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A/N: I started another new story, trying to figure out which

stories appeal to more people so let me know if you like

this one and I'll continue with it. Please don't forget to

review if you like it otherwise I won't know and it'llprobably end up being a forgotten story!

Disclaimer: Don't own the characters

Chapter One

I marched through the school halls with confidence and

determination as I headed towards Edward Cullen, who

was leaning against the wall near our biology class. He was

involved in a heated conversation with his sister Alice, by

the looks of it. They both glanced in my direction even

though I was still a few feet away and there was no possible

way they could have heard me approaching with all the

students walking in front of me. Yet they looked straight at

me as if they knew I was coming.

Edward narrowed his eyes at me and I nearly chickened

out. But I reminded myself that I have the right to know

what was going on. How did he push the van away and

why was he avoiding me? Im going demand an answer

today and I wont let him brush me off again.

Alice smiled at me, and Edward glared daggers at her. Sherolled her eyes before walking away and strolled towards

her next class.

Edward shot me a hard and icy look before moving to step

inside the classroom. I practically ran the last few steps to

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prevent him from escaping my wrath. I stood directly in

front of him and he had no choice but to back up. He

clenched his jaw and balled his hands into fists.

What do you want? his voice was still velvety despite theharsh tone.

I placed my hands on my hips and attempted my best shot

at giving him an angry glare. I want an explanation.

He avoided my gaze and looked at everything except for

me. Im not giving you one. When will you just drop it

and move on with your life?I crossed my arms across my chest. Never.

Now he looked at me. Our eyes locked and anger flickered

across his features. Then I guess youre never going to be

satisfied.

He slid past me and entered the classroom. I stood there,

dumbfounded. Im never going to get an answer out of him.Maybe I should just give up. I sighed in disappointment

and trailed behind the group of students entering the

classroom.

Edward was already sitting down by the time I pulled the

chair from underneath the table, letting it squeak against the

floor. He didnt even look over at me. I sat down and

exhaled dramatically, trying to gain his attention. He didnteven move a muscle. He is absolutely infuriating!

Mr. Banner began his lecture and I tried my hardest to pay

attention but I found myself stealing glances at Edward;

and if he noticed, he was doing a fantastic job at pretending

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he didnt.

The clock ticked by slowly, and half way through the class,

I noticed Edward tense in his chair and he snapped his head

towards the door. I looked at him curiously but he ignoredme and continued looking at the door, as if he could see or

hear someone standing on the other side. Which was

impossible since the door was closed and I couldnt hear a

thing.

I continued staring at him and his eyes finally shifted to

mine. He almost lookedworried. But after a couple

seconds, his features hardened and he gave me a murderousglare.

Miss Swan! Mr. Cullen! I heard Mr. Banner shout at the

front of the classroom. I abruptly turned my head towards

him but Edward kept his face pointed at me and only

moved his eyes to look at our teacher. Would you two

mind ogling each other at another time? Say after class is

finished? Right now Id like to have your attention, please.

Mild laughter came from everyone except for Mike. I

looked back to see Mike glaring at the back of Edward's

head, and then he turned towards me and softened his face

before smiling. I returned the smile, and took a peek at

Edward, who was now facing the front of the class with a

serious expression on his face. When didnthe look

serious?

Mr. Banner continued his lesson but only a few minutes

later, Edward stiffened again and shot out of his chair.

Before he could even move, the sound of an alarm filled the

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entire building and I could see flashing red and white lights

in the hallway from the small window on the door.

Everyone stood up and we all looked around in confusion.

The PA system crackled and I knew someone was about tomake an announcement. All students and teachers, please

remain in your classrooms and lock the door. This is an

emergency situation. I repeat, all students and teachers

remain locked in your classrooms. If you are not in a

classroom, lock yourself in the nearest secure room. Do not

leave the rooms under any circumstances. This is an

emergency situation.Loud chatter filtered through the room and I felt my heart

pound erratically. What is going on? I saw Edward push

past the students as he headed for the door, but Mr. Banner

jumped in front of him and locked the door.

Everyone, take a seat and please keep quiet! Mr. Banner

shouted over all the strident voices.

Edward looked like he was ready to break down the door so

he could escape but Mr. Banner gently pushed on his

shoulder and urged him back to his seat. Everyone pulled

out their cell phones and started calling or texting their

parents immediately.

I watched Edward sulk back to our table before he sat

down, looking defeated. A voice boomed behind me a Ijumped, startled by the closeness. I turned to see Mike

kneeling behind my chair, his face mere inches from mine.

I just got off the phone with my dad, he told me. Five

convicted prisoners escaped from Seattle and now theyre

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on our school campus hiding from the police. Theyre

believed to be armed and now theyre holding all of us

hostage.

My mouth gaped open and I couldnt believe it. Oh, mygod, I whispered, unable to say anything else.

I thought about Charlie, he must be worried sick now that

his only daughter is being held hostage by convicted felons.

A boy grabbed Mikes shoulder to tell him something and I

turned towards Edward. He rubbed the palm of his hands

over his face and looked distressed. Of course he was, fourof his siblings were somewhere in this building and he was

probably scared to death over their safety. But then I

remembered how tense he got before the alarm even went

off.

You knew, I accused. He lowered his hands and looked

me straight in the eyes. When you were staring at the door.

You knew I trailed off. Theres something about himthats so different from everyone else. Something unnatural

and non-human.

You dont know what youre talking about, Bella, he

snapped at me.

Mike walked back over to me and placed a hand on my

shoulder. Hey, were getting out of here. Come with us.

Were not going to wait around to be slaughtered by these

psychos.

I nodded my head, but I admit Im terrified of the idea of

wandering through the halls while there are five criminals

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with weapons out there. I started to stand up, but I felt a

cold hand wrap around my wrist. My eyes widened, and I

turned to see Edward glaring at me.

Youre not going out there, he commanded.

I jerked my arm away from him and he released me. Why

do you care what I do?

You dont know whats out there, Hhs stern and haunting

voice sent chills down my spine.

And you do?

He tightened his jaw. Dont go.

I rolled my eyes. Im sick of his games. I pushed my chair

back and stood up. Lets go, Mike, I said while staring at

Edward.

Edward furrowed his brows and looked extremely agitated

by me. I looked away and let Mike lead me towards the

small group of students who have decided to leave despitewhat the announcement said.

Mr. Banner was distracted by the crying students looking

for reassurance that theyre going to be okay while we crept

towards the door. I took one last look at Edward, he was

still seated, glaring at me. He doesnt care if anything

happens to me, why should I stay?

We snuck out of the classroom, and looked up and down

the hallway but saw no traces of any convicts lurking so we

tip toed down the hall and rounded a corner. We all stood in

a single line with our backs pressed up against the wall.

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The boy who grabbed Mike after he told me what was

going on was leading the group and I was at the very end of

the line.

We walked down another hallway which seemed to be clearbut I suddenly shivered and had a bad feeling about this.

My intuition kicked in and I felt like running back to the

classroom. I shouldnt be out here. This was a very stupid

idea! While I was lost in my thoughts, I heard a gasp at the

front of the line and everyone collided into each other. I

moved so I could look past everyone and I saw a man

holding a gun at the end of the hallway, staring at us.

Chapter Two

I froze in horror. My eyes lingered on the gun he held in his

hand. I knew nothing about guns so I could not say what

the name of his gun was. It was smallish, at least small

compared to a rifle, probably the only gun I couldrecognize, but despite its size, it had death written all over

it.

All it would take is a simple aim and the pull of a trigger to

end my life. Fortunately, he did not have the gun aimed at

anyone. It was pointed towards the floor but that did not

mean he wasnt able to whip it up and shoot one of us. He

looked like he wanted to. I could practically hear his evilplot brewing in his brain.

I somehow managed to remove my eyes from the escaped

prisoner and leaned back against the wall. My heart felt as

though it would spontaneously combust, and a cold sweat

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broke out all over my body. I was terrified, dizzy and

unable to think clearly. A thick haze distorted my vision

and everything felt so surreal. I could not believe this was

happening.The boy at the front of the line spoke to the criminal but my

labored breathing prevented me from hearing him clearly. I

knew he was pleading, trying to negotiate with the gunman.

I heard a loud bang and jumped. Mike nudged me in the

ribcage with his elbow on accident and turned to look at

me.

Bella, run! he shouted, and shoved me in the oppositedirection of the prisoner.

I didnt even take a second to think, I just ran like he told

me to. Once we got to the corner, I peeked behind me and

saw Mike and another girl following me. Beyond them, I

saw someone lying on the floor but I couldnt see much

because Mike grabbed my waist and forced me to continue

running.

Do notlook back, Bella! his voice came out shaky as he

jogged behind me.

I could hear the girl panting and sobbing behind me, and I

wanted to know what just happened. Why were only those

two running with me? There were a total of six of us when

we left the classroom. I glanced back again and Mikeyelled at me. Bella! Do. Not. Look. Back.

Before I could even face forward again, I collided into

something solid. I stumbled back and almost fell but two

long arms steadied me, and I peered up to see familiar pale

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I shoved my hands against his chest. I didnt think this

would happen!

Exactly! he yelled at me. You didnt think! I toldyou

not to go.

I huffed, Youresuch a hypocrite! You were out in the

hall, you were trying to flee just like the rest of us!

He clenched his jaw. I was coming after you! he hissed

inches from my face.

I stared at him with wide eyes, and my breathing was still

erratic and unstable. What?

He stepped closer to me so our bodies were nearly

touching, and I felt the cold radiating off of him. He glared

down at me and I shivered. His lips parted and his body

went rigid.

A tear slid down my cheek and my lips trembled. Theyre

dead, arent they? His face softened at the sound of myvoice, and his body relaxed. The people we left behind.

Are they dead?

Edward swallowed hard and took a big step back. He

turned his head away from me as Mr. Banner appeared.

Whats going on over here? Mr. Banner demanded.

Sorry, Mr. Banner. Bella and I were having amisunderstanding. It wont happen again. Edward said

smoothly.

Mr. Banner nodded his head. Were all a bit wound up.

Why dont you two go back to your seats?

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I pushed myself off the wall, and Edward stood still, he

didnt start moving until I walked past him. He stayed

directly by my side as we headed towards our table.

What is wrong with you? I whispered as we continuedwalking. You saved me and discarded me immediately

afterwards once before. Why do you keep rescuing me if

you hate me so much?

He grabbed my elbow gently and stopped me from

walking. You think Id waste my time on a danger magnet

if I hated you? If I truly hated you, Id just let you die.

I scoffed. Stop lying. I know you regret saving me from

the van. You look at me like you wish I would just

disappear.

He ran his fingers through his hair and sighed in

annoyance. Youre so blind.

Excuse me? What the hell did that mean?

He shook his head and started walking away. He sat down

at the table as I stared at him. No one else confuses me

more than he does.

I took my seat and looked at him. You havent answered

any of my questions.

Yeah, well, I dont intend on changing that now, he spoke

bitterly, and I inhaled a sharp breath.

I opened my mouth but pounding on the door distracted

me, and I turned to see bloody fists beating against the

window on the door. I heard a crunching sound and turned

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back towards Edward to see him crumbling a piece of the

table between his fingers. His eyes darkened and his body

was unnaturally tense. I grabbed his hand to stop him, and

his face snapped towards me.What are you doing!? I asked, shocked.

The door opened and a boy tumbled inside, covered in

blood. Edward literally growled, and I suddenly felt afraid

of him.

Chapter Three

Edward POV

The smell of fresh blood filled my nostrils, and my throat

instantly burned and ached with desire. I had to restrain

myself from jumping out of my chair, tackling the boy

coated in blood and plunging my teeth into his flesh. I

gripped the table until the wood began crumblingunderneath my fingers.

I was vaguely aware of Bella touching my hand and

screeching something at me. My head jerked towards her,

and I silently cursed myself for making the movement

much too rough. I gazed into her eyes and saw her

frightened expression.

I had seen that look before. The first day she attended this

school. My face relaxed and I stopped breathing. It was

unnecessary to breathe, but it still felt so strange not to. I

focused all of my attention on her and ignored the boy

being dragged deeper into the room by Mr. Banner and

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another kid.

Her small fingers were still wrapped around my large hand,

and the heat from her body scorched my skin. I knew I

must feel ice cold compared to her, but she never releasedher grip. She never ceased to intrigue me, and that isnt a

good thing.

Bella released my hand and I tore my gaze away from her.

A human should never have this amount of control over a

monster like me. It was wrong in so many ways. She

already knows too much, and I have to keep my distance so

her suspicions wont become accurate. It would bedangerous for both my family and for herself.

I kept my facial expression neutral. Not allowing her to see

the torment coursing through me. Being so close to her

her smell. Alluring me. Pleading with me drain her

completely.

I snapped out of it and focused on something lessfrustrating. I began reciting the declaration of independence

to keep my thoughts away from her.

Now Im just boring myself to death. Death. I huffed

internally. I wish I had the ability to die. To be normal. To

get rid of these trivial and useless voices in my head

because of myspecial talent. And so I wouldnt have the

urge to tear my biology partner apart with my teeth.

I avoided glancing at Bella and the scene a few feet away.

The idiot covered in blood was the reason why a few of the

children, including Bella, left this room and searched for

trouble. The punk should be grateful to be alive. Instead, he

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is planning his next venture out into the halls for revenge.

No one else knows yet, and Ill make sure the girl sitting

next to me doesnt join his next suicide adventure.

I wasnt entirely sure why, but I cared more about her lifeand welling being more than any other student in this

building, save for my family. But I knew they would be

fine. Theyre capable of handling this situation.

Bella, on the other hand, attracts danger like nothing Ive

ever seen before, and thats saying something. I should

want her to die. Shes torturing me with her smell and shes

placed in life threatening situations daily. Especially withme around. But I can feel my anger rising as the thought of

her lifeless body filtered through my mind.

Im thinking about Bella again.How the hell did that

happen? This girl is ruining me. I could hardly wait until

graduation, when I never have to face her again.

An odd emotion swept through me at that thought. Anemotion I didnt understand and never felt before.

I shook my head so subtly that no human would have

noticed. Enough about her. Shes just a typical girl. A

typical girl I cant read. Stop. Shes nothing to me.Ignore

her.

Bella POV

I sat still, completely dumbfounded. One moment, Edward

is glaring at me like hes about to murder me. The next, he

looks away with a blank expression on his face. I dont

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understand him. I think he may be bipolar. Im certain I

shouldnt voice my opinion on that, though. He might

actually attack me. And I wouldnt be surprised in the least.

Not with the way he looks at me.The smell of fresh blood pouring out of the boys wounds

made me feel nauseous. Im going to throw up, or worse,

faint. Sitting next to Edward Cullen while Im unconscious,

probably not a good idea.

I averted my eyes so I couldnt see the injured boy lying on

the ground from the corner of my eye. That meant I had to

stare directly at Edward, who was still facing forward withno emotions written on his face.

I heard the sound of a bone cracking, and I shuddered.

Gasps and cries of disgust rang in my ears and I couldnt

take it anymore. I needed to get out of here. Lock myself in

a closet, or something.

Before I could even move, I felt breathing on the back ofmy neck. I turned my head slightly to be faced with Mike

Newton. He was leaning over me and our lips were nearly

touching. I jerked my head back from the surprise of how

close he was to me, he looked hurt for a brief moment but it

didnt take long for him to regain his confident composure.

Are you okay? He tried to sound mature and brave but it

didnt work on me. I knew he was just as frightened as therest of us.

I shook my head slowly. Not really.

Since I turned my head, I now had a clear view of what was

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happening on the floor. The boy's face contorted in pain,

and he looked completely agonized. Mr. Banner touched

his limbs, inspected the damage and clearly found plenty of

it. The boy was broken. And bloody.So much blood.

I felt woozy.

The room blurred around me and the voices became

distance, like an echo. Everything spun and made me dizzy.

My head moved closer to the black table top but Im didn't

move it.Did I? I heard a loud thud, and the darkness tookover.

EPOV

Watching Newton practically shove his face against Bellas

made me clench my jaw and ball my hands into tight fists. I

wanted to punch him. Over and over again. There was noreason for that irrational emotion. I tried to push it aside but

his hormonal thoughts about caressing her lips with his

made me fume with even more fury.

Why do I care? I should push those together. Get her out of

my hair. Let them date and do all of the normal teenage

things together. But I wont. I dont want her with him. She

can do better. She deserves better. She deserves someonelikesomeone likeme? No. Definitely not. Not

happening.Ever. Im banishing that thought from ever

entering my mind. Its repulsive. At least, it should be. But

Im not cringing at the thought. My mind has wandered

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into the gutter. Enough of this.

I was about to turn away again, but I noticed her body sway

while she remained in her chair. Her face practically turned

green, and I watched in horror has her head collided withthe table. Voices of concern surrounded me. Students

nearby crowded around Bella.

Mr. Banner! Mike shouted above everyone else.

Something is wrong with Bella!

No shit, Sherlock.

I pictured my fist contacting his jaw, and I smirked. That isa good image. There was a tiny voice shouting inside my

head. A familiar voice. It was getting stronger, louder. I

recognized it immediately. Alice. Shes trying to tell me

something.

Chapter FourEdward POV

Edward.

I heard Alices tiny voice. I stiffened in my seat. Blocking

out every voice except for hers.

Theyre coming. Two of them.

I saw the flashes. Two men barged in the classroom, waved

their guns and kept us captive. Bella woke up, screamed,

and successfully gained the attention of the men. Another

flash of them grabbing her. Hurting her. A flash of me

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exposing what I truly am. For her. Risking everything.

Again. Forher. A human.

I cant allow for that vision to come true. I could scoop

Bella up and flee the campus. We all could. My family. Butit would be too risky. Once this is over, people would

surely notice were missing and want an explanation for

how my entire family escaped without being seen. It would

be too suspicious.

I crossed escaping off my list and went for plan B. The

irritating students were still surrounding Bella. Wondering

if she spontaneously died from sheer fright.Morons.

I heard two voices coming down the hall. Not voices.

Thoughts. I abruptly reached for Bella and shook her a bit

too roughly. Wake up. Her eyes are still closed, and she was

breathing evenly.Damn it. I poked her on the shoulder. It

was actually more like jabbing, but I needed her to wake

up.

What the hell, Cullen? Mike seethed. Dont hit her!

I glared at him. My father is a doctor. I know what Im

doing.

Mike scoffed. Id like to see the text about injuring the

victims to make them better.

I clenched my jaw. Im not injuringher. Im just urgingher to wake up.

Well, youre urgingis going to cause her physical

damage, he retorted.

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I felt like poking him and asking if he feels physically

damaged now. Damn kid. Go away.

I grabbed Bellas shoulder. Gently this time, to humor

Newton. Bella, I whispered softly, only meant for her tohear. However, Mike was too damn close and he could hear

anything I said.

Leave her alone, Mike demanded. Just let her rest.

I kept my hand on Bellas shoulder and leaned over her, but

I shifted my eyes to give Mike a death stare. Shouldnt

you be in your seat? I said through clenched teeth.While Mike and I were having our 'conversation', the other

students hopped away, one at a time.

Mike shrugged his shoulders and finally walked away. I

took a deep breath so I could sigh. That was a mistake. A

very big mistake. Bellas unique smell hit me full force,

along with the kid lying on the floor. My hands were still

touching Bella. They were so close to her neck. I couldsnap it andno. Stop it.

The sound of a chair screeching against the floor gained my

attention. I turned my head to see Mike slide his chair

between Bella and I.

You havegotto be kidding me.

If looks could kill, hed be slumping over the chair, lifeless.

What are you doing? I barked at him.

He shrugged his shoulders. Taking a seat, he smiled

smugly. Your idea.

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I just stared at him. Not here youre not, I pushed away

his chair. Go back to your table.

Mike tilted his head to the side, as if he were thinking about

something, then he shook his head. Nah. I think Ill stayhere and play nurse to Bella when she wakes up, he

glanced her. Shell need it.

All I have to do is raise my arm and collide my fist with his

jaw. It would surely send him flying across the room with a

broken jaw. While I thought about that, he pushed his chair

back to the table and took a seat between me and Bella.I

dont think so.

I stood up, and pulled my chair from underneath the table.

Mike thought I was giving up and letting him and Bella

have the table. I grinned as I stood behind him and pushed

his chair, with him still sitting on it, to my side of the table.

His eyes widened and he stared at me in surprise. He

wasnt expecting that.

I was about to slide my chair between Mike and Bella but

decided against it. The convicts were lurking in the

hallway. Discussing their plan. I didnt want to give them a

clear view of Bella. I tenderly stroked Bellas hair and

placed the strands behind her ears. Once her hair was out of

her face, I slid my hand underneath her head so it was no

longer lying on the table and lifted her back against the

chair. She groaned, coming back to consciousness as I

scooted her chair to the center of the table. Her eyes were

starting to open, and I placed my chair in her previous spot.

All three of our chairs were crowded underneath the table.

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Mike's chair and my chair were both pressed against

Bellas. She was sandwiched in between us.

She was mostly awake now, and rubbed her eyes. She

stiffened in her seat when she finally realized our newseating arrangement. She looked from me to Mike.

I came over to look after you, Mike explained. Edward

was abusing you.

I sent him a glare over Bellas head. She turned to look at

me with a confused look on her face. Her eyes asking the

unspoken question. I shook my head. Thats not exactlycorrect.

Two creases appeared between her brows. After a few

seconds, she hissed in pain and rubbed her shoulder, where

I had poked her. I grimaced.

See? Mike spoke with a stupid grin on his face. Thats

Edwards handiwork.

She just winced and snapped her eyes shut. Did I really

poke her that hard?

The door flew open. Mr. Banner had forgotten to lock it

after he dragged the boy inside. Just like in Alices vision,

the two men with guns ran in, and waving the guns around.

One was tall and plump. He had pale skin, long dark brown

hair pulled back and blue eyes. Bags underneath his eyes.

The other was several inches shorter, muscular and tan. He

had short dark hair and brown eyes. The students screamed,

some of them placed their heads on the table, others

crawled underneath their tables, and the rest sat in their sits,

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absorbing what was going on.

I heard Bella whimper, and I turned to face her. Our eyes

met and I heard her heart speed up. I had an odd feeling it

wasnt because of the men who had just barged in. Herheart didnt react that way until I looked at her. Do I have a

terrifying look on my face? I furrowed my brows,

completely confused as to why she would react that why

when I looked at her.

Bella POVThe last thing I remembered was becoming dizzy, and then

nothing. Lights out. When I started coming around, my

head was throbbing but I felt cold fingers brush against my

face and it soothed me. I then felt like I was being lifted

back and I could no longer feel the table. It took awhile for

me to open my eyes. Everything was blurry at first.

My vision finally became clear. But something was wrong.I felt squashed. I looked over my shoulder to see Edward

sitting where I usually sat. I was confused. Then I looked

over my other shoulder and saw Mike. I was beyond

confused by that point.

Mike told me that Edward was abusingme, but Edward

denied it. I felt a pain in my shoulder, and it hurt pretty

badly. What the hell happened? I was still disorientated.

I heard the door open and freaked out when everyone

started screaming, and I watched as two people at the table

in front of me hid underneath the table. I leaned forward so

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I could look beyond Edward and saw two prisoners with

guns. I made an embarrassing noise, and Edward turned to

look at me.

He is so unbelievably gorgeous. His eyes were boring intomine, like they were peering into my soul. My heart raced

faster and nearly took my breath way. He furrowed his

brows so I looked away. He probably caught me staring at

him at like a love sick puppy. I think I disgust him.

Sit down! A groggy voice commanded. Everyone in

your seats, now! He demanded harshly, and now I was re-

experiencing the feelings I had in the hallway.

The men walked to the front of the classroom, and I tensed

up. They looked over each person. Mr. Banner was forced

against the wall, and one of the men was shouting

something at him. The other man, he was short and

muscular, walked to a table and banged the tip of his gun

against the table.

Cell phones, he shouted. Now.

The two kids at the tabled pulled out their phones and

handed them to the convict. He snatched them up and threw

them on Mr. Banners desk.

I want everyones cell phones. Pull them out. You have 10

seconds. He walked to the next table and collected those.

He repeated his action of grabbing them and throwing them

on the teaches desk.

I saw Edward and Mike take their phones out. I didnt

move. I dont have a cell phone. The convict went to each

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table, taking the phones and placing them on the desk. Mr.

Banner was in his chair now. The other prisoner loomed

over him.

The convict finally reached our table and grabbed Mikesand Edwards cell phones. He looked directly at me. Cell

phone. Now.

My throat felt dry. I-I dont have one.

He flexed his muscles and slammed the gun on the table. I

aint playing with you! His voice was so loud, it was

nearly deafening.I shook my head. I really dont have one.

I leaned in towards me and I flinched. Get up! He

shouted, and my heart fluttered.

Hey, she doesnt have a cell, man! Mike shouted back at

the man.

The escaped convict didnt even look at him. His eyes werelocked on mine. Get. Up.

I slowly pushed my chair back, and got ready to stand up

but Edwards arm shot out and he wrapped his hand around

my wrist. I looked at him incredulously. What is he doing?

Does he want to get us both killed?

Let her go, the convict told Edward.No, Edwards voice was full of authority and venom.

The convict pointed his gun at my face, and I felt Edwards

hand loosen around my wrist. He looked over at me and

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had an apologetic look on his face. Before I could say

anything to him, the prisoner walked behind me and jerked

me up.

I didnt scream. I refused to give him any sort ofsatisfaction. He dragged me to the front of the room and

pressed me up against a wall. My chest was crushed against

the wall, and I felt the man pat me down. Touching every

inch of my body. I winced, feeling violated and

embarrassed. I knew all eyes were on me.

After a few minutes, he spun me around and smirked. I

havent been this close to a woman in six years.

I heard a loud crash, and my eyes widened as I saw Edward

stand up, he looked ready to attack. I drifted my eyes to the

chair that he apparently threw across the room. He threw it

so hard that it was cracked.

Sit your ass down, kid! the convict commanded.

Edward didnt back down. He leered at the man, and it wasenough to even scare me. Then, suddenly and unexpectedly,

his face turned from dangerous to concerned. Seconds later,

the convict pressed me against him and held the gun to my

temple.

All I could do was stare at Edward, and think about the fact

that he obviously knew what was going to happen before it

did.

Chapter Five

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Alice POV

A part of me felt guilty and ashamed that I hadnt seen this

coming. My visions are subjective, only seeing the future

based on the decisions people make. Decisions can easilychange and my visions will be altered. The criminals who

overtook our school didnt plan on this. Holding us hostage

was never their original intention.

They hadnt decided to disrupt our lives until one of the

men saw the school and the idea immediately popped in his

mind. He knew they wouldnt get far because the police

were closing in. So, he came up with a quick plan thatwould buy him and the other escaped convicts some time.

I didnt see it until it was too late. I felt as though I let my

family and the kids at Forks High down. I could have

prevented it, had I known in advance. I could have done

something. Anything. Pull the fire alarm, maybe.

Something that would empty this building before the

prisoners even made it on campus.

I knew my family wouldnt hold it against me. They all

know how easily the future can take an unexpected turn. I

still felt guilty, though. A couple of the students had already

been killed and this was just the beginning.

The plan was in full force now. The criminals will not leave

this building until each and every single one of them isdead or they successfully escape without the police on their

trail. They have no intention of being taken into custody.

That means theyll stop at nothing to ensure that the police

listen to them and take them seriously. Including killing a

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student every hour, on the hour.

Their plan was to enter a classroom, two would go into one

classroom, and another two would go to a another

classroom. The remaining prisoner would wander the halls.Looking for kids trying to escape. It wouldnt do any of the

students any good. The convicts had already barricaded the

doors and windows. There was no way for them to escape.

That couldnt stop my family, though. But were staying.

We need to protect as many kids as possible without

showing what we truly are. This was going to be a difficult

task. Especially for Jasper and Edward.Unfortunately, one of the classrooms currently being

invaded was Edwards biology class. The only class he had

with the girl who allured him like no one else ever has. The

plan was clear, the convicts would kill a student in that

class every hour until the police gave them what they

wanted. Every hour that the police stalled, a student would

die. If the police give a little, there will not be a death.I sent a warning out to Edward. He changed the future

slightly, avoiding to expose himself. But my visions all

ended up the same. With the girl, Bella, near death. Then

she would change. Her brown eyes would become crimson.

Her already pale skin would become even lighter. The fury

Edward possessed in each of my visions made it obvious

that he cares for her a great deal more than even he knows.

I tried telling him, even before this incident. That a

relationship, far more than friendship or even the typical

high school boyfriend/girlfriend relationship, would

eventually exist between him and her. Despite his constant

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assurance that he wont let it happen, the future never

faltered in that aspect. It was inevitable. He was going to

fall in love with Bella Swan.

Edward POV

The vile thoughts I heard while rummaging through this

disgusting perverts mind made me lose my control. The

way he looked at her and thought about her. The things he

wanted to do to her...it made me burn with rage. I read his

mind, I knew why he was locked away in prison. Rape.I would tear him apart before I would allow him to touch

her in a sexual way. It wasnt just Bella that I felt that way

about. I wouldnt let him touch any of the girls here. He

was the sort of person that I had no problem killing. I

would make it a slow, torturous death if he acts on his

repulsive thoughts.

I knew the plan before Alice sent me her visions. They hadforty minutes until they would kill someone in this room.

Bella was in more danger than the rest of us. Shes the chief

of polices only daughter. They dont know it yet, but I

have no doubt that they will find out, and shell be attached

to their hips. Theyll use her a leverage and inflict an

unbearable amount of pain on her until Chief Swan

completes every of one of their demands. And I know hewould. I would if I were in his position.

I highly doubt they would just free her afterwards. Shed be

their ticket to freedom. They would take her with them, and

I would track them down and rescue her. She would see

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what I am, and I wouldnt go back to Forks. Id give it all

up. Forher. Why? I cant answer that. I dont know why.

I forced myself to calm down, and I sat back down. My

reaction to what he was doing to Bella was turning him on.He enjoyed my torment and obvious need to protect her. I

have to control myself better. I had to sit in Bellas chair

since I destroyed mine. Now it was it me and Mike at the

table. I cant stand him.

However, he did earn a few points when his only concern

was Bellas safety, and I realized he truly does care about

her and would never let anything happen to her either. Hewouldnt be such a bad choice for Bella. His cockiness still

annoyed me but he would treat Bella the way she deserves

to be treated. I felt another odd emotion at the thought of

them dating. It hurt.

I gazed into Bellas eyes and saw the tears brimming,

threatening to spill over. My face fell and I wanted to

comfort her. But at the same time, I wanted to run awayfrom her. I want to be near her and I dont. My feelings are

so contradictory and its driving me insane. I dont know

what I truly want. I want to kill her and I want to protect

her. I want to leave and I want to stay. I sighed. Ive been

around humans for far too long. Theyre rubbing off on me.

I cant think logically anymore. My emotions are starting to

cloud my judgment

Bella POV

The gun was no longer pressed against my face, and I was

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relived about that but I was still terrified. I tried not to cry.

Honestly, I did. I hate crying. Especially in front of the

entire class. Though, in this situation, it actually was

acceptable for me cry. But I didnt want to. I wish I wasntweak. I wish I could fight back. I wish I could wake up

from this nightmare.

Things like this didnt happen to me. Sure, Ive been faced

in deadly situations. But not like this. My eyes met

Edwards and I felt a shiver tickle down my spine. My knees

felt wobbly. Blood rushed to my face. My heart pounded in

my ears. All I could see was him.It didnt take long for me to be snapped back to reality. I

felt a clammy hand on my shoulder and I recoiled. His

unpleasant smelling breath blew against my neck and ear. I

jerked my head away and accidentally stumbled, my back

pressed against his chest so I could regain my balance.

He chuckled darkly. Thats a good little girl.

I flinched and moved away from him. His arm encircled

my waist and he slammed me against him. My backside

collided into his chest and I let out an oof sound.

I looked back at Edward. He was glaring in my direction.

His eyes were narrowed and his jaw was clenched so

tightly that I thought his teeth wouldnt be able to withstand

the pressure he was applying.

The prisoner raised his hand and brought his fingertips to

my neck. Trailing the tip of his fingers up and down the

length of my neck. I let out a shaky breath and closed my

eyes. Im going to have a panic attack. This isnt real. Its

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not real. I tried to urge myself to imagine myself far away

from here. Tried to block everything out.Im not here. Im

not trapped against an escaped convict. I dont feel his

warm and damp hands touching me. I cant smell his stinkybreath, and I cant feel the way his warm breathe is sending

shivers down my body. And not in a good way. In a Id

rather die than be here right now way.

Somewhere nearby, a cell phone rang and the fingers on my

neck stopped moving. I snapped my eyes open, and the first

thing I saw was Edward. His eyes were nearly pitch black.

His body was rigid. He was absolutely livid.I sighed in relief as I felt the convicts body move away and

he marched over to the desk. I didnt bother looking at him.

I kept my eyes on Edward, and he kept his on me. His eyes

visibly lightened and he was beginning to calm down. His

gaze was the only thing that prevented me from throwing

myself on the floor and having a break down.

I couldnt look away, even if I wanted to. My face softenedand my entire body was relaxed, loose, comfortable. My

lips parted and my breathing was stable, peaceful. I

continued peering into his eyes and he did the same. His

lips also parted, and we were lost in each others eyes. The

outside world didnt exist in that moment.

Edward POV

I was completely and utterly captivated in that moment.

The voices and the people surrounding me faded. Bella was

the only person who existed. I felt peaceful and content

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while our eyes were locked together. My lips were slightly

parted, as were hers. I longed to reach out and stroke her

NO!

Our little bubble shattered, and I ripped my eyes away fromher. I would not let this happen. I will NOThave these

feelings for her. I barely know her, and she certainly

doesnt know me. Its not possible tofeel this way about

her. Something else is causing this. Alice stuck these

ridiculous ideas in my head. I dontfeel anything for Bella.

Its all an illusion.

I risked taking a peek at her and my heart crumbled. Shelooked hurt and betrayed. A solo tear glided down her soft

cheek and dripped off of her chin. I looked away. I cant

look at her anymore. My mind tried to make me feel things

I know arent possible.

Time is up, chief, I heard the short convict shout into one

of the students cell phone.

Since when was he talking on the phone? Damn Bella.

Damn this illusion. I lost focus, and now I need to catch up.

Time is up? For what? Then it dawned on me.

The other convict, the quieter one, the tall and cubby one.

He gripped his pistol and pushed himself off the wall. The

two convicts exchanged a knowing glance. I read their

thoughts. I know their names now. The shorter one isEmilio, and the tall one is Gerald.

I flashed my eyes to the boy lying on the floor, withering in

agony. I knew what was going to happen. I ccould prevent

it. I could save us all. But I read the boys thoughts. Hes in

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too much pain. Hes lost too much blood. He and I both

know he has a slim chance of making it out of this alive,

even if we were all rescued right this moment. His time was

fading with or without the convicts help of ending hismisery.

Gerald kneeled down besides the boy and nodded at

Emilio. Emilio smirked and muttered into the phone. You

have one more hour before the next kid dies.

Emilio grinned maliciously and stomped over to the boy

and Gerald. Emilio placed the phone directly above the

boys mouth so the person on the other end, Chief Swan,could hear the boy cry out in pain. Emilio took a step back

and Gerald stood up, he aimed his gun at the boy and got

ready to pull the trigger back.

My eyes shifted to Bella. She was still standing at the front

of the room, her eyes wide and she stared at the scene

happening a few feet away. She wouldnt look away. I dont

want her to see this. I nudged Mike in ribs, careful notbreak them. Go to her, I urged him.

He looked at me, slightly surprised. He turned to look at

Bella, and then back at me. I nodded my head.

Dont let her see that," I inclined my head towards the boy

and the criminals. "She needs you. On the outside, I was

cool, calm and collected. On the inside, I was dying andshouting at myself. Why am I pushing those two together?

To stop myself from feeling anything more forher. I

answered myself.

Mike didnt need to be told twice. He jogged over to Bella

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and wrapped his arms around her. Turning her body so she

couldnt see anything as the gunshot went off and I lowered

my head on the desk. Gripping my hair tightly and wanting

to explode.

Chapter Six

Bella POV

I was like a deer caught in the headlights. I couldnt look

away when the convicts loomed over their victim, the boy

who had been injured in the hall and survived, only to bebrought back to the room and targeted once again. They

aimed the gun at him and fresh tears sprung to my eyes. I

didnt want to watch. I felt the bile rising in my throat. But

I couldnt look away.

Unexpectedly, I felt myself being pulled away and warm

arms wrapped around my waist. I didnt even look to see

who it was. I was just thankful to be snapped out of mydaze. I buried my face against a solid chest when I heard

the gunshot echo in the room. People screamed and cried

and panicked.

At that very moment, I knew we were going to die. I was

going to die. Before my 18th birthday, before graduation,

before I have the chance to walk down the aisle in a white

gown, before I am even able to give birthIm going todie.

My body shook as I sobbed against the man holding me in

his arms. Everything I had ever worked for, itll all be taken

away within the next few hours. Im certain of it.

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I trailed my hands up to the mystery mans shirt collar,

clutched the fabric and pulled it down. Gripped and pulled.

A door swung open, and I twisted my head to see one of the

convicts open the door and the other attempted to lift thelimp body. He picked him up a few inches off the floor but

dropped him back down. He searched the room for

something, and his eyes landed on a male student, one I

really didnt know very well. I just knew his name was

Steven.

The convict snapped his fingers at Steven and pointed to

the dead body on the floor. Steven went pale when herealized what the convict wanted. He slowly pushed his

chair back and helped the convict lift the body off the floor.

I looked away. I didnt want to know what they were going

to do with the boy.

I heard a loud thud and shuddered. Two arms were still

wrapped around my waist, and I peered up to see Mike

Newton. Im not really surprised that its him. A bitdisappointed, but not surprised. I was hoping he was

someone else. I think I know who I wanted him to be, but I

refused to think about it.

The door slammed shut and I shivered involuntarily. Mikes

arms around me tightened, and I leaned into him. Id rather

be pressed against Mike instead of facing the convicts.

Boots squeaked against the floor and footsteps headed in

my direction. I didnt know what was going on because I

wasnt looking, but I felt Mike nod his head and he raised

one hand to my upper arm and grasped it gently. He tugged

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me towards the lab tables, and I was relieved that I didnt

have to stand in front of the classroom anymore.

We approached my table and I tried to make eye contact

with Edward but his face was in his palms. He didnt lookup. I was surprised when Mike didnt stop at the table.

Instead, he took me to an empty table and made me take a

seat.

I glanced around the classroom. Every single person had

tear streaks running down their face. Except for Mike and

possibly Edward. I could tell Mike was worried and

frightened on the inside. I could see it in his eyes. But hedid an amazing job of pretending to be strong and

composed on the outside.

This is what were going to do, the short convict said

while pacing in front of the room. When I am finished

giving instructions, you will all stand up and push your

table towards the windows. Stack the chairs on top of the

tables and come back to the center of the room. Youregoing to sit on the floor, in a circle. There will be no

talking. There will be no plotting. You are to sit completely

still, and only speak when spoken to by either myself or

Gerald. He nodded his head to the gigantic guy. You can

address me as Emilio. Raise your hand if you have a

question. A few students raised their hands, and he paused

for a moment. The only acceptable questions are: Can Iuse the restroom? and Can we eat? and Will you please

kill me?.

Hands lowered, and my heart pounded.

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If you wish to die, Emilio continued, I will be happy to

oblige. Volunteers would be great. Otherwise, I will have to

choose and anticipation is almost as worse as death. A few

sobs echoed throughout the room. Most of you willdie.Maybe all of you. Depends on whether or not the

government cares about your lives. My guess is no. In

which case, every person in this building will die.

He paced in front of us for a couple of minutes before

halting, and looked at each face. He pursed his lips.

Unless he trailed off, and his eyes flickered to the

ceiling. Several moments later, he looked back at us. Ifanyone in this room has a connection with the police,

political figures, military He started pacing again. If

any of you are related to someone important, someone who

has authoritysomeone who will give me what I want in

exchange for your livesthere is a good possibility most of

you will notdie. He stood still again. Anyone?

From the corner of my eye, I noticed a few heads turn inmy direction. Shit. If I have the opportunity to save most of

us, I have to take it.

Emilio noticed that a few students looked towards me, and

his eyes shifted to me. He smirked and walked towards me.

You again, huh?

My father has connections, a velvety voice came out of

nowhere. I turned my head to see Edward speaking. I

could call him, and hell figure out a way to help you.

Why is he doing this? His dad is a doctor. How much

authority could he have?

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Emilio grinned and shook his head. I want to know who

she knows. He looked straight into my eyes. Well?

I sank into my chair and found it incredibly difficult to

open my mouth. My lips parted slightly but I couldnt findmy voice.

I heard a sigh coming from the other side of the room. Her

dad is the chief of police.

I flinched when I heard the female student rat me out.

Emilio smiled widely. Is that so? he said, and lowered his

head towards mine. I was just talking to your daddy, hesmiled even wider. He never mentioned having a daughter

in the school. Are you having family issues?

I closed my eyes and leaned as far away from him as I

could.

Does your daddy care that youre in here? he asked with

chuckle.Leave her alone, Mike demanded.

Emilio straightened up and cleared his throat. He looked

around the room. How many of your parents would plead

for your safety if they had me on the phone?

Slowly, hands started raising. Everyone except for Edward

and Mike had risen their hands. Mike glared at Emilio, andEdward turned in his seat so his body was facing my table.

An intelligent person wouldnt tell a murderer that their

child is within arms reach of them, Edward proclaimed.

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opened his mouth, but Edward walked past and muttered,

come on.

I turned away from Mike and followed Edward to the front

of the class room, towards Emilio and Gerald. Mr. Bannerwas unnaturally quiet and was still seated at his desk.

Gerald whispered something to Emilio, and Emilio nodded

with a serious expression on his face. Edward and I reached

them. Once we stopped walking, Edward abruptly took a

step forward so he wasnt standing by my side anymore.

Emilio motioned for us to follow him while Gerald pulledhis gun out and ordered everyone to create a circle on the

floor.

Edward and I followed Emilio to the door, and I almost

gasped when he opened it and walked out into the hallway.

I saw a bloody body lying in the middle of the hallway. The

boy. The one they had killed. They just left him there. I

looked at Edward, hoping he would look back at me thistime. But he didnt. He kept his eyes forward and avoided

my burning gaze. I know he could sense me staring at him.

I wasnt being discreet about it.

Emilio continued walking and held out a cell phone in my

direction. He peered at me from underneath his eyelashes.

Call your dads personal number, and hand me the phone

once it starts ringing.

I reluctantly took the phone and dialed Charlies cell phone

number. Before it even had the chance to ring, Emilio

snatched it and pressed it against his ear. It took a few

seconds for my dad to answer.

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Chief Swan, how nice to hear your voice again, Emilio

spoke loudly. I have something that belongs to you.

He paused for a few seconds, listening to my dad reply.

She has beautiful eyes, Emilio taunted. Does she lookmore like you or her mother?

I could hear shouting on the other end but I couldnt

understand what Charlie was saying. Emilio laughed. You

know the demands. You have half an hour until the next

student dies, he paused, And Mr. Swan, your daughter is

next on the list. Without saying another word, he snapped

the cell phone shut and grinned at me. Show time.

This was it. My time was almost up.

You, Emilio glanced at Edward. Whats your name?

Edward looked annoyed, and clearly restrained himself

from pouncing on Emilio. Edward Cullen, he rasped

through his teeth.

Emilio stopped walking and turned to face Edward. Well,

Eddie, he smiled at Edward's discomfort. Do your thing.

Emilio shoved the cell phone against Edwards chest, and

Edward grabbed it roughly before dialing a number. Once

Edward was finished, Emilio yanked the phone out of his

hands with more force than he used with me.

Emilio pressed the phone against his ear yet again. Is this

Edward Cullens father? Brief pause. I have your son,

and he claims you can help me with a little situation I found

myself stuck in. Pause. Yes, thats right. Pause. Half an

hour until another student dies.

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Edward leaned towards me. Yes, he said without looking

at me.

I raised my eyebrows. What?

He flickered his eyes to mine and gave me a hard glare. He

looked away within a second. I sighed. What the hell is

wrong with him?

Emilio also gave Edward an odd look but shrugged his

shoulders and continued talking to Dr. Cullen. If my goal

cant be accomplished within that time frame, Chief Swans

daughter will be killed on national television.Edward covered his hand over his mouth and muttered

something else. What the hell?

I want, Emilio talked into the phone, every police car,

every officer, and every swat team member off of this

property within half an hour. That is my only demand at the

moment. If that does not happen, you know what I will do.

Work your magic, Mr. Cullen.

Emilio snapped the phone shut. He look from Edward to

me. Shall we?

He turned and motion for us to follow him. We reached the

school entrance door, and he grabbed a fist full of my hair

and dragged me in front of him. He pushed Edward ahead

with his free hand. Open the door, he commanded.

Edward complied and opened the door. I widened my eyes.

There were patrol cars all over the place. Along with two

fire trucks and an ambulance. I could also spot a white van

and a news team. The camera was pointed at us. Police

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officers kneeled on the ground, behind the protection of

their opened doors. Guns were aimed in our direction.

Emilio pushed me forward, his hand wrapped around my

hair and I felt a gun press against my neck. Edward wasstill ahead of us, he held his arms up, and Emilio moved to

stand beside him.

In twenty five minutes, Emilio shouted, I will kill this

girl unless you vacate the premises.

There was no movement. They obviously had no intention

of leaving. A man stepped forward, and I recognized him

immediately. Charlie. My dad.

Charlie raised his arms, showing he wasnt armed and

walked towards us. Emilio jammed the gun roughly against

my neck. Take one more step, and shes dead.

Charlie froze immediately. Im Chief Swan. I just want to

talk to you. Will you talk with me?

Emilio chuckled bitterly. Ive already spoken to you. Youknow what to do, he said, and pulled my hair back, which

made me scream out in pain, and my head lifted up on his

shoulder. He released my hair and wrapped his hand around

my neck. He breathed against my skin, and I shuddered.

Itd be such a pity to dispose of her. Perhaps I should

bring her back inside for 10 or 15 minutes so she can

experience a realman before she dies.

I winced, and a tear trickled down my face. I couldve

sworn I heard Edward growl.

Please, Charlie pleaded in a tone that I have never heard

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him use before. It brought more tears to my eyes. Youre

holding my reason for existing in your hands right now. If

anything happens, his voice cracked, to herI, his

eyes glazed over. I will do everything in my power to meetyour needs but you have to allow more time.

No, Emilio hissed. No more time.

Emilio released my neck, and grabbed Edward. He pushed

Edward back inside, and we backed up until we were all

inside the building. He slammed the door shut. But before

the door closed, I stared into my dad's eyes, and the look he

gave me, it will haunt me for the rest of my life. Howeverlong that may be.

Emilio shoved me against the wall, and I collapsed on the

ground. Breathless and crying. I choked on my sobs. I

looked up and saw Edward through my blurry eyes. He

stood a few feet away and looked like he was in pain. But

his eyes continued to refuse to meet mine.

Now we play the waiting game, Emilio said has he

leaned against the wall and sat down beside me. Twenty

more minutes.

I closed my eyes and thought about running out that door. If

I could distract him somehowbut what about everyone

else in the school? Do I save myself or do I risk my life and

die bravely?

Minutes ticked by, and my death was approaching quickly.

This isnt how I want to spend my last few minutes alive.

I heard an engine start up. Followed by a few more. Emilio

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stood up and walked to the door. He opened it slightly and

peeked outside. I saw a smile creep on his face. Theyre

leaving, Emilio said, and he glanced down at me before he

shut the door. Your daddy just saved your life.I exhaled a breath I had held, and my body relaxed. Emilio

wanted to linger around for a bit to make sure everyone

leaves. The cell phone in his pocket rang, and Emilio pulled

it out. He was silent at first. Listening to someone on the

other end.

Bravo. You succeeded in keeping your daughter alive. For

now. My next demand wont be as simple. You haveexactly one hour to call the search for me and the others

off. Remove our pictures from the TV and internet. Stop the

media from talking about us. There was a long pause. I

dont care. Do it or you can bury your little girl six feet

under.

Emilio looked at me. You only get one minute, he said to

me, and walked over to me and held his hand out, offeringme the phone.

I took it and pressed it against my ear. Dad?

I heard a happy sigh on the other end. Bella. I will do

everything in my power to make sure youre safe. You just

stay strong. I willget you out of there. I promise you.

I sobbed into the phone. I know I dont say this enough,

but, I love you dad.

I love you too, Bells.

And dad, my voice quivered, if you cantsave me.

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Dont blame yourself. I dont blame you.

Bella, I swear on my life, I will die before I let anything

happen to you.

Dad the cell phone was snatched out of my hand. I

looked up to see Emilio press the phone against his ear.

You have an hour. Ill be watching the news, he slammed

the phone shut.

He looked at me, and then at Edward. Lets go.

We walked back to the classroom in silence. Everyone wasin a circle. Some were sitting, others were lying on their

sides or stomachs. But they still formed a circle. Mikes

head snapped up when we walked inside and our eyes met.

He looked concerned, so I moved to sit beside him. Edward

followed me and I thought he was going to sit next to me,

but he didnt. He continued moving and sat on the other

side of the circle. Once again, he wouldnt look at me.

Are you okay? Mike asked me in a sweet voice.

I shrugged my shoulders and looked down. He touched my

shoulder and I looked ahead, straight in front of me. My

eyes locked with Edwards. He was actually looking at me.

Edward POV

Carlisle spoke to me through his thoughts when he was on

the phone with Emilio. He wanted to know if the rest of our

family was safe, and if I could get us out of this mess. I

could, yes, but I wont risk it yet. Not until its absolutely

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necessary. I wasnt going to let Emilio kill Bella. I would

have exposed myself for her. I was thankful that it hadnt

come to thatyet.

I avoided her as much as I could. I knew she kept lookingat me, wanting me to return her gaze. I couldnt. She relies

on me too much, and I need to show her that Im not

someone she should turn to. The only thing I could think of

was to shun her. Shes a smart girl. Shell realize that I

dont want contact with her sooner or later.

I couldnt help but feel angry as Bella and Mike sat

together in the circle. He touched her and I read histhoughts. I saw Alices new vision. Theyre going to end up

together. He wants her, and Alice saw a relationship

forming between them. I pushed those two together. It was

my intention, but now that it was almost certain to happen,

I was pissed off. How can she just go for him? How low

can her standards possibly be?

I looked at her, openly this time. She seemed to havesensed me because her eyes lifted up and gazed straight

into mine. We sat there, staring at each other.

She looked away first and an odd emotion surged through

me.

Edward. I heard Alices voice enter my head. Stop ignoring

her. Youre making this worse for her.

I rolled my eyes and blocked her voice out. I dont want to

hear this again. Im a monster, and Bella is not. I wont

subject her to my lifestyle. She deserves better.

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*****************************************

Time flew by, and one by one, students began drifting to

sleep. Emilios demands were met. No more students were

killed for the rest of the day. It was pitch black outside nowand I closed my eyes, pretending to sleep. I peeked into a

few minds and watched some of their dreams. Some were

rather interesting, others were disturbing and related to the

current situation.

Hours went by and everyone was asleep by now. Wait.

Everyone is asleep.Everyone. I opened my eyes and sat up.

I confirmed it with my own eyes. Everyone, including theconvicts, were asleep. I quickly stood up and looked over

the students. I couldnt wake them all up without Emilio or

Gerald hearing us. But there was one particular person that

Im not leaving without.

As long asshe is safe, I told myself. I carefully stepped

over the sleeping bodies and leaned over the girl I was

looking for. Im getting her out of here.

Chapter Seven

Edward POV

I extended my arm and shook Bella gently. I propped my

other hand above her mouth, in case she would screamwhen she woke up. She moaned and I caressed her cheek.

Alice sent me another vision, and my family had already

left their classrooms. They were waiting for me in the hall

so we could come up with a plan to take the school back

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and get the rest of these kids out of here. My first priority

was to get Bella out. I had no doubt that the rest of the kids

would be okay for the time being, but going over Bellas

history, Id say she probably wouldnt be.Were going to fight the prisoners until every single student

and faculty member is safe and out of this building. We

cant kill the convicts, though. Wed be at a dangerously

high risk of drinking their blood, and none of us can afford

to lose control. After we drink from them, we would want

more, and wed possibly hunt down the innocent kids.

We have to come up with a plan to lure them into the openarms of the awaiting police officers while protecting every

student. It was going to be a difficult task since we have to

least acthuman. We can't give ourselves away if we want

to continue living in Forks.

Bella mumbled gibberish and I placed a finger to my lips.

Shh.

Her eyes opened sluggishly, and she was trying to adjust

her eyes to the darkness. After several seconds, her eyes

widened and she bolted straight up. I held her securely and

covered her mouth. Shh. Bella, its me.

She looked up at me, although I know she could only see

my outline. Its too dark for her to see any details.

Edward?

Yes, I whispered. Keep your voice down.

What are you doing? she whispered back.

I looked towards the door, and then back at her. Im taking

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you out into the hall. My family is waiting for us.

What? She asked slightly above a whisper, and I cringed

when I heard someone slip back into consciousness.

Mike stirred next to Bella. Great. It had to be him.

Bella? Whats going on? Mike asked in a harsh, groggy

voice.

Shut up! I snapped at him.

Cullen?

I balled my hands into fists. Shut the hell up! Iwhispered.

Gerald stopped snoring for a few seconds before starting up

again.Damn it. We don't have much time left. I grabbed

Bella's arm and jerked her up. She winced, and I mentally

berated myself. Mike tumbled forward and picked himself

off the floor.

Lay back down, Newton, I demanded.

Like hell I will! Mike nearly shouted.

I wanted to punch more than ever in that moment. I

grabbed Bellas hand, and forced her to follow me towards

the door. After a couple of steps, she nearly tripped. I

prevented her fall and lifted her in my arms, bridal style.

She took a sharp breath and I knew she was about to objectbut shook my head at her.

I managed to get out the door before Gerald woke up, and

Mike was practically on my heels. This kid is becoming a

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major nuisance. It is partially my fault, though. I basically

handed Bella to him on a silver platter.

What are we doing? Mike asked, sleep still evident in his

voice. Theres a guard out here somewhere. This isstupid.

I stopped walking and turned to face Mike with Bella still

in my arms. First of all, we arent doing anything. Bella

and I are meeting I shook my head. Why am I

explaining this to you? And second of all, hes not a guard,

hes a psychotic criminal. If you think this is stupid, then,

please, by all means, go back to the classroom. In fact, Iencourage it.

Bella patted her hand against my chest and tried to wiggle

free. Can I walk now? Ive been doing it since I was two

years old, I think I can handle it.

I half chuckled, half huffed. I think we need to go over the

basics again because you cant walk across a flat surfacewithout tripping.

She hit my shoulder playfully. Put me down.

I gingerly lowered her to the floor and she tried to take a

step but lost her balance. Why am I not surprised? I reached

out to steady her, and she looked up at me. A blush crept

across her cheeks and she looked away shyly. I raised my

eyebrows and held my arms out to her when she looked

back at me. Offering to carry her again.

She rolled her eyes and shook her head. I couldnt prevent

the grin that appeared on my face, and I shook my head at

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her knowingly. I told you

She cut me off with a gentle laugh. Shut it. I just woke

up!

I rolled my eyes. Excuses.

She shot me a funny look and it was adorable as hell. Id

like to be there whenyou first wake up. After a couple

seconds, she froze and closed her eyes in embarrassment.

Her cheeks turned an even darker shade of red. She opened

her eyes and peeked at me with a grimace on her face. I

didnt mean She raised a hand, searching for the rightthing to say. Ium

I just laughed at her. I cant remember the last time I had

actually laughed. She changed my entire mood in just an

instant. I feltalive. Normal. How can she possibly make

me feel this way? Its bizarre.

Mike cleared his throat, and my smile disappeared. When

did I start smiling? I snapped my head towards him, and helooked annoyed. Are you two done yet? He snapped

angrily. He started walking ahead without waiting for us

and muttered, If I wanted to watch flirting, I would

have He trailed off and shouted. Holy shit!

Bellas body went rigid and she leaned towards me. I

looked down at her reassuringly. Its just my family.

She looked down the hall, and then back up at me. How

do you know? I cant see a thing.

I ignored her question and started walking forward. She

caught up to me and touched my arm. Edward.

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I paused and turned my body towards her. I felttingly.

How odd. Our close proximity made me feel strange. Not a

bad strange. Adifferent kind of strange. I could feel her

body heat radiating off of her, and I wanted to take a stepcloser but I restrained myself. What is it? My voice was

embarrassingly low and strained.

She looked into my eyes and her face softened a bit. She

stared at me longer than normal and her full pink lips were

parted.

I raised one eyebrow. Bella?

She snapped out of it and another blush swept across her

cheeks. I still felt that tingly, almost electric sensation roar

through my body as I stood close to her. She looked down

at her shoes and rubbed her fingers over her other hand, and

bit her bottom lip. Umm She looked up suddenly and

my breath hitched. I wasnt expecting her to look at me

and the intensity I felt when she didIve never been

affected like this before.How is she able to do this to me?

How to do know things? she asked me. I mean, you

seem to know when things are about to happen. Its like

you can, I dont know, predict the future?

I smirked. No. I cant.

Her breathing went uneven for a second, and then she

looked away. Theres something so unnatural about you.

I stiffened and she looked at me again. Youre impossibly

fastand strong.

I tugged one side of my lips upward and shrugged a

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shoulder. I workout.

She shook her head. No. Its more than that. Youre also

cold. Your skin She trailed off and looked away yet

again. I dont know what it is, but something is off.

Well, my uncharacteristically good mood dissipated

quickly. Dont be ridiculous, Bella.

I walked away again, but this time I didnt stop when she

called out my name. I knew she stood immobile in the hall,

and watched me walk away from her. Once I reached Mike

and my family, I heard her shuffling along after me.No way, man. He was out of line, the coach I heard

Mike say to Emmett. They were discussing sports and I

sighed heavily.

Mike twisted his head towards me for a split second then

looked back at Emmett to continue their conversation.

Rosalie and Alice looked beyond bored, and Jasper looked

tense and worried. Being around all these humans for solong was painful for him. More so than the rest of us. He

was relieved when he was finally able to leave the

classroom, but he grew disappointed when he noticed I

brought two humans with me.

I interrupted their conversation when I cleared my throat

loudly. Using Newtons technique. Everyone turned to look

at me, and Bella finally arrived and stood by my side.

Should we go over the plan since were being held hostage

in the school and there are convicts wandering around with

guns and killing innocent children, or, would you prefer to

chat about sports while students scream in the background

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because their being hunted down by criminals?

Mike rolled his eyes and scoffed. Im amazed you were

able to tear yourself away from Bella. It must have been

difficult since you two were lost in your own little worldwith goofy grins on your faces. Maybe there should be a

third option in there somewhere. We could stand around

and watch you shamelessly flirt with the girl you were

clearly trying to hook me up with.

I exhaled deeply and caught a glimpse of Alice smiling

smugly at me. Bella and I were not flirting, I directed at

Alice. I turned to Mike. You can have her, I said throughclenched teeth. Trying to prove that there is nothing going

on between Bella and I.

Bella shifted uncomfortably besides me, and Alice scolded

me in her thoughts. I knew I sounded harsh and probably

hurt Bellas feelings, so I regretted the words immediately.

Emmett raised his eyebrows and whistled. Nice, Edward,he said sarcastically.

I felt a pair of eyes locked on my face, and I turned my

head to see Bella glaring at me. You tried to hook me up

withMike? She asked in a disgusted tone.

Mike looked slightly hurt by the way she said his name. As

if she couldnt believe that out of all the people I could

have sent in her direction, I picked him.

Not exactly, I said firmly. I suggested he comfort you

when

Bella rolled her eyes and folded her arms across her chest.

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Do I look like a child who needs comforting? Im 17 years

old! You cant just toss me to someone like She groaned

in agitation. I thought She shook her head. Whatever.

It doesnt matter, she said, and paused for a few seconds.Why did you bring me out here?! She practically

screeched, as if she just now realized what was going on.

She pointed in the direction of our classroom. Theyre

going to know were gone, and what do you theyre going

to do? They need me to get my dad to She threw her

arms up in the air. Im going back!

She spun on her heels and started walking away. I graspedher lower arm and pulled her towards me. Im getting you

out of here.

She looked at me incredulously. What do you mean youre

getting me out of here? Out of the school?

I nodded my head. You and Mike are free. You can go

home, Bella.

Butbut what about everyone else? We cant just leave

them here. What about

I touched her shoulder to make her stop talking. Were not

leaving them, I said, and I nodded my head towards my

family. You and Mike are. My family and I are going to

come up with a plan to get rid of these guys.

She huffed. Stop treating me like a child! You keep

coming to my rescue, and then you act like you resent me

for it. And you ignore me, and then you act like everything

is okay between usandyou carried me like I was a

wounded little girland she growled. She literally

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growled. Shes a fiery little thing. I was more amused then

anything else. Seeing her get worked up was like watching

kittens roll around on the floor while playing with a ball of

yarn.I am not leaving. Im helping you, She concluded.

I glared at her. I was no longer amused. No. You. Are.

Not.

She gave me another funny look. Yes. I. Am, she

retorted.

I suppressed a growl. She makes me feel a wide range ofemotions. She has the ability to make me laugh, and feel

currents of electricity and attraction course through my

body, but she also infuriates me and makes me want to

throw her over my shoulder and lock her in a safe room.

My family and Newton watched us curiously. Alice looked

smug and excited. Rosalie looked annoyed and repulsed.

Emmett looked goofy with a big grin spread across hisface. Jasper lookedin pain. Newton was aggravated.

Go home to your dad, Bella, I told her in a no-nonsense

tone. Hes worried about you. You have the opportunity to

be reunited with your family without a scratch on you, I

said, and then I paused. Well, thats not necessarily true, I

said as I remembered when she fainted and her head

slammed against the table.

She pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes at me. You

know what, Edward? Im my own person and were the

same age, I scoffed at that. She has no idea. Stop acting

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like a dictator. You have no authority over me. If I want to

stay, Ill stay.

I released the growl that I had buried deep down earlier.

How stupid can you possibly be?

She looked at me with a hurt expression. I felt tormented. I

wanted to yell at her again. I wanted her to understand that

she cant be here, and I wanted her to keep her distance

from me. Im sick of her not fearing me, like she should. If

she were a normal human, she would thank me for getting

her out of that room and run out the door to be reunited

with her father. But no, she has to be defiant.

I neededto shout at her. To show her my evil side. But

instead, my voice soften and my posture relaxed. Do

understand how truly dangerous this is? People are dying in

here, Bella. This is real. Real lives are being executed.

Doesnt that mean anything to you?

Bella looked down at her feet again. I just feelguilty,she said softly. Why do Mike and I get to be free and

everyone else is stuck in here? She looked up and met my

eyes. Why cant we just open all of the classrooms and

release everyone? There are only five convicts. They wont

know

Thats what were doing, Bella. Were going to get as

many people as we can out of here, and then were going tocome up with a plan for the rest of them, I assured her.

Dont worry about them. They will be safe. Just worry

about yourself right now.

Hes right, Mike chimed in. Come on, Bella. Lets just

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go.

Bella shook her head at him. You can go, Mike, she said,

and then looked back at me. Im not a coward. Im

staying.

I sighed. I can lift you over my shoulder and throw you

outside, you know that, right?

She shrugged. Id like to see you try.

I took a step towards her. I wasnt playing. She held her

hands out and chuckled. Okay, okay. I believe you. She

looked back at Mike. Alright, Mike, lets go. She took astep towards him, and he took a step towards her. Ill walk

you out, she said, and then peeked at me from the corner

of her eye. Because Im not leaving.

I swiped a hand through my hair and grumbled. Bella,

dont make me

Alice zoned out, another vision flashed through both of oureyes. One of the escaped convicts is headed towards this

very hallway right this moment.

Bella noticed the exchange between me and Alice and she

gave me a questioning look. We dont have time for this. I

grabbed Bellas arm and led deeper down the hall. My

family and Newton were close behind.

Whats going on? Bella asked, shocked at my sudden

hastiness.

Edward, Alice spoke behind me. We only have a few

seconds.

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Emmett pulled Rosalie into classroom. Alice grabbed Mike

and shoved him into a different classroom, along with

Jasper. I found the janitors closet and pushed Bella inside

before I entered and slammed the door close.Bella leaned against a wall and started panting. I walked

over to her and covered her mouth when I heard footsteps

squeak along the floor in the hallway. Bellas body tensed

and we listened as the footsteps became louder and closer. I

gulped when the convict started opening every door and

stuck his head inside to make sure everyone was still there.

He was going down the hall, checking each room. I had nodoubt that he would take a peek inside of here.

I quickly and quietly pushed Bella into a small opening

between the wall and a shelf stacked with basketballs,

soccer balls and cleaning supplies. I pressed my body

against hers so we could both fit in the small area. She was

crushed between me and the wall. I felt her chest heave up

and down against mine, and I felt the tingly sensationagain. It was hot all of a sudden and I could feel every inch

of Bellas body against mine. Ive never been this close to

her before.

She stopped breathing when we heard the footsteps stop

right in front of the door. Time seemed to slow down and

my eyes scanned Bellas face. Her eyes were locked on

mine. She didnt even blink. Neither did I. The door knobtwisted, and Bella gasped for air. My hands were positioned

on the wall, above her head so I couldnt shush her by

covering her mouth with my hand. I lowered my head

closer to hers and my eyes flicked down to her lips. She

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was still gasping for her air but she stopped when she felt

my forehead lean against hers. I looked back into her eyes

and then back down to her lips. I felt her eyes moved down

towards my lips, and I tilted my head, leaning in closer.The door opened, and I froze. My lips were less than an

inch from hers. Bella stopped breathing again but I didnt. I

breathed against her lips, and her lips parted. She moved

her head closer to mine and I was about to move in closer

to her. Our lips nearly brushed when I heard the door slam

shut. I jerked my head back and took a step backwards.

I