Meeting The Cullens - Final Part
Carvers Cafe – Desmond Connolly's POV
We arrived at a small white cabin with green painted frame windows and a sign above that read, Carvers Cafe. The cabin is found near the side of the road, a few miles away from town where nature is surrounded. They are about five more vehicles parked in the parking lot and one of them happens to be a Forks Police cruiser. Bella parks her truck right next to the cruiser while I parked my truck next to hers. I killed the engine, removed the key from the ignition, and took a deep breath before stepping outside.
'Here goes nothing.'
I opened the door and stepped out of my truck, embracing the freezing weather. On cue, there's a clash of thundering right above us as heavy rain began to shower the area. Bella and I immediately race towards the front door while laughing. I got to the door first, but not before I held it open for her to enter.
"Well thank you, kind sir." Bella says mockingly with a smirk.
"You're welcome, M'lady." I responded.
When we entered the Cafe, I was greeted with how small it looks on the inside. There's a wooden coffee bar in the center of the room with stools in front near the cash register. Five tables are set on the right side of the walls next to the windows. Two tables are set on to my left in the corner of the room.
There are about ten people in total; three seniors sitting on the same table on the left corner, three teenagers are sitting at the barstools in front of the coffee bar, and a family of three are sitting in one of the tables on my far right. Lastly, that only leaves one person. A man sitting on the right corner next to the window. He looks around his early forties with a mustache, curly brown hair, and deep brown eyes.
'Yup! Without a doubt, that's Bella's Father.'
A woman with a button up olive shirt and an apron, steps out from behind the counter with two menus on her possession. Her eyes widen when they landed on Bella and soon a bright smile appears on her face.
"Bella?!"
"Hello Cora, it's been a while."
"Oh my gosh! Come here!" Cora embraces Bella with fondness. "Look how much you've grown."
Bella giggles. "Thanks!"
"And who's this young handsome man." Cora asked, her eyes eyeing me from top to bottom.
"Hello Miss, names Desmond Connolly." I introduced myself, shaking her hand once she let's go of Bella.
"Nice meeting you, Desmond. I'm Cora." Cora then turns to Bella. "I'm assuming this is your Dad's idea?"
Bella nodded. "Yup."
"Alright then, why don't I take you to your Dad's table, follow me."
Upon arriving at the table, Bella's Father stood up and places his hands on his hips. He towers over me by four inches, giving a blank expression. He isn't wearing his police uniform as he's in a blue sweater with a white T-shirt inside and black pants. I assume he drives the patrol unit to his home as well. His eyes squint upon me, he's trying to read or inspect me like he would in his line of duty. I gave him a friendly stoic look, just to act natural.
"Hey Dad!" Bella greets him with a hug, he finally smiles as he returns the hug with his eyes closed.
"Hey sweety, how's school?"
"It's good!"
His voice is calm and deep, there's an authority tone within him, he must have been a police officer for a while. He doesn't even look around his age as he still looks young to be Chief of Police. The man's eyes opened as he's looking upon me, but this time he smiles.
"So... You must be Desmond Connolly?" He offers his hand after letting go of Bella.
"Yes sir. It's a pleasure to meet you, Chief Swan." I shook his hand with a polite smile.
The man chuckles and waves a dismissive hand off. "Oh relax! I'm not in my uniform, please call me Charlie." He then pats my shoulder, offering the seat in front of him. "Please, have a seat. I'm glad you came over."
I have a good feeling this will turn out to be simply fine. I mean what worse can it get, right? I took off my jacket and laid on top of the chair. I sat down right across from Charlie while Bella took the seat right next to me, her back faces against the window. Cora leaves me a menu as I look into it, she was going to hand one for Bella, but she raises her hand.
"I'll have the usual Cora, please."
Cora chuckles and shakes her head. "Of course, sweety. Anything to drink?"
"Water with no ice." Bella answers.
"You got it!' Cora then turns to me. "And how about you, sunny?"
"Uhm... I'll have a coke with a bacon cheeseburger and fries, please." I asked, most of the menu is eighty percent breakfast while the rest is sandwiches, steaks, soups, hamburgers, and salads.
"Of course!" She then looks over at Charlie, who drank the last sip from his mug. "More coffee Charlie?"
"Yes, please."
She nodded with a bright smile. "Alright folks, I'll be right back"
Cora then walks back to the counter, leaving the three of us alone. The room's noise was filled with a lot of people chattering amongst themselves, I've noticed there's a doorway on the back, possibly leading to the restrooms. So far, the cafe may be small, but It's cozy. I can understand why Charlie chose to come here.
"So, Desmond, I hear you're from Canada. How does it feel moving to a small town like this?" Charlie broke silence.
"I love it! Especially when this town is surrounded by nature."
"You don't mind the cold and rain, do you?" Charlie gestures his head to the window of the outside. The rain continues to pour heavy.
"Not at all! I find it peaceful and serenity." I honestly answered as my eyes overlook the outside world and smile.
"I like him already, Bella!" Charlie comments with an approval smile. Bella fully smiles while rolling her eyes.
"Bella mentioned that you have an illness. If you don't mind me asking?" Charlie asked, expressing a concern look.
"Not at all and yes, I have angina." I answered with a reassuring smile. Charlie narrows his eyes in confusion while tilting his head. "Long story short, I was involved in a vehicle accident that caused me to have amnesia and angina over two years ago. I woke up in the hospital where two folks took me in and helped me get back to my feet. We decided to move in here from Ontario to live peacefully away from the big city. Yet, all this time I haven't recovered a single memory before the accident."
Charlie raises his hand; he expresses an apologetic look as his eyes stare at me with sympathy. "I won't intrude any further, Son. At least I know what type of condition you have because I know chest compressions. Trust me, I have a buddy who has similar condition as you, it's just sad that you have it at this youthful age. Just know that I'm here if you need anything."
"Thank you, Charlie, it really means a lot." I told him sincerely. I can see where Bella adopted her selfless act. Coming here may have been the best decision I've made for a while. Bella even looks at her Father with a gratifying smile. I can see a tear running down her cheek before wiping it off.
Right on time, Cora returns with our beverages. While she hands over our drinks and refills Charlie's mug. In the corner of my eye, I see a man approaching to our table with a smile on his face. The man looks around Charlie's age, except he's completely bald from top with hair on both sides with a faint scar on his right cheek. He's wearing a brown leather jacket, black t-shirt and red pants.
'Interesting choice of clothes there, buddy.'
"Hey Bella... you remember me?" The man greeted as he stood beside Cora, his voice sounded raspy. Bella's eyes squint, she turns to her Dad in question before returning them on the stranger. "I played Santa one year ago."
"Yeah! Waylon, she hasn't had Christmas here since she was four." Charlie told him while rolling his eyes.
Yikes! I took a sip of my drink while flashing my eyebrows at her. Bella chuckles as she smiles and shrugs her shoulders, obviously not remembering this Waylon guy.
"I bet I'd made an impression though, didn't I?" Waylon asked.
"You always do." Charlie responded.
"Buttcrack Santa." Cora states with a firm nod towards Bella. She and I chuckled at the nicknamed, even Charlie cracked a half-smile. Obviously, children will be traumatized to see Santa Claus's ass crack during Christmas.
"Hey! The kids love those little bottles though..." Waylon explains, he then taps my shoulder to get my attention. "You remember kid, right?"
"Sorry, you got the wrong kid, buttcrack San-"
"Hey... wait a minute." Waylon interjected as he narrowed his eyebrows in curiosity at me. "Aren't you one of those Cullen kids?"
I nervously chuckled. "No sir, I'm not."
"Are you sure? You almost resemble them-"
"Waylon. Leave the poor kid alone." Charlie firmly tells him. He raises his hands in surrender and gives me an apologetic smile.
"Okay... okay... I'll leave you to it."
"Alright, let the kids enjoy themselves Waylon." Cora told him while patting him on his shoulder, leading him outside of the door. The man runs in full speed through the rain to get to his old beat-up truck. She then returns with that same friendly smile.
"Your food should be ready in a couple of minutes, I'll be right back." She leaves.
Bella clears her throat. "So, I see the Cullens is still a popular subject to talk about."
Charlie expresses a heavy sigh while shaking his head, he looks between me and Bella. "Are people still talking about them at school?"
"It's a small town with no crime at all. Gossiping between neighbors is the only thing to keep them entertained. Sometimes, people have the audacity to do such a thing instead of welcoming them." I told him.
"Damn right!" Charlie takes a sip of his mug, before leaning close. "Listen, the Cullens, they've been nothing but nice since moving down here. People around here, they should be happy to have a surgeon like Dr. Cullen on our small hospital. Happy to have his wife move into a small town and his kids, those kids give me no trouble. Not like the other hell raisers around here!"
The way Charlie explains how grateful he is to have the Cullens in this town and immediately jumps in to defend them is wholesomely awesome and admirable. It sad to hear that people in town still talk about them, even after moving here two years ago, they are being gossiped behind their backs. Charlie looks over to us and realize he sounded somewhat angry, almost offended, something he didn't want to slip up.
"Sorry, I just don't like narrow mindedness."
"It's okay, I agree with you." I told him sincerely as I took a sip of my Coke. "So, you've met the Cullens?"
"Only their parents. Why? Are you also interested in them?" Charlie asked, quirking his eyebrows.
Bella chuckles. "Actually Dad, they are more interested in him."
Charlie seems taken aback as his eyes blink, but not long before he returned to his stoic look.
"Well, that's good! I'm glad the Cullens have taken a keen interest in you. Since you're a newcomer too, maybe they are welcoming you with open arms, unlike some folks here..." Charlie grumbles while rolling his eyes, he clears his throat.
"Well, I can't say much about their kids, but like I said they've never broke any law or gave me trouble. And that speaks volumes. I met Dr. Cullen twice and I have to say he's a brilliant surgeon… so much compassionate and intelligent." Charlie chuckles before he continues. "The first time I met him was when our department and fire unit were invited over to the hospital for his welcoming party. The nurses couldn't concentrate as they were so infatuated with his looks. And they still are whenever he's passing by."
"Well, that must be torture for them." Bella said.
"You have no idea." Charlie flashes his eyebrows. "Now, the second time I met him was when I had to take my friend, Waylon, to the hospital because he accidentally swing his fishing rod too close to himself and puncture his cheek with the hook. It did cut him a little bit to which left him a barely visible scar, but all done by Dr. Cullen who removed it and stitch it up in less than thirty minutes."
"He has a scar?" Bella asked, confusion written on her face.
"Yeah, I've noticed it. Compliments to the doctor." I spoke.
"Must have been painful, No?"
Charlie chuckles. "Nah... Waylon told me he didn't feel any pain."
"What about Mrs. Cullen? How's she like?" I asked, eager to know more about them.
Charlie pauses for a moment to ponder. "Well, for Mrs. Cull-"
Charlie stops talking when the front door busted open. The noise from chattering and utensil colliding with plates has seized, leaving the room nothing but silence. His eyebrows raise as his jaw dropped, an expression of shock and bewilderment. Charlie's eyes are glued to the new arrival, one that's standing behind me. Bella expresses a bafflement look on her face as she looks between me, Charlie, and the newcomer.
"Mrs. Cullen?" Charlie asked, his tone is soft with curiosity and concerned.
'Wait! Mrs. Cullen is here?!'
Bella's expression changes from bafflement to flabbergasted. Her eyes widen as they wanted to bulge out of their sockets and her jaw dropped down. She looks between us once again in haste while blinking her eyes. My head slowly turns to look over my shoulder. The rest of the customers, including Cora, had their eyes glued to the woman. Their expressions also match with Bellas, but they seemed to be hypnotized as they haven't moved an inch. When my eyes finally landed on to the woman, my breath hitched in utter disbelief as my eyes widen in horror.
Standing near the doorway is a slender woman with a heart-shaped face, caramel hair, and delicate eyebrows. Her amber eyes, just like the rest of her family, staring directly to me. Her face expresses evidence of sorrow, agony, and heartbroken. There's no fond smile like I've seen earlier in my dream and vision, but without a doubt, it's her!
'No! No! No! That can't be impossible! This is all an allusion in my head! This is all just coincidence!'
I slowly stood to my feet from my chair, my eyes never leaving on her. She's wearing a blue blouse with black pants and brown leather boots. She is soaking wet as her hair is dripping from water.
"Mrs. Cullen, is everything okay?" Charlie asked once again, but this time he stood near me.
"Everything is alright Chief Swan, nothing to worry about." She spoke with compassionate; her angelic voice is identical. Her eyes never breaking away from mine. Deep within my heart is running with mixed feelings such as fear, yearn, sadness, regret, and happiness. I don't know why I am feeling this way.
My body ached to move, taking one step closer to her and she in return did the same. My first choice was to head to the restrooms, needed some privacy and process everything what's going on, but I couldn't. My legs moved once again to step closer to her as my heart began to race. Mrs. Cullen must have been the same person I've witness from yesterday at the parking lot, she resembles her. Just like yesterday, I yearn to embrace her, but that would be wrong and disrespectful.
"D~O~N'~T B~E A~F~R~A~I~D"
The voice has returned and is speaking to me again, I haven't heard it since last night. I know I've concluded that I'll be listening to it, but I am not sure if this is a clever idea. Especially, right in front of Charlie and Bella or the rest of the folks.
"Hello dear…" Mrs. Cullen greeted, her lips tilt upward, breaking a small smile, but her eyes remain sorrowful.
"H-hi…"
My voice cracked, I sounded pathetic, almost like a lost child who wanted to cry and see someone dearly. Mrs. Cullen's fingers and hands began to shake a little, either a sign of anticipation or fear.
"Sweety…" She tenderly called me. "May I hug you, please?"
My eyes blinked a few times, feeling taken aback by her request. I hesitated at first, not moving an inch, continuing to stare at her. Mrs. Cullen soon realizes as I haven't responded, her smile faded and morphed with hurtfulness, like she's about to cry. I felt a twist of regret for not saying anything, I just couldn't take it anymore to see her in this state. I slowly nodded to her, she wasted no time as she threw her arms around my neck and pressed her hard body against mine. I wrapped my arms around her waist to hold her, she's exactly like Bella's height. Her cold skin mixed with her soaking wet clothes didn't help me as waves of chills hit the back of my skin.
However, the feeling of fear, sadness, and regret has finally subsided. Now replace with warmth and comforting. I embraced her even harder and surprisingly she did the same. Her strength is incredible, she's like Alice, except she's cautious of her strength to not squeeze me hard and allowed me to breathe. Her hair and scent smell exactly like in my dream, mixture of amber and rose. I shut my eyes for a moment to cherish the feeling of being loved.
Mrs. Cullen's arms unclasped around my neck to then wrapping them securely around my waist, clinging on to me. My eyes slowly opened; I realized I'm being pulled away from my spot. I let go of her, but she didn't. Her are arms are tightly secure as if she's found her precious treasure.
"Mrs. Cullen?" I whispered to her.
She didn't answer as she continues to gently pull me away inch by inch. This is where I began to question the coincidence of her timing appearance. What are her intentions right now? Why is she soaking wet? I didn't see any new arrival vehicle being parked outside where I could see the window. Did she arrive here on foot? Suddenly, the door busted open once again, feeling the wave of chilling weather come through.
"Darling!" A man's gentle voice calls out.
Mrs. Cullen finally releases me as she whips her head around to see the new arrival. Her hand though has a firm grip on my right hand, Mrs. Cullen is making sure that I was not to let go. When my eyes landed on the individual, they widen, feeling huge wave of shock. The man standing in the doorway is the same man from my vision. Only this time, he's wearing an expensive black raincoat, a dark suit with blue shirt and a black tie. The man looks so young that he could still be attending to college. I am loss of words, can't even ruminate at all.
"You forgot your umbrella, love. I know you've been desperate to try out those berry cobblers, but you need to understand that I had to reduce the speed during this type of weather. Running on foot is also not a pleasant idea when you don't want to catch a cold." He spoke with concerned.
Indeed, he has an umbrella in his possession, but it just raises more questions than answers. Why would she risk running through the heavy rain? It would be suicidal to go through that for just berry cobblers. I gaze over at Bella; she also gave me a bewildered look as her eyebrows are frowning at them. She observes Dr. Cullen for a moment, her frowned faded as she gave him an admiration look on her face, I won't blame her if she finds him attractive. The whole entire family is attractive and admirable, like they came from ancient history of Greece.
"Dr. Cullen! It's good to see you!" Charlie greeted him with his hand. A smile spread across his face.
"Likewise, Charlie." Dr. Cullen happily shook his hand.
"Bella." Charlie calls to her as he gestures for her to stand near him. She happily obliged as she nervously walks up to stand near her Dad. "Bella, this is Dr. Cullen."
"Please, call me Carlisle." He shakes her hand; Bella's eyes slightly widen when she touched his skin. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Bella."
"Same to you." She spoke as she retreated her hand.
'Carlisle! That's the same name in my vision! Then in that case, Mrs. Cullen's first name is Esme, right?! What is going on?'
I curiously look over at her and to my surprise, she is also staring at me without blinking. Mrs. Cullen's eyes peers deep into mine, she gives me the look that she already knows me. Deep within my heart, I feel a strong bond with her. No… All of them!
"And you must be Desmond Connolly."
Carlisle turns to me with a wide smile, showing his perfect white teeth. Mrs. Cullen shut her eyes for a brief second while pursed her lips before opening her eyes again to stare at me in sorrow. It seems that she does not like my name. I wonder why? Carlisle extends his hand to me, that's when Mrs. Cullen let's go of my hand, but stands next to me with her left arm around my back as her hand lies on top of my shoulder. I shook his hand while smiling at him.
"Pleasure to meet you, Dr. Cullen."
Carlisle's eyes squint for a brief second as his smile spread wider. He nervously chuckles while slowly shaking his head, I know what this expression means; hurtful. I felt Esme's hand compressed on my left shoulder. I turned my head to look over at her as she expresses her husband's mirror but with a sad pout. Tears are beginning to form around her eyes, but gravity is not her ally as they do not fall; strange. Still, it pains me to see her like this, I just wish I can do something to help.
"You can call me Carlisle, son."
A twist of pain hit deep within my heart, I don't know why I felt that but him calling me son felt much more impactful of emotions than George or Evelyn did. Carlisle gracefully shakes my hand, as expected, his hand is cold as ice cubes. Although, he has a firm grip, but never releases. Carlisle brings over his left hand to grasp around our hands, pulls me close to him. My heart increased a little, wondering what he's doing, he's quite intimidating because he towers over me by six inches.
"We've been dying to meet you, Desmond." Carlisle spoke with fondness.
"I can tell… I mean! I've met the rest of your children today."
"Excellent! I hope they were in their best behavior?" Carlisle asked, his tone with fatherly care.
"Oh, they were great! There was no trouble at all."
'Except your older son brought over eggs and encourage me to throw them at another student, but don't worry! He deserved it… and it was fun!'
"Good!" Carlisle flashes a smile; he puts his left hand on to his wife's shoulder, smoothly caressing her with circle patterns. "This is my lovely wife, Esme Cullen."
'Well, I'll be damn, I was right!' I stare at her with astonishment, her eyes twinkle with delightfulness as she brightly smiles.
"It's so much pleasure to meet you, D-Desmo-nd." She hesitated to say my name, it made her difficult to finish it. Esme despises my name, but I do feel she has a good reason to it. Esme then embraces me once again, but to my hearing sensitivity, she inhales a swift smell over my neck. I questionably look over at Carlisle who doesn't seem to notice this as he continues to give me that gentle smile.
"My wife and I have been desperate to meet you… ever since you arrived here." He explains.
"Why?" I curiously asked.
Carlisle sighs, like he was expecting that question. "That's how we feel, young man."
I stared at him dumbfounded, my eyebrows frown upon him. I don't understand why he or the rest of the family is keeping it vaguely. But whatever the case is, I feel the passionate and love that is radiating from this whole family. Esme is the strongest one I feel from her out of all of them. Although, we haven't spoken more than a few words and I'm already becoming besotted with her. It's not a romantic, but more of a motherly and son bond.
"Well... I'm so glad you're here, how's work at the hospital?" Charlie asked, breaking the silence and changing the subject.
'Thank you, Charlie!'
"I just came down from the Town's Hall meeting."
"Oh yeah? I hope everything's okay."
"Everything is all right! It's good news. I'm more than happy to break it to you." Carlisle flashed him a reassuring smile.
"What news would that be?" Charlie curiously asked, arching his eyebrow.
"Have you heard about the school board making plans to extend their gymnasium for a newly building?" Carlisle asked.
Charlie frowned to think for a moment before nodding his head. "Yeah! It's been announced like two months ago, but they weren't yet able to raise the funds that they needed."
"Well then, I'm more than happy to announce that I will be donating the rest of the funds to get that project moving forward."
Carlisle announces without any stuttering in his voice, greatly confident and proudly. I had knowledge the family is wealthy, but how much did he donate that the school weren't able to get the amount sufficient funds needed. Bella blinked in mild surprise, she and I never knew the school were extending their gym. It's good, because having the boys and girls play two different sports in the same gym can be a hazel at times. Charlie's expression is beyond disbelief, his eyebrows are raised in surprise while his jaw nearly drop to the ground.
"Dr. Cullen! That's very generous of you! I'm mean you shouldn't have…"
Carlisle waves him off with that same kind smile. "Please… it's the least I can do for this lovely town we grew fond. Besides, every parent wants what is best for their children." Carlisle's and Esme's eyes landed upon me with a loving smile.
"Well, I'm grateful to have you in our community!" Charlie then turns to give a stern look at the rest of the people, who never left their nosiness. "The whole town is appreciated of your kindness. C'mon everyone, give him a round of applause."
Charlie began to clap first without any fear of embarrassment, shortly after him, Cora joined in happily. Bella and I joined in to support, to which later followed by the rest of the people. After a while, the applauding died down and folks went back to their own business. Charlie then patted Carlisle's shoulder, offering a warm smile while his hand extends towards our table.
"Would you like to join us, Dr. Cullen?" Charlie offered.
"We love to but-"
"Of course! What a wonderful idea Chief Swan!" Esme squealed, her arm squeezing me closer to her side.
"Oh please, you can call me Charlie." He then looks over to Cora. "Is it okay if we can bring two tables together?"
"Of course, go right ahead!"
Esme finally releases me as I volunteer to help Charlie move the chairs and bring two tables together. While we're moving the tables and rearranging the seats, Esme walks over to Bella with an apologetic smile.
"Where are my manners, little one. I'm Esme Cullen, it's wonderful to meet you, Bella." She embraces her full heartedly. Bella barely closes her arms around her as she shudders in her embrace.
"Like wise, but Mrs. Cullen, your still soaking wet! You're going to get sick if you don't warm up." Bella said in concerned. Esme observes herself for a moment, looking unfazed.
"Oh… I've completely forgotten." Esme said.
"Here!" I spoke up, reaching over to grab my jacket from my chair and put it over her shoulders. She stares at me lovingly and gives me an appreciative smile. "You can take my jacket, it's no worries."
"Thank you dear…" She caresses my cheek like mother would do to her child. I closed my eyes and push my head further against her hand, yearning for more of that touch.
"Alright! All set." said Charlie.
"Come along, Dear." Carlisle whispers near her ear while putting his coat over her shoulders, joining with my jacket, providing more warmth. She stops caressing my face as she lightly pats on to my shoulder, gesturing for me to sit down.
Charlie and Bella still sat in their original spots. I decided to move next to Bella, facing our backs towards the window while Carlisle and Esme sat right across us. Carlisle's expression is difficult to read, he seems calm, but his eyes tell me he's unsure if they should be here as he's observing his surroundings. Esme's expression gives a delightful smile as she stares between us. Cora then arrives at our table with two menus in her possession, but Carlisle gently raises his hand to halts her giving the menus.
"No need for those, Miss Cora. We'll have two coffees with berry cobblers, please." Carlisle gives a charming smile, making Cora blush heavily.
"Of course, Dr. Cullen. I'll be right back!" She then leaves.
"Berry cobbler is also my favorite thing." Bella told them.
An idea popped up. "Oh good! Now I know in case I do accidentally get you upset, I'll buy you some berry cobblers for your forgiveness."
Bella playfully scoffed. "Yeah right! I'm not an easy person to forgive, Dez. So, you better start taking notes pretty boy, or else I'll never be speaking to you again."
"Oh boy, I wonder what Isabella Marie Swan is into besides berry cobblers?" I asked, continue to play along while rolling my eyes at her. I knew she despise anyone using her full name as she gives me a daring look.
Bella leans closer to me. "Books!"
"Ha! Easy."
"But! They must be books that I have not read yet and they better be interesting." She confidently tells me.
My eyes frowned and stared off into space to ponder for a moment. I know Bella is into books, but I've never known what type of genres she's into or what books she has already read. Perhaps, I should have kept my mouth shut as she has the lead victory on this one.
"Hey Charlie, do you know what books she has already read?" I asked.
Bella gasped. "Cheater!"
Charlie chuckles with a smirk. "Sorry, Kiddo! I can't help you there..."
"Ha! Like I said, start taking notes..."
Bella lightly shoves me while giggling, and in retaliation, I returned her the favor while chuckling. We went on for a moment while having fun and being so close to each other before Charlie clears his throat to grab our attention. When we seize our battle against each other, we gaze over to him, expecting him to give us a stern look but surprisingly no; he's half smiling.
Charlie genuinely expresses a content look on his face. I was afraid he was going to be upset with us and tell Bella to never hang out with me again. However, that's not the case as he looks at her daughter with fondness. This might be the fact that he never had a chance to see her daughter's happiness while staying with him. Is this why he wanted to invite? Is he silently telling me to not hurt her daughter's happiness or else they'll be trouble? My eyes trail across the table to see Carlisle and Esme expressing a glowing smile at me. Esme has her hands clasped together as her eyes scanned between Bella and I. Carlisle flashes his eyebrow while smirking, a knowing look he's putting on.
"Sorry Dad…"
"It's all good sweetheart, I'm just glad you're happy."
"So, you're from Arizona, am I correct?" asked Carlisle.
Bella nodded. "Yeah! Phoenix to be exact."
"What are you majoring?" Esme asked.
"Oh, I'm actually going for an Education Degree and become an English teacher." Bella answered with confidence.
'Is she still trying to throw jabs at me? Or is this part of her note taking points I need to listen?'
"That's interesting! So, your deeply passionate of English Literature." Carlisle said.
Bella blushes under his gaze as she happily nodded. I'm not a jealous type, after all, it's natural to feel attractiveness of another person. I could be attractive to another girl if I've come across with her. Besides, we just met yesterday and are genially good friends. Perhaps, soon, she may find someone else that she likes, and I won't hold her against it. The best solution is to lower my expectations and allow the chips to fall.
"What about you, Desmond? What are you majoring?" Charlie asked.
"Well... I've been interested in Architecture and Interior Designing." I answered.
Esme gasped as she lays a hand on her chest. "You are?!"
"Yeah! I don't why, but I like the idea for historical houses to be restored and renovated than tearing them down. Most of the American housing that have stood for more than a hundred years should be kept. I can still see an opportunity to profit the buildings." I explained.
"What's wrong with modern housing?" Charlie asked with curiosity.
"Nothing… Except, most of them are overpriced and cheap materials. Honestly… if you have the knowledge to design the floor plan on your own and get the right materials, you should be good. The only problem is just more expensive in today's economy than it was before." I explained.
"So is renovation can be expensive." Charlie said.
"True… but I prefer to either built a house that I designed or renovate than buying one that was built cheap."
Once I was done explaining my passionate goal, the adults' stare at me with mixed reactions of their own. Charlie seems taken aback as his eyebrows are raised above his forehead. He picks up his mug and gives me a toast with an approval nod as he sips more coffee. Carlisle smiles down upon me, a pleasing smile that a father would give to their child. He slowly turns to look over his wife, following his trail. Esme has her chin up, beaming with pride. No sign of any unhappiness and sorrowfulness that she carried within her shoulders. Good, that is what I wanted to see, no more sadness within her.
"What made you motivate to follow this dream?" She asked, leaning closer with her hands clasped together, followed by a genuine smile.
My eyes blinked in surprise as I was taken aback with her question. I've never thought about that, it just happened out of boredom when staying at home.
"I don't know… One day, I just happen to pick up a piece of paper and began sketching whatever I saw through my bedroom's window." Esme tilts her head, a little unamused with my answer.
"You know, I happen to have a Degree of Architecture." said Esme.
"Really?" I asked, my curiosity peaked with her knowledge.
"Of course! I also have Bachelor of Fine Arts and Photography." She explains while smiling.
"That's amazing! So, you've created practical art and taken photography for some time?"
Esme chuckles whole heartedly. "Yes, I have a few examples back at our home. I'm delighted to show you after this."
Carlisle clears his throat. "Dearest, let the boy get familiar with the town first. I'm sure he would rather get to know the people first before stepping into a stranger's home, don't you agree Desmond?" Carlisle looks to me.
I firmly nodded in agreement. Although, he has a point, but I wouldn't mind joining with them to see Esme's work as I feel comfortable being around with her. Esme stares at him with an upsetting look on her face. He shot a disapproving glance towards her. She vaguely lowers her head, closing her eyes as she sighs in defeat before looking at me.
"I'm sorry, sweety. He's right, I'm just so excited to have you here that's all." Esme explains.
"It's okay! Maybe another time, I promise."
"I'll hold you for that, young man! And if you disappoint me, then you're going to find a way to earn my forgiveness. Don't even think about asking advice from my children or my lovely husband here." She shot him a playful glare at him to which he just smirks. "Or I'll find out."
"Oh gosh..." I mumbled, running my hands over my head.
Everyone in the table releases a whole awesomely laughter, we were really enjoying our time together. Right on cue, Cora arrives to our table with everyone's food, including Carlisle's and Esme's order. She fills up two more mugs with coffee and hands over to them with cautious. When she finally arranges our plates, Bella got a burger as well, but I believe it's a vegie burger with fries.
"Alright everyone, let me know if you need anything else, okay?" She spoke.
"Thank you, Cora! We appreciated it." Said Charlie as she finally departs.
I reached over to grab the ketchup nearby until my fingertips collided with Bella's. We both immediately retreaded our hands as we looked at each other in embarrassment. Our cheeks blushed as we haven't said anything.
"Go ahead, ladies first." I suggested to her.
"Thanks..." She replies in whispers.
She grabs the ketchup, turns it over to squeeze the sweet and sour flavor over her fries. Once Bella was done, she passes over it to me, but I didn't accept it. My eyes quirked over to the amounts of fluids she lays over her fries as it looks like a mountain. Bella frowns at me as she notices the questionable look I have over my face.
"What! Don't judge me! I love ketchup."
I raise my hands. "Not judging, just surprised."
I happily took the ketchup, pouring it next to my fries. In the corner of my eye, I noticed Charlie has his sights over the ketchup and I handed over to him once I was done. He mouthed a 'thank you' to me and that's when we all dug into our food.
Well... almost everyone, Carlisle and Esme barely touched their dish. They pushed their berry cobblers around or sometimes took a nibble at the edge of their forks. Carlisle is the only one who drank sips of his coffee while Esme has not touched hers. Bella also notices this as she glances towards me. Charlie is the only one who hasn't noticed as he was deeply in love with his stake as he poured barbeque sauce over it.
"So, I'm guessing the School Board will be announcing the project at the Street Festival? Are you going to be there?" Charlie asked.
"Of course, I've involved the Hospital and the School Board to now start a program on performing Physical Examinations from students at ninth through eleventh grade as well as new students who attend. The School Board will be sending out permission signature papers to all parents, failure to do so, will result of removing the child from school." Carlisle explains. Bella and I stared at him in shock of this revelation, but he only shrugs. "We want to make sure all children should be healthy if we are planning to grow this town with the expansion of this building."
Now, I understand he wants to make sure everyone is healthy, but some folks will see it as strict and unnecessary rule. Evelyn will not approve of this, and she'll pull me out of the school without wasting a second. She has already sent the school administrators from my doctor's note back in Canada, but nothing about a physical examination. Leaving her no choice but to obliged on signing that permission. George and Evelyn also don't have the money to move out again as they wasted a fortune coming over this town. I can also try to convince her it's just a simple physical examination, nothing wrong with that, right?
"I agree! These kids need to start eating healthy than that junk food they get around the corner." Charlie compliments in support.
Bella scoffs. "Speak for yourself, you need to cut back on those steaks."
"Hey... I'm healthy as a horse." Charlie joked.
BZZT-BZZT...
My phone vibrated inside my pocket, I reached for it to grab it and pull it out. My blood ran down, releasing an annoying sigh when I saw the caller's ID; Evelyn. I was not ready to talk to her again as the memory is still fresh in my head this morning. But if I don't answer, she will continue to bother me or else she'll take away my freedom. Carlisle and Esme looked at me simultaneously with worried eyes.
"Is everything okay, sweety?" Esme asked in concerned.
I gave her a reassuring smile. "Everything is okay." I looked over to Charlie. "Excuse me, I need to take this. I'll be back in a second, I promise."
Charlie nodded in understanding once he saw my phone. I stood up and headed to the front entrance to speak privately outside. The rain has finally seized, I walked out but not before holding the door to allow the seniors customers leaving too. Once they were leaving to their vehicles from ear shot, that's when I picked up.
"Hello!" I spoke up calmly.
"Honey... is everything okay?" Evelyn's false innocent voice asked.
I rolled my eyes. "Everything is fine. Why?"
"Because your readings spiked again earlier, did something happen?" She again asked.
Evelyn is probably talking about my reaction during Carlisle's and Esme's arrival. I may have not noticed my watch going off. But then again, it didn't affect my conditions, so why does it matter to her right now? Unless she's being nosy to everything I'm doing.
"No, nothing happened, I promise." I told her coldly.
We stayed silence for a while. She hasn't spoken anything but hearing a heavy breath at the other end of the line. Without a doubt, I knew she's angry and I'm ready whatever she's going to throw at me.
"Oh, Desmond. I know your still upset about this morning, but I just want you to know that I love you. I want you to be happy for all the things we have done for you." She spoke with that same false motherly tone. It makes me sick to my stomach hearing that, I should have seen it a while back.
"Can we... Uhm, talk about this another time." I asked.
Evelyn sighs. "Okay, I want you to know that I love you, son. Mother will always b-"
"Goodbye, Evelyn!" I cut her off and ended the call. "Not in a million years I would ever call you mom." I mumbled through my gritted teeth.
I turned around to walk back inside, but before I stepped in further into the diner. Esme beams with delightfulness, her marvelous smile spread wider as her eyes twinkled with hope. Carlisle flashes a content smile, he and Esme glance at each other as they hold hands. I returned to my seat, gazing over the rest with an apologetic smile.
"Sorry about that, it was nobody." I sarcastically told them, which earned a chuckle from Esme.
We continued eating our meals with conversations of different subjects. I've learned that Carlisle and Esme sometimes take out their children from school to go camping when Forks has a bright sky during the day. It amazes me that they are allowed to do that, but that may change after what happened during gym period. Principal Greene will still have a conversation with Carlisle and Esme, taking the blame for throwing those eggs. If it comes down to that, I'll volunteer to take most of the blame and keep them out of it, including Bella.
Charlie explains in his free time, he likes to go fishing with his friends near Lake Pleasent. Sundays are his favorite times to stay at home and watch football games with his best friend, Billy Black. Bella warns me if I ever get invited over to one of his Sunday night games at their home, he'll only cook burgers and steaks.
When we finished our dinner meals, Carlisle asked Cora to bring over disposable containers for carry out. As evidently, they both have not finished their dish or coffees. Cora brings over the containers along with the check, Carlisle pulls out his wallet, but Charlie stops him.
"No, Dr. Cullen. I invited you both to join our table. I'll pay."
Carlisle chuckles. "It's no trouble, Charlie."
"Uh-Uh, I insist. Besides, you've already done enough for this town."
Charlie then takes the check to the register without letting the doctor say anything. Carlisle then takes a bag of disinfectant wipes from his coat; he and Esme began to wipe off the silerware and mugs that they previously touched from their mouths. Bella and I gazed at each other with bewilderment. It's probably because he's a doctor who takes things precautions and Esme must have adoptive his way of life. We both shrug it off as it's nothing concern for us. I reached over into my pocket and pulled out the change that Rosalie left for me, leaving a tip of eight dollars for Cora on the table. My eyes gazes over to Bella, who she gives me a loving smile.
"Cora has been good to us, and I figured she deserves it for the service." I explained.
Bella slowly shakes her head. "I know Cora is a good person since I was a child, but you're sacrificing the money that Rosalie left for you after paying your meal. Dez, I find it selfless and beautifully sweet of you."
"Sweety, you don't have any money?" Esme alarmingly asked with worried. Her hand grasped on to my shoulder. She expresses a displeased look with her eyebrows frowning.
"Well... I do, but today I forgot my wallet at home because I woke up late. By the time lunch arrived, that's where I noticed I didn't bring my wallet until your daughter, Rosalie, saved me." I explain, nervously rubbing the back of my hair.
"How much money do you have in your wallet?" Esme asked, her expression hasn't changed.
"Uhm... Probably enough for a week, if I use my money wisely for gas and school lunch." I explained.
"Will they give you money after you run out?" Esme's upper lip curled in disdain. Her expression became darker than I've ever seen.
'Is she talking about George and Evelyn? How much has Edward told them about me? Esme hasn't even met George or Evelyn, but the way her mood changes from kindhearted to passive anger by mentioning them is quite frightening in my opinion.'
"No. They were clear since they gave me the truck as my graduation gift, but it is my sole responsibility to pay for the gas. I need to find a job to earn it, that's what they referred." I explained, pointing my thumb at my truck outside.
Esme bit her bottom lip as her eyebrows frowned deeper, slowly shaking her head in displeased. Her amber eyes slowly turned darker shade, nearly black. That's really interesting! She gazes over my Jeep and sneers in disgust, observing it through the window. Esme then whips her head around to her husband.
"Carlisle."
Without saying another word, Carlisle happily nods firmly and opens his wallet. Taking out a few bills, neatly folds them, and hands it over to me. I shook my head in disapproving, raised my hands to halt him.
"No! It's okay, I'll find a job in town and earn cash on my own."
"Money is not an issue in our family, son. Please! Considered it an emergency in case you don't find the job on time." Carlisle insisted with that gentle smile, still holding the money in his hand.
'That's exactly what Rosalie told me!'
"I don't know..." I looked away unsure.
"Nothing to be ashamed, my sweet boy. Many children at your age will take this kind offer if they were in their shoes." Esme spoke with a pleading tone. She then takes the money from her husband's hand and gives it to me. Firmly pressing securely around my palm. "You will take it! End of discussion, young man." She softly but sternly told me.
I looked embarrassingly away, contemplate on what to do next, but I sighed in defeat. There's no way on arguing with them out of this. I stacked the money into my pocket. "Thank you..."
Esme beamed with pride. "Your very welcome, my angel." She began to caress my cheeks lovingly; her cold hands are soft. I closed my eyes to yearn more of her motherly touch. I honestly wish I can wake up in the morning like this.
"You don't have to worry about finding a tough time for a job, Desmond. Come by to the Street Festival, they always have job offers on some vendors." Charlie suggested it after paying our meals.
"Okay, that could work. I'll be there then."
"Perfect, shall we..." Charlie gestured towards the front door.
We bid our goodbyes to Cora first before walking outside of the chilly weather. The dark gloomy skies still give way to the pale light of dawn. We stood outside near the front door, enjoying the after rain smell it left. I turned to Charlie, giving him a polite smile as he returned the favor.
"Thank you for having me here, Charlie. It was pleasure to meet you." I stretched out my hand to him.
"Likewise, Kiddo! You need anything, you let me know." He happily shook my hand, handing me over a piece of paper. I believe it's his number as I pocket it inside with the bills. He gazes over to Bella. "You should bring him over sometime. I like to have him join with us on one of our Sunday night footballs."
Bella shrugs before looking at me. "If you're okay with it?"
"Yeah, I don't see why not."
"Great!" Charlie exclaims happily. He then gazes over to Carlisle and Esme, stretching his hand toward them. "Dr. Cullen... Mrs. Cullen... It's great to have you here."
"Likewise, Charlie." Carlisle said as he and Esme shook his hands.
"Well! Time to hit the road, Bella." Charlie departs over to his cruiser, gets in and turns the ignition on. Bella nervously walks over to them, obviously still shy being around with the Cullens.
"Goodbye, Dr. Cu- I mean! Carlisle." She immediately corrects herself as she shakes his hand.
Carlisle chuckles. "Same to you, Bella."
"Goodbye Bella. Safe travels." Esme told her as she embraces her lightly.
"Always!" Bella smiles. Once she let's go of Esme, she gazes her attention towards, a grateful smile is forming around her lips. She embraces me without waiting for second before her father's cruiser left the area. "Thank you so much for coming with me, Dez." She whispers to me.
"For you, always." I responded.
We stood there for moment, cherishing the mixed feelings that she and I radiated from one another before we're going to leave. Sadly, that moment was seized when we hear someone's cough, grabbing our attention as we both gaze over the culprit. Carlisle flashes his eyebrows at us, pointing his index finger to his watch around his wrist. We separated each other, blushing heavily under the dim light of the diner.
"See you tomorrow, Bells." I told her.
"Bye, Dez. Sweet dreams." Bella sweetly told me.
"You too…"
Bella turned around to walk over to her truck, quickly got inside, and turned the ignition on. Without a doubt, she wanted to warm up as I've noticed when we embraced, she was shivering. Barely keeping the engine alive as she pulled out of the parking lot and drove off while waving at us one last time. That's just leaves me to bid my goodbyes to the beautiful couple.
"You two have become quite good friends." Carlisle states.
A nervous laugh escaped between my lips as I rub the back of my head. "We just met yesterday. We're both new and have the same schedule, so we stick together."
"Do you like her?" Esme asked. My head turns to her, widening my eyes, and heavily blushing. I can't believe this woman is straight forward with the questions, she doesn't beat around the bush.
"Esme…" Carlisle softly chastised her, glancing her a disapproving look.
"What?" Esme bemoan innocently at him. "It just a simple question, right sweety?" She turned back to me.
'Okay, mental side note; she's avoiding addressing my name.'
"The feelings mutual." I explain while shrugging my shoulders.
Esme tsk, shaking her head in disagreement. "I believe there's more to it than it meets the eye." She told me, shot a knowing glance.
My cheeks began to burn out of blushing, I felt like my heart was going to set my watch's alarm off. And I'm not looking forward to receiving another call from Evelyn. I gaze over to Carlisle, giving him a pleading look in my eyes. He took in the message, smiling with a nod and places his arm around her waist.
"Desmond, did Alice give you the smoothie during class? Did it help with your sore throat?" Carlisle asked.
'Smooth save, Carlisle!'
"Yes, thank you so much! It helped so much to relief the pain."
"Excellent! All courtesy made to my lovely wife here." Carlisle said, giving her a peck on to her cheek as she smiled.
"I can you make another one for tomorrow, dear. What flavor would you like? Or do you prefer a meal? Whatever you want, you can tell me." She eagerly asked.
My eyes frowned for second before staring directly into their identical amber eyes. "Please, don't! You've already done enough for me." I patted on to my pocket where I stored the money they gave me.
"It's no problem at all! I enjoy cooking all the time, it's one of my passionate hobbies to do at home." Esme continues to insist.
"I don't know…"
I stared off into space, musing on the idea that she would prepare meals, and I would get to taste them. I won't lie, that smoothie was really good, Esme's cooking may be better than Evelyns. However, a part of me doesn't want her to through the trouble to prepare me drinks or meals every day in school. I looked directly into her eyes, shaking my head in disagreement to her offer.
Esme's beaming smile slightly falters and then faded into upsetting, she gazes towards Carlisle, who continues to show calm. She expresses an implore look towards him and he nodded in understanding. His eyes returned to mine.
"Is there a reason you don't wish to be helped?" He calmly asked.
"I just don't want to be a burden to all of you." I answered.
However, I've come to realize that was the stupidest and most regretful thing to say towards them. Carlisle's calm and gentle nature has completely vanished when he notices Esme's expression into hurtfulness and distress. He glowers down at me as I felt being shrunk with his look. He slowly shook his head, like a father would if he was disappointed with his son. Carlisle let's go of Esme and walks over to me. He grabs hold of my face with both of his cold hands on either side, and levels my eyes towards his.
"You are not a burden to us, young man!" He firmly told me. "You are never a burden to us! I don't want to hear that word coming out of your mouth ever, do you understand?"
I slowly nodded, completely taken aback by his anger. "Yes, sir."
Carlisle then pulls me in an embrace, burying my face on to his muscular shoulder. His right hand began to smooth me on the back of my head. "We love you, son. No matter what, we will always be there for you... always."
Carlisle plants a kiss on top of my head while continuing to smooth me in comfort, like a parent would. He's treating me like I'm one of his children, and I have to say, I am adoring it every second. My eyes completely shut as my arms made their way around his back, clinging on to him. I felt another pair of hands securely wrapping around my waist from behind me, it's Esme. Her head lies down on my back comfortably, a low lullaby humming can be heard from her. I shouldn't have told them that, I feel such a moron. In the last hour or so, they have been more parental towards me than what George or Evelyn have shown. Although, they may have layers upon layers of fabric clothing, I can still feel the cold temperatures radiating from their bodies.
"I'm sorry…" I mumbled through his shirt.
Esme brushed her lips on to my cheek. "We know, sweety."
Carlisle soon releases me, but Esme continues to cling on to me. He takes out a small hand size notepad from his pocket and begins scribbling with a pen. He tears the piece of paper and hands it over to me. Carlisle has given his personal phone number, but not just only him. He has given me all his children's numbers, including Esme's.
"If you need anything, don't hesitate to give us a call, okay?"
I firmly nodded. "Okay…"
"Good." He stretches and offers his hand over to his wife. "We should get going, dear."
At first, Esme shares an unsure look between Carlisle and I, but reluctantly does as she slowly let's go of me. She accepts her husband's hand as he guides away, but not before she stops to turn around.
"Oh, honey! Your jacket!" Esme exclaims, she pulls off my jacket from her shoulders. I honestly completely forgotten that she still had it, but I raised my hand to stop her.
"It's okay! You can keep it. I got an extra one back in my room." I reassured her.
"Are you sure? You're going to catch a cold if you don't warm up." Esme said, her motherly tone filled with worried.
I chuckled. "I believe you're the one who will be catching the cold. Besides, I relish this type of weather." I raised both of my arms, gesturing the chilly temperature around me. Esme was going to protest, but Carlisle stepped in.
"He'll be fine, love. Don't worry." Carlisle spoke, his gentle voice has returned as he places his arm around her waist. "Come along, Esme."
He began to pull her away, but she frantically looks around between me, the truck, and the surroundings. Esme shows a distraught look on her face before her eyes found mine. She snapped her fingers and pointed at my truck.
"Seat belts. At all times." She firmly told me.
"Always." I nodded.
She then points the road up ahead. "The road is still wet. Drive under the speed limit." She glances a stern look.
"Dear..." Carlisle said. "Let's head home." They're now halfway through the parking lot. Carlisle and Esme approached what looked to be a four-door black luxury car, Mercedes. Is this the same vehicle I saw yesterday that was following us after we left the school area? I should have paid attention to the license plate number to match Carlisle's plate number, but the heavy rain was no helpful.
"And no driving and texting!" Esme yelled across the parking lot; she stepped into the passenger side as Carlisle has already have the engine running. I waved them goodbye as they drove off, but not before Esme rolls down her window and sticks her head out. "Call me when you get home safe!"
"I will!" I yelled aloud, seeing the vehicle take the road and drove off into the distance. Shaking my head in amusement of her motherly protective awareness. It's sweet of her, some kids might find it annoying, but I can support it.
I stepped inside of my Jeep and got the engine running in order to heat up my truck. However, I chose not to put in drive as I've stopped to ponder about everything that has happened this past two days. I grabbed my notebook from my backpack and started noting down all the coincidence.
Firstly, the dream this morning and the vision during Biology class. The mysterious woman turns out to be Esme, but it doesn't make any sense. Why does both events have her wear a wardrobe that's from the past, including the environment? That goes along with Carlisle in my vision too, wearing a formal grey suit that belong in the late 1930's. Overall, it doesn't make sense for the two to be living in that past since they're living in the present. Unless… there's more to it than it meets the eye.
Secondly, the mere coincidence of all the Cullens upon meeting me, all in one day. I can excuse Rosalie as we've only greeted briefly in the cafeteria, saving me from the public shame. Alice switching her classes the following day after I arrived. I find it odd and abnormal, especially Mr. Molina, who found it unexpecting having another student without being notified by Principal Greene or the administrators. Emmett and Jasper can be an exceptional, they just wanted to get to know me, and I must admit, I quite enjoyed their time. Afterall, they were just ditching and were nearly caught. However, the one that really caught me off guard were the arrival of Carlisle and Esme. Their presence alone was enough to throw me in a loop. Esme running through the rain, alone, followed by Carlisle who commented about her forgotten umbrella. Is the most baffling thing I have ever heard. And I'm sure I wasn't the only one, as Bella also found it strange for her to do that.
Thirdly, The Cullens; they are the most beautiful family that I have ever met. All of them carry a distinctive trait or special attraction, each of their own. However, that is what draws me into their circle, they are mysterious in an effective way. Their skin is pale, yet smooth and hard. All of them have amber eyes, though, they sometimes turn black when they are upset or angry as evidently shown by Edward and Esme. Either way, they are an interesting family.
Fourthly, the new symptoms that I have developed after arriving here. The sore throats only occurs when the chest pains happen. However, the coughs haven't happened since yesterday at the boys' restrooms. It could possibly only happen at occasional times; I must be aware and be prepare for the worst.
Lastly, the envelope; who left it in my locker? Who is that child in the photo with the young woman next to him? I reached over into my backpack and pulled out the envelope. I carefully reread the letter with word through word. Once that was done, I observed the photo with every detail shown. The boy's clothes resemble to the ones I wore in my dream, but the woman isn't Esme or have any resemblance to her. Is my mind now playing tricks on me? I then looked at the slightly rusty silver pin; N.M.C.
What do this letter stand for? Only one way to find out, and that is visiting the library. Of course, the evening is still young, but depending on the closing hours of Forks Library will tell otherwise when their doors shut to the public. I need to head their right now, besides, I'm not in the mood to deal with Evelyn by going home right now. I hope it isn't too much of the fee to park and enter the building. Speaking of money, how much did Carlisle give me?
I pulled the money out of my pocket and began to count. Every paper I flipped through were mostly twenty and a few hundred-dollar bills. After counting the money, my eyes widen in utter shock and disbelief as my jaw dropped of the amount they have given me; eight-hundred and sixty dollars!
I couldn't believe they gave me this amount of money. Out of frustration, I slammed my head on to the steering wheel and cursed myself for accepting their generosity. This is too much money! But it doesn't matter, what's done is done and I can't reason with them. I put the money back into my pocket and pulled out of the parking lot. Following the same road where I came from as I headed back into town. Eager to find out what's the story behind the pin.