Chapter one- temptation
Bella's POV
They were closing in all around me. Their red eyes and their stone skin haunted me as they got closer and closer. I stumbled over a jagged rock and plunged into the cold, damp ground. Suddenly my world turned black, it was over, I was finished.
Edward POV
I quickened my pace as the young woman ran further and further into the wood ahead of me. I knew it would not be safe in there, and if she kept on her path she would eventually stumble across the werewolves territory, than I would no longer have the option of keeping her safe. I knew I shouldn't startle her completely by bolting towards her, so for a few minutes I continued a few paces behind her. I was sure by her heavy and eratic breathing that she was scared. I pitied her, knowing that she believed my family and myself were pursuing her but I also knew there was nothing else to do.
I saw her fall to the ground instantaniously. I threw myself to where she had fallen and lifted her head gently on my lap. Her face was a face of an angel. Perfect, and without any distress. My heart ached with a sudden longing. Her heart beat soothed my caution as I picked her up and cradled her in my arms.
"Edward?!", I heard Alice call out in the distance, " Edward, where is she? Did she cross the border?"
"No, I think she took a nasty fall, it looks as if she's out cold" I replied in remorse.
" Its ok, we'll take her home. Do you know why she's out here?" She questioned me.
" I believe this is Isabella Swan, the daughter of Charlie, the latest victim, murdered two days ago." I answered quietly, trying not to stir the young lady.
" Well I see her reasoning for leaving..How old is the poor dear?" Alice asked, her voice to sounded full of pity.
" She's seventeen I believe. Quite old enough to live on her own, but I believe she was hesitant, maybe she was trying to get away from the madness"
" No, Edward, I think she was running from someone, I think we should keep tabs on her, I mean, there must have been a reason they were after Sheriff Swan. I'm almost sure they'll want her as well." She murmered quickly. I knew right then she had foreseen something, and I knew better than to second guess her. As we ran speedily through the woods I hugged her close to me, taking in the beautiful feeling of her burning flesh against my cold chest. I leaned closer to her ear.
"Bella, everything is going to be alright, I swear I'll protect you"