*** This story contains some mild language, suspense, romance, and some frightening images and situations—13 and older, please.
In the Grip of Twilight
By:
Olivia Tannis Moore
Chapter Thirty Four:
Bella's Decision
I shook my head violently. I didn't care that he was Elena's father and she would probably take offense. "No," I said. "It's my decision and nobody is going to take that from me. It's very personal to me."
She stared at me, incredulous that I would refuse, as if it were some great honor. "It's very personal to you?" she mocked. "Have you considered that not many humans get to choose who changes them?" She looked angry now. "I thought you wanted to strike a deal? My father will never allow Edward to change you; he's tainted."
I took a deep breath. "Not Edward…Demetri." Those words sounded so strange coming from my mouth—as if someone else had said them.
She burst into laughter. "Next best thing, huh? He's a little too rough around the edges for my taste, but he suits you." She tapped the side of her cheek, thoughtfully, "And Demetri is like a son to my father. I can't see why he would object to it, provided Demetri was willing. But then, Demetri is quite taken with you from what I hear."
From the party guests, no doubt—but I didn't care what Elena heard or thought.
"He stayed and watched over you while you slept, you know. Maybe he sang you a sweet little lullaby as you drifted off to sleep…"
Yes, that would explain a lot. I didn't think it was possible for me to fall asleep after I was locked in the room. I looked down at my hands; they were still sore from beating on the door, red bruises on the sides that would soon turn purple. I had exhausted myself and sat down on the bed to think. Vaguely, I remembered hearing someone play a violin; it sounded like it was coming from another room, yet getting closer…and then I woke when Elena came into my room.
The anger that I felt toward Demetri softened a bit. He was only the messenger, and under orders to lock me in. And I could tell he wasn't happy about it.
"I'd like to ask Demetri for this favor, myself. Will you ask him to come to my room?" I hated asking Elena for anything more, but I had to act quickly and decisively if I was going to save Edward. I didn't know how deep Demetri's loyalty was for the Volturi. But I would have to find out. For the first time since becoming a prisoner, I felt a surge of hope; for in my mind, a plan was coming together. It was flawed…and dangerous…but it was all I had.
She shrugged and closed her eyes for a few seconds before opening them again. "Done. He's on his way down."
She looked at the tray once more. "Eat," she ordered, "so that I can leave."
I grabbed a wedge of bread and an apple from the tray and began to devour them.
***
( A short chapter—the results of a 20 minute lunch. Sorry. I'll post a long chapter on Monday; I promise. Thanks for reading. See you on Monday. OTM)
(And Rae, I saw your comment—quit peeking at my story map—you're not supposed to guess. And this is the second time you've guessed right. *wink)