Usual disclaimer applies.
March, 2012
~65~
Quickly assessing the situation, Edward steps between Esme and I, turning his body so that he can gently hold onto one of my wrists while at the same time, glare down at Esme. I have a clear view of the side of his face, and it is terrifying.
Silent communication between mother and son ensues, and although I don't understand what was conversed, I see Edward relax slightly and Esme lower her arm. But as soon as Edward begins to lead me back, off of the threshold, Esme panics.
"Don't go with her, Baby! She's a liar! You have to believe me. You have to..." By this point, Esme is sobbing, screaming, trying to force herself out of the door that Edward is determinately trying to close. He eventually manages it, cutting off her angry screams abruptly.
He leans against the door, body slumped, chin resting on his chest. His eyes are closed and he is breathing heavily. He thrusts a hand angrily through his hair, a movement I recognize as his longstanding coping mechanism. And all I can do is stare, shell-shocked. My left wrist is still held tightly by Edward and my right hand holds onto my throbbing cheek. I feel trapped, unable to move. Unable to speak.
"What are you doing here, Bella?"
His question is merely a whisper, in a voice much too tired, too exhausted, for anything more. He keeps his eyes closed, and I wonder absently why he doesn't look at me.
I tug my left arm away from him, and he lets go after a moment. I begin to walk towards me truck, my safe haven, knowing that Edward will follow. I just…I need to get away from that house, from the vile woman who resides within it. I don't know how I can answer him. How I can compose myself enough to give him that, after everything that just occurred. Hell, I should hate him. Hate him for not telling me the truth last summer, for believing his crazy mother without question. A part of me just wants to leave, to leave this part of my life behind, and let Edward believe whatever he wants.
But I can't.
Stepping into the ancient truck, I take a few deep breaths, smelling the familiar scent, relaxing into the old, bench seat. After only a few minutes, Edward joins me.
And when he finally looks up, meeting my gaze, I'm surprised to see his cheeks have turned pink. Even the tips of his ears are a little red. And I know what this means.
He's embarrassed.
But when he looks closer at me, leaning forward and placing the lightest of touches on my aching cheek, embarrassment is left behind. A swirl of emotions flickers in his eyes. Anger, disgust, sorrow.
"I'm so sorry Bella. I can't believe she would… that she…"
I stop his apology with a slight shake of my head, knowing that this, of all things, is not his fault.
"Edward, she's done a lot worse to you. Trust me."
A/N: Sorry this one is so short, I literally finished writing it five minutes before I have to leave for work. Have a great day everyone!