Usual disclaimer applies.
March, 2012
~69~
I step out of my truck, welcoming the cool, spring air. Leaning against the truck's side, I close my eyes and take cleansing, deep breaths, trying to get my thoughts back in order.
I hear Edward open his door, coming out too.
And I suddenly feel his presence in front of me.
"Bella, I know what you're worried about."
My eyes pop open.
He can't possibly know…
How can he tell how panicked I am? How unsure I am about being here, being with him? I just…how could I possibly allow myself to trust him again? How can I open myself up for that hurt, that crippling pain, that I felt last summer?
I need to protect myself.
"None of this is your fault, and no matter what happens, with my parents I mean, I would never blame you for telling, or for laying charges against my mother. Shit, just the fact that even now I can see her handprint on your face…" Edward shakes his head, trying to rid himself of whatever dark thought had entered his mind. "Yeah, she deserves whatever she gets."
Oh.
This is what he thinks is worrying me? That I will feel guilty and at fault if Edward has a fallout with his parents, if Esme is convicted for her crimes? Shit. Now that I think about it, what Edward just said does comfort me some. However…
Despite all that has happened, all that Edward has suffered because of his parent's choices, can he really side with me when it comes down to it? His love for his parents should be unconditional; it should make him want them in his life, for better or for worse. What am I? Just a girl he had feelings for in high school? It's not like he hasn't moved on already.
"Edward, I…" I take a deep breath, still afraid to look at him. "I need to go. I know my dad will be taking Esme to court. Just… think hard, okay? Think about what you really want. You don't need to be involved. You could stay out of it, keep your head above water in what I assume is going to be a huge mess. I'm truly sorry that this is going to hurt you, too. I have never wanted to hurt you."
I step away and fumble with my truck door. I still don't look at him, concentrating solely on attaching my seatbelt and starting the truck. However, as I pull away, I can't help but risk a glance in the rear-view mirror. Edward is still standing in the same spot, the same position.
And if I'm not mistaken, he looks… determined.
A/N: Okay, be prepared for some time jumps and a fast pace coming up. Since the major conflicts are pretty much resolved, I wouldn't want to drag out the falling actions or the resolution. There is still a lot to cover however, it's just going to be somewhat quicker.
Have a great day everyone!