Short Fic
TITLE: Bella Notte
Length: 6625 words (i know, wtf).
WARNINGS: death, sexual situations. um. ok thats it i think. pg13
Here you goAndrew Adamson had never seen such a sad sight. His four child stars were posing for pictures at a DVD release party for Prince Caspian, and only two were smiling. A part of him inside was glad that Peter and Susan would not be returning to Narnia, and that perhaps this time apart would help Will and Anna. And another part wondered maybe they needed more time together.
Still, there was little time to ponder such things. The photo session was over, and it was time to let the fans in. They had lined up all night to get their DVDs signed by the stars. Skandar sat next to Will, next to Georgie, who was next to Anna, who looked morose at the end by herself. It had been months since Will’s eyes sparkled the way they did in the movie.
What began as a charmed romance was turning into a lonely spectacle. Many were elated on the night of the Prince Caspian premier when Will surprised everyone by planting a romantic kiss on his beloved Anna. Few protested at the implied ‘incest’ but they were drowned out by the catcalls and cheers of the other guests, media and fans, the loudest being Skandar and Georgie.
But that romance had died. Some blamed Anna’s family, others blames Will’s friends for pulling them apart. No one knows for sure, but many hearts were heavy at the sight of Will and Anna giving each other cold steely looks and hardly smiling, even at the faces of their adoring fans. Perhaps because when your heart breaks, its so loud you can hardly hear anything else.
The event was coming to an end, the last of the fans were leaving the store. Everyone was packing up to leave. “Anna!” A deep voice called out from near the entrance. It was her new fellow, Eric. They had been dating for a few weeks and Will had been seeing more him than he would have preferred. Anna and Eric embraced his hands on her lower back. She left with him without even glancing back at her former beloved.
Will swallowed hard, trying to fight the rise of emotions inside. Skandar patted him in a comforting way and was the last to leave. Will sighed, left through a back door, and headed to a local tea shop. It was cloudy, windy and threatening rain, typical English spring. He pulled up his collar against the wind and thought longingly of his toasty scarf, which he had given Anna one day when she was cold. As far as he knew, she still had it. The door to the shop opened with a tinkle of bells. It was a small, cozy and expensive shop. He hated overpaying for something as lovely as tea, but it did buy him privacy. The shop was crowded and all the chairs were occupied, save for one at a back table. A girl sat alone, reading a paper.
He ordered his tea and made his way over. “May I share this table?” She looked up, smiled, nodded and went back to her paper. He sat quietly waiting for his tea to cool. She was sitting sideways, facing the rest of the shop and reading the paper intently. She was also peculiarly dressed. Worn jeans with a plain t-shirt, and a zippered hoodie meant more for summer than a chilly spring afternoon. On her feet she wore pale pink flip flops, and her long jeans were cuffed up to her ankle, showing delicate anklets. “Excuse me, don’t you feel the least bit cold?” William asked, still staring at her anklets. She followed his gaze and chuckled softly.
“No, not usually,” she put down her paper and turned to face him.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you,” Will said, looking back at his teacup. He could still see the anklets twinkling in the corner of his eye.
“No its alright, I could use some company.” She smiled and offered her hand, “Isabella Ciapprionni.” She spoke with a proper British accent, but stressed the ‘ll’ in her name in an Italian accent.
“William Moseley,” he replied, shaking her hand softly. “That is a very Italian name Isabella.”
“Please call me Bella. And my family comes from the southern shores of Italy, but I’ve spent most of my life here. Still, I can’t forget my roots.” Her heritage explained her tanned complexion. It did not however explain her ice blue eyes. William had never seen eyes so pale blue, almost clear. “It is wonderful to be out in the city again,” she sighed.
“Where have you been before?” William asked.
“Oh,” she paused. “I was visiting family in Italy for a while.” She looked over his shoulder as he said this, avoiding his eyes. “So, are you from London?”
“No, I’m just here for a bit doing promotional work.” He replied, leaning forward in his chair. “I’m just staying at a hotel, I live outside the city usually.”
“Are you in marketing? You seem awfully young to be working.” She asked him curiously.
“Uh, no.” He paused slightly confused. “I’m an actor.”
“How exciting! What movie were you in?”
“Haven’t you heard of Narnia? The books? The movies?” William looked confused. She had never heard of him.
“Well I’ve read some of the books, but I never got a chance to see the movies. Who do you play?”
“Peter.”
“Wow!” Bella was excited. She was meeting an actor!
“You have seriously no idea about the movies?” William could hardly believe this.
“Well I heard they were being made but I never got a chance to see them.”
William shook his head smiling. He then proceeded to tell his new friend of his many adventures in New Zealand. A while later, Bella suddenly stood up to leave.
“Its getting late, I should head home.” She picked up her purse. “Thank you for a wonderful afternoon. It was nice meeting you Will.”
“Well here, I’ll walk you out,” he pulled on his jacket, and noticed she did not have one. “Don’t you have a raincoat?”
“A little rain never hurt me.” She smiled, “I like the rain sometimes.” They walked outside and sure enough, it began raining. Bella began to laugh and kick her feet through puddles, soaking herself up to her knees.
“Bella! Come on, lets get a taxi!” William shouted over the wind.
She simply shook her head in protest and continued playing, as though she had never seen rain before. William couldn’t help but smile and join in, she had an endless supply of happiness and laughter. For the first time in weeks, the gloom over his heart began to fade.
“Will!” A voice from behind them called. “You’re going to catch a cold!” They stopped playing and turned to see what was happening. Anna and Eric were walking along the sidewalk. Eric had one hand around Anna, another holding a large umbrella.
“Since when do you care what happens to me?” William answered, his voice colder than the rain. Anna’s eyes widened and she walked off with Eric without another word.
“That was not very nice Will,” Bella stated. She then pulled him under a building overhang. The cheer was gone from his face. “You could very well catch a cold.”
“Yeah well she lost the right to care about all of that the day she left me.”
“Well why did she leave?”
“I have no idea,” he said softly. His eyes were distant. Suddenly he sneezed.
“See, she was right. You will catch a cold.” Quickly, Bella hailed a taxi and sent him into it. “You’re going straight back to your hotel and having a hot bath NOW?” She smiled and shut the taxi door. She was gone before William could think of calling after her.
*******
William enjoyed his bath very much. He soaked for a long time, his thoughts drifting without much order. He was interrupted when his phone rang. The screen showed “Andrew Adamson” and Will almost didn’t answer.
“Hello?”
“Will, its Andrew. Look I don’t know what is going on between you and Anna, but I expect you both at the banquet tonight and better behaved than this afternoon. Your fans are really counting on you. Start acting like civilized adults and stop giving each other death looks.”
William finished the conversation, hung up the phone and sighed. The banquet. He had forgotten all about it. Slowly he dragged himself out of the glorious bath and walked over to his suitcase. He was dripping wet and only when he began to shiver did realize that he had well forgotten to get a towel.
Finally an hour later he arrived at the banquet. It was a huge hall and many people were already there. He heard the musical laugh of his beloved almost immediately after entering the hall. He turned to see her talking animatedly with Andrew. She looked stunning in a floor length red dress, and chandelier earrings to match. Eric had his arms around her waist and was laughing as well.
“At least she is happy,” William muttered to himself.
“So we meet again,” a soft voice said from behind. Bella was standing next to a table, champagne in one hand and an evening clutch in the other. She was wearing a coral dress, accented with simple diamond earrings. Both her wrists were hidden with several silver bangles. They chinked when she moved and he couldn’t help but stare at them. He suspected she was also still wearing the anklets from earlier. They greeted and sat down to talk.
Anna noticed Will talking with this strange girl. Bella stood up and walked towards the restrooms. Anna excused herself from Eric and followed. Once in the restroom, Anna approached her.
“So I see you are here with Will,” she stated, more as a question.
“No, I’m not. We only just met this afternoon. I’m here as a guest of my uncle.”
Anna could tell she was not lying. There was nothing but honesty in Bella’s face. She looked a little tired. “I see.” She said nothing more.
“Anna, I know we don’t know each other very well,” Bella paused. “Ok so we don’t know each other at all, but why did you leave Will?”
Anna was a little surprised at being asked by a stranger. Her own family did not know. And yet, she could not stop the words from coming out. “I-I was afraid we were too perfect for each other. We fell in love so quickly, and I was afraid of falling out of love. It was so intense. I mean, who finds their soul mate at 18? I just did not want us to get hurt and hate each other.”
“So instead you leave him and now you both are hurting. Makes sense.” Bella shrugged and left.
Anna’s head was spinning. She just admitted her feelings to not only a complete stranger but to herself. She shook her head clear of all these thoughts, put a smile on her face and went back to her table. The dinner was almost over, and Eric took her to the dance floor. Skandar was already dancing with a girl she didn’t know. As Eric twirled her across the floor, she saw William slip out of a side door.
He saw Bella at the concierge desk. The man was on the phone and nodding. “Thank you,” she said and tipped him.
“Hey, are you leaving already?” William asked. She looked up and he was slightly taken back. She looked tired, exhausted. And it was not even that late.
“I, Well I’m not feeling well. They’re calling a taxi for me.” She put a hand up to rest her head on. “Its been a long day.”
“Should I go with you? I don’t mind I can just-.”
Bella cut him off. “I’ll be fine, really. Don’t worry.”
“Well at least call me so I know you are home safe.” Will scribbled his number on a paper on the desk and handed it to her. “I will not sleep well until you do.”
“Thanks Will,” she smiled and left.
She did call him that evening, and then wished him a goodnight. Over the next few days, they spent more and more time together, hanging out and being silly. William smiled more and more, and felt his heart healing itself. She could care less that he was famous, and never minded their fun being interrupted by fans. She often volunteered to take pictures for them.
William was already running late and he started jogging down the sidewalk. He was supposed to meet Bella at the park 10 minutes ago. He looked at his watch and looked up in time to avoid completely barreling over someone coming out of the bookstore. Unfortunately he still ran into her but at least she was still standing.
“I’m sorry are you alright…” his voice trailed off. Anna was standing there, slightly shocked. “Hi.”
“Hello Will,” she replied curtly. She bit her lip and Will could feel his heart break all over again.
“Anne,” he said in a pained voice. “What happened to us? We were so in love.” He touched her face and she pulled away. “Why did you leave?”
She was even more shocked at his straightforwardness. “Will, I don’t want to talk about this.”
“Well don’t you think I deserve some kind of explanation? Everything was perfect and suddenly you want out.” He looked upset. Not angry, just hurt.
“Maybe it was a little too perfect,” she replied, not looking up. “Look, Will, I just didn’t want to hurt you.”
“Anna! Are you kidding?” He ran a hand through his hair. “Not being with you is killing me!”
Anna looked pained at his words. “I’m sorry. We should have never been together.” And she turned quickly and ran.
Will was simply stunned. He could barely think, and wasn’t sure how he made it to the park. Bella was waiting patiently, sitting in the shade of a tree. She looked up at him and her face turned to worry.
“What happened Will?” She asked as he sat down next to her. He told her about running into Anna, and everything she said.
“Oh darling,” she said, hugging him. “I’m so sorry things aren’t working out.” She paused, unsure if she should continue. “But I think she still loves you. Why else would she say things like ‘I don’t want to hurt you?’”
Will nodded, it made sense. “Thanks Bella. For being honest.”
“Well what else are friends for?” Her eyes sparkled silver and then blue. They switched colors so many times that it made Will’s head hurt to think about it. “Come on, what you need is some fun.” She stood up to reveal a Frisbee under her legs. She ran down a bit and threw it. He caught it and they played for a while.
He heard that laugh. That musical laugh and he turned to find it. Anna wasn’t anywhere and he was almost sure he was going crazy. Her words came back to him. ‘We should have never been together.’ Well if that is what she wanted, then fine.
But before he could think about it anymore, the Frisbee came out of nowhere and hit him on his face. He let out a swear word and held his hands up to his face. It stung like he had been hit with something other than a plastic disc.
“I’m so sorry!” Bella came running up the field. “Are you alright? Let me see it!” She tried to pry his hands off of his face. He protested and turned away.
“It hurts!” He whined in a way that reminded Bella of her babysitting days.
She put her hands on her hips. “William stop being such a baby and let me see it!” She grabbed both of his hands and with a strong tug, pulled him off his face. A red welt had appeared where the Frisbee made contact.
“Is it bad?” He asked, still whining. She tried to smile and shake her head but ended up giggling. “What the hell, you’re a girl. You shouldn’t be able to throw like that.”
Bella stopped giggling and hit his arm. “Take that back! I’m not the one who didn’t see a bright green disc coming at my face.”
Will stuck out his tongue but the movement of his muscles hurt more. “It hurts!” He said again.
“Alright, let me see now.” She took his face in both of her hands. She rubbed the welt gently and he grimaced. “Sorry,” she said softly. She then blew on it gently. The cool air soothed him a little. “You’re going to need ice, for a while.” Her eyes moved from the welt to his eyes. He was gazing at her intensely and she forgot entirely why she was holding his face in the first place. After a moment, she remembered the welt. “Are you alright?” She whispered. He took her hand in his and closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of her soft hand on his face.
“I’m alright now,” he whispered back. And then, without warning he kissed her. She was surprised but her arms went around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her small body and pulled her closer, removing any space between them. He stopped, and his eyes were still closed. “Bella, beautiful Bella,” he whispered, his forehead on hers.
His voice brought her back to reality. She suddenly realized where she was and who with. She pulled back from him, a shocked look on her face. One hand went up to her mouth and she looked ready to cry. Will’s face contorted in confusion.
“Bella? What’s wrong?” He held out his hand for hers and she pulled back further.
“No,” she shook her head. “I can’t. I-I-I must go. Now. Or else I might end up-,” she bit her lip, fighting tears. “I can’t hurt you like this.” She ran to the park exit and was gone from his sight before he could even think of running after her.
Will felt very tired. In one day, in a matter of hours he was hurt horribly twice. Once by his beloved, once by his friend. And with the same damn excuse. He felt all the energy in his body drain out. He lay down in the grass and put the Frisbee over his face to avoid being seen. With another sigh, he fell asleep.
**********
He awoke hours later, his phone ringing in his pocket. He pulled it out and answered sleepily. The ring tone told him it was Bella.
“Hello?” He said in a tired voice. He was too exhausted emotionally to try and be snarky.
“I’m sorry,” her voice was quiet. “I shouldn’t have left like that.” Bella stopped. The line was silent. “We should talk, I owe you an explanation.”
“You would be the first to offer such kindness,” Will replied sitting up. The Frisbee fell off into his lap. “How about the tea shop?” She agreed and he set off walking.
The bells tinkled as usual, and she was already sitting at the table they had first met at, with two steaming cups of tea. She looked tired again, and for a moment he wondered which of them was more exhausted.
“Hi,” she said weakly. “I hope you like hibiscus tea,” she gestured to his mug.
“Tea is tea,” he shrugged. He looked at her expectantly. “So, what is on your mind?”
“Will,” she started. “The past few days have been really fun. I’ve never laughed so much or,” she paused here. “Or worried so little.”
“Worried about what?” Will asked. There was something hiding in her eyes.
“Will, I’m very sick.” She pursed her lips. “When my mother was pregnant, she was volunteering in South Africa. And she contracted malaria. Because of all the medications and the illness, I was born very weak. My heart is weak and my health is poor. I was not supposed to live past five and yet here I am, almost 20.”
Will was still confused. She was sick, so she had to get better. “I still don’t understand.”
“Will, I’m dying.” She looked away for a moment before continuing. “I’m part of this research program. It’s the only way I can live my life outside of a hospital. I can live by day and take my treatments at night. That is why I have to keep going home at night. It won’t cure me, but at least I’m not trapped in a hospital.”
Something was stirring in his gut. He wasn’t sure which emotion would come out first. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”
“Will, I’ve known you for a week. How early was I supposed to tell you? Hi, I’m Isabella and I’m dying. Nice to meet you.” She snapped back.
He was a little shocked. “That still doesn’t explain what happened today.”
“Will, what is the point of any of it? I could just be gone before we knew it.” She looked more tired. “I just want to keep smiling. I don’t want any more pain.” Her eyes pleaded with him. “Life is more than just living. Its about happiness and love. I only wanted to smile. Is that so much to ask?”
“You’re right.” He hid his emotions quickly. “What kind of friend would I be not showing you a good time?”
She smiled and finished her tea. “Thanks Will.”
“Let’s go out!” He smiled and leaned closer to her. “Let’s go out dancing, somewhere fun.”
“Oh no. Not tonight. I’m so tired.” He looked a little disappointed. “Tomorrow night?”
“Tomorrow night it is.” Will agreed to pick her up from home and they would get dinner and then go dancing at a club. He pushed the idea of a deadline on their time together out of his head.
Bella got ready extra slowly the next night. She wore a skirt that came to her knees, and a lovely halter top. Her mom helped her to curl her chocolate brown hair and it cascaded her bare shoulders gracefully. She wore graceful shoes that would allow her to dance. She took a shawl to keep her warm. Will arrived promptly at seven, and after a few introductions they left. He was dressed to impress, not that he needed to. He was wearing black slacks, a striped shirt and a leather coat. He helped her into the car and then went around to the driver’s side. First they went to a French restaurant and ate a dinner of chicken, followed by three desserts.
As promised, they laughed and smiled. Bella was relieved to be friends again. She loved joking with him and when he laughed his whole face lit up.
After dinner, he took her to a nightclub. It was not one packed with young people pressed against each other, but a classier one. There was a band playing some jazz and a sign told them that a Latin group was up next. She smiled, “Will, can you dance?”
“You just wait and see my dear,” he replied without meeting her eyes. She suspected he couldn’t, she knew very few men who could.
They took a seat at table and sipped their drinks slowly. “So are you having fun?” She asked him over the music.
“I’m supposed to ask you that, remember?” He replied smiling. “But yes, I am. Are you?”
“Will, I can’t even remember the last time I had such fun. Thank you.”
“Well the night is not over yet, come on.” The Latin band had just started playing an upbeat song. He pulled her out of her chair and to the dance floor.
He was not kidding, he could dance. He led her into the cha-cha and added his own flair of twists and turns.
“Where did you learn to dance?” Bella asked when he spun her back to him.
“You can thank my sister for that,” he replied. “She had to practice for her dance class, and me, being the wonderful older brother I am, happily obliged.”
“Your mum made you?” Bella asked, trying not to laugh.
“Yeah,” he nodded and laughed. Bella laughed and shook her head.
“Will, you are a man full of surprises.” She smiled and ruffled his hair. “May you never change.” She let out a small shriek when he dipped her at the end of the song. She came up laughing and her eyes looked alive.
The next song was even faster and many more people joined them on the dance floor. he pulled her close to him to avoid hitting other people. She could feel his breath on her lips. Bella knew this was too close, and she was in more danger now than in the park. Someone bumped into her and sent her falling into Will. He grabbed her with both hands and steadied her. Her arms were on his shoulders and his hands on her lower back.
“Thanks,” she said, breathing heavily.
“No problem.” he replied. His eyes were wandering over her face and his hands traced her bare back. “Are you alright?”
“It’s a little stuffy in here,” she looked toward a back door that lead to a veranda. He looked as well and nodded to her. Slowly they made their way to the crowd, her in front and him behind her, his hand protectively on her back. Once outside Bella took a deep breathe of fresh air. “Thanks, I needed to get out of there.”
“I can still hear the music,” Will said. He held out a hand. She took it and he whirled her into his arms. It was a slow song, and they swayed slowly around the veranda. “How do you feel now?”
“Much better, I can honestly say I haven’t had this much fun in a long time.” She let out a small laugh and rested her forehead on his shoulder. “Thank you Will, for everything. I’ll never forget tonight.” He led her hand that he was holding up to his shoulder and left it there. He placed his hand on her waist and pulled her in.
“You don’t have to thank me,” he said, his lips grazing her ear. “I should thank you. Since we’ve met, I’ve remembered what it means to live. To just act without thinking.” ‘To love without holding anything back’ he thought to himself.
She picked her head up and her eyes met his. The moonlight made her eyes seem silver and Will shuddered. She brushed his cheek with the back of her hand. “Your cheek is better,” she stated looking at the small mark that was healing.
He wasn’t sure how much longer he could keep this up. He told her they would be friends. And to continue like this, she might hate him for taking advantage of her. And yet, when she kissed his cheek softly, he forgot everything. All he could think about was her lips. He swallowed and started “Bella,” but his words were lost. What could he say? That he didn’t want to be just friends? She would run away again.
She was looking at him expectantly and when he said nothing, she looked confused. She stroked his hair softly “Where you going to say something?”
Will could take it no longer. With both hands on her back, he pulled her into him and kissed her. She didn’t pull away, or try to stop him. He kissed her with such a force she though she would fall over if it weren’t for him holding her. He stopped and pulled his face back. “Bella,” he whispered before kissing her again. “Bella I want you,” he said when he pulled away again, long enough to make out a sentence. “I’m not sorry.” He looked at her and her face looked different than last time. She was not scared, or upset.
“Neither am I,” she breathed. “Will, I need you.” She kissed him but he stopped shortly.
“Are you sure,” his voice was husky and his breathing ragged. “Because I probably won’t ask again.” He smiled and waited for her response.
“I’m sure Will,” she laid a kiss on his neck. Without another word, he led her down the steps of the veranda and to a hotel across the street. The wait for a room was agonizing. Bella laid small kisses on his neck while he waited for his credit card to clear. In the elevator he kissed her temples, her hair and her cheeks. She put her arms in his jacket and wrapped them around his middle. She could feel his heart beating wildly.
Once in the room he whipped off his jacket and she threw her purse and shawl on a table nearby. She took off her shoes and walked up to him. “Bella, are you sure?” He asked again, his eyes meeting hers. She stepped closer to him and his eyes were waiting for a response.
Bella walked up to him and began unbuttoning his shirt. “Will, if you ask me one more time, I’m going to leave.” With that, he picked up her small frame and put her on the bed. He took off his shirt and lay on top of her, bare-chested. She placed her hands on his shoulders and brought him closer. He kissed her deeply and then pulled off her skirt. He could never understand how they undressed so quickly, but if it had taken any longer, he might have just ripped them off.
It was not until early morning until they fell asleep, completely exhausted. Will slept peacefully, his arm around her bare waist and her breath tickling his chest. He woke up later that morning to an empty bed.
He sat up quickly and shook his head. He had no headache, so he couldn’t have been drunk and dreaming the whole thing. And he was definitely naked. He looked over at his phone, the screen read ‘one new message.’
He opened the phone to see a text from Bella. “Sry to leave like ths, forgot to bring meds. Had to go. Call me when u get ths. Love.”
He looked at the clock. He had only been sleeping for a few hours. She must have left soon after he fell asleep.
‘I can live by day and take my treatments by night,’ her voice replayed in his mind. Quickly he got dressed and checked out of the hotel. He got to her house in less than ten minutes, but no one was home. Frustrated he called her house but no one answered. He called her cell phone and after the fifth ring a woman answered, but it was not Bella.
“Will, its Bella’s mother,” the woman said politely.
“”How is she?” He asked breathlessly, hopping into his car. “Is she ok? Where is she?”
“Will, you need to come to the hospital.” She said no more, only giving him directions and a room number. He sped there as quickly as his car would let him. Thankfully the hospital had valet, and he tossed his keys and a twenty pound note to the attendant. He ran inside and into the elevator. He tapped his feet as it slowly climbed to the sixth floor. He found the room and ran inside breathless.
Later, when he thought back, it could have been worse. But at that very moment it looked horrible. Bella was in a bed, with an IV and she was asleep. Her mother was sitting by the bed and her father was in conversation with a doctor. He must have looked terrified because her mother got up quickly and took his hand.
“Will, don’t worry. She is alright. She just needed to rest and get some fluids. She missed her dose last night, so they’re giving it to her through an IV.” She looked positive and this reassured him.
“I’m sorry,” he said, his voice shaking. “I never meant to keep her out that late.”
“Will, Bella knows how to take care of herself. Please don’t blame yourself.”
He went quiet and sat down next to her.
The next few days were torture. For some reason, Bella was not getting better no matter how much medicine they gave her. Instead she got steadily worse, and had to be moved to the ICU where she could be supervised at all times.
William couldn’t help but blame himself, no matter how much Bella told him it wasn’t. She knew what it meant to be out late, and she would do it again.
“Will!” Bella said exasperated. “For the last time this is not your fault. If you’re gonna mope you might as well leave.”
He looked at her. She looked so tired and fragile. Being the hospital had no suited her. She dropped weight drastically. Her skin was grayish and her eyes looked less blue everyday.
“I love you,” he said, taking her hand.
“No, you don’t,” she replied and turned away from him. “You love Anna. There is nothing here to love.”
Her words stung him. He couldn’t help loving her. “But Bella-.”
“No Will, you and I are friends. Wonderful friends. But Anna is where you belong. I can’t make you smile much longer. You need to go to her. Please.”
“I’m not leaving you like this,” he protested. She held up a hand.
“You don’t need to see the end. I don’t want you here. I need to know that you will still be happy when I’m gone.” She spoke frankly about all of this. For the first time, Will was forced to take a hard look down the line at their fate. “Besides, I’m not going to make it much longer.” She smiled. “Will, thank you for everything, but you need to move on.”
“Bella,” his voice was choked and he was trying to be strong, but he wasn’t sure who he was being strong for. “I can’t help loving you.” Inside of him, he knew he still loved Anna, and that everything Bella said was true. “What coincidence we met that day.”
“Will, did you ever stop to think that maybe everything happens for a reason?” He looked at her, confused. “Did you ever think that maybe, just maybe you came into that shop for a reason?”
He was still confused. “But what about that night?”
“That night, when we danced, probably shouldn’t have happened. But I’ll never regret it.” Bella was getting tired.
“Will you need to go,” she pushed his hand away.
“Good bye Bella,” he lay himself down in the bed and wrapped his arms around her. He kissed her one last time, still confused as to what was happening. “I love you.”
“I love you too.” She whispered. “But I can’t love you forever. You need her and she needs you, more than I do.”
He left a few minutes later. The next day he called Anna and met her near her house for coffee. She was confused, she had never seen him like this. He was restless and kept playing with his hands.
“Anne, I love you.” He started. “I know you’re scared, I know you don’t want to be hurt. But I can’t live my life without you. You keep saying we were too perfect together, but maybe life isn’t about perfection. Maybe it’s about love. Maybe it’s about, everything happening for a reason. I don’t know. I mean I know. I know I love you and I’m not letting you go. You can push me away as much as you want but I’m still going to be waiting here.”
Anna didn’t quite understand. “Will I’m so sorry I pushed you away. I should have never doubted your love. Please believe me, you’re the only one I want to be with.” She pulled a paper out of her purse. “You’re friend Bella wrote to me, and told me that it is possible to find your soul mate, even as young as we are. And maybe it all does happen for a reason.”
Will looked at the note and could not believe his eyes. Bella had written using every word possible how much he loved Anna. She convinced her that true love shouldn’t die. The letter went on for two pages and it ended simply with “I hope you will do the right thing.”
This was all too much. Will promised himself he’d be strong, but he broke down. Tears streamed down his face.
“Will, what is the matter?” Anna looked concerned, and took one of his hands in hers. The touch was familiar and warm.
“Anne, Bella is dying.” He sighed. “I’ll never see her again.” Anna covered her mouth with both of her hands and shook her head in silent protest.
“Oh Will,” she took both of his hands in hers. He calmed down soon, and told his beloved the story of his friend. His time with this friend was short, but she taught him to live, laugh and love.
Anna stood by Will at the funeral. It rained hard, and the ground was soft. As they lowered her casket into the ground, her parents looked at him and he, at them. They knew she wouldn’t want them to cry, but to dance, in the rain. He couldn’t bring himself to move. When it was over, and the earth has been placed on top of her, he leaned over to place flowers by the headstone. It had her name, dates of birth and death, and a quote dedicated to her parents. Below, carved in small letters she had quoted a song. “Goodbye my lover, goodbye my friend.” There was no indication as to whom the quote was in reference to, but William smiled.
“Goodbye my friend, indeed.” He stood up and looked at the sky. The past several days had been a rush of emotions, and now he needed to rest. He spent many days sleeping without dreams. He spent time with Bella’s family. They were still young, and were considering adopting more children.
The research project that Bella had participated in was finished a few years later, and with the results they made drugs and vaccines to prevent this from happening in the future. The first doses went straight to South Africa to the mothers with whom Bella’s mom once worked with. William and his fellow actors funded charities to get it distributed as widely as possible.
Will and Anna eventually got married. Eric was there, with his fiancée and Bella’s parents also came with their adopted Romanian twins, Alex and Beth. It was a small ceremony, close family and friends. The entire audience was moved to tears when he thanked Anna in his vows, for giving him the strength to be the man he is now. And he himself was moved to tears when Anna took a moment to thank their friend Bella for showing them how they belonged together. She never resented him for being with Bella, and she knew he grew into better man because of her.
And several years later, Anna gave birth to their second child, a girl much to the delight of everyone, especially little Jacob, who wanted a sister more than anything in the world. When the little blonde girl first opened her eyes, they saw the palest blue eyes they had ever seen. And before Will could say anything, Anna whispered “Isabella.” Will looked at her and then Jacob.
“Daddy I like that name.” he said, looking over his father’s shoulder at the tiny child.
“So do I,” Anna said softly. Will fought back tears and gazed into his daughter’s eyes.
And so she was named, Isabella Anna Moseley.
Length: 6625 words (i know, wtf).
WARNINGS: death, sexual situations. um. ok thats it i think. pg13
Here you goAndrew Adamson had never seen such a sad sight. His four child stars were posing for pictures at a DVD release party for Prince Caspian, and only two were smiling. A part of him inside was glad that Peter and Susan would not be returning to Narnia, and that perhaps this time apart would help Will and Anna. And another part wondered maybe they needed more time together.
Still, there was little time to ponder such things. The photo session was over, and it was time to let the fans in. They had lined up all night to get their DVDs signed by the stars. Skandar sat next to Will, next to Georgie, who was next to Anna, who looked morose at the end by herself. It had been months since Will’s eyes sparkled the way they did in the movie.
What began as a charmed romance was turning into a lonely spectacle. Many were elated on the night of the Prince Caspian premier when Will surprised everyone by planting a romantic kiss on his beloved Anna. Few protested at the implied ‘incest’ but they were drowned out by the catcalls and cheers of the other guests, media and fans, the loudest being Skandar and Georgie.
But that romance had died. Some blamed Anna’s family, others blames Will’s friends for pulling them apart. No one knows for sure, but many hearts were heavy at the sight of Will and Anna giving each other cold steely looks and hardly smiling, even at the faces of their adoring fans. Perhaps because when your heart breaks, its so loud you can hardly hear anything else.
The event was coming to an end, the last of the fans were leaving the store. Everyone was packing up to leave. “Anna!” A deep voice called out from near the entrance. It was her new fellow, Eric. They had been dating for a few weeks and Will had been seeing more him than he would have preferred. Anna and Eric embraced his hands on her lower back. She left with him without even glancing back at her former beloved.
Will swallowed hard, trying to fight the rise of emotions inside. Skandar patted him in a comforting way and was the last to leave. Will sighed, left through a back door, and headed to a local tea shop. It was cloudy, windy and threatening rain, typical English spring. He pulled up his collar against the wind and thought longingly of his toasty scarf, which he had given Anna one day when she was cold. As far as he knew, she still had it. The door to the shop opened with a tinkle of bells. It was a small, cozy and expensive shop. He hated overpaying for something as lovely as tea, but it did buy him privacy. The shop was crowded and all the chairs were occupied, save for one at a back table. A girl sat alone, reading a paper.
He ordered his tea and made his way over. “May I share this table?” She looked up, smiled, nodded and went back to her paper. He sat quietly waiting for his tea to cool. She was sitting sideways, facing the rest of the shop and reading the paper intently. She was also peculiarly dressed. Worn jeans with a plain t-shirt, and a zippered hoodie meant more for summer than a chilly spring afternoon. On her feet she wore pale pink flip flops, and her long jeans were cuffed up to her ankle, showing delicate anklets. “Excuse me, don’t you feel the least bit cold?” William asked, still staring at her anklets. She followed his gaze and chuckled softly.
“No, not usually,” she put down her paper and turned to face him.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you,” Will said, looking back at his teacup. He could still see the anklets twinkling in the corner of his eye.
“No its alright, I could use some company.” She smiled and offered her hand, “Isabella Ciapprionni.” She spoke with a proper British accent, but stressed the ‘ll’ in her name in an Italian accent.
“William Moseley,” he replied, shaking her hand softly. “That is a very Italian name Isabella.”
“Please call me Bella. And my family comes from the southern shores of Italy, but I’ve spent most of my life here. Still, I can’t forget my roots.” Her heritage explained her tanned complexion. It did not however explain her ice blue eyes. William had never seen eyes so pale blue, almost clear. “It is wonderful to be out in the city again,” she sighed.
“Where have you been before?” William asked.
“Oh,” she paused. “I was visiting family in Italy for a while.” She looked over his shoulder as he said this, avoiding his eyes. “So, are you from London?”
“No, I’m just here for a bit doing promotional work.” He replied, leaning forward in his chair. “I’m just staying at a hotel, I live outside the city usually.”
“Are you in marketing? You seem awfully young to be working.” She asked him curiously.
“Uh, no.” He paused slightly confused. “I’m an actor.”
“How exciting! What movie were you in?”
“Haven’t you heard of Narnia? The books? The movies?” William looked confused. She had never heard of him.
“Well I’ve read some of the books, but I never got a chance to see the movies. Who do you play?”
“Peter.”
“Wow!” Bella was excited. She was meeting an actor!
“You have seriously no idea about the movies?” William could hardly believe this.
“Well I heard they were being made but I never got a chance to see them.”
William shook his head smiling. He then proceeded to tell his new friend of his many adventures in New Zealand. A while later, Bella suddenly stood up to leave.
“Its getting late, I should head home.” She picked up her purse. “Thank you for a wonderful afternoon. It was nice meeting you Will.”
“Well here, I’ll walk you out,” he pulled on his jacket, and noticed she did not have one. “Don’t you have a raincoat?”
“A little rain never hurt me.” She smiled, “I like the rain sometimes.” They walked outside and sure enough, it began raining. Bella began to laugh and kick her feet through puddles, soaking herself up to her knees.
“Bella! Come on, lets get a taxi!” William shouted over the wind.
She simply shook her head in protest and continued playing, as though she had never seen rain before. William couldn’t help but smile and join in, she had an endless supply of happiness and laughter. For the first time in weeks, the gloom over his heart began to fade.
“Will!” A voice from behind them called. “You’re going to catch a cold!” They stopped playing and turned to see what was happening. Anna and Eric were walking along the sidewalk. Eric had one hand around Anna, another holding a large umbrella.
“Since when do you care what happens to me?” William answered, his voice colder than the rain. Anna’s eyes widened and she walked off with Eric without another word.
“That was not very nice Will,” Bella stated. She then pulled him under a building overhang. The cheer was gone from his face. “You could very well catch a cold.”
“Yeah well she lost the right to care about all of that the day she left me.”
“Well why did she leave?”
“I have no idea,” he said softly. His eyes were distant. Suddenly he sneezed.
“See, she was right. You will catch a cold.” Quickly, Bella hailed a taxi and sent him into it. “You’re going straight back to your hotel and having a hot bath NOW?” She smiled and shut the taxi door. She was gone before William could think of calling after her.
*******
William enjoyed his bath very much. He soaked for a long time, his thoughts drifting without much order. He was interrupted when his phone rang. The screen showed “Andrew Adamson” and Will almost didn’t answer.
“Hello?”
“Will, its Andrew. Look I don’t know what is going on between you and Anna, but I expect you both at the banquet tonight and better behaved than this afternoon. Your fans are really counting on you. Start acting like civilized adults and stop giving each other death looks.”
William finished the conversation, hung up the phone and sighed. The banquet. He had forgotten all about it. Slowly he dragged himself out of the glorious bath and walked over to his suitcase. He was dripping wet and only when he began to shiver did realize that he had well forgotten to get a towel.
Finally an hour later he arrived at the banquet. It was a huge hall and many people were already there. He heard the musical laugh of his beloved almost immediately after entering the hall. He turned to see her talking animatedly with Andrew. She looked stunning in a floor length red dress, and chandelier earrings to match. Eric had his arms around her waist and was laughing as well.
“At least she is happy,” William muttered to himself.
“So we meet again,” a soft voice said from behind. Bella was standing next to a table, champagne in one hand and an evening clutch in the other. She was wearing a coral dress, accented with simple diamond earrings. Both her wrists were hidden with several silver bangles. They chinked when she moved and he couldn’t help but stare at them. He suspected she was also still wearing the anklets from earlier. They greeted and sat down to talk.
Anna noticed Will talking with this strange girl. Bella stood up and walked towards the restrooms. Anna excused herself from Eric and followed. Once in the restroom, Anna approached her.
“So I see you are here with Will,” she stated, more as a question.
“No, I’m not. We only just met this afternoon. I’m here as a guest of my uncle.”
Anna could tell she was not lying. There was nothing but honesty in Bella’s face. She looked a little tired. “I see.” She said nothing more.
“Anna, I know we don’t know each other very well,” Bella paused. “Ok so we don’t know each other at all, but why did you leave Will?”
Anna was a little surprised at being asked by a stranger. Her own family did not know. And yet, she could not stop the words from coming out. “I-I was afraid we were too perfect for each other. We fell in love so quickly, and I was afraid of falling out of love. It was so intense. I mean, who finds their soul mate at 18? I just did not want us to get hurt and hate each other.”
“So instead you leave him and now you both are hurting. Makes sense.” Bella shrugged and left.
Anna’s head was spinning. She just admitted her feelings to not only a complete stranger but to herself. She shook her head clear of all these thoughts, put a smile on her face and went back to her table. The dinner was almost over, and Eric took her to the dance floor. Skandar was already dancing with a girl she didn’t know. As Eric twirled her across the floor, she saw William slip out of a side door.
He saw Bella at the concierge desk. The man was on the phone and nodding. “Thank you,” she said and tipped him.
“Hey, are you leaving already?” William asked. She looked up and he was slightly taken back. She looked tired, exhausted. And it was not even that late.
“I, Well I’m not feeling well. They’re calling a taxi for me.” She put a hand up to rest her head on. “Its been a long day.”
“Should I go with you? I don’t mind I can just-.”
Bella cut him off. “I’ll be fine, really. Don’t worry.”
“Well at least call me so I know you are home safe.” Will scribbled his number on a paper on the desk and handed it to her. “I will not sleep well until you do.”
“Thanks Will,” she smiled and left.
She did call him that evening, and then wished him a goodnight. Over the next few days, they spent more and more time together, hanging out and being silly. William smiled more and more, and felt his heart healing itself. She could care less that he was famous, and never minded their fun being interrupted by fans. She often volunteered to take pictures for them.
William was already running late and he started jogging down the sidewalk. He was supposed to meet Bella at the park 10 minutes ago. He looked at his watch and looked up in time to avoid completely barreling over someone coming out of the bookstore. Unfortunately he still ran into her but at least she was still standing.
“I’m sorry are you alright…” his voice trailed off. Anna was standing there, slightly shocked. “Hi.”
“Hello Will,” she replied curtly. She bit her lip and Will could feel his heart break all over again.
“Anne,” he said in a pained voice. “What happened to us? We were so in love.” He touched her face and she pulled away. “Why did you leave?”
She was even more shocked at his straightforwardness. “Will, I don’t want to talk about this.”
“Well don’t you think I deserve some kind of explanation? Everything was perfect and suddenly you want out.” He looked upset. Not angry, just hurt.
“Maybe it was a little too perfect,” she replied, not looking up. “Look, Will, I just didn’t want to hurt you.”
“Anna! Are you kidding?” He ran a hand through his hair. “Not being with you is killing me!”
Anna looked pained at his words. “I’m sorry. We should have never been together.” And she turned quickly and ran.
Will was simply stunned. He could barely think, and wasn’t sure how he made it to the park. Bella was waiting patiently, sitting in the shade of a tree. She looked up at him and her face turned to worry.
“What happened Will?” She asked as he sat down next to her. He told her about running into Anna, and everything she said.
“Oh darling,” she said, hugging him. “I’m so sorry things aren’t working out.” She paused, unsure if she should continue. “But I think she still loves you. Why else would she say things like ‘I don’t want to hurt you?’”
Will nodded, it made sense. “Thanks Bella. For being honest.”
“Well what else are friends for?” Her eyes sparkled silver and then blue. They switched colors so many times that it made Will’s head hurt to think about it. “Come on, what you need is some fun.” She stood up to reveal a Frisbee under her legs. She ran down a bit and threw it. He caught it and they played for a while.
He heard that laugh. That musical laugh and he turned to find it. Anna wasn’t anywhere and he was almost sure he was going crazy. Her words came back to him. ‘We should have never been together.’ Well if that is what she wanted, then fine.
But before he could think about it anymore, the Frisbee came out of nowhere and hit him on his face. He let out a swear word and held his hands up to his face. It stung like he had been hit with something other than a plastic disc.
“I’m so sorry!” Bella came running up the field. “Are you alright? Let me see it!” She tried to pry his hands off of his face. He protested and turned away.
“It hurts!” He whined in a way that reminded Bella of her babysitting days.
She put her hands on her hips. “William stop being such a baby and let me see it!” She grabbed both of his hands and with a strong tug, pulled him off his face. A red welt had appeared where the Frisbee made contact.
“Is it bad?” He asked, still whining. She tried to smile and shake her head but ended up giggling. “What the hell, you’re a girl. You shouldn’t be able to throw like that.”
Bella stopped giggling and hit his arm. “Take that back! I’m not the one who didn’t see a bright green disc coming at my face.”
Will stuck out his tongue but the movement of his muscles hurt more. “It hurts!” He said again.
“Alright, let me see now.” She took his face in both of her hands. She rubbed the welt gently and he grimaced. “Sorry,” she said softly. She then blew on it gently. The cool air soothed him a little. “You’re going to need ice, for a while.” Her eyes moved from the welt to his eyes. He was gazing at her intensely and she forgot entirely why she was holding his face in the first place. After a moment, she remembered the welt. “Are you alright?” She whispered. He took her hand in his and closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of her soft hand on his face.
“I’m alright now,” he whispered back. And then, without warning he kissed her. She was surprised but her arms went around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her small body and pulled her closer, removing any space between them. He stopped, and his eyes were still closed. “Bella, beautiful Bella,” he whispered, his forehead on hers.
His voice brought her back to reality. She suddenly realized where she was and who with. She pulled back from him, a shocked look on her face. One hand went up to her mouth and she looked ready to cry. Will’s face contorted in confusion.
“Bella? What’s wrong?” He held out his hand for hers and she pulled back further.
“No,” she shook her head. “I can’t. I-I-I must go. Now. Or else I might end up-,” she bit her lip, fighting tears. “I can’t hurt you like this.” She ran to the park exit and was gone from his sight before he could even think of running after her.
Will felt very tired. In one day, in a matter of hours he was hurt horribly twice. Once by his beloved, once by his friend. And with the same damn excuse. He felt all the energy in his body drain out. He lay down in the grass and put the Frisbee over his face to avoid being seen. With another sigh, he fell asleep.
**********
He awoke hours later, his phone ringing in his pocket. He pulled it out and answered sleepily. The ring tone told him it was Bella.
“Hello?” He said in a tired voice. He was too exhausted emotionally to try and be snarky.
“I’m sorry,” her voice was quiet. “I shouldn’t have left like that.” Bella stopped. The line was silent. “We should talk, I owe you an explanation.”
“You would be the first to offer such kindness,” Will replied sitting up. The Frisbee fell off into his lap. “How about the tea shop?” She agreed and he set off walking.
The bells tinkled as usual, and she was already sitting at the table they had first met at, with two steaming cups of tea. She looked tired again, and for a moment he wondered which of them was more exhausted.
“Hi,” she said weakly. “I hope you like hibiscus tea,” she gestured to his mug.
“Tea is tea,” he shrugged. He looked at her expectantly. “So, what is on your mind?”
“Will,” she started. “The past few days have been really fun. I’ve never laughed so much or,” she paused here. “Or worried so little.”
“Worried about what?” Will asked. There was something hiding in her eyes.
“Will, I’m very sick.” She pursed her lips. “When my mother was pregnant, she was volunteering in South Africa. And she contracted malaria. Because of all the medications and the illness, I was born very weak. My heart is weak and my health is poor. I was not supposed to live past five and yet here I am, almost 20.”
Will was still confused. She was sick, so she had to get better. “I still don’t understand.”
“Will, I’m dying.” She looked away for a moment before continuing. “I’m part of this research program. It’s the only way I can live my life outside of a hospital. I can live by day and take my treatments at night. That is why I have to keep going home at night. It won’t cure me, but at least I’m not trapped in a hospital.”
Something was stirring in his gut. He wasn’t sure which emotion would come out first. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”
“Will, I’ve known you for a week. How early was I supposed to tell you? Hi, I’m Isabella and I’m dying. Nice to meet you.” She snapped back.
He was a little shocked. “That still doesn’t explain what happened today.”
“Will, what is the point of any of it? I could just be gone before we knew it.” She looked more tired. “I just want to keep smiling. I don’t want any more pain.” Her eyes pleaded with him. “Life is more than just living. Its about happiness and love. I only wanted to smile. Is that so much to ask?”
“You’re right.” He hid his emotions quickly. “What kind of friend would I be not showing you a good time?”
She smiled and finished her tea. “Thanks Will.”
“Let’s go out!” He smiled and leaned closer to her. “Let’s go out dancing, somewhere fun.”
“Oh no. Not tonight. I’m so tired.” He looked a little disappointed. “Tomorrow night?”
“Tomorrow night it is.” Will agreed to pick her up from home and they would get dinner and then go dancing at a club. He pushed the idea of a deadline on their time together out of his head.
Bella got ready extra slowly the next night. She wore a skirt that came to her knees, and a lovely halter top. Her mom helped her to curl her chocolate brown hair and it cascaded her bare shoulders gracefully. She wore graceful shoes that would allow her to dance. She took a shawl to keep her warm. Will arrived promptly at seven, and after a few introductions they left. He was dressed to impress, not that he needed to. He was wearing black slacks, a striped shirt and a leather coat. He helped her into the car and then went around to the driver’s side. First they went to a French restaurant and ate a dinner of chicken, followed by three desserts.
As promised, they laughed and smiled. Bella was relieved to be friends again. She loved joking with him and when he laughed his whole face lit up.
After dinner, he took her to a nightclub. It was not one packed with young people pressed against each other, but a classier one. There was a band playing some jazz and a sign told them that a Latin group was up next. She smiled, “Will, can you dance?”
“You just wait and see my dear,” he replied without meeting her eyes. She suspected he couldn’t, she knew very few men who could.
They took a seat at table and sipped their drinks slowly. “So are you having fun?” She asked him over the music.
“I’m supposed to ask you that, remember?” He replied smiling. “But yes, I am. Are you?”
“Will, I can’t even remember the last time I had such fun. Thank you.”
“Well the night is not over yet, come on.” The Latin band had just started playing an upbeat song. He pulled her out of her chair and to the dance floor.
He was not kidding, he could dance. He led her into the cha-cha and added his own flair of twists and turns.
“Where did you learn to dance?” Bella asked when he spun her back to him.
“You can thank my sister for that,” he replied. “She had to practice for her dance class, and me, being the wonderful older brother I am, happily obliged.”
“Your mum made you?” Bella asked, trying not to laugh.
“Yeah,” he nodded and laughed. Bella laughed and shook her head.
“Will, you are a man full of surprises.” She smiled and ruffled his hair. “May you never change.” She let out a small shriek when he dipped her at the end of the song. She came up laughing and her eyes looked alive.
The next song was even faster and many more people joined them on the dance floor. he pulled her close to him to avoid hitting other people. She could feel his breath on her lips. Bella knew this was too close, and she was in more danger now than in the park. Someone bumped into her and sent her falling into Will. He grabbed her with both hands and steadied her. Her arms were on his shoulders and his hands on her lower back.
“Thanks,” she said, breathing heavily.
“No problem.” he replied. His eyes were wandering over her face and his hands traced her bare back. “Are you alright?”
“It’s a little stuffy in here,” she looked toward a back door that lead to a veranda. He looked as well and nodded to her. Slowly they made their way to the crowd, her in front and him behind her, his hand protectively on her back. Once outside Bella took a deep breathe of fresh air. “Thanks, I needed to get out of there.”
“I can still hear the music,” Will said. He held out a hand. She took it and he whirled her into his arms. It was a slow song, and they swayed slowly around the veranda. “How do you feel now?”
“Much better, I can honestly say I haven’t had this much fun in a long time.” She let out a small laugh and rested her forehead on his shoulder. “Thank you Will, for everything. I’ll never forget tonight.” He led her hand that he was holding up to his shoulder and left it there. He placed his hand on her waist and pulled her in.
“You don’t have to thank me,” he said, his lips grazing her ear. “I should thank you. Since we’ve met, I’ve remembered what it means to live. To just act without thinking.” ‘To love without holding anything back’ he thought to himself.
She picked her head up and her eyes met his. The moonlight made her eyes seem silver and Will shuddered. She brushed his cheek with the back of her hand. “Your cheek is better,” she stated looking at the small mark that was healing.
He wasn’t sure how much longer he could keep this up. He told her they would be friends. And to continue like this, she might hate him for taking advantage of her. And yet, when she kissed his cheek softly, he forgot everything. All he could think about was her lips. He swallowed and started “Bella,” but his words were lost. What could he say? That he didn’t want to be just friends? She would run away again.
She was looking at him expectantly and when he said nothing, she looked confused. She stroked his hair softly “Where you going to say something?”
Will could take it no longer. With both hands on her back, he pulled her into him and kissed her. She didn’t pull away, or try to stop him. He kissed her with such a force she though she would fall over if it weren’t for him holding her. He stopped and pulled his face back. “Bella,” he whispered before kissing her again. “Bella I want you,” he said when he pulled away again, long enough to make out a sentence. “I’m not sorry.” He looked at her and her face looked different than last time. She was not scared, or upset.
“Neither am I,” she breathed. “Will, I need you.” She kissed him but he stopped shortly.
“Are you sure,” his voice was husky and his breathing ragged. “Because I probably won’t ask again.” He smiled and waited for her response.
“I’m sure Will,” she laid a kiss on his neck. Without another word, he led her down the steps of the veranda and to a hotel across the street. The wait for a room was agonizing. Bella laid small kisses on his neck while he waited for his credit card to clear. In the elevator he kissed her temples, her hair and her cheeks. She put her arms in his jacket and wrapped them around his middle. She could feel his heart beating wildly.
Once in the room he whipped off his jacket and she threw her purse and shawl on a table nearby. She took off her shoes and walked up to him. “Bella, are you sure?” He asked again, his eyes meeting hers. She stepped closer to him and his eyes were waiting for a response.
Bella walked up to him and began unbuttoning his shirt. “Will, if you ask me one more time, I’m going to leave.” With that, he picked up her small frame and put her on the bed. He took off his shirt and lay on top of her, bare-chested. She placed her hands on his shoulders and brought him closer. He kissed her deeply and then pulled off her skirt. He could never understand how they undressed so quickly, but if it had taken any longer, he might have just ripped them off.
It was not until early morning until they fell asleep, completely exhausted. Will slept peacefully, his arm around her bare waist and her breath tickling his chest. He woke up later that morning to an empty bed.
He sat up quickly and shook his head. He had no headache, so he couldn’t have been drunk and dreaming the whole thing. And he was definitely naked. He looked over at his phone, the screen read ‘one new message.’
He opened the phone to see a text from Bella. “Sry to leave like ths, forgot to bring meds. Had to go. Call me when u get ths. Love.”
He looked at the clock. He had only been sleeping for a few hours. She must have left soon after he fell asleep.
‘I can live by day and take my treatments by night,’ her voice replayed in his mind. Quickly he got dressed and checked out of the hotel. He got to her house in less than ten minutes, but no one was home. Frustrated he called her house but no one answered. He called her cell phone and after the fifth ring a woman answered, but it was not Bella.
“Will, its Bella’s mother,” the woman said politely.
“”How is she?” He asked breathlessly, hopping into his car. “Is she ok? Where is she?”
“Will, you need to come to the hospital.” She said no more, only giving him directions and a room number. He sped there as quickly as his car would let him. Thankfully the hospital had valet, and he tossed his keys and a twenty pound note to the attendant. He ran inside and into the elevator. He tapped his feet as it slowly climbed to the sixth floor. He found the room and ran inside breathless.
Later, when he thought back, it could have been worse. But at that very moment it looked horrible. Bella was in a bed, with an IV and she was asleep. Her mother was sitting by the bed and her father was in conversation with a doctor. He must have looked terrified because her mother got up quickly and took his hand.
“Will, don’t worry. She is alright. She just needed to rest and get some fluids. She missed her dose last night, so they’re giving it to her through an IV.” She looked positive and this reassured him.
“I’m sorry,” he said, his voice shaking. “I never meant to keep her out that late.”
“Will, Bella knows how to take care of herself. Please don’t blame yourself.”
He went quiet and sat down next to her.
The next few days were torture. For some reason, Bella was not getting better no matter how much medicine they gave her. Instead she got steadily worse, and had to be moved to the ICU where she could be supervised at all times.
William couldn’t help but blame himself, no matter how much Bella told him it wasn’t. She knew what it meant to be out late, and she would do it again.
“Will!” Bella said exasperated. “For the last time this is not your fault. If you’re gonna mope you might as well leave.”
He looked at her. She looked so tired and fragile. Being the hospital had no suited her. She dropped weight drastically. Her skin was grayish and her eyes looked less blue everyday.
“I love you,” he said, taking her hand.
“No, you don’t,” she replied and turned away from him. “You love Anna. There is nothing here to love.”
Her words stung him. He couldn’t help loving her. “But Bella-.”
“No Will, you and I are friends. Wonderful friends. But Anna is where you belong. I can’t make you smile much longer. You need to go to her. Please.”
“I’m not leaving you like this,” he protested. She held up a hand.
“You don’t need to see the end. I don’t want you here. I need to know that you will still be happy when I’m gone.” She spoke frankly about all of this. For the first time, Will was forced to take a hard look down the line at their fate. “Besides, I’m not going to make it much longer.” She smiled. “Will, thank you for everything, but you need to move on.”
“Bella,” his voice was choked and he was trying to be strong, but he wasn’t sure who he was being strong for. “I can’t help loving you.” Inside of him, he knew he still loved Anna, and that everything Bella said was true. “What coincidence we met that day.”
“Will, did you ever stop to think that maybe everything happens for a reason?” He looked at her, confused. “Did you ever think that maybe, just maybe you came into that shop for a reason?”
He was still confused. “But what about that night?”
“That night, when we danced, probably shouldn’t have happened. But I’ll never regret it.” Bella was getting tired.
“Will you need to go,” she pushed his hand away.
“Good bye Bella,” he lay himself down in the bed and wrapped his arms around her. He kissed her one last time, still confused as to what was happening. “I love you.”
“I love you too.” She whispered. “But I can’t love you forever. You need her and she needs you, more than I do.”
He left a few minutes later. The next day he called Anna and met her near her house for coffee. She was confused, she had never seen him like this. He was restless and kept playing with his hands.
“Anne, I love you.” He started. “I know you’re scared, I know you don’t want to be hurt. But I can’t live my life without you. You keep saying we were too perfect together, but maybe life isn’t about perfection. Maybe it’s about love. Maybe it’s about, everything happening for a reason. I don’t know. I mean I know. I know I love you and I’m not letting you go. You can push me away as much as you want but I’m still going to be waiting here.”
Anna didn’t quite understand. “Will I’m so sorry I pushed you away. I should have never doubted your love. Please believe me, you’re the only one I want to be with.” She pulled a paper out of her purse. “You’re friend Bella wrote to me, and told me that it is possible to find your soul mate, even as young as we are. And maybe it all does happen for a reason.”
Will looked at the note and could not believe his eyes. Bella had written using every word possible how much he loved Anna. She convinced her that true love shouldn’t die. The letter went on for two pages and it ended simply with “I hope you will do the right thing.”
This was all too much. Will promised himself he’d be strong, but he broke down. Tears streamed down his face.
“Will, what is the matter?” Anna looked concerned, and took one of his hands in hers. The touch was familiar and warm.
“Anne, Bella is dying.” He sighed. “I’ll never see her again.” Anna covered her mouth with both of her hands and shook her head in silent protest.
“Oh Will,” she took both of his hands in hers. He calmed down soon, and told his beloved the story of his friend. His time with this friend was short, but she taught him to live, laugh and love.
Anna stood by Will at the funeral. It rained hard, and the ground was soft. As they lowered her casket into the ground, her parents looked at him and he, at them. They knew she wouldn’t want them to cry, but to dance, in the rain. He couldn’t bring himself to move. When it was over, and the earth has been placed on top of her, he leaned over to place flowers by the headstone. It had her name, dates of birth and death, and a quote dedicated to her parents. Below, carved in small letters she had quoted a song. “Goodbye my lover, goodbye my friend.” There was no indication as to whom the quote was in reference to, but William smiled.
“Goodbye my friend, indeed.” He stood up and looked at the sky. The past several days had been a rush of emotions, and now he needed to rest. He spent many days sleeping without dreams. He spent time with Bella’s family. They were still young, and were considering adopting more children.
The research project that Bella had participated in was finished a few years later, and with the results they made drugs and vaccines to prevent this from happening in the future. The first doses went straight to South Africa to the mothers with whom Bella’s mom once worked with. William and his fellow actors funded charities to get it distributed as widely as possible.
Will and Anna eventually got married. Eric was there, with his fiancée and Bella’s parents also came with their adopted Romanian twins, Alex and Beth. It was a small ceremony, close family and friends. The entire audience was moved to tears when he thanked Anna in his vows, for giving him the strength to be the man he is now. And he himself was moved to tears when Anna took a moment to thank their friend Bella for showing them how they belonged together. She never resented him for being with Bella, and she knew he grew into better man because of her.
And several years later, Anna gave birth to their second child, a girl much to the delight of everyone, especially little Jacob, who wanted a sister more than anything in the world. When the little blonde girl first opened her eyes, they saw the palest blue eyes they had ever seen. And before Will could say anything, Anna whispered “Isabella.” Will looked at her and then Jacob.
“Daddy I like that name.” he said, looking over his father’s shoulder at the tiny child.
“So do I,” Anna said softly. Will fought back tears and gazed into his daughter’s eyes.
And so she was named, Isabella Anna Moseley.