RfH Chapter 16 Teaser

When we arrive at her father’s the house is dark. “Is no one home?” I ask.

“Charlie’s probably working second shift,” she explains. “He’ll be home soon.”

“You’re going to be here alone?”

Bella frowns at me. “I can take care of myself, Edward.” Her words are gentle but the implication stings nonetheless. I remove Bella’s bag from the backseat and follow her to the front door. She reaches under the eave and produces a key. Once inside, I set down her bag in the small entryway and we stand there facing each other awkwardly. Bella fists her hands in my shirt and pulls me into an embrace. She tucks her head under my chin as I wrap my arms around her shoulders. I hold her tightly and concentrate on her body in my arms, memorizing the way she feels, her scent. I nudge her cheek with my nose. When she tips her head back to look at me, I press my lips to hers. The kiss is needy and Bella senses my trepidation.

“This isn’t goodbye,” she says decisively after pulling away.

“I know.” My voice isn’t as confident as hers. Bella eyes me skeptically. “It feels like it is,” I admit.