Breaking Free

Trigger Warning: This story contains scenes of domestic violence, and physical and emotional abuse. The main character was in an abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, who hurt her both physically and mentally. The story also depicts the main character's struggle to escape from the abuse and find love and healing with another person. If you are sensitive to these topics, please read with caution. If you are experiencing domestic violence or need help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit their website. You are not alone, and you deserve to be safe and happy.

Chapter 10

BELLA

A half hour later, while in the tender embrace of Edward, my heart swelled with a mixture of love and pain. His eyes, like windows to his soul, conveyed a depth of emotion that words could not capture. They echoed the whispered declaration he had made to me on that fateful day of our high school graduation – those three simple words that held the weight of a thousand promises: I love you, Bella.

But now was not the time for heartfelt apologies and confessions that I had felt the same way about him back then. I still regretted my reaction – you're like a brother to me. My body ached, my head throbbed, and I needed time to heal both physically and mentally. As much as I longed for Edward to be my boyfriend, I knew that rushing into another romantic relationship was not the answer, especially after what had happened with Chris.

Lifting my head from Edward's shoulder, I saw my dad in the doorway. He looked pale and worried, his brown eyes filled with concern.

I croaked, my voice rough and strained from the pain. "Dad," I said, tears welling in my eyes as I saw him standing there.

Edward stood and moved away from the bed as Dad rushed to my side, wrapping his arms around me. "Bells," he replied, his voice thick with emotion.

Dad kissed the top of my head and held me tight.

He pulled back slightly and looked at Edward. His gaze shifted from gratitude to suspicion. "Why didn't you let me know she was awake?" His voice was stern.

As I freed myself somewhat from his arms, I came to Edward's defense even though I knew my father's concern was not directed at him. "I haven't been awake for long, Dad. The doctor came in to talk to me, and then a detective," I said as Dad gave me another hug.

He nodded and sat in the plastic chair next to my bed. He took my hand and squeezed it gently. "You filed a police report," he stated, his voice tinged with worry.

He's in cop mode, I thought with a smile.

"No, Charlie. Bella didn't. I did," Edward interjected, his troubled eyes fixed on me. He leaned against the wall, his hands in his pockets. His voice carried a weight of determination, as if he were shouldering the burden of the truth. "She told me enough before she passed out to identify her attacker. And based on the state of her apartment and a message left by Chris…" he spat out the name with disdain, pausing briefly. I could sense that he held back, protecting me from the darkness that lurked within those words.

Always the protector, I thought.

"It was clear to the police officer that it was Chris."

"A message? What message?" Dad's agitation was palpable as he paced back and forth in the cramped hospital room. He ran his fingers through his hair and clenched his jaw. I too was curious about the contents of this message, but I was grateful that Edward had spared my father from further worry by making the journey from Forks to Seattle, to be by my side.

Edward shook his head and turned to face us. He gave me a sad smile and said softly, "I'll tell you later what it said, Charlie. Bella's been through enough and doesn't need to know what the bastard wrote."

A smile tugged at the corners of my lips. Edward was right. I didn't want to know.

~~~ BF ~~~

Two hours later, I was finally allowed to leave the hospital after being in the ED for seven and a half hours. The doctor had performed another ultrasound on me and confirmed that there was still no internal bleeding. He had also given me a note for work, stating that I needed a weeks' rest before returning, along with a script for pain meds and an antibiotic.

A wave of relief and gratitude washed over me as I walked out of the ED with Dad's arm around my waist and Edward by my side. Edward had been with me through everything, from the moment I knocked on his door until now. He had been my protector, my friend, my fake boyfriend.

Once in the waiting room, Esme ran over and gave me a gentle hug. Carlisle squatted and drew me in for one, too.

Pride shone in Carlisle's eyes as he peered over at Edward.

I knew Edward sent his parents an updated text message. What he told them, I wasn't sure and hadn't asked.

He lifted me gently out of the wheelchair and carried me to his sleek black car. Carlisle opened the door, and Edward eased me into the leather seat, buckling me in with care. He kissed my forehead and smiled, his green eyes sparkling.

"We're going to my apartment," he whispered. "It's safer than going to yours. Chris might be lurking."

Gratitude swelled in my chest again as I nodded.

"And I don't want you to worry about anything, Bella. I'll take care of calling your boss and getting some things from your apartment."

Dad switched places with Edward. "We're staying a few days, Bells," he said, motioning to where Carlisle and Esme stood. "Once we're checked in at the hotel, we'll come over."

I smiled gratefully, knowing Dad was tired and stressed. He needed to sleep as much as I did.

"Take a nap," I said as a yawn escaped.

"I'll try, kiddo." He pushed the door closed.

Once Edward and I were away from the hospital, he broke the silence.

"Bella, I'm glad we ran into each other Tuesday. I missed you and was glad I was home when you needed me," Edward said with a sigh.

Oh no, I thought. He's worried about something. Just say it, Edward.

"We've been friends, best friends, since childhood. And I will like you to stay with me. For as long as you want. In fact, we can see if there is a two-bedroom available and move in together."

I nibbled on my lower lip, stealing a glance at his face as he drove. He looked like he regretted asking me to move in with him. It wasn't a bad idea. I knew why he wanted it.

He wanted to protect me.

He squeezed my hand and said, "You're safe with me, Bella. Always."

I leaned into his shoulder and whispered, "Thank you, Edward. You're the best thing that ever happened to me."

He cared for me deeply, and I cherished him for that. And to have my best friend back in my life was a miracle.

I wasn't ready for another romance, although the thought of having someone I could trust waiting at home for me was irresistible.

"Edward," I whispered when we stopped at a red light. He turned and met my eyes. "I like your idea." I blinked my eyes, trying to focus on his face. It remained a blur. Damn concussion.

Closing my eyes, I continued. "Call the landlord and see if there's a two-bedroom available."

"Okay. I'll do that after we both take a nap."

I stiffed when he reached over and took hold of my hand. When his thumb caressed my palm, I felt myself relax.