Minor Inconvenience
CHAPTER TEN
I woke up on the couch, feeling refreshed and oddly at ease. I heard a gentle creaking coming from the corner.
"Are you mad," I questioned as I turned toward the rocking chair.
"No, Bella, I'm not mad. Just a little disappointed," sighed Esme, "We really are trying to do right by you. Edward feels so inconsolable for what he has done. Trust me when I say that this incident is extremely out of character for my son. Being able to hear a person's mind truly humanizes them in Edward's mind. He sees their faults but empathizes with how they made certain conclusions and errors. Of all my children, Edward is by far the most compassionate. It is tragic that you had to meet him under these circumstances."
"Esme, please, I am not ready to forgive him for what he has done, nor the consequences of his actions that your entire family has aided in. I will, however, apologize for the damage done to the car."
With a smile, Esme responded, "That was not your fault. Rose was a little enraged at your antics, but she could have and should have resorted to other means than totaling her own vehicle."
I sat up, keeping my eyes on my hands in my lap.
"Why don't you shower and get dressed. Come downstairs when you're ready and we'll prepare breakfast for you."
"I don't suppose I could take a rain-check and instead get a ride into down?"
Softly smiling, Esme replied, "No, sorry, Bella. Call me if you need anything, hon."
I suppose there's no reason to acquiesce and just shower. Upon my return to the bedroom, I noticed a new pair of clothing had been set out for me. While the price tags were no longer on the articles of clothing, there was no doubt in my mind that they were new. They fit entirely too well to have been one of the Cullen's female members. Accepting the free clothes, I towel dried by hair before brushing it. Taking a final deep breath, I ventured out to the kitchen.
As I turned the corner, I noticed Esme was fiddling with a coffee maker. She turned when I made a small cough, "Hello, dear! What would you like for breakfast? We have pancake mix, sausage, bacon, eggs, hash browns, and bread for toast. I even bought cereal and Pop Tarts – though, I'm not sure if the latter is necessarily the most nutritiously satisfactory choice, according to Carlisle."
"You didn't have to get all that, Esme. That's a whole lot of food for just one person. I doubt I'll ever be able to eat that much."
"It's alright dear. Whatever you don't eat can always be given away. What sounds good?"
Remembering my last experience with Cullen-meals, I knew right away I had to refrain from anything requiring prep work or that is not already pre-packaged. "I'd actually love a Pop Tart right now."
Esme turned and pulled out an unopened package and handed it to me, along with a juice pack. While I'd normally complain about the connection between me drinking out of a juice box and a child, I was just thrilled that I could have one meal worry-free from the fear of being unnecessarily drugged.
As I sat down at the countertop bar with my breakfast, I gazed out the window. When I placed the final bit of Pop Tart in my mouth, Carlisle appeared in the doorframe. It was with a hard swallow and bite of my lip that I was able to remain eye contact with him.
"Bella, we have something to show you… Something we hope that will give you closure and the strength, motivation, and courage to move on. Can you follow me please," requested Carlisle.
"Sure, why not. I have nowhere else to go today, right," I mocked, following him to the living room, where I plopped down on a couch.
"I got it, Carlisle," said Jasper as he, Alice, Emmett, Rosalie, and Edward entered the room.
"Thank you," taking the disk from Jasper, Carlisle placed it in the disk drive and allowed it to load.
The screen changed from black to blue. The picture once against shifted to a picture of a gym – Forks High's gym. Instead of volleyball nets, there were countless chairs and tables set up.
The picture skipped, flashing to an image of the hall completely packed with people. Those who weren't able to sit were standing.
"Good morning and welcome to Forks High School Gymnasium. Thank you for going us today for this memorial service. It is my duty — and my honor — to begin this campus-wide day of remembrance as we mark the one-week anniversary of the terrible events of last Friday. I hope you all can and will participate in the many activities planned today. We are gathered here today to honor our fallen students and faculty whose lives were suddenly snatched in an unexpected and tragic act. Among occupants of biology classroom 304, the lost include Jessie Westlund, Nelson Gunning, Tabitha Willcutt, Christian Grado, Lance Revilla, Michael Newton, Kelly Crystal, Bryan Keen, Joshua Cordes, Diane Palm, Tony Gatewood, Isabella Swan, David Branson, Patrick Shoemaker, James Schmitz, Henry Viera, Angela Webber, Jacob Truss, Clair Walters, Lucille Webster, Kevin Dow, Allison Culler, Shawn Steen, Christopher Bledsoe, Daniel Badillo, Timothy Henke, Joann Maynard, William Spiegel, and their teacher, Mark Banner. Today, we are gathered to honor these fallen. We are here today to honor their parents, their siblings, their families who have suffered immeasurable pain. We are here today to honor the students of this great institution who consoled each other only on that tragic day and in the weeks and months thereafter. We honor those who arrived on the scene first and handled the situation to ensure the safety of the rest of the school population, as well as search through the perilous flames for life. Thousands of lives have been touched by these 29. Though our grief, we recognize that we are all one community, forever bound by this horrific loss as we each pursue healing. Through one another, we've found the strength to continue living and been overcome with compassion to comfort others, while also willing to let our own tears overcome us. As we learn to move forward —together—to resume our work, to teach our classes, to simply live. All of these individuals – fallen angels – had dreams. We honor them when we fulfill our own. At this time, individual parties will deliver eulogies. Please listen and open your hearts."
The screen flashed, showing a rapid display of faces as families talked about their fallen students. Chief Swan appeared on the screen in his police uniform and a handkerchief in hand.
"Bella – Isabella – Swan was—is my only child. When she was born, she was such a tiny little thing, I loved her instantly with all my heart. I remember promising to myself that no harm would come to here; I vowed to lay down my life for her and to make the world a better place for her. Her birth was my motivation for entering law enforcement. Bella loved reading – shopping for her for Christmas was always a breeze. She was intelligent, loving, compassionate, and ambitious. Having her back in Forks this year was thrilling; I was so excited to actually be her father – not just from a distance but actually living with her and mentoring her to the best of my abilities. As head chef in our family, Bella made the best spaghetti and meatballs, as well as delicious cobbler. She was my light and joy," Charlie huffed out with tears welling in his eyes as others were released down his cheeks and were quickly absorbed by his beard, "I love you so much, Bella. I'm heartbroken that I lost you – that I couldn't protect you like I had promised. My only relief is that you are in a better place. I love you so much, my darling daughter."
The screen once again flashed, this time back to the main speaker.
"Feel free to visit the stations set up around the room honoring the lost students and faculty. A great deal of love and thought were put into these displays and the families greatly appreciate your desire to get to know these fine individuals."
Once more, the picture changed to a view of one of the tables. Upon it was a collage representing Bella. Baby photos, artwork, and even a copy of Pride and Prejudice decorated the table. A hand reached in and grabbed the most recent photo of Bella next to a cactus. Zooming out, the man was revealed to be none other than Charlie Swan, the eternally grieving father.
The video cut off, forcing the television to resume a blue screen.
"You're all sick, all of you! Why are you so cruel," I cried as tears openly flowed down my cheeks, "You're monsters! You put Ted Bundy to shame!"
"Our intention was not be cruel or inhumane, Bella. We want—"
"Nevermind what you want! What about what I want! Christ," I stood and paced angrily, allowing my voice to elevate, "They think I'm dead! Look at the suffering you're causing!"
"Bella, I know you must be upset, but we cannot risk letting you return. You've been with us for over a week and there's no explanation for you appearance. I'm deeply sorry," reasoned Carlisle.
"We wanted to illustrate a point, Bella," added Jasper, "Everyone believes you to be dead. You need to accept that. There is nothing in Forks for you anymore."
"There is nothing for any of us here," complained Rosalie, "This event will forever haunt Forks."
"Our best bet is to leave – there won't be another opportunity of this caliber ever again," reasoned Jasper.
Interrupting, I questioned, "When precisely are youall leaving?"
"We're leaving today," said Edward, looking at the ground.
"I HATE YOU. I'd rather commit suicide that letting you do this to me; I won't!"
I stormed off, running towards the bedroom, slamming the door and continuing to run into the bathroom. I locked the door before I collapsed into a heap on the ground. My stomach was turning and completely in knots. I lost control, retching into the toilet.
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"Bella, can you please come out of the bathroom, I'd hate to break down the door."
"As if! You wouldn't do that!"
"Just try me. Emmett would love the satisfaction of hearing the wood splinter. One more chance, Bella: open the door."
Through the door, I gave him my dirtiest look.
Emitting a sigh, he continued, "Bella. I'm trying to do the right thing here. Please. You can either cooperate or you can be difficult and act like a child. What's it going to be?"
I opened the door, "If I act like a child, do I have to sit in a car seat?" I questioned.
"Well, that's up to you. But somehow, I don't think they make them that big, but there's always room in the trunk."
"No! You wouldn't."
Shrugging, he smirked at me.
"If you could just do as you're told, we wouldn't be in this predicament," he mouthed, while holding a hand out for me, "Now. Come."
Considering my options, the reality of the situation gets to me. I needed to play nice—if just for a short while so they trust me. That's not to say I'm not still going to seek other opportunities but for the mean time, a little cooperation couldn't hurt.
Ignoring his extended hand, I stepped out of the bathroom and felt his hand ghost along my back and lead me downstairs.
I balked when we arrived at the garage door, remaining firmly planted inside.
Slamming the trunk closed, Carlisle turned and looked at me. "You're being rather difficult, Bella. I'd prefer for you to remain awake, but it seems as though it's going to be too much for you to handle."
"I swear to God that if you fucking knock me out again then I will tear you apart. You think I'm bad now, just wait until we 'move.'"
"Woah! Somebody's showing her claws."
"Sorry, Bella, but I need you to give me your shoes," Jasper ordered, "Here are some slippers."
"They're called UGGS, Jasper," stressed Alice.
"If you wake up on the plane, do not freak out. I have notes stating I am your attending therapist-physician."
"Can I be her nurse?"
"Emmett," hushed Rosalie.
"Woah, woah, woah! Hang on! What's going on?"
"It's time, Bella."
"Hold on now for a second; let's think about this calmly and rationally."
"I'm sorry, but we must be going. The plane takes off in a couple hours and we still have to do a few errands. If you would get in, Bella, we can be going. Please, we're giving you the chance to get in yourself."
"I don't want this. Stop it! Please," I pleaded, gripping the door's framing.
"However informal this may be, Bella, we want you to have the chance to say goodbye to Forks. I know this must be hard for you, but our time here is up. It's time to move on."
"If you would, Bella. We'll leave once you're in and all buckled."
"Please, Carlisle, this is your chance to let me go! I'm asking you, from one person to another: release me. I don't want to go with you just was much you guys don't want me tagging along. I promise you, no one will ever know the truth."
"Bella, I'll asking you one more time: release the door frame and get into the car. We need to get going."
Closing my eyes, I exhaled and stepped away from the garage door. I neared Carlisle, who opened the back door to his Mercedes.
I kept my hands on the car's cold frame and hesitantly lifted my foot into it.
"Would you have her hurry up already? We'll miss the flight at the rate she's going."
I retracted, "I can't do this. Please, please, don't make me do this."
"Bella…" A phone began ringing. Desperately I searched for it; it was coming from Carlisle. I stepped towards him, but Edward latched onto me in a gentle, yet restraining embrace. He kept my face turned towards him, muffling my attempts to get the caller's attention.
"Dr. Cullen," Carlisle answered, "Indeed, yes I did. Right. We'll be right there. We were actually heading to the airport, so I'll have to stop by really quickly in order to make the flight. Thank you, Dr. Snow."
With a click his phone was stowed and his brow burrowed. "Change of plans, Edward. We have to go to the hospital first and then go to the airport. We'll have to take my car and leave yours behind – it'll be easier that way."
"C'mon, Bella."
Cursing and spitting profanities at Edward, he placed me in the car and effortlessly buckled me in while deflecting my fists.
Going to unbuckle, I noticed strange lattices running across the "PUSH" button. "What the fuck is this?"
"Just a little safety precaution, Bella," answered Carlisle as he revved the engine, "It's called a Buckle Guard."
"This is bullshit! Where the fuck did you buy this – what if you crash the car and I can't get out of it? I'd die! Is this part of some master plan? Because if it is—"
"I'm afraid not, Bella. We want you to remain in your seat, buckled up, rather than having to wrestle with you and engage in a battle of endurance. So please just enjoy the ride. We'll be home shortly."
I slumped against the leather seat, emitting a squeak. This isn't over yet – not by a long shot.
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"Bella," I glanced at Carlisle in the rear-view mirror, "I need to turn in some paperwork for my resignation and gather some supplies. While we're here, it would be beneficial for you not to draw attention to yourself. Edward will be with you. Behave."
"Can I at least be unbuckled? I mean, it's not like I don't have a babysitter."
"Close your eyes, Bella." Huffing, I obliged. "And no peaking." The belt snapped opened.
"I'll be right back, Edward, Bella."
Silence engulfed the car.
"Bella, could I talk to you for a second." I didn't respond, just kept gazing longingly out the window.
"I am so sorry, Bella. You deserve so much more and I cannot express how angry I am at myself for taking away… well, everything from you. I will never forgive myself, and frankly, I would not blame you for not being able to accept my apology. But, I think you need to not let this stop you. Though you disagree, you can and will be happy again. Maybe not today, or next week, or even next month, but sooner or later down the road, you will be happy and know that a bright future still lies ahead of you. Know that from here on out, I promise to always protect you, against all costs and opponents. No more harm will ever come to you, Isabella Swan. You have my word."
"Don't make promises you aren't prepared to keep," I whispered.
It was then that Carlisle returned, carrying a box and a black duffle bag. Setting the box on the car's roof, he opened my passenger door. Startled, I shifted away, only to fall into Edward's lap.
As I went to move off of him, I realized Edward was reaching for me. Startled, I questioned, "Edward, what are you doing?"
A broken look crossed his face, " I'm sorry Bella, but this is the best way. Forgive us," he murmured, "Forgive me."
I looked at Carlisle as he filled a syringe with a clear liquid from a small glass bottle.
"Woah! What is that?" I asked as my eyes widened.
"Just a little something to get you through the trip—it'll relax you. If you start to feel drowsy, do not be alarmed; this is to be expected. Closing your eyes will alleviate any dizziness or nausea you might feel."
I frowned, "What is it?"
"Trust, Bella. You'll be fine. Edward," prompted Carlisle.
Hell no. As I evaded Edward's outstretched hand, I shouted at him, "Stop it! I refuse medical treatment from you, Carlisle! This is medically unethical! You vowed never to go against a patient's wishes."
Pursing his lips together, I heard Carlisle say, "She's right." But before I could celebrate, Carlisle countered my statement, "But you aren't a patient Bella. I'm sorry, but I think this is the best way to go. I don't want to put you or my family in any more danger than what we are currently in. We cannot risk another complication. I apologize. Edward, hold her steady."
"You fucking bastard! Get that needle away from me," I scrambled away from him and was opening the door when I was grabbed from behind. Leaning over me, Edward locked the door. Snatching my wrists, Edward lifted me into sitting position and placed me in my seat, keeping a firm grip of my arm.
"Edward. Let me go you fucking murderer! You promised to protect me," he stiffened and loosened his grip enough for me to break free, rushing towards the open door.
"Edward," Carlisle stated. I suddenly found myself on Edward's lap, securely placed between his legs in the middle seat.
I lost it. "Fuck you, fuck your family, and fuck your sedatives! I swear to God, if it's the last thing I do you WILL be punished for what you've done." I struggled fruitlessly in Edward's lap, as his arms and legs effectively encased me. I couldn't be incapacitated for the plane ride. This might be my only shot at really getting out of here.
Carlisle neared me, wiping my skin with an alcohol wipe. Retaliating, I did the one thing I've never done to a person more than I've done to Carlisle: I spat.
"Isabella, you are an adult. I understand you are upset, but you should refrain from projecting spittle at others. It's very unladylike and unbecoming," he said while picking up the syringe again, "If you continue to do so, I'll make sure to invest in a spit guard. As you'll look ridiculous with it on and no doubt feel like a muzzled animal, I suggest that you act mature and do not spit."
Despite my tense muscles, Carlisle slid the needle into my arm. I could feel the drug rushing into me and gradually cycling into my blood stream. I tried to squirm more, honest I did, but I kept finding it more difficult to get excited, to find a sense of urgency; I was beginning to feel calm and completely at peace with everything.
"Shh," comforted Edward. I hadn't realized I'd been whimpering.
"Good girl, Bella. We'll be at the new house in no time, you'll see." Carlisle turned around and started the car. Gently, Edward sat me down beside him with my head resting on his shoulder.
"You cannot keep me forever. I will not be caged," I yawned.
"True, but you won't always remain so firm in your convictions. Rest now. We'll be home soon."
My eye closed as my mind reverberated one word: home.
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My longest chapter thus far! I hope it was worth the wait. It took me awhile to write it out and I'm still not 100% happy with it, so expect it be be edited at some point. Feel free to leave feedback and add it to your story alerts! The reason I rushed this chapter to be published is because of the significance of 12-21-09. I received my college acceptance letter two years ago to the day - a joyous event that has impacted me deeply. I hope you all have a lovely holiday season, devoid of classes/work, and filled will love, family time, and rest. Happy holidays!