Tuesday, March 6, 2018


CHAPTER 3

Bella’s POV

 

I stared at my lap, my fingers digging painfully into my thighs as I desperately tried to hold myself together. Breathe in, breathe out…breathe in, breathe out…bre-

 

“Jeezus, Bella!” Charlie growled as he touched my shoulder, startling me. I whipped my head to the side to look at him. His expression was beyond concerned as we came to a stop at the stop sign. “You know, you don’t have to do this today,” he said, pushing down on the accelerator again in his police cruiser. I shook my head vehemently. He sighed. “Maybe you need some time…get to know some vampires fir-”

 

“No, I want-” I squeaked, interrupting him. I cleared my throat. “I need to get this over with, Charlie.”

 

“All I meant is that if you had some more time to get comfortable by meeting some of the townsfolk, you wouldn’t be freaking out like you are now,” Charlie stated, turning the steering wheel.

 

“Who’s freaking out? I’m not freaking out! I’m fine. Seriously,” I lied hastily. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye. He wasn’t buying it.

 

Mmhmm. Oh I’m sure Bella, you seem totally under control. No problem here. What was I thinking?” he replied with heavy sarcasm lacing his voice. “You don’t need vampire senses to see that you are falling apart right in front of my eyes.”

 

“I’ll be fine. I’m just a little nervous.” I mustered up the best smile I could manage.

 

“A little?” he snorted, pulling into the school’s parking lot.

 

“Okay, a lot,” I admitted, grabbing my backpack. “But it’ll be fine-I’ll be fine,” I amended, opening the door.

 

“I sure hope so, Bella.”

 

We walked to the school’s administration office to retrieve my schedule. I was about twenty minutes late to my first period class because it took me over half an hour to eat one pop-tart. I sat at the kitchen table just picking at it, completely in a daze. I could barely hear Renee’s frantic voice telling Charlie to snap me out of it. All I remember was being lightly shaken as his hand waved back and forth in front of my face. I had no clue how long it must have taken Charlie to snap me back to reality.

 

I stared down at the little piece of paper that was my new class schedule. I had six classes, English Lit being my first hour.

 

“Do you want me to help you find it?” Charlie asked suddenly behind me.

 

I turned around. “No, that’s alright. This school doesn’t seem so big.” I managed to smile but it didn’t reach my eyes. “But thanks.”

 

“Alright. You have mine and Renee’s number in case you need it,” he said, looking down at me. I nodded. “And Renee will pick you up after school,” he added. I nodded again. “Oh and Bella?”

 

“Mmhm?”

 

“Renee and I were thinking when you feel more…” he hesitated, searching for the appropriate words, “… comfortable, we want to get you your own car.”

 

My eyes lit up. “A car? Really?

 

I had never owned a car before. With all the blood donations, Daddy had grown ill. He wasn’t able to work all the hours he used to, making it difficult to save money for a car. And once my parents had died, the vampire government seized all their assets, leaving me with nothing...only my memories, some clothes and my music box. The same was true for grandma. The vampire government not only coveted our blood but they ripped everything else away from us too. We were just cattle to them.

 

Charlie nodded. “But when we feel the time is right, okay kiddo?”

 

When the time was right? What were they afraid of? That’s when realization dawned on me. They were afraid I would run…runaway or in this case, drive away. Running away didn’t seem like such a bad idea at this very moment. But where would I run to? Stop it, Bella! my inner voice screamed at me.

 

“Okay.”

 

Charlie stepped up to me, gently squeezing my shoulder. “Have a good day, kiddo and I’ll see you later.”

 

I nodded as I watched him walk away, disappearing around the corner. I blew out a large breath of air as I went in search of my first class.

 

OoOoOoOoOoOo

 

My palms were clammy, making it difficult to turn the doorknob. I quickly ran my palm down my jeans, wiping away the perspiration. I took one last glance at the sign ‘English Literature- Mr. Berty’ before turning the knob. The door creaked open, causing the teacher and the students to snap their heads in my direction. I gulped as I stepped inside, handing Mr. Berty my schedule to sign. I was surprised that he didn’t look a day over the age of 30. Is that when they stopped aging? I remember asking my mom one night why I’d never seen an old-looking vampire. She had told me that when vampires would reach their maturity, they would stop aging, living in their current physical sate for the rest of eternity.

 

“Ah yes, welcome Miss…” Mr. Berty hesitated, unsure of what to address me as, “…Isabella.”

 

“Bella,” I corrected, my voice barely above a whisper.

 

From the corner of my eye, I saw the crimson eyes of the students lock onto me…their blood-red orbs roaming over my body. I cautiously glanced back at them, studying their faces. Each vampire stared at me with a different expression. Some were of disgust, shock, boredom, amusement, anger, outrage and then some of just plain curiosity. If I would move slightly, their eyes shifted instantly, locking onto me again; they gauged my every movement, my every breath… watching me like a predator does its prey. My heart beat furiously within my chest that I was sure it would burst. Calm down, Bella, no one has attacked you, my inner voice soothed. Not yet, I argued back internally.

 

“Please take a seat.” Mr. Berty gestured to an empty seat.

 

I froze in my path as I noticed the huge vampire I would be sitting next to. WOW! He was massive. I began making my way to my seat next to The Hulk with fangs. I saw him grin at me, revealing the sharp tips of his fangs, his expression amused. Please don’t eat me! I sat down, letting my backpack slide off my shoulder.

 

“Oh and Bella?” Mr. Berty said, walking up to my desk as he handed me a sheet of paper. “This is a list of the literature that you will need to acquire. It’s mostly literature written by our kind but we will also be reading some human literature to compare and contrast,” Mr Berty informed, moving behind his desk again.

 

I nodded in comprehension. I leaned down to unzip my backpack, taking out my notebook and a pen to take notes. I noticed from the corner of my eye that the hulking vampire was still grinning at me. I let my hair fall forward, shielding me from the stares. The huge vampire snorted amused, causing me to suppress a shiver as I tried to listen to the lecture.

 

“What did Diego mean when he said that the blood was his sweetest poison?” Mr. Berty asked his class, awaiting an answer. When he didn’t get an answer right away, he sighed, “It’s on page 397.”

 

There was a collective ruffle of pages as the class searched for the answer. I shifted in my seat which caused my scent to stir in the air. There was a low feral growl that rumbled behind me. I jumped at the sound, my heart skipping a beat. I turned my head to the side as I heard the massive vampire shift in his seat to glare at the vampire who had just growled at me. The huge vampire bared his fangs at the other vampire and hissed. My eyes widened as his fangs lengthened. The vampire didn’t make another sound as the huge vampire turned to me and winked.

 

Winked? He just winked at me? Wait! Did he just defend me? See Bella, some are nice.

 

“Got it!” A strawberry blonde vampire said, raising her hand, breaking me from my internal dialogue.

 

The teacher looked relieved. “Yes, Miss Denali.”

 

I listened as the beautiful vampire explained her answer, earning praise from Mr. Berty. “That’s correct, Tanya. Very good!” he exclaimed proudly. “Alright class, since we are finished with today’s lesson, I’ll give you the rest of the class period to talk amongst yourselves.” He sat in his chair, grabbing a red pen to grade some papers. “Quietly,” he added, glancing up at the vampires who had begun to talk loudly.

 

I closed my notebook and placed it into my backpack, zipping it up. I was about to place my head on my desk and shut my eyes when a booming voice startled me.

 

“Well hey there, little human! Aren’t you going to say hi?” The big muscled vampire had turned completely in his seat, facing me directly.

 

My eyes snapped to his face. I stared at him, tongue-tied. Say hello back, Bella, the voice urged me.

 

“Ummm…hi,” I responded weakly as I continued to stare at him wide-eyed.

 

He laughed as he took in my expression. “Relax. I promise I don’t bite.” He grinned at me again, exposing the tips of his fangs from underneath his upper lip.

 

“I’m not so sure about that,” I said under my breath.

 

His grin widened. He suddenly leaned closer to me, causing me to flinch. My heart sped up as he sniffed me, his nostrils flaring. “Nah, I prefer A-positive. You’re O which is delish but not my first choice,” he joked, winking at me playfully. I gulped loudly. His expression turned serious. “I’m Emmett by the way.” He stuck out his hand for me to shake it.

 

I hesitated but he refused to give up. A few seconds later, I mustered up some courage and shook his hand. “Umm…I’m Bella.” It sounded more like a question. “But I’m sure you know that already,” I added with a smile. I actually smiled?

 

“Yep. This whole town has been talking about you over the past week,” he responded matter-of-factly.

 

A whole week? Talking about me? Why? I pushed the questions from my mind.

 

“So what’s your next class?” Emmett asked, peeking at the schedule that I held in my hand.

 

I glanced at my schedule. “Trig,” I groaned.

 

He laughed. “Don’t like math?”

 

“No, I hate it.” I grimaced, thinking about the horror that was waiting for me next hour.

 

“I wonder what Rosalie would think of you flirting with a human, Emmett?” the strawberry blonde sneered as she glared at me. I didn’t even hear her approach. “How can you waste your time talking to a walking bloodbag? That’s disgusting, Emmett. We eat them, not make friends with them!” she spat, flipping her hair to the side. I winced at her harsh tone.

 

Emmett’s eyes darkened as the tips of his fangs started to press into his lower lip. “I can talk to anyone I fucking want, Tanya. And she’s not some bloodbag, her name’s Bella.” Emmett glared, flashing his fangs at her. “Who the hell rattled your damn cage anyway? Aren’t you supposed to be wasting your time chasing after my brother who doesn’t give a fuck about you? Or did you grow a brain finally and decide to give up because you’ve realized you don’t have a fucking chance in hell with him?” Emmett hissed, venom dripping from his fangs. I cringed; he looked terrifying when he was angry.

 

“Whatever.” Tanya rolled her eyes, walking back to her seat.

 

“Bitch,” Emmett snarled under his breath as he continued to glare at her retreating back. He turned to face me, his fangs retracting slowly. “Sorry, she’s like that to most of us too. Just because we’re vampires doesn’t mean we’re immune from her bullshit,” he apologized.

 

I nodded. Suddenly the bell rang, signaling the class change I’ve been dreading. I would be walking amongst vampires. I cringed internally.

 

Emmett and I stood. Holy shit! He was huge!

 

“It was nice meeting you, Bella. And I’m sure I’ll see you around later,” he said, grabbing his book and folder.

 

“Likewise…and thanks for sticking up for me,” I managed to say as I stared up at him.

 

“No problem. Later, Bella.” He flashed me a grin before stalking out of the classroom.   

 

I slung the backpack over my shoulder as I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. You can do this, you can do this, you can do this, I chanted continuously in my mind. I opened my eyes and exhaled sharply as I stepped into the busy hallway. I jumped back suddenly as I was almost trampled by the huge vampires that were walking by. Some hissed at me when I got in their way. I decided to find my locker before next hour began. I followed the little map on my schedule. I could feel their crimson orbs pierce into me, watching me intently as I passed by them. Some would laugh, hiss or growl when I walked by, causing my heart to beat in my chest frantically. I tried to keep my eyes on my map for most of the time, occasionally glancing up to avoid being run-down or getting in the way.

 

“Did you order dessert?” a vampire laughed, nudging his friend’s shoulder to get his attention.

 

The vampires locked their crimson eyes on me. “Nope, but apparently blood banks deliver fresh blood now,” the other vampire answered with a hiss, flashing his fangs at me threateningly. I winced, picking up my pace.

 

’Bout time they deliver!” the first vampire growled. They both started to laugh, licking their lips as I passed them.

 

HELP ME!

 

OoOoOoOoOoO

 

I found my locker as I stared up at it. It was higher than I’d liked but it was still reachable…well, it had to be reachable for my sake since it was the lowest one to the ground. I spun the numbers on the dial, trying to unlock the lock. As the lock clicked open, I grabbed the locker door handle. Nothing happened. The damn locker was stuck! I grasped the handle again, putting all my strength into it as I pulled. The locker door swung open fiercely, hitting a blond-haired vampire in the back. The vampire spun around rapidly, hissing as he bared his fangs.

 

Oh shit! “Omigosh! I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to, the locker was stuck and I didn’t think it would hit you and I’m so sorry really, really sorry,” I spluttered frantically, my words running together.

 

The blond-haired vampire’s expression softened as he glanced down at me, his fangs retracting. “Hey, you’re that human!” A grin appeared on his face.

 

“Umm…yes,” I retorted confused. He wasn’t going to attack me?

 

“Bella, right?” he continued to grin at me goofily.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Beautiful…” he said a bit too huskily.

 

“Yeah, that’s what it means,” I responded, slightly embarrassed as he continued to ogle me. A shiver ran down my spine.

 

“No, I mean you’re beautiful,” he said roughly. Did he just purr? He leaned closer to me with his arms crossed over his chest, his side propped up against the lockers as he gazed down at me with lust-filled eyes. “I didn’t know a human girl could be so pretty,” he purred. He really did purr! We weren’t even the same species, his kind dined on my kind for crying out loud!

 

“Thanks…I guess,” I replied awkwardly.

 

I closed my locker door as I glanced at my schedule, scanning the map for my next hour location. I still could feel his crimson eyes on me, roaming over my body.

 

I saw a hand flash in front of my face. “I’m Mike by the way, Mike Newton,” he said, moving to stand up straight, towering over me.

 

I placed my hand in his and briefly shook it. “Pleasure to meet you,” I replied.

 

“The pleasures all mine.” He winked at me.

 

Ohh-kaaay, time-to-go!

 

“I guess I’d better get going. Bye Mike.” I turned and started to walk in the direction of my next class.

 

“Wait! What’s your next hour?” He stepped in front of me, causing me to stop in my path.

 

I looked up at him. “Trig with Mr. Varner,” I retorted.

 

His grin grew. “Awesome! I have that class next too,” he said with a huge smile plastered on his face.

 

Great! Just friggin’ great! At least he’s being nice, Bella. He could have attacked you when you smacked him with your locker door, my inner voice chastised.  Yeah, but he’s creeping me out. Look at the way he’s eye-fucking me, I argued with myself. Mike’s voice snapped me out of my inner battle.

 

“Can I walk with you?” he asked, his expression hopeful.

 

I didn’t know what to say. He was overbearing but…I felt a little safer if he walked with me rather than walking by myself entirely. I nodded. “Okay.”

 

His crimson eyes lit up at my answer. We walked through the halls to our next class while he chatted animatedly about everything. I still heard some hisses, growls, laughs and rude comments as we passed by the rest of the student body, but they were minimal. It made me feel a little better. I felt like didn’t have to look over my shoulder every second, fear of a hostile vampire pouncing on me and sinking his fangs into my neck.

 

As I entered my second class period, I handed Mr. Varner my schedule so he could sign off on it. The vampires in my trig class also had mixed expressions on their faces like the ones in my first hour period. I tried my best to avoid their stares as I made my way to my seat. Mike frowned when Mr. Varner placed me on the opposite side of the classroom. From the corner of my eye, I caught Mike staring at me. I let my hair fall forward again, acting as a thick curtain to shield me from unwanted stares and glares.

 

OoOoOoOoOo

 

After second period, Mike insisted to walk with me to my third class period despite his class being across the school. He seemed like he had something on his mind because he would open his mouth to speak but then close it abruptly. I would flinch when he ran his fingers down my arm as he purred.

 

“Bye, Bella,” Mike said as he placed a stray strand of hair behind my ear. “Oh and I want to ask you something…later,” he purred before walking away to his class.

 

 Did he want to ask me out? I hoped that he didn’t think that I was actually going to go out with him…a vampire- a pushy, overbearing vampire!

 

I was surprised that history class was going to be interesting, comparing and contrasting vampire history with human history. I was relieved to have met a nice blond-haired vampire by the name of Jasper.

 

“We’re on page 227, Darlin’,” Jasper whispered, leaning over to me.

 

“Thanks,” I whispered back, turning to the correct page.

 

“Anytime,” he winked.

 

Jasper seemed nice, a little hesitant at first because I had made him nervous. His eyes would darken and the tips of his fangs would press into his bottom lip as they lengthened. I leaned further away from him on instinct as I noticed some venom leak from the corners of his mouth. But then I quickly realized that it was my fault. I would shift in my seat or flip my hair, causing my scent to drift over to him. I instantly stopped when I realized it caused such a reaction from Jasper- he seemed like he was less in control when my scent assaulted his senses. And I still didn’t trust vampires. I was afraid that one little wrong move would set them off, sinking their fangs into my neck. I shivered at the last thought. Breathe Bella, you’re still okay. I inhaled deeply and exhaled sharply, causing some crimson eyes to shift to me including Jasper’s. I leaned forward again and let my hair fall, shielding my face from them as I listened to the lecture.

 

“Alright class, I want you to write a report about the Vampire Wars of the South,” Mr. Jefferson said, moving to the dry erase board. “And it’s due two weeks from today.” He scribbled the date on the far right corner with a blue dry erase marker, underlining it twice. There was a collective groan from the students and a few growls too. I jumped at the rough sounds of their growls. My heart sped up uncontrollably, almost skipping a beat in the process. Calm down, Bella, the voice soothed.

 

Vampire wars? Vampires had wars?

 

Just then, the bell rang. Jasper glanced down at my schedule that I held in my hand as he towered over me. I stared at my next class in confusion. What was L.O.T.V. 101?

 

“You’ll get to meet my girlfriend since she has the same class with you,” Jasper said, grabbing his history book and folder. “Come, I’ll walk with you.” He gestured for me to follow him.  “I’ll introduce you to her.”

 

“Thanks,” I smiled up at him, slinging my backpack over my shoulder. “Umm…what’s L.O.T.V. 101?” I asked, dumbfounded.

 

“It’s an acronym for Language of the Vampire, Darlin’.” Jasper smirked at me as we exited the classroom.

 

“Vampires have their own language too?” I asked intrigued, glancing up at him.

 

He nodded. “Yes, it’s an ancient language we don’t use too often anymore but it’s required for a vampire to know how to speak and understand it fluently. Should be quite a class for you,” Jasper laughed, revealing the tips of his fangs.

 

We stood by my fourth hour period door, waiting for Jasper’s girlfriend to arrive. “Alice,” Jasper purred roughly. I glanced in his direction, observing the shortest vampire I had ever seen. Sure she was still taller than me but only by a few inches. I continued to watch the pixie-like vampire approach us, her steps graceful and poised as if she were dancing. Her smile was radiant, the tiny tips of her fangs peeking out from underneath her lip.

 

“Bella this is my mate, Alice.” Jasper gestured to the little black-haired vampire, glancing down at her lovingly.

 

Alice stepped up to me. “It’s nice to finally meet you, Bella. I’ve heard so much about you from my brother, Emmett.” Her smile widened even more. 

 

They were related? Seriously? The Hulk and Tinkerbell were brother and sister?

 

“Hi,” was all that managed to escape my lips as I stood there in a state of awe.

 

“I’ve got to go, Sugar.” Jasper pinned Alice to the wall with his large body as his fangs lengthened. Alice giggled in response to him.

 

My eyes widened. What was he going to do? Why would a vampire bite another vampire? I tried to look away but I couldn’t. Instead I just gaped where I stood.

 

Alice gently leaned her head to the side, exposing her neck to him. He placed his hands on either side of her head as he leaned down, baring his fangs at her. I could see the clear light green venom drip from the tips of his fangs, causing a violent shiver to run down my spine. Jasper’s fangs penetrated Alice’s neck in one swift motion. She moaned while he purred. He quickly unlatched his lips from her neck, removing his fangs from her skin. They embraced briefly before he gave her a chaste kiss on her forehead and left.

 

I still stood there, gaping like an idiot. I was utterly confused. What.was.that?

 

Alice faced me and giggled as she took in my expression. “Bella, it’s alright. He just marked me,” she said, placing her small hand on my shoulder soothingly. I didn’t even flinch when Alice touched me, I felt unbelievably…comfortable around her. I continued to stand there speechless. “When two vampires are completely devoted to another, the male marks the female by releasing his venom into her. It gives off a unique scent that warns other males that the female is taken. And it doesn’t hurt,” she explained further.

 

“Oh…well, I guess…”I cleared my throat. “…I guess that makes sense,” I responded awkwardly as we walked into the classroom. She smiled at me before she took her assigned seat.

 

L.O.T.V. was a difficult class. The Language of the Vampire was tough language to master. I didn’t think I would ever learn it in this lifetime. But learning the language was the least of my concern. There was a much bigger problem I faced, thanks to Mr. Mason’s assigned seating. I was terrified when my assigned seat was in front of Tanya Denali and behind a vicious redhead. They both sneered at me when I slid into my seat, sandwiched in between them. Occasionally, the redhead named Victoria, would turn around and flash her fangs at me menacingly. I winced each and every time, emitting a scent of fear into the surrounding air, causing Tanya to laugh at my expense. Please let me survive, I pleaded.

 

I was more than thankful when the bell rang. With a shaky hand, I stuffed my books and pen into my backpack. I stood too rapidly almost causing me to lose my balance in the process. In a split second, I felt myself hit the wall, landing on the ground with an audible thud, spilling the contents of my backpack onto the floor.

 

I glanced up at a livid Tanya who was flashing me her extended fangs. “That’s what you get for getting in my way, bloodbag,” she sneered. I cringed at her harsh tone.  “Better watch yourself if I were you,” she hissed as she threatened me, a wicked gleam in her eyes. “And stay out of my way!” she spat, a snarl getting caught in her throat. She swayed her hips proudly as she walked away, disappearing around the door.

 

Alice was there suddenly, helping me up as she placed my stuff back into my backpack. “I’m sorry. She’s such a bitch! I wish I could tear her throat out for doing that to you,” the enraged pixie snarled, her fangs lengthening.

 

“S’okay,” I responded weakly, slinging my backpack over my shoulder.

 

OoOoOoOoOo

 

I made my way to the cafeteria. Alice said that she was going to meet me shortly. I feared lunch more than anything else I had all day. I wasn’t sure if I could watch these vampires consume human blood right before my eyes. It was nerve-racking and terrifying. Calm down, Bella! Just pretend it’s tomato juice. I snorted at my thought as my heart rate accelerated. I walked into the lunch room cautiously as crimson eyes locked onto me; predators watching their prey. I gulped loudly as I noticed some vampires stand in the ‘lunch line’ to buy blood.

 

B-positive,” a blond vampire said as the lunch lady handed him a bottle of the requested blood.

 

AB negative,” another vampire said. “But I need it heated, please.”

 

I quickly swallowed down the bile. I walked speedily by the lunch line, causing some to snarl and growl as I went by. I flinched from the feral sounds as I made my way to the back of the cafeteria, heading towards the vacant table. I slid into my seat and put my head down on my folded arms, unable to look at the hungry vampires. I could hear the purrs, licks and growls as they consumed their meals. I winced again, feeling nauseated already. I glanced up briefly, noticing a vampire lick his girlfriend’s mouth, cleaning off the blood that had smeared it. My eyes shifted, locking onto another vampire who was sucking and licking at a frozen blood popsicle or Bloodsicle. The blood dripped from the corners of his mouth onto the tabletop as he purred in satisfaction. I wrapped my arms around my waist, holding myself together as I swallowed down more bile. Tomato juice, tomato juice, tomato juice, I chanted repeatedly in my mind as I shut my eyes.

 

My eyes snapped open at the deafening guttural growls that erupted between two vampires.

 

“You fucking stole my bottle of A-positive, you sonofabitch!” the dark-haired vampire growled at the other vampire.

 

“No, I fucking didn’t!” the other retorted, his fangs lengthening as his eyes turned pitch black.

 

The dark-haired vampire snarled in response. “Yes you did!” he accused, circling the light-haired vampire as he bared his venom-secreting fangs.

 

I glanced around nervously at the other vampires in the lunch room who were minding their own business as they talked amongst themselves. They acted as if nothing was wrong…as if this behavior was…normal?

 

There was a crashing sound as the two vampires engaged in a fight, knocking over a table in the process, their fangs extremely long as they punched from their gums. Their venom began dripping onto the ground as they tried to take snaps out of one another. I shot up from my seat, backing myself against the wall as I watched the violent brawl.

 

The dark-haired vampire bared his fangs again and bit into the other vampire, who in response, roared in agony. The dark-haired vampire spit out a chunk of flesh onto the floor. The injured vampire’s wound oozed a clear light green liquid from the gaping hole on his shoulder.  I heaved, nauseated. I had to get out of here and now!

 

Just then, two massive vampires dressed in all black combat gear with white lettering that said ‘Guard’ on their backs approached the fighting vampires, pulling them apart. They continued to struggle in the restraining arms of the Guard, hissing and growling at one another.

 

My head was spinning from everything I had seen while my stomach did somersaults. I promptly unzipped my backpack and pulled out my schedule. My eyes roamed feverishly over the map, trying to locate the school’s library. A few seconds later I located it. I zipped up my backpack with shaky hands before I slung it over my shoulder. My eyes scanned the lunch room for the nearest exit. I made my way hastily to the door, hoping to leave this cafeteria of hell before something else went wrong.

 

Before I could reach the exit, I felt fingers curl around my wrist forcefully, snatching me back. I spun around, facing the vampire who had ceased my escape. His blond hair was tied back with a leather band as his crimson eyes roamed over my body. He towered over me, his grin growing menacing as his lips curled back from his fangs and growled down at me. I flinched. Breathe, Bella…Breathe…

 

“And where do you think you’re going, pretty toy?” He leaned down as he purred, inhaling my scent.

 

“Please let go of me,” I whimpered, my eyes filling with frightened tears.

 

He leaned down, bringing my wrist up to his face, his tongue tracing my vein. “I’m afraid that I can’t do that. I’ve just begun to play with you, pretty toy.” He gazed at me, his eyes turning black as his fangs lengthened, pressing into his bottom lip.

 

I whimpered again as I tried to snatch my wrist back from his death-grip.

 

His smile turned wicked as he winked at me. He scraped his fang against my wrist. I suddenly felt the painful sting of the sharp point penetrating my skin. I squeezed my eyes shut to keep my tears in as I felt my blood pool to the surface, praying for a quick and painless death.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
CHAPTER 2

Bella’s POV

“We’re here, kiddo,” Charlie said as we passed the Forks welcome sign, Vampire population: 3,120.

I wondered what they would put on their sign now, Vampire population: 3,120, bloodbag: 1? I could feel my palms get clammy while my stomach did somersaults. I had to swallow down the bile that began to rise in my throat. Breathe, Bella! I wrapped my arms around my waist and inhaled deeply. Calm down! I exhaled sharply, blowing out a large breath of air as my stomach churned uncomfortably. I stared out of the window as the million butterflies inside of me fluttered wildly.

At first glance, the town seemed like any average human town with schools, bowling alleys, stores… except for only little detail; vampires inhabited it. We passed by a “grocery store” that displayed ‘A- positive blood sale- buy one bag, get the other 50% off’ on the sign. I felt a shiver run down my spine. I quickly glanced down, trying to compose myself. As soon as I looked out of the window again, I regretted it. There was an “ice cream” shop called ‘Blood Ice’ where a group of rambunctious teens was gathered around, their fangs digging aggressively into the frozen blood, sucking and licking it up as the blood leaked from the corners of theirs mouths. I held myself tighter and bent forward while I dry heaved. I was grateful that my stomach was empty, if not, I would have vomited all over Charlie’s Cadillac Escalade.

“Bella?”

“I’m fine. Just a little nauseous,” I answered, staring down at my lap, trying to rid myself of the images of those long fangs digging fiercely into the bloody ice. I glanced up at Charlie’s voice.

“We’ll be home in just a few minutes,” Charlie informed, locking his crimson eyes with mine in the rearview mirror. “And you need to eat, Bella. You haven’t eaten anything all day,” he added, his voice firm with authority.

I nodded. But I wasn’t sure if I could eat anything ever again after seeing what I just had. Blood normally didn’t gross me out but when I would see the combination of fangs and bloody mouths, I felt sick. I continued to stare at my lap, afraid to look out of the window again.

OoOoOoOoO

“Bella!” Renee ran out of the house as I stepped out of the Escalade that was parked next to Charlie’s police cruiser. Chief Charlie Swan was a well-respected officer of this town, a vampire who enforced the law. And any law-breaking vampire, just like any human who committed a crime, would end up in jail. Of course, vampires had their own incarceration facilities. How they kept them locked up with possessing such strength and power was still unknown to me.

“Hi,” I responded shyly, grabbing my backpack from the back seat as Charlie lifted the three overstuffed suitcases from the trunk as if they weighed nothing.

Renee hesitated, deciding if she should embrace me. I watched her crimson orbs sparkle, asking for my permission silently. I nodded. She stepped up to me, hugging me gently to her.

“Oh Bella, I’m so sorry,” Renee apologized, leaning away from me slightly so she could glance down at me. I felt so small as I looked up at her.

Vampires were very tall. As if they needed another advantage over humans. Females were around 6’ in height while the males stood about 6’ 8”. So when I would start school on Monday, if I was lucky enough not to get taunted about being human, there was always that looming possibility that I would be teased about being the shortest person in town. It was times like these that I wished that I was tall and statuesque and not a measly 5’4”. I wanted to be able to stand up to them, to stand my ground as I looked them straight into their faces; eye-level. I wanted to exert confidence even though I didn’t feel I had any left. Great! I so can’t wait for the weekend to be over with already so I can get an early start in being humiliated at school, I thought sarcastically.

Renee took my hand in hers and led us into the house, Charlie following close behind. As soon as I stepped inside their home, I was surprised it didn’t smell of blood like I had expected. Instead, I could smell…mushroom ravioli? Had Renee really cooked my favorite dish?

“Follow Charlie, he’ll show you to your room.” Renee smiled down at me, her expression soft. “I’m going to finish fixing your dinner. You must be starved.” She let go of my hand as she walked into the kitchen.

“This way, kiddo,” Charlie said, holding the suitcases with ease as we made our way up the staircase.

He set my luggage by the closet as my eyes scanned the room. It was nice… cozy and comfortable. I could feel his crimson orbs watch me as I took in my surroundings.

He cleared his throat. “I’ll…ah…just let you get to it then,” he smiled, revealing the sharp points of his fangs. When I didn’t say anything in return, he started towards the door.

“Charlie?” I said quickly. He stopped, glancing over his shoulder. I hesitated, taking a deep breath. “Thank you,” I finally managed to say.

He nodded once before he exited the room…my room now. I sat on the edge of the bed and grabbed my backpack, unzipping it. I pulled out a little music box that my mother had given to me a few days before she had died. I wound it up, watching the girl in the white dress spin around in a meadow filled with beautiful flowers. My mother had bought it because the porcelain girl had reminded her so much of me; deep brown eyes and pale skin with long mahogany hair. I remember her somber expression as she handed it to me that day. I asked why she was sad. She told me that she would have loved for me to have grown up in a vampire-free world, free to do anything I’d pleased…free to run in a meadow filled with flowers, and not to be in a constant state of fear of a vampire attack. She said that I deserved a better life. I remember hugging her, telling her that I would be alright as long as I had her by my side. And a few days later, she had died. I wiped the tears away with the back of my hand as I wound up the music box again, lying back against the headboard while I shut my eyes and let the lullaby wash over me.

OoOoOoOoOoOo

I speared the ravioli with my fork before popping it into my mouth. I chewed slowly as I gazed at my adoptive parents, who wear swishing around the blood in their silver goblets. I quickly turned my head before they took a sip, avoiding the chance of seeing blood-smeared lips.

“How does it taste?” Renee asked, setting down her goblet on the cherry oak dining table.

“It’s really good,” I responded, moving the ravioli around in my plate to soak up the remaining sauce. I glanced at her, only to discover that the expression etched onto her face was shock. Had I said something wrong?

“Wow. I’m glad,” she breathed relieved. “It took me all day to make that. I was about to give up until I found that human channel...” she stopped, trying to remember the name.  “What was it called?” she asked herself. “Oh yes, the ‘Food Network’ channel.” Her smile was radiant, revealing the tips of her fangs.

I returned her smile. “You know, you don’t have to cook for me. I know how to cook. It must be awkward for you…” I gestured towards the kitchen, “…for you to use the kitchen.”

Charlie and Renee laughed. “Oh, we do have uses for the kitchen, Bella. Just because we are vampires doesn’t mean that the kitchen is an unused part of the house.” She picked up her goblet and took another sip. Again, I quickly shifted my eyes elsewhere.

I peeked at her from the corner of my eye, making sure she didn’t have blood dribbling down her mouth. Jeez Bella, you need to get a grip! You live with vampires now, get used to the blood, my internal voice screamed at me.

“Oh really?” I asked intrigued as I speared the last ravioli before popping it into my mouth. I grabbed my glass filled with coke and took a swig before setting it down with an audible ‘clank’. Shit! I was starved.

“It’s not like preparing human food, of course,” Renee began. “It’s a lot simpler compared to human food preparation.”

“I don’t understand. What can you do with…” I hesitated, shifting uncomfortably in my seat, “…with blood?” I gulped, tracing the wood patterns in the table with my fingertip.

“Well for one, we like to drink it warm…” she paused, glancing at Charlie, unsure if she should continue with the conversation. “We like drink the blood at a certain temperature…preferably 98.6 degrees.”

My head snapped up. Did she just say 98.6 degrees? “Go on,” I coaxed as I saw her hesitate again. “I’m fine. Really,” I lied. Better get used to this now, Bella.

“So it’s quite simple, we use the stove or the microwave to warm up the blood. But there’s other tasty ways we enjoy blood too- Bella we don’t have to do this,” Renee stopped as she took in my disgusted expression, grabbing my hand to comfort me. I jerked it back violently, knocking over the glass in the process.

The glass shattered as it hit the floor. “Oh, I’m so sorry,” I jumped up from my seat to clean up the mess I’ve made. I ineptly grabbed a shard of glass, cutting myself. “Ouch!” Shit!

I heard two deep guttural growls rumble behind me. My heart beat frantically in my chest as my head snapped up. I found myself staring up at two very tall and very intimidating vampires with piercing black orbs as their fangs lengthened right in front my eyes. I stood swiftly, almost losing my balance as I cradled my bleeding hand against my abdomen. I stumbled backwards until my back hit the wall.

“Bella,” Charlie spoke softly, holding his palms forward as if he were a criminal approaching a law enforcement officer.

“Stay away from me!” I cried, glaring at them. Their eyes were churning…with hunger. I noticed a clear light green liquid leak from the corners of their mouths. Was that their venom? I shuddered fiercely.

“Bella, we’re not going to hurt you,” Renee responded, stepping closer to me.

I tried to take another step back, realizing I was already smashed up against the wall.  “That’s not what your eyes are telling me right now. And your fangs…” I gulped, “…they’re huge...long!”

“Bella,” Charlie sighed.

“And what about those growls? You can’t tell me that you don’t want to sink your fangs into me and drain me dry!” I croaked. I felt the blood seep into my cotton shirt, staining it crimson.

“Bella, please…” Renee pleaded, her expression somber.

“We are under control, Bella. What you are seeing is completely normal. Our fangs lengthen as they secrete venom, our eyes change color and growls do rumble in our chests but it’s just a psychological reaction we have when we smell fresh blood. It’s natural,” Charlie explained, taking another step in my direction, causing me to flinch.

“It doesn’t mean we aren’t under control. We won’t hurt you. Please believe us, we speak the truth,” Renee added.

I stared at them for countless minutes. If they really wanted my blood, they would have taken it already.  Come on, Bella! They’re not here to hurt you, my inner voice chastised me. I exhaled sharply; unaware I was holding my breath. I nodded faintly, giving them permission to approach me.

Charlie got there first while Renee stood back, letting her husband look at my hand. “I can see the muscle.” Charlie examined the deep cut, holding my hand in his gently as his keen eyes took in the damage.  I groaned as my hand continued to bleed, dripping onto Charlie’s hand in the process. “Okay, Bella, there are two options,” Charlie led me back to the dining room table. I sat down, holding out my hand in front of me as Renee handed me a cloth to apply pressure.

“Which are?” I asked softly, staring at their long fangs that pressed into their bottom lips. It looked painful in my opinion, those sharps points pressing into their flesh.

Renee took a seat next to me while Charlie crouched on his haunches in front of me. “We can take you to the hospital to get stitches or…” he hesitated, glancing at Renee. She nodded for him to continue. “…or I can seal it with my venom,” he concluded rapidly.  My eyes widened significantly. “It doesn’t have to be me, Renee can do it too if it makes you feel more comfortable,” he added brusquely as he took in my panicked expression.

I sat there, wide-eyed, clutching my hand. I winced when I thought of the stitches. “How do you seal it with your venom?” I asked carefully. He reached out towards my hand. I felt his fingers press firmly against it, trying to cease the bleeding.

Charlie blew out a large breath of air. “I run my tongue over your cut a few times, letting the venom seal it,” he informed as I continued to stare into his black eyes.

“NO!” I yelled, standing up, snatching my hand away from him. I moved away from them. I couldn’t fathom the image of their mouths or tongues coming in contact with my skin…my blood. Their mouths would be covered in my blood. I felt like I was about to pass out. I slid myself down the wall, my back firmly pressed against it as I placed my head between my knees. It took me a few minutes to calm down.

“I’ll take the stitches,” I responded, my voice muffled.

“Alright.”

I stood slowly on my wobbly legs, feeling lightheaded from the blood loss. I pressed the blood-stained cloth firmly against my gushing wound.

I felt Renee’s arm wrap around my shoulder, supporting my weight as she led me out to the car. “Don’t worry, honey, Dr. Cullen is an excellent physician. He’ll stitch it up perfectly. I bet you won’t even notice a scar once it’s all healed up,” she said in confidence.

Wait! What? Dr. Cullen?  As in the vampire doctor?

I stopped abruptly in my path, causing Renee and Charlie to look down at me in concern.  “You’re taking me to a vampire hospital?” I asked incredulously.

“Well yes, Bella. The nearest human hospital is over three hours away,” Renee said softly, ushering me towards the Escalade again. I groaned.

“It’ll be okay, kiddo. Promise,” Charlie opened the door as he helped me inside the SUV.

OoOoOoOoO

“Dr. Cullen,” Charlie greeted.

My eyes snapped up from my bleeding hand when Charlie’s voice broke me from my musings. I almost fell off the examination table as I took in the handsome figure in front of me. He looked more like a movie star than a doctor. His blond hair, pale skin and crimson eyes were stunning. He was gorgeous to say the least.

“Chief Swan,” he greeted back. “Mrs. Swan,” he smiled, revealing the sharp point of his fang.

“So this is Bella. It’s nice to finally meet you.” Dr. Cullen turned to face me. I gulped loudly. “I’m sure you would have rather met under better circumstances,” he joked, stepping up to me.

I was tongue-tied as I continued to stare at him. I just nodded. “Well then, shall we take a look?”

I slowly moved my hand in front of myself. He gently took my hand in his and carefully removed the self-made bandage that I made from the cloth. My eyes widened as I watched his fangs elongate and his eyes churn violently, turning black from the blood that was still leaking from my cut. I inhaled, trying to calm my nerves. Charlie saw my nervous expression, causing him to place a soothing hand on my shoulder as Renee told me it was going to be alright.

I watched the vampire doctor go to work on my hand diligently. Before I knew it was over, he cleaned, numbed and stitched up my cut. It was accurate to say, that if you blinked, you could have missed the whole process. I was amazed how fast and so gentle he was. I didn’t feel a single thing.

“Well, that about does it,” Dr. Cullen said, removing his latex gloves. “I’m going to call in a prescription for some light pain meds,” he said, turning to Charlie and Renee who nodded their heads in comprehension.

I looked between my adoptive parents and Dr. Cullen in confusion. Couldn’t he just give me the meds now? I was in a hospital, after all. “Vampires don’t need medication, Bella,” he clarified, smiling again at me. His fangs were already retracting as his eyes turned back to crimson. I glanced over my shoulder, observing Charlie and Renee’s features. Their eyes and fangs now too, had returned to their previous state.

“Thank you,” I managed to say.

“Take care of yourself, Bella,” Dr. Cullen lightly touched my chin with his thumb and forefinger.

“Thank you,” Charlie and Renee said in unison before Dr. Cullen left the examination room.

I hopped down from the examination table. “Let’s go.”

Charlie and Renee flanked my sides as we stepped out from the room. I quickly averted my eyes from the curious vampires in the waiting room who continued to stare at me like I had two heads.

OoOoOoOoOo

“Bella,” I heard Renee whisper as the morning sunshine beamed on my face when she drew back my curtains. “It’s time for school, honey.”

“I’m so tired,” I groaned as I rubbed my eyes, sitting up slowly.

“It’s time to wake up, sweetie.” Renee’s hand smoothed my hair back from my face. I gulped loudly. Today was the day I was going to die. I was going to school, to an all-vampire high school known as Forks High.



Chapter End Notes:
~So Bella's first day at an all vamp school is next. And she'll meet some Cullens =) Oh and keep the music box in the back of your mind, you'll see in future chapters.