Chapter twenty two: Cinnamon.

"Happy birthday, darling!" Grandma grabbed me at the bottom of the stairs. Damnit, I was hoping to get out without being seen. How stupid of me, after all... house full of vampires. Hardly anything went unseen. "Thanks.."

"Oh, I can remember you coming into our lives like it were yesterday."

"I'm sure mom can too," I muttered under my breath. Yeah, I knew how close I came to killing my mother. I hated myself for months after finding out. Never the less, they made me forget all about it and what not.

"Now now. Where are you off too? Edward and Bella have just gone to get gas for the ride," she grinned. I smirked. Well, at least it would be a long, but non stopping trip. Hopefully, we'd get there early.

"I need to go to the photocopy store,"

"What for? Do you want me to come with you?"

"Stuff. No, Grandma... It's cool. I just need some time to get round being... sixteen." I laughed, shrugging. She nodded, giving me yet another hug. "Alright then. I'll pop out and hunt. If I'm not back before you are... Tell Carlisle where I have gone,"

"Grandpa gone for gas too?"

She nodded. "And to hand in some notes to the hospital. I'll be a hour tops," kissing my head; she followed me out the door and vanished the opposite way as to where I was heading. The walk to main town Forks wasn't long, and the photocopy store had just open, that meant they were refilled on ink. Meaning a much better photo, thank god!

Literally pulling my phone apart, I popped the memory card into the slot of the machine that printed photo's from phones, etc; watched as every single photo on my phone appeared and picked the one I wanted to print. The screen brought it to life, making it large and standing out. Alec was giving his million dollar smile, his eyes on the screen. Around the velvet violet was a haze of red. My crimson red..

I looked so happy. I was. High up, with the lake behind us as a backdrop, grinning as if we had the world at our fingertips. I felt the tears start to form, so I quickly wiped my eyes.

"Boyfriend?"

Jumping at the voice, I turned to be face to face with a drop dead gorgeous girl. Her hair was so freaking long! I touched the base of her back. And it was tied up! Her eyes were a real light colour of brown, and she was blowing bubbles with bubble gum. Her skin was pale, but in Forks... who wasn't pale? The lack of sun we had to thank for that. She looked friendly enough.

I shook my head. "No.."

"Ex boyfriend?"

Again, I shook my head. "Weird. He single? He's hot."

I laughed, shrugging. "Yeah.. But he's in Italy now."

"Oh. That sucks. You two look super in love there."

I smirked, taking a glance back and pressing 'two' copies. Alec did say he wanted one. Perhaps I could fedex him one. Special delivery style. "So, what's yer' name kid?"

"Renesmee."

"Mouthful," she laughed, moving to behind the counter and leaning against it; just beside the till. In the background Katy Perrys 'the one that got away' was playing... on a loop. I guess she liked this song. "Got any nicknames?"

I nodded. "Reny..."

"Nice. I'm Lil."

"Lil?"

She nodded. "Don't ask."

I smirked, placing the photo's onto the counter along with two picture frames and handed her two five dollar bills, but she put her hand up. "Nah, freebie. I hate this job, I'm trying to get the boss to fire me."

I laughed, somewhat hesitantly. "Oh.. thanks."

With it in a bag, I headed for the door and pulled it open.

"Nice meeting you... Reny,"

When I turned, she wasn't there. It was just that tune, over and over. Maybe she went through the back? I shrugged and closed the door behind me as I entered the street. It was only seven, so people were just waking up and getting ready for school and work. Ivy had already text me, wishing me a happy birthday and that when I got back; we'd be having a sleepover at hers. Sounded good, considering it was prom on saturday and the play was tomorrow. My nerves spiked. Maybe... He'd be there.

When I got home, Grandma was too. She had been in for five minutes prior to my arrival. Bella, Edward and Carlisle were back also. Alice was messing about with a suitcase, adjusting them in the boot so they would fit perfectly. Then, as soon as I ate, we huddled into the car and set on. The only downer on this damn trip I began to dislike was the fact... Jacob had come along. He was sitting at the other side window, rather than in the middle trying to bug me. I guess my rejection to him was sore. I couldn't help it though... I mean, I wouldn't lead him on, he was my friend and I couldn't force myself into being in a relationship I saw no real reason in being. If I didn't feel physically attracted to him, then why should I endure a relationship that would mean the world to him, but be nothing for me? It was hardly fair. Jacob deserved better.

The damn tune from store was stuck in my head though. So, in the entire drive there I had a earphones in listening to 'the one that got away' over and over and over. On the motorway, I think Grandpa and Edward were engaging in a little race. Harmless, because it only lasted five minutes, but it left Edward grinning like a idiot. Grandpa, Grandma and Alice passed us though, waving as they did. We followed quickly behind them, turning when they did. And if we hit a red light, which was rare, and the other didn't, they would wait. This went on for the entire journey. I was now sure I could sing this song in my sleep, even play it on the piano for god sake.

The best part was when we arrived. Pulling up into the large house covered in snow, made me remember the time I had basically pelted Alec. Stepping out, my heart burst with the sound of uncle Emmett.

"THEIR HERE!"

And just like that, a stampede came rushing out; right towards us. Alice went right to Jasper, and they were having some secret conversation with eye contact, then a make out session. Rosalie was at me right away, her arms wrapped around me in a protective hug, whispering that she missed me. Then we were both picked up by the arms of uncle Emmett. Next it moved onto the Denali's. Tanya, Carmen, Eleazar, Garrett and Kate. Once I was sure I wouldn't need another hug in god knows how long, we headed inside where presents were scattered across each and every one of the sofas. Oh god. They went overboard!

—xXx—

By the time we hit the hour mark, I was down to three presents. Tanya had gotten me some game, along with a new laptop. She said it was the game that appealed to her most, but I couldn't play it without a laptop. Weird, but hey... I got a laptop out of it. Email address, internet, and other dynamics. I was happy. Aunt Rose got me a pair of earrings, which I now had firmly in my ears. They were a blue/green kind of colour, hanging down so that the feathers grazed over my shoulders. I loved them. Aunt Alice must have gone along with Rose, since she got me the matching necklace. Again, I was wearing them. Jasper got me a motorbike, which edward refuses to let me drive until I had passed my driving test. A sigh, but still... He had a point. Countless other gifts were given, but there were far too many. I doubted I'd be able to get them all home tomorrow. I figured that would be a job for when we came back up for the final move.

Now, back to the three remaining gifts. One was from uncle Emmett, the other from Jacob and then one from Bella and Edward. I started with theirs. It was a small, dark purple box. I was half expecting more jewelry, but when I opened the lid; a key sat in the middle of the box in my hand. Confused beyond anything, I looked up to them. Edward had his arm around Bella, and she was grinning. "What is it?"

"Well... You'll need to prove to us you can drive a car before you drive a motorbike. So, we got you your first car."

My mouth must have hit the floor. "You got me a car?!"

Edward nodded. "You're not seeing it just yet. When you pass your test, then you'll get it."

"So... basically I got a key to a car I can't use for my birthday?"

He nodded. "Wow, dad... So great. Thanks."

The house moved into laughter while I put the key back into the box and slid it with the other opened ones. Of course I was kidding. I loved the thought of already owning my very own first car! They all knew it. Moving on to Jacobs, I silently ripped the green paper from it. Being left with a white box, I opened the lid. Inside, a parka lay. I frowned and pulled it out. It was gorgeous! Colours all blending in, complementing one another. "This is amazing. Thank you! Where did you get it?"

"Family," he muttered, shrugging. Against the awkwardness of yesterday's chat, I moved and hugged him. Yup. Still awkward. Putting it over my white shirt, and then down to the final box. Emmett was grinning, his arms crossed over his mind. I could see by the strain on Edward's face that he was trying to figure out what he was grinning at. Well, we'd soon find out.

Opening the box, I found a flare of colours that brought that pain back. Black and red.

"Favorite colour; red or black. It was blue for a number of years. Maybe seventy five."

I reluctantly picked up the material. It looked nice, and it felt nice. It was thin, and light and soft. But when I picked it up, by the straps of the shoulders; my mouth must have touched the floor. It was a nightgown. One that you didn't use for sleeping. If I were honest, it felt like silk; but the material was see through. Around the hems of the breasts, were ribbons of red, weaving in and out. "Red underwear with that works best," Uncle Emmett said, receiving a large growl from Edward.

"Hey, don't hate. She'll be getting one of those sooner or later, might as well give her a taste at what they feel like now." Emmett shrugged. Edward looked as if he were about to rip his throat out, and yet... Emmett wasn't affected. He was looking at him with the usual 'yeah... come at me, bro' look. I quickly folded it up and put it back into the box. Safely say I won't be touching that at all...

The corner of Edward's lips twitched. Well, atleast he heard that and was now assured. "Thanks uncle Em... it's great." Again, I passed around hugs and gentle thank yous. Then, it was time to set out for the day. I kept the parka and the jewelry on. For the ride, I went with Grandma and Grandpa, that way my mind would be at ease and I could sit back and just... feel numb.

I wonder where he was... What he was doing. Idiot, Renesmee. You know where he is. Hell, you've told everyone where he is! He's at home. He's with his sister. Hell, he won't even remember your name! I sighed to myself, and shook my head. No. If I wanted to get over him, despite how much I now realised I loved him, I would have to get over it and forget.

We ended up going ice skating for my day out, then bowling. Great heaps of fun, and yeah... It kept my mind off everything. For a while. I managed to get a few hours of laughter. Hell, I even caused Jacob to snort his drink; which was hysterical towards everyone else. All in all, it was a good day. But again, I'd have to face up to the facts it would be a long drive home, and when we got home... Alec wouldn't be there waiting for me. Tanya ended up inviting others over, that she classed as close friends. So, I was surrounded with red eyes, reminding me of him. The smiles, and the happy birthdays and the red eyes and the black clothes all became too much in the end. So, I did what any teenage girl would do in a situation like that. I went outside, I leant myself against the railing of the patio and I just tried my best not to cry. I wasn't alone for long though... Bella noticed I had left.

"You alright Renesmee?" She asked, taking a stand beside me.

"Yeah... I just needed air,"

"It is getting warm in there."

I laughed. "How'd you know? You're permanently cold."

She rolled her eyes towards me, while giving me a gentle nudge. "I used to be human once too, y'know."

"I might have been classed a witch, but at least I was human. Unlike you, torn between the two. You're desperate to be like your friends, to blend in with them. But you can't. And yet, you are in the same scenario with your own family. You're not one of us, either. And you never will be."

I shuddered at the memory, pushing it right out of my head. Though, Bella noticed my eyes closing tightly. "You sure you're alright?"

"Mom? Can I... talk to you for a minute?"

"Of course. You can talk to me whenever you want."

I figured... I was giving my mother the cold shoulder, when Alec spoke so fondly of his; putting her out to be this angel that loved him no matter what, and he loved her. It was as if he'd give anything just to talk to his mother again, and yet here I was... ignoring mine. Perhaps... I should have a change in perspective. Maybe I should take advantage that my mother would be around forever, when others lose theirs. I'd never have to deal with the loss of a family member, unless they were ripped to pieces. Which, by the way Alec left, would happen any day. I sighed deeply again, shaking that thought from my head and glanced to my eternal living mother.

"When you met dad... What was it like?"

She laughed, shrugging. "At the beginning? He annoyed me. A great deal. We tried to be friends, but then the pieces fell into place. I didn't need him as a friend, I had Jessica and the others for that. And he didn't need a friend... We both needed something that we found in one another. Love. He completed me, and I completed him; god knows why." She laughed, smiling in remembrance. "Why?" She asked.

"I'm just... curious."

"You know Renesmee, falling in love at a young age isn't wrong. If it's with the right person..."

"What if he's not the right person?" I muttered before I could stop myself.

Bella smiled, putting an arm around me. "You'll know if he isn't. If he's good to you, like I know he is, then.. You'll grow to know it."

Wait... Know he is? I frowned, looking up to her. Crap! Did she know about... And if she did, why was she looking so calm! I didn't once picture her looking happy about the fact I was in love with a Volturi member! She was actually smiling! "Know he is?"

She nodded. "Jacob'll love you no matter what, Renesmee."

Oh... There's a surprise. I sighed, hanging my head. When will they let this go? Just to get her off my back, I nodded. "Yeah... You're right."

"So, you'll think about it?"

I shrugged. "Maybe."

"Good girl. Now come say goodbye. We're going home," she kissed my head and lead me inside to the room full of vampires. Saying our goodbyes, I received a large hug from my family members who were staying. Then, we set on home. I switched with Alice for the ride home, taking a ride with Grandma and Grandpa again. When we got home, I took my things upstairs; fell onto the bed... and cried. This was the true moment I came to realize just how much I missed, loved and hated him all the same time. I was pathetic. I was stupid, and careless, and dumb, and just... Pathetic. What was I thinking?! Clearly, I wasn't. How could I let myself feel for him? Care about him? Love him! Of course no good would have come out of this. He was a Volturi after all, and I was nothing but a... Cullen. I was scum in his eyes. I was stubborn, and mean, and... A bitch. I hated myself. I hated him. I hated myself for loving him! I hated him for making me love him! It was all his fault. If he had never came, then I wouldn't be in this mess. I wouldn't be sitting alone feeling sorry for myself. But then... I wouldn't have met him. I wouldn't have seen how amazing he was. I wouldn't have laughed so hard I could have died. I wouldn't have become his friend or met someone so perfect it was hard to look at him. I wouldn't have felt what it was like to truly love someone. Fallen so madly in love that it brought happiness even on the worst of days.

I know understood mom and dad better than anything. Why she was willing to give up everything just to be with him. To lose her life in order to spend forever with him. To give up the gift of sleep to spend every moment just looking at him. I knew this now, because I felt the same with Alec. Only; mom got the happy ending with dad. I lost it. I was stupid to have ruined it all with a petty argument. Banished all the good times we had spent together because of one bad day. All because of my stubborn thinking and want to blame it on someone else apart from myself. If I could have taken it back, no matter the price, I would. I'd give anything to look at his flawless face again. Just one last look, and I'd fall asleep forever happily. Give my last breath letting him know how sorry I was and how much I grew to care about him. Not as a friend, but as someone I had grew to love. I guessed what they say is true. You don't know how good you have it until it's gone.

Alec was somewhere in the world, beside his sister, moving on from the experience he had spent with me. Unknown to any feelings shared, back to being emotionless and feared. Back to being the brick wall.

I wiped a single tear from my eyes, looking up through the large moon shining above. I wondered for a moment if he was looking up to the moon wherever he was. Well, I knew where he was. He was home. Surrounded with people who respected him, and cared about him. He was with his family.

I took another sharp breath and buried my head into my pillow. Wishing for the world to swallow me whole. I would have to get used to this feeling though, wouldn't I? Being alone, cold... Numb. Alec wasn't coming back. He was done with me. Done with us. I held back another sob that wanted to break free. I couldn't cry fully now. Not when my family was downstairs. They would hear me. I had to silently cry... For now. When I was alone, then I could cry. But for now, I needed to try and sleep. Let's just hope, I would.

—xXx—

It was Friday, and it was havoc. Thankfully, I didn't dream at all last night. Today... The day of the play, I missed all my lessons due to Miss. Wood going mad about costumes, setting the stage up and getting everything ready. We had at least five practices of the entire play that day, and by god; I knew my lines by then. By seven, people began to flood in. Students and parents. Everyone who was participating was peaking through the red velvet curtain, looking for their parents, friends, etc. Thankfully, Suzannah got the part of Juliet's maid, so I wasn't behind the scenes alone. She was standing beside me, fretting about with her bonnet, waiting for her chance to peek out. Ivy was in the front row, beside Shannon. Beside her was Chris, and then beside him Mark, and beside that the rest of the jocks and laid backs. Beside Shannon was Josh, chatting to her while she was leaning in with her ear pointed up to him so she could hear. Behind them was Mercedes, texting. Apparently she held no ill feelings towards Suzannah, which was surprising. Amber was playing with her nails. Was nice to know Brittany had some moral support. Just in the middle near the row was my family. Grandpa and Grandma had spent hours on the phone arguing with aunt Rose about them coming back just to see this. It would have been a wasted travel, since we were heading up to Alaska for the move. And after what felt like forever, they agreed and said they would see us soon and on the terms that Grandpa video recorded it and they could all sit and watch it after. Yeah, you'd probably guess my joy towards that.

When the curtain went up, a soft applause echoed through. Students took to the stage and began their lines. Then, it came to me and Devin, the dude who got the role of Juliet's father. When I walked on stage, I felt my heart race. It was a full house. Hell, people were even standing at the back with cameras. I had to search my brain in reminder of what my line was. Thankfully, I did. And it was all going well. I'd go on, say my line, then leave when I was meant to. Suzannah and I had lines together, so when we were off stage, we'd read over them just to refresh our memory. I was even beginning to enjoy myself. I just wished he had been here to see it.

He did enjoy Romeo and Juliet, after all. NO! Stop it. You will not think about it. About him. When it came down to the last few scenes, when Suzannah and I were standing alongside one another; Brittany lying 'lifeless' on the bed, with my mournful cries that I had lost a daughter, and then told to shut up basically by Devin, or Capulet should I say; I stood back; arms around Suzannah, as instructed 'weeping' when I froze. When everyone around me vanished and I was the only one left in the room, apart from those eyes. Glistening red, burning brightly in the back. The rest was a mere shadow, apart from the eyes and the face. The eyes were what stood out more. Alec. It was him! It was really him! He was here! He was watching me! Like he promised! Ivy was right!

The shadow didn't move. He just watched, and for a slight moment I saw his lips tweak skyward when it came down to my line and I forgot my cue. Suzannah had to nudge me in the side. I said it, never taking my eyes of the figure. I was scared that if I did... He would vanish. I had half a mind to run off the stage and just hug him. What a stir that would cause. I refrained, however. And when I left the stage, I kept my peeking through the curtain, checking if he was there. And he was. Right up until the end, where we were all called to the stage to bow. He was still there, clapping along with the rest. He was hooded. That damn cloak, god how I have missed it! It came to us having to go behind stage and change, then meet our families in the hall. I changed so quickly, I could have won an olympic medal... if changing clothes was a sport. Then, hurrying back out; I looked for him. He wasn't at the back anymore, but maybe he was in the hall with the rest of my family. Oh, I freaking hoped so. I hurried towards the hall, Suzannah trying to keep up. When I entered, I was met with a flock of people. Sipping drinks that had been left out for them, and cake and cookies and whatever else. Then I spotted my family. Alec wasn't with them, so I continued to skim around the faces. Once... twice... three times. Nothing. Then a pair of hands touched my shoulders, and I spun around.

"ALE-" I stopped mid sentence. Nathan. He was now wearing his normal clothes, which did suit him better than the olden style costume he was wearing. Amiably, Alec would have looked a lot better...

"Hey. You did great! Can I talk to you?"

"Hey, thanks... You did too. Uhm, I have to see my family.."

"It'll take two minutes, I swear."

I sighed deeply and nodded. Disappointment running all through my veins. He wouldn't have left again? Unless... it was all a ray of my imagination..

"So, uhm... The prom is tomorrow and uh, Ivy said you didn't have a date and well, uh... I was hoping that maybe you and I could..."

Oh. "I assure you, he will ask you to this prom. You'll have him eating out of your hands by this time next week, if we're convincing enough."

Alec wasn't kidding when he assured me. I guess he was right, even when we were in the wrong; and had stopped the whole get-Nathan thing. I took an uneasy glance around again. No Alec. "Uhm, I don't know. Maybe? Things are a little stressful right now, Nathan. I'll tell you later on? When I've spoken to my mom and dad?"

Nathan nodded. "Sure. Uhm, get Ivy to give you my number. Text me, or phone me. Whichever.."

I nodded, giving a polite smile.

Nathan leant down again, aiming for my cheek this time. He gave me a gentle peck, smiled at me and then went to find his parents. Heavy hearted, I moved to my parents, being welcomed with a pack of hugs and well dones. I was going insane with missing him. It was official.

Ivy's parents ended up joining mine, chatting politely about some garden shop opening in Port Angeles that Grandma would be delighted to see. Ivy and I stood with Shannon and Suzannah. Mark had his arms around Suzannah's arms, kissing playfully at her cheek. Shannon was hugging into Josh's side; so that left me and Ivy; chatting with each other; trying to ignore the new love circle we were now involved in. I would of asked where Chris was, but it was obvious. He had gone and snagged Nathan's Romeo hat and was now running around with it on, receiving high fives from people. Nathan was in the far corner, laughing at his friend. Seemed everyone was having a giggle after a long and stressful few days.

"You okay, Reny?"

The name still bothered me, still brought on the urge to flinch, but I had grew to love that name for all it was. So what if my friends called me that. I was sure Ivy did it playfully. I looked to her, wide eyed and just stared. "Huh?"

"You're looking around. Why?"

I shrugged. "I thought I saw someone."

"Him?" She grinned. I let out a little breath. How did she do that?! I just gaped at her, and judging by her triumphant scoff, she knew she was right. Damn my blushing! "Told you. Anyway, I saw you were talking to Nathan. What'd he want?"

Again, I blushed. "He asked me to prom.."

"REALLY!" She practically squealed into my ear. I cringed but nodded none the less.

"That is great! What did you say? Please say you said yes. That means we all got the dates we wanted!"

My eyebrows pulled up in confusion. "All?"

"Chris asked me just before the play. Mark and Suzannah are obviously going cos'' well... They're together, and Shannon's going with Josh. You said yes, right?"

Oh, well... That was good then. I could remember it like it were yesterday, when we were all standing in the parking lot, lusting over being asked to prom by one of the populars. Granted, Shannon probably wasn't lusting over Josh, but still... It was good. I bit my lip. Her face fell from glee to horror. Here it comes...

"Oh, god Renesmee. You didn't say no! You have no idea how much Nathan actually likes you! Every single damn day he'd ask me where you were. If you were okay. It got annoying! You can't just do that to him! He's a good guy!"

"I didn't say no! I said maybe. Besides... I don't know if I want to go after all.."

Again, horror struck all over her face. "You are going, no matter what. Even if I have to drag you there myself!"

And people said I was stubborn. Pft, they obviously didn't know Ivy Bell like I did.

"You're going to go to Nathan right now and say yes. Understand?"

"Who died and made you Queen," I said quickly and sarcastically.

"No one died. I've always been Queen. Do it, Reny. Now."

"I'll text him yes later. Right now... I just want to relax."

"No time for relaxing. You're staying at mine. You've got a prom dress, right?"

I shook my head. Horror took over yet again.

"Don't worry, Nessie," A voice pitched in, high and mighty. I gaped up and then instantly frowned. Aunt Alice. Damnit! "I know all about the theme. I can get something by tonight. Why don't you and the girls stay at ours tonight, and then Ivy's tomorrow?"

Ivy seemed to be in a complete and utter trance. So, it was up to me to give a nod. "Sure... Thanks aunt Alice..."

She nodded, and then returned to her conversation with Carlisle, Esme, Bella, Edward and Ivy's parents. I sighed in annoyance. "Well, I take it we're staying at yours tonight. Our parents might end up coming over then... To see us in our dresses,"

I laughed and nodded. "I'm sure that's what my aunt was intending. She loves guests."

Ivy nodded none the less, and then finally Shannon and Suzannah took their places in talking to us when the boys had gone off to see Nathan and his pack.

—xXx—

"Who taught you this?" Ivy asked, wide eyed. Somewhere during the conversation, I had mentioned I knew a real Venice masked ball waltz. Obviously, they wanted to see it. So, with a bold neck, I showed it to them. Using Ivy as my partner, going through step by step. Of course, she giggled at how close we got every now and then. But when it came down to it; they were amazed. Of course they would be, I learnt from the master. Who I was missing more and more as the minutes ticked by.

"Alec,"

Ivy's eyes shimmered. "AW!"

Then that was it. They all went into how it was obvious we had a thing, how he wouldn't have left, how I was stupid as to letting him go— which I already knew. Thanks girls.— and that he would come back. They even put a bet on. That he would come back before Wednesday. It was nice of them, but also so cruel. Getting my hopes up, believing that maybe he would come back. They were just setting me up to be crushed when he didn't. And honestly, I knew he wouldn't. Deep down, I knew it.

—xXx—

It was beyond midnight when we eventually fell asleep. Not that anyone minded, our pre-prom jitters were finally beginning to set in. Ivy did end up making me text Nathan, agreeing to go to prom. He was apparently over the moon, since the boys were all staying at Nathan's. Josh was now part of the pack, becoming good friends with Mark, Nathan and Chris. It was set in stone, they believed we would all grow up together as close friends. Pitty I was moving away; which I refrained from telling them. I wanted to get prom out of the way and make as many memories as I could. When I woke up, it was once again; havoc. The girls all slept in my —dads old— room with me; talk about a squashed bed. They had totally made themselves at home, wandering around freely, using the bathroom, chatting to my family members. Then, when it came down to the getting ready for the prom, it only got worse. We all colour coordinated with our dates. Ivy was wearing a lush grey and silver dress that had only one strap over her right shoulder. It hugged her on the torso; then fell outwards around the bottom. In a glistening pattern across her chest were small diamonds, a sash that brought it inward at the waist was held together with a large shining broach. Her hair was tied up, curled with tendrils of ringlets hanging down here and there. Aunt Alice was on the makeup, happily, so Ivy was looking like a dream. The shades around her eyes complimented the burning blue orbs she had. Suzannah wore a somewhat more traditional dress. A strapless deep blue silk that fell to the floor on one half whereas the other was held up with a black broach, showing off the large black netted underskirt. Her hair hung loosely, curled in the right places; and her eyes complemented with a dark blue. Alice really knew how to make someone seem a princess. Shannon wore white. Again, strapless. it was creased on the torso; then just under her bust a circular pattern of diamonds and crystals shaped her thin posture. It all fell freely to the floor. Elegance was what she was aiming for, and by god she got it! Her hair was straight, dead straight; and Alice went with the light application of makeup. A light shade of grey on the upper lids, hardly noticeable but made her eyes stand out and a little application of lip gloss. We had the grey queen, the caribbean blue queen, and then the elegant queen. Now, it was left to mine. Alice slipped a blindfold over my eyes so I wasn't able to peak until I was wearing it. It hugged me nicely, but the full shock didn't come until she took the blindfold off. It was strapless, something I probably wouldn't have gone with. The torso was pretty much like Shannons, only it overlapped over my breasts. The colour was a vivid red. that wasn't the end of it though. Just under my bust were gentle silver circles, all overlapping and hugging it tightly to my curves. Then, a waterfall of blackness flew all around me. It was loose, no puffiness and it swayed as I moved. The material was smooth, soft and cold. Silk. Satin. I didn't know, but by god was it beautiful! Shoes were a pair of heels which would take some getting used to. Aunt Alice fluffed about with my hair when I had the blindfold on. She had done it up, tightly; with tendrils coming off and curling. A bit like Ivy's, but more classy. My hair that was held up was merely held with a diamond clasp, making me feel like I had a tiara on the back of my haid! My eyes were outlined with vivid blackness; lashes were extended and by god they made my already large eyes huge! I finally saw beauty, more than what I already was. The moment I stepped out of the room, my friends jaws fell to the floor. Compliments were showered upon me. We all were looking the part, there was just one thing missing.

"Mask's on," Ivy then said suddenly, basically reading my mind. I saw my dad scoff from the corner of my eye. Nice to know he was reading everyones. I rolled my eyes, and picked up the box Alice handed to me. Opening it up, I was presented with a metal mask, for my eyes alone. It curled, and swirled and made my eyes wish to tear up, even by the mere thought of taking it from it's box! Ivy had hers on, it was the same colour as her dress; with little diamonds each side of her eyes. Shannon's was black, with a white feather on the left side; running up to her hair. Suzannah's was blue; hers too had a feather, but it was black and laced with diamonds. I hated to admit it, but mine was by far more... I don't know. Stunning? Complicated? Beautiful?!

With a shaky hand, I picked the cold metal out of the box; placed it over my eyes. Dad was on the scene right away; tieing the red satin ribbon around my head to keep it in place. Every girl in here had a necklace; even me. One of my aunt Rose's. Alice said it went well with my dress, so hey ho. The only thing I didn't have that they did; was earrings. Not that I was fussing. Anymore blind and I'd be classed as a jewelry store.

Just like Ivy had said; her parents, Shannon's parents, and Suzannah's parents all came to see their daughters looking spectacular. The mothers cried, took photo's of us all together. Then our dates arrived, and we got photo's with them. Nathan looked breathtaking. He had a white shirt, black jacket and a waistcoat under it. He even wore the tight trousers they did back then; with the knee high socks, and shoes! His mask was black; with a red feather. All colour coordinated, and photo's taking; we were about to go. That's when dad announced that we'd be traveling in a limo. Yup. A freaking limo! It would arrive within five to ten minutes; so we had to wait. So, more photo's were getting taken with the parents. Our mothers all spoke, and had a drink.

"Renesmee? Can I speak to you outside for a moment, please?"

I looked to my father. He seemed joyful and amazed at how I had turned out. I nodded, giving a gleaming smile and followed him outside onto the veranda. The sky was dark, almost a dark blue like Suzannah's dress. Dad closed the door, behind him while I gazed up to the stars beginning to form in the deep blue sky.

"You look amazing, Renesmee."

I turned, giving a blush. "Aunt Alice really knows how to put a dress together."

"She does. I had to drive to Canada in order to get that mask for you," he laughed.

"You went to Canada?"

"A few weeks ago."

"Thank you. I love it."

"I'm glad. Now... Can I ask you what I was wanting too?"

I nodded, putting my hands in front of me.

"Seeing as your night will be full of dancing, I was wondering if you and I could share the first of tonights."

I laughed. "Sure thing, daddy."

"I overheard Alec taught you the The Viennese Waltz?"

My smile faded. His name just bringing back the painful memory. I saw my dad's eyes dance with reading my mind. All he saw though, was Alec going through step by step, and me getting it all correctly. Reluctantly, I nodded. "It's a little complicated for me, but a normal dance with your father will do."

"You know the steps, dad.," I rolled my eyes; offering him my hands.

"Because of your mind, but I doubt you'll be able to keep thinking them."

He was right. My nerves were all over the place, my mind would trail off to dancing with Nathan, then talking to our friends, the limo ride, everything. I placed my hand onto his shoulder, and then we were off. He spun me left to right; sweeping me across the area with much elegance. I doubted Nathan would be able to compare to this. "You're going to have an amazing night. Better than what you think, Reny."

I froze, bringing my eyes up to my father with confusion. Did he just call me...

"It's your favorite nickname. I've heard your friends call you it... Alec call you it. It suits you. Better than what Nessie does,"

I blushed ten shades of red. "Thank you, dad.."

Taking my cheek; he kissed the top of my head gently. I didn't know if he was getting at what I thought he was. If there was hidden message in there somewhere. A hurtling thought hit me that maybe he knew.

"The cars here!" Ivy squealed, her head popping out of the door. We both looked to her, and nodded. Then, when my eyes met my dads again, I knew in that moment. He knew.

Giving me a gentle smile, he pointed his chin to the door. "Go. I'll see you tomorrow, have fun."

There was no telling me twice. I was in the door, wanting to get away from the eyes of my father, who knew everything. He knew I loved someone I could never be with. Someone he probably classed as a threat, no.. scratch that. Who was a threat. Taking Nathan's arm, we said our goodbyes and headed into the sleek black limo. I sat on the far side, beside Nathan. Fake champagne was being offered; so each of us had a vial glass of it, chatting happily and giddily. Surprisingly, Ivy was holding Chris's hand. She was over the moon, clearly. As the limo took the last bend around, turning into the school; it was all colours and lights. Drapes, that represented the Italian masquerade ball all hung from the roof. Lights shone high up into the sky; and music boomed from the inside. Everywhere there were people in masks, dresses and tuxedos. A few teachers were even wearing brilliant and vibrant costumes, fitting in greatly. I swear I saw Miss. Wood on the arm of Mr. Herd. At least he god what he wanted. Stepping out of the limo, and on the arm of Nathan was probably one of the largest blushes ever. My dress for a start caused great attention. Not to mention the fact I was Nathan freaking Newton's date!

Entering the gym hall, you wouldn't have guessed it was the place I spent pretty much all my efforts trying to avoid. It was decorated with drapes, flowers, tables, and a stage. The dance floor was even fitted! It was a dark black, probably anti-slip, since all the girls I had seen so far were wearing heels. We even had a damn band! The singer was a young male, who I had seen around school a number of times. He too was in Venice wear. At the moment, they were singing 'Call me maybe' from some chick. Didn't know the song, but it was freaking already getting on my nerves. He was singing it brilliantly though, even if it annoying me. We found a table, which we all sat around. The boys went to get drinks, leaving Ivy, Shannon and Suzannah with me.

"This is going to be amazing! Chris and I might actually become a couple!" Ivy was saying.

"I hope Josh remembers to bring me a napkin. I almost always end up spilling something." Shannon was adding.

"Oh no... Look who's here."

All our attention turned to the doors. Walking through were the queen bees of Forks' high. Mercedes was wearing a dark green dress, hugging tightly at her curves. Her hair was up in some style I couldn't even consider trying to do myself. Her mask was the same colour as her dress, plain and simple. For once, she didn't have the phone in her hand. I figured it was in the clutch bag she had in her hand. Amber was wearing a light pink dress, pretty much identical style to Mercedes. Her hair was dead straight though; and her mask was black. Again, plain and simple but beautiful none the less. Brittany however, was stunning. Her dress was a bright, and I mean seriously bright, pink. Diamonds were scattered all across the damn thing! Her hair was down but in thousands of ringlets. On her head, was a tiara. An actual tiara! Her mask was a thin black; with the same colour as her dress demons up the left eye. As soon as her eyes met our table; they began towards us. Oh god. Oh god. Oh god. I stood instantly as a reflex.

"I heard you came with Nathan?" She said, tonelessly.

I nodded, bile rising in my throat.

"Well," her nose turned up. "I hope he knows what he's giving up."

I arched an eyebrow, unknown if she could see it. "Brittany, this is getting pathetic. I'm not after Nathan... We're friends."

"Friends? Are you insane?" She laughed. I nodded.

"I... like someone else."

Her eyes seemed to narrow. "You're... not interested in Nathan?"

I shook my head. "Oh.."

That was all she said. Clearly she was feeling stupid. Wouldn't blame her. She obviously came for a cat fight. "You look amazing, by the way." I said quickly.

Her eyes seemed to light up. "Really?"

"Yeah... That colour really suits you."

She laughed. "You're kidding right? I ordered it in red, but they were out of stock."

I giggled in return. "Doesn't matter. You still look great."

"You do to.." She smiled. An actual, friendly smile! What the hell was happening! Our rivalry was because I liked the same guy she did? Because she was scared I would steal him away? When truth be told, I only saw Nathan as a friend! We were really pathetic, weren't we? High school, fighting over boys, when to be honest... We had no idea what the world was about. It wasn't about boys, or prom, or enemies for that matter! Finally, we could put it behind us.

"D'you wanna sit with us?" I asked, giving a gesture with my hand to our table.

"Is there room?" Brittany asked, giving it a look.

"Sure. We'll just add a table on. Right girls?"

"Oh yeah!" Ivy, Shannon and Suzannah chirped. So, we did. We pulled another table to ours, and they sat with us. The queen's of Forks high sat with us; and I sat talking to Brittany. Comparing classes with Mr. Herd and his obsession with Miss. Wood. Then went over embarrassing family memories. By this point, the boys were back and in full conversation with everyone. That's when a song began to play; that Nathan took and asked me to dance. I'll admit, I kinda only looked to Brittany just to see if she were okay with it. She nodded, giving me a little grin and then returned to talking with Mercedes. They'd get asked to dance in a matter of seconds, I knew it.

Leading me to the dance floor; Nathan smiled and placed his hands onto my hips. "So... You're pals with Brit now?"

I laughed. "Turns out, we were only enemies because we liked the same guy. Not anymore though."

"I take it you're talking about me?" He smirked. Oh, he could be cocky... like someone else I used to know. I nodded, eyes moving to the floor.

"Hey, don't worry about it; Ren. To be honest, no matter how much I like you now... I don't think it would work out anyway. Not when I saw the way you looked at A," He scoffed. I flinched and he caught on. "Ivy said he was out of town for a while.."

Again, I nodded. Was he trying to make me freaking cry?! "So, just friends then?"

I looked up and smiled. "Just friends."

"Nice. We'll talk about Brittany and me later, I need to know the details." He scoffed, which only caused me to frown. The song had only just began, what did he mean later? We had the whole entire dance to go through! Suddenly, Nathan lifted my hand and spun me around; pushing me outward. With my dress flying around, and me spinning uncontrollably; I was stopped by a pair of arms. A rock solid chest, and a heavenly scent. Cinnamon.

Looking up, I felt my heart fall to pieces.

"Alec..."

"No talking during the Waltz, Miss. Cullen."

A/N:

Well that was fast indeed. You guys are very determined to get more aren't you? Well, seeing as I couldn't stand writing yet another chapter without him... I finally caved and well... HE'S BACK. ^.^

Fandancing? Me thinks so. Now, I apologize, because... I kinda did leave it at a cliffy.But I'm evil like that. Ge those reviews in, and you may be getting another chapter... If I feel kind. ;]

-C.H