Eternal temptation

Chapter 18

"Bella, try again," Rosalie sat next to Bella, urging her to eat at least a spoonful of soup.

Bella weakly smiled in response, but fatigue and hopelessness showed in her eyes. Rosalie continued to gently insist, trying to convince her to eat.

It had only been a week since Isabella and Edward returned to Forks, but the changes in her appearance were astonishing. Her belly was growing rapidly, and now she looked as if she were already six months pregnant.

From morning till night, Rosalie and I tried to take care of Bella. We bathed her, fed her, covered her with a warm blanket when it got cold, and tried to create all the conditions for her well-being. But despite our efforts, her condition continued to deteriorate rapidly.

Emaciated, pale, with dark bags under her eyes, Bella looked like a walking dead. But even in this state, she couldn't let go of her child. She already loved it, and it was stronger than any physical pain.

Alice and Edward were sad all this time, occasionally pleading with Bella to change her decision. Carlisle and Esme took a neutral stance, understanding that the situation was far from straightforward. Emmett and Jasper supported their wives but preferred to stay in the shadows, feeling powerless in this situation.

Seeing Bella start to vomit again, I quickly ran for a basin and returned to the living room. Kneeling at the person's feet, I waited for her to finish vomiting.

"I'm sorry," Isabella awkwardly wiped her mouth with the cardigan sleeve. The smell of vomit and the nauseating atmosphere filled the room.

"It's okay, dear," I said, trying to soften the heavy silence. I handed a tissue to the corner of her mouth, patiently cleaning up the remnants. My attitude towards her had changed. I understood her feelings and all the pain she was going through now.

Awkwardness was interrupted by the sound of a motorcycle outside the window and the smell of wet dog, breaking the silence in the room. Naturally, it was Jacob.

"Did you tell Black where you are?" I returned to my place next to Bella on the couch after washing the basin.

"No," the girl vigorously shook her head in denial. "I did as you said."

"So, he found out from Charlie," Carlisle went to greet the guest.

Hearing a brief dialogue below, Rosalie stood in front of the girl, her gaze intense and cold, showing hostility towards the werewolf.

A minute later, a flustered Jacob joined us. Worry sparkled in his eyes, and his heart pounded. He scanned the room in search of his friend. His gaze finally landed on her, lying on the couch.

"Great to see you here," Swan said, peeping out from behind a protective stance, trying to lighten the atmosphere.

Approaching the couch slowly, he looked at Rosalie and then at me. Mixed emotions reflected in his eyes — relief and concern.

"Stop right there," Hale didn't let the guy get closer, protecting Isabella.

"What's going on?" Jacob asked, his brows furrowed with uncertainty.

"Rose, everything is fine," Bella whispered, trying to reassure the vampire.

Reluctantly, Rosalie stepped back and stood next to the couch. I went to Bri and took her hand, feeling her fingers squeeze in response to my touch.

"Terrible sight," Jacob complimented, smiling slightly.

"Yeah, I'm thrilled to see you too," the girl pursed her lips.

Examining his friend, he said, "Will you tell me what's going on with you?"

"Rose, help me stand," Bella sighed heavily and looked at the blonde. Now she couldn't stand or move independently, and it was evident regret for her.