Chapter 1 – New Resolve

Bella POV

I woke up screaming and sweating. Again. For the last 2 months since he left me.

It was the same nightmare that woke me up. Except, something more was significant about it. But I couldn't remember what.

Something was significant about today.

I look at the calendar. Today is November 18th, 2005.

Why was this date significant?

Ahh…

It was November 18th, 2004. I remember that day vividly.

Renee was out to buy groceries since I had some homework. It was a joyful week for her. She had just returned from her honeymoon with Phil. I had specifically written down everything, with the exact brand name and the exact amount she should buy. Shouldn't be a tough job for a 37-year old, right?

Renee suddenly came rushing in. Her hair was dishevelled and there were tear tracks running down her eyes. Her hands were empty but shaking.

"Mom. Are you alright? What's wrong?"

"Beau's missing, Bella! He didn't return from gym today!"

"What?! Beau's missing?"

"Yes. And the police said they won't do anything until 48 hours are gone."

"Mom," I began calmly, trying to compose myself from this shock. Beau (short for Beaufort) was my favourite and only brother. He was my confidante. My anchor in the darkest nights. My light to a better route. He was my twin. "Are you sure that Beau's missing? Maybe he went to John's home?"

Renee waved an envelope in front of me.

"No. This was found in his car, Bella. It was addressed to you."

I tore it open and read.

My dearest Bella,
I'm very sorry, big sis. But I can't stay in Phoenix anymore. I need to go. My heart calls me to someplace else. You, of all people, should know that after reading Austen's novels.
I know I will be missing by the time you read this. I won't be returning. But know that I'll be always watching you. Making sure no harm befalls you.
Please look after yourself and be strong. And take care of Mom. Give her and Phil my best wishes.
Good luck, sis. I love you. Forever.

Love
Beau

I was shaking and crying by this time. Beau was gone. He won't return. Every again.

"No!" I let out a strangled sob.

It was exactly a year since my brother left. His leaving was one of the many reasons I shifted to Forks. I thought that that was the worst blow I could take. But his leaving hurt me more.

I remembered his words. "Be strong."

I vowed that nothing will ever stop me from becoming strong. I would fulfil that request of his starting from today. I knew who to call.

Jessica Stanley and Jacob Black.