Jacob and Bella Story

Chapter Twenty

Bella's P.O.V.

Several days later, Alice left, the quiet goodbye heavy with unspoken emotion as she promised a swift return. The looming calculus test weighed heavily on my mind as I returned to school after spring break. The familiar scent of floor wax and chalk dust hung in the air.

As graduation approached, anxiety filled me. The pressure of college decisions was a heavy burden I couldn't escape. Uncertain about my future, I applied to many schools. But, as time went on, the future seemed increasingly uncertain.

That unforgettable kiss from Jacob still haunts me. The lingering warmth of his kiss enchanted me. That single moment haunts me; I crave his embrace anew. A soft smile curved my lips as I touched them with my fingertips. Now that Alice is gone, I hope he'll visit me soon. I understand he's busy pursuing Victoria or hanging out with friends, but when will our paths cross? Is he aware that Alice has left? I felt incomplete without him, like a puzzle with missing pieces. I long for his presence.

It was Friday, and I had to do homework, but I didn't have to do it now since it was not due until Monday.

The smell of the kitchen burner sizzling pulled me away from my homework. Closing my chemistry book, I went downstairs, compelled by the sound.

The microwave hummed a comforting tune as its turntable twirled. Quickly, I opened the door and grabbed Charlie's jar of bubbling spaghetti sauce.

"What did I screw up?" Charlie asks, urgency tightening his voice.

"Remember, Dad, the lid comes off first! Metal spells disaster for microwaves!" I chimed in.

I removed the lid with a quick wrist flick and poured half the rich red sauce into a bowl. Then, carefully placing the steaming bowl in the microwave, its scent filling the air, I returned the cool jar to the refrigerator's chill.

Charlie regarded my adjustments, his lips poised like a coiled bow. "How did I do with the noodles?" he asked, curiosity sparkling in his eyes.

I leaned in, curiosity piqued by the pan on the stove. A savory aroma swirled, beckoning me like a warm embrace. "Stirring helps," I suggested softly, a sprinkle of camaraderie in my tone.

I used a spoon to break up the clump of mush on the bottom.

Charlie sighed.

"So, what's this all about?" I probed, my curiosity piqued.

Charlie crossed his arms like a fortress and glowered out the rain-soaked window. "I don't know what you're on about," he muttered, a storm brewing in his voice.

I was mystified. Charlie cooking?

"Did I miss something? Since when do you make dinner?" I asked Charlie.

The pasta lump waltzed in the bubbling cauldron, teasing my fork. "Or should I say, attempt to conjure up dinner?" I remarked, chuckling.

Charlie merely shrugged, a nonchalant smirk gracing his lips. "No law says I can't whip up a feast in my domain," he quipped.

I grinned. "You would know," I responded, eying the badge pinned to Charlie's leather jacket.

"Ha. Good one," Charlie said.

As if my appearance triggered a memory, Charlie casually took off his jacket and hung it on his assigned peg. He already had his gun belt on. For weeks, he hadn't needed to wear them to the station. A small town, Forks, Washington, had finally found peace. The mysterious disappearances and sightings of giant wolves in the rainy woods stopped. You might think the pack would relax without Victoria.

As the noodles simmered, I watched Charlie unburden himself at his own pace. My dad was not very talkative but attempted to arrange a dinner date with me. He had a lot to say.

I glanced at the clock routinely. I did it every few minutes around this time—less than half an hour to go now.

My dad sat at the table. As he opened the damp newspaper, it crinkled, releasing the scent of old ink and wet paper.

"I don't know why you read the news, Dad. It only ticks you off," I said.

Charlie brushed me aside, his grumbles dancing with the wrinkled paper. "Ah yes, everyone fantasizes about that quaint small-town charm! Preposterous," he grumbled, a storm of frustration in his tone.

"What have big cities done wrong now?" I asked.

"Seattle is quickly becoming the country's murder capital. In the past two weeks, five homicides remain unsolved. Is it possible to imagine a life like that?"

"I think Phoenix is actually higher up the homicide list, dad. I have lived like that."

"Well, you couldn't pay me enough."

I abandoned my attempt at saving dinner and served it. I cut spaghetti for Charlie and myself with a steak knife. He watched with a bashful expression. Charlie covered his part in sauce and then started eating. I disguised my clump and followed his example with little enthusiasm. A moment of silence filled our meal. Charlie continually checked the news. I picked up my well-loved copy of Wuthering Heights. To distract myself while waiting, I immersed myself in a turn-of-the-century story.

I was at the part where Heathcliff returns when Charlie clears his throat and throws the paper to the floor.

"You're right," Charlie conceded, a hint of sincerity in his voice. "I had my reasons for doing this."

With a fork brandished like a knight's valiant sword, Charlie proclaimed, "I want to chat!" He fixed a disdainful gaze on the gluey spread before him.

I placed the book on the table; its spine drooped in defeat. "You could have asked," I murmured, disappointment lacing my voice like a bittersweet melody.

Charlie nodded, his brows knitting together like a puzzling tapestry. "Sure thing. I'll tuck that away for next time," he responded. "I thought taking dinner off your plate would melt your defenses."

I chuckled, "It's true—your cooking leaves me soft as a marshmallow! How can I help you, dad?"

"Well, it's about Jacob," Charlie responded.

"What about him?"

"Well, Billy's worried about Jacob."

I glanced at Charlie, panic swelling like a tidal wave. "Is Jacob alright?" I inquired, my heart racing like a runaway train. "What's going on?" I insisted, yearning for clarity.

"Well, he's been depressed," Charlie responded. "And Billy thinks it's because of you."

"Me? Billy thinks it's because of me? Why does he think that?"

"You and Jacob have spent a lot of time together lately. But I haven't seen you with him since Alice returned to town."

"And your point is."

"I'm afraid to say this. You spend more time with Alice, which makes Jacob jealous. I think Jacob is smitten with you."

My eyes widened. Was Jacob jealous that Alice was accompanying me during all my free time and not spending time with him? Was I hurting him by keeping Alice around?

"Why do you think that?" I asked.

"Isn't it obvious? I see how Jacob looks at you now, Bella, and how different you are when you are with him. I always see you so happy after spending a day with him. You should give him a chant. I think you would be happy with him. He's a good kid," Charlie responds.

I nodded.

Charlie was right. I was happy with Jacob. He has helped me move on from Edward, and I'm entirely whole with him now. I need to see him, talk about the other night, and figure out what we are now.

"Also, you got some mail," Charlie said, losing the subject with no subtle attempt. "It's by the stove."

I didn't move; my thoughts were still on Jacob. Should I see him after work?

Pushing his chair back, Charlie stood and stretched. About to wash his plate, he instead threw a thick envelope at me. The letter slid across the table, then thumped my elbow.

"Er thanks." I muttered, puzzled by his pushiness.

I noticed the return address from the University of Alaska Southeast. "Wow, that was fast! I must've slipped past that deadline again," I quipped.

Charlie chuckled.

I turned the envelope around, shooting him a sharp glare. "It's open," I declared.

"I was curious." Charlie said.

"I'm shocked, Sherriff. That's a federal crime."

"Oh, read it."

I got the letter and course schedule out.

Before I could read it, Charlie said, "Congrats! "Your first acceptance."

"Thanks dad," I said.

"We should talk about tuition. I've got some money saved up---"

"Hey, hey, none of that. I'm not touching your retirement, dad. I've got my college fund."

Charlie frowned. "Some of these places are pretty pricey, Bells. I want to help. You don't have to go all the way to Alaska because it's cheaper," he said.

"I've got it taken care of. There's also plenty of financial aid available, including grants, scholarships, and loans. The loan application process is simplified, making it easy to borrow money quickly."

I hope my bluff wasn't too obvious. I have done some research on the subject.

"Alright," Dad said.

The day after, I headed to the cafeteria after my Spanish lesson. Posters covered the cafeteria walls. Colorful skirts of scattered flyers adorned the trash cans. Someone reminded us to buy yearbooks and class rings. Graduation gowns, hats, and tassels all had deadlines. Underclassmen ran for the class office using bright neon campaign materials. Also, rose-decorated arches were set up for the prom this year. The high school dance is this weekend, but I swore I'd never attend another one.

"Have you sent your announcements yet?" Angela asked as I sat down at the table.

Angela wore her light brown hair in a messy ponytail today, a departure from her usual smooth style. Her eyes looked slightly frantic.

Ben was sitting next to Angela, reading a comic book.

"No," I responded. "There was no point, really. Renee knows when I'm graduating. Who else is there?"

"Lucky, my mother has a thousand cousins and expects me to hand-address one to everybody. I'm going to get a carpal tunnel. I can't put it off any longer and dread it," Angela said.

"I'll help you," I said. "If you don't mind my awful handwriting."

Angela looked relieved. "That's so nice of you. I'll come over anytime you want," she said.

"I'd rather go to your house if that's okay--- I'm sick of mine," I said.

"Really?" Angela asked, Mike's excitement lighting her always-gentle brown eyes. "Well, this is great, Bella! We'll have to go out to celebrate."

"You do not know how good that sounds."

Alice then started talking to everyone about plans, and my mind drifted to someone in particular. I wondered what he was doing right now. Jacob was probably in class or at school and hanging out with his friends. Was he thinking about me? I wonder if he wanted to see me. I could text him, letting him know Alice was gone.

Angela's voice yanked me from my reverie, trying to get my attention. "Hey, are you okay? I was asking if you wanted to go to the beach with all of us today. It's actually not raining today," she said.

"Which beach?" I asked.

"First beach like last time. Mike and Ben want to go surfing."

I sighed. I've gotten to where I'm tired of the beach, but if I could glimpse Jacob there, why not?

"Hum, alright." I said.

"Okay, great. We'll all go after school today. You don't have work today, right?" Angela asked.

"No, not today."

"Great."

After my class of the day, I headed out. Mike caught up to me as I walked into the parking lot. He told me he was having car trouble.

"I need to have someone look at it, but I can't afford to take it to Dowling's," Mike said.

I opened my mouth to suggest to my mechanic friend and then snapped it shut again. My mechanic is busy these days—busy running around like a giant wolf.

"Well, I'll see you at the beach," Mike said as he climbed into his car.

"Same," I said.

When I got in my truck, I texted Charlie. I was going to First Beach with my friends for a little bit, then started the engine and headed to La Push.

When I got to the beach, I saw my friends standing outside their cars in the parking lot. I parked close to them and walked over to them.

"Hi," Angela said.

"Hey." I said.

I sat beside her in the van and watched the boys take off to the beach. The shirtless, muscular guys playing football on the sand attract Angela.

"Ooh, look at those men at the beach," Angela said.

I looked at where she was staring and noticed Sam and his pack. I didn't see Jacob, though.

I raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you dating someone?" I said.

"Yeah, but who said I couldn't stare?" Angela responds.

I shook my head in amusement.

"Omg, who is that hunk coming out of the water?" Angela asked.

Following her gaze, I saw a shirtless Jacob emerge from the water, his jeans soaked, carrying a football. The football must have gone into the ocean, and he had to dive in to get it.

His body, slick with water that dripped from his neck to his torso, was mesmerizing; I couldn't help but admire the sight. Jacob was handsome. Watching water droplets cling to his skin made me shiver. I traced the contours of his body with my eyes.

"I wonder who that man is. He's got to be in his mid-twenties," Angela said.

"He's seventeen." I corrected.

Angela tilted her head, curiosity etched on her face. "You know him?" she queried.

"Yeah, that's Jacob Black," I responded.

"Wait, that's Jacob Black. He looks different from the last time we saw him here. Isn't he the guy Mike said you've been hanging out with a lot lately?" Jessica asked as he joined us in the van.

Wait. Mike has been telling people I've been spending time with Jacob. That's interesting. Why?

"Yeah, he's my best friend. Maybe even more," I said as I looked down at my hands.

"What? Spill the beans," Angela asked.

My eyes widened at her unexpected confession. "I talked to Jacob about everything. He helped me move on from Edward. I genuinely enjoy spending time with him. With him, I can truly be myself; it feels so incredibly comfortable," I responded.

"Do you like him?" Angela asked.

I nodded, a hint of a smile dancing on my lips. "I do—maybe even more!" My eyes flickered to my fingers again, warmth creeping into my cheeks.

"Omg, you love him!" Angela yelled.

I saw the pack stop playing with the football and looked at where the shouting came from.

"Shoosh, not so loud. Everyone can hear you," I said.

"Sorry, but have you kissed him?"

I felt my cheeks bloom with color anew. "Maybe," I ventured.

"Omg, how was it?"

"It was amazing. Probably the best kiss I ever had."

Angela nodded. "Really? Better than Edward?" she asked.

I nodded.

"So, are you guys together now?" Angela asked.

"No. We haven't talked since the kiss a week ago," I responded.

"What? You guys kissed and haven't even made it official yet," Jessica said.

"No, I have been busy. He has been busy. We haven't had the chants," I said.

"Well, talk to him."

"I know. Maybe today."

I heard footsteps and looked up to see Jacob approaching us.

"Ooh, speaking of the devil," Angela said, nudging me.

"Bella!" Jacob yelled.

I stood up on my feet, and he walked over to us.

"Hi." I said.

"Hey," Jacob said.

It was silent now, and we stared at each other, not knowing what to say. It has been awkward since the last time we saw each other.

We heard the coughing, and I looked away from Jacob and at them.

"Oh, hum, Jacob, you remember Angela and Jessica?" I asked.

"Huh, yeah, nice seeing you again," Jacob said.

"You too," Jessica and Angela said.

The silence hung thick in the air, prompting Angela to rise. "I'm off to the sand for a dose of sunshine. Care to join me, Jessica?" she asked a playful spark lighting her voice as she invited her friend to dream in the warmth.

"Sure."

Jessica also got up, and they grabbed their beach gear and went down to the beach.

"So...." I said.

"I didn't know you were coming here today? Why didn't you tell me?" Jacob asked.

"Well, we haven't talked since Alice was in town and since she left, I haven't found the right moment to tell you."

"Wait, Alice is gone?"

"Yeah."

"So there are no Cullens in town anymore."

"Yep."

"I need to tell Sam."

I nodded.

"But right now, I miss you," Jacob said as he put his arms out for me to embrace.

I got up, and Jacob wrapped his arms around me and hugged me tight. I wasn't in a place where I couldn't breathe; it was comfortable. His body heat and the familiar tingle of static electricity coursed through me as I held him close.

Jacob buried his face in my neck, inhaling my scent. "So much. You do not know how hard it's been," he whispered. "Not being close to you... it kills me." His voice filled the air with longing, creating a weight.

I pulled away with a curious expression. What did Jacob mean by that?

Jacob read my face and responded, "I'll tell you later."

I nodded. "Yeah, Billy told Charlie, and Charlie told me you haven't been yourself," I said. "Are you alright? How's it going with hunting down Victoria?"

I fixed my eyes on his chest, and the rise and fall of his breath mesmerized me. I pressed my hand to his chest, feeling the rapid, mighty thud of his heart. I'm shocked by how much of an impact I have on him. I would like to know if it concerns what Jacob needed to talk to me about. I don't want to pressure him; I want him to feel confident enough to share what he needs to tell me.

"Yeah, I'm fine. We hadn't seen Victoria for a couple of days. I think she's giving up," Jacob responded.

"I hope so. I want all this to be over with, so things can be normal," I said.

Jacob grinned. "Me too, Bells. Me too. And that way, I can spend more time with you," he said.

I couldn't help but grin. Jacob looked at me intensely now. He cupped my cheek, his thumb stroking my skin, and carefully pushed a piece of hair away from my face with his other hand. The warmth of his skin against my face was a comforting contrast to the nifty fifty or sixty-degree weather. We stayed like this for a minute, and I looked into his dark, beautiful brown eyes, their depths captivating me after so long. Our faces were inches apart, his breath warm on my skin, and I wondered if he would kiss me again. I won't lie; I wanted his soft lips on mine, but we needed to talk.

"Hum, how about we go down to the beach?" I asked.

"Sure," Jacob responded.

As I pulled away, Jacob's hand found mine, his fingers intertwining with mine, his touch warm and reassuring. I wasn't surprised; his eccentric behavior was commonplace, and I'd grown accustomed to it.

The salty spray of the ocean kissed my face as Jacob pulled me toward the beach, where I spotted Embry, Paul, Jared, and Sam. The boys spotted us with a cacophony of whistles and hoots, but Jacob ignored their taunts and asked, "Do you want to go swimming?"

"Hum, I don't have a swimsuit," I responded.

"Do you have a tank top on under your clothes?"

"Yeah."

"Why don't you take your shirt off and wear your tank top and pants?"

"But my pants will get wet."

"When you get out of the water, we have towels, and I can dry you off because of my temperature."

I nodded with a sense of agreement. "Okay," I responded, acknowledging the moment.

I took off my dark blue shirt and set it on the blanket. As soon as I finished, I yelled, "Race you!"

"Not if I beat you!" Jacob yelled.

I ran in the cold water and squealed at its coldness. It hit my stomach as I got deeper. I splashed Jacob, who was behind me, and he splashed me back, getting me drenched.

"Let's go further," Jacob said.

I nodded, and we plunged into the cool water, briefly swimming until we spotted someone else in the waves.

"Who is that?" I asked, worried.

"Bella, get behind me." Jacob panicked.

Jacob's grip was firm as he pulled me protectively behind him, his hand warm against mine.

"What is it?" I asked.

Jacob didn't respond; something came up behind me and frightened me. I screamed as I turned around.

"Oh, it's you, Jared. You scared me," I said.

Jacob's stern gaze fixed on Jared as he wrapped a muscular arm around me, pulling me close. His warm body pressed against mine, melting away the icy chill of the water. "Embry, don't scare Bella like that!" Jacob yelled, his voice tight with worry and a hint of anger.

"Why not?" Embry asked. "It was fun."

"Because it's mean, and especially since Victoria could be anywhere."

Jared let out a weary groan. "Fine," he muttered, surrendering at last.

Jared swam off while Jacob and I battled the waves to reach the shore.

"I'm sorry, Bella. He shouldn't have scared you like that," Jacob said.

"It's okay. It's no big deal," I said.

Jacob nodded, pulling me close in a warm embrace, his arms tight around me. I wrapped my arms around his neck and hugged him back, and I felt so warm against his skin in contrast to the cold water on me.

After being in the water for a minute, we retrieved our belongings. I redressed, and so did Jacob.

"Let's go for a walk," I said.

This time, I pulled Jacob along with me by the hand.

We walked across the sand on the beach.

"Bella," Jacob said.

"Yeah," I said, looking at him.

"Can we talk?"

I nodded, aware of his intended topic. As Jacob was about to speak, Embry approached. Embry's face showed worry.

"What's wrong?" Jacob asked.

Their long stare showed me they were talking without words. Subsequently, they looked at me.

"I'll be right back," Jacob said.

I nodded, and Jacob let go of my hand and ran off, leaving me with Embry.

The air hung heavy with tension as Embry lingered beside me. "So..." he began, his voice trailing like smoke.

"What?" I asked.

"So are you and Jake a thing now?"

"Hum, to be honest. I don't know. We haven't talked about it yet."

"Well, I like you guys together. You are both cute. I see it now. You make him happy and, as his best friend, give him a chance.

I nodded.

"He loves you, Bella. Do you love him back?" Embry asked.

I nodded again.

"Then again, give him a chant," Embry said.

I gave one last nod before I saw Jacob come back.

Embry left, and I saw Jacob with food in his hand. I looked at him with a curious expression.

Jacob noticed my look and said, "I brought food, but I brought too much, so I have leftovers if you're hungry."

I nodded, a smile waltzing across my lips. "Thanks," I responded.

"I got you a peanut butter sandwich with some Lays, and here's water," Jacob said.

"Thanks," I said again.

"You're welcome."

We sat by the water and ate. When we finished eating, we cleaned up and got ready to go. We haven't brought up the topic yet. It wasn't the right time.

It was getting late, and I needed to head home.

"I need to head home," I said.

"Can I drive you?" Jacob asked.

"Jake, you don't have to."

"Can't I drive the girl I have feelings for home?"

I had known for some time that Jacob harbored feelings for me. It was clear. He's displayed affection with kisses and hand-holding, yet hasn't verbally confirmed if he loves me.

A warmth spread through me as I smiled, certain of his affection. The uncertainty gnawed at me, a relentless ache in my chest. I needed to know, with absolute certainty, if he loved me in return. I don't want to rush him, but I need to know if his feelings are genuine before I reciprocate.

"Fine, but how are you getting home?" I asked.

Jacob shot me a look, eyebrows raised like startled birds. "Are you really asking me that?" he questioned, disbelief dripping from every syllable.

"Sorry." I apologize.

Jacob chuckled gently. "Alright, let's go," he encouraged, his grin contagious.

Jacob squeezed my hand, his grip firm and reassuring, as we returned to the nearly empty parking lot. The cool night air raised goosebumps on my arms. Before getting in the truck, I informed my friends that we were leaving.

Jacob entered the driver's seat, and I sat on the passenger side. We buckled up and headed to Forks.

"I had a fun time," I said, trying to start a light conversation to break the awkward silence.

Jacob beamed, his eyes sparkling. "Me too," he responded, reclaiming my hand.

As I got cold on the way home, I sought warmth by moving closer to Jacob and snuggling into his body.

Jacob chuckled, a warm, rumbling sound, and wrapped his arms around me.

"I can never get over how warm you are," I said as my shivers disappeared.

"It's a wolf thing, remember?" Jacob said.

"I know, but it's a Jacob thing. You're just warm. You're like your own sun."

Pulling into the driveway, the truck's engine sputtered to a stop, and we climbed out. Approaching Jacob, I hugged him, the warmth of his body comforting against mine as I held on, unwilling to let go. After a week apart, missing him became unbearable, and I longed for his presence. I looked into his warm, brown eyes, feeling the strength of his arms around me as he gazed intently into mine.

"Bells, I can't express how much I've missed you," Jacob said, his voice thick with longing. "Not being near you felt like a heavy weight on my heart. I can't stand the thought of being apart anymore."

"You don't have to," I said.

"Bell's I... I'm in love with you," Jacob said.

My eyes widened, and a smile stretched across my face, unable to contain my joy. He loves me. I must tell him, too, but the thought pounded my heart. I don't know if I'm ready to say to him yet; the words caught in my throat.

"I know it's a lot to take in, but I've wanted to let you know. I didn't know when the right moment was. I know you're not there yet, but I wanted you to know," Jacob said.

I nodded with a grin, and Jacob gently brushed my hair from my face, sending shivers down my spine. I thought he would lean in to kiss me, but he gently kissed my forehead, his lips soft against my skin.

"Good night, Bella," Jacob said.

"Good night," I said.

I headed for the door, offering Jacob one last lingering goodbye wave. He ran into the woods, his footsteps fading quickly as I headed inside and closed the door behind me.