The Wendy's Guy

8/3/2019 The Wendy's Guy

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The Wendy's Guy

"Welcome to Wendy's, can I take your order?" the smooth velvety voice asked.

"Ummm, yeah. Can I get a medium number six with an iced tea?"

"Sweet or unsweetened?" he asked.

"Unsweetened, please," I asked, hoping he'd ask more questions just so that I can continue to listen to

that voice.

"Would you like a lemon in that?"

"Yes, please," I barely squeaked out.

"That'll be five-eighty-seven. Drive up to the first window."

He was gone before I could even say thank you. I had hoped that today would be the day. The day I

finally got to see the face that went along with the voice. It had been a week since I first heard him. I

had been running late to my after school job but had skipped lunch that day, and was in desperate need

of food. Wendy's was the only food place on the way to Newton's Outfitters and though I rarely ate fastfood, I hadn't had much of a choice.

I've gone there four times since, and it's all because of that voice. I'd been sorely disappointed the first

time I drove to the first window to pay, only to find an elderly woman waiting to take my money. I at

least had one more shot to see him if he was at the next window. No luck there either. The burly, three-hundred pound manager who had a smoker's voice, told me to enjoy my meal as he handed me my

food. Driving out of the parking lot, I headed to work.

Since I'm a really hard worker, Mrs. Newton wasn't put out that I was twenty minutes late. I was doing

inventory this week anyway. This gave me plenty of time to think of the Voice- yeah, that's what Inamed him. I definitely knew that it couldn't be any of the guys that I was friends with from school. I

would've remembered. Obviously I never talked to every single guy, so it's possible he was from my

school. This was how I'd spent the next five hours. Counting camping equipment and thinking of who

the Voice could be. On my break I sent a text to my best friend, Alice, and told her what had happened.Thing is, I couldn't get the perfect words to describe it. It was like rich, dark chocolate melting in your

mouth. Like the smoothest silk caressing your skin. Like honey-

"Swan!"

"What?" I said. Startled, I dropped my clipboard on the floor.

"It's quitting time," my friend and the boss's son, Mike said.

"Oh! I didn't even notice."

"Daydreaming again?" he asked, coming over to pick up the clip board.

"You know me too well, Mike," I said.

"Bella, we got married in kindergarten, of course I know you. Now let's go. I'll walk you out."

"Thanks, and just so you know, I forgive you for kissing Jessica Stanley the day after our wedding," I

said, remembering our lunchtime nuptials.

"You were really good about that. Didn't even ask for half my lunch in the divorce."

"If I remember correctly, I did steal your favorite crayon though," I reminded him.

"Well I did deserve it," he said as he locked up the store.


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"Hey Mike, can I ask you something?"

"Bella, I think Jess would kind of get mad if we got married again," he joked.

"You're such an ass." I said, pushing him.

"That I am, my friend. Ask away." It was worth a shot.

"Do you know anyone that works at Wendy's?"

"Why? Where you looking for a second job? I'm sure I can get my mom to give you more hours," he

rushed to say.

"No, that's not it. You know what? Never mind. I'll see you in school tomorrow," I said as we reachedmy truck.

"C'mon, Bella, you can tell me."

"It's really silly, actually," I said, now completely embarrassed.

"Just spit it out."

"When I went there today, this guy took my order but he wasn't at either window." I knew I had to be

blushing by now. This was so awkward."Okay, I'm not getting this," my y-chromosome challenged friend said.

"You're really going to make me say it, aren't you? Alright, I liked his voice. There, I said it. Nowanswer my question please."

"You want to meet this guy based on his voice?"

"If you saw a girl with a big rack, would you want to meet her?" I asked, already knowing the answer.

"It depends. Is Jess gonna hear the answer?"

"No, of course not," I said.

"Then hell yeah I'd want to meet her. Oh! Okay, I get it now. I really don't know anyone, but I can askaround for you."

"That's really sweet, Mike, but I'd rather you didn't."

"Okay, but let me know what happens? I'd like to meet this guy, make sure he's good enough for my ex-

wife," he said as I slid into the driver's seat of my truck.

"Will do. See you at school."

~TWG~

The next morning as I drove to pick up Alice for school, I'd had a solid plan thanks to a late nightconversation with my friend. It was a huge undertaking but I was going to talk to every guy at Forks

High. After school, she would accompany me to Wendy's, where hopefully he would be working andshe could hear the voice and aid me on my quest. I did question the sanity of said plan, but figured itwould keep me occupied for the time being.

"Good morning," I said as she got into the car. She grunted and I handed the Styrofoam cup of coffee

over to her knowing I wouldn't get a word out of her until she had her first sip. Once that was

completed, I waited a whole minute after her first drink before pouncing.

"Am I really going to do this?" I asked, needing her reassurance.

"Bella, I have heard about nothing but this guy for a whole week. It's time to get off your ass and do


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something. Because we both know that if you don't, you'll regret it."

"So that's a yes?"

"Yes, you pain in my ass, that's a yes," she said as we pulled into the school parking lot. "You ready for

this?"

"No," I answered honestly. "But you're right, if I don't try, I'll regret it later."

"That's my girl! Now chin up, shoulders back and put a big smile on your face. We're going fishing!"

"You hang out with Charlie way too much," I told her.

"Your dad is awesome, Bella. Embrace it."

We entered the school and went immediately to our lockers that were next to each other. Our other bestfriend, Rosalie Hale, worked in the office in the mornings and skipped home room, so we all met up at

first period English. I knew Alice had filled her in on the situation, and she was looking forward to

helping.

"Bella, you owe me big time," Rosalie said as she slid into her seat.

"Oh? Why is that?" I asked as she handed me a thick packet of paper.

"Because I got a list of the names of every guy that goes here! I took the liberty of crossing out the ones

we already associate with. I also crossed off anyone you have a class with," she told me proudly.

"Rose, is this against the law at all?" Alice asked worriedly.

"Alice, stop hanging out with Charlie! It's not against the law because no one is going to find out,"

Rose assured her.

"Holy shit this just became really crazy. A master list of all the guys in school? Over a voice? I'm crazy.I need mental help," I said, putting my head on the desk.

"Do I get a thank you? Or a 'good thinking, Rose?' No, I get nothing."

"Stop being so melodramatic. It was a really good idea and I do thank you."

Our teacher walked in at that time and for the next forty-five minutes in between taking notes, I looked

at the papers Rose brought me. There were some more names that I was able to cross off. Then I had atruly horrific thought. What if it was a freshman? I could be stalking a freshman! I started to panic.

Sensing my distress, Alice threw a note on my desk.

Are you okay?

No. What if it's a freshman?

Can't be, you have to be at least 16 to work anywhere.

So it could be a sophomore? I say we abort the plan.

Absolutely not! The plan stays. At least now you can cross off anyone under16!

I gave my friend what I'd hoped was a scathing look and began to cross off anyone younger than

sixteen.

~TWG~

By lunch I'd said hello to almost every guy that I passed in the hallway and not one of them was the

voice. I also got asked out twice. Which I must say, I was a little flattered.

"Hey Bells, I hear you're being, Miss Congeniality today. What gives?" Emmett McCarty, Rosalie's


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boyfriend, asked as I sat down at our lunch table.

"I read this thing about karma and I'm trying to rack up points," I told him, opening up my chocolate

milk.

"Bullshit! You haven't talked to any girls," Jasper Whitlock, Alice's other half, said.

"I talk to plenty of girls Jas," I defended.

"Whatever. Something's up. I can always tell," he said, looking at the three of us.

"Okay, Sherlock, you keep thinking that," I retorted, digging into my lunch.

Once I was finished, I perused the cafeteria, trying to see of I could fit the Voice with any of the faces. Iwas coming up empty. I could feel Jasper and Emmett's eyes burning a hole through the back of my

head, but I was not giving in. They'd just make fun of me and I didn't need that right now.

Eventually, last period chemistry class came. Emmett sat in front of me and were were talking. He was

still trying to figure out what was up, but I was keeping a tight lid on it and trying to redirect hisquestions. It was pretty easy since he was easily distracted.

"Okay folks, settle down," our teacher, Mr. Banner, said as he entered the classroom with a student

trailing behind. "Everyone, this is our new student, Edward Cullen. He's just moved here from Chicago.I know you'll all do your best to make him feel welcome. Edward, you can have a seat next to Bella inthe back."

His head was down but he nodded at Mr. Banner and made his way to me. He was wearing a dark

hoodie with the hood up, blue jeans and Vans. That was all I could see of him.

"Bella, could you please share your book and maybe your notes with Edward? I'll tell Mrs. Cope that

you have my permission to copy them for him."

"Of course, Mr. Banner," I said as the new guy sat down next to me.

"Thank you, dear," my teacher said as he began to write on the blackboard. I took the opportunity to

introduce myself."Hi, I'm Bella Swan," I said smiling.

A quiet mumbled, "Hey" was all I got. He didn't even look at me, which I thought was pretty rude

seeing as I was getting an A in this class and he was going to be getting my notes. But I held mytongue. It must have been rough on him switching schools a month into his senior year. He was

probably pissed to have to move from a city like Chicago to our small town.

Class passed by and I told him that I could get the notes to him in the morning and to meet me at the

office. He nodded his head and walked out.

"Wow Bells, you're lucky new lab partner is going to bring down your grade. And he's so social,"Emmett teased. I ignored him and went to my locker. No one was bringing down my grades.

~TWG~

"Welcome to Wendy's, can I take your order?"

"Ummm, yeah. Can I get two cheeseburger kid meals both with ice teas and the princess toys?" Alice

insisted she should drive; apparently she'd be able to hear him better. She turned to me and mouthed'Oh my God!' I just nodded my head.

He gave us the total and we drove up front. Yet again I was disappointed. Neither window was being

manned by Voice. I was so disheartened. We pulled out and drove silently for a few minutes before she


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opened her mouth.

"Holy shit Bella that is the hottest voice I have ever heard!"

"Right? I told you!"

"I didn't doubt. I just didn't think it was going to be so damn sexy," she said dreamily.

"Back off bitch. I call dibs."

"Like I'd give up Jasper!"

"Like I'd let you anywhere near Voice," I said.

"Don't do tough, Bella. It doesn't work on you. Emmett said there's a new kid in school? And he sits

next to you in Chem.?" she asked.

"Yeah, Edward Cullen. I think I heard Charlie saying something about the hospital getting a new doctor

and that he had a son. He didn't say who to me, and I have no idea what he looks like before you ask," I

told her.

"I wasn't going to."

"As Jas would say, bullshit. Of course you want to know what he looks like. It's human nature. All I cansay is he wears a hoodie, jeans and Vans."

"Okay. I also hear he's meeting you at the office tomorrow morning to pick up a copy of your notes,"

she said accusingly.

"Yeah? And?"

"You never give out your notes! At least not to strangers."

"What was I supposed to do? Banner asked me to share them. I can't say no. Besides, it actually couldbe good for my karma," I said.

"Right, Dalai Lama. I just hope it doesn't bite you in the ass," she told me as she pulled into her

driveway.

"I'll talk to you later," I said as I got out of the passenger side of the truck and into the driver's seat.

We did indeed talk that night along with Rosalie, who now wanted to go to Wendy's. Alice used every

romance novel clich to describe his voice. Rose hung on her every word and I stayed silent. It wasalmost midnight by the time we got off the phone.

My dreams that night were unsettling. Instead of being a fluid dream, it was more like pictures popping

up in my head. The new kid had a starring role as a mad scientist who kept tearing my heart from me

before dissecting it. This was interspersed with pictures of me after eating weeks and weeks ofWendy's; greasy hair and face, two hundred pounds heavier with little princess toys surrounding me.

Needless to say, I barely slept and was a complete grouch by the time we got to school. What made itworse was knowing that I had to meet the mad scientist in the office. Alice took a seat while I went

behind the counter to begin the tedious process of photocopying my notes.

He arrived just as I was finishing up the last few pages. His wardrobe was the same, save for the

hoodie, which was now gray. He hadn't seen me yet, so I finally had the opportunity to look at him as

he scanned the office. Edward Cullen looked nothing like the person from my dream. He had skin

almost as light as mine and a square jaw and a nose that looked like it had been broken at least once. Icouldn't see the color of his eyes, but I'd rate him as good looking. That was before I saw him smile. I'd

noticed he had his ear buds in, and a song he liked must have come on because the corners of his mouth


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lifted, showing a dimple that lit up his face. I was still grouchy, but it made him look approachable, so I

took the opportunity to go over to him.

"Hey, Edward," I said as I walked over to the desk.

He met my gaze and quickly looked down before I noticed two things. He had beautiful green eyes and

a scar that ran from the outer edge of his left eye down to his cheek.

"The copies should be done in a second," I told him, acting like I didn't see anything."Thanks," he practically whispered.

"No problem," I said as I heard the copy machine stop. I walked back to collect all the papers and put

his set in a manila folder.

"Here you go." I handed him the folder and he turned to walk out. That did it.

"Seriously? You can't even mumble a proper thank you? Do you have any idea the time I spend taking

notes? Do you know how many people have asked for them? What is your problem?"

He turned back and took his hoodie off. His eyes were blazing, but I was not backing down. Inhindsight, I realized this was just residual feelings from my dream, but I couldn't help it.

"I'm sorry," he said sarcastically. "Do you spend your nights reading and taking notes? It's too bad you

don't have a life, but don't take it out on me. I probably don't even need your damn notes anyway. I just

didn't want to embarrass you."

He walked back to the counter and slammed the folder down. "Here are your precious notes, Bella." He

was seething with anger, I could tell. Even the way he said my name made it sound like a curse. But

that isn't what had me glued to the floor. I'd been yelled at by assholes before. It was his voice. It wasthe voice. Alice recognized it too because she was standing there with her mouth open.

Edward was out the door before I could even utter another word. I stood there shocked, trying to wrap

my head around what had just happened. My new lab partner and my Wendy's dream guy were one and

the same, and I just totally snapped at him. All because I was tired from not sleeping and had dreamt

about him as a mad scientist. And stuffing myself with Wendy's. Did my subconscious know that hewas Voice and was trying to tell me? Ugh, whatever. I couldn't deal with that right now. I'd save it for

later.

"Was that the new kid?" Rose asked. All I could do was nod. "What a dick! I can't believe what he said

to you. Actually, I can't believe you told him off like that."

"Rose, there's a problem," Alice said.

"What?"

"He's the voice," she told her as she came behind the counter to me.

"No! Shut up. Wow, that sucks. What are you going to do?" she turned to me to ask.

"Transfer out of Chem?" I asked hopefully.

"Hardly," Alice told me, a fire beginning to burn in her eye. "This is your school, Bella. You were here

first. There is no way that asshat is going to intimidate you! The nerve of him implying that you don'thave a life."

The bell rang and Alice and I had to haul ass to homeroom. I went through most of the day in a haze.

The only times I saw him were in the halls and it wasn't often. He kept his head down anyway, so I

doubt he even saw me. Lunch time was the worst because Emmett and Jasper could tell that I was


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upset.

"Bella, what happened? And before you tell us nothing, let me remind you that we both can make your

best friends break and tell us. So out with it," Emmett said before stuffing his face with a cheeseburger.

He was right of course. They've known me since we were born and we barely had any secrets from

each other. They were definitely my best guy friends and I knew they would do anything for me. All Ihad to do was ask. I gave in and told them everything from my first time at Wendy's, all the way to the

debacle this morning.

"I'm going to kick his ass for talking to you like that," Emmett said, looking around the cafeteria.

"Em, no. Really, I did kind of attack him first. Besides, he's probably having a rough time changing

schools his senior year."

"He's not a senior," Rosalie said.

"Yeah he is, he's in our chemistry class," I told her.

"True, but it's because he's advanced placement. Technically he's a junior."

"First of all, Bella," Jasper began. "Do not stick up for him. There was no reason for him to treat you

like that no matter what you said. Second, you're a cradle robber!"

Alice punched him in the arm and I threw a piece of my fruit cup at him.

"Whatever. The two of you are not allowed to bring any of this up with him. Understand? Don't treathim like a leper either. I mean it," I told Em and Jas.

They agreed without a fight, which was just plain weird, so I told Alice and Rose to keep an eye on

them. I really didn't want Edward's school year to be any worse than I'm sure it already was. Final

period came quickly, and I had stomach cramps just thinking about it.

I was there first but he came in as soon as I sat down. He pulled out a book, notepad and pen and setthem on the desk. Taking a deep breath, I turned and looked at him.

"Edward?" He turned and looked at me coolly. "Do you work at Wendy's?"

What? Where the hell had that come from? I was going to try and clear the air, not get confirmation

that he was the voice.

"Yeah? So?"

"I was just wondering, I thought I saw you there," I lied.

"I don't see how. I only take the drive-thru orders. I don't do the counter or the windows," he said with ahint of anger in his voice.

I bet they didn't want him working the counter or window because of his scar. It wasn't really bad. I

didn't know what the big deal was.

"Maybe it's your voice I recognize," I said quietly.

Edward looked right in my eyes then. I mean really looked like he could hear my thoughts. I gave hima tentative smile but he just sneered. Seriously, what was his problem? By this point, Emmett had

partially turned in his seat so that he could keep an eye on me. Edward must have noticed when I did,

because he cast Emmett a sideways glance before turning back to me. He didn't say anything, he just

stared. Maybe he was trying to unnerve me. It was working.

"Here," I said as I slid the manila folder towards him. "Please take it. My behavior this morning was

uncalled for, and certainly not what I'm usually like. I didn't sleep well last night and I was on edge. I


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apologize for that."

He looked at the folder and started to play with the edge. I wasn't sure if he was going to take it or

throw it back at me. Finally, just as Mr. Banner walked in, he picked it up.

"Thank you," was all he said.

We didn't have a lab that day, so there was no need for any further conversation between us. Not that I

was expecting any. But every few minutes I could feel him look my way, and instead of making me feeluncomfortable, I felt butterflies. When the bell rang, he was at the door before I even collected my

books.

"You okay?" Emmett asked with concern.

"Yeah, of course," I said, plastering a smile on my face.

"He's lucky he said thank you, otherwise I would've had to show him some manners."

"Em, leave it alone, please? If the time comes where I need you to run interference, I'll ask." We linkedour arms and set off to our lockers.

"How'd it go?" Rose asked as we approached.

"Well, I didn't have to kick his ass," Emmett told her as he flexed his arm.

"I apologized for my outburst, used the notes as a white flag and he said thank you. I think that's all I

can hope for at this point," I told her.

"But he didn't apologize? What the fuck?" She was getting pissed.

"It's okay. I wasn't really expecting one."

"He was staring at her through the whole class," Emmett said, bouncing on his heels.

"Gee Em, sitting on that one much? For your information, I did notice that," I said, but was pleased I

wasn't the only one that noticed.

"I was just pointing it out. Okay, ladies, I got to get to practice. Rosie, I'll come by when I'm done.Bella, stay strong!" he yelled as he moved down the hall.

Rose and I got what we needed and headed out of the school. Alice was already at my truck by the timewe reached it.

"Wendy's?" she asked.

"Hell, no. Now that I know who he is, I don't need to keep going back. Besides, I had the worst dreams

last night," I said, telling them all about my night.

"No wonder you blew your gasket," Alice said sympathetically.

"So what's the deal, Bella? Are you still interested in him?" Rose asked from the backseat.

"I don't know. We didn't plan what I'd do once I found out who Voice was."

"Listen, take a nap when you get home. You need sleep and you look like shit," Alice said. "Maybe

your dreams will help sort this part out."

"You're a great friend," I said sarcastically.

"Oh shut it. You know I'm telling you the truth."

When I got home, I put my pajamas on and got under my covers. I made sure to silence my phone so

that it didn't disturb me, and set my alarm. Three hours would be enough to sleep for now without


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keeping me up all night.

The blaring music woke me from sleep and I pressed snooze. My dreams had been a little more serene

this time. Edward was in it and we were sitting on my front porch with books all around us. I assumed

we were studying or something. I could still feel the tension from him but he wasn't as standoffish. Wewere sitting Indian style, our knees almost touching, At one point, he pushed a piece of hair that was

falling in front of my face behind my ear. It had felt so real. Especially the shocked look on his face

like he couldn't believe he had just done that. I held that image in my head as I got up and grabbed myphone. The red LED light let me know that I had missed text messages from both my friends.

Rose and Alice sent texts saying that Jessica Stanley's parents were going out of town on Thursday, and

there was going to be a party on Friday, and possibly even Saturday night. I sent them messages saying

that I was definitely in. I was sure by Friday I would need to let loose.

"Hey, Dad," I said as I entered the kitchen.

"Hey, Bells. How was school?"

"Okay, nothing too traumatic happened."

"Glad to hear it," he said.

"Can I ask you something?" I went to the fridge to get out a Coke.

"Of course. Unless it's girly stuff. That can wait until your mom comes home."

"It's not girly stuff, but thanks for the support. Mom and I had that talk about eight years ago. No, it's

about the new family that moved to town," I said, popping the top off the can.

"Doc Cullen and his family?" Charlie set the newspaper he was reading down.

"Yeah, his son, Edward is my lab partner."

"What is it that you're asking, Bells?" My father did not beat around the bush.

"He has a scar on his face. I was wondering if you may know anything about it."

"Are the kids giving him a hard time because of it?" he asked.

"Not that I know of. In fact, he hardly takes his hoodie off., so I may be the only one that has seen it," I

said.

"Well, actually I do know what happened. Edward and his mother, Esme, were in a really bad car

accident back in Chicago. They both survived, but Esme took a long time to recover. That's one of thereasons they moved according to Doc," he told me.

I could see that my dad already liked and respected Dr. Cullen. A flash of emotion went through his

eyes, and I was wondered if he was thinking about what he would've done if that happened to me and

mom.

"That must have been really hard on them."

"It was. I'd appreciate it if you kept that to yourself. I imagine that Edward's having a tough enoughtime switching schools," he said.

"Of course I won't say anything to anyone. Thanks for telling me."

"You're welcome, honey. Your mom said she'd be home in about an hour. She's bringing dinner home,"

he said, going back to his paper.

When my mom finally came home, she was going on and on about the new friend she'd made in her


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pottery class. Esme Cullen was now her bestie, and she informed us that the Cullen's would be coming

over for dinner tomorrow night. I've never had a panic attack before, but I had a feeling it was similar

to the feelings I was having.

Edward would be in my house tomorrow. For a meal. What would we talk about? What would I wear?Huh, I guess that answers the question about what I was going to do now. I was going after Edward

Cullen.

~TWG~

The next day at school was weird. That was the only word I could use to describe it. I had told Alice

and Rose about the dream when we talked at night. I had their full support and Rose promised to get hisclass schedule and any other information she could scrounge up. They did tell me of their concerns

over everything that happened so far, and I appreciated them looking out for me. Alice was coming

over after school to help me pick out an outfit to wear for dinner. Both of them promised not to tellanyone else, including their boyfriends, that the new guy was having dinner at my house.

It started out as a regular school day until right after first period. The hairs on the back of my neck

stood at attention as I walked to History. They remained that way for the rest of the day. Besides that, I

saw Edward in between each class, when the day before, I only saw him at lunch and Chemistry. At

first I thought it was my imagination. I was always catching him in my peripheral vision. Until TylerCrowley knocked into me before fourth period and my books went flying. I looked up as I was

gathering my books and saw him about ten lockers down just watching me. As always, the hoodie was

up, obscuring most of his face except for his mouth. That beautiful mouth smiled at me. Not in amocking, 'ha-ha-you-fell-down' way, but in an, 'I'm-glad-you're-okay' way.

By the time I'd made it back on my feet, he was gone. During lunch I was aware of him and it took

everything in me not to keep looking in his direction. That's the great thing about friends, they'll do

your dirty work.

"Bella, the new kid sure is checking you out," Jasper said from across the table.

"Seriously, he hasn't taken his eyes off of you," Rosalie confirmed.

"This may be easier than we thought," Alice said.

"What's easier?" Emmett asked.

"Nothing," the three of us said at the same time.

"Yeah, we believe that," Jasper told us.

"You will if you know what's good for you," Rose warned them.

They didn't push after that, and we returned to our normal lunch time banter. According to them

though, Edward's eyes stayed on me the whole time. The butterflies were now the size ofhummingbirds, their sharp beaks poking around my insides as if I needed to be reminded of his affect

on me.

Today I was looking forward to last period, and couldn't get there fast enough. Edward beat me this

time. He was already sitting down with all his stuff around him.

"Hi, Bella," he said as I slid past him.

Ugh! That voice. I could listen to him read the phone book and be happy.

"Hey, Edward." I sat down on the stool and got my books out.

"Thanks for the notes. They were really helpful."


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"You're welcome," I told him, hoping he'd continue talking.

"So, I guess I'm coming to your house for dinner?"

Emmett had begun to cough loudly. I guess the cat was out of the bag. I saw him take out his cell

phone, and start to type.

"Yeah, my mom said she really hit it off with yours. It should be fun," I said, hoping he thought so too.

He didn't have a chance to answer as Mr. Banner came in and began the lesson. We were doing a labthat was really complicated, so we didn't talk about anything other than noxious gases and formulas. Bythe end of the period, our worksheet was only half done and I had a brilliant idea.

"If you want you can come over before your parents do so that we can finish this up," I said, hoping he

couldn't hear or see my furiously beating heart.

"That sounds like a good idea. I can just follow you in my car."

"Okay. I'll meet you outside?"

"Sure. You drive a truck, right?" he asked.

"Yeah, you can't miss it. It's big and red."

"Don't forget loud," Emmett said, butting in.

Edward instantly shut down. I realized he probably hadn't met Emmett yet. My friend was a bit

intimidating to look at, but you wouldn't find a sweeter guy. I introduced them, and after they shook

hands and said their hellos, Emmett jumped right back into the conversation.

"So, Edward, do you play any sports?" he asked.

"No. I used to, but I don't anymore," Edward told him.

"That's cool. What'd you play?" Emmett started to gather his things.

"Baseball and football when I was younger," he said.

"You should come to one of our games. The season kicked off last week. Bella and Alice go, so you

could always go with them."

I saw the smirk on his face and knew what he was up to. I'm sure later on when I wasn't completely

embarrassed, I would find it sweet that he was setting us up. Right now though, I wanted to crawl undera rock.

"We'll see," he said, picking up his backpack.

"Okay. I'll meet you outside," I said to Edward before turning to Emmett to give him the stink eye. He

agreed and we went our separate ways once we were in the hallway.

"Bella-"

"Don't even, Emmett. How can you embarrass me like that?"

"Oh, sweetie," he said, putting his arm around me. "I wasn't trying to embarrass you. I thought I'd help

out. Plus, I'm looking out for you. In case you didn't realize it, he's not all that friendly. Do you know

what happened to his face?"

"No, I don't know," I told him, keeping my promise to my dad.

I finally left the school five minutes later after Emmett had to tell our friends what happened. Rosaliehit him upside the head for embarrassing me, as I knew she would, and I promised I'd call the girls later


12/15

with details. Edward was already in his car waiting by my truck. I walked to the driver's side and he

rolled down the window.

"Do you want my cell number just in case we get separated?" I asked, knowing full well that wasn't

likely. This was Forks after all.

"I know how to get there," he told me quietly.

That threw me. He knew where I lived? How? I mean sure, Forks is small but he's only been here forabout two weeks. Not to mention, we just met. I wouldn't think about it now, I'd put it away for later. I

just nodded and went to my truck.

Five minutes later we were pulling in my driveway. We walked side by side up to my house. As soon as

I opened the door, I was assaulted by the delicious smells of whatever my dad was cooking. A fewyears ago, the three of us took a family cooking course at the community college. It was a lot of fun

and we found out my father had a knack for it.

"Dad! I'm home," I called out as I walked towards the kitchen.

"Hey Bella," he said when he saw me. He had on his favorite apron and the mess around him looked

like it would take days to clean. Lucky me.

"Who's your friend? You know that we're having company," he chastised.

"Dad, this is Edward Cullen." Edward took his hoodie down and gave my dad a tentative smile.

"Oh, Edward! I didn't recognize you with your face covered. How are you, son?" My dad walked over

to him and shook his hand.

"I'm good, Chief. Is it okay that I came over early? We had some chemistry homework to do," Edward

said. Ugh, that voice.

"So you two have met?" I asked, stating the obvious.

"Yeah. When they moved in, I stopped by to introduce myself. And of course it's okay that you came

over early," my father said, going back to work on his masterpiece."Okay. We'll be in the living room," I said.

We went to the living room and after I cleaned up the mess of newspapers my father had left, we settled

on the floor and got our books out.

"Your dad cooks?"

"Yep. He really likes it. I think it relaxes him from his job. I mean, it's not like Forks has a high crime

rate, but he gets stressed. Unfortunately, being an only child, I'm the one that gets to clean up

afterward," I said laughing.

"It looks like he definitely knows how to make a mess. That's cool that he does that though. My dad

usually plays golf to relax. I think maybe as he takes a swing he imagines the balls are the things hecan't control at work."

"That must be tough dealing with the things he probably sees," I said.

"I think your dad deals with it just as much as mine."

After talking a bit, we tackled our homework full force. It turns out that we have a lot of the same

classes. They just weren't at the same time. So after chemistry, we started our English homework.

"You should have skipped a grade," I commented in the middle of discussing Oedipus Rex.


13/15

"Actually, I should be in your grade," he admitted.

He looked uncomfortable so I just muttered an "oh," and we got back to work. There was no way he

got left behind a grade. I could already tell how smart he was. Edward must have seen the confusion on

my face.

"I was in a car accident with my mother. That's how I got this," he said, motioning towards his face. "Iwas in the hospital for most of my sophomore year, so my parents thought it would be best to take it

again instead of trying to tutor me."

"Oh," I said eloquently.

"It also gave my dad time to wrap up things where he worked so that we could move."

"I guess it makes sense that they'd want to focus on your recovery," I said, finally finding my voice.

"School will always be there, right?" I gave him a smile.

Before he had a chance to say anything, the front door opened and my mom came bounding in.

"Bella!" she yelled.

"Yeah, mom?" I asked from my spot on the floor.

"Oh, I didn't see you there. I'm running a little late. Could you set the table? You must be Edward. Your

mother told me that you drove a '66 Chevele SS. That is one beautiful car," she said, smiling at Edward.

"Thank you, Mrs. Swan," Edward said, getting up to shake my mom's hand.

"You can call me Renee. My own daughter does most of the time."

"Okay then. It's nice to meet you, Renee. After I help Bella set the table I can show you the car if you'dlike?" he asked.

"That would be awesome," my mom said, walking towards the kitchen.

"You're mom likes cars?" he asked incredulously.

"Her dad and two brothers were mechanics. She learned early on to appreciate a well made car."Edward started to set the table and I stopped him. You're a guest, you don't have to help me set thetable."

"Are you kidding me? My mom would kill me if I didn't help. Plus, I want to."

I reluctantly agreed and we set the table in record time. After we were finished, my mom dragged him

outside. That was the first time I'd wished I knew more about cars.

"He seems like a nice boy," my father said, startling me.

"Yeah, he is."

"Maybe someone we'll see around here more often?"

"Maybe," I said, smiling at him. "He gets your approval?"

"Not necessarily. But he makes my baby girl smile, so I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt."

"Get back in the kitchen, woman," I said, embarrassed that my dad could read me so well.

"I'm going, I'm going." He disappeared through the door.

I ran upstairs to freshen up a little. Just as I came back down, my mom and Edward were coming into

the house with two more people that I assumed were Edward's parents.


14/15

"Oh, sweetheart, there you are," my mom said, raising an eyebrow at my glossed lips. I shot her the

requisite teenage dirty look to keep her quiet. "This is Carlisle and Esme Cullen." She turned towards

Edward's parents.

"Carlisle and Esme, this is my daughter, Bella."

"It's nice to meet both of you," I said as I shook their hands.

"It's a pleasure, Bella. We've heard so much about you," Mrs. Cullen said."Please don't listen to everything my mom says about me."

"Oh, not from your mother, although she does sing your praises, I meant, Edward."

"Mom!" Edward said as his face turned red.

I cocked my eyebrow at him just like my mother had done to me, but said nothing. He put his head

down avoiding my gaze.

"Well, don't listen to everything he says either. He has to be nice to me. We're lab partners."

I wonder if Dr. and Mrs. Cullen could tell the things I wanted to do to their son. That thought causedme to blush and now the parents were just looking back and forth from me to Edward. This was going

great.

"Okay," my dad said, breaking the awkwardness. "Dinner is ready if you'd all like to take a seat in the

dining room."

Dinner went well. I got to know Edward a little more through the stories his parents were telling. Hismom talked freely about the accident. They had gotten hit by a drunk driver. The air bags saved them,

but not before some real damage was done. I found out Edward broke both of his legs, which was why

he was in the hospital for so long. His mom teared up when talking about his long rehab, and I felt himstiffen next to me. Without thinking, I placed my hand on his thigh, offering some comfort.

What he did next shocked me. He put his hand on top of mine and squeezed before entwining our

fingers. My heart had begun to beat frantically and I was sure everyone heard it, but when I looked up,the parents were still talking to each other. He didn't let my hand go for the rest of the meal, and as thenight went on, I caught both my mom and his looking at us a few times.

"Why don't you two go outside for awhile?" My mom suggested after dinner. "We can clean up in

here."

I wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth. I stood up quickly, which unfortunately meant I had to

let go of Edward's hand, I motioned for him to get up and join me. We went out on the porch and sat onthe swing that my father had put up years ago at my mother's request.

"So" I said.

"Sorry about that at dinner. My mom still gets weepy," he apologized.

"I don't blame her. It must have been really hard on her. Trying to get better herself but worrying about

you at the same time. I'd think it's every mother's worst nightmare."

"I never thought about it like that. Are you sure you're only eighteen?" he asked.

"Just barely, but yeah I am. Maybe it's because I'm a girl that I understand."

Why wasn't he holding my hand? I thought for sure since we were alone he would. Then again, it wasme that made the first move before. We were sitting pretty close together, our thighs brushing against

each other.


15/15

"Maybe, but shouldn't every girl feel that way then?" he asked, sounding sad.

"I don't know," I said.

"I had a girlfriend before the accident," he told me.

"Oh." I really needed to increase my vocabulary. Of course he had a girlfriend.

"Afterward she broke up with me. Said she couldn't stick around hoping I'd get better. And the scar

Let's just say it ruined her idea of the perfect couple," he said bitterly.

He got off the swing and went to the porch railing. I wasn't sure what I should do, but I hated himthinking that he deserved what she did to him. Part of me didn't want him to think that I was like her

either. I got up and stood next to him, putting my hand on his shoulder to turn him to face me.

"I have a confession," I said.

"What?" He looked panic.

"Last week, I was running late to my after school job, but I was starving, so I stopped at Wendy's," I

told him, hoping he'd piece some of it together.

"And?"

"I went through the drive-thru. This guy took my order and I just became obsessed with him. With his

voice," I admitted.

"I work the drive-thru."

"I'd never heard it before, so I knew it wasn't any of my friends from school," I went on pretending like

I didn't hear him. "Alice, Rose and I devised this plan to figure it out. Rose even got a copy of everyguys name at school. I ate more Wendy's than I ever have in my entire life."

This was difficult, but I figured if he could be open about something that hurt him, I could be open

about something that may heal him. He was just looking at me, not saying anything else.

"The morning that I blew up at you, I had a dream about you and then about me getting fat from all the

food I was eating. So I snapped. And then I heard your voice for the first time, and I can't believe I'mtelling you all this," I covered my face with my hands.

Edward grabbed my hands in his and pulled them away. He had a big smile on his face.

"Really?" he asked.

"Yes, really. I'm a stalker."

"I think it's cute," he said, bringing me closer to him.

I put my head down and let my hair fall in front of my face. He let go of my hand and brushed the piecebehind my ear just like he did in my dream. I bit my lip and his gaze followed the motion. In the next

instant, he grabbed the back of my head and kissed me. His lips were warm and smooth as they rubbedagainst mine. I put my hands on his hips and gripped tightly when I felt his tongue touch mine. It was

the best kiss I'd ever had. He was gentle until I moaned and then he deepened the kiss, plundering mymouth with his tongue. When he broke away I whimpered, completely dazed by that kiss.

"Does that mean that I don't have to go through the drive-thru anymore?"

The Wendy's Guy

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Transcript of The Wendy's Guy