Bella's Point of View

The classroom wasn't the most intimate setting, but I found myself getting completely lost in Edward's beauty and transfixed by his smooth voice. I sat at one of the desks, while he lingered, just arms-length away from me. Our close proximity left me breathless and very distracted.

The lights were dimmed, the sky was clouded over; which prevented any sunlight from bleeding through the glass windows. The room was dark, the only sound was our hushed conversations and the thudding of my own heart.

Our conversation had turned to lighter topics, we were catching up, it felt like I hadn't spoken to him for such a long time. Even though it was no more than a week now. He had been avoiding me, keeping me completely shut out of his life. So we took a moment to delve into the inner happenings of our lives. Unsurprisingly, Edward allowed me to do most of the talking. When the topic turned in his direction, he would always skillfully turn the conversation back to me. He was a private man, I could respect that, but it didn't change the fact that it drove me insane. I desperately wanted to know him. But he wasn't about to make that an easy feat.

Occasionally, I felt his hand brush against mine. I kept my hands firmly planted on the desk, frozen in anticipation of his cold touch. His golden eyes didn't leave mine. I attempted to remain expressionless, but in reality, I was giddy.

"Things have become complicated, now that Jacob has decided to move into town. The whole reason I left Forks was to get away from him and have a fresh start. Now he is here, looming over me, everywhere I go." I muttered, letting my hand run down the length of my casted leg. The dull ache was beginning to get sharper.

Edward noticed, his eyes flickering down at my leg. A frown highlighted his face for a moment. "So, I can assume you aren't his imprint."

I shook my head, forcing myself not to flinch. It still took me by surprise that Edward knew so much about werewolves, but claims he isn't one. It didn't make sense. There had to be some way his family and the pack were connected.

"No, I'm not. When we were dating, I thought… maybe someday he would imprint on me. I was foolishly hopeful. But that day never came. Then Amelia came into the picture and completely put an end to that idea."

Again, Edward distracted me as he gently traced his fingertips against the top of my hand. His movements were so soft, like being touched by a feather. There was some level of caution with each moment of contact.

"It must have been heart-breaking, to lose someone you once loved."

"It was the most painful thing I've ever been through. I thought for a second I wasn't going to be able to move on with my life. But things are much different now. I've moved on."

To my disappointment, Edward withdrew his hand from mine completely, a more guarded look came to his face as he began to take shallow breaths. My heart sank. Did I say or do something wrong?

There was a moment of silence between us, before he finally broke the silence.

"Are you sure you don't have any lingering feelings for him? He is the father of your child after all." He said as he watched me carefully, his breathing slowly turning to normal.

"He'll always be connected to me through our daughter, that's true. But our connection is just that. Mia. There are no feelings. Just our commitment to being her parents."

Edward nodded, appearing pleased with my answer. A subtle calmness washed over him. He relaxed his entire body and as a reward, his hand lingered on mine once again. "And that boy that escorted you to class today?"

"Like I said, Connor is a good friend of mine and my neighbor."

"It's very apparent that he has feelings for you as well."

Was it really that obvious? I only had just started to notice that Connor was showing a romantic interest in me. Had I not noticed? Or was I just trying to avoid letting our friendship change. I really depended on Connor's friendship. It's not that he would have been a bad choice… I just never saw him that way.

Instead of answering him, I decided to ask him a question. "Does that bother you?"

"Actually, it does, quite a bit." He relented. There was not an ounce of shame or embarrassment on his face. He kept completely somber. I couldn't read him.

I hadn't expected him to say that. He was excellent at taking me off guard. It took me a moment to recollect myself.

"Why is that?"

He finally glanced away from me, a hint of emotion flicking behind his topaz eyes. "I don't know. I find myself… with a lot of conflicting emotions when it comes to you. I haven't exactly sorted it all out yet…"

"Well, I've only recently realized Connor may have interests in me. So, I haven't given it much thought. Because of my past with relationships, dating isn't exactly something I was focusing on." I admitted sheepishly.

Edward nodded, appearing slightly relieved, letting his eyes return to me once again. "Very sensible, but I'm assuming that isn't the case regarding myself."

I felt my cheeks warm but decided to ignore it. "You're… different…"

It was a bit embarrassing to admit that out loud, but I already decided that I didn't want to play games. I would be open and honest with Edward, with the hope that he would be the same with me. For the first time in a long time, I had hope. Maybe I could give this a chance. Maybe I wouldn't end up getting hurt again.

Without warning, he moved his hand from mine and suddenly moved away from me. In seconds he was at his desk, a textbook flipped open. Before I could react, there was a knock at the door to the classroom, causing my heart to fall to the pit of my stomach.

How did he know that someone was approaching? I didn't hear a thing. This only furthered my suspicions. He had very good hearing. There is a list of inhumanly impressive things Edward can do. Not to mention how fast he had been to move away from me.

I understood the reason behind his hasty exit, but it still left me feeling a bit empty and rejected. We could be in trouble if someone walked in on us and made assumptions that we were being… unprofessional. He could lose his job. This relationship isn't without difficulties as well.

"Dr. Cullen, are you in there?" There was seductive voice on the other end of the door. A girl, no doubt. Hoping to gain Edward's attention.

I froze in my seat, watching quietly. I hadn't expected someone to be dropping by like this. Did he plan on meeting with another woman after class today as well? No. Surely, he wouldn't have offered to drive me home if he had been expecting to meet up with someone else.

"Yes, you may come in." Edward answered with a frustrated look on his face. He leaned slightly on the desk, offering a more natural position to be seen in. Nothing suspicious here. Just a teacher seated at his desk and a study across the room at their desk. I shuffled my things to at least look busy.

The door flew open, revealing a young female student. Wearing the finest clothing, tight, sporty and seductive. She was clearly dressed to impress. She practically sprang into the room, bouncing her hips back and forth as she strutted to his desk. Ignoring my very existence.

"What can I do for you?" Edward cleared his throat, barely glancing at her. He appeared to be lost in thought as he flipped delicately through the textbook in his hand.

"I had a question on the homework assignment. Do you have time to explain it to me, please" She fluttered her eyes.

Anger bubbled inside of me, well, maybe anger wasn't the right word. The thought of her getting close to Edward and flirting with him so openly pissed me off. Jealousy isn't an emotion I'm used to feeling. I gritted my teeth in silence as I watched the two of them interact.

"Actually, I was just leaving, but feel free to email me your questions, I'll be sure to help with anything you don't understand," he said as he nonchalantly began gathering his things.

The girl's shoulders slumped, clearly disappointed. But apparently, she finally noticed I was there. Her icy blue eyes pierced through me. "What's going on here? Are you doing personally tutoring… why does she get you all to herself? But I only get an email?" Her tone turned snotty.

"No, this isn't a tutoring session, miss Swan is simply here to make up one of her quizzes she missed." Edward lied smoothly.

The girl clicked her tongue in obvious disapproval, looking towards me, not appearing impressed in the slightest. "Whatever," She muttered a few snide comments as she turned her back to leave the room. I could distinguish some of it, but forced myself to not let it sink in. Her words were cold, she clearly didn't like me at all. She saw me as trash.

The girl slammed the door behind her as she left the two of us alone. Edward visibly relaxed, but he kept a hard expression on his face. "Perhaps we should make our way off campus before we have any further interruptions."

I nodded in agreement and went to carefully lift myself to my feet. Edward was at my side in seconds, causing me to jump in alarm. He was so fast.

His frown deepened as he lightly helped me get steady on my crutches. "Sorry," He muttered quietly. Edward took my supplies and carefully guided me out of the classroom.

The pain in my leg was beginning to get unbearable, but I forced myself to remain quiet. I would need to take some pain medication soon, although the thought was unpleasant. I didn't like to rely on pills. Anything that made me appear weak was something I tried my best to avoid. I'm strong and independent now. New life, new me.

Edward noticed my discomfort, and after surveying the area, I was suddenly lifted into his arms. My body instantly responded; electricity nipped at the points of contact between us.

"Hey," I protested. But my arms circled around his shoulders on impulse. I couldn't stop myself. His scent was intoxicating. My heart was beating hard in my chest. I wanted to be closer. But the thought of someone spotting us like this… would be very bad.

"It's alright, no one is around to see us. I'd rather you not be in pain." He said watching down at me with a dazzling crooked smile. So, there I was, bridal style in my professors arms. The threat of being caught made this moment thrilling. I melted into his arms easily, taking comfort and solace at how close we were.

My breath caught in my throat for a moment as I got lost in his golden eyes. "I'm… pretty heavy…" Was all I could manage to say.

Now he laughed, tilting his head back slightly. "Not in the slightest."

Edward was very strong as well. He had me, all my supplies and my crutches, he wasn't even out of breath. It was as if he had an inhuman amount of strength and stamina. Yet, he claims he isn't a wolf. Whatever he was, I could tell there was potential he could be as dangerous as he had claimed.

I knew that possibility should scare me, but there weren't any alarm bells going off. I didn't feel like I wasn't safe around him. In fact, it was the opposite. I've never felt more protected. His body was so cold and hard, like a precious gemstone. Nothing like how Jacob felt when we would embrace. He was always so warm and soft, even when it wasn't in his wolve form.

Once we reached the teacher's parking lot, the only car left was a shiny, brand-new Volvo. Which I'm assuming was Edward's. I was slightly intimidated as he lightly placed me back onto the ground. He was clearly wealthy. I felt vastly inadequate. What could I possibly offer him? He had money, social standing, he was gorgeous. There wasn't a woman alive that wouldn't want him. So why did he take an interest in me? How could I ever consider allowing myself to get involved with him? We were from completely different worlds.

Edward neatly placed my things in his trunk, before moving to the passenger side door, opening it for me with another charming smile.

My cheeks warmed under his gaze as he helped me get inside. His car was quite spacious, and obviously luxurious. All leather, spotless, it even had that new car smell. I was careful not to move, in fear I would smudge up his car.

As Edward strolled across the front of the car and got into the driver's seat, he handed me my pain medication and a bottle of water. He must have gotten it from my bag. I gave him a thankful look, before swallowing the small bitter pill with a lukewarm sip of water.

"Thanks,"

"No problem,"

For the next few minutes we continued a light conversation, about anything and everything. For once, I felt at peace. It was nice spending time with Edward. Even though I was aware this was on the verge of being mildly inappropriate. He was my professor. I probably shouldn't have gotten into his car and allowed him to drive me home.

But regardless, I was happy. Up until Edward pulled into the parking lot of my apartment building. I knew this meant goodbye. But then, realization hit.

"I don't think I ever mentioned where I lived…" I said with a raised brow.

Edward tensed slightly, giving me a rueful smile, but didn't answer.

"Have you… followed me? To see where I live?"

"I may have checked up on you, from time to time." He admitted quietly.

My heart squeezed tightly. Does that mean that he was worrying about me? Even though he has been pretending that I don't exist for the past week.

"Oh," Was all I could think to say. A tiny smile pulled at my lips.

There was a quiet growl rumbling from Edward's chest as he snapped his head in the direction of the apartment building. His hands squeezed the steering wheel tightly. "Jacob is here. It would be for the best, if I go, before he takes notice of me."

I nodded, quickly moving to open my door. Before I even had the door all the way open, Edward already had my things and was helping me out the door.

"If the circumstances were different, I would have helped you to your apartment." He with a frustrated sigh, his hand went through his mess of bronze hair.

"Don't worry about it, I'm sure Jacob will be more than eager to help me out."

Edward wrinkled his nose slightly, a look of displeasure touching his features. "We will speak more later." He promised as he now moved to get back into his car.

I wanted to ask when, but he was already pulling out and peeling out of the parking lot. Far too fast for my liking. At the same moment, Jacob came into view. He was walking hand in hand with Mia, a tense look on his face. His eyes followed Edward's retreating vehicle. I could see he was visibly shaking.

"Don't tell me he drove you home." His first words were as he made to over to me. Quickly he gathered my backpack and began leading me towards the building.

"Look, it's not your business who drives me home."

"The hell it isn't my business."

I really didn't want to have this argument. It would only anger Jacob further. The last thing I wanted was Mia to see him in that state. It wasn't safe. So, instead, I turned my attention completely on Mia.

"How was your day sweetie pie." I smiled at her warmly.

Mia gave me a groggy smile as she clung to my side. "Good," She replied in a tired voice as she rubbed at her eyes. Clearly, she was worn out. I'm sure she would be ready for a little nap before dinner. So, that would give me some time to speak with Jacob about the legends. He knew what Edward was. And I was ready to get to the bottom of it.

Jacob carried me, still muttering complaints under his breath, but thankfully, his body was no longer trembling. Once we got inside, Rene was waiting for us. She was seated in the living room, her nose in her book. She glanced up for just a moment, before moving her book to the side.

Mia raced over to her, jumping into her lap with a delighted smile. "Gram," She squeaked, burying her face in Rene's chest. Rene responded with equal excitement.

"Baby girl, let's get you ready for a little nap." She cooed, hugging her close as she carried Mia out of the living room.

Jacob moved to the kitchen table to put down my bag. I followed him, letting my crutches lean up against the wall. I couldn't put much weight on my bad leg, but I could move short distances without them. The pain medication was beginning to kick in, which eased up some of my discomfort.

"Can we talk?" I started, taking a deep breath as I hobbled over to sit down at the table. I knew I had some homework to do, but I would be sure to get to that over the weekend. Tonight, I had one thing on my mind. And that was Edward. I would get my answers.

Jacob raised a brow, appearing curious. Usually I would have ushered him out, I made it clear I didn't want to talk with him. I didn't want bothered with him. I wanted to live my life without him in it. So, I'm sure this was a bit of a surprise for him.

As I expected, he pulled out a seat and eagerly sat down with a hopeful look coming to his face. His eyes scanned over me completely. "Of course, what's on your mind."

It appeared that his annoyance from before had melted away completely. As if he had forgotten Edward had been the one to drive me home today. Would he be suspicious if I just brought it up bluntly? And of course, I didn't want Rene catching wind of this conversation either.

"I've been thinking," I paused, trying to gather my thoughts. "You told me Edward and his family is… dangerous."

Jacob tensed but nodded firmly. "Did he do something to you?"

"No, but I think it would be a good idea for me to have more details on him and his family. If he really is dangerous, I want to know why."

"You don't need to know why." Jacob said folding his arms across his chest.

I knew he wasn't going to make this easy for me.

"How can I possibly trust what you're saying if you can't offer me any details or proof that the Cullen's are dangerous."

"I've never lied to you in the past. Why would I start lying to you now?" He challenged.

"Well, you aren't being honest right now, are you? Why can't you give me some details. It would make the choice easier for me to avoid him, if I knew why." I was trying to come across as rational. But deep down in my heart, I knew it wasn't going to be possible for me to avoid Edward. I didn't want to. No matter what Jacob said. But ultimately, if Edward was some kind of dangerous monster, I would have to think of Mia's well-being as well.

Jacob hesitated, leaning back in his seat with a thoughtful look. I sensed his unwillingness to speak. A lengthy silence filled the space between us. In the background, I could hear the water running in the bathroom. Rene must be giving Mia a bath before her nap. That would give us at least a few minutes before she would return.

"If I was still in the pack, I wouldn't be able to tell you anything. I technically can tell you… I just… I don't want to scare you… or worse, you might not want to return to school. I don't want to be the reason that you drop out." He said tentatively.

"That's not going to happen. I don't get scared easily. Remember when you told me about werewolves. I handled that. I'm sure I can handle this as well…"

Jacob sighed heavily. "They are vampires. Our natural enemies. The true purpose of my existence is to kill them. To protect our land and those that inhibit it. Outside of La Push, that duty is no longer my concern. But that doesn't change the fact that I must protect you and Mia from them."

Vampires. Utterly ridiculous. He really wanted me to believe Edward was a creature of the night. Sleeping in coffins? Drinking the blood of innocent people. That just can't be true. He was a doctor. He helped people.

"Jake, come on, you really want me to believe that?"

"It's the truth."

I rolled my eyes, looking away from him completely. "So, why is he able to walk around during the day?"

"Vampires aren't nearly as indestructible as depicted in movies. In this area, direct sunlight is rare, it's the perfect place for them to act human. Their skin gives off a sparkle in the sun," Jacob paused, a look of disgust coming to his face. "And a sickly-sweet scent that is unmistakable. I can smell it all over you." His shoulders shuddered for a moment.

"So what, he is… he kills people?"

Jacob shrugged, sharply turning his eyes off me. "Not the Cullens. But others of their kind absolutely do."

"So, if they don't kill people… why do you consider them dangerous?"

He snorted in response. "They could lose control over their bloodlust in any minute… it would only take a second… they could kill you instantly. Drain all the blood from your body…"

Well, I suppose that is rather dangerous. Just like wolves, they must remain in control of their anger, so they don't accidentally phase and hurt someone. I wonder if control is something Edward had trouble with. Is that why he was so hesitant around me? Would it be safe for Mia to be around him? I'm not sure. At times, I'm worried Jacob isn't safe to be around her as well. This was something I would have to think about. There was a lot to take into consideration here. As ridiculous as all this sounded, Jacob was being completely serious. There wasn't even a hint of deception present. He was telling the truth. But I struggled to wrap my head around the concept of vampires.

"Thanks for telling me Jake. I have a lot to think about."

Jacob raised a brow. "What's there to think about? He is a filthy, blood-sucking demon. You must be out of your mind." He began sounding outraged.

Now I was getting annoyed. "He has done nothing but help me. I don't feel he is any more of a threat than you are. Still, I'm considering everything. And what is best for Mia. I just need some time to think it through." I paused, taking note of the increase of trembling in his arms. "I think it's time for you to go."

Jacob huffed, standing from the table with some haste. A glare was on his face as he began stomping towards the door. "Well, I hope you think damn hard about this. Because if I see you around that leech again, I'll kill him myself." He threatened.

His threats didn't phase me. I was accustomed to Jacob's tantrums and cruel words. Although, something was slightly different about him. His anger seemed much less controlled than usual. He had always been a patient, kind person. But since he left the pack, he is different. Moody. Sulking. Overly aggressive. I don't know what was going on with him. I understood he has gone through a lot these past few days, but I wasn't going to excuse this behavior for much longer.

Sorry these updates as so few and far in between. I'm back in college, working full time and have a very active one year old. But occasionally, I do find some spare time to update! So, thank you all for waiting for me. I hope these updates don't disappoint!