Title : Full Moon

Author : CherryWolf713 aka Melissa

Disclaimer : If I owned Edward in real life, do you really think I'd be here at my computer writing fanfic? Trust me, ya'll would never see me again...lol ;) So all due respect sent to Stephenie Meyer - these are her creations, I'm just burrowing them for some fun and I promise to return them as good as new when I'm done...well, everyone but Edward - he may have taken some abuse ;D

Summary : Edward returns to Bella in Forks right after her cliff dive. How would things change? How will Charlie react to Edward's return? What about Jacob?

Pairing : Edward/Bella, Alice/Jasper, Carlisle/Esme, Rose/Emmett

Status : WIP

A/N : Well...I'm not dead, so, really, I have no excuse for not posting anything for this story the last 8 or so months. The only I can really say in my defense is that I was sucked into a huge Dark Angel coma and spent the last few months in that side of the site...

Chapter 11 - Sunshine & Old Friends

It took more than a few minutes of the bright light starting to protrude into my subconscious to finally allow my eyes to crack open. The harsh rays instantly made me shut my lids again and groan, bringing a hand up to shield my face.

"Too bright..."

I heard a chuckle from the door then and I rolled over, squinting my eyes. The blurry being in the door came closer, slowly forming into a face and body in my sleepy eyes. His deep, honey eyes glowed as he grinned crookedly, coming to set by my waist on the edge of the bed.

"Morning."

"Morning," I yawned, smiling at his beautiful face. I had a nervous anxiety to run a hand through my hair and dash to his secluded bathroom but refrained from doing so, choosing to just speak downward slightly so he wouldn't catch a whiff of my 'morning breath'; the light was still much too bright and if I didn't give my eyes enough time to adjust I had a feeling I would be limping to the adjacent room.

A quick scan of the room lead my eyes to the un-curtained large window, the breaking sun not even picking up a small smear on the perfect glass. The answer for my torturous blindness earned a small pout on my lips as I was reminded of Edward's departure from my side during school hours today.

"So, I hear you had a busy night last evening after I left," Edward told me conversationally, his hand and arm sparkling as half of his body leaned into the direct sunlight, momentarily rendering me thoughtless as my eyes raked over his skin before his words finally sunk in.

I paused, not sure where he was going with this. Of course I had two reasons for that hesitation, in my head at least. My conversation with Jasper being number one, and my far more personal one with Alice. For some reason I was more convinced he wanted to talk about the latter one than the first. And I did not feel like explaining why I felt the need to talk about our sex - or lack thereof - life with his sister.

I realized he was still waiting for an answer and I shrugged, trying to play my nervousness down. "No more than usual. My life's been very busy as of late." Casually, I pulled back the comforter and scooted off the bed. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a 'human' moment."

But my escape was quickly cut off when Edward reached out and grabbed my waist, pulling me back to his lap, my back against his cool chest.

"Not so fast," he told me, pushing some of my hair - which I was sure looked like a haystack - away from my shoulder and placing his chin there. "I spoke with Jasper this morning."

"Oh," I piped in, surprised. My nerves settled down and I leaned into his embrace, almost instantly more comfortable since Alice was not his intended subject. "Well...I thought we needed to discuss some things." I knew my birthday was still a very sore-spot for Edward - we had yet to talk about it ourselves - but I also knew he would understand why I went to speak with his newest brother.

"I didn't want him to think I blamed him for anything. That night was an accident," I added.

Edward, reaching around to take my hand, rubbed his thumb across my knuckles. "I'm very proud of you for doing that; he stills carries a lot to guilt around about your birthday," he murmured and I almost opened my mouth to protest that he didn't need to feel guilt either - I could hear Edward did in his voice - when he suddenly dropped my hand and pulled me tighter against him, like he thought I was going to try and get away.

"But I actually spoke to him about something else."

"Something else?" I questioned, not liking the tone his voice had taken. It was almost as if he was testing me, his voice annoyed yet slightly playful.

"Yes. My brother seems to have a problem with sharing things with a certain vampire who, in-turn, likes to gossip with my girlfriend."

I tensed instantly, not liking the turn this conversation had taken. I should have made a break for the bathroom when I had the chance, I thought glumly.

"I also had a nice long talk with Alice," he added. "She seems to be under the impression that you started the talk and she was just offering sage advice."

Damn Alice, I thought darkly. Crossing my arms, I muttered, "I knew it, I knew this was what you wanted to talk about..."

"Bella..." Edward warned, his tone hardened.

"Fine, fine," I said exasperated, throwing my hands up some. "Yes, I started it." Throwing a quick and somewhat rude expression over my shoulder, I added, "but you can't really get mad about it."

"Oh, yes I can," Edward assured me.

Scoffing, I twisted in his lap until I was looking right at his face, not letting my eyes wander as they always wanted to do when directed at his magnificent beauty. "You of all people-" Edward rolled his eyes at my voice of words but I ignored him and continued on, "should not take offense, considering what you can do."

"Yes, but I don't go searching for that information," he argued. "You, on the other hand, offered it up to Alice on a silver-platter."

"She's my friend," I stressed.

"She's my sister." When I looked at him, he sighed and added, "you know what I mean."

Squaring my shoulders, I crossed my arms. "Or would you rather have me discussing it with Jessica at school?" I asked him cooly. I knew Edward's feelings on Jessica Stanley, though he had never actually spoken them. He would look nearly in pain every time he turned his attention on her thoughts, clearly annoyed with what he found there.

His eyes instantly turned into slits.

Smiling, I leaned in a pressed a quick kiss to his forehead and bounced up. "I win," I quipped, skipping into the bathroom.

"We weren't finished talking," Edward called out to me but I just grinned even more from the doorway before closing it.

I didn't hear him leave the bedroom but I knew he was more than likely back downstairs, lecturing Alice and Jasper on privacy and what-not. Shaking my head I walked across the large bathroom, turning on the shower. The warm water washed away my thoughts and relaxed my body, sending me into a peaceful hum as I stepped carefully out of the tub a few minutes later. Finding a large and soft towel I wrapped myself up in it, thankful that my back was already healing and no longer sore.

It was then that I realized I had not brought any clean clothes into the bathroom with myself. Gently kicking the scruffy clothes on the floor, I frowned. I had been wearing them since yesterday morning, seeing as how I was partially asleep both times I was placed into bed and never changed into any night clothes.

"Great," I muttered, knowing I was going to have to go out into Edward's bedroom wearing nothing but a towel and a smile. Sighing, I walked forward and slowly opened the door, poking just my head through the small opening. I strained my neck, glancing both ways to see if the path was clear. Not seeing anyone, I dashed quickly from the bathroom, darting for the closet and jumping inside.

Then right back out as I screamed in fright.

"Calm down, Bella."

"Why do you keep doing that?ཀ" I demanded, one hand over my heart and the other keeping a tight hold on my towel.

"Doing what?" Alice asked, her attention back on the clothes now that she assessed I was not having a heart-attack.

"Coming out of nowhereཀ" I accused her. "Give a girl some warningཀ"

Even though she was turned away, I knew Alice was rolling her eyes as she asked, "do you have any green eyeshadow?" As an after thought, she said suddenly, "oh, no worries. I do."

"Wha-green eyeshadow?" I repeated, confused. Then I took in the clothes she was collecting in her arms and I froze. "What are you doing in here, Alice?" My voice was slow and steady as I tried to remain calm.

"Picking out your outfit, silly." I watched as she pulled down a silky looking tank top, my stomach clenching. "Edward said you agreed."

"What?" I demanded. That little sneak, I cursed in my head. Gaining some anger, I told Alice clearly and loudly, "he was mistaken."

Turning, Alice pouted, setting her doe eyes on me. "But Bella...I already have one picked out."

"Put it back, then," I told her, not even looking to see what she held.

"But it'll look so good with your hair and eyes - I have the perfect shade of eyeshadow and lipstick to match. Oh, and my brown heels with look so cuteཀ"

My eyes widened in horror at the word 'heel' and I backed up, shaking my head. "No, no way Alice."

"Come on," she pleaded, taking a step closer.

"Noཀ I am not your personal Barbie-dollཀ" I cried.

Suddenly Alice's eyes shifted and she told me, "Bella...I am going to miss my first day back to school. And since I don't get to show off my newly bought designer clothes, I'm letting you. Are you really going to deny me that mere wish?"

"Designer?" I exclaimed, eyeing the clothes anew now. "Aliceཀ How much did all this cost?ཀ"

"Drop the towel, Swan," she just ordered.

Crossing my arms and gripping the edges closer together, I eyed the vampire right back. "No."

I'd like to think I put up a good fight but in the end, I knew it was lost. I was slightly surprised that no one came to my aid while I screamed at Alice, but I figured all the males in the household had learned to never cross Alice while she held weapons of clothes and beauty supplies. I had agreed to the clothes and even let her pick my footwear, but I drew the line when she pulled out a curling iron.

By the time I walked down the curving staircase I didn't feel like myself anymore. Alice was fluttering right behind me, proudly showing off her newest creation, much to my annoyance. My anger, and slight embarrassment combined, made me take the steps faster than normal and I was caught completely off guard when my foot - shoved into a newly bought pair of chunky heels - missed the last step and I tilted forward.

"Got you," I heard Edward say, suddenly there in front of me and easily putting me back on my feet before my face hit the carpet.

"New shoes can be very unpredictable Bella," Alice commented as she stepped around me. "I'd be careful today."

My eyes formed into slits as she danced into the kitchen. "I'm going to break my neck today..."

"You'll be fine!" Alice proclaimed from deep within the house.

I sighed and finally looked up at Edward, not missing the small smirk tugging at his lips. "Can't I play hooky today too?"

"It's a beautiful day outside today. Do you really want to be cooped up inside all day?" he asked. "Plus you'll get to see all your friends today at school."

"Ugh..." I moaned, taking the outstretched book-bag he was holding out to me. "Trust me, they won't miss me..." When he raised an eyebrow, I shrugged and looked down, admitting softly, "I haven't been too talkative lately."

"Well, today would be a good day to remedy that, then," Edward suggested lightly.

Something about his tone made me eye him sharply suddenly. Crossing my arms, I asked wearily, "what's going on?"

Edward had a look of pure innocence on his face now, his eyes wide and alert. "What do ever you mean?"

"You," I offered. "You're acting funny."

"Don't be absurd."

"You're awfully excited about sending me to school alone today..." I informed him as he placed a hand on my lower back and ushered me out of the door.

"That would be because we're running late," Edward offered.

"Uh-huh," I told him sarcastically. "Sure we are."

By the time we reached the school I was almost ten minutes earlier than I normally arrived. I sat in the passenger seat, eyeing my oddly-behaving boyfriend intently.

"Promise me something," I said after a long pause.

Edward seemed slightly wary and told me, "I'll think about it."

Rolling my eyes, I let his reply slide and just told him, "whatever it is you have planned today," I placed my hand up in the air when he started to protest and silenced him, adding, "please keep in mind to be careful."

I wasn't stupid, nor oblivious. Edward was not one to be eager to send me off alone without him, not unless he had something else to do that he didn't want me to be a part of; and that usually meant he deemed it too hazardous to my health.

Even with the sun shining it would be ok for Edward to wonder the woods if he was careful and fast. He could easily track down another vampire if wanted to, and I knew for a fact that he was determined to find one in particular...one who had been hunting my very self as of late.

I could see the realization dawning in his eyes so I quickly went on, stating, "I know you'll do whatever you think is right - no matter what I say - but please...don't do anything foolish today." My voice was catching by the end and Edward reached out, pulling me into his arms and his lap.

"You're right on one account," he told me while pressing his cool lips against my temple. "I will do what I think I have to to keep you safe."

"Even if I don't want you to?" I asked, my voice soft.

"You have nothing to worry about," Edward assured me. "I am more than capable of taking care of myself."

"But-"

"No 'buts," he ordered gently. His voice took a harder edge as he added, "I will make Victoria pay for all she has done - let that be clear."

"But you'll be careful today?" I pleaded.

He laughed then, saying, "I'm more than certain that I will be in no danger today." When I looked even more upset due to his arrogance he quickly asked, "would you like to know what you were mistaken about earlier?"

"Fine," I pouted, crossing my arms.

Trying to hide his amusement to my reaction, he said, "I have no intentions of tracking Victoria today."

"You don't?" I asked, relaxing my pout slightly.

"No, I don't. I have already arranged that action for another time."

That information did little to ease my nerves and I would guess Edward noticed cause he added, "I have something much more special planned for today."

"Like what?" I asked, my interest peaked.

"You'll just have to wait and see," was all he would offer. When I tried the pout again he just laughed and kissed my forehead. "It's time for school."

I whined dramatically but slide off of his lap, reaching for the door handle. Careful to shield any sunlight that might filter in with my body, I stepped out of the dark car, reaching back in to grab my book bag.

"Oh, before I forget," Edward stated suddenly, reaching into his pocket and pulling out his cell. "This is for you."

Leaning back into the car, I took the small cell. "This is your phone."

"I am well aware of that." When I arched an eyebrow, he just shrugged. "I can get another one."

Sighing, I shook my head. "Edward-"

"Please, Bella. It would ease my nerves quite much today."

Knowing how he felt - the idea of spending any time away from him now that he was back made my stomach fill with knots and my heart constrict - I sighed once more but willingly put the phone in my pocket. "I seriously doubt I'm gonna be in danger at school..." When Edward raised just his one eyebrow and eyed me, I mentally thought back on my track record with impending dangers and finally admitted, "fine...much danger."

Sending me his trade-mark crooked smile, he leaned over and quickly pressed his lips against mine, making my heart jump erratically. I was smiling when he pulled back but my face slightly fell some when I noticed his annoyed and semi-angry expression as he looked over my shoulder, obviously hearing or seeing something I couldn't.

Before I could react he turned back to me and stated, "I'll be right here at 3."

"Ok..." I said back, confused slightly. "I'll be waiting."

He sent me one last dazzling smile and I waved sadly before shutting the door, turning to suddenly notice more than one person eyeing the expensive and unknown car.

Tyler Crowley, one of the few onlookers, wandered slightly closer as Edward reversed. "Is that a Mercedes?"

"A Mercedes S55 AMG," I replied automatically, knowing everything about that certain car. I realized how that sounded and added quickly, "or so I've been told."

Feeling unnerved under the confused eyes of my classmates, I turned and headed from the parking lot, heading for my first class of the day. English was normal and I found myself edgy for the bell to ring, hoping that the day would fly fast so I could see Edward once more.

"Hey," Mike called out after the class ended, catching up to me as I exited the classroom.

"Oh, hey Mike," I offered, distracted as I stared up sullenly at the morning sun.

"Nice day today, huh?"

"Oh yeah, nice..." I muttered, figuring afterwards, by Mike's reaction, that it may have been a tad harsh. "It is a change, isn't it?" I offered finally, forcing a softer tone in my voice.

"A couple of us were thinking, if the sun keeps up, of maybe taking a trip down to the beach this afternoon. You game?"

"Actually, E-" I stopped myself short, not finishing the name. It would be plainly obvious tomorrow morning when I arrive with Edward and his family that they were back in town; and it would also be clearly obvious that we were very much back together. But how would it look today to claim he was back when no one had seen him - or would with all this damn sunlight - after so many months of depression from missing him? Would they all think I was nuts and just imagining him?

Hadn't I did the same exact thing when he first showed back up, I though to myself.

Knowing Mike was waiting for my reply, I told him gently, "I already have plans - sorry."

Nodding, Mike gave me a small, sad smile. "Well, it is kinda late notice."

"Maybe another time," I offered.

"Maybe. Plus it's not like La Push is going anywhere, right?"

"Right," I added lamely, my mood souring even more.

"Hey - isn't your little friend from down there? Jack or whatever?" Mike said suddenly, his voice trying to be light but failing miserably.

Knowing the little reference was directed to his age, not his size, I cleared my throat and said, "Jacob."

"Yeah, him."

Not liking the direction of this conversation, I forced a smile and suddenly told Mike, "I better get going. I'll catch you in Spanish."

Quickening my walk, I raced to my next class, trying and failing miserably at not thinking of Jacob. Had he heard yet about mine and Charlie's fight? Was he slowly and methodically cutting me out of his life now that the Cullens' had returned?

Did he hate me now?

By the time lunch was rolling around my mood had not improved; if anything, I was even more sullen. Jacob being brought up had quickly soured my whole day, almost seeming to offer all my other negative aspects as of late up with it. I fretted about Jacob in second period, worried about how my Dad was managing alone during third and agonized over Edward's plans for the day all through fourth.

I lagged my feet as I went in the vague direction of the cafeteria, not in the mood to make small talk when suddenly my pocket vibrated and I looked down, slightly shocked until I remembered Edward's cell and fished it out. "Hello?"

"Isn't this much better than going all day with no contact?"

As soon as his velvet voice hit my ears a smile tugged at my downward lips, lifting them easily. "You have no idea."

I had tried to keep the downtrodden quiver from my voice but edward picked up on it immediately, his non-ability to read my mind making him more so much more attuned to my voice.

"I take it you day has not improved?"

I sighed, not wanting to ruin his obviously good mood by bringing up Jacob. "You could say that." Getting closer to the lunch-room, I slowed my walk even more. "I miss you."

"I now that feeling very much," Edward promised me, his voice hauntingly sad.

"I wish the darn sun would go in so you could come and be with me now," I told him.

Edward chuckled and agreed. "I would love nothing more, but I am a slight distance away at the moment."

"Meaning..." I trailed off, figuring that maybe he was out in the woods, enjoying the nice day away from spying eyes or maybe even hunting with his family.

"Meaning I am not in town at the moment."

Something in his tone caught my attention and I stopped walking, coming to stand near the cafeteria doors. Our conversation in the car this morning flashed through my mind and I instantly panicked. "You promised not to do anything rash this morning."

"And I am keeping that promise as we speak."

"Then what are you doing?" I asked, still not satisfied with his answer.

"Shopping."

I almost asked how, before I recalled Alice telling me that sometimes she drove up to Seattle on sunny days and parked in the underground garage under the mall up there, not having to worry about the light. "Oh," I said then, slightly surprised by his answer. But then another thought accord to me and I quickly starting panicking again. "Shopping for what?"

"This and that," Edward answered me, his voice aloof.

"This and that for who?" His silence was the only answer I needed. "Edward..." I groaned, knowing that he was more than likely going to buy me something I didn't want him to. "Whatever you bought, return it."

I could hear his under-the-breath grumble across the phone. "Is it really that bad that I want to buy you something nice?" he demanded. "Most people would enjoy getting a present every now and then."

"I'm not most people," I argued. "It's not right..."

"But what if it's something you need?"

"I don't need anything. I have everything I want."

"Fine. It's something I want you to have then," he tossed back, evidently not giving in.

I opened my mouth to argue when I paused, my eyes going wide. "My truck better be there when I get off school," I told him. Edward would love nothing more than to buy me a new vehicle; the subject was brought up nearly every time he climbed into my truck.

"Bella..."

"Edward," I threatened, my tone hardening.

He sighed deeply. "Bella, do you really think I would do something of that caliber behind you back?"

Instantly guilt flared up in my stomach and I paused. But then a voice in the background, a voice much to high to belong to Edward, rose loud enough for me to hear and my paranoia soared to new heights.

"Edward..." I heard the silvery voice again and felt my heart jump when the word 'car' was mumbled. "What is Alice doing with you?"

There was quick sound of the cell changing hands than Alice's joyful voice filled my ears. "Duh, shopping. I'd thought I'd be nice and keep Edward company today."

Again the phone switched hands and it was Edward's voice that told me, "more like forced company, but I guess the sentiment still stands."

"Oh," Alice's voice called out from somewhere beyond the cell, "tell Bella that there's a wet spot in the cafeteria near the south end doors. Be prepared - I did not spend two hundred dollars on those capri's for her to spill ketchup all over them."

"What" I squeaked, my voice skyrocketing. I saw a few students stop to turn in my direction. I shot them my most withering glare for eavesdropping then spun around, trying to gain some privacy. "Two hundred dollars!"

"Bella-"

"All those clothes...All of them are going back, you tell her that. All of them, Alice!" I rose my voice on the end, knowing she would hear me. "She better not have removed those price tags yet!"

"Bella," Edward tried again before adding, his voice slightly annoyed, "Alice, I am not-"

"I mean it, Edward. Tell her that if she even thinks about buying me anything today that I will accidently forget to take my lipstick out of my pocket before washing my clothes."

I could hear Alice's audible gasp. "But-but you don't even wear lipstick," she argued.

"You know what," I added, my voice lifting like I had just gotten the best idea of my life. "I think I'll use the south exit of the lunch room today..."

Even without the phone in Alice's grasp, I could hear her growl. "That is a Anna Sui shirt."

"A who?" As soon as the words left my mouth I could hear Edward sigh in annoyance, his insight into Alice's thoughts not making him happy at the moment.

Alice, though, she didn't go into a detailed description of the designer like I had thought she would. Instead, her sugar-filled voiced asked, "so, Bella, pink or purple?"

"Excuse me?"

"Your car, silly? What color? I'm thinking maybe purple cause, lets face it, with your skin tone pink doesn't really work."

I could feel the color drain from my cheeks and I sputtered lamely before I squeaked out, "Edward..."

"Oh," he suddenly exclaimed, his voice dry. "Am I still needed? And here I thought I was just a prop used to hold a phone."

I grunted in annoyed fashion at his absurd jealousy. "You can't let her get rid of my truck!"

His huff was much more annoyed than mine, and yet also very dignified at the same time. "Your truck is fine, Bella."

Alice snorted then added, her voice more subdued now. "Fine. But the clothes stay."

I didn't bother to comment on her condition. I had a feeling that if I did actually try to get rid of the clothes she had brought that all my old ones would suddenly meet the very large fireplace in the den. "And it will be exactly like I left it this morning? No extra...anythings?"

"You are extremely paranoid," Edward commented, like he was completely amused by my attachment to the hulking chevy I owned.

"I mean it, Edward. No new car, no fixing up my old one. Promise me."

"Bella," he stressed, his voice annoyed once more "I give you my word that no one will lay a finger on your truck. Now, if you were to change your mind, I would be more than happy to get you a nice little Audi coupe or maybe a 4 door Chevy Avalanche."

I rolled my eyes at this ploy. "Not a chance - I love my truck the way it is."

"I know," he said finally, clearly confused and annoyed with my statement.

I rolled my eyes and sighed then, knowing we would be hanging up soon. "I guess I should get to lunch..."

"Tell Angela we said hi," Alice added suddenly.

Edward ignored his sister, saying to me,. "I'll be there soon, I promise."

After saying goodbye, I slowly closed the small silver phone, pocketing it once more before heading into the cafeteria. The slight clack of my new heels messed slightly with my concentration as I headed for the food line, the usual quietness of my sneakers gone. It wasn't until I had paid for my food and was walking toward my usual table that I felt the slight nagging suspicion that I was being watched.

This, of course, was usually very normal for me. Edward's eyes never strayed very far from my presence when he was nearby. And while he had not been nearby, my semi-catatonic lifestyle had turned a few heads. Then there was the whole other aspect of being watched, the side that harbored deadly hunters with ruby eyes and strong desires to make me feel pain. But this feeling, the stomach-turning and tight shouldered feeling reminded me of my first day here in Forks, which in my opinion was worse than Victoria and James combined.

Shaking off the feeling I continued on, choosing a chair toward the end of the table. I shared a small smile with Angela Webber, who was seated across from me. Again I felt eyes on me and gave into my curiosity finally, eyeing the other students near me. No one seemed to be openly staring, which was a relief, but the feeling still didn't fade away.

"Do I have something on my face..." I muttered finally, starting to turn back around but freezing slightly when I heard a snicker from my right. My eyes zeroed in on Lauren Malloy and I squared my shoulders. To say that mine and her's relationship was rocky would be putting it nicely; Lauren seemed to have hated me from day one of my moving here, due to but probably not solely cause of Tyler Crowley's little crush on me last year. And I felt the severe dislike right back due to her turning Jessica Stanley and half of the rest of my human friends away from me. And because she hated me first.

Angela, quickly looking between myself and Lauren, turned back to me and offered, her voice friendly, "you look nice today, Bella."

I blinked once before I offered shyly, my face growing hot immediately from the compliment, "thanks."

So that was what the looks were about? My makeup and clothes? Did I really dress that shabby usually that this little change caused so much attention? I cataloged my clothes in my head, rethinking my usual wardrobe. My thoughts were sure to have made Alice do a happy dance had she been here.

"What's the occasion?" Lauren cooed, her sugary voice grating to my ears.

Tossing a similar fake smile back, I just said, "no occasion." I briefly let my mind flirt with telling her the truth - "oh, it's just that Alice, the vampire sister of my ex-ex boyfriend Edward Cullen, who's back in town and once again dating me by the way, decided that my normal and obviously horrible, if I go by everyone's reactions, clothes needed a make-over and she forced me at fangpoint to let her dress me and do my make-up" - but I figured the short and sweet version would rile her up even more.

Besides, considering how I believed her to be evil-incarnate, I'm sure the news that vampires were real wouldn't really surprise her.

I watched her eyes turn to slits and I just turned away, ignoring the whispers playing between her and Jessica now. Almost at once conversations started up again at our table, as if it was obvious that a battle had been won. I sighed inwardly and eyed my food, pushing it around on my tray absently.

"So, whose in for the beach after school?" Mike questioned, eyeing everyone in turn as they either declined or accepted. My cringe was barely contained before he turned in my direction. When he reached me he smiled, adding in a last ditch effort to comply me into accepting, "Bella? What do you say? It'll be fun."

I tried to make my smile as sincere as possible. "Sorry, Mike. Like I said earlier, I have plans."

"Hot date?" Lauren questioned, her tone sarcastic.

I dropped my fork as anger started to burn through my veins, her tone not helping my sour mood. I was intending to unleash my pent-up nervous energy onto the other girl by stating just what my plans were but I froze at the last second, the same insecure reasoning from earlier keeping me from revealing that the Cullens had ventured back into Forks.

I opened my mouth, not entirely sure what was going to come out when Angela suddenly spoke up, saving me from replying.

"You know, I heard it was going to rain this afternoon," she informed the table, her voice it's usual gentle tone.

Everyone started to groan in disappointment for the lost trip, quickly taking the heat off of myself as they tried to come up with another plan for the afternoon. I spared a small smile to Angela then rose from my seat, not feeling like dealing with anymore trivial school drama. Avoiding the south doors, I headed for the nearest bathroom, quickly dipping inside and stopping in front of one of the mirrors.

I sighed deeply and reached for the hot water knob, intending to wash my hands when my jean pocket vibrated for the second time that day. The phone was at my ear instantly.

"Hello?"

"Seriously though, they have the cutest little store up here and-"

"I said no, Alice," I repeated, shaking my head and shutting the phone to end the call before she could protest.

"Alice?"

The soft voice made me jerk my head up and turn, finding Angela standing behind me, her eyes curious.

"Um," I faltered, looking down at the phone like it held the answer. After a beat I put it away and shrugged.

Angela walked up to stand at the sink beside mine, her shy face slightly red, looking guilty or embarrassed for speaking up.

"Yeah, Alice Cullen," I told her finally.

"Oh." Shock colored her eyes briefly before she smiled gently. "Well, that's nice, her keeping in touch."

I nodded. "Yeah..." I could hear the sinking tone of my voice and saw Angela stiffen beside me, like she was waiting for something to happen. It took me a few moments to realize she was waiting for me to withdraw, to fade away once more.

"Hey Ang," I called out finally, my voice thick as I looked down.

"Yes?" she answered.

"Thanks for today." When she looked slightly confused, I offered, "at lunch, with Lauren."

And shy little Angela Webber smiled then, her grin looking anything but innocent. "It was my pleasure."

I couldn't help but flash her a returning grin.

"They're convinced you're trying to win the guys over again," she told me suddenly, her voice hinting that she found it ridiculous.

I let out a scoff. "Yes, cause I tried so hard before."

"That was my opinion also," she agreed with a small laugh. "Though even without you trying, you do seem to be succeeding."

Before I could even really think about that comment, I opened my mouth and the words were flowing out, asking, "can you keep a secret?"

The slight vibe of excitement flowing through my voice must have caught her attention because Angela turned her whole body my way. "Of course."

Licking my lips, I paused to glance around the room quickly, just to make sure that we were still alone. Still in the clear, I allowed my self to start to smile slowly. "Alice wasn't just checking in with me..."

"She wasn't?" Angela asked, her voice confused.

"No," I answered, shaking my head. Taking in a deep breath, I told her, "the Cullens' moved back home."

Angela blinked her eyes several times before she responded. "Oh..."

I was confused, wondering if the natural human reaction to avoid vampires, the natural reaction I seemed to be missing, made Angela leery of their return. "You're not happy to see them back," I said finally.

"And you are you?"

"Of course." My answer was instantaneous, a reaction of sort. Angela looked down slightly then. "Angela?"

"It's just..." The tall brunette looked up then, her face pinking slightly. "You were so hurt when he left, Bella...I don't want to see it happen again."

I was expecting everyone to be surprised when they learned of the Cullens reappearance, but Angela's reaction made me pause. She was worried about me, her soulful and timid face genuine.

"I love him," I said then, wanting to make her understand suddenly, to make her see and accept Edward in my life. "He loves me. That's all I need to know."

Angela nodded then, her smile returning some. "Then that's all I need to know." She seemed to be debating something in her head before adding, her voice hesitant, "if you ever want to talk..."

"I'll keep that in mind," I promised, my smile gentle and genuine. She nodded then and turned around, leaving the bathroom. Almost at once Edward's cell vibrated again.

"Yeah?"

"You know, I always liked Angela. We should have her over for a sleep-over one night."

"Goodbye Alice," I went to shut the phone, but stopped at the last second, my brief stint at lunch and Angela's revelation about the guys rolling through my head. "Hey..."

"Yes." she replied instantly.

I stopped, wondering if she was answering my unsaid question or just replying to me. The eye-roll was evident in her voice as she told me, "duh, Bella, I knew what you were going to ask. And yes, Mike is planning on making a move on you again, much to Edward's cringe."

I groaned then and closed my eyes. "Great...so looking forward to that."

"Edward seems to be under the impression that it's my fault, but I fail to agree."

"No, it's just my luck," I muttered.

Alice laughed then, the silvery sound like bells tinkling. "Have fun in Spanish."

She was still giggling when I hung up on her a second later.

Why? Why me? What did I do to deserve all this attention? I was ordinary and dull in Phoenix. Not any of the guys even paused to look twice in my direction there, but here...

I looked into the mirror, examining my face. Besides some more color, I didn't think I looked all that different from my normal self. Alice had kept to the basics, just highlighting my natural features, she had explained to me. My skin was still ghastly pale, even with the added rouse, my natural skin-tone refusing to change under the town's almost constant downpour. What did they see that I couldn't?

Turning my head to the side, I tried to imagine my skin even whiter, the tone almost seeming too crystal clear to be real. Golden eyes would replace my dull brown ones and all the small flaws of my face - too thin lips, low cheekbones - would reshape and reform into perfection.

I held the image in my head. Would I fully be up to Edwards caliber then? Would I finally be beautiful? Even with most human's natural instincts to avoid the Cullens, it was obvious that everyone believed them to be flawless and in-humanly perfect. There wasn't one male in school who would turn from Rosalie when she walked by, nor one female who wouldn't sigh if Jasper deemed them worth talking to.

The need and want to finally be a part of Edward's family tugged at me suddenly, made me revisit all my fantasies from before; from before I thought that possibility was lost, from before I knew for sure what it was like to be away from them, from before Edward had left. The intense longing clenched my stomach and I swallowed deeply. It made me realize that all those months apart did nothing to quell me from wanting to spend an eternity of nights with him; I needed him by me always.

The last months passed by my eyes, the barren time gloomy without him by my side. A few memories toward the end lightened up some, due to Jacob's presence, making me sigh deeply in pain. Jacob was not a safe subject to visit at the moment so I pushed him away quickly, locking my memories away for now. I shook my head and looked back up at the mirror, my eyes having drifted during my daydreaming.

I barely controlled the urge to scream as bright, blood-ruby red eyes stared at me from the glass.

Almost instantly the image was my own face again, my normal brown eyes back in place, clouded over with fear. I blinked my eyes rapidly, trying to dispel the image from my brain. My hands were shaky as I turned on the sink, blindly washing my hands so I'd have something else to focus on.

It wasn't me, I told myself. It won't ever be me.

I knew deep down that I wouldn't be like that; Edward wouldn't allow me to feed on humans, he'd make sure I was kept safely away till my resistance and control was better. He wouldn't let me be a monster. But would Jacob see me that way? Would I just be another leech in his eyes? Could I handle that?

I gave up on washing my hands and quickly exited the bathroom, knowing I was in no shape to face the rest of school before I collected myself. Lunch was barely still in session as I wandered outside, other students starting to head to their next classes early. It wasn't until I was insight of the parking lot that I considered ditching the last two classes of the day. I walked closer toward my escape, never-minding that my truck wasn't there.

It was while I was still going back and forth in my head on whether it was worth to start walking when I heard the all-too familiar rumbling engine turn into the gravel parking lot. My eyes shot up instantly, shock written across my features. I felt my feet pick up the closer I got to the black motorcycle, nearly reaching him at a dead run, my heart hammering in my chest.

"Jacob..."

Again, so sorry for the long time between posting. Since I already have in mind what I want to happen in the next chapter, it shouldn't be as long as a wait - that and I have people who know me in real life reading this now and they will threaten me with bodily harm if I take too long in updating...

Peace, Love, Twilight

Melissa

(I know, I know, totally corny but I couldn't help myself...lol)