A/N Thanks for all the reviews … as always I'm glad you liked the last chapter.
Here now Bella's day … and Peter's, too.
Enjoy!
Chapter 22 Back to Real Life Part 2
Bella POV
I drove my truck down the familiar road to school. I was more than glad that in a couple months from now this would all be over. I was going to graduate high school in June – finally.
It wasn't that I hated school or something along that line, but I didn't really like going there either. It had more to do with the people than school itself. I've always been a good student. Most classes were easy to manage. I did my homework on time, and I barely had the need to study extensively for any class, with the sole exception of calculus of course. But who could blame me, that subject just sucked.
Back in Phoenix I've mostly kept to myself, too. Of course, I had a couple of friends, but I surely didn't belong to any of those typical groups – popular or non-popular. It has been easier to blend in since the school there was at least three times bigger than this one. Things here in Forks were far from simple. Staying in the background wasn't an option. Right from the first day, everybody knew who I was, and they have been all so excited about my arrival.
Weirdos. Like I am some sort of celebrity …
Getting all this unwanted attention was more than I could handle at first … well actually in general, too. I hated being the focal point of any attention – good or bad. My association with the Cullens didn't make things easier, but at the time I hadn't really cared, because I'd been far too distracted to notice anything but Edward. I knew most of the girls in my grade had been mostly jealous that I – the new girl – had managed to ensnare the only single Cullen. The reaction of the boys were almost worse, especially Mike's. He clearly detested Edward, not only for the obvious reason. But I guessed it was quite understandable. The Cullen children were outcasts, and for good reason.
Being around my classmates has been … and still was … very difficult after I've discovered the truth about the Cullens. It almost felt like I had to play a role, instead of being myself. I had literally proof that there was more in this world than just us humans. And I had to keep that to myself, keep it a secret. I did that willingly, though. Who would have believed me anyways?
All in all, things have been easier when the Cullens have been still around, which was kind of odd, but true nonetheless. Before than I didn't make much of an effort to try and fit in with the others (of my kind). But after their sudden departure I had no choice but to reconcile with them, since I didn't want to become a total loner. The first few weeks had been hard, because I've been barely talking about anything to anyone. Of course, I'd noticed the gossip. How could I not. It was hard to overhear it. Jessica and Lauren didn't hold back much, enjoying themselves a little too much for my taste. I did my best to ignore them. If it wasn't for Angela constant support and patience, I would have snapped at some point, giving them a piece of my mind.
I liked Angela from the very start. She was shy and kind, a pure and gentle soul. Jessica seemed like a nice person too, at first, but it soon turned out to be nothing more than a façade. She was very competitive, in more than one area. She said one thing, but meant something else entirely. It took me some time to figure that out, but since then I tried my best to stay away from her. Since she hung out with Lauren a lot, a girl I couldn't stand at all (and the feeling was mutual), it wasn't that hard to accomplish.
I still wasn't sure what I wanted to do after finishing my high school education. Sure, I'd applied to some colleges, but mostly to appease my father. A couple of days ago, before Jasper's return, I hadn't had a problem with that plan whatsoever. Going to college, leaving this place and all the dreadful memories behind, seemed like the perfect (and only) chance I had to start the new era of my life. I would go to college, get my degree in English or Literature, and move on with my human life, just like Edward wanted me to.
But now in only two days everything has changed. I had another option, one that I hadn't allowed myself to hope for after the disappearance of my vampire family. Though, Jasper and I hadn't had the chance yet to talk about our joint future, I had a feeling that he wasn't opposed to the idea of me becoming a vampire like him, not like his brother. If anything, I was sure, that he would never let me go, no matter what.
I already missed Jasper like hell and it has been only a few minutes since I've left him. This feeling of loss was totally different from the one I've always experienced with Edward. It wasn't like I was scared that I wouldn't see him again, that he'd left me for good. No, there was this constant pull, telling me that I should be somewhere else, that school wasn't the place I should be going to right now. All I wanted was to be with Jasper. But I knew that I couldn't. I had responsibilities to uphold, at least for now.
It's just a few hours … I told myself, sighing in defeat.
I pulled into an open slot in the school parking lot, shutting off the engine. I grabbed my back bag, and jumped out of the truck. Angela was waiting for me by the main entrance like always. Unfortunately, hers and Ben's relationship hadn't survived the summer, something about insurmountable discrepancies. Sounds familiar?
Anyway, at least she wasn't reacting like me, falling apart and all that shit. Maybe it was just me … or it was a vampire-human thing, who knew.
"Hey, Angela. How was your weekend?" I greeted my friend, sounding rather cheerful for a change. But then again I was in a really good mood, apart from the still present ache in my chest, which I tried my best to ignore.
Angela stared at me for a moment, before she broke out in laughter. "Apparently not as good as yours." She said with a slight twinkle in her eye. "You are practically glowing, girl. What the hell happened?" She was clearly curious, but she was never nosy. God, I forgot how perceptive Angela could be, although my good mood was kinda hard to miss today.
"Nothing much." I shrugged. "I just had a good time, that's all." I really wanted to tell her everything. Not about the vampire part, of course, but about Jasper. But I knew I couldn't. I couldn't, right?
"If you say so." She said. I knew she didn't believe me, but she didn't push for any information, which was only part of the reason why I liked hanging out with her. Jessica would have bombarded me with endless questions, until I'd finally give in. Angela wasn't like that. She was cleverer than asking straight questions, which made her even more devious … but in a good way.
"Let's go. Or we will be late." I said abruptly, leading the way. Angela chuckled again, but followed me without saying another word. I had a feeling she was thinking about the best approach to ask me about my sudden change in behavior. And strangely though, it didn't cause me to panic. If there was one human I would confide in, it was Angela. But I knew I couldn't … or rather shouldn't.
This is going to be a very long day …
The first three periods went by fast. With the graduation so close on the horizon, the teachers kept a tight schedule, for which I was very glad, especially today. It kept my mind busy, and prevented me from daydreaming (too much) about Jasper. The weird feeling in my chest was still there, but by now I was getting kind of used to it. As long as I wasn't concentrating on the ache, it was easier to ignore. But it was only dampened, it never went away completely.
When I got to the cafeteria for lunch, there was already a line forming at the food counter. I quickly made my choice, only a chicken sandwich and a bottle of water, since I wasn't that hungry. This uncanny feeling in my chest was clearly tempering with my appetite.
Angela and I usually sat alone at the far corner of the cafeteria, at one of the smaller tables. On rare occasion we had no other choice but to join Jessica and her group of cronies, and endure their endless chitchat about clothes or boys or Prom, things that held no real interest for Angela or me.
It looked like that today was going to be just a day like that. All tables were taken. All but one.
The only table that always stayed vacant was the one the Cullens used to occupy. It was pretty hilarious that no one dared to sit at that table, like it was still haunted by the mere memories of its former occupants. Before today I hadn't considered sitting there an option either, for all the same and yet somehow different reasons. I've sat there every day when I was still with Edward. But after he and his family had left, I couldn't bear to even look at the table. An inanimate object causing pain by barely looking at it was truly pitiful, but probably pretty normal for a human girl my age.
Time to change another thing in my life … I decided, confidently making my way over to said table and sat down. It didn't escape my notice that my brave act earned me some whispers and a lot of stares. But I paid no attention to either one. Let them watch and talk … I don't care …not anymore …
Finally Angela entered the cafeteria, scanning the room for me. She was a little startled at first when she spotted me, but after getting her food, she eagerly joined me.
"This is a nice table." She commented, with a smile in her voice. She was clearly enjoying this little venture as much as I. But I could see that she was just as confused as the rest of my classmates.
"Yes it is." I agreed, chewing on my sandwich. It wasn't very good, but what could you expect from school food.
For a few minutes there was silence between us, but it quickly turned from feeling comfortable as usual into awkward. I knew what was coming.
"Bella, what's going on with you today?" She asked, sounding only mildly interested, but I knew she was anything but. She was practically buzzing with curiosity. She picked at her salad, waiting patiently for me to answer her question.
"I don't know what you're talking about." I said, avoiding her eyes.
"Bella." She chided. "I'm not a fool and I'm not blind … and neither are any of the others, especially the boys here in school." She chuckled under her breath. "For the first time … ever … you are wearing a skirt to school. I wouldn't have given it much thought if it weren't for the gleam of sheer happiness in your eyes. Something must have happened between Friday and today. You know I respect your privacy, but I thought we were friends." She complained, pouting.
Damn her for pulling out the guilt card.
I kept staring down at my tray, contemplating my options. I was a terrible liar, and more importantly I didn't want to lie to my only (human) friend. I wanted, no needed someone else to talk to apart from vampires … or werewolves. I was a teenage girl after all, and talking about these things to your girlfriend was a natural habit, right?
"You met someone." She blurted out, fortunately not loud enough to draw any attention.
I stared at Angela in astonishment. She was just as perceptive as me sometimes. "Well, I didn't meet someone new …" I began, keeping my voice low.
She held up her hand, stopping me. "Wait, don't tell me that HE is back." By the appalled tone in her voice it was obvious that she was talking about Edward. Although she didn't know every detail about the reason behind our breakup, she truly detested him for leaving like that.
Since she had been there for me, helping me through my dark hours with her endless amount of patience, I knew that I owed her the truth, even if it was only the abridged version.
I shook my head, smiling. "No, Edward isn't back. I doubt I would be that happy, if he was. So, relax, girlfriend."
She seemed appeased. "Alright … then who?" She carefully pressed.
"Jasper." I said, probably grinning like an idiot.
She frowned. "Jasper, who? Jasper Hale … Edward's brother?" She openly gaped at me, with her eyes wide open, trying to process what I've just revealed. I simply nodded. She swallowed hard. "And … you and him …" I nodded again. "Wow!"
"You have no idea." I sighed, thinking of Jasper's soft, but demanding kisses. God, I missed him.
"No, I don't. Now, spill!" She demanded, leaning across the table. I giggled at her enthusiasm.
Of course I gave Angela only the cliff notes … that Jasper had split from the family, that he was here to pick up some stuff he'd left behind, and that we'd sort of ran into each other by accident on Saturday. I told her that we had spent the entire weekend catching up, and that we had become closer than we've ever been before. I didn't need to tell her that I've fallen for Edward's brother, because it was kinda obvious. She didn't ask for any details, probably sensing my reluctance to willingly share more than that.
But even so I held back a lot of information, she already knew more than anybody else, even my parents. Of course the big secret was still safe with me. I would never put her in harm's way.
Angela stayed calm and quiet throughout the entire time, just listening and processing. But it was easy to tell that she was intrigued and at the same time disturbed by the fact that Alice and Jasper had split as well. It has never been a secret that all the Cullen siblings were in fact couples. If anything that fact only added to the mystery they presented, just another reason, why my classmates have never made an attempt to get to know them. Jessica had called it a sick perversion once, but in truth she was just jealous and disappointed.
When the bell rang, announcing the end of lunch hour, we both stood up at the same time, quickly getting rid of our trays. Before we were going our separate ways, Angela pulled me aside. She looked worried.
"I can see that you're happy, Bella. And I'm glad for you, believe me, I truly am. You deserve this, more than anybody. But please, do me and yourself a favor. Take it slow, whatever this is between you and Jasper. I'm just concerned, that's all. You've gotten hurt big time the last time, and I think I couldn't bear seeing you go through this once again." Her eyes were pleading with me.
"I will. I promise." I said, choking on the emotions that threatened to overwhelm me. I did my best to fight back my tears. Her words affected me more than she could have known. I've always known she was compassionate, and probably the best human friend anyone could have. I still felt bad for treating her the way I've had, back in my dark days. I knew she'd forgiven me, but I still felt the need to make it up to her … somehow, someway.
Angela just nodded, smiling at me. I hugged her briefly but passionately. "Thank you, Angela. I truly appreciate your concern."
"No problem." She shrugged. "What are friends for, right?"
Then we went our separate ways.
The rest of the day went by quickly. Even Gym went better, than I could have hoped for. We had been starting with badminton today, and I've actually managed to hit the birdie twice. Yeah, me! Maybe all this bottled-up happiness had some unforeseen, but positive side effects. But after the yet excruciating hour to endure Mike's constant encouragement, I was more than glad that this day was finally over. Who was he kidding anyway? I had no potential at all. Hitting the birdie was nothing but luck, as far as I was concerned. Sports in general held nothing for me. In my opinion it was only a way to torture me.
After class I went to change as quickly as humanly possible. The ache in my chest was at its peak. Whatever I'd done before to dampen the ferocity of the pain didn't seem to work anymore. All I knew was that I really needed to see Jasper. By this point I was convinced he was the only antidote there was.
I was just out of the Gym, when Mike caught up with me. "Hey, Bella, wait up a second!"
I groaned, but stopped and turned around. Mike came to a sudden halt right in front of me.
"What's up, Mike?" I asked, at least trying to sound nice, but I was sure my demeanor was saying something else entirely.
"Oh, nothing much …" He replied, slightly out of breath. I didn't have time for this, whatever it was that he wanted from me.
"Okay then …" I was about to walk away from him, when he caught my arm, stopping me. I flinched, I actually flinched. It felt like his touch burned me. When he saw my reaction, he dropped his hand at once, blushing furiously.
"Sorry, Bella." Mike muttered, sounding both embarrassed and confused by my reaction. "I didn't mean to upset you. I … I … just …"
"Spit it out, Newton." I demanded harshly, surprising myself as much as him. What was wrong with me? I've never been this openly mean to anybody.
Mike flinched, but recovered rather quickly. He looked at his feet, avoiding my still annoyed gaze. "I just wanted to ask you something." He took in a ragged breath, lifting his head. There was still confusion in his eyes, but mostly determination. Oh no! "Do you …do you want to go out with me … maybe on Friday?"
I really shouldn't have been surprised. This was his … what tenth attempt to ask me out, since Edward had left. What was it with this guy? Was he some sucker for rejection? Once apparently wasn't enough. What could I do to make him see the light?
"Mike …" I began, trying to keep my frustration from showing in my voice.
"Who is that?" Mike suddenly asked, glancing over my shoulder. I turned around, following his gaze. Right there in the middle of the almost empty parking lot stood a tall man, leaning casually against the hood of my truck, completely dressed in black with sunglasses on a rainy day.
Oh crap! What is he doing here?
Peter POV
I just couldn't help myself. I had to tease Jasper when he came home this morning. It was easy to tell that he wasn't in the best mood. And of course I knew that he and Bella hadn't taken their relationship to the next step during the night. Understandably though, with all the drama …
But as far as I was concerned my brother actually needed to get laid … and soon. I couldn't imagine going without sex for more than three days … even if it was only a blow or hand job. But how long has it been for him? Almost six months. No wonder he had trouble to control himself and his gift. He needed some sort of outlet. And from what I could tell, Bella could use some loving too. Although I was pretty sure she was still untouched, so she couldn't know what she was missing.
Lucky bastard … I thought. I truly envied him. In all my life I'd never had the opportunity to have sex with a virgin.
Aside from the ever increasing sexual tension between Bella and Jasper, it was obvious how close and dependent on each other they both had already become. I knew from my own experience that their bond would only strengthen after mating.
Of course, my never-ending teasing notwithstanding, I was more than happy that Jasper had finally found his true mate. And so was Charlotte. We both liked Bella, very much so. She was sweet and caring, and she had a very strong will. Her courage and open-mindedness were truly marvelous. She was perfect for Jasper … in more ways than one.
And it didn't matter that she was human, because she would become one of us … sooner or later. There was no way Jasper would allow her to die of old age.
True mates are forever.
I wondered why it had taken them this long to find each other, since they've know each other for almost a year. Had the pixy known this was going to happen? Was this the reason why they, she and Edward, had kept them apart all this time? I wouldn't be surprised if that was actually the case, but it would take their betrayal to a whole new level.
What was really odd was the fact that I hadn't seen Bella's arrival at the house in advance. But after Jasper had told us about her ability to block him out, intentionally and otherwise, I realized that she was probably doing the same thing to me.
Her power must be getting stronger … and fast. I mused, remembering that she was only able to block Edward's gift in the past. I wonder why that is?
Of course I didn't blame her, since I've never relied on my so-called gift. But something told me, that now it would become in handy, what with the involvement of the wolves and Laurent. I made a mental note to talk to her about that later.
I left the house at the same time as Charlotte and Jasper. I made my way into town to get some material for the repair. Luckily, we hadn't caused too much damage. The wall didn't need to be replaced, just some minor fix-ups. Probably not the first ones in this house, especially with someone like Emmett around. I was looking forward to his and Rose's arrival. They have always been the only ones I've missed not seeing. Rose's letter showed her undying support, and love for her brother. And from what Jasper had told me, Emmett has always been very protective of Bella. I was only slightly concerned about their reaction towards Bella's and Jasper's relationship. I knew it would take both of them some time, but in the end they would accept it.
I returned to the house only after an hour. I've just finished unloading the material, when my cell beeped. It was a message from my lovely wife.
DO ME A FAVOR, HON. CHECK ON BELLA. JASPER IS A MESS RIGHT NOW. HE IS BARELY HOLDING HIMSELF TOGETHER. WE'LL BE HOME SOON. LOVE YOU.
I chuckled under my breath. Of course I knew Jasper would be having trouble being apart from his mate. Even though he was an empath I was pretty sure that he hadn't been able to truly comprehend the depth of our feelings … the one between true mates … not until now.
Every time he'd come to visit me and Char in the past he was way too relaxed. It was clear that his relationship with Alice wasn't equal in strength to the one Char and I shared. Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to stay away from his mate for days, without suffering the consequences of their separation.
I quickly typed in my answer. WILL DO. LOVE YOU, TOO. SEE YOU LATER.
I checked the time. It was only 10 am. I knew Bella would be in class until 1 pm. Three hours. I abandoned my truck at the house, and my made way to her school on foot.
Bella POV
"Peter." I breathed. I abandoned Mike at once, ignoring his protest, and went straight over to my truck. Peter's former frown turned into a full sized grin. But I wasn't returning his smile, because right now I wasn't very happy to see him … not here, out in the open, with witnesses.
I come to a halt right in front of him. I glared up at him. "What are you doing here?" I hissed.
"Well … hello to you too, little lady." He replied smoothly, still smirking. He pushed himself away from my truck, straightening up. But I wasn't intimated by his height or his true nature for this matter. I knew he would hurt me.
I huffed and pushed passed him. "Just get in the car!" I ordered, not trying to hide my annoyance. He just laughed in response. So not helping here, Peter …
"As in you are driving?" He clarified, not making a move.
I rolled my eyes at him. "My truck, my rules." I simply stated, opening my door. I threw my bag behind my seat, and sat behind the wheel. Peter was still standing in front of the hood. I held his gaze, communicating silently that I wouldn't change my mind any time soon … or ever.
A second later Peter sat beside me. I quickly glanced around, to make sure no one had witnessed him using his inhuman speed. But Mike had already left for his car on the other side of the parking lot, out of direct line of sight.
"You need to be more careful." I scolded him, starting the engine. I pulled out of the lot, driving by Mike's car. I kept my eyes strictly on the road, avoiding him on purpose. I had a weakness for puppy-dog eyes, and I was afraid that was exactly what I would have to face.
Peter laughed again. "What are really worried about, little lady? Me being caught doing something out of the ordinary, something vampiric … or are you just angry that I interrupted your little chat with the boy? He seems very smitten of you. Are you sure you don't want to give him a chance after all?"
Of course, Peter had heard and seen everything that had transpired between me and Mike. I snorted. "Oh please, Peter, give me some credit. I do have some taste. That douche doesn't stand a chance with me, even if I were available …which I'm not as you very well know."
"That's kinda harsh, but certainly good to hear." He stated, chuckling. I knew he didn't feel sorry for Mike, far from it. I smiled to myself, but didn't comment.
I drove down the empty street, trying not push the engine over its limit. For the first time ever, I regretted not having a car that could go over sixty.
"Are they back yet?" I broke the silence first. My voice was quiet and calm again, displaying some of my pain.
"Yes, they are."
I frowned, glancing at Peter for a brief moment. "So why isn't Jasper picking me up?" I demanded to know.
"Ouch, that hurts. I thought I liked me, little lady." He complained, though it was obvious that he was just mocking me. But thankfully he seemed to sense my irritation somehow. "How are feeling, Bella?"
This question about my wellbeing took me totally of guard. But I could hear only sympathy and worry in his voice. There was no trace of amusement left. "Fine, I guess. Why?"
"Are you sure?" He pressed, seemingly expecting a different answer.
"Well … you're right. I'm not fine, not really." I confessed, sighing. It wasn't that I didn't trust him enough. But I was a little embarrassed. I didn't want to show more of my weak spots, other than the obvious ones … with me being a human. I drew in a ragged breath and continued. "All day … since Jasper and I had departed … I am feeling this pull in my chest, like I am supposed to be somewhere else … with Jasper."
"It sounds very familiar." Peter commented, his voice calm, almost thoughtful. Again I risked a quick glance at him.
Maybe I should have let him drive after all.
But what I saw in his face gave me some reassurance. I wasn't crazy. This was real, not something I've been imagining. "You know what I'm talking about?"
"Yes. It's the same I'm going through every time I'm away from my mate." He explained.
"Mate?" Of course I knew the term, but him using it in that context implied something I wasn't sure how to take.
"Don't tell me, Jasper hasn't told you yet?" He was surprised.
"Told me what?" I asked, warily.
"That you and Jasper are mates, of course. True soul mates." He clarified.
A/N Hmmm. How do you think Bella will react to this piece of news? And how will Jasper's and Bella's reunion go? Anyone thirsty for some lemonade?
Next chapter, Rose and Emmett will arrive. You have my word.