Hmm, well, since I'm on Spring Break, I decided to try to get at least another chapter in. XD Just a warning though…It's not the typical happy chapter that I've been writing. Oh, and free Edward Dolls to those who spotted the quote from the movie! On with the chapter!

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Chapter 18

Ever since the situation at school, Kate had become increasingly worried. Because of her actions against Mary, Mattie Collins, the snob of Suburbia, (as well as her mother) had been extra harsh to Edward.

Mrs. Collins would send the man everywhere on little errands, having him go to the end of the world and back for something simple, like lotion or baking goods.

During the time that he was gone, Mattie would make a few phone calls and complain at how irresponsible Edward was, and how she feared for her safety.

Because of this, rumors began flying fast around the little town. If there were a crime on the news, especially a break in, or a robbery, the adults would wonder. Was Edward the cause of it all, like before?

It was happening all over again. Could the poor boy catch a break?

It was Kate's fault. She knew it was. If she hadn't have lost her temper and smacked Mary, then Ol' Moldy Mattie wouldn't have started in on Edward.

She wished with all of her heart that she could turn back time and erase that little confrontation. Of course, she couldn't.

Her parents were also concerned. Miraculously, Susan Schneider wasn't as adamant about Edward. The boy had been a wonderful help around the house, and it was clear that he would do no harm to her daughter. Would she come to his defense? Absolutely.

Apparently, he had grown on her.

This lifted Kate's spirits somewhat, as in the beginning her mother was completely against Edward's moving in with them. If she could learn to accept Edward, then why the hell couldn't everyone else?

It was overwhelming; how something so minor and stupid could be blown out of proportion. Hats off to Drama Queen Mary and her Maniacal Boyfriend Matt. They started the whole mess in the first place.

Edward had halted in his visits to the Collin's household, or any other home for that matter. He no longer went outside the Schneider property. Just like before.

They too, had gotten wind of some of the things that the townsfolk were saying. Kate's mother liked to go to the supermarket on Tuesdays. While standing in the checkout line, she couldn't help but feel like she was being constantly stared at. Whispers floated around the store about how she was housing a murderer, a felon, and a criminal.

Feeling slightly edgy, Susan paid for her items and left as quickly as possible. The matter was discussed over dinner that night.

John leaned back in his seat, casually chatting to Edward about the possibility of opening up a small arts and crafts store, in his name. Kate was adding on ideas, saying that she could help him sew and stitch, while Edward listened merrily while chopping the steaks into smaller, more feasible cubes.

Mrs. Schneider watched the scene, wondering when exactly did they all get so used to having the strange man around. It just felt so natural, having him there, with them.

Clearing her throat, Susan looked up "Excuse me." All conversation stopped. Three pairs of eyes turned to stare at the woman. It was clear that something was troubling her.

"Mom?"

Sighing, the woman shook her head. "I don't know if you're all aware of this or not…but there's something very wrong here, in Suburbia."

Confusion was etched onto Kate's brow. Oh please don't tell me she's gonna go off and start rambling about how Edward is a scourge to society! She was doing so well too…

Mrs. Schneider continued. "I was at the market today, getting the usual things to last us a week. While I was standing in line, I felt like I was being watched, like there was a spotlight on me. A few people started whispering behind me, and I caught what they were saying."

Dread began to fill in Kate's stomach as she listened to her mother's explanation. It had to be something that dealt with Edward, something bad.

" There are rumors going on around the town…rumors about you, Edward. They're saying that we are housing a killer. Now, I've heard the story. We all have. We heard that you and Jim killed each other in a fight. We now know that is not the case, since you're alive. So, tell us, Edward. What is the truth?"

Kate's Mother was not trying to accuse him of anything. In order to help him, they needed to know what really happened on that night. All they had was what their parents told them.

Edward, on the other hand, had begun shaking uncontrollably. It wasn't out of anger; it was fear. He was scared, terrified, that he would once again be exiled, and separated from the people he loved-especially Kate.

His dark eyes shifted down to the table. Memories of that horrible night seeped into his mind again. Memories he wished he didn't have.

"Jim…he…hit Kim…I…was mad…I accidentally pushed him…and he fell…through the window…"

His voice, soft and fluent, was trembling with emotion. Kate could see that he was frightened, worried. Grabbing onto his arm, she gave him a pat.

"Listen Edward…if it wasn't for you, Grandma could have died. Jim could have killed her…and would have killed you. You were only defending yourself, ok? So don't be upset. We understand, and we're here with you. I won't leave you."

Looking up in surprise, Edward merely nodded. Oh, how he wished he could cry! How he wanted to express how much he cared for them, cared for Kate! He just didn't know how.

Kate's dad looked at his wife and smiled. "Alright. So, we're clear that you were only trying to protect my mother and yourself. Now, what we need to do is figure out how to keep you safe. The last thing we want is for you to be chased out of here again."

Susan sighed. "It's easier said than done, John. Everyone is hooked on the stories they've heard as children. It's not going to be easy. Perhaps the best thing is to have him return to the mansion on the hill."

Kate couldn't believe her ears. No way did her mother just suggest that they give up the best thing that's ever happened to them or Suburbia.

"No! He'd be hunted down, vulnerable! This is his home! He belongs here with us!"

John smirked slightly. "I agree. Edward is a part of this town. He stays here, with his family. We'll just battle and tough it through. They will not hurt him again."

Edward gazed downwards. It was because of him that the family was in trouble. It was all his fault.

Dinner ended rather quietly that night.

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Later on, Kate was situated on her bed, her Edward Doll in her arms. The real Edward was in his room sleeping, just like everyone else. Her mind was too full to even think about sleep. Gazing down at the toy in her possession, she sighed.

"What can I do…? I screwed up…how can I make it up to him…?"

Just like before, the doll merely stared up at her, blank button eyes and all. "Hmm…maybe I shoulddo something to get my mind off of this…"

Setting her Valentine down on her pillow, Kate stood from her bed and headed to the door, only pausing in her steps to look back at it. Poor, miserable, lonely Edward…wait…that's it!

An idea in mind, she flew from her room, heading towards the foldable ladder that led to the attic.

Hours later, Kate leaned back to examine her work. Thank goodness her grandmother taught her how to sew. Otherwise, she'd be in trouble. Sitting in front of her was her very own Kate Doll, crafted out of the same crème colored fabric for skin, with small, brown, shiny buttons for eyes and a tawny yarn for hair. The body consisted of a silvery, sleek grey, with glittering white floral patterns, sewn in the form of a lengthy dress-her Christmas dress, in fact.

Picking up the cloned toy version of herself, Kate smiled. Now the Edward Doll wouldn't be so lonesome anymore. Neither would Edward himself.

The teen left her room once more, venturing out into the dark hallway, her destination being Grandma Kim's old room.

The door slowly creaked open as she crept inside, noting the sleeping Edward. A small, sweet smile spread across her face as she set the doll on the dresser. Hopefully, he would see it, just as she saw hers on her bed.

As she left the room, fatigue set in. It was nearly three in the morning. Kate yawned and went back to her own room, still smiling.

I'll always be with you, Edward Scissorhands.

The sound of the door clicking shut woke Edward from his light sleep. Dark eyes flung open, only to spot something different. Carefully, he slipped off the bed, walking over to the big mirror, where the doll sat.

It was obvious that the toy was fashioned to look like Kate. Awestruck, Edward gently ran the tips of his blades against the cloth.

"T…thank you…Kate."

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A few weeks had gone by since the rumors started, and they were still raging. School was even worse. No one would talk to Kate. They'd stand nearby, whispering obscene, cruel things about her and the 'Scissors Man'.

Mary and Matt, the ringleaders of the rumors, seemed to have great fun in teasing and ruining Kate's reputation.

However, Kate didn't care. She knew the truth, and would stick to it. What did it matter, that she was in love with Edward?

It was tough, not only for her, but for her parents too. They both faced the constant scrutiny, yet that didn't faze John any. Susan, on the other hand, was coming un-glued.

"We got to do something, John! I'm sick of being talked about, like we're trash!"

Her husband, who was reading his paper, sighed and set it down on his lap. "Honey, I know it's rough, but you got to ignore them. What's more important, a living being, or your social life?"

Well, when he put it that way, it shut her up and made her think. Still, things weren't exactly great anymore.

Kate was thrilled when Spring Break rolled around. Now she'd have even more time to spend with Edward.

Then, all Hell broke loose, yet again.

It was a warm, sunny day. A perfect day for a stroll. Kate and Edward found themselves out on the hill, enjoying the fine weather, as well as each other's company.

Flowers were blooming, sparkling the field with an assortment of colors. The grass was green and bouncy, soft to the touch. A nice breeze passed by, swaying the leaves on the trees. It was simply beautiful.

However, nothing could ever compare to the beauty that Kate possessed. Edward was sure of that.

The couple took a break once they reached the top, both of them sitting on the springy meadow comfortably. Edward turned to his companion, a small, ghost smile playing on his icy blue lips.

"Thank you, Kate."

The girl looked up, grinning happily. This had been the best idea ever. "No problem, Edward. It's always nice to get out and spend some time with you."

He couldn't agree more. Seeing her laugh and smile, and being able to share that with her was pure bliss. He always felt warm when he was with her, complete. It had been the same way with Kim, whenever they had the time.

Kate sat back, her hand on his arm, head gently resting on his shoulder. They sat there for a long while, unmoving.

"Hey! Get your hands off of her!"

Blinking at the sudden intrusion, Edward jumped in surprise, scissors flickering in automatic defense, which caused Kate to yelp in mild pain. Turning to look at her, he saw why. A long, thin red line stemmed from her hand to her arm. Mortified, Edward got to his feet, his eyes somber.

"Kate, I…I'm s-sor-"

"I said, get away from her, freak!"

The voice, male, sounded very familiar. Kate rose to her feet, clutching Edward's arm to try to comfort him. "Shh, it's ok. You didn't mean it, and it barely hurt."

Matt soon appeared on the hill, looking extremely angry.

"Damn it all! Matt! What the hell are you doing here!"

It didn't matter; the boy simply ignored Kate's protests, and zeroed in on the person beside her.

In a few seconds, Matt was in Edwards face, violently shoving him away from Kate.

"Get out of here! Go back to the sewer you belong in, you monster!"

It was déjà vu. Edward remembered that at one point, Jim had done the exact same thing.

Matt gave him another push, one that sent the poor man spiraling backwards, though he caught his footing quick. "You stay away from her! Freak! Beast!"

Kate wouldn't stand for this. Screaming and shouting, she grabbed the assaulting boy and punched at his shoulder. "Stop it! Leave us alone; we didn't do anything to you! I'm not your girl, you ass!"

This only served to tick Matt off even more. She was defending the guy! Snarling, he reared back and hit her, knocking her off her feet.

That was the last straw.

Edward, breathing heavily, witnessed the girl fly back. "Kate!" Regaining his balance, scissors flailed out by his sides, he went to her, only to be blocked by Matt.

"Listen you-!"

Edward wouldn't hear any of it. Matt hurt her. He hurt his Kate. Eyes darkening, she tried to push past the boy, only to be kicked in the stomach. Reeling in pain, his blades shot forwards as he bent over, slicing into soft flesh. He could hear the other man screaming in a mix of pain and fury, though that didn't matter. All he could think of was Kate.

Landing on her side, Kate scrambled to her feet, only to watch as Matt kneed Edward in the gut. "No!" She couldn't believe what happened next.

It seemed like slow motion. As Edward knelt down from the blow, his 'hands' raked downwards, cutting deeply into Matt's thighs. The other boy was wailing, fell backwards, then scampered up and jogged away as quickly as he could. Edward remained kneeling, his metal shears shaking rapidly.

Kate shook her head and bolted over to him. "Edward! Edward are you alright?"

Slowly lifting his head, his dark, sad eyes bore into hers. She would never forget the look of utter terror and pain that flashed through them. Bending down, she grabbed onto his neck and held him tight. "It's ok…it's going to be alright…let's get you home so we can clean you up…"

Merely nodding, he allowed Kate to help him to his feet, one arm carefully draped around her shoulders. They both wandered down the hill slowly, as they were both sore.

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Hearing the door close, John glanced up, only to see his daughter and 'son-in-law' hunched over, panting and sweaty. Blood was slowly beginning to drip from Edward's bladed hands.

"My God, kids! What happened?"

Shaking her head, Kate summarized what had happened to her father, while Edward kept his head low, his eyes on the ground.

Listening intensely, Mr. Schneider shook his head. This wasn't going to end happily, this much he knew. "Ok ok. Come on, Edward, I'll help clean you up. Kate, go to the other bathroom and freshen up."

Giving Edward a small hug, Kate flashed a small smile. "Don't worry; everything will be fine."

Of course, she knew better. Matt would twist the story around to make himself the victim. The people of Suburbia wouldn't stand for this. Meaning poor, sweet, Edward was in trouble.

Again.

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Ehh hehh…-Gets her shield ready- No killing me! This was somewhat hard to write; since I really wanted to shoot myself for letting Matt do that! But anyways…I wonder what's going to happen next? -Gives out free Edward/Kate doll sets to the reviewers-

ThePickle: Yesh! I updated! And yep, Edward finally met Matt…though now things look worse for them!

Robinsareawesome: Lol, so do I! Too bad I can't sew to save me life; otherwise I'd make one!

Toxo: I'm glad you love the story! –Hugs back- And I'm really glad everyone liked the Edward-Doll idea! Now they can come in a set! XD

Skblr: Aww, thanks! And no problem, I don't mind alerting people if they want me to. Yes, I have to admit, Kate does not have that type of temperament to lash out like that. Then again, we all fight for those we love. Lol, I had to incorporate Valentine's Day somehow! It's the most romantic time of the year, I think.

Exhibit Q: Lol, I'm so happy that everyone's loving this story! Nah, I'd never let anything really bad happen to the cute little Edward Doll! I can't promise that anything really bad won't happen, though I do promise that there will be a nice ending! XD

Twiggy Wonka: Ohh I agree. Matt and Jim both suck majorly! Lol, thank you much! I'm glad you like this story. And yes, I wish Kim and Edward would have stayed together…though I'm loving the Kate/Edward pairing too! XD

Geckogirl: Aww thanks! My best chappy yet? XD And no Punjab! I don't want the Phantom of the Opera to strangle me! Or you XD

Next Chapter: Harsh Reality