So far, Tuesday had been going well. Edward was with me when I woke-up; acting like nothing had happened. The car ride was pleasant, as were my first four classes. The dreadful discussion that had consumed last night was disregarded in conversation. Smiles and laughter had filled much of my morning.

“Bella?” Alice whispered from across the table. Edward’s hand gently squeezed my waist confirming my fears. It was her turn to talk with me.

“Yesterday after school, Edward and I went to meet your therapist. Her name is Nancy and she’s really nice. You’ll like her.”

I felt a bit more comfortable with the situation. The approval of Alice was hard to earn, or so I’d found out from shopping with her. Edward’s nod of agreement was exponentially more difficult when it came to situations involving my health and safety. Both left me stunned into silence.

“I assume Edward’s already told you the first meeting is today. She said you should have your parent or guardian come along. However, you probably don’t want Charlie. So, whom would you like? The choice is yours.”

I took a bite of apple while I thought. Alice was right – no way was I taking Charlie. I even hated to admit I was going, but a family of vampires would manage to get me there somehow. Carlisle and Esme would be nice. They were like my second parents. However, I didn’t want to burden them. Perhaps Jasper would be helpful. He could keep me calm and I would appear fine. Knowing Alice, she’d probably find out and warn him ahead of time. Emmett and Rosalie were also off the list. I wanted to avoid more publicity as much as possible. Hopefully, they were still oblivious.

Alice and Edward had been staring at me intently while I thought through my choices. “I guess you and Edward,” I said, uncomfortable with the attention.

“Okay, I’ll meet you there after school.” I watched as Alice stood and walked off toward her next class.

“Time to go, love,” Edward said. I stood up and walked with him. The tension in the air eased away as our conversation filled up again with talk of school and friends.

–

After sixth period while I was entering the car, the memory of the upcoming, doom-filled hour hit. Remembering brought tears to my eyes. I turned my head and closed my eyes to hide from Edward’s gaze. He took the hint and kept silent the entire drive to Port Angeles.

“Here already?” I questioned in a half whisper when I felt the car stop. It hadn’t been a very long drive. Then again, I suppose the speed would have an effect.

“Yes. Nancy works from her house.”

I opened my eyes to a stunning sight. The grass was littered with plants. One beautiful apple tree stood front and center surrounded by various flowers and other green plants. In the background, up against the house, multiple rose bushes stood three-feet tall. All possible colors were represented on their individual, perfectly cut bush. To top it off, a dark green vine covered the white wall in what appeared to be a random, yet amazing pattern. The colors and organization of it all made for a picture perfect scene.

Edward opened my door and offered his hand. I reached out to take it and stood. Alice came up behind him, smiling at me. I returned her greeting and refocused on the garden. A twisted path of carefully placed stepping-stones led from my current location to the door. Tentatively, I took my first step towards the unknown. I wanted to believe that it was going to be torture, but I wasn’t sure anymore.