Chapter 252

• Closing the door, I lock it before leaning heavily against it for a moment as Edward Sr.'s hateful words echo in my mind. Brushing away the stupid tears that have risen to my eyes, I pull out my phone, suddenly desperate to see if Edward is available. My latest message has gone unanswered, bringing with it a new wave of tears. The pain in my chest grows and becomes almost unbearable. Walking over to Edward's closet, I pick out a t-shirt and pull it over my head, covering myself with his smell. This soothes away some of the pain and I quickly throw myself onto the bed, covering myself with the sheets as I reread every single one of my mate's sweet messages.
• It takes a while, but soon the tears stop flowing and I'm able to calm down. Feeling silly and angered by my somewhat pitiful reaction, I send a quick "Missing you"-gif to Edward and force myself to get out of bed. Making my way to shower, I cringe at the sight of my puffy eyes and red nose and decide to jump into the shower, determined to wash away my temporary moment of weakness. The warm water feels good against my skin and I take my time, wiping every insecurity from my mind. Edward wouldn't want me to be upset.
• I decide he might appreciate the fact that I'm wearing his clothes and take a quick photo of myself in the mirror, making sure to hide most of my face behind my thick hair. I smile imagining his reaction. Walking back to the bedroom, I find a pair of my most comfortable jeans to wear with Edward's t-shirt and am about to leave the room when my eyes catch something hidden just beneath the bed. Carefully, I pull it out, instantly recognizing my mother's jewelry box. Some of the contents have fallen out, so I take my time and search for every small piece. Studying each necklace, bracelet and earring with interest and loving care, I could almost feel her with me.