Abyss of Stars When I Loved You

In September 2013, under the sweltering sun at Harvard University, Catherine Earnshaw watched from her dorm window as Edward Cullen stood waiting beneath. Whispers among the girls speculated who the aloof and proud Cullen was waiting for. But none knew the silent battle that raged between them, both waiting, neither willing to concede.

Catherines phone rang, and Edwards deep, husky voice echoed in her ear, "Come down, Im waiting for you." She agreed, and a sense of wonder filled her as she walked by his side, a dream come true for the girl who had loved him silently.

By The Lotus Pond at Harvard University, Catherine sat nervously on a bench, her hands rubbing the worn fabric of her T-shirt. She felt small and plain next to him, their worlds colliding in a fateful accident that bound them together.

"Catherine," Edward said, his voice filled with responsibility for the night theyd both been drinking, "I will take responsibility for you." Catherine laughed softly, her voice trembling as she asked, "How?"

His face clouded with frustration, and she felt a wicked satisfaction. He was waiting for her to give him an out, but she wasnt the docile girl he expected.

After a long pause, Edwards clenched fists relaxed, and he spoke, "Engage in six months, marry after graduation. Is that okay?" Catherine wanted to say yes—it was what shed dreamed of—but not like this, not forced and bitter.

"Do you love me?" she asked, her smile bright and challenging. Edwards face showed disgust, "Dont ask that, you know who I love."

Catherine knew, of course, shed loved him for years, and he only had eyes for Jane Eyre. But in this moment, jealousy consumed her, and she lost her reason.

"It doesnt matter if you dont love me, I will love enough for both of us," Catherine declared. She knew the price would be high, but she wanted to be etched into his memory, even if it meant breaking herself in the process.