*~Bella~*
It has been three weeks, since I first laid eyes on Edward. After that first day, he would visit me every day for a few hours. It was what Renee called our bonding time. It was a time for us to get to know one another, know what each of us like, what each of us hated, and what each of our characters were like.
If I were being honest with myself, I did like those hours we spent together. Yes, I knew his concept of our marriage, and I knew he was not even encouraging the thought of one day falling in love with each other, but since we were both forced into this marriage, and since father and Emmett were the people in most need of this marriage, I have decided to just agree with what happens. After all, nothing else will happen, and it is inevitable for me to marry Edward.
There was no marriage out of love,
There were no feelings, or loving emotions that are between husband and wife concerning Edward, and me.
And there was no Jasper,
Oh, Jasper.
The mere thought of him brings literal physical pain into my body. It was agreed upon with father that Jasper would ask for my hand, officially, once he returns from his recruiting in the army.
I loved Jasper, he was my best friend since birth, we were each other's confidant, and I loved him. I knew that he loved me also, and I was waiting for him to return from the army, so that we can get married.
Nevertheless, Renee had to ruin that for us.
Another reason for her to make a hurried agreement with Esme for me to marry her son. Other than the money, was to pull me away from Jasper. She knew how we felt for one another, and she knew that father gave him his consent to marry me; she also knew how it would hurt me to be away from Jasper therefore, she became the devil's advocate, forcing me to make a choice; either to marry Edward and bring the family more money, or she would take me away from father, Emmett, Jasper, and Rosalie and I would never see them again.
And I knew she was capable of doing so.
Hence, I had no other choice but to agree to it.
I was pulled out of my reverie when a bell-like voice rang as it called my name. Unconsciously, a smile spread across my face as I heard Alice call out my name, as she nearly flew her way toward me.
She was another Cullen member I have met.
She was shorter than I was, barely reaching to five feat tall, with a flawless pale skin, and bright wide blue eyes. She had a coal black shiny short hair, which she combed into a strange spiked do. The moment I first saw her when she came to meet me, I quickly thought; she is a Tinkerbelle.
Alice seemed to be a nice girl, always happy and smiling, and she never frowns or scowls. She even took it upon herself to prepare me for the wedding, alongside Rosalie and Esme. I was thankful that Renee was not going to be a part of it; she only cared about taking the money from Mr. and Mrs. Cullen and spending it extravagantly lavishness, saying how much it would add perfectly to her image around the rich and mighty.
I was pulled out of my reverie with a bouncing Alice, jumping up and down in front of me. I was visiting in the Cullen's house, spending time with Edward and Alice (and since Edward chose not to spend most of the time with me, he would sit with me for an hour at the most and then leave, invoking his need to work). Hence, I find myself sitting in their garden, surrounded by the soft rays of the wintry sun.
"Bella! Bella! Come with me, Mommy and I found you the perfect dress." Alice squealed, grabbing my hand, and dragging me behind her. She literally ran through the garden, and inside their colossal white mansion. We went inside the house, running up the stairs. Our shoes were pounding the wooden stairs, making squeaking noises as we ran. We finally stopped at Esme's chamber, and without knocking, Alice marched herself into the room, dragging me once again behind her.
"Oh, dear. It's perfect. Don't you think, Alice?" Esme asked, grinning from ear to ear. Alice was nodding vigorously, a blinding smile on her face. Esme turned to me, a huge smile on her face, and tears shining in her eyes.
"What do you think, Bella?" she asked, holding a white dress in front of her for me to see. I could not help the gasp that escaped my lips, as I stared at the dress. It was made of white silk, with small transparent diamonds embodied on the bodice. The bodice was a beautiful decent low-cut, and the midriff adorned with pale blue chiffon band. The dress was with long sleeves, and since the wedding was set in a week, and in the winter it was a perfect one. There was a small pale blue necklace attacked to the dress' neck, hanging from a shiny golden band. I was mesmerized with the dress, finding myself caressing it and feeling the silky touch caress my fingers back.
"It's beautiful," I breathed, feeling tears prick my eyes. I was never to be an expert when it came to dresses, especially wedding dresses, but this one captured my heart.
"It was my wedding dress." Esme said. My eyes snapped up to look at hers, watching them fill with tears of joy. I shook my head vehemently, frowning at her.
"I cannot take it, Esme. It is yours, and it should go to Alice on her wedding." I concluded. Esme shook her head with a smile on her face.
"I want you to have it, dear. In addition, have no worries, Alice plans on making her own wedding dress. She says this one is too old fashioned for her day." Esme laughed a symphonic laugh, causing Alice to giggle. I looked at the dress, and back at Esme, and back at the dress again.
"Are you certain, Esme?" I asked, feeling my heart pound with glee. I fell in love with this dress, and I was hoping with all my heart for Esme to be honest in her bestowing.
"Of course, dear. I would have never found a better one for you. It literally was made for you sweetheart." She smiled, pulling me into her arms, and hugging me. I clutched at her body, feeling silent tears falling down my face as I basked in the tenderness of her maternal love. I pulled back, wiping my tears away. Esme gave a watery smile and then took my hand and walked me to the full-length mirror.
"How about you try it on, sweetheart. Let us see if it needs size modifying." She said. Alice bounced toward me, helping me out of my dress and into the wedding dress.
After about an hour, which seemed to be a week, Esme and Alice took the perfect measures of the dress, and they promised, it would be ready before the week was over.
Today was my wedding day. I sat in front of my vanity as Esme, Alice, and Rosalie did their beautifying charm on me. I was already dressed in my white wedding dress, and it was a perfect match. It literally fit me like a glove. Esme and Alice did a wonderful job modifying the dress so that it became fitting for me.
"Edward is going to lose his mind when he sees you, Bella." Alice giggled, kissing my cheek. I gave a small smile, thinking about the ceremony. The day would be spent in dancing, having fun, and acting the ceremonial gathering. I was not too nervous about it, what I was truly nervous about, petrified even, was what happens after the ceremony is over. I was extremely nervous about what will happen once Edward and I are alone in our house, and in our bedchamber. We will have to consummate our marriage, and I was afraid. The only person to ever kiss me was Jasper, and his kisses were chaste, his lips barely brushing mine. Now I am supposed to give myself unconditionally and completely to Edward, a stranger who was, in a matter of minutes is about to be my husband.
My god, I am so afraid.
"What ever is the matter, dear? You seem strange." Esme asked, her eyes scrutinizing me. I took a deep breath, and gave a small smile.
"I am alright, Esme. I suppose I am nervous." I said truthfully. I am nervous.
"Oh, sweetheart, it is to be expected. After all, it is the day ever girl waits for with bated breath." She smiled, kissing the top of my head.
"Alright. You are now officially prepared." Rose said, a huge grin plastered across her face. I carefully stood up, looking at myself in the mirror and only just staring. I was still the same, although different in some ways. My hair was piled up in an immaculate bun, with few soft wavy tendrils surrounding my face. My lips were red, and my cheeks were dark pink; and I was redolent with freesia and lavender.
"My god, dear. You are so beautiful." Esme gushed; few stray tears fell from her eyes. Alice was grinning with tears pooling in her eyes, and Rosalie was smiling smugly.
We stood for a few more minutes, staring at my image in the full-length mirror, when a knocking on the door interrupted our staring. Rose went to open the door, and stepped aside to let whoever knocked in. I heard a male gasp, my neck turned to see who it was, and immediately I felt tears pool in my eyes.
"Bells?" father asked, his eyes filling with tears himself.
"Yes, daddy. It is me." I whimpered, running the few steps toward him, and throwing myself in his arms. He held me tightly, caressing my back. I vaguely heard Esme say she will wait for us with the guests. Few seconds later, I heard the door closing as she, Alice, and Rose left. Father pulled back, holding me at arm's length as he inspected me. His eyes were glassy with unshed tears.
"Oh, Bella, you are so beautiful baby." He gushed, his voice thick with suppressed emotions. I felt tears run down my cheeks. He raised his fingers to brush my tears away, leaning forward and kissing my forehead.
"You are the most beautiful bride to ever walk the earth, Bella. I only wish it were in better circumstances." He said. I gave a weak smile, and then kissed his cheek.
"It's alright, daddy. It is for the best." I said, doing my hardest to stay strong and to not breakdown.
"It should have been Jasper, not Edward. Do not go, Bella. I will cancel the wedding and I will not care if I was arrested. You do not deserve this." He was frantic, waiving wildly with his hands. I grabbed both his hands in mine, raising them up to my lips, and kissing them.
"I will do it, daddy. For you and for Emmett." I said with finality. He let out a harsh breath through his nose, and then nodded crushing me to his chest in a bone crushing hug.
"I will never be able to repay you, sweetheart. I can only hope for your forgiveness."
"There is nothing to forgive, daddy. Now, I believe there are guests awaiting our arrival. Let's go, it will all be alright." I smiled, hiding my broken soul behind fake happiness. He sighed, but took my hand and walked us out of the room, and down to the Cullen's ballroom, in which the ceremony was being held.
"Do you, Edward Anthony Cullen, take Isabella Marie Swan lawfully wedded wife, to love and to cherish, to have and to hold; and do you promise, forsaking all others, to cleave to her and her alone, until death do you apart?" The minister said.
"I do." Edward's velvety voice murmured, causing butterflies to erupt in my stomach.
"Do you, Isabella Marie Swan, take Edward Anthony Cullen to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love and to cherish, to have and to hold; and do you promise, forsaking all others, to cleave to him and to him alone, until death do you apart?"
I stared into Edward's eyes, feeling the deep ends of my soul exposed by his penetrating gaze. His eyes were shining in the sun light seeping through the glass windows, casting a shimmer to his already beautiful green orbs.
As I opened my mouth, preparing to say the words I do, suddenly, his emerald green turned into dark ocean blue, his wild disarrayed bronze hair turned into chin length wavy honey blond hair, and his black wedding suit turned into the suit of a major in the southern army. I closed my eyes tightly, willing myself to see Edward's face in front of me and not Jasper's. I took deep breaths, and then opened my eyes to find Edward's green orbs staring at me. I sent a silent prayer to the gods for taking away Jasper's face. I looked at Edward to see him looking somewhat nervous, clutching my hands rather tightly. I looked around to find the people staring at me. Renee was sending me venomous glares, which I would have rolled my eyes at on another time, Alice was looking at me with wide eyes that seemed to give me the look that said please, say, I do. Esme and Mr. Cullen were giving the same looks, Rose and Emmett were giving me pitiful and sympathetic looks, and lastly father was telling me with his eyes not to say I do.
I took a deep breath once more, turned my eyes and set them on Edward's face, and smiled.
"I do." I said, literally hearing everyone in the room gasp for air. I gritted my teeth, willing myself not to scream I am marrying against my will, so leave me be at them.
"I now pronounce you man and wife. You may now kiss the bride."
I froze.
In all the hours I spent with Edward, he never kissed me. A small peck on my cheeks or a butterfly kisses to the back of my hand, but he never kissed me on the lips.
I was panicking. Only Jasper kissed me on my lips.
Edward pulled me to him, holding me tightly as he leaned down and tilted his head to the right side. His lips brushed across mine, making me feel the electric charge invading my lips. I slowly moved my lips with his, trying my hardest to make the kiss as chaste as possible. He seemed to feel my awkwardness, because he took mercy on me and pulled back after giving me two peck on my lips.
Everyone stood up and clapped; some whistling, some hollering in good humor.
Edward took my hand and we walked to our family. Esme pulled him into her arms, kissing his cheeks and whispering in his ears. Renee merely glanced my side, but the grin on her face was not for me, it was for Edward and the money she would gain from his parents. I could literally see her eyes turn into golden coins as she kept grinning. Rose and Emmett hugged me, telling me it would be alright, Mr. and Mrs. Whitlock gave small smiles as they hugged me, but I could see the hurt and disappointment in their eyes. They wanted me to be their son's wife.
And lastly, my father. My daddy.
He pulled me into his arms, squeezing me tightly, and whispering his apologies repeatedly, promising to do his best to make it up to me.
But it was too late.
I was now Mrs. Isabella Cullen.
The party was at its full highest; everyone was dancing, laughing, and drinking wine and champagne. I have already danced with my father and Emmett; also, Dr. Cullen asked my permission for a dance with his beautiful daughter-in-law. I of course, blushed profusely when he called me that. I could not deny that Carlisle, as he insisted I call him, was one of the most handsome men I have ever seen. He was my father's age, around his mid-forties; with neatly combed golden blond hair, the most piercing sky blue eyes, and the most handsome facial features for a somewhat old man. He was very tall, almost as tall as Edward was; and he was the gentlest man I have ever met in my life. He was a true gentleman.
Our dance turned into two, before I was requested to dance once more with Edward. Ever since, he told me to act nonchalantly about the proposal, and I have been what you may call depressed. I had been optimistic in trying to establish a normal, happy marriage, since I was forced into it, I might as well try to benefit from it. Only to be saddened by his words. He was not trying to have a happy married life with me; to him, I was nothing but a mere vessel to give him children; he did not say it to my face, but I heard Renee speak of the matter. Esme wanted a grandchild, and a good wife to her son, and Renee wanted one thing only,
The money,
I was dancing with Edward, trying my hardest to forget about the emotional and physical prison, which I would be in, in a matter of hours; I saw Rose sprinting toward me her eyes wide and her skin paler than usual. I stopped dancing with Edward, walking toward her and grasping her shoulders to steady her,
"Rose, what is the matter?" I asked, she kept gasping for breath, attempting to balance her breathing.
"Jasper is here," she said. I stood shocked before her, my eyes wide with surprise and my hands started shaking at the top of her shoulders. I sensed Edward come and stand beside me, he put his hand on the small of my back, and for a moment, his warmth distracted me.
"Is something the matter, Rosalie?" he asked, I sensed concern in his voice, surely for witnessing the expression on her face.
Before either of us could answer, I saw him.
He was walking toward us; his steps deliberate, and his stance straight and filled with militarism and authority. He was dressed in his military attire. Abluish gray wool jacket with yellow edges where the buttons lay. His buttons were as shiny as gold as the light touched them as he walked, I could see the collar of his white shirt tucked inside a bluish gray vest, his pantaloons were also bluish gray, and his shoes was a shiny black. His eyes were pouring into mine, and I felt my heart sink with guilt and grief as I saw the sadness, anger, and despair in them. He did not look as my Jasper any longer; he looked broken, betrayed, and simply agonized.
He stopped in front of me, his eyes going back and forth looking into mine. I felt a hand tighten on my waist, and I broke the eye contact between Jasper and I to look at Edward's arm, wrapped protectively, albeit possessively around my waist.
I wanted so badly to snatch myself away from Edward and throw my arms around Jasper, but I could not. I looked back at Jasper, drinking in his face, his strong jaw which was defined if not as Edward's was but still strong, his deep ocean blue eyes penetrating mine with so many emotions anger, sadness, hate even. And he was right, I could not blame him if he hated me, for I deserved to be hated for breaking his heart.
I kept staring at him, and was about to speak when his husky, strong voice spoke.
"Isabella!"
Sunday, March 20, 2011
04. First Sight
*~Bella~*
*~Previously~*
I stood in front of the door, and I could see a shadow from underneath it. I could hear the neighing of a horse, as I took a deep breath. I said a silent prayer to the God above, and then opened the door.
Nothing prepared me to the sight in front of me…
Standing before me was the handsomest, most beautiful man I have ever laid eyes on. He was the epitome of male beauty; he was dressed fashionably. He was wearing a double-breasted black tailcoat with turned-back cuffs and a matching high collar of velvet; his coat-sleeves were puffed at the shoulder. He was also wearing a white waistcoat, shirt, cravat, and pantaloons. His hat was adorning his head, leaving few loose strands of what seemed to be the softest hair a man could ever possess. I looked up quickly when I heard, Edward clear his throat, and blushed profusely when I realized he had caught me staring at him. He stared at me with the most intense green eyes I have ever seen; it was the color of green shiny emerald, with golden fleck in the middle. I blinked rapidly as I stared back at him, a small smirk spread across his face as he scrutinized me, as I him.
"Miss Swan, I presume?" he asked, his voice was like melted honey.
What was wrong with me? I have never been that shallow.
"Yes," I cleared my throat embarrassingly as my voice was hoarse, "Yes, I am,"
We stared at each other for a few more minutes, or hours, or days, I had no idea, but our contact was rudely interrupted when Renee hollered my name,
she yelled, probably waking the dead. I sighed heavily, shaking my head. Edward gave me a confused look, and I gave a weak smile.
"Would you like to come in?" I asked, feeling my face heat again,
"Of course, thank you." He smiled crookedly at me, making my heart pound furiously in my chest as he entered the house. I closed the door behind me and turned around to find him standing behind me and staring still. He stepped aside and let me pass in front of him, gesturing politely with his hand. I smiled shyly and walked in deliberate steps into the living room.
As we entered the room, I saw Renee's fuming eyes glaring at me, her cheeks were flushed with anger, and her stance was rigid. Prepare for the blow. I thought.
"What have you been doing all this time, girl? I hope you haven't done anything to embarrass us in front of Edward, I know how stupid you get all the time," she hissed.
I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath, and praying for a hole to break into the ground and swallow me whole. Even now, she cannot contain her need to humiliate me. I reopened my eyes to see Esme glaring at Renee, and I actually saw Esme's teeth showing.
I prepared myself for Esme's verbal defense.
Only I was surprised to hear his velvety voice.
"It was my fault, Mrs. Swan. Miss Swan was waiting for me to tie the rope of my horse to the fence, which is why we were late to come inside." Edward's smooth voice answered, only I could sense a certain edge to it. Renee seemed to be baffled by Edward's voice and presence. She blinked rapidly for a few times, and then a smirk spread across her face; she kept staring at him with flirtatiousness? Was she serious? He was going to marry her daughter for god's sake. And she was married to my FATHER.
"Of course, darling, I just happen to know how idiotic my daughter can get," she actually batted her eyelashes at him.
I wanted to vomit.
"On the contrary, I believe Miss Swan is a smart young woman, hence idiocy is nowhere in her traits;" he went on, his voice earning more edge with each word. I looked at him, to find him glaring at Renee, his intense green eyes almost firing greenery flames at her. I stared at him with shock. We were practically strangers, and here he was, defending me in front of Renee?
Isn't he a gentleman? My subconscious mused. I internally rolled my eyes at my thoughts.
Renee seemed either oblivious to Edward's venomous stance, or she simply did not care. She smiled widely at him, her eyes glowing with mischief as she let her eyes roam him up and down. I felt sick to my core, watching my mother looking at another man in such way, a man who was as old as her son was, and a man who was to be her son-in-law.
Suddenly, I thought what was between Father and Renee was more than debt issues to be the reason for her tepidness towards father.
Suddenly, she looked at Rosalie, and glared at her.
"I believe I asked you to go back home, Rosalie, have I not?" Renee spat. Rose rolled her eyes, glaring back at Renee. She turned to Esme, gave her a big hug, and a kiss on both cheeks,
"It was an honor to meet you, Esme, I can't wait to meet Alice as well." She smiled,
"The pleasure was all mine, dear, and you will meet my Ali soon I guarantee," Esme beamed, as she kissed Rose's cheeks. Rose turned to me, giving a nod at Edward, who nodded back politely; she walked toward me, linking her arm with mine.
"Walk me out, Bella," she said, scowling at Renee. She quickly dragged me out to the front door, opening it, and stepping out with me by her side.
"OH MY GOD! Did you see him, Bella? He is a fine specimen of a man. I swear if I was not madly in love with Emmett, I would have dragged him to the nearest room, and have my wicked, wicked way with him," she purred, her eyes gleaming.
"Rose!" I exclaimed, blushing at her words, and feeling a strange tightening in my chest; I did not like seeing Edward with another woman, not even Rose.
I wonder why that is.
"He is a very good looking man, Bella. Good luck not turning into a pile of goo in front of him. Moreover, try gauging Renee's eyes out, she was flirting shamelessly with him. What is the matter with that woman?" she asked, I sighed, shrugging my shoulders. She was about to say something, when Renee shrieked for the millionth time today, yelling for me to come rolled her eyes, and then hugged me.
"I had better go, before she comes out with a sledgehammer after us. I will talk to you soon, and you will give me all the details regarding the handsome Edward Cullen," she winked at me, kissing my cheek, and then walked away to her house.
I was a blushing mess when I went back inside. Esme, and Edward were sitting on the couch, Renee was nowhere in sight. I breathed a sigh of relief as I entered the sitting room. Edward's head snapped in my direction, when I entered, and a beautiful smile spread across his face as he saw without a doubt, my blushing cheeks.
I hated the fact I blushed all the time,
"Bella, come sit beside me, dear." Esme smiled, sitting aside, to leave me a room to sit beside her. I walked deliberately, fearful I would trip on my own dress, and fall onto my face. That would be horrible to happen in front of Edward.
I sat beside Esme, aware of Edward's eyes on my face. I could feel a strange electric heat floating around me as he kept staring. I could feel my flesh heat with the intensity of his stare, feeling my scalp prick with fire. I dared not look at him, or I would have fainted in my place.
Renee barged into the room, huffing in annoyance,
"The servants are worthless. I should fire them all for their incompetence," she huffed, rolling her eyes. I shook my head at her dramatic antiques, noticing from the corner of my eyes, Edward glaring again at her, his face set in a permanent scowl as he looked at her. I saw Esme squeeze his knee once, making him relax somewhat. He then suddenly, snapped his green eyes at me. I blushed of course, looking away quickly.
"Esme, don't you believe the children would like to have some privacy?" Renee asked, giving Edward another flirtatious look. I pursed my lips, forcing myself not to throw up, I have no idea how she could be so crude.
"Yes, they do," Esme practically growled, causing Renee to look at her with a confused expression on her face.
Did she seriously believe Esme did not notice the way she was ogling her son?
"Edward, would you be a dear, and take Bella for a walk?" Esme asked, giving Edward a smile. He gave a small smile, nodding, and standing up. He stood in front of me, his hand outstretched in front of him. His eyes were pouring into mine, searching into the depth of my soul. I blushed once more, putting my cool hand in his. His hand was warm, and large; easily enveloping mine in his, and securing it in his grip.
"Shall we?" he spoke in susurration, his voice enveloping me in a warm cocoon. I took a deep breath, nodding.
"We shall," I answered, not wanting to look foolish in front of him. We walked to the front door, him opening it, and letting me walk out first. I blushed as I saw his eyes following my every move as I walked; he walked out of the door, and closed it behind him. He put my hand in the crook of his arm, and we started walking around the neighborhood. Our house was surrounded with trees, and greenery. Lush and abundance roads, filled with sunflowers, and other various roses.
Edward walked me through the trees, every now and then; I would catch him glancing at me from the corner of my eyes.
After about ten minutes walking, we stopped by a small wooden like shack; only it was consisting in four dark maroon obelisks, topped with a triangle roof. There were no doors, or windows. It was openly sitting in the middle of a large garden.
It was the most thing I loved here. I always played here with daddy when I was little.
Edward walked me to a wooden bench, sat me first, and then sat beside me.
We sat together, in a somewhat awkward silence. At times, I would stare at my hands, knotted by my lap, and in other times, I would look around me, letting my eyes take in the beauty surrounding me. I never glanced at Edward, not once. However, I could feel his eyes on me; I could feel the potency of his stares as he stared at me. The same electric fire I felt before, was consuming me once more. My hands started to shake as I did my best to remain calm in my seat, hoping he would not notice how shaky I was becoming. I felt him move slightly beside me, and then his cool hand was on mine, squeezing lightly. I looked up to look at him, and found his intense eyes literally devouring me with its burning gaze.
My breathing hitched, when he spoke my name,
"Bella,"
*~Edward~*
I woke up rather early, that if you could call the few times I closed my eyes during the night sleep. I have not slept well all night, tossing and turning all the time. I kept thinking of what mother told me, her and father would disown me, had I not married this Isabella girl. I shook my head, rubbing my face rather roughly.
Why was this happening to me? If Tanya had not left, things would have been different by now. Suddenly, I felt abhorrence toward Tanya, if it were not for her; things would have been so much better.
I shook my head again, cursing myself for having such ill thoughts of Tanya, she might have left, but her love would always cage me, I would forever be her enchanted, lover, her shackled slave. It did not matter that I was to marry someone else; my heart belonged only to her, Tanya.
I sighed heavily, got up, and walked to my window. I pulled open the curtains, letting the sun enclose the shadowy murk of my room. I saw my little sister, Alice, running around our garden, her light pink dress flowing behind her, as she flew from place to another, like a butterfly, flying from flower to another, drinking its nectar.
I felt a smile break across my face, as I watched her. She and mother, were the most precious women in my life, I would do anything for both of them; to make them happy. Namely, Alice.
When mother was conceived with Alice, things have been rather difficult for her. Father had said that another pregnancy for mother would be endangering her life. I overheard them once, speaking of trying to control the birth of other children. I was four years old then, unaware of what they were meaning by it. When mother told me she was with child, and I would get to have a little brother, or sister, I was ecstatic.
Other children would have been angry, or upset, that another child would invade their space in their parent's heart, but I was not. I was happy that I would have a little brother to play with, or a little sister to protect, and dot over her every word and move. Mother was happy that I was happy, and everyday, I would leave everything in my hands, and run to mother, sit beside her, pat her belly gently, and talk to the baby. I remember feeling Alice kick whenever I would be around, and it always made me stare at mother's belly in shock, and then giggle with mirth. Mother would chuckle and smile with me, telling me what a good older brother I would be.
I would do anything for Alice,
Which sometimes is a blessing and a curse.
I went to the bathroom, took a quick bath, then got dressed, and went out to our garden. It was a sunny day, even though it was winter. The warm rays of the sun were falling over the icy edges, melting them to droplets of watery diamonds. I went to stay around Alice, who smiled widely at me as I approached; only to make a double take when she concentrated on me. Her eyes were wide with shock, and her hands reached her hips, she was standing in a defiant way, glaring at me.
"Edward Anthony Cullen, what in heaven's name are you wearing?" she asked,
I frowned at her, and looked down at my clothes. I was wearing a dark beige pantaloon, and a white silk shirt; the first three buttons were open. I looked good if I may say. I looked up at her to find her glare more intense,
"A shirt and pants?" it came out as a question. Alice huffed, and rolled her eyes.
"You are meeting you bride-to-be for the first time in a few hours, Edward. You must be elegant and handsome," she chided.
"I am always elegant and handsome," I said, offended. She rolled her eyes again,
"I know, I meant more elegant and handsome. It takes time to be fashionable; even for men," she deadpanned, taking my hand, and dragging me back inside. I sighed, following my sister, up the stairs, and into my bedchamber.
Sometimes, it's better to do what Alice asks,
Or there would be hell to pay.
Alice was like a tornado, searching my clothes for the perfect suit. She was throwing shirts, pants, and coats around my room, until finally, she squealed with delight.
"Perfect," she clapped her hands like a child, and then she gently put my clothes on my bed. She, with the speed of light, returned all my poor, violated clothes back to my wooden closet, and then she gave me a kiss on the cheek.
"You will be the most handsome groom there ever was. She will fall madly in love with you. Now, get dressed," she chirped, leaving me to get dressed.
I sighed, thinking of what she said. I don't want this Isabella girl to fall in love with me, I only want this charade to be over and done. I had my own plan for when we are married, until then; I would be the dream groom.
Only, for the wrong bride.
Mother has already gone to the Swan residence, ordering me to be there within the following hour. Alice was standing beside me as I saddled my horse, pouting and whining.
"Why can't I go with you?" she asked, jutting out her bottom lip,
"Because mother said so. You will see her eventually," I said, irritably.
"I bet she is pretty. I feel we will be the best of friends," she squealed, jumping up and down, and clapping her hands. I couldn't help but laugh at her. She was such an innocent, loving girl.
God help whoever tries to court her into marriage. I thought.
"I must go now, Alice." I said, hugging her, and kissing her cheek.
"Alright. But you will tell me all about what happened when you return," she said, sternly. I laughed, ruffling her short, spiked hair. She glared at me, before smiling and kissing me cheek.
"God be with you, big brother," she whispered,
"You to, little sister," I smiled, riding my horse, and running through the fields.
I reached Swan residence in record time. I saw mother's personal carriage, standing in front of their house. The driver, Alistair smiled at me as I got off my horse.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Cullen," he greeted,
"How many times must I tell you, call me Edward, Alistair." I rolled my eyes,
"I am on duty, so you are Mr. Cullen now." he grinned. I laughed lightly, and tied my horse to the wooden fence. I took a deep breath, and then ascended the few steps to the front door. I looked back, to find Alistair smiling at me. I smiled back weakly, and then looked at the front door. I took another deep breath, and then rang the doorbell.
There was a slight commotion on the other side, and then the door opened.
I about dropped to my knees,
Standing before me, was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. She was the incarnation of divine beauty. With chocolate, wide bright eyes, dark mahogany curled hair; her alabaster skin was flawless, only tinted with dark pink on her cheeks and lips. She was tiny, her height barely touching my shoulder as we stood, and her physique was of Aphrodite.
She was divine.
We stared at each other for a few moments, scrutinizing one another. I noticed her cheeks inflame anew as she realized I caught her staring at me. I couldn't help the smirk from forming across my face, as I watched her become that more flustered,
"Miss Swan, I presume?" I asked, my voice husky and seductive,
"Yes," she answered, her voice was slightly rough. She cleared her throat, "Yes, I am," she said, her voice was like the voice of angels,
Get a hold on yourself, Edward.
We stared at each other again. Somehow, I was unable to look elsewhere. She was so beautiful. Her eyes were wide and doe like, staring at my green ones with melted chocolate warmth.
What the hell is wrong with me? I love Tanya; I should not be secretly admiring another woman's beauty.
Tanya who? My inner moron taunted.
Tanya. Tanya. Tanya. I chanted,
We were rudely interrupted by a shrew voice,
"Isabella, what on earth is taking you so long, girl?" a shrieking, annoying voice shrilled. Isabella sighed heavily, giving me an apologetic look, which in turn I gave a confused one; she looked at me shyly, as she stepped aside.
"Would you like to come in?" she asked, her cheeks flaming anew. She looked adorable.
Adorable, Edward?
"Of course, thank you," I smiled crookedly at her, stepping inside. I waited for her to close the door, and when she turned around she almost ran into me. I smiled again, and then ushered her with my hand politely to enter before me. She blushed once more, and then walked into what I presumed was the sitting room.
When I walked in, I saw mother standing beside a blonde goddess. She reminded me so much of Tanya, only she was more beautiful; if that were possible. She was the blonde to Isabella's brunette. She was breathtaking. Standing in front of her on the other side, was a middle-aged woman, with light brown hair, and black eyes. She was glaring at Isabella, her posture was rigid and her face was flushed with anger.
Suddenly, I wanted to smack her across the face. How dare she look at Isabella in such way?
What? What in god's name am I thinking?
Get a hold on yourself, Edward.
"What have you been doing all this time, girl? I hope you haven't done anything to embarrass us in front of Edward, I know how stupid you get all the time," she snarled at Isabella, her words filled with venom, and hatred. In addition, the way she spoke my name, was over-flattering. She must have been Isabella's mother, whom Esme spoke of before. I disliked her at once.
Without thinking, my mouth spoke,
"It was my fault, Mrs. Swan. Miss Swan was waiting for me to tie the rope of my horse to the fence, which is why we were late to come inside." I felt a strange sense of over-protectiveness towards Isabella. I wanted this woman to stop patronizing her. I could feel and hear the hard edge that filled my voice as I spoke; my eyes were glaring at her, willing her telepathically to apologize to the sweet girl standing in front of her, who happens to be her own daughter.
The vile woman was not fretted by my stare, it seemed to be on the contrary; her eyes gleamed with glee as she stared at me. Her smile suddenly appeared as she assessed me, and I felt contaminated and impure by the mere look from her.
Suddenly, she seemed to notice the presence of the blonde beauty, and she glared viciously at her,
"I believe I asked you to go back home, Rosalie, have I not?" the evil winch spat. Rosalie rolled her eyes, glaring back at her, and then she turned to mother, gave her a big hug, and a kiss on both cheeks,
"It was an honor to meet you, Esme; I can't wait to meet Alice as well." She smiled,
"The pleasure was all mine, dear, and you will meet my Ali soon I guarantee," Esme beamed, as she kissed Rosalie on the cheeks. Rosalie turned to Isabella, giving me a nod; her sky-blue eyes were assessing me, only with concentration and questioning. I nodded back, politely. She walked toward Isabella, linking her arm with hers.
"Walk me out, Bella," she said, scowling at the devil's advocate.
Bella. It seemed to be her pet name,
Italian for beautiful;
Once the beautiful ladies disappeared, the evil shrew turned her flirting eyes at me once more. She even batted her eyelashes at me,
Now, I was in a terrible need of a bath.
"I will be a minute, darling. Do not go anywhere," she bloody WINKED.
The moment she left the sitting room, I turned to mother, disgust and repulsion on my face. She sighed, baring the same expressions on her face.
"She's her mother?" I asked, practically spitting out the word 'mother'.
"Unfortunately, now you know why I have been angry for Bella," she said,
"Isn't her name is Isabella?" I asked, sitting beside mother,
"Yes, but she prefers Bella. As a matter of fact, so do I. it suites her, don't you think?"
"Very, Italian for beautiful" I answered without thinking. Esme's smirk was so big; her face would have been carved by it. I rolled my eyes at her, and huffed.
Few minutes later, Bella reentered the sitting room, her face burning with deep red color, and her lips were blood red. My god, she was exquisite.
"Bella, come sit beside me, dear." Mother smiled at her, sitting aside to give her more room. Bella walked carefully to sit beside Esme, her face heating even more. I was afraid for her health; it was unhealthy to have such amount of blood floating only toward the face. I seemed to be unable to keep my eyes away from her. She was like a magnet, pulling me toward her. She was going to be my wife, so, at least she was beautiful. I may not love her, and never would; but that doesn't mean I deny how breathtaking she is,
As I kept staring at her, I felt this sudden electric charge attacking me. It was like touching an electric wire, only it was not lethal, on the contrary; it was luring.
My inner thoughts were interrupted when the witch reentered the room, huffing and whining like a child,
"The servants are worthless. I should fire them all for their incompetence," she huffed, rolling her eyes. I glared at her, wondering how on earth did Mr. Swan marry such a vicious woman. I felt mother squeeze my knee once, and automatically, I relaxed; only merely. And then I felt Bella's eyes on me, causing me to quickly snap my eyes at her, only to smile when she blushed once more, and then she quickly looked away.
"Esme, don't you believe the children would like to have some privacy?" the devils spawn asked, giving me another flirtatious look. I nearly disgorged my breakfast as I sat, glaring at her, wanting to throttle her for her audacity in speaking in such rudeness to mother.
"Yes, they do," mother snarled, noticing her flirting looks at me,
"Edward, would you be a dear, and take Bella for a walk?" mother asked smiling at me. I nodded, smiling slightly back, and then standing up. I stood in front of Bella, extending my hand for hers to take. My eyes were staring into her warm chocolate ones, finding it nearly impossible to look elsewhere. She blushed, putting her cool, soft, and tiny hand in mine. I engulfed her hand in my large one, and stood her up gently.
"Shall we?" I asked, my voice seductive, without my permission. She blushed some more, and then nodded. My god, she was adorable,
"We shall," she answered. We walked toward the front door, and then out to the fresh air. We kept walking for sometime, her looking around her, absorbing the natural scene in front of her, and possibly, avoiding looking at me. I was staring at her, her cheeks were dark pink, and every now and then, she would bite down on her bottom lip. We kept walking some more, until we reached a wooden shack. I sat her gently on a bench, and then I sat beside her. We sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes, until I held her hand in mine, and spoke her name,
"Bella," her name rolled off my tongue, giving me the strangest joyous sensation. She looked at me with her wide brown doe eyes, her cheeks flushing even more. I could not help myself; my hand reached up of its own accord, and gently caressed her burning cheek. If it were possible, she blushed even more profusely,
"You blush at all times," I whispered, my eyes staring into hers. She blinked rapidly, and then looked away,
"It's a trait, I took from my father; or a curse is more like it," she whispered, her voice soft as silk.
"I like it; it's daunting," I murmured, my voice again seductive, in spite of me.
She looked back at me, a small smile gracing her beautiful red lips.
Once more, we fell into a less awkward silence.
My mind was wandering, how would, I make this work. I am certain she is forced to this marriage, just as much as I am, and I believed that in order to placate our families, it would be of best interest for us to cooperate, in order to make it work perfectly. We might not be married out of love, but at the least, we could be civil about our interactions.
At least until she becomes with child. Then, mother would stop pestering me, and I would be the loner, isolated man I once was.
Or until Tanya returns to me,
"Bella, I know that we are not in the best situation at the moment. We are both forced into this marriage, and I would like to come to an agreement with you concerning the wedding. Our mothers wants us to marry because they want us to be together, for they have a concept of us to be a wonderful married couple," I said, not mentioning the matter of the money so as to not hurt her feelings, "we could be civil and refined in our relationship with one another. We both know that we will not have any form of feelings for one another, hence, it would be foolish for any of us to have high hopes of something more, wouldn't you agree?" I said, waiting for her answer expectantly. I stared at her as her facial expression morphed. It was at first heated with her beautiful blush, and then a slight frown clouded her face. She appeared to be in thoughts for a few moments, then she looked up at me, her eyes sad, and then she spoke.
"Of course, you are most definitely right. We are forced into this marriage, and there is no need for affection pretences; we will do as we are told, and get it finished," she said, her voice carrying an extremely sad tune.
Why did it bother me so?
I shook my head, willing myself to make myself professional about the matter.
"Excellent. It will be better this way, believe me." I concluded,
"Yes, of course." She said, her voice changing tunes. I looked at her strongly, but it only lasted for a split second, as she got up from the wooden bench, I stood up too, looking at her confusedly.
"We should probably go back inside," she whispered, looking everywhere but at me. I frowned, looking at her frail face. I carefully cupped her face in my hands, fearful of breaking her. She looked like a doll, a beautiful porcelain doll, and I took great care in holding her.
"Are you alright?" I whispered, my face unconsciously mere inches away from hers. She nodded, pulling her face away from mine.
"Yes. I am. We should go inside," she said, hurrying with her steps away from me and into the direction of her house. I stood shocked for a few seconds, staring after her.
Have I done something wrong? Have I said something to offend her?
I quickly came to my senses, and hurried behind her fearing she would lose her path through the enormous wooden trees. I quickened my step beside her, grasping her hand in mine, only this time it was loose and slackened in my hand. It was as if she did not want me holding her hand.
Once we reached her house, we saw Esme standing at the front porch; a huge smile spread across her face the moment she saw us. I felt Bella's hand clench in my own, and I glanced at her to find her jaw clenching and unclenching.
What was wrong with her?
"My dear children, how was your walk?" she asked, pulling Bella into her arms and hugging her tightly. Bella hugged her back; only when I saw her smile; I found it fake, forced.
"It was good," she said, her voice slightly on edge. Mother was about to say something, when Bella's mother walked out of the house, and toward us.
"Edward, my dear, I hope all went well with Isabella," she said, her voice sickly sweet, only it was laced with warning, toward Bella; I presumed.
"All went perfectly, Mrs. Swan," I said as politely as I could muster.
My god, how I despise that woman,
"How wonderful. Isabella, it is time for you to come inside the house. The servants cannot do everything on their own, that and the fact that your perfect place is in the kitchen with them," she hissed, glaring at Bella.
I stared at her in shock. Surely, that vile woman was in no way shape is Bella's mother. Bella was a sweet, kind, and lovely girl; whereas her mother was the devil's wife herself.
Bella sighed dejectedly, looking at Esme with a small smile, and hugging her goodbye.
"It was so good seeing you again, Esme." She said, her voice wavering. Mother gave her signature sweet maternal smile, as she hugged her tightly,
"I am looking forward to this union, Bella. Remember, you are my daughter," she pressed, smiling at Bella before letting her go. I watched as Bella walked back inside the house, aware of the fact that she had not even glanced my way. Mother took my hand in hers, we said a quick goodbye to the witch, and then we went to mother's carriage. Alistair has already taken my horse back home, and I was to ride with mother. I let her in the carriage first, and then I went after her. I sat beside her as Alistair started riding the horses. Mother took a hold of my hand, and squeezed it tightly, a big smile on her face,
"Things will be perfect my darling boy, you just wait," she concluded, as we took our way through the roads.
I hope I do not regret such a decision.
*~Previously~*
I stood in front of the door, and I could see a shadow from underneath it. I could hear the neighing of a horse, as I took a deep breath. I said a silent prayer to the God above, and then opened the door.
Nothing prepared me to the sight in front of me…
Standing before me was the handsomest, most beautiful man I have ever laid eyes on. He was the epitome of male beauty; he was dressed fashionably. He was wearing a double-breasted black tailcoat with turned-back cuffs and a matching high collar of velvet; his coat-sleeves were puffed at the shoulder. He was also wearing a white waistcoat, shirt, cravat, and pantaloons. His hat was adorning his head, leaving few loose strands of what seemed to be the softest hair a man could ever possess. I looked up quickly when I heard, Edward clear his throat, and blushed profusely when I realized he had caught me staring at him. He stared at me with the most intense green eyes I have ever seen; it was the color of green shiny emerald, with golden fleck in the middle. I blinked rapidly as I stared back at him, a small smirk spread across his face as he scrutinized me, as I him.
"Miss Swan, I presume?" he asked, his voice was like melted honey.
What was wrong with me? I have never been that shallow.
"Yes," I cleared my throat embarrassingly as my voice was hoarse, "Yes, I am,"
We stared at each other for a few more minutes, or hours, or days, I had no idea, but our contact was rudely interrupted when Renee hollered my name,
she yelled, probably waking the dead. I sighed heavily, shaking my head. Edward gave me a confused look, and I gave a weak smile.
"Would you like to come in?" I asked, feeling my face heat again,
"Of course, thank you." He smiled crookedly at me, making my heart pound furiously in my chest as he entered the house. I closed the door behind me and turned around to find him standing behind me and staring still. He stepped aside and let me pass in front of him, gesturing politely with his hand. I smiled shyly and walked in deliberate steps into the living room.
As we entered the room, I saw Renee's fuming eyes glaring at me, her cheeks were flushed with anger, and her stance was rigid. Prepare for the blow. I thought.
"What have you been doing all this time, girl? I hope you haven't done anything to embarrass us in front of Edward, I know how stupid you get all the time," she hissed.
I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath, and praying for a hole to break into the ground and swallow me whole. Even now, she cannot contain her need to humiliate me. I reopened my eyes to see Esme glaring at Renee, and I actually saw Esme's teeth showing.
I prepared myself for Esme's verbal defense.
Only I was surprised to hear his velvety voice.
"It was my fault, Mrs. Swan. Miss Swan was waiting for me to tie the rope of my horse to the fence, which is why we were late to come inside." Edward's smooth voice answered, only I could sense a certain edge to it. Renee seemed to be baffled by Edward's voice and presence. She blinked rapidly for a few times, and then a smirk spread across her face; she kept staring at him with flirtatiousness? Was she serious? He was going to marry her daughter for god's sake. And she was married to my FATHER.
"Of course, darling, I just happen to know how idiotic my daughter can get," she actually batted her eyelashes at him.
I wanted to vomit.
"On the contrary, I believe Miss Swan is a smart young woman, hence idiocy is nowhere in her traits;" he went on, his voice earning more edge with each word. I looked at him, to find him glaring at Renee, his intense green eyes almost firing greenery flames at her. I stared at him with shock. We were practically strangers, and here he was, defending me in front of Renee?
Isn't he a gentleman? My subconscious mused. I internally rolled my eyes at my thoughts.
Renee seemed either oblivious to Edward's venomous stance, or she simply did not care. She smiled widely at him, her eyes glowing with mischief as she let her eyes roam him up and down. I felt sick to my core, watching my mother looking at another man in such way, a man who was as old as her son was, and a man who was to be her son-in-law.
Suddenly, I thought what was between Father and Renee was more than debt issues to be the reason for her tepidness towards father.
Suddenly, she looked at Rosalie, and glared at her.
"I believe I asked you to go back home, Rosalie, have I not?" Renee spat. Rose rolled her eyes, glaring back at Renee. She turned to Esme, gave her a big hug, and a kiss on both cheeks,
"It was an honor to meet you, Esme, I can't wait to meet Alice as well." She smiled,
"The pleasure was all mine, dear, and you will meet my Ali soon I guarantee," Esme beamed, as she kissed Rose's cheeks. Rose turned to me, giving a nod at Edward, who nodded back politely; she walked toward me, linking her arm with mine.
"Walk me out, Bella," she said, scowling at Renee. She quickly dragged me out to the front door, opening it, and stepping out with me by her side.
"OH MY GOD! Did you see him, Bella? He is a fine specimen of a man. I swear if I was not madly in love with Emmett, I would have dragged him to the nearest room, and have my wicked, wicked way with him," she purred, her eyes gleaming.
"Rose!" I exclaimed, blushing at her words, and feeling a strange tightening in my chest; I did not like seeing Edward with another woman, not even Rose.
I wonder why that is.
"He is a very good looking man, Bella. Good luck not turning into a pile of goo in front of him. Moreover, try gauging Renee's eyes out, she was flirting shamelessly with him. What is the matter with that woman?" she asked, I sighed, shrugging my shoulders. She was about to say something, when Renee shrieked for the millionth time today, yelling for me to come rolled her eyes, and then hugged me.
"I had better go, before she comes out with a sledgehammer after us. I will talk to you soon, and you will give me all the details regarding the handsome Edward Cullen," she winked at me, kissing my cheek, and then walked away to her house.
I was a blushing mess when I went back inside. Esme, and Edward were sitting on the couch, Renee was nowhere in sight. I breathed a sigh of relief as I entered the sitting room. Edward's head snapped in my direction, when I entered, and a beautiful smile spread across his face as he saw without a doubt, my blushing cheeks.
I hated the fact I blushed all the time,
"Bella, come sit beside me, dear." Esme smiled, sitting aside, to leave me a room to sit beside her. I walked deliberately, fearful I would trip on my own dress, and fall onto my face. That would be horrible to happen in front of Edward.
I sat beside Esme, aware of Edward's eyes on my face. I could feel a strange electric heat floating around me as he kept staring. I could feel my flesh heat with the intensity of his stare, feeling my scalp prick with fire. I dared not look at him, or I would have fainted in my place.
Renee barged into the room, huffing in annoyance,
"The servants are worthless. I should fire them all for their incompetence," she huffed, rolling her eyes. I shook my head at her dramatic antiques, noticing from the corner of my eyes, Edward glaring again at her, his face set in a permanent scowl as he looked at her. I saw Esme squeeze his knee once, making him relax somewhat. He then suddenly, snapped his green eyes at me. I blushed of course, looking away quickly.
"Esme, don't you believe the children would like to have some privacy?" Renee asked, giving Edward another flirtatious look. I pursed my lips, forcing myself not to throw up, I have no idea how she could be so crude.
"Yes, they do," Esme practically growled, causing Renee to look at her with a confused expression on her face.
Did she seriously believe Esme did not notice the way she was ogling her son?
"Edward, would you be a dear, and take Bella for a walk?" Esme asked, giving Edward a smile. He gave a small smile, nodding, and standing up. He stood in front of me, his hand outstretched in front of him. His eyes were pouring into mine, searching into the depth of my soul. I blushed once more, putting my cool hand in his. His hand was warm, and large; easily enveloping mine in his, and securing it in his grip.
"Shall we?" he spoke in susurration, his voice enveloping me in a warm cocoon. I took a deep breath, nodding.
"We shall," I answered, not wanting to look foolish in front of him. We walked to the front door, him opening it, and letting me walk out first. I blushed as I saw his eyes following my every move as I walked; he walked out of the door, and closed it behind him. He put my hand in the crook of his arm, and we started walking around the neighborhood. Our house was surrounded with trees, and greenery. Lush and abundance roads, filled with sunflowers, and other various roses.
Edward walked me through the trees, every now and then; I would catch him glancing at me from the corner of my eyes.
After about ten minutes walking, we stopped by a small wooden like shack; only it was consisting in four dark maroon obelisks, topped with a triangle roof. There were no doors, or windows. It was openly sitting in the middle of a large garden.
It was the most thing I loved here. I always played here with daddy when I was little.
Edward walked me to a wooden bench, sat me first, and then sat beside me.
We sat together, in a somewhat awkward silence. At times, I would stare at my hands, knotted by my lap, and in other times, I would look around me, letting my eyes take in the beauty surrounding me. I never glanced at Edward, not once. However, I could feel his eyes on me; I could feel the potency of his stares as he stared at me. The same electric fire I felt before, was consuming me once more. My hands started to shake as I did my best to remain calm in my seat, hoping he would not notice how shaky I was becoming. I felt him move slightly beside me, and then his cool hand was on mine, squeezing lightly. I looked up to look at him, and found his intense eyes literally devouring me with its burning gaze.
My breathing hitched, when he spoke my name,
"Bella,"
XxXxX
I woke up rather early, that if you could call the few times I closed my eyes during the night sleep. I have not slept well all night, tossing and turning all the time. I kept thinking of what mother told me, her and father would disown me, had I not married this Isabella girl. I shook my head, rubbing my face rather roughly.
Why was this happening to me? If Tanya had not left, things would have been different by now. Suddenly, I felt abhorrence toward Tanya, if it were not for her; things would have been so much better.
I shook my head again, cursing myself for having such ill thoughts of Tanya, she might have left, but her love would always cage me, I would forever be her enchanted, lover, her shackled slave. It did not matter that I was to marry someone else; my heart belonged only to her, Tanya.
I sighed heavily, got up, and walked to my window. I pulled open the curtains, letting the sun enclose the shadowy murk of my room. I saw my little sister, Alice, running around our garden, her light pink dress flowing behind her, as she flew from place to another, like a butterfly, flying from flower to another, drinking its nectar.
I felt a smile break across my face, as I watched her. She and mother, were the most precious women in my life, I would do anything for both of them; to make them happy. Namely, Alice.
When mother was conceived with Alice, things have been rather difficult for her. Father had said that another pregnancy for mother would be endangering her life. I overheard them once, speaking of trying to control the birth of other children. I was four years old then, unaware of what they were meaning by it. When mother told me she was with child, and I would get to have a little brother, or sister, I was ecstatic.
Other children would have been angry, or upset, that another child would invade their space in their parent's heart, but I was not. I was happy that I would have a little brother to play with, or a little sister to protect, and dot over her every word and move. Mother was happy that I was happy, and everyday, I would leave everything in my hands, and run to mother, sit beside her, pat her belly gently, and talk to the baby. I remember feeling Alice kick whenever I would be around, and it always made me stare at mother's belly in shock, and then giggle with mirth. Mother would chuckle and smile with me, telling me what a good older brother I would be.
I would do anything for Alice,
Which sometimes is a blessing and a curse.
I went to the bathroom, took a quick bath, then got dressed, and went out to our garden. It was a sunny day, even though it was winter. The warm rays of the sun were falling over the icy edges, melting them to droplets of watery diamonds. I went to stay around Alice, who smiled widely at me as I approached; only to make a double take when she concentrated on me. Her eyes were wide with shock, and her hands reached her hips, she was standing in a defiant way, glaring at me.
"Edward Anthony Cullen, what in heaven's name are you wearing?" she asked,
I frowned at her, and looked down at my clothes. I was wearing a dark beige pantaloon, and a white silk shirt; the first three buttons were open. I looked good if I may say. I looked up at her to find her glare more intense,
"A shirt and pants?" it came out as a question. Alice huffed, and rolled her eyes.
"You are meeting you bride-to-be for the first time in a few hours, Edward. You must be elegant and handsome," she chided.
"I am always elegant and handsome," I said, offended. She rolled her eyes again,
"I know, I meant more elegant and handsome. It takes time to be fashionable; even for men," she deadpanned, taking my hand, and dragging me back inside. I sighed, following my sister, up the stairs, and into my bedchamber.
Sometimes, it's better to do what Alice asks,
Or there would be hell to pay.
Alice was like a tornado, searching my clothes for the perfect suit. She was throwing shirts, pants, and coats around my room, until finally, she squealed with delight.
"Perfect," she clapped her hands like a child, and then she gently put my clothes on my bed. She, with the speed of light, returned all my poor, violated clothes back to my wooden closet, and then she gave me a kiss on the cheek.
"You will be the most handsome groom there ever was. She will fall madly in love with you. Now, get dressed," she chirped, leaving me to get dressed.
I sighed, thinking of what she said. I don't want this Isabella girl to fall in love with me, I only want this charade to be over and done. I had my own plan for when we are married, until then; I would be the dream groom.
Only, for the wrong bride.
Mother has already gone to the Swan residence, ordering me to be there within the following hour. Alice was standing beside me as I saddled my horse, pouting and whining.
"Why can't I go with you?" she asked, jutting out her bottom lip,
"Because mother said so. You will see her eventually," I said, irritably.
"I bet she is pretty. I feel we will be the best of friends," she squealed, jumping up and down, and clapping her hands. I couldn't help but laugh at her. She was such an innocent, loving girl.
God help whoever tries to court her into marriage. I thought.
"I must go now, Alice." I said, hugging her, and kissing her cheek.
"Alright. But you will tell me all about what happened when you return," she said, sternly. I laughed, ruffling her short, spiked hair. She glared at me, before smiling and kissing me cheek.
"God be with you, big brother," she whispered,
"You to, little sister," I smiled, riding my horse, and running through the fields.
I reached Swan residence in record time. I saw mother's personal carriage, standing in front of their house. The driver, Alistair smiled at me as I got off my horse.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Cullen," he greeted,
"How many times must I tell you, call me Edward, Alistair." I rolled my eyes,
"I am on duty, so you are Mr. Cullen now." he grinned. I laughed lightly, and tied my horse to the wooden fence. I took a deep breath, and then ascended the few steps to the front door. I looked back, to find Alistair smiling at me. I smiled back weakly, and then looked at the front door. I took another deep breath, and then rang the doorbell.
There was a slight commotion on the other side, and then the door opened.
I about dropped to my knees,
Standing before me, was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. She was the incarnation of divine beauty. With chocolate, wide bright eyes, dark mahogany curled hair; her alabaster skin was flawless, only tinted with dark pink on her cheeks and lips. She was tiny, her height barely touching my shoulder as we stood, and her physique was of Aphrodite.
She was divine.
We stared at each other for a few moments, scrutinizing one another. I noticed her cheeks inflame anew as she realized I caught her staring at me. I couldn't help the smirk from forming across my face, as I watched her become that more flustered,
"Miss Swan, I presume?" I asked, my voice husky and seductive,
"Yes," she answered, her voice was slightly rough. She cleared her throat, "Yes, I am," she said, her voice was like the voice of angels,
Get a hold on yourself, Edward.
We stared at each other again. Somehow, I was unable to look elsewhere. She was so beautiful. Her eyes were wide and doe like, staring at my green ones with melted chocolate warmth.
What the hell is wrong with me? I love Tanya; I should not be secretly admiring another woman's beauty.
Tanya who? My inner moron taunted.
Tanya. Tanya. Tanya. I chanted,
We were rudely interrupted by a shrew voice,
"Isabella, what on earth is taking you so long, girl?" a shrieking, annoying voice shrilled. Isabella sighed heavily, giving me an apologetic look, which in turn I gave a confused one; she looked at me shyly, as she stepped aside.
"Would you like to come in?" she asked, her cheeks flaming anew. She looked adorable.
Adorable, Edward?
"Of course, thank you," I smiled crookedly at her, stepping inside. I waited for her to close the door, and when she turned around she almost ran into me. I smiled again, and then ushered her with my hand politely to enter before me. She blushed once more, and then walked into what I presumed was the sitting room.
When I walked in, I saw mother standing beside a blonde goddess. She reminded me so much of Tanya, only she was more beautiful; if that were possible. She was the blonde to Isabella's brunette. She was breathtaking. Standing in front of her on the other side, was a middle-aged woman, with light brown hair, and black eyes. She was glaring at Isabella, her posture was rigid and her face was flushed with anger.
Suddenly, I wanted to smack her across the face. How dare she look at Isabella in such way?
What? What in god's name am I thinking?
Get a hold on yourself, Edward.
"What have you been doing all this time, girl? I hope you haven't done anything to embarrass us in front of Edward, I know how stupid you get all the time," she snarled at Isabella, her words filled with venom, and hatred. In addition, the way she spoke my name, was over-flattering. She must have been Isabella's mother, whom Esme spoke of before. I disliked her at once.
Without thinking, my mouth spoke,
"It was my fault, Mrs. Swan. Miss Swan was waiting for me to tie the rope of my horse to the fence, which is why we were late to come inside." I felt a strange sense of over-protectiveness towards Isabella. I wanted this woman to stop patronizing her. I could feel and hear the hard edge that filled my voice as I spoke; my eyes were glaring at her, willing her telepathically to apologize to the sweet girl standing in front of her, who happens to be her own daughter.
The vile woman was not fretted by my stare, it seemed to be on the contrary; her eyes gleamed with glee as she stared at me. Her smile suddenly appeared as she assessed me, and I felt contaminated and impure by the mere look from her.
Suddenly, she seemed to notice the presence of the blonde beauty, and she glared viciously at her,
"I believe I asked you to go back home, Rosalie, have I not?" the evil winch spat. Rosalie rolled her eyes, glaring back at her, and then she turned to mother, gave her a big hug, and a kiss on both cheeks,
"It was an honor to meet you, Esme; I can't wait to meet Alice as well." She smiled,
"The pleasure was all mine, dear, and you will meet my Ali soon I guarantee," Esme beamed, as she kissed Rosalie on the cheeks. Rosalie turned to Isabella, giving me a nod; her sky-blue eyes were assessing me, only with concentration and questioning. I nodded back, politely. She walked toward Isabella, linking her arm with hers.
"Walk me out, Bella," she said, scowling at the devil's advocate.
Bella. It seemed to be her pet name,
Italian for beautiful;
Once the beautiful ladies disappeared, the evil shrew turned her flirting eyes at me once more. She even batted her eyelashes at me,
Now, I was in a terrible need of a bath.
"I will be a minute, darling. Do not go anywhere," she bloody WINKED.
The moment she left the sitting room, I turned to mother, disgust and repulsion on my face. She sighed, baring the same expressions on her face.
"She's her mother?" I asked, practically spitting out the word 'mother'.
"Unfortunately, now you know why I have been angry for Bella," she said,
"Isn't her name is Isabella?" I asked, sitting beside mother,
"Yes, but she prefers Bella. As a matter of fact, so do I. it suites her, don't you think?"
"Very, Italian for beautiful" I answered without thinking. Esme's smirk was so big; her face would have been carved by it. I rolled my eyes at her, and huffed.
Few minutes later, Bella reentered the sitting room, her face burning with deep red color, and her lips were blood red. My god, she was exquisite.
"Bella, come sit beside me, dear." Mother smiled at her, sitting aside to give her more room. Bella walked carefully to sit beside Esme, her face heating even more. I was afraid for her health; it was unhealthy to have such amount of blood floating only toward the face. I seemed to be unable to keep my eyes away from her. She was like a magnet, pulling me toward her. She was going to be my wife, so, at least she was beautiful. I may not love her, and never would; but that doesn't mean I deny how breathtaking she is,
As I kept staring at her, I felt this sudden electric charge attacking me. It was like touching an electric wire, only it was not lethal, on the contrary; it was luring.
My inner thoughts were interrupted when the witch reentered the room, huffing and whining like a child,
"The servants are worthless. I should fire them all for their incompetence," she huffed, rolling her eyes. I glared at her, wondering how on earth did Mr. Swan marry such a vicious woman. I felt mother squeeze my knee once, and automatically, I relaxed; only merely. And then I felt Bella's eyes on me, causing me to quickly snap my eyes at her, only to smile when she blushed once more, and then she quickly looked away.
"Esme, don't you believe the children would like to have some privacy?" the devils spawn asked, giving me another flirtatious look. I nearly disgorged my breakfast as I sat, glaring at her, wanting to throttle her for her audacity in speaking in such rudeness to mother.
"Yes, they do," mother snarled, noticing her flirting looks at me,
"Edward, would you be a dear, and take Bella for a walk?" mother asked smiling at me. I nodded, smiling slightly back, and then standing up. I stood in front of Bella, extending my hand for hers to take. My eyes were staring into her warm chocolate ones, finding it nearly impossible to look elsewhere. She blushed, putting her cool, soft, and tiny hand in mine. I engulfed her hand in my large one, and stood her up gently.
"Shall we?" I asked, my voice seductive, without my permission. She blushed some more, and then nodded. My god, she was adorable,
"We shall," she answered. We walked toward the front door, and then out to the fresh air. We kept walking for sometime, her looking around her, absorbing the natural scene in front of her, and possibly, avoiding looking at me. I was staring at her, her cheeks were dark pink, and every now and then, she would bite down on her bottom lip. We kept walking some more, until we reached a wooden shack. I sat her gently on a bench, and then I sat beside her. We sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes, until I held her hand in mine, and spoke her name,
"Bella," her name rolled off my tongue, giving me the strangest joyous sensation. She looked at me with her wide brown doe eyes, her cheeks flushing even more. I could not help myself; my hand reached up of its own accord, and gently caressed her burning cheek. If it were possible, she blushed even more profusely,
"You blush at all times," I whispered, my eyes staring into hers. She blinked rapidly, and then looked away,
"It's a trait, I took from my father; or a curse is more like it," she whispered, her voice soft as silk.
"I like it; it's daunting," I murmured, my voice again seductive, in spite of me.
She looked back at me, a small smile gracing her beautiful red lips.
Once more, we fell into a less awkward silence.
My mind was wandering, how would, I make this work. I am certain she is forced to this marriage, just as much as I am, and I believed that in order to placate our families, it would be of best interest for us to cooperate, in order to make it work perfectly. We might not be married out of love, but at the least, we could be civil about our interactions.
At least until she becomes with child. Then, mother would stop pestering me, and I would be the loner, isolated man I once was.
Or until Tanya returns to me,
"Bella, I know that we are not in the best situation at the moment. We are both forced into this marriage, and I would like to come to an agreement with you concerning the wedding. Our mothers wants us to marry because they want us to be together, for they have a concept of us to be a wonderful married couple," I said, not mentioning the matter of the money so as to not hurt her feelings, "we could be civil and refined in our relationship with one another. We both know that we will not have any form of feelings for one another, hence, it would be foolish for any of us to have high hopes of something more, wouldn't you agree?" I said, waiting for her answer expectantly. I stared at her as her facial expression morphed. It was at first heated with her beautiful blush, and then a slight frown clouded her face. She appeared to be in thoughts for a few moments, then she looked up at me, her eyes sad, and then she spoke.
"Of course, you are most definitely right. We are forced into this marriage, and there is no need for affection pretences; we will do as we are told, and get it finished," she said, her voice carrying an extremely sad tune.
Why did it bother me so?
I shook my head, willing myself to make myself professional about the matter.
"Excellent. It will be better this way, believe me." I concluded,
"Yes, of course." She said, her voice changing tunes. I looked at her strongly, but it only lasted for a split second, as she got up from the wooden bench, I stood up too, looking at her confusedly.
"We should probably go back inside," she whispered, looking everywhere but at me. I frowned, looking at her frail face. I carefully cupped her face in my hands, fearful of breaking her. She looked like a doll, a beautiful porcelain doll, and I took great care in holding her.
"Are you alright?" I whispered, my face unconsciously mere inches away from hers. She nodded, pulling her face away from mine.
"Yes. I am. We should go inside," she said, hurrying with her steps away from me and into the direction of her house. I stood shocked for a few seconds, staring after her.
Have I done something wrong? Have I said something to offend her?
I quickly came to my senses, and hurried behind her fearing she would lose her path through the enormous wooden trees. I quickened my step beside her, grasping her hand in mine, only this time it was loose and slackened in my hand. It was as if she did not want me holding her hand.
Once we reached her house, we saw Esme standing at the front porch; a huge smile spread across her face the moment she saw us. I felt Bella's hand clench in my own, and I glanced at her to find her jaw clenching and unclenching.
What was wrong with her?
"My dear children, how was your walk?" she asked, pulling Bella into her arms and hugging her tightly. Bella hugged her back; only when I saw her smile; I found it fake, forced.
"It was good," she said, her voice slightly on edge. Mother was about to say something, when Bella's mother walked out of the house, and toward us.
"Edward, my dear, I hope all went well with Isabella," she said, her voice sickly sweet, only it was laced with warning, toward Bella; I presumed.
"All went perfectly, Mrs. Swan," I said as politely as I could muster.
My god, how I despise that woman,
"How wonderful. Isabella, it is time for you to come inside the house. The servants cannot do everything on their own, that and the fact that your perfect place is in the kitchen with them," she hissed, glaring at Bella.
I stared at her in shock. Surely, that vile woman was in no way shape is Bella's mother. Bella was a sweet, kind, and lovely girl; whereas her mother was the devil's wife herself.
Bella sighed dejectedly, looking at Esme with a small smile, and hugging her goodbye.
"It was so good seeing you again, Esme." She said, her voice wavering. Mother gave her signature sweet maternal smile, as she hugged her tightly,
"I am looking forward to this union, Bella. Remember, you are my daughter," she pressed, smiling at Bella before letting her go. I watched as Bella walked back inside the house, aware of the fact that she had not even glanced my way. Mother took my hand in hers, we said a quick goodbye to the witch, and then we went to mother's carriage. Alistair has already taken my horse back home, and I was to ride with mother. I let her in the carriage first, and then I went after her. I sat beside her as Alistair started riding the horses. Mother took a hold of my hand, and squeezed it tightly, a big smile on her face,
"Things will be perfect my darling boy, you just wait," she concluded, as we took our way through the roads.
I hope I do not regret such a decision.
03. Family Talk
Bella
I sat on my bed, thinking over what Mrs. Cullen told me. My family was facing bankruptcy, almost running out of all the money we had, all because my precious mother wanted a new dress or a nice trendy hat. She was draining my father dry, taking all his money, and because he was madly in love with her and was unable to day NO to her, he is barely hanging by a thread, only with the help of our small horse ranch.
In addition, of course, my mother runs off to the first person to have an opportunity to make more money. To her, it was an excellent opportunity; to me it was an indecent proposal, even if it was coming from such a kindhearted woman such as Mrs. Cullen.
"Bells, are you alright?" I was pulled out of my reverie by my brother's voice.
"Yes. I'm perfect." I said, my voice slightly wavering.
"No you aren't. Talk to me, sis." He sat beside me, pulling Rosalie into his arms and hugging her. I quickly looked away, knowing that I will never have what they have. I will never have a man who loves me and cares for me the way Emmett does Rosalie. I will never fall in love because I am doomed to marry a man, whom I do not know, a man who knows that I am only marrying him for his money.
I was going to be stubbed a gold digger.
Emmett looked at me with his blue eyes, pleading for me to speak.
"It's nothing, Emmett. I'm alright." I whispered. He sighed and stared at me.
"I talked to Mrs. Cullen." He said and I stared back.
"What about?" I attempted nonchalance, but he was not fooled.
"I know about the arrangement Renee made with her. Bella, you can't marry her son out of need. We are doing well with the horse ranch, and we don't need for you to marry someone for his money." He insisted.
"We need the money, Emmett. It's the only way for us to survive," I said, my voice weak with defeat. Emmett's jaw clenched tightly and his hands balled into tight fists. It was not a good thing for him to be angry. I feared terribly for my brother's wellbeing. Being angry at all times was bound to make him weary.
"It most certainly not the only option. I already work at the ranch, and I can search for another work with more money, just don't do this, Bella," he said in a soft voice. I looked at my big brother, with teary, tired eyes.
"You can't do that, Emmett. Have you forgotten that you and Rose are to be married soon? The money, which you will earn, will be better left for your future life as a husband and a father. Moreover, as for myself, it does not matter; so long as you and father are well, nothing else matters to me." I concluded, my voice brimming with finality.
Only Rosalie's next words shattered my world, more so than it already was.
"What about Jasper?" she asked, her eyes hard somewhat as she stared at me.
"Jasper will be alright. He will find someone else, who is better and more suitable for him. He will love her and she will love him, and he will be happy. With or without me," I said, my voice shaking at the last sentence. Rosalie's glare became that more cold as she kept staring at me. Emmett's hand squeezed Rosalie's as she kept glaring,
"Is that what Jasper will return to, then? Finding you married to another man? A man who you don't know? I believe that you are aware of Jasper's intentions, once he returns from the army, he would ask for your hand. What do you think it will make him feel once he realizes that you are no longer available? That you are married?" she spat, he voice filled with accusation, and if I am not mistaken, hatred. I stared at her with wide eyes, unable to fathom how she could be so cruel to me. I had no say in this matter and she knew it. She knew that once Renee set her mind to something, nothing and no one will be able to stand up to her.
Not even Father.
"How dare you, Rosalie? How dare you accuse me of treachery for not waiting for Jasper? You know more than anyone else does that I have no say in the matter, which Renee already spoke with Mrs. Cullen, that she agreed with her for me to marry her son. Father will not object, because we are in need of the money. You do not feel the way we will feel because you are wealthy, and if you were wealthier than the Cullens, Renee would have literally threw me at Jasper's feet, but she decided to throw me at the Cullens feet because they were with more money. So, don't you dare accuse me of doing this willingly," I screamed, jumping from the bed and pacing the room back and forth, "you will marry the man you love, you will be happy with him, and you will raise family with him because you want to. I will marry a man out of obligation. A man whom I don't know what kind of a person he truly is, a man who wants me as a mere vessel to procreate children for him. Once he gets bored of me, he will search for a mistress to extinguish his boredom with me. I will be alone and heartbroken for the rest of my life, so don't you are reprimand me about Jasper. You all will get what you want, and I will have NOTHING." I screamed, tears spilling down my face as sobs raked my body. Rosalie was staring at me with pity, as she stood up, walking toward me, and trying to pull me into her arms,
"Don't you dare come near me; you have made your point clear, Rosalie." I snarled, glaring at her with fiery venom. I looked at Emmett, who was frowning at Rosalie, his eyes turned to me and I saw again, pity in his eyes. I screamed at the top of my lungs, throwing vases and books around the room.
"Get out. Leave me alone, and get out!" I yelled at them, pushing Rosalie out of my room. Emmett was going to stop me, but I threw a vase at him.
"GET OUT!" I screamed. He literally ran out of my room, dragging a struck Rosalie behind him. They thought this was hilarious, or solvable; but it was not.
I was going to live in pain and agony for the rest of my life.
I ran to the door, slamming it shut, and then threw myself on my bed, sobbing my heart out into my pillow.
"I am so sorry, Bella. I am so very sorry," father's voice shook with emotion.
"Daddy?" I whisper/asked, looking up at him. He gave a weak smile as he caressed my cheek.
"I am here, lovely girl," he whispered. I sat up slowly, clutching his nightshirt in my hand. His eyes were filled with unshed tears as he stared at me.
"Don't do it, Bella. I am a big man and I can handle my own. Don't marry Edward Cullen," he whispered, but from the tune of his voice, I knew that I had no other choice. I gave a small smile, and patted his hand.
"I have too, father. I am the only hope you have left. In addition, with Renee's presence, I fear what might happen to you when she keeps asking preposterous demands." I deadpanned. He sighed heavily, shaking his head remorsefully.
"It's all my fault. If was not a weak man in front of her, I would have been able to save you from such fate. And you would have been preparing your marriage to Jasper," he said. I looked down, blushing. He lifted my chin with his fingers, and a sad smile broke onto his face.
"I know of Jasper's intentions before he left for the army. He spoke with me and I gave him my blessing. Moreover, I am aware of how disappointed in me, and heartbroken with you for coming home to find you married. If I could, I would have let you marry before he left, however, your mother threatened me, if I were to give you to him and she will leave and take you away from me. Like she had done before."
My hatred to Renee intensified after hearing of this.
"Don't call her that; she is no longer my mother. I am only doing this for your sake, and Emmett's. He still needs money for his wedding to Rosalie, and the money he takes from the ranch, and his other job is not that much reliable. He needs more."
Father's eyes blinked, and a few tears strayed down his cheeks. He pulled me into his arms and squeezed me tightly. I hugged him back just as tightly, breathing in his fatherly scent, that I always loved.
"I am so proud of you, baby girl, and I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to make you happy.I know that your marriage to Edward is inevitable, and I know that he is a good boy, but I also know that you don't want this marriage; therefore, whenever you need me there, I will be on your doorstep in the blink of an eye. It is the least I could do to repay you for what you are doing for me and your brother." His voice broke as he finished. I pulled back, my own tears making my vision blurry.
"Do not speak in such way, father. I will do whatever I can to help you and Emmett." I sniffled, hugging him back, "always," I concluded. I felt him nod against my head.
"I owe you too much, baby girl. And I know that I have no right to ask of you anything else, but could you stop calling me father?" I pulled back, staring at him in confusion, he smiled as he went on, "I want you to call me Daddy; at all times." He smiled. I smiled back, nodding and hugging him back once more.
"Of course, daddy. Whatever you want." I promised.
"Thank you, baby girl. I love you," he chocked, holding onto me tightly.
"I love you too, daddy," I hugged him even tighter, like my life depended on it.
"You are an angel, Bella. I am positive that Edward, once he knows the real you, he will fall madly in love with you, and I am certain he is a good boy. His parents are jewels." He whispered,
"Yes. Mrs. Cullen is a nice woman from when I spoke with her, and from what I heard Dr. Cullen is a good man." I whispered back.
"It will all work for the best, angel." He kissed my forehead, "now I am going to leave you to sleep. You must be tired from the day. Sweet dreams, angel." He kissed my cheeks, and hugged me one last time. I kissed his cheeks, and hugged him back.
"Good night, Daddy." I smiled; he smiled back and got up, left my room, and closed the door behind him.
I may not like what I am destined to do, but I would do it.
For daddy and Emmett, I would do it.
They should be singing an obituary, I thought.
I shook my head, attempting to remove the morbid thoughts out of my head. I am already doomed, so I might as well toughen myself and work with it.
I sighed heavily, got off the bed, and put on my robe. I walked out of my room, and walked to the bathroom. I washed my face, brushed my hair, and then went back to my room. I took out fresh undergarments, a dark green dress, and a green slipper. I took off my robe, nightgown, and started getting dressed. I have decided to forgo the corset for the morning. Surely, Renee will have me wear it before meeting Edward.
I cringed at the thought. I hated corsets, and I hated the idea of meeting Edward for the first time; it was as if he were coming to look a purchase, a horse he wishes to buy. In a way, I was exactly that. Damn you, Renee.
I may go to hell for cursing my mother (cringe when thinking the word), but she deserves nothing less for the suffering she's putting us all through.
I sighed again, putting on my slippers. I went to my vanity, brushed my hair into a braid, and then left my room. As I descended the stairs, I could hear Renee screaming at the servants, whom I am certain were wishing for her impending doom, just as much as I did.
"My god, does any of you has brilliance? The house must be perfect by noon, or else all of you will be sacked out." She kept screaming, her shrilling voice giving me a headache. I decided to go into the kitchen, and make myself a teacup. I could hear the servants whining and lamenting, but once I entered the kitchen, they all fell into silence. I sighed, walking directly to range. I filled the teakettle with water, and left it to boil. The servants were murmuring quietly, some I could hear what they were speaking, other I could not.
"Poor child,", "how could she do this to her own girl?", "at least she will get good money from it." *giggle*
I whipped my head so fast to the person speaking the last sentence. Jessica was giggling still, speaking without shame to Mallory, who was staring at me with wide, fearful eyes. Jessica must have notice Mallory's stare, because she turned around, only to find me standing right in front of her face. I have no idea how I walked the few steps to her. She had the audacity to smirk at me. Jessica never liked me, it was no secret; but to imply me whoring myself out that way; she might not have spoken it in literal, but the implication was there. Her smirk fell from her face, surely after seeing how angry I was. She opened her mouth to speak, only to be silenced with the palm of my hand. The slap echoed through the kitchen, everyone was standing in silence; the tension was too thick, that if you will, you could cut it with a knife.
"Mind your tongue, Jessica. Or would you like me to tell mother of the food and money you were stealing?" I glared at her, my nostrils flaring in anger, and my face hot with boiling blood pumping through my veins.
Her eyes widened in fear, and a pleading look invaded her eyes.
"Apologize to Miss Bella, Jessica. Now." Mrs. Cope, our housekeeper snarled.
"I- I am sorry, Miss Swan," Jessica stuttered. I gave her another death glare, and then turned on my heels, the tea all but forgotten. I maybe a gentle doll as people might say, but I could also be a fierce lioness if someone wronged me, and when it was in my ability to put them in their place.
I walked into the living room, to find Renee on the letter desk, a pen in hand, and she was writing furiously. Emmett was nowhere in sight, but Rosalie was sitting by the fireplace. She looked up, her eyes meeting mine. I looked away, still angry and hurt by what she said. I turned around and walked toward the door, only to be stopped by Renee.
"Isabella, come here at once girl," she yelled. I sighed, clenched and unclenched my fists. I walked back to the living room, going to Renee. She was sealing the letter she was writing, a smile on her overly red lips. Too much, rouge, again.
"ALEC," she screamed, causing me and Rosalie to jump. I rolled my eyes at her; she could call onto people quietly every now and then,
"Yes, Mrs. Swan?" Alec, our old butler answered. He was in hid-fifties, and a good, kind man.
"Take this letter to Mrs. Cullen, at once," she chirped. I resisted the urge to cringe at the sound of her squeaky voice. You could break glass with that voice,
"Right away, Mrs. Swan," Alec said, giving me a sympathetic smile. I smiled back at him, and then he left.
"Isabella, what on earth are you wearing?" Renee shrieked, causing me to cringe fully this time. I knew what she was referring at; hence, I decided to play dumb.
"A dress?" I answered, making it sound like a question. Rosalie concealed her laugh with a cough, as she clamped a hand over her mouth. I felt the side of my mouth twitch, but I resisted the urge to laugh.
"This is unacceptable, Isabella," she practically whined. She walked toward me, grabbing me by the arms, and squeezing tightly. I winced in pain as her nails dug into the exposed flesh of my forearms.
"I will not have you ruining this chance for me, Isabella. You are to go upstairs, change this ridiculous dress, and put on the best dress you have. Put on the dark blue dress and for the love of god, wear the corset; and don't eat like pigs in front of your groom." She warned. I rolled my eyes at her.
"Of course, we don't want to have the mighty Renee look bad," I spoke before thinking. Big mistake.
"You will not speak to me in such way again, Isabella. You will be a polite, submissive, and obedient girl in front of Mrs. Cullen and her son, or else you know what I am capable of," she snarled, narrowing her eyes at me, and digging her nails in my flesh with more vigor. I winced again, the pain bringing tears to my eyes. I nodded my head, feeling the blood rush through my arms once more when she released me. She pushed me aside, walking out of the room, but not before speaking again.
"Get ready now, girl. It takes time to turn ugliness into beauty; and be helpful Rosalie, instead of laughing, dress her up." She ordered, and then went outside.
My vision was blurry, and I felt my cheeks wet with tears as I stared after her. Her words hurt more than they should. I knew I was plain, not beautiful, but also not ugly. My hair was the conventional dark brown, my chocolate brown eyes were dull, and my skin was as pale as the dead were. I knew I was not as beautiful as Rosalie was, and I was content with what I am, but to hear her utter the word ugly and connect it to me, it hurt more than I wanted to admit.
"Don't listen to her, Bella. You are beautiful. You know how hateful she is. Please don't listen to what she's saying," Rosalie hugged me from my back, squeezing me in a soothing manner. I squeezed her back, feeling more tears falling down my face.
"Come on, let's get you prepared," Rosalie said in a quiet voice. I just nodded, letting her pull me up the stairs, and into my room.
She went straight to my closet, after sitting me down on the bed. She kept rummaging through my dresses, until she found the right one. It was a navy blue, with a white ruffle at the chest, the chest was a little too low for my liking, showing a little of the tops of my breasts, it was sleeveless with a chiffon belt around the waist. It was the dress that showed the color of my skin in the best ways, not making me look half past dead. Rosalie took out my white and pink corset, along with blue-heeled shoes.
"Now, let's get started, shall we?" she gave a small smile. I gave a grimace that intended to be a smile and nodded. Standing up and walking toward the vanity. Rosalie helped me take off my dress and slipper. I was standing in my undergarments, when she spoke.
"I am sorry, Bella," she began, "I was out of line when I spoke to you in such way last night. I love you, and I know that you are helping Charlie and Emmett with what you're doing; but I also love my brother very much, and I know how much he will hurt once he knows of the news." She whispered, her voice wavering. Rosalie was the strongest person I knew, and she would never show weakness to anyone, but whenever she did, it was for the strongest reasons.
"I know, Rose, but there is nothing I could do. What's done is done, and there's no changing it," I whispered back, feeling the tears prick my eyes again.
"I know. I am sorry Bella. Let's not fight again, please." She begged, I turned around and hugged her tightly. She hugged me back, her body shaking with her crying.
"Jasper will be alright, Rose. He will forget about it and heal." I hoped,
"I only hope so." She nodded, pulling back and smiling, "Now, let us start,"
Two hours later, and I was ready. My hair was up in a styled, fashioned bun, with few wavy ringlets falling down my face. My pale pink lips were a darker shade of red, and my cheeks were dark pink from all the pinching Rose has done. My skin was flawless, and translucent, I looked down at me arms and sighed; Renee's nails had left dark, angry red marks what turned blue in a split second. I bruised easily, and my skin would be black and blue in an instant, and since my dress was sleeveless, Rose had to cover the crescent shaped bits by powder, or else Renee would rip off our heads if the scars were obvious. My dress was perfect, and the corset was not as tight as what Renee might have knotted it. Rose wanted me to breathe just as much as I wanted to. Rose opened a vial of perfume, and sprinkled it on my dress and skin. I smelled of roses and gardenia. Rose took a step back, and admired her handiwork.
"Now, you are officially prepared and as beautiful as ever." She smiled. Of course, I blushed. The person standing in front of the mirror was not a girl, she was a beautiful woman. Her eyes were wide, and her stance was immaculate, if not slightly nervous.
"That Edward man will be a fool if he did not fall to his knees once he sees you," Rose boasted.
"Let's hope it goes well, or Renee would invent a reason for the failure and blame it on me." I sighed, looking at Rose in the mirror.
"Alright, it's almost time. Let us go." She smiled, walking to the door. When she opened it, we saw Renee was about to barge in.
"What took you so long, girl? I swear Isabella, if you ruin this, your life will be hell." She snarled. I clenched my jaw to stop myself from lashing out. I took a deep breath, and put a forced smile on my face.
"I am ready, mother," I said in a too sweet voice. No need for trouble now.
"Alright. Go down and wait for me in the living room. Rosalie, go home, and Isabella sit with Mrs. Cullen. Her son will be here shortly." She hissed before walking to her chamber. Rose and I looked at each other, rolled our eyes, and walked down the stairs.
Mrs. Cullen was sipping on her tea when we entered the living room. She smiled widely when she saw me and Rose enter.
"My sweet girls, you are so lovely," she beamed, hugging Rose first, who stared at me in shock as I shrugged at her mouthing she's nice. Then Mrs. Cullen turned to me, staring at me with an even wider smile.
"My sweet child. You are so beautiful. You are perfect," she exclaimed, pulling me into her arms in a bone-crushing hug. I blinked back tears as I remembered the bad words Renee said. Rose noticed and shook her head in disapproval, mouthing don't. I nodded, and smiled a little. Mrs. Cullen was the mother I have always wanted.
We sat on the couch, Rose and I on either side of Mrs. Cullen,
"How are you today, dear?" she asked, her motherly voice caressing me like a velvet quilt.
"I am alright, Mrs. Cullen," I gave a smiled,
"Bella, how many times must I tell you? Call me Esme, Mrs. Cullen is my mother-in-law." She laughed, Rose and me joining in.
"Alright, Esme," I said with a smile.
"And what about you, darling? All is well with Emmett?" she asked Rose,
"Yes, Esme. Everything is perfect. We are marrying soon, once everything is ready." Rose beamed. I looked away, not able to stand the reminder that I am to be married out of obligation, not love.
I felt a squeeze to my hand, looking up I saw Esme with a smile on her face.
"I assure you, dear, Edward is a wonderful boy, and I am not only saying that because he is my son; but it's the truth. He is wonderful, and you both shall see what a beautiful perfect match you are," she grinned. I smiled back, not having the heart to upset her.
Of course, she is saying this because he is her son, and any good mother would say her child is perfect, even if he was filled with flaws.
"Things will turn out for the best, darling. And I know that you will be best friends with my daughter too. Alice wanted to come with me, but it was best to have this visit with Edward alone. You will meet her soon enough." She smiled, looking at Rose,
"And I am certain that you will be good friends with her too, Rose. Especially if you care for fashion." Esme concluded. Rose let out a squeal, and I rolled my eyes.
"She likes fashion?" Rose's high-pitched voice nearly deafened me.
Esme's bell like laugh made me smile as she spoke to Rose,
"Yes, my dear. She loves fashion. She even makes her own dresses. I wouldn't be surprised if one day she were to be a famous fashion designer," Esme and Rose laughed and again, I rolled my eyes.
"You don't like fashion, Bella?" Esme asked with an amused expression.
I shook my head vigorously. She laughed again,
"Wait until you meet Alice, she will literally shove fashion traits down your throat,"
I stared at her with fearful eyes, and then shook my head as she and Rose laughed at me.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang.
"That must be Edward," Esme smiled, getting up. Renee appeared out of nowhere, running into the living room.
"Stay in your place Mrs. Cullen. Isabella will open the door." She spoke rudely, glaring at me.
How could be so rude to Esme, when she was giving her the opportunity of her life?
I sighed, throwing a glance at Rose who was in turn glaring at Renee; Mrs. Cullen was no different. I nodded, walking out of the living room, and slowly approaching the front door.
I stood in front of the door, and I could see a shadow from underneath it. I could hear the neighing of a horse, as I took a deep breath. I said a silent prayer to the God above, and then opened the door.
Nothing prepared me to the sight in front of me…
I sat on my bed, thinking over what Mrs. Cullen told me. My family was facing bankruptcy, almost running out of all the money we had, all because my precious mother wanted a new dress or a nice trendy hat. She was draining my father dry, taking all his money, and because he was madly in love with her and was unable to day NO to her, he is barely hanging by a thread, only with the help of our small horse ranch.
In addition, of course, my mother runs off to the first person to have an opportunity to make more money. To her, it was an excellent opportunity; to me it was an indecent proposal, even if it was coming from such a kindhearted woman such as Mrs. Cullen.
"Bells, are you alright?" I was pulled out of my reverie by my brother's voice.
"Yes. I'm perfect." I said, my voice slightly wavering.
"No you aren't. Talk to me, sis." He sat beside me, pulling Rosalie into his arms and hugging her. I quickly looked away, knowing that I will never have what they have. I will never have a man who loves me and cares for me the way Emmett does Rosalie. I will never fall in love because I am doomed to marry a man, whom I do not know, a man who knows that I am only marrying him for his money.
I was going to be stubbed a gold digger.
Emmett looked at me with his blue eyes, pleading for me to speak.
"It's nothing, Emmett. I'm alright." I whispered. He sighed and stared at me.
"I talked to Mrs. Cullen." He said and I stared back.
"What about?" I attempted nonchalance, but he was not fooled.
"I know about the arrangement Renee made with her. Bella, you can't marry her son out of need. We are doing well with the horse ranch, and we don't need for you to marry someone for his money." He insisted.
"We need the money, Emmett. It's the only way for us to survive," I said, my voice weak with defeat. Emmett's jaw clenched tightly and his hands balled into tight fists. It was not a good thing for him to be angry. I feared terribly for my brother's wellbeing. Being angry at all times was bound to make him weary.
"It most certainly not the only option. I already work at the ranch, and I can search for another work with more money, just don't do this, Bella," he said in a soft voice. I looked at my big brother, with teary, tired eyes.
"You can't do that, Emmett. Have you forgotten that you and Rose are to be married soon? The money, which you will earn, will be better left for your future life as a husband and a father. Moreover, as for myself, it does not matter; so long as you and father are well, nothing else matters to me." I concluded, my voice brimming with finality.
Only Rosalie's next words shattered my world, more so than it already was.
"What about Jasper?" she asked, her eyes hard somewhat as she stared at me.
"Jasper will be alright. He will find someone else, who is better and more suitable for him. He will love her and she will love him, and he will be happy. With or without me," I said, my voice shaking at the last sentence. Rosalie's glare became that more cold as she kept staring at me. Emmett's hand squeezed Rosalie's as she kept glaring,
"Is that what Jasper will return to, then? Finding you married to another man? A man who you don't know? I believe that you are aware of Jasper's intentions, once he returns from the army, he would ask for your hand. What do you think it will make him feel once he realizes that you are no longer available? That you are married?" she spat, he voice filled with accusation, and if I am not mistaken, hatred. I stared at her with wide eyes, unable to fathom how she could be so cruel to me. I had no say in this matter and she knew it. She knew that once Renee set her mind to something, nothing and no one will be able to stand up to her.
Not even Father.
"How dare you, Rosalie? How dare you accuse me of treachery for not waiting for Jasper? You know more than anyone else does that I have no say in the matter, which Renee already spoke with Mrs. Cullen, that she agreed with her for me to marry her son. Father will not object, because we are in need of the money. You do not feel the way we will feel because you are wealthy, and if you were wealthier than the Cullens, Renee would have literally threw me at Jasper's feet, but she decided to throw me at the Cullens feet because they were with more money. So, don't you dare accuse me of doing this willingly," I screamed, jumping from the bed and pacing the room back and forth, "you will marry the man you love, you will be happy with him, and you will raise family with him because you want to. I will marry a man out of obligation. A man whom I don't know what kind of a person he truly is, a man who wants me as a mere vessel to procreate children for him. Once he gets bored of me, he will search for a mistress to extinguish his boredom with me. I will be alone and heartbroken for the rest of my life, so don't you are reprimand me about Jasper. You all will get what you want, and I will have NOTHING." I screamed, tears spilling down my face as sobs raked my body. Rosalie was staring at me with pity, as she stood up, walking toward me, and trying to pull me into her arms,
"Don't you dare come near me; you have made your point clear, Rosalie." I snarled, glaring at her with fiery venom. I looked at Emmett, who was frowning at Rosalie, his eyes turned to me and I saw again, pity in his eyes. I screamed at the top of my lungs, throwing vases and books around the room.
"Get out. Leave me alone, and get out!" I yelled at them, pushing Rosalie out of my room. Emmett was going to stop me, but I threw a vase at him.
"GET OUT!" I screamed. He literally ran out of my room, dragging a struck Rosalie behind him. They thought this was hilarious, or solvable; but it was not.
I was going to live in pain and agony for the rest of my life.
I ran to the door, slamming it shut, and then threw myself on my bed, sobbing my heart out into my pillow.
Sometime in the eve
I felt a hand running through my hair as I slept. My body was so cold, and my cheeks were stinging me from the tears. I slowly opened my eyes, hissing in pain as it hurt to blink. The hand kept running through my hair as a deep voice kept murmuring."I am so sorry, Bella. I am so very sorry," father's voice shook with emotion.
"Daddy?" I whisper/asked, looking up at him. He gave a weak smile as he caressed my cheek.
"I am here, lovely girl," he whispered. I sat up slowly, clutching his nightshirt in my hand. His eyes were filled with unshed tears as he stared at me.
"Don't do it, Bella. I am a big man and I can handle my own. Don't marry Edward Cullen," he whispered, but from the tune of his voice, I knew that I had no other choice. I gave a small smile, and patted his hand.
"I have too, father. I am the only hope you have left. In addition, with Renee's presence, I fear what might happen to you when she keeps asking preposterous demands." I deadpanned. He sighed heavily, shaking his head remorsefully.
"It's all my fault. If was not a weak man in front of her, I would have been able to save you from such fate. And you would have been preparing your marriage to Jasper," he said. I looked down, blushing. He lifted my chin with his fingers, and a sad smile broke onto his face.
"I know of Jasper's intentions before he left for the army. He spoke with me and I gave him my blessing. Moreover, I am aware of how disappointed in me, and heartbroken with you for coming home to find you married. If I could, I would have let you marry before he left, however, your mother threatened me, if I were to give you to him and she will leave and take you away from me. Like she had done before."
My hatred to Renee intensified after hearing of this.
"Don't call her that; she is no longer my mother. I am only doing this for your sake, and Emmett's. He still needs money for his wedding to Rosalie, and the money he takes from the ranch, and his other job is not that much reliable. He needs more."
Father's eyes blinked, and a few tears strayed down his cheeks. He pulled me into his arms and squeezed me tightly. I hugged him back just as tightly, breathing in his fatherly scent, that I always loved.
"I am so proud of you, baby girl, and I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to make you happy.I know that your marriage to Edward is inevitable, and I know that he is a good boy, but I also know that you don't want this marriage; therefore, whenever you need me there, I will be on your doorstep in the blink of an eye. It is the least I could do to repay you for what you are doing for me and your brother." His voice broke as he finished. I pulled back, my own tears making my vision blurry.
"Do not speak in such way, father. I will do whatever I can to help you and Emmett." I sniffled, hugging him back, "always," I concluded. I felt him nod against my head.
"I owe you too much, baby girl. And I know that I have no right to ask of you anything else, but could you stop calling me father?" I pulled back, staring at him in confusion, he smiled as he went on, "I want you to call me Daddy; at all times." He smiled. I smiled back, nodding and hugging him back once more.
"Of course, daddy. Whatever you want." I promised.
"Thank you, baby girl. I love you," he chocked, holding onto me tightly.
"I love you too, daddy," I hugged him even tighter, like my life depended on it.
"You are an angel, Bella. I am positive that Edward, once he knows the real you, he will fall madly in love with you, and I am certain he is a good boy. His parents are jewels." He whispered,
"Yes. Mrs. Cullen is a nice woman from when I spoke with her, and from what I heard Dr. Cullen is a good man." I whispered back.
"It will all work for the best, angel." He kissed my forehead, "now I am going to leave you to sleep. You must be tired from the day. Sweet dreams, angel." He kissed my cheeks, and hugged me one last time. I kissed his cheeks, and hugged him back.
"Good night, Daddy." I smiled; he smiled back and got up, left my room, and closed the door behind him.
I may not like what I am destined to do, but I would do it.
For daddy and Emmett, I would do it.
Next day
It was fifteen minutes after eight in the morning when I woke up. The blinds were open, as I forgot to close them before going back to sleep last night. The shiny sunlight was invading my room, lightning it while my insides were dark. I could hear the birds chirping a beautiful melody while standing on the trees.They should be singing an obituary, I thought.
I shook my head, attempting to remove the morbid thoughts out of my head. I am already doomed, so I might as well toughen myself and work with it.
I sighed heavily, got off the bed, and put on my robe. I walked out of my room, and walked to the bathroom. I washed my face, brushed my hair, and then went back to my room. I took out fresh undergarments, a dark green dress, and a green slipper. I took off my robe, nightgown, and started getting dressed. I have decided to forgo the corset for the morning. Surely, Renee will have me wear it before meeting Edward.
I cringed at the thought. I hated corsets, and I hated the idea of meeting Edward for the first time; it was as if he were coming to look a purchase, a horse he wishes to buy. In a way, I was exactly that. Damn you, Renee.
I may go to hell for cursing my mother (cringe when thinking the word), but she deserves nothing less for the suffering she's putting us all through.
I sighed again, putting on my slippers. I went to my vanity, brushed my hair into a braid, and then left my room. As I descended the stairs, I could hear Renee screaming at the servants, whom I am certain were wishing for her impending doom, just as much as I did.
"My god, does any of you has brilliance? The house must be perfect by noon, or else all of you will be sacked out." She kept screaming, her shrilling voice giving me a headache. I decided to go into the kitchen, and make myself a teacup. I could hear the servants whining and lamenting, but once I entered the kitchen, they all fell into silence. I sighed, walking directly to range. I filled the teakettle with water, and left it to boil. The servants were murmuring quietly, some I could hear what they were speaking, other I could not.
"Poor child,", "how could she do this to her own girl?", "at least she will get good money from it." *giggle*
I whipped my head so fast to the person speaking the last sentence. Jessica was giggling still, speaking without shame to Mallory, who was staring at me with wide, fearful eyes. Jessica must have notice Mallory's stare, because she turned around, only to find me standing right in front of her face. I have no idea how I walked the few steps to her. She had the audacity to smirk at me. Jessica never liked me, it was no secret; but to imply me whoring myself out that way; she might not have spoken it in literal, but the implication was there. Her smirk fell from her face, surely after seeing how angry I was. She opened her mouth to speak, only to be silenced with the palm of my hand. The slap echoed through the kitchen, everyone was standing in silence; the tension was too thick, that if you will, you could cut it with a knife.
"Mind your tongue, Jessica. Or would you like me to tell mother of the food and money you were stealing?" I glared at her, my nostrils flaring in anger, and my face hot with boiling blood pumping through my veins.
Her eyes widened in fear, and a pleading look invaded her eyes.
"Apologize to Miss Bella, Jessica. Now." Mrs. Cope, our housekeeper snarled.
"I- I am sorry, Miss Swan," Jessica stuttered. I gave her another death glare, and then turned on my heels, the tea all but forgotten. I maybe a gentle doll as people might say, but I could also be a fierce lioness if someone wronged me, and when it was in my ability to put them in their place.
I walked into the living room, to find Renee on the letter desk, a pen in hand, and she was writing furiously. Emmett was nowhere in sight, but Rosalie was sitting by the fireplace. She looked up, her eyes meeting mine. I looked away, still angry and hurt by what she said. I turned around and walked toward the door, only to be stopped by Renee.
"Isabella, come here at once girl," she yelled. I sighed, clenched and unclenched my fists. I walked back to the living room, going to Renee. She was sealing the letter she was writing, a smile on her overly red lips. Too much, rouge, again.
"ALEC," she screamed, causing me and Rosalie to jump. I rolled my eyes at her; she could call onto people quietly every now and then,
"Yes, Mrs. Swan?" Alec, our old butler answered. He was in hid-fifties, and a good, kind man.
"Take this letter to Mrs. Cullen, at once," she chirped. I resisted the urge to cringe at the sound of her squeaky voice. You could break glass with that voice,
"Right away, Mrs. Swan," Alec said, giving me a sympathetic smile. I smiled back at him, and then he left.
"Isabella, what on earth are you wearing?" Renee shrieked, causing me to cringe fully this time. I knew what she was referring at; hence, I decided to play dumb.
"A dress?" I answered, making it sound like a question. Rosalie concealed her laugh with a cough, as she clamped a hand over her mouth. I felt the side of my mouth twitch, but I resisted the urge to laugh.
"This is unacceptable, Isabella," she practically whined. She walked toward me, grabbing me by the arms, and squeezing tightly. I winced in pain as her nails dug into the exposed flesh of my forearms.
"I will not have you ruining this chance for me, Isabella. You are to go upstairs, change this ridiculous dress, and put on the best dress you have. Put on the dark blue dress and for the love of god, wear the corset; and don't eat like pigs in front of your groom." She warned. I rolled my eyes at her.
"Of course, we don't want to have the mighty Renee look bad," I spoke before thinking. Big mistake.
"You will not speak to me in such way again, Isabella. You will be a polite, submissive, and obedient girl in front of Mrs. Cullen and her son, or else you know what I am capable of," she snarled, narrowing her eyes at me, and digging her nails in my flesh with more vigor. I winced again, the pain bringing tears to my eyes. I nodded my head, feeling the blood rush through my arms once more when she released me. She pushed me aside, walking out of the room, but not before speaking again.
"Get ready now, girl. It takes time to turn ugliness into beauty; and be helpful Rosalie, instead of laughing, dress her up." She ordered, and then went outside.
My vision was blurry, and I felt my cheeks wet with tears as I stared after her. Her words hurt more than they should. I knew I was plain, not beautiful, but also not ugly. My hair was the conventional dark brown, my chocolate brown eyes were dull, and my skin was as pale as the dead were. I knew I was not as beautiful as Rosalie was, and I was content with what I am, but to hear her utter the word ugly and connect it to me, it hurt more than I wanted to admit.
"Don't listen to her, Bella. You are beautiful. You know how hateful she is. Please don't listen to what she's saying," Rosalie hugged me from my back, squeezing me in a soothing manner. I squeezed her back, feeling more tears falling down my face.
"Come on, let's get you prepared," Rosalie said in a quiet voice. I just nodded, letting her pull me up the stairs, and into my room.
She went straight to my closet, after sitting me down on the bed. She kept rummaging through my dresses, until she found the right one. It was a navy blue, with a white ruffle at the chest, the chest was a little too low for my liking, showing a little of the tops of my breasts, it was sleeveless with a chiffon belt around the waist. It was the dress that showed the color of my skin in the best ways, not making me look half past dead. Rosalie took out my white and pink corset, along with blue-heeled shoes.
"Now, let's get started, shall we?" she gave a small smile. I gave a grimace that intended to be a smile and nodded. Standing up and walking toward the vanity. Rosalie helped me take off my dress and slipper. I was standing in my undergarments, when she spoke.
"I am sorry, Bella," she began, "I was out of line when I spoke to you in such way last night. I love you, and I know that you are helping Charlie and Emmett with what you're doing; but I also love my brother very much, and I know how much he will hurt once he knows of the news." She whispered, her voice wavering. Rosalie was the strongest person I knew, and she would never show weakness to anyone, but whenever she did, it was for the strongest reasons.
"I know, Rose, but there is nothing I could do. What's done is done, and there's no changing it," I whispered back, feeling the tears prick my eyes again.
"I know. I am sorry Bella. Let's not fight again, please." She begged, I turned around and hugged her tightly. She hugged me back, her body shaking with her crying.
"Jasper will be alright, Rose. He will forget about it and heal." I hoped,
"I only hope so." She nodded, pulling back and smiling, "Now, let us start,"
Two hours later, and I was ready. My hair was up in a styled, fashioned bun, with few wavy ringlets falling down my face. My pale pink lips were a darker shade of red, and my cheeks were dark pink from all the pinching Rose has done. My skin was flawless, and translucent, I looked down at me arms and sighed; Renee's nails had left dark, angry red marks what turned blue in a split second. I bruised easily, and my skin would be black and blue in an instant, and since my dress was sleeveless, Rose had to cover the crescent shaped bits by powder, or else Renee would rip off our heads if the scars were obvious. My dress was perfect, and the corset was not as tight as what Renee might have knotted it. Rose wanted me to breathe just as much as I wanted to. Rose opened a vial of perfume, and sprinkled it on my dress and skin. I smelled of roses and gardenia. Rose took a step back, and admired her handiwork.
"Now, you are officially prepared and as beautiful as ever." She smiled. Of course, I blushed. The person standing in front of the mirror was not a girl, she was a beautiful woman. Her eyes were wide, and her stance was immaculate, if not slightly nervous.
"That Edward man will be a fool if he did not fall to his knees once he sees you," Rose boasted.
"Let's hope it goes well, or Renee would invent a reason for the failure and blame it on me." I sighed, looking at Rose in the mirror.
"Alright, it's almost time. Let us go." She smiled, walking to the door. When she opened it, we saw Renee was about to barge in.
"What took you so long, girl? I swear Isabella, if you ruin this, your life will be hell." She snarled. I clenched my jaw to stop myself from lashing out. I took a deep breath, and put a forced smile on my face.
"I am ready, mother," I said in a too sweet voice. No need for trouble now.
"Alright. Go down and wait for me in the living room. Rosalie, go home, and Isabella sit with Mrs. Cullen. Her son will be here shortly." She hissed before walking to her chamber. Rose and I looked at each other, rolled our eyes, and walked down the stairs.
Mrs. Cullen was sipping on her tea when we entered the living room. She smiled widely when she saw me and Rose enter.
"My sweet girls, you are so lovely," she beamed, hugging Rose first, who stared at me in shock as I shrugged at her mouthing she's nice. Then Mrs. Cullen turned to me, staring at me with an even wider smile.
"My sweet child. You are so beautiful. You are perfect," she exclaimed, pulling me into her arms in a bone-crushing hug. I blinked back tears as I remembered the bad words Renee said. Rose noticed and shook her head in disapproval, mouthing don't. I nodded, and smiled a little. Mrs. Cullen was the mother I have always wanted.
We sat on the couch, Rose and I on either side of Mrs. Cullen,
"How are you today, dear?" she asked, her motherly voice caressing me like a velvet quilt.
"I am alright, Mrs. Cullen," I gave a smiled,
"Bella, how many times must I tell you? Call me Esme, Mrs. Cullen is my mother-in-law." She laughed, Rose and me joining in.
"Alright, Esme," I said with a smile.
"And what about you, darling? All is well with Emmett?" she asked Rose,
"Yes, Esme. Everything is perfect. We are marrying soon, once everything is ready." Rose beamed. I looked away, not able to stand the reminder that I am to be married out of obligation, not love.
I felt a squeeze to my hand, looking up I saw Esme with a smile on her face.
"I assure you, dear, Edward is a wonderful boy, and I am not only saying that because he is my son; but it's the truth. He is wonderful, and you both shall see what a beautiful perfect match you are," she grinned. I smiled back, not having the heart to upset her.
Of course, she is saying this because he is her son, and any good mother would say her child is perfect, even if he was filled with flaws.
"Things will turn out for the best, darling. And I know that you will be best friends with my daughter too. Alice wanted to come with me, but it was best to have this visit with Edward alone. You will meet her soon enough." She smiled, looking at Rose,
"And I am certain that you will be good friends with her too, Rose. Especially if you care for fashion." Esme concluded. Rose let out a squeal, and I rolled my eyes.
"She likes fashion?" Rose's high-pitched voice nearly deafened me.
Esme's bell like laugh made me smile as she spoke to Rose,
"Yes, my dear. She loves fashion. She even makes her own dresses. I wouldn't be surprised if one day she were to be a famous fashion designer," Esme and Rose laughed and again, I rolled my eyes.
"You don't like fashion, Bella?" Esme asked with an amused expression.
I shook my head vigorously. She laughed again,
"Wait until you meet Alice, she will literally shove fashion traits down your throat,"
I stared at her with fearful eyes, and then shook my head as she and Rose laughed at me.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang.
"That must be Edward," Esme smiled, getting up. Renee appeared out of nowhere, running into the living room.
"Stay in your place Mrs. Cullen. Isabella will open the door." She spoke rudely, glaring at me.
How could be so rude to Esme, when she was giving her the opportunity of her life?
I sighed, throwing a glance at Rose who was in turn glaring at Renee; Mrs. Cullen was no different. I nodded, walking out of the living room, and slowly approaching the front door.
I stood in front of the door, and I could see a shadow from underneath it. I could hear the neighing of a horse, as I took a deep breath. I said a silent prayer to the God above, and then opened the door.
Nothing prepared me to the sight in front of me…
02. Announcement
Edward
I was riding on my horse around the forest. It has been one of my most consuming obsessions. Besides reading and taking over our estates, riding was my passion. I would escape from all the work burdening my shoulders and ride my horse for hours. I would go to the waterfall in the middle of the woods, or my secret meadow that no one else knows about.
You would think that a man like myself, with wealth and power would have nothing to escape from but you would be sadly mistaken. I became hateful at the world at the age of eighteen; exactly two years ago. It was when she decided it was better for her to leave me, leave us.
Flashback
"What's the matter, darling?" I asked the strawberry blonde goddess lying under me.
"I cannot do this any longer, Edward." She said.
"What do you mean?" I asked, moving to lie on my elbows.
"You can't offer me what I desire. I don't love you anymore, Edward." She said.
"What?" I asked, staring at her wide-eyed. No, it cannot be. She cannot be saying such a thing. I caressed her cheeks while staring at her still.
"Tanya, I love you, and you love me too. Please, give me time. I cannot avow to my parents yet about us. Give me some time, please." I begged, unable to stand the thought of her leaving me.
She stared at me with cold eyes before she sighed.
"I cannot wait for you, Edward. I must go away with my family. You are fortunate I have not told my parents about what transpired between us; otherwise, you would have been dead by the hands of my father." She said coolly.
"Tanya, I want to marry you, have a life with you, and children with you. All I ask of you is some time. Please." I begged once more.
"No, Edward. What we have is finished. I must go now, my mother is expecting me."
"No. I will not let you go like this." I grabbed her arm and pulled her to me, falling on the mattress again. I crashed my lips to hers, devouring her in an all-consuming kiss. She responded vigorously while moving her hands on my back, scratching my flesh with her nails. However, the moment my hand reached her heated core she recoiled from me, pushing me away from her and fumbling with her undergarments.
"I must go now. I do not love you anymore, Edward. You are not enough for me." She stared at my eyes while she got dressed.
"You are a boy and I need a man who will fulfill my needs in every possible way."
Her words were cutting through my heart but I still stared at her with pleading eyes, hoping she would forget the nonsense she was uttering.
Only her next words shattered me.
"Especially in bed. I only ever took pity on you when you would be all over me. You never satisfied me, Edward and all the times I climaxed were an act. I always satisfied myself after leaving you." She said with a smirk on her face.
I pulled back and stared at her with wide eyes. How could she say such things? Emasculating me? Telling me I was weak and feeble. Suddenly, all the hurt was gone and came the anger. I got off of the mattress and put on my robe. I was a satisfying man and I knew my own strength, and if she did not climax as she claims, then it's her own flaw.
"Get out of my house and never return." I said in an eerily calm voice. She glared at me and then got up, put on the rest of her clothing and walked to my bedchamber door. Only before leaving my room she turned and smirked at me.
"Good bye, Edward. It was fun while it lasted." She grinned and then left.
End of flashback
After those years, after her hurtful words, I still loved her.
A fool, I know. But you cannot control your heart.
I rode back to my parent's house and put my horse back in it's stall. I could feel eyes on me and I turned around to see my mother looking at me with an unfathomable look in her eyes. She smiled once she saw me and walked toward me. I closed the stall's door and met her half way as she wrapped her arms around me and kissed my cheek.
"How was your ride, sweetheart?" She asked with her tender, motherly voice.
"It was alright, mother. How was your afternoon?" I asked and she had two expressions on her face; one of sheer happiness and one of sheer sadness.
I, of course, picked up on the sad face first.
"What's the matter? Are you alright? Did something happen?" She laughed at my rambling questions.
"I'm perfect, my dear boy. But there was a subject I wanted to discuss with you." She said. I nodded and walked her back to our house. We entered the living room and I was surprised to see father sitting by the fireplace as he was supposed to be at the hospital still. ****He smiled once he saw mother and she went to sit by him, she smiled back and gave him a gentle kiss before both of them turned to gaze at me with hopeful eyes. Alright, now they have caught my full attention.
"Is something the matter?" I asked as I gazed back at them.
"There was something we wanted to speak to you about, son. Have a seat." Father said quietly and I nodded, walking cautiously and sitting on the chair beside the fireplace. They kept gazing at me with such intensity that I started to feel uncomfortable. Father cleared his throat and started to speak.
"Edward, you know how much your mother and I love you, and we would do everything that we could to make you happy and safe." He started and for some unattainable reason, I didn't like the path of his words.
"Yes," I started slowly. Mother sighed heavily and I looked at her.
"And you know how long I have searched for a bride for you." She said.
That's when I understood.
"I'm guessing you have found me one?" I asked quirking my eyebrow at her.
"Yes. I have." She said with caution. They both knew how much I hated speaking of this matter, how much I loathed their persistence of me finding a bride and marrying.
I was not thinking of marriage.
Not anyone but her.
Tanya.
However, that was out of the question, according to her words.
"No." I said with finality. Mother sighed.
"Edward, she's the sweetest girl you could ever meet. She's kind, loving, and the most beautiful girl. I am not asking for your permission, I am simply telling you. You are marrying Isabella." She said.
"Isabella?" I asked, not recognizing the name.
"Yes, Isabella Swan." she said and suddenly it all came to my mind.
"I'm guessing she's marrying me for the money." I spat knowing the debt her father was facing. They were on the verge of being broke, merely holding on by a thread thanks to their small horse ranch.
"I am not going to lie to you, yes. But only because her father and brother are good men and they need the money. Her mother, on the other hand; is a hateful witch who I wish dies a horrible death." I stared at mother in shock. She never spoke about anyone in such a way and her anger and disgust at speaking about Isabella's mother was such that I was a little curious as to why she hated her mother so.
"Does Isabella know about all of this?" I asked.
"Yes, but we have agreed we would not speak of it. You both marry and live your lives normally like a loving married couple. And you WILL be good to the girl, understand?" She pressed, her eyes narrowing at me.
What was it about this Isabella that brought out the mother hen in my mother?
"I don't want to marry her." I said, for the first time allowing myself to be vulnerable in front of my parents. "I don't want to marry someone I don't love." I hedged.
"Oh, dear boy." Mother left father's side and kneeled in front of me.
"She is a lovely girl and I am certain that you will fall in love with her once you see her. She is the sweetest thing." She caressed my cheeks with her hands.
"But I do not even know her. I have no idea what she even looks like." I exclaimed.
"You will see her tomorrow." She said.
"So soon?" I asked, knowing that the matter was sealed and I was only hanging onto straws. Mother smiled at me.
"Yes. You will see her and she will see you. You both are perfect for each other. Trust me on this, Edward." She said, but I was having none of it.
"No." I shot up from my chair, causing mother to startle and stand up quickly.
"Edward," father warned me with a stern voice.
"No. I refuse. I will not marry some girl because she is in need of my money. I will not marry her." I snarled.
"Mind your tone, boy. I may be patient with you now, but I am telling you." Mother stood in front of me, glaring at me with such fire that I froze in my place. (Did Esme or Carlisle say this line?)
"You. Will. Marry. Her." She said slowly and vigorously.
"I. Will. Not." I said with the same vigor. We stared at each other for a few moments before I turned around to leave.
But her next words stopped me in my tracks.
"If you don't marry her, we will disown you." Mother spat.
I turned around slowly, staring at her with shock evident on my face.
"W- what?" I blabbered. Surely she was joking, or I misheard her. I stared at her with wide eyes and she stared back with determination. I looked at father to see him grasping her shoulder and squeezing it.
"You heard me, young man. Don't believe for one second that I don't know about your disgraceful affair with Tanya." She hissed and I gasped, blinking rapidly.
She knew? How could she?
"How? What? How did you know?" I choked.
"A mother knows these things, Edward. And I'm deeply disappointed in you for putting yourself in such a position. What would you have done if she were to scandalize you? Or worse, become with child, your child?" She snarled and I narrowed my eyes at her.
"I would have married her. I wanted to marry her, but she refused. She wouldn't give me time to come and speak with you about us." I snarled back and she gasped, raising her hand and putting it on her mouth.
"You were thinking of marrying her? How could you? She's not fit to be a proper wife or mother." She whimpered.
"And this Isabella is?" I glared at her.
"Of course. The girl is a valuable jewel and you will be the luckiest man when you marry her."
"I SAID I WILLNOT MARRY HER." I screamed at the top of my lungs. This time, it was my father who stood up to me. In a blink of an eye, he was in front of me grasping my shoulders and glaring at me with such anger that would have made me crumble to dust.
"Listen to me boy, and listen carefully. You will NOT and I repeat, NOT speak to your mother in such a disrespectful way again. She only seeks what is best for you. And as for the Tanya subject, we would have never agreed for you to marry her. She and her family are not the best to suit us or any other respectful family. They are vicious, pigheaded, and social climbers and they would only let their daughter marry you for your money." He growled.
"And Isabella is marrying me because of her undying love for me? She wants me for my money, your money." I said, but my voice was weak knowing I was unable to let loose of the matter.
"Your mother would have chosen her even if her family was not in need of our money. She is the perfect girl for you and you WILL marry her. Understand?" He snarled.
"I don't get any say in this?" I asked, grasping at straws again.
"NO." He deadpanned. I nodded and looked at mother who had tears in her eyes. I couldn't speak to her. She was forcing me into a loveless marriage with a girl I don't know, who is only marrying me for my money.
"May I please be excused?" I asked, feeling weak and tired and wanting to return to my chamber. Father let go of my arms and nodded. I walked to the stairs and was about to climb, when my mother grabbed my arm tenderly. I turned and looked at her to find tears cascading on her cheeks.
"It's for your own good, dear. You will see when you meet her tomorrow." She whispered.
"It doesn't matter. I'm only marrying her for the title of being married, and I believe that both of you would be expecting a child as soon as we're married, yes?" I asked, knowing their desperate wish to have a grandchild.
"We will speak of it later. When you've seen her with more sense and wits in your mind." She promised. I looked at her with numbness and gently detached myself from her motherly touch.
"I'm going to sleep. Inform me when we must leave to see my new bride." I said sardonically.
"You will come around, Edward. And one day, you will thank me for it." Mother smiled.
"I doubt it. Good night, Mother. Father." I said, running up the stairs and to my room, slamming the door behind me.
Tomorrow, I will go to see this Isabella girl, I will do as mother says and treat her like the wife she will be; I will bed her and have children with her.
But I will never LOVE her…
I was riding on my horse around the forest. It has been one of my most consuming obsessions. Besides reading and taking over our estates, riding was my passion. I would escape from all the work burdening my shoulders and ride my horse for hours. I would go to the waterfall in the middle of the woods, or my secret meadow that no one else knows about.
You would think that a man like myself, with wealth and power would have nothing to escape from but you would be sadly mistaken. I became hateful at the world at the age of eighteen; exactly two years ago. It was when she decided it was better for her to leave me, leave us.
Flashback
"What's the matter, darling?" I asked the strawberry blonde goddess lying under me.
"I cannot do this any longer, Edward." She said.
"What do you mean?" I asked, moving to lie on my elbows.
"You can't offer me what I desire. I don't love you anymore, Edward." She said.
"What?" I asked, staring at her wide-eyed. No, it cannot be. She cannot be saying such a thing. I caressed her cheeks while staring at her still.
"Tanya, I love you, and you love me too. Please, give me time. I cannot avow to my parents yet about us. Give me some time, please." I begged, unable to stand the thought of her leaving me.
She stared at me with cold eyes before she sighed.
"I cannot wait for you, Edward. I must go away with my family. You are fortunate I have not told my parents about what transpired between us; otherwise, you would have been dead by the hands of my father." She said coolly.
"Tanya, I want to marry you, have a life with you, and children with you. All I ask of you is some time. Please." I begged once more.
"No, Edward. What we have is finished. I must go now, my mother is expecting me."
"No. I will not let you go like this." I grabbed her arm and pulled her to me, falling on the mattress again. I crashed my lips to hers, devouring her in an all-consuming kiss. She responded vigorously while moving her hands on my back, scratching my flesh with her nails. However, the moment my hand reached her heated core she recoiled from me, pushing me away from her and fumbling with her undergarments.
"I must go now. I do not love you anymore, Edward. You are not enough for me." She stared at my eyes while she got dressed.
"You are a boy and I need a man who will fulfill my needs in every possible way."
Her words were cutting through my heart but I still stared at her with pleading eyes, hoping she would forget the nonsense she was uttering.
Only her next words shattered me.
"Especially in bed. I only ever took pity on you when you would be all over me. You never satisfied me, Edward and all the times I climaxed were an act. I always satisfied myself after leaving you." She said with a smirk on her face.
I pulled back and stared at her with wide eyes. How could she say such things? Emasculating me? Telling me I was weak and feeble. Suddenly, all the hurt was gone and came the anger. I got off of the mattress and put on my robe. I was a satisfying man and I knew my own strength, and if she did not climax as she claims, then it's her own flaw.
"Get out of my house and never return." I said in an eerily calm voice. She glared at me and then got up, put on the rest of her clothing and walked to my bedchamber door. Only before leaving my room she turned and smirked at me.
"Good bye, Edward. It was fun while it lasted." She grinned and then left.
End of flashback
After those years, after her hurtful words, I still loved her.
A fool, I know. But you cannot control your heart.
I rode back to my parent's house and put my horse back in it's stall. I could feel eyes on me and I turned around to see my mother looking at me with an unfathomable look in her eyes. She smiled once she saw me and walked toward me. I closed the stall's door and met her half way as she wrapped her arms around me and kissed my cheek.
"How was your ride, sweetheart?" She asked with her tender, motherly voice.
"It was alright, mother. How was your afternoon?" I asked and she had two expressions on her face; one of sheer happiness and one of sheer sadness.
I, of course, picked up on the sad face first.
"What's the matter? Are you alright? Did something happen?" She laughed at my rambling questions.
"I'm perfect, my dear boy. But there was a subject I wanted to discuss with you." She said. I nodded and walked her back to our house. We entered the living room and I was surprised to see father sitting by the fireplace as he was supposed to be at the hospital still. ****He smiled once he saw mother and she went to sit by him, she smiled back and gave him a gentle kiss before both of them turned to gaze at me with hopeful eyes. Alright, now they have caught my full attention.
"Is something the matter?" I asked as I gazed back at them.
"There was something we wanted to speak to you about, son. Have a seat." Father said quietly and I nodded, walking cautiously and sitting on the chair beside the fireplace. They kept gazing at me with such intensity that I started to feel uncomfortable. Father cleared his throat and started to speak.
"Edward, you know how much your mother and I love you, and we would do everything that we could to make you happy and safe." He started and for some unattainable reason, I didn't like the path of his words.
"Yes," I started slowly. Mother sighed heavily and I looked at her.
"And you know how long I have searched for a bride for you." She said.
That's when I understood.
"I'm guessing you have found me one?" I asked quirking my eyebrow at her.
"Yes. I have." She said with caution. They both knew how much I hated speaking of this matter, how much I loathed their persistence of me finding a bride and marrying.
I was not thinking of marriage.
Not anyone but her.
Tanya.
However, that was out of the question, according to her words.
"No." I said with finality. Mother sighed.
"Edward, she's the sweetest girl you could ever meet. She's kind, loving, and the most beautiful girl. I am not asking for your permission, I am simply telling you. You are marrying Isabella." She said.
"Isabella?" I asked, not recognizing the name.
"Yes, Isabella Swan." she said and suddenly it all came to my mind.
"I'm guessing she's marrying me for the money." I spat knowing the debt her father was facing. They were on the verge of being broke, merely holding on by a thread thanks to their small horse ranch.
"I am not going to lie to you, yes. But only because her father and brother are good men and they need the money. Her mother, on the other hand; is a hateful witch who I wish dies a horrible death." I stared at mother in shock. She never spoke about anyone in such a way and her anger and disgust at speaking about Isabella's mother was such that I was a little curious as to why she hated her mother so.
"Does Isabella know about all of this?" I asked.
"Yes, but we have agreed we would not speak of it. You both marry and live your lives normally like a loving married couple. And you WILL be good to the girl, understand?" She pressed, her eyes narrowing at me.
What was it about this Isabella that brought out the mother hen in my mother?
"I don't want to marry her." I said, for the first time allowing myself to be vulnerable in front of my parents. "I don't want to marry someone I don't love." I hedged.
"Oh, dear boy." Mother left father's side and kneeled in front of me.
"She is a lovely girl and I am certain that you will fall in love with her once you see her. She is the sweetest thing." She caressed my cheeks with her hands.
"But I do not even know her. I have no idea what she even looks like." I exclaimed.
"You will see her tomorrow." She said.
"So soon?" I asked, knowing that the matter was sealed and I was only hanging onto straws. Mother smiled at me.
"Yes. You will see her and she will see you. You both are perfect for each other. Trust me on this, Edward." She said, but I was having none of it.
"No." I shot up from my chair, causing mother to startle and stand up quickly.
"Edward," father warned me with a stern voice.
"No. I refuse. I will not marry some girl because she is in need of my money. I will not marry her." I snarled.
"Mind your tone, boy. I may be patient with you now, but I am telling you." Mother stood in front of me, glaring at me with such fire that I froze in my place. (Did Esme or Carlisle say this line?)
"You. Will. Marry. Her." She said slowly and vigorously.
"I. Will. Not." I said with the same vigor. We stared at each other for a few moments before I turned around to leave.
But her next words stopped me in my tracks.
"If you don't marry her, we will disown you." Mother spat.
I turned around slowly, staring at her with shock evident on my face.
"W- what?" I blabbered. Surely she was joking, or I misheard her. I stared at her with wide eyes and she stared back with determination. I looked at father to see him grasping her shoulder and squeezing it.
"You heard me, young man. Don't believe for one second that I don't know about your disgraceful affair with Tanya." She hissed and I gasped, blinking rapidly.
She knew? How could she?
"How? What? How did you know?" I choked.
"A mother knows these things, Edward. And I'm deeply disappointed in you for putting yourself in such a position. What would you have done if she were to scandalize you? Or worse, become with child, your child?" She snarled and I narrowed my eyes at her.
"I would have married her. I wanted to marry her, but she refused. She wouldn't give me time to come and speak with you about us." I snarled back and she gasped, raising her hand and putting it on her mouth.
"You were thinking of marrying her? How could you? She's not fit to be a proper wife or mother." She whimpered.
"And this Isabella is?" I glared at her.
"Of course. The girl is a valuable jewel and you will be the luckiest man when you marry her."
"I SAID I WILLNOT MARRY HER." I screamed at the top of my lungs. This time, it was my father who stood up to me. In a blink of an eye, he was in front of me grasping my shoulders and glaring at me with such anger that would have made me crumble to dust.
"Listen to me boy, and listen carefully. You will NOT and I repeat, NOT speak to your mother in such a disrespectful way again. She only seeks what is best for you. And as for the Tanya subject, we would have never agreed for you to marry her. She and her family are not the best to suit us or any other respectful family. They are vicious, pigheaded, and social climbers and they would only let their daughter marry you for your money." He growled.
"And Isabella is marrying me because of her undying love for me? She wants me for my money, your money." I said, but my voice was weak knowing I was unable to let loose of the matter.
"Your mother would have chosen her even if her family was not in need of our money. She is the perfect girl for you and you WILL marry her. Understand?" He snarled.
"I don't get any say in this?" I asked, grasping at straws again.
"NO." He deadpanned. I nodded and looked at mother who had tears in her eyes. I couldn't speak to her. She was forcing me into a loveless marriage with a girl I don't know, who is only marrying me for my money.
"May I please be excused?" I asked, feeling weak and tired and wanting to return to my chamber. Father let go of my arms and nodded. I walked to the stairs and was about to climb, when my mother grabbed my arm tenderly. I turned and looked at her to find tears cascading on her cheeks.
"It's for your own good, dear. You will see when you meet her tomorrow." She whispered.
"It doesn't matter. I'm only marrying her for the title of being married, and I believe that both of you would be expecting a child as soon as we're married, yes?" I asked, knowing their desperate wish to have a grandchild.
"We will speak of it later. When you've seen her with more sense and wits in your mind." She promised. I looked at her with numbness and gently detached myself from her motherly touch.
"I'm going to sleep. Inform me when we must leave to see my new bride." I said sardonically.
"You will come around, Edward. And one day, you will thank me for it." Mother smiled.
"I doubt it. Good night, Mother. Father." I said, running up the stairs and to my room, slamming the door behind me.
Tomorrow, I will go to see this Isabella girl, I will do as mother says and treat her like the wife she will be; I will bed her and have children with her.
But I will never LOVE her…
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)