Chapter 3 – The Snake Island
It was about three in the morning when I left the Cullen house after my tumultuous conversation with Carlisle and for once I was glad that I still had about three hours to be alone before the beginning of our journey. Unfortunately, that wasn't enough time for me to even start forgiving myself for what I had just done.
I arrived at the cottage and headed to the big walk-in closet that Alice had stocked up for me a few months ago. Fortunately, she had bought some comfortable clothes, though not many. After about six minutes of looking for something plausible to wear I finally found a good tank top, with some fitted trousers that came in with a discrete belt and a pair of boots – all in black. I got dressed, not fully understanding my need for comfortable clothes since I was a vampire but still it kept my mind busy and for that I was grateful. My daughter's locket remained on my neck, the only piece of jewelry that I wore aside from my engagement and wedding rings. I sighed heavily. I wasn't ready to take them off – not yet.
And just like that, the thoughts that I had been trying to avoid came back faster than I wished. I saw him again in my mind, broken and in flames, his eyes wishing me a silent and final I love you. I punched the wall in pure reflex and placed a hole in it – fitting for what I was feeling at the moment. I left myself fall, sitting on the floor of the closet, my back against the wall. In anger I tried to cry, but of course no tears came out. I hugged my own body, again in a desperate attempt to make myself at least semi-hole, after all, I had a lot to do in the morning and had to keep it together.
In those moments, I aloud myself to be vulnerable. To think about everything that I didn't want to, that I shouldn't dwell in. Thinking about him, brought me back once more to the conversation I had with Carlisle earlier and the deal I had made with him. I did it mostly because of Edward, after all, Carlisle's arguments had been pretty valid, but I also knew that there was a part of me that had been a complete coward and that showed how selfish I actually was. To think that I choose my own comfort in detriment of him, the father of my beloved, was disgusting to me. The fact that I let him convince me! Absolutely disgraceful.
My mind kept telling me that what was as done was done, but I knew that was still the voice of the same fainthearted little girl too scared to face world – which made suicide a fitting ending to my story. And for that, I decided right then and there that no matter what, no matter my promise to Carlisle, that I would end my life by my own means; enough hurting the people that I loved.
Though, those were nice thoughts of determination, there was a more pressing matter at hand, one that would define the how and when of my death. For the sake of Alice and Benjamin, I hoped that we would come back from the search and that I was really given the choice to determine in which way I left this world. Until then, my fate was still tied to the Volturi. I couldn't even bring myself to think of the name without grinding my teeth for the hatred I felt for each of them was way too great, sometimes even surpassing the sadness that I felt every second of every day.
I sat there reminiscing about these subjects until the breaking of dawn and when the time came to leave the cottage for good, I was finally able to recollect my emotions. Thinking all night wasn't such a curse after all. Since I had given myself permission to feel again it was a little bit more bearable to keep those emotions all inside for the remaining of the journey that I was about to embark in. I didn't need any more distractions.
But before I could have a chance to leave, my phone started ringing loudly, it's sound breaking the silence, scaring me. I read Zafrina's name on the screen as I picked the call only after the first ring, without giving myself time to wonder the reason she was calling at all.
"Zafrina? Hi, I was just about to leave to the meeting place…" I tried to explain, thinking that perhaps I got the hour wrong or something of the sort, which would be odd for a vampire though in the state that I was in everything was possible. But before I could finish, Zafrina spoke.
"Bella, actually our plans have changed" She proceeded to inform me as I frowned automatically with both surprise and worry. What happened? What did they know that I did not? I hoped with all my heart that everything was alright with Alice and Benjamin. So, in search for clearer answers, I reluctantly listened to everything Zafrina had to communicate without asking any questions "We are not to meet at the Forks South Border but at the SEA" Her words were fast, giving away that she was in a bit of a hurry.
"Seattle Airport? Why?" I questioned now, thinking the whole ordeal strange, after all we were vampires: we didn't need to sleep, eat, didn't get tired, could cross entire oceans in minutes…, I could go on. So, the question remained – why bother with a human way of transportation? It would only slow us down and that was certainly not our goal. It was a matter of life and death, to put it quite frankly.
"I promise I will explain everything, but for now I need you to get to airport before six" I looked at the time in my phone. 5:57 am.
"Before six?!" Exasperation transpired in my voice, not only because of the tightness of time but also because I was completely in the dark about everything. I had spoken with Carlisle hours before, why hadn't he said a word about this? Maybe it was something a bit more sudden than that but still, why the secrecy? And despite everything, I had to trust their judgment and ignore for at least a few more minutes my absolute hatred for surprises and above all else – secrets.
"Yes, I realize the timing is rather inconvenient but still it must be done" Zafrina's voice almost mirrored my own, the stress clearly getting to her as well. She also seemed preoccupied with something else outside of the phone call, her full attention elsewhere and wherever she was there was a lot of noise, like inside a car going at full speed.
"Right, I will get going then" As I was saying these words, I was already packing my documents, a book and passport into a small bag, the only luggage I was taking with me to Brazil. I did it in less than three seconds and by the fourth I was already out the door "And should I buy a ticket to where in Brazil exactly?" My words came out so fast as if my own life depended on it. There was small pause from the other side.
"Oh, that won't be necessary. When you get to the front desk just inform them that you're with Dr. Cullen's party and they will guide you to where the jet is"
"Jet? What jet?" I tried to argue still completely confused. The family had a jet? Since when? And why were we going to need it in the first place? As my mind was racing at full speed with more questions, Zafrina quickly said her goodbyes leaving me to wonder about the matter for a little while longer.
"I really have to go, Bella, I'm sorry, I will see you in a few minutes"
I sighed heavily as the phone call ended, already on my way to Seattle. I didn't bother taking the car; running was faster with the limited time I had at my disposal. Upon arrival at the airport, I did as told by Zafrina and was kindly and quickly escorted to the infamous jet that I had never heard about before. It seemed to be of the latest model of its kind, white and sleek and even though I had, reluctantly, grown accustomed to the Cullen's luxury lifestyle I still gasped in amazement at the beauty of it all. I was never a person to give any sort of importance to most materialistic things but even I had to admit that what was before me was, in lack of other words, bewildering.
The staircase was already open, so I headed inside with my small over-the-shoulder bag. As I entered the vehicle, I wondered how was it possible that the interior was even more beautiful than the exterior? The various seats were all made of cream leader, the carpeted floors in the same color, small decorations in a dark shade of wood painted various places of the jet. On top of each seat there was a violet blanket, matching roses on top of both tables. The air itself was different inside, a particular scent flooding the space: catmint, shea, and white musk.
I walked to one of the empty seats and made myself comfortable until the others arrived. I looked again at the time – 6:01 am. At least late I was not. Although, the same could not be said about nervous. I tried my best not to dwell in the questions that haunted my mind, into not giving worry a fertile soil to grow. But it was all in vain, and their delay wasn't helping the situation at all. For a countless number of times, I entertained the idea of leaving to go find them, of calling again and demand to know what was going on. All of this in less than two frustrating minutes, which was the time the group took to arrive and put an end to my agony.
I could smell them from where I stood, that old familiar stench…
And before I could have any sort of reaction, still dwelling between anger and disbelief, in they entered. First, Zafrina, then Embry and Seth. Carlisle was the last to grace me with his presence, his eyes apologetic, barely able to sustain my gaze – he knew I wouldn't be happy about this.
Now, that explained everything perfectly. The need for a human way of transportation, the lateness, the trip to Seattle, the nerves in Zafrina's voice. It all came now into sharp focus in my mind. But I didn't have time to say a single word of protest as I felt Seth's arms wrap around my body into a tight embrace. I hugged him back though remaining tense with worry for him, for their safety as I knew all too well that we probably weren't coming back from this suicidal mission, no return ticket back to Forks awaited the company before me. I didn't want that fate for them. They were so young, still so in love with life… and they had lost enough. This wasn't their fight – it never was.
But I was too blinded by my selfish desires to see it before; risking the lives of those that I loved and even of strangers for my own benefit was the biggest mistake I had ever committed.
Sensing the tension in my body, Seth let me go of his embrace and looked at me directly, evaluating my expression, no doubt looking for answers to my coldness.
"Come on, Bella, are you that unhappy to see me? Don't tell me you didn't miss me at all for the past few months!" A mocking smile flourished on his lips; his eyes playful as if he didn't realize the danger he was putting himself in. But that was Seth, it was simply his nature. His voice had changed dramatically sense the last time we were together and he was also a bit bigger, growing at the fast rate so typical of the wolves. He looked eighteen and not fourteen which was his age.
"You know I missed you, Seth, but you being here is a mistake" I told him, still hopeful that I could somehow change his and Embry's minds into abandoning the mission. I also made a mental note to inquire who's idea it was to ask them for help in the first place.
"A mistake? Bella, she is my friend too and she was Edward's sister, so you can bet I'm coming" He argued, referring to the blooming friendship between my husband and himself, a friendship that had always warmed my heart but now it seemed to be nothing but a curse.
"But you already lost so much, the whole pack, your friends, your sister… you have a chance to live a normal life, to start over… do you really want to throw it all way to help more vampires?" I surprised even myself with the derogatory tone in my voice when referring to my kind, but I wanted nothing more than to make him realize that his life was much more than a tool in somebody else's game.
"I'm not throwing anything way and you know very well that what my friends are doesn't matter to me: vampire, werewolf, human, it's all the same. I knew of a time where you used to think like that too…" I couldn't think of anything to say for his argument was more than valid. Nevertheless, I was not prepared to give up just yet.
"And what about Sue?" I asked, using my last card in a final attempt to persuade him to leave.
"What about her?" He inquired; his expression confused with the sudden shift of my question.
"You're not thinking of her, what will she-" But I was cut off mid-sentence by him, his eyes filled with anger that I never saw before. He was a sweet kid ever since I meet him, never witnessed a drop of rage, or hatred in those beautiful docile features. I couldn't say that anymore for the way he gazed at me showed all of the restrained deep emotions buried in his heart. Guilt started to creep up on me as I was the sole responsible for the pain I saw in those eyes, pain that should never be seen in a fourteen-year-old child. My heart broke again upon seeing his face in such a state.
"And you?" He said in a ton of accusation "Are you thinking of Charlie?" Seeing I didn't answer, still doweling in the guilt that consumed me, he proceeded "Thought so, for a very long time that you don't. And I'm sorry if this is hurting you, Bella, as I never told you any of this because we're friends, but I have as much right to be here as you. Not only because I want to save Alice and your other friend but also because I deserve revenge for what they did to the tribe; and you, of all people, owe us that"
I turned my back to the group, coward as I was, not wanting any of them to see my expression for the emotions that were deeply locked inside of me were threatening to set themselves free without my permission. No..., no. I couldn't fall apart, not now. I breathed in hard, doing my best to control my voice, trying to make it naked of emotion, as I spoke again and for the final time, putting an end to that discussion.
"You're right, Seth" A pause "Please, do make yourselves comfortable" Said I, gesturing faintly for them to occupy the available seats.
Still with my back turned to them, I walked towards the opposite end of the jet and sat in one of the chairs. I tried to keep my breathing as normal as possible and get rid of the emotions that assaulted my heart. But I simply couldn't, after all, I had just been confronted with the truth that was buried inside my heart. My bubble had just been burst right open and I laid there in the ocean of the original despair and agony of the battlefield. The images of the bodies returned to my mind, cutting me like sharp edges of a fine piece of paper. The invisible blood still on my hands. Always on my hands – forever. I felt as if I had taken their lives myself, like I was the one breaking the bones, burning the flesh and marble as I reached the inevitable conclusion that my mind tried to shield me from: it was all my fault – all of it.
I closed my eyes hard, so much so that if I were still human it would have hurt to so, in a silly attempt to make it all go away but the images, oh, those never left me. As long I was alive those would stick to me limpets on rock. Not knowing what else to do to get rid of this sensation of bloody, dirty, hands, I walked to the small bathroom and turned the water on. I washed my hands over and over in an attitude completely useless and nonsensical for all I could see was my marble hands without a single stain in them. I knew it was irrational, but I remained in this ritual for about thirty minutes and only stopped when I felt at least a bit better to face the four people that awaited in the other room. I knew it wouldn't be a walk in the park to do so, but I had no choice if I truly wanted to help Alice and Benjamin. And besides, I had to come out of the bathroom eventually, it was not like I truly needed to be there and everyone present knew that, which only made things worse.
I walked back in, still embarrassed of my silly actions for I new that the other two vampires that stood before me had just heard everything that happened. My gaze was not directed at anyone in particular as I sat down in the only available chair amongst the group. I knew they had been briefly talking about our destination in Brazil, the vampires informing the wolves of the progress that they made and the island we were to investigate. It appeared that it was one of the most dangerous islands in the human world, Ilha da Queimada Grande in Brazilian Portuguese, more commonly own as the snake island as it seemed to be completely infested by snakes and the reason why it was deserted by humans. The perfect spot for a group of vampires to hide from prying eyes.
"Oh, it's good that you're here, Bella, so we can finally start discussing our plans and put you up to dated on everything that happened in the last two hours" The kind voice was of Zafrina, who seemed to have taken over as the leader of the mission somehow. I simply nodded as I did not wish to speak too much again, still wrapped around my own emotions, though I tried to appear indifferent to it all, as if nothing had affected me. What a shame it was all in vain "Well, as I started to evaluate what we are about to face, in case we are successful in finding Alice and Benjamin, I ended up reaching the conclusion that, even though we have both of our gifts available to us, we are still significantly outnumbered to face the Volturi. So, yes, it was my idea to ask the wolves for help, as they are excellent killers of our kind and are also great trackers. Carlisle told me you wouldn't be happy about this arrangement but I do hope that you can see where I'm coming from.." She explained, her expression slightly nervous as she awaited an answer from me. I nodded affirmatively, understanding indeed our circumstances but still not agreeing with their decision. Nevertheless, they had made their choice and there was nothing I could do about it, so it seemed to me unnecessary to remain with my foot down about the subject. My reaction seemed to have calmed Zafrina's nerves, encouraging her to proceed with a soft grateful smile "Good.. It took a little of convincing, especially Embry here, but they eventually agreed to help us" She finish retelling, her eyes focused now on the wolves.
"Zafrina's arguments where pretty convincing, especially the revenge part and I couldn't let Seth come alone of course, so once again here I am babysitting" Embry said playfully, as Seth rolled his eyes.
"I think it is more the other way around"
"Besides" Continued Embry, ignoring Seth's comment with a sigh "Things have been tough at the reservation. Everyone took the destruction of the pack extremely hard; the council has been dissolved and I believe that the only thing that would give any peace to our people is the knowledge those coldblooded bastards would never attack our lands again and that the dead were properly avenged"
"That is... very noble of you" My voice was only but a whisper as I said those words, the consequences of my actions weighting on my shoulders even more as I listened to how bad things had really gotten. It wasn't just me this battle had affected but a whole tribe. It didn't seem right to me that I was the only one that visibility wasn't taking the recent events well, the one that dared to show a hint of vulnerability. After all, what was my lose compared to theirs?
"Not really, I just want to avenge my friends" a timid smiled bloomed from his lips, his hand reaching for my own in a gesture of comfort and understanding as our eyes looked onto one another. I knew he was thinking of Jake. It hurt me to remember. His sun-kissed flame merging with the purple one of my daughter's. It was a poetic, sorrowful sight that I would never be able to forget until the end of time itself.
In his eyes, I saw a mirror of my own. He knew where my mind was, of course, he knew – because he was there too.
"I see…" Was all that I mustered to utter, still attempting to show no emotion and failing miserably as always.
"Well, now that this matter is settled, should we focus on the task at hand?" Interrupted Zafrina, eager to redirect our attention to what truly mattered at the moment. On this I agreed with her, enough with all of this sentimentality, we needed to let go of our emotions for a while – especially me.
"Yes, of course" Said I as Embry let go of my hand, the vulnerability in our expressions dissolving like it was never there in the first place.
Not even two seconds had passed after I had spoken those words when Zafrina began removing from inside her bag a large map of the our intended destination – the snake island just off the coast of São Paulo. She quickly opened it and place it on top of one of the tables, giving us a grand view of the island.
"Before you joined us" She explained, speaking directly at me "I was about to share the location in which we shall begin our search – right here" Zafrina placed a finger on top of the map with determination "North of the island; this is where the last remains of their scent were. I followed it to this beach – here" She disclosed, moving her finger slightly to the side "But after that… nothing. I'm not even certain that we will find anything out there, I'm sorry…" She lamented, a spark of guilt flickering around her, eyes apologetic.
"You did everything you could; we all knew going into this that finding them is going to be a long shoot" Spoke Carlisle before I could, his hand brushing her shoulder in support, his expression understanding and gentle "You have nothing to blame yourself for"
"Carlisle's right, thanks to you we have this little drop of hope and for now that's more than enough" I completed, managing to grace her with a soft, encouraging smile. Zafrina's eyes alternated between me and Carlisle, her features blossoming into a mirror of my own as she fought for the melancholy that overtook her moments ago to wash away.
"Thank you…, both of you"
"And here was I thinking that the soft mushy stuff was over" Interrupted Seth, breaking the mirthless mood that was slowly building up to a crescendo. Everyone laughed lightly, the waves of mourning slowly dissolving around us, for no one wished to think about what we would do if Alice and Benjamin were indeed no more – or worse. Because, as I had come to learn, hope was one's biggest curse. Though, I couldn't say this words to any of them; they deserved to keep living in the world that I had once experienced: the world where happy endings were possible and love won in the end. I couldn't take that away from them anymore than what the last two and half months already had. It was simply too cruel.
"That was the plan" I replied to the remark, an artificial playfulness in my expression. I did not dare to gaze at him directly, the words of our previous conversation still ingrained in my mind. I was too much of a weakling to do so.
"Nevertheless, I think it is best that the two of you get some rest; it is going to be a long day" Recommended kindly Carlisle to the wolves, almost in a fatherly manner that made me think that he felt responsible for them. As did I.
"With all due respect, doc, we can take care of ourselves" Expressed firmly Embry, possibly afraid that we would discuss something while they were asleep. I didn't blame him, not after my previous behavior. They knew very well we were trying to shield them as much as possible from an ill-starred fate. But, unfortunately for Embry, Seth yawned rather loudly beside him as if on cue to deny his friend's words. I bit my lip not to laugh, it wasn't the right time. Embry looked at him extremely annoyed, exasperation transpiring from his voice "Really?!"
"What?" Tried Seth to answer, but before he could do so he yawned again not able to refrain himself. Embry just sighed, one hand reaching for his own forehead "Look, in retrospective, maybe Dr. Cullen has a point; we only slept 2 hours tonight after all" Seth finished with a calm shrug as he sank in his chair a little bit more.
"That is all you care about? Sleep?!" Embry almost hissed, maybe forgetting for a second that they were not alone.
"You should too, young wolf, if you want to have the full capacity of your abilities available to you upon our arrival to the island" Zafrina intervened, a knowing expression on her features as she gazed directly at Embry. He didn't seem to expect this intervention from her and as such appeared not to be able to sustain her gaze, unable to say anything at all. He sighed, looking slightly defeated.
"Alright, you guys win. Happy?"
"Yes"
"Yup" Said Zafrina and Seth respectively, almost unable to contain their smiles as they locked eyes with each other. The three of them laughed loudly, making me crack a smile as well, the mood becoming lighter by the second. I was glad. At least they seemed to be coping with everything just fine and that very fact was a huge relief.
Each of the wolves took a blanket and a few pillow, making themselves as comfortable as it was humanly possible in a jet – after all, nothing could replace a good bed. How I missed it. Back then I never thought I would. Too many nightmares had me wishing to forsaken sleep forever but I never knew that I would miss the comforting sensation of actual rest and even of drifting off to somewhere unknown, not remembering where my mind had been. I missed turning off, really. I could never do that in this vampire state. My mind never stopped, thoughts constantly coming in and out of my head, haunting me. It was an excruciating existence to be completely honest. But I had made my own bed and now it was time to lie in it.
"I will leave you to it, then" I whispered the words, slowly getting up from my seat "Rest well"
I walked to a chair that was on the opposite side of the jet, closest to the bathroom, eager to keep myself busy somehow. The one thing I knew in those moments was that I couldn't keep replaying my conversation with Seth like a broken record, it was simply too maddening and I could not afford to do maddening right now as I wasn't exactly in a position to fall apart. Not yet. Though, as luck would have it, I didn't leave all of my human habits behind.
Reaching for the small bag I brought with me, I took out my trusty old copy of Jane Eyre. It was a gift from Renee on the occasion of my 12th birthday. Though I never cared for such things as birthdays I remembered this one well. Renee had taken me to an old movie theater to watch a rerun of Breakfast at Tiffany's, one of our favorite movies. In the middle of the movie, I got up to go buy us some more popcorn but when I was about to head back I saw Renee standing near the double doors of the theater where the movie was still playing. She was on the phone and seemed pretty agitated, even for her. I approached her with caution, fearing that she was having another argument with Charlie and I certainly didn't want to be present for that. Unfortunately, it was much worse than another fight between my parents. Grandma Marie had just passed away. I recall spending the next few days in a numb, zombie-like state, after all it was my first taste with the power of death. I was never close to grandma, mostly because of the horrific relationship she had with Renee, but, nevertheless, I still felt love and even a bit of admiration for her. So, the thought that I would never get to speak to her again shattered me and as such the only way I knew how to handle it, between the funeral arrangements and sorting out all of her belongings, was to bury myself in the pages of my new book, those seemed safe and stable, the only stable thing in my life at the time. Amusing how once again I turned to those pages for some kind of comfort.
Still with those memories in my mind, I opened the book, turning to the first page, now yellowed and worn out by time and the careless handling of it's owner. As I read through the text, becoming acquainted with young Miss Eyre once more, the very much familiar words of the writer started to feel like a comfortable blanket on a cold rainy day. How I wished for a good cup of tea at the moment or even for the nice feeling of warmth of my human days though I did try my best not to think about those, after all, I was trying to escape my life not remember it. Nevertheless, it mattered not – I would make due with what I had.
Four hours and twenty-six chapters later, the jet was now about to land in the Terminal Airport of Itanhaém. I reluctantly got up from my seat and joined Zafrina in the very difficult task of waking the wolves up. They ended up sleeping through the whole journey, their gentle heart beats and deep breathing making the calming score the jet dove into for hours. It had a calming effect on me too, that and the book, though I longed for it to continue, to last a little while longer before I had to wake up from the fantasy and face reality once more. How I was dreading it.
With the wolves finally awake, we walked out of the comfort of the jet and set our sights on the three latest Aston Martin models that awaited us on the airport's parking lot. Zafrina and Embry got into one and Carlisle and Seth in the other, leaving the remaining one to me. I was still making calculations in my head about the value of the three cars when I sat in the drivers seat of mine. I guessed nobody wanted to loose anymore time so a fast car was in order. Fortunately, I had this one all to myself which provided me with more time alone, something that I craved for the whole of the jet journey because, even though I managed to calm down a little, I still felt his gaze on me the entire time. I sensed Carlisle's worry and silent questions for hours, his eyes analyzing every inch of my body language when he thought I was not looking. It wasn't comfortable – to say the least. I knew I would have to face him sooner or later but for now I wished it would be later. I wasn't ready to look into those golden eyes again that knew how much I had fallen, that knew who I truly was inside – this selfish broken being.
I drove behind the group for about two hours to the beautiful city of Peruíbe and ended up parking the car near the river with same name as the city. All of us followed Zafrina to the luxurious interior of a grand nineteen sixties yacht. They had thought about everything, hadn't they? And to my utmost dismay, I was no longer in the safe solitude of the Aston Martin but as luck would have it, the yacht was so spacious that it was not so difficult to find places to hide. Of course, I still had to keep up appearances, so I busied myself talking with Zafrina about the journey ahead and what to expect of the island. Her meticulous descriptions did scare me a bit, even as I vampire I dreaded to imagine what a 'sea of snakes' looked like, as she had put it. It also got me worried about the safety of the wolves, though she assured me Carlisle had come prepared with a multitude of antidotes to the various toxins of the snakes we would encounter. Still, it did not reassure me one bit but there was nothing I could do to stop those two stubborn teenagers.
When I finally sat inside my own room, looking at the marvelous view before me, the yacht had already been sailing into the Atlantic for about an hour. I sighed contemplating the ocean and the strong mid-day sun. Thanks to the time difference between Washington and Brazil, it was already three pm, which meant that time was not on our side. The yacht was going at full speed but we shouldn't reach the island before sundown. Another frustrated sigh. I walked, rather heavily and ungracefully for a vampire, to the private bathroom of my suite and made the necessary preparations for the second bath of the day. I filled the tub with a generous amount of water and placed some fragrant mineral salts in it. It wasn't like me to need this sort of pampering, or any at all for that matter, but this day was being extremely trying. The more I looked around and was reminded of where I was, the more it hurt. For crying out loud, even the decor of this very bathroom made me remember him! It was simply too unbearable.
As I drowned in the interior of the very modern bathtub, thoughts of our honeymoon plagued my mind. I tried to keep them at bay but it was of no use. Every touch, every word still burned in my mind. Last night was the best night of my existence. I submerged myself deeper in the depths of the tub.
Several hours had passed and I was still in the same depressive mood but managed to finally get out of the bathroom and dry myself off. When I finished getting dressed I was graced with the warm light of the first rays of the sunset. I looked at the time in my phone. Six pm. Great. Tying my hair in a high ponytail, I left the sheltered walls of my suite, reminding myself that now it was time to go back to the stage and give, perhaps, the biggest performance of my life, after all, I wasn't about to upset the mission because I wasn't able to handle something as simple as being in Brazil again.
I reached to the big common area of the yacht where everyone else was already comfortably seated in the various orange and brown couches and armchairs, something so beautiful that it looked straight out of sofa commercial. The colors of the living-room-like area matched the sun the was setting outside, the hard wood that covered the floors and some of the remaining furniture gave the space a very homely feel, while the various windows on most of the walls illuminated the three figures that stood before me.
When Embry first saw me, he extended the peanut butter and jelly sandwich that both he and Seth were enjoying in my direction as he exchanged a knowing look with the youngest wolf.
"Want some?" The tone of the question was so sincere that for a moment I thought he was serious and had forgotten but of course that was not the case. I raised an eyebrow, wondering what they were up to now, after all, they had to keep themselves busy somehow.
"How considerate of you" The grin in my lips marked my sarcastic words "But no thanks" Mocking smirks sprang across their faces upon hearing my response. Taking another bite from his sandwich, Seth ended up revealing the source of their amusement.
"Oh, come on, Bella, don't be such a killjoy! We are bored to death and we have never seen a vampire eat for real" He seemed to ponder for a second "Wait, is that even possible?" I almost let my annoyed mask falter as I bit my lip not to laugh at the ridiculous question and even more at the source of their amusement, but what I couldn't do was blame them, after all, I had been just as curious, and clueless, in the beginning.
As I was about to answer back, the yacht suddenly started lose speed and gradually stopped for the first time in hours. Finally. We had probably arrived at our destination and a change of scenario was in order, which was good news to my ears. Nevertheless, I ended up answering Seth's question, intending to put an end to that discussion, as if the sudden absence of noise from the yacht never happened.
"Well, if it is up to me, you will never find out" Both of their smirks widened and this time it was Embry who spoke.
"Are you that afraid of a challenge?"
"Is this really your idea of fun?" I fired back, my voice full of false sarcasm, ignoring his question, after all, there was no way I was actually doing what they were proposing as I had already endured enough of that child's play the day before at Charlie's.
"Chicken!" Said both of them at the same time while me and Zafrina exchanged a look, both of us trying not to laugh.
"Oh, she is no chicken, even a thousand year old vampire would have trouble doing something like that and look comfortable at the same time" Intervened Carlisle as he entered the living-room-area, coming from the deck as it was he who had been driving the yacht for the entirety of the journey "Besides, one would never do it unless it was a situation of extreme necessity, which, in this case it is most definitely not" He finished with a small amused smile as he took the sandwich from Embry's hands, his whole demeanor mimicking a parent figure.
"Jeez, doc, way to ruin the fun" Was Embry's disappointed remark, though with a small smile on his lips.
"Well, I never mentioned that I couldn't do it myself" Said Carlisle with a shrug.
And so, in a shocking turn of events, Carlisle actually dared to take a bite out of the sandwich before returning it to Embry's frozen hand. And he did it in such a dramatic way that I truly struggled to not burst out laughing as I couldn't believe he had actually done it, but I figured it was just in Carlisle's nature to do something at his own detriment if it meant another would benefit from his sacrifice. I knew that in this case the sentence was not that bad, but I couldn't stop myself from thinking about his proposal the night before. It seemed like the subject wouldn't leave my mind, that, Seth's previous words and my dreadful happy memories in Brazil. For hours that I tried to run from this subjects, though it had all, unfortunately, been in vain. Although, I was grateful to the wolves for at least making me laugh when I thought it impossible. I was lucky to have them here, despite all of the reasons why they shouldn't be.
"Wow, brutal" Was all Seth could say.
"Hey, Bella, I think he just saved your ass" Remarked Embry, taking another bite of the sandwich, teasing me.
"Very funny" Said I, still attempting to look serious, though failing miserably at the task which gave everyone permission to burst out laughing.
A few minutes passed and the wolves still remained on the topic, asking Carlisle a million questions as he patiently answered every one of them, even the most ludicrous ones. He and I both knew that we were wasting time, even Zafrina couldn't stop herself from looking at her wristwatch from two to two seconds, but I understood why Carlisle was doing what he was doing. We were about to begin a long and hard journey, one that possibly could result in all of our deaths and he wanted to make sure the wolves were calm, or at least a bit more relaxed before the start our search. He was, in his own way, taking care of them, trying to protect them – they were just children after all, just like I had been around their age. So naive, so full of false hope.
When the questions seemed to lessen, Zafrina took the opportunity she was looking for to interrupt their gentle conversation at last. I was most grateful to her since I didn't trust myself to be able to do it. They seemed so peaceful, their expressions almost back to their normal selves, without the shadows, without the grief. I wished they remained like so for I could not bare to see them as broken as before. The look in Seth's eyes when he bombarded me with all of those painful truths was something that would haunt me forever and the knowledge that I was the one responsible for that kind of pain in another was still eating me alive. That guilt would never truly disappear, that much I was aware of. Not that I deserved otherwise.
"So, have we really arrived?" Zafrina directed the question at Carlisle and just as fast the wolves seemed to get a little embarrassed, though they needn't be. They should have to feel guilty for being normal teenagers – nobody shouldn't, although I knew the feeling quite well.
"Damn, for a moment there I completely forgot about the actual reason of this trip. Sorry" Apologized Embry, abruptly terminating his conversation with Carlisle. The wolf's face was already but a shadow of the gentleness of moments before, the burden and grief returning to it. In response, Zafrina gently smiled, her eyes warm and understanding.
"It's quite alright, young one, but it is getting rather later is it not?"
"It really is, and to answer your question; yes we have arrived. We are right near the initial spot you pointed out before, the one to the North, but I'm afraid we will have to swim all the way to the actual location" Informed Carlisle, a slight frustration transpiring in his voice.
"Can't you put us any closer?" Questioned Zafrina, all of the previous playfulness from before gone from her features and voice. Right back to business we were.
"I'm afraid not, there is a chance the yacht will hit one of the rocks near the island and I don't want to take that risk" Explained Carlisle pointing to the many rock formations visible from the various windows of the living-room. Zafrina nodded, understanding his arguments.
"Alright, then we don't have much of a choice but I'm worried about the two of you, can you swim?" She asked, her gazing redirecting itself to the wolves. Both of them laughed, as if they had been asked the most ridiculous question and seemed slightly offended by it. I could even hear Seth's silent we are not five year old's in my head.
"Are you kidding? We have been cliff-diving at La Push for while now, I think we can handle this one" Said promptly Embry, who seemed the most annoyed by the question out of the two.
"Indeed, how could I forget" Commented ironically Carlisle, a serious expression on his features and a concerned one too. I swallowed slowly, remembering the time I also cliff dove in my desperation to see him again. It seemed right now in such a distant past but the reality was, not even a year had passed since then. To be completely truthful I never really came to terms with everything that happened: with what I did, with what he did, I just sort of… moved on – forgetting, not thinking about it – like I always did because if dared to open that small rusty drawer inside my mind I believe that I would loose myself in those past emotions, which would be a very dangerous territory to set foot in.
Fortunately, Zafrina's voice brought me back to the present.
"Good, I'm glad but I will still be keeping an eye out for you"
"Both eyes" Said me and Carlisle in unison, as if planned, while the wolves rolled their eyes at our concern. I tried my best not to look embarrassed and proceeded to pretend that nothing happened at all. I didn't even dare to look at him as I knew that the conversation we ought to have was still very much in both of our minds, his previous attitude in the jet told me that pretty clearly. As such I still did not wish to have it anytime soon, so the less contact I had with him the better.
Deep down I knew that he didn't deserved to be avoided like so but I couldn't risk breaking down anytime in the near future. Especially now that our search for Alice and Benjamin was about to start. Also, it certainly wasn't good for the team morale – everyone was already on edge.
"Well" Said Carlisle as he cleared his throat "I think there are still some old pieces of swimwear in the back that I can lend you; let me go check"
He left and less than two seconds later was back with a very limited selection of swimsuits, bikinis and shorts. All appeared to be from the early 60's, at most. Everyone picked their poison, as we would all probably look ridiculous since the clothes were most likely not our size. I picked a two piece in a pastel sky blue color as it seemed that it would fit my proportions the best.
"Okay, everybody, let's meet right here in five minutes and then we will be on our way; we don't have time to waste" Suggest Zafrina as everyone nodded in agreement.
It took me a few seconds to get fully dressed, my hair still in a high ponytail. To my utmost surprise, the bikini did fit rather well, as if I had bought it for myself. Though I still looked like I had just stepped out of a nineteen sixties swimwear ad.
A few deep breaths and I was ready to truly start this dangerous adventure we were getting ourselves into. When I arrived to the living-room, everyone was already there, making me feel slightly embarrassed. I was a vampire after all and even the wolves got ready faster than me, though I did blame it on the nerves.
"Alright, now that we are all here, here is what we are going to do: we will swim to the nearby beach and than we will figure out from there to which locations we are going to next. Everyone in agreement?" Explained Zafrina, the natural leader of our small team. All of us nodded once more and proceeded to walk to the exterior of the yacht.
Even though it was already six pm, the sun kept shinning. It's heat brought me a since of peace that I deeply craved, the sound of the calm ocean at the end of a day bringing back more memories that I wished to forget. Suddenly, the hole in my heart ached, burning me from the inside out. But I could not show it, especially at the moment. Don't think about, don't think about. I tried in vain to repeat to myself. Maybe if I said it enough times it would actually work. Ha, more lies.
We swam to the beach Zafrina had mentioned and spend several minutes discussing what to do. Everyone ended up agreeing that it would be better if we separated into two groups so the search would be made at a faster rate. Until there I was on board, but it was only after Zafrina suggest who would be stuck with who that I had to put my foot down.
"It makes absolutely no sense! Why put two vampire's together when it would be probably better to have at least one werewolf in each group? This is going to slow us down!" Zafrina sighed rather loudly, her frustration with the whole situation starting to show.
"No it is not; Bella, you and Carlisle know each other well enough to work wonderfully together, it is actually going to make the search faster not the other way around" She tried to explain but I was not having any of it, after all, what truly worried me was not the search at all, as I trusted Zafrina to know better about these matters; she had lived far longer than I had. I just couldn't be alone with him at the moment, especially if I wanted to focus on the task at hand. So, what if he said anything, what if he asked questions that had nothing to do with the search, what if the talked about last night?
There was too much danger in those options and since I didn't want to take that chance, I was determined to change Zafrina's mind.
"But I know them better and we already worked well as team before" I argued, expecting the wolves to also be on my side, after all, I didn't think they would want to spend the next few hours with vampire they barely knew. But, boy, was I about to be proven wrong.
"That might very well be true, but Seth and Embry feed of each other's energy and I believe separating them would only do us harm" Reasoned Zafrina once more, her eyes piercing my own as she knew very well that her argument was very much true. I tried to look as stolid as possible, though I already felt that I was going to lose this war.
"Yeah, I have to agreed with Zafrina on this one" Intervened Embry, to my surprise, with a small shrug "And besides, even if staying together would slow us down it's not like it would by alot, so what are you so worried about?" He questioned, pure and innocent curiosity emanating from it though I knew it to be the final blow for me. After all, I couldn't reveal the real reason why I was avoiding being alone with Carlisle. As such, the answer was short and vague, my voice much lower than before as I admitted defeat.
"Nothing…" Said I, my gaze cast almost completely down as I was also embarrassed for truly slowing us down with my pathetic requests. I would have to endure it, after all, how hard could it really be?
"Wonderful, then it's settled!" Zafrina smiled lightly, content with the turn of events as it seemed. She exchanged a long look with Carlisle and it was then that I knew. She was doing this on purpose and it had nothing to do with the good of the mission. So that's how it was. She knew, but, how could I have expected her not to know; I had been acting strange all day and I was quite aware of it. I thought that I hid it well but, as it seemed, not well enough. Perhaps, Carlisle had also spoken to her about the matter. I was so embarrassed that if I were still human I would have turned all shades of pink, just at the thought of it. Seriously, I ought to be more careful next time "You guys will go northwest and we will proceed south; good luck!"
As we said our goodbyes, I ran behind Carlisle, since he was the one that had the map and the compass, for what seemed like hours. None of us spoke a word at all, the nature's noise composing the score around us. It wasn't the most comfortable situation, to say the least, but it was still better than talking about the elephant in the room.
Of course, it actually took us only two minutes to find the spot that Zafrina mentioned. It was just another beach, it's sand almost pearl white and it was overgrown with rocks that led into the ocean, it's color of a perfect blue now painted with the sunset. In other circumstances it would have been an appetizing view, with the exception of the snakes. Those covered the rocks, the sand and all of the surrounding vegetation, even the water did not escape them. Lovely.
Carlisle put his backpack on the sand and started to investigate the area. I busied myself with the same task, using first my sense of smell and than my amazing vampire eyesight. For more than half an hour, I did nothing else, but I had absolutely nothing to show for my efforts. Carlisle too as it seemed. It started to frustrate me. There was nothing there. I hoped Zafrina and the wolves were having better luck than us. Even the scent that Zafrina had described had completely vanished and as such we had nothing that could help us. Nor any other clues had surfaced, it was like that place had been deserted for decades. It was hopeless. At least the snakes seemed to want nothing to do us as our smell was probably not an appetizing one.
I walked towards the ocean, wetting my feet, hoping that the gentle sensation of the water against my skin would calm me down or maybe strike me with some new found inspiration to where else to look. I breathed in the sea air deeply, closing my eyes for a brief moment as the last sun rays kissed my marble skin, a tender breeze flowing around me. I could even feel the taste of the air brushing against my lips; it was quite salty.
"It suits you"
I hadn't expect him to speak all, especially at that exact moment, after all, we had been in a self imposed silence for a while now. It wasn't ready for that peace to end, as imperfect as it was. But it seemed I did not have much choice in the matter, though, we obviously couldn't keep this tension going; sooner or later we would have to talk.
His voice was only but a whisper, though, perfectly clear to my ears. I forced myself to look in his direction and regretted doing so immediately. His golden eyes melted with concern, however, very well disguised. His composure was firm and seemed rather normal, but there was a glum in his eyes that gave him away. I pretended not to notice, delaying my sentence a bit farther.
"What?" I asked. Despite it all, I was still confused by his out of place complement. He grinned lightly, though no amusement lingered in his eyes, as he pointed to the two pieces of fabric I wore.
"The swimsuit"
"Ah" I did not know how to respond of that. It was such an insignificant subject to tackle at the moment that it made me feel a little taken aback. As such, my next words were not very well thought out, actually far from it. They were the first thing that popped into my head "It's beautiful but it feels like something that should be in a museum" I commented, looking slightly down, as I analyzed the old fabric sitting against my skin. Some would say that it was a crime to wear something so old and I had to agree, though I did not have much of a choice. It was either that or swim in the nude "Where did you get them, anyway?"
"At a boutique in Paris, in the early sixties" He explained, his eyes darkening as he said those words, perhaps lost in memories of that distant time. Sometimes it was rather easy to forget that he was centuries old, though, the expression on his features made me think that it would have been better to leave the subject alone. Me and my big mouth "I bought that pair specifically for Esme"
"Oh, I… I didn't know" I never wanted to kick myself more. If only I had stayed quiet like I had told myself to. Great, now, I was also responsible for making him remember the love he had lost, just like me. Though, maybe, he had been in as much agony as myself the whole journey here in Brazil, after all, he probably had decades of memories here. The island was called Esme for a reason. I ought to be more careful as I wasn't the only one suffering "I´m sorry, I shouldn't have asked" Was all that I managed to utter as I casted down my gaze to the snake infested sand.
"It's quite alright, as you stated, you didn't know"
"No, I… should give it back" I insisted, trying my best to deal with the emotions that I was experiencing.
I felt guilty and stupid. Here was I agonizing over my year and a half relationship when he had decades with Esme. Once again, I questioned myself, what as my suffering compared to his. Nothing. And here I was, drowning in my own grief and wishing to take my life, so much so that I had involved him in this mess. I was truly a disgrace. Did I even consider how he must have been feeling this entire time?
I heard him walking towards me slowly, at his human pace. He stooped right in front of me, making me instantly look into his eyes. They were firm and sincere, a certain vulnerability in them that I did not expect to find. But, perhaps, I wasn't meant to see that, after all, he truly was the image of emotional control. Though, maybe in the last few months this ability that he once possessed was slowly fading away. I didn't blame him. We had been through the unimaginable, especially him.
"As I said, it suits you; so, keep it" His eyes were completely locked into mine when he said those words, as if to prove to me that he was being honest. After that, his gaze fell into the horizon past me, his thoughts again on his memories "Perhaps you can give it a new life, for now"
"New memories to erase the old one's?" I questioned, knowing the feeling well, my voice coming out lower than what I wanted. I turned around, contemplating the ocean, as it was much easier for me to talk like so, without the pressure of having to face the eyes of another. Especially, in this situation. I guess, even as a vampire, I was still Charlie's daughter.
As I looked upon the sea, I wondered if that was even possible – to erase old memories with new one's. I didn't believe so. After all, my memories on Isle Esme with Edward were… too amazing to forget altogether. Nothing would beat those. I had a fairy tale-like honeymoon and I was certain that I would never reach such a level of happiness again. Not in this life, nor in the next. So what was the point in continuing?
"Something like that…" Admitted Carlisle in a meditative tone, interrupting my thoughts "I already made my peace with the past"
"Truly? Because you do not look it" I expressed, regretting doing so immediately after, but it just slipped. I blamed it on the two and half months that I spent all alone in the meadow; I was loosing my touch when it came to speaking with people. I just could not simply speak everything that was on my mind.
"At peace? Well, neither do you" He pointed out with a small chuckle. I almost sighted of relieve since he did not seem upset by my unfortunate comment.
"I never said I was" I articulated rather matter-of-factually, as I did not wish that the conversion flowed to my side. I didn't want to involve him more, make him worry more. He wasn't my father and I wouldn't do such a thing even to Charlie. So my intention with this response was to put an end to this particular subject, though, of course, Carlisle being Carlisle wasn't about to let it go, especially now that he had me all alone.
"No, you did not… but you try to conceal everything, even from the people that love you" His voice was serious when speaking this words, making me realize that I really hadn't fulled him one bit. My efforts had been completely in vain "Though, not very well" He teased, in an attempt to lighten the mood. He earned a small chuckle from me as I contemplated my own silliness.
"Perhaps, I'm out of practice"
"Perhaps… or maybe it is all to much to bare" I felt his gaze again on my features, however, I did not have the strength to look away from the ocean. I feared that if I did so I would truly break down with the memories of that snowy day "Please, don't be afraid to lean on me from time to time; you do not need to face it all alone"
I gasped at those words as I simply could not believe it. That man truly was the definition of compassion. He was once again offering his help to his own detriment. Oh, but this time I was not about to have it – he was going to have to listen to me.
"Lean on you? Carlisle, I should be the one saying that! You're already doing more than enough for me!" I argued, a strange anger consuming my heart as I now turned to face him "I'm fine, I have everything under control" I stressed, trying by best to make him understand that he needn't worry so much about me, that I could handle it.
"No, I'm the one that has everything under control" He expressed, his voice a bit harsher and louder than I ever heard him speak before. I became again very aware of his age and felt incredibly small. Though, seconds later, his features relaxed slightly as he seemed to go deep in thought about something rather unpleasant "You had me so worried in the jet…" His voice was softer now, compassionate "When Seth said all of those things, your eyes… Bella, it was like you were there again, amongst the snow and the ash. The darkness flowing from your glazed dead-like eyes, scared me and I… just cannot bare to see you like that once more; I made a promise to him that I wouldn't let that happen ever again"
So, he really did see through me. That was why he kept staring at me during the entirety of the jet journey. I had been foolish enough to think that I hid my feels well. And now that he was right here, open to listen to my selfish and silly thoughts, there was nothing more that I wished to do than to lay it all out on him, to let him comfort me.
Nevertheless, no matter my wishes and desires, that simply could not happen. I was already being selfish enough, using him to my advantage. No more.
"Carlisle…" I started, voice low as I tried my best not to fall apart right there and then "I know that you feel responsible for me because of Edward but… there is nothing you can do to fix me. There is no surgery, no remedy, no bandage, that can fix this" I explained as I placed my hand right on top of my chest next to my heart, making my point.
"Maybe not" His gaze lingering from where my hand rested to my eyes, looking straight into those "But you could at least talk to me about how you're feeling; or anybody for that matter, but speak. If not you're going to go insane – trust me" He tried to reason. I saw the truth in his eyes – he spoke from experience. I wondered how long he kept it all in like me, though, I struggled to imagine that he actually was able to confide in another, like he was suggest for me to do. I would bet that we were actually on the same boat on the subject, try as he might to make look otherwise.
"Fine, I will think about it" I lied, hopping that he would just drop the subject. Upon hearing those words, he graced me with a gentle grin, probably, thinking that the won this battle. Fortunately, for me he did not yet win the war.
That thought made me realize that, to my upmost disappointment, was exactly what all of this was – war. One that was fought by careful gestures and words, by the right timing of certain conversation and by the emotional strength of the opponent. Well, on that department I was already losing, though I wasn't ready to surrender yet. I wouldn't make it easy on him, promise or no promise, Edward could not keep controlling what I did to cope with his absence, even from the grave. I was aloud to make of my life what I wished, even if it meant to terminate it. He couldn't trap me again like he did on my 18th birthday. I would not live like that again, especially without our daughter in the picture.
It hurt me to think about Nessie at the moment, but I did my best to push those feelings aside. It was not the time, especially now, after this conversation with Carlisle.
"I can live with that" Expressed Carlisle, plugging from my thoughts, his expression satisfied.
"You won't stop trying, will you?" I dared to asked, my gaze still on the painted ocean in front of us.
"Trying what exactly?" I heard him smirk, apparent curiosity in his voice.
"To change my mind, about my decision to leave" I clarified, looking directly at him now, my expression serious for I already knew what his answer was going to be. He took in the emotion in my features and understood what I meant by leaving. He sighed heavily, suddenly seeming very old and tired – exhausted would be the better word to describe him.
"I told you; I made promise" He articulated, the tips of his fingers reaching to the locket I had on my neck, caressing it softly "You should know better than anyone what a promise like that means to a parent" He said with a gentle, understanding smile on his lips but I wasn't hearing him anymore.
It was like before at the cottage. I let in a little bit of my memories with my daughter and I lost it, but it was happening again and here of all places – with him watching it all go down. I tried to fight back but it was all in vain. I couldn't keep it in any longer, I was simply unable to. All I could hear was her voice, her sweet little voice like one of an angel – just like her father's. That and my promise.
I will never let anybody hurt you.
Liar! My mind kept screaming at me. Liar!
I feel to my knees, fresh water surrounding me up to my waist but it was like I wasn't there, like my mind left my body, making the outside world seem like a very, very, distant place. I could hear in the distance Carlisle calling my name, over and over again, panicking, but there was nothing I could do to reassure him that it would all end soon enough. I couldn't speak, even when he kept gently wetting my face with salted water, thinking no doubt that perhaps that would help. But he was wrong. I remained in my memories, in the cruel words my mind sang to me. The world ceased to exist and there was just me and my grief.
Minutes passed and I was finally able to wrap my hand around the locket around my neck. I broke the chain and threw it to the ocean. It hit a rock formation in the water a few feet from where I was. At least I could breath again, my senses seeming to be coming back to me. I was so embarrassed. I couldn't believe I had just done that in front of him; I couldn't keep pretending that I had everything under control now. Damn it. I was mad at myself for the mess that I had made but I figured that the day ended up breaking me. I couldn't say I was particularly surprised.
"Bella, Bella! Are you alright?" Carlisle kept asking, his hands still resting on both of my cheeks.
"Yeah…" I responded at last. As soon as he realized that I was coming to my senses, he let go of me, though his eyes still displayed a mixture of shock and concern.
"Jesus, Bella, you will be the death of me" He cursed as a sigh of relief left his lungs. I found it amusing that he wasn't the first person to say similar words to me. Something things did remain the same after all.
"Carlisle, I'm sorry… I-"
"It's alright, you will explain everything to me when we are back to the yacht; searching here was a waste of time anyway" He said as he got up from the wet sand next to me "But for now stay here while I will go pick up your locket; it would be a shame if it got lost"
I did as told, as I didn't feel like moving much at all at the moment anyway. I sat down in the sand, water covering me almost up to my chest. I watched him dive near the rock where the locket had fell, expecting him to find it in just a few seconds, but to my surprise minutes passed and he was still underwater. I frowned, thinking that he should have seen it by now. At last, he emerged his features exhibiting sparks of both excitement, curiosity and shock. His eyes locked unto mine as he gesture, locket in hand, for me to join him.
"Bella, you have to come see this!"
In less than a second, I got up and swam to where he was. He gestured for me to dive and I did. I dove to the bottom of where this enormous rock formation was and as I looked right in front of me. Between the rock and some coral were written various coded numbers in straight lines, three sets of numbers in each column and there seemed to be dozens of them. They looked like they had been carved with vampire nails, which where strong as steel and very rarely confused with something else. And then, at the bottom, like a lightning bold send straight from the heavens, it could be read only one name.
Alice.
Author's note: Thank you so much for reading chapter 3! My dear readers, I'm sorry for how long it took me again to write this chapter but I was rather busy with college entrance exams to write this faster in the last three months, especially because this chapter was the size of both of the other ones combined. I guess I couldn't find the right moment to finish it, ahah. Also, thank you so much for the lovely favourites, follows, and reviews, they truly made my darkest days when it came to my writing that much brighter! I hope you enjoyed chapter 3!