Chapter 4: Freak Out

Edward

Fidgeting beside Bella's car, I was at a loss—an unfamiliar sensation. Bella was an enigma, a puzzle that intrigued me more with each fleeting moment. And I? I was tumbling—hard and fast—down a rabbit hole of emotion, chasing after the proverbial white rabbit that was Bella. She beckoned me into the unknown, her allure as compelling as the mysterious guide in Wonderland. The worst part? I was willingly following, letting the white rabbit lead me deeper into uncharted territories of the heart. A place where logic faltered and the impossible seemed within reach.

"Drive safe," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper, letting my worry show just a little. "Would you please send me a text when you get home?"

"Of course," she replied, her voice steady, easing my worry some.

I leaned in, aiming for her cheek. Our lips met instead. A jolt. Her softness against mine, and my world tilted. Thoughts scattered. Promises to myself, shattered. Desire surged, overwhelming, consuming. I yearned to taste her, to declare my love.

Where did these thoughts come from? I recoiled, breaking the kiss. Ludicrous. Two days and I'm smitten? Was this even a date?

I stepped back, hand to neck, feeling the rapid beat of my heart against my fingertips. "Sorry." The feel of her lips lingered on mine.

She'll never…

Her touch halted my spiral. "Don't be," she whispered, her voice a soft caress against the turmoil inside me. "It was nice, unexpected, but nice."

My jaw dropped.

"I had fun," she beamed. "Let's do it again."

I exhaled, a shaky breath betraying the calm I tried to project. She was unexpected. More than I deserved. Like my dad said of mom. Another pro.

'Hell,' I thought, 'might as well add her worried glance at the check to the pros.'

"I'll be gone for the next three weeks on business trips," I said reminded her, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "Can I call when I get back?"

Bella's lower lip quivered as she caught it between her teeth, her eyes flitting nervously across the parking lot. Her breaths came in short, sharp intakes, visible in the crisp morning air. She seemed to be searching for something—or someone—in the distance before her gaze reluctantly met mine again. "You know you can call me while you're gone, too, if you want."

Her fingers twisted together, betraying her calm facade. The breakfast we'd shared lay heavy in my stomach, a stark contrast to the lightness of her touch just moments ago. Now, in the small parking lot, time seemed to stretch and contract with each glance she cast over her shoulder.

"Is there somewhere you need to be?" I asked, the words tasting of rejection even as I fought to keep my tone neutral. The early morning light cast long shadows across the parking lot, giving the scene an eerie stillness.

Memories of past heartaches flickered in my mind, but I pushed them away. This wasn't about me. Bella was free, unbound by any claim I might wish to lay.

Her eyes met mine again, a flicker of something like fear passing through them. "No. I'm avoiding someone. I don't know if he lives in the area or not," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, carrying the weight of unspoken stories.

"Who?" The question slipped out, driven by a protective instinct I had forgotten I possessed. Yes, I protected my friends from harm, from themselves, even from the shadows that lurked in their own minds. But this—this was different. It was as if Bella had unwittingly become the queen of my own personal Wonderland, a realm where the usual rules didn't apply, and my emotions played the cards.

In the past, my protectiveness was a calculated move, like a chess player foreseeing danger and shielding his king. It was logical, detached. But with Bella, it was visceral, a reflex that sprang from a place I didn't know existed within me. It was as though she had bypassed all my defenses, touching a raw nerve that sparked with an intensity that was both exhilarating and terrifying.

During our brief kiss, it wasn't just our lips that had met—it was as if our very souls had brushed against each other, leaving a mark that couldn't be erased. The memory of her lips lingered, igniting a fierce desire to shield her from any specter that might haunt her, be it the guy she was avoiding or any other threat that dared to come too close.

It was a madness, a kind of enchantment that I couldn't shake off. And as I stood there, watching her battle her own demons, I realized that protecting Bella wasn't just a reaction; it was becoming my retribution, my way of making amends for all the times I couldn't protect those I cared about. It was a chance to do something right in a world that often felt so wrong.

She hesitated, her eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that held me captive. "Jacob Black," she breathed out, the name hanging between us like a specter.

A shiver coursed through her, and she wrapped her arms around herself as if to ward off a chill. Her gaze darted around the area once more, a hunted look in her eyes that sent a jolt of concern through me.

Silence enveloped me as I racked my brain for any recollection of the name. Nothing.

Bella's arms wrapped tighter around herself, her body trembling as tears cascaded down her cheeks. Instinctively, I pulled her into my embrace, my hands moving in soothing circles on her back. "I don't know him, but I'll find out if he's still around," I murmured, my voice a low promise in the quiet of the dawn.

Her response was a heart-wrenching sob that echoed in the empty space between us. She clung to me, her grip desperate, her body racked with fear. I couldn't—wouldn't—leave her like this. Emmett and Jasper would have to understand.

"Edward?" Angela's voice cut through the thick air, tinged with worry.

I glanced up, meeting her concerned eyes. "Is everything okay?"

Words failed me. I could only hope Angela understood the silent plea in my eyes. I looked down at Bella, then back at Angela, willing her to read the situation.

Angela approached, her hand gently landing on Bella's quaking back. "Do you want me to call the base? Your dad?"

Bella's dad... did he live in Forks? Confusion swirled within me. We hadn't talked about family much.

Bella's head shook, her finger pointing skyward—a gesture lost on me. My gaze flicked back to Angela, seeking clarity.

"Is there anyone I can call?" Angela's voice was soft, yet it seemed to amplify Bella's distress.

Her tears intensified, her fingers digging into the fabric of my shirt. The situation was slipping through my fingers like sand.

Angela's eyebrow arched, her glance shifting between Bella and me, a silent question hanging in the air. Was I the cause? I shook my head vehemently, mouthing the name Bella had whispered.

Recognition flashed in Angela's eyes, and she spun slowly, her gaze lingering on the treeline that bordered the parking lot. "Take her home, Edward. And by home, I mean Cullen Manor."

The mention of Cullen Manor struck a chord. The sprawling estate was nestled in the heart of the woods—a place of tranquility and seclusion. Angela's suggestion wasn't random; she understood the healing power of the serene environment that surrounded my family's home. And she knew my father, with his medical expertise, would be there.

Angela's gaze locked onto mine, her expression grave. "The woods... they have a way of calming the nerves," she said, a hint of assurance in her voice. "And your dad... he can help, if needed."

Understanding the unspoken urgency, I lifted Bella into my arms and made my way to my car, parked a few spots away. Angela's words echoed in my mind, painting a picture of safety and recovery that only Cullen Manor could offer.

As I settled Bella into the passenger seat, Angela's hand rested briefly on the door. "She'll be okay there," she murmured, more to herself than to me. "It's the best place for her right now."

I closed the door, allowing myself a moment to survey the area. Turning to Angela, my voice was a low murmur. "Thank you."

Her eyes, dark with concern, rested briefly on the car—on Bella—before meeting mine. "I'll call you later," she said, her tone firm yet gentle. "Keep Bella safe, that's all that matters now."

A nod was all I could muster as I rounded the car. Angela's subtle cues had spoken volumes, and I was grateful for her insight. Whatever she knew, it was serious—serious enough to delay explanations. I shook my head, trying to dispel the unease that settled over me like a fog.

Settling into the driver's seat, I took a deep breath, my eyes finding Bella. She was curled inward, arms clasping her torso, tears streaming down her cheeks. A wave of concern washed over me. She was practically a stranger, yet here I was, taking her to my parents' house. It felt right, necessary even. The urge to protect her was overwhelming, instinctual.

I pulled out my phone, fingers tapping out a message with haste.

Dad, bringing a friend over. She's scared and needs a safe place. Might need your help. -E

Bella remained motionless, a stark contrast to the lively girl I'd shared breakfast with. Now, she seemed lost in a world of fear.

What happened outside the diner? Who is Jacob Black? Why does he terrify her?

Questions raced through my mind, swirling like mist around a runner's legs.

I started the car, backing out onto the road. Reaching over, I gently touched her knee, a silent reassurance that she wasn't alone.

Gradually, she unfolded, her hand finding mine, her grip tentative but firm. Her sobs subsided, replaced by ragged breaths. If not for Angela's directive, I'd be driving her straight to the hospital. But for now, I'd take her to a place where she could feel safe, where she could breathe again.

~~ Black Cat ~~

Dad was standing on the porch as I pulled into the gravel drive. I inhaled deeply, turning to Bella, silently pleading for her to speak. Yet, she remained as she had throughout the drive—silent, withdrawn.

Through the window, I saw my father, arms crossed, his expression a mirror of my own concern.

"Bella, you're safe here," I assured her.

"Safe! I'll never be safe," she murmured, her breath ragged as if she'd run miles without stopping.

What has she endured?

"You can talk to me," I urged gently. "I know we are still getting to know each other, but I want to help you."

Tears shimmered in her eyes, but she didn't shrink away. Instead, she met my gaze, vulnerable yet seeking. I reached out, cradling her face, my thumb brushing away a tear.

"I'll make you feel safe, whether you share your story or not."

Bella blinked and more tears spilled over. "Why?" Her voice was a whisper, rough with emotion. "Why would you help me?"

My eyes flicked to my father, still on the porch. Waiting. Patience was his strength. My gaze shifted back to Bella.

"Because you look like you could use someone in your corner. And it pains me to see you in such distress," I whispered, wiping away another tear.

A sad smile touched her lips. "Thank you," she hiccupped, her attention shifting to the window. "Who's that on the porch?"

"That's my father, Carlisle. He's aware of the situation."

At my words, she tensed, but her gaze remained fixed outside.

"He knows you're frightened, nothing more," I added.

She relaxed slightly, the tightness in her shoulders easing.

"He's a doctor," I explained. "If you would like him to, he can check you out, you could even talk with him. He's a great listener. Anything you say will stay confidential unless he's worried about your safety."

Bella's nod was ambiguous, but I chose to interpret it as understanding. After exiting the car, I signaled for Dad to hold back. I then opened the passenger door to assist Bella.

"Is there anyone else I should be aware of?" she inquired, her gaze sweeping the area critically, her breathing more even now, but still hitching.

I surveyed the tranquil scene. Birds chirped, a woodpecker rhythmically tapped, and the wind danced through the leaves. The nearby stream's murmur had grown, hinting at rain upstream. Just the usual symphony of the woods. I closed the door and watched her take it all in.

"It's beautiful here," Bella remarked, turning to face me. "I've always wanted to live somewhere like this, surrounded by nature."

I stepped closer, resting a hand on her shoulder. She looked back, her smile gentle, her tension visibly easing. "My parents fell in love with this place for its peace," I shared, my voice low. "My mom, Esme, might be around—she had a client meeting, but I'm not sure if it's here or in Port Angeles." I gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Let's head inside."

Hand extended, she accepted the gesture. Her hand in mine felt right, as if it had always belonged there. Together, we approached the porch where my father stood waiting, his presence a comforting constant.

Dad's warm smile greeted her as he offered his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir."

"The pleasure is mine," Dad responded, releasing her hand. "My son tells me you had a little"—he paused and tapped his lips with the index finger of his right hand—"freak out moment."

"I did," she admitted, her voice steadier than before. "He did the right thing by getting me away from the diner. I was able to calm myself down some on the way here."

Dad's eyes flicked to me, a silent question in his gaze. "Angela thought it best for Bella to come here," I said, deflecting the actual question in his eyes—was I dating again? "Bella, can you tell us why?"

Bella's eyes met mine, a storm of emotions swirling within them. "It's complicated," she began, her voice a mere whisper, betraying the turmoil beneath her calm exterior. "But I'm grateful for the sanctuary you've offered."

Bella

My gaze shifted between father and son, noting the silent exchange—a raised eyebrow from Carlisle, a subtle nod from Edward. They seemed to converse without words. I tried to tap into that silent dialogue, to penetrate Edward's thoughts, but was met with a solid wall. It wasn't surprising; I didn't know him well, and some minds were simply more accessible than others.

A wave of gratitude for Angela's timely intervention outside the diner washed over me. My silence after Edward's questions had been a reflex, a sort of panic. They deserved some truth, but not the entire story.

"Jacob Black," I murmured, hoping the name alone would suffice.

"You mentioned him at the diner. Who is he?" Edward's inquiry was calm, his posture relaxed against the porch railing, arms folded.

I couldn't help but admire Edward's composed demeanor, a stark contrast to the turmoil churning inside me. His casual lean against the railing exuded a steadiness that offered a sliver of comfort amidst my distress.

I hesitated. Revealing too much, too soon, could jeopardize the fragile thread of our budding friendship. "An ex-boyfriend," I admitted after a heavy sigh. "The breakup was... tumultuous."

Edward exchanged a brief glance with Carlisle, another silent conversation passing between them before Edward gestured towards his father with a hand, as if to say, 'Your turn.'

Carlisle's voice broke the silence. "That doesn't clarify why my son felt the need to text me for assistance."

My shoulders drooped. Was my turmoil so profound that I'd lost pieces of my memory? "I... I don't remember," I confessed.

Edward stepped closer, his hands enveloping mine. "You cried all the way here. I was concerned we might need to go to the hospital."

The tightness in my chest made sense now. Perhaps I should accept the help Edward had offered on his father's behalf. "Jacob used to live in La Push. I'm not sure if he's still there."

Edward opened his mouth, but I cut him off, "I thought I saw him today. I know that doesn't fully explain my reaction. When I know you better and trust you more, I'll tell you the whole story. Right now, I can't risk losing a potential friend."

Edward's mouth opened and closed, no words coming out, resembling a fish gasping for air.

"That's fair," Carlisle interjected, understanding in his tone.

I managed a smile, despite my labored breathing. "Edward mentioned you're a doctor."

He nodded, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"My chest feels tight, and I don't have my inhaler," I said, slightly embarrassed.

Carlisle's chuckle was warm. "Let's go inside. I'll have a listen."

As I moved to follow, dizziness overcame me, and darkness enveloped my vision.

Edward

My eyes widened as Bella began to fall forward. Instinctively, I wrapped my arms around her, preventing her from hitting the ground. Time seemed to slow as we both went down, with Bella landing gently on top of me. I lowered my head, searching for the warmth of her breath against my cheek, but found none. Had the shock of the morning finally caught up with her?

"Dad," I called out, cradling her close after sitting up.

With swift concern, he was at our side in two long strides, kneeling next to us. "I don't know what happened," I admitted as he began his examination.

He nodded, checking his watch while holding Bella's wrist. "We need to get her inside, now."

Carefully, I slid my arm beneath her and stood, carrying her through the screen door Dad held open.

"On the couch, elevate her feet," he instructed.

I laid her down, propping her feet up. Glancing up, I saw Mom hand Dad his black medical bag. He quickly placed a pulse oximeter on Bella's finger.

"Edward, is she on any medication?" Mom's voice was laced with concern.

I shook my head. "It's our first date."

"What do you know about her?" she pressed.

"She's with Star Command, recently transferred to Forks," I replied, handing her my phone. "Her name's Isabella. Check my contacts for her last name; she's under Bella."

Mom retreated to the kitchen, phone in hand. Moments later, she was speaking softly to someone.

Turning back to Dad, I noticed the grave expression on his face as he listened through his stethoscope. "What's wrong?"

He shook his head, a silent signal that he couldn't discuss it now. "She needs oxygen, Edward."

My gaze dropped to the oximeter. "65%." Alarm coursed through me. "Should we call an ambulance?"

"Star Command is on their way," Mom announced, reentering the living room.

A knock at the door caught us off guard—no car sounds, no footsteps. I approached the door cautiously and opened it to reveal three uniformed beings, their species unknown to me, with blue shoulder panels on their uniforms.

"We're from Star Command Medical," one said. "I'm Doctor Candela."

Her skin was a purplish hue, her hair a mesmerizing midnight black with stars dancing within.

"This is Nurse Seacole," she gestured to a lizard-skinned individual, "and Nurse Breckinridge," indicating another with sea-green skin and fiery red-orange hair.

"We are here to examining Admiral Swan," Candela continued.

Admiral? I glanced back at Bella, lying motionless on the couch.

Dad was still kneeling next to Bella. A more pronounced frown on his face as he pressed a stethoscope to the crease of her elbow.

Mom was fussing about in the living room, straightening a few pictures on the wall.

"Come in," I said, moving to the side to let the three enter. "Bella's on the couch."

Dad stood, greeting Candela with a handshake. "Sarah, thank you for coming."

He knew her? This was news to me.

Candela's voice chimed like a high-pitched bell. "What can you tell me, Carlisle?"

With that, Mom and I stepped out, leaving Dad to fill in the details.

~~ Black Cat ~~

Leaning against the kitchen counter, I stared down at the floor, my thoughts racing. "Damn it, I should've taken Bella to the hospital when her breathing worsened."

Mom's hand came to rest on my back, her touch grounding. "Don't blame yourself, Edward. You couldn't have predicted this."

I turned to face her, finding worry etched into her features—a worry for both Bella and me.

With a reassuring smile, she asked, "Why didn't you tell me you were seeing someone?"

I ran a hand through my hair, a mix of frustration and affection in my voice. "I only met Bella on Thursday," I explained, recounting the whirlwind of events that had led to this moment.

The corners of my mouth lifted as I spoke.

As I finished, my phone erupted with a ring and a buzz, jolting me from the memory. It was Angela. I hesitated for a moment, before hitting ignore. I'd call her back later.

I glanced back towards the living room where Dad and Sarah were deep in conversation.

"You look worried, Edward," Mom said. "More so than usual."

I exhaled, a weight pressing on my chest. "That I am," I confessed, sharing with what I was experience, what I was feeling.

Mom's voice softened, her eyes reflecting a memory. "When your father was in residency, I saw many young people come through the ER, scared and alone. It's a natural instinct to want to protect, to heal. You did what you felt was right, Edward. That's all anyone can do." She paused, her gaze returning to the present. "And it's clear you care deeply for Bella, even in such a short time. She's lucky to have you here with her now, and whatever happens, we're here for both of you."