The metal wall and security system were still activated and in place. I stood near Bella's bed, our hands together. The rest of our family stood nearby. There was an atmosphere of anticipation, rather than fear in the air. Bella was able to peer out the window to the place where Jacob disappeared into the night, "Is this it?"
"I don't know, but I don't want you to stress yourself. I can still hear Jacob's thoughts. They are holding their ground about three miles out." I answered. Everyone was quiet, waiting for my next report and ready to defend our family. Some of us might not survive, but she would, there was a clear path to the panic room. Rose or Esme would stay with her, if necessary, until it was safe. I would fight this time, mainly because there was no advantage of foresight, so my skills were necessary for this fight. I concentrated on the thoughts of the werewolves. Jacob's were the easiest to hear, followed by Seth. I was able to pick up the faint thoughts of the others.
"There are four of them approaching, slowly. Seth believes that three are in wolf and the fourth in human form. The other pack has stopped, it looks like they want to talk rather than fight. Jacob is concerned that one of the wolves is too young to be on a diplomatic mission – he's trying to determine if the remaining pack members are sneaking around to attack us."
"No. No, they think it would be a suicide mission if the three remaining members attacked. Communications between the two packs is hindered—they can't hear the other packs thoughts. It's tense."
"Jared is in human form. He's told Jacob that he's there to talk to put up the 'white flag of truce.' He wants Jacob to change to human form, but Jacob won't—he wants to stay connected to Seth and Leah.
"They want Jacob to come back to the pact and heal the rupture in the family. Sam believes that the disbanding is an overreaction." I growled my disagreement.
"The pack wants to take things more slowly. The Elders decided that immediate action is in no one's best interest at this point. Billy and Sue agree with Jacob. They will reassess and decide if there is a problem after . . . the delivery." There was a unified sigh of relief from everyone in the room. We would not have to defend ourselves today.
"Jacob's in human form, now. Jared's begging him to come back to La Push and let Leah and Seth return too. Jacob doesn't believe he can stop being an Alpha leader and two leaders in La Push will cause competition."
Rosalie stopped listening and began to pat Bella's head. "See it's going to be fine. All the werewolves can leave and we can focus on you and the baby. You are looking so much better. Let's move you back to the couch and put the house back in order."
It was true, Bella was stronger and her heart was beating more steadily. Carlisle removed all the leads and cords, except for the IV. Rosalie reached to pick up Bella. "Just a minute Rose, I want to listen to what's going on with Jacob."
I continued my report. "When Jacob, Seth and Leah left the pack, they gave up access to their home. They don't have any clothes forcing them to remain wolves, at least until they rejoin the pack or find a new home. Apparently, food is a problem too, Leah doesn't enjoy the wolf diet.
"Jared offers Sam's apologies for forcing Jacob to go along with the attack. Jacob says he's not angry for what Sam did to him but that he isn't going back to La Push. He wants to wait and make sure all of us are safe, not just Bella. Jacob advises them to stick to Quileute land and they'd stay in our boundaries. If either pack wants to talk again, they should howl at the border line.
"That's all. Jacob's on his way back to give us a report. He ripped his clothes earlier, so he'll need something to wear. We can relax for now; there will not be an attack. Alice have you seen anything?"
"The last time I tried was at sunrise, before Sam met with the Elders. I'll try again, hopefully . . ." Alice danced up the stairs after she turned off the security system.
Rosalie gently picked up Bella and moved her to the couch that Emmett pushed away from the back wall. The metal wall was retracted and the room was instantly brighter. The hospital bed was removed to the library upstairs.
"Carlisle, we can't allow Jacob and his pack to remain homeless." Esme began plans to mother the wolf pack.
"Let's get Jacob some clothes, as well as clothes for Seth and Leah. They probably will not like the smell, so I'll wash them first. I'll cook them something to eat too. Poor Leah, she doesn't like us, I hope she'll at least like the food." Please speak to Jacob about accepting our help without embarrassment. Make sure they don't consider themselves without a home. Whatever they desire, they need but ask.
Esme, finding a new "project," quickly left the room and began preparing clothes and food for the werewolves. Within seconds, she passed me a button down shirt and pair of khaki pants, Emmett's old clothes. I placed the clothing outside.
When I returned, Bella was sitting on the couch, her feet curled up, covered in blankets. I worried about her comfort, but she wanted to stay near the family, I watched as she talked to Emmett. She had Emmett put in a musical, the same DVD from our honeymoon.
"I think I'll go up and see if Alice has seen anything." Emmett said. No way am I watching that film. Kind of wish Rosalie wouldn't watch it- she'll get ideas.
"I'll go with you." Jasper raced up the stairs slightly in front of Emmett.
"I never did finish watching this movie." Bella said. Her arm was still connected to an IV and she kept her head turned away from the needle.
I went and sat next to my wife, placing her feet in my lap. It would be the second time I'd watched the movie. I was determined to concentrate on it this second time, keeping my attention on it rather than the creature that was killing my wife was much better to stop the monster from creating a new battle plan.
It didn't take long for my attention to split, I turned to Alice, who was in her room. She was again searching our futures, this time there were images of vampires. I couldn't tell when in time the images would happen; only that it was certain that we all had futures. I believe I even saw myself.
"Can you tell when these events will take place?" Jasper asked.
"Not really, probably just a few minutes in the future. Something is missing."
"Bella." I said loud enough for Alice to hear me, but softly enough not to frighten Bella.
Bella turned her head to me, "Yes."
"I was asking Alice about your future. She sees the rest of us, me included but not you." I patted her feet that were wrapped up on my lap.
"Edward, I wouldn't worry about it, she hasn't seen me since I've been pregnant. I'm sure I'm there." Bella answered.
Edward, she's all blurry. Alice's thoughts reached me. Apparently the fetus is too much a part of her future for me to see her, but it doesn't really matter because I'm only seeing a few minutes ahead anyway. It's killing my head to watch her. I'm certain she's there.
"You'd have to be." Was all I could say because I knew there was no way I'd exist in a world without Bella, no matter how far in the future one looked. "Are you hungry, Bella?"
"I think I could eat something and maybe keep it down."
Esme came from the kitchen with a plate of scrambled eggs with cheese. Bella took the plate and quickly finished every morsel. "All gone." She said, a smile widen across her face.
Esme gathered up the plate replacing it with a cup of blood. "Here's something, in case you get – want something to drink."
"Thanks, Mom." She took a gulp. Nearly all of her color had returned along with some of her strength. She sneaked a peek at me and winked.
"You've already won her over." I said as I considered that Bella might be able to stay human after delivery. I'd like that. Jacob would like that, I thought just as he walked into the room and I glanced at him. I smiled at how much the two of us were in agreement on all things Bella. I wouldn't have ever imagined that I would consider my mortal enemy a brother.
Bella's eyes followed mine and she welcomed him back with a bright smile. She was excited to see him. I held my stare, not wanting her to see the hurt in my eyes by her welcome. Jacob and I may have been on the same page regarding Bella, but we were still rivals for her affection, even though she was married to me. Of course, the jealousy didn't help.
Jacob didn't enjoy her welcome any more than I did. Why does she have to light up like that? She's married! Happily married, too—and pregnant. He thought. If she would just not care . . . Or more than that—really not want me around. It would be so much easier to stay away.
I watched the happiness on my wife's face. It saddened me how much hurt Jacob was going through and the pain she endured because of it. He should always feel welcomed here, wherever Bella was.
"They just wanted to talk. No attack on the horizon." Exhaustion caused Jacob to mumble his words.
"Yes, I heard most of it." I told him.
"How?"
"I'm hearing you more clearly—it's a matter of familiarity and concentration. Also, your thoughts are slightly easier to pick up when you're in your human form. So I caught most of what passed out there."
"Good, I hate repeating myself." He was tired and not in a very good mood. He needed rest.
"I'd tell you to go get some sleep," Bella said, "but my guess is that you're going to pass out on the floor in about six seconds, so there's probably no point."
He turned to leave, "One Mississippi . . . two Mississippi . . ."
"Where's the flood, mutt?" Rosalie snapped.
"You know how you drown a blonde, Rosalie?" He asked as he continued to walk to the door. "Glue a mirror to the bottom of a pool."
I had to laugh at that one, classic description of Rosalie and a mirror. So self absorbed she'd drown herself just to see her own reflection.
"I've already heard that one." Rosalie growled.
I remembered that I needed to talk with him about his homeless situation. I got up to follow Jacob.
"Where are you going?" Bella asked.
"There was something I forgot to say to him."
"Let Jacob sleep—it can wait."
"It will only take a moment" I was out the door as Jacob turned to look at me.
"Jeez, what now?"
"I'm sorry." He wasn't going to make this easy. "When you were speaking to Sam's delegates earlier, I was giving a play-by-play for Carlisle and Esme and the rest. They were concerned—"He stopped me.
"Look we're not dropping our guard. You don't have to believe Sam like we do. We're keeping our eyes open regardless."
"No, no Jacob. Not about that. We trust your judgment. Rather, Esme was troubled by the hardships this is putting your pack through. She asked me to speak to you privately about it."
"Hardships?"
"The homeless part, particularly. She's very upset that you are all so . . .bereft."
"We're tough. Tell her not to worry."
"She'd still like to do what she can. I got the impression that Leah prefers not to eat in her wolf form?"
"And?"
"Well, we do have normal human food here, Jacob. Keeping up appearances, and, of course, for Bella. Leah is welcome to anything she'd like. All of you are.
"I'll pass that along."
"Leah hates us."
"So?"
"So try to pass it along in such a way as to make her consider it, if you don't mind." His bad mood was not getting better.
"I'll do what I can."
"And then there's the matter of clothes."
"Oh yeah. Thanks." He looked at what he was wearing.
I wasn't looking for a thank you, I smiled. "Well, we're easily able to help out with any needs there. Alice rarely allows us to wear the same thing twice. We've got piles of band-new clothes that are destined for Goodwill, and I'd imagine that Leah is fairly close to Esme's size . . ." He stopped me again.
"Not sure how she'll feel about bloodsucker castoffs. She's not as practical as I am."
"I trust that you can present the offer in the best possible light. As well as, the offer for any other physical object you might need, or transportation or anything else at all. And showers, too, since you prefer to sleep outdoors. Please . . . don't consider yourselves without the benefits of a home."
"That's, er, nice of you. Tell Esme we appreciate the, uh, thought. But the perimeter cuts through the river in a few places, so we stay pretty clean thanks."
"If you would pass the offer on, regardless."
"Sure, sure."
"Thank you." I turned towards the house just as I heard a snap come from the couch followed by a soft, painful cry.
It sounded like a bone breaking. I was beside Bella in less than half a second, her breathing shallow and quick. She was curled forward on the couch, being propped up by Rosalie with Esme nearby and Carlisle reaching to examine her. The monster in me, that hated to see her in pain crept forward, its mind listening intently.
"Give me a second, Carlisle." Bella raised a finger towards him and panted.
"Bella, I heard something crack. I need to take a look." Carlisle was anxiously worried.
That half vampire beast was breaking bones! The stronger she got also meant the stronger the life-sucking monster got. How much more could her body take? She continued to hold Carlisle at bay, trying to keep everyone calm, but the monster in me would not be refrained.
"Pretty sure" she could barely speak between the short gulps of air she took. "it was a rib. Ow. Yep. Right here." She pointed at her left lower rib, nearest to the top of the huge mountain she carried. A plan was formulating in the monster within me.
"I need to take an X-ray. There might be splinters. We don't want to puncture anything."
"Okay." Bella said, grimacing at the pain that would follow from being moved. Rosalie was nearest and we both moved to pick up Bella. Rosalie reached her before I could. "I've already got her." Why don't you take the dog for a walk?
I chided myself for hearing Rosalie's thoughts, instead of the plan that the monster was devising. I wouldn't argue with Rosalie, Bella needed medical attention and the monster needed to focus. I was the last one through the door upstairs and watched as Bella was placed gently on the table.
I took Bella's hand while Carlisle ran the machine over her chest. "I'm so sorry Bella." I whispered. That's right, the monster whispered to me, make her think you've given up, we'll get that creature out –
"Not your fault." She gasped each word out.
"Shush, don't strain yourself talking, and yes it is my fault that and the worst luck humanly possible." I looked up as the first pass of the machine finished. The monster was taunting me to pacify my wife while it planned.
Bella rolled her head from side to side. "Wrong on both."
The electronic images were coming through on the monitor. "Looks like the lower rib." I told her.
She nodded, frowning at the pain.
"I can't give you a pain killer, anything strong enough to help would also be strong enough to adversely affect your heart," Carlisle started to prepare the bandages. "All I can do is tape the area, you'll need to take deep breaths and cough often—that will keep the bone in place and speed up the healing process."
"'Kay."
I watched her eyes dull at the prospect of the recovery process. Although, she'd had broken ribs before, due to the attack by James—because of me; she'd had plenty of pain medication. This time, she would have to suffer through. The monster wanted death and if I did not give it the life-sucking leech, it would seek out Bella as replacement.
Carlisle worked carefully treating the brake. He leaned her into a sitting position and quickly wrapped the bandages half way around her torso. I was amazed that he was able to wrap it tightly enough, considering her stomach was so large. "Would it be okay if we complete an exam?" He asked.
Bella agreed and Carlisle measured her stomach, noting that it grew about a centimeter a day. "Forty centimeters indicates full gestation for a normal pregnancy. It's probably as good a measure as any for yours." He seemed intrigued by her progression.
Her vitals were stable, although her heart was still working harder than usual. She had even gained enough weight to tip the scales over three digits again. Carlisle removed the IV and declared her fit enough to return to the couch. The monster found an opening, get her alone.
"I can take you to bed if you'd rather, it might be a little easier to stretch out" I offered.
"No." She whispered. Her breathing was less strained. "I've never watched the entire DVD."
"Would you like some popcorn too?" I gently picked her up, and cradled her close to my chest. She was still underweight but not as much as before.
"Can you help me stretch my legs?"
I leaned forward and set her legs down on the floor, shifting my hands to secure her from the front, under her arms.
"Bare foot and pregnant." She remarked, a blush crossed her face as she looked up at me. "Although, I can't see my feet."
I wasn't much in the mood to admire my wife's pregnant bruised body, noting that more broken bones were expected and the monster would devise a plan soon.
"You look wonderful." Rosalie said what I refused to say. "Seeing your feet is a bit overrated anyway."
"Unless you're as clumsy as I am." She chuckled a little, rocking her body back on the heels of her feet as she took a deep breath. The tape seemed to keep the broken rib in place, preventing her unnecessary pain, but not completely eliminating it.
"Carlisle, how will the baby get out of the membrane protecting it?" Bella asked.
My face turned to stone. She knew like the rest of us that the only way to pierce the fetus' sack was with something sharp like vampire teeth. There were only two of us capable of opening up the membrane without killing Bella and the fetus was not one of them.
"Vampire teeth are the only thing that can cut through it." Rosalie answered before Carlisle could respond.
I growled at Rosalie, her tact was impossibly irritating.
I read Carlisle's mind. Stay calm, Edward. Bella needs to understand everything, Rosalie means no harm- she's never been able to sugar coat anything.
"Rosalie's right, only vampire teeth can open the membrane surrounding the fetus." He was talking calmly, standing beside us, Bella's eyes on him.
"The fetus possibly has teeth strong enough to free itself, if not then I can open the sac." His confidence was frustrating. This plan would only work if the c-section were successful and in time to prevent the half breed from ripping Bella apart.
"Okay." She didn't seem to want to pursue the conversation any further, fantasizing that everything was peachy, I'm sure. She looked up at me, "I don't suppose you'd let me walk?"
"I don't think so Bella." She leaned up and placed her hands around my neck and I lifted her up and gingerly carried her to the main floor. I placed her feet tenderly on the floor and allowed her to adjust herself to sit on the couch. I looked to the door where Jacob was sound asleep, snoring. Alice was sitting next to him drawing on her sketch pad.
Bella reached her right arm behind her, braced against the arm rest, while Rosalie reached from behind the couch to catch her. Bella bent her knees and lowered her body to the couch. "Easy as pie." She said. "Speaking of pie, do we have any?"
"No, sweetheart-no pie, but I can make you a cobbler – your choice of fruit." I replied.
"Can I help? I feel like cooking." She turned her head towards Carlisle who was still examining Bella's condition through his extra-sensory eyes.
"Maybe," Carlisle answered. "You need to get some food energy in you first. Your blood is still a little anemic."
"Okay." She turned her head to me, smiling, "Edward, I'm thinking steak and cobbler."
"Sounds like you're trying to keep me busy in the kitchen."
"Actually, I'd really love to cook myself. I just don't think the doctor will let me." Her eyebrows moved together, contemplating. "Edward, I – I don't want to be apart from you, though."
I watched her emotions change along with her pulse. I looked at her and waited for her mood swing, seemed like the stronger her body got, the more emotions she was able to cycle through. The monster watched for an opportunity.
"Sweetheart, I'll stay close."
"You were too far away the last time something happened." Reminding me I was outside at the front door when the half-blood leech broke her rib.
"Be reasonable, Bella." I said evenly. Although I knew it was impossible right now, the hormones in her system were in control.
She looked up at me, tears began to glisten in her eyes, "I'm so sorry Edward, I don't know what I'm saying. You're right; you were just at the door."
"I'm fine-- don't worry about me, Bella. How about we get some food in your system and something to drink?" As quickly as it started, her solemn mood ended. The monster retreated.
Rosalie appeared with a cup, the smell of the blood seared my throat. "Here, Bella." Rosalie handed her the cup. "I'm here as well, everything will be just fine. Look the movie has started again, just lie back and relax- we don't want to upset the baby." Rosalie chimed in.
The words seemed to cause Bella to relax a little more. I sat down next to her and put my arm around her shoulder. She snuggled close to me, eyes focused on the movie. Esme appeared with a bowl of popcorn.
Bella watched the entire movie, finishing off the large bowl of popcorn and several cups of drink. She quietly cried at the end and announced, "I enjoyed that. Rose, you mind helping me to the bathroom?"
"Sure dear." Rosalie answered, quickly lifting Bella and carrying her to the bathroom.
That's a good sign Edward. Carlisle thought. "Her system seems to be adjusting well to the blood and food." I think her chances of surviving are better now.
I didn't respond, there was still a chance she wouldn't—that thing growing was dangerous to my wife. It was too soon to start celebrating, especially when the monster was still planning.
"I will need to talk with Jacob about the practicality of a hunting trip." Jasper and Esme are thirsty. It might be a good idea for you and Rosalie to hunt before Bella has to deliver.
"I'm fine. She doesn't want me to leave her. Rosalie should go--though I'm sure she won't."
"Well, I'll talk to Jacob about it when he wakes up."
On the way back from the bathroom, Bella noticed that Jacob was passed out asleep by the door and Alice sat next to him.
"Oh, Alice, I didn't see you there. How's your headache?"
"It seems to be better when I'm near Jacob."
"Yeah, Jacob does have a way to make one feel better."
"Alice?"
"Yes, Bella?"
"Does the baby have enough clothes to wear?"
"The UPS truck dropped off a delivery earlier today, would you like to see them?"
"No. maybe later." She looked at my emotionless face. "Rose can you sit me in that chair at the counter?" She wasn't giving anyone a choice. I looked over at Carlisle.
"I think it will be fine, as long as she stays in her seat and doesn't extend herself." Carlisle cautioned.
"You sure you don't want to rest first?" I asked.
"I'm starving, besides I've rested all day."
The sun was just setting as I went into the kitchen. As promised, Bella stayed in her chair and only helped with simple tasks. With the cobbler in the oven, I pulled the steaks out of the refrigerator that had been marinating. There was a sizzle when I placed them on the grill. It smelled like burnt leaves, but Bella seemed to warm to the smell.
"I wonder if Jacob will wake up when he smells steaks cooking." She asked.
"I don't think so; he was awake for almost forty hours. I think he is probably out for the next several hours." His snoring was a steady rumble in the other room, about as annoying as Rosalie's constant presence.
"I can't imagine why he's still around here. I haven't been the best friend to him, having him hang around and defend us."
"I'm grateful to him."
"Yeah, I'm glad he's here, but it would be nice if—I could stop hurting him. I guess when I'm changed; I won't see him for awhile. He'll probably be able to find his mate and imprint. I'll miss him though."
It was hard to keep up this conversation. Jacob, once a rival now an ally—I wanted the best for him, as long as he left my wife alone. I flipped the steak over and grabbed a plate. "He is still young."
"He said that if he imprints, the girl will have the ability to make a genetically superior werewolf." I was glad that he had not imprinted on Bella—that would have been horrendous for all of us.
"He can't fight heredity, Bella."
"Hey it sounds like you're defending him." She grimaced as that thing moved inside her. I knew she wouldn't want me to mention her pain.
"Well, he's not so bad. A little temper problem, but then again, who doesn't have a temper problem?"
"Esme." We both said at the same time.
I flipped the steak onto the plate and pushed it in front of Bella and she began to eat her food, slowly pausing in between only to continue our conversation on all things pregnancy unrelated. I hated it, the monster delighted in knowing that a plan would soon come forth that would end the discussion and take a life.
As soon as she finished her meal, Esme appeared in the kitchen to clean up. Think I'll cook something for Jacob and them, just in case.
"Bella, you've sat up for almost two hours, don't you think it's time for you to rest a little?" Esme asked.
"I guess I am tired." She answered, although minutes earlier she had refused the same offer when I asked. "Maybe, upstairs in our bed?" She turned to look at me, "
"You sure?" My eyebrow lifted as I tried to figure out what my wife was planning. She knew that Rosalie, would follow.
"Yeah." She looked around for Rosalie, "Rose, you mind helping me to the bathroom?"
Rosalie shot into the kitchen and had Bella in the bathroom within a matter of seconds. I could hear their conversation.
"Rose?" Bella called when they were alone in the bathroom.
"Yes?"
"Will you promise to take care of the baby, if I'm not able? I don't think Edward . . ."
"Don't worry, Bella. The baby is family and I'll care for it as if it were my own." I figured those were the words Rosalie had hoped to hear from Bella, and I didn't torture myself to hear her whether her thoughts were along the same line.
"Thank you, Rose. I'm not sure anyone else understands how much your help has meant to me."
"I'm glad I can help. You'd have done the same for me."
"Yes, I would have." Bella coughed, taking in much needed air. "Rose?"
"Yes?"
"I need to be alone with Edward tonight, but--he's still not happy about this."
"Don't worry, Bella, there's very little privacy in this house."
It was true. Even if I didn't read minds, I would be able to know all the activities in the house, our hearing and eyesight were better than the security system we had installed. Rosalie would be able to listen to Bella's heart and know when it changed location; not only that, if I carried her anywhere, Rosalie would hear my footsteps, no matter how quiet my attempt. But there was no guarantee that I wouldn't try.
Rosalie took Bella straight upstairs to our bedroom. I was right behind them as they entered. We hadn't been in the room in several days. The smell of the Island lingered in our room from our unpacked luggage.
Rosalie helped Bella in bed and once she was satisfied that Bella was settled, Rosalie glared at me. "She better be well rested in the morning and pregnant or there will be trouble to pay." She swayed her hips out of the room. I blocked her thoughts as she left.
"How are you feeling?" I went to the bed and took her hand.
"My arms sure could use a husband in them."
I gently lay back on the bed and scooted next to her. She threw her left arm over my chest and placed her head near my shoulder. The large mound of her belly seemed to be a wider divide than just physical. She would have to sleep around it.
"Edward?"
I knew this was it, she had done the same thing to Esme, Carlisle, Alice even Rosalie – start out simple then trapped us into whatever she wanted.
"Yes?" I had no choice but to follow.
"What time is it?"
"It's a little after 9:30 p.m."
"Is Jacob still sleep?"
"Yes." I could hear his snores on the floor before. I didn't want to talk about Jacob though.
"You still think he'll sleep all night?"
"Probably."
"Let's make him breakfast?"
"What did you have in mind?"
"The usual, eggs, bacon—maybe even some of those homemade rolls you made for me on our honeymoon?"
"I think I can do that."
"You know what else sounds good?"
"Hmm"
"Pickles." She yawned.
"Pickles?"
"Yes in egg salad."
"Really?"
"Maybe a few chips."
"You want me to go get them for you, now?"
"Maybe, as a midnight snack. I think I need to go to sleep now." As if to prove her point, she yawned.
"Would you like something to drink?"
"How long will it take?"
"Maybe two minutes if I go, less than that if we ask Rosalie, she's perched outside the door."
"Please Rose?"
I heard Rosalie swoosh downstairs to the library and within seconds she returned with a cup and straw. She handed it to Bella, who quickly finished it off.
"Would you like more?" Rosalie asked
"No, thank you. I'm going to sleep now. Good night Rose."
"Good night Bella, see you in the morning."
"'Kay." Bella closed her eyes and relaxed. I held her all night, through her broken sleep. The fetus seemed quieted so Bella was able to fall into random moments of deep sleep, the monster continued to plot.
She did not wake up for a midnight snack, although Esme had prepared the egg salad just in case.
I waited for Bella to talk in her sleep, but words never came—just groans. Every move caused her pain and her unconscious could not stop what her conscious thoughts would have prevented. The moans and pain continued throughout the night and I was helpless to stop it. As the hours went by, the monster began a new plan to rid the half-breed from my wife's body.
There wasn't much time left to save her. I had to convince everyone that it was time to deliver the life-sucking murderer. It had to be large enough to survive on its own by now.
After six hours, Bella started to wake, her pain evident by the tears running down her face. There was no way to know what was going on inside of the mound and I would not—could not allow it to rip her apart. She started to whimper.
"Bella, sweetheart." I shook her arm gently.
"Edward?" Her voice was cracked and weak.
"You're in pain, we need to--" I knew I had to take it easy. She would never agree but in her barely awaken state, she'd listen easier.
"Oh, Edward. What did I say?" She was more concerned as usual with what I'd heard rather than what she was going through.
"You've been crying and moaning most of the night, Sweetheart. I can't stand for you to be in pain like this. Please, Bella, it has to be big enough by now."
"I'm sorry." She shook her head, took a deep breath and grunted and placed her hand over my mouth. "I can't. As for the tears and moaning—it wasn't because of pain. I don't even remember any pain, except you waking me up from a very good dream."
Her cheeks turned red and I knew her dream was not one that I would be able to join in without causing everyone in the house major problems, including myself. She was distracting me.
"It's time to talk to Carlisle about this." I mumbled through her fingers.
"It won't matter. I'm strong enough to carry this baby for another couple of weeks and you know it."
"Unless it breaks more bones or worse—it delivers itself."
"Edward, I don't want to talk with you about this. I'm not going to risk the baby just because of a broken rib, and certainly not because you're uncomfortable." She moved her slender hand to my cheek. "The baby can't live without me—just like I can't live without you. Soon."
She was once again in control of me and the monster. It was difficult to resist her touch and reasoning. It wasn't easy to allow her this, but I'd long ago determined that she would always have a choice with me. I knew her desire would win out, but I would continue to force the issue.
"Now, you're all gloomy." Her hand went to tousle my hair. She leaned forward to kiss me but paused, her stomach too large to get any nearer. "Don't make me work for it."
My lips came to hers and pressed. The color had returned to a beautiful rose and there were no signs of dehydration. I touched her face, glad that it had filled in with her added weight. The thing she was carrying rolled and she placed her hand on her stomach—her lips still on mine.
"Time to eat." She murmured.
"Hmm." I said taking in her smell before I lifted her from the bed. "Bella, you haven't fooled me—I know when you're in pain."
"I can handle it. Bathroom first." She gave me a faint smile and I carried her to the door. "Rose?"
Rosalie flew into the bathroom ahead of us. I set Bella on the floor, just outside the bathroom and she waddled through the door, holding her stomach with one hand, while Rosalie held her other hand. "I can really tell my sense of balance has changed, it seems more sure."
Emmett, who had been waiting with Rosalie, chuckled.
The house was still full of activity. Emmett began cleaning up the game that he and Rosalie had been playing. Esme and Carlisle were in their room, talking quietly. Jacob was still asleep on the floor and Alice was nearby on the computer, while Jasper stared at Alice's work.
"How'd you sleep?" Rosalie asked Bella.
"I feel rejuvenated, but I'm hungry and thirsty."
"That's good. How's the baby?"
"Same as me, I'm sure. Rested and hungry."
"Well let's get something for you two to eat."
When the bathroom door opened, Bella was wobbling through it, Rosalie stood behind, holding onto Bella's arms. It hadn't been five minutes, and I was ready to kill Rosalie for encouraging my wife's insanity. Today, I'd keep Rosalie at bay. Maybe enlist Jacob, now that we didn't have to worry about an attack.
"Care for a lift, Mrs. Cullen?" I asked.
"Guess you don't trust me to walk down on my own, huh?"
"Consider me your own personal elevator." I felt her hand slip over my shoulder and I lifted her into my arms, making sure her stomach and side were not jarred. I carried her down the stairs and placed her in the same chair she sat in the night before; a filled cup of warm liquid was already on the counter for her.
Within minutes, the cinnamon rolls set rising on the counter covered in cheese cloth. I quickly shredded cheese and chopped mushrooms for omelets. I emptied a dozen eggs into a bowl and began mixing, while the bacon was sizzling on the stove. I heard Seth approaching the house, just as I placed the cinnamon rolls into the oven.
Okay, Leah, I see the lights are on. I'll go check—I bet he just fell asleep and didn't phase back. Alice greeted Seth at the door, hearing his human footsteps on the porch.
"Hi, Seth." Alice trilled. "Would you like breakfast?"
"Oh, I just came to check on Jacob. Leah was worried."
"Well, he's been asleep since yesterday." Alice said pointing to Jacob's unconscious body, snoring. "You're welcomed to stay for breakfast; Bella says Edward makes the best omelets."
"Thanks, I'm kind of hungry." Seth said as he walked into the house and rounded the wall into the kitchen. He wore a pair of Emmett's old pants and shirt.
"Great more dogs," Rosalie grumbled.
"Hey guys!" Seth greeted us. His cheerfulness seemed to warm the kitchen more than the oven filled with rolls.
"What would you like in your omelet, Seth?" I asked. It was relaxing to keep my hands busy with activity.
"I'm starving, so—everything you got!" He answered cheerfully.
I placed a third skillet on the stove to heat. I poured Bella's cheese and mushroom omelet into a skillet and flipped the bacon onto a platter. After a few minutes the first omelet was completed and on a plate in front of Bella. She ate quickly and looked as if she would eat a second omelet. Seth's omelet was finished next and I placed it on a plate along with several slices of bacon.
"Hey you mind if I take this one out to Leah?" He asked.
"No problem. The rolls should be done, so we can put a nice one on for her too." I quickly pulled the cinnamon rolls out of the oven and placed one on the plate. Seth was out the door with the warm smell of cinnamon, just as Esme joined us in the kitchen.
"I see Seth has taken us up on our offer."
"He took a plate out to Leah, I don't know if she'll accept it, but it's the best we'll be able to do." I told Esme.
"Well, I won't give up trying." Esme said. "How are you feeling today Bella?"
"Great. I'm full." She gave a little smile just as she shivered.
"That's wonderful. So if you're finished, let's get you to the couch so you can put your feet up." Esme suggested. "Edward, I'll finish up in here."
I followed my mother's advice and went to help Bella to the sofa in the great room. I gently laid her down, when Carlisle came in and glanced quickly to review her condition.
"How are we today Bella?" It was clear that her body was tolerating the new diet much better.
"I'm fine." She answered. I rolled my eyes and let out a puff of air.
"Carlisle, she's in pain. She was hurting most of the night, but she was able to get some much needed deep sleep. I'd venture to say, she's trying to be a trooper, for our sake." I said it with more coldness than intended.
"Bella, I need to know how you're doing. Suffering in silence is probably the worst thing you can do right now. Any change no matter how insignificant you think it may be, is an important indication that can help me save you and the fetus. Now, how are you doing?"
I could tell Bella was hesitating; she began to nibble on her lower lip. "Well, my side does hurt, not as bad as yesterday, and only when I move too quickly. Aside from that and the obvious, I'm really cold." She began to rub her stomach.
"Well, even though your heart sounds stronger, I think we should still hold off on pain medicine. As for the chill, I imagine a couple of things are going on here. First your body is still trying to adjust to the amazing changes going on, so I'm not surprised by the temperature changes. Secondly, we need to get more iron into your system. And lastly, you've got adrenaline overload, if you relax—the chills will most likely go away." Carlisle said.
"Well, I'll stay on the couch the rest of the day and do nothing but eat, sleep and relax."
I sat down on the floor facing Bella after placing a few blankets on her, when Seth walked back into the house. I knew from experience that she'd only get colder if I touched her. Rosalie was standing behind the couch, hovering with a fresh cup of warm blood. "This should warm you up some." She said as she handed it to Bella.
It didn't seem to bother Seth that Bella was drinking blood. She looks so much better than what Jacob showed us yesterday. I guess drinking blood is a good thing, cause she is better. Even Edward is looking better.
"Seth, you mind sitting with me?" Bella asked. "Edward has all these blankets on top of me and I can hardly move, you werewolves are better than a heater."
"No problem." Seth sat down on the couch and Bella began to warm up almost immediately. Esme brought him a plate of food and he ate with one hand, while the other was around Bella's shoulders.
Esme took a look at Jacob. He looks so uncomfortable. Before I could stop her, she had placed two fluffy pillows under Jacob's head. That should make him more comfortable.
I moved to a seat on the other side of Bella. Thanks to Seth's warmth, I could touch my wife again. I quickly picked up her hand, bringing my lips to it. She shifted the cup between the two of us and sat watching the television, nothing in particular—I watched her.
Another good thing about having Seth near Bella was that Alice was able to join us. I'm happy Seth is here, I've missed you and Bella. Bella and I both welcomed Alice near us. Unfortunately, Seth wasn't able to run off Rosalie.
"How's breakfast Seth?" Alice asked.
"It's better than deer!" His laugh was rich and filled the room. It was hard not to smile with him.
What the hell? Jacob startled awake. He didn't seem too happy that Seth was sitting with us, well with Bella. He eyed Seth's arm.
"Hey, Jake's coming around!" Seth was happy to see his Alpha leader awake.
"He came to find you." I said in hopes of calming Jacob down. "We convinced him to stay for breakfast."
"Yeah, Jake—I was just checking to see if you were okay 'cause you didn't ever phase back. Leah got worried. I told her you probably just crashed human, but you know how she is. Anyway, they had all this food and, dang," He turned to me. "man, you can cook."
I thanked him and watched as Jacob continued to stare at Seth's arm on Bella. I really wasn't pleased that he felt possessive over my wife, but then I understood that he felt just as protective of Bella as I did and figured it was his responsibility if Bella needed help—not Seth's.
"Bella got cold." I told him in reply to his concerns. Seth removed his arm and Jacob moved closer to the rest of us.
"Leah running patrol?" He asked.
"Yeah, she's on it.' Seth answered. "No worries. She'll howl if there's anything. We traded off around midnight. I ran twelve hours." I'm good!
Jacob realized that he had slept a lot longer than he had planned. "Crap. Sorry about that, Seth. Really. You shoulda kicked me awake."
I stopped listening to their conversation. Her stomach began to shift and the movement was causing her pain. I could see her face twitch.
"How's the rib?" Jacob asked.
"Taped up nice and tight. I don't even feel it." She answered.
I was totally exasperated at how easily she blew off her pain. It wasn't right. She knew she was in pain. She traded witty jibs with Jacob, while I continued to monitor her condition. At least the friendly bantering will take her mind off of the pain.
The longer we sat around waiting for that beast to grow and kill, Bella; the sicker the monster became with its plans. I looked around at my family, our family and wondered how can we declare that we love Bella if we don't stop this madness. Love doesn't hurt! From the moment I touched her—to now, my love was insufficient to protect her.
I heard my name called and looked up at Carlisle speaking to Jacob. They seemed to be discussing a hunt and wanted me to go in order to protect against Sam's pack tracking our family. I glared at them—how can they think I would leave her? This thirst of mine was insignificant to her pain—I wasn't leaving! I wasn't even going to entertain their conversation.
I turned back to Bella, her forehead was wrinkled: worry. She was concerned about us, when she needed to focus on staying calm and relaxed.
I wanted everyone out of here. I looked up and no one seemed to move. In fact, Esme came back into the room with food. She offered it to Jacob. I didn't want to listen to anyone's thoughts. My wife was dying and no one was going to stop it—not even me. The monster was an utter failure, having not created a plan.
Bella called to Jacob as he headed for the door. Her voice the only real thing, I could hold onto. "Will you come back later, Jake?"
"Uh, I don't know." He said anxiously. He didn't want to face more hospitality and the guilt that it was bringing him.
"Please? I might get cold." Bella begged. She wanted him near and I couldn't deny the happiness it brought her. I nodded my head to him, hoping he noticed and would feel comfortable enough to return when Seth relieved him in six hours.
Jacob was in fact, by birth, legend and creation the sworn enemy of every vampire. He was our natural enemy. But now the lion became friends with the hyena-no longer mortal enemies, but protectors of the lamb; that arrogant lion, gullible hyena and gentle lamb, sharing the same one hundred square feet.