Page 56 of Edward’s Bunny

Shifters On Ice

Brian

New York, I couldn't believe I was in New York City. Never in a million years had I ever thought I'd be able to come here. Excitement bubbled within me as I walked hand in hand with Edward down Fifth Avenue. The vibrant energy of the city, the bustling crowds, and the awe-inspiring buildings made my heart race with anticipation. Everything was decorated for the holiday, and we were heading down to Rockefeller Center.

“It shouldn’t be that far. I forgot to ask: have you been ice skating before?” Edward asked.

I leaned close to him to avoid the throngs of people moving about. “No, I haven’t. You’re going to have to make sure I don’t fall.”

Edward laughed. “No problem, Bunny. I’ll make sure you don’t bruise anything.”

As we approached Rockefeller Center, my eyes widened at the dazzling sight before me. The towering Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and a shining star on top, stood majestically over the ice rink below. The rink itself was alive with the laughter and chatter of people gracefully gliding or, in some cases, stumbling on the ice. I had a feeling that might be me, but then I remembered Edward’s words that he’d keep from getting hurt, and I smiled. I knew they were true: he was a man of his word.

I continued to scan the area. Around the rink, festive decorations illuminated the space, creating a magical atmosphere that made me feel like I was in a winter wonderland. The surrounding buildings were aglow with lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate filled the crisp air.

“This place is insane,” Talon said as he stepped beside Edward and me.

I glanced over at him before looking at the scene before me. I couldn't help but grin from ear to ear. “It really is.” I turned to Edward. “This is amazing, Edward! I can't believe we’re here! I can’t believe I’m here!” I corrected, my excitement growing with each passing moment.

Edward squeezed my hand. “I’m glad you’re happy, and you like it.”

“Like it, I love it. Le—” The shrill ring of my cell phone cut me off. I forgot that I’d changed the ringtone to the most annoying sound in case Edward called and I missed it. I quickly grabbed the device from my pocket and frowned at the name displayed.

“Hello,” I answered.

“Hello, son,” my mother’s cheerful voice echoed through the line.

“Hi Ma, it’s eight-thirty at night, is everything alright?” I asked, as I looked at Edward and mouthed the word “Sorry.” He shook his head and waved his hand as he mouthed back, “It’s fine.”

“What’s all that noise? Where are you?” My mother asked.

“Ma, is there something you need?”

My mother huffed. “Your Nana and I want you to come over. I already know you’re not working, and classes should be done for the day.”

I shook my head even though she couldn’t see me. “I can’t. I have plans.”

“What plans are more important than your grandmother and I wanting to see you? I expect you to come over and be here in a half hour.” There was the controlling tone that I hated growing up. It always made me do whatever my mother wanted but not this time. It was impossible.

“Ma, I can’t. I’m not home. I’m not even in Tampa,” I replied.

“What? Where are you?” She demanded.

“Listen, ma; I’m out of town with a friend. I’ll be back tomorrow night. I’ll be able to see you at Sunday dinner like always,” I explained, and my rabbit went crazy inside me. He was angry at me. I lifted my head and looked around, trying to figure out what was wrong. Then I saw it. Edward’s head was bowed, and I could sense his sadness radiating off him. Fuck. Friend. I called him my friend.

“What do you mean you’re out of town and won’t be back? Where did you go?” My mother’s words cut through my internal battle with my rabbit.

“Ma, I can’t talk to you right now. I’ll see you for dinner on Sunday. Bye, ma.” I hung up the phone, cutting off any other reply.

I walked beside Edward, who hadn’t said anything. “Edward.”

He lifted his head, and I could see the pain in his eyes. “You haven’t said anything about me to them, have you?”

I sighed. “I’m sorry, Edward. I… I don’t know how to tell them.”

“Is it just my being a predator shifter that’s stopping you or…” His voice trailed off.

“Edward, my family has some pointed views on your kind.”