Telling Bella

The rest of the week passed with a mounting sense of unease. Each day, Garnetta felt the tension around Forks growing, like a storm gathering on the horizon. Bella's quiet demeanor had become more introspective, as if she too could sense the shifting atmosphere, even if she couldn't understand it. Edward remained close to her side, his protectiveness evident in the way he watched over her, his eyes always scanning for unseen threats.

Garnetta continued to spend time with Bella, building their friendship while keeping a close watch for any signs of danger. She found herself growing more attached to Bella, not just because of the mysterious connection she felt, but because Bella was genuinely kind and resilient—a person worth protecting.

By the time Friday arrived, the sky over Forks had darkened with heavy clouds, the promise of rain hanging in the air. The students at Forks High School moved through their routines, but Garnetta could sense the undercurrent of tension among them, as if they were all on edge without knowing why.

During lunch, Garnetta joined Tanya, Alice, and Jasper at their usual table. The conversation was subdued, each of them lost in their own thoughts. Alice had been having more visions, but they were still unclear, fragmented images that only added to the uncertainty.

"I'm trying to piece it all together," Alice said, her frustration evident. "But it's like trying to see through fog. I can't get a clear picture of what's coming."

Jasper placed a reassuring hand on Alice's arm. "You're doing your best, Alice. We'll figure it out. We always do."

Tanya nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful. "We need to stay focused and keep an eye on Bella. Whatever's coming, she's at the center of it."

Garnetta's thoughts echoed Tanya's words. Bella was the key to understanding the mystery that had begun to unfold around them, and Garnetta was determined to protect her, no matter what.

After lunch, the group dispersed to their classes, the mood still heavy with unspoken concerns. Garnetta made her way to her next class, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to happen—something that would change everything.

That afternoon, as school let out and students began to filter out of the building, Garnetta noticed Bella standing near her truck, once again looking around with a puzzled expression. This time, Garnetta didn't hesitate. She walked over to Bella, her senses on high alert.

"Bella," Garnetta called out as she approached. "Are you okay?"

Bella looked up, relief evident in her eyes when she saw Garnetta. "I'm not sure," she admitted. "I keep feeling like I'm being watched, but I can't see anyone."

Garnetta's concern deepened. "Let's get out of here," she suggested, her tone gentle but firm. "We can talk more on the way."

Bella nodded, her anxiety clear. As they both got into their vehicles, Garnetta made a quick decision. Instead of heading straight home, she would take Bella somewhere safe, somewhere they could talk without the worry of being overheard.

Garnetta led Bella to a secluded spot just outside of Forks, a small clearing in the woods where they could be alone. The rain had started to fall softly, creating a misty veil around them as they stepped out of their cars. The forest was quiet, the usual sounds of wildlife muted by the steady drizzle.

"Garnetta," Bella began, her voice trembling slightly, "what's going on? Why do I keep feeling like someone's watching me?"

Garnetta took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. She knew that she had to be honest with Bella, but she also needed to be cautious. "Bella, I think there's more going on in Forks than you realize," she said gently. "There are… things in this world that most people don't know about—things that are hidden from humans."

Bella frowned, her confusion deepening. "What do you mean?"

Garnetta hesitated for a moment before deciding to tell Bella the truth, or at least as much as she could without overwhelming her. "There are people in Forks who aren't exactly human, Bella. They have abilities, strengths, that go beyond what's normal. Edward is one of them. So are the Cullens."

Bella's eyes widened, shock evident in her expression. "Are you saying… are you saying that Edward isn't human?"

Garnetta nodded, her gaze steady. "Yes, Bella. Edward is a vampire. The Cullens are a family of vampires, but they're different from what you might have heard in stories. They don't harm humans—they've chosen to live peacefully, feeding on animal blood instead."

Bella took a step back, her mind racing as she tried to process what Garnetta was telling her. "Vampires… but how is that possible? How could I not know?"

"They're very good at hiding what they are," Garnetta explained softly. "But Edward cares about you, Bella. He's been trying to protect you from the truth because he didn't want to scare you."

Bella's breathing quickened, her heart racing as she struggled to come to terms with this new reality. "And you? Are you…?"

Garnetta shook her head. "I'm like the Cullens. A vampire, yes, but I don't harm humans. I chose this life a long time ago, and I've learned to live with it. I'm telling you this because I want to keep you safe, Bella. There's something coming—something dangerous—and I think you're at the center of it."

Bella's mind whirled with questions, her fear mingling with confusion. "Why me? I'm just a normal girl. Why would something dangerous be after me?"

"I don't know," Garnetta admitted, her voice filled with concern. "But I can feel it, Bella. You're important, more than you realize. And that's why we have to be careful."

Bella's shoulders slumped as the weight of Garnetta's words settled over her. "What do I do now? How can I protect myself?"

"You're not alone, Bella," Garnetta assured her, stepping closer and placing a reassuring hand on her arm. "Edward, the Cullens, Tanya, Raphael—we're all here to protect you. You just have to trust us."

Bella looked into Garnetta's eyes, seeing the sincerity and determination there. "I do trust you," she said quietly. "But this is so much to take in. I don't even know where to start."

Garnetta nodded, understanding the overwhelming nature of what she had just revealed. "Take it one step at a time, Bella. You don't have to face this alone. We'll figure it out together."

As the rain continued to fall around them, Garnetta felt a deep sense of responsibility for Bella's safety. The girl had been thrust into a world she didn't understand, a world filled with dangers she couldn't see. But Garnetta was determined to protect her, no matter what it took.

After a few moments of silence, Bella finally spoke, her voice steady despite the fear that lingered in her eyes. "What do we do now?"

"We keep you safe," Garnetta replied firmly. "And we find out what's coming before it's too late."

Bella nodded, her resolve strengthening. "Okay. I'm ready."

Garnetta smiled, proud of Bella's courage. "Then let's get started."