A/N Like I'd promised … twice already, this chapter will be about Bella's sleepover at the former Cullen house … but I hope you guys don't expect too much excitement (or naughtiness) at this point … since it's still day one of their reunion … but rest assured there will be some more action (and maybe even some lemony goodness) in the next chapters. A slow but steady built-up … ;-)

And of course Charlotte will finally join the party. Curious, how she will react to Bella's presence? Well then, read and find out.

Enjoy!!!

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Previously ...

"I'll be back, though, I promise." I added, feeling guilty and embarrassed for acting like a coward. She frowned slightly, but nodded in agreement.

"Later then, I guess." She muttered, turning her back on me, and went into the house.

I was already on my way into the woods, when I could hear her slamming the door. She was angry with me …

Fuck … fuck … fuck …

Chapter 10 Open your eyes and see what's right in front of you

Jasper POV

I didn't go very far. It almost felt like an invisible force was hindering me from putting too much distance between Bella and myself. I blamed my guilt for feeling this way. But considering that I wasn't going to hunt anyway … only needing some fresh air to calm myself down before I would return to Bella's house … I didn't need to venture too deep into the woods. I leaned against a large, massive tree, closing my eyes and taking in deep, though unnecessary breaths, in order to tame my beast and thus regaining full control over myself again. I was still confused as hell about my earlier behavior.

It can't be that am I lusting after Bella, can it? No, of course not … I couldn't … more importantly I shouldn't … because it is wrong on so many levels … Yes, she is beautiful, very beautiful … and I like her … I always have … but that's about it though, right? I reasoned with myself, trying to wrap my head around the possibility that it might actually be true. Of course I wasn't looking for a new relationship … not so soon after realizing my wife had left me, without a goodbye. I was damaged goods. But on the other hand I was a vampire, a man … with natural desires.

That doesn't give you the right to lust after the first woman you'll come across … I scolded myself.

But still, it was hard to deny that I didn't feel something for her, something more … something that wasn't there before. At this point I could be glad if I would be able to earn her friendship and to be honest I wasn't sure that she would grant me that. After all, I was responsible for the Cullens departure and therefore for breaking her heart. Yes, I had received her forgiveness, but I still didn't believe that I deserved it. Bella was too selfless … maybe even too selfless for her own good. The fact, that Bella had forgiven me for my attempt on her life and my inexcusable behavior earlier today was more than I deserved. I couldn't betray her trust in me, by behaving like a jerk.

I was still overwhelmed by the fact how well our reunion had gone, well except for the minor hiccups. Bella had shown no fear at all, or she had been hiding it very well, whatever. And I'd gotten the distinct impression that she really wanted to get to know me, and Peter too. What was it about us that lured her in? I knew it wasn't just our 'good looks', because Bella wasn't that small-minded. In fact, I'd felt the same kind of curiosity coming from her in the past, especially after we'd returned from Phoenix, but at the time I'd decided against pursuing the issue … for many reasons. True, I'd wanted to get to know better, but with Edward around, watching her every step, never leaving her alone, I'd stayed away.

But the most amazing discovery was, that for the first time in a very long time I felt truly comforted, almost loved by someone. I'd never imagined that person would be a human, above all not Bella. I hadn't realized before today how much I longed for a place I could call my home, a true home. Yes, I felt loved by both Peter and Charlotte, and I knew that they wouldn't mind me staying with them, even if it meant forever. But I still felt like an intruder, despite the fact that we were family. I missed having someone that I could call my own. Yes, I was selfish that way.

I wanted Bella's friendship, her trust … and I would be happy enough to get just that. She was the most amazing person I've ever met in my long existence, so generous, loving, and kind … and I knew that her emotions were the purest I've ever experienced, not at all fabricated. I would do anything to win her over … as a friend. The first step would be to ask for her forgiveness for my earlier behavior … again. I wasn't sure how I could explain the reason behind it, since I wasn't even a hundred percent sure, why I'd reacted that way. And sharing my speculations with her would be way too awkward.

Well, no need to put this off any longer. It's time to face the music … I told myself, walking slowly back to Bella's home.

I stood outside her house for a few minutes longer, contemplating my options. I could sense that Bella was upstairs, and even though I knew that the more appropriate way would be to ring the doorbell, I decided against it. As I stood there underneath her window, looking at the nearby tree, I couldn't help myself.

This is a bad idea … I rationalized, but my body had a mind of its own, and I was already climbing up the tree. I could see directly into Bella's room. She was busy packing a small bag, and the sight of that gave me the courage to proceed. She hasn't changed her mind … thank God …

I lightly knocked on the window. To my utter astonishment she didn't seemed to be startled by my sudden appearance. No, she wasn't surprised, but there was still a slight frown on her face.

Fuck!

Bella walked slowly over, opening the window. "What is it with you Cullens? Entering my house through a window … We do have a front door, remember." Her voice was harsh, but I could see her eyes sparkling with humor. The half smile Bella gave me was genuine, a little playful even and I relaxed a little, sighing mentally, relieved that she wasn't really angry with me … just a little irritated. I can live with that …

"Oh, I remember." I retorted lightly, flinging myself inside her room. I landed safely on my feet, straightening up and taking a curious look around. It was a small room, and her scent was indeed very potent in here as I'd expected. But at least, it didn't make me wanna bite her.

"And just for the record I was never a Cullen." I added, stating a true fact.

"Whatever … Hale then." She countered, returning to the task of packing up her stuff.

"Much better … but I won't go by that name any longer either." I said, even surprising myself with that admission. I hadn't really thought about it yet, but as soon as the words were out of my mouth, I knew it would be right step to take, a step forward into my new life, a life without the Cullen clan. I made a mental note to call J. Jenks on Monday to set up an appointment. Good thing, we were already in Washington, since his office was located in Seattle.

That statement finally caught her full attention. "So what is your name now?"

"Whitlock." I answered proudly. "It is my real name, actually."

"Whitlock? Hmm … Jasper Whitlock … I like it." She murmured, seemingly lost in thought. A slight blush appeared on her face, like she was embarrassed. I couldn't be sure though, because her emotions were once again hard to read, almost like she was trying to block me on purpose. However, I wasn't able to deny that I liked the way my name sounded coming out of her mouth. A warm, fuzzy kind of feeling was spreading through my entire body …

I did my best to shake that distracting feeling off, not wanting to make her feel uncomfortable, just in case I did project my feelings unintentionally. But luckily she hadn't noticed anything.

"Are you ready to go?" I asked casually.

"Yes … wait a sec … I have to pack the charger for my cell, just in case someone will call me." She answered, walking over to her vanity and grabbed the thing. "Now, I'm done. Let's go."

The excitement in her voice was catching, and I smiled at her. She returned that smile, and for a few moments we were trapped in each other's gazes. I was the first to look away, breaking the spell.

"Through the window then?" I teased, trying to lighten the mood. I still felt slightly awkward.

She shook her head, laughing out loud. God I loved that sound! "No way, pal. We use the door like normal people." She insisted.

"Normal people?" I raised an eyebrow in question, making her snigger.

She slapped me playfully on the shoulder. Of course, it didn't hurt, but there was the same tingly kind of feeling like before, when she'd hold my hand back in the house. Why did a simple touch have such a great effect on me? Was it her? I started to get a little nervous, not knowing what it meant.

Bella led the way, walking down the stairs and grabbing her jacket on the way out. I followed her quietly, still kinda lost in my own thoughts. I waited patiently for her to lock the door. Then she turned around, looking at me expectantly. "Shall we?"

"Sure." I nodded, turning around. "Hop on."

When she didn't make a move, I turned around again. She stared at me, with a strange look on her face. "What's wrong, Bella? If you don't want to … I could still get the car." I offered quickly.

"Nah, that's not it." She answered honestly, shaking her head. "What if somebody sees us … I'm not ready yet to tell my Dad. It was hard enough to lie to him at all."

But I still couldn't understand her hesitation though. Maybe it reminded her too much of Edward. I knew that they had used to 'travel' that way in the past. "Then what?" I asked, carefully.

She smiled warmly. "I don't have a problem with you carrying me on your back, if that's what you are thinking." She sounded sincere. Then suddenly her gates were open again, and I could feel the honesty and trust behind her words. It warmed my dead heart, but I was still confused.

Bella could see that, and continued. "Do you mind, if we'll walk? I wanted to talk to you about something before we go back to the house … without being overheard by someone else." I knew she was referring to Peter.

"No, of course not." I answered, warily. I was very curious, and a little concerned. But whatever was on her mind, I would listen to her. "I would like that, too. This way."

She threw her bag back over her shoulders, and followed my lead. For a few minutes, which felt more like hours, we walked in silence side by side through the forest. I matched her human pace, not wanting her to trip and hurt her herself. She seemed to be focused on the trail, watching her every step. I fought with myself, thinking of saying something, to open up the conversation. She'd said she wanted to talk and now she was giving me silent treatment. My anxiety and curiosity were nearly unbearable by now. But it also didn't escape my notice that Bella was fidgeting nervously with the hem of her jacket, like she wasn't sure how to start.

"It wasn't your fault." She stated simply, finally breaking the silence.

My mind was blank. Which incident was she referring to?

"The birthday party." She clarified, like she was answered my thoughts.

"What?" I replied, still not able to follow her thought process.

Bella laughed at my bewilderment, before she continued. "I've finally figured it all out. The reason why you'd attacked me that day … well … I think, no I know it was only due to the others. Their combined feelings of bloodlust, especially Edward's, had pushed you over the edge. How could you not react the way you did? You are an empath."

I listened to her very closely, carefully monitoring her emotions as well. She truly meant what she said. I was simply stunned speechless. I knew she was a very observant person, for a human. But the connections she'd drawn showed me once again, how insightful she actually was. She wasn't solely selfless and forgiving, but compassionate and smart enough to see the truth, where I could not.

"That is why I forgave you right after it happened, because even then I knew that it wasn't right to blame you for something, you weren't responsible for. So please, Jasper, do yourself a favor and stop feeling guilty about something that wasn't your fault." She pleaded with me, locking her eyes on mine. Once again I lost myself in the depth of them. We had already stopped walking by this point.

This idea had never crossed my mind, that I'd only snapped as a result of the combined emotions of my entire family, probably because I hadn't allowed myself to recognize the truth, to open my eyes and see what was right in front of me. I was ruled by my guilt.

Leave it to Bella to show me the errors in my way of thinking …

"You are right." I finally said, gracing her with a timid smile. Bella sighed, in what I guessed was relief. "You are amazing, do you know that?"

Bella blushed, averting her eyes to the ground. I cautiously stepped forward, reaching out with my right hand. I placed one of my fingers under her chin, carefully lifting her head, thus forcing her to look me in the eyes. "You are." I repeated insistently, and added in a soft tone. "Thank you for believing in me, Darlin'."

For the first time I projected my own emotions on purpose in her presence. I allowed her to feel the full amount of gratitude and love I felt for her. Her eyes opened wide in shock, and she swallowed hard. A single tear ran down her cheek. I fought hard against the strong urge to lean in and just kiss her.

What? Why would I do that? Do I love her? … Oh my God … I'm falling for Bella … I realized all of the sudden. The idea was both frightening and wonderful, stupid and amazing. But deep inside I knew that this feeling, his yearning for her wouldn't just go away, even if I'd wanted it.

"You're welcome." I heard Bella whispering. She wiped away the tear with the back of her hand, giving me a weak, but warm smile. Then she turned away from me, and began to walk again. I couldn't feel her emotions anymore, and it made me anxious. The awkward silence was back. Maybe she'd closed herself of again, because I'd frightened her with the intensity of my emotions.

I quickly caught up with her. "Bella, I need to ask you something." I requested.

"Sure, Jasper, go ahead." She permitted.

"I cannot sense your emotions all of the time. Do you know why that is?" I asked, trying to sound more relaxed than I actually was at the moment. In truth, I was a little concerned there might be something wrong with my gift, which wouldn't be such a huge surprise. I hadn't been feeling like myself for quite some time now, and even my own feelings were all over the place these days. Especially now, with those unexpected new feelings I had for this human girl …

"I am glad it's working …" Bella replied.

"What is working?" I interrupted her, totally puzzled by her response.

"Well, I don't know how exactly it is working … but I could see that my emotions were getting to you, affecting you and not in a good way … and you seemed to be so stressed and hurt already, I didn't want to burden you with my own emotional baggage, so I thought I could at least try to keep my emotions under control … to shield you, to help you." She clarified, looking at me. I simply stared at her, trying to wrap my head around what she was telling me.

Is this woman for real? She must be an angel. No wonder I'm falling for her … the things she's doing just to make me feel better … she is amazing …I don't deserve her … she is far too good …but I want her, need her around …

"So you can't feel anything from me?" Bella's question broke through my musing.

"No, I can feel you alright, but it seems that you are deciding the when and how." I answered, not able to take my eyes of her, even if she wasn't looking at me.

"Is that bad?" She questioned, letting me feel her uncertainty, and guilt?

"No, it's just unusual." I assured her at once. She had no idea how much I appreciated her effort, to help me in such a way. "I just didn't know that you could do that." I added. And it was true. I've never come across someone who was able to shield himself from my power. Of course, I knew that she obviously was immune to Edward's gift, but his ability worked differently than mine. I wondered whether her immunity had been the only thing that had drawn him to her … other than the scent of her blood of course. I hoped that it wasn't the case, for her sake. But then again, why did he leave her, after telling her over and over again that he loved her?

I will never do that to her … I vowed to myself. As long as she'll have me around, I'll stay …

Suddenly Bella's stomach made that annoying grumbling noise again.

"Well, as much as I enjoy our walk and little chat, I think it's time for the human to get some food. Wouldn't you agree? So how about you hop on my back now, and will be at the house in no time." I proposed.

"Okay." She agreed, almost cheerfully. Whether it was due to the prospect to get something to eat very soon or the piggy ride, I didn't know, nor did I care. I was just glad that she didn't seem to have a problem being so physically close to me. I turned around and bent my knees, helping her on my back. Instinctively, she wrapped her legs around my body and slung her arms around my neck. I could feel the warmth of her body even through the many layers of her clothes. I sighed in pleasure.

"Are you alright?" Bella asked, sounding a little worried.

Shit. She may not feel me, but she can hear me … I reminded myself.

"Yes, everything is fine." I assured her quickly, with words and a tiny dose of my own emotions. "Ready?"

"Yes." She answered, sounding very sure and a little excited.

And then I ran, gripping her legs securely, but not too tight to hurt her. I knew this experience wasn't new for her. I might not be as fast as Edward, but fast enough. Her emotions didn't give me any indication whether she was terrified, or if she was enjoying this ride as much as I did. I hoped it was the latter.

I came to a halt at the bank of the river, turning my head slightly. "Hmm, Bella," I began, awkwardly. "I don't know if it will be safe for you on my back when I make this jump."

"I trust you." She whispered into my ear. Her breath tickled my skin, and a pleasant shiver ran down my spine, affecting me in the worst way.

Stop it, right now! Concentrate … you don't want to hurt her …

"Hold on tight." I ordered gently, and then I leaped gracefully over the river, landing safely on the other side. I let go of Bella, a little reluctantly though, already missing her closeness, the warmth of her body. I turned around, to take a look at Bella. Her face was flushed, and she seemed to be a little weak in her knees.

"Are you okay?" I asked her, worried that she might not be.

Her reaction took me totally of guard. "That was freaking awesome. Can we do that again sometime?" Bella's eyes shone with excitement.

I laughed in response. "Sure, anytime, darlin'. Come on, Peter is expecting us." I held out my hand to her, and to my surprise and utter delight she accepted it at once. We walked slowly hand in hand into the house.

***

Peter was already waiting for us in the kitchen. It was pretty easy to tell by the different shade of red in his eyes, that he'd indeed fed while he had been in Seattle, picking up the food for Bella. Normally, he wouldn't have to feed so soon, since he'd just been hunting with Charlotte only yesterday. But apparently, he was just like me … not taking any chances to ensure Bella's safety. I was both glad and surprised. In all the time that we'd known each other, not even one single human being had awakened the slightest interest in him … other than to quench his thirst of course. And now here he was, excited like a kid on Christmas Eve by the prospect of spending more time with a mere human girl … with Bella.

"Hey, guys. What took you so long? I've been waiting for hours." Peter greeted us, sounding very impatient and annoyed, like a mom expecting her kids to come home for dinner on time. He had his arms crossed, tapping his foot. Of course, I knew right away that it was just a ploy on his part, because I could sense his amusement bubbling underneath his facade. For a moment there I was a little worried how Bella would react to this silly act of his, but apparently there was no need for feeling that way. Once again I had to admit that I was impressed by how at ease she was with him despite the fact he was a vampire … a human-blood-drinking vampire. Quite obviously, she wasn't the shy girl anymore she'd been when she was with Edward. Like his leaving had freed her … loosened some of her inhibitions …

"Sorry, it's my fault. I had to make a phone call … and then I couldn't decide what to pack … being a girl and all." Bella replied with mock embarrassment, playing right along. "I hope you can forgive me." She sounded very convincing, giving him a rather cute look from under her eyelashes.

Peter laughed hard, and I joined in. "You've got some great humor there, little lady. I like it. Now, come, eat … before your food gets any colder." He motioned to the kitchen table, which was loaded with at least five different dishes. He pulled back a chair like a gentleman and Bella took a seat.

"Oh my God, Peter. Are you crazy? I'm never gonna be able to eat all of it. It's way too much." She complained, but eagerly opened the first dish, groaning appreciatively. The smell of the food was nauseating, and Peter and I did our best to hide our aversion from her.

"I didn't know what you'd prefer so I brought you some choices." Peter said, shrugging. He handed her a plastic set of knife, fork and spoon. "I brought these as well …in case there weren't any around."

"Thanks." Bella replied, digging enthusiastically into the food. Peter and I were just about to leave the kitchen, when she stopped us. "Please stay, I don't mind having company … or share my food." She gave us both a challenging look, causing Peter to chuckle again.

"Yes to keeping you company … but a definite no to the food. Not everybody likes to play human like Emmett." I said, happy that she wanted me … um us to stick around while she ate. I still shuddered slightly at the mere thought of actually eating this crap, because it always was a double torture. Bella giggled at my expression, and I gave her a genuine smile in return. I really liked her laughter. Seeing her happy made me happy.

Peter and I sat down on the opposite side of the table. We let Bella eat in peace, keeping the subjects of conversation light. Peter told Bella about his and Charlotte's last vacation in South America. By the look on Bella's face it was clear to me that she wasn't only enjoying to hear about their adventures but that she was indeed a little jealous too. Knowing that her family wasn't as well-fared as any one of us, she probably hadn't been anywhere else but some few places in the US. Given the chance I could easily take her to all the places in the world she wanted to see.

You're getting ahead of yourself, Whitlock … she doesn't even like you that way … and why would she? I reminded myself, sadly. Hell, I still didn't know why I suddenly felt that way, even though it felt so right. I pushed those thoughts away for the moment, to ponder over later, preferably alone, without Peter glancing curiously at me. Did he already know something has changed? I wouldn't be surprised if he actually did.

After Bella was done eating, she put the leftovers in the fridge, mumbling something about waste, causing Peter to chuckle again. She took a bottle of soda, and then we all relocated into the living room again. Bella sat down on the couch, and I joined her there without a second thought.

Bella opened the conversation again. "Peter, did you know that Jasper's surname is actually Whitlock?"

"Sure." Peter answered, with a big grin on his face. "It's mine and Charlotte's, too." I couldn't suppress a smile, when I felt Peter's pride hidden underneath his simple answer, almost matching my own. His choice of taking my surname wasn't due to memory loss of his own name, but his way of showing gratitude for what I've done for him and Charlotte in the past, saving their lives and freeing them.

"It is?" Bella was surprised. "But you guys aren't actually related … I mean through blood?" She was looking at me for an explanation.

But Peter beat me to the punch. "No, but we are connected through the same venom."

I growled a low warning. Peter might not have a problem telling Bella everything about our past, but I wasn't ready for that particular topic of conversation, not yet anyway. But right now we were heading straight in that direction. To be honest, I would neglect talking about it altogether, but I'd promised Bella to tell her about our history just this morning. Despite my unwillingness to share my past with her, because I truly feared her reaction to all horrors I've lived through and had inflicted on others, I intended to keep that promise. But all in due time …

"I am their sire." I stated simply, but my voice spoke volumes.

"Oh," was Bella's only response. She didn't push for further details, which both surprised and appeased me. Maybe the torn look on my face told her to hold back the questions, whirling in her mind, at least for the time being. I knew that she was very curious, but she was also very patient.

"Are there any games around?" Peter asked, wisely changing the subject. No doubt, he'd sensed my discomfort, and the sudden tension in the air.

"I doubt that." I chuckled. I was sure that there was still a chess board in my study, but definitely no other board games, whatsoever. And I doubted that Emmett hadn't left even one of his precious video games behind. It would have been useless anyway, since there was no TV here.

"Well, how about you snatch your guitar, and play something." My brother offered as an alternative. I met Bella's eyes, and they shone with delight and surprise.

"I didn't know that you could play." She stated.

"Well there is a lot you don't know about me, yet, Darlin'." I drawled, and Peter rolled his eyes at me, hiding his chuckle behind a fake cough. I quickly went upstairs, and within a minute or so I was back on the couch, playing. Bella opened up again, sharing her emotions of joy and comfort with me. I'd played the guitar for half an hour, when Bella suddenly stood up.

"Please excuse me … the human does need to use the bathroom." Bella announced, leaving us alone in the living room. Peter laughed at her antics.

"She is something, isn't she?" Peter stated out of the blue, in a low voice.

"Hmm …" I mumbled, my eyes locked on the bathroom door.

"So, am I right to presume that we will not return back to Arizona tomorrow?" Peter pressed.

"Er … well … probably not … I need to fix the damage before we leave, so I guess we will be here until Tuesday." My answer sounded even lame to me.

"Good." Peter said, trying to sound indifferent, but failing. I could sense excitement bubbling underneath his calm feature, which finally made me look at him. There was a huge grin on his face, the one that always told me that he was up to no good.

"Peter." I moaned. "What are you up to now?"

"Nothing major … I am just glad that you'd decided to stay a little while longer… since I've already called Char to join us here. I'm pretty sure she will be here pretty soon. She is very excited to meet our girl." I snarled at him, partly out of annoyance that he hadn't shared his plan with me before making this decision. The other reason was the possessive pronoun he used.

She is mine!

"Now, now, Major … no need to act all possessive … you know damn well that I'm a one-woman vampire." Peter placated me.

"I am so glad to hear that." A female voice stated. Charlotte had appeared literally out of nowhere. Peter wasn't the least bit surprised, considering he was able to sense his mate's presence almost a mile away, but she had taken me totally off guard. That kind of thing seemed to happen too frequently lately, and it was beginning to freak me out. Was it because of Bella? Did she capture my entire attention, thus leaving me vulnerable? If that was the case, it would be a problem.

Charlotte flitted over to Peter, embracing her mate and planting a passionate kiss on his lips. "I've missed you."

Peter returned the kiss with favor, and I groaned, because I could sense that both of them would gladly take this further if it would be possible. Charlotte giggled. "What's up with you, Jasper?"

"Ah, don't mind him, honey. He's just jealous because he isn't getting some." Peter smirked at me, and I gave him the finger as an answer. Charlotte made herself comfortable in Peter's lap.

"So, where's the human?" She asked, glancing around the room. She was radiating nothing but curiosity.

Right on cue the bathroom door opened and Bella stepped out. She was clearly startled by the Charlotte's presence, but not afraid.

Bella POV

I went straight into the down floor bathroom, happy to discover it still was fully stocked, towels, soap, even toilet paper. I had wondered before why they hadn't cleaned out the house completely, but then I remembered that they had returned to this place once again after having it left for a couple decades. So it kinda made sense, if they' planned to come back some day, probably when I wasn't here anymore. And they didn't have a need for a fridge or microwave anyway, so I guess this was the reason way they had left certain items behind. At least the ones, they had no use for anyway … with them being vampires and all.

After using the toilet (and trying hard not to think about the sensitive hearing of the vampires in the other room), I stood a few minutes in front of the sink, looking into the mirror.

Is it just my imagination, or do I look differently? Yes, there were still dark shadows underneath my eyes, clear evidence of my sleep deprivation lately, but suddenly there was a slight, but healthier looking blush on my cheeks, that hasn't been there for the last five months. To be honest I even felt more alive, too. All due to the company of vampires … I chuckled.

Even in here, I could hear them whispering in the living room, but of course I wasn't able to make out the words. But even though I was pretty sure they were talking about me. Acting like some common human chicks …

By now I was quite used to their strange habit of communicating in their vampire ways: Speaking quietly, too fast and too low for a human to follow; quick and subtle glances, almost like they were having silent conversations. I knew that they probably thought I hadn't noticed anything, but I hadn't missed anything just chosen to ignore this kind of behavior, even though it was beginning to drive me nuts. Of course, I didn't believe that they were hiding some vital information from me, like Edward had always done, but I knew that they were hiding something. For the moment I shrugged it off. We barely knew each other, and I hoped that with enough time, Jasper would open up to tell me what was on his mind.

I washed and dried my hands, taking one last glance in the mirror, and then I finally left the bathroom. When I'd left the room just a few minutes ago there had only been two vampires, where now there were three. The new arrival was a female one, about the height of Esme, definitely taller than Alice, but smaller than Rosalie. Her hair was a shade of dark blond, slightly curled, barely reaching her shoulders. She was truly magnificent, beautiful like all the other female vampires I had come across so far in my life, but there was also something fierce in her feature, something strong. She didn't really scare me, but something told me, that crossing her in any kind of way would be rather foolish (like I would actually challenge a vampire). I had noticed the same kind of feature on Peter's face, but hadn't acknowledged it before. To be honest, taking a closer look at Jasper, I could see it on him too.

What the fuck happened to all of them? It must have something to do with their past connection …

Just then I realized that all eyes were on me, examining my reaction minutely. Of course, I was stunned, but not afraid. Even though, Jasper was at my side at once, almost like he was trying to protect me or something. But since the strange vampire sat on Peter's lap, I assumed that she was his mate, Charlotte. So there was no need for me to be afraid. I noticed Peter smiling at me warmly.

But somehow, I just couldn't take my eyes of Charlotte. She was actually gaping at me, her eyes wandering between Jasper and me. Before the silence could become any weirder, she quickly composed herself. She stood up and slowly walked over to me.

"Ah, where are my manners? I'm Charlotte. You must be Bella. It's nice to meet you." She reached out one of her hands in greeting, giving me a small, but genuine smile.

A/N I am so sorry it took me so long to update, but I wasn't quite sure where to go with this chapter. Especially with Jasper's discovery of his feeling toward Bella, maybe some of you will think it is too soon.

What's up with Charlotte's weird reaction? Does Bella already feel something for Jasper as well? And Peter, does he know what's going on? Let me hear your theories, I am curious.

Well, I hope you liked it. Thanks for reading!