Firstly, oops.

I didn't realise that quite so many people would be so confused by the previous chapter.

I was merely venting my frustration over the week I spent writing that ridiculous document—I'll be taking it off, tonight. Sorry about that.

Date: 18th October

POV: Edward

Stimulus word: Week/Weak

Dedication: BellaSparkled, who managed to clog up my inbox once more. I am eternally grateful! X Also to LynnyLiz, who seems to like my Edward stuff.

It has been one week since I arrived here. But the busy streets and millions of people that constantly surround me fail to distract, like all else. It is not that this city is not beautiful—in a complicated, contrasting way—but the problem is that I now fail to appreciate any kind of beauty. It all pales, in comparison.

There is nothing here. But there must be something. Something that can soothe my wounds, make me whole once more.

Of course, there is something. There is always an option.

All I have to do is take the first plane back to Washington. Simple… and so tempting.

But not sufficiently tempting. I will not compromise her safety again. And if an eternity of loneliness is the price that I must pay, then pay it I will.

I am hardly strong, but neither am I weak enough to forfeit Bella's wellbeing.