Puppies and Promises

Chapter 4: Prelude to an Annulment

Chapter 4: Prelude to an Annulment

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. . . . .

I pretended to be ignorant of the phone call, and walked up to the cabinet, getting down a bowl, a glass, and a box of cereal. "Interesting, huh? How interesting?" Opening a drawer, I pulled out a spoon, then reached into the fridge for some milk. After pouring the milk and corn flakes in the bowl, I sat down and began shoveling the cereal into my mouth.

"Son ... I just heard from Charlie. It seems that Bella isn't happy in her marriage and has called it quits."

My pretense at being nonchalant vanished, and I nearly choked on my corn flakes. It was so hard to hide my excitement, and I was flying high. Bella was freeing herself from that filthy, controlling tick. Then it hit me—jeez, what about the baby tick? I floated back down to earth, crashing and burning. I needed more info, dammit.

. . . . .

"She's getting' an annulment?"

"That's what she told Charlie. He says she's living right here on the rez too ... at the Cliffside apartments."

Dad shook a finger at me. "And don't pretend you couldn't care less, because I know you do. You've been moping around the house with a long face ever since that wedding invitation came in the mail."

I dropped the spoon into the bowl, listening to the loud clink, and slumped against the backrest of the chair. "So what do you want me to do about it?"

Dad twirled his spoon in the air, the edges of his eyes crinkling in amusement. "If I have to tell you what to do, then you're not as bright as I thought you were."

"Point taken, all right?"

He stuck his utensil into the oatmeal. "Now you're talkin'." Nodding in satisfaction, he continued eating his breakfast.

Sweeeet! If she's living here in La Push, that means Eddie Boy won't be able to harass her. The rest of the Cullens are not gonna be trespassing either, if they value the treaty ... and their heads.

While the information from Dad made me hopeful, I still had to wonder about that creepy little monster she was carrying inside her. I could've just called, or gone over to the apartment, but I didn't want to appear too desperate. That, and the fear she might not be glad to see me, held me back. My heart was torn. I needed to see her in the worst way, but I had to wait, and maybe she would come to me.

Two days later, Embry, Quil and I were out on patrol. Embry nudged me. Ya mean you haven't even spoken to her yet?

Not that it's any of your freakin' business, but no.

Quil trotted alongside us. What the hell are you waiting for? A sign from the spirits?

Look, Quil. You don't know the whole story, okay? Anyhow, she and Charlie will be comin' to the house sometime this week. I can see her then, or if she makes the first move, I'll see her sooner. Is that good enough for you?

I don't get it. You've had the hots for that chick—for years now, and you're gonna let her stay in her apartment, all by her lonesome—an empty apartment, I might add. No interruptions, pal. And ... she's probably dyin' to see your face.

Embry snickered. His abs, more like.

Yeah, that too. Rumor has it that the girl is a boiling pot of hormones. You should go visit and leave your shirt at home if ya have any smarts.