Repentance - Chapter 2

CHAPTER 2:

“Mama!” Masen ran to me and I picked him up.

“Tell me everything!” Alice squealed.

I walked past her and set my things down next to the coffee table. “Has he eaten?” I asked, trying to avoid her question.

“He has eaten, been bathed, and I read him a bedtime story. Stop stalling!”

I laughed. “Let me put him to bed first, okay?”

Alice shook her head and sat down on the couch and waited patiently.

I took Masen and placed him in his crib, which was next to my bed. His eye lids were already heavy. They always were when Alice kept him. She was exhausting, even to a child. I covered him up and gave him his favorite stuffed monkey.

“Goodnight sweet boy.” I kissed his forehead and waited for him to fall asleep. It never took long. He was a good baby, always had been.

I went back into the living room to see Alice with eager eyes. “We have to make this quick; I have a paper to write,” I said.

Alice ignored my statement. “So, where did you meet him? He’s really handsome, Bella!”

“I ran into him at the library. He’s the strange guy that helped me home a few weeks ago.”

“That’s him?? There is nothing strange about that man, Bella! He’s gorgeous and nicely dressed!”

I laughed. “He’s in law school. I don’t get it. What on earth would he want to do with me?? He knows I have Masen, he knows I live in this dump. I don’t get why he is at all interested in me.”

“Who cares, Bella! At least it’s a free meal, right? You can always use those!”

I shook my head. “I guess. He’ll probably never call anyway.”

“If he does, you’re going and I’m dressing you!”

I started to protest and then I remembered all the wonderful things Alice had done for me, like watching Masen all the time and expecting nothing in return. It was the least I could do. “Okay, I’ll let you. It will be a one time thing though!”

Alice squealed. “Wonderful! I can’t wait! You better call me the second you hear from him!”

I laughed. “Okay, Alice. I promise, but don’t get your hopes up. I’m not,” I joked as I walked her to the door. “Thanks again for watching Masen.”

“It was my pleasure!” She gave me a hug and left.

I tried to put Edward out of my mind and focus on my paper, but I couldn’t get his wicked smile to disappear from the back of my eye lids. I was secretly hoping he would call.

***

The last day of mid-terms finally arrived and I was beyond relieved. It had been a really rough week. Masen had been sick, I missed a few days at work and trying to keep my grades up was becoming very challenging.

I put Masen to bed and sat on the couch with a cup of hot tea. After taking a sip of my tea, I rested my head on the back of the couch and closed my eyes and enjoyed the absolute silence around me. Silence was rare these days.

I don’t know how long I had been asleep. My phone ringing woke me. I didn’t recognize the number on the caller id and my heart pounded in my chest momentarily.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Bella. It’s Edward, from the library.”

I smiled. “Oh, hi. How are you?”

“I’m doing well, glad mid-terms are over! Did you survive yours?”

“Just barely! It has been a long week to say the least.”

“I can imagine. I don’t know how you do it!”

I sighed. “Me either.”

“Well, perhaps to celebrate the end of mid-terms, you’ll let me take you to dinner this weekend.”

“Sure, that would be nice.”

“Great, when is a good time for you?”

“Um...” I hesitated. “You know, I’ll have to get back to you. I will have to check with Alice, to see if she can keep Masen.”

“Okay, well, you have my number now.”

“Okay, I’ll give her a call tonight and get back to you, okay?”

“That sounds good, Bella. I look forward to hearing from you.”

“Goodnight.” I hung up and leaned back into the couch, wondering again why he wanted anything to do with my crazy life.

After making arrangements with Alice and Edward, our date was set for the following evening. I was a nervous wreck by the time Alice arrived late Saturday afternoon. I was sort of glad she was helping me get ready. It felt nice to be pampered for a change and let someone else do my hair. I couldn’t remember the last time I left the house with my hair down. I always only had time to sweep it up into a pony tail. It was just easier that way and it kept Masen from getting strange substances stuck in my hair.

Alice and I went back and forth several times trying to decide on my wardrobe and we finally settled on two different outfits. We let Masen choose.

The first option was a pair of gray dress slacks with a black turtle neck sweater and black boots. That was my choice. Alice preferred a cream colored sweater dress with a black belt at the waist and black pumps.

We laid the outfits out on the bed and told Masen to pick which one he liked best.

“I like dis one!” he said, as he reached forward for the cream colored dress.

Alice was quicker than Masen and she grabbed his eager hands before he could touch the dress. “Don’t you touch that dress with those dirty hands!” she warned.

Masen laughed at her and so did I. I guess I was wearing the dress.

Once I was fully dressed and my hair and make-up were done, I must say, I was pretty impressed with myself. I was actually looking forward to my date with Edward now. I couldn’t remember the last time I had an adult conversation that lasted longer than a few minutes.

Alice made her final observations of me, circling me to make sure everything was perfect. I stopped her when she came back in front of me. I grabbed her hand. “Alice, thank you. Really. It’s been a long time since I felt pretty.”

Alice’s smile reached from ear to ear. She embraced me quickly. “You’re welcome. I’m so glad I could help. You deserve a night out. Promise me you won’t worry about Masen, or school or anything! Just have a good time and stay out as long as you want!”

I laughed. “I’m sure he’ll be sick of me by the end of dinner!”

“Nonsense, Bella!”

A knock at the door interrupted us. I took a deep breath and went to answer it.

“Hi,” I said. He looked so gorgeous. His smile absolutely made my knees shake. He was wearing a pair of black dress slacks with a gray sweater. The thought of sex vaguely entered my mind before I instantly recalled my last encounter with the subject. I forced the images from my mind. Nobody had ever made me desire sex, since I was raped.

“Hi,” he smiled. “Are you ready to go?”

“Uh, yea. Let me tell Masen goodbye and grab my purse. You can come in.”

Edward stepped into my small apartment and stood by the door while I did what I needed to do. I took Masen from Alice while she officially introduced herself to Edward.

“I’m Alice. I don’t think we actually met last time.”

Edward shook her hand. “I’m Edward. It’s nice to meet you, Alice. Thank you for allowing Bella to go to dinner with me this evening.”

“It’s my pleasure, Edward! The girl never gets to have fun!”

“Alice!” I reprimanded. I didn’t want him to think I was a total loser. She heeded my warning and came to take Masen from me.

“Hand him over before your dress is covered in slobber and who knows what else,” Alice said.

I hugged Masen before handing him over. “Be good for Ms. Alice,” I said, kissing him on the forehead. “I love you.”

“Love Mama!” he said, waving goodbye to me.

I turned to see Edward’s eyes fixed on the scene playing out in front of him. “I’m ready now,” I finally said.

“Oh, of course. I’m sorry; I zoned out,” he responded.

I laughed to myself momentarily. It was as if he had never seen a child before.

We made our way outside. “I’m parked just down here,” he said, directing me to the left. It was easy to spot his car. There weren’t cars like his that often made it to this side of town. He opened the passenger door of the shiny volvo for me.

I slid in gracefully. “Thank you.”

He smiled and made his way around the car. We talked mostly about school on the way to the restaurant. He was a first year law student and was doing pretty well, much to his surprise.

We arrived to a little Italian restaurant I had never seen before. Actually, I couldn’t remember the last time I ate out. It was probably in Forks. Edward parked the car and as I reached up to open my door he said, “Let me get that for you.” He got out of the car quickly and opened my door for me, holding out a hand to help me out.

We went inside the restaurant and I was surprised to see that he actually made reservations for us. The small restaurant was packed full of people. The host led us to a small table in the back of the restaurant. It was a very intimate setting. There were warm colors, lots of greenery and beautiful portraits of Italian villages.

“This place is really nice,” I said.

“I’m glad you like it. The food is amazing. It’s one of my favorite restaurants in Seattle. Would you like a glass of wine? The house riesling is really good, if you like white wine.”

Wine? I’ve never drank wine. I don’t drink. Maybe this could be an exception. “Sure, that sounds good.”

Edward ordered our drinks for us and we discussed various things on the menu before both placing our orders with the waiter. I ordered the tortellini and he ordered the veal parmesan.

“I meant to tell you earlier, you look really beautiful tonight. I’ve never seen you with your hair down,” he said.

I felt the blood rushing to my cheeks. “Thank you.” I concentrated on taking a sip of my wine to avoid his gaze.

“So, are you originally from Seattle?” I asked.

“I grew up in Portland. I’ve been out here since I was 18 though. My parents still live in Portland. My father is a doctor there.”

“Oh, wow. A doctor and a lawyer in the same family. You guys are all set.” I laughed. “What does your mother do?”

“She was a stay at home mom. I honestly have no idea what she does all day now. She is involved with several different charities and youth organizations.”

“That’s nice. Do you have siblings?”

“Yes, an older sister. Her name is Rosalie. We’re pretty different though. She works at an advertising agency in Portland.”

“Are you close with your family?” I asked.

“Um, I was. Not so much lately. You see, my dad wanted me to be a doctor like him. I had planned on it, and um, I just changed my mind during undergrad. He wasn’t happy. He’ll get over it one day. He just thinks I’m making a big mistake. He just doesn’t understand.”

“Oh, sorry for all the questions,” I said, feeling like I was intruding.

“No, its alright. So, what’s your family like?”

“Well, my parents divorced when I was little. I pretty much grew up with my mom in Phoenix until I was 16. I went to live with my dad in Forks, Washington when my mom went on the road with her boyfriend. He’s the Police Chief there. I didn’t really like Forks, but I like Seattle.”

“Police Chief, huh?” He laughed. “I guess I better make sure to treat his daughter right.”

I laughed. “Yea, he’s pretty protective. But, I think you’re doing a pretty good job so far.”

He smiled that crooked smile and I felt a million butterflies flutter up in my stomach.

“So, do you work, or just go to school and take girls out on fancy dates?” I joked.

He laughed. “Well, I work part time at the law library on campus. Everyone knows me there, so I find it hard to get any studying done. I always go to the public library up from your place to study. And, to be honest, you’re the first girl I’ve taken out on a date in almost two years.”

“Oh,” I said, not knowing what to say.

Our food arrived just then and while we ate we talked about our likes and dislikes in music and books. He loved to read as much as I did and we had some great conversation regarding some of our previous reads.

“How is it?” I asked, referring to his veal.

“It’s really good. You should try it. Would you like a bite?”

“I’ve never had veal,” I responded.

“It’s sort of like chicken, but better,” he laughed.

“Okay, I’ll try it.”

He cut a small portion of the veal parmesan and held his fork up to my mouth. I was a bit surprised at first that he was feeding me, but I quickly parted my lips.

“Mmm,” I said, as my lips left the fork. “That is really good.”

He smiled. “I told you so.”

Dinner continued with ease. I increasingly became more and more comfortable around him. I was extremely grateful he never asked about Masen, although I wondered what he thought. We shared many of the same interests, the largest differences being our families’ financial backgrounds. It amazed me how down to earth he was.

We took a long walk along the waterfront before heading back to the car. It got chilly after the sun went down, but it wasn’t too bad. It was a clear night and I was surprised at how familiar Edward was with astrology.

After we got back to my place, he walked me up to my apartment.

“I had a really wonderful time, Bella. I hope we can do this again soon.”

I smiled. “I had a good time too. It’s been a really long time since I’ve gotten to do anything like that.”

He leaned down and kissed my cheek. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

I was frozen from his touch. I got a whiff of his cologne when he leaned in to kiss me and it absolutely intoxicated me. I finally made the word, “okay,” come out of my mouth before disappearing inside.


****Author's Note: Thanks for the reviews/comments! I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! More to come soon!

Follow me on Twitter for the scoop on updates! @AllOrNothingKR

**CHAPTER 3 - CLICK HERE**

Never Think - Chapter 11

CHAPTER 11:

I completely let my body go limp, rolled my eyes back and closed them, losing my balance and falling. I was prepared to deal with whatever injuries may follow to make it look real.

Ouch! Mother fucker! I don't know what all I hit on the way down, but I definitely hit my head. Hard. It took everything in me to not move a muscle on my face. I heard everyone's chairs scoot back and people yelling. Nikki and Mike were hovering over me. I wondered where Rob was. Everyone was talking and overreacting.

"Someone call an ambulance." I heard Nikki say.

Okay, that's it. I'm not going to the fucking hospital. I slowly opened my eyes, pretending to be disoriented. Mike helped me sit up. I reached to the back of my head, where I had hit it. It really did hurt.

"Baby, are you okay?" Mike asked.

I looked around for Rob. He was leaning across the table, looking down at me, along with everyone else. He looked relieved when I looked at him.

"I just...I just want to lay down. Take me back to the hotel please." I closed my eyes and let myself fall into his arms, leaning against his chest. I pretended to act weak. I felt Mike helping me stand. I heard someone else say something about an ambulance.

"No, no. I'm okay. What happened? I just want to lay down for a minute." I said, closing my eyes again. People were all around me, too close. I wanted to scream. I looked at Mike. "Please get me out of here."

He picked me up and carried me towards the front of the restaurant. I had my arms wrapped firmly around his neck and I looked over his shoulder. The entire cast was standing, watching us. I looked through them all at Rob. The expression on his face unreadable.

Mike put me down and helped me into the waiting limo. I guess it would have to come back for everyone else. I immediately laid my head down on Mike's lap, pretending to sleep.

"Kris, are you sure you're okay? You really need to see a doctor, you hit your head on the back of the chair really hard,” he said as pulled my hair back from my face.

"No, no. I'm okay. My head just hurts really bad. I just want to close my eyes for a few minutes."

"Baby, you may have a concussion."

"Just a few minutes. Please." I closed my eyes. I just wanted to make it back to the hotel before this whole ordeal blew the fuck up.



Mike opened the door to my room and led me to the bed. I was acting more alert now. I sat down on the edge of the bed. I looked up at him and reached my hand back behind my head, feeling the knot that was forming. "What happened??" I asked.

He sat down next to me. "Well, I sort of asked you to marry me, and you fainted and hit your head."

I laughed. "Are you serious??"

"Yes, I'm serious. Kristen, I want to be with you forever. I hate being away from you." He pulled the box out of his pocket again. He opened it.

Wow. That is gorgeous. My heart ached. It really did.

"Mike, I...I don't even know what to say. It's so beautiful."

He took the ring out of the box and reached for my hand.

I pulled my hand back, away from him. "Mike, I can't get married. I'm too young, I'm not ready to be married."

I'll never forget the look on his face after I said that. It was like someone had popped a balloon and let all the air out.

"Kris, we can have a long engagement, it doesn't have to be right now,” he begged.

"Michael, I...I don't know. I'm not ready for this."

"You're not ready for this?? We've been together nearly four years. What are you not sure about??" He stood up then. He was getting angry. Michael always had a bit of a temper, just not usually with me.

"I'm just too young to be married. I just turned 19, Michael! I'm not even old enough to drink. Marriage is a big thing. I'm just not ready for it."

He headed towards the door. "Well then maybe we should take a break from each other for a while. There's obviously someone else your interested in."

I stood up and walked over towards him. "Michael, I'm truly sorry. I want to stay friends with you, we've been through too much together, I...I just...I just don't think I'm in love with you anymore." I said honestly. There was no point in leading him on.

I could tell he was angry. I could practically feel heat coming off his body. He was fucking pissed.

"There is someone else," he said through gritted teeth.

I started to shake my head no, and realized there was no point. Tears stung my eyes. "I'm sorry, Michael. I'm so sorry, but it’s not like you’ve been perfect. I know you were tipping off the paparazzi to me while I was in L.A.”

"I don’t know what you’re talking about. It's Rob isn't it??" He screamed at me. I was seriously getting nervous for my safety. I've never seen him so mad.

I didn't say anything. I just stood there, shaking.

"You fucking bitch. You're fucking him aren't you!!" He screamed at me and lunged towards me, pushing me hard. I fell back into the entry table.

He was still coming at me and I held my arms up over my face in self defense. I tried to squirm backwards but there was nowhere to go.

"Tell me Kristen!" He yelled even louder. "You're fucking him aren't you?? Aren't you!!"

"Yes!!" I finally screamed out, hoping he would leave me alone. Tears streamed down my face.

He kicked me in my side. "Ahh! Ouch!! Stop it Michael! Stop!" I cried out to him.

He took a step back. "How long? How long have you been fucking him?" he asked.

"Only a few months. It just happened, I'm sorry Michael. I'm so sorry."

He shook his head. "I can't fucking believe you." He turned and kicked the door. Thank God it wasn't me. "I fucking trusted you Kristen! Every explanation you gave about the pictures, the rumors, I fucking believed you!!"

I cried harder now. This entire thing was horrible of me. I went about it all wrong and he was so mad. He's never so much as laid a finger on me. I'd never seen him like this before.

Owww! He kicked me again, but not as hard as the first time. "You're fucking worthless." He walked out the door, slamming it behind him and I absolutely fell apart.

I was crying hysterically. I was in so much pain, my back was throbbing. I reached for my phone to call Rob. I needed him. Now.

"Kristen? Are you alright?" He asked, in a low voice. I could tell he was still at the restaurant.

I couldn't even make my words come out clearly I was crying so hard. "Rob, please, come get me. Please." I cried.

"Are you okay? What happened? Where are you?" I could hear the panic in his voice, he's never heard me like this before.

"I'm in my room, I'm not okay. I need you. Please hurry before he comes back," I cried. He would come back for his things, at some point.

"I'm on my way," he said before hanging up.



I heard our knock on the door a few minutes later and I struggled to pull myself off the floor to let him in. I was surprised to see Kellan with him.

“What happened?” Rob asked, as he knelt down next to me on the floor.

“He got really mad, pushed me, kicked me, my back and side hurt really bad, I can’t breathe.”

“You need to go to the hospital.”

I just laid there and cried. I didn’t care anymore.

"He'll be back." I whispered to Rob. I pointed to the entry table, where his wallet laid. Not to mention his bags were still here.

"Does he have a key to the room?" Rob asked.

I shook my head yes.

"I'm going to fucking kill him. I'm calling the police," He started to stand up.

"No, no no. You're not doing any of that." I reached for his arm, and grimaced in pain. He leaned back down next to me when he saw I was in pain. "It's over now. It's over. I don't want to drag it out. It wasn't as bad as it looks. I deserved this."

Rob looked disgusted. "No you didn't. You did not deserve this Kristen. We’re calling the police." Rob looked at Kellan as if telling him to do it. “And we’re getting you to the hospital.”

I couldn’t argue anymore. I was in so much pain I didn’t care.

***

A phone ringing woke me up. I looked around. I was in the hospital. There was an IV in my left hand. I tried to sit up but I was extremely sore.

"Hey," Rob said, touching my arm and making little circles on it with his thumb. "How are you feeling?"

I was a little disoriented. "I'm sore, but I'm okay I think. My head hurts. What did they do to me? I don't remember anything after we left the hotel."

"They gave you something for pain, that's why you're so tired. You just have a cracked rib and a big knot on your head. You can go home in a few hours.”

Tears started pooling in my eyes as I thought about what happened. What a nightmare this day had been.

I started to say something when I heard my phone beeping, signaling a new text message. I looked around the room. "Where's my phone?"

Rob reached down and grabbed a plastic bag that had all my belongings in it. He dug through it until he found my phone. He handed it to me.

Kris are you okay? I just went back to the room to get my things, I'm so sorry. - Mike

I laughed in anger and threw the phone down at my side, on the bed.

"What is it?" Rob asked.

I shook my head. "Nothing."

Rob picked up my phone and looked for himself. "He's a fucking ass hole."

Rob turned my phone on silent then and put it back in the bag.

A little while later the attending doctor came in. “Mr. Pattinson, I need to speak to her alone for a few minutes if you don’t mind.”

“Sure.” Rob gave my hand a squeeze and he left the room.

“How are you feeling, Ms. Stewart?”

“I’m okay, I guess. My head hurts, my side hurts.”

The doctor went on to tell me about my cracked rib and I tried to tune him out. I was so tired.

“Kristen? Kristen?”

“What? Sorry, I zoned out.”

“I said, did you know you were pregnant?”

This time I really fainted. I think I was only out a few minutes though. I woke up to the doctor standing over me and a nurse taking my blood pressure.

“When was your last period?” The doctor asked.

I was so confused. Did he just say I was pregnant? My last period? “A few weeks ago, but it was light, I just spotted really.”

“When was your last normal cycle?” He clarified.

“Two months ago I guess.”

He took some notes on his clipboard. “Well, I suspect you’re somewhere between 6 and 8 weeks pregnant. You’ll need to get in to see your gynecologist as soon as you can. You’re free to go, here’s a prescription for pain if you need it, but use it sparingly, the rib will heal on it’s own, just take it easy for a while.”

The nurse smiled at me and turned to leave the room with the doctor.

Rob came back in as soon as the nurse and doctor left.

“Are you okay? You look really pale. What did he say?” Rob asked.

I couldn’t speak. I just stared at the wall.

“Kristen? Kristen? If you don’t talk to me I’m going to get the doctor.”

“No! No, I’m okay. Please, take me back to the hotel. I can go.”

Rob badgered me the entire way back to the hotel and I sat silently next to him in the car, unable to process what I had just learned.

He closed the door to my hotel room behind us. “Please talk me,” he begged.

“Rob, I need to be alone,” I said, as I sat on the edge of the bed.

The look on his face caused a pain deep inside me. I was hurting him.

“Kristen, I don’t understand,” he said, bewildered.

Tears stung my eyes and I went to him. I finally had him. Rob was all mine, and here I was pushing him away, scared to face reality. My hands cradled his face, his arms wrapped gently around my waist. “Rob, trust me. Please. I need some time. It’s not you. This has nothing to do with how I feel about you.” I felt a tear escape, fearing if he knew what I knew, he’d want nothing to do with me. I looked up into his eyes, noticing the shiny pools of water collecting there. My heart ached and I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him close to me. “I love you, Rob.”

He pulled back and looked at me, as if he weren’t expecting me to say that.

“I mean it. I’m not just saying that to get you out of here. I just need to some time to think.”

“I love you.” He kissed my forehead. “Please don’t leave me in the dark. I don’t know what’s going on, but it scares the shit out of me.” He turned to head toward the door. “I’ll check on you tomorrow,” he said.

I shook my head as more tears lost the battle and spilled over onto my cheeks. As soon as the door was closed I ran into the bathroom to get my make-up bag. I pulled out the purple case and opened it, closely inspecting the birth control package. It had been tampered with. These weren’t my birth control pills. My first thought was Michael. No wonder he was so mad. Had he been trying to get me pregnant??

I found my phone and called him.

“Kristen, I’m so sorry,” he answered.

“Michael, shut up. I don’t want to hear it. I want you to tell me everything. Right now. You either spill it, or I’m calling the police.”

“What are you talking about?” he asked.

“Ugh! Don’t play stupid, Michael! I’m talking about you tipping off the paparazzi and the guy in my parent’s house and why my birth control pills are messed up!”

He sighed. “Kristen.” He sounded like he was crying. “I had to know,” he said quietly. “I wanted to believe you, but you were acting so different. I’m sorry for everything I did.”

“Why was that guy in my parents’ house?”

“I had him follow you. He wasn’t sure if Rob was there or not, that’s why he went in. I told him to, I told him how.”

“I can’t believe you Michael! What the fuck is wrong with you! I thought he was going to kill me!”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t want to loose you,” he cried.

“How long have you been fucking with my birth control pills?”

“Four months, to no avail,” he admitted.

Oh. My. God. The sudden urge to vomit took over my body. “I hate you, Michael. Are you fucking happy now? You drove me away!”

“Kristen, wait!”

I hung up and ran to the bathroom. I threw up in the toilet once and laid on the floor crying. I had no idea who’s child I was pregnant with. I wanted to kill Michael. This was my life and an innocent child’s life he was fucking with, just to keep me. The thought of carrying his child was nearly repulsive. At one point, he was my best friend in the entire world, but now, the last thing I wanted was to be attached to him for the next 18 years.

I spent hours on the bathroom floor before finally calling my mom and pouring my heart out and begging her to come to Vancouver.


***Author’s Note: Well?? What do you think?!?! I hope you liked it! Thanks to everyone who commented/reviewed the last chapter. I’ve got to get a lot of work done on this story, but with any luck I’ll have another chapter out before the new year! I hope you all enjoyed it and I hope you all have a fabulous holiday! Merry Christmas!

Follow me on Twitter: @AllOrNothingKR

And read my newest story - Repentance! (Chapter 2 coming tonight or tomorrow!)

**CHAPTER 12 - CLICK HERE**

Never Think - Chapter 10

CHAPTER 10:

***Author’s Note: Sorry this one is short - I just couldn’t pass up the cliff hanger at the end! :)

**********
I got back to my room shortly before 5:00 p.m. When I walked in Mike was standing across the room near the window, pacing back and forth on the phone with someone.

"Yea, yea I got it. I got it today."

He noticed me then and looked up at me.

"Hey man, I gotta run. I'll let you know okay? Alright, later."

He hung up. "Well there she is,” he said smiling and walking towards me.

"Hi." I smiled back. "What was that about? What'd you get today?"

"Oh, my buddy Chris and I were just talking about some email he kept trying to send me, which I finally got today."

"Oh, okay." I said. I didn't really care, I just wanted this night to be over.

"So, what's the plan for tonight?" he asked as he wrapped his arms around me, pressing his lips to mine lightly.

"Oh, about that. I'm so sorry, I completely forgot about our cast dinner tonight. I have to be there, but I'd like for you to be my date?" I smiled, hoping he wouldn't be too upset.

He laughed. "Ugh! I'm never going to get you alone!"

I sighed. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay. We can be alone afterwards right? There's no after party bullshit?"

"Not that I am aware of, we will just come back here afterwards." And then I'll break up with you. I thought to myself.

"Okay, that sounds good."

"I'm going to jump in the shower, okay? I think we are meeting downstairs at 7:00."

"Do you know where we're going?" He asked.

"Um, I think it's sushi, nothing too fancy," I said as I disappeared into the bathroom.

I took a really long shower for obvious reasons. I just got so jittery being in the same room with him. Sometimes I was tempted to just blurt it out to him, but I didn't want it to be that way. I came out of the bathroom to figure out what I wanted to wear and I noticed Mike wasn't in the room. I looked at the alarm clock. We had to be downstairs in an hour. I wonder where he went.

"Hm. That's strange." I looked around the room for a note or something and then I checked my cell phone.

Two texts - one from Rob and one from Mike.

I'm counting down the minutes until your all mine. I do believe your other boyfriend is quite the charmer though. But don't let that sway you. I love you more. -Rob

What the fuck is he talking about and why is he texting me?? He said he wouldn't unless I did him first. I moved on to the next message.

Hey babe, I ran out for a few minutes. I'll be back soon. -Mike

I called Rob, he had just sent the message a few minutes ago.

"What a pleasant surprise," he said as he answered.

"Hey, I don't have long, what was up with that text?" I asked.

He laughed. "I saw your boyfriend in the lobby a bit ago. He's chatting up Ashley as we speak. He should be to your room any minute."

I'm so confused. "So Michael is hitting on Ashley? Is that what your saying?" I asked, trying to figure out why Rob thought Michael was such a "charmer.”

Rob laughed. "No darling, he will be charming you. You will see."

I heard mike unlocking the door.

"I gotta go!" I whispered.

"Kristen, remember I love you more." I heard him say before I hung up. I ran to the closet to pretend like I was looking for something to wear just as Mike came in. I had to walk around the corner to see him. I was standing there in my towel.

Oh my.

"Are those for me?" I smiled. They were seriously the most beautiful flowers I had ever seen. It was a huge array of tulips in every color possible. They were beautiful and they smelled divine.

Mike laughed. "No Kris, they're for my other girlfriend," he joked. "Yes they are for you."

Your going to wish you had another girlfriend by the end of the night, I thought.

I took the flowers from him, admired them, and set them down on the entry table. I turned back to look at him. "Why?" I asked him. Mike was a good guy, a great boyfriend, but he never just got me flowers for no good reason. In fact I think he's only gotten me flowers once, and that was after a huge fight we had a couple of years ago. He was laying on the charm tonight.

"Just because," he answered. He wrapped his arms around me. "Because I love you, and I've missed you, and you seem down lately, I thought maybe this would cheer you up." He kissed me.

I kissed him back with more fervor than I had in some time. I thought perhaps this may be our last kiss. I finally pulled away. "They're beautiful. I love them, thank you." I smiled.

"Your welcome."

He began kissing down my neck, his hands ran down my hips and I felt his right hand slip under my towel, inching it's way to my backside.

"Is this what you're wearing tonight?" He joked. "You look really hot."

I laughed. "Mike we can't. I have to get ready!" I said, pushing his hand back down. I pulled away from him and headed back to the closet.

"We have 45 minutes! Since when does it take you a long time to get ready?"

I laughed. "Since I'm not even dressed and my hair is wet!"

"Gah!" He said, laughing and falling back into a chair and flipping the TV on.

I threw on a short denim skirt with black leggings and a black top. I blew my hair out, attempted to curl it, and actually put on a fair bit of make up. I think there was a part of me that wanted to seem desirable to Rob, although fully knowing he wouldn't be able to be near me. I came out of the bathroom and picked out my favorite pair of sneakers.

"Okay, I'm ready!" I exclaimed to Mike.

"It's about time," he said. He had his jacket on and had obviously been waiting on me. He stood up and headed towards the door. I threw on a light sweater and grabbed my phone and cigarettes and followed him out the door. We rounded the corner towards the elevators and Rob was standing there, alone.

He looked speechless. I could see him eyeing me up and down. I spoke first. "Hey Rob, what's up?"

"Hey man, " Mike forced out.

"Hey guys. I wasn't aware you were in town Mike, good to see you again." Rob said, extending a hand.

Mike shook his hand and the elevator opened. We all stepped in and headed downstairs. Once we arrived to the lobby it was clear the limos weren't here yet because everyone was standing around talking.

"Rob, we're going to go out and grab a smoke, we'll see you there okay?" I said casually, grabbing Mike's hand and heading out the front doors. Just then one of the limos pulled up. I knew there would be two if the entire cast was going. I took a few quick puffs of my cigarette and put it out. I wanted to get in the first limo, hoping Rob would get in the second.

Mike and I were talking with Nikki and Jackson when I felt my phone vibrate. I pulled it out of the back pocket of my skirt and leaned to the side a bit, so Mike couldn't see. I figured it would be from Rob.

Did you do your sexy eyes and get all dressed up for him?? That frustrates me. You look so beautiful and I can't go near you. You're killing me. - Rob

How perceptive, he noticed my eye make up. I wouldn't say I was dressed up, but yea, I guess if I'm in anything other than skinny jeans and a tee, I'm dressed up. I laughed to myself. There was something appealing about the fact that I was attractive to him, that I was killing him. I didn't respond to his text message, fearing I would get caught. Our limo filled up quickly and I never even saw Rob come out of the hotel when our limo pulled away.

A few minutes later I felt another text.

I want to pull that little skirt up and have my way with you. I want you Kristen. - Rob

Oh my God! Is he trying to get me in trouble?? I thought. I wanted him too, though. He actually dressed up a bit tonight as well. He had black slacks on instead of jeans, and he wore dress shoes instead of his Nike's. He had a loose fitting dark blue button up shirt on that made him look good enough to eat. It complimented his eyes perfectly.

I want u too. I'll find a way to talk to you later tonight, I can't now, he's right next me. - Kris

I typed into my phone and sent it as fast as I could and put my phone away before Mike starting asking who was blowing up my phone.

We finally arrived at the restaurant and we all hurried inside. It was a bit chilly out tonight. We had a private room in the back of the restaurant with a very large long table. I believe it was originally put together to seat 18 but they had squished us all together, preparing for about 30 of us. My side of the table didn't fill up as quickly as I would have liked. I didn't want Rob to sit near me, I don't think I would be able to handle myself. I could tell the second limo had arrived when I started seeing people who didn't ride with us. Rob sat across from me, but he was a few people down from me on my left. Michael was to my immediate right and Nikki on my immediate left. Hopefully they would keep me entertained enough to not stare at Rob all night. The director made a few opening comments once we all had our drinks.

The food was really good, especially the sushi. I was actually having a good time with Michael and Nikki and trying not to pay too much attention to Rob. He was busy talking to Peter and his wife anyway. I had no idea when Peter's wife had come into town. I've been so wrapped up in my own little world.

Towards the end of dinner different people started making toasts about various things to do with the movie. Just before it seemed safe to get ready to head out to the limo, Mike stood up. I thought he was standing up to leave, until I heard him speak.

"I'd like to make a bit of an announcement," he started. He turned to look at me, and reached for my hand, asking me to stand with him. At that moment my heart stopped beating and I stopped breathing. What is he doing??? I thought as I stood up. This is so unlike him, to do or say anything in front of all these people, my co-workers. I stole a glance in Rob's direction. He looked at me with questioning eyes, as if I knew what was going on.

"I'm sure you all know Kristen and I have been together for a couple of years now..." he continued.

Oh. My. God. He isn't. He is not doing this. Not right now.

"...with her being gone so much lately filming these movies it has really made me realize that I don't ever want to be without her." He turned and looked at me, instead of everyone else.

Oh no. Please God, nooooo!! I started sweating. My face was flushed, I'm sure my cheeks were the color of fire. I wasn't even hearing anything he was saying anymore, it was a blur.

He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a little black box.

Oh my god. Oh my God. Oh my God. What do I do?? I glanced at Rob again, my eyes huge. I couldn't possibly say no to Mike's proposal and embarrass him in front of all these people, but I couldn't say yes in front of Rob. Rob's face looked stunned, tortured and outright mad. As Mike began to get down on his knee, I only saw one solution to this problem.

I fainted. At least I pretended to...


***Author’s Note: Sorry to end it like that! ;) Big news coming in the next chapter! Thanks for reading! Comments/reviews are appreciated! And if you haven’t already...check out my newest fic “Repentance.” It’s posted here and on FF.net!

Follow me on Twitter: @AllOrNothingKR

**CHAPTER 11 - CLICK HERE**

Repentance - Chapter 1

Note: This is an All Human Bella/Edward story. It is rated NC-17 for adult content. There is also a rape scene described in this chapter. It's not extremely graphic, but you've been warned!

Chapter 1:

This was never easy, but it was becoming manageable. I think I had gone an entire week without crying this time. That was the longest stretch of time since it happened.

I was a content honor’s student in college before everything changed. I didn’t lead a privileged life by any means, but I had good friends and I was on my way to being an English Professor, which is what I always wanted. I never partied much, never skipped class, and I never accepted candy from strangers. I did everything my mom and dad taught me, but I never knew things like this happened to girls like me.

I had heard the rumors going around about one of the fraternities initiation rituals - raping unsuspecting girls. I assumed this only happened at the out of control frat parties held off campus, after a lot of alcohol. Girls were stupid for being there anyways, they were asking for it, or so I thought.

It all happened so fast, I never saw it coming. I had been to the library late one night cramming for a history exam. At 1:00 a.m. I decided I should head back to my dorm to get some rest.

It was dark, cold and pouring rain that night. Typical weather for Washington. To make matters worse, I had forgotten my umbrella. I pulled my rain coat tight across my body and pulled the hood over my head before throwing my bag on my back and heading out into the rain. I couldn’t run for the weight of my bag. All I could hear was the rain hitting metal roofs nearby and mixing with the soiled grass. I never heard him coming. When I hit the ground, I initially thought I had tripped. When I was forcefully turned on my back and drug a few feet behind some bushes, I realized that wasn’t the case at all.

The man that towered over me stuffed a rain soaked cloth in my mouth to muffle my cries. He had a black ski mask on and he tried desperately to avoid my eyes. I could smell the liquor on his breath, even through the mask. I tried to fight him off, but when I heard guys laughing nearby, I knew there was no hope. I had become the victim of an initiation ritual.

His hands were shaking violently and he struggled to undo my belt and the button on my jeans. After several encouraging remarks from the guys watching nearby, he managed to get my jeans down to my ankles. He only used one hand to rip the delicate fabric of my panties away from my skin. I pleaded with him through my eyes not to do it as he got into position on top of me. My sobs were causing me to hyperventilate and I thought I would surely choke on the cloth in my mouth.

He hesitated for a moment before he plunged into me with full force. The pain was unreal. I felt like I had been ripped open. I gasped for air and screamed in pain, the cloth only slightly concealing my loud cries then. I heard the other guys clapping and offering congratulations.

It only lasted a few minutes and he was done. He collapsed on top of me momentarily before he heard the footsteps of his friends getting closer. He shifted his weight off of me, looked me in the eyes and in barely a whisper, he said, “I’m sorry.” His friends pulled him to his feet and they all disappeared into the darkness between two buildings nearby.

I laid there for hours praying to die. Somehow I felt like the rain was cleaning me, so I didn’t move. Someone must have found me the next morning. I spent the next two days in the hospital recovering from hypothermia and telling the police everything I knew, but it wasn’t enough.

I dropped out of school and moved back to Forks, with my dad. He was the one who made me go to the doctor when I got sick. I knew what was wrong. I didn’t need a doctor to tell me. I was pregnant.

Everyone around town seemed to know what happened. Word travels fast in a small town. I got a job at the diner and made pretty good money off tips because people felt sorry for the Chief's daughter. I had never felt more ashamed of myself, especially when I started showing. I wasn’t wild about the idea of an abortion, and Charlie was totally against it. I couldn’t afford it in time anyway. I was going to give the baby up for adoption as soon as it was born. With any luck, I would be back in school the following year. That was the plan.

Things didn’t go as planned. The only people in the room with me when he was born were the doctors, my mom and Alice. Thank God for Alice. She was the only one I could depend on, besides my parents. The nurse mistakenly put him in my arms after he was born. I wasn’t supposed to see him. I saw my mom and Alice exchange nervous looks. The nurse realized her mistake and rushed to take him away, but I wouldn’t let her. I couldn’t stop staring at him. I thought he was going to look like a monster, but he was beautiful. I held him for four hours before I officially made up my mind. I wasn’t giving him up. I had no idea what I would do with him, but I couldn’t live with myself not knowing where he was or how he was.

My mom stayed in town longer than was planned and Alice became a life saver. I didn’t have much. Alice bought me a bassinet as a gift and several outfits for him. Charlie and mom went in together and bought a few months worth of diapers and formula. By the time my mom went home to Jacksonville, I had everything I would need.

I named him Masen. Masen Charles Swan. Fortunately, he was born during the summer and school wasn’t in session, so Alice stayed with me the entire time. She kept Masen while I went to work at the diner. I insisted on moving back to Seattle before the next semester started.

I had been so busy over the summer, working as much as possible and sleeping very little, that I hadn’t really taken time to think about what happened. I needed to stay busy, to forget.

Charlie was sad to see us go. It took some time, but he grew to love Masen. Alice and I followed Charlie in the U-Haul to Seattle. I was so glad he let me take my bedroom furniture. I had nothing else and didn’t want to waste the money. I sold my truck for extra cash. I got a tiny apartment in the city so I wouldn’t really need it. Charlie promised he would come get us whenever I wanted to come home.

It was dark by the time we had my stuff moved into the tiny apartment. It was time for Alice and Charlie to go. Fortunately, Alice was staying just across town with her boyfriend, Jasper.

I could tell Charlie was worried about me. “Bella, are you sure this is what you want? This isn’t the best part of town.”

I shrugged my shoulders. “It’s fine, and it’s close to the library. We’ll be okay.”

Charlie handed me a check. “I put some money back for both of you. It’s not much, but its all I could do in the short time.”

The check was for a thousand dollars. I hugged him tightly. “Thanks, Dad. It means a lot.”

“I did too.” Alice chimed in, with tears in her eyes. She handed me a check.

I didn’t even look at it. “Alice, no. I can’t. You don’t even work!”

“Please, Bella. Take it. I’m going to get a job when school starts. It’s from my trust fund.”

“Alice, I can’t.”

“Stop being too proud, Bella. Take it. He’s growing so fast, he’ll need new clothes soon. And who knows when you’ll be able to find a job.”

I looked at it. Three thousand dollars. I shook my head. “No way, Alice. This is way too much. Why don’t you hold on to it and if I need it, I’ll let you know.”

“Nice try. I will not accept no for an answer.” She kissed my forehead. “Sleep tight, Bella. Call me if you need anything at all.”

I gave in and nodded my head in agreement. They both headed to the door. Alice hugged me goodbye. Charlie hugged me too. “Bye, Bells. I love you. Call me, everyday. Okay? I’m going to be worried about you.”

“I’ll be fine, Dad. Really, don’t worry.”

I closed the door behind them. I took a deep breath. Who was I kidding? I was scared to death. I had never been alone since it happened. I locked my door and re-checked it several times. I even went so far as to push my couch partially in front of the door. Just in case. I checked on Masen to make sure he was still asleep before I got in the shower.

After I got in bed, I realized I only had enough formula for Masen in the morning, and nothing for me. I sighed and went to bed hungry. I had planned the following day to go see about getting the help that single mom’s got. Food stamps, free milk, whatever, I didn’t care. Every little bit helped. I had stashed a fair bit of cash, and Charlie’s and Alice’s contributions definitely helped, but the fear was still in the back of my mind that I wouldn’t be able to succeed.

That was the first night I had nightmares, when I was alone in that tiny apartment. I woke up screaming, which caused Masen to scream. I heard an angry woman knocking on the wall in the apartment next to mine.

The nightmares never let up. I wasn’t sure if it was being alone, or being back in Seattle. The anxiety of knowing that the man that did this to me was walking around somewhere in this city was getting harder and harder to deal with. I wondered if he would recognize me. I certainly had no idea what he looked like. I knew Masen must look like him, because he barely resembled me. I spent many sleepless nights wondering if Masen would turn into a monster, like his father.

I found a job just before school started. I was a receptionist at a moderately sized law firm across town. It wasn’t hard, and I could do my homework and study during the day and attend a few classes at night. It would take me forever to finish school at that rate, but I would eventually.

Masen stayed at a government controlled daycare while I was at work. It wouldn’t have been my first choice of places for him, but it was close by and I got a discount through the state. Alice kept him the three nights of the week I had class. I felt like I never saw him anymore.

***

After a year back in Seattle, I was almost feeling normal again. I had settled into my routine and so had Masen. It was still hard. I still cried, a lot. There were many times when I felt like I couldn’t do this anymore. I wanted to give up.

I had massive anxiety when it was dark and raining outside. I skipped a few classes because I was afraid to navigate the campus alone after dark in the rain. Fortunately, I had confided in my professors and they were very grateful to send me the assignments via email if I missed class.


The first time I met him, it had been a horrible day. I was really busy at work and didn’t get to work on school stuff. I was late picking up Msaen and had to pay a dollar for every minute I was late. It was only ten dollars, but that was a lot to me. I just wanted to get home. I had Masen in my arms along with my purse, backpack, and two bags of groceries. It was cold outside and I was still two blocks away from my building.

One of my plastic bags caught on a vendor’s display rack on the street and cans of soup and spaghetti o’s went rolling down the sidewalk. As tears stung my eyes, and Masen cried, I followed the cans with my eyes. They were stopped a few feet ahead of me by a pair of brown leather loafers. I stood up straight and looked at the man who stopped them. He was dressed nicely for this part of town. He had on khaki pants and a dark green cashmere sweater with a button up shirt under it. He must have been at the public library up the street. He had a satchel slung across his chest. As my eyes found his face I noticed he looked shocked and scared. He was making me nervous.

“Are you alright?” I asked, noticing the color fading from his face.

He fumbled for words. “Um, yes. I’m alright. Let me help you,” he finally said, picking up the cans at his feet. “Are you going far? I’ll walk with you.”

“Um, just a few blocks. I think I’ll be okay.”

“No, please,” he said, as he put the cans in his satchel and took the other plastic bag of groceries from me. “It’s no problem.”

I finally agreed, as I felt the weight of Masen making my arm cramp. We walked silently to my apartment. He took the elevator up to the 5th floor with me. I unlocked my door and let everything fall from my arms as soon as I was across the threshold. I put Masen in his playpen in the corner. He was almost 16 months old now and he got into trouble every chance he got.

The nicely dressed man unloaded the cans on to my kitchen counter and then stood by the door. I noticed he was looking around my apartment, he was probably disgusted. He had probably never seen government housing before.

“It’s all I can afford,” I finally said.

He glanced at me quickly. “No, I wasn’t...”

“It’s fine. It’s not easy being a single mom. I’m doing the best I can.” It was one of those days where I just wanted to feel sorry for myself and I wanted people to stop judging me.

He stood there speechless. He fumbled for words again. “I didn’t...I wasn’t...”

I cut him off. “Thank you for helping us.” I opened the door and held it open, waiting for him to leave. He didn’t move. His attention was focused on Masen who was standing up in his playpen, staring back at him. “Sorry about him, he’s never seen a guy in here before.” I laughed.

“No, no. It’s okay. I’m sorry,” he darted out the door quickly.

“Awkward,” I said to myself as I closed the door and locked it. “You scared him, Masen!”

Masen laughed loudly and bounced up and down in his playpen, begging for my attention.



A couple weeks passed before I saw him again. They had been a few good weeks. The nightmares had let up, and I was getting a little more sleep. I was in the library getting some reference books for my English mid-term when I noticed him asleep at a table nearby. His hair was unmistakable and recognizable anywhere. It was a big bronze disheveled mess.

“What are you studying?” I asked, startling him. He picked his head up from the desk quickly and his face lost color again.

“Um, contracts and torts,” he replied.

“That’s exciting,” I said sarcastically. “You in law school?”

“Yes, thank you for waking me. I didn’t realize I had fallen asleep.”

“No problem. Hey, thanks again for the other day. It was a bad day.”

That was the first time I saw him smile. It seemed familiar. He was beautiful when he smiled. “Your welcome. What are you studying?” he asked.

“Oh, I’m just getting some reference material for my English paper,” I said, holding up the books in my arms. “I better get going, it’s getting late.” In fact, it was getting dark and it was raining and I didn’t want to get caught outside in the rain and the dark.

“I was just leaving. Let me walk you home?” he asked, as he gathered his books up.

I turned around and glanced out the large glass windows that faced the street. Rain was coming down in sheets and there was no trace of the sun. “Okay.” I agreed. “Let me check these out real quick and I’ll meet you out front.”

He shook his head in agreement and I headed downstairs to the checkout counter. When I finished, I turned around to see him standing near the exit doors with a large umbrella that must have been under the table upstairs.

“I never caught your name,” he said as he pushed open the door for me.

“Bella.”

“Bella,” he repeated. “I’m Edward. Edward Cullen.”

“Nice to meet you, again.”

He smiled that crooked smile again and we headed outside and he held the umbrella over us the entire way back to my apartment. He stayed with me all the way up to the apartment, stopping at my door.

“Thank you for walking me home. You can’t come in though. My best friend is inside with Masen and she’ll flip out if she knew I let some strange guy walk me home.” I laughed.

He laughed too. “Just some strange guy, huh?”

I felt my cheeks flush. “You know what I mean,” I said, looking down.

“His name is Masen?”

I looked up quickly. “Oh, yes. My son. Masen.”

“That’s nice.”

I smiled. “Thanks, I better get inside.”

He shook his head and started to walk back towards the elevators. He stopped and turned around. “Bella?”

I looked up from the door handle where I had inserted my key. My eyes met his. “Hmm?”

“Would you like to go to dinner sometime?”

I was at a loss for words. Why would he want to take me to dinner? I looked down at myself, trying to remember what I had worn that day. I was still in my work clothes, a pair of black slacks and a red sweater. Nothing fancy. I probably smelled like diapers.

“Um...” I hesitated. My door flew open and startled me.

Alice popped her head out. “She would love to!” She disappeared behind the door almost as quickly as she had appeared. She must have had her ear glued to the door. I was so embarrassed.

Edward and I both laughed. “I’m sorry,” I said, apologizing for Alice’s behavior.

“It’s quite alright. I hope she’s right,” he said.

“Right?” I asked.

“I hope she’s right, that you would love to go to dinner sometime.”

“Oh.” I blushed again. I took a deep breath. “Okay. After mid-terms though. I’m so busy.”

He smiled. “That’s perfect.” He took a few steps towards me and handed me his cell phone. I looked at him with a confused look on my face.

“Put your number in there,” he laughed. “I’ll call you next week, after mid-terms.”

“Oh, right. I’m sorry, I’m not used to...”

He cut me off. “It’s okay.”

My fingers shook as I typed in my cell phone number. I handed it back to him.

“Thank you. Goodnight, Bella.” He turned back towards the elevators.

“Goodnight, Edward.” I walked into my apartment, not yet ready to deal with the wrath of Alice.



***Author’s Note: Thanks for reading! I hope you all enjoyed it. There’s much much more to come!

Follow me on Twitter! AllOrNothingKR


**CLICK HERE TO GO TO CHAPTER 2**

Never Think - Chapter 9

Chapter 9:

Several weeks passed and things were as normal as they could be back in Vancouver, I guess. Rob and I snuck around and saw each other when we could, but we were really trying to keep things quiet until I officially broke up with Mike. Mike was doing better, finally. I was really starting to feel like I could end things amicably with him. He was coming up to Vancouver to spend a few days with me, and I decided I would end things then. I hated the thought of him being around Rob, but our filming schedule was tight and there was no way I could make it to L.A. to see him. Mike was supposed to arrive tomorrow and I really wanted to snag some alone time with Rob beforehand.

I called Rob, hoping he wasn’t asleep yet. We had had a long day of filming.

“Hello?” he answered.

“Hey, did I wake you?”

“No, I was just getting ready for bed. I was just about to call you to tell you goodnight,” he said.

“Aw, well why don’t you come tell me in person?”

“Hmm, that sounds like it might be a good idea. When is your other boyfriend arriving?”

“Rob! Stop saying it like that. He gets here tomorrow. I wanted to see you before he got here, since I probably won’t get to for a few days.”

“When are you going to tell him?”

“I don’t know. He’s only here two nights. Either tomorrow night or the night after.”

“Alright, well I guess I’ll be down to your room in a few minutes.”

“Okay.”

I hung up and stretched out across my bed, waiting for him.

Two knocks and a pound.

I smiled and got up and let him in. As soon as I closed the door I pushed him up against it, claiming his lips.

“Mm, feisty this evening, aren’t we?” he said.

I giggled. “Just a little; I missed you.”

He smiled. “I’ve missed you too, but before we go to bed, I wanted to talk to you for a minute.” He took my hand and led me over to the bed. We both sat down.

“What’s up?” I asked.

“I know this is going to be hard for you, breaking up with him...”

I sighed and looked down. Even after everything that happened with Michael, a part of me still cared about him. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t dreading the next few days.

Rob continued, “I just wanted to let you know that I’m here for you, no matter what. I didn’t want you to think you had to hide your feelings about him around me. After you tell him, if you need me, I’ll be here.”

I just stared at him in disbelief. He was amazing. “Rob, you’re entirely too good to me. It will be hard, and I am dreading it, but once its over, it will be a relief. I do care about him. I just hope he doesn’t flip out, and we can at least stay friends. I just want it to be over. This entire thing, it’s not fair to you at all.”

Rob’s hand caressed my cheek, his thumb lazily traced my bottom lip. “I don’t see it that way. I see it as finally having a chance with you. I’ve always thought it would be impossible. I never thought you’d give us a try.”

“I’ve just been incredibly stupid. I knew what I felt between us was real, all along I knew. But, it was hard. Michael was all I’ve known. I felt like I had to remain loyal to him. He had been good to me...”

“I know, you don’t have to explain. I’m just glad I’m getting my chance.”

I smiled. “Me too.” I pressed my lips to his gently, savoring everything about him I could. We made love for hours. It was slow, sensual, and sweet. I took it all in, the feel of his skin, his smell, his hair, his scruffy face, fearing I wouldn't be able to see him for the next few nights.

It was nearly midnight by the time we tangled ourselves up with each other and settled in for sleep.

Knock, knock, knock.

I sat straight up in bed. I felt Rob’s hand on my bare back. “Lay back down, it’s probably just Nikki or Taylor.”

I exhaled and laid back down next to Rob, but I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling I had.

Knock, knock, knock. “Kristen? You in there?”

I gasped and sat back up. “Michael.”

Rob looked panicked. "Shit! What do I do??" Rob looked at me, as if I had the answers. I had none. I began to cry, in defeat.

“Kris, don’t cry. I'll of think of something." He got of bed and pulled me along with him. He grabbed my phone from the nightstand and ushered me back into the bathroom, far away from the entrance to the room.

"What are we doing in here?" I asked after he closed the door.

"I thought he might call you. I didn't want him to hear your phone ring through the door."

I sighed in relief. "You're a genius."

He smiled. "Okay, here' s what we do. When he calls, tell him you're out, with Nikki or someone. Tell him you'll come back to the hotel and tell him to meet you in the lobby, downstairs. While he's gone, we get out of here. You can take the back stairwell, and go into the lobby that way, tell him you came in through the back to avoid the paparazzi."

"You're amazing!" I said, in awe of his plan.

"Yes, and I will just go back to my room, alone, and ponder all of the horrible things you two are doing to each other." He said sadly as he ran his hands through his disheveled hair.

"Rob, I'm not going to sleep with him." I shook my head. "I can't."

He looked a little relieved. He was about to say something when my phone rang.

I took a deep breath. "Hello?"

"Hey, baby, where are you??" Mike said.

"I'm out with Nikki, we just went to grab some coffee. Where are you?"

"Well, I'm actually at your hotel, I got an early flight, I was going to surprise you, but you weren't in you're room."

"You're here??!! I'll head back to the hotel right now. Meet me in the lobby, okay? I should be there in 15 minutes!"

Mike laughed. "Okay, be careful, I'll see you in a bit."

"Okay!" I hung up. "Whew."

"Let's go, we've got to get this place cleaned up." Rob said as he ushered me out of the bathroom. We cleaned up the room and headed to the door. Rob turned around to take another look at the room. "Are you sure I've got everything? I'd hate for him to find my knickers or something."

I laughed. "I'm sure you're wearing them, everything is perfectly tidy. Don't worry."

"Okay." Rob cradled my face in his hands. "Everything will be fine. I'm not going to call or text you, unless you do me first. I don't want to cause any problems."

I smiled. He was so incredibly understanding.

I took a deep breath. "Let's do this," I said, as I opened the door.

Rob went back to his room and I headed down the back stairwell. I was so unbelievably nervous. My knees were shaking. I really thought I was going to fall down the stairs and break my neck or something. I took a deep breath before heading into the lobby. I saw him sitting in a chair near the main door.

"Mike!" I went up to him and threw my arms around him.

"Hey Kris - Where did you come from?" He hugged me back.

"We came in through the back, to avoid the pap's. Nikki already went to her room."

"Oh, well let's get to yours!" He pulled me towards the elevator bank.

I laughed, I tried to stay light hearted and care free so he wouldn't sense my tension. I didn't know when I would do it, if it would be tonight, tomorrow, I just didn't know. I was an absolute train wreck.

We stepped onto the elevator and the doors closed and he caught me off guard, kissing me immediately. It felt...wrong. I mean, it wasn't like when Rob kissed me. I tried to seem into it, but it was difficult. It had been difficult for me even before now. The last several months Mike and I were together, the physical aspect of it just seemed forced on my end.

"Surprise," he said, after he finally pulled away from me.

It took me a minute to register what he was saying. He had surprised me by getting here early. "Surprise indeed!" I said laughing.

We stepped off the elevator and I instinctively looked to the left towards Rob's room. I couldn't help but feel his pain, to be sitting in there alone, wondering what Mike and I were doing. Suddenly I realized we were walking towards Rob's room. "Oh, no." I stopped Mike. I turned back around to the right. "It's this way, sorry, I always get turned around." I laughed.

Mike laughed. "What have you been smoking?"

I laughed. "Nothing, I'm just tired. It's been a long day." We walked into my room. My heart started beating faster. I felt like he would be able to smell Rob or something, or what if Rob did leave something behind? I was an absolute mess.

Mike sat his bag down and jumped on the bed. I just changed into my pajamas and got in bed as well. Mike was already down to his boxers and under the covers. We snuggled up to each other. He kissed me. How was I going to get through this?? He obviously expected sex. I couldn't do it. There was no way. All I wanted to do was run to Rob's room and hide.

"Kris? You okay?" Mike asked, noticing my distance. I felt his hand slip under my tank top.

"Yea, I'm sorry. I'm just so tired. I have to get up at 5:00 a.m." I said, as I reached over and grabbed my phone to set the alarm on it.

He pulled me closer to him. He kissed down my neck, his hand reached up to my breast. "I can be quick. I've missed you so much."

“Ouch!” He didn’t really squeeze that hard, I don’t know why I was so sensitive. "Mike, it's my time of the month." I said, as a last resort.

"Oh." He hesitated for a moment. "That doesn't normally stop us, let's take a hot shower." He responded.

Oh my god. He was never going to quit. I wanted Rob so bad I nearly burst into tears. "Why are you being so persistent? I'm sorry, I just really don't feel up to it, my stomach is cramping, I really just want to get some sleep,” I lied.

He laid off then. "Oh. Okay. I'm sorry, I just miss you being around."

"I know, I'm sorry too, I'm a party pooper tonight." I laughed. "I should be done around 5:00 p.m. tomorrow. We'll do something, just the two of us. Okay?"

"Okay." He kissed my forehead. "Get some rest baby; I hope you feel better."

"Thanks, good night." I rolled over and grabbed my phone again. I held it off to the side of the bed so Mike couldn't see it. I sent a text to Rob.

Don't text me back. I just seriously miss you. I didn't have the nerve to tell him tonight. I will tomorrow. I'm coming to your room at 6:00 a.m. Make sure you're awake to let me in. xoxo - Kris

I set the phone back on the nightstand and tried to get some sleep. I knew both Rob and I didn't have to be on set tomorrow until 8:00 a.m. I had to get a few minutes with him alone before we started filming.

*****

It was 4:45 a.m. I was laid in bed awake, and stared at the ceiling. For once, 5:00 a.m. couldn't come fast enough. When my alarm finally went off, I jumped out of bed, careful to take my phone with me. Mike was never a snoop, but just in case. I took a long, hot shower. I had nothing better to do to pass the time. I didn't even dry my hair, I just pulled it up on top of my head in a messy twist. I put some powder on my face, so I didn't look so pale. I brushed some clear lip gloss on and put just a dab of perfume on in the appropriate places. Nothing like a hot date at 6:00 a.m. I smiled to myself in the mirror. I couldn't wait to see him. I looked at my phone, it was ten till 6:00 a.m. I thought I'd send Rob a text to remind him, to make sure he

Morning baby, I'm about to head your way. You up? (You can respond). I turned my phone on silent and sat on the edge of the tub and waited.

He responded almost instantly. Morning luv, of course I'm up, I'm waiting for you...

I smiled. I took one last look in the mirror, and quietly opened the bathroom door. I grabbed my bag and kissed Michael on the cheek. "I'll see you tonight."

He mumbled something unintelligible and I quietly left the room. The hallway was deserted with the exception of an older business looking man stepping out to grab his paper.

I knocked, our knock, on Rob's door. I barely finished and the door was open.

I smiled as soon as I saw him. How did I ever go so long without him, without us, like this? I thought.

"Rob!" I hugged him, hard, nearly knocking him back.

He laughed. "Gosh, you're awfully glad to see me."

"You have no idea." I laughed. "I don't know what I was thinking, having him come here. It was the worst possible thing. I feel so bad, and it's even worse having to be in the same bed with him, wishing he were you."

"Um...did you two?" He hinted towards his question without actually saying it.

"No, no way. I couldn't. He really was persistent, but I told him I was on my monthly."

Rob crinkled his nose up. "Ew."

I laughed. "Yea, but I'm not, and we have approximately 1.25 hours until we have to be downstairs." I winked at him.

Rob smiled that crooked smile. "Hm, Kristen gets kinky in the morning?"

I giggled. "I'm always kinky around you." I reached up and kissed him. He pulled me back with him onto the bed. I hovered over him, admiring his grin and his beautiful eyes, looking back at me. He pulled my t-shirt up and over my head, tossing it somewhere far away.

"This is hot." He said, as he fumbled with my wet hair, all twisted up on my head. "But I'm going to have to let you're hair down." He pulled at my elastic pony tail holder.

"Ouch!" I laughed.

"Sorry, I'm not good at these things." He gave it one more strong pull and my semi-wet big curls of brown floated down my back, and over my shoulders. I got a chill from the dampness of it, touching my bare skin.

He smiled as he ran his fingers through my wet locks. "You're absolutely beautiful. A natural beauty, yet so unbelievably sexy and desirable."

I felt my cheeks turn pink. "Thank you."

He pulled me down on top of him and kissed me, the most sensual kiss. We had our fun in the sheets and were laying side by side under the covers catching our breath.

"Don't fall asleep." I joked. I leaned up to look at the alarm clock on the nightstand. "We have to be downstairs in 30 minutes."

I felt a heavy sigh escape from Rob. "I know. I wish we could stay here all day." I was curled into his chest and his arm was around me, tracing small circles on my upper arm.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

I shot up and looked at Rob. "Who is that??" I knew it wasn't Mike, he would never knock so damn loud. I nearly had a heart attack.

"I don't know," he said, sitting up.

We both looked at each other, neither of us moving.

"Yo Rob! It's Kellan - open up!"

"Whew." I sighed with relief. I started to get out of bed.

"Where are you going?" Rob asked, alarmed. "You're not answering the door like that!"

I was butt naked. I laughed. "I know silly, I'm going to hide in the bathroom. You take care of him. " I picked his gray boxer briefs up from the floor and threw them to him.

"Right." Rob said, as he stood up to put on his boxers and lounging pants that were nearby.

Rob opened the door. "What's up, Kellan?"

"Hey man, you got an electric razor I could use? Mine just got fried, dropped the damn thing in the toilet!"

Rob laughed. "Uh, yea sure come on in." As Rob was walking to the bathroom he realized I had gone in there to hide. He spoke loudly, so as to warn me. "So how did you drop your razor in the loo??"

"Dude, my cell rang and scared the shit out of me!" He laughed.

Rob slowly opened the bathroom door, peeking inside to make sure I had gotten the clue and was behind the shower curtain.

Rob pulled the razor from his travel bag. "Here, just take it to...."

ACHOO!

Fuck!!! I sneezed. I couldn't hold it.

Rob started coughing, trying to cover for me.

"Dude!!" Kellan exclaimed. "Have you got a chick in here???"

I could tell Kellan was coming closer so I had to poke my head out of the side of the shower curtain, before he pulled it back and fully exposed me. "Um...Hi, Kellan."

"Whoa!!" He looked back and forth between Rob and I. "Dude, give me some love!" He did this weird handshake, gesture, man thing with Rob. "That is awesome! I knew something was going on with you two, but I didn't realize you guys were hooking up. How long has this been going on??" He said, looking at me. "Wait!" It was as if he had a sudden realization.

I hung my head. Oh God. We're so screwed.

"Kellan, that's not appropriate to ask a lady." Rob said.

Kellan laughed. "No, I'm pretty sure what isn't appropriate is the fact that I could have sworn I saw Mike in the lobby last night when I came in."

My eyes flew to Kellan’s. I nearly jumped out of the shower - naked. "Rob give me a fucking towel!" I demanded.

Rob grabbed the nearest towel from the back of the door and handed it to me.

I wrapped it around myself and stepped out. I was furious. I cornered Kellan up against the sink and pointed my finger in his face. "You don't tell anyone!! You fucking understand me?? Mike's here because I'm going to end it with him, he doesn't know yet. Don't fuck it up, Kellan. I swear to God if you tell ANYONE about Rob and me....I will fucking kill you."

"Whew! Feisty!" He turned to look at Rob. "Is she like this in bed??"

Rob didn't know what to say, and he didn't have to say anything. My hand instantly flew across Kellan's face, smacking him hard. I just stared at him, trying to burn a hole in his eyes. "Keep.Your. Mouth. Shut!"

"Kristen, calm down." Rob interjected. Pulling me away from Kellan.

"Jesus Christ - I won't tell anyone, I won't." Kellan held his hand up to the red spot forming on his face. "Ouch, that fucking hurt."

Rob handed Kellan the razor and it's accessories. "Alright man, I think you should probably get going."

"No shit. Listen, Kristen, I'm sorry if I offended you, I didn't mean to. I was just playing. I won't tell, I promise. I don't want to get in the middle of this shit."

I sort of felt bad. Maybe I did overreact. Maybe not. He was pretty fucking rude, insinuating I was some whore or something.

"Apology accepted. And for your information Kellan, Rob and I aren't just fucking, I'm not some whore!"

"Kristen..." Rob was warning me to watch what I said.

I looked at Rob. "I'm not! I'm not!" I shook my head. Was I trying to convince myself? I nearly started crying. What else do you call a girl who cheats on her boyfriend? Who sleeps with another man while her loving boyfriend is three doors down, sound asleep, with no idea.

And I lost it. Tears started pouring.

"Kristen, I don't think you're a whore, I'm sorry! I won't say anything! I promise." Kellan said, trying to smooth things over between us.

Rob sighed. "Kellan, I know you don't think that." Rob began walking him out to the main door. I followed, but waited behind the partition to the bathroom to listen. "Sorry man, it's been hard on us. Especially her. But, like she said, we're not just sleeping together, we are together. I'm crazy about her, I love her, I don't want her to get hurt or be labeled in all this mess with Mike. You keeping this confidential is really appreciated, by both of us."

I melted. He's crazy about me. He loves me. I smiled. He referred to us. I really wanted to just get things over with tonight with Michael. I would do it tonight.

I heard Rob and Kellan give one of those manly hugs/hand shakes. "No problem man, seriously. I'm happy for you. I hope everything works out. I won't say a word - not that everyone doesn't already suspect it, but I won't say anything. Please, apologize to her again for me. I was really just playing."

I heard the door open.

"I know, she knows too. I’ll tell her. I guess we'll see you downstairs in a bit?" Rob asked.

"No man, I am off today! I'm going to town to do some site seeing and shopping. But I will see you both tonight!"

"Tonight?" Rob asked.

"Yea man, the cast dinner is tonight, remember?"

"Oh, shit. I totally forgot. Mandatory, huh?"

"Yup! See ya there bro!" Kellan left.

I heard the door shut and I peaked around from my hiding spot, still wrapped in my towel. I gave Rob the most innocent sweetest face I could muster up, fearing he was mad at me.

He grinned, that grin that makes me turn to putty. He walked up to me and wrapped his arms around me. "I'm not mad at you," he said.

I smiled. "Good, sorry about my outburst."

"It's alright. I should've said more. I should've hit him." He laughed.

I laughed too. "No, I got too much pleasure from it!"

"I'll remember not to piss you off!" Rob joked.

I reached up and kissed him. "So, you're crazy about me?" I asked, it came out against his lips, just barely a whisper.

I could feel him smile against my lips. "Terribly," he said.

I smiled and kissed him again. "We have got to get out of here!"

Rob sighed. "I know." He headed towards the bathroom and then stopped and turned around. "Oh, hey, did you hear what he said? That cast dinner is tonight."

"Oh! Yea. Fuck! I promised Mike we would do something alone, so I could tell him." I took a deep breath and blew it out quickly. "I guess I'll just invite him to come with me. It will sort of let me avoid conversation with him until we're alone."

Rob shrugged his shoulders, obviously not excited about me inviting Mike to be my date to the dinner.

"Ugh! Rob, what else can I do?? He's still human, he still came all the way here to see me, I can't make him stay locked up in my room all the time."

"It's fine." Rob said, not very convincingly. He turned around and went into the bathroom. I got dressed, for the second time that day. I sat on the bed waiting for him to come out.

"Why are you still here?" he asked when he came out.

It caught me off guard. I felt a lump forming in my throat. "I was waiting on you?"

"Well, that's very sweet of you, but we can't go downstairs together," he said sternly.

I stood up from the bed. "Right. Sorry." I headed to the door and he didn't even try to stop me. I turned around to look at him from across the room. "Rob, I'm doing the best I can, it will be over soon. I promise."

He sighed. "I know you are." He didn't move from where he was standing.

I wanted him to come kiss me. We surely couldn't get any more alone time together for the rest of the day or night. "I won't get to touch you again...until tomorrow maybe."

"I know. I'm not going to kiss you. It will give you more reason to get the job done faster." There was no hint of him joking. He was serious.

"Ugh." I said in frustration. "You're impossible. I thought you said you were going to be there for me." I opened the door and left, not waiting for his response.

I made my way downstairs and crawled into the waiting limo. For once, I wasn't the last person to arrive.

"I heard Mike was in town," Nikki said.

"Um, yea, he is." I replied, looking down, trying to convey the message that I didn't feel like talking.

"Um...I actually ran into him. A few minutes ago," Nikki revealed.

That caught my attention. I snapped my head up and around to look at her. "What do you mean? Where? Where is he?"

"Well, he was in your room, I was looking for you. I didn’t know where you were. He said you left hours ago."

FUCK!!! She could read the panic on my face.

"Don't worry Kris, I covered for you. I told him I completely forgot you had to be on set early today."

Just then Peter and Ashley got in the limo.

"Thanks, Nikki." I said. I was grateful the others had joined us. It would no doubt put an end to the questions she was dying to ask.

I felt my phone vibrate in my jacket pocket. I pulled it out to look at it.

I'm sorry Kristen. I am here for you, always. This is hard on me too. It kills me to see you with him. It absolutely kills me.

I felt tears sting my eyes. I took a deep breath to fight them off. I can't even imagine how he must feel. I would not let him hang out with his soon to be ex-girlfriend all night in my presence. I started to text him back when I heard the limo door open again and he crawled in.

"Good morning everyone," he said cheerfully. He was a better actor than I was in this respect.

I went back to my phone to respond to his message. I'm so sorry I'm doing this to you. I'll make it up to you. I promise. I hit send quickly and shoved my phone back into my jacket pocket, hoping nobody would pick up on the fact that we were texting each other.

Fortunately his phone was on vibrate as well. Nobody was paying attention when he flipped his phone open and then looked up at me. Our eyes met. Neither one of us had to say anything else. We knew we were okay now. He mouthed the words I love you while nobody was looking. I smiled and laid my head back against the seat and closed my eyes. I wanted this day to go by as quickly as possible and by the grace of God I would be back in Rob’s arms by midnight.




***Author’s Note: Hey guys! I hope you liked this chapter! There probably won’t be another one until next weekend, but at least this one was pretty long! The next chapter is full of drama! ;)

Also, be on the look out for my new story REPENTANCE. It’s an All-Human Bella/Edward story and I’m really excited about it. I should have the first chapter up soon. Here’s a summary of the plot:

Bella was a 20 year old college student who was chasing her dreams. She wanted to teach English at the college level and she was determined to reach her goals. She followed the rules, didn’t party much, and always made good grades. Everything was going according to plan until one night, everything changed. She became the victim of a horrible fraternity initiation ritual. She dropped out of school temporarily to deal with the consequences of that night.

Will she be able to overcome her past and learn to love again? How will she react when she learns the one she loved had been keeping a horribly dark secret from her?

**Stay tuned! Please review and follow me on Twitter! @AllOrNothingKR

Thanks for reading!

**CHAPTER 10 - CLICK HERE**

The Intruders - Chapter 3

Chapter 3:

Nothing really changed in the following weeks. Charlie continued to be even more distant and Edward insisted we didn’t “practice” anymore until my birthday.

On my birthday I sat by myself on the couch in the living room as I watched the sun slowly disappear over the horizon of the forrest. I had no idea where Charlie was. Edward skipped class and went hunting. He was supposed to be here by now. He promised me dinner at a nice restaurant in Port Angeles, like normal couples would do. I insisted I didn’t want a party or any sort of celebration so to speak. I just wanted to spend time with Edward.

I heard the front door open and turned around quickly, expecting to see Edward.

“Oh, hey, Dad.”

“Hey, Bells. It’s Tuesday, why aren’t you at work?”

Even my own father didn’t know it was my birthday. “Dad, it’s my birthday.” It’s okay if I want to forget my birthday, but it’s not okay if my Dad does.

I saw the horror cross his face. “Bells, I’m so sorry. I completely lost track of time; I’ve been so busy.”

Yea, busy with your new girlfriend who you still haven’t told me about. I thought. “It’s fine, Dad. I get it.” I stood and walked past him. “I’m going for a walk. Edward is supposed to be picking me up, eventually.”

“Bella, wait...”

I felt tears start to sting my eyes. I took a deep breath, ignoring Charlie’s request and I headed out into the woods behind my house.

This is so lame, I thought to myself. It was 6:00 p.m. and only my mother and some of my human friends had acknowledged my 18th birthday, as if any of them mattered. My Dad, whom I shared a home with, had completely forgotten and my vampire boyfriend was off chasing deer tail. I nearly lost it as I felt the heel of my shoe sink into the soft ground beneath me. I even dressed up for Edward. I wore black cropped pants with a dress sandal, which was now covered in mud, with a dark crimson 3/4 sleeve blouse. I even spent an hour perfecting the waves in my hair. I wanted him to want me tonight, and so far I couldn’t even get him to show up at my house. I quickly wiped the tear from my cheek that managed to escape my left eye.

“Bella? Is that you?”

I inhaled sharply, glancing around the woods quickly until I noticed the shadowy figure off to my right. I walked towards the familiar voice. As I got closer, I could see that it was Anthony. He was sitting by himself on a large downed tree limb.

“What are you doing out here?” I asked.

“I come out here sometimes, to get away. I just live about a mile through the woods that way,” he pointed behind him.

“Oh. I didn’t know you were so close.”

“Well, it’s not close by road, but it’s not too bad through the woods. You look really nice. I heard it was your birthday; sorry I didn’t get to tell you in class. ”

I smiled and sat down next him. “Thanks. It’s been a really crappy one so far. My dad completely forgot and Edward was supposed to pick me up an hour ago.”

Anthony laughed. “Ouch. I guess my night hasn’t been so bad then.”

I laughed too. “What’s going on with you?”

That uneasy look returned to his face and I could tell he was about to retreat back to that dark place he kept off limits to me and everyone else. “Oh, just some stuff with my mom. I can’t really talk about it.”

I put my hand on his arm. “You can talk to me, Anthony.”

He stood quickly. “No, I really can’t.”

“BELLA!” I heard Edward calling my name in the distance. I looked between Anthony and to my left, in the direction of my house, where Edward’s voice was coming from.

“You can Anthony, you can trust me. I promise. I have to go, but maybe we can continue this another time.”

“Maybe,” he said quietly. I turned to head off in the direction of my house.

“Oh! Bella!”

I heard Anthony yell for me and I turned around quickly. “Yea?”

“Happy Birthday.”

A genuine smile spread across my face. “Thank you.”



A few minutes later I stepped into the clearing, out of the woods, to face Edward.

“Where have you been?” Edward asked, as he saw me emerging from the woods.

I nearly laughed. “Where have I been? Edward, where have you been? You were supposed to be here over an hour ago!”

He completely dismissed my question.

“Bella, who were you talking to?”

My initial reaction was to say nobody, but I knew he must have heard me. I stood there, silent for far too long, further incriminating myself.

“I just happen to run into him out there, Edward.” I knew that he understood who I was talking about.

“Why were you in the woods to begin with, Bella? It’s dangerous to be out there by yourself.”

I took a deep breath. “Well, let’s see, my dad is so caught up in this woman he’s seeing that he completely forgot it was my birthday; I got all dressed up for my date with my vampire boyfriend and he didn’t even show up when he said he would because he was too busy chasing after his dinner! So, I went for a walk, I needed some air!

I stormed past Edward in the direction of my house. I heard Edward laughing momentarily at my outburst. I stopped and turned around to face him. “It’s not funny to me, Edward,” I said seriously.

He was inches from me before my mind could even process the fact that he had moved. I felt his cold hands on my shoulders.

“I’m sorry I laughed, Bella. I know it isn’t funny; you’re just so cute when you’re angry.”

He kissed me before I had a chance to respond. It was a passionate kiss, the kind of kiss I normally only dreamed about with Edward. It felt like gravity had been lost and I was floating outside myself. That high had to be better than any narcotic could provide. Edward literally had to push me away from him. A large smile spread across my face as our eyes met. How could I stay mad at him after that?

“Happy Birthday, Bella.” He put his arm around my waist as we headed back to the house. “And, in case you couldn’t tell by my kiss, you look beautiful, muddy feet and all.”

I looked down at my mud covered feet and shoes and laughed with him.




Dinner with Edward in Port Angeles was even better than I expected. He was incredibly charming. He even ordered an entree with me so I wouldn’t be the only one eating. He just picked at his food though, but it was the thought that counts.

I fell asleep in the car on the way home. I was slumped over, leaning against Edward’s arm and shoulder. Our fingers were tangled loosely together near the gear shift. I was awakened by the sound of gravel crushing under the tires of Edward’s Volvo. “That was fast,” I said, as I noticed we had arrived back to my house already.

Edward laughed lightly. “You slept like a baby the entire way.”

I smiled at him. “I was tired.”

“Are you too tired for a birthday practice session?” he grinned.

“I’m never too tired for that, Mr. Cullen!”

I gave him my best sex kitten face as we headed inside. I wanted to pounce on him as soon as the door was closed behind us, but the colorful display on the kitchen table to my right was catching my attention.

Edward was silent as I admired the small arrangement of colorful flowers on the table with a card and cupcake next to it.

“Aw!” I smiled as I tore open the card, trying to remember the last time my dad had been so thoughtful.

Bella,

I’m sorry about earlier, I knew it was soon, I just lost track of time. I’ve been dreading this day for the past 18 years. You’ve grown up into a beautiful young woman and I’m very proud of you. I know we don’t see each other much anymore, but I’m glad you’re here.

I won’t be home tonight, I’ve got to work the overnight shift.

Edward can spend the night for your birthday, if you want. You’re an adult now, just remember to make good decisions.

Happy Birthday Bells. - Love, Dad.

I quickly grazed my fingers across my cheeks to remove the tears that fell without my knowledge. I turned around and handed the card to Edward. He read it silently and then his eyes met mine.

“That’s very sweet of him, Bella.” He handed the card back to me and I held it close to my chest as I felt the inevitability of the warm liquid stinging my eyes again. It was sweet, and thoughtful, and so unlike Charlie, but that wasn’t why I was crying. I was crying because, if I had my way with Edward, I’d have to leave Charlie behind. Forever.

“Do you understand now why I so desperately want you to remain human?” He spoke softly as he gently rubbed my back. “It’s not just about me, Bella; it’s about everyone around you, who loves you just as much as I do.”

I stood there crying into his chest for entirely too long. I decided I didn’t want to think about being changed into an immortal tonight. I just wanted to enjoy what was left of my birthday with Edward. He sat quietly with me at the table as I ate my cupcake. It was homemade. Cora at the diner must have made it for Charlie.

After I devoured the cupcake and a few moments of silence between Edward and I, I tried to lighten the mood. “I can’t believe my dad said you could stay the night.”

Edward laughed. “Me either, and he won’t even be here!”

I smiled at the thought of it all and I was reminded once again why I wanted to be like Edward. So I could have all of him, and be on the same playing field, forever young. “Ready for bed?” I asked, getting up from the kitchen table and glancing back at him longingly.

Edward took my hand and followed me up the stairs.


Edward POV:

I closed the door behind me as Bella and I entered her bedroom. She turned to face me and the excited smile on her face melted my cold heart. I wanted so badly to give her everything she wanted, physically. I wanted the same things she did, I just had no idea how I’d find the strength to control myself. I never want to hurt the beautiful creature standing before me, but tonight... tonight I would try to give her as much as I possibly could.

“Edward?”

Her words interrupted my thoughts. “Hmm?” I said, looking up at her, noticing a little ball of clothes in her hand.

“Will you move so I can go to the bathroom to change clothes?”

I was still standing in front of the door. I stepped out of the way, but gently grabbed her arm as she tried to pass me. “Bella, you don’t have to go.” Her big brown eyes pierced mine, questioning my logic. “This is your room, your house, I won’t look.” I walked away from her and sat on the edge of the bed, facing the wall, and removed my shoes while she changed into her sleeping clothes behind me.

“All done,” she said, letting me know it was okay to turn around.

I turned and laid down on her bed, patting the spot beside me, inviting her to join me. Her hair was still perfectly wavy and she wore a fitted spaghetti strap tank top and a miniature pair of shorts instead of her usual oversized t-shirt.

She sat close to me, leaning against the head board with her legs straight out in front of her, her hands clasped together neatly on her lap. My hand cupped her cheek at first, as I trailed my fingers down her neck, shoulders, between her breasts, and down to her waist, “Is this new?” I tugged gently on the cotton fabric of her shirt. I could tell she had stopped breathing. Chill bumps raced across every visible part of her skin.

“Yes,” she whispered.

My hand moved to the outside of her left thigh, trailing upwards and eventually stopping at her hip. I gave her hip a firm squeeze, “Bella, even if you were wearing a trash bag, I’d still want you.”

She pulled me closer to her, grinning, and biting on her bottom lip. It was an innocent, yet incredibly sexy gesture. I instantly wanted to ravish her and I fought an internal battle to control myself. I held my breath and let my lips find hers. They were soft, moist and warm. Our tongues danced together, sending a jolt of something powerful through my body. Every time we kissed like this, I imagined what it would be like to have all of her, the way Emmett could have Rosalie, and Jasper could have Alice. It was times like this where I actually considered turning Bella into a monster. I pushed the thoughts from my mind, and tried to focus on the task at hand. The burning sensation in my throat was becoming stronger. I swallowed hard, begging to ignore it. I let my hand trail down her slender frame, my fingers resting dangerously close to her innocence. I pulled back from our kiss, searching her eyes for permission. She was breathing heavily and her brown eyes instantly locked on my own. She shook her head, encouraging me to go on, before enrapturing my lips with hers.

Bella POV

Is this really happening? Is he really touching me like this? My entire body was on fire and his cold skin against mine felt absolutely intoxicating. After giving him the encouragement he needed to continue, I instantly felt his ice cold fingers slip beneath the fabric of my shorts and panties. A throaty moan escaped me as his fingers violated me in the most pleasurable way. His cold lips and tongue trailed down my neck and collarbone. It felt as if his tongue were an ice cube skating across my shoulders. It sent little tremors through me and as his fingers continued to work their magic, I felt my body losing control.

“Edward!” I yelled his name without even thinking. I sought such a great relief that it felt good to say his name like that.

“Am I hurting you?” I heard him whisper. My head was nearly lost, deep in my pillow, my eyes squeezed tightly closed.

“No, no...it’s wonderful, don’t stop.” I felt him smile against the crook in my neck, his fingers moving even faster than before. I nearly felt ashamed at what I was feeling, the way I was reacting to his touch, nearly sending me into convulsions. I felt a slight tinge of embarrassment before I relaxed and let my body lead me, ignoring the hyper awareness of my mind. This is what I wanted. I felt the pressure inside me building and just when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, I felt the most incredible sensations rush through every inch of my body. I yelled out in pleasure, clawing at Edward’s back, not even looking at him, for fear I would feel embarrassed at him seeing me like this. I let my body wined down, slowly feeling the incredible sensations ceasing.

When my eyes opened, they immediately meet Edward’s. He was hovering over me, waiting for a reaction. I nearly laughed. I cupped his face in my hands. “There are not words to describe how amazing that was, how amazing you are.” I kissed him gently, feeling him pull away after just a second.

“I had no idea what I was doing,” he laughed. “It feels really nice down there though.” He looked down, as if suddenly sad, or upset.

I laughed at first, until saw the far away look in his eyes. “Edward, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

I knew what he was thinking, that he wasn’t strong enough to really be with me completely. “You won’t hurt me.”

“You don’t know that.”

I sighed. “I do know it. You were so perfect, just then, you didn’t hurt me at all. You just...loved me, tenderly, and perfectly.”

“It wasn’t easy, Bella,” he said, looking away from me.

“Edward, please don’t ruin this for me.” I felt tears sting at my eyes about the thought of it being so difficult for him to touch me like that, as if he instantly regretted it.

“I’m sorry, Bella. I didn’t mean it like that. I love you more than you’ll ever know. I want to give you everything you desire. I really do, it’s so hard for me though. You have no idea how badly I want you, all of you. I have to control myself though, I can’t bear the thought of hurting you.” His hand cupped my cheek and I felt him relax on top of me, feeling the full weight of his body against mine - and something else.

I moved my leg a little bit to make sure that wasn’t my imagination. “Edward, is that?”

He laughed momentarily before propping himself up with his elbows again, putting more space between our bodies. “Yes, that’s what you think it is.”

I felt my smile spread widely across my face. “Wow.” That’s all I could think to say. I wiggled out from under him. He rolled over on to his back so that he was facing me. I straddled his waist, feeling his excitement growing beneath me. I pulled on his shirt, wanting him to sit up. He obliged and I made quick work of removing his shirt before he could protest.

“Bella...”

“Please, Edward. I just want to feel you against me.” I raked my hands up his stone cold chest. I pressed my lips to his and I felt his hands in my hair. His lips parted and my tongue sought his. I heard a low growl escape him.

“Bella, I can’t. We have to stop.”

“Please, Edward. It’s all I want. I want to make you feel the way you made me feel.” I pressed my lips quickly back to his as I gently rocked my hips against his excitement. I could feel him letting his guard down by the way he kissed me and the way his hands were exploring me. I pressed my hips against him harder, enjoying the sensations it caused in me. I heard him growl again, and then it happened. He bit my bottom lip. I don’t think he meant to. He’s teeth are sharp. If it weren’t for the small amount of blood I tasted and for the fact that he was a vampire, I would’ve thought nothing of it. His face was full of panic. His eyes were glazed over, he looked possessed. I got off of him, slowly making my way off the bed. Suddenly he lunged forward, at me.

“Edward! No!” I yelled.

“Get out!” He screamed.

I did as he demanded, quickly leaving the room. I went to the bathroom to assess the damage. It was nothing. He just barely punctured the inside of my lip. I rinsed my mouth out a few times and it stopped bleeding. I cautiously went back into my room. He was gone. The window was open. I ran to it and glanced around quickly, not seeing him anywhere. “Edward, come back! I’m not upset, it’s okay!” I spoke loudly, but I didn’t scream. I hoped he could hear me, although I had no idea how far he had gone.

I called Alice.

“I know, Bella. I saw it.”

“Is he there?”

“No, he’s hunting.”

I sighed. “If you see him, tell him to come back. I’m not going to sleep until he does. I’m not mad at him, he didn’t hurt me. I’m fine.”

“I’ll see what I can do, Bella.”

“Thanks, Alice.”

After a few hours I decided I would go look for Edward myself. I got dressed and headed out into the forrest. I was hoping he hadn’t gone far. I called his name a few times, hoping his expert hearing would pick up on it. After about an hour I felt completely lost. I sat down on a fallen tree limb just as I felt my cell phone vibrating in my pocket. It was Alice.

“Hey, Alice.”

“Bella, what are you doing? Are you crazy? Get out of the woods!!”

“I was looking for Edward.”

“He’s on his way to you now. You’re not supposed to be in the woods!”

“Why not?”

“He didn’t tell you?” Alice asked.

“Tell me what?”

Alice sighed. “Nothing, Bella, just stay put. Edward will find you.”

She hung up. It was a few more minutes before Edward came up behind me, nearly giving me a heart attack.

“What are you doing out here? Come on.” He grabbed me and threw me on his back before I had the opportunity to speak. We were back in my bedroom in a matter of minutes.

He closed my bedroom door behind me and I sat on the bed. “I’m sorry, Edward. I just wanted you to come back.”

“Well, you got what you wanted.”

I didn’t know what to say. “I thought you were out there giving yourself a hard time. What happened was nothing. You didn’t hurt me.”

Edward shook his head. “I didn’t mean to. I didn’t even know I did it until I tasted you.”

I got off the bed and walked over to him. “I know you didn’t mean to. It’s okay. I’m fine.”

Edward shook his head. “You’re lucky you didn’t get your wish tonight. You taste even more divine than I have ever imagined. We can’t do anything like that again, for a while.”

I sighed as I felt the tears sting my eyes. I turned and sat back down on the bed, determined now more than ever to get what I wanted. I hated being this fragile little thing to Edward, but now wasn’t the time to argue.

“What haven’t you told me?”

Edward seemed to instantly know what I was talking about. “Bella, I was late picking you up tonight because I was talking with Alice. She had a vision, about your little friend.”

“Who?”

“Anthony.”

“What about him?”

“You can’t be around him anymore. He is connected to Victoria somehow.” he said, running his hands through his hair.

“Victoria? How?”

“I don’t know. Alice just had a vision of them together. They were in Forks. Victoria must be coming back. You have to stay out of the woods and away from that guy.”

I swallowed hard. “Okay.”

“You should get some sleep.”

I shook my head. “Will you lay down with me?”

He didn’t answer. Instead, he crawled into bed next to me.


***Author's Note: I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I did! Thanks for reading!