Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and I hope everyone has a fabulous New Year!
Many thanks to Fran for all of her help. Please forgive me if there are any mistakes; I sometimes go back and add things. Shame on me! haha
HUGE thanks to everyone who reads, reviews, and favorites this story. I appreciate your support so much!
We're winding down on this story, friends! Only one chapter left ... There's a time jump in the chapter, so hopefully it won't be too confusing!
I hope you enjoy!
SM owns everything Twilight.
There's a buzz in the air and it's not from the bees collecting pollen from the garden outside.
It's localized inside of the house, with the rush of lithe footsteps and the gentle click-clack of fingers tapping against glass. Every so often there will be ding that cuts through the rustling of fabric, followed by more tapping as Edward answers his messages.
Normally, Edward would be out here waiting for me, but he's sequestered toward the back of the house, in our bedroom.
"Who are you texting?" I call out, even though he would be able to hear me just as well if I whispered it.
It's one of the things I dislike about vampires; superior hearing.
I can't get away with mumbling anymore, though Edward claims I was never able to get away with it. I responded with a sneer and mumbled together a string of words that only made sense in my head. When he responded with a confused "what the hell are you saying?" I claimed my victory and left him with a laughing Kate and Garrett.
As I inhale, flames lick down my throat, despite the meal of a bear and five deer I had engorged myself with moments earlier. My body tenses and I feel the pressure of a growl start to build in my chest, my instincts telling me to find and take.
I'm not sure what I'm smelling, but I know it's three distinct scents that are absolutely mouthwatering.
They had first appeared a week ago and a half ago, and I immediately went into frenzy, wanting to find it. The house was nearly torn apart as I tore through the space like a tornado.
Luckily, I was able to calm myself down quickly when Edward had firmly requested I calm the hell down. I was pissed at him using that tone with me at the time, but looking back on it, I realize it's very much a turn on, and something we've experimented with behind closed doors … or trees, since that was the only real privacy we could get in a house full of vampires.
Irina had sheepishly confessed to being culprit; she had bought some clothes from an antique store and while she had smelled the human scents lingering on them, she hadn't thought it would be a big deal to me.
She offered to get rid of them, but I adamantly declined; if I'm ever going to be around humans again, I need to get used to it.
The only thing I don't understand about the scents, however, is why it still smells just as strong as it did when she first brought them here.
"No one," he answers immediately, his fingers still flying across the screen as he continues his non-stop movement from our bedroom and strangely, to the guest rooms nearby. "Are you going to get cleaned up?"
I look down at myself, noting the various rips from my hunting trip, as well the smeared dirt along my shirt and pants. I've gotten better at hunting, meaning I don't spill a drop anymore like I used to—it was something I learned to stop very early on.
Now, my only challenge is to come out unscathed with my clothes pristine and not destroyed in some way, like the others have managed to accomplish.
I'm not sure they're not screwing with me though; there's no way you can't wrestle an animal to the ground and keep everything neat and tidy.
This hunting trip was no exception—I definitely needed it after I made my sixth consecutive successful solo trip into town for this month. Overall, I've gone into town solo the past two months and I'm proud to say I managed to mingle amongst the crowd of warm, delicious smelling humans without killing any of them.
That's not say I hadn't thought about it; like the previous visits, my brain immediately began planning the best way to go about getting what I want without drawing too much attention to what was happening before a panic set in.
The first time it happened, I was so pissed and disappointed with myself, I immediately left for the woods around the Denali house, uprooting several trees with both my hands and my shield.
When I was done, an amused looking Edward and Kate both told me it was normal; that part of me, the part that wanted to drain humans dry as soon I smelled them, was the calculating vampire in me.
The animal in me.
They all had the same thoughts every time they mingled with humans, it was only their actions that separated them from who they are and what they are.
Since then, I've always reminded myself that while I may want to drink human blood, I shouldn't. Although, I know there's a few exceptions to the rule … but for now, I'm on a strict "vegetarian" diet, as everyone calls it.
"How do you know I'm messy?" I counter.
"I can smell the dirt on you," he responds with a laugh. "When are you going to not roll around on the ground?"
"Bite me, Edward. I didn't hear you complaining last time."
The last time we went hunting together, Edward definitely liked seeing me smudged with dirt and my clothes rumpled. Even though he had just hunted, his eyes were dark and his breathing was slow and deep as he watched me closely.
As soon as I was close enough, Edward crushed me to his chest in bruising kiss … and let's just say neither one of us came back to the house fully clothed.
He merely laughs in response, not saying anything to defend himself because he knows he can't; he never complains about me getting dirty because that just gives him the chance to get me "clean."
"What are you doing?" I question, wondering why he hasn't come out here to see me yet. Normally when I come back from my tests, he's the first one by my side, checking to see if I'm okay and if anything out of the ordinary happened.
That question always makes me nervous and makes me wonder if he sends someone to spy on me; it wouldn't surprise me if he did, though I'm unsure if it would be to help me if I need it or to mess with me—either one is possible with him.
As soon as my foot crosses the threshold to the hallway leading to our bedroom, the partially open door slams shut, the sound echoing throughout the empty house.
I freeze, raising an eyebrow at the display, even though he can't see me.
"Really, Edward?"
"I'm doing something in here," he tells me. "You can't see it yet."
"Newsflash, I've already seen it. I thought you would have stopped since I'm here now," I joke.
There's brief moment of silence as he processes what I've said. "Ha-ha," he drawls. "I haven't done that since we started having sex."
I snort, shaking my head. "You're such a liar."
"Quiet, woman."
Outright laughing now, I try to open the bedroom door, but the doorknob won't budge and I see Edward's shadow move in front of the door, blocking me entry because I'm sure he knows I'll break it down if I want to.
"Seriously, Edward? It's my room too."
"I'm working on something. Go away."
"What are you working on?"
"If I wanted you to know, I would have told you already. Is that what you told me when you putting together surprise for my birthday a few months ago? Payback, baby."
"You're such an ass."
He chuckles. "I love you too."
"Yeah, yeah. Can I at least get some clothes? Or do I have make you move aside?" I playfully threaten.
Along with my self-control, I've also been practicing a lot with my shield; not only can I protect myself, but I can protect others from physical attacks, and Eleazar thinks perhaps I might be able to protect someone from mental attacks as well, since Edward can't read my mind.
It's an interesting concept, but I'm not willing to trying it just yet. I'd rather have all aspects of my shield grasped … like using it to control people, though I'm not very thrilled with the idea. It's exciting for sure, but I'm not sure I can handle something like that.
I may want people to do what I want, but I've never literally meant it. I'm firm believer people should make their own decisions.
Eleazar and Carlisle agree with Edward's assessment of my shield, since they both insisted I try it out on them. They claimed they still felt in control of their thoughts, but something was forcing them to do something else.
Carlisle went into full geek mode about it, writing up theories and tests for me, but Edward wouldn't have it. I don't know whether he realized I wasn't fond of this part of my shield or if he didn't like his father performing experiments on me, but whatever it was, it got him to cool down at little bit.
A few weeks ago, I started back up on practicing when Tanya brought up a good point; if I or someone I cared about was danger, I could make them not hurt someone and either diffuse the situation or eliminate the threat.
Hurting another person wasn't on my list priorities, but I did agree that in my new world, it would have to be done at some point. Plus, I needed to know how to use all of my gifts, just in case. I've never been the weak link in my human life and I refuse to let it start when I'm a vampire.
That being said, I haven't successfully mastered using my shield to control people's actions; most of the time, it's a game of chance that takes extreme concentration.
The last time I tried to control someone, Garrett wrapped Emmett in a hug and they fell out of the window as Emmett tried to wrestle away from him.
I had only meant for Garrett to shut Emmett up when he was talking about how he heard Edward and I going at it one day in the woods, but I guess I was a little too pissed to simply make Garrett hold a hand over his mouth.
Oh well, regardless, it still got Emmett to shut up.
"Don't you dare," Edward growls, whipping the door open and stepping in front of me, slamming the door closed behind him … but not before I see a mess of clothes strewn about the floor and bed.
"Seriously? What have you—"
His hands frame my face and he presses his lips over mine, pressing the front of his body against mine. I grip the back of his shirt in my hand, hearing the fabric strain and rip as I pull him closer. Faintly, I hear the soft click of a lock engaging, but I pay it no mind for the moment.
Edward pulls back, a satisfied smirk, the grin pulling into a full blown smile when his shirt falls lax on his upper arms, showing his shoulders. He pulls it off with yank, dangling the tattered remains on the edge of his index finger.
"If you wanted me to take my shirt off, you just had to ask."
"You accosted me first. Besides, you would have taken it off anyway. I'm covered in dirt."
He hums, his dark eyes slowly moving down my body. "Yes, you are, aren't you?"
I roll my eyes, lightly pushing him away. I won't let him distract me, especially since I caught of glimpse of the mess he's made in there, not to mention him locking the door.
"What are you doing in there?" I ask, motioning toward the closed door. "And why did you lock the door?"
"How was your trip into town?" he questions, ignoring me. "You're eyes are bright gold, so I take it everything went well?"
My gaze narrows, and I stare at him silently.
"We can stand here all day, Bella. You know I won't budge."
Unfortunately, it's true. He's just as stubborn as I am and I recall us being in opposite positions a few months ago when I was putting together his birthday present, so I can't be too mad.
That's doesn't I won't stop trying to figure out what he's doing though.
"For the most part. It was difficult, but I managed to do it. I only had to hold my breath three times."
This time when Edward smiles, it's genuine and warm. His fingers lightly caress the side of my face before running his fingers through my hair before lightly pulling on it.
"It'll get better with time."
"I'm sure it will," I reply, thinking of his family and my own mother, all of which are still living amongst humans with ease. "You know what this means, right? My sixth successful solo mission this month with an overall success rate of twenty trips and I haven't killed anyone?"
My excitement rises with each word, knowing that I can see my family now. I've come so far this past year with managing my bloodlust and temper, not to mention gaining control of my shield. It hasn't shot out without my say so and I haven't been trapped in my head in over a year.
With each successful trip into town, I feel more confident and excited over the fact that seeing my family is now a close possibility.
"I sure do. You can move on to seven, moving up to ten for the month. Consecutive days would be great too. No days off in between."
My face falls and my body suddenly feels like my true temperature as disappointment washes over me—cold. I hadn't realized how much I was looking forward to hearing his confirmation that I could go until now.
"What? Really? That's not what Carlisle—"
"He doesn't know you like I do and he hasn't been here every day either."
"So, what? What I've accomplished so far isn't enough?" I inquire, my voice growing harder with each question. "I've done well, Edward."
Edward's lips press together in an attempt to stifle his amusement, which just pisses me off more. He knows how much I was looking forward to seeing them and for him to laugh it is an asshole move and I tell him so.
"Don't be sour. You're just so cute when you're upset," he tells me, reaching for me, but I want none of it.
A translucent swirling mist of golden silver that only I can see shoots out from me, darting toward Edward like a snake. It wraps around his head first, and his arm falls heavily at his side, following my silent command for him not to touch me. My shield slithers down his body until it's wrapped around his ankles, tightening every time he moves.
Harshly, he sighs, wincing when he finds he can't move.
"Bella, come on," he complains.
"I've done well," I repeat, controlling the volume of my voice so I don't scream and break any glass … again. However, I can't keep the hardness out of my tone and even to my own ears I sound majorly pissed and not to be messed with. "I haven't killed anyone. I haven't even tried! And you're telling me I need more trips to town? Consecutively? That's bullshit! It's almost two years since I've seen them in person, Edward! I missed Rose's early graduation in January and I missed seeing her off to college and I missed Jasper's graduation in June! I missed the holidays with my parents … I think I'm fine now."
Edward raises an eyebrow, pursing his lips. "You think? Do you want to take that chance with your family? I just think—"
"Screw what you think!"
"I think," he continues, raising his voice slightly, but otherwise doesn't show any emotion toward my interruption. "That a few more measures need to be taken. We can get some clothes of theirs and test you. That would be the best way—"
"I'll go by myself if I have to," I warn, tired of his excuses.
"And if you do, the wolves will meet you at the border into town, as well as my family. Bella, I'm not trying to upset you or be an asshole, I'm just being logical about this, okay? You need to practice with their scents before you see them. Just to be safe."
I sneer, allowing my shield to squeeze him once; not so tight that it hurts him, but enough for him to spit out a curse.
"Really mature," he grinds out. "Let me go."
"I will … later."
Spinning around, I march toward the other side of the house and into one of the guestrooms, locking the door behind me and releasing Edward from my shield.
Within seconds, he's at the door, trying to turn the knob.
"Bella, open the door."
"Go away."
"I know you're upset, but you're taking this too far. It's not—"
"Don't you dare say what I think you're going to."
He tries the doorknob one more time, and I know it would be nothing for him simply crush it in his hand and come inside anyway. I've found there's very little that can hold up to a vampire's strength, and a door a low on the list.
Something I learned the hard way.
During my first few months here, I probably broke half the doors in this house.
I'm hoping Edward will respect what the action represents.
There's a heavy sigh, followed by a long silence. On the other side of the house, I hear the constant chime of his phone going off, but he doesn't move. I stand in the middle of the room, feet shoulder width apart, staring at the door, my shield swirling around the edges of my vision like swirling vines, ready for my command.
Finally, after several minutes, Edward speaks. "What are you going to do for clothes? Yours are ruined. Not that I'd mind you going naked."
I roll my eyes, unable to help the grin fighting to form. "I'll figure something out. Go away."
There's a brief moment of hesitation, then a rush a movement as he whisks away toward the other side of the house, where he silences the incessant ringing from his cell phone and begins to quickly tap instead. I'd love to know what he's hiding, but I'm too put out right now to even care.
Glancing around the room, I look for something more suitable to wear because I don't want to put these back after I get clean. Taking them off, I retrieve my phone and put it on the dresser before tossing the ruined garments in the garbage; if it were just dirt, I wouldn't hesitate in washing them, but there are too many tears for me to fix.
I didn't like them that much anyway.
In the shower, the dirt melts off my skin as soon as the water touches me, swirling around my feet like an art project before disappearing down the drain.
Vampires can take the quickest showers out of anyone on the plant thanks to our inability to sweat and have dirt cake onto our skin, but this vampire is going to stay in here a little longer.
I'm not ready to face Edward yet, and I know if I go back out there, we'll just fight more.
With the Denali's off in northern Canada on hunting trip, there's no referee to tell us which one of us is being unreasonable to childish, so I'm claiming that title today, even if we haven't needed it in almost six months.
Grabbing the random bottle of shampoo off the shower's shelf, I lather my hair and inhale deeply; it's a soft, subtle hint of flowers and perfume that Irina had found on her last trip to California a few months ago. It's delightful and not overwhelming, which led Irina to believe a vampire themselves had made it which honestly wouldn't surprise me.
If it's soft and subtle to us, then humans wouldn't be able to smell it at all I would think, so who else but vampire would make something appropriate for our senses?
Nevertheless, it's wonderful and I can't help but taking my time, massaging into my hair as I rethink over the argument I had with Edward.
I don't see the harm in going to see my family; it had been so long since I've seen them in person—in fact, the last time I had seen them had been before the accident that turned me into a vampire. Ever since I had awoken, it's been through video chats.
It's been nice to have that luxury, don't get me wrong. I'm lucky in many ways because I can remember my family and get to keep in contact with them.
Apparently, over half of the vampires don't even remember their human lives, much like Arthur, who can't remember anything except his fear when Laurent had kidnapped and tried to kill him. Luckily, Arthur had been saved by Victoria and Tanya, who immediately brought him here.
The other vampires that do remember their lives have to cut ties with their human lives, because for one, it's too dangerous—the bloodlust for some is too strong to ignore and the possibility of killing someone you care about is too great.
In addition to that, the most important thing in our world is to keep our mouths shut about the supernatural world; some people can be trusted, but not many, so for the sake of not slipping up and telling one person who can't keep a secret to save their lives, it's better just to move on and let your family go.
I did learn that special permissions can be granted by the Volturi and their trusted confidants—Carlisle and Eleazar being two of the high ranking ones.
I knew about Eleazar having contact with the Volturi since he had told me he worked for them, thanks to his power of sensing gifts in others, but I didn't know about Carlisle—or at least I didn't remember.
Apparently, Carlisle had stayed with the reigning trio for nearly fifty years, introducing them to an alternate lifestyle of eating animals instead of people, and offering a more peaceful way of looking at matters that opened the Volturi up to more ways of handling certain situations differently.
It was thanks to Carlisle and Eleazar that allowed my mother to return to us after she proved she could handle her bloodlust, and keep my ongoing communication with my family.
I'm more than thankful for them backing us up, because I can't imagine not having my family in my life, which is why I was so excited I managed to mingle amongst humans for as long as I have without any difficulties.
I feel I'm more than ready, and I'm sure I would be fine seeing them, but there's a tiny bit of doubt of there too.
What if I'm not?
What if I get close to them and they smell too delicious for me to resist?
In town, there's a considerable concentration of different scents in the small town. Some of them smell okay, others aren't that great, and the others I've come in contact with have been overwhelmingly mouth-watering.
What if my dad and cousins are the same way?
I remember Edward's reaction to me the first time we met. He wanted to kill me; it was evident on his face and he even confessed to this on several occasions. In an effort to not harm me, he had stolen my shirt to get used to my scent—although I'm not entirely sure he didn't keep it longer just to mess with me, like he does now.
Trying to see his side, I put myself in his shoes. If he had been through the struggles I had with controlling bloodlust and his gifts, would I feel it was safe for him to go visit with his human family, knowing he could possibly hurt them?
No, I wouldn't.
I would take his approach and introduce him to the scents via their clothes and gauge his reaction. Only then, once I saw he was in control and there was no threat of him going bat-shit crazy, would I feel comfortable.
"Shit," I murmur to myself, allowing my head to fall back on my shoulders.
The gentle thrumming of the water hitting my throat is soothing, but it's not peaceful enough for me to realize the truth.
Edward was right and I was wrong.
There's no way out of this, and there's no way I can win this fight. Whether I give up and not ask about seeing them again, or I admit my error, there's no way Edward won't gloat about being right.
And remind me of it, every chance I get.
Unless I do something extremely crafty.
Maybe there's a way where both of us can be right.
Perhaps if I ask my family to send me a few shirts on the sly, I can desensitize myself to their scents. Of course, I couldn't hide them in the house, considering they'd be immediately found, but I can hide them in an airlock bag in the woods and sneak off from time to time.
But what if I do find one of them absolutely delicious and I go nuts trying to tear the clothes apart?
What if I go looking for them, only to kill the first person I come across?
My heavy sigh is lost in the steady stream of water pounding against my head, but I can hear it clearly as if it's the only sound in the world.
It's a childish plan and not something I'm likely to get away with; how would I explain my sudden confidence and the bag of clothes out in the woods as evidence if I were able to control myself? What would I say if I couldn't control myself?
To top it all off, I know Edward has my best interests in mind. He wouldn't agree to something just to make me happy; he'd consider all angles and make sure I wouldn't do something I regret.
With no option, I just need to be the bigger person and admit I'm wrong, with some stipulations, of course.
Shutting off the water, I grab a towel from the linen closet and my wet feet slap against the floor as I head back into the bathroom, heading for the closet. There's bound to be something in here I can wear; whenever Tanya, Kate, or Irina don't want to wear something anymore, they throw into a guest room closet until they decide to clean.
Easily, I find a pair of comfortable wide leg lounge pants and a black tank top and quickly put them on before grabbing my phone and heading into the living room, where I hear Edward puttering around in the kitchen. Upon hearing my approach, a cabinet quickly slams shut and he comes to the entryway, watching me warily.
"What are you doing now?"
A shoulder jerks upward in response as he shakes his head. "Nothing. I see you found clothes," he says with a nod.
"Much to your disappointment, I'm sure."
His lips twitch as he tries to hide his smirk. "I didn't say a word."
"You don't have to."
"I thought I was the mind reader in this relationship."
"I know you," I tell him, wondering how I can start my confession or if I can put it off until I know what to say.
Though, I know he'd think something was up if I never brought up the subject of seeing my family again, so I guess there's no other option than just spitting out.
"About what you said earlier—"
He nods once, straightening his posture as he braces himself for what I'm about to say. Lightly, I sneer, because I'm sure he thinks I'm going to argue with him, and I can't wait to prove him wrong.
"I think it's a good idea. I shouldn't take a chance with them. So I'll ask them to send some clothes and I'll get used to their scents."
I'm not disappointed as the determination slips off his face, morphing into one of complete shock. His mouth drops opens and his eyes are wide and unblinking; he's the embodiment of surprise, mixed with a slight pinch of confusion.
I can't help myself and I burst out laughter, fumbling for my phone and taking a shaky picture to forever capture his befuddled expression. I don't need the physical reminder, but I need to show this off to Alice.
Edward snaps out of his daze and lunges for me. I shriek and dart away, tucking my phone close my chest in an effort to keep his hands off of it.
"Give me the phone, Bella."
"No!"
Playfully, he growls, keeping up the chase and hoisting himself over the furniture after me like a graceful panther. He catches up to me easily as I make the third round over the couch, but I change up my path and pretend to go left, instead going right and ducking underneath his arm.
"Delete the picture."
"I think not. It's a good one; the only one I really like of you," I tease, spinning out of the way as I race into the kitchen, feeling his fingertips graze my shoulder.
Belatedly, I realize my mistake by coming in here; sure the space is bigger, but the only thing between the two of us right now is an island. From seeing him hunt, I know this won't keep him away from me, nor will it help me in any way.
Shit.
He smirks, mostly likely coming to same conclusion I am.
I could use my shield. It would be easy enough to keep him away while I sent the picture off, but it's really an unfair advantage. Then again, Edward doesn't always play fair anyway. He always tries to charm his way out of things or distract me with my favorite movies … or his body.
"Don't even think about it," he warns. "You know the rules of the game, baby. No gifts."
"Fine," I huff, my eyes darting around the room, looking for a way out, but there isn't one that I see. No matter where I go or what I do, he'll still catch me.
When it comes to games like this, Edward is very competitive; not even flashing him will get me a win. It might leave him dazed for a moment or two, but once he realizes he's going to lose, he puts his all into it and ends up winning anyway.
"Delete the picture. Or else."
My eyes narrow in response to his hollow threat. "I'm not scared of you."
Innocently, he shrugs, raising his hands in surrender. "I'm just trying to help you. I mean, unless you want people to know I was right and you were wrong. Those were the words you were using, right? That you were wrong?"
"It's my word against yours. Besides, I think the picture," I sing song, waving the phone around, snickering when his eyes narrow and frustrated growl slips form his lips. "Speaks for itself. Who cares what the cause is when you look like this?"
I shriek as he suddenly leaps in my direction and I take off running, but I'm immediately encompassed in his arms as he grabs me, pulling me tight against his chest. He tries to the wrestle the phone out of my hand, but I hold tight enough where he won't get it, but not so tight where it'll break.
"Delete the picture."
"Nope. I think I'll tell people this was your face when you realized you were wrong about something and I was right. It's going to be my wallpaper. And I'm thinking of blowing it up and putting up in the bedroom."
"What would you be right about?"
I look at him over my shoulder, raising an eyebrow. "Wanna rephrase that question?"
"At this moment, no. I was right." He's almost giddy and it makes me want to give in to his demands, but this picture is too good to pass up. "I still want that picture deleted."
Knowing he's not going to give up, I try a different tactic. "You know, I thought you'd want to keep it. It's photographic evidence that I admitted … what I did," I hedge, not trusting him to not be recording me somehow. "This picture is evidence of your shock. You didn't get a recording of me saying it, so this is the next best thing."
He pauses, his eyebrows furrowed together as contemplates it. As soon as his arms loosen, I dart away with a cackle, sending the picture to my password protect storage. My phone dings as it's uploaded and his eyes widen.
"You didn't—"
I smirk. "I guess you'll have to wait and see."
He grunts in response, collapsing on the sofa, as if exhausted. I take the seat next to him and he pulls me into his side, holding me close. I pretend to revolt in disgust, screwing up my face and pushing away from him.
"You didn't complain about me earlier this morning. Or last night. Or yesterday afternoon. Or—"
"Moments of weakness," I interrupt, burrowing into side and nudging his stomach with my elbow as I attempt to get comfortable. "It won't happen again."
"You're such a pain," he playfully groans. "Vampires can't get tired; it's impossible, but you … you make it possible, woman."
"I'll take that as a compliment."
He laughs, the sound rolling through his chest and into my body. "Of course you would."
"Your life would be boring without me, you emo creeper."
His lips press against my temple. "That's for damn sure."
Suddenly, a shrill sound of a siren mixed with bells blares through the air. Edward deftly eases his phone from his pocket and looks at the screen.
"Why is my mother calling you? And is that her ringtone?" I ask with a laugh.
"You should hear yours. It's a lot worse."
I pluck the phone from his hand and before he can say anything, I answer it. "Hi, mom."
"Why are you answering my phone? Boundaries!" he playfully scolds.
"Like when you answered mine when Jasper called a month ago?" I remind him.
He grumbles, but doesn't say anything more because he knows he doesn't have an argument. He's done the same thing to me countless times I've never said a word … at least not much. Besides, I'm extremely curious as to why my mother is calling him.
"Oh, Bella!" Mom exclaims, clearing her throat in a nervous-sounding gesture. There's a weird shuffling noise in the background that I can't place, scratching through the line. "I didn't expect you back so soon."
I eye Edward skeptically, because it's obvious he's been talking to her about my trips to town. Idly, I wonder if that's who he was texting earlier.
I'm not upset he's sharing it with her; I would have told her about this newest trip eventually … and I was actually planning to if it had gone well. I had planned on a successful trip, telling Edward about my plans to see my family and once he agreed, then I'd call my parents.
Of course, I didn't figure on him throwing out one logical stipulation, that I'd have to acclimate myself to their scents, though.
"So, Edward told you about my recent trip, huh?"
"He only does it because you don't."
"I do too! I just … wanted to be sure everything would be okay."
That same strange shuffling emits through the line again, scratching and whistling in my ear. I wince against the sound, pulling the phone slightly away.
"What are you doing?"
"What?" The noise louder now, almost drowning out her voice.
"What are you doing? Where are you?"
"I—nothing," Mom says, a tremor in her tone. "I'm coming back from a hunting trip. Is the noise bothering you?"
"No, it's fine," I reply.
She sounds cagey and nervous, but why?
"So, your trip went well, then?"
"It did. Prior to going into town, I hadn't hunted for a few days. It was difficult, but I managed it."
Her answer is immediate and sure. "Of course you did. You're doing so well, honey."
I smile softly, murmuring my thanks. "So, was that all you were calling about?"
"I was calling to talk to Edward," she tells me.
"What about?"
"Isabella Marie, it's none of your business," she says, her tone firm. "Give the phone back to Edward. Now."
Edward holds out his hand and wriggles his fingers with a smirk. I huff and hand it over, watching him intently.
"You're going to have to text it to me," he tells her, his grin growing when he sees the frustration on my face.
"I figured."
The phone beeps as the call is disconnected, the screen flashing twice before going dark.
Silence hangs between us as we stare unblinkingly at each other, waiting for the other person to break. I want to know why he's talking to my mother—not that he needs my permission. He's spoken to her numerous times with updates about my progress when I was vague about it, and had even taken over phone calls to get embarrassing stories of me when I was younger.
Mom is definitely an open book and talkative, so for her to rush off the phone and be evasive is setting off warning bells.
Edward, I'm not too worried about; he's always like this so he can get a rise out of me.
But what could they be talking about this time?
If it was something embarrassing for me, Mom would have no problems letting me hear it. The only thing I can think of is that it's a surprise, but for what?
Edward already told me seeing them was impossible at this time, so that's out. Rose graduated in January and has started a few college classes. Jasper graduated last month and is spending his time with Rose before she gets too busy.
Alice can't be pregnant, so that's one surprise out … but what about Rose?
I push the thought away; there's no way Rose would be pregnant. For one, Edward's not even sure it's possible. I remember him telling me he thought it could be possible, because there were whispers of it happening, but there was never any concrete proof.
Besides, Rose wouldn't graduate early only to give up her dreams of going to college.
The only thing that's coming up is my birthday … and suddenly it makes sense.
It must be for my birthday, but I have no idea what it could be. I don't really want anything, but that hasn't stopped my family—or Edward—from giving me something anyway.
"So … what are you two discussing?"
"We're discussing this new trend where you mind your own business," he answers without missing a beat.
I nod, playing along. "Interesting topic. You know, I heard of a new trend too."
"Oh?" he asks, his lips twitching as he tries to hide his grin while he plays along.
"Yeah, it's where you're taking cold showers for the next decade or two and using your hand for company."
He sucks air through his teeth, his wince fake as a chunk of glass passing as a diamond. "That is rough … too bad you can't resist me."
I point a finger in his direction. "Not this discussion again. You know what'll happen."
His eyes crinkle as he laughs, loud and boisterous. "Oh, yeah, I definitely know."
Leaning toward me, he places a soft yet sloppy kiss on my cheek. "You're too easy to get riled up."
Pushing my palm against his face, I push him away. "Get away from me."
Putting on an exaggerated frown, he shakes his head. "That's not what you said ea—"
Slapping my hand over his mouth, I shake my head, biting the inside of my lip to hide my grin. "No."
The screen of his phone buzzes and illuminates with an incoming message before falling dark, only to light up once more as another message comes through.
Lifting an eyebrow in question, my curiosity piques once more, knowing it's my mother that's texting him. I can't help but wonder what she's texting him about and it's driving me crazy.
He mirrors my expression perfectly before angling his body so his front faces me completely, so I'm unable to see his phone. Swiping at the screen, his eyes flit over the screen and it's then that I make my move.
Sliding myself in front of him, I plaster myself against his chest, my eyes quickly scanning over the screen. I don't see much thanks to his lightning quick reflexes, but I see a few words in particular pop out.
Birthday … ask her.
"What about my birthday? And what do you need to ask?"
Incredulous, Edward shakes his head, as he pockets his phone. "You're terrible."
"No, I'm not! I'm curious!"
"And for you, that means terrible. Be patient." Placing a kiss at my temple, he rises, heading toward our room.
Jumping up, I follow behind him, surprised when he doesn't stop me from coming in this time. I scrutinize the room carefully, my eyes sweeping over every inch of the space.
Everything is neat and tidy as it once was, a mass different from the peek I had gotten just a bit ago. There's no bags on the bag or clothes strewn about. In fact, there are no clothes anywhere.
The rumpled mess of clothes from our morning activities are in the hamper, the large black carpet straightened and vacuumed. The bed is made, the blankets tightly stretched across the mattress, looking like it was ripped straight out of a catalog.
Every surface of our room sparkles and gleams, though that's partly due to the fact that there's a little bit of dust dancing in the air, like little gnats.
"Do you wanna go out?"
Edward's question throws me off guard and I blink, my head tilting to the left as I process what he's said. "What? Why? Where?"
"Do I need to tell the when and how too?"
Carelessly, I flip him off. "You'll forgive me if I'm shocked by your sudden request to go out, since it's never happened."
"It has too," he argues. "I've asked you out … well, technically, you've asked me out."
"I think you're delusional. I would never; I'm that not insane."
Wrapping an arm around my waist, he jerks me toward him, his lips inches from mine. "And how did we get here, hmm?"
"Okay, I'm not that insane."
He chuckles, kissing me once. "Come on. It'll be fun. Let's go out. We haven't been out on a date in a while."
"What are we going to do? Dinner and a movie?" I sarcastically quip.
He shrugs, his lips pursed as he thinks before agreeing with a nod, his messy hair flipping onto his forehead. "Sounds good to me. There's a movie theater in town that's showing your favorite horror movies."
"I will if you tell me what you and my mother are plotting."
Edward snorts a laugh. "Plotting. Plotting, okay … we're going to take over the world. Disney world, that is. It's about time us vampires had an amusement park to play in."
I can't help but laugh at the thought, picturing our brood of vampires darting around the park like a bunch of kids on a sugar high. I wonder why something like that hasn't happened yet, but I suppose a group of immortals playing like kids would draw too much attention.
"Are you in or not? Dinner and a movie," he taunts. "Almost like a normal couple."
His face twists at the word normal and I find myself doing the same.
"Who wants to be normal?"
"That's for damn sure," he mumbles before grabbing a black jacket throw precariously over the back of a chair. "So? What's your decision? The movie marathon is starting soon and if we're going we need to go now … and I promise I won't make sarcastic comments about your movies either."
His offer idea intrigues me, especially since he can't seem to stop shooting his mouth off at my favorite movies. However, I'm more curious about what he and my mother are conversing about, especially when he won't answer my questions.
What are they planning for my birthday and what could he possibly have to ask me? He's asked me more than enough questions, but they've been trivial ever day normal things … or questions to rile me up.
Either way, he's never had an issue with opening his mouth and saying something, so what could it be now?
What's with all the secrets?
Years of being forced to watch cheesy romance movies with my mother come to mind, and I recall the over the top dramatics of the male protagonist trying to come up with the perfect way to propose to his one and only in the perfect way.
Only in those movies, something always goes wrong and he ends upset and telling his girlfriend his grand ideas, only for her to tell him she didn't need anything fancy or spectacular, she only needed him. Watching those cheesy moments made my eye roll back in my head so hard, I swear I could see my brain.
I understand why people like movies like that; it's sweet and romantic, but I've never been one for anything like that. I've always felt I would tell my significant immediately how I felt and be done with it, no fuss and no sappy declarations of love.
Or in my case, be in denial until I was slapped with sense … which honestly worked better for me anything else.
Could that be what my Mom is telling Edward to do; to ask to marry me?
We hadn't ever talked in depth about marriage before. It fleetingly came up when Arthur and Tanya got hitched earlier this year, but it was more of a I don't understand the concept of mated vampires getting "legally" married type of thing.
What was the point? Wasn't being mated to someone enough? It's not like you'd suddenly change your mind one day.
Edward had seen my point and agreed, but he did mention liking the idea of a ring symbolizing he belonged to someone for the world to see.
Is that what he wants? His ring on my finger? He is a slightly possessive jerk, so it makes sense.
I'm surprised by the fact that I'm not completely repulsed by the idea, but I'm not sure I'm ready for that yet … but is he?
"Bella?" Edward asks, quirking an eyebrow at whatever he sees my face. "Are we going or not?"
"Sure," I reply, my voice no louder than an exhale. "I don't know if I'll hunt or not. I went after my trip."
"One or two things won't hurt. You'll be in an enclosed space with a group of people."
"True."
"Great," he replies, sliding his jacket on and leading me out into the living room. He hands me my jacket and starts for the door, only to pause. "Hold on a sec. I forgot something."
He disappears back into the bedroom, the sound of a drawer opening and closing before he's back at my side.
I find myself sweeping over him from head to toe, looking for any sign of something small.
I imagine if I had a heartbeat, it would be going crazy right now.
"What did you forget?" I suspiciously ask, still eying him.
Edward rolls his eyes, placing his hand at the small of my back and lightly pushing me out the door. He clears his throat and shakes his head, seemingly exasperated, but there's a glint of mischief in his eyes I can't place, and it makes me nervous.
"Since we're going hunting before the movie, I brought you a bib. That way you won't ruin your clothes."
A noise of disgust leaves me and I race to Edward's car, settling in the passenger seat, scowling at him through the windshield. His laughter filters through the closed windows, growing louder as he settles beside me in the driver's side.
"Don't be cross, baby. It's the truth. At least you're wearing black, though. That's good."
I force the thoughts of would-be marriage proposals out of my head … for now. Taking a deep breath, I will my nerves to calm down. I don't know if he's going to propose, but it's not he would tell me. All I can go by is the little crumbs of clue I have that all point to that direction. I don't know what I'll say if he does ask me, but I suppose the answer will come to me in the moment if or when he does ask me.
For now, I'll do what I do best … annoying Edward and leaving him wanting.
"Maybe I'll just go naked, then."
My words evoke the response I was looking for and I cackle gleefully at the power I hold.
For the moment, anyway.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter!
See you soon! Stay safe, friends!