A/N: Wow! Been 5 years since I updated this. Hasn't left my mind though and I'm determined that Edward and Vitalia's story will get told. So appreciative for the release of Midnight Sun to get me back into this fandom! Will try my best to update soon! The inspiration is strong :) If any of my followers/reviewers are still out there and have stuck with this story, I thank you so much and sincerely apologize for the long wait. Here's a nice, long comeback chapter for you guys. Enjoy!
Earthshine
Chapter V
Polished Gold and Rain
…
"Let the rain kiss you. Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops. Let the rain sing you a lullaby."
- Langston Hughes
…
I didn't feel as hesitant texting Vitalia this time. I'd made my decision and I was moving forward with it.
I had one arm wrapped around Bella while she slept as I used my other hand to hold up my phone — brightness turned down so as not to disturb my slumbering darling — and read Vitalia's answer to my latest question.
I was getting all the questions out of the way that I had overheard during her talk with Jasper. It was a little redundant by I needed to know them to be able to move forward.
She was from San Antonio. I commented on the fact that I'd never been there before. She also repeated the fact that she'd moved there from Virginia. It explained her lack of a Southern accent.
She then told me all about her interaction with Jasper and how she hoped Alice liked his surprise. She demanded to know how it went and I assured her I would give her all the details.
Edward: My brother mentioned that you smoke. Terrible habit, you know.
Vitalia: yeah, yeah (: Tell me something I don't know.
I rolled my eyes. Of course she wasn't going to be reasonable about it. I mentally added smoking to the list of potential causes of her death in the future. It was morbid, I knew, but there were an amusing number of contenders. Far more than most people had.
I wanted to ask less superficial questions, but I also wanted to wait until I could see her in person. This texting thing cut me off from so much. I'd hate to miss something because I had been too impatient to wait.
A follow up text came and I directed my attention to the phone again.
Vitalia: really. Tell me something I don't know. About you.
I smirked wryly. I could say almost anything, but I also wanted to wait to say anything too in-depth about myself. I wanted to know what she thought of the things I revealed to her.
Edward: I play piano.
Vitalia: Ooh! A virtuoso? Lol! That's so awesome. I can't play any instruments ): What's your favorite thing to play?
Edward: A song I wrote for my mother.
Vitalia: Aww…that's so cute. You write your own stuff?! Even cooler, Eddy
Edward: I suppose. It's just something I enjoy.
Vitalia: no need to downplay this awesomeness.
Edward: Fine then. I daresay my skill is up there along with the masters.
Vitalia: ooh. There you go. A healthy ego. How often do you write songs?
Edward: Not too often.
With a slow glance down at Bella, I smiled faintly. The last thing I'd written had been her lullaby. It had just poured from me after meeting her and I hadn't experienced a strong enough muse since then. One that could come close to hers.
It was likely I'd never write again.
Vitalia: That's a shame. Maybe, if we get to be good enough friends, you could write one for me!
I softly sighed and tilted my head, revisiting the previous thought. I couldn't just conjure something up without enough inspiration.
Almost despite myself though, in the back of my mind, I wondered what a melody for Vitalia might sound like. Something cheerful, certainly. Lively. Upbeat. A jig of a tune.
My eyes drifted to the side unseeingly as I thought of a couple riveting notes. It would have to flow also. Not something that was just loud and energetic. It had to have smooth notes. Easy. Like an effortless dance. Transparent and clear. Like her eyes.
My fingers twitched and my thumb tapped against the side of the phone to the imaginary rhythm.
Water. Crashing waves. A powerful, reckless, unstoppable force of nature.
My eyes closed and I could almost hear it. My fingers felt a familiar, electric urge, before they suddenly stilled as I caught myself and my eyes opened quickly.
I looked to the screen and frowned slightly.
No sooner than I'd thought a composition impossible than one started to create itself in my mind. Like it had a will of its own.
Like Vitalia.
After blinking once, I keyed in a response to her, unsure how I felt about this development.
Edward: Hm…maybe.
Vitalia: I'll take it.
A little smirk crossed my face before my eyes shifted to the time.
3:12 a.m. Already so late. Vitalia was quite the night owl.
Edward: Well, I'll let you go for now. Don't want to be keeping you up too late.
Vitalia: Eager to get to your stalkering, eh? No need for excuses, Eddy, I know the truth (;
Edward: Right, of course. You're very insightful, you know.
Vitalia: M'kay. Well! See you. Sweet dreams.
Edward: Yes. Sleep well.
Lowering the phone, I let out a soft sigh as my eyes strayed to the window, where rain was tearing down the glass.
I wanted to have an uninterrupted, in-person conversation with her. Bella worked the next day at 4:00, so that might be a good opportunity for it.
I'd find out in the morning if Vitalia was available to meet up with me, but for now…my dearest would claim the undivided attention which so belonged to her.
I wondered if I should have mentioned Bella to Vitalia by now, but throwing it out there out of nowhere seemed both presumptuous of her feelings and implied that I was worried this thing with her was something other than what it was.
I just had to wait for the opportunity to mention it. I wanted to make sure Vitalia didn't start coming to her own conclusions about the nature of my interest.
Securing my phone in my pocket, I rolled over and wrapped my other arm around Bella's fragile frame. I breathed in her intoxicating scent and allowed it to erase all other thoughts.
[Vitalia]
It was a nice surprise, getting to go into town. Compared to San Antonio, this place was pretty freakin' small, but it was quaint. I thought it was real charming.
It was still raining, of course, but whatever. Part of its appeal. The whole thing had a Burton-esque vibe I was really digging. I would just enjoy what it had offer. Texas heat was brutal in the summer, so I couldn't complain about getting a break from it.
Leaning back against the headrest of the passenger seat, I listened to the track my mom selected on her mix CD before catching her eye and grinning as she started singing out loud.
I started to sing with her, rolling down my window and throwing my hand out into the chill, letting my fingers dance through the rain as I sang louder. This caught stares from people walking along the sidewalk, but I didn't care.
The sleeve of my flannel plaid shirt quickly got soaked and goosebumps spread across my skin underneath, but I only closed my eyes and grinned wider.
My mom laughed next to me as the song ended and I let that cheery sound lift my spirits further.
My mom's laugh and my dad's smile were the most joyful things in the whole entire world. The way the smile crinkled his blue eyes, the way her whole heart spilled into that sound…it was like heaven!
My thoughts went back to Texas and the end of summer. It would be autumn time when we got back and I felt an energy bounce through me as I thought of the harvest fest we always threw on our ranch.
Hayrides, corn mazes, barrels of homemade cider, bonfires…it was my favorite time of year. We lived on a plot of land a few miles outside of the city and there was a sort of backwoodsy community that had formed in the area. All our neighbors came out for the festival. It was the highlight of our year!
"Hm…I'm not seeing this place."
I looked over and saw my mom squinting through the windshield, trying to make out the wooden buildings of the small shopping center through the downpour.
Joining her, I peered out my open window, rain trailing down my face. It
was pretty hard to see and all the businesses looked so tiny.
"Well you could just park and we can walk around to find it," I shrugged.
She bobbed her head and turned into the lot, headlights washing over a coffee shack as she did.
"Ooh! You wanna grab some java for our search?" I looked to her eagerly.
"Can't say no to that," she unbuckled her seatbelt and slipped on her coat before reaching back to grab the umbrella from the backseat.
I stepped out of the car, the running water on the pavement rushing over my combat boots. Luckily they were water proof because I really didn't want to ruin my Yogi Bear socks.
Mom rushed around the car and held the umbrella over us both as she wrapped an arm around my shoulders and guided me towards the shack.
It was on a wooden platform and we took the rickety steps together before entering the cozy little place. It smelled really nice, I thought as I took a breath. Like spices and vanilla. Coffee too, of course.
"Do you know what you want?"
"Yes! I answered eagerly as mom lowered the umbrella and shook it off.
"Vanilla caramel latte," I continued in a sing-songy voice.
She nodded and went to order it at the little counter while I sat on a stool by the window.
There were only three other people in here and, after eyeing us curiously a second, they went back to their business.
I looked to my phone and saw I had a new message, so I went ahead and opened it before reading over it with a smile.
Edward: If you feel up to it, I'm free this afternoon if you would like to meet me somewhere.
I checked the time a sec. It was only 9:45, so me and mom would probably be done with our outing in plenty of time.
Vitalia: I'll see if I can arrange it (; Having a girl's morning with my mama.
Edward: Ah, I didn't expect a response so soon. Don't sleep much, do you?
I shrugged as I propped a boot on the stool across from me.
Vitalia: I mean…5 hours. That's not too terrible. About to get my second cup of coffee for the day, so I'll be good to go!
I thought for a second before adding:
Vitalia: And you're one to talk, Mister! You sent your message an hour ago.
Edward: Right. You have me there. Anyway, let me know when you're done with your outing and we'll decide on a place to meet.
Vitalia: Coolio! Later, Eddy
I switched off my phone and tucked it into the back pocket of my jeans before crossing my arms over my knees as I stared out the window at the gloomy-looking day and thought about this boy.
He was so strange. And I liked it. I was glad that, whatever had been holding him back before wasn't getting in the way of us being friends. I could just feel that this was a once-in-a -lifetime opportunity.
He was that rare of a specimen.
His whole family was and I was pretty eager to get to know all of them too.
I heard my mom asking the barista if he knew where the
Spruce Me Up! Nail Salon was and he chuckled before directing her to the back of the shopping center. He told her a lot of people had trouble finding it.
The bell on the door chimed and I casually looked over only to tense just a little as I saw a cop walk through.
I mean, it wasn't like I was doing anything wrong, but they were always kinda intimidating and put me on edge. I'd only gotten caught at a couple house parties, under the influence of a little alcohol, and I had gotten a speeding ticket my first week on the road, so nothing major but…I don't know. Just a gut reaction.
He caught my eye and offered a smile and a nod. His kind face helped me relax.
Calm down, you're being kinda dumb, I told myself.
Can't go around judging books by their cover. Probably a nice guy.
"Morning, Chief Swan!" The cheery barista greeted him. "Your usual?"
"Yes, sir," the man answered in a gruff voice. Still, that kindness was there underneath it.
I watched as my mom greeted him nicely before grabbing our coffee and coming over to me.
"I asked that man where the salon was. It's just around the corner of these buildings. I guess the sign isn't visible from the road."
I chuckled and stood to grab my coffee. "I see. Thanks, mom!"
She smiled brightly and we stepped out into the rain together before she lifted the umbrella over us. I sipped at my coffee as I followed her lead, holding her hand. The coffee was sweet and warm and I felt a fresh jolt of energy and relief from the cold.
We sloshed through the puddles of the parking lot and turned to the side buildings to see the nail salon nestled there.
We entered together, the bells above the door giving a ring. The room smelled like acrylic and acetone. That smell always reminded me of outings like this. Me and mom tried to make a regular thing out of it.
While we waited my mom started looking at her nails. "I think I'll go with a matte. Maybe maroon."
"Ooh, pretty!" I answered before looking down at my own nails and pursing my lips.
They were trimmed short, so they didn't look nearly as good as her shapely nails, but I figured I could still pull off something cute.
"I think I might go with something metallic. Like…purple or blue. Or gold!"
When I said gold, Edward's eyes came to mind and instantly I decided that would be the one. I wondered what his reaction would be when I told him.
A small woman approached us with a polite smile. She looked like Pacific Islander or something. I noticed a lot of people like that lived here.
"Good morning," she said with a bow of her head. "How can I help?"
"Two mani pedi's," my mom answered as she stepped over to the counter.
I hung back and glanced to the metallic colors. I really wanted to find the exact right shade.
The bell above the door rang and I didn't bother looking back right away. I was pretty focused on this search!
A warm, honey-colored gold caught my eye and I grinned. Yes! It was perfect.
My mom turned to ask the color I wanted and I pointed it out real quick before finally looking behind me to see who'd come in.
Two absolutely
gorgeous women stood there. And there was something similar about their appearance even if I couldn't immediately put my finger on it. Were they mother/daughter? Sisters? Hard to tell.
They were so pale and so perfect. Like models. Kind of like…
Then as the younger-looking blonde caught my eye, I suddenly pieced this little puzzle together. She had gold eyes.
Aha! These must be two more members of Edward's family.
I'd been staring too long though and I could feel the eagerness on my face now as I beamed at the pair.
The look the blonde gave me then was a little critical, as if to say:
what'd you want?
She rolled her eyes and looked away before glancing back and meeting my stare again.
"Is there a
reason you're smiling at me like that?"
She didn't seem to completely mind the attention though as she raised her brow and a look of pride came over her. I mean, she must be used to people gawking like this. Beautiful as she was.
"Be nice, Rose," the other woman reprimanded before looking to me as her brows drew together in confusion.
I blinked. "Sorry! I'm being weird. I'm Vitalia, an…acquaintance of Edward's!"
Acquaintance seemed right to say. Wasn't sure if he thought of us as friends yet.
Miss Rosie blinked before she seemed to realize what I was talking about.
"Oh, I see. I heard about you."
The other woman didn't seem to realize who I was and looked between me and Rose, still confused.
"Fill me in?" She urged politely.
Rosie looked at her, a smirk lifting her mouth. "Emmett told me about this girl they ran into while hunting yesterday. Apparently Edward has made a new friend."
"Hm…" the other woman answered. "That's so unlike him." She observed me quietly before seeming to accept the explanation. "Well, it's good to meet you then. I'm Esme, Edward's mother."
"
Oh, his mother. I see! Nice to meet you too."
I waved a hand behind me as my mom turned and walked over. "This is mine. Eden."
"Hello, Eden," Esme gave a pretty smile.
"I see the resemblance," my mom said. "You're both so lovely and Edward is a wonderful boy."
Rose scoffed in a somehow dainty way — could she be ugly if she
tried?
Esme gave her a look before nodding. "Yes, he is. The best of us."
She was a really sweet lady. Both his parents were very nice. It was so awesome they'd taken in all these kids, giving them good homes.
Esme tilted her head and looked at me again. "How is it you know Edward?"
Rose looked at me with interest.
"Ah, I met him in that sporting goods store. I've just been running into him everywhere, seems like. We're supposed to hang out later today."
Rose raised her perfect brow again and Esme went back to looking sort of confused. It seemed Edward really didn't go out of his way make friends a whole lot. Crazy stalker boy. He was pretty intense so maybe that was deterring to people.
"You are?" My mom asked as the woman behind the counter waved us back to the row of comfy leather chairs for our pedicures.
"Oh, right, yeah! If you don't mind me hanging around town for a little while today."
"That should be fine," she answered. "Maybe your dad and I can go to dinner."
"Oooh, date night," I lifted a shoulder and sat in the chair and stuck my toes in the bowl of water below.
I relaxed back and smiled. It was always a good feeling to get pampered. I mean, some people found this sort of thing superficial, but it was such a great bonding experience! To each their own though, right?
It was only a few moments later that I heard someone sit in the chair beside me and I peeked over to see Rosie gracefully adjusting herself there, smoothing a hand down her cardigan before glancing to me.
My eyes opened fully as she gave me a once-over before humming beneath her breath and facing forward as one of the attendants started cleaning her feet.
"No filing or cutting will be necessary for me or my mother," she said in a musical voice that left no room for argument. "Just clean and color."
The attendant nodded and then Rosie was looking at me again.
"So," she folded her hands in her lap and I saw her mother give her a concerned look before she continued speaking. "You and my brother…you have a thing for him, or what? Most girls his age do."
Her mom kind of looked disapproving, but seemed to want an answer too.
I didn't see that blunt question coming, but I guess I didn't mind. My brows pulled together and I pursed my lips. I hadn't given that any thought, actually. I had just been so focused on getting to know him.
He was good looking, that was for sure. In a modely and boyish sort of way. He was no Derek either. Didn't have that bad boy thing going for him, though he had an edge of danger none of the bad boys I'd crushed on actually had.
I didn't fall that easily though and kinda lost interest in dating after Derek. I wasn't exactly looking for that right now. I just wanted to be friends. Besides, with me leaving at the end of summer, it seemed like a bad idea in general. Why invite hurt unnecessarily?
I looked to her with a shrug, "it's not really like that. I don't see myself going there. Kinda wanting to just…make a friend, you know?"
She looked surprised a sec before tilting her head. "…has he mentioned Bella at all?"
"Bella?" I asked, puzzled.
Esme smiled, "his soulmate."
"Aww," my mom chimed in. She and papa loved the idea of soulmates. They were pretty convinced it was a real thing. Their definition was a little different though. It wasn't so much fate for them as a choice. They strongly believed a soulmate could be chosen for oneself, all destiny be damned.
Rosie rolled her gorgeous eyes. "Yes, it's so very
sweet."
"Ah, not fond of her, huh?" I asked, tone conversational. I mean, no need to judge her for that. Sometimes people just clashed.
"Not hardly," she groaned before shaking her head. "But she's usually all he ever talks about at home.
When he's actually home, that is. The two are disgustingly inseparable."
"Rosalie!" Her mom's tone was suddenly so stern. "Be nice. Bella's one of the family. I won't stand to listen to you bad-mouthing she and Edward's relationship."
She then smiled apologetically at us, "I'm sorry for doing this in front of you."
"It's alright," my mother waved it off and then turned back to the attendant.
"Yeah, no worries." I shrugged before looking to Rosalie again, who looked very annoyed now. "…kinda
is strange, huh? That if they're that close he didn't say anything. I mean, we've been texting a lot even."
Her mood brightened as I invited her to continue discussing this topic, though in a less antagonistic way.
"Yes, I'll say. I wonder why?" She observed me again, squinting her eyes as I smiled good-naturedly.
"Eddy's a mystery that way, isn't he?"
She snorted again. "He's not very logical, you mean. Or always the most intelligent."
Her mom clicked her tongue disapprovingly, but I chuckled. Siblings squabbled. Or so I heard. All natural stuff.
"You're lucky to have a brother. I'm an only kid." I looked to my mother when she glanced over and I grasped her hand. "But I don't blame you or daddy for that at all."
Mom smiled and looked past me, locking eyes with Esme. "I can't have anymore children, unfortunately. Vi's all we got."
Esme gave her a look of raw sympathy and Rosie stiffened and inhaled sharply before looking away. Did that touch a nerve or something?
Her mother explained gently. "Neither of us can either. That's why my husband and I looked into adopting. You're so very fortunate to have even this one."
Rose nodded to herself at that.
I felt kinda guilty for complaining about the sibling thing now, but I let it go as mom reached up to tuck my hair behind my ear.
"That's a good reminder. I'm sorry to hear that neither of you can have your own. Sad how common that's becoming these days."
A heavy silence fell over us a moment. I hadn't had to think about that much, having kids, but it seemed like one of the coolest things ever. Making a whole new little human with someone you loved.
"Not trying to give false hope or anything, but…miracles happen, right?" I said encouragingly. "Not much is set in stone."
"Not
much," Rosie muttered as she looked away and rested her head back.
"SOmetimes we do just have to accept our lives as they are." Esme spoke softly before reaching over to grab Rosie's hand.
"Yeah…" I mused. "Wise to know when to accept and when to fight, I guess. I'm a little bit of a rebel, so accepting can be hard for me."
My mom chuckled and Rosalie suddenly looked at me again.
"Just don't waste a moment that you have," she said, suddenly very intense. "Life isn't something anyone should take for granted."
"I mean," I beamed at her, "I totally agree. I'm all about seizing the day. I'm sort of in love with life. I want to experience as much as I can."
Her brow arched before a smirk appeared in the corner of her mouth. She gave me a very approving look as she nodded. "Good. Pass some of that spirit on to Edward, would you? Bella too, for that matter.
Especially her."
"Edward and Bella are very happy," Esme countered.
Rosie rolled her eyes again before leaning back. "Sure they are."
I exchanged a glance with my mom and she shrugged. Obviously something more was going on here. I was kinda torn now between bringing Bella up and waiting for Eddie to decide to tell me about it himself. Maybe there was a good reason he hadn't? I dunno.
I decided to change the subject.
"So…Emmy's your man, Rosie?"
A perfect brow shot up again at the nickname — I guessed — but this warmness took her face at the mention of her fella. Yeah, before she even answered, I was convinced I was right. It was the same way Jasper had lit up when I mentioned his lady. It was the way my dad lit up too.
Rosie seemed to have that dark edge to her like my dad, Tex and Eddie. People like that seemed to need someone to brighten their worlds.
"Yes, he's mine." Her tone was so obviously proud. Then she glanced at me curiously. "What about you? Any men in your life?"
I scoffed. "Nah. Ended a bad relationship last year and was kinda put off of the whole dating thing."
Something hard entered her eyes. "I know a little something about that. I'll tell you though, when the right one comes along, don't let any bad history ruin it. Only thing that managed to heal me."
That touched on something in me and I let go of the breath I was holding as my eyes lowered. Yeah…easier said than done. I hated emotional pain. But she had a point. Life was supposed to be all about embracing the experiences that came our way, right? I didn't want to be subconcsiously slapping it in the face for giving me something good.
"Hm…maybe I'll know when I see him then."
She nodded. "I did. I knew right away."
Esme and my mom both hummed in agreement.
"I knew, but I had so many mental blocks in the way," my mother spoke. "It was only obvious to me when I looked back on it more clearly."
I chuckled. "Yeah, I've heard that story more than once."
She giggled. "His eyes…they just cut right through me. No one's ever made me feel more alive than him."
Rosalie's stoney expression slipped a little then and something softer replaced it. Without her saying anything, I could see she agreed.
And her mom had this wistful look as she replied, "I feel that way with Carlisle, definitely."
She looked down at her wedding ring and smoothed her fingers over it tenderly.
I grinned. The love was in the air here for sure. "You guys are making me a little envious now."
"You're young," Rosie said. "You have plenty of time to meet someone."
I mean, I wasn't much younger than her, right? But the way she spoke gave me this massive impression of wisdom and maturity. I felt like she was someone I could really look up to.
"You're quickly becoming something of an inspiration to me," I told her honestly.
This seemed to surprise her, but she hid it, looking proud again instead. "It'd be a change of pace for me to take on a protege. I'm generally very offputting to people."
"I like you," I told her. "You seem like a strong person. I can see why that might be intimidating to some though."
"Huh…" she answered, gaze drifting as she seemed to think on that. Maybe she hadn't thought of it that way before?
I noticed Esme send a grateful-looking smile my way before her eyes flicked back to Rosie. Were people not nice to her or something? That was sad.
I returned her smile and then the attendant ushered me and my mom over to the a set of tables, where we sat to get our polish painted on. I held my hand out and watched that honey gold coat my nails, thinking of Eddy's eyes again.
I wasn't sure what it was that Rosie found so concerning about this Bella person, but I was pretty resolved to support my friend. It was always so hard to feel like someone disapproved of your relationship. I'm sure she was a nice enough person if his mom approved of her.
[Edward]
I dropped Bella off at work, feeling that familiar ache from our parting. The feel of her goodbye kiss on my lips lingered and left me craving more — an endless craving.
But at least I had some way to occupy the time I was going to have to spend waiting. With a glance at my phone, I tapped a finger impatiently as I waited for Vitalia to tell me she was ready to meet up.
I pulled out of the parking lot of the Newton store and decided to head into town until I heard from her. Sparse drops of rain fell over my windshield, but it wasn't at all a hindrance to me.
I drove up and down main street a couple times before parking by a diner — one which Bella and her father went on occasion. I settled back in my seat and listened absently to some of the thoughts around me.
And then something hit me suddenly. The voice of my mother.
A bundle of energy, this one.
This was followed by Rosalie.
Such a fun little person. I can definitely see myself molding her in the right direction.
Rose's voice was almost maternal in quality. Like she'd found herself a little pet.
Then, as I looked through the eyes of her and my mother, I felt my brows crease as I saw her. Vitalia. She was sitting between her mother and Rose, popping a tortilla chip into her mouth.
They were all in the Mexican restuarant across the street. How in the world had they run into each other? And how had Vitalia somehow, seemingly magically, charmed even my hard-to-please sister? My mother too, who was usually so timid and unsure around human beings, currently looked very at ease as she chatted with Eden.
I moved one hand to my door handle. Should I go in there and join them? Or would it be better to wait out here and catch the thoughts Vitalia had without me there? I'd been able to learn so much from her interaction with Jasper, after all.
I loosened my hand and sat back in my seat. I would get to talk to her one-on-one soon enough. I just needed to be patient. Surely she would ask to meet after lunch, right?
"This guacamole is amazing!" Vitalia said. "You two sure you don't want to try it?"
Rose held up a hand, "like we said, we had a large lunch. This figure doesn't just make itself."
Eden laughed loudly. "I see! Well, more for us then. We've been running on only coffee all day."
She leaned down to take a sip from a margarita as she thought:
she really is stunning. Wonder if she's ever considered modeling?
I snorted. Rose's vanity was just endlessly fed, wasn't it?
However, unlike how other people felt, neither Eden or her daughter seemed particularly envious. They just appreciated the beauty objectively.
"So…" Vitalia reached up to run a finger over the hoop in Rosalie's ear and the dangling bear charm there. "Emmy gave you these, didn't he? They're cute."
Rose rolled her eyes. "Yes. Not the most stylish of jewelry, but they're so
him. I just wear them for sentimental reasons."
Really, that absurd man is such a bear fanatic. Probably just wanted to see the way they'd look on me. Not that I mind letting him admire that, of course.
She seemed so unfazed by Vitalia reaching out to touch her like that.
You can just see how in love with him she is, Vitalia was thinking.
They seem like such an adorable couple. Like Tex and his Alice.
An image passed through her mind then of the ex she'd mentioned before and she scowled a little before putting him from her thoughts.
I'll just have to wait to experience this for myself.
I then tried to imagine what sort of person might suit Vitalia. This Derek person, visually, was pretty typical of her. Tattooed, pierced, emo-style rebel type. But he did seem all wrong for her. Someone who just greedily stole all that energy away from her. Selfishly exploiting it. There was some painful story there that I might get if she eventually felt comfortable enough with me to share it.
Her light was obviously meant to be shared, either with someone already full of that light himself or someone receptive to it and in need of it. Someone appreciative of its shine. Someone she could inspire with it. Definitely someone she could share an adventurous lifestyle with, but perhaps who was a little more responsible. Someone to logically balance all those emotional highs she was riding.
I watched as she started swaying in her seat to the salsa beat on the stereo overhead. She grinned widely and laughed along with her mother, who was also dancing in place to the beat.
I really wanna visit a Latino country someday, Vitalia thought.
Have a real Havana Nights experience. Ooh, and Javier was pretty good-looking in that movie. I could go for a fella like that.
I smirked in amusement then as she started imagining herself dancing with him. I mean…yes, someone like that might suit her nicely.
And those countries were spectacular. I was particularly fond of Rio de Janeiro. I wanted Bella to be able to see it someday.
My eyes suddenly lowered, knowing I most likely wouldn't be the one to take her. That would be a pleasure that belonged to someone else. The very thought of her having another man in her life was intensely painful, but I knew it was right for her.
As for me though…nothing but a looming black hole of emptiness and despair was all that was awaiting me. For all eternity. I would be living without the sun. Cast out from its orbit to linger in the deepest, darkest recesses of the universe.
My dark thoughts were interrupted as Vitalia's mind suddenly shouted.
"OH! Right! Eddy's probably waiting for me. I should-"
"I should probably try and meet up with Eddy now," she spoke out loud to the group.
Her mother patted her hand, "just let me know when to pick you up, alright?"
"Sure!"
"Give Edward our best. We should probably head home," my mother spoke.
It is good for him to make some friends. He's been looking a little down ever since Bella got that job.
Right. Our best. Well, at least he's managed to acquaint himself with someone of sense. I agree with Emmett and Jasper. She's a good influence. Bella just seems to bring him down more.
My jaw tightened and my eyes narrowed. Rose's thoughts on Bella would never cease to bother me. And Vitalia? A person with sense? Ha! Where had she gotten that idea from?
I don't know how the three of them expected she would actually influence me. I was only observing the girl. She would have little affect on me beyond that.
Eden reached in for a hug from Esme, who returned it carefully, before she patted Vitalia on the shoulder. Rose nodded to them both.
"Maybe I'll see you around again sometime," her eyes lingered on Vitalia. "Tell Edward to invite you over."
That probably wasn't a great idea, given how observant the girl was. We needed to be careful about that. It was the same reason Emmett and I would not be joining them for a hunt.
Vitalia shrugged. "Sure! I'd love that. Bye Rosie."
She waved as they left before turning to hug her mom. "I'll see you later. A couple of hours probably."
"Take your time," Eden said kindly before sitting to finish her drink. She looked very content in her own company as she appreciated the music and hummed along to it.
Vitalia turned to rush out the door, a bounce in her step, as she lifted her phone and typed out a text to me.
The mood Rose had put me in faded for the moment as I lifted my phone expectantly.
Vitalia: sorry! Just got done having some lunch. I'll tell you all about it when I see you. You'll never guess who I met today!
Never guess indeed. I smirked slightly.
Edward: Oh? Looking forward to hearing about it then. Where did you want to meet? I'm actually already in town.
Vitalia: no surprise there. Bet you're watching me right now, huh?
Edward: :)
Vitalia: Can't hide from me, stalker. How about I let you find me, hm? Shouldn't be hard for you, right?
I sighed. Of course this had turned into a game.
Edward: It'd be so much easier if you just told me.
Vitalia: Where's the fun in that?
Edward: …very well. Will you give me the direction you're heading, at least?
I, of course, hardly needed that as I already knew exactly where she was, but I had to keep this believable.
Vitalia: North!
Edward: I appreciate it. I'll be seeing you soon.
Vitalia: only if you can find me (; Ready, set, go!
I stepped out of my car, seeing the wide grin cross her face through the eyes of a passerby. She didn't quicken her steps though, just pulled her hood over her damp hair and put some earbuds in her ears. Then she took out an mp3 player and started playing music. Something indie.
I moved at an easy pace, measuring my steps so that I'd effortlessly gain on her. I rarely ever walked through town like this and I caught a few curious looks as I did so now.
The people here were roughed up and simple, so I imagined I was something of an anomaly to them, based on their thoughts.
The scent of pine, cedar, hickory smoke, fried foods and rain hung in the air. I breathed it all in and then watched that breath leave my mouth in a wisp of visible air. The air was frigid, even in summer.
I rounded the corner and could see Vitalia up ahead with my own eyes. She paused at a vending machine and popped in a few quarters, buying herself a can of Root Beer.
Doesn't beat papa's homemade sasparilla, but pretty good anyway. I like the Barq's brand. It's got that caffeine.
I wondered to myself how much caffeine she'd actually ingested today. Apparently coffee had been her breakfast.
She sipped at her drink and the song changed. Her head was held high and she felt the rain as she tilted her head back, some refreshing thoughts coming from her.
A few Tim Burton scenes came to her mind, this dreary place reminding her of the scenery in his films.
I had a nightmarish existence that certainly belonged in that universe, didn't I?
I tilted my own head back and closed my eyes as the rain fell over me. There was something about rain, when I really stopped to consider it, that had a way of connecting me to the physical world.
Because it was able to touch me. To surround me. Heaven and earth, making contact where they were otherwise separate.
Like Vitalia, I could feel the sensation of it. Something I could share with her and every other human being here.
I realized it'd been awhile since I'd paused to consider the sensations around me like this. Bella just so completely overshadowed all of it. Her power over my senses dulled all the rest — to the extent that a vampire even
could be dulled to it.
But right now I was really absorbing it. What the rain meant to me. What the feeling brought. How extraordinary it was.
Of course it had nothing on Bella, every sensation she gave was a hundred times more extraordinary, but right now I could enjoy it for what it was.
Vitalia stopped and sat on the edge of the curb where the sidewalk ended, her back to me.
I approached quietly, pace slowing. I listened as her heart beat steadily and she breathed smooth and even.
I smirked. How to catch her by surprise? I certainly wanted to startle her.
Maybe something subtle would be best. Effortlessly I stepped behind her without a sound and bent to her ear. I waited until the song ended, a silent pause before it shifted to the next, and I expertly slipped the bud out of her ear before leaning in close and saying in a low, soft voice:
"Found you. You're it."
She jumped where she sat and I straightened with a widening smirk, listening in satisfaction as her heart sped up along with her breathing.
Whoa! What the-
Spinning to face me though, I was greeted with a delighted smile and the bright, electric gleam of her eyes. Of course being startled excited her.
"You came out of nowhere!"
I shrugged. "You weren't paying much attention. I'm much harder to catch by surprise though, and much harder to find when I'm trying to hide, so good luck with that."
"Challenge accepted," she laughed. "I'll be coming for you when you least expect it."
Maybe he actually does know how to have fun. When he lets loose. I mean, he's all down and serious sometimes, but he's also somehow exciting. He look so much lighter today too. Wonder what's changed? Probably just a moody type and this is one of his good days.
Her observations, as usual, weren't very far off. I moved forward and took a seat beside her. She followed me with her eyes before suddenly looking down at her hands and then grinning up at me.
Now to see how he reacts.
My brows creased curiously. "What-"
But before the question was out she lifted her hand to my face, placing her nails beside my eyes a moment before smiling in satisfaction.
Yep! It's just the right shade.
I had to be careful not to react to her thoughts.
She then showed me the metallic polish on her nails and I tilted my head before meeting that mirthful gaze of hers again. It was the closest I'd been to her, sitting beside her like this, and in the blue of her eyes I saw traces of brilliant silver. Like light refracting off of water.
"You like?" She wiggled her fingers. "You inspired the color."
"Ah," I nodded. "I see."
It was an amusing revelation. "Have you become partial to this shade?"
She shrugged and lowered her hand before averting her eyes a moment and glancing back with a coy smirk.
"Maybe. It's definitely something I haven't seen before. Unique."
And so intense. Looking right through me again, she thought as her gaze lingered in mine.
Like a piercing ray from the sun. Almost hard to look at. Almost blinding.
But she looked anyway, that coy smirk widening.
"Too bad it's a lie, contact-wearer. What's your natural color?"
I couldn't help but laugh a little before considering her question and wondering if it was safe to answer honestly. Probably.
"Green."
"Ooh, unexpected." She tilted her head, eyes narrowing a little. "Think I might get to see that sometime?"
I only shrugged. It was, unfortunately, impossible. "Who knows?"
"M'kay, I can deal with unknowns."
As she said that, she took her other earbud out, wrapped the cord around her mp3 player and pocketed it before slipping her hood off, stray strands of dark hair poking in all directions.
As she thought over my piercing stare again, even imagining it in green, her mother's voice entered her head. Something about her father being able to see right through her, but Vitalia abruptly cut that train of thought off. I wondered why…
"What were you listening to?" I asked, trying to ignore my curiosity about her thoughts. Couldn't ask something I had no idea about.
"Modest Mouse."
"Nice," I nodded.
"You listen to a lot of music?"
"Some."
"And you create your own," she added.
I nodded again, smiling. "Yes, that's right."
"So cool," she beamed.
I glanced out over the town square, observing the sparse crowd as the makeshift melody I thought of last night filled my head. I looked to her again and considered how fitting it was as I tapped my fingers over my knee.
Yes…I really needed to set this to the piano. It'd nearly composed itself already. I wanted to hear it out loud.
"What is it?" She asked.
He's looking at me differently all the sudden.
I smirked secretively. "I'll tell you later."
"Ugh," her shoulders slumped. "Fine! Be that way."
Then she stood and turned to me. "But whatever. Where to? I don't like to sit still for too long."
That made sense. I smoothly stood to join her, glancing down the street. "Forks doesn't offer much by way of activities, but we could just wander and talk, if that's alright?"
Talking was the only thing I was actually interested in today. An uninterrupted conversation with her.
"Alright," she said cheerfully as she shifted to start walking, combat boots sloshing on the pavement. "Let's just see how this unfolds. No plans." She winked, "splendid idea!"
"Well thank you, I thought so." I fell in step beside her and began to consider all the questions I wanted to ask. All the things that would help me paint the vivacious representation of life that she was.
I felt her eyes shift up to stare at my face and I let her just silently watch me a moment.
He really is something…a paradox of fun, brightness, danger and depth…yikes. Can't get too deep in it with him. Friends. Friends is the goal.
Traces of a conversation from inside a nail parlor entered her thoughts. A pointed question from Rose that made me stiffen slightly. How dare she ask something like that? Asking if Vitalia was into me.
Luckily, Vitalia's remembered response to my sister assured me. She was not interested in anything more than this either. Our mutual arrangement gave me a warm, contented feeling. It was incredibly easy to be in her company and I'd have hated to lose that if she had answered differently. I definitely couldn't, in good conscience, allow this to continue if she felt something more.
It wouldn't be fair to her or Bella.
To be continued…