Into You
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Twilight characters or anything Twilight related.
Alright everyone, get yourselves comfortable because we're about to endure the scandal that is Bella and Rider's relationship while Edward remains in the shadow, just to protect Bella's career. What happens here will be quite the scandal.
Chapter 14 – I Can't Be Mad
I can't be mad
For loving you that way
I can't be mad
I gave you my heart to break
Can drown in sorrow try to numb the pain
But I can't be mad, because I'm the one to blame
But I can't be mad 'cause I let you slip, away
~ Nathan Sykes
Edward's POV
If you told me that long distance relationships will get better as time goes by, you may be right… for a normal couple who have normal lives that is. For someone like me being in a relationship with America's Princess, a star, a celebrity, you are wrong since you wouldn't understand the situation that is happening. A situation that affects Bella and her career, and where that leaves me.
You would think that living in the smallest, wettest, and coldest city in the state of Washington, when it comes to gossip, news, or the big talk, it'll all die out in less than twenty four hours when the next interesting topic comes. Anything they can talk about; someone new into the city, one of the underage clubs in Port Angeles was shut down and replaced as a library, or lightning about to happen. Hell, even a three legged cat would be interesting to talk about. But when it involves Bella's "relationship" with Rider, that's a different story.
Ever since the news came out, it's all they've been talking about. Bella and Rider this and Bella and Rider that. The press has been labeling them as the next Charlie and Renee as their "relationship" is the big talk all over the world. What did you expect since they once worked together in Rainbow Garden and now are reuniting in To All The Boys sequel. It's not just that everyone is talking about them, everyone, mostly the fans, think of them as the perfect couple. And that pisses me off, and it's not because I feel insulted that they don't see me and Bella that way, (not that I care and not that they know about us). It's because how they are that blind to see that where they are unaware that the whole relationship is a big scam just to promote the film and get everyone excited for it. They failed to understand, nor they care, that Bella doesn't like Rider that way. Not even as a person. And yet, his fans love him. He must have hypnotized them to follow him. And now they are all in on his relationship with Bella and have been since the beginning thinking they are meant to be. They seem to be on his side rather than Bella. And her fans are even liking this. They're all like that publicist, Renee, and Rider's manager. They all went with Rider's idea and not listen to Bella, not even caring she has a boyfriend, a.k.a. me. They want those two together because that's what the media wants. Hot celebrity couple and animals doing silly things. They don't care about what Bella wants and if she's happy about it. And since I'm not either an animal or a celebrity, not yet anyway, if Bella tries to tell the press otherwise about her relationship with Rider, fans will turn on her and her career could be over.
And I couldn't let that happen. This is Bella's life. Her whole life involves acting and singing. She loves performing and everything. The title of America's Princess will be taken if she goes against this. This isn't Hollywood life, this isn't just a scandal, this is blackmail. She's being forced into something she doesn't want and they're holding her career hostage if she chooses to get out of it. How could they do that to Bella? She is the nicest, down to earth girl I know. She isn't one of those celebrities who let fame go to their heads, doing drugs and act full of themselves like they own the world. And yet people like Rider and his team are going to make sure Bella's the bad guy to here. Unfucking believable.
I hate that they're doing to Bella, I hate that people are feeding on this bullshit, and I hate that they think they know who Bella should or shouldn't date!
…
But I also hate for Bella to lose everything if she goes against it. Which was why I made the choice to encourage Bella to go along with the charade. Trust me, I'm not happy about this as Bella is, but until she can find a way out of it, our relationship will forever be kept quiet. Hopefully, knowing Rider, he may find another girl he wants to pursue into dating and let Bella go and by then, if Renee comes around, Bella and I can announce our relationship to the public.
That's easy to handle, right? Well, I knew it was going to be hard, but not this hard. Try the one example where the next day since the news about Bella and Rider's relationship where the whole town was talking about them. Saying how great they are together. It was all they could talk about. Not to mention making it sound like they are praising them. I heard a couple of old ladies one afternoon complimenting on them, saying they are "so in love," that Bella looks "happy" with Rider. Come on, a blind bat would see that there is no love between Bella and Rider, (well, it's one sided), and that Bella is not happy about this! I had to resist myself from barking at them that Bella is not happy about it and doesn't like Rider knowing that I don't have anything to prove them and plus it's not very gentlemen-like of me to do so. My mother raised me better than that after all.
I had to keep myself straight when Bella and I had our phone conversation that night. Bella sounded worry about how I was acting but I brushed it off that it was no big deal. Even though it was. Bella shouldn't worry about me when she has her own problems to deal with back home. Like being with Rider and the media.
If you thought what I have been dealing with is hard, try the next day where I was in my room one evening sitting at my desk with my computer, waiting on Bella. Hopefully, it would ease the tension with what's been happening. That was until my phone rang and I saw Bella's name on the screen causing me to answer.
"Hey, love, you're running late?"
"Actually," Bella nervously said. "I can't make it for our Skype date tonight." She said unfortunately causing my heart to fall apart.
"But I…" I was about to say I had to tell my friends to hangout without me since I told them I made plans with "Isabella," but I knew better than to make her feel bad. "I was looking forward for our Skype date."
"I know but apparently Renee set up dinner with Rider and his management team to "discuss" about the movie. However, Charlie and I know full well that's not what dinner is for." Bella explained.
"Let me guess, you complained to Renee about our plans and she acted like she had no fucking clue and doesn't give a shit." I said, not at all pleased.
"Were you stalking me?" Bella teased a little as I sighed. "Yeah, Renee made it sound like you never even exist."
"So this dinner is going to be with you, Rider, Renee, and the rest of management team?" I asked.
"Charlie invited himself to keep an eye on Rider." Bella answered causing me to be a bit relieved. At least I know Charlie has my back. "Edward, I'm really am sorry. You know I would've just cancelled if they haven't reminded me about what our "relationship" means."
"Bella, I understand." I said. "As long as Charlie is there, I have faith that Rider or Renee won't try to do anything funny."
"I hope so too." Bella said. There was a muffle at the other end. And possibly a shouting match. "Sorry, I have to go. I'll call you when I get home."
"I'll be waiting." I said.
"I love you." She said sadly.
"I love you." I said before we both hung up. I sat my phone down and just stare at the computer screen as I am now all alone on a Sunday night.
The days continue to get harder and harder by the minute. As each day goes by, more talk goes on about Bella and Rider. Exactly what is so special about them to be big news?! It's not like they are getting married. Unless Rider is being the biggest shithead he is and told the media that they are engaged. No way Bella will take in on the "Bella is too young for marriage" or "Is she pregnant?" controversy. Is Rider trying to ruin Bella's life to make his better?
It may seem like it when I saw another article where it shows Bella and Rider on the front cover of their "dinner" together. No doubt Renee staged all of it and tipped the paparazzi about it just to give them exposure. I was right when Bella tried to warn me about it, though it was too late, but I assured her that I know. Although I trust Bella's loyalty to me, I don't trust Renee and Rider and how they're making Bella spend more time in the spotlight than with me. Not to mention how everything is affecting me.
This is what I get for being in the shadow.
It gets a whole lot worse on Thursday. I saw interviews with Bella and Rider, however they were in different networks which makes me feel a bit better to not see the "affection" they have to show. But that doesn't help with what was said in the interview. While Bella was lucky to dodge the questions about her relationship with Rider and only on her future in music and the movie, Rider was not at all hesitant to talk about their relationship. And the more he happily talked (or between boating and bragging), the more people are buying his words. Its as if people only listen to him and respect him like some sort of god. Thinking he's big shit just because of fame and money. Are he and Mike even related?
Well because of Rider, fans and many other people praise on their relationship and I could not get them to stop. I couldn't ignore it no matter what. I couldn't get it off my mind. Not even on our away game that night against the Vipers. Although they never had a good offense, not to mention never had a good quarterback, (all of theirs right now were ineligible to play due to bad grades, sickness, and suspension however they let a punter start due to some arm strength he has), their defense do their best to make up for it. And they did. While their starting quarterback of the night only threw two out of eight passes making only fifteen yards to one receiver and two interceptions, the defense handled the scoring.
Ben only had nine carries for three yards while causing two fumbles. Demetri had no catches out of twelve attempts while dropping one. Alec had only two catches for five yards as he let one ball slip pass his fingers into the hands of one of the defenders. I had the worse out of the guys. I made only three passes out of eighteen for only thirty-nine yards with four interceptions; a back to back and two of them were returned for a pick six, got sacked ten times and fumbled the ball twice. I sucked so bad that coach got so pissed that he benched me the rest of the game and let Mike play. He was able to help improve the team getting us a field goal, but he was unable to help us win the game as we lost 17 to 3.
The game was only adding flavor to my suffering. I'm letting this news of Bella and Rider get in the way of my life, my goals, everything. You can say that I am having the worse luck of my life.
"Edward, I'm so sorry!"
"Bella, what are you sorry about?" I asked in surprised as I tossed my bag aside and sat on my bed.
"It's my fault you lost." Bella said. I can hear on the other end that she must be crying causing my heart to break.
"Bella, you didn't have anything to do with the game." I assured her.
"Edward, Jacob showed us the highlights. We read the article that was talking about you. They all kept wondering what is happening to you. There was even a photo of you getting benched." Bella sobbed.
Fuck. I thought as I ran a hand through my hair. Who knew the media from the school district was fast on the take.
"Listen love, everything is fine." I said. "Everyone has bad games. I just wasn't at my best tonight and the other team played well."
"But I feel like I'm letting this whole story about me and Rider ruining your life." Bella said.
"It's not ruining my life." I said. Even though it's not true. But it is taking you away from me. "Look, I get that it's going to be hard for us both, but it's not like we'll be doing this forever. It's like I said, we wait it out until we can find a way to get Rider out of the picture and maintain your image. Then we can tell the world about us."
"Are you sure you're okay with it? I hate seeing you suffer for us." Bella said sadly.
"As long as we have faith in us, we'll make it through this. We just got to give it time." I said.
"I love you more than anything." Bella said.
"I love you more than ever." I said. "You are my life now, Bella."
Bella and I spoke for a few minutes before we hung up. As soon as we did, I flopped on my back and sadly look at the ceiling at how my life has come to.
"Edward?" I looked up when my name was called, followed by a few knocks to see my parents by the door. "May we come in?" My father asked.
"Sure." I said as I sat up while they come in. "What's up?"
"Is everything okay?" Carlisle asked as he sat in my chair while Esme sat next to me on my bed.
"I think you guys know based on how shitty I played tonight." I sighed.
"Language, Edward." Esme said, though in a soft tone as she started to rub my arm to comfort me. "Oh sweetheart, I'm sorry how this is effecting you. You shouldn't be suffering because of these lies about Bella and that guy."
"It's not like I want to." I said.
"Even so, you can't let this get in the way. I'm not saying what you and Bella have isn't healthy, but you can't let this get to you. Why did you even agree for Bella to do this in the first place?" Esme asked.
"I don't want Bella to lose everything she has just because her fans won't happy that their characters aren't dating in real life. As much as I hate that Rider, Renee, and those publicity people for making everyone buying such bullshit, I hate that they're making Bella choose between her career… and me." I said sadly.
"I never liked Renee since she became a star. Who raised her to be that way?" Esme asked shaking her head as I shrugged in response since I don't know the answer.
"I just hate Renee's way of living in Hollywood." Carlisle said and then looked at me right in the eye. "But what I hate more is how this is what you think is a way to handle your relationship."
"What choice do I have?! I can't have everyone hate on Bella just because she's trying to make it clear she doesn't like Rider. We're working it out until we can find a way." I said in frustration.
"Listen son, I get what you're trying to do was to help Bella maintain her career," Carlisle said. "But is this really helping you both? You're sacrificing what you love and that's your love for Bella, for her life, and what do you get in return? You letting Bella live through a lie while you sit back and watch while suffering it through. Is it worth it to you both?"
I didn't respond. Though I have many ways to explain why Bella and I can work this out, I knew my father is right. How can I be happy if I let this go on? I could lose Bella this way. The question is, how can I prevent that from happening.
"What am I suppose to do then?" I asked.
"You need to make a choice that benefits Bella and you." Carlisle said. "Your love for each other is worth more than anything else. I mean, if your mother had you at the time I was still in grad school, I would've dropped everything to be with you two. Nothing is more important to me than family." He smiled.
"And I would've told your father afterwards that I can take care of Edward and myself and tell him to get his ass back into school and continue pursing his dream." Esme smiled.
"Look who's talking about language." I chuckled causing my parents to laugh.
"Everything will work out." Esme said as she kissed my cheek. "I just know it."
"I hope so." I said.
"Edward," Renesmee said as she came running into my room. "I have something for you."
"Renesmee, sweetie, I don't think now's a good time." Carlisle gently said to her.
"But I have something to cheer Edward up. I know he had a bad day at the game since people are believing Bella like that stupid head." Renesmee said.
"Renesmee, we do not call people the S word," Esme scolded but then paused. "Even if he is one." She said.
"What is it, sis?" I asked.
"I want to sing you this song. I even made a dance for you." Renesmee said. Next thing she did was coming over to my stereo system to jock her iPod in the connection. Once it was on, she pressed play and the music was on. Renesmee took herself to center stage as she started singing.
"You're my honeybunch, sugar plum
Pumpy-umpy-umpkin
You're my sweetie pie
You're my cuppycake, gumdrop
Snoogums, boogums, you're
The apple of my eye
And I love you so
And I want you to know
That I'm always be right here
And I want to sing
Sweet songs to you
Because you are so dear..."
I was touched as I watch my little sister dance her heart out while singing. She is truly like our mom. Always there for me when I'm down. Her smile warms my heart. It's what makes me love Renesmee so much. My little sister.
After my sister was done with her performance, she made a bow earning a round of applause from me and my parents.
"Thanks, Renesmee." I said, receiving a hug from her.
"I want my big brother to be happy." Renesmee said and soon, my mother joined in on the hug and then my father joined in as well as I was surrounded from the family who is giving me the love and support. Along with having faith in me and Bella, as I do about us.
The next morning at school, was a bit nerve-wrecking. Due to how we lost last night, everyone has been acting different towards me. Most of them were sympathetic knowing that any quarterback can have a rough day. Some were questioning what had happened to me. And then there were a few who decided to mock me of my plays such as a star quarterback, losing to a punter. If there's one thing I've learn as a quarterback, it is to keep my head up and accept the lost with dignity. It shows character as an athlete. And I must maintain my cool to avoid any fuck ups.
I arrived at my locker and opened it to get what I need for first period, glad to not have run into anyone here to give me shit.
How wrong I was.
"There he is, the infamous Slopward!" I sighed hearing his voice. "Great game last night."
"I'm not in the mood, Mike." I said as I grabbed the textbook I need.
"Hey, no need to get bitchy with me." Mike said. "I mean everyone plays shitty, but don't worry. You can avoid further embarrassment in the next game by sitting out while I take over your team."
I slammed my locker shut and turned to Mike as I tried maintain my temper from boiling seeing the smirk on his face. "Look, Newton, what happened last night wasn't because I played so bad. The other team put up a good fight and we did everything we could. And if I recall, you didn't help us win either." I pointed out causing Mike's face to fell a bit at how I stated only to turn it into a smug.
"Yeah, but I played better than you. And I'm sure coach will let me start next week where everyone can see me outplay you." Mike said and before I could respond.
"Alright boys," Mike and I turned to see Aro coming by. "Let's get to class. The five minute bell rang after all." And somehow, that bell indeed rang. Mike left us, but not before he roughly shouldered me as I saw his smirk. I let out a growl when he was out of ear shot.
"Trouble in paradise, huh." Aro said.
I pinched the bridge of my nose, taking a deep breath before turning to him. "That's an understatement."
"I take it you and Bella are struggling with what is happening." Aro said.
"My dad told you?" I asked in surprised where I thought no one in my family will tell anyone about my relationship with Bella.
"He didn't have to," Aro shrugged. "I put two and two together when I saw the news and then your performance at the game." He said, causing me to sigh.
"Let me give you a word of advice," Aro said. "Love isn't always perfect. It isn't a fairytale or a storybook. And it doesn't always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on and never letting go. It is a short world, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, and every second was worth it because you did it together. Remember that."
I nodded my head and Aro gave my shoulder a firm squeeze before he walked away and I started heading to class when the warning bell rang.
The rest of the day ended quickly since we had early release today. A good thing for me since I had enough whispering and pointing going around about me. I don't have time to deal with the bullshit I'm having, especially hearing Mike boasting about how it's now his time to shine and I'm nothing but a has been. What's more, we had no practice today. According to the assistant coach, Coach Clapp's doctor has ordered him to take the weekend away from the thing that stressed him out the most, which was the team after how we performed last night. I don't blame him. I just hope I can convince him that it won't ever happen again.
"Hey, come on, cheer up, dude." Ben said as he, Seth, Alec, Demetri, and I arrived at my place after school. "It's not like this is the first lost you ever had."
"No, but it was the most embarrassing one he'd ever endured. OW!" Demetri cried when Alec smacked him in the back of the head.
"Way to be empathetic, jackass." Alec hissed at him.
"Its okay man," Seth said cheerfully as he flung his arm over my shoulder. "Everyone has a bad game. Even games we won wasn't our best. We just got to move on to the next one."
"Except the next one is our last one. So if we don't get our shit together, then that affects our position in the playoffs." Demetri said.
"DUDE!" The other boys yelled in annoyance causing Demetri to throw a shrug that says "What?"
"Guys, look, I'm not upset about last night." I assured them. "It's just one game. Let's just not talk about it anymore. Okay?" The guys agreed and with that, we went inside where we met my mom who came out from the kitchen.
"Hey mom." I greeted her as the guys did the same.
My mother mumbled a hello as she held her jaw and pointed at the door as she continues mumbling.
"You're going to the dentist." I said to be sure. Esme nodded and mumbled, pointing at her jaw. "Ah, molar issue." I said in understanding as Esme nodded again, then pointing at me and then her watch. "You want me to pick up Renesmee from her cheerleading practice," She then placed her hands on her chest making out a shape. "And you love me," She then pointed at my friends. "And the guys." I smiled causing them to appreciate my mom for it.
Esme smiled as she blew us a kiss, causing her to wince in pain as she gathered her purse and walked out the door. Once she was out the door, the guys looked at me weirdly and I understood why.
"I speak mumble-mom." I answered their unasked question.
"Okay Edward, talk to us." Demetri said causing the guys to look at me. "You've been acting odd for the past few weeks. What's going on?"
"Is everything okay with you and your girlfriend?" Alec said. "You look like you're struggling more than before last week."
I sighed. "We're just… working out a few things."
"Did you guys get in a fight?" Ben asked.
"No, nothing like that." I said. "I guess… long distance relationships are harder than I expected it to be."
"Well, you both go to different schools. And you mentioned how you both have your after school activities." Seth said. "It's understandable why you two are having a hard time with your relationship."
"But that doesn't mean you should let it get in the way of things for you." Alec said and turned to me. "Look, I get that it's hard, but don't let it affect you, man. If Isabella is focusing on her life, then you need to focus on yours as well."
I sighed knowing I've been hearing that one too many times. "I know that, but it's easier said than done."
"Well maybe that's a sign to you that it's probably not meant to be and that you should move on from her." Demetri suggested, and without warning, I ran at him in full rage, thinking I should just give up on me and Bella, as I grabbed him by the neck.
"Whoa Edward, stop!" Ben said as he got in between me and Demetri while the other two tried to break us up.
"Dude, come on, cool it, guys!" Alec said as he pulled Demetri back.
"Edward, chill! Chill!" Seth said as he restrained me from lunging myself at Demetri. "Cleansing breaths, Edward! Cleansing breaths!" He said as he stroke my head to calm down. That there causes me to come to my senses as I took a few breaths until Seth lets me go.
"I'm sorry." I said to Demetri.
"No, I should be sorry man." He said, sounding very sincere. "It's serious between you two, huh."
"You don't know the half of it." I sighed as I looked down on my feet. Just look at me now. My future as an NFL quarterback is in question and now I ended up getting in a fight with my best friend. All because of Rider and his evil scam.
"Okay, you know what, cancel whatever plan you have with your girlfriend tonight." Demetri declared, causing me to look at him in confusion. "We're having a guys night here at your place where we will spend the night."
"I think he's right, Edward." Alec said and then he continued before I could argue. "Look man, we're not saying you need to stop obsessing over your girlfriend, but we think you need a break from her. It's just to clear your head from all the drama. Just one night."
"Yeah, and then you can go back to obsessing over Isabella." Ben said. "At least by then, you'll feel a bit better and out of the slump." He added allowing me to actually consider the idea.
"And besides, it's been awhile since we've done things together with the five of us. Not counting football season." Seth said. "We can do all the things we did together when we were kids."
"Just having fun, playing video games, skateboarding around town, causing schemes and shenanigans, and of course, no girls, no rules." Demetri said excitedly.
"It'll be like the old days before we even became interested in girls." Ben said.
"Except we were impressing them without knowing." Alec said causing the others to agree.
"What do you say, Edward?" Demetri asked. I was hesitant. "Come on, man. We wanna help you on this. We just… we just can't stand seeing you like this." He said as the others looked at me with worry.
I sighed and then turned to my friends with a genuine smile. "Sure. Why not? I miss hanging with just us guys." I said causing them to burst with happiness with my answer.
"All in favor of a guys night, say "Hell yeah."" Demetri said as he put his hand out. All of us followed and threw our hands on top of his.
"HELL YEAH!" We cheered as we threw our hands in the air.
The guys left later to pack their things before coming over. After I picked up Renesmee from her practice, I called Bella to inform her of our change of plans for tonight. Thankfully, she understood as she herself has plans she told me, to be ready for her appearance being interview on Jimmy Fallon tomorrow night. And she's not looking forward to it. Why? Because it'll be the first time she and Rider will appear together as a couple. No doubt Renee and Rider's manager finally got their cards played right.
The night with the boys has been pleasant. We went to see a movie and ate at Five Guys burger restaurant afterwards. Ironic since there's five of us. We then went to the capital mall and just hung around while causing a bit of mischief that causes the mall cop to chase after us while we laughed seeing how slow he's being on his scooter. I had to admit, it was fun. And they were right.
Although it will never erase the misery I felt from the scandal of Bella's relationship with Rider, it helped cleared my head and think things through, understanding from a different perspective. I just hope it'll help me pull through on this scam. The question is, how will Bella and I have our relationship if Rider is holding her back?
"Cross your fingers?" Jimmy Fallon asked as he watches Kevin Hart drew a cross sign on the board. Kevin shook his head and draw out the next image. Meanwhile, Bella drew a weird looking figure; some sort of creature with black spots.
"Are you gonna guess?" Bella asked Rider after she was done and waiting to see if she needs to draw more.
"Is that a cow?" He asked in confusion and Bella responded with a yes as she added more things to her drawing by adding a circle on the "cows" head.
"Cow crossing." Jimmy guessed to Kevin to which he shook his head no.
"Holy cow?" Rider guessed.
"Yes!" Bella cheered excitedly as she tossed her pen when the bell went dinging. Rider jumped out of his seat and went over to Bella to what he seems to be attempting a hug since his arms were open. However, Bella gave out a high five instead and somehow Rider played it smoothly as he stood by Bella's side. Bella then gave an actual hug to Jimmy as he congratulated her on a good game.
"Told you we would win." She said to Kevin.
"Kevin, what is that supposed to be?" Jimmy asked pointing at Kevin's drawing where there was something underneath the cow. "You're not supposed to draw that on live TV." He said earning some laughter from Bella and Rider along with the audience.
"What? It's that thing where the milk comes from. How is that inappropriate?" Kevin asked earning more laughter.
"We'll be right back after these messages with Bella Swan and Rider Daniels." Jimmy said to the audience before it went to commercial.
"Ugh, I can't stand watching more of Bella and Rider." Demetri complained. "I'd vomit if I had anything in my stomach."
"Dude, you ate like five slices of pizzas half an hour ago." Seth said from the floor.
"And yet here you are continuing to eating an ice cream sundae." Demetri responded at Seth seeing him with a big bowl of ice cream with many flavors, strawberry syrup, and sprinkles on top.
"I got five stomachs. What's your excuse?" Seth asked as he shoved a spoonful of ice cream in his mouth.
"Your point?" Demetri asked.
"Leave him alone, Demetri." Heidi said as she snuggled close to him causing Demetri to sigh as he got comfortable with her.
"Besides, we're all here to witness this relationship of Bella and Rider to see how serious this is." Angela said with Ben sitting next to her.
"Okay, but do we all have to be here? This sounds more of a job for you girls." Ben said.
"Oh, like how you guys thought it was okay to hang out last night and not make it up to us girls for leaving us out?" Angela asked giving Ben a stern look.
"I told you it was a guys night." Ben said.
"Could've just call it a hang out." Heidi said.
"Look, we just wanted to help Edward get out of his slump from the last few days. Cut us some slack. At least we're all hanging out together." Alec said he casually leans back with his arms behind his head.
It is Saturday night and my friends and I are at my place where we are chilling in the media room. My parents are out to celebrate their anniversary of when they first started dating and Renesmee is at a sleepover with her friends. We were watching the Jimmy Fallon Show where Bella and Rider are there together as couple making their first appearance together. They were talking about their respective careers while adding hints about their "relationship," although it's mostly Rider talking about that. They then play a game with special guest Kevin Hart where they played Pictionary. That was only half of the show. Fifteen more minutes to go of enduring to see Rider trying snake his way to Bella and show some affection she doesn't like from him.
"Yeah, let's just enjoy the show and see what's going." I said from my recliner chair with my eyes on the screen. "Who knows, it might be interesting." To the audience who are buying Rider's lies it might be. I'm just glad I'm seeing and hearing all those fans blindly admired Bella and Rider like they are meant to be, not at all seeing how Bella feels about this. Just like Renee is. She must be really proud of herself more than she is "proud of Bella." And yes, I used those quotes if you get why.
"Man, I am not going to listen to Bella and Rider talk all lovey-dovey on the show." Demetri groaned. "Why can we just watch Impractical Jokers or something?"
"Go ahead and change the channel. I dare you." Alec said casually. Demetri shrugged and reached for the remote.
"Touch that remote, and you die." Jane, who is sitting on the floor, said menacingly while staring at the TV causing Demetri to retreat immediately which made me chuckle.
"Jessica, are you okay?" Heidi asked and I turned to see Jessica staring at the TV, but she doesn't appear to be watching the TV. She was sitting there on the couch with her arms folded while having a look like she's concentrating very hard. Like she's trying to make the TV blow up or something. Now that Heidi mentioned it, Jessica hasn't actually said a word since she came here.
"I don't get it." She said finally.
"Get what?" Seth asked in confusion as he set aside his empty bowl and went for the bag of chips.
"This!" Jessica answered, pointing at the TV. "This whole relationship with Bella and Rider. This doesn't make sense." She said causing my senses to be on the alert as I spun my chair to face her.
"What do you mean by that?" Alec asked her.
"I mean we all know that Bella Swan never had a thing for Rider and his unwanted actions towards her is why he got booted off of Rainbow Garden." Jessica started explaining. "And now suddenly, she confesses she has always loved him? Where is all that coming from?"
"Well, sometimes feelings can change. You never know until your hearts speaks out of your true feelings." Angela said causing my stomach to turn at the thought if Bella suddenly does have feelings for Rider. Though I know Bella would never do that.
"But if that's the case, where is the relationship everyone is saying is happening?" Jessica asked. "Why haven't we seen them go out on a casual walk and such for coffee? They went out for dinner yes, but that was for their movie. Where is the proof to confirm it? Where's the interaction on social media? Why don't we see any posts on their pages? How come Bella isn't following Rider when he is?"
"Well," Jane turned her head to us. "Bella is a private person. She keeps things to herself. She doesn't want to share much of her private life for everyone to see unless it's like close friends and family."
"Okay, then explain how we saw how little interaction between those two tonight on that show." Jessica said pointing at the TV where it was still on commercial. "We didn't see a sign of affection other than Rider trying to hug Bella when they won but instead Bella avoided it by giving him a high five like she has been all night."
"Maybe they're just being professional about it." Seth shrugged as he tossed some Doritos in his mouth and munch on it.
"And what makes you think Bella's trying to avoid Rider's affection?" Jane challenged her.
Jessica thought for a moment and then turned to me. "Edward, you understand people reading them and everything. What do you think is going with Bella and Rider?" She asked causing me to be startled for being put in the spotlight. I was sure that I looked like a deer being caught by the headlights of a car. But I have to maintain my cool. I can't let them know about me and Bella.
That was the plan. Keep our relationship on the downlow until we can find a way to get Rider off our backs without damaging Bella's career and then we will announce our relationship to the public.
"Um," I cleared my throat and then spoke. "While it's obvious Rider is not afraid to flaunt his relationship with Bella, she on the other hand may seem like she wants to keep things on a professional level, but the way she's been acting, says otherwise." Despite that I can never read Bella's behavior, I know her too well about how she feels about Rider. "The body behavior when they sat close together along with the eye movement every time she's been asked about themselves appear to be signs that's something is up."
"Exactly!" Jessica said. "There's no way Bella suddenly would be interested in Rider, and there's no fucking way she would be with him right now if she wouldn't interact with him that way or return the affection. And I can smell a rat when I see one."
"What are you trying to say here Jess? That this whole Bella loving Rider and their relationship is a complete lie? That they're bamboozling us and the whole world like some sort of big scam?" Alec asked, sitting straight up.
Jessica thought for a moment and then finally she said, "Yes, that's exactly what I believe. This whole relationship is nothing but a big scam. And I'm positive that they are probably doing this as a publicity stunt to promote their movie and such." She added, determinedly as I was stunned at how Jessica could figure it out.
Leave it to this girl and her detective skills when it involves celebrity gossip. When she wants the truth or something doesn't seem right, she gets to the bottom of it and sets things right. It's amazing how she does it and yet she can barely pass her classes with two Bs and all Cs.
"Oh come on," Demetri said as he sat up straight causing Heidi to follow him. "I know Rider is a complete douche bag and he would do things to get attention, but I doubt Bella would be that stupid to actually go with it."
"Are you doubting my detective skills?" Jessica challenged him.
"I'm saying you're off your rocker to think Bella would agree to fake date Rider and you got this all from logics and no exact facts." Demetri said.
"Then I bet you two hundred dollars that I'm right and the whole relationship of Bella and Rider was a huge scam." Jessica said.
"Oh it's on!" Demetri said causing the rest of us to groan that says "Oh no."
"Demetri, remember the last time you betted against Jessica?" I asked as I rested my forehead against my hand.
"Yeah, you lost your family house in Miami last summer." Angela stated.
"Okay that wouldn't have happened if she knew my strategy." Demetri defended.
"What strategy? You always start with rock!" Ben stated.
"Whatever, but I'm dead sure that Jessica's wrong." Demetri said as he reached out and shook hands with Jessica that they have a deal. Heidi had that look like she couldn't believe it and then she saw me looking at her.
"If you need me to speak out on your wedding, just give me one of these." I said and used my finger to wipe my nose showing her that's the signal I will give out. That's when the show came back on and we see Jimmy at his desk and on the couch facing him was Bella and Rider. I had to control myself seeing Rider's arm over Bella's shoulder while holding her hand with that same arm.
"And we're back with my favorite sweetheart and the lucky guy who gets to call his baby!" Jimmy said causing Rider to smile big while he pulled her close to him while Bella just sat there and kept a straight face.
"Oh I sure am, Jimmy!" Rider happily said as he place Bella's head on his shoulders.
"And I'm sure Bella feels the same way, don't you, Bella." Jimmy asked her with a smile.
Bella took a moment as she lifted her head off of Rider's shoulders still in his embrace.
"Jimmy, words cannot describe how I feel." She said causing Rider to chuckle as he squeezed her shoulder while the audience laughs.
"Well sure they can. That's what words do." Jimmy laughs as the audience follows. "So babble away and tell us the honest truth. When you look at the young, dashing, heartthrob, how do you really feel?" He asked as he leans forward with his hands together under his chin looking intrigued, dying to know.
Bella was silent for a moment. There is no doubt she is trying to find a way out of it, but it would appears that both Rider and Jimmy, though he was never involved and just innocently wants to know, has her cornered and Bella has no choice but to lie how her relationship with Rider is going. Wonder what's she's going to do.
"Well Jimmy, I don't know how to say it, so I guess I'll start with this," Bella then got Rider to get his arm off of her and letting go of her hand as she turned to him.
And then, she did this.
"Appalled, barfy, creeped out, disgusted," Bella said with a different expression that pretty much describes what she's saying.
"Uh, B-Bella, b-baby, what are you doing?" Rider stuttered in surprised as he got his around her.
"Be quiet, I'm only at the Es." Bella said as she got his arm off of her again and just went on. "Embarrassed, freaked, gaggy,"
"Horrified!" Jimmy said with the expression that says so.
"Exactly!" Bella said not even looking at him.
"No, I'm horrified!" Jimmy said causing Bella to turn to him. "What happened to the love, the magic? Where was all that a moment ago?"
"Oh I'll tell you what's going on. Our managers and the publicity people made us go through all of this, making us telling everyone that we're a thing just to promote our upcoming movie and get more people to watch it and Rainbow Garden." Bella answered in a statement causing the audience to gasp as there could be murmurs being heard.
"Uh, m-millions and millions of people you little goofball." Rider nervously laughed as he hissed the name to Bella while he got his arm around her again and this time his hand went over her mouth. "OW! She bit me!" He cried pulling his arm back and shaking it off causing the audience to gasp again while Jimmy was in shock.
"Oh don't you be all innocent on this." Bella said to him. "You're the one with the idea to lie to the media before convincing the network publicist and our managers to go with your idea behind my back!" Bella said to him earning more gasps as the muttering grew intense.
"I-I-I don't know what she means," Rider said to the audience until I saw Bella lifted her leg a bit and threw it down. "OW!" He cried, causing himself to jump out of his seat and now he looked at Bella looking pissed. "Well you know what, you're crazy! And you'll regret dumping me, because I'm hot and amazing! And I'm hot!" He said and then ripped off his jacket to show him wearing a plain white tee and then lifted his shirt off to show his washboard abs before he walked away.
"Keep on walking Rider Daniels. Real name, Albert Neuerburg." Bella called out causing Rider to rush back in looking embarrassed.
"Oh that was supposed to be a secret!" He said to her.
Bella paused for dramatic effect before saying, "Not anymore." She said. Rider was unable to respond as he left the stage. "Don't you just love having me on your show, Jimmy?" She smiled to him.
"Uh, when have I not enjoyed your presence?" Jimmy nervously laughed as he faced the audience. "We'll be right back after these commercials. I hope." He said as the commercial started rolling.
There was complete silence as mouths were hanging opened at what we just witnessed. No one said anything. No one didn't even know what to say. How do you even say something after what you just saw on live TV?
"Whoa." Angela said.
"Oh. My. God." Jane said.
"No way." Heidi said.
"Damn." Ben said.
"Holy shit." Alec said as Demetri gaped at the TV while Seth had chips fall out of his mouth from being left in mid chew. I'm with them on that. I can't believe Bella actually confessed about the relationship on live TV. While a part of me was happy that she came out, part of me was concern why though.
I noticed that Jessica was not at all dumbstruck about it. Instead she smirked, looking pleased with herself. "I told you. Now pay up!" She said to Demetri, holding out her hand. That snapped him out of it.
"Oh damn!" He said as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. "Guess I have to ask my dad for a raise on my allowance." He said as he handed Jessica two bills of one hundred.
"I warned ya." I said.
"So, this whole thing was a lie." Jane said as she pulled out her phone and started typing on her Twitter.
"I mean, I guess it would make sense." Heidi said.
"No kidding." Alec said. "I can't believe Rider would lie to everyone about him and Bella without her consent."
"I wonder what gave them the idea to pull such a scandal just for some publicity." Seth said as he resumes eating.
"Maybe Bella will tell us more later." Jessica said as she stuffed the money in her pocket. "But what concerns me more is what made Bella come around and tell everyone the truth. Why did she decided to come out to everyone, especially on live TV?"
"I guess we're about to find out." Demetri said as he let out grumble. No doubt sulking for losing a bet against Jessica, again. That's when the TV came back to The Jimmy Fallon Show where Jimmy and Bella were in the same spots as they last took off.
"Hey everyone and welcome back to the show." Jimmy greeted everyone. "And with me is Bella Swan who stayed with me after revealing something that was totally shocking." He said and turned to her.
"Yeah, sorry it had to come out this way." Bella apologized, looking embarrassed.
"So this whole thing with you and Rider being together was all an act? You and him aren't dating?" Jimmy asked. Bella took a deep breath before she spoke.
"I'm sorry to disappoint everyone, especially to my fans, but me and Rider are not together. We never dated. We never even had feelings for one another. Well, I don't have feelings for him. It was a one side thing that led to this." She said. "I don't see Rider the way he sees me. I don't even see him as a friend the way he acts towards me on Rainbow Garden. Words aren't enough to describe how uncomfortable it was being around him. I hope everyone will understand why it was never meant to be."
"You said that your managers and the publicity people made you guys do it. Why did you agree to go along with it? Why did you decided to tell us the truth?" Jimmy asked.
"Well," Bella hesitated for a moment. "I was being reminded how the fans love Rider as they love me. And that if I say that I fake broke up with him, my fans will hate me and side with Rider and that my career… is over. I hate losing the thing I love with the people who I consider family close to me. But as the day goes by, I realized that what I hate more is lying to the people I love, even though I don't know millions of others. That's not the kind of message I want to send to my fans thinking it's okay to lie in order to get what you want.
So you see, if I had to give up my life to avoid such a thing like being in a fake relationship with Rider, then that's the risk I'll take. I do it to protect who I am as a person and that is to always be honest when it comes to fame." She said causing me to smile proudly for what she's doing. I have to remind myself to call her.
"Well I'm sorry you went through all this against your will. I hope things work out for you in the future." Jimmy said to her sincerely.
"Thank you, Jimmy." Bella smiled.
"So you're not seeing anyone." Jimmy said to be clear.
"Well," Bella started hesitating again. "I wouldn't say that." She said causing me to sit up straight immediately.
"Wait, you are seeing someone, but it's not Rider?" Jimmy asked in confusion, and mostly surprised.
"Well, when you put it that way, yes." Bella answered causing murmurs to go ahead.
"Who is it? Is it someone we know?" Jimmy asked.
"I don't think so. You might in the future, but for now, you don't know who he is." Bella said. "Our relationship, … its new to the both of us. We're seeing how this works out."
"And wait, was this guy okay with you going along with Rider?" Jimmy asked in surprised.
"He actually encouraged me to do it knowing Rider's lies." Bella said. "He was so selfless that he wanted to save my career more than he cared about how it affects us. Seeing how much he cares about me makes me love him even more. He's made me feel things no guy has ever done. I love him, immensely." She said causing the audience to awe at her as I smiled at her words.
"Well, I am very happy to hear that Bella. And I hope to meet this lucky guy who has your heart." Jimmy smiled big.
"I hope so too." Bella smiled.
"Well, that wraps about this show for tonight." Jimmy announced as the music started playing. "Big thanks to Bella Swan for being here. See her on Rainbow Garden where their final season will premiere next year in January and you can listen to her album Shine on iTunes, Spotify, and others in store. See you next time!" He said as he and Bella waved to the camera before it ended the show.
"Well I'm glad we got to watch the show." Demetri said causing us to roll our eyes.
"Says the guy who lost two hundred dollars." Ben said.
"Well I'm glad we got to see it, along with millions of others who watched it tonight." Jane said as she looked at her phone. "This whole thing is trending right now and people are having a big reaction about the Bella and Rider scandal."
"How bad is it?" Seth asked as I worried that fans are now hating Bella for the lie and breaking fans' hearts.
"It's an even match on who they pissed at the most for being lied to and deceived of ruining their Bella and Rider fantasies." Jane said. Well, at least the fans aren't angry at just Bella. "But I guess we'll find out tomorrow when we get more information."
"There's that and most of all finding out who's Bella's boyfriend she's seeing." Jessica said as she starting going on her laptop for her web forum. "Everyone is now dying to know who she's with."
"Do you think it's someone she met when she got back to L.A.?" Heidi asked.
"Hard to say." Jessica said as she was typing while also thinking about it. "There are a lot of plausible options. It's not Jacob, that's for sure so people who ship Bella and Jacob needs to just shut up and drop it."
"Well even if it's not Jacob and Rider, there are a lot of hot celebs and famous people around. How do we know they aren't seeing anyone other than Bella? Not to mention, where is their connection with her?" Jane asked.
"Yeah, how do we know she's telling the truth that she really is dating someone? It could be another scandal for publicity or something." Alec pointed out.
"You don't know that!" I said to him as my eyebrows crinkled.
"How would you know?" Alec said to me.
"Because – …" I stopped myself, seeing that I slipped up, again. I can never control myself when it involves Bella. However, thinking about it now, since Bella told the whole world of her secret being in a scandal she wanted no part of, I figured I tell my friends my secret.
"Because," I took a deep breath and let it out. "I'm the guy. I'm the one that's dating Bella Swan."
There was complete silence in the room and everyone just stared at me. As if they were waiting for me to continue. Was there more I should say, or did I not say it at all?
That's when Ben grinned and gave out a laugh. "Ha, that's a good one, Edward. For a minute, I thought you said that you're the one that's dating the Bella Swan." He said.
"Yeah man, you really had me going there." Alec laughed. Are you fucking serious? I thought.
My hands lifted in the air, hoping that my expression was showing just how serious I was, "I'm not joking," Then I paused, clarifying, "I am dating Bella. We've been dating since like September a week after her birthday."
"Ah man, this is better than pay-per-view." Seth said as he was watching me excitedly while munching on those snack popcorns.
"Stop, I'm going to piss my pants off." Demetri said, as he was on the floor, laughing his ass off.
Unbelievable. I thought as I saw the guys laughing at me while the girls gave me looks of pity. Jessica, however, didn't react to neither. She had somehow gone pale ridiculously at the last minute.
"How did I... not see this?" She was looking down, seeming to be on the verge of a nervous breakdown. "It was so obvious." I was more stupefied than she is right now. Did she actually think that my confession made sense?
"Jess, you can't honestly think that…" Angela looked at me trying to find a nice way to say it. She looked back at Jessica leaving her sentence hanging the second Jessica's eyes narrowed. Within the next moment, she was gathering a deep breath, and everyone in this room was returning to her, knowing just exactly what was about to ensue–the grand explanation.
"Edward is dating a girl named Isabella, Bella's birth name." Jessica started off as she waved off at Heidi when she was about to protest. She continued without hesitation. "Yes, yes, we all brushed it off as a coincident, along with the fact that she's out of town. Where exactly? How come no one has spoken about her before? Not to mention all the "after school activities," does it seem like a coincident? Maybe it's because that Isabella is actually busy with her acting and singing!"
Jessica let out a heavy sigh then, "I mean, most obvious of all, Bella Swan was seeing someone, when she wasn't seen since her birthday party. Where we know that she's been hanging with us on that weekend before they returned to L.A. Come on, guys, it's all there!"
"Okay, I'm not challenging you to another bet, not because I don't wanna lose more money, but I don't think any of that is enough reason to believe what he's saying. Edward might not even have a girlfriend, and this could all just be some big prank he's been planning for a while." Demetri said.
I stared at Demetri in disbelief. "Do you even know me… at all?" What kind of guy do they take me for, plotting a prank? Do they think I would've pulled it off if I wasn't dating Bella?
"The only way I could even start to believe anything that you're saying is if we get some solid proof." Heidi said.
"And that would mean we hear it from Bella ourselves." Alec said. "We want to ask her ourselves without you giving her a warning or some kind to back you up."
Just then, my phone started ringing and I saw that Bella was FaceTiming me.
"Speaking of whom." I said as I answered seeing Bella's face on screen. "Hi, love."
"Hi Edward." Bella smiled.
"I miss you." I said.
"I miss you too." Bella said.
"You look beautiful." I said seeing the outfit she wore on Jimmy's show.
"Please, I'm probably a mess. Especially with what happened tonight." Bella said as she looked away.
"Nonsense, you look amazing." I said.
"You're too kind." Bella looked at me with a smile.
"Hey, it's because I love you." I smiled.
"I love you too." Bella said. "I love you so much that I – Oh, hi guys." She said, looking at me in surprise. It was then I realized I completely forgot about my friends who are right behind me, all with their mouths hanging open as they looked at Bella, completely dumbstruck. I guess they are now convinced.
"You are dating him?!" Demetri asked, Bella, who was more surprised and confused as she looked at me.
"I told them about us." I explained to her. "We saw the show."
"Oh," Bella said. "So you saw everything? Including what I said to Rider?"
"Of his real name, yes." I said. "I can't believe you actually confessed even at the risk of your life."
"Well I hate lying while also leaving you in the shadows like that. All I know is that nothing matters to me as long as I have you." Bella said.
"Bella, you didn't have to do that, but I'm glad you did. Now we can be free to be together." I smiled to her.
"That we can." Bella smiled.
"So you and Edward are indeed dating?" Seth asked to be sure.
"Yes, Edward and I have been dating for a few weeks now." Bella said.
"Actually, it's been exactly a month as of this time." I smirked causing Bella to giggle.
"You are a hopeless romantic, Cullen." She said.
"Touché, Swan." I said.
"Wow, I can't believe it." Angela said. "Edward's dating Bella Swan!"
"They are going to be the hottest celebrity couple!" Jane squealed as the girls were jumping up and down with excitement.
"Well not yet." Alec pointed out with a smile. "Edward needs to make it to the NFL to be a celebrity."
"Not a problem with Slayward here!" Ben said as he flung his arm over my shoulders and gave me a shake while everyone was congratulating me on being Bella Swan's boyfriend, making me happy to have friends like them who are happy for the news Bella and I shared.
"Um, hey, can you guys do us a favor and not say anything about our relationship to anyone? Especially to the press?" Bella asked my friends.
"What? Why?" Jessica asked in confusion.
"Because we're not ready to tell the world about us. We're still new at this. Only our families and Bella's friends know about us." I explained to them.
"And plus, thanks to Rider, we can't exploit our relationship now since that would caused a lot of talk. Especially since I confessed that I am seeing someone. I didn't say it was you though, Edward." Bella said.
"I'm okay with that." I said.
"Well, if you're that serious about it, then don't worry. Your secret is safe with us!" Jessica assured her.
"Thanks you guys." Bella said and then let out a yawn. "Well, I should go to bed. I had a long day."
"I'll see you in the morning?" I asked.
"Most definitely." Bella smiled. "I love you."
"I love you too." I said.
"Bye guys." She said as the others waved to her before she signed off. I placed my phone down, not getting rid of the smile on my face. The world now knows that Rider lied about his relationship with Bella and is caught in a lie along with Renee, his manager, and the publicity people for that stunt. Now, Bella and I can continue our relationship until the time comes for us to tell the world about us. And when that time comes, hopefully, it's more positive than Bella's relationship with Rider.
"Okay, now that that's out of the way," Demetri said and then spun the chair I was sitting on around facing him and the others whose expression changed from happiness to not so pleased. "You got some explaining to do, you know that?"
"Like how could you have kept this a secret from us for this long!" Jane said with an intimidating death glare.
Ah fuck. I thought, knowing I was expecting this to happen.
Well guys, are you happy with how it turned out? But don't think this is the end. It's only the beginning. Just keep on following me on my social media pages to know when the next update will come. They are in my bio to find. And follow my podcast if you please. It would mean a lot. Please review.