*POV BELLA*
Leah: You ok Bels?
Bella: I don't know. She just wants to be friends. And it hurts. I've never experienced heart break. You know besides my mom. But this feels so much worst. At the same time. I'm just happy she wants me in her life. I'm happy when she's around. I'm happy just to talk to her. I guess I have a new best friend.
Leah pulls me into a hug and while it's comforting. It's not the arms I want around me. But right now, I just need to hug. We continue watching movies and talking in between. I let her ask any questions that might come to mind till she points out I still have school in the morning. Ugh. When we head up to my room, I pull out Charlie's fishing cot to sleep on. However, sleep doesn't come easy. When Leah falls asleep, I get up to sit at my window. Watching the moon and stars have always calmed me. My mind starts to wonder about Alice and if she's thinking about me.
The next morning, we wake up early so I can drive Leah home before heading to school. I notice that my car runs a bit smoother, and I wonder if Rosalie, had something to do with it. As we pull up to Leah's house, she lingers for a second. Giving me a second hug before getting out the car and telling me to have a good day at school. I decide to ride to school with the windows down. Enjoying to weather before being stuck inside all day. When I pull up, I see both the Cullens cars there but no Cullens inside them. I get my bag out the car and almost run into Alice.
Alice: can I walk you to class bestie? Hate that we had to leave so soon last night.
Bella: sure ma'am. But the gentleman in me would rather walk you to class.
Alice: I'll take what I can get. Ok so we have a lot of things to cover. Where do you want to start, favorite color? Favorite movie? Oh, who's your artist or song right now? What's on your playlist right now?
Bella: whooo, that's a lot. Maybe we should just hang out one day.
I chuckle at her eagerness but also find it endearing.
Alice: I agree. But considering I have a lot of ground to cover, I need to start as soon as possible. So, answer my questions.
Bella: ok but you have to answer them too.
Alice: deal.
Bella: favorite color, black. Favorite movie, umm that one is hard. I'll get back to you when I figure it out. But I'm a big fan of anything scary. Artist, oh that's easy. Shakira. Wait no, Common. Or Stevie Nicks. Alejandro Fernandez is also up there too. You know what, it honestly depends on the day.
Alice: I'll make note of that.
Bella: you're turn.
Alice: I don't like scary movies. Color, yellow duh. Movie, Gone with The Wind. Artist, Taylor Swift. Song, Me by Taylor Swift and Brendon Urie. Honestly just any Taylor Swift song.
Bella: Taylor Swift? Seriously? Never heard the song.
Alice: hey! Don't hate on Taylor. I'll send it to you. But you have to promise to listen to it.
She playfully slaps me in the arm.
Bella: no no, not hating. But then again, I shouldn't be surprised. You really don't like scary movies?
Alice: nope they scare me.
Bella: Alice, you do know what you are right?
Alice: yep, but how does that stop a ghost?
I just shake my head at her.
Bella: Well, Ms. Cullen, I've successfully gotten you to your class safely.
Alice: yes, you defended me from the many dangers of Folks High.
Bella: at least from the ghost. I'll see you later Ms. Cullen. Hope you have a good period.
I yell out as I turn to run to class before the bell rings. I make it right on time and rush to the back. Rosalie gives me a knowing look and a slick smile. Class goes by pretty quickly and as I stand to leave; Rosalie grabs my hand.
Rosalie: no letting anyone touch your abs today, understand Adonis?
Right as I'm about to confirm the princess' command. I see Alice at the door. I give her a puzzle look.
Alice: I told you we have a lot to catch up on.
Rosalie: oh, that includes Alice. Alice don't touch Adonis' abs!
She yells as she walks off to her next class.
Bella: what if I want her to?!
Alice: Bella…
It's something about the way she says my name that just makes me melt.
Bella: yes ma'am?
Alice: don't anger the princess.
Bella: yes ma'am, so anyways where were we?
We continue our walk to class much like before. Luckily our 2nd and 3rd periods are close to each other's. When we exit 3rd period, I'm saddened to not see Alice.
Edward: Jasper is walking her to lunch.
Bella: oh. Wait, I thought you couldn't read my mind?
Edward: I can't read yours, but I can read Alice's. She told me to let you know.
I give him a slight nod. Lunch is pretty chill. Much like Alice. Emmett demands to know anything about me. He's committed to being my best friend too. Alice doesn't say much but she jumps in here and there. I'm guessing because Jasper's around.
Emmett: so, Bella, when are you coming over?
Bella: this week will be a little difficult. Alpha duties. Plus, Leah's back. I've really missed her and just want to catch up with her.
Emmett: yeah, Rose said she was a looker. And that she spent the night last night. You got some action, huh?
Rosalie smacks him on the back of his head before I could even laugh at the question. In turn it made the whole table laugh.
Bella: no action, she's my best friend. But yes, Leah is beautiful. Anyways, she just got out of a long relationship last spring. I doubt she's looking at me or anyone for that matter.
Rose: some of her comments last night say otherwise.
Bella: she was just joking around.
Edward: maybe you should ask her about it. Sometimes people surprise you.
Bella: I'll consider it.
Both Eddie and Rosalie look at me in encouragement. I see a sadden look on Alice's face, but she quickly cheers up when she sees me looking. The whole time, Jasper's quiet. Mainly on his phone. Once lunch ends. Jasper grabs Alice's hand and they head for the door. Me and Eddie start walking to class. Talking about music and what we're currently reading. As we turn the hall, I see Jasper and Alice by the lockers. She gives him a hug and I quickly turn my head as I see him bend down to kiss her. I'll be her friend if she wants but I'll do my best to not see them. I doubt my heart can take it. Hopefully my wolf starts seeing her as just a friend soon. I don't know how much my heart can take of that. In class, Alice bounces over to our table. Her and Eddie start a staring contest, one of their silent conversations, I guess. I almost ask what about but decide to text Leah instead. I tell her I'll be down at the Res later, if she wants to hang out after wolf duties. She says of course but if I promise to give her a ride on my wolf and I get excited for school to end. Once class ends, Alice walks up to me and continues our conversation from before. We walk to our cars, and I notice that Jasper is waiting by hers. To my surprise she walks past him and continues our talk.
Bella: I don't think your husband likes being ignored. He looks like he wants to rip my head off.
Alice: sigh, he'll be ok. Anyways, text me later?
Bella: of course, ma'am.
She stands on her tiptoes and gives me a hug. I'm surprised when I feel her lips on my cheek. It's on the side Jasper can't see. Its quick but still loving. My little friend twitches. I see her quickly look down and away. I wonder if she felt it.
Alice: tell Leah I said Hey!
Bella: yes ma'am.
When I get in my car, I touch my cheek. It's warm on the spot she kissed. I start up the car and head to the Res. The whole ride, I question if we can really be friends. If she thinks of me in other ways but reminding respectful because she's with him. I remind myself; she loves him. She's with him. I feel my arms shaking and I have to force myself to calm down. Don't want to phase in my car. As I roll into the Res, I push all my thoughts out. Only wolf duties. I phase and see that Paul and Jacob are on duty. I quickly get the run down. Tell them they can phase and take a load off; I'll take over for a while. About 15 minutes into my run, I hear Sam.
Sam: hey Bella, you ok if I run with you? Just want to talk really quick. Promise.
Bella: Sam, I don't really feel like getting into it again. My cut didn't fully heal by the time Charlie got home. You almost had a shotgun to your head.
Sam: no no, nothing like that. Honestly, I just want to apologize. After talking to Emily about things, well, she pretty much made me see I was being a douche. My ego was hurt. I was still coming to terms with everything. Then you phase and well, I lost my identity even more. And then you befriend the Cullens like its nothing. I shouldn't blame them because it's true, it's not their fault. The wolves were born hundreds of years ago. It's still just hard. There's so much anger is inside of me. Anyways, I just want to apologize. I shouldn't have acted that way, no matter the excuse.
I stop running, mainly shocked but I want to give him my full attention too. I want to look him in the eyes when I respond to him.
Bella: Wow Sam. I appreciate it. Truly. I know that took a lot. Tell Emily thank you for knocking some sense into you. And I get it. Trust I'm still coming to grips with everything. You're forgiven as long as it doesn't happen again.
Sam: I'll try my best to not let it happen again. I don't make any promises. Damn imprints, they make us better. She truly is an angel. You'll understand when you imprint.
I consider telling him. But the wound is still too fresh. Besides, we're just best friends. Nothing to really tell.
Bella: I hope to one day.
We run around awhile. I tell him I have plans with Leah and will catch him later. I see the hurt in his head. We walk in silence the rest of the way before phasing back as we walk out the woods.
Sam: tell her Hey for me.
Bella: I'll test the waters first.
Sam: yeah, she's a tough one. Tell her when it's safe to say. And if you can, let her know how sorry I am. I hope she'll forgive me enough one day so I can tell her myself.
I considered running over but decide it's better to drive over instead. I'll have my car for when I leave. About an hour later, Jake comes over and we just talk about our days. Leah tells us about her time away. One thing about us three, we've always just been about to talk. We hang out till it gets dark, I give Jake a ride home before heading home myself.
Alice: did you forget about me?
Bella: never. Sorry ma'am was just busy.
Alice: yeah yeah I know, wolf duties.
Bella: actually, best friend duties. And a little wolf duties.
Alice: want some more best friend duties?
Bella: I thought Esme didn't want her kids running around after dark. Wouldn't want you to get lost.
Alice: I'll sneak out when she goes to bed. Trust, I know the way to your house very well.
I laugh at her text. The idea of hundred-year-old vampires sneaking out after dark.
Bella: I wouldn't want to get you in trouble.
Alice: you won't.
Bella: ok, come over when you can.
I get home and start cooking dinner for me and Charlie. Surprisedly he's home early today. We have a nice dinner and I sit with him watching a game for a while. Its 10 before I know it. Charlie heads up to bed and I wonder if Alice is still coming over or if Jasper stopped her. I finally decide to go upstairs and jump in the shower.
Bella: did you forget about me?
I wait a second, but she doesn't reply. She probably did forget about me. I grab my stuff to shower and head to the bathroom. The hot water does wonders on my aching body. When I turn off the water, I instantly smell her. Quickly getting dressed, I open my bathroom door and there she is… sitting on my bed. Reading my book like it's the most normal thing ever.
Alice: never… told you. Had to wait for my mom to head to bed.
We both share a laugh, and her laugh is still magical. It warms my heart. Her smile is the best thing in the world.
Bella: was that really a thing?
Alice: no silly. Actually, we don't sleep.
Bella: like at all? Seriously?
Alice: yep! I wish we did. I do miss it. It'll be nice to turn off my mind.
Bella: so, what do you do all night?
Alice: it depends on the day. Sometimes I draw, sometimes I play games or watch movies with Emmett, sometimes I spend time with Rose in her garage, or with Edward and his music, sometimes I just go to my secret spot and think. Or read. If stores were open all night, I would probably be shopping. But thanks to online shopping, I still get my fix.
She doesn't mention Jasper and I wonder if it's just for my benefit or if they just don't spend time together like that.
Bella: sounds like a lot of fun. So anyways, how can I help you?
Alice: since Leah got to have a sleep over, as your other best friend, I demand one too.
Bella: haha, only thing about that situation is… SLEEP over… Leah sleeps… I sleep… You don't sleep. You do know you can't keep me up all night? We have school in the morning. Charlie would be upset if he got a call about me sleeping in class.
Alice: I would never. I'll read a book till you wake up.
Bella: that would be weird Alice.
Alice: welp call me weird Bellie because that's what I'll be doing.
Bella: Bellie? I prefer Rosalie's name for me. Adonis. Has a nice ring to it.
I toss the towel into the hamper and take a sit at my desk.
Alice: and I prefer my own nickname for you. I'll work on it. Is there a reason you're at your desk?
Bella: well, I just didn't know if I should sit on the bed.
Alice: this is your bed, Bella. And you do sleep in your bed, right?
Bella: well yeah. I just didn't know. You know like the whole sleeping arrangement?
Alice: don't you and Leah sleep in the bed together?
She gives me a curious look.
Bella: uh no. I let her take the bed and I sleep on Charlie's fishing cot.
Alice: how gentleman of you.
Bella: always a gentleman ma'am.
I flash her a smile and her smile grows more.
Alice: I like it when you call me ma'am. It reminds me of the good old days. Anyways, you're going to be my first best friend. Besides Rose and Edward. But they don't count. They're siblings. As my first best friend. We're going to have sleep overs like in the movies. Pillow fights, movies, snacks, staying up till late, sleeping in the same bed.
Bella: well, I'm honored ma'am. Only 2 things. I don't know the rules of pillow fights. And what snacks exactly? Human food doesn't sit well for you and I'm not a fan of blood.
She laughs so hard she almost falls over the bed.
Alice: I meant that you would have snacks. I like watching you eat. You eat more than the other humans. And when we feed, it normally last us for a couple of days.
I decide to go sit on the bed next to her. Her scent wraps around me instantly. She turns to me, and I get to look into her in the eyes. I still see the blue. It looks lighter. I wonder if the others see it. I'm sure anyone who really looked in her eyes can. Sigh, if we're going to do this whole best friend thing, I have to act as such. No more staring at her with dreamy eyes. Treat her the way I would Leah. Maybe with a little more love. But I won't cross the line till she wants me to. If she wants me to. God, I hope she wants me to.
Bella: So, tell me about you. What made you decide to feed on animals?
I learn so much about her and her family. I think about asking her what Jasper thinks with her being here. But I rather not bring him up. I just want to enjoy the time with her. I hold out on sleep for as long as I can.
Alice: Bella, go to sleep.
Bella: no, I'm ok.
Alice: Bella, go to sleep. We can finish talking in the morning. Lay down, I can sing you to sleep.
Bella: really?
Alice: come on, lay down.
I lay down and turn to face her. She starts to slowly run her fingers in my hair.
Alice: "There I was again tonight, forcing laughter, faking smiles, same old tired, lonely place. Walls of insincerity, shifting eyes and vacancy, vanished when I saw your face. All I can say is, it was enchanting to meet you."
I have the most peaceful dream I've had in years. Me and Alice running through the woods. Me in my wolf sitting with her looking over the ocean. My alarm starts blaring before I know it. I roll over and she's gone. Crap I knew this was a dream. But my room is still smells like her. I hop off the bed and realize she's downstairs talking to Charlie. Crap I didn't tell him she would be here. I run down the stairs and she's cooking breakfast while he drinks his coffee.
Bella: oh, good morning.
Alice: good morning sleepy head. I decided to make you breakfast. Don't want a grumpy wolf later.
Charlie: uh Bella…
He gives me a pointed look at my pants. Oh shit! I forgot my now regular, morning situation. Before I can run back upstairs, I see Alice look down at it. Her eyes glued to it. I run upstairs as quick as I can and not sure how to get rid of it. I'm sure my dream and her scent didn't help this morning. I always heard a cold shower helps. While in the shower, I think about the situation at hand. Shit now she's going to think I'm a freak. She's probably gone by now. I hear Charlie's truck leave. And I'm sure Alice is gone too. I have yet to touch it in that way. Besides fixing it in my pants and holding it to pee. Sigh, this is my life now, I guess I should get use to it. I turn the water on warm and just think about Alice. Think about kissing her and touching her. Making her moan with want and what it would be like to be inside of her. The final thought is what brings me over. I must say that was the best orgasm I ever had. I shower off and return to my room to dress. Maybe I shouldn't go to school. How am I going to look at her? Of course, I can't hide out in my room, so I head downstairs. Besides I need food. Maybe I can transfer to a school on the Res. I pull out my phone to text Jake but when I look up Alice is sitting at the table. Shit.
Alice: are you ok?
Bella: uh…
Alice: Bella, you have nothing to be embarrassed about. I didn't mean to stare, it was just, well an eye full.
She says with a smirk. I give her an awkward smile.
Bella: yeah, listen, I'm sorry.
She stands and comes right in front of me.
Alice: again, you have nothing to be embarrassed about. And nothing to be sorry about. I do have a question.
Somebody shoot me now.
Bella: I might have an answer.
Alice: is it a wolf thing?
Bella: that's what Jake and Carlisle think.
Alice: Carlisle knew?
Bella: Yeah, I asked him not to say anything to anyone. Don't be mad at him. In fact, only a few people know.
Alice: does Leah know?
Bella: yes, she does.
Alice: damn it, I was hoping to have a one up on her.
I laugh at the pout she makes. God, she's so beautiful. Her pout is the most adorable thing I've ever seen.
Bella: is that really your only thought?
Alice: I mean it doesn't change anything between us. Just you have a little friend. Well not so little.
She says with a wink.
Bella: come on weirdo, we have to get to school.
Alice: uh, I have to go home, shower and change. What would the students think if I show up with you in the same clothes from yesterday.
Bella: I don't know, you see the future, what would they think? *I step closer to her, but she doesn't make a move. Just friends. She just wants to be friends. I take a step back and run my hand through my hair* Quick question, what was the song you were singing last night?
Alice: Taylor Swift of course. It's called Enchanted.
Bella: ok, I should listen to it to hear the rest of the song. Do you need me to drop you off?
Alice: Bella, no offense but I can run faster than your car. You should really let Rose fix it up for you.
Bella: only if you help us.
Alice: of course, who do you think does the paint jobs? Anyways, I need to go home.
Bella: see you at school. Hey Alice, can you keep this from the others? I don't want them to look at me differently.
Alice: they wouldn't Bella, but you have my word.
And just like that, she's gone.
*POV ALICE*
I start running home. I look to see if my siblings are home.
Alice: Edward, can you get Jasper to school? I smell like Bella, and I need to shower before he sees me.
Edward: Hot night with Adonis?
Alice: Chill night with my best friend.
Edward: Yeah yeah, I'll handle it.
I give them a moment to leave. When I walk in, Esme is in the living room reading a book.
Esme: you smell lovely Alice. Or should I tell Bella she smells lovely? You know you can invite her over.
Alice: I'll take that into consideration mom.
Esme: I would love to meet the famous Bella. She has my kids running around crazy. Must be an amazing person.
Alice: she actually is.
I smile and rush upstairs to jump in the shower. Before getting in, I enjoy the last moments of her scent. Granted I'll be around it at school. But it's not the same as having it wrapped around me. I think about Bella and how she said my name in her sleep. I stopped my reading and waited to see if it really was my name. And then she said it again. For the rest of the night, I wondered what her dream was about. Then this morning. Seeing her little friend. What am I saying. Little is not the word to describe it. Before I know it, I'm touching myself. Thinking about Bella and her smile. Her abs and I wonder if I can still touch them. Thinking about what it would be like to wrapped up in her arms. Her warmth and scent all around me. But most importantly, what it would be like to kiss her. The thought alone makes me climax. And I surprise myself. But then the guilt sets in. I shouldn't be thinking about her. I should be thinking about Jasper. Sigh. I step out the shower and quickly dress. I have less than 10 minutes to get to school and I know I will make it.