Chapter Eight

A/N: Holy shitballs! I can not believe that I am only a few reviews away from 100 for this little story. And because of you amazing readers who reviewed… here is the next chapter. I know you really don't want to listen to me blather on with gratitude, so please go forth and read.

Isabella could feel nothing but the way her body conformed to his. They fit together like long lost puzzle pieces, where he was hard she was soft. His hands never stopped moving along the curves and slopes of her body, while hers were clenched tightly in his hair, trying not to drown in the new sensations.

Edward knew next to nothing about the art of seduction. His brief time spent with Maggie in college was mostly an exercise in building up his stamina. Now, looking at the love of his life writhing beneath him, he wished he had spent more time learning about the mysteries of the female form. He knew it was painful for a woman the first time and Maggie had made damn sure he knew what an asset he carried in his pants. She said he was doing womankind a disservice by keeping it to himself. Thinking back, he realized he must have been waiting for Isabella all along, because now in her arms, nothing had ever felt so right. He regretted the time he spent with Maggie, wishing he was as innocent as Isabella.

Edward sat back on his heels, forcing Isabella to release the death grip she had on his hair. She whimpered as she tried to reach for him, to pull him back down on her. He smiled as he intercepted her hands and brought them to his mouth, kissing them before lowering them down to her sides.

"I want to touch you." He whispered as his fingertips trailed down her sides, avoiding her tingling breasts and the spot that was aching between her thighs. As his hands curved around her knees, he pulled her legs up so the soles of her feet rested on the bed, opening her to him. She felt no shyness as he looked down at her, only a deep seated feeling of being exactly where she belonged. His palms settled against the soft flesh of her inner thighs, his index fingers slowly pressing against her outer lips. Her breath caught as he slowly slid his hands upwards, moving easily through her soaked folds. Isabella could not hear anything over the sounds of her panting breaths and racing heart as she watched Edward's face. His fingers were gentle as he explored her, taking note of what made her gasp and moan. Isabella pushed up on her elbows so she could watch as Edward found places she never even knew existed. Her eyes flickered between his face and his hands, not sure which was more exciting. His pupils were so dilated they eclipsed the green of his iris, making him look feral as he watched what his fingers were doing. Her moisture coated each digit and he could not stop himself from lifting them to his mouth to taste her. He jerked his eyes up to her face as she whimpered, disappointed when he stopped touching her. He smirked before sliding his fingers through her wetness once more, now focusing on the sensitive area at the top of her mound. His thumb circled the area gently as he allowed his fingers access to her entrance. Her strength gave out and she flopped down on the bed as she felt one long finger slowly enter her.

"That feels so good." Isabella groaned as Edward started to gently move that finger in and out of her, all the while continuing the pressure against the spot that was slowly driving her crazy. Her belly tightened and she grasped tightly to the sheets below her as Edward slid a second finger inside her. Her back arched away from the bed, leaving only her hips and shoulders on the mattress as she shattered, whimpering his name while he continued to move his fingers.

Edward watched as Isabella fell apart. His mouth was dry as she shuttered under him and finally released the death grip she had on the sheets. Her head lolled to the side as she looked at him from under hooded lids, a shy smile on her love-swollen lips.

"What was that?" She mumbled sleepily.

"That, my sweet, was my way of showing you how much I want you. How much I love you." Edward answered softly as he moved up the bed to cover her body with his once more. Her hands wrapped under his arms, latching onto his shoulders. He nestled his face in her neck, feeling the rapid beat of her heart against his lips. Her legs fell to the side to better cradle his body and he could feel her wet warmth on his aching erection, causing him to thrust against her. Edward felt the vibration of her moan against his lips and smiled, doing it again to see if it elicited the same reaction. When she not only moaned but moved her hips back towards him he pulled away to look at her. The moonlight painted her in blue as she lay with her eyes shut tight, her mouth open, releasing panting breaths. Edward leaned down to speak into her ear, his warm breath against her making her shutter.

"I want to make you mine now." He breathed. Her body arched into him as he thrust gently against her, the tip of his erection finding her opening easily. He held still, fighting his every instinct as he waited for her permission.

"Yes Edward, make me yours. I have always been yours." Isabella panted as she tilted her hips towards him, encouraging him.

"It'll hurt." He whispered, hating the he would be causing her pain but deep in his chest loving the fact that he would be the only one to have her this way. She nodded against his shoulder as she pressed her forehead to his chest. Slowly he pushed forward, feeling her tense in his arms and let out a soft cry before his hips were flush with hers. He was panting against her temple as he tried desperately to stop his body from spilling into her before he had even been able to move.

"Are you alright?" He breathed, still on the edge of release. She nodded again, but he leaned up so he could see her face. Her eyes were scrunched tightly and tears slid down her temples and into the dark curls of her hair. Feeling his eyes on her, she blinked up at him. She could see he was worried about having hurt her, but she was fine. Yes, it had hurt but the tears were from the sense of completion she felt. She never knew she had been so empty, until he filled her.

"I'm fine. Please, move in me." She whispered as she hitched her leg over his hip and tightened her grip on his shoulders. His breath left him in a huff as he closed his eyes and obeyed her. Edward pulled his hips back before thrusting forward, making them both gasp. His eyes flew open and never left her dark stare as instinct took over. Her limbs clung to him as he moved inside of her again and again. Sweat covered their bodies, making the motions easier as their flesh rubbed against each other. Edward's kiss-bruised lips parted and brushed against Isabella's as his body got closer to release. His grip on her shoulders tightened as Isabella cried out, her body milking his until he could hold on no longer. His eyes fluttered closed as he released inside of his love and he collapsed against her.

Edward lay with his head on Isabella's chest, her fingers running through his sweat-dampened hair. Their hearts had finally slowed as had their breathing. Neither of them wanted to move, but they knew eventually they would have to. Just as Edward started slipping into sleep he heard her quiet whisper.

"I love you." His breath stalled in his chest and he realized how important those words were. He moved his head slowly off of her chest and looked at her, seeing the glimmering of the moonlight reflecting off of her tears. He cupped her cheek as he used his thumb to rub the moisture away.

"As I love you, my Bella."

A/N: Awww…so sweet! I HATE writing virgin lemons, so I would appreciate you sending me some love to let me know what you thought, especially since it has been over a decade since I lost my own v-card and the memories are a bit fuzzy. Big maybe concerning another update this weekend…big maybe.

Recs:

MFEO by cosmoandmarva. These ladies are amazing on their own…but when they collaborate things are outrageous. They wrote Love in my Box, which was all kinds of awesome. Starts out very 'Sleepless in Seattle' but it is going a completely different way now.

Mirror by Dalloway5906. One of my best friends both in and out of the fic world…this is a Carlisle and Esme paring and talk about fun ride. Only 2 chapters in but, as a pre-reader I can tell you there is more awesomeness to come.

Chapter Seven

A/N: I wanted to get this out sooner but my littlest one decided she wanted to eat ALL THE TIME, so I have not had a free hand to type. I am working on chapter 14 right now, so that is exciting.

At last check – I had 76 reviews for this story. I am amazed! I wish FF would get their shit together so I could send review replies, but as of now it is still fail. Thank you so much for all of your suggestions for the whole Renee/Charlie plotline. I am still working things out but I loved each and every idea. Jansails – thank you so much for your awesome PM. Your ideas rock!

This is one of my favorite chapters so far. I'll see you at the bottom!

Edward pulled Isabella down onto his lap as he sat on the couch. He explained to her his idea and surprisingly she seemed to agree with him. He watched as she processed his words and realized that there was no way he would be able to leave her out her. He needed her with him. He had waited long enough.

They decided that he should wait to leave until the summer heat broke, at least the end of September. Edward would travel back to his world and get his family's cabin ready. It was only a 30 minute drive from the cabin to civilization, but it would still be secluded enough to keep Isabella safe until he decided what to do about her father. Isabella showed him the letter her mother had left for her, but it gave him no answers. He did not let on that he knew who she was or who her father was, but it was difficult for him to keep that to himself. He was worried that Renee Swan actually had a reason to fear her husband and by sending Isabella back to him it would put her in danger. But Isabella's mother might have been a crazy loon and had kidnapped her daughter for no reason at all. Edward hoped he might be able to contact the mysterious 'Uncle Billy' once he had everything settled.

Isabella hugged tightly to Edward's side as she listened to his plans. He described his family's cabin, and with the exception of running water and electricity – which she still did not understand- it sounded a lot like her cottage. Edward said the cabin sat on the edge of Lake Baker and that she would be able to start another garden in the back of the property. He seemed so excited to be able to bring her closer to his world, and she could not help but smile at his child-like enthusiasm as he described all of the things he wanted to show her. Most of the things were confusing and a bit scary, but she knew if he were by her side, she would be fine. He wanted his family to meet her, and he knew his father would pressure him into disclosing her true identity. He just hoped he could find some answers before he had to do that.

Seeing the sky start to darken, Isabella pulled herself from Edward's arms and started the evening meal. She always ate her largest meal when the sun was at its highest, so it did not take her long to prepare the plates of roasted carrots, sweet potatoes and squash. Edward smiled at her as she sat across from him, his heart soaring at the thought of doing the same thing, but at the cabin. He figured he would be able to get a position at the small hospital in Sedro-Woolley, which was only an hour away. If he took longer shifts, he should only have to work three days a week and spend the rest of his time home with Isabella. He knew his mother would love to come and spend time with her when he was at work and his sister would probably be out of her mind with excitement thinking of all of the things she could teach Isabella.

Edward did the dishes again and helped Isabella finish the rest of her chores. He watched her close up the cottage for the night, banking the flames in the fireplace and shutting the door. They did an awkward dance as Isabella tried to get Edward to share the lumpy bed with her, while he protested adamantly that he would be fine on the couch. Isabella huffed when he settled down on the couch and she threw a pillow and blanket at his head in protest. Edward knew that if he lay in that bed with his dream girl he would not be able to control himself. The gentle touches they had shared through the day had driven him mad and just the thought of having her slight weight pressed against his body while he slept, made him throb and ache. No, the couch was a much better place for him.

**()*()**

Edward groaned when Isabella prompted him to get out of bed bright and early the next morning. Now that they had a plan in place, she was excited to teach him all of the things he would need to know for when they moved to the cabin. She was adamant that they would continue to live off the land the best that they could. She did not understand the descriptions of the grocery stores and processed foods that were Edward's favorites. The thought of going into a building and buying meat and vegetables when one only had to do a bit of work and get it for free astounded Isabella. Edward finally gave up and followed her out to the garden. He watched in awe as she showed him how she collected seeds and rotated her crops to be sure that the soil would not be overworked. Edward had always prided himself on having a strong stomach, he was going to be a doctor after all. But watching Isabella skin and butcher a rabbit made him turn into the bushes and vomit, much to her amusement. How she, at ten years old, had managed to do this on her own amazed and saddened him. She should have been playing with dolls, not killing rabbits.

The days passed in easy companionship. Every morning Edward would help Isabella with her chores and then they would spend the afternoon learning about each other. The normal 'first date' conversations would not work for this pair, since Isabella had no favorite books or movies to discuss. Instead they spoke of her hardships and joys over the past few decades. She told him about her run in with the mountain lion and her first winter. He was brought to tears as he listened to her describe the day her mother died and how she had to dig her grave. In return, he told her about his struggles with his intelligence and tried to explain how their lives would change once they made it to the cabin.

Scattered throughout the work and conversation were kisses and touches. Edward found himself having to pull away from her questing hands more and more, much to Isabella's dismay. All she understood was that her body changed when Edward put his hands on her. She felt empty when he pushed her away and found herself initiating their impromptu 'make out sessions' more often. Finally, a week after he had arrived, Isabella found herself unable to resist the pull Edward had on her. After they finished their evening meal, she helped him clean the dishes and pulled him outside. Edward walked with her to the outhouse, waited till she was done and then took care of his own needs. When he was finished he opened the door, looking around until he found her knee-deep in the creek. The moon was full with no clouds to block its light. Edward could see her perfectly as she bent and rinsed her hands in the flowing water, cupping some into her hands to scrub over her face. He watched as she reached for the hem of her dress, pulling it up over her head and tossing it to the bank. She waded further out into the deeper part of the stream and dropped down out of sight. Edward moved towards the shore, fear clamping down on him. He knew she was fine, she probably did the same thing every night before he arrived. But the thought of her disappearing on him now made him crazy.

Isabella let the cool water cover her completely before she surfaced, tossing her hair back out of her face. She heard a gasp and turned towards the sound, smiling when she saw Edward standing there. She gestured with her hands for him to join her as she pushed wayward strands of hair off of her face. When he hesitated, Isabella started walking towards him, knowing how uncomfortable he would be if he did not wash off the dirt and sweat from the day. This was her favorite time of the year, when the water was finally warm enough for her to bathe in it. She would have to settle for a sponge bath with heated water from the kettle once the summer was gone. As her hips came out of the water, Edward threw up his hands, begging her to stop. He knew if she came any closer, the tenuous hold he had on himself would snap. The innocent way she moved and touched him over the past few days were driving him to distraction. He wanted to bring her pleasure, to show her how much he wanted her. To show her how much he loved her. He finally was able to realize that, even though he did not know much about her, she owned his heart. The things he did know about her only solidified that. Her strength and determination, her gentle touch and innocence… those made him realize that she was the only one for him.

Seeing she would not take no for an answer, he dropped his head with a sigh as he started to remove his clothes. He left his tight boxer briefs on as he waded into the water, stopping a few feet from where she stood. They stared at each other, the moon bathing them in blue light. The water lapped gently against their legs as they moved towards each other simultaneously. Edward was cautious as he brought his hands up to wrap around the silky skin of her waist, just as Isabella grasped tightly onto his shoulders. Their hands explored as they stared at each other. Isabella wondered if Edward could hear her heart beating, it was so loud. She wanted nothing more than to press her body against his. She moved her arms under his and took possession of his hips, her thumbs pressing into the points of his hip bones where his shorts rode low. Edward closed his eyes and took a shuttering breath as he finally allowed himself to pull her towards him, his arms wrapping around her shoulders as hers swept behind him to rest on his low back. Isabella could not contain the whimper of pleasure that fell from her lips as their skin met. Her body craved more, wanting to find a way inside of him. Edward felt the same as his hands floated over her wet, smooth skin. He pressed his mouth against her throat, feeling the vibration of her moan as she relaxed into him. His hands flexed against her skin, wanting to move towards her breasts and lower, where he knew she would be hot and wet for him. Her body was responding naturally to his, her heart beating faster, pupils dilating, muscles trembling. He heard her whispering against his chest, but he was unable to make out the words. Her fingers danced in the groove of his spine, her touch making him painfully hard. His breath left him as she pressed herself even tighter against him, his erection trapped between their bodies. He expected her to pull away when she felt him against her belly but she moved even closer, her whispering growing in volume against his skin. Finally he was able to hear her words.

"Please, please, please."

He bent his mouth to her ear, taking the delicate lobe into his mouth, sucking hard.

"What do you want my love?" He breathed into her ear.

"I don't know… but please." She answered back, her hips grinding instinctively against his thigh. He growled against the flesh of her throat as he imagined hoisting her up into his arms and slamming himself into her. The desire to make her his was overwhelming, but he knew he needed to take his time with her, to make sure she was ready for him.

His decision made, he reached down and grabbed onto her legs, pulling her up out of the water and into his arms. She squealed and wrapped her hands around his neck, pressing her breast into his shoulder. Laughing, he walked out of the water, leaving their clothes on the bank. He dropped kisses up and down her throat as he made his way into the cottage, the moonlight following them through the windows. He wished he had more light so he could see her better, but realized they had all the time in the world, and morning was only a few hours away.

He walked into the bedroom, laying her down on the bed, not caring that they were getting the blankets all wet. Her hair was black against the white pillows, drops of water clinging to her pale skin. He shed his soggy shorts, leaving him as naked as she was. Isabella's eyes widened as she finally saw him bare. She sat up on her elbows as he moved to the side of the bed. Her mouth was dry as she reached for him, entranced with the way his body pulsed and moved. He jerked wildly when her tiny hands took possession of him, her fingers wrapping around his base and slowly moving towards the tip. He was amazed that she knew instinctually what his body craved. He moved one knee onto the bed next to her, allowing him to get closer. His fingers closed gently over her throat, feeling her pulse thrum under her skin. She gazed up at him, her fingers still exploring his flesh. Their eyes stayed locked as he bent down and took her puckered nipple into his mouth. Tossing her head back, her grip tightened on his shaft as she moaned out her pleasure. Edward snarled against her flesh as he clenched his eyes tightly in an effort to keep from spilling into her hand. Reaching down, he gently pried her fingers off of him and brought them up to his lips. Kissing each of them he stared into the warm chocolate of her eyes, trying to make sure she was ready. Once he took this step with her, he knew there was no way he could walk away. Isabella pulled her hand from his grasp and wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Please, every time I look at you… touch you…smell you, I ache. Please." She whispered as her eyes filled with frustrated tears.

"You're mine." He breathed against her lips before he captured them with his own, dropping his body down onto hers.

A/N: Ummm….fade to black? Review and let me know when you want the next chapter.

Chapter Six

A/N: Did you know I suffer from premature posting disorder. Terrible thing, but at least you benefit from it. I am working on chapter 13 right now (!) and am very excited as to where we are heading.

I am so excited every time my phone chimes with a new review alert. I am overwhelmed that you all are taking the time to send such in-depth and insightful reviews. I love reading them! I wish fanfiction was allowing me to send replies or PMs but right now it is totally fail.

We get some more sexual tension and a little more info about Isabella's life in the wilderness. I hope none of you are offended by a bit of hunting.

Edward was stunned silent. He had no idea what he should do. He had heard the story every September, especially since the President was from his home town. They played the TV interviews and documentaries round the clock on her birthday, every year urging anyone with information to come forward. The age-adjusted pictures did not do Isabella justice, she was more beautiful than they could ever have estimated.

He could hear her humming through the open door as she picked their lunch from the garden. He walked to the window and watched her as she turned her face to the sun and closed her eyes, a smile on her lips. She was happy here, oblivious to her father's pain. Edward knew she would never survive going back to civilization, but how could he leave her out here?

Isabella, unaware of Edward's indecision inside the cottage, was thrilled to finally have someone to cook for again. One of her favorite things had been to prepare meals for her mother before she died. She selected only the best zucchini and peppers, before she set the basket on the porch and went to check her traps. Rabbit would go nicely with the vegetables, but they could stand on their own if the trap was empty. She was in luck, a nice fat bunny had gotten snared. She carried the animal up to the back of the cottage where she had her sharpest knife and quickly skinned and butchered the meat. The sky looked clear for the time being, so she started a fire in the outside pit and went to the creek to clean up and get water for the pot before she chopped the vegetables and meat and added it to the vessel suspended over the flames. Only once she had the stew simmering did she return to the cottage.

Edward was standing in the same place she had left him. His broad shoulders were hunched as he stared at the pictures on the wall. Isabella could not help but cross to him and lay her head on his shoulder, aching for the simple contact. His arm unconsciously wrapped around her slim waist, bringing her around to his chest, tugging her against his body. He turned and set his chin on the top of her head, sighing deeply. Just touching Isabella calmed him. He knew the smartest thing he had ever done was venturing out here to find her. Now he only had to figure out what to do now that he found her.

**()*()**

Isabella could not hold back her smile as Edward groaned every time the spoon entered his mouth. He was eating as if he had not had a meal in a week, which was pretty accurate. The rations he had gotten from the sporting goods store were disgusting, only taking the edge off of his hunger. The rich, flavorful stew Isabella had placed in front of him tasted and smelled like ambrosia.

After two helpings, he leaned back in the chair and patted his warm, full belly. He looked up at Isabella and he swore his heart stopped. She was beautiful, he could not deny that, but the way she looked at him, trusting and shy, made him want to wrap her up in his arms and never let her go. He had not had much time for romance as he rushed through high school, college and med school, but he had managed to get the usual rites of passage in. He had lost his virginity while getting his undergrad. She was a TA in his Human Anatomy class named Maggie and she taught him several things about the female anatomy that he would never have found in a book. All through his time with Maggie, he found himself closing his eyes and instead of picturing her light hair and blue eyes, it was rich brown that invaded his mind. He felt like he was doing a disservice to both Maggie and his dream girl and ended the arrangement only a few weeks in. Now, as he felt arousal tightening in his belly and desire burning hot in his chest, he realized that he had never felt that with Maggie.

Isabella reached for his plate but Edward's hand wrapped around her wrist before she could grab it.

"I'll clean up. Its only fair since you cooked." He said with a smirk as he gathered up their dishes and stood. He looked for a sink, only to realize that without running water he was clueless as to his next move. Isabella watched Edward's inner turmoil before standing as well and walking over to where she had the kettle warming over the fire. She poured some of the hot water into a big plastic dish pan next to the stove and then added a few cups of the cold water from the pail. Edward took over from there, submerging their plates and silverware into the water before using the washcloth Isabella handed him to scrub them clean. He used the same cup from the pail to rinse the dishes before setting them on the towel Isabella had laid out on the table. He could not help but smile at his success before launching himself with a laugh at Isabella. She giggled wildly as he wrapped his arms around her waist, her own arms finding their way around his neck, fingers tangling in his hair. Her smile was blinding as she looked up at him, and he moved simply on instinct, leaning down to press his lips against hers.

Isabella froze, her eyes open wide as Edward's lips moved against hers. She could feel heat bubbling up from her belly, spreading like wild fire across her skin. Her heart pounded violently inside her chest as he moved his mouth against her, aching to get closer, to taste her. She felt her lids grow heavy and drifted closed as he pulled her tighter against him, her breasts pressing against his hard chest. A moan erupted from deep within Edward and Isabella's answering whimper made him deepen the kiss. His tongue traced along the seam of her lips and she opened instinctively, wanting to do anything to get closer to him. Their tongues tangled together, moving from his mouth to her as they battled with each other. Finally, desperate for breath Edward pulled away and looked down. Isabella was still frozen mid-kiss. Her full lips were formed into an adorable pout, her hands tangled tightly in his hair trying to pull him back down to her. He brought one of his hands up from her waist to brush the wayward hair from her face, running his thumb over the swollen curve of her lips. She slowly opened her eyes, lust-hazed and unfocused she smiled up at him.

"Why does it feel like I want to crawl inside of you?" She whispered, her voice rough with innocent desire.

"I'm not sure, but I feel the same way. You remember when I saw you in the tree?" Edward asked quietly as he let his fingers stroke gently over the smooth skin of her cheek. She nodded against his fingers, turning into his touch.

"There has not been a night since then that you were not in my dreams. I worried that you were alone out here, unprotected. Every night you invaded my sleep and each morning when I felt the empty bed next to me, my heart broke a little. The memory of you brought me out here. I needed to find you. But now…I am lost as to what we do next." He whispered.

"Did you not think it was the same for me? As soon as I closed my eyes, I would see your eyes. Imagining what it would feel like to have your hands on me, to share my life here with you. You are right, I have no idea where we go from here. I can't go back into your world, it's not safe and it would be unfair of me to ask you to desert your life and stay here." She said sadly as a single tear rolled down her cheek, catching on Edward's fingers that still rested against her skin.

"Don't worry my love. I have a plan."

A/N: Ok Edward…what is the plan? I would love to hear your ideas. I am also still deciding if I should have Charlie be an actual threat or just a figment of Renee's fucked up mind. What do you think? Maybe more tomorrow? Maybe Wednesday? It will depend on how much I get done today.

Kisses!

Rec:

Looking for some smut? 

Check out Broken Headboards, Power Panties and Penis Charms by Nyddi

Older Edward… underage Bella and some major UST. Holy Shit is it hot! You def need a change of panties after this one!

Chapter Five

A/N: So super proud of myself that even going back to work I managed to get through chapter 10 finished! And because of that I am giving you an extra update. This chapter is one of my favorites so far. I love innocent Isabella, and poor Edward has no idea what to do with him. You get some answers in this chapter, so enjoy those.

Thank you to all of you who have reviewed and favorited this story. I am really enjoying it and have one of the major plot-points already written.

Now – onto the show!

"Do you live here alone?" Edward asked softly, not bothering to remove his hands from where they rested against the soft skin of her cheeks. She nodded and his imagination started in on all of the horrible things that could have happened to her alone out in the wilderness. He looked over her shoulder at the cottage and realized there was no power or running water. Aside from the garden there was no other apparent source of food. How did she care for herself?

Isabella watched as his eyes took in her meager existence and realized he was probably wondering how she survived out here. Through her mother's collection of books, she had read about what the outside world was like, at least what it had been like in 1990 when the books were published. She knew her life was not normal, but it was all she had ever known.

Gently taking his hands off of her face, she held tightly to one as she tugged him up to her porch and out of the rain. Releasing his hand as she entered the cottage, she reached up to knot her hair around her fingers, wringing the rain out. Her hands fell to the hem of her dress and she pulled it up over her head and draped it across the ladder-backed chair that sat closest to the wood-burning stove. She turned quickly when she heard a choking sound behind her. Edward was standing in the doorway, rain dripping off of his clothes and onto the floor below him. His eyes were wide and his face was slightly pink as he looked over at her. She hurried to him, worried that something was wrong, but he raised his hand as she got closer.

Edward was finding it difficult to breathe as he looked at the goddess standing in front of him. Without the influence of the outside world, she had never developed any modesty. In her life in this little cottage there was nothing wrong with taking off soaking wet clothing in front of another, she was just trying to get dry. But when she removed her dress, Edward's world skidded to a halt. Her body was slight and pale, her skin showing signs of just how difficult her life must have been. There were calluses on her hands and her feet were dirty and rough. Scars littered her shins and forearms, one particularly ugly healed gash extending from her hip to her knee. She was small but powerful, the hard work she did obvious by the muscles in her arms and legs. Her belly was soft but flat and her breasts… Edward sat right down on the floor, his head in his hands as he tried to control his body's natural reaction to the beauty in front of him. He felt her warmth before she touched him, a gentle hand on his back.

"Are you alright?" She questioned softly, running her hand up and down his spine as she remembered her mother doing when she was little and had been upset. He groaned and she tried to pull his face up to see what was wrong.

"What is your name?" He growled, resisting her hands as he tried to calm his body. Her proximity made that infinitely harder, in more ways than one. Her scent wrapped around him like a blanket and he unconsciously leaned into her touch.

"Isabella." She replied, not understanding why he was acting the way he was. It was almost as if he was angry about something.

"I'm Edward." He replied and slowly lifted his head to face her. Her wide brown eyes and full pouty lips were closer than he had expected and it took all of his willpower not to lean forward and kiss her. Instead he took a deep Isabella-scented breath and pushed himself up to his feet. He made sure to maintain eye contact as she also stood. Isabella had remembered his name from the last time he was here with his sister, but he had changed so much in those few years. She started to pull at the buttons of his shirt, wanting to get him out of the wet clothes before he could catch a chill. He found himself unable to move as her nimble fingers defeated the buttons and pushed it and his pack off of his shoulders. She was so focused on her task that when his hands touched her arms she jumped. Looking up into his face she could only describe his expression as wild, reminiscent of the mountain lion she had tangled with years earlier.

"I can manage." He said quietly as he smiled down at her, except it came off more like a pained grimace. He kicked off his worn and dirty boots and peeled his socks off, shoving them back in his boots. Isabella scoffed and bent in front of him, her head unknowingly, directly in line with his still prominent erection to pull the sodden socks from his boots and grab his shirt from where it lay on the floor.

"These will never dry if you leave them in there." She reprimanded, before turning and hanging his clothing from a line suspended between the walls near the fireplace. She bent at the waist to pick up a fallen sock and Edward clenched his jaw so tightly he swore he heard a crack. She was so innocent yet her movements had him feeling like a teenager again. She smiled up at him before disappearing further into the cottage and returning with two towels. She handed one to him as she ran the other through her tremendously long hair. Her body shook with her movements and Edward clutched the towel tightly to his hips to cover his obvious reaction to her. Finally feeling like he had his body under control, he reached up and vigorously rubbed the towel through his own hair.

Isabella twisted the towel around the length of her hair as she allowed her eyes to follow Edward's movements. His upper body was pale while his forearms had color, as if he had been out in the sun with his sleeves rolled up for an extended period of time. His chest was covered in golden-red hair which narrowed into a tight line as it traveled down his torso before disappearing into the waistband of his jeans. His muscles flexed and moved as he attacked his hair and Isabella was amazed at the differences in their bodies. She had never seen a man's body before, while she had read descriptions of men in her books. From what she had seen, Edward's body seemed far superior to any of the characters she had read about. Her curiosity got the best of her and she was in front of him before she realized it. His face was covered by the worn towel and he jumped when he felt her warm hand on his bare chest. He tossed the damp fabric to the floor and stared down at her. Her eyes followed the path of her exploring hands as they trailed over his flesh. He sucked in a harsh breath as her fingers trailed down his abdomen to where his damp pants hung low on his hips. Her eyes flew to his as she ran her fingers lower and she felt the hard bulge of his erection. He stepped back quickly and put his hands on the bare skin of her shoulders to keep her away.

Isabella was confused as she looked up at Edward. His hands felt nice against her skin, did he not feel the same when she touched him? Edward noticed her confusion, but had no idea how he could explain the effect he had on her, especially when she touched that part of his anatomy. Instead he decided to see if he could convince her to put on some clothes.

"Aren't you cold?" He asked quietly, keeping his hands on her so she would not touch him again. He did not think he had the restraint to resist her innocent hands. She smiled up at him, her eyes twinkling with mirth.

"It is August, the peak of the summer. Yes, the rain was cool but it is still fairly warm in here, do you not think?" She said, her smile widening as his fingers tightened briefly on her flesh before he released her and bent down to shuffle through his bag. He came up with a white and blue striped button down shirt, much like the one she had removed from him earlier. She was surprised when he tossed it to her.

"Put this on at least." He said, without looking at her as he rifled through his bag for a shirt of his own, also grabbing a pair of shorts and socks. He was thankful that she had put on the shirt while he was searching through his things, but wished she had buttoned it. He yanked his shirt down over his head and motioned for her to turn around. She cocked her head to the side like a dog would and blinked at him. He wanted to slap himself in the forehead, if she had no modesty when it came to herself, why would she think to give him any privacy. Resigned to the fact that he would have to change with an audience, he turned his back to her and quickly dropped his wet pants and boxers and pulled up his shorts as fast as he could. Isabella watched as Edward took his pants off, wondering why he was shielding his body from her. She though she could look at him and never get her fill, his body was a wonderland to her and she wanted to discover every plane and valley that made him different than her. His body was hard where hers was soft. Remembering the swelling she had felt under her palm, her body flushed and tingled, much like it had when she awoke from her dreams.

Edward turned once he was decent and moved past her to sling his boxers and jeans over her make-shift clothes line before turning to look at the cottage. There was an ancient wood burning stove along one wall with a battered table and two chairs in front of it. Two cabinets hung on the wall next to the stove and Edward figured that was what made up her kitchen. There was a sofa that had seen better days placed in front of the fireplace that took up most of the other wall, flanked by windows. A low bookcase sat under one of the windows and Edward moved towards that, interested in seeing what types of books Isabella had. Among the early 90's fiction was a Bible and a few classics. He was so involved with his perusal of her home he did not hear her approach. He startled when he heard her voice right behind him.

"Those were my mother's. She used them to teach me how to read." She whispered as she pushed up on her tiptoes in order to put her chin on Edward's shoulder so she could see over him. Her body was flush against his spine and he could feel the heat of her bare flesh that was left uncovered by his shirt.

"Where is your mother?" Edward croaked out, his eyes closed tight as he fought against his long buried libido, wanting nothing more than to be able to turn and kiss Isabella until her head spun. All his thoughts of seduction left as he heard her take a shuttering breath before speaking.

"She died." Isabella whispered as she pressed infinitesimally closer to Edward's back, trying desperately to pull his warmth into her now memory-chilled body. Edward turned around, placing his hands on her shoulder once again and looking down in her tear-filled eyes.

"When?" Isabella took a deep breath before she answered him, tears spilling from her lashes as she answered.

"She got sick when I was ten. She has been gone nearly eleven years now." She dropped her eyes to the floor as she brought her hands up to cover her eyes. Though she thought of her mother every day, she had not had a reason to think of her death in a long time.

"How have you survived out here by yourself?" He asked, unable to believe the small creature in front of him had lived so long along. Isabella wiped away the rest of her tears and looked back up at him, a small smile gracing her lips as she pulled on one of his hands, eager to show off her home.

Edward was impressed as Isabella showed him the bedroom with its sagging mattress and piles of warm, worn blankets. She let him see the two trap doors that made up her hiding places in case someone wandered by and explained how the stove worked in the kitchen. She rarely used it in the summer, choosing instead to make a fire out in the meadow to cook by. Seeing that the rain had stopped she yanked him out the door, pausing long enough for him to put his boots back on. She showed him all of the different vegetables she had growing in her garden and then walked with him deeper into the forest so he could see the apple trees that would soon be ready for harvest. He was impressed with her traps but his stomach turned at the thought of her butchering her own meat. He made use of the outhouse when they stopped there and he helped her carry the heavy pail of water in from where it stood at the edge of the stream. They walked back into the cottage, both holding the handle of the pail. Isabella quickly started her usual chores, placing a kettle full of water over the fireplace before setting the already stacked wood ablaze. She shrugged out of Edward's shirt, much to his disappointment, and put her now dry dress back on. Edward packed his clothes back in his pack and left it sitting by the front door. While Isabella worked, Edward walked around the room, looking at the few pictures that were hanging on the wall.

A beautiful woman, no doubt Isabella's mother, was featured in most of the pictures, all in different situations. In one she was in a hospital bed with a pink bundle resting in her arms, a tired smile on her face. His finger traced over the tiny baby swaddled in the blanket and then turned to see the grown-up version tiring away in the kitchen. She had placed two plates on the table before turning towards the door with a basket in her hand. She threw him a shy smile before nodding towards the garden and walked outside. He looked at the next picture and inhaled sharply as he recognized the man standing next to Isabella's mother. There was no way anyone would not know who that man was if they had seen a TV in the past decade. His heart raced and his palms grew damp as he realized Isabella was the lost daughter of Charlie Swan, former Senator of Washington State and the current President of the United States.

A/N: Holy shit! Charlie is the President? Crazy right? Let me hear it. Next update coming on Saturday.

Recs:

In Your World by solostintwilight

I have been there since the beginning of this one and it is just amazing. It is getting rec'd everywhere and it is SOOO worth it. I mean come one…AmishWard!

Chapter Four

A/N: I suck. I totally told you if you sent me some love I would have this chapter out to you by the end of the weekend. I am sending it out early, so at least that might redeem me in your eyes.

FF is totally fail at letting me reply to reviews, but I wanted to tell you I read each and every one and they are giving me the motivation I need to get more chapters done and out to you. I am excited to get to the major plot points, so IF (big if since I am heading back to work tomorrow) IF I can get more chapters finished I will update more frequently. As of now I will continue with the Wed/Sat update. Expect chapter 5 on Saturday.

And now- lets see what happens when they meet.

The rain was falling in buckets as Isabella walked across the meadow to use the outhouse. She knew she would be soaked whether she ran or took her time, so she decided not to tempt the fates and walked. She had turned her ankle a few years ago when she tried to outrun a sudden downpour and it took her weeks to get her strength back. She had managed to find a long stick to use as a cane and hobbled through her usual chores, because in her world if the chores did not get done, she would not survive.

Her business done, she headed down to the creek to gather the water she needed for the day. She could have just left the pail out in the rain for a while, but she liked the freshness of the water that ran through the rocks. She had just lifted the bucket from the flow of water when she heard a twig snap behind her. The handle slipped from her fingers, thankfully ending up on the bank of the stream and not in the slowly moving water. She straightened and turned towards the sound, ready run if she had to. She had faced off many wild animals in her time and had the scars to prove it. The worst had been the mountain lion that thought her easy prey. He would be walking with a limp the rest of his life, but he should not have messed with Isabella.

She gasped when she saw the figure standing at the edge of her meadow. From where he stood it was impossible for him to see her, but she had a clear view of the intruder. Memories flooded her as she watched him walk closer to her cottage. He hesitated at the stairs before slowly walking to the door. She saw him take a deep breath before raising his hand to knock. He shuffled his feet as he waited for an answer that would never come. Isabella slowly moved closer to the thick brush that surrounded the creek, hoping he would leave, yet praying he would stay. His shoulders slumped as he walked off of the porch and stood directly under the maple tree she had hidden in years earlier. His eyes were trained on the spot where she had been hanging the day they first saw each other. She could almost feel the desperation radiating from him as he turned in a slow circle, his hands clenched into fists at his side.

"Please." He whispered, his head falling back, letting the rain slide over his face, his water-darkened hair covering his forehead. Isabella found herself moving before she was even aware of it. She walked silently through the rain-dampened grass until she stood only a foot in front of him. Her hand shook as she raised it up to brush his hair from his forehead. When he jumped and grabbed at her hand, all of her mother's warnings flashed through her mind. This was exactly what her mother had commanded her not to do. There was danger out there for her, and she needed to stay hidden to insure she would be safe. But the instant his hands closed over her wrists, she felt a kind of warmth she had never known. Heat flashed through her chest as her eyes met his wide stare and she wanted nothing more than to bask in his warmth forever.

*()**()*

He opened his mouth to speak but found that nothing would come out. He had spent the last three days traipsing through the deep Washington woods in an effort to find the cottage. He had purposely left the GPS beacon off because he wanted no one to be able to find him. He was not sure he wanted to go back if he was unable to locate the cottage and the girl that haunted his dreams. The skies opened up just as he was ready to give up. He was tired and wet and his heart was breaking with every wrong turn. His heavy feet sped and his chest tightened when he finally caught sight of a clearing ahead.

Not much had changed in the past 7 years. The cottage still stood, stone and wood, in the middle of the wild meadow. The bubbling of the creek mixed with the teeming rain and that sound was all he could hear. The well-tended garden was still behind the little building, but it was bigger than he remembered. He took a deep breath before heading up to the porch and knocking on the battered front door. When he did not receive an answer, he walked off the porch and ended up under the tree where he first saw the girl. He could remember her perfectly; her long brown hair, bound down her back, her wide frightened eyes the color of warm chocolate. It was not only her beauty that brought him back to her, but the lonely terror he saw reflected back at him. His desire to protect her was still just as strong now as it was then. He let his head fall back, silently begging whoever was listening to send her back to him. Just as his frustrated tears started to mix with the rain on his cheeks, he felt a soft caress on his forehead. Instinctually he reached for whatever was touching him and was startled when he felt heat spread through him as he touched her. His eyes were wide with surprise as he looked down at her.

His memory of her paled in comparison to the beauty that stood in front of him. Even in her rain-drenched state, she was breathtaking. Her hair was still dark and bound behind her as he remembered, though it reached to her hips now. Her wide eyes were still as rich and lonely as he remembered, but some of the terror had fled. His hand was wrapped around her wrist and he looked down as he felt how delicate and tiny her bones felt beneath his fingers. He could see her chest rise and fall rapidly beneath her ill-fitting dress and he wanted to see if the rest of her felt as slight as her wrists did.

"I'm sorry." He whispered as he watched her blink away the raindrops that got caught on her obscenely long eyelashes.

"For what?" She answered back, surprised at the roughness of her voice.

"For taking so long to come back." He answered as he brought his free hand up to brush her hair away from her face. She startled at his touch and pulled her wrist from his grip, wrapping both her arms around her body. He raised his hands in front of him, worried he had scared her with his movements. She looked around wildly as if waiting for someone else to pop out of the woods.

"Is anyone with you?" She asked frantically, upset that she had allowed herself to forget her mother's most important request. Seeing her terror, he gently grabbed her face so she was looking at him.

"No, I'm alone." He said quietly as he stroked his thumb over the satin-smooth skin of her cheek. Growing up the way Edward had, attending fundraisers and events, he had seen his fair share of beautiful women. The problem with these women was, once you got close enough to them, you could see all of their faults. What looked like flawless skin, was actually caked on make-up. What appeared to be perfectly touchable hair were really fake extensions. Here, looking at this terrified girl, Edward could see nothing but perfection. There were a scattering of freckles across her nose and he could see bits of dirt and leaves interspersed in her hair. Yet to him, she was everything he could have ever hoped for.

Isabella could only gaze up into his overly expressive green eyes. She wondered why he was here, and wished she could say the words she needed to say, but his presence was making her dizzy. She had been alone for so long, and now the man who had infiltrated her dreams for the last 7 years was standing in front of her. What would this mean for her now?

A/N: Yes…what does this mean for her now? Will he take her back with him? Will he give up his future and civilization and stay with her? I would love to see what you think. See you Saturday if not before.

Rec:

Little Green and Easybella by BettiGefecht

Heart breaking story about an older Bella (25) and younger Edward (18) and how they deal with the reemergence of their relationship and what that means. It is SOOO good. Please let her know I sent you!

Chapter Three

A/N: What is this? An early update? Yep, I am feeling bad about the brevity of the chapter and that Edward has yet to go in search of Isabella. Will they meet in this chapter? Nope. But next chapter is the one you have been waiting for.

Answers to a few questions/comments:

Yes, the Cullens live in Seattle. Their cabin is in Baker Lake which is about 2 and ½ hours north of Seattle. Isabella's cottage is located about 8 miles from the cabin, deep in North Cascades National Park. Yes, I think it is a bit far fetched to think that Alice and Edward could have wandered 8 miles away from the cabin when they were kids, but I am taking some liberties. It is fiction after all.

I HATE the FF formatting, so I apologize if the spacing is messed up. I proof read in Word and then upload to the site, so I don't really check to see if everything is ok before I post. Forgive me?

You might get another chapter before the weekend is over if I can bust out chapter 8 today and start on 9. I am only getting about an hour a day to write since I am chasing around a 3 year old, 18 month old twins and caring for my 6 week old. Plus the laundry, dishes, vacuuming and other chores. Busy much…yeah I think so.

Isabella sat straight up from the comfort of her bed, her heart beating a painful rhythm in her chest. Her entire body was damp under the covers and she pushed them off of her to try and get cooler. The darkness was absolute and she knew it was nowhere near dawn, but her mind was too overwhelmed to go back to sleep. She pushed her back up against the wall and pulled her pillow into her lap as she searched her memory for the cause of her late night wake up call. She found she was able to recall the dream that had pulled her from sleep perfectly.

She was wrist deep in the fertile soil of the garden, hoping to gather at least one more sweet potato before heading in to do her other chores. She was humming an unknown tune or else she would have been able to hear the birds quiet down as an intruder came through the woods. It was not until the stranger's shadow cast over where she was working did she realize she was not alone. She jumped back, scooting across the dirt on her backside as she tried to get away. The sun was behind the figure, but she could see that whoever it was was very tall. She scrambled to her feet and started running for the maple tree, hoping she would be safe up in the high branches. 

"Please wait." 

Her feet did not listen to the frantic message from her brain to keep going and she froze. She knew that voice. She had heard it years ago. She turned towards the voice and waited, her dirty hands clenched tightly in front of her. He held his hands up before him as he slowly walked towards her. As he got closer, she was able to see his bright hair and vibrant green eye, and another wave of recognition swept over her. He stopped a foot in front of her and she had to tip her head back in order to see his face. He smiled sweetly down at her as he reached for her filthy hands. She gasped at his touch, having not felt another's flesh since her mother died. 

"I've been waiting for you." She whispered as tears filled her eyes.

"I'm here now." He answered as he tugged her body towards him and they collided against each other. His angelic face descended towards hers and his soft lips pressed against her own. Her breathing stilled as she was overwhelmed by how perfectly she fit in his arms. His fingers released hers and moved to cradle her head in his overly-large hands as he moved to deepen the kiss. His tongue traced the seam of her lips and at her gasp, rushed into her mouth to capture her sweetness. He finally pulled his lips from hers so they could catch their breath and she felt as if her heart would beat out of her chest. He smiled down at her flushed face, his fingers brushing curls away from her cheek.

"I'll never leave you again." He whispered.

Sitting up in her bed, her heart was still beating erratically and there was an unfamiliar warmth deep in her belly. She held the pillow tightly to her chest and was surprised to feel moisture on her cheeks. Reaching up to her face with her fingertips, they came away damp with tears and she realized she was crying for the first time in almost a decade.

**()*()**

"Edward, I truly think you should spend some more time reflecting before you make such a rash decision. No program will accept you back after such a long time away." Carlisle Cullen said as he watched his usually level headed son rummage through the long unused camping equipment that was stashed away in their massive garage. His son had made a startling announcement at the family dinner table the night before, and while his mother, Esme, had accepted his decision whole-heartedly, Carlisle was having a much harder time believing what he was hearing.

"Dad, there is nothing you can say that will change my mind. I wish I could tell you when I would be coming back, but to be honest I have no idea." Edward replied with his head buried deep in a cabinet. He had already found two sleeping bags, a heavy duty tent and a pack to hold it all. He wanted to find the cooking kit before he went out to buy the rest of the things he needed.

"Can you at least tell me where you are going? It seems like a stupid idea to pass up three matches with top medical programs just so you can go camping." Carlisle huffed as he ran his hand through his hair. Edward pulled his head from his search, his own hand buried deep in his hair.

"I can't tell you Dad. I just need you to trust me. I know this sounds like an impulsive thing to do, but I don't think I move forward with my life without doing this first." Edward sighed as he slumped down on the sleeping bags. "I am taking a satellite phone and a GPS locator with me, so if there is a problem I will be able to reach you and vice versa. I am hoping I will only be gone about a month, but I can't tell you exactly when I'll be back. I already called each of the hospitals to let them know I would not be accepting their invitation. I have taken care of everything."

Carlisle looked at the defeated slump of his son's shoulders and remembered the excitement and light he had seen in Edward's eyes as he announced he was going to be spending the next month traipsing through the woods instead of starting his residency. He sighed as he walked over to pat his son on the back.

"I trust you Edward. Do what you need to do and then come back and start your life."

**()*()**

"That'll be $250.79." The flirty sporting goods cashier said as she fluttered her eyes at Edward for the fifth time. He was used to being looked at like a piece of meat, but now, so close to seeing if his dreams were true, it was getting on his nerves. He had gained access to his trust fund when he graduated from college, but he never really used it much. His parents had paid for his education and living expenses while he was in school and he had no real hobbies or desires to waste money on. Now he was ecstatic he had all of this disposable income at his fingertips. His entire family was blessed with the finances that insured that no one would ever have to work.

He handed the girl his credit card and signed the slip as he grabbed the bag filled with his rented satellite phone and GPS beacon. He had rented them for three months, figuring it was safer to have more time than he needed. His new jeep was all packed and this was his last stop before he headed out to the cabin. He threw the bag in the back of the truck and pulled out of the parking lot, leaving the flirty sales girl behind. His palms were damp as he merged onto the I-5 and headed north towards Baker Lake, anxious to leave the activity of Seattle. His chest felt lighter with every mile he traveled and he could only hope he would find what he was looking for.

A/N: Come one Edward…you can find her. Leave me some love and it might encourage me to write faster and get you the next chapter!

Rec:

Are you reading anything by CaraNo? I swear her shit gets better with each new story. Every single thing she is writing is amazing. Not kidding…check her out!

Chapter Two

A/N: So I managed to get chapter 7 written, so I figured I could spare another update. I am overwhelmed at the response to this story so far. I wanted to let you know a few things:

Yes, the chapters are going to stay this short.

Once things get moving, they are going to go fast.

I have chapter 7 finished and am working on 8 right now. If I manage to get to 10 done I will start posting bi-weekly (Wednesday and Saturday). So as of now expect another chapter on Saturday.

Please let me know what you thing about this chapter. It is not my favorite but things needed to be set in motion. At least you will get another one soon!

Isabella held the broom loosely in her hands as the wind blew her hair around her face. She opened her arms to the warm summer breeze, loving the way it pushed and pulled at her too-big dress. When her little girl clothes became too small years ago, it broke her heart and she had to sort through her mother's long neglected dresser in search of something to wear. She made due with pinned dresses and rope-belted pants, but it was only recently that she had started to fill out her mother's clothing. Isabella could barely remember what her mother looked like anymore, only able to see her face in the pictures that hung on the walls. If she took the time to count the hash marks on the calendar, she would find that she had now been on her own longer than she had been with her mother. She was twenty one years old, and still achingly alone.

The life she was leading was a busy one. She woke with the sun each morning and headed to the outhouse to take care of her morning needs. Her only source of water was a deep creek that ran behind the cottage. She walked through the brush and trees to fill a pail that would last her the day. Wood needed to be chopped for use in the fireplace and the ancient wood-burning stove that sat in the kitchen. Once that was done she would find something light to eat, whether it be apples if the trees were producing or sweet potatoes from her garden. The rest of her day was spent tending to her garden, mending and cleaning her meager wardrobe and checking her traps to see if she had captured any animals. These things needed to be done in rain or snow, but some days Isabella wished she could spend her time lying in the warm sun and reading her mother's books. She would imagine herself in the fairytale world portrayed in her favorite stories. Isabella could not believe that the things described in those books actually existed, but in her dreams they did. There must have been something that drove her mother into the woods, and that was the only reason Isabella resisted thinking about what might lay outside her little cottage.

**()*()**

Edward Cullen sighed as he looked over his match letters once again. He had busted his ass over the past few years to get through his undergrad and medical school and he finally could see the light at the end of the tunnel. The problem was, he was not sure he wanted to head towards that light anymore. Since he entered Kindergarten it had been work…work…work. He tested off of the charts early on and was bumped ahead in second grade and again his sophomore year of high school. He graduated from high school at just 16 and managed to get his undergraduate degree in chemistry in three years. Medical school proved to be more difficult than he had imagined, but he made it through and now held in his hand match letters to three of the most prestigious teaching hospitals in the country. His parents were overjoyed, as well as his brother and sister. The problem was…Edward was lost.

Growing up, all Edward wanted to be was a doctor. He wanted to help people like his father did. When he was younger, he watched his father deliver babies and help comfort the dying. He wanted nothing more than to follow in his father's footsteps. Now, with his dream within reach, all he could think about was what he had given up to get there.

Edward did not have a normal childhood. He was smarter than everyone around him and it always made him feel alone. Even when he went to Dartmouth he was still lonely because no one seemed to understand him. He did not participate in the usual college experiences since he was always studying, only losing his virginity due to the overwhelming attention from one of his teaching assistants. His older brother had stayed near their Seattle home and attended the University of Washington. Whenever he saw him, Emmett was constantly trying to get his brother out of his shell, to no avail. As much as he felt he was missing something, Edward was content with his life, until those letters came in the mail.

Sick of staring at the blurry words, Edward plopped down on his childhood bed. He had returned home after he finished med school since he was not quite sure where he would start his residency. His parents had welcomed him in with open arms. Emmett was out on his own now, having started his own Landscape Design company in Seattle and their younger sister Alice was still in school in LA at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. The house seemed empty without any kids, and Carlisle and Esme were more than happy to have their middle child home for a while.

Edward closed his eyes and relaxed, trying to clear his mind of the overwhelming thoughts that were constantly racing through his brain. As he drifted into sleep, he could almost smell the dirt and trees that signaled he was heading into his favorite dream.

"Alice, please slow down. We are going the wrong way and if we don't get back to Emmett before Mom and Dad wake up we are going to be dead." Edward shouted as he watched the back of his sister's dress disappear through the thick trees.

"Come on Edward, we never do anything fun. Just think of this as an adventure!" Alice yelled as she plunged deeper into the Washington wilderness. They were spending the last weekend of August in their cabin that lay far off the beaten path on the shore of Baker Lake. The siblings were now even further from civilization, having run off from their bossy big brother while taking a walk. Edward finally caught up to his sister and pushed ahead, hoping that by some miracle they had gotten turned back around and were heading towards the cabin. He could see a clearing up ahead and something pulled deep within his gut, urging him forward. 

"Edward, you're right, we really do need to find Emmett. He is going to be in so much trouble when Mom finds out we got lost." Alice said nervously as she pulled on Edward's arm, but he did not acknowledge her. He tugged out of Alice's hold as he walked towards their discovery. The cottage was well cared for, with a broom propped up against the wall and what looked to be a well tended garden behind it. 

"ALICE! EDWARD?" Emmett yelled from a distance, but the sound barely got through to Edward.

"That's Emmett. Come on Edward, if we make it back to him before Mom finds out maybe we can still stop for ice cream before we have to head back." Alice chirped as she once again tried to yank on his arm to get his attention. She finally released him and started back towards where Emmett's voice had originated. Edward found himself unable to move from the spot. He knew someone was living in the cottage and somehow he knew it was important for him to find out whom. He looked around, but found no one. Giving up, he turned around to head back to his family, but a sound from high in the trees above him made him spin around. There, ten feet off the ground, perched on a branch sat a young girl. Her brown hair was tied back in a tail, the ends curling to the middle of her back. Her hands gripped the tree tightly and her dress was dirty and ragged. His eyes followed the pale line of her throat to her face and he found his breath lodged in his chest. Her full lips were parted as her breath escaped her in terrified pants. Her small nose was centered perfectly between two overly-large deep brown eyes. Her lashes brushed her cheekbones as she blinked rapidly. He could almost feel her terror from where he stood. He wanted to go to her, to hold her and tell her she had nothing to fear, but looking around the meadow at her home he understood that he could do none of those things. If his parents learned of what he had found, she would be taken. He hated having to leave her there alone, but knew it was the only thing he could do. Walking back into the forest, he felt like he was leaving a part of his soul behind. As he reached the edge of the meadow, he heard her call to him.

"Come back to me."

Edward woke up panting with sweat dripping from his forehead. Everything in the dream had been so vivid. He remembered that trip to the cabin perfectly, it was the summer before he started college. From that day on he had that dream every night, but this time it was different. She had never spoken to him before. Before he could convince himself otherwise, he jumped off his bed and grabbed his cell phone. He had some calls to make.

A/N: So? What do you think?

A rec for you all:

Fly With me, Little Bird by Nathyette

A lonely, broken Bella

A tormented Edward who only wants to make things right

Throw in some nasty James and Laurent

Makes for one hell of a fic