in the midnight hour chapters 1 to 4 revised

8/14/2019 In the Midnight Hour Chapters 1 to 4 Revised

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IMPORTANT NOTE!!! PLEASE READ!!Youll notice that Ive reposted chapters 1-4 of my fan fic. There is good reason for

this. Ive been getting lots of comments saying that my storyline was too close to

Twilight. So Ive edited the first four chapters to make them more different. Please

note that Ive made significant changes to the story, especially to Vivians character.

So please read these chapters again even if youve already read the previouslyposted chapters YOU WILL BE LOST IF YOU JUST CONTINUE FROM

CHAPTER FIVE WHEN I POST IT. Also Ive added a prologue to the beginning,

this is new and has not been posted before. I hope that you will still enjoy my story

even after all my changes! Please comment and critique! (chapter five is on the way

shortly)

In the midnight hour a twilight fan fictionby Sarah_Rheanne


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I have seen too many frightful proofs in court - the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare

not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points! Arthur Miller, The Crucible,Act 2, Scene 3

Preface

The pain was greater then anything I could imagine. It was all I could do to notcry out in alarm. I knew then that it was a trap, and I had fallen for it. I prayed witheverything I had that the others wouldnt fall for it too.I looked up into his face, the face that had once smiled at me and knew I had beenbetrayed.

Liar. I whispered You wont win.He grinned evilly; his eyes black with rage, and then everything went black.

Chapter 1 Vivian

The church was dark, candles flickered from where they were placedintermittently across the altar and make shift stage. Many teenagers were standing infront of the stage where the band played a serene tune. Most of them were singing along,some with their eyes closed others following the words on the large overhead projection.Everyone seemed completely entranced in the praise and worship song that had kept myattention only moments earlier. I had caught the sound of a whimsical harmony thatbrought me abruptly out of my reverie, and glanced around the room of unfamiliar faces.

Thats when I saw him for the first time. He was standing near the back of thecrowded room, tall, and frighteningly beautiful. His pale skin seemed to glow slightly inthe dim lighting. He appeared to be singing, like the rest of the crowd, and his strikingelegance made me wonder if the stunning voice I heard floating above the rest was his.His face was captivating, though it was mostly expressionless, a hint of calm tracedaround his brilliant eyes. Though he didnt meet my gaze I couldnt tear my eyes awayfrom his.

Vivian! someone next to me hissed. I looked away from him suddenly, startledby the low whisper. Cassandra, the girl who lived next door to my grandmother, Iris,looked at me critically, one eye brow raised. What are you staring at? she askedcuriously.

Um, do you know who that boy is, the one in the back row there? I asked,mimicking her low whisper. She looked over her shoulder, in the direction I had gestured.

She saw who I was referring to and rolled her eyes before turning back to me.Oh, him, She shrugged then sighed. Thats Isaac Cullen, hes gorgeous isnt

he? She didnt wait for me to respond. Though, hes never shown any interest in any ofthe girls here in town so I wouldnt bother.

I hadnt planned on it. I mumbled.She continued, not acknowledging my words. His father is a doctor at the

hospital, but I dont think their family lives in town. He has lots of sibling too, all equallygorgeous, youll probably see them around at school.


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The feel of the music changed just then, a faster, heavy beat filled the room.Cassandra turned then remarking that she loved the current song and began clapping anddancing with the rest of the crowd. I too, tried to focus on the music, throwing myselfwhole-heartedly into the song, but the back of my mind was now elsewhere.

I flopped, exhausted onto my bed, which was messy, I had forgotten to make itthis morning. The concert at church had taken a lot out of me, especially after all the extraenergy moving had taken. I rolled onto my back and glanced around my new room on thesecond floor of Iriss classic, old farm house where I had moved with my mother, Tanya.It had a fresh coat of eggplant coloured paint on the walls and heavy, home made redwine curtains over the windows, my grandmothers handiwork. She had called mymother at Christmas, inquiring of my current favourite colours and tastes. She had thenset her bridge club loose in my bedroom with a can of purple paint and a sewing machine.

I reflected on the events of the last few months, remembering the day when Tanyahad told me we were moving. I had thrown a tantrum that was very unlike me, I usuallydidnt complain much, but I loved our little two bedroom cottage style home in

Henderson, Nevada. I loved the dry heat and the homey little community that I had soquickly become attached to, when Tanya and I had moved in when I was just ten yearsold. I didnt want to leave. But now Iris needed someone to come take care of her, orshed be forced to give up the family home in Salem, Massachusetts, the very same houseTanya had grown up in.

I hated Salem. It rained, a lot, and had an average temperature of 52 degrees, plusI wasnt so good with horror stories and the local history was laced with them. But I hadnowhere else to go, my father had taken off long before I could remember, no word, notin almost eighteen years. So here I was, sentenced to rainy little Salem for the remainderof my senior year of high school, after which I could escape to college, hopefullysomewhere warmer then Massachusetts.

I turned out the light and crawled into bed. I sighed and curled into a ballunderneath my old faded quilt and tried not to think of the home I had left behind. Thewind rattled the window frame; I pulled my pillow over my head, the weather inHenderson was much less noisy. I knew it would be a long night.

I awoke the next morning still tired, the dull roar of the wind made it very difficultto fall asleep. I had tossed restlessly most of the night, finally settling into a light sleep fora few hours. I got ready for the day numbly, with out thinking about what I was doing. Ipaused for a long moment, examining my painfully ordinary features in the long ovalbathroom mirror.

My face was oval shaped; I had dull green eyes that seemed to go alright with myalways fair skin. My years of living in a desert climate had done nothing to alter thepallor of my skin, which only made the deep circles of sleeplessness under my eyes morenoticeable. My hair was painfully straight, and hung right down to my waist, and was aboring shade of mousy brown. I must have gotten it from my father because my motherhad brilliant copper hair, with a bouncing curl in it and her green eyes were much brighterthen mine, making our Irish heritage very apparent. I was not tall, but like the rest of mylooks, I was an average height, and a lean sporty figure which I had gotten from being on


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the cheerleading team. I wasnt extraordinary, you might say pretty but plain. Just thenIris called up the stairs to me.

Vivian! Come on its time to go!I sighed, turning away from my reflection and headed down the stairs. I joined

Tanya and Iris in the car, my eyebrows rising in surprise when I noticed that Cassandra

was also in the car. She grinned at me as I belted myself in and then started chattering atIris. The ride to church continued in this manner. I sat, quietly, staring out the windowwhile Cassandra chattered endlessly to no one in particular.

I gave another heavy sigh as we pulled into the parking lot at church, today wastechnically our first official day in Salem, even though we had arrived Friday evening.My mother and I had spent Saturday settling in, and even though I had gone out withCassandra Saturday evening, I had only met a few of her sophomore friends, and I wasdreading being dragged through formal introductions with all of Iriss friends, and sheknew everybody. I was really not a people person.

I sat expressionless between Iris and Cassandra, feeling the stares of the rest of theparish on my back. Already I had gone through the same conversation several times since

walking into the church.Oh you must be Iriss granddaughter! Someone would say, approaching me. Idnod in affirmation. Vivian right? Theyd continue. Id nod again. Then theyd prattleon for a few minutes about how nice it was too meet me and how much Id like it here, orhow they had heard so much about me. I knew it was supposed to be a warm welcome,but to me it held some sort of annoyance, not just at the welcome wagon, but also atmyself for being so determined to remain deeply rooted in my hatred at the town. I didntwant to be here, but I didnt want them to know it, so I faked a smile and pretended I wasenjoying the morning in the crowded small town church.

It must have been sometime around the homily when I noticed him again. IsaacCullen, looking absolutely perfect, sat next to a very attractive blond man who couldnthave been more then 30 and looked like a movie star, and a petite brunette woman, whowas extremely pretty and about the same age as the blond man. My best guess was thatthese were Isaacs adoptive parents, Dr. Cullen and his wife, but they both looked soyoung that they could have been his siblings. Like Isaac, they were stunning and verypale; I found it difficult to look away, thankfully they were the only ones not staring atme, so my gaze went unnoticed. After mass I was once again swarmed by the manypeople wanting introductions and I didnt notice the Cullens slipping out without a wordto anyone.

Cassandra was still talking when we dropped her off at the end of her drive wayafter brunch. She waved madly, shouting about seeing me at school tomorrow as wedrove way. I spent the rest of the day helping Tanya moved boxes of stuff that didnt fitin the house into the garage and finishing up the laundry. I tried not to think of what layin wait for me at school the next day. The wind blew so loud again that I spent the nightwith my head buried under my pillow and blankets.

I woke up still tired and flopped back against my pillows, lacking the will to movefrom the cocoon my blankets had become during the restless night. I realized I wanted togo in early to see if I could join the cheer team so I dragged myself from under thecovers. Luckily I had had my fit of indecision over what to wear last night and only had


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to try and fix the horror that was my hair. Eventually I managed to get it into a nicelycontrolled ponytail, it would have to do for my first day.

Iris was standing in the kitchen when I entered. I smelled fresh muffins andgrinned, Iriss homemade muffins were the best way to make a bad day better.

Well Vivian you look lovely this morning. Are you excited for your first day of

school? she said turning from the oven. I nodded weakly.Sure Grandma, thrilled.Youll be just fine Hun, all the kids are great. Youll have tons of friends in no

time.Of course. Well I dont want to be late. Im going to see if theyll let me onto the

cheer team. I grabbed a muffin, and my school bag and head for the door. Say hi tomom for me when you see her. I called over my shoulder.

I climbed into my beat up Toyota that was far older then I was, and tossed my bagonto the passenger seat. The engine roared when I turned the key. I took a couple of deepbreaths before backing out of the driveway. The school was only a couple of miles away,but it was further then I wanted to walk. Back home in Henderson there had been a nice

retired gentleman that live down our street who refurbished cars as a hobby and he hadsold me this one cheap before we moved.When I entered the schools parking lot there were very few cars in it, I figured

they probably belonged to the staff, judging by how early I had arrived. I was glad I hadsome extra time to familiarize myself with the school, if only briefly, before class started,so I wouldnt have to spend the day with a map glued to my face.

I found what appeared to be the main entrance to the large building and washappy to discover that there was a large sign directing me to the gym. Cheer practice hadalready started. I stood in the doorway and watched. It seemed that Salem High Schoolhad a fairly descent team.

It wasnt long before the team captain noticed me standing there. She was tall andthin and very blond. A stereotypical cheerleader I thought as she approached.

Can I help you? She asked in a stuck up tone.Yes, actually. I said uneasily. Im new here and,The office is back the way you came. She interrupted pointing down the

hallway.I know. I saw it on my way here.Then what do you want? By this time most of the team had gathered around us

and was waiting eagerly to hear what I had to say.Well, like I was saying, Im new here and I was wondering if I could join the

team. I know Ive probably missed try outs and everything.You have missed try outs, and we cant just let you join in the middle of the year,

just because youre new. The blond captain said.Hey wait a minute, one of the other girls stepped out from the group. We

should give her a chance Tori, its not her fault she missed try outs. Besides you dontknow, she might be really good.

Alright, fine. Tori said. If you can pick up the routine by the end of the weekyou can try out.

Thank you.Tori lead the way back into the gym to where they had been practicing.


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Thanks. I said to the brunette who had stood up for me. Im Vivian by theway.

Dont worry about it, Tori doesnt like anybody. She replied quietly. ImSteph.

I watched the routine the team was working on once before trying to follow along.

Tori didnt make it easy for me but the routine was fairly straightforward. By the timethey finished up I was out of breath, and confident that I could make the team.

After practice I found my way to the main office. It wasnt far away. Thesecretary was on the phone when I entered. She glanced up and smiled apologetically; Ismiled back and leaned against the counter to wait.

I glanced around the small room; it looked like any school office would. Therewere piles of pamphlets on the counter in front of me ranging in topic from academicprograms to eating disorder information. Behind me there was a row of plastic chairsagainst the wall. The room was a dull ugly shade of yellow. Behind the counter thatdivided the room was the secretarys cluttered desk as well as a second desk that

appeared to belong to her assistant. There was a small woman perched there typing madlyat her shabby looking computer. Behind that there were several doors with name plateson them. Though I didnt take note of the names but I assumed that they were theprincipals offices.

The secretary finished her phone call at the same time I had finished myassessment of the office.

Can I help you? She smiled.Yes, Im Vivian Bishop, the new student, who should I talk to about my

schedule?Oh! She grinned wider at me. Youre Iriss granddaughter! Weve been

expecting you!I raised one eyebrow in curiosity.Iris is a friend of mine; we knew you were coming months ago. Your

grandmother was very excited, you see. I shouldnt have been surprised, Iris kneweveryone. I have your schedule all ready to go for you here, She passed me a piece ofyellow paper with a photocopied timetable on it. Oh and heres a map of the school, itcan be a bit confusing on your first day. Im sure youll have no trouble at all, though ifyou should you just come see me, Ill get you sorted out. She passed me a second sheet,this one blue, with the map on it.

Thanks. I smiled weakly as I turned to leave. I silently wondered if everyonehere would be that perky.

Oh Vivian! I almost forgot, I turned back towards her. If I could get you getyour teachers to sign this and then return it to me after school?

Sure, no problem. I took yet another paper from her and then swiftly exited theoffice only to walk right into one of the arriving students and drop everything on theground.

I am so sorry; I should really watch where Im walking. I mumbled, bendingdown to gather the scattered papers.

Oh, thats alright, a male voice responded, I didnt look up at him. I dontmind when a pretty girl bumps into me.


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I blushed, then straightened up and finally looked at him. He was tall, with sandybrown hair and a charming smile, which to me looked rehearsed.

You must be new here, Im Brian. He offered his hand which I shook, numbly.Im Vivian. I replied politely. He started to speak again, but recognizing the

look on his face, I interrupted him. Yes, I am Iriss granddaughter.

Brian laughed. I knew it! Say, whats your first class?I glanced down at the yellow page in my hand for the first time. Uh, Spanish in113.

Hey me too! Ill walk you there, if youd like. Ill be your tour guide. Hecasually put one hand on the small of my back and waved the other out in front of himlike a TV game show host. And to my left, down this mundane corridor you will see firsthand a small group of high school freshmen in their natural habitats; dont get to closethough they bite. He said in a low accented voice. I laughed; at least he had a sense ofhumour. I found myself relaxing just a little bit, but I wished Brian didnt have his armaround me.

A few minutes of small talk later and I found myself being nudged into room 113

by the head of the schools welcome wagon. There were already a few students there,gathered in clumps around the classroom. One group looked up at us when Brian and Ientered. I recognized Tori and Samantha from cheer practice earlier. He nudged meforward, towards that particular cluster. I assumed these were his friends.

Guys! I want to introduce you to Vivian, Iriss granddaughter. Brian called outas we approached. His friends clustered around us like I was some shiny new toy Brianhad gotten for Christmas. Brian made casual introductions, gesturing at each person as hesaid their names. Samantha, Julian, Tori, and that loser over there is Andrew.

At that a guy who was sitting at the desk behind the group glanced up andgrinned.

Shut up Brian.Someone cleared their throat from the front of the classroom. I turned to see a tall

wiry man with dark hair and glasses standing in front of the black board.Time to get started guys. He said with a Latin accent.Everyone shuffled to sit in their seats. I walked back up the aisle to the teachers

desk. He frowned at me.Um, hi, I said quietly. Im new here, and the secretary needs you to sign this.

I passed him the paper. He took it and his frown relaxed. After reading it, he bent over thedesk and signed it and passed it back to me.

Welcome to Salem Miss Bishop, heres your text book.Thanks.I made my way back down the aisle and pretended not to notice the stares of my

new classmates. I sat in the only empty desk which happened to be in front of the boyBrian had said was Andrew. He threw me a lopsided grin before I sat down. On one sideof me was Brian, and in front of me the pretty blond girl, Tori, the captain of cheer team.Tori turned around and glared at me, glancing between Brian and me. I guessed shedidnt appreciate Brian paying so much attention to me. I would have found a way to tellher I wasnt interested if I thought it would have made a difference. On my other sidewere Samantha and Julian, but they werent paying much attention to me, for which I wasgrateful. I pulled out my laptop and did my best to pay attention to the lesson, whilst also


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ignoring the intermittent stares of Brian, Tori and the rest of my classmates. At the end ofthe hour Brian leaned over the aisle towards me.

Vivian, what class do you have next?I pulled out my schedule. Ugh! I have gym next.What a coincidence I do too! Brian flashed another teen heartthrob smiles, Tori

rolled her eyes. I guess Ill be walking you to class again.Super. I said with a hint of sarcasm. As much as I thought it was nice of Brianto go out of his way to be nice to, he did come on pretty strong. And for someone whodidnt make friends easily, especially in a place she was trying very hard not to like, itwas a little weird.

When we reached the gym the junior class in first period was just finishing up.One team let up a cheer as one player sunk the winning basket.

Whoa! Whos that big tall guy? I asked, referring to the player who had scored.Oh thats Jacob Black. Brian replied.What is he, like six and half feet tall?Something like that, and hes a great basketball player, but we cant get him to

join the team.Why not?I dont know, but I think it has something to do with his girlfriend. Brian

gestured across the gym at a petit girl with bronze curls; she was pale with a slight flushto her cheeks and light chocolate eyes. She wore the same yellow t-shirt and black shortsas the rest of the class but she somehow managed to make every other girl in the roomlook plain. She ran over to Jacob and reached up and twined her arms around his neck.He wrapped his arms around her waist and spun her around, lifting her off the floor.When he put her down he kissed her lightly on the forehead and then turned towards theboys locker room. She turned and walked towards the girls locker room, though herwalk was more like a graceful dance. When she passed me she paused and smiled thencontinued on.

Whos she? I asked, turning towards Brian.Nessie Swan.Shes pretty. At this Brian smirked.You should see her sister. He said. I raised an eyebrow at him.Shes pretty too?Lets just say if you were a guy Id say more then shes pretty.I wasnt sure if I should laugh or be highly offended. Luckily Brian changed the

subject before I could respond.Oh theres Aimee. He said. I looked towards the door that we had entered

through.Aimee looked friendly enough. Brown hair, blue eyes, pretty smile. She sauntered

over to where we were standing.Hey Brian, whos this?This is Vivian, shes new.Hi there, Im Aimee. Welcome to North Salem High.Thanks. I smiled. Aimees welcome seemed actually genuine.Ready for an exciting hour of basketball? Aimee grinned.


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Im not very good at basketball. I replied. I didnt add the number of injuries Ihad sustained, and inflicted, while participating in this particular sport.

Thats alright, Im sure youll manage. I should go get changed though. Aimeewaved and headed for the locker room.

Brian had already left for the guys locker room. I looked around for the gym

teacher who turned out to be a tall balding man in a track suit. Coach Barnes signed thesecretarys form and went to his office to find me a uniform. Luckily I didnt have toparticipate today. I could postpone that embarrassment until tomorrow.

Both Aimee and Brian were very good at basketball, and I found out later thatthey were both on the school team. I thought it was a pity that Aimee wasnt on the cheerteam instead of the basketball team; I was actually starting to like her. After class wasover Brian once again inquired what my next class was.

History, in 217. I said.Andrews in that class. Brian said thoughtfully.And Im headed in that general direction. Aimee added.Great. I replied.

Brian was headed in the opposite direction then us, but he said hed see us atlunch time. Aimee and I walked quietly for a few minutes. Then Aimee broke the silence.Im not that great at small talk, She said. But I guess it would be appropriate to

ask how your first day is going.My first day is going surprisingly better then I thought it would, thanks for

asking. I smiled. And Im no good at small talk either. I could tell Aimee and I wouldbe friends in no time.

So where did you move from?Henderson, Nevada.Wow, talk about your climate shock right?I know! How do you guys stand the temperature here?You get used to the weather. Aimee paused then. I stopped too.Youre classroom is two doors down that hallway. She said.Thanks. I said. See you later?For sure She was definitely the nicest person I had met today.I walked the short distance to my classroom. I saw Andrew sitting in his seat

already when I got there. I went and talked to the teacher and then went and sat downnext to him. He threw me another lopsided grin.

Hi there. He said brightly.Hi, Andrew, right?Thats me, and youre Vivian. I nodded in response. He leaned towards me

across the aisle.Its very nice to meet you Vivian. He said in a low, almost seductive voice.History class passed uneventful. Andrew kept mostly to himself and I found

myself alone for the first time since I bumped into Brian earlier that morning, as I walkedto my next class. Chemistry, the only class so far with none of my new friends in it. I wasglad to have the hour to prep myself for what ever lunch was going to throw at me.

I walked into the cafeteria cautiously, only to see that Brian was waving at mefrom the other end of the large room. I went over to where he was standing by a largetable. There were already a few people sitting there including Aimee and Andrew. I also


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recognized a few people from my Spanish class this morning. There were a few othersthat I didnt know. Aimee gestured for me to sit next to her and Brian sat down on myother side.

Vivian, thats Matt, Abby, and Luke. Aimee pointed out the ones I didntrecognize. And youve met Tori, Samantha and Julian already right? I nodded.

I pulled out my lunch, even though I wasnt especially hungry. I did my best tofollow the conversation and pretend to be involved in it. I saw Cassandra sitting acrossthe crowded cafeteria with the other sophomores. She caught my eye and wavedfrantically at me. I hesitated but waved back, less enthusiastically.

Who is that? Tori asked, disgust coloring her voice. She obviously thought thatshe was better then the younger students in the school.

My grandmas neighbour Cassandra Bristol. I couldnt help making myresponse sound like she obviously should have known this already.

Oh.She ignored me after that and I was secretly glad.About half way through lunch I felt someones gazed on me. I glanced around the

room and saw a pale faced, bronze haired boy looking at me curiously. I met his gaze andhe looked away. Thats when I noticed that Isaac Cullen was sitting next to the one whohad been staring at me. There were seven of them in total, and they all looked very mucha like. Except for the tall boy Brian said was Jacob, they were all very pale, with goldeneyes and all devastatingly beautiful. Jacob on the other hand had russet skin and darkeyes.

Vivian, what are you looking at? Aimee asked me just then.Are those the Cullens? I asked, though I was sure I already knew they answer.

Aimee glanced in the direction I was looking.Ya, theyre Dr. Cullens adopted and foster kids. Alice, Edward, and Isaac

Cullen, Bella and Nessie Swan, Jasper Hale and Jacob Black. She pointed to each ofthem as she said their names. Arent they all gorgeous?

Alice was very tiny, and her short, spiky hair was jet black. She sat the furthestfrom us. Jasper sat across the table from Alice, he stared at her with a furrowedexpression, like he was trying to figure out what she was thinking. He was thin and hadhoney blond wavy hair. Bella sat next to Alice, turned towards her deep in conversation.Brian had been right, Bella was very pretty, with long waves of mahogany hair and roundfeatures. The bronze haired boy who had been staring at me was Edward. He sat acrossfrom Bella, between Jasper and Isaac. He was talking quietly to Isaac as he absentlyreached across the table and took Bellas hand. Isaac, who seemed to distract me whenever I saw him, seemed to be deeply interested in whatever Edward was saying. He haddark brown hair and appeared to be smaller then his brother who was lean but muscular.Nessie and Jacob sat across from Isaac, on Bellas other side. They sat facing each other,so Jacobs back was towards where I sat. They seemed to be part of Edward and Isaacsconversation.

Just then Nessie leaned around Jacobs large frame and grinned at me. I droppedmy gaze to the table and blushed.

They really are gorgeous, I said to Aimee, not looking up. She giggled. Havethey lived here long? I asked. Surely I would have noticed them at some point whilevisiting Iris.


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No they moved here about four years ago, from Forks, Washington. Aimeedidnt wait for a response. Theyre all really weird too, like they are all couples, eventhough they live together.

They arent actually related Aimee. The girl named Abby chimed in.I know that, but its still weird.

I didnt need to ask which one were couples. I had seen Nessie and Jacob togetherin the gym, and Edward and Bella still had their fingers intertwined on the table top, andAlice and Jasper seemed to look at each other like there wasnt anyone else in the room.

The conversation drifted away from the Cullens, but I didnt try to follow it. SoonI found myself walking next to Abby behind Tori and several other blonds, who in a wayreminded me of Barbie dolls, towards my next class, which was art. I wandered over tothe teacher and the others drifted off to their seats. After getting my paper signed Iglanced around the class in search of a seat. There was one empty table left so I went overto it and sat, wondering who I would end up sharing the space with.

In the midst of my wondering Isaac Cullen entered the room, at the same time, theair vent in the ceiling kicked on causing my hair to swirl around my face, and a stack of

my papers fluttered to the ground. Isaac glanced, no, glared in my direction, hisexpression livid. I was so shocked I almost forgot to pick up the papers that werescattered on the floor. I blushed again as I wrenched my eyes from his angry, black onesand hurried to gather the fallen pages.

Mr. Cullen? I heard the teachers voice question. There was no response. Havea seat please.

Again no response. But as I straightened in my seat I saw Isaac walk stiffly to thetable where I sat. Isaac grabbed the other chair and after pulling it as far away from me aspossible sat down. He sat perfectly still, his eyes fixed on the table top. He had one handover his face as if trying to block some horrible odour; the other was clenched in a tightfist on the table.

The teacher, Ms. Chapman, asked that we all pull out our sketch books and workon the perspective assignment she had passed out. I opened my book and began sketchingabsently. Though art was undoubtedly my favourite subject, I found myself veryunsettled after the brief, distant interaction with Isaac Cullen.

Isaac bent to get his book from his bag and flipped it open. I could see out of thecorner of my eye that he paused to watch me briefly, his flat black eyes filled with whatcould only be hate, and then settled back into stillness for the remainder of the extremelyawkward period. I didnt understand his apparent anger. I hadnt even spoken to himbefore, so it couldnt have been directed at me, but I was left with an uneasy feeling. Assoon as the bell rang at the end of the period Isaac leapt up and strode quickly and fluidlyout of the room.

I walked silently to English class, unaware of the people chattering around me. Icouldnt stop thinking about how oddly Isaac had acted during art. It didnt make sensefor him to react so viciously towards me. I hoped mostly in vain that he was just in a badmood and it had nothing to do with me.

I sat down between Aimee and Brian in English; I feigned a good mood, hopingthe effort would last for the last hour of the day. Just before class started I was surprisedto see Edward Cullen and Bella Swan enter the room. She went straight to the back of theclass, but he walked over the teacher.


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Ms. Middleton? He said in a quiet velvety voice.What can I do for you Mr. Cullen? Ms. Middleton asked looking up from her

desk.I just wanted to let you know that my brother wont be here today, he went home

with the stomach flu.

Thanks for informing me, and make sure you give him a copy of your notes.Will do. He nodded slightly in her direction before proceeding to where Bellasat.

I let out a small sigh. It wasnt me; it was the stomach flu, nothing to worry about.Even so, I still felt uneasy.

At the end of the day I returned to the office and after a brief exchange with thesecretary I went out into the January cold. I climbed in to the safe haven of my car andtook a deep breath. Day one was over and I had survived. If I could over look theirrational, unsettling reaction of a boy that I didnt even know, the day wasnt half bad.But I still didnt like it here.

Chapter 2Isaac

I stretched out on the thick caramel carpeting of my room. I glared at the ceiling,trying to burn holes in the stucco with my gaze. I was angry, angry and ashamed. In allmy hundred and fifty years Id never felt so weak, so drawn in by temptation. My moodplummeted as I recalled the events at school today.

It had all started in the morning; when I saw her. I had arrived at school early. Therest of my siblings were probably on their way right now, but today I had needed to run,to get rid of some pent up energy that this life of constant hiding provided.

Not many people had arrived yet, just some of the staff and a few students whocame in early for practice. I meandered down the halls not really paying any attention toanything. But when I walked past the gym everything changed.

The cheerleaders were practicing some new routine. Thats when I saw her, thenew girl. I hadnt planned on stopping, until I saw her. The thing that caught my eye wasthat I didnt recognize her. I had a photographic memory so most of the students werefamiliar to me, but she wasnt. And she wasnt an ordinary student either.

Generally the humans didnt interest me. I didnt like their smell, or their taste,but that just made me a very strange vampire. But this girl was intriguing. I could tell,even from a distance watching her, that she was energetic and vibrant. And the other girlsdidnt hold a candle to her in the appearance department, which was saying somethingbecause I rarely noticed the humans at all, let alone the way they looked.

Immediately warning bells started going off in my head. There were reasons whyI didnt notice the human girls. Reasons like I could killed them if they got to close to meor how they would run away screaming if they knew what I was. If I wanted to stay withthe Cullens, my family, humans were to be kept at a distance. We all knew that, evenJacob who was basically still human.


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I hurried away from the gym, pushing all thought of this new girl from my mind.She was off limits, so I wasnt even going to think about her. Or at least I was going totry not to.

I succeeded, until lunch time. I hadnt really been paying much attention to what

Nessie was saying, until I realized she was talking about the new girl, who I had socarefully avoided. She was saying something about how there was a new girl in my gradewho looked like she was really nice. And then Edward had chimed in with somethingabout how everyone was paying her lots of attention. I tried to act like I didnt care, like Iwas completely uninterested. Thats when I noticed Alice sitting at the other end of thetable, her expression blank. Edward pursed his lips and shifted in his seat. Bella leanedover and whispered something in Alices ear and she came out of her trance talkinghurriedly to Bella in a hushed tone so low even I didnt hear it. Edward glanced over myshoulder at the rest of the cafeteria, his eyes burned for a moment then he glanced away.Why was everyone acting so strange today? Edward reached across the table and tookBellas hand. This happened so often it was a reflex more then a voluntary action for the

happy couple.The new girl is curious about us. Edward said nonchalantly.And? I asked.She thinks much the same way I think Bella would. There was no emotion here,

just simple fact.And the males of the senior class seem to react much the same as the ones in

Forks did when Bella first arrived that day in Forks.All my muscles tighten, I tried to ignore it. Bella turned to look at us then. She

stuck her tongue out at Edward playfully before turning back to Alice. Edward smirked.Simple truth, love. He grinned.I dont know about you, but I feel like she could have some sort of latent

ability. Nessie said softly. Jacob let out a laugh.What on Earth are you talking about Hun? he took her hand affectionately.

Edward pulled his lips back slightly, and I knew he was probably thinking Stupid Muttor something along those lines.

I can feel it too. Jasper added in.Nessie leaned around Jacob then, to get a better look at this new student.Yup definitely a pull there.It must be pretty strong for us all to feel it. I put no emotion into the statement.

It was true I did feel a pull from this new girl, maybe thats why I was so interested inher.

Well I hope this doesnt turn into another Bella situation. Edward said with alaugh.

The comment was obviously aimed at me, the only single one in the family, but Iignored it.

But at least wed know how to deal with it, if it did. He continued.I had a feeling Alices most recent vision had something to do with Edwards

comments, and that worried me, but Jasper would be the only one who knew.I knew that the rest of my new family was worried that I hadnt found a mate yet.

I just kept reminding them that Carlisle didnt find his mate until he was like three


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hundred years old. And besides, I liked being alone. Being alone was the way I dealt withwhat I was, thats why I had spent so many years as a nomad, only settling down as partof Carlisles coven six years ago. And I wasnt going to get involved with some humanand ruin it all.

Lunch was ending, so I stood dumped my tray of untouched food into the nearest

garbage.See you in English. I called over my shoulder to Edward and Bella. Then Istrode out of the cafeteria.

The smell hit me like a tidal wave. No, more like a brick wall. An overpoweringscent like honey and citrus but warmer, more inviting, more intoxicating, and far moretempting then any mere human should be allowed to smell. It was unbearable.

I didnt recognize the scent, so I knew immediately who it belonged to. The newgirl, Vivian. How could the only girl who had caught my eye in and hundred and fiftyyears smell so torturously good? I hadnt noticed the smell from across the crowdedcafeteria. And now in the little classroom, in such close proximity the air vent was

blowing her scent right into my face. I looked away from Ms. Middleton to see where shewas only to find her perched on a chair at my table. I suddenly didnt know if I couldmake it through class.

Mr. Cullen? Ms. Middleton questioned.I looked away from Vivian and met the teachers eyes.Have a seat please. She stated firmly.I made my way to the table at a slow human pace, wondering how I could

possibly cope with the most brilliant torture only God could come up for me.I sat as far from her as possible and held my breath. I didnt dare look up for fear

of making the temptation worse. I concentrated so hard on the table top that the fakewood grain began to swim before my eyes. I had to think of something other then thesmell.

I almost didnt notice Ms. Middleton begin class. I hastily pulled my sketch bookand pencils out of my bag. In the process I caught a glimpse of her, her long brown hairdraped over one shoulder, her brown eyes filled with confusion. She looked awayquickly. The movement sent another wave of honey and lemons towards me, so sweet Icould have gagged. I could see the blood rush to her cheeks as she blushed, my throatburned with thirst. I looked away.

An hour never passed so slowly. Though I pushed them to the back of my mind,plans to get her alone with me flitted through my head. Images of her frightened,trembling figure in my arms as I pressed my razor teeth to her delicate throat swam in mymind. I couldnt think like that, I wouldnt think like that. I wouldnt ruin the self-controlI had spent a century working on, and I most certainly wouldnt ruin the life Carlisle hadbuilt for his coven, his family.

So many witnesses, so easy to take care of.No! I pushed the thought from mymind.If I asked her to follow me she wouldnt resist, I wouldnt have to kill the othersthen! Again I pushed the thought out of my mind. You must resist, you mustnt kill thisgirl. I told myself as I sat still, frozen like a statue, my throat blazing with the fire of mythirst. All the while my silent pleas grew louder and more persistent.Edward if you canhear me, HELP ME! I screamed silently.


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Finally the bell rang and I leapt into action. I hoped Edward had heard mydesperate thoughts, what good was having a brother who could read minds if he couldnthear me at a time like this. I made it to the door in seconds flat, only barely maintainingmy human faade. Edward and Bella were waiting outside the classroom. Bella had asympathetic look on her face; obviously Edward had filled her in.

He tossed me the keys to his old silver Volvo that he refused to get rid of.Go home Isaac, He said hurriedly, Wait for me there, well take care of this.I caught the keys and headed for the doors. Thank you! I thought, finally able to

breathe again.When I reached the highway I floored it. Pushing the old engine as hard as I could

I reached speeds that were probably unhealthy for the fifteen year old car. I reached thedirt drive way in minutes and didnt slow down for the corner. The car fish tailed butregained control quickly. I sped through the forest towards the house.

Esme was waiting on the porch when I pulled up. She must have heard mecoming, the Volvo didnt run as quietly as it did before, not that that would havemattered. I killed the engine and moved swiftly from the drivers seat.

Whats wrong Isaac? Did something happen at school? sme was ever thecaring mother.Esme Im fine, nothing happened. I needed space.Are you sure youre ok? You look stressed.Stressed is a good word for it.Is there anything I can do?Thank you sme, but I just need to be alone, you know collect my thoughtsAlright.Just let me know when Edward gets home, alright?Sure.I entered the large house and practically flew up the stairs to my room on the third

floor. I let out a long sigh. Why was this happening to me? Why now? I had finally foundsomewhere I seemed belong, a family. In a hundred and fifty years I had never comeacross a mortal creature who made me, the most dangerous predator on the planet, feelthreatened. It was unsettling; I was not used to feeling intimidated.

When the others arrived home an hour later I was sprawled on the floor. Edwardentered the room silently and folded himself onto the leather sofa. He stared pensively outthe window that covered the entire back wall.

I dont know what to say, Edward, except that I was so close to ruiningeverything today.

I know.We didnt look at each other, but I knew that Edward could hear every doubt,

worry and fear that was racing through my mind.Im not going to try and comfort you, Isaac. Edward started, I didnt respond.I wont tell you that it gets easier. Every moment I spent with Bella while she

was human was a challenge, but what got me through it was the thought of how I wouldfeel if something happened to her and it was my fault; the thought that I couldnt continueto live without her.

But I dont even know this girl. I snarled.


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I didnt know Bella in the beginning either. Edward sighed and leaned towardsme. I turned my head to look at him.

The moment I first caught Bellas scent, I almost killed her and the entirebiology class we were in. It would have been so easy to do. But you already know howeasy it is to think like that.

For me the immediate choice was clear. Run or kill her and ruin everything. Bothof which have already crossed your mind. Its good that you held out so far. I ran fromher, my family and myself, until I was sure I could resist, but you have more self-controlthen I ever had.

Isaac you have to make a decision, and the sooner you make it, the better. Is thissomething you can resist?

And if she is?Then you stay here, and continue on like nothing has changed. You could even

befriend her, if you think you could handle it. But having human friends can be tricky, nomatter what Nessie says.

And what if I cant resist?

If youre like me, youd leave, even just for a little while. But I know you canresist, brother, I have faith in you.I looked into his eyes, searched them. I didnt have his ability to read minds, but I

saw confidence and reassurance in his eyes. There was no trace of pity or disappointmentthere. This was a man who had struggled through my situation, and had overcome it, andhad been happily married now for ten years. Though he was fifty years my junior, I knewI would never find someone with more strength then him.

You know leaving would break smes heart, but she would understand. And ifyou stay, you must be able to control yourself, for the sake of your family.

Will you help me? I thought to him.Yes. He held my gaze for a long moment. Though only you can make this

decision, I will help in any way I can. Another long pause.Well, Jasper wants to go hunting. Edward said, standing up. Do you want to

come?I grinned at him. You always know just what I need.He laughed and tapped the side of his head.Give me two minutes and Im there. I said. Edward retreated from my room and

I pulled myself from the floor.

We hunted longer then usual. Edward probably sensed my need for a distraction. Ialso wasnt in a rush to see the rest of the family. Where I knew Edward and Jasperwouldnt be so judgmental, both having felt my current feeling of weakness, I wasnt sosure about the rest of them. I knew they had all been informed, Jasper had felt my panicand blood lust and Alice had probably seen my wavering decisions. Carlisle and Bellamight understand, but I knew Esme, Alice, Nessie, and Jacob would be disappointed inme. I was just glad that Rosalie, the most judgemental of my family, was off in Europewith Emmet.

Jacob, of course, had no trouble what so ever around our human neighbours. Hewas practically human himself, minus the whole morphing into a giant wolf at will. Heeven still considered himself a protector of human life. Nessie also had it easier then the


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rest of us; being half human she had an advantage. They tried to be sympathetic becausethey shared our diet, but they really didnt understand what the rest of us went through.Alice and Esme would be disappointed because they had high expectations for me.

When we got back to the house it was past midnight. Lights were on inside. Theyshone through the floor to ceiling windows that covered the entire back of the house.

From the front the house looked like an old, Victorian, three story farm house, right outof Anne of Green Gables. It was done up with white washed, wooden siding and a latticeporch stretching across it. There were balconies off the second and third story windowsand vines clung like spiders to its surface. Esme had replaced the classic look of the frontof the house with a three story wall of glass on the back, so we could all fully appreciatethe view into the forest.

The inside of the house was open and light. The front door opened to a largespacious living room that took up almost the entire first story. To the right was thekitchen, which was only part of the faade. On the side of the room was a raised platformthat stretched from the front of the house to the back, on it was a large swoopingstaircase, an exquisite, black grand piano and a large antique dining room table. The rest

of the room was set up with a seating area and a large flat screen TV. The dcor was all invarious shades of white and light oak wood fixtures.Inside Bella was curled up on the white sofa in the living room Nessie and Jacob

were sitting in front of her on the plush white carpet. They were having a discussion onsomething they had seen on the news earlier in the evening. Alice was dancing around thelarge room straightening and rearranging Esmes already perfect flower arrangements;which she did so often. Esme stood in the kitchen doorway silently watching over herlittle family, Carlisle stood behind her with his arms around her and his chin resting in herhair.

They all got very quiet when we entered. Edward went and sat beside his wife onthe sofa. Jasper wandered across the room and took a seat on the stairs. Alice gravitatedtowards him and sat beside him, leaning heavily on his shoulder.

Suddenly all eyes were on me. I glanced around the room, meeting each pair ofeyes for a moment. They all had the same butterscotch tone as my own, except for Nessieand Jacob whose rich brown eyes werent diluted like the rest of us. All eight pairs ofeyes were filled with expectancy.

Im assuming you have all heard about this afternoons events. I began.I should have Alice started, but I held up my hand to stop her.Alice, if you saw anything, which I doubt you did until it was too late, some

warning would have been nice, and if you didnt dont blame yourself. Either way Imnot angry. I assured her, and then continued.

I have had a long discussion with Edward this afternoon; I understand that youhave all seen a similar situation before. I looked up at Bella. Im sure if it was stillpossible she would be blushing.

I also understand that I have some decisions to make, and I would appreciateyour patience with me. I know youd rather I didnt leave and I am grateful for that, youare the first family I have had in many, many years, and I dont want to leave either. Iwould, however like some time, and space to make the right decision.

Take as much time as you need, son. Carlisle was calm, understanding. Ithought grateful thoughts at him and he nodded in response. I didnt often use my strange


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ability to put thoughts into others minds on my family; I felt it was an unnecessaryintrusion.

Esme looked slightly shocked, but exuberant at the same time. I knew she wasexpecting Id leave, like Edward had, but she hated her family being separated. She wasstill upset that Rosalie and Emmett had decided to spend a few years living on their own

in London.You mean you arent leaving? She asked, surprise colouring her voice.Not yet. I replied.I think you should talk to her Isaac. Nessie started excitedly. Alice was already

sayingNessie shhh! Alice complained.Its okay Alice. It wont affect my decision. And Nessie, I dont think it would

be a good idea to push my luck at the present time. I mussed her hair as I walked pasther. She gave a harrumph and shook hair bronze curls back into place. Friendly banterstarted up in the living room. I ignored it and wandered aimlessly in the direction of myroom to wait for morning.

Chapter 3Vivian

A week had passed since I started my sentence in the rainy town of Salem. I satwith Brian and Aimee and their friends at lunch time and during what ever classes I hadwith them. Brian was still paying too much attention to me, and Andrew was starting tofollow his bad example, though he was shyer. All this attention didnt help myrelationship with Tori, it also didnt help that I tripped over one of her friends in gymclass on Tuesday. It wasnt like I tripped often or was clumsy, but basketball and I didntget along, especially when I had zero hand-eye coordination. But at least I had made it on

to the cheer team at the try-out they held for me on Friday.Classes were easy enough and my teachers all seemed to like me, though it couldbe caused by the fact that I had been in all advanced classes back in Henderson. Mrs.Chapman, the art teacher, was already my favourite teacher, and it helped that art was myfavourite subject, so we had a good relationship.

I was still confused as to why Isaac Cullen had seemed so angry at me that firstday, but I never got the chance to figure out why because he didnt come back to school. Iwatched for him, half out of curiosity, half in fear of facing his harsh gaze, but everydaywas the same; the six other Cullens sat at the same table in the cafeteria with out him. Ilooked for him in art class, but he never came. By Friday I had stopped watching for him.

On Sunday I found myself sitting between Iris and Cassandra in the little churchonce again. I was surprised to find myself relaxing, and feeling comfortable with my newlife. Though it didnt stop me from chanting Its only one semester to myself repeatedlybefore I went to sleep each night.

Monday dawned like any other day. It was cloudy and looked like rain, or maybesnow, which was not uncommon for the third week of January. I no longer sighed or


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grumbled as I got ready for school. I wasnt exactly excited, but at least I wasnt mopinganymore. Iris pleased that I was settling in. I returned her smile when I came down stairs.

Good morning Vivian, you look lovely this morning. Iris believed in startingeveryones day with a compliment, she thought that feeling good about yourself was agood way to make the day go smoothly.

Good Morning Grandma. What do you have in the oven this morning? Iris alsobelieved in starting each day with a fresh batch of baking.You better have cereal for breakfast today Vivian, these cookies are for your

friends.Grandma you dont have to bake for my friends. I told her with a laugh. My

friends would kill me if they heard me say that. I ate my cereal without complaint, eventhough I was really in the mood for the freshly baked goods.

Has mom come down yet? I asked between bites.Yes, she left for work already, you just missed her.Oh well thats too bad.Tanya and I rarely ran into each other in the mornings, even when it was just the

two of us. Once she figured I was old enough to take care of myself, she started keepingher own schedule. It was like living with a roommate rather then a mother. Not to say thatTanya was ever a bad mother, she did great for being single mother on a nurses salary,she just didnt fuss over the little things, like family breakfasts.

Dont forget to bring this container of cookies with you to school dear. Iris saidas she finished cleaning up her baking mess. Ive got to call Mrs. Sutherland to see if sheneeds anything today.

I wont forget, have a good day. I put my bowl in the sink and grabbed thecookies from the counter. I headed to the entryway to get my jacket and backpack andheaded out into the cold morning.

My morning was going exceedingly well. The cheer team was impressed at howfast I picked up the new dance we were working on, I aced the pop quiz in Spanish andTori only glared at me twice. I was dreading yet another hour of basketball, but I wasdetermined not to let that ruin my mood.

It was a painful hour. I got hit in the shoulder twice and I bent my finger backtrying to catch the ball. Brian ran to the office to get an ice pack for me, for which I wasgrateful. I spent the rest of the class nursing my now swollen finger.

Alright everybody listen up! Coach McLeod yelled at the end of the hour. OnWednesday were all going hiking up at Highland Park. So meet in the parking lot at 9:00sharp and bring a lunch!

Suddenly my throbbing hand didnt matter. I got to miss a day of basketball for anature walk. This was great. Walking didnt take any hand-eye coordination what-so-ever. Hiking I could do.

Andrew picked up on my good mood as I walked into history and sat down besideme. He grinned at me.

Youre in a good mood today. He said.I most certainly am. I replied, playing up the cheerfulness a little.What happened to your hand?


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I frowned; of course hed notice that.Basketball. I replied plainly.He nodded in understanding. Brian had filled him in on my sports skills.But aside from my hand, and the weather, Im having a really good day. Im

excited for the hiking trip on Wednesday.

You like hiking?I nodded.Though Im not used to nature being so wet.Andrew laughed at that.How about you? How are you today? I asked, attempting to be polite.I am doing pretty well myself.Oh?He leaned towards me.We are starting my favourite part of history class today.It was my turn to laugh.Andrew you are such a nerd!

The teacher, Mr. Green, entered the room just then. Andrew straightened up in hisseat. I chuckled under my breath and he flashed me another grin. The projector whirred tolife and Mr. Green flicked the lights off in the room. The title read Settling Essex County1626-1693

Over the next few days we will be discussing the local history starting with thesettling of the county and going on to the witch trials.

Salem was founded at the mouth of the Naumkeag River in 1626 (it wasoriginally called Naumkeag and was renamed Salem three years later) by a company offishermen from Cape Ann led by Roger Conant, and incorporated in 1629. The name"Salem" is related to the Hebrew word "shalom" and Arabic word "salam", both meaning"peace". Conant was later supplanted by John Endecott, the governor assigned by theMassachusetts Bay Company.

In 1627 a patent was solicited from England and it was obtained by a group ledby John Endicott who arrived in Naumkeag in 1628. Endicott and the other settlers of theNew England Company now owned the rights to Naumkeag. Fortunately for the peacefulcontinuity of the settlement, Conant remained in Salem and, despite what must have beena disappointment for him, acceded to Endicott's authority as the new governor. (From theWikipedia page on Salem)

Mr. Green droned on in this manner for an hour. By the end of the class I thoughtI had carpel tunnel syndrome from typing so many notes. But at least he hadnt gotten tothe witch trials yet.

The witch trials were never my favorite topic. Not since my uncles made me

watch all those horror movies when I was little. I ended up in Tanyas room every nightfor a month. After that I had nothing to do with witches, ghosts, zombies, demons or anyother kinds of monsters.

Of course I had read The Crucible in English last year. It wasnt a scary story oranything, but on principle I hadnt liked it very much.

I really thought it was creepy for a towns entire history to be based on witchcraft.I shuddered just thinking about it. Andrew, of course, thought it was hilarious that I


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didnt find the subject as fascinating as he did, in other words he thought I was anabsolute coward.

Chemistry passed in a blur and soon I was passing Iriss container of cookiesaround my familiar table.

Vivian! Julian yelled from across the table. Tell Iris to send a double batchnext time!Im fairly sure that was a double batch Julian. I laughed.Oh, well I only got one. He poutedYou would have gotten more if Brian hadnt been hogging the bowl. Luke

jabbed Brian in the side.Ow! I wasnt hogging the bowl! Besides the girls had just as many as I did! He

retorted.Aimee, Samantha, Abby and Tori all burst out laughing.I guess Ill tell Iris that the cookies were good. I said joining in the laughter.All of our sides were sore by the end of lunch. Everyone was talking and

laughing. My latest gym class injury was brought up and laughed at, but I wasnt upset byit. We were all still joking around on our way to art class. Andrew and Brian walked oneither side of me, clearly competing for my attention, though I did prefer Andrewscompany over Brians.

I caught a glimpse of a tall, looming figure in the crowd and saw that Jacob Blackand Nessie Swan were also on their way to class, but I didnt see the other five with them.Just then the small curly haired girl looked over her shoulder and held my gaze. Shesmiled warmly at me, flashing a set of perfect white teeth. She looked like a model. Shelifted her hand as if to wave but Jacob glanced at me then and put his arm around her tostop her. These actions confused me. Why would Jacob care if his girlfriend waved atme? And why would Nessie be waving at me in the first place?

When I entered the art room, I noticed my table was still empty. Was Isaac stillabsent? Or had just not arrived yet? I hadnt noticed him at lunch time but I hadntnoticed any of the Cullens, nor was I looking for them.

I pulled out my sketch book and began to work, my mind drifting back to my firstday of classes here in Salem and how angry Isaac had seemed. I heard a chair drag on thefloor next to me and I jumped, startled by the noise that had broken into my thoughts. Iknew then that Isaac had returned to school. I didnt look at him, fearing that he would beas fierce looking as the last time I saw him.

A throat cleared and I could see out of the corner of my eye that Isaac was shiftinguncomfortably in his seat. I peeked up from under my lashes, and saw that he waswatching me, his sketch book open on the table in front of him. He didnt look madtoday; maybe Edward hadnt been lying about the stomach flu thing. I wasnt sure if Iwanted to find out, so I went back to my work.

Hello. Came a low whimsical voice.I looked up, startled again. Isaac Cullen was once again sitting as far away from

me as possible but he now had a small smile.Hi. It sounded like a question.I must apologize for not introducing myself last week, Im Isaac Cullen.I nodded weakly, and I knew that the shock must be obvious on my face.


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And you are Vivian Bishop. He stated plainly.I know. I said with a hint of sarcasm. He chuckled quietly.So how do you like living in Salem?I didnt answer right away; surprised that he hadnt mentioned the fact that I was

Iriss granddaughter.

You look surprised. He commented, laughing again; it was a musical noise.Arent you going to ask if Im Iriss Granddaughter?Why would I ask that?Thats what everyone asks when I first meet them.Who is Iris?It was my turn to laugh.You dont know Iris? He shook his head slowly. Wow I thought she knew

absolutely everybody in this town.You know, now that I think about it. I seem to recall Esme my mother saying

that a lady named Iris invited her to some fundraising event at church once.I laughed again.

I told you everyone knows Iris.You never did answer my question.Which question?He leaned towards me cautiously.I asked how you liked living in Salem.I sighed.Its cold, I said with an air of disgust. And wet. I wrinkled my nose to

emphasize my point.You dont want to be here. He didnt say it like a question, more like a matter of

fact.No, thats not true, not exactly. I couldnt understand why I was telling him

this. I should tell him I hate it here and cant wait to leave, but something about him mademe want to tell him the truth. I needed to tell someone, and I felt a sudden, unexplainabletrust in him.

He gave me a puzzled look.I am not quite sure I understand. You dont like it here, I nodded so he

continued. But you do want to be here?Im not a fan of the weather, and I really miss Henderson. But my grandma, Iris,

needs us here, and I want to be here for her.I see. He said softly.I hadnt realized it, but while I had been talking I had leaned towards him, and we

were now sitting quite close together.You must really care about her. He murmured, mostly to himself.I blushed and he quickly leaned away, a dark look flashing in his golden eyes.

Golden eyes? I was confused again. Last week his eyes were black, I was sure of it. Icould vividly remember his cold black gaze and now they were golden, butterscotcheven. I couldnt understand it.

He was being so friendly today, but I could see now that the anger I had witnessedlast week was still present. I frowned. He saw that I had noticed his reaction and relaxedslightly, the darkness leaving his face. I relaxed too.


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So, what about you? I asked.Hmm?Well, you havent lived here that long either. How do you like living here?To be honest with you, I like it here. Its homey and quiet. He said calmly. Ive

lived in many places and most of them much more unpleasant then here.

I find that hard to believe. I said trying to be light hearted. He smiled a warm,inviting smile.The bell rang then, and he stood and quickly gathered his things.I should be going. He muttered and began to walk away from the table.Isaac! I called to him before he could get too far. He turned to look at me.

Youre in my next class. I smiled weakly.Well then, hurry up and Ill walk with you.I hastily grabbed my sketch book and shoved it into my bag. I slung it over my

shoulder and hurried after him. I didnt know why but I felt the sudden need to keeptalking to Isaac, it was almost like a magnetic force pulling me towards him. Though Icouldnt tell exactly what it was, there was something intriguing about this pale faced

boy. I ignored the whispers of my friends and concentrated on keeping up with Isaacslong strides. He was very quiet, almost like he was ignoring me, but he glanced down atme every so often with curiosity touching his eyes.

So, I began timidly. Where did you move from?Forks, Washington. He replied. Its very small.I could see now that getting anything further out of him was going to be like

pulling teeth. He honestly didnt seem like he wanted to be answering my questions, buthe was still trying to be polite. I kept trying.

And before Forks?He raised an eyebrow at me in confusion.You said you moved around a lot. I prompted.Before Forks, my family lived in Alaska, but I lived in Rochester. I didnt start

living with them until they moved to Forks.So you havent been with the Cullens very long?He frowned at me and I was unsure as to why. It seemed like an innocent enough

question. He pondered it for a few seconds.It feels like a short time. He sighed. We had reached the English classroom.

The Cullens have been more of a family to me then anyone before them, so the lengthof time Ive been with them doesnt matter to me.

Frustration or maybe irritation played across his pale face. He strode away fromme into the classroom. Aimee and Brian came up behind me as I stood in the doorway ofthe classroom.

Whats with him? Brian asked, as he watched Isaac walk swiftly away. Ishrugged and walked into the room, glancing briefly to the back where Isaac sat with hisbrother and foster sister. I was consumed with an overwhelming feeling of confusion andfrustration that I knew was caused by Isaac Cullen. Never in my life had I met someoneso mysterious.


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The rest of the afternoon passed at a crawl. I had already read the novel we werestarting in English and still had all my notes saved on my computer. The lecture didntcapture my attention like literature usually did, especially a classic like Silas Marner. Ifound myself glancing back towards the Cullens more and more often. Finally the bellrang signalling the end of the school day. I watched Bella Swan, and Isaac and Edward

Cullen walk swiftly and gracefully out the door without a backward glance.When I got home after school I discovered that Tanya was not home yet and there

was a note on the counter written in Iriss elegant script.

Vivian, Ive gone over to Mrs. Newbolds house. Dinner is in the fridge, could you put it inthe oven around five? Oh and there is a box of Grandpas things in the hall upstairs, could

you put on the shelf in the garage for me?Thanks dear.

Grandma.

I glanced at the clock; I had half an hour until I had to start supper. I slowly mademy way up the stairs. I dumped my backpack on my bed then went to find the box Iriswanted me to move. I carried it down stairs and out to the garage. The shelves werealready packed pretty full with the things that Tanya and I hadnt unpacked from ourmove. Things that Iris had in her house already that we didnt need doubles of. Istruggled to lift the heavy box onto one of the overcrowded shelves and in the processknocked one of the other boxes down. It tipped onto its side and the lid flopped uselesslyoff of it. Sighing I settled the new box on the shelf and knelt to clean up to box that hadfallen.

I turned the box so it was right side up again and was about to fit the lid back onwhen one of the boxs contents caught my eye. Nestled among some loose papers was a

small, black velvet jewellery box. I picked it up and opened it hesitantly. Inside laid tworings. One was a plain gold band and the other was gold, and the top of the band had twointerlocking hearts with inset diamonds. My curiosity got the better of me. I startedriffling through the rest of the box. I pulled out a stack of papers and smaller piecefluttered to the floor. I turned it over in my hand and saw that it was a wedding photo. Irecognized and younger looking Tanya in a beautiful white gown. I saw Iris and mygrandfather, Patrick, standing beside her. On my mothers other side stood a young,charming looking gentleman. I did not recognize him. I studied the photo closely andthen saw that the man standing next to Tanya had the same shade of brown hair as meand the same dull green eyes. This man would have to be my father. A man that I hadnever met, in fact this was the only picture of him I had ever seen.

I glanced down at the rest of the papers in my hand. The top on looked like amarriage certificate. The names listed were Tanya V. Jenson and Jonathan A. Bishop. Ivaguely recalled my uncle Benjamin mentioning that my fathers name was Jonathan.The next few sheets were divorce papers and under those were annulment records. Itseems as though Tanya did everything she could to put this man out of her life, as well ashiding him from me. Of course I didnt know the entire story, so I did have to wonderwhat this man could have done that my mother would never even mention him to me.


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I had asked her once when I was much younger why I didnt have a dad and allthe other kids did, even if he wasnt around. All Tanya had told me was that I didnt needa father and that we were just fine on our own. My uncle told me later, when I was older,that Tanya went to high school in Salem, MA with my dad and then a few years later theymet randomly in Las Vegas and started dating. They got married too soon and it ended

badly. I replaced all the papers, except the photo which I tucked in my pocket, and placethe lid back on the box. I stacked it precariously on top of the others and went back intothe house.

I quickly set my laptop up on the kitchen table. While it hummed to life I took thehomemade casserole and stuck it in the oven to warm up. Going back to the computer Iopened a search engine and quickly typed in Jonathan A. Bishop I figured after 17,almost 18 years if Tanya hadnt said anything she wasnt about to start talking, so I wouldtry and find something about my father on my own.

For a while I couldnt find anything useful, but then I struck what could have beengold. A small business website that listed a Jon Bishop as the manager. I was surprised to

find that the company was located right here in Salem. I dug a little deeper through theinformation on the site and found an address for the afore mentioned Jon Bishop onRobinson road, just outside Highland Park. I was slightly stunned if this man was myfather, he was living right here in Salem, and I might never have known. Should I go seehim? I knew the answer before I had even thought of the question. Of course I would gofind him, after all this time I might have a father after all.

Chapter 4 Isaac

The wind rushed past my face, echoing in my ears. The greenery of the forestblurred in front of my unfocused eyes as I ran. I pushed myself to go faster, as fast as I

could possibly go. If it wasnt for the cool damp feel of the forest floor beneath my barefeet, I would have felt like I was flying. I let myself be completely free, letting thesensation of the woods that surrounded me take over, leaving all my troubles in theclearing behind me.

I could see light filtering through the trees and I slowed my pace. I broke throughthe trees and came to a stop at the edge of the cliff. The Atlantic Ocean stretched out infront of me as far as the eye could see and I could see very far. I sucked in a large uselessbreath. The view overtook me every time. I only paused for a moment before turning anddarting back into the woods. If I was planning keep going to school this week I wouldneed to hunt again.

It didnt take me long to catch the scent of a pack of deer that werent to far off

from where I was running. I adjusted my course and closed in on three small does and alarger buck. I went for the buck first. I had lunged at his throat before they even realized Iwas chasing them. The does scattered, and the buck struggled, tossing his head to loosenmy grip. He didnt fight for very long. My razor sharp teeth cut easily through fur, skinand muscle until the blood ran freely into my mouth.

Draining him took very little time. I pushed the corpse away and straighten myclothes, wiping the dirt and moss off the knees of my jeans. I glanced around me. Theforest was quiet; all the creatures went into hiding when our kind was around.


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I didnt bother searching out the does I had seen before. I wouldnt need anymoretoday, especially if my increased hunting was to become a habit.

I made it back to the clearing where our old Victorian farm house sat beneath theshade of the giant spruce trees. Light from the setting sun lay in strips across the yard

where it filtered in through the trees. I wandered aimlessly towards the house, scatteringrainbows onto the grass whenever I crossed a patch of light. The sun wouldnt be out forvery long, but here in the shelter of our home we were safe to be in the sunlight that weall desperately missed.

I could hear music floating across the lawn from the house, either Edward orNessie was playing piano, I couldnt tell who. Edward had been the best musician in thefamily, followed by Rosalie, but Nessie was giving her dad a run for his money.Obviously talent ran in the family.

Entering through the front door I could see Edward at the sleek back grand piano,his brow furrowed with concentration. The music flowed effortlessly but I could tell bythe look on his face that he was composing again. Grabbing my sketchbook from the

coffee table where I had left it, I sat down next to him on the piano bench and begansketching.Hello Isaac. Edward said without looking up from the piano.Hello Edward.Out hunting again?Yes, I thought it would be a good idea. I sighed, my mind wandering back to

the events of this afternoons art class. The way Vivian had blushed when I caught herbeing more open then she wanted to let on. Venom welled up into my throat at thethought of the blood pooling under her fragile skin.

Isaac? Edward abruptly stopped playing.Sorry Edward, I shouldnt be thinking like that.You know its harder when you do think like that. He said turning back to the

keys. You dont have to do this you know. He said softly.I know. I thought to him and then sighed angrily.I realize full well I dont have to do this. I began, and angrily slammed my

sketchbook shut. I dont have to put myself through such horrible torture as resistingwho I am. What I dont understand is why I have to be going through this. I have not hadhuman blood in almost a hundred and fifty years, and yes at first it was hard not to give inbut I havent even been tempted in decades.

And now one girl, one insignificant human girl waltzes in and threatens to ruineverything, and now not just for me! I paced my room for five days trying to decidewhether or not I had the strength not to kill her, nearly wore a rut into the carpet. Andafter all that you know what I came up with? The fact that I finally found a home and shehas no right to drive me away!

I took a breath, regaining control of myself. Edward sat with his hands resting onthe piano keys, motionlessly. He stared, not at me but past me. I turned, only to see Bellaand Alice standing at the foot of the stairs watching me. The shock on their faces told methey had witnessed my tantrum.

Bellas face turned instantly from shock to sympathy.


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I gave her an apologetic look, wanting to tell her that I was going to be alright butshe shook her head and crossed the space between us. She put her hand on my shoulder,gently.

I feel horrible that you are going through this. I wish I could help in some way.Unfortunately my shield doesnt block scent.

I offered her a small smile of reassurance.You know Id mention any danger Isaac, you were no where near trouble today.You can do this, we all believe in you. Alice flitted towards us and stood behindEdward.

Thank you all, but neither your faith nor sympathy makes it easier.To be quite honest, you are doing much better then anyone ever expected. Im

sure it will become easier in time. Edward said calmly, and then he gave a laugh andgrabbed Bella from behind and pulled her into his lap. She burst into giggles.

I smiled at the happy couple. Bella struggled in Edwards grasp and gave a lowplayful growl.

When she finally broke free she said Alice and I are going hunting well be home

later. Alright, Love, see you soon. Edward replied.The girls slipped out the back door. I turned back to Edward who turned back to

his piano. Music once again filled the room.Edward, I began hesitantly. Do you remember last week when you said youd

help me?Yes, I remember that.Would you tell me what she was thinking today?You know I try to block people out, and besides its rude to invade peoples

heads like that.Come on, Edward, I know you were listening to make sure I was behaving.Do you really think it would help to know what she was thinking?You wished you could hear Bella in the beginning too.That is true. Edward sighed and turned away from the piano. She isnt afraid

of you, which is odd, and she wonders why you hate her so much, but was so friendlytoday. She is curious and intrigued but she doesnt suspect anything. She seems to be oneof the few genuinely good people on the planet, and is very good at hiding it.

What exactly did you mean by its odd that she isnt afraid of me, aside from thefact that most humans shy away from us naturally?

She frightens easily.She frightens easily? I questioned.I pulled that bit from Andrew Faulkners head, apparently any and all creepy or

horror stories scare her, its one of the reasons she hates it here. Oh and Faulkner isstarting to piss me off, there is something going on in that kids head that even I dontunderstand.

Wait, go back, she is frightened by the very idea of what we are and yet she isnteven remotely scared?

Well she doesnt know anything which could be why she isnt scared, but I cantfigure out why she doesnt shy away like normal humans.


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Perfect, the greatest risk to my self control wont even try to avoid me. I got upto leave. I needed to think about what to do with all this new information.

Oh and Isaac, so you know, she didnt respond to you putting thoughts in herhead.

What? It is very hard to truly shock a vampire, but Edward had achieved it.

You tried to make her think she didnt like you, and that she should avoid you,and it didnt even cross her mind.What do you mean? How could she not think it? Shock melted into

incomprehension and anger.Im not sure exactly, but Ive mentioned it to Carlisle about it, we were both

searching for ideas. Ive suggested to him that we talk to Eleazar he may have moreideas. I wouldnt worry too much; its probably just something like me not being able tohear Bella.

Oh I think its quite different, Bella is a shield, for one thing. And for anotheryou can hear Vivian. I said angrily. You know, its crazy, when I was human I couldntwait to leave home, to get away from my family. And now, when fate wants to drive me

away, all I want to do is stay here.It was raining when morning came; washing away what snow was still on the

ground. It was the kind of day that we, as vampires, normally enjoy. The kind of day withno risk of sun to expose us and we werent bothered by the rain or the cold, our bodiesjust readjusted to the temperature; all weather felt the same to us.

I watched a small puddle forming in the back yard from my window. Theinformation Edward had given floated around in my mind. I wasnt exactly sure what todo with it. All I knew was that Vivian knew nothing about what I am, but was curious,and she was possibly some kind of shield. I also knew that her blood smelt dangerouslysweet and that I wanted to get too close to her and couldnt.

A warm hand brushed up against my cheek. Images of my familys concernedfaces fluttered in front of my eyes, followed by an image of me looking far more wornthan I thought I was. I moved my hand from against the window pane and rested itagainst the hand that was touching my face.

I know you are all worried Ness. I thought. But Im fine, really.You dont look fine Isaac. We know you can handle this, but you just dont look

like you are coping very well. Her high crystal voice was softened with concern.Thank you, Nessie, for all your concern, Im alright, just confused thats all.Nessie pulled her hand away from my face.You better get changed before we have to leave for school, she said. Like I

said you dont look like you are coping very well. And Alice will never let you out of thehouse looking like that.

I reached over and messed up her hair. She growled and then giggled as shebounced away, out of my reach.

Isaac! Stop it! she laughed, straightening out her now messy curls.Thanks, Ness. I thought with a smile. She flashed an angelic grin and turned

towards the door.I pulled yesterdays shirt over my head and tossed it smoothly into the laundry

hamper. It really didnt need washing, being a vampire meant that I didnt sweat or shed


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dead skin, I rarely even spilled anything on myself, but Alice was a stickler for how wepresented ourselves in public and a rumpled, previously worn shirt was not going to cutit. I found a clean shirt in my inappropriately large closet and put it on while searchingfor clean pants. I ended up in a forest green button down shirt and dark jeans. I glancedbriefly in the hallway mirror to make sure my dark, unruly hair would pass Alices

scrutiny and headed down stairs.I watched as the second hand slowly finish another revolution around the face of

the clock. Living in the absence of time did not make an hour long history class go by anyfaster. History was especially boring, seeing as how I had lived through most of it.

I had grown up during the civil war. I can still remember the headlines calling forvolunteer soldiers. I was eleven and devastated that my father, the local pastor, wouldntlet me enlist. All I had ever wanted was to be a soldier. My uncle Thomas, my olderbrother Joseph, and several of my cousins all went off to war. I still had the letters mybrother had written to me from the frontlines before he died.

Finally the bell rang and I could escape to the next hour of torture that I had linedup. Unfortunately for someone with ten university degrees high school calculus doesnthold much in the way of challenges. It also doesnt capture attention very well. Luckilyby using my little mind tricks I had the teacher convinced that he didnt need to call onme and I could be distracted all I wanted. I was beginning to agree with Edward. If Godoffered some kind of penance for what we were, it had to be the monotony of highschool.

Gym class was last before lunch, and undoubtedly the mostly challenging class ofthe day for a vampire. When you can run faster then a race car and have better reflexesthen a wildcat, it gets a little tedious to have to blend in.

It was basketball season, and we had to put extra effort in to make sure we didntsink every basket or catch every pass. Edward and Alice had to make sure they werentone play ahead of the rest of the players. Though we always had fight free games thanksto Jasper.

Today Jasper, Edward and Bella were teamed up against Alice and me, and one ofthe human students, Luke Fischer. Of course we could all tell that he wasnt too thrilledabout being stuck on a team with the freaks and then have to play against more of thefreaks.

Hey Jasper, you want to calm Fischer down here, I think hes freaking out here. Ithought, giving him an exasperated look. Poor kid, surrounded by five vampires, Illmake sure Coach Barnes doesnt do this anymore.

I smoothly passed the ball to Alice who danced across the court and tossed itlightly into the basket. Luke smiled weakly and caught the rebound. He sunk anotherbasket before Edward stole the ball from him.

With a minor amount of tension and a little help from Jasper and me, Lukesurvived the hour of basketball. But according to Edward he definitely didnt want to bepart of that situation again. I often wondered if it would be easier if the humans realized


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that their systems were telling them they were scared of us, instead of just thinking thatwe are weird and they should avoid us.

Lunch was next, one short hour until I was to be tested once more. My familyheaded towards the cafeteria. I was about to head for the parking lot to get some fresh airwhen Alice skipped to my side and grabbed my arm.

You should come to lunch with us Isaac. She saidI dont have a choice do I? I said to her, a little exasperated.Hmm, She said jokingly, putting one hand on her temple like she had seen some

amazing vision. Nope!You hid in the parking lot all of lunch yesterday, its time to come back to

civilization. Bella agreed with Alice.Easy for you to say, youre not likely to turn into a monster at the slightest whiff

of the new girls scent. I grumbled under my breath and trudged towards the cafeteria.Try and act normal Isaac, dont look all depressed. Alice said with a reassuring

tone.Do you honestly think any of us would let anything bad happen? Edward

questioned. There are six of and one of you; we could probably stop you with out any ofthe humans noticing.They really dont notice much Edward. Jacob stated.My point exactly.We had reached the cafeteria. I took a deep breath, and smelt nothing out of the

ordinary blur of human scents. I looked around to see if Vivian was even here. She wassitting at Brian Andersons table again. Andrew Faulkner, Aimee Schr

in the midnight hour chapters 1 to 4 revised

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