Edward didn't show up at school the next day. At least he'd kept his promise. It felt weird to be without him, but freeing, in a way. He had been so controlling, like chains. All morning I thought about Jacob. I really could have a peaceful life now. And Jacob really loved me. But Edward had loved me more...I banished the thought from my mind. At lunch, Alice ran over to me.
"Bella, he's in such a state. He can't do anything. It's killing him. He can't focus on anything. The worst part is, he knows it's best for you. He's never going to let go. Real-"
"Alice, please. I feel so guilty. But I can't be a part of his life any more. He has to start on his own life. And...I can't be involved with vampires any more. I'm so sorry. I can't be your friend any more."
"Oh. I'll see you around then. Bye, Bella."
She turned frostily away. She hadn't been expecting that. I sighed and walked outside. With a jolt of surprise, I ran over to Jake, who was standing with our motorbikes.
"Hey, Bells. Feel like skipping school?"
I grinned and jumped on my bike.
"Sure thing."
Speeding off away from the school, the trees to the left of us rustled. I ignored it and relaxed, confident that my life before me was going to be a happy one. I went home happy that day. I sauntered up the stairs, only to be greeted by a pacing vampire, looking exactly as Alice had described him. But worse.
"Bella, I'm so sorry for coming here uninvited. But I have to-"
"No, Edward."
He looked hurt, and I was instantly sorry I'd been so harsh.
"I mean, I know you used to, but you can't just come in here every time you feel like it. I'm trying to have a clean break here, Edward, and you showing up here when I explicitly asked you to stay away is...not acceptable."
"Bella. Listen to me. I am so happy that you're getting away from us. It really is the best thing for you. My only problem is that try as I might, I won't ever be able to not protect you. It's an instinct now. I have to. Don't worry, though. I won't bother you any more."
He said all this with an aching passion in his voice. I wanted him to let go, he was putting himself in so much pain, and I couldn't be responsible for that.
"Edward. I don't want you to protect me. I have Jake,"
He flinched.
"Please get on with your life. I can't have you obsessing needlessly...just stop."
He smiled sadly at me.
"You are my life. I thought you knew that. You know I'll never stop loving you."
"I don't want to be your life. Stop. Just...please. Go away."
His face grew solemn. He turned to leave.
"I'll never stop, Bella."