i closed my eyes, leaning against Joe’s chest. i listened to the steady beat of his heart for a while. i looked up, realizing he had been watching me. “I love you,” i murmered. he kissed me, then placed both hands on my face. “I love you too,” he told me. i took a deep breath, & stood up, letting go of his warm hand. i faced the horrid creature before me. “Take me,” i told him, “Let Joe go. Use me for whatever you wish.” he laughed, and i heard Joe’s angry intake of breath beside me. “Bella, no! Please don’t!” he shouted, but i barely heard him. i saw the creature rise before me, over my head. i closed my eyes, realizing that the end had come. “I love you, Joe. Always..” i trailed off as i saw the blade come toward my heart. the pain was intense, and i felt a warm liquid run down my chest. the air suddenly got cold. i reached my hand up and grasped the locket. i knew the picture of Joe and i would not be damaged by my blood.the world faded to black. i grasped the locket in my hand, and crumpled to the floor..