know if she can be my partner." Angela explained.
"That will be great. I need someone to cover the assembly this afternoon during 5th period." He answered.
"Okay, do you know what it's going to be about?" I asked going into reporter mode.
"No, the principle won't give out any statements about it because he wants it to be a surprise to everyone, but he did tell me it involves a big issue that happens in every school." He answered looking glum.
"Hmm, this will be hard, but I think I can handle it." I answered trying to sound upbeat about my first assignment.
"Great. Angela, can you get away from your class to take the appropriate pictures?" He asked.
"Yeah, but Bella, you're going to have to sit with your class during the assembly. Will that be a problem?" She asked me.
"No, I have perfect hearing. I'll be fine." I assured them.
"Great, give me your work before 1st period tomorrow, will that be alright for you?" He asked.
"Yeah, no problem." I was just getting more and more excited by the minute. "I better go; my family is probably wondering if I've abandoned them."
I waved goodbye and headed the lunch line, but stopped when I saw Lauren and her crew last in the line for food.
My excitement levels dropped and so did my stomach. My baby was kicking for lunch, but I did not think I should risk his/her safety.
I turned back and walked quickly to my family who looked at me confused.
"Bella, you need to eat." Rosalie scolded when I made it to the table.
I gave her a glare then sat down dropping my heavy bag unto the floor relieving my shoulder of the extra weight.
"Bella, what's wrong?" Edward asked.
I dropped my head into my folded arms on the table and tried to calm myself down. My family did not need to feel my anger.
"I'm sorry, but I'm not really hungry." I answered through my arms.
"Bella, you had a light breakfast. Here, eat some of this." Alice replied giving me her helping of a salad.
It didn't look appetizing, but I sat up and started to pick at it.
"Bella." Edward warned.
I glared at him, but he was sending me his own glare.
Frustrated, I pushed the food away and leaned back in my chair.
"Bella, come on, tell us what happened." Jasper said trying to calm me down. It was working somewhat.
Before I could say anything further, Emmett spoke up, "Look out Edward, the school sluts are on their way to tempt you again."
My anger flared up when I trying to calm it. I turned around and saw Lauren and one other girl walking towards our table.
"I told you to stay away from Edward, what gives you the right to sit with him?" She yelled.
I stood up to face her. The whole room was looking at us, but now I didn't give a damn.
"I don't answer to you." I growled.
She took one more step closer to me, "You just remember your place, little girl." She snarled.
"And you remember who can throw your fat ass off the team, Lauren, and you too, Jessica." Rosalie said taking a stand in front of me while Edward pulled me back. He, Jasper and Emmett were standing with me while Alice and Rosalie stood in front of Lauren and Jessica who looked afraid of the Amazon blonde and short pixie standing before them.
"Get out of our faces before we do something that you'll regret." Alice hissed.
The two girls didn't waste a second before turning and hightailing it away from us.
Edward wrapped his arms around my body, pulling me against his own. I hid my face in his chest trying to fight the tears of anger and the idea of hunting down those girls.
"Let's get her out of here." I heard Edward say.
He still kept me close to his body while we walked out of the cafeteria. We walked outside into the light rain which brought me some relief then continued to go into the closest building.
Finally, we stopped and Edward leaned us against a wall. I stayed in his embrace while we slowly sank to the floor. With his arms around me, I felt so protected and comforted at the same time.
"Did Lauren harass you today, Bella?" Rosalie asked.
I looked up from Edward's chest to see her sitting on the other side of me. The tears were pouring out in buckets and I couldn't stop them.
"I'm sorry, Bella. We'll keep an eye on her and make sure she doesn't bother you anymore." She continued when I didn't answer.
I still didn't say anything but allowed my tears to continue falling. Edward held onto me like he was afraid that I was going to fall apart which was how I felt.
"I hate this." I stated when my tears slowed down.
"What do you hate?" Edward whispered in my hair which sort of tickled.
"I hate feeling like I want to kill something one minute and feel so sad the next." I replied.
"We know Bella, but it'll be ok now. Just take a few minutes to calm down. Why don't you tell us about your day so far?" Alice suggested.
"But first, big brother bear to the rescue." Emmett joked looking through his bag.
He pulled out three packaged cookies that we made for the bake sale. I smiled when he gave them to me.
"Thanks." I said as I opened the first one. It was a peanut butter cookie with the chocolate kiss on top. I giggled then took a bite.
"Come on Bella, class won't start for another 20 minutes and I want to know how the rest of your day was." Alice pressed.
I finished the cookie then replied, "Um…it was going pretty well. You saw me during my first couple of classes then um…I met Angela…"
"Angela Weber? She's on the school's newspaper." Alice interrupted.
"I know, she helped me get my first assignment. I'm going to be her new partner." I stated proudly.
"Yaaayyyy!" Alice clapped like a little girl.
"What's your first assignment?" Jasper asked trying to hold onto Alice to calm her down.
"The assembly during 5th period. It's a big secret and Eric thinks it will be a big story." I answered unwrapping another cookie.
"So what else happened?" Alice kept bouncing around, how many desserts did she sneak from the bake sale?
"Um…the coach gave me an alternative because of my…condition." I spoke kind of quietly. "I'm doing work from the text everyday and taking swimming classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays."
"Oh yeah, Mrs. Clapp teaches swimming to…uh…" Alice looked worried as did the others.
"Don't worry Alice, I'll be fine." I tried to convince her and myself.
"To whom?" Edward asked.
I looked up at him, "She teaches swimming to women like me." I answered.
Everyone else looked at me with the same worry that I had earlier.
"Don't worry, I'll be fine. I won't let it get to me." I said.
They didn't look totally convinced, but they backed off nonetheless.
"Ok, shove that last cookie in your mouth and let's get you cleaned up before class starts." Alice ordered rising to her feet.
I didn't want to let go of Edward, and apparently, neither did he. Still, I got up and Alice pulled me into the nearest girls' bathroom with Rosalie hot on our heels leaving the boys in the hallway.
I washed the tear stains off my face and was not surprised that Alice had used the waterproof make-up this morning. She applied a little more make up to make my face seem more cheerful while Rosalie fixed my hair a bit. I walked out of the bathroom feeling a lot better, but now regretting not eating much food. The bell suddenly rang, telling us that lunch is over and to get to class. My stomach would have to be attended to later.
My locker was in the same building we were in, as well as, Jasper's and my class, so we stopped to drop off my books when I got my bag back from Emmett. I was thankful to unload the extra strain from my shoulder.
Edward continued to walk with us still holding onto me like I was going to break, and I didn't mind the feeling of being protected.
When we were standing in front of the class, Jasper put his hand on the small of my back as Edward released my waist then led me to his table in the back corner.
This teacher didn't make me introduce myself, but he also didn't really seem to care about anything that had to do with the class including the subject.
"Don't worry, I'll teach you everything I know." Jasper whispered to me.
I giggled at his joke then the announcement was made.
"Will the entire school please report to the gymnasium for an important assembly? Thank you."
"Time for your first big break." Jasper said while standing up first to help me.
He kept his hand on the small of my back, it wasn't as comforting as Edward's touch, but it still helped me feel safe.
Our class didn't go very high up on the bleachers, which was great for me. When we sat down, I took out my notebook and a pen to start taking notes. Before the principle made it the stage, I got a text.
Peek-a-boo, I c u. It was from Alice. I looked up to see her waving like a mad woman with Edward sitting next to her, laughing at her. Jasper and I chuckled and waved back to them.
"Attention, boys and girls, quiet down please." The principle spoke into the scratchy microphone.
He waited a few more seconds while everyone settled down enough for him to start talking.
"Thank you, I'm sure you all wondering why I called for this assembly. I wanted to tell you of an issue that is sweeping across our country at a fast rate." He seemed like a windbag, but he got everyone's attention. My pen was already scribbling as quickly as it could.
"The issue has to deal with a very big responsibility that many teenagers are not equipped to handle at such a young age." My pen almost busted through my paper from the amount of pressure I used. It wasn't from the excitement of getting back to my passion; it was of fear and surprise.
"Teen pregnancy is a hard burden to overcome in life and is something that should be taken very seriously." Yup this is where I thought he was going.
I tried to concentrate less on my biases and on the lecture, but it was difficult when I was contradicting most of what the principle was saying. Basically, it was how a baby could ruin a teen's future and what bad roads it can lead to.
"I'm sorry." Jasper whispered to me while I was writing, but I kept focused on my work. I didn't think anymore tears could come down after my little meltdown during lunch, but they tried as I worked.
A few escaped and fell on my notebook as I wrote. I tried to keep in mind that I was given a second chance and that I was strong enough to handle anything, but the principle kept talking about how a baby holds a person down. It was very frustrating.
Finally, the assembly was over. Jasper and I stayed behind a bit to allow the crowd to go down some before it was safe for me to walk through. The whole time we waited he kept trying to comfort me; telling me that the principle didn't know what he was talking about and that I was strong. Although Jasper's words were reassuring, I needed something else to calm down.
My phone vibrated again telling me I had a text. I opened it.
R u alright? It was from Edward this time.
I looked up to see both him and Alice starting to walk out of the gym along with their class. They could see my face, but they looked confused by it. My wall must have come back up again because I could feel nothing.
Ttyl. Was all I wrote back then got up with Jasper.
We still had to go to class even though there was five minutes left of it. I sat through it in silence just staring at the board. The principle's words still ringing in my head. My wall was defiantly back up again for I didn't hear anything that Jasper was saying or what the teacher was trying to babble on about homework.
When the bell rang, I got up before Jasper could and walked out of the room. I was met outside the building by the rain and Emmett who looked remorseful.
I looked down at my feet and felt Emmett wrap one of his massive arms around my shoulders. I didn't pay attention to where we were headed as we walked until Emmett pulled us into a classroom. I handed my sheet of paper to my last teacher of the day then sat down without introducing myself to the class.
I sat next to Emmett who had a table next to the window. He let me sit next it. During class, I watched the rain pour down outside. I didn't even realize how much time was passing until Emmett gently shook my shoulder at the end of class.
He walked me back to my locker where everyone else was standing. I didn't look them in the eye as they watched me open my locker to retrieve the homework I needed.
"Um Bella, the guys have practice, and Rose and I have to meet with our team. Do you mind waiting in the library for us?" Alice asked.
I closed my locker and shook my head slightly.
As we walked down the hall, I felt someone wrap their arm around my waist. I knew who it was without question. Only Edward knew how to protect me. To answer my earlier question, yes; yes I could trust him like no other.