Hey guys! First off, thanks a bunch to everyone who favorited/alerted me! I really appreciate it. I've decided to do lots of random blurbs from the Twilight Saga in EPOV, just because you'll seem to like them. They will be completely canon to the books, and I'll do my best to capture Edward's brooding personality. I'll also change the summary of the story each time I put up a new chapter.
This one's starts right after Bella's paper cut and ends when Edward breaks up with her. For some parts, like the breakup, and the conversation after her birthday, I copied it word for word from New Moon. However, I tried to make it different by adding in Edward's thoughts and reactions to what Bella said. So please sit back, grab a few tissues if you're emotional, and enjoy. Oh, and review. I had over 200 reads, but only 3 reviews!
Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight.
The moment I registered Jasper's craving thoughts, I knew this would end badly. I had brought Bella here on her birthday to celebrate, not get killed.
But that was exactly what would have happened, had Jasper not been stopped. But just because Bella wasn't killed, that didn't mean everything was back to normal. His snap was like a slap of reality, the harsh risks I was taking by introducing Bella into my world. It reminded me that her biggest threat wasn't skidding vans or her lack of coordination…it was us. More specifically, me.
I was the one who was most incited by her scent. I was the one who almost killed her that day in Biology. I was the one who left her when James was tracking her. And I was the one who didn't pull her out of the room the moment the gift wrap pierced her skin.
Me.
I found it difficult to inhale the tantalizing smell of the blood. It was everywhere, on my piano, the walls, the floor, the shattered crystal. Esme had returned, under control, and was looking for the bleach. Her thoughts were almost as calm as her husband's.
Bella was being patched up by Carlisle, who was the only one not affected. After several moments, Bella and my father persuaded me outside, and I offered little resistance.
Please help him. Alice's mind pleaded.
I sighed and stepped into the backyard, breathing in the fresh air. I heard Jasper's snarls of agony coming from the woods and I ran to him.
Emmett still had his arms wrapped around him, while Rosalie halfheartedly told him to calm down. Her thoughts were smug and victorious. She was pleased that she hadn't snapped like her brother.
I scoffed at her vanity and listened in on Jasper. His mind was crazed, somewhat like mine the first day I met Bella. He was thinking about how he would get to her once everyone left, how he would appear in her bedroom and drain her body.
I snarled and sprang forward, tackling him to the ground. Jasper's pitch black eyes burned into mine as he wriggled in my grasp.
"Alice would hate you." I growled, slamming his head to the ground. Emmett stood by uncertainly, wondering if he should remove Jasper from my grasp, or help me pin him down.
Recognition flitted on Jasper's face, along with a touch of fear. Slowly, he stopped his movements, his eyes dulled, and his breathing became less frenzied. I pushed myself off him, but kept tense, incase he chose to fight.
Before I could say anything else, Alice arrived, her face masking nothing but concern, sadness and relief.
"Jasper." she whispered, putting her hands on his chest.
Emmett and Rosalie walked away, giving the couple some space. I didn't.
I stood stiffly as Alice murmured soft, soothing words to Jasper, calming him down. Finally, after several minutes, he looked at me.
"I'm sorry." my brother choked out, wincing at my cold gaze.
Alice shot me a disapproving look and I rearranged my features.
But Jasper still felt my anger and backed away, looking broken.
"Edward, it'll be ok." Alice's voice soothed.
I shook my head, raking my hands through my wild hair. Alice's eyes were begging me to comfort Jasper.
For Alice, I did.
"Jasper…go hunt, please." I said softly.
"Edward, I'm sorry. Forgive me."
I nodded, "It wasn't your fault." I replied, knowing that that was true. If anyone's fault, it was mine.
Alice pulled Jasper away, and they dashed off into the woods.
Thank you. Alice's mind said. I'll be back in a few minutes.
I didn't want to go back inside, to face the worry in my love's eyes, but I had to. I slowly made my way into Carlisle's study, where Bella sat. He was telling her about my history.
"…wasn't sorry, though. I've never been sorry that I saved Edward." he finished, a smile in his voice. Normally my heart would swell with the love I felt for my family. But tonight…there was nothing but pain.
"I suppose I should take you home now." Carlisle offered.
I stepped into their view, "I'll do that." I said quietly. I felt Bella's eyes on me, but I avoided her gaze.
"Carlisle can take me." Bella protested. Was there a trace of fear in her voice? Could she really not be alone with me?
"I'm fine." I assured her, "You'll need to change anyways. You'd give Charlie a heart attack the way you look. I'll have Alice get you something." I said, walking out. Alice was already shuffling through Esme's closet, trying to find something suitable for Bella to wear.
Alice came downstairs and I followed her. She pulled Bella upstairs to change, and I heard their conversation regarding me mental state.
I sighed and avoided my parent's eyes. They're minds were filled with concern.
I held the door open for Bella and smiled lightly when she struggled holding the presents Alice threw at her.
We rode in silence for a while, the air tense around us.
"Say something." Bella begged.
"What do you want me to say?" I asked her, cringing inwardly at the pain on her face.
"Tell me you forgive me."
"Forgive you? For what?" I seethed angrily. How could she possibly blame herself for this fiasco…oh wait, this was Bella Swan.
"If I'd been more careful, nothing would have happened." she replied, as if she actually believed what she was saying. "It's still my fault."
That brought a new found frustration in me, along with the anger. Frustration at the situation and anger at myself for not being careful. I ranted to her about her being with Mike Newton, him being better for her, her opportunity for a normal life if I hadn't came in the picture. By the end of our argument, I was thoroughly disgusted with myself.
When Bella asked me to stay over, every fiber of my being wanted to say yes. But I couldn't. Not when my family was waiting back home, waiting for my next course of action. There were so many things we needed to discuss.
However, when she played the birthday card, I smirked internally and my resolve faltered. Like a puppy, I gave in, and climbed the window to her room. Damn the large chocolate brown eyes and sad face. I heard her bid her father a goodnight and take a shower.
When she came inside, I let her snuggle next to me and ask to open her gifts.
Reverse psychology. Well, I brought it upon myself, I suppose.
I showed her the plane tickets Carlisle and Esme had purchased and laughed at her enthusiasm. However, when I played the CD I'd made for her, I watched in agony as tears began to drip from her eyes. Did she not like it?
Bella thanked me, putting my doubts to ease, and then I went to get her some Tylenol. I could tell her arm was throbbing.
After she took the pills, we sat quietly, just listening to my compositions. My mind, however, was elsewhere. As I peered at the beautiful girl wrapped up in my arms, I knew what I had to do. I had to stop being selfish. I had to let her go, let her enjoy her greatest gift of humanity, without someone like me burdening her.
When I told her I was thinking of right and wrong, she quickly changed the subject. Again, Bella played the birthday card, asking me to kiss her. How could I refuse that. Especially if this was the last time I'd get to truly kiss her.
I tried to pour all my feelings for her in the kiss, hoping that she would understand. That someday, far off in the future, she would think back to me, and realize that I would never stop loving her.
Reality snapped back in, and I gently pushed her away, not wanting to bruise her lips. Then, I put her to bed, watching the best thing in my life slowly fall asleep.
For the last night in my existence, I drank in my mate's beauty. She was stunning, especially all peaceful and calm during her slumber. I felt the sting of venom in my eyes, but they would not fall.
The sun rose up, and Bella woke. I knew I had to talk to my family immediately, inform them of my plan. I had limited time to do so. I kissed her quickly and sprinted outside, running back to the house.
Everyone had returned and were seated at the dining table. I took my spot next to Carlisle.
After a moment of silence, Carlisle spoke.
"How is she?" he asked.
"She blames herself." was all I said.
Everyone, even Rosalie, chuckled.
"Well, that's good then. Problem solved." Esme said happily.
Edward, please don't do this. Please, please. Alice's internal voice pleaded. She knew what was coming.
"No, Esme, it's not." I said.
All eyes were on me.
"I cant risk her like this anymore." I began. "Bella deserves more, a chance…at a normal life. I don't want to inflict more danger on her than I already have."
"Edward, I can leave." Jasper offered, "I'm the only one that struggles."
I shook my head, "It wasn't your fault, Jasper. And this isn't the first time my involvement with her brought something bad. Remember Phoenix? And Victoria is still on the loose." I explained.
"If that redhead's still free, we cant just leave Bella unprotected." Emmett declared hotly.
"I can catch her on my own." I replied.
"Bullshit!" he yelled, slamming his fist on the table. "You cant just leave the girl like that. Anything could happen."
Carlisle nodded, "He's right, Edward. Bella Swan has a knack for getting in sticky spots."
"Charlie can take care of her. And I'll ask her to keep herself safe. Bella would do that." I told him.
"You cant make decisions for us." Rosalie spat. "Go hide yourself, you coward, but don't you dare tell anyone else to leave. That power doesn't lie with you."
"We WILL leave." I growled, "I will not allow any more unnecessary danger to be inflicted on Bella."
"You don't tell us what to do. If we want to stay, we will. None of us brought that human in the house. It's your problem, you fix it." Rosalie snarled. Emmett laid a hand on her shoulder, restraining her from attacking me.
I wasn't fazed. I figured Rosalie would put up a fight, but if I could convince Esme, everyone else would listen. After all, Carlisle had made it his life's mission to agree with her. And everyone listened to Carlisle.
"Son, you need to think about this. If we leave, what will become of you? Of Bella? You two need each other." Esme said, patting my hand.
"Edward, she'll rot without you." Alice said, flashing me a vision of Bella curled up on her armchair during the winter. Her eyes were dull, bags underneath them, and she was far too thin. Even her gorgeous mane of hair was limp and dry.
"She'll get over it." I said simply.
"Coward." Rosalie snapped again.
"Rose." chided Esme.
"Edward, you must think about this. Is this the best path for Bella?" Carlisle asked.
"What about the vision, Edward." Alice cried, "It showed a happy ending."
Her mind drifted back to the perfectly clear vision of Bella and her, both vampires, and both smiling.
I shook it off, "Your visions change."
Carlisle sighed in resignation. I was surprised, I was prepared for a lot more arguing, a few broken pieces of furniture, and loud sobbing. Maybe I was melodramatic…
"If you believe that our departure will help Bella. If you truly feel she will move on and live a happier life than she is now, you have my support. But don't do this rashly. The consequences would be severe." he warned.
Rosalie's jaw dropped, but she stayed silent. She may not ever listen to me, but she respected and loved Carlisle and Esme, and would do anything they asked.
I nodded, "We must leave. Immediately." I said, standing up.
Everyone was quiet, except for Alice choking back sobs. Jasper shot me an angry look, but for once, I didn't care about my sister's pain.
"I'll go to school today, the rest of you must leave before Bella comes over to investigate. Carlisle, call up the Elzear, I'm sure they will all understand." I told them.
Alice glared at me, "I want to say goodbye."
"No, Alice. A clean break is what's best for my Bella. We've ruined her life enough as it is." I said.
"My Bella?" Rosalie sneered, "You fucking asshole, she isn't your Bella anymore. You don't have claim over her now."
The pain in my chest was unbearable, like a knife had twisted through my heart. Rosalie was right. Bella wasn't mine anymore.
I was waiting for Bella at school, watching her eye me carefully. She knew something was up, especially when Alice didn't show up to lunch, like the rest of my siblings. I offered her a practiced reply when she asked about it. The day passed at slog's pace, and Bella asked me to come over after her work at Newton's. With limited time left before my departure, I craved every minute I got to spend with her. Yet, I didn't want to look too excited, I had to slowly detach myself.
After a few hours, I rang Bella's doorbell, and Charlie answered.
"She's at work." he said gruffly, shuffling to the kitchen. I followed him inside and declined his offer of fresh pizza. To me it smelled ghastly, but the way he shoved it down meant that it must have been good. Of course, it didn't take much to exceed Charlie's expectations. After, I sat on the couch and shut down my mind while the chief watched television.
Bella came home soon, slightly shocked to see Charlie and I together. I knew her mind was panicking, thinking the worst regarding my strange behavior. She walked out after a quick greeting.
A few minutes later, Bella came back, her new camera in her hand. She began snapping pictures of us, obviously trying to lighten the mood. When Charlie took one of us together, I felt Bella's body next to me. It was tense, stressed out, and exhausted.
I left shortly after, declining her request to stay overnight. I had to call the moving vans and shut down the mansion. Hopefully, everyone was gone by now. I couldn't bear to see their sad faces and hear their worried thoughts. I need peace.
I spent the night pulling white sheets over the furniture, having the cars transported to Alaska, and packing any leftover belongings and lugging them into the Volvo. When I was in my room, my eyes came upon a note on my bed. It was from Alice.
Edward, it read.
You're making the world's biggest mistake. If you would have seen what I did, you would take back your decision. Jasper and I are going away for a while, we'll be back in a few weeks. Tell Bella that I'm sorry, that I'll always miss her. She'll still be my best friend. Make sure she knows that, that we all still care. Tell her the truth. Please, for me.
Alice
I sighed and pulled out my phone, opening a new text to my sister.
Stop looking into her future. We're done with her now. And let me handle how to let her go.
It was harsh, and rude, but it had to be said. All of us would leave Bella alone now, no matter what.
I came to school the next day, avoiding Bella. She was hurt, but I prayed that her mind was preparing itself for what was to come. I watched as she interacted with her human friends easily, and I knew I was making the right choice. Humans wouldn't harm Bella, vampires would. Thankfully, she didn't ask me to stay over this time. Maybe she was sick of me. Whatever the reason, I ran all the way up to Canada and drowned my sorrows in hunting. Then, I climbed through Bella's window one last time, watching her in her fitful sleep. Never in my life had I seen anything so stunning. She was in white shorts and a white tank top, tossing and turning, her hair wild and the sheets twisted around her. She was an angel. An angel who didn't need an asshole like me near her.
My eyes scanned across her room, burning each and every detail into my mind. I would never forget the little stack of books on her nightstand, or the scruffy sneakers lying under her bed. I would always remember rocking chair, where I used to sit, and the cramped closet, where I would occasionally hide. I breathed in Bella's scent, the floral smell of freesias and blossom. So feminine, so innocent, so sweet. I was a corruption to her goodness. When my eyes trailed over the cluttered dresser, I saw the blue striped scrapbook laying open on it. I slowly made my way over, and flipped through the finished pages. I skimmed through the photos of her human friends, and then saw the pictures that she took a couple of days ago at home. There was one with her father. She looked so scared, so sad. I cringed at the fact that her emotions were my fault…as usual.
Then there was the one with me in it. But it was folded in half, hiding the girl. Sighing at Bella's lack of self-esteem, I pried the photo off, flattening it. Just as I was about to reapply it, though, the idea of a 'clean break' flitted through my mind. I needed to cut all reminders of myself from her life, so I carefully pocketed it instead. It was mine now, to add to my collection of Bella-treasures. I shut the album and made my way over to the new CD player I'd given Bella. Popping it open, I pulled out my CD and held it in my shaking hands. My love for Bella was palpable on this CD. All those compositions, they were played for her, no one else. Despite all my wishes, deep inside, I didn't want Bella to forget me. It was selfish, and cruel, I knew, but I wanted it. So I walked over to the side of her bed, crouched down, and ran my fingers over the floorboards until I found the loose one.
I lifted it up and placed the photo, and the CD inside, praying that one day, she would find it.
The last day with Bella was painfully silent. Neither of us made any attempt at conversation, and I knew it was time.
"Do you mind if I come over today?" I asked her after school.
"Of course not." she replied, confused.
"Now?"
"Sure." her voice was shaky. "I was just going to drop a letter for Renee in the mailbox on the way. I'll meet you there.
I stared at the envelope and plucked it off the seat, "I'll do it." I offered, "And I'll still beat you there."
I gave her a forced smirk.
"Okay." she whispered, watching me leave. I sped to the post office and dropped off the letter and then drove back to her house. The driveway was empty, but fortunately, not for long. Six minutes later, the orange truck pulled up, groaning and roaring. I wish I could by her a new car.
I got out and held out my hand, preparing myself. "Come for a walk with me."
I didn't wait for an answer, in case she decided to refuse. I pulled her into the woods, dragging her past all the trees. I felt her panic, and stopped.
"Okay let's talk." Bella said nervously.
This was it.
"Bella we're leaving."
She didn't look surprised, "Why now? Another year-"
"Bella, it's time. How much longer could we stay in Forks, after all? Carlisle can barely pass for thirty, and he's claiming thirty-three now. We'd have to start over soon regardless."
She was confused, obviously not expecting the entire family to shift. She thought she'd be coming with us.
But after staring into my blank eyes for a few seconds, realization dawned upon her.
"When you say we-" she whispered, turning pale.
"I mean my family and myself." I said emotionlessly. Pain shot through my heart, and I hated myself even more for telling Bella this horrible lie.
"Okay," she said finally, "I'll come with you."
There was determination in her voice. But it wouldn't win me over today.
"You cant, Bella. Where we're going…It's not the right place for you." I winced, the venom stinging my eyes.
"Where you are is the right place for me."
I think it was the other way around.
"I'm not good for you Bella." I told her gently.
"Don't be ridiculous." Bella spat, "You're the best part of my life."
How she had it all wrong. I was the worst thing to ever happen to her. I was a monster…and she…she was a fucking angel.
"My world is not for you." I replied sadly.
"What happened with Jasper-that was nothing, Edward! Nothing!" she cried desperately.
"You're right," I agreed, "It was exactly what was to be expected."
This time, I wasn't lying.
"You promised! In Phoenix, you promised that you would stay-" she began hotly.
"As long as that was best for you." I finished.
"No! this is about my soul, isn't it. Carlisle told me about that, and I don't care, Edward. I don't care! You already have my soul. I don't want it without you-it's yours already." she declared angrily, the beginnings of tears welling up in her beautiful eyes.
I frowned, seeing no other option. No matter how long I lived, I would hate myself for saying the following words:
"Bella, I don't want you to come with me."
There was a pause as Bella struggled to come to terms with what I just said.
"You…don't…want me?" she uttered.
"No."
I needed to get out of here. If she pleaded, my resolve would break. Fast.
"Well that changes things." she said calmly, the hurt in her eyes replaced with coldness.
She really did hate me now.
I figured this was our goodbye, and in last words, I tried to convey all my love to her.
"Of course, I'll always love you…in a way. But what happened the other night made me realize that it's time for a change. Because I'm…tired to pretending to be something I'm not, Bella. I am not human. I've let this go on much too long, and I'm sorry for that." I said. I should have told her that I still loved her, and would forever, with all my heart. I should have said that I wasn't tired of being 'human', but I was angry that I couldn't play the part well enough. I should have never apologized for letting our relationship bloom. It was the best part of my existence…and it would stay the best part of my existence.
"Don't." Bella cried softly, "Don't do this."
I was about to lean in for a kiss and then call my family and tell them to return, but for once, I pushed aside my own needs. I focused on hers and the most despicable of lies slipped from my lips.
"You're not good for me, Bella." the words tasted like fire on my tongue.
Finally, she spoke, her posture stiffer. "If…that's what you want."
Once again, I almost let my wants come in the way by shaking my head, but I ended up nodding. I was numb, still, and empty by now.
We were almost finished, I knew. But there was something I had to do first, for my piece of mind.
"I would like to ask one favor, though, if that's not too much." I said carefully.
"Anything." she promised coldly.
I stared into her chocolate orbs, wanting them to twinkle with happiness again. Soon.
"Don't do anything reckless or stupid." I said sternly, intensely. "Do you understand what I'm saying?"
Bella nodded, just a jerk of her head.
But I remembered that I couldn't ask favors from her any more. As Rosalie so kindly put it, she was no longer MY Bella. She owed me nothing.
"I'm thinking of Charlie, of course. He needs you. Take care of yourself-for him." I lied, trying to convince myself of my pathetic thoughts.
She nodded again, and I let of a sigh of relief. "And I'll make you this promise in return," I said, my voice filled with longing emotion. "I promise that this will be the last time you'll see me. I wont come back . I wont put you through anything like this again. You can go on with your life without anymore interference from me. It will be as if I never existed."
Bella started to shake lightly, and it required extreme self-control to not hold her. Instead, I gave her a kind smile.
"Don't worry," I assured, "You're human-your memory is no more than a sieve. Time heals all wounds for your kind."
It was true, but I hated it.
"And your memories?" she choked out.
How I wish I could tell her the truth, that I would always remember her, and everything I did would be by her standards, with her memory in mind.
"Well-I wont forget. But my kind…we're very easily distracted." I smiled, hoping it would ease her pain slightly. The last thing I needed was Bella to worry about me.
I expected her to argue, to fight some more. To say that I was a liar, and beg me to stay. I wanted her to cry and attempt to kiss or hug me. But this wasn't Bella. My Bell-no-Bella was was selfless. She always put others needs above her own.
I stepped away, "That's everything, I suppose. We wont bother you again."
She didn't say anything for a good minute. "Alice isn't coming back." she gasped.
I shook my head, now hating myself to the limit. For causing Bella pain, along with my beloved sister.
"No, they're all gone. I stayed behind to tell you goodbye." I replied softly.
"Alice…is…gone?" she asked disbelievingly. Frankly, I didn't blame her. For Alice Cullen to leave something she loved dearly without a fight, or for her to simply disappear, was extremely rare. In fact, this was her first time doing so.
"She wanted to say goodbye, but I convinced her that a clean break would be better for you."
More like forced her.
Minutes ticked by, and we stood, staring at each other. I wanted nothing more than for her to not accept my lies, and plead more. The moment she became angry, I would come clean. I couldn't stand for the love of my life to be angry with me…ever.
"Goodbye, Bella." I finally whispered, preparing to turn around.
"Wait!" she cried, coming forward. This is it! I told myself, she'll realize my lies and I'll break down! I felt like a sick masochist for wanting her. I was no good for Bella.
She lunged forward, and I was about to catch her and claim her lips with mine. But instead, I stopped her arms from winding around my neck (or slap me, if she had a hidden inner drama queen), and pressed them to her own sides. For the last time in my life, I kissed Bella. It wasn't on the lips, or the cheek. Hell, it was hardly a kiss, just a peck on the forehead. But my broken heart couldn't take anymore.
Her eyes fluttered close and I breathed her scent, savoring it.
A soft "Take care of yourself." replaced the 'I love you' I was dying to say. Taking last one look at the lovely girl in front of me, I turned around, and ran.
Isabella Marie Swan owned me. She would always own me heart, in everyway. Even if I would never again, own hers.
And thus, began my path to destruction, misery, and hopefully, death.
Review please!
