A/N: I changed a part on chapter 23 while she's in the bus. I deleted the sentence, It took her getting over the initial shock before realizing this. and changed it to, It took her far too long to realize this and it made her feel wretched.
I also changed Alice telling Bella, Oh, honey, it's not all your fault to Oh, honey, don't be so hard on yourself.
Here it goes, i'm posting this chapter as well. I'm more nervous than ever to see what y'all think. It will take a little while until the next post because I've used up all of my stored chapters.
Y'all have been truly amazing!
Chapter Song: Broken by Lifehouse
"Do you want me to get down with you?" Alice asked Bella softly as they both stared at Edward's house.
Bella shook her head. "No, I'm g-good. Thanks."
Alice touched her arm right when Bella was about to open the door.
Bella looked at her, more than willing to accept the distraction.
Alice smiled at her, before shaking her head. "I wanted to say, good luck, but you don't need it."
Bella nodded, wishing she felt as confident.
She stepped out, fixing her shirt that was already aligned before walking to the front door.
She knocked, figuring Esme or Carlisle would answer and was working up the nerve to apologize to either one of them when he opened the door.
She blinked at Edward, struck dumb. She vaguely heard Alice drive off with a honk but couldn't turn around to wave.
He looked like a grungy stranger. His chin had been deprived of a shave for at least four to five days while his eyes were bloodshot and remote. His hair had a slight sheen from lack of a shower. But he was still beautiful. How could he possibly manage that?
His slumped form snapped to attention. "Bella?"
She chewed on her lip. "Hey."
"Do you need something? Is something wrong?" He asked, looking worried about her as usual.
He was too much. So perfect, she'd almost convinced herself that he was a figment of her imagination in the lack of his presence. But seeing him again, so real and alive had the realization of how foolish she'd been reaffirm itself fully.
"Can I c-come in?"
"Of course!" He stepped back, combing his fingers through his hair, only making it stick up all over the place.
She smiled a little, wanting to smooth it down, but not knowing if it was okay if she did.
"Here, come to the living room," he offered, holding his hand out for her to go first.
She didn't move, pausing because she was nervous as hell. "Maybe your room would be better..."
His eyes widen but he was quick to answer. "Sure.."
They made their way up the stairs, running into Esme dressed in a lovely, pressed skirt suit. "Bella? What a pleasant surprise." She kissed Bella's cheek with a tight hug.
Bella was so surprised by Esme's warm welcome that she could say nothing and only kiss Esme's opposite cheek in return.
"Remember to leave the door open," she called up to them as she walked down the stairs.
