Chapter 22

(Read and Review please. I do not own anything.) Been having some health issues I apologize for late updates.

Bella… I swear…

"You never did have eyes for anyone else." Edward hears the interviewer utter under her breath. He smirks at this, but doesn't comment.

"Are you sure you got everything you need?"

I hear Charlie say as I barely managed to hop out of her window in time. I felt like the evil villain with the maniacal laughter stealing Bella's virtue. Ok I suppose in a way I am. Still it was strange each time I had to quickly dodge Charlie. I mean here I am older than her and Charlie put together. Yet, I found myself having to literally act as though a teenager. In fact as of late I rather felt as though I was one again. Here we were going to school. My girlfriend a human and teenager at that, honestly, I never knew just how much she'd change my life. I was saying and doing things I never dreamed I would. I wasn't quite sure how to feel about it all. All I knew was I was in deep. Real deep… I began to feel as though without Bella I'd die.

"Yeah dad I do."
He sighs.

"Are you certain you have to bring that Eddie guy with you?"

I roll my eyes. That was Charlie's thing. He knew my name alright, but he wanted to get under Bella's skin.

"Edward dad…"
"Right…"

He sighs again. He of course didn't like the idea of me going. He felt it would be better if she went alone; though Charlie didn't actually hate me. He didn't wholeheartedly approve of how serious his daughter acted when it came to me. He felt she was too young to be getting so involved in boys. It would be wiser, if she waited until she graduated from college, to even consider such things. I shake my head on this. I light a cigarette and lean back against the tree on their front lawn. If only he knew the truth… Even I grimace in thought. I might be a vampire, but even I wasn't so cruel… to not to think about Charlie will go through when I steal his little girl away. College wasn't in her future, neither were children, and the whole package. No she was to be a vampire and the bride of coven master. Nothing along the lines of any father's wishes for his daughter. If I was capable of having a daughter I'd feel the same.

I quickly put out my cigarette. I hear Bella coming out with her father. His eyes lock onto me automatically. I nod and take Bella's bags. He points to me.

"I don't care what Renee says… couch…" He hints.

I nod doing my best to suppress my smile. As far as Charlie was concerned his little girl was a virgin. There it is again… The villain. Here I stand shaking hands with Charlie Swan. A man that truly loved his daughter more than life itself. He'd die for her a million times over. Was there guilt? Yes there was. However, there was no backing down. No matter how bad I felt for Charlie. I loved Bella entirely too much to give her up. I too was willing to give my life for her. Yet, I wasn't willing to live without her. I respectfully look him in the eyes and give him a firm shake.

"Understood sir."

He nods. I start loading up Bella's things into the trunk of my car.

"Not taking the truck?"

Bella turns to him.

"Edward's car is more reliable. Besides we're flying remember? We have school Monday.."

He shrugs.

"Just curious."

Bella hugs him before she gets in the car.

"Take care of yourself dad."

"Yeah, yeah."

"I mean it and none of those crappy microwave dinners."

He raises his brows.

"I mean it dad! They're like really bad for you! I have left overs in the fridge and tomorrow is steak night at the café."

He smiles shaking his head.

"Ok Bells."

"I love you."

"Love you too."

She gets in the car. Charlie waves us off as I pull out of the driveway. Bella smiles and leans over cutting on the radio.

"What's the grin for?"

"Oh I'm just thinking about how entertaining things are about to get."

"Is that so?"

She nods.

"You haven't a clue just what it is you're walking into Edward. My mother…" She shakes her head and leans back in her seat.

"She's… well you'll see. Honestly I feel almost cruel having you tag along for this. Considering our situation though I figure it is best you meet her and Phil now." She narrows her eyes though.

"I don't know why I even care if you meet them or not."

I raise a brow on this.

"Why's that sweetheart?"

"It's just ever since I moved here my mother and I's relationship has been a bit estranged. No I take that back, ever since she married Phil."

"You don't like Phil?"

She smiles.

"I hardly know him. So I suppose it's not fair to judge."

She softly laughs.

"He's so opposite of Charlie its unreal. You'll soon see for yourself."

The poor girl's heart was racing closer we got to the airport. Bella wore the mask, but she couldn't fool me. Her nerves were shot. I took her hand hoping it'd calm her somewhat. Before long we're at the airport and boarding the plane.

Her hand shook as she handed the flight attendant her ticket. I feared she'd make herself sick. I didn't understand why she was so worked up. I help Bella to her seat, letting her have the window. I place our take on bag up top. I then take my seat. We fasten our seatbelts.

Meanwhile, I was thinking about Bree and Jasper. Things were about to get even more interesting. Jasper was using this weekend to tame her. His goal was to have her ready for school Monday morning. I truly hope he succeeded. Otherwise, this could prove to be bad for all of us. I had faith in Jasper though. If anyone could pull it off, that'd be him.

I look over to see Bella looking down her shirt.

"Can I help with something?"

She blushes.

"My bra just totally snapped." She whispers.

I raise my brows at this.

"Really?"

She nods looking around.

"Dammit…" She groans leaning back.

Bella was doing her best to cover herself.

"Can I see?"

"Edward!"

"Just thought I'd ask."

"That's it I'm not buying the front clasp anymore."

I frown at this. Those were my favorite kind. Nothing's sexier than being able unclasp a woman's bra with one swift motion and they're right there! The back clasping ones were frustrating and it took too long. Even for a vampire. When I'm in the mood I want the quickest access possible.

"Hmmm, I'll just buy you some better ones."

She looks to me oddly.

"You? Buying me bras?"

I shrug on this.

"Why would you care about such things?"

"Oh trust me. I care a great deal." I say with a smirk.

"About my bra?"

"Especially, about that."

"You're so weird."
"It just so happens that a woman's undergarments are part of the art of seduction."
It's still easy to forget how young Bella is at times. She looks to me blankly. I was her only real experience when it came to anything sexual (which I took great honor in). So of course she didn't fully understand.

"What a woman wears under her clothes can do a lot to play with a man's senses."

She blushes and looks away for a moment.

"So… what about my art of seduction?" She hints softly.

Fuck I was growing hard at just the idea. I clear my throat as the plane takes off in flight. I felt her piercing glance upon me as she waited for an answer. Bella had a thing for wearing those sexy boy cut panties. Occasionally, she'd wear bikini rarely she'd wear thongs. Though, I'd literally kill to see her wear thongs more often. Her favorite colors seemed to be black, white, navy and red all very, very sexy. Her bras even more mouthwatering. Often enough she wore these little lacy ones that hardly hid much to the imagination. I always knew when Bella was wearing one of these because nipples ahoy everytime she got cold or excited. Those were my favorite. Though she was never aware of this nor would I ever tell her. That was my evil little secret I took far too much joy in. The rest of the time she'd wear these little teasers slightly padded showing just a hint of her natural curves. Bella easily had the most suckable breast known to mankind. If ever given the chance I could easily spend an entire day in bed doing nothing, but that. That's not even a joke.

Once the seatbelt light comes on, I undo mine. I lean over and whisper.

"Meet me in two minutes and I'll show you."

Her jaw drops.

"Edward…"

I don't give her a chance to argue. I come to my feet and make my way straight to the bathroom. I wait… two minutes pass and I'm beginning to think she's chickening out. I sigh in disappointment. I should have compelled her I suppose. However, I hear the knock and the timid voice.

"Edward…" She whispers.

"Who is it?" I taunt.

"Shut up!"

I open the door and yank her inside. I lock the door.

"You've got a very bad mouth you know that." I pretend to scold.

I lift her onto the counter.

"We're going to get caught Edward!"

I shrug. I could fucking care less. What can they do? That's right nothing!

"Let them."

She softly giggles.

"Now let me see about that bra."

I lift her shirt up. Sure enough the clasp to the right had worn out. It wasn't even there. There was nothing holding her beautiful breast in place. I take off her shirt and toss the bra into the trash.

"Edward…"

"It's not covering anything anyway. We'll get you another one out of the suitcase before we head to your mothers."

"I can't just go without a bra."

"Hmm. You haven't a choice for now."

"I feel like such a sleaze!"

"You are…" I tease and run my hands along her bare breast.

"I could compel you to never wear a bra again. Nor panties for that matter."

"Wouldn't that ruin the whole "art of seduction"?"

Growing harder by the moment, I don't answer. I couldn't. I'd already put my mouth to work. Whilst I'm doing that I'm struggling to get her pants off. Bella lets out this echoing moan. We both freeze and she covers her mouth.
"Sorry…" She whispers with a grin.

I half laugh shaking my head.

"And you were the one worried about us getting caught."

She bites her lower lip as I run my fingers along her. She was already drenched and ready to go. I free myself and start fucking her against the counter. Anyone that's flown before knows how small the bathrooms are. Having sex in one takes some creativity. I've got Bella in this leg over my shoulder position watching myself going in and out of her. Another highly erotic sight she was so wet and tight she literally gloved me. It caused me to swell up even more inside her. She felt so good. That little mound of hers was practically milking me with each stroke I gave. I start to pick up the pace getting ready to come. Bella though seemed to forget where we were.

"FUCK, Edward!" She shouts.

Of course I shoot my load like there's no tomorrow. Bella covers her mouth again realizing what she just said. I chuckle on this shaking my head.

"You get to explain this one when we walk out."

She gives me that pitiful expression. She looked mortified.

"Relax Bella."

"How can I! The entire plane knows now."

"Yes they do." I wink and continue to fix my clothes.

Bella buttons her pants. That red hue not leaving her face.

"Look I'll walk out first. That way I can deal with any shit coming for us."

She grabs my arm with desperation.
"It'll be ok Bella."

"I can't believe I did that!"

"Oh I can…" That was true too. Bella could get a very vulgar mouth when riled up. That and she was definitely a moaner, all in which I loved.

I step out and sure enough all eyes are on me. I give a simple nod and run my fingers though my hair. However, poor Bella walks out as I've already taken my seat. Some frat boys off to the corner of the plane start clapping. I couldn't' help, but to laugh at Bella's reaction. She looked upon me as if wanting me to save her. Instead, I join in on the clapping. Her jaw drops. She makes her way over and punches me in the chest. We hear the guys laughing.

"You're so dead Edward Cullen."

"That I am."

"Grr, you know what I mean."

I peck her on the lips.

"That I do."

Eventually, things calm down and she leans against me. After, I discreetly feed from her. Bella's eyes grow heavy. I put my arm around her. When we land I nudge her awake. I grab our bags. Bella quickly heads to the bathroom and puts a bra on. We then we look around for her parents.

I see the disappointment in her face however. Bella turns to a tall blond haired man. He smiles warmly at her. Too warmly… In fact… What the fuck?! I damn near stumble back at the guys thoughts. Oh no it gets worse from there.

Damn! Bella's all grown up. She's even hotter than I remember. Shit!

"Um hey Phil. Where's mom?"

PHIL! THAT'S PHIL?! He reaches over and hugs her. You've got to be kidding you're her step father you sick motherfucker!

"She had to finish a few things back home."

"Of course…" Bella says looking hurt.

"I got these." He says taking the bags from my hands.

It was taking all my composure not the punch the living fuck out of this bastard. His thoughts were on loud speaker and I hated Bella's stepfather with a passion. She was right he was nothing like Charlie! Charlie would put a bullet into this guy's thick skull if he had any clue.

We follow the jerk to his yellow mustang. The car however, screamed red, white, and blue. Phil was the classic version of an all American douchebag. He places our things into the trunk. Bella starts to hop in the back with me. Phil takes her by the arm though and places her up front with him.

I can't believe Renee! I told her specifically I didn't want Bella's damn boyfriend tagging along. Renee' just doesn't listen she never does. She pisses me the fuck off. What's with this guy anyway? Not only does he need a tan, but he's got the most freakish eyes I've ever seen. Dude… is he staring at me? Little shit. How does Bella end up with someone like you! He looks like a fag. I bet he is. Hell I hope he is little cocksucker.

I lower my shades and give him a wink into the rearview mirror making certain he saw it. If I can't beat the shit out of him. I wanted to at least mess with his head. He narrows his eyes.

What the fuck? Did the little shit just wink at me?

I nod and put my hands into my pockets and sway my hips off the seat. If there's one thing I hated was a narrow-minded bigot. This guy obviously had some issues with homosexuality. That seemed to be his go to with cut downs. If I couldn't read his mind I'd swear he was gay and was masking it. But no Phil was just a royal jackass that deserved a good beat down.

He does that again. I'm going to whip his ass!

I roll my eyes. He reaches over turning on the radio.

What I wouldn't give… She looks like her mother. Only a much younger hotter version. Renee's losing her luster and quick. If only she'd take better care of herself. Bella… that babe takes damn good care of herself. Man she smells good. It's too bad she turned Renee down about moving in with us. I'm game that's for sure. Maybe we can convince her yet. Maybe a bit of one on one time with me will change her point of view. I'd be an awesome stepdad! Make her forget all about that loser cop father of hers. What an idiot. The guy doesn't understand that the 70s pornstache just isn't in anymore. No wonder he hasn't found a woman yet. He couldn't even hold on to Renee. I gripped that bitch right out from underneath him. I was tapping her long before he filed for divorce. I swear he's so fucking stupid.

I grimace at his thoughts and try to block them out. In fact I was trying so hard I was getting migraine.

"Are you alright?"

I hear Bella and look up.

"Yes sweetheart I'm fine."

Sweetheart? Please…

I grit my teeth. I kept envisioning the many ways of letting loose on Phil. One in which involved slamming his face into his stirring wheel repeatedly. I knew I was going to have to stay stuck by Bella's side this entire trip. Or I'd kill her stepfather. We pull up to this three story house in the suburbs.

Bella's jaw drops.

"Um Phil?"

He grins and hops out of the car. He rushes over and opens the door for Bella.

"Thanks."

He nods and takes her arm again. He tosses me the keys.
"You got the bags right bro?"

Bro? Try your worst fucking nightmare prick. I swallow back and grab the bags. I then follow them inside.

"Hey babe, we're home!"

He calls out. The house was surprisingly nice. I clear my throat.

"Where do you want me to sit these down at?"

"Oh anywhere will do."

I shrug and drop them where I stand. Bella cut me a look of hell.

"He said anywhere."

She gives me shameful look women seem to love to give. Bella had a knack for it as of late.

"What?"

This tall brunette haired woman comes down the stairs. Phil wasn't kidding Bella was a spitting image of her mother. Only I disagreed by far. Renee was a beautiful woman. I could see why Charlie was so upset about losing someone like her. Like mother like daughter Renee' was a knock out. She smiles as she comes down the stairs.

"Isabella!"

"Um Bella, mom."

Her mother sighs.

"Right. I seem to forget."

"Yep…" Bella says with disinterest.

Her mother opens her arms anyway and Bella accepts the embrace.

There we go a little mother daughter action.

REALLY?! I cut the bastard a look and shake my head.

"And you must be Edward!"

I nod and she makes her way over. She pecks me on the cheek and checks me over. Not at all uncomfortable…

"Charlie's told me all about you."

I was taken back a bit by this. Charlie? You mean Bella right? Why would Charlie want to talk about me?

"I just got off the phone with him before you both came in."

Now he's a good kid Renee so be nice. He said that?! I was baffled as I read her mind onto the phone conversation they just had. I still think she's too young. I caught in her thoughts, something she and Charlie seemed to agree on.

As usual Bella your hair is a mess; you certainly could use a manicure, and what in the world is with those shoes. I've got to take you down to get some new clothes and a haircut at least.

Still the woman smiles and continues to love on her daughter through her cruel thoughts. I didn't see anything wrong with Bella. Her hair was fine. What's her deal? And who the hell cares about what her fingernails look like?

Phil's mind was beginning to sound more like Mike Newton's. What's sad was Phil was a grown ass man. At least Mike had somewhat of an excuse. He was just a horny teenage boy. Phil was in his forties and thought like a pubescent fool.

"Can I get you ladies something to drink?" Phil offers.

Ignoring the fact I'm even there and purposely.

"I'm ok." Bella says.

"Nonsense, Phil why don't you bring us both a glass of red wine."

"Mom… I'm underage…"

"Oh hush. You're under my roof now, not your father's."

"Mom… that's hardly fair. Charlie…"

"Charlie what?" Her mother questions.

"Nevermind, I don't want a glass of wine mom."

Renee looks towards me.

"Please Edward have a seat."

I nod and take a seat on the burgundy leather couch. That was another thing. Phil and Renee dressed very posh, even more so than Carlisle. However, it all screamed fake to me, Phil mainly. Phil returns with the glasses of wine. He hands one to his wife then to Bella.

"Thanks." Bella says with a scowl and sets down the glass.

Something else however, dawned on me as I looked around. Not a single picture of Bella was in sight. I thought all mothers were about doting on their children. Not this one. In fact there were a nauseating amount of pictures of Phil. A few of Renee, some of them together even. But not one of Bella, not even as a child. Whereas, Charlie he had a picture for every milestone Bella hit.

"Not a wine drinker?" Phil questions.

He sits across from her. The bastards looking right to Bella's crotch area with some pretty sick thoughts. I take the glass of wine and down it myself eyeing Phil the entire time. This is pretty much how the night goes. The uncomfortable silence about the room other than Phil's disturbing thoughts. Renee continued to scrutinize her daughter finding flaws about her off and on. Whether it'd be how she talked, looked or acted.

My teeth grind however, as it's time for bed. Phil gazes upon Bella once more.

Hmm, I know what I'm going to be thinking about tonight. He takes her mother by the hand at this and whispers in her ear. She giggles.

"Well goodnight you two. We'll have a full day tomorrow. Be thinking about where you want to go and what you'd both like to do. I can't wait."

"Um sure mom."

"I already have your bed set up hun."

Maybe I can sneak in and have a peek later. The nasty fucker thinks.

"OK thanks mom."

"Goodnight darling."

"Night mom."
"Goodnight Bella."

"Night Phil."

As soon as I hear their door close I hop up and pace the living room.

"What's with you?"

I turn to her and rub my hands along my face. How the hell do I even begin?! JESUS! I take in a breath.

"Bella… you know how I can read minds?"

"Edward please tell me you're not…"

"Bella you know I can't just turn it off. Not when they shout at me." I look towards the stairs.

I grab a cigarette out from my jacket.

"Come with me."

She sighs and follows me outside. I light my cigarette and take a long drag. I continue to think on this. I had to come clean and tell her.

"Edward you really shouldn't that's private!"
"Bella… I've explained this to you before, have I not?"

She nods and looks to the ground.

"Trust me I wouldn't even say anything if I didn't feel like I needed to."

"Say what?"

"I think there might be a good reason you don't care too much for Phil."

She softly laughs shaking her head.

"What are you going to tell me Edward. Is he CIA or something. Is that why he has that silly yellow mustang?" I wish it was something like that.

"No Bella…"

"Then what is it?"

"Your stepdad has some issues. Like serious fucking issues."

She sighs.

"And what would these issues be exactly?"

"The sick kind where he's upstairs with your mother right now thinking about you." Ok yeah I could have reworded that differently. I should have.

Her jaw drops and she shoves me back.
"SHUT THE FUCK UP! That's not even funny Edward."

"No it's not."

Bella becomes frozen as she stares at me.

"Please tell me you're joking…"

I take another drag.

"Edward…" She says desperately.

"EDWARD!"

She looks back to the house.

"You're serious?!"

"I'm sorry Bella, but yeah it seems you got one of those kind… of stepfathers. He wants you in bad way."

Bella covers her ears.

"STOP JUST STOP IT!"

What's your problem Edward?! Why was I being so cold to her about this? It's not her fault. Yet, here I was taking it out on her. Acting like a righteous Jerk! It was Phil I was pissed with not her!

"Bella… I…"

Bella storms off and heads inside the house. I shake my head as she slams the door.

"Dammit.

That night I plant myself by Bella's door. I wasn't about to let him pull a peeking tom with her! I lean back against the wall and pretend to be asleep. I've my legs kicked out knowing he'd fall on his fucking face if he even tried to pass me! Sure enough a couple hours pass. I hear him coming down the hall. But its pitch black and he can't see me. I hear him opening Bella's door and the dumb fuck goes face first into the hard wood floor. Bella tiredly turns to the commotion. She sees Phil on the floor then I kicked back in the hallway. I give her the told you so look, but say nothing.

"Hello Phil." I say menacingly.

He curses under his breath. I resist the urge to laugh at his sheer stupidity. He comes to his feet.

He looks directly at me.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"Same could be said to you."

Renee makes her way out of their room.
"What on earth is going on?"

"Yeah Phil would you like to explain?"

He looks to me oddly. Bella cuts me a glance shaking her head.

"Phil what are you doing in my room?"

"I was just coming to check on you. I wanted to make certain he wasn't in your bed. You know obeying your father's wishes."

"So you didn't knock because?"

"I did you just didn't hear me."

I roll my eyes and shake my head Bella's direction.

"Look we're all confused and tired. Let's just go back to bed. Edward hun, we have an extra room if you'd prefer…"

"Nope, I'm fine right here." I look upon Phil as I answer.

"You're a strange boy aren't you?" Renee accuses.

I shrug.

"Goodnight you two, try to get some sleep."

I nod and watch as they head back to their room. Bella looks to me from the bed.

"Edward?"

"Get some sleep Bella."

She sighs and rolls over. I shut my eyes again as I pull her door to.

The next morning Bella steps right over me as if I'm not even there. No hello, not even so much as a kiss. I grumble under my breath. However, I'm not the only one to take notice of Bella ignoring me. The bastard smiles shaking his head. Bella doesn't catch this as she's in the bathroom taking a shower.

"How'd you sleep?" He questions.

"Don't know how'd you sleep? You perverted fucker."

"What?"

I shrug and come to my feet.

"What?" I say cocky like.

Renee comes out of the room and smiles my direction.

"Good morning Edward."

"Good morning Mrs. Dwyer."
"Would you like some pancakes and bacon for breakfast Edward?"

"Oh I'd love some."

She softly laughs a lot like Bella. Yeah I don't eat, but today was an exception. I wasn't letting Phil out of my sight.

"Wonderful, I'll get some started and please call me Renee."

Phil and I continue the stare down. Renee looks to us oddly as she makes her way down the stairs.

"You had better watch that mouth of yours boy."

"Oh I'm no boy… Trust me kid. You've not a clue."

I don't move until he makes his way down first. I wasn't taking any chances.

"I thought I could take Bella shopping. Maybe get her hair done even. Perhaps you and Phil could have a little one on one? You know some good ole guy time. I got some gardening to do first though."

"Huh… That could be fun."

Come on Renee! You take the weirdo kid. Leave Bella's fine ass here. I'll take care of her.

I slam my hand against their marble table. The both of them turn to me.

"Why Edward!" Renee says in a shrill voice of disbelief.

"Sorry thought I saw a roach." I pretend to look around like it got a way.

"A roach!" The woman practically climbs the furniture.

Bella comes in not long after. Still she says nothing to me. Phil rushes to her side and pulls out a chair for her. Bella says nothing she just sits.

"It smells good mom."
"Thanks hun. I doubt your father…"

"Mom please, don't do that. Charlie doesn't do that, neither should you."

That's right he doesn't.

"Why you continue to defend that man…" Renee scoffs.

"MOM! PLEASE THAT'S ENOUGH!"

Renee sighs.

He's such a loser… Your dad's a joke. Phil thinks.

Charlie… let me guess you still can't get over me. I can only imagine, so sad.

JESUS! I wanted to snag my girl up and take her back home! If anything I respected Charlie more and more just this visit alone was an eye opener.

Bella looks to me oddly as I'm actually eating the food. I say nothing and continue to eat.

"This is very good Renee."

"Why thank you Edward." Honestly, it tasted like fucking dirt. It was mere torture with each bite.

Bella helps her mother clean up after we eat. She's doing the dishes as her mother heads on out to get the gardening done. Shit hits the fan from there.

Phil makes his way over to Bella as she's washing the dishes. He leans into her. I hear him whisper.

"Do you need to talk about it?"

My eyes widen anger coursing through me as he places his hand along the slope of her back. It starts to work its way down. Bella promptly turns and grabs his hand.

"What was that?"

"What?"

"You don't touch me. Like ever…"

"Aren't you being a tad sensitive? I was just making sure you were alright."

"I'm fine, but you touch me like that again. You won't be."

That's my girl.

"You deserve better you know? I don't like the way he treats you." He continues to whisper.

Ok now, I'm just leaning back waiting for it. This is merely entertainment for me now.

"Edward treats me just fine."

"I really think we should talk about this, just you and I. I'm your stepfather Bella. I do care. I want to be a part of your life."

His hand makes its way over to her again, this time along her waist. Bella nods and shoves him back against the counter.

"We're leaving." She demands looking to me.

I nod and make my way over. I take her hand and we quickly pack our things. We don't even bother to tell Renee or say another word to Phil. Bella calls a cab and we head straight to the airport and fly home. In midflight she looks upon me.

"I'm sorry Edward. I…"

"Don't ok. I maybe over a hundred years old, but I'm by far perfect. It was a close call, let's leave it at that. You and I are fine."

She nods, but looked like she was about to cry. Not that I'd blame her if she did. Bella's life was just jacked up all around. I just never really knew how badly. I wouldn't wish her life on my worst enemy, but I'll be damned if I make her go through it alone.

The rest of the trip we're quiet. Bella however, leans against me. Her arm was wrapped around my waist. I kiss the top of her head. Still the recent events continued to play out in my mind. After we get to Seattle we get in my car and head back to Forks. I take her home and Charlie greets us at the door with a bewildered look.

"I thought you weren't coming home till tomorrow night."

Bella says nothing she wraps her arms around Charlie. She holds him tight leaning into him. Charlie looks to me oddly, but holds her.

"Bells?" He questions concerned.

Still she says nothing and heads to her room.
"What happened?" He asks once she's upstairs.

"Shit hit the fan sir."

He winces shaking his head. He then steps aside.

"Come on in son." Making the first time he's ever referred to me as that.

I nod and make my way inside.

"Have a seat."

I sit down and look towards the stairs.

"Tell me everything."

I lean back thinking of where to begin. The both of us sit at the dining room table. Making a first for Charlie Swan and I to have a true conversation. I tell him everything I can minis the mindreading thing. Charlie looked damn near green by the time I was done. He pinched the bridge of his nose. The man says nothing. He pats me on the shoulder however, and comes to his feet. He paces about a bit.
"I'm glad you were there." He finally says.

"Me too sir."

"I'm serious Edward, things could have ended up a lot worse."

So now he gets my name right. For once I had Charlie's full respect. It felt nice… warm even. That's when we hear the knock at the door. I grimace already knowing by the thoughts I was collecting. So what the fuck? They followed us here? Actually flew to Forks? Charlie looks out the peephole on the door.

He sighs. He then turns to me.

"Edward please, go upstairs. Take care of my daughter."

I nod and make my way up.

I lay next to Bella as her face is buried into the pillow.

I hear the door open.

"Where's Isabella?" I hear her mother say as they enter the house.

Bella hears this as well and sits up. I put a finger to my lips and nod. She looks to me oddly, but stays put and quiet.

"I don't understand Charlie she and that boy just up and left! What's going on! You're up to this aren't you Charlie? How could you be so selfish?!"

"Woman don't you even get me started."

"Excuse me?"

"I'd nothing to do with Bella's decision to come on home. You should talk to your husband about that."

I make out through his mind Renee looking to Phil in question.

"Don't ask me. I know nothing about this. The kid just packed up and left."

"Did she now?"

Ohhhhhhh I so badly wanted to smile or laugh at this. I refrain; I didn't want to put Bella through even more hell than she was going through at the moment.

"Well yeah, I'm telling you that girl is bipolar or something."

"Phil you do realize I'm the Chief detective… I've ways of knowing when someone is lying."

I see Phil shrug through his mind.

"Such as now… you're body language alone is giving you away."

Charlie was noting how Phil blinked more often than usual. He twirled his wedding band about his finger like a bad habit. Charlie was watching his every move.

"Whatever she told you Charlie. She's full of shit."

"Is that so?"

Phil nods.

"So you didn't touch my daughter inappropriately?"

"Oh come on! That little brat is too damn sensitive. I swear I was just trying to console her! She was upset about her and her boyfriend fighting. And…"

"First of all that's my daughter you're talking about! Bella's not a brat! Secondly, I happen to know you're full of shit!"

"Charlie!" Renee scolds.

"Tell me Renee did you realize you married a pedophile?"

Her jaw drops and Phil says the stupidest thing he could possibly say.

"She's 18! That's hardly pedophile material dumbass!"

Charlie grabs Phil by the collar of his shirt and slams him up against the wall. GO CHARLIE DAMN!

"You just ratted yourself out! I told you I was a god damn detective. I just set your ass up. You fell for it! You have sexual desires for my daughter don't you?! That's my little girl!"

"CHARLIE!" Renee yells.

Bella starts to head that direction and I hold her back.

"No sweetheart, let your dad handle this."

"But."

"You need to trust Charlie on this. This is something he needs to take care of."

"You stay away from my daughter. Do we have an understanding? If I see you so much as in the same town as her…" Charlie gritted his teeth he was pissed.

"I'll make it look like an accident Phil I swear to god! I will wipe you off the face of this earth!"

"Charlie please…"

Charlie points to Renee.

"Shut the hell up!" He roars her jaw drops.

I gathered from his thoughts he's never talked to her like that.

"If you even begin to defend this man and his actions. I'll make certain you never see our daughter again. I'll get a restraining order on both your sorry asses."

"Charlie I didn't know I…"

She looks to Phil.

"Did you really? Is this true Phil?"

He rolls his eyes.

"You know what?! I don't need this shit. Fuck you all, crazy loons!"

"PHIL!"

"Nah, man I'm done with this. I wanted a divorce anyway. You're old news babe. This right here it's just an eye opener."

Phil says something awfully stupid though as he goes to leave. He looks to Charlie and grins.

"She came on to me first. That's right daddy's little girl isn't so innocent. Deep down she's just like her mother… another bitch in heat."

Charlie rushes over and grabs Phil. He punches him in the gut. Phil bows over. Charlie then slams him up against the wall. He cuffs him. Phil Dwyer you're under my jurisdiction. You're now being arrested for the attempt on raping my daughter! Trust me I can make the charges stick and I will! As for now you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have a right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney. One will be appointed for you."

"Charlie?"

"Stay put. I mean it you don't move from that spot Renee! You move I'll tack you on as an accessory." He demands Bella's mother as he leaves the house with Phil.

Meanwhile, I'm doing whatever I can to keep Bella put. Last thing she needed was to be involved. I hold her and literally have my arms and legs around her. I rock her back and forth wishing she'd go to sleep. She struggled against my hold in tears. I shake my head and finally come to the decision. I lay her down pinning her wrists down. I look into her eyes.

"No Edward, please don't."

I go against her wishes.

"Bella you're going to sleep now. You will not wake until the morning. I want you to have sweet dreams and remember I love you. Goodnight." She nods and blinks a few times before her eyes shut.

It wasn't just about calming her down now, or to keep her from going downstairs. I wanted to shield her from the fight that was about to take place. I knew things were about to be said. Other things discovered that Bella never knew about. I wasn't so sure it was necessarily a good idea. That she knew everything. She'd been through enough already.

Sure enough I make out the lights in the window. Charlie's returned. I hear the door slam to his squad car. He enters the house.

"Renee…" He says softly as she's lying on the couch.

She rolls over.

"Charlie?"

He nods and puts his hands to his hips eyeing her.

"Did you really arrest him?!"

"Yes I did. And you don't even think about attempting to bail him out."

"Charlie… Are you sure he…"

"This is our daughter Renee. Think about what you're asking me. Hell better yet think about what you're saying. You know me and you know Bella! If I say that man is no good. That's exactly what it means. He's no GOOD! He hurt our daughter!"

"I didn't know. Why didn't she come to me? Why wouldn't she tell me?"

He shakes his head.

"You honestly are going to sit there and ask me such a thing!"

He points to her bitterly.

"You haven't had damn near squat to do with that girl ever since that man came into your life! When you married him your life evolved solely around him! You shoved our little girl out of your life like she was a thorn in your side! You didn't even call her on her birthday! She doesn't even know that the gift actually came from me! You forgot to even do that! I signed your fucking name to it and wrapped it like you used to do. Which wasn't easy. We both know I suck at wrapping gifts. But I was determined you weren't going to hurt her. And what's this horseshit about you wanting her to move back in with you and Phil all a sudden. That's the only reason she even made this trip to begin with! Hell I'm the one that suggested she go. If I even had an inkling of what was to come…"

Renee covers her mouth and shakes her head.

"What?"
"OH my god. It was him…"
"What was him?"

"He was the one that wanted Bella to move in with us. I just thought he…"

"You're kidding me. This wasn't even your idea?!"

"Well no not really. He took me by surprise when he questioned me about it. He said he'd like to get to know Bella better. That he wanted to feel like a family. He thought we could provide for her better than…"

"Then I could?" Charlie says with disgust.

"Is that it? What is it? Money? Because it damn sure isn't lack of love on my side. Sure our life here in Forks isn't perfect. And trust me I remember how you felt about this town. You loathed its very existence. So you automatically assume Bella may feel the same? Or is it that she too has grown tired of me? Bored by her old man and needs to serve a higher purpose."

"It wasn't like that Charlie and you know that."

"The hell it wasn't?! You couldn't even stand for me to touch you much less look at you! I gave you everything I could Renee EVERYTHING! You wanted more money! So I took on more hours. You wanted more of my time. So I gave up hours. You went back to wanting more money so I found a way to do so. You wanted to sleep in separate rooms before long. You then wanted your own bank account. Before long it was like we weren't even married anyhow! You stopped wanting sex altogether! I wanted to give Bella a little brother or sister! You didn't even want to give me that! You were too concerned with messing up your body. You blamed our daughter for the scars on your stomach and breast. You thought they were hideous and ugly. All it did was remind me of the gift you gave me. You were never ugly to me Renee. I always thought you were the most gorgeous woman on this entire planet. You were everything I ever wanted. To me you were the dream. You gave me the daughter I always wanted. That little girl is the best thing to have ever happened to me. At one time I thought it was you. I was madly in love with you. HELL I STILL LOVE YOU WOMAN! I don't even understand why or how I can love you. You're a cold hearted BITCH! You think I don't know you were cheating on me! I always wondered, but now I'm certain. I know you were screwing Phil behind my back! You're selfish, cruel, everything opposite of our daughter. I thank god everyday she's turned out to be nothing like you! She will probably marry that boy! She'll be happy to spend the rest of her life in Forks with him. There are stars in her eyes when she looks upon him. She will give him children and love her family unconditionally. You know why?"

Renee looks to the ground shaking her head.

"BECAUSE SHE HAS ME! SHE HAS SOMEONE THAT GIVES A DAMN! BELLA WILL ALWAYS HAVE ME ON HER SIDE! I WILL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO STAY IN HER LIFE! YOU HOWEVER HAVE PROVED OTHERWISE. NOT ONLY DID YOU BAIL OUT ON ME. YOU BAILED OUT ON HER! SO THERE'S THE DOOR! Don't let it hit you on the way out!"

"Charlie please I made a mistake. I love you and I love Bella. We could be a family again!"

"You haven't a clue how long I've waited to hear you say that. How many times I wished you'd walk through that door and be my wife again. To be a mother to our daughter again. To hold you and make love to you. To be able to say just how much I love you each and every night. To have someone to come home to. Perhaps that's why I never moved on. I was always waiting for this moment right here."

Renee smiles and starts to step towards Charlie. He stops her putting up a hand.

"That's not going to happen though. Not now. Not ever. I've already got the best part of you and she needs me right now. Goodbye Renee."

I take in a breath. I listen as Renee takes her leave. I could hear Charlie making his way up the stairs. I kiss Bella's lips before he enters the room.

"How is she?"

"Sleeping."

He nods and leans into the doorway.

"Thank you."

"No problem Mr. Swan."

"Call me Charlie son."

I come to my feet and tuck her in.

"I better go home now."

Charlie makes his way over and checks on Bella.

"You take care, Edward."

"You too Charlie."

As I make my way out. I see Renee sitting in a rent a car. She's just sitting there. Her hands on the wheel and she's staring off into space.

I shake my head on this and head on home.