Bella moved to Denali with Edward, Esmee gave them keys to a house and the insides look a lot spacious, there was a fire place, a bedroom for Bella, it was fully decorated.
Bella woke up early but Edward wasn't in the house, which is fine he's probably hunting.
Bella went to the kitchen and saw a plate with a lid on it, she looked underneath and there was eggs bacon, French toast, Italian sausages with some Garlic naan.
Bella placed the lid back and went for a shower, the food felt still warm and it was so sweet that Edward made her something before he left.
If only she could cook for him, but there is a restaurant that serves blood soup, maybe he likes that. If he likes he can have dinner with her.
Bella thought about Jacob as the water fell over her head. It's like she's standing under a hot waterfall.
Hoping his recovery is going steady and wonders if he misses her a bit too.
Bella had her hair wrapped and went to the dining table with her breakfast and noticed the phone flickering in a green light. A voice mail was left and Bella listened to it.
"Hi, Bella
" I had a peek into your future and you should go to college. It's going to be great and you will become an English teacher"
"I hope we can talk soon, take care.'
"Gosh, College" Bella gushed and smiled a little. if Alice says so then maybe she will be good enough to chase that dream.
She had a few bites and placed the rest in the fridge when she returns.
Bella went outside she has no idea where Edward was but she just didn't want to wait until he returns and went to some open area's where there could be wildlife.
He wasn't there so she sat on a bench, trying to enjoy her surroundings. She likes snow a lot but Denali is a bit too isolated, Just having Edward around is not enough, she needs friends. Ever since she stayed with the pack she found solace in communities. She needs more people around her.
Maybe Alice can come over.. or her friends.
Bella then stood up and walked by herself in thoughts, she stopped brooding when she arrived at an open space with a lot less snow and even grass was growing out of the slush.
A nice break from the hazards, Bella had no idea how far she walked and looked behind her, the house was no longer in sight and felt stupid for not heeding what Edward said. He made clear not to wander around until the house is no longer in sight.
But she'll be fine, Edward will look for her when she hasn't return in a handful of hours.
In the meantime she'll have a stroll around the Denali forest.
Then Bella saw Edward in the flower field, he was by himself exposing himself to the sunlight,
his face looks like he's daydreaming about something nice his back sparkles even more in the light of the sun, It's like a treasure glued on him. So beautiful.
Bella then decided to leave him be and have a morning stroll elsewhere. She turned around disappearing behind a tree,
Edward inhaled but then his nose moved picking up a scent, his eyes popped looking behind him.
"Bella?"
Bella slowed down walking but didn't stop, she didn't want to disturb him.
"Bella come back," Edward seems to become a little upset when she wouldn't show herself and Bella waited for him to arrive.
Heavy footsteps landed behind her within a split second, A cold chill went up her spine but tried to smile at him when he faced her,
"I didn't mean to frighten you" Edward said closing some buttons completely out of place.
"I wasn't scared " Bella said redoing his blouse for him,
"Then why did you left?" Edward asked.
" I didn't want to disturb you, I needed to go before I get scolded" Bella said.
"It's okay, you can always come and see me" Edward said.
"But.. please don't go further where the house is no longer in sight" Edward said.
"I know but I was so happy, Alice called and said If I go to college I'll succeed getting my bachelor degree" Bella said.
"I just never would have thought that I'm smart enough to be accepted anywhere but If Alice saw my future I'll have a leap of faith" Bella said nuzzling his arm happy.
"But I still need to head to my PO box to see where I'm accepted." Bella said.
Edward felt something buzz in his pocket, It's probably Alice and he'll read it when Bella is distracted.
"When will you go to college?" Bella asked.
" I haven't applied for anything" Edward said.
"Well you should, We'll go to college together" Bella said.
"Come with you?" Edward asked and Bella nodded.
"What does that mean? Do I have another chance?" Edward asked,
"No, I'm not ready for that now, but we can go to University together" Bella said.
And I don't want to stay here in Denali, I like the cottage a lot but It's getting a bit too much" Bella said. this is like w whole empty blank space of nothingness."
"But Jacob hasn't recovered yet," Edward said,
" I know but staying here doesn't give me peace at all, I just want to leave" Bella said.
"Would you rather stay at a hotel?" Edward asked,
"Yes,"
That would be so much better" Bella said.
"I would like to visit Port Angeles too"
"We'll go back there soon, If you don't like it at the hotel you can always stay at my home"
"You don't have to deal with the others" Edward said.
"Allrighty then" Bella agreed and her mood flared in a happy way.
Edward was happy too, He feared that being stuck with him in Denali makes her distraught but it's just Forks that she misses.
She agreed to live in his house until it's safe, She misses the foggy trees, but at times she misses Florida.
"But If I could choose I'd love to rent a house in Florida, and we'll go outside when it's dark or on a cloudy day" Bella said.
"We can do that too when Its safe" Edward said,
"That would be nice, I also enjoy seeing you in beach clothing" Bella said.
"I know, at the spirit waterfalls I heard your blood flush faster leaving a scent that you find me attractive" Edward said.
"I never stopped doing that even when you were gone, you're marvelous," Bella said.
"And strong willed, I like that..
"Thank you.. I cherish everything about you, you'll always be the only person I can't live without" Edward said,
Bella pressed her lips together like she heard disheartening news.. but nodded, the words at the forest hunts her still. If Alice can't help her understand then maybe Carlisle has vampire allies who can project images from his mind to hers,
"Bella I have a personal question" Edward said pulling her arm to have a walk with him.
"Yes"? Bella tightens her hold around his arm.
"After University is over, and you've worked and maybe traveled the world" Edward said.
"Will you consider dating again?" Edward asked.
" I suppose so, I don't want to end up alone" Bella admitted.
" I don't want you to stay alone either, the idea that you might end up completely alone hurts me" Edward said she watched him winch
"Why?" Bella wonders.
"You could have been with me, and live your best life but I understand you don't trust me anymore" Edward said.
"Well becoming successful in life is a beautiful thing too" I don't really need to be with someone, I'm at peace with having you as my friend" Bella said.
It's sad to see Bella de-centering herself from love, but he'll make her collage years wonderful.
"Okay, Shall we fill the applications at my house or.." Edward said.
"Yours" Bella said.
"Fine, we'll pack and head home" Edward said,
"But Bella when I said that I don't want to live without you It seemed like you were about to cry, maybe I please know what's wrong?" Edward asked.
"I thought about my encounter at the meadows..
"Laurent.. he said that I was nothing more than a human pet, and from that moment things started to snowball.
"I came to the conclusion that you either played with your food and as we became closer you started to feel pity and leave" Bella said.
"Or I'm just a pet that you got tired of because as you can see I cause a lot of problem" Bella said.
"And You rather believe him than me" Edward said.
"He knows you longer than I do.." Bella said.
"But you know me better than he does" Edward said.
"So what if I did see you as a pet" Edward said
And Bella looked to the ground,
"Bella I said 'what if'" Edward snaps frustrated.
"Hear me" Edward said,
"What if I saw you as a pet, what's the point of coming back? What do I gain out of that?" Edward said.
"You'll have your human pet back" Bella said.
Edward pinched the bridge of his nose aggravated but tried not display annoyance. It's like she only hear what she wants to hear so that she can justify her lack of faith.
Patience is key his father always used to say.
"If you're just a pet then why would I bother making this much effort to make you understand you're so much more than that?"
"You're a firm believer in actions speaking louder than words right? " Edward said.
"But Believing that I was loved by you in the past was not enough to make you stay" Bella said .
"But it was enough to understand I was in the wrong and come back to stay forever" Edward said.
"If I can't get through to you then maybe Alice will" Edward said.
"I don't know what else I can do to make you listen, maybe having her predict our future you can see for yourself I'll never be strong enough to leave" Edward said.
"Well you know I no longer want to be a Vampire.. so would you still kiss me If I'm like 90?" Bella asked.
"Absolutely, I want to kiss you right now, no matter how old you become you will always be the most beautiful person in my existence" Edward said.
"Will you take care of me when I become immobile?" Bella asked nervous,
"Forever.. I will never let anyone put you in a retirement home, every second of your twilight years will be spend by my side" Edward said.
"But my offer will always count, if you want I'll turn you so that not even death will separate us" Edward said.
Bella nodded and held on to his hands tighter, If only he knew what she's thinking of.
"Are there more obstacles that won't make you come back right now?" Edward asked, "I want to understand what's stopping you"
"Well.. I've always been insecure about our future together and that's why I wanted to become a vampire, I acted like I wanted that more than be with you but I didn't know how to explain the reason behind it, I wanted you to stay and becoming a vampire will make sure of that" Bella said.
"And when you left that insecurity was replaced with despair, I just can't believe anything you say as long as I'm like this" Bella said pointed at herself with an open hand.
"But love hasn't been on my mind because I like to focus on things that gives me strength and change all my remaining sorrow into that, and just move on" Bella said.
"Staying vigilant is the only thing I have ever known in life, It's hard but after taking care for my parents I want to take care of myself for once" Bella said.
"Otherwise I'll keep dwelling in the past,
Edward eyed her wishing that she could feel his desire to kiss her, the love that radiates off his soul. Bella caressed his cheek.
"At times I really don't know how you do it, no matter what happens to you.. you remain so grounded like a mountain" Edward said.
"I don't have much of a choice, staying strong just heals quicker" Bella said.
" You're amazing Bella" Edward said, Her strength is so admiring. She appears fragile but is a powerhouse mentally. Her resilience is remarkable.
"Well not that amazing, I've been a huge pain in the you know what for weeks now" Bella said.
"shush don't say that" Edward scolded and brought her on his lap as they remained in the forest, "I'm the one who has been being difficult, I thought making amends will make things better but I should have understand that space and leaving a person be is what's needed" Edward said.
"But I'm here now, and you can't make me leave" Edward said and Bella got up.
" I don't want you to" Bella said gentle,
"But I love Jacob too, this love triangle is putting a toll on my mental well being" Bella said.
Too?.. does she loves me again? Edward wondered, he almost didn't want to believe it
"Being a second wife isn't that bad because we can still live our lives as a couple, but she will always be on his mind and he will love her the most,
With you I don't need to share you with anyone but no matter what you say now, you can forsake that any time and just leave" Bella said.
"But haven't I proven myself to you?" Edward asked.
"What if you have a reason to leave?" Bella asked.
"I don't have any" Edward said. "And there never will be"
"But what if there was, and it keeps piling up?" then what?" Bella said.
"You could change your mind like you did in Phoenix" Bella added.
"We both know that if you truly want to go, nothing can stop you" Bella said serious.
Edward shook his head distraught
, "Never again" Edward said. and began to cry, his shoulders shook lowering his face away from her gaze.
If she tells him now to stay away from her for good he'll go to the Volturi without saying a word to anyone, He won't be able to exist with this pain again of being shut out by her.
Bella became alarmed, She never saw him like that. Bella reached for his face wiping the imaginary tears away with her thumbs.
He wished he could shed a waterfall of tears, to show her much pain their departure caused him, and her unwillingness to grand his soul mercy.
"Do you promise?" Bella asked,
"Yes, I'll always be near"
And If I do abandon my word then you can hunt me down, You can send your wolf family after me and tear me apart" Edward said. " I will not move a muscle nor flee they can have me" Edward said.
"Edward that's out of the question" Bella immediately said.
"Let me finish!" Edward responded back.
"I rather choose death than be apart from you again" Edward said collecting himself.
Bella nodded, this is the first time Edward was so wholesome, when he first approached her it felt more like he's just sorry for her but the break up has caused him as much as sorrow as her.
"I'll consider us" Bella said. And she meant that.
It wasn't what Edward wanted to hear but everything will do, Edward went a little mellow and rested on her lap like he's exhausted.
Bella placed her arms around his frame and touched his hair.
"And you have to promise that no matter what I choose you will follow, If I want to live in Florida one day you will come too," Bella said.
Edward nodded, "I will always find you as long as you are on Earth" Edward said.
"And be tolerant towards my friends, even the one's you don't like because this 'just me and you' thing is something I will not want again"
"I want to see my friends too and have other hobbies that doesn't revolve around you" Bella said.
"Because I want something to live for incase things don't go as planned" Bella added.
"I promise you, I will not come between anything again, Even If you outgrow me one day, Or if you want something more than I can give" I won't stop you from leaving me" Edward said,
But I'll do everything that makes you want to stay.. Edward thought.
" You can kiss me now" Bella said.
Edward seemed stunned, like his brain has no idea how to progress this. Did he heard that correctly?
"I.." Edward stuttered, If this is a hallucination he'll be so dispirited when it's over but whatever it this is real or not he can't feel any happier than this.
finally..
Bella consented, His face then softened and took steps closer,
Bella closed her eyes when Edward held her face, Bella felt something cold and Edward became the same temperature when he absorbed her warmth, making the kiss a lot pleasant now.
Edward felt like a tormented demon who is allowed to enter paradise, Edward no longer felt wounded and his Jigsaw puzzled heart was glued back together, It was completely broken like shattered glass irreparable. But now It's over.
Bella didn't disappear when he backed away, she's really here, Bella was dazzled, she was red as a cherry, the sound of her blood rushes faster through her veins
making her blood smell even more delicious, but he's in control, everything is fine.
It felt so wonderful, Finally she's returning his love. When he backed away to give her a pause to exhale she was the one who leaned forward again.
Edward felt her loosen a button but he ceased her hands,
" No,"
"As much as I want to.. I can't sleep with you"
"I want you, If things were different I would but I could crush you Bella" Edward said when her mood seems to die down slightly.
"But we can see and touch each other right?" Bella asked.
" I suppose we can" Edward said relieved that she doesn't take his rejection the wrong way.
-/-
The fireplace in the room provided warmth while remaining cool against Edward as they laid under the covers together.
Bella woke up but didn't feel like going anywhere, She thought about their night.
they pleased each other, At first Edwards skin was cold but when he absorbed her warmth their bodies became the same temperature.
It almost led to sex but Edward didn't want that, Bella respected that he's scared but want their time together pleasant for him too.
A few years ago Bella would behave very difficult and manipulative, saying he can buy her anything she wants, even marry him so that she can sex with him as a human.
But she has grown so much, she's no longer than emotionally dependent childlike teen, Edward noticed that too.
Bella rubbed a hand where his heart used to beat and Edward grabs on to her hand in acknowledgement, Bella watched him bring her wrist to his face and felt him kiss it and placed her hand back on his chest not saying a word.
Vampires don't sleep but he had his eyes closed like he's resting, he seemed so human, an innocent handsome being who's too good for this world.
Bella closed her eyes again and snug a bit closer to him.
Edward adjusted her in his embrace, for him there is no slumber but this is so much better than having the ability to dream. He was content having her this close.
He was nervous about making skin contact with her but Bella doesn't seem to mind. She even moved the covers from his chest to sleep against it having his ice cold frame against her cheek.
She no longer flinched when he touches her, no longer careful this seems like a sign that the past no longer hurts her But Bella has grown distant several times, whenever she's afraid that he's not truthful and will leave again she forms a shield around herself and he can no longer get through to her.
Edward hopes that will not happen again, He has come so far, It would kill him if she goes back into defense mode, but for now he's happy to be a little more than her friend.
At least now he can pretend he's wanted by her. He day dreamed for so many days about her, having her in a restful state as he hold her like this.
He hopes she wants to sleep in because right now he doesn't want to let her go.
Edward was making breakfast as Bella listened to the sound of a log burning at the fire pit, It's so cold outside but here you only feel a slight cold when there is a harsh wind of a blizzard passing by.
Edward was dressed from the waist down in knee length trousers behaving like human male and making her Italian breakfast. Not using his speed to prepare things so that she could watch the food being made. But she wasn't really paying attention to how the food is being made.
She never realized how joyful it is to have a break from cooking and just sit and have a warm tea in the early morning waiting to be served.
Edward placed a plate full neatly on the table and placed napkins like a restaurant.
The omelet pizza with bacon smelled wonderful, shes not used to men being this great at preparing food.
Bella ate in silence taking small bites,
"You're not hungry?" Edward wondered.
"I am.. but I always eat slow when I feel a bit guilty" Bella said.
Edward sat next to her without saying anything but the word 'why' was present over his features.
"I can't make you anything, and see you munching enjoying the food I prepared for you. " Bella said.
Edward then grabbed a bacon strip and ate it. And Bella looked at him puzzled when he ate more.
"How does that taste?" Bella asked.
"Like sand from the Sahara desert but anything to make you happy" Edward said cutting a piece of pizza with Bella's fork and placed it close to her mouth.
She then put a chunk on the fork for Edward to have a bite and he pretended that he loves it despite slightly grimacing with each swallow. It's so cute how he tries to adapt for her.
The tea was ready and Edward left the table to attend to that.
"I had an epiphany" Bella said.
" You did? about what?" Edward said.
" You are here to stay, I believe you " Bella said.
"What"? you do?" Edward said bewildered like he heard the impossible.
He didn't expect this, He was convinced that Bella will doubt everything he says for the rest of his existence.
He looked at her alarmed and moved one hand behind him to turn off the stove. "Bella are you unwell?" Edward then asked.
"No" Bella said shaking her head.
"What made you believe me?" Edward asked wondering.
"Well I enjoyed us being intimate, doing adult stuff and I never knew being a human feels so good" Bella said.
"I uh.. I must be hallucinating.. I'll go hunt" Edward said.
"No Silly you are not" Bella said holding his hand to stop him from leaving.
" I believe you now, I know now that you're not going to leave me behind" Bella said.
"So.. sexual pleasure was the key? If I had known I could have saved myself from a lot of arguments" Edward shrugging but deep inside he felt so happy, it was like his heart could start beating again.
"I wonder what would happen if we actually did it" Edward said.
"Let's find out" Bella said touching his heart and Edward held her in his embrace.
"I wish we could but even the gentlest rub against your cheek could crush your skull" Edward said.
"I understand" Bella said leaning against his shoulder.
Bella touched his cheek "Having a look at his eyes that became a shade darker.
"You need to hunt I'll wait for you here" Bella said. "In the meantime ill pack our things"
Edward could see she tensed up when she noticed that he's getting more thirsty, he didn't want to make her feel anxious around him so he agreed.
"I'll be back soon, when you are done wait in the car for me" Edward said.
"I won't wander off," Bella said assuring him it will be fine.
Edward got into a zipped hood he left hanging on the coat rack and took a sprint outside. He didn't leave any footsteps behind in the snow deliberately. To avoid having anyone follow it back to the cottage. He hunts very close to the house to keep himself at peace.
Edward stopped running when he realized he didn't read Alice's text coming in. He read it and Alice mentioned that Bella has been rejected by the last two collages but she has a plan, and he needs to wait for further instructions.
Edward breathed out, so far Alice never led him to a dead end and will trust her intuition.
-/-
Edward came back from hunting and Bella is not in the Volvo, maybe she lost something and went to see if she's fine.
Edward knocked to let her know he's back and walked in.
Bella was looking underneath the pillows for something seeming a little upset.
"I thought I packed it in my suitcase" Bella said frustrated.
"What's wrong?" Edward asked.
"My Locket," Bella said becoming fidgety.
"Can I go back to my house to see if I left it there?" Bella asked.
"A picture of my Dad is in the frame.. I need it.. like what If my house get raided by burglars?" Bella said.
"Or you can go and I'll stay here" Bella said,
"It will take hours to get to Forks , I can't leave you alone that long" Edward said.
"Okay I'll stay with Tanya" Bella said,
"She's a vegetarian but not immune to the scent of blood, I don't want you around any vampire without me" Edward said.
Bella understood why he feels that way, the event still haunts Edward.
"Then I'll come with you, I have no plans in Forks so.." Bella said,
"I'll get the Locket and we'll leave right away" Bella said.
"All right you win, climb on my back" Edward said crouched for her.
Bella carefully grabbed his shoulders and her feet levitated from the ground, Edward grabbed her legs.
She slept a few times on their way and when Edward stopped running Bella looked up, her house was poking out behind the trees.
Bella looked in her car to see if the locket is there, she became a bit restless and really hopes it's in the house somewhere.
Edward wonders how he can go to her PO Box without her suspecting anything, he can wiggle the key from her key chain without a problem but what kind of excuse can he use, asking her to get her mail for her could make her alarm bells ring, before the break up he took sending her letter to Rene out of her hands so that he can remove the pictures from the envelope. This could tear up old wounds and might lose her trust she has in him now.
When Bella entered her room she saw the Locket laying on her desk. It was so strange that she forgot to place it her suitcase, but she could have sworn it was the first item she placed in there.
Oh well, at least it's not lost.
Bella sees Edward sulk in the living room, She assumes he's sad about her arm, probably blaming himself somehow. Bella huffed and smiled at him sympathetic.
"Edward I found the Locket, we can go now." Bella said.
Both flinched when the phone rang and Bella went over there to pick it up.
"Swan residence, Bella speaking" Bella said.
"One moment please" Bella said.
She looked at Edward uneasy like she needs to pee, " What is it?' Edward asked and wanted to take the phone from her.
"It's my friends, they said they are waiting for me at Port Angeles, I can't even remember I've send them a voice message" Bella said.
" Can I please go see them"? Bella said. "It won't be long"
"Well okay, but only If I can take you and pick you back up" Edward said.
"Thank you" Bella said happy. Edward walked after her hoping he won't regret letting Bella out of his sight and he got a message from Alice.
"You can go to her PO Box now, I made a spare key for you"
"Thank me later.."
'did you contacted Bella's friends?' Edward texted back
and Alice responded with a yes.
'She'll come back in one piece.. her friends will look after her very well'
'Gosh Alice, I'm sorry for all the times I called you annoying, Edward thought while entering his car.
"Don't forget your seat belt" Edward said not wanting to start until she does.
"I'm so happy I can meet up with them, last time we went to Mardi grass and Jessica so drunk that we had to carry her to our hotel" Bella said reminiscing.
"Okay," Edward winched, "But Bella don't do anything that could take you away from me"
"Nothing dangerous.. got it" Bella said.
"I'm serious, you have no idea how stressful I am" Edward said.
"Don't be, I'm a lot more responsible now.. well okay I did cut myself but it was to save my friends" Bella said.
"I promise I'll come back in one piece" Bella said. Edward kissed her head.
"I"ll trust you on that" Edward said, and Bella closed the door of the Volvo Edward watched her walk towards her friends and drove off.
Edward parked somewhere wondering where exactly Alice left him the spare key, Edward looked under his seat and found something silver under the mat.
there it is, Edward placed it in his pocket and drove to Bella's PO box.
He felt awful but he can't let her go to Florida, Her life would be so much better for her with her mother but also more prone to danger, she could be attacked in the middle of the night without him to help her
He doesn't want her in Hawaii either, this contradicts everything he told her, that he wants her to choose for herself without interference but deep inside he knows Bella will be a lot safer with him. When she goes to college he can rent a house so that he'll always be near.
Edward waited until the mail was placed in her PO Box, when the coast was clear Edward shoved the key in and two letters from College were there,
Edward opened them in his vehicle and both of them rejected Bella's application, He needs to make sure one of them will accept her but wonders which one he should ring.
A text message came from Alice that said 'Seattle University' with further instructions and Edward dialed the number.
An Administration worker picked up and briefly Bella's rejected application was discussed and Edward offered bribe money,
'Isaac Randall' Edward said when he was asked for his name again.
"Thank you and please do not tell Isabella Swan I called" It will only ruin her self esteem" Edward said holding his nose closed to make his voice sound different.
Much to Edwards relief the college accepted the bribe and a new acceptance letter will be send to her within 2 days.
Edward got over his guilt a little when he thought about Bella not far away from him. He could always rent a house in Seattle to always be near. And go to Forks when she's home. He wants to give her space to bloom but not outside of his sight. He'll make sure she'll have a great year at collage. Working on minimum wage will not be fulfilling and after a certain age shops will hire you a lot less, her dream to become an English teacher and Ballet dancer would be so much better. It's something she wants.
Edward went to Bella's house through the window as usual, it felt so wonderful seeing her humble abode, Edward wondered if she got her things out of the floorboard and opened one, her stuff was still in there including the ring that was offered to him.
Edward looked at the engagement box, even when Bella sort of accepted him back she hasn't mentioned marriage yet. Edward placed the ring on his finger, It was real silver with a tiny gem stone, the token of her love for him.
Edward placed the things back in the floorboard, hoping she'll get it out herself and just ask him.
Bella doesn't return his affection like she used to except when they were in bed,. There is still a long way to go before things can go back to how it was. But what is there left to do? could it be that some things aren't reparable? but she believed him after being intimate so maybe.. sex will make her understand how much he loves her.
It sounds so perverted but he'll do anything to make her understand.
Bella called and she heard him pick it up in a split second.
"Edward I'm ready to be picked up now" Bella said with a tiny voice.
"I'm in the same area, I'll be there in 10 minutes" Edward said.
"Okay see you" Bella said carefully.
"Why are you whispering?" Edward wondered.
"My friends dozed off, I don't want to wake them" Bella said.
"They drank a bit too much" Bella said.
"Okay, I'll give them a ride home as well" Edward said.
His caring and kind Bella is always looking after others, when Edward arrived Bella wants Edward to drop her friends off first and she'll stay in the restaurant until he returns.
If her friends didn't take all the seats in his Volvo Edward wouldn't have allowed it but Alice didn't sense any danger coming so he'll keep his mild paranoia contained.
Bella has drank too but seems to be the most of sober compared to the others. When Edward left her at the restaurant he scanned every customers thoughts, none of them want to make an inappropriate move and Edward then went to his car.
Her friends were chattering in a slur and could hear some of their thoughts coming in. The men thought it was so nice of Edward to drive them home. The women felt Bella was lucky to have a handsome friend she can count on. Edward didn't like word friend.
And wondered if Bella still views him that way.
Edward went over the speed limit driving to the restaurant and Bella was fine, she finished her wine glass and he helped her walk as she clutched his arm.
"Uhggg what's that smell?" Bella complained when she opened the door of the Volvo.
"Well one of your friends barfed in the backseat" Edward said.
"I had to clean it up," Edward said.
"I'm sorry, I told them not to go overboard" Bella said.
"I'm not upset don't worry, I'm glad I could drop them off" Edward said and started the car.
"You had a good time Bella?" Edward asked, happy that she's back with him.
"Yeah" Bella slurred, "it was so nice, we had ravioli's and Jess Angela were drinking but I stayed sober-ish
Edward felt Bella was a tad irresponsible, but didn't want to give grief over that, Shes back with safe and that gives Edward one worry less.
"So are you ready to head back to Denali?" Edward asked.
"I want to stay" Bella whimpered.
"Can't I just stay at your house for a day or two?" Bella asked.
"Yes," Edward said. "But promise me you won't get drunk in the middle of the night"
There were so many perverted thoughts flying around about her at the bar and it disgusts Edward.
"I wasn't alone," Bella slurred.
"I know that, but your friends would be unable to help you if some pervert want to take you home" Edward said.
"Keep yourself safe, for me.." Edward said. And Bella placed a hand on his when he's changing gear.
"I'll stay out of trouble I promise" Bella said.
Edward just kept focusing on the road, chances are high that she might not be listening. How many times has he told her not to do anything stupid but still did?
According to that hound Bella has been cliff diving while he was in Rio. Bella could tell he doesn't look all too happy and hates seeing him so troubled because of her.
"Bella" Edward said breaking the silence as they reach the parking space.
"Are you okay with Alice being there?" Edward asked, " I need her to predict things"
"That's fine" Bella said.
They entered the Cullens house Alice was on the balcony and came down when she saw Bella stepping out.
She could hear Bella's heels walking on the marble Floor towards the living room, Alice carefully walked down the stairs, Bella was sitting drinking some tea that Edward gave her and cautiously placed the cup on the table and leaned against the Sofa.
Bella looked behind her when Alice sat next to her without a word, Bella sat closer and leaned against Alice shoulder. She was sorry too, for not wanting to talk to Alice for a long time.
Alice was sorry for not going against her brother and just came to her to say goodbye.
Alice pulled Bella over her lap like she's a child and both held their arms around each other.
"I" Both of them said at once.
"I'm" Both of them said it again at the same time.
They chuckled and Bella held her arms around Alice's shoulder like she's being carried.
"You first" Bella chirped.
"I'm sorry Bella, for letting you down like that.. can I make things right with you?" Alice said.
"Yes," Bella nodded. "I would like to make things right with you as well"
"Its okay, I know you just needed space.. and you'll return to us on your own" Alice said.
"Did you knew I was coming?" Bella asked.
"Of course, I know everything" Alice said holding her hand and wanted to take her shopping before the mall closes.
Bella looked at Edward wondering if he has something to say before they go.
"Return to me soon" Edward said to her.
"You don't want to join?" Bella wonders
"You and Alice have a lot to discuss, I'll wait for you here" Edward said.
"Good, It won't be long" Bella said.
Edward never seems worried when Bella is with the ones he trusts, and maybe she should take Alice with her to more places so that Edward can fidgeting about her well being.
Alice has spoiled Bella handsomely, she tried not to make Alice spend too much But Alice kept on grey rocking as she swiped her card buying over a thousand dollars gifts for Bella.
Alice left her alone in the store and left to another one, she wanted to buy some gifts alone without Bella seeing it.
While Bella wondered what she could get Edward Alice bought her so many things and also some treats she can consume at home.
Maybe Bella could give him a locket of his own, or a perfume, a sample of her blood, she's really in a pickle. Maybe Alice knows what he would like.
"Bella come on there are other shops I'd like to visit" Alice said, they placed the items in the truck. and Alice dragged her arm towards the very expensive ones.
Bella gulped, She gave Alice a budget but almost a million has been spend but letting Alice have her way is the only amend Bella can think of.
Hours have passed it started to become dark and Alice wanted to treat Bella for dinner at a high end restaurant.
It was over 9 pm and Bella pretended she was a little tired so that she can take the food with her. She told Edward she'll be back soon but hopes he understand that a girls night out never ends on time.
When they arrived back Edward greeted them and helped Alice take a lot of bags inside.
"I was wondering what took you so long" Edward said happy to see Bella.
"Did I worry you?" Bella wondered.
"No, If you're with Alice I know you'll be fine" Edward said.
"Okay I'm going to place these in my guest room and I'll meet you outside" Bella said.
Bella went through the bag Alice has bought her so many beautiful black dresses and affluent looking attire.
She saw a box in the bag and it's from a quite expensive lingerie store and she looked inside.
Lace lingerie, She looked at it and could never imagine seeing herself in it. Bella blushed red and almost didn't want to know what Alice has seen.
There was more, a floral print black velvet bra with some bows that you can untie from the front so that the nipple area gets revealed.
And a sexy red see through one piece lingerie, along with seductive night gowns.
"Oh gosh" Bella said not wanting to think about this. And just placed the lingerie in her new guest room closet without looking at it.
Bella changed into a new outfit Alice bought. She looked at herself, this is the first time she's wearing high heels and figure hugging blouse with leggings. With her gold locket complimenting the black blouse she's wearing.
She never liked expensive clothing but never realised how good she looks in them, It even gave a small confidence boost.
She made a quick stop to her PO Box but so far there was no letter about her acceptance. It was strange.
She went inside the backyard where Edward was he looked at her surprised and then smiled when she approached him looking very stylish. Everything looks good on Bella but it's great to see her in something else besides her old fashioned attire.
Edward smelled lotion on her and her hair was blow dried, but still looks stunning.
"How was your day?" Bella asked.
"Good, I read a lot of books, played difficult pieces and forest walks thinking about grateful I am that we're together" Edward said.
"I'm grateful too" Bella said resting against his shoulder.
"You had a shower without me?" Edward said with mock disappointment.
"Well there is always tonight, I'll go and fill the tub for us" Bella said smooching him and before she left Edward held her wrist gentle from going anywhere.
"You look so wonderful" Edward said.
"Thanks to Alice" She chose my whole wardrobe for the next year" Bella said.
"But, I'm a little troubled" Bella admitted.
"I went to my PO Box and there is no acceptance letter" Bella said a with unease over her face.
"Don't worry, Alice has seen the letter come where you are accepted. Okay so just calm down and enjoy our evening together" Edward said.
"Have you spoken to her about Vampires coming after me?" Bella asked.
"So far everything is fine, there is nobody coming after you at least according to her vision but Bella I need you to be careful anyway" Edward said.
"Split decisions can't be detected right away so can you at least remain in the treaty line or stay close to me when it's more cloudy than usual?" Edward asked.
"Of course, Whatever makes you happy" Bella said.
"I love you" Edward said wishing she could say it back.
"In a way" Bella added with a shrug.
"Yes, in every way possible" Edward corrected they joined hands after a brief moment of silence.
Bella looked into his eyes she could see her own reflection in them.
'You're not good enough for me'
Bella's eyes bulged horrified when that memory flashed before her. His eyes during that night weren't as caring.
They were harsh, cold hearted.. no contradiction in his facial features when he said that.. what if this is just another act as well?
Edward tensed up when he noticed pain over her features.
"Bella?" Edward cupped her with hands. He couldn't just let her walk away,
"Please say something.. what did I do now?" Edward said becoming upset, he didn't want her to run away not now that there is danger lurking ahead.
"I had uh.. brief flash back about.. about that night" Bella breathed out.
"I get those a lot"
"I'm not good for you " Bella whimpered.
"No, stop saying that, You are everything Bella" Edward said.
"You said that you believed me" Edward said fearing for a relapse. Bella looked up to answer his question and he looked so hurt.
"Do you still think I'm lying to you?" Edward asked.
Devastated, tormented he could no longer hide his feelings behind a poker face. And his self hatred seem to be oozing off him.
"No, not anymore, I believe you won't go anywhere but.. I don't feel loved by you" Bella said.
He managed to stay away from her for over a year with the idea that he no longer cares, and so far it's only been a handful of months since his return and he has been trying relentlessly to make her come back.
She will only know for sure that Edward is honest about how he feels if maybe another year has passed. Maybe if he's still passionate about her he could be telling the truth that he loves her.
"But what do you expect me to do now?, I want to give myself to you completely by marrying you. I want to turn you so that we can be together until the end of time" Edward said.
"Give you everything I own, even my family resources to give you the best life Earth has to offer,"
"What else do I have to do?, do I have to face danger? I would go and cross the treaty line right now to prove that I can't exist without you" Edward said.
And Bella shook her head frantically when Edward suggested that. "No don't do that" Bella said.
"Then what do you want from me?" Edward said raising his voice.
"Nothing" Bella said flinching at the irate tone.
"I need to talk to a shrink maybe.. there is some eternal damage that hasn't been solved yet." Bella said.
"I'll get through this" Bella said.
"We will get through this" Edward corrected her calm and he lifted her face with an index finger.
"I'll get you the mental help you need," I'll even come with you for couples therapy" Edward said and brought her head against his shoulder.
He felt so stupid for not realizing this sooner, but he can't read her mind, If he could he would understand her, knowing what to do right away. Maybe with a few sessions he can get her to confide in him more.
"My darling.. dearest Bella, I can't fathom the pain I caused you, but I understand now that this won't go away with amends, more needs to be done and I can help you with that if you allow me to do so" Edward said.
"Let me be your solace" Edward said firming his hold around her. He wants to nurture every wound he caused and to make her stop being afraid.