CHAPTER 9:

STRONGER

I stared out the large window in Edward’s bedroom. I wasn’t really looking at anything. All I could see was the dream I had had the night before. It pierced through my mind like a bullet, and it would not leave me alone. The sight of Seth’s rotten corpse was too much for me.

My hand went to the padlock the Cullens had put on the latch, afraid unwanted visitors would come prowling.

Suddenly, Alice burst into the room. “He’s coming!” She said cheerfully, “Jasper is coming home! I saw it!”

“Is he okay?” All I could think of was his face filled with chagrin as he realized that he had killed Seth. There was no way he was back to normal again.

“Sure, he’s still upset, but what happened, happened, and he can’t linger on it.”

She clapped her hands happily and began leaping out of the room. She bumped into Edward as he entered, his mouth forming a tight, thin line. I turned back to the window, pressing a hand to the glass.

“You know that feeling when you just want to smash something?” I asked, “Well, I wish I could just burst through this window and go.”

“Bella, you know you can’t leave. It’s too dangerous.” I said nothing. “Have you seen any of them?” He asked.

“No. Why would they attempt, with the windows shut and barred all day? Honestly, Edward, you’re too protective. I feel like a pet canary.”

“Alright then, Tweety Bird,” He said sarcastically.

I didn’t find it funny. “Edward, I have to find them. To try and call it off.”

“No,” He said firmly, “You’re their enemy. Going to them would be the worst thing you could do.”

Turning back to look at him, I said nothing. I was going to end the argument before it started. I knew how it would happen. I would plead, he would say no. End of story.

“We’re going out to find Jasper,” He said finally, “We are also going to hunt while out. Alice is guarding you.”

“When are you leaving?”

“Tonight.”

I nodded, and then tore myself away from the window. What good was it to stare at nothing? I sat on the couch, Edward next to me.