* I hope you are enjoying the first two chapters!

Sorry for any grammar/spelling mistakes!

xoxoxo -Jen*

New Beginnings

Jasper pov:

I walked downstairs to the living room after my hunt, Luckily everybody else went to Alaska. I decided to stay home from the trip, the Denalis are a fellow vegetarian coven in Alaska. Usually, I tagged along but lately being around everyone's emotions has been extremely draining, to say the least. Rose was in one of her moods of feeling constant agony, she hated being a vampire. She wished she could've had that perfect human life with a husband and kids, the fact that it was unattainable frequently bothered her. Emmet was anxious that Rose was upset and trying to find different ways to comfort her. I sighed while taking a seat on the couch. Alice was a whole different story she was full of anxiety about the future. Sometime last week she had a vision while hunting and has been avoiding everyone ever since, we see very little of her nowadays besides at school. Edward on the other hand was happy, he decided to befriend a human girl at school. Bella Swan is the school's newest toy. The amount of lust I feel from the students now makes me feel extremely uncomfortable, like typical human teenagers and raging hormones. Edward has a thing for this human, I haven't paid her much attention I try to stay away. The amount of lust coming off these teenagers just by being in the same room as her was insane I couldn't imagine being in the same vicinity. Rosalie was extremely irritated that Edward was involving himself with a human but I always sensed a tinge of jealousy from her. Rosalie wasn't interested in Edward but Bella had everything she didn't, Bella's beauty matched with Rosalies and I'm sure that added to the jealousy.

Rosalie and Emmet were mates and so were Carlisle and Esme my 'parents' that adopted me and Rose. I find myself avoiding them most of the time, Don't get me wrong I love my family but they are a constant reminder of what I didn't have. A mate. I sighed and turned on the TV, I hated thinking about love it was so out of my reach. I have waited 161 years for someone and at this point, I have accepted that it wouldn't happen for me, the easiest way to forget was to avoid the happy couples when I could. Alice and Edward didn't have mates either but it didn't bother them like it did me, Edward was comfortable being single and Alice was just waiting for a man she once saw in a vision. For us vampires when we meet our mates there's no mistaking it, once you make eye contact it's like the whole world disappears and your souls connect. Rose and Emmet say they can feel each other's emotions through the bond and have a way of communicating no matter the distance. I used to be hopeful and actively try and search for her but always came home more hurt than when I left. I spent many years fighting in the wars with Maria thinking I was in love when I was just controlled and manipulated. I hope the universe wasn't punishing me for all the horrible and horrific things I did, I hate myself every day for it but do I deserve to be alone for eternity?

Edwards pov:

Something about this Bella was extremely enticing not to mention I couldn't hear her mind, she smelled like lavender but her blood wasn't any more tempting than the others. I spent the week looking forward to our chats in music and biology, she was quite smart and talented in the music department. I find myself wanting to know her more and figure her out, I knew some of my family didn't approve but somehow Carlisle approved. I knew he silently hoped I would find someone to fall in love with, Esme wasn't much better she practically always thinks about me and Bella together. I certainly could see myself falling for Bella, she was everything I would want in a partner besides her being human. I know it would be hard but she would be worth every struggle, I found myself extremely curious about her. The night we first met I had snuck in her room and got her phone number while she was showering. Sure I was slightly jealous that she was so open to going on a date with Mike Newton but wasn't too worried about it. Mike Newton had a thing for bouncing from one girl to another so eventually he would lose interest in Bella and I could swoop in. She was such a character, she was such a free spirit and had a little sas when it came to Jessica Stanley. Fortunately for me, Jessica started fawning for Mike Newton this year instead of following me around like a lost puppy. Jessica knew how to get under people's skin and it seemed she was trying her best to get under Bella's. I found it hilarious when Jessica threw a hissy fit after finding out Mike and Bella had gone on a date, I couldn't help myself by laughing.

Today I was on a hunting trip in Alaska with the family, well besides Jasper hes been having a hard time lately so he stayed home. I worry about him, his thoughts were usually very dark and concerning, I knew he was miserable and hoped to find a mate. I had attempted to talk to him about it last week but he shrugged me off not wanting to talk about his feelings. I find it ironic how the empath never seemed to share his feelings, I know it makes him uncomfortable that I can hear his thoughts. I love Jasper like a brother but out of respect for him and honestly my sanity I try to keep my distance. He knows I love him but he constantly torments himself with memories, I just hope one day he finds peace.

Bella pov:

Last Tuesday Mike and I had gone on a date to the Ice cream parlor after school, we hit it off but I could tell he took it more seriously than I did. Every day he would walk me to class, eat lunch with me, and walk me and Ange to my car. We have another date on Saturday at the local diner and I was quite excited. It had been ages since I had gone to the Forks diner, Charlie was happy that Mike and I had hit off pretty well, and Mike was certainly Charlie approved.

My first week flew by so quickly and it was finally Saturday, I checked the clock it was noon. "Goodness Bella sleep much?" I mumbled to myself while sitting up on my bed. I had spent the majority of the night texting Edward of all people! Apparently Edward went on a mini vacation with his family. I found it weird they would go to Alaska for two days but I never did understand rich people. I grabbed a new change of clothes and headed to the bathroom for a quick shower, I somehow managed to get sweaty while I slept so a shower was essential. I took my time with my shower and skincare, I had a date with Mike and needed to look my best. I quickly blow-dried my hair and put my heatless curls in before I let myself forget. I quickly ran downstairs to grab some cereal when I noticed a note from Charlie. My heart stopped, the last time my parent had left me a note my life came crashing down on me. I snatched up the note.

'Hey Bells, Billy dropped by with Jake this morning. Do you remember them? You and

Jake used to play together on the reservation. He invited me to go fishing so I will be back later. Good luck with your date. Don't worry about dinner I'm going to a fish fry afterwards.

-Love Dad'

I sighed, calm down Bella! Charlie is nothing like Renee he would not just walk out on you. I grabbed a bowl of cereal and sat in front of the TV. I found myself watching random cartoons I was a sucker for cartoons, one of the only things I enjoyed as a kid. It wasn't long before I was debating on my outfit for my date, something casual but still says 'im interested but not desperate.' I pulled out my favorite green overalls and a white shirt underneath. I paired them with my classic Chuck Taylor's and started on my hair and makeup. Mike said he would pick me up at 6 and it was currently 5:30 when I heard a knock at the door. I quickly got up to find a pretty bouquet on the front porch. I searched for a note but found nothing, maybe Mike had them delivered? I quickly grabbed a vase and filled it with water before trimming the bouquet. Mike sent me tulips one of my favorite flowers, I set the flowers down in the middle of the dining room table. I ran up to the bathroom quickly took out my curls and brushed through them, it wasn't much longer before I heard another knock on the door. "Coming" I yelled before checking myself over in the mirror and opening the front door.

"Hey Bella," Mike said while giving me a huge hug, "Hey Mike!" I said enthusiastically before locking my front door behind me. "You look absolutely beautiful," Mike said while checking out my outfit "So do you." Mike had decided to wear a casual button-up and khaki shorts, "Ready for some dinner" Mike said while opening his passenger door. Mike drove an older Subaru but it was super clean, he must be a clean freak there wasn't a speck of dirt or dust in sight. We casually chatted about school as he drove me to the diner "So Bella how are you liking Forks?" he said while parking his car "It's not what I was expecting" I was being honest I expected Forks to be way more boring than it was. I climbed out of his car as he held it open for me "Thanks Mike" I said slightly blushing.

We walked into the tiny diner it was like nothing had changed besides some of the staff but other than that everything was the same. When I would visit during the summer Charlie would bring me once a week for a burger and milkshake. I smiled thinking of those fond memories, at one point I had known everyone who worked here. Mike and I found a booth on the far side of the diner and quickly ordered our drinks "I'll have a Lemonade" I said to the waiter. "So Mike tell me about your childhood," I said to keep up an easy conversation. I ordered my usual burger and fries and Mike ordered a steak, we talked the entire time before realizing it was almost 8. "Oh goodness look at the time, it seems we got carried away" I giggled at Mike. "Oh sorry, Bella I didn't even realize the time," he said while standing to pay the bill.

I was quite surprised at how well this date was going, I wasn't one to take relationships seriously, sure I went on dates but usually nothing more than one. Although I could see myself liking Mike I mean he is super sweet and we enjoy each other's company. I can't help but think of Edward. He also seems interested and I certainly was, Edward and I are just as close. I mentally slapped myself, No Bella we don't think of other boys while on a date it isn't fair. Mike took my hand as we walked out of the dinner "Well that was fun" Mike said enthusiastically. "Yes, it certainly was," I said while walking to my side of the car. He drove me home in comfortable silence, I looked out the window at all the damp trees and grass. "So should we do this again?" Mike said hesitantly "I would love that Mike, maybe a movie sometime?" his face seemed to light up. "Yeah there's a nice theatre in Port Angeles," he said while sparing me a glance. "Thank you for taking me out Mike, I appreciate it" I said while getting out of his car. He grabbed my hand and we walked to my front door "Anytime Bella." We stood at my front door and I could tell he wanted to kiss me, my heart started racing. Do I even know how to kiss? No. Do I want to kiss Mike? Maybe. Is this extremely awkward? Yes. Mike was staring down at me intently and cupped my cheek "I really like you Bella" I bit my lip, and my heart was practically bouncing out of my chest. No, I didn't want him to kiss me at least not right now. He started leaning closer to me his lips practically an inch away, I closed my eyes trying to push back my nerves when a light flashed at us.

Yes! Saved by the bell I thought while quickly pulling away from Mike. He seemed confused and a little hurt before noticing a car in my driveway, I didn't recognize the car until I saw my Dad step out. I blushed, oh god my dad must have seen me and Mike almost kiss. "Hey Dad" I called at him, "Hey Bells I invited Billy and Jacob over for the game tonight! Hope we didn't ruin your date," my dad said while glancing at Mike. "Hey, Mike nice to see you again," I noticed Mike was almost as red in the face as I was. I looked back and noticed a tall guy get out, he had long black hair and beautiful brown skin. That must be Jacob Black, I walked over to introduce myself "Hey Jacob! I haven't seen you in ages." I noticed him helping Billy with his wheelchair. "Hey Bells! It's been forever" he said while wrapping me in a bear hug, I laughed and said hello to Billy.

Mike was walking back to his car looking a little rejected, I quickly walked back over to him. "Sorry about tonight I didn't think we had company" he shrugged "I enjoyed tonight Bella, I will see you on Monday," he said before quickly driving away. I felt a little bad about how we left it but Jacob quickly got my mind off of it. While our dads watched the game downstairs Jake and I went into my room to play Mario Kart, Jacob was so much better than me it was ridiculous. I noticed my bedroom window was open again but chopped it up to just another random gust of wind. I reminded myself again to tell Charlie to fix my window, it was open almost every night. Jake and I caught up and I found myself liking him, we had lots of things in common and quickly became close friends again, We exchanged numbers before he and his dad left for the night. "I'm heading to bed Charlie" I yelled down at him before getting my quick shower. I had no plans for Sunday so I skipped the hair routine and climbed into bed. I checked my phone to find multiple missed text messages.

Edward: How was the date with Newton?

Me: It went well, he is super nice

Edward: Glad to hear you had fun

Edward: Would you want to go on a date with me sometime?

I stared at my phone in shock, Edward was interested in me. No. He must be wanting to go on a date as friends. What if he was interested? I smiled. Oh my goodness Edward Cullen was asking me on a date.

Me: I would love that!

Edward: Good so would I

Edward: Did you get my flowers earlier?

So the flowers were from Edward, not Mike, I guess that was why Mike never mentioned them tonight.

Me: I love them they are gorgeous!

Edward: I will see you Monday Bella, sleep well

I have only been in Forks for 2 weeks and I already have two men interested in me. Goodness gracious Bella! I laughed a little this was not how I pictured my first month in Forks. I noticed a text from Mike.

Mike: Hey Bella I enjoyed tonight I can't wait to do it again :)

Me: Same, thanks so much for dinner. I enjoy hanging out with you

Mike: Maybe soon we can make it official

I hesitated, it's only been one week why rush? I like Mike but seriously it's been two dates not to mention I have only known him for one week. I like Mike but he seemed to like labels and honestly, I just like enjoying being young and available. Mike seems like the kind of guy that wants to be married out of High School. Sure, eventually I want marriage and kids but I am no way in a rush for anything serious especially with someone in Forks. I have plans to eventually go to college and travel as much of the world as I can, maybe I'm like my mom in that way.

Me: Yeah Maybe

Me: I'm going to get some rest, Night Mike

Mike: Night Bella