Chapter 2 Injustice

Edward

Esme’s curtains didn’t correspond with my mood. They were merry. Inviting, although the reality inside was the complete opposite. Even to me.

I turned off the ignition and sat in the onyx coup, still, unsure while a curtain of silver rain fell around me.

Carlisle probably wasn’t even home.

I scoffed at my own cowardice. I felt utterly pathetic. As if the mere possibility that Carlisle might not be home could be reason enough for me to turn around the way I’d come.

I still owed both Carlisle and Esme many explanations. And so much more, to be frank. Explanations, gratitude, apologies and a whole life’s servitude and dedication, especially to Carlisle for the sole purpose that he was the one who did not think twice before saving my life all those years ago when he’d seen me dying on a sick bed, miserable and alone.

The door creaked open with my hesitation. Inside, the house was dark, the merry curtains drawn. I scanned the hallway, parlor and living room. Everything was just as I remembered; fairly normal. I took my suitcase up to the bedroom that used to belong to me. As I opened the door a sadness fell over me. The couch was the same. The desk also. My school books were neatly stacked on top. The bed sheets were neatly tucked and a pillow in place. Esme, without a doubt, came in every once in awhile. I stayed in my old room until I heard the door unlock with a click. I was resisting the urge to fly down the stairs, hold my arms out to either Esme or Carlisle (or both) and assure them that I was here to stay. In fact, why was I resisting?

Leaving the room, I sauntered down the stairs. When I reached the last step my eyes encountered Esme’s shocked golden stare. Her purse slipped from her hands and she ran towards me. I held my arms open and she dove right in.

"I’m sorry." I whispered. I couldn’t ask her to forgive me.

Esme’s arms folded around my back. "What is there to apologize for?"

I took that as a rhetorical question but said nothing, just the same.

Carlisle came home almost near sunset.