A/N - Stephenie Meyer owns all things Twilight

We spoke few words on our way home. Bella seemed unusually distracted when she wasn't sound asleep. I was used to her avoidance tactics, having experienced it several times while on the island, but now it was more disconcerting that she did not want to talk, but it was too public to have such conversations.

I watched her thin body carefully for any signs of trouble. Her blood pressure was increased and heart rate was normal, yet there was a different smell to her blood that I hadn't acknowledged. The scent of her blood had been locked away in the back of my thoughts for so long that overlooking the scent was like ignoring the thoughts of others in a crowded room or the dust motes in the air. It was a mere buzz in the background, something irritating and disregarded, in order to control the monster. But now, I knew that there was something more flowing through her veins, making her scent more tantalizing, more proliferate. It wasn't necessarily different but exponentially increased, there was simply more blood. I could see it flowing through her translucent skin. It was better for me to not focus on that.

I watched her facial expressions, ever ready for mood changes or any indication of pain. She displayed no such clues. I woke her as our plane was ready to land just around lunchtime. "Bella? We're home."

She opened her eyes and readjusted her body to sit upright as instructed by the airline stewards. Her feline stretch was slower. "We're home?" she yawned.

"How do you feel?" My concern was evident.

"Edward, I'm fine." She said it without looking at me, slight irritation in her tone, and as if to make it the concluding word on the subject she added, "really."

Ignoring the finality of her tone, "How's the nausea?"

"I haven't had any since we left Houston." She turned to give me a faint smile, her voice a plea to end the subject.

Somehow, her eyes were saying something more, "What are you thinking?" I asked.

She paused and I knew she wouldn't tell me the truth because all the markers of a lie were present when she answered. She looked away, bit her bottom lip, her heart rate changed and she hesitated. "I'm . . . ready . . .to see-- our family."

I was confused. Why would she lie about what she was thinking? Lie to me? We were past such deceptions; at least I'd thought so. Was she angry at what I'd done to her? Was she in so much pain that she wanted to hide it, as she'd done on so many other occasions? Was she just scared? Before I could figure out the pieces to this disturbing puzzle, she started asking me questions, distracting, and mundane questions.

"Did you pack my blue sandals? Where is the camera? Do you think the whole family will be at the airport? You think I can get something to eat?" After I answered the fifteenth question in a row, the inquisition ceased. Her eyes began to mist over and sadness seemed to fall on her.

I forgot about her distracting questions and the puzzling lie. She must be fearful, I assumed. I reassured my wife that everything would be fine. She'd be safe soon. There was no need to worry. The more I comforted her, the more desponded she became so I began to distract her with mundane questions of my own. It was difficult to think of such trivial things when her life was in jeopardy.

"When do you want to call Charlie? Do you think the weather will be nice when we get home? Are you cold? Do you think we should call Renee and Phil?"

She indulged my questions with friendly responses, seemingly welcoming the respite from the danger she was exposed to, yet again.

The entire family greeted us at the airport. Carlisle and Esme were the first to give us hugs, Esme lingering close to Bella after their embrace. I knew that Carlisle would have told them everything. It was comforting to be home and share their thoughts.

Jasper nodded his head to us, while Alice enthusiastically hugged us both. "I was so worried something happened to you both. I've missed you. You can't imagine how boring it's been around here." Careful for Rosalie, she's on the war path and it's not good.

I couldn't grasp how Rosalie could turn our situation into her feud. She was self-consumed and little interested in things that did not revolve around her. I incorrectly concluded that her wrath had nothing to do with us.

Rosalie glared at me when we came into the aisles leading to the elevators. Bella wiggled away from me and ran into the open arms of Rosalie.

"Let's go Bella." Rosalie insisted as they turned and walked away. We will not let you kill her baby. "I've made arrangement for you to stay elsewhere." You cannot be trusted Edward, you have to let her go.

I froze in place. It all made sense: the silence, the lie, the distraction. She wasn't afraid of the pregnancy. She did not want it to end. Somehow – she had my phone --she elicited the support of Rosalie to make sure she could keep the . . . And Rosalie was taking Bella away from me. Rosalie!?!

Before I could move to stop their departure, Carlisle placed his hand on my shoulder, "Easy son." He spoke calmly. "There will not be a scene here." Carlisle looked to Jasper who speedily came to my side. I shook Carlisle hand away and stepped forward.

"No, I will not leave him." I heard Bella whisper and hold her ground as Rosalie tried to move her forward. Rosalie spun around to face Bella's frozen stance and their eyes locked.

"This is difficult enough, staying will only make it much more complicated." Rosalie argued. There was several seconds when I wasn't sure which woman's resolve would win out. Finally, as if Bella had an epiphany, she broke.

"I know," she turned to me – reached out her hand, beckoned me. I took it, hungrily. The enormous hurt of the momentary separation would have overwhelmed me had it not been for Jasper's calming talents. But more than the confusion and hurt another dangerous thing had roared its ugly head. My murderous monster had awakened again.

A new campaign was on the forefront, a new enemy. My loathsome bloodlust found its second victim in less than twenty-four hours – my sister. It sought Rosalie with her golden eyes, blond hair and stunning features. Bella's last would be killer, Victoria, was the last to face the angry monster and lost.

Our mortal enemy, the ugly harpy fate had an ally and so did I.

There would be no more discord in front of so many people, I quickly surmised and evaluated an attack plan. We had to leave the crowded airport. I longed for Jasper's thoughts, he was the battle warrior, he'd know how to waylay Rosalie and eradicate the threat to Bella.

I knew the monster was controlling my thoughts, but I didn't care. I would not lose Bella again and the monster had the best chance at success. I would embrace that part of myself.

I held my wife's hand but Rosalie stayed wrapped around Bella's waist, never more than a few inches from us. I watched Rosalie, summarizing her moves, her weaknesses. I would wait. Once our bags were retrieved, we went to the parking deck. Rosalie nearly carried Bella. When they continued to Rosalie's car, I tried to redirect her to the Mercedes with Carlisle and Esme.

My immediate plan to flee with Bella would be foiled if we didn't ride with Carlisle, Rosalie would be on my heels immediately. There would be more time if we rode with Carlisle. I glared at Rosalie, her stark hands gripped around Bella. I couldn't separate the two without harming Bella.

"What are you doing?" I asked Bella as she continued to Rosalie's red convertible.

"We're riding with Rosalie." She was determined.

"I'd like us to spend the time with Carlisle and Esme"

"Not now."

Defeated, I slummed over to Rosalie's car and watched Bella go inside, I quickly took my seat beside her. I was certain that Rosalie would leave me given the opportunity. There'd be no escape.

Rosalie drove and Emmett was in the front seat. Bella laid her hand across my chest and it seemed that she was going to go to sleep. This was damn frustrating, that incompetent monster residing inside of me was a failure.

"Bella, you should go ahead and tell him now, before we get to the house." Rosalie said.

I was totally baffled by their familiarity. It was as if Rosalie and Bella were united, yet not. "I've already heard your sick thoughts Rosalie. This conversation will have to wait until we are home, otherwise I can't guarantee that I will not cause you harm while you're driving and that would endanger Bella more than her condition." I looked at my Bella.

Betrayal.

Bella spoke with stubborn certainty, her hand placed to keep me calm. "I'm not going to let you harm the baby. I will not."

I was very still. How could she do this, now? Here in Rosalie's car? I felt the monster's anger rise, the venom began to well, my fingers clawed. Rosalie's thoughts rushed in my head. You will not kill her baby, we won't let you Edward. You might as well get used to seeing me, because I will not leave her side. The baby will have a chance to live. Moron. Idiot.

I growled, ready to take Rosalie's head off. "Shut up, Rosalie." I barked.

"Stop listening," Rosalie said defiantly.

"Settle down, man. Just listen to your wife." Emmett said.

"No, not here!" I yelled loudly enough for everyone to hear from several cars away and the windows rattled.

Bella startled and threw her hands to her ears. She settled back into the seat, she opened her mouth about to speak. She looked into my dark eyes and realized the folly. I had no control. Hurt, betrayal and anger overwhelmed me and I was the monster ready to kill.

Rosalie concentrated on the roar of the engine how to fine tune it, avoiding and blocking any thoughts of the current situation. I was grateful that I would not have to savagely silence her thoughts in front of Bella. Emmett considered ways in which to protect Rosalie from my threatened attack. Stay calm Edward, I won't let you harm her and you know it. I counted the only heartbeat in the car.

As we reached the county line, Bella reached over and took my hand in hers. She didn't speak. She then placed her arm around my shoulder, to comfort me. Comfort me! I was so very appalled. I was her protector and that evil, hateful angel providence, was condemning my wife to death yet again, with Rosalie's help. It was absurd.

My body shook momentarily. I would lose my wife. I despised the thing growing in her, for I knew what it was. It was the same monster that I fought daily, the one seeking the death of my own sister. It was also the one Bella fought: fate. There would be nothing. Bella held me close. She stroked my hair and whispered over and over softly in my ear, I love you. I knew she did, but not enough to end this.

We reached the white house and immediately went into the dining room. Carlisle and Esme were at the table seated, hands together. Alice and Jasper were seated next to Esme, with Alice between them. The rest of us joined. There were no absolute sides to the issue and no clear lines drawn, except for Rosalie.

I looked at the audacity of those seated at the table. What the hell did they have to do with any of this? It was not their business, yet they sat as if they had a right to decide, a vote, a will. Bella belonged to me and so did that half-breed thing. It was my responsibility to handle the two of them as I saw fit. I would humor them all through this meeting, knowing full well that I would have the ultimate decision.

I would talk reasonably to all of them, tell them it is a decision between me and Bella. Convince them that more complications were not needed, especially involving an unstable Rosalie.

I wasn't sure what deal the two women had made, but I was certain it would not be in Bella's best interests.

I leaned forward gazing around the room, ready to convince. Bella did not give me a chance to say anything once everyone was seated.

"From this point on, Rosalie will prevent anyone from interfering with my pregnancy. I know you all may believe that the pregnancy is dangerous, but I'm willing to take that chance. I want this baby." She turned to look at me. "Edward, I want to have your child."

If she could have a reasonable conversation, so would I. I garnered my control and spoke in my most reasonable voice. "Bella, we don't know what – that is inside of you. It will feed on you, kill you."

"I don't think so." Her eyes seemed to glass over with tears. "This is a part of you. Of all the things you have given me – a car, a magical honeymoon, your love, a reason to live – none of it will ever be more cherished than your baby. You said so before – you wished we had the potential – you want this too Edward."

She'd already imagined it as a baby, something to love and cherish, a part of me. I saw it for what it was, a horrid new born vampire lusting for human blood, uncontrolled and unmanageable destined to kill her—just like it's father.

"I don't want it." My guttural voice was full of wrath.

I knew my words stunned her beyond any pain she'd ever felt. Large drops of tears fell from her eyes, unwiped they dropped onto the table.

Someone, probably Esme gasped and then my mind was full of thoughts. Be kind, son. No. Careful. Hurtful. Idiot. Settle down. Jerk. Of course Rosalie's insults were the loudest. I blocked them all out putting their unwelcomed thoughts in the same space as the ugly monster, to be used when needed.

My words were true, but I was wrong to hurt her. I had crossed the line. For several seconds no one said anything. I felt no shame in my words, they were necessary, Bella had to understand. I would not allow that leech to survive. It was Bella who released us all from her awful few seconds.

She shook her head, her forehead creased in deep concentration, and her tears stopped. She was resolute as she looked into my eyes, "Yes, you do want this baby, Edward. Our baby—a part of our love, part of me too."

I didn't even try to let her soothing words sink into me. A part of her? What part? The weak human part, too fragile to withstand the violent tendencies of my vampire offspring? No that thing was fully dominant vampire and only a part of her, because it resided within her. Like any parasite, it needed to be killed and removed. Otherwise, it would kill her. That was not love.

"Bella it's too dangerous."

"No matter what it is -- I want our baby to live. I want you to promise me you will not force me to do otherwise." She was so self assured and in command. How did that happen? Where did she find the gumption to make this decision without understanding everything? It must be her emotional hormones, yet again controlling her actions, but they would not control mine.

"I can't promise that Bella, I don't know what is going to happen. What it will do." I lied. I knew exactly what it would do and there was no way I would allow it.

"Then if you can't promise that to me, then I have no choice but to keep Rosalie at my side, so that you will not force your choice on me."

"What are you saying—that you need a body guard to protect you from your husband?" The anger was seeping out of my control.

"Yes."

"Why?" I growled.

"I know you love me more than you love what's inside of me." She touched her stomach. "I can't allow you to take advantage of my--vulnerabilities."

I knew she was right. I would force my choice on her. I would take her to the nearest clinic, drugged if necessary and have the pregnancy terminated. If she wanted to have this child, she would need protection from me. I would take her away, even knowing she'd hate me afterwards, probably never love me the same; but I couldn't let my mistake cost her her life. She would die from my demon seed. I could no longer bear the stress. I stood up from my seat. Emmett stood as well.

I looked at each of my family members and then my wife. "Are you leaving? Going into hiding?"

"No. Are you?"

I shook my head at the absurdity of deserting her. "Then for today, neither of us will give in. An impasse." I kissed her forehead, turned, and walked out of the glass back door, past the ancient row of trees.

I heard Bella's voice still in control, very self assured, as I paused. "He'll be okay. Everything will be fine, he'll be glad about this." No one answered. No one moved. Is he running away? Idiot can't face the music – he doesn't deserve this potential. Childish. Jerk. The insults flew and it was obvious, I was on my own – me and the monster within. My monster versus the one Bella carried, both a part of me, only one would survive and it wasn't going to be the one killing Bella.

I heard her get up from the table, "I'm going to take a shower; it was a long flight."

I bound the river and my feet began moving swiftly across the ground, barely touching the underbrush. I ran in the misty air to the outskirts of Seattle. I planned. I fashioned several skirmishes that would allow me to take control of my wife and this situation.

I laughed at the arrogance of my thoughts. I had always assumed that it was me that controlled my monster, when in fact, it was Bella. She was able to tame it more completely and thoroughly. How I desired to influence her in the same manner, but she was stubborn. I was out of my league and so was the murderous monster within me.

It was late afternoon when I defeatedly returned home. My thoughts were more organized and so was the monster. I had several options, knowing I would put none of them into play.

I walked into the open area of the house, the place where we were married and the room looked as it did before the wedding. There were a few new pieces of furniture, in particular a long white sofa with two matching armchairs. It gave the room a clean, inviting feeling.

Sitting on the sofa were Rosalie, who did not acknowledge my presence and Bella. Bella's face lit up when she saw me, the anger, hurt and betrayal were no longer in her eyes. My world began and ended when our eyes met, she was able to forgive enough for the both us. I kissed Bella on the cheek and she returned a kiss to my lips. For the time, there was no argument, hurt or betrayal.

"I missed you." Her perfect lips curled upright and everything was right would the world. I smiled, how could I not give her the world? Was I certain that I was making the right decision?

"I missed you too. I won't be gone as long next time." I promised.

"Good."

Soon Alice came to sit on the other side of me. Alice and I hadn't talked since we arrived home. Glad to have you home. She thought.

I didn't reply. The run had cleared my head enough to question. Was I drawing the line too quickly? Should I make a decision tomorrow? What did Bella know? I needed to talk to her, without Rosalie.

Carlisle called my name. Edward. I turned to my wife, "Carlisle wants to talk to me. Promise to be here when I return?" I was sickened by my own insecurities, I had to get a hold of myself. The talk with Carlisle was long overdue.

"I am not leaving, Edward," she guaranteed.

Rosalie leaned in closer to Bella -- her arm around Bella's shoulders. Don't worry, we won't leave unless you make an idiotic move.

"Would you like something to eat?" I smiled weakly at my wife, ignoring Rosalie. "Maybe some eggs?"

"That sounds wonderful." She blushed lightly. I expelled a breath of air as I watched her rub her belly.

"What would you like to drink, Bella?" Rosalie asked, sounding maternal.

"Maybe some milk."

"I'll fix them." Esme offered as she came down the stairs and went into the kitchen before I could refuse her help.

I kissed Bella on the forehead and walked to Carlisle's office. Alice rose to follow with Jasper on our heels. Carlisle was behind his desk, a thick book in hand. He stood as we entered the room.

"I'm sorry we didn't talk earlier. I'm glad you're home." His double meanings ignored.

I didn't feel very diplomatic or cordial and sure didn't want to have a silly unnecessary talk with the family. I glared at Alice and Jasper. Why were they in here? I knew I needed to focus on the real issues at hand. Eventually, my family would know everything anyway. There were no secrets.

I wanted answers – I needed answers. "What's inside of her Carlisle?"

"I'm not sure. I've researched the matter and I haven't found anything like you and Bella anywhere in the writings." He took a deep breath.

I heard footsteps coming up the stairs. I could tell by the slow human pace that it was Bella, with Rosalie and Esme on either side.

I turned to Alice. "Can you tell me what's going on?" I realized that maybe Alice had not considered the matter. Her thoughts were scattered, never focused on anything of importance. Was she blocking her thoughts from me?

"I can't see anything, Edward." Her trilling voice was higher than normal, an indication of fear and frustration. "Every time I look for Bella, I can't see her – I can see around her, but not her."

"What do you mean you can't see me?" Bella was standing in the room, walking towards me, pushing away from Rosalie who hesitated to let Bella go. I readied myself to knock Rosalie's hold off of Bella. Emmett suddenly appeared in the space.

"I'm not really sure how to explain." Relax Edward! Alice turned to me, pausing long enough for Bella to come to my side. "Well – you know I can't see you when you're with werewolves. It's the same thing now, I can't see you."

"What does that mean?"Bella asked placing her hand on her stomach.

"It means that it isn't anything." I growled.

"I don't believe that." She was very lucid and spoke each word as if it were an entire sentence.

Rosalie moved to comfort Bella, "it just means that the baby is something that Alice has never seen before." You will not change her mind.

I could feel my fury taken control over the harden veins throughout my body, my muscles constricting ready to spring forward and devour those who would challenge my right to decide the fate of the half breed monster. The room suddenly seemed overcrowded -- I shifted my body in front of Bella to stop Rosalie's advance, my hands clawed and I infinitesimally lowered my stance. Emmett watched my movement and shouted at me, "Calm down, Edward." You will not touch her!

Jasper quickly came to my side and charged peace and calmness over us. We all stood as if we had already chosen sides. Rosalie, Emmett and Esme were all facing me. Jasper and Alice at my sides. Carlisle stood half way between me and Esme. It was the tensest moment the seven of us had ever had as a family. Then I remembered that we were a family. Our bonds would hold long after this matter ended – long after Bella and I no longer existed. I fought that feeling of calmness. I fought my reasoning. I wanted my fury to remain and end this unnatural state of being.

Another wave of peace was sent, hitting me straight from Jasper resonating more securely in my dead bones. Bella took my arm and began rubbing it softly, gently. "Edward, you can't."

I knew she was right. I let the calmness envelop me further and stood from my ready battle position. The monster would have to wait for another opportunity. I once again was out of my league.

"I'm sorry Rosalie, I know you are just following Bella's wishes. Emmett you can relax. Esme, my behavior was inexcusable. I apologize everyone, it won't happen again." I feigned patience and waited for everyone to accept my apology. Rosalie did -- in her own way. Apology accepted, moron. But I will still keep an eye on you.

"Carlisle there're things that we need to discuss and it is pointless to keep the discussion private from Bella and everyone else. We should all go into the dining room and allow her to eat, while we – explore options." Yes, I would behave and wait until . . .

Until that time, I would act normal, be the loving groom. I appeared in control with Bella's hand wrapped around my arms. I needed her.

I had to let her know that I would do anything, stop at nothing, to keep her with me. I turned to Bella, a new plan in play, now certain that I had strength to do battle. Yes, if I could caress her, hold her, and convince her then –

"Bella, I will make you a deal." Everyone turned to me confused.

"I'm not sure we can make a deal on this Edward."

"I want alone time with you." I said it so that everyone knew that I was making a reasonable request, one that even her body guard would not be able to prevent. It seemed to cool the room, allowing a few relaxed sighs.

"It's a trick Bella." Rosalie interjected. Stay out of this, you will make it worse.

Bella's eyes did not leave mine. She seemed to see my sincerity and connected to my unabashed smile. "No Rose, it isn't. Our deals are never tricks and he would never go back on his end of the bargain." A blush came to her cheeks. "And in exchange for this alone time?" She asked.

"I would follow your wishes regarding this, but only during our alone time and you cannot request of me that which I cannot give." I committed.

"And how much time are you requesting?" A twinkle crossed her eyes.

"Forever is too long I imagine?"

"Be more reasonable."

"Twelve hours a day then, you can even sleep during the time, if you wish."

"Is that twelve consecutive hours or in shifts?" The corners of her lips curved up.

"You decide." My hands connecting to her arms.

"It's a deal then."

We kissed to seal our bargain and devotion. This would not separate us. Our family had already left the room, noting that the deal began immediately. I could hear Rosalie on the other side of the door. Idiots, the both of them. This is too risky, but I won't let you get away with anything. I'll be in there as soon as her heartbeat moves six inches toward that window.

I caressed my wife's shoulders and back as I sat on the couch and held her in my lap.

"I've missed you." She purred.

"I know."

"Are you angry with me?"

"Extremely, but I don't want to talk about it right now."

"I didn't plan to leave you, that was Rosalie's idea."

I didn't say anything. The pain at watching her walk away from me at the airport was excruciating. I knew we were both emotionally drained and I didn't want to think about anything but her in my arms. Neither of us would be able to survive a separation. We were quiet for a few seconds. I listened to her heart and enjoyed her warm body in my arms. This is what I was fighting for.

"Edward?"

"Yes, sweetheart."

"I can't tell you how sorry I am about Rosalie's presumptions."

"Please Bella, not now. I can't." I knew if she continued I would be forced into a melancholy state, a dark stupor. We had work to do and I needed my wits about me. As if in response she leaned to face me and put her lips to mine. We kissed, a passionate embrace ensued and warm emotions rose between the two of us. Unfortunately, a low rumble also came from her stomach.

"Let's get some food in you." We walked back to the dining room, a plate of hot eggs was already on the table.

While Bella ate, Carlisle talked. "I'm unsure regarding the genetic make-up of the – fetus. I'd like to complete an examination, if you'd allow, Bella."

"Will there be needles?" Her eyes were wide with fear. It was incredible, she feared a small needle, yet the life-ending-half-breed creature sure to stab straight through her body was of no concern.

"Bella, we need to determine what's going on – I'm unsure how to complete the exam without taking blood." Carlisle was very tender in his request.

"We can't go to the hospital, Charlie will find out."

"A trip to the hospital isn't necessary. I've prepared an examination room upstairs. I have everything we need to perform a thorough physical -- we can do it whenever you wish."

"You didn't need to go to so much trouble."

"Yes, we did. It's as safe and equipped as the hospital, but more private. At the rate of development, it would be difficult to explain."

"Thank you." Her hand found mine. "Will the exam hurt the baby?"

"The exam is only to gather facts. There will be no harm." Carlisle seemed to collect his thoughts. "Bella, I am unable to do anything against your wishes -- but you should know that if the decision is between you and the fetus then Edward will decide."

"But that is only if I'm incapacitated right?" Her concern showed.

"No, Bella." He paused and looked at me and then gently back to her. "If it's determined that the fetus is feeding on you, abnormally, we must terminate the pregnancy. You both would be lost otherwise." He took a deep breath and she squeezed my hand. "Also if the infant is venomous, or dominate vampire, then it'll kill you before you have a chance to carry to term. He'd have to decide. It would be tragic for him – for us to lose you both. You have to know, this is an extremely dangerous situation."

"I don't understand why Edward would get to make the decision and not me."

"Because you would hold on to hope – rather than consider the objective facts. You'd believe there was a chance that the fetus would survive, when there wasn't." He looked at me and spoke. "Edward, you must make the decision that saves the most lives."

I looked at Bella and there was a "v" formed between her eyebrows. She asked a seemingly unrelated question, "Carlisle, when would it be safe to turn me into a vampire?"

"Not until you are no longer pregnant."

"And how much damage would be too much -- beyond the ability to transform me into a vampire?"

"As long as your heart beats, I think your body would be able to repair itself during the transformation."

"Then -- I suggest that we allow the pregnancy to complete its natural course and no matter what happens to me, you not interfere, as long as my heart continues to beat. Once the baby is able to survive on its own, we let it be born, and if there is any injury to me, turn me into a vampire. Edward can have the ultimate decision at any time my heart fails. I imagine everyone knows cpr?"

Emmett started laughing. "I like that idea. Of course we know CPR. Sounds do-able." Rosalie chimed in, "yes Bella that could work." And if it doesn't we will make sure that at least one of you will survive.

"I don't want Bella risking her life" I growled. They were making decisions about my wife, taking away my authority. This had to stop now. "We're not making any decisions until after the examination tomorrow." I emphasized the 'we' by nodding to Bella. "Let's let you finish eating."

The rest of the evening was spent quietly in front of the flat screen television. I'm not sure Emmett, Rosalie or Bella paid any attention to the movie that played. The events of the day had left its mark on all of us. Bella seemed to be the only one oblivious to the tension and distress, or at least better at blocking out the effects.

Carlisle, the consummate learner, poured over enormous medical books preparing for the physical examination he would perform on Bella in the morning. He was anxious to figure out what was going on and excited at the challenge. Esme sat in the small alcove upstairs in Carlisle office; she worried about her family and whether the events of the day would rip us apart, barely revising the architectural plans for a small renovation she was working on.

Alice spent the evening upstairs in her room with Jasper. I monitored her thoughts most of the night, hoping she had some clues as to what the future held for Bella. In the end, even Alice tired of looking for the future and began a drawing, which she hid from her thoughts.

Bella dozed in and out during the movie, the rest of us sat quietly on the couch, not talking. Emmett's thoughts were of his last hunting trip, he'd finally found an angry enough bear to give him a challenge and wondered about creating a video game based on the kill.

I refused to hear Rosalie's psychotic thoughts—it would only anger me. Call the angry monster into action. Eventually Bella ended the horrendous day and was ready to go to bed.

Bella slept in my small bachelor room on the large oak bed which took up all of the space. I held her throughout the night while Rosalie stood guard outside of the open door.

In the morning after Bella's failed attempt to hold down breakfast, Carlisle began running his test. Bella's stomach had frighteningly grown considerable since our arrival home.

"Your morning sickness should end soon. It's not unusual for women to have it throughout the second trimester. For now, you should drink as much of the nutritional supplement shakes as possible. If the nausea doesn't end soon though, we'll need to figure out alternatives." Carlisle then analyzed the tests.

"There is a fair amount of excess blood in your system, which is as unusual as is the extra hormones. Your blood carries enough pregnancy hormones for three women. I'm not sure of the significance, though it's probably related to the accelerated growth rate of the fetus. Like all pregnancies, the fetus has its own supply of blood. I'm not sure whether it's human or vampire but the placenta is fully human and it's located around the back of the uterine wall. It is attached to an impervious thin layer of what looks like vampire skin." He showed us an ultrasound DVD that made the thing look like a large imposing tumor.

"How come we can't see the baby?" Bella asked?

"The amniotic sac is not transparent. The fetus is well protected for now." Carlisle answered.

Bella smiled, "I'm glad."

"It is not a good thing Bella." His voice dashed her glee. "The fetus is – trapped so once it is ready to be born, only vampire teeth are strong enough to open the sac."

Carlisle was being much too diplomatic. The fetus would rip, bite and claw Bella apart in order to be born. My hatred for that thing grew stronger each hour.

"I'm sure you're anxious about the most basic question: the due date? Unfortunately, I don't know. We clearly can't go by the normal nine month gestational average. My best guess is about three to four more weeks."

We only have three weeks! I released Bella's hand and clutched mine, my knuckles white. I gnarled ready to remove the beast myself. My words thundered from my mouth, cold and threatening.

"End this."

No one replied.

"End this now or -- I will." I promised.

"No, Edward." My wife's anger flared and her eyes burned dark. "And you will not. I am having this baby and there is nothing you will do to stop me. You cannot control what goes on in my body. This is a life and precious and I am not going to end anything so you better just . . ." She stopped midsentence as if a new more important thing needed to be said. She stood up, glaring at all of us – one at a time and then without any further warning her wrath continued.

"Edward Cullen you are excused – alone time six hours in ten minutes our bedroom and you better not be all melancholy."

Her hand waved me away like I was nothing more than an irritating Georgia horsefly, nipping at her ear. I moved to the doorway, unsure whether her rage would provoke a room full of easily angered vampires. I stayed. She ignored me.

"As for the rest of you, I am sick of hearing – it's too dangerous and all this dread. Your stand-offish behavior is unbearable. I want it to stop – now! From now on we will do this the human way. This is your son's baby I'm carrying." She pointed her finger angrily at Carlisle and Esme and then jerked her hand fanning it around my brothers and sisters. "And your brother's child and you all will act like it." She then called attendance.

"Carlisle you can do your test but I don't want to hear about any bad stuff. You find a way for me to have your grandchild." She paused, waiting for his acknowledgment of his assignment.

Carlisle nodded. "I will do my best Bella." She is extremely hormonal and a bit unpredictable, Edward. You may want to make sure there is nothing breakable near her. Grandchild . . . A genuine smile came on his youthful face, making him look even younger.

"Esme, I want a baby shower, just the eight of us."

"Of course, dear." Bella grinned but didn't look away from Esme, she waited until Esme spoke again. "We will have it a week from today." Esme smiled. Please calm her down Edward, it's not good for her to be so upset.

"I am growing out of my clothes, look at this Alice!" She yanked on my over-sized shirt that she was wearing. Her sweat pants were hanging below her stomach, stretched and leaving ribbed imprints around her waist. "I need maternity clothes!"

"Oh Bella, I – I didn't . . . you will have something to wear first thing in the morning." Alice trilled. She turned and looked at me thinking: I can't take sides Edward. I love you both.

Bella gave orders to her body guards. "Rose and Emmett, you cut my husband a break. No more taunting. Other than that – keep doing what you're doing."

"We'll be nicer and keep you here." Rosalie promised. We will not let you take her away, try and you will be sorry. Idiot. She's angry enough to leave now!

"And Jaspar, well, you just make them happy."

"Okay, Bella." That wife of yours is something else – yeah something else – you got to love her.

She then looked around the room, slightly less angry but still emphatic, "I am happy to be pregnant with Edward's baby. This is a happy time for me and I admit I'm scared but I don't care what happens to me. I want his baby and none of you have congratulated me once. Rose and Emmett tried to separate me from my husband; Carlisle runs tests; Edward's furious at me and Alice –" She started to blubber "you won't even speak to me. Esme and Jasper are the only ones who treat me the same, but you all didn't congratulate us either." By the time she finished, she was in a full blown hysterical fit.

I sat there and watched every other vampire in the room hug, kiss and comfort my wife. They congratulated her, told her she was glowing and how happy they were for her. Magnificently, she had single handedly in less than three minutes removed my allies to her camp. If I was going to end this pregnancy, I'd have to do it alone.

Then like turning off a faucet, her lamenting ceased and her mood changed to absolute devotion, and with delight she declared, "I love you all so much, and I'm really happy to be a part of this family. You all are so kind to do so much for us."

Just when it seemed that she was calming, her emotions drove her to deep regret. Her eyes opened widely, her hand flew over her mouth, and she shook her head. "Oh, I can't believe those cruel things I said to all of you. Please forgive me. You all did not deserve that. And Edward, oh what I'm putting him through. You all could lose all three of us. I'm so sorry, so very, very sorry. What was I thinking?" The faucet was turned back on and the tears flowed.

I was getting a whip flash from the ease with which she changed sentiments. I tried to tell her that I was going to our room, but I couldn't reach her, there were twelve cold hands on my wife -- comforting her. I turned and walked out, since I was excused anyway, and went to our bedroom. No one seemed to notice.

---

Over the next few days things fell into a sort of routine. Bella would wake in my arms and have morning sickness. Rosalie would help her get dressed in the maternity clothes Alice had picked out, while Esme fixed her breakfast. Bella would take a few bites and throw up. Carlisle would run tests and examine her several times a day, always amazed at the rate of growth from one hour to the next. We all tried to keep her fed throughout the day. Mostly, she spent her days downstairs and her nights with me alone, well, as alone as we could be with Rosalie at watch by our bedroom door.

Bella was nurtured by Rosalie and Esme throughout those first few days we were home. Alice was thrilled to shop for baby and maternity clothes but spent most of her time with Emmett and Jasper away from the house. Alice said that being near the fetus caused her violent headaches.

On the day of the shower, Bella had very little energy. Bella had lost over ten pounds and her pregnancy showed tremendously. She had not been able to stomach anything of substance for over ten days. Her body provided for the fetus, and nothing nourished her. The pregnancy was becoming more dangerous, but no one but me would talk about that with Bella. I begged her, pouted and even stopped speaking to her for a very short time, but she did not relinquish.

At the baby shower, everyone pretended it was a normal human celebration rather than what it actually was -- a shower for my cursed seed. It was sickening, but my family ignored by objections. They laughed, helped Bella with her nausea, and exuded excitement at the blessed event.

"I want to talk to Charlie." Bella announced.

"It might not be a good idea, he will want to come visit." I told her.

"I'll tell him I have a communicable disease that I caught in South America. Carlisle can tell him I'm quarantined or something. I promised him I'd call." It seemed like a reasonable request and the call went well. Charlie even believed the cover story.

Bella was losing a pound a day. She was barely able to walk on her own accord, now having lost seventeen of her original one hundred ten pounds. Her hair began to thin, eyes sunk, and her skin was thin and pale. She was starving to death but that thing was growing bigger, taking all the nourishment.

We suspended alone time, she was too weak and needed constant help. Time marched forward.

The next call to Charlie didn't go as well. Her voice and speech reflected the degeneration her body was going through. He insisted on seeing Bella and only after Carlisle talked to him did he change his mind. Bella was weaker, worse and Charlie could tell.

I'd devised a plan to end the killer fetus' slow death of my Bella but it meant contacting Bella's best friend, who would want to kill me for what I'd done. He was the only person who would feel the same disgust for that thing. Together we would stop that beast from its destructive path. I had to find Jacob.