The Twilight Saga 5: Midnight Sun 14. Plans

Coasting down the sweeping drive, I was reveling in the smell that was still lingering in the car. When I pulled up to the garage I saw Jasper and pismiret fooling around and wrestling outside.Instead of leaving the vehicle I took a nonher breath. The aroma was intoxicating.Jasper turned to scan at me aft(prenominal)wards he was immersed immediately in undulations of dearest, manage a sponge absorbing water. My intense contend was flowing through me as if t clear upher were note flowing through my veins again. Each second, Jasper was macrocosm saturated in my bliss. He agitate his head in absolute fascination at my matter with the homophile girl that was swiftly taking over my existence.I rolled my eyeb any at him, ignoring his prec erstwhileived notions.He turned cover to Emmett, grabbing his wrist and jive him over his shoulder while Emmett landed with a rubbishy thud on the ground.Im tone ending to get you for that, Emmett grabbed at Jaspers ankle, supplying him d own to the ground, another loud thud issued through the sm on the whole clearing. They both jumped up and began beating on each other.Watching the p piece of cake of them brawl was invariably exsertingly amusing to me because Jasper would use moves that Emmett had neer imagined before and Emmett would ultimately be defeated. Though he was tremendously sturdy, Jasper had familiarity in fighting particularly strong vampires. Their grappling continued while Jasper attempted to render Emmett down, which thus fartu altogethery worked, barely fighting with Emmett re mental capacityed me of a chirrupan trying to wrestle a piano up the stairs.Dammit Where does he get up with those moves?Emmett rumbled.Jasper was chuckling in a patronizing tone at Emmetts indistinct muttering. I couldnt help besides snicker right a longsighted with him.Hes in a better mood. Hey, wanna wrestle, bro?Emmet smiled at the public opinion.Emmett, I tried to stifle my chuckle. You k outright that you forg et just get angry because I will hear what move you are exhalation to discharge I say in correct spirits.Whatever, Edward Emmett replied sarcastically.His lip curved up in a menacing port and in the neighboring instant he visualized tackling me. He flashed towards me, and in that second I bounded up and on his back, get for the attack.A few choice curse words exited his mouth. Snickering, I leapt pip his back and continued walking towards the house, Jaspers loud guffaws continued echoing through the forest.Its so unfair, you do it? Emmett complained.I am beginning to fall upon wherefore Alice worrys this human girl so more than, Edward is not brooding any more, Jasper hit Emmett with a small pine tree.Thwack.Ahhhh, Emmett shouted while running full force toward Jasper desire a train going full speed.Thwack.Emmett laid on the ground, giving up.Jasper chuckled.I threw them a quick smile over my shoulder before ledger entry the house.I bet he wont bring her back, Jasper said to Emmett, existing I could still hear.I grimaced.Whats on the add-in? Emmett chuckled.I wont use my abilities during our next third football games, Jasper said, grinning.Yeah, no more warm fuzzy hearts active how precious the pig skin football is Emmett agreed.And if you lose, Emmett? Jasper continued.I wont say another word approximately that incident in Alaskayou remember, dont you? Emmett retorted with a smile in his voice.Youre on Jasper exclaimed.This was apparently the second bet Jasper had make today, though I never understood wherefore he would bet against Alice. I continued to be in better spirits regardless of the banter between Emmett and Jasper and no doubt it was due to the exceptionally delicate girl, Bella. I saw Alice and Rosalie working on their fashion line when I walked inside and they both relished up. Rosalie was finally protrudeing to rein in virtually of her frustrations.Alice flitted toward me. Can I digest Bella nowadays? Please I just pl unge the perfect dress for her to wear. Seriously, adopt you revealn the girls wardrobe? She needs helpAlices wad of Bella and her, arms around each others waist, erst more flickered in her mind. There was slightlything new there, though, and I couldnt quite put my finger on it.Alice, please, not now, I pleaded.Her bottom lip puckered out and she frowned.Im sorry, Alice. I just dont think I am ready. Or Im not willing to share her when I just so recently obtained her, I eyeshot dubiously.It will happen, Edward. I love her and you cant keep her to yourself foreverAlices lower lip was still protruding.She marched off(p) from me and began working with Rosalie again.Pig,Rosalie snapped. At least her eyeshots were becoming less insulting.When I entered my get on I placed a classical CD in the breezeer, trying to drive my thoughts away from the brown-eyed girl that was always at the forefront of my mind. Instead of listening to the intricate workings of the master piece I was l istening to all I could think slightly is how Bellas fondness sounded strangely equivalent the melody flowing from the violin in the background, or how her voice sounded like some musical ballad that no instrument would ever be able to duplicate. Or how the rhythm of her pulse was perfectly harmonious with her very soul.An hour had elapsed and no matter how relentlessly I tried, all I could imagine was her magnificent bouquet, her blushing cheeks or her continuous, melody like heart pumping her soul with life. I was in dispute with myself almost going to see her. Each grueling minute was passing at a snails pace as I sat on my couch, yearning to be close to her. It wasnt long before I lost my internal argument, though I sprang out my window and proceeded in the direction of Bellas.There he goes again, Emmett saw me through the window.When I arrived outside her house, Billy and Jacob Black were still there. I began searching their thoughts, hoping I hadnt missed something importa nt. Jacobs thoughts were very irritating. He couldnt keep his eyes finish off Bella exclusively his thoughts were not like Mikes he put Bella on a pedestal in his mind and respected her. Regardless, I was still not happy about the way he fantasized her.The Blacks were about to depart and I was able to listen in on them with no difficulty, easily probing their minds for information, secretly unlocking more of Bellas thoughts by spot on her. Here I was, being the vampire stalker again, like a falcon searching for prey.Are you and your friends coming back to the beach in brief? Jacob asked, excited. I really hope soI think Bella likes me. Man, she is so beneficial-lookingIm not genuine, Bella sidestepped Jacobs question.Dang, I hope she comes to the reservation short. I had a good conviction with her delay time she was there. I think she likes me, too. She was flirting with me I think.Jacob was picturing them strolling on the beach together.I clenched my teeth tight decorous to cut steel, I was so annoyed. Yes, I was undeniably declined.Abruptly my mood was lightened when I saw how Bella was trying to flirt with Jacob in his memory. I suddenly couldnt overcome a laugh that came through my still clenched teeth when I saw how Bella was attempting to flirt. She truly had no idea what she did to the males around her, how her light flick of her lashes brought some boys to their knees, begging to go out with her. Unexpectedly, I felt sorry for the child. It couldnt possibly be his fault that she was entirely unaware to her exquisiteness.That was fun, Charlie, Billy said, though his thoughts were elsewhere. I cant bank I didnt get the opportunity to make known Charlie about Edward Next timeSo, Billy did recognize me earlier. He probably weaved an intricate thread of lies into Bellas head. His recollection of his histories was more involved than I realized, but still, his opinions are based solely on half-truths.Come up for the next game, Charlie encourage d.Sure, sure, Billy said. Well be here. Have a good night.He suddenly looked at Bella. Im going to pee-pee a talk with her about this Cullen business. You aspire care, Bella, he added gravely.Billy had every right to be bear on about Bella. She was hanging around a vampire for fun whats more perilous than that? And not just any vampire the one who hungered after her blood above all others of his kind. Though Bellas mind is cut off to my extraordinary gift, one thing was still certain she was absolutely unique.Thanks, she mumbled and because looked away.She didnt look fabulously pleased with Billy and without thinking about it, once again I tried to penetrate the solid wall surrounding her thoughts. Nothing, silence. So, instead, I was now law-abiding Bella via Charlies mind which was quite tedious at times regarding his thoughts were sometimes non-existent and his human eyes were weak. I saw the back of Bellas head through his cloudy human vision as she began walking towards the stairs.Charlie hurriedly called out to her. Wait, Bella.She jerked slightly and turned around warily. She had a severe look on her face, or maybe it was a look of guiltshame? Hum, I really hope I hadnt missed anything for the short period of time that I was gone. What could she possibly be feeling guilty about? Again, I was chastising myself for not just giving up my hopeless effort to stay away from her. There was something I missed and now I was regretting my absence.I didnt get a chance to talk to you tonight. How was your day? Charlie inquired.Good, Bella said, still hesitating on the stairs.It looked like she was in deep thought and once again I was perturbed by the lack of thoughts emitting from her. What could possibly be going through that curious mind of hers? I tried to probe her mind once more, just to check, before I reached the silent and impenetrable barrier that was always there.My badminton team won all four games, she said dubiously.I immediately remembered her bang the net, herself, and Mike in one swing. Now that I knew she was all right, I laughed loudly. The poor girl really was the clumsiest creature I had ever known. She seriously had the pad of a drunk sailor playing golf.Wow, I didnt know you could play badminton Charlie exclaimed. Four games? Wow. Im impressed.I laughed make up louder at the fact that he thought she was the condition why the team won. Charlie was truly interpreted aback and had every right to be according to her statement.Well, actually I cant, but my partner is really good, she admitted with chagrin.Oh. I should feel known better. Who is it? he insisted.Um she hesitated. Mike Newton.Jealousy ripped at me. This new emotion was masterfully working its way into my daily routine and continuing to aggravate me. She didnt like him, it was obvious, yet every time they talked or I had to listen to his every fantasy, the little green nut grew to another size.Oh yeah ?C you said you were friends with the Newton kid. Nice family. Why didnt you ask him to the dance this weekend? Charlie was smiling now and his thoughts were wistful.There it was again, the now larger green junky tugging at my heart, qualification me involve to bring my previous torture Mike fantasies to reality. Blow torches came to mind.Dad Bella groaned, snapping me out of my unhealthy fantasy. Hes kind of dating my friend Jessica. Besides, you know I cant dance.Oh, yeah, Charlie muttered, disappointed. So I guess its good youll be gone Saturday Ive made plans to go fishing with the guys from the station. The weathers supposed to be real warm. But if you wanted to put your elusion off till somebody could go with you, Id stay home. I know I leave you here alone too much.Dad, youre doing a great job. Bella smiled at him and I saw a sign of relief in her eyes.What was she so relieved about? Why wasnt she telling him she would be with me that day? Even if we werent going to Seattle, as long as he knew she was with meId have to b ring her back. If she doesntNo. Stop there.Ive never minded being alone ?C Im too much like you. She winked at him, a sign of trust.She went upstairs after that and I could hear her preparing for bed. As soon as she was asleep I would be in her room again, watching over her as her vampire protector.Bella slept very peacefully that night. I was sitting in my usual spot and taking pleasure in the yummy fragrance that was now engrained in my mind forever. Each breath sent flames down my throat, but it was somewhat pleasurable, too. I was hoping that with each painful gulp of air I would eventually become immune to her olfactory sensation.Deep down, I was still mildly worried that I wouldnt stay in control for long when I had her alone in the far away meadow. I took in another breath and it was like swallowing daggers, but it was al just about a good pain, a bouquet pain. After several hours, the scent started to feel less agonizing and much sweeter. I was grateful that it was becomi ng easier to be around her. If I were to be away from her for any period of time I would be afraid I would have to start all over again. I sighed. I was just giving myself excuses to never leave her.Tonight, I ventured towards her pile of books. Along with Shakespeare there were other classics. Her copy of Wuthering Heights was torn to pieces. Going through the small pile next to her bed, I learned that she still had several surprises up her sleeves. She was, undoubtedly, the most original and unordinary teenager I had ever met.When dawn broke across the night sky, I decided I needed to leave before Charlie woke up.Darting through the misty forest, I was whizzing past trees at a lethal speed. The air from the night was locomote rapidly past me and my throat was still burning from her magnificent fragrance. I was thinking about hunting prior to Saturday so that I would be watchful before I was with her in the meadow alone. Me and her delicate soul alone ?C no thoughts, no nosy vamp ires just me and her in the riveting meadow. The monster was too tightly bound and needed a release. Just a small ounce of prevention ?C inadequate though I knew it would be.When I arrived at home Alice was waiting for me, already in on the plan. Lets go this afternoonShe beamed at me.Her eyes were twinkling and she couldnt suppress her radiant smile. I soon saw why she wanted to go hunting with me so badly. Her vision was clear she would be introduced to Bella today. Even though the meeting would be quick and last a few seconds, she was elated.Is that the unless reason you want to go hunting with me? I raised an eyebrow in disbelief.Of course not, silly I dont want you to hurt her, Edward. Hunting before you see Bella is a great idea. You could use my company, too. I can tell it bothers you that you dont have the greatest self-control, and I am employ to it with Jasper. I see.Okay, but you better be good Dont thrust yourself on Bella. I dont want to scare her off. I paused for a moment before adding, even though she probably needs a good dose of fear. I frowned.Alice just grinned widely and scampered off into the house as she sang joyfully in her mind about meeting her new best friend.I mean it I shouted.I washed up, jumped into my Volvo and hurried back to Bellas, pulling into the driveway as soon as Charlie was gone. Bella ran out of the house quickly, and this time she didnt hesitate before she got into the car eagerly. Her hair was shiny and smelled like strawberries, a strong whiff of it hit me as she shut the car door. As soon as the door was shut, her aroma swam around my nose. I was beginning to enjoy her scent, embracing it instead of squinch away from it. No mistakes. As soon as I saw her smiling face and recognized that she was pleased to see me, too, I couldnt help but smile back at her, it was an automatic response.How did you sleep? I asked. I knew she slept well. I kept watch over her all night. She didnt even speak. It essential have been a dreamless night for her.Fine, how was your night? She smiled wider.Pleasant. I was thinking about how Bella had another suitor she didnt want, Jacob Black. She said yes to me. I couldnt help but feel euphoric.She looked at me and her eyes were so warm and inviting. Her hot, delicious breath surrounded me and I just wanted to tell her how much I loved her. Couldnt she tell? It must be obviously splayed across my face. I took in the air between us. Mouth-watering there were no other words to describe it.Can I ask what you did? she inquired with a smirk.She wanted to know what I was doing last night. Did she really care what I did, or was she just being polite? No, she did think about me. She even thinks that her feelings for me overshadow my own. She couldnt comprehend the mere complexity of my love for her. She didnt realize how lucky I really was.No, today is still mine, I said.She looked at me in disbelief and kitten outrage. Today I had a brand new list of questions to ask her. I asked her about Renee, her hobbies, and what the two of them did in their free time together. I wanted to know about her grandparents, even her school friends. Every thought I unlocked was like opening a door to a new world.During our lunch break together, I remembered I wanted to know more about her past relationships or not, actually, but I still had to know her complete story. My lips moved and freed the question before I gave them permission to do so. She looked embarrassed and I watched as her face went from her lovely white and slowly began to clap pink. The flood of blood up to her face made me bite down on my cheek. Her flush was utterly stunning, and delectable. My surprise kept the monster at verbalise as the realization of the fact that she had never chosen anyone before me hit.Were we dating? Is that what this is called?It was hard to believe that she didnt have someone in the past. Every male she has come across has had to mentally remind themselves to put their to ngues back in their mouths. They flock to her. Did she say no to every one of them, even before me? She said yes to me, I reminded myself.So, you never met anyone you wanted? I asked.Not in Phoenix, she answered, blushing again.What are you thinking? My lips pressed together into a hard line. I watched her across the cafeteria table as she took a bite of her bagel. Human food did look utterly disgusting.What does Edward see in Bella? She isnt even pretty, Jessica glared at her.I wanted to shield Bella from her thoughts, but at that moment I remembered my hunting trip. I should have let you drive yourself today.Why? she demanded. She looked confused.Im leaving with Alice after lunch, I saidShe blinked, Oh. She looked disappointed and then(prenominal) said, Thats okay its not that far of a walk.What? She couldnt be serious. After all this time did she not think of me as a gentleman? I would never make her walk. I was frowning. Im not going to make you walk home. Well go get your truc k and leave it here for you.I dont have my key with me, she sighed. I really dont mind walking. She looked boggle then.What are you thinking now? This was getting exasperating. I shook my head.I know where the key is, Edward, Alices thoughts chimed in.Your truck will be here, and the key will be in the ignition ?C unless youre afraid someone might steal it. I laughed. Who would want to steal that truck? If someone did I would hunt them down.All right, she agreed. She pursed her lips like she was thinking hard and I could almost see a hint of a challenge. I smirked at the thought. Having a psychic as a little sister had its advantages.So where are you going? she asked casually.Hunting, I answered grimly. If Im going to be alone with you tomorrow, Im going to take whatever precautions I can.Run, Bella, run Stay, Bella, stay, I was pleading silently. I had to give Bella the choice. It had to be her choice, always. You can always cancel, you know. She looked down and I was frustrated because I couldnt see her face.No, she speak and looked up at me again. I cant.She cant? I sighed mentally and realized that I couldnt cancel either. Perhaps youre right.She changed the subject, What time will I see you tomorrow? she asked.She looked upset. Had I said something to upset her? Exasperating, not knowing her thoughts was purely frustrating. Did some god send this wonderful creature here to drive me mad? Hoping I hadnt upset her I answered, That depends its Saturday, dont you want to sleep in? I offered.No she answered quickly.I almost felt my heart restart after 80 years of being still. She didnt want to sleep in because she wanted to be with me. I tried my best to suppress a smile so she wouldnt be able to tell how pleased this actually made me.The same time as usual, then, I decided.Then I wondered about Charlie. She didnt tell him that she was going with me, I speculated how she was going to exempt me showing up at her house, Will Charlie be there?Her eyes grew tig ht and she said, No, hes fishing tomorrow.She seemed enormously pleased about something. I thought about taking her and never bringing her back. Stop That fantasy, above all the rest, should be the one I would will myself to never think. Didnt she want me to bring her back? I was feeling frustrated and my voice came out a little sharper then I meant, And if you dont come home, what will he think?She looked at me like she was prepared to answer this question, I have no idea, he knows Ive been meaning to do the laundry. Maybe hell think I fell in the washer.She was tempting me to set apart her and run for it I scowled at her and she attempted to be angry by scowling back. Just like always, she was just a vicious kitten. She scowled at me for a few more moments and then her expression changed. She looked thoughtful. What was she thinking now?What are you hunting tonight? she inquired like she was petition me to pass the salt. It was so causal, like she was asking about the weather or what was on TV.Whatever we find in the park. We arent going far. I mused.Why are you going with Alice? she asked with obvious curiosity.I considered this for a moment. She talked about my clandestine existence like it was regulation. I mulled things over how to tell her that it was Alice that was going because most of my family members were un-approving of my newly found obsession with a human girl.She is the most supportive. I frowned, thinking about her visions of vampire Bella.You know it is because I am your favorite sister. Alice thought. Great, she was listening.Bella looked up at me with her pretty-pretty chocolate eyes, And the others? she asked apprehensively, What are they?Pissed off that is what we are. Rosalie thought.Emmet looked at Rosalie then and followed her stare. I try to rein her in bro, but she is feisty. Thats Rosalie for ya. Emmett thought.I wrinkled my brow and replied the best way I could without pain sensation her feelings, Incredulous, for the most par t.I watched her gaze go from my face to over her shoulder. I watched my family with disbelief. They were staring off in different directions, acting like they werent listening. I couldnt be so lucky.They dont like me, she guessed.She wouldnt think that Edward if you would introduce us. You know Bella and I are going to be best friends. You know how much I love her. Alice mused.Thats not it, I disagreed.Liar, Rosalie thought.They dont sympathize why I cant leave you alone. I said.Damn right I cant understand. Shes a human. Rosalie thought with disgust.Its true bro, I cant really understand the appeal, but if it makes you happy then I got your back. Emmett contemplated.Neither do I, for that matter. Bella added on top of the already massive numbers of thoughts coming from my family over this conversation.I couldnt accept that she would consider something like that. Didnt she know that her beauty was one of a kind, inside and out? Ive never meet a being quite like her before. I shook my head and rolled my eyes towards the ceiling, partially for her answer, and partially answering my familys thoughts. I looked back at Bella, I told you ?C you dont see yourself clearly at all. Youre not like anyone Ive ever known. You fascinate me.She glared at me with her furious kitten face again. I smiled at her face, Having the advantages I do, I mused, touching my forehead, I have a better than average grasp of human nature. People are predictable. But you you never do what I expect. You always take me by surprise.She looked away then, and back at my family. She looked embarrassed? Upset? I couldnt tell, That part is light enough to explain, I added. I wished she would look my direction, But theres more and its not so easy to put into words-What the hell are you thinking of saying to her, Edward? Rosalie then turned and glared at Bella. What is so special about this girl? Huh? I dont see it. She is so breakable and human. You just keep her around because she smells like the greatest snack youll ever have Rosalie continued to give Bella a fierce look. If you take a bite out of her this will hurt our whole family, you know thatI had it with her and I snarled under my breath.Whatever, nitwit. Rosalie turned her head then.Bella looked back at me then and I was relieved to see her face. She looked frightened? Was that possible? Did Bella even know what fear was? I was going to have to give Rosalie a good scolding later.Im sorry about that. Shes just worried. You see its dangerous for more than just me if, after spending so much time with you so publicly I didnt want to finish my sentence. I was hoping she wouldnt ask to hear the rest, but of course, she would want to know.If?If this ends badly. I put my head in my hands and tried to push the thought out of my head. Maybe she will finally see that this is serious. That I could gulp erase her at any moment. I could breathe her delectable scent in and one day the monster might break free from the darkness I put him in and decide to taste the delicious blood that I could see pulsing on her neck. I comprehend her drop her hand on the table. I kept trying to push those thoughts away, but then I took in a large gulp of her rich aroma. Instantly the monster reared up.I heard Bellas shaky voice then, And you have to leave now?The monster retreated then. Yes, wait, she wasnt. scared? She still didnt want me to leave? I relaxed and couldnt help but look delighted, Its probably for the best. We still have fifteen minutes of that abominable movie leave to endure in Biology ?C I dont think I could take any more.Bella gave me a look like she solely understood what I meant, she must have been feeling the same way about the dull movie, not like I was watching it anyways.Its time to meet Bella Yay Alice trilled in her mind. I could see the back of my head from her vision as she skipped over to the table.Alice, I said.Edward, she answered, and added, this is where you introduce us, in her thought s.Alice, Bella ?C Bella, Alice, I introduced them, hoping that Alice wont start bugging me every five minutes about hanging out with her. I only barely obtained Bella, and I didnt want Alice to take all her time away from me.Hello, Bella, Alice smiled, Its nice to finally meet you.Once again I saw a vision of her and Bella arm in arm, smiling at each other, Bellas eyes bright, crimson red. I shot a dark look at her.Hi, Alice, Bella whispered shyly.Are you ready? Alice asked me. I didnt want to leave Bella, but I was more than happy to remove Alice from her, Nearly, Ill meet you at the car.I met Bella, yay. Edward, you know this means that we get to start hanging out right? Alice beamed.I glanced at Bella and as she watched Alice dance away.Should I say have fun, or is that the wrong sentiment? she asked, looking back at me.Her expression showed a painful emotion, like me leaving her for a short moment in time would cause her great pain. She was so nonchalant about talking about my w orld that I couldnt help but grin.No, have fun, works as well as anything. I said.Have fun, then she said, I could tell there was an edge to her voice. Was she going to miss me while I was away? Being separated from her was overwhelmingly painful, was she feeling this way too? She couldnt possibly grasp the concept of the kind of love I felt for her.Ill try, I continued to smile at her, And you try to be safe, please.Safe in Forks ?C what a challenge.For you it is a challenge. I hoped that she remembered my last request about her safety that she stays out of the woods. Promise. I begged. If she put herself in harms way or was hurt in any way because I wasnt there to protect her it would shattered my cold, silent, heart into pieces.I promise to try to be safe, she mused, Ill do the laundry tonight ?C that ought to be fraught with peril.If that were all she was going to do this evening, she should be safe. I remembered her incident in gym from the other day and grasped the concept tha t no matter what Bella was doing, there was always an opportunity for her to injure herself. The thought merely brought on an internal chuckle, though, and I teased, Dont fall in.Ill do my best she mocked.I stood then, wishing I didnt have to leave. Bella got up too.Ill see you tomorrow, she sighed.I was suddenly absorbed by my desires again. Maybe if I just lightly gripped her around the waist, I would only have to concentrate on the amount of pressure I used. No mistakes, I scolded myself. I suppressed a sigh.It seems like a long time to you, doesnt it? I asked.She nodded with a sullen expression. She was continually saying yes to me.Ill be there in the morning, I promised.The infatuation I had over touching her was winning my inner dispute. I longed to assure her in my arms, to be engulfed in her warmth. I was craving her touch, too. My body was burning with the yearning to possess her and before I knew it I had reached over and touched her face, lightly touching her cheekbone. Her scent was lingering between us and I took air in my lungs slowly, as if to make the burning and aching of my throat a more pleasurable experience. It wasnt, it was only a burning pain and I knew if I didnt turn away now I wouldnt stop at her face. Id grab at her waist and bring my lips to hers. No mistakes, I yelled internally. I turned on my heel and strode swiftly from the room, even though my mind was begging me to turn around and take the girl into my arms and stop thereWhen I arrived at the car Alice was sitting on the hood, You know, Carlisle could help you turn her, Alice mused. I glared at her.I will not take her life AliceSure fooled me, I thought I was going to have to drag you out of the lunch room with the visions that were flashing in my mind, Alice said, Now Im super thirsty after all the imagines I saw, she faux pouted.Like I said, I wont end her life, I eyed her evenly.Like I said, she mocked, you should ask Carlisle. If you arent biting her because you are afrai d you will end her life, then why? To keep her human? she looked at me in aversion, but you know Carlisle wont kill her. Alice continued.Alice, Bella will not be turned into a vampire, the first one who tries will suffer the consequences I growled.Okay, okay. Just a thought, Edward, she looked unhappy.Alice got into the Volvo and we drove to Bellas.Shell be fine, you know? Her night looks extremely uneventful. She really needs to get out more Alice thought.I know, being away from her just makes me extremely anxious, I explained.I know, she trilled.We arrived at Bellas shortly.Youll find the key in her blue jeans downstairs in a blue laundry basket, Alice thought, figured I would save you some time. You would have found it eventually, of course, but this way you get out of there quicker.Thanks, Alice, I said, glad our little spat was patched up, or at least put stinker us.Youre Welcome Alice said while she jumped in the drivers side of the Volvo and drove off towards our house.I was lurking inside Bellas house and found her truck key quickly. Her lingering scent was ever present throughout the house. I was breathing in deeper than I ever had before around the seductive scent, only because she wasnt here in the house. I was in no danger of hurting her when she wasnt here, I contemplated. So I took in another gulp of her perfume before I left the house, which I know I would regret later when I was hunting.I drove her truck back to the school her aroma was stronger in here than in her house. I tried to distract my mind by musing over all the things I could upgrade on her truck before Bella got out of school. If Rosalie and I were on better terms I would have her do some work under the hood. This truck couldnt possibly be that safe. I grabbed a piece of write up out of my backpack and decided to write a note to Bella. I have a keep sake from her, she deserves to have one from me, too. I thought of what to write while I was driving (more like snail crawling) back to the school. I decided simple was safer. When I parked the truck I left the key in the ignition and wrote Be Safe on the white piece of paper. I left it in her seat. I checked to make sure there was no one looking and I speed off through the forest and back home. Alice was waiting on the doorstep for me.Are you ready? She trilled.Yes, lets go.We sprinted through the forest in silence for several miles. I knew it was safe to hunt when the only thoughts I heard were Alices. She was thinking about what she was going to cleanse out for Rosalie to wear tomorrow, whether green and pink or black and pink would look better on her new design for a shirt, and which shoe would look better with Esmes pants, open toed or not. Her thoughts wondered every which fashionable way possible, and I was grateful. I didnt want her to bring Bella up. She had so many visions and images in her mind when it came to Bella, and I would never be ready to see some of those visions come to light.Her mind sudden ly shifted to our purpose. She stopped suddenly and her eyes went blank. I saw flashes of a large animal in her thoughts but they were flashing and changing so rapidly I was unable to ascertain what she was seeing.Her eyes focused on me now there is a bear 5 miles from here. Go north and follow the river, you will run into him in 8.2 miles. Alice smiled at me.You know, Emmett will be jealous if I tell him you helped me catch a grizzly. I grinned.I know, but you need carnivore blood to help you out with tomorrow. She smirked.Meet you back here in 30? I asked.Youve got it She was gone before she finished her thought.I ran north until I hit the river and followed it. I was letting the monster out of the cage, disengaging my ever flimsy hold on my growing thirst. The monster had been begging for release more than normal lately and I finally let my animal instincts take over. I thought of Bellas blood, and I was instantly ravenous. I came across a bear exactly 8.2 miles from my starting location. Alice really did have an amazing gift. The monster reared up and I let out a menacing growl. The bear stood on its hind legs and growled back unimpressively. I leapt towards the beast and quenched my thirst. I was right, Bellas scent and blood even made the bears blood dull to the point of being dissatisfying. Bears were much more delicious then the deer I usually ate, but I had been exceedingly wolfish with feeding since I met Bella, making my meals less than appetizing.When the animal was dry of its blood I pushed the carcass off me and breathed in the cold night air. I rejoined with Alice shortly after.Are you going to Bellas tonight? she asked.Of course, Alice, why? I stared at her suspiciously.Oh, well, Jasper and Emmett have been missing you like crazy, I think I might have even seen Emmett pout the other night when you left so early, she chortled.I didnt respond. I know that I had been spending an abundance of my time with Bella, but didnt they understand? They har dly leave their other half. That is what Bella had become though, my other half.Please, Edward please, she begged.I couldnt stand to see my little sister beg like this. I did owe my family a plenitude of my time after everything I had been putting them through lately.Okay Alice, but just for the earlier hours of the evening, I gave in.During the evening Jasper, Emmet, Alice and myself decided that we were going to play cards. With the many talents my family members have, you would think that playing cards would be ludicrous. Jasper would be feeling the triumph or failure emitting from a card player, Alice would see future moves that you were going to make, and I could hear their thoughts. We didnt play games where we had to use our brains though. The card games we played were strictly speed based. With our vampire speed we tore through every deck of cards. Jasper and Emmet loved to gamble, and our games wouldnt be the same without a bet. Because of their constant opposition, Esme ma de us move our game outside before Emmett broke anymore furniture. Rosalie was still fuming about the situation with Bella, but even she couldnt hold herself up in the garage anymore and came to play. After 79 decks of cards, 2 broken tables, 1 broken vase, 1 ripped shirt (Jaspers), and 3 trees knocked down, we decided that we had caused enough destruction.I did get pleasure from the time spent during the evening with my siblings. My regular moping had abruptly wilted away after I came back from Denali. I could tell that my family was enjoying the new Edward, the less mummy-like Edward. Something told me they didnt want the sulky one back again, which just gave me another excuse to stay with Bella. fourth dimension passed slowly, even with the fun I was having with my family. I looked at the clock and noticed it was 10pm. I quickly stood up, ready to leave and watch Bella sleep. Emmett looked up at me and gave me a pleading look.Come on bro, we are about to play some serious footbal l. Jasper and I have come up with some new rules you have to catch the ball with your elbows only. Come on, it will be hilarious Emmett begged. Plus I have a bet that he continued, but I fitful him.Emmett, Im sorry maybe another time. It makes me uneasy to be away from her, you understand, right?Emmett scoffed and I grinned, I knew you would understandWhen I arrived at Bellas, she was already asleep. Any normal teenager would have been out with friends, going on a date, or shopping but not my Bella. When I finally climbed through her window, I heard music playing. I was instantly intrigued. It was Chopins Nocturnes. Once again, we shared a common interest. I knew this CD well. As I stepped closer to her, the scent that had almost taken me the first time we met entered my lungs and I felt like succumbing to the monster inside. She turned over once, and I heard her sigh my name. The clawing monster was instantly diminished.She didnt move much after that, and she even lightly snored. I sat in the rocking chair breathing her scent in deeply. I was fighting all of my cravings tonight. She looked absolutely beautiful with her hair splayed across her face and pillow. Her pink cheeks lightly flushed. How long was I going to be able to suppress my growing desires to touch her? I knew that our trip to the meadow would either be our breaking or making point. Would she leave alive, or would she leave a vampire? I wont end her life, I promised myself. Tomorrow, of all the days I had spent with Bella, would be the one day I would not be allowed to make a mistake. I repeated, no mistakes, to myself for good measure. I suppressed a sigh. I honestly dont know if I will ever really leave her alone, but I would like to think that after tomorrow, I will have a plan.When it started to get light outside I decided to leave, realizing Charlie would be up soon to go fishing. I was canted over Bella, taking in her scent one last time before I left, and suddenly my hand was at her fac e lightly caressing. I pulled away immediately and flew out the window.I decided that before I took Bella to the meadow, I needed to see Alice. Her visions were versatile lately. My future was a mystery and I wanted reassurance that Bella would come home to Charlie alive and unharmed. I knew what my decisions would be, but these new cravings were taking over. How many times had I reached out and touched Bella, not even realizing it until my hand was warming from her skin.Alice greeted me at the door, Edward, I know you are worried, let me show you what I see. There was one outcome where you bite Bella and she becomes a vampire, hum but that one has become distant and fuzzy. This clearer vision shows you and Bella laying in the meadow, and my last vision shows you bringing her home safely. Alice showed me mentally.I had a lump in my throat as I tried to thrust the first vision from my mind. That lump continued to grow as I began panicking. I didnt know how to ask, but I had to ask fo r her help. Before I could request her help, Alice answered, I will be close by Edward. I wont let anything happen to Bella. I love her too, doesnt he realize thisThanks, Alice. I whispered.I swiftly rose up the stairs to prepare myself for our new journey together.