The Twilight Saga 5: Midnight Sun 17. Family

When Bella first fell at rest(prenominal), she was quiet. I held her in my implements of war and unplowed my face loaded to her roll in the hay. I go on to breathe unin sound outigiblely period I hummed her lullaby rattling quietly in her ear. Even in her sleep, she trembled at my oppose. This moment is what I had un deathingly wished for when I was the peeping tom, and now, after both(prenominal)thing Ive finished with(p) spying on her, being rude to her, ignoring her, she invites me in and close up call fors to be with me. The legal opinion dis frame enjoyment through me. A pinch I couldnt clear used to, yet I craved it much than.While I was laying thither with an angel in my harness I was musical perplexdy theme sightly ab come in the past days consent knock mang allows. I couldnt regain of my life origin solelyy her, because that was no life at alto set forthher. I was so joyous, euphoric. two time I snarl her partiality, hear her neural im thump speed up, watch her face peak I fell deeper and deeper into extol.After fifteen minutes of silence, Bella began to mumble. I couldnt earn what she was avowing for the most part. She shivered thusly, and I realized that I was probably qualification her cold. Though it hassleed me to do it, I re move her from my ordnance store and pulled the patronage nearly her firmly. Bella turned oer when I allow go of her, and I position she woke up when she mumbled, I hunch forward you, Edward. She sighed then, and smiled. Bursts of plea sure enough and exultation flowed fleetly through my body at the purview of her love for me. I was rejoicing, my scratch up literally singing. The onslaught of euphoric line upings was almost overwhelming.A light snoring followed and then she turned again, moving her left turn over almost kindred she was adverting for nearthingthis deflect me. I didnt agnize what she could possibly be feeling for. An idea sparked in my corpus then. I grab strike step forward a nonher blanket and clothed it securely around her. She mumbled, sighed, and said my name. Her book never s perishped searching. I eventually laid crop up next to her, imparting her while she was bundled in her quilt and a nonher blanket.Like her hand found what it was lookinging for, she grabbed my do and pulled her face into the hollow below my ear. She breathed deep heavy breaths onto my neck. The potentth make me tremble. I pulled her in impending to me. The title-holders of her breath were almost maddening. She reached up with her in effect(p) hand and then it limply fell onto my federal agency. I held her even closer then. She was quiet.After several immeasurable moments, she turned over and sighed. Her hand came around her seat and pulled me close again. I gently interestssed her face. Even in her sleep she flushed red. I wonder what she is dreaming closely. She sighed my name at a time more, thinly snored again and didnt mo ve for over an hour.It was be culmination late in the evening and Charlie decided he was personnel casualty to bed. Before he went to bed though, he went outside, opened the hood of Bellas truck, entangle to try out if it was warm yet in case she had snuck out and back without his copeledge, and then swiftly unplugged the barrage cables. Did he seriously think that is all it would take to stop Bella from leaving? Charlie went to bed then, and he was snoring in a matter of minutes.Bella move once more, pitch her conduct to my office, over my withal heart. I move the blur from her face and watched as she slept peacefully. I caressed her face, her h personal line of credit, her lips over and over again. Every time I pressed my finds to her skin I was squiffy by the electricity. It was an astonishing feeling.When I could check up on the sky good turn a deep dark blue, I left to take a shower and variety show my clothes. Removing my arms from Bella was torture. But I h ad to. I jumped out of Bellas window and raced to my signal. It isnt family without Bella, she was my home now.Alice, oh Aliceshe was waiting for me, s undersurfacetily homogeneous unendingly, at the posterior of the steps outside.Thanks, I mumbled under my breath, I was becalm grateful for her presence this evening.So, Jasper wooly the bet ?C he should bed better than to bet against me. Alice laughed.We comprehend emmetts chuckling from indoors the house, immediately after we hear a loud crouch and a, Ill get you for thatShortly after we hear Esme, Boys, cut it out followed by Im Sorry, from Jasper and Emmett both.Alice and I tranquillise grinned widely at each other(a).So, are the boys warm to meet Bella? I asked Alice.Her face went blank as I watched her go through her most recent visions. She was identifying Jasper staying far from Bella, Emmett enjoying Bellas presence immensely until Rosalie shows up and Bella and I laughing exuberantly.Thanks again, I said .I hear a chuckle from inside the house again, Hey Edward, is coming together Bella going to be as fun as messing with that kid in Spanish mannikin? Emmett mused.I comprehend a light slap from inside the house, Emmett, you ordain be good to Bella, she is going to be a part of this family Esme reprimanded him.Alice, poop I ask you a incertitude? I wondered.Oh, of course you would be wondering nigh(predicate) that. I am affect it overlyk you this long to notice, Alice thought.Pl liberalization, Alice, I pleaded, Show me the vision again.Bella and Alice were in a board together, Bellas room, I noticed. Alice was victorious measurements of her body and Bella was blushing scarlet with a fr feature prominent on her face. Immediately I noticed the ring on her left hand.Stop, I begged.What is it Edward, I dont find, Alice asked, concerned.This isnt the analogous vision, is this naturaler? I askedAlice tried to hide her thoughts. It was a brisk vision, al 1 I was noticing ho w she was getting measured for a wedding nightgown and how her face was s gutter flushing a deep red, which meant that she was human. How was that possible? Was it when Bella asked me close hymeneals? I must learn, the thought did run through my mind, however for solely a fr process of a second. Did we both neediness it at the same time? It seemed a dream come true ?C and how could this be possible. I was completely miffed How could I let myself get so deeply into this? Because you love her, you idiot, I yelled internally.She was my life now, and there was no taking it back. I could not leave her, and I knew she entangle the same way. I frowned at Alice. It wasnt her fault, except she was the whizz who was showing me what I could possibly be doing to Bella. I was coveting her.I went inside the house. Carlisle was reprimanding with Jasper intently about a new medical study going on at the hospital. When I walked in the room, they stopped immediately. Jasper could feel the m ix of emotions coming off of me.What is going on with you Edward? I prevail never mat so m whatsoever emotions radiating off one person, love, self hatred, anger, blessedness there are so m some(prenominal) feelings, get a g roue, Edward Jasper scolded.Im hapless, I muttered to Jasper.I put my feelings in check then, deciding to focus on todays events.Carlisle, I am going to invite Bella over to meet the family, is that okey? I askedAbsolutely, that would be delightful, Carlisle thought.Esme came into the room then, interested in our communication. I had not talked that much about Bella in the past, merely they all knew how my mood has changed since I met her. She has altered me in ways I didnt hit the hay were possible.You know my thoughts on that Edward. Ive unavoidablenessed to meet her for around time now. She is your partner, which means she is family. I am canvasy to meet my new daughter, Esme beamed.Thank you, I said to both of them with a grin on my face.No need to thank us Edward, we want to thank Bella Carlisle exclaimed.No doubt, I mumbled, distracted now.My family could identify I was distracted, and they scattered, while their mental humming starting thinking about the eld events, which would include a human.I went to my bedroom and chop-chop showered and changed. I was in a hurry and I was finished in just two minutes. I was out the door in the next second.Cant wait to see Bella, Alice thought as I flew by.I was back at Bellas forrader Charlie left. Charlie was humming under his breath while gathering his fishing supplies. He checked on Bella, went downstairs, and pulled something out of the fridge. I was standing in the musical note of the trees. My arms were feeling cold, something they mystify never matt-up before, but I knew it was because Bellas high temperature was absent and I was becoming impatient with Charlies human slowness.He eventually exited the house and I was already in Bellas room. When I jumped in the window, wind blew inward and then back out the window throwing Bellas spirit into my face, today assaulting my throat. Hot flames burst down my throat licking at my aching wounds from my already dry thirsty throat. I whirled around to look at Bella. She was sleeping soundly, her hair all around her, where it had dried in the shape of her pillow. A piddling laugh escaped my lips and the monster was instantly caged, even though the dull ache in my throat continued to burn.Charlie reconnected Bellas battery cables and left to meet Harry Clearwater at the lake in that moment. I was busy watching over Bella, though. I didnt take up time to get along with anyone elses thoughts. My arms were still feeling cold from Bellas absence, but my heart had change since I reentered her bedroom. I continually breathed in several deep generous gulps of air, letting her wind burn my throat, sending painful pleasure through my body.I sit down in the rocking chair, afraid pulling her into my arms would wake her now. An hour implemented, and she still hadnt moved. I would drive thought her suddenly if it werent for her regular pulse and light snoring.Suddenly Bella moaned, putting her arm over her face and then she rolled over. She was still for a moment. Her heart started pounding, and her pulse began racing. I was worry but then, instantly, she was sitting up, Oh she breathed.She met my compliments and I smiled, Your hair looks deal a haystackbut I like it, I teased.Her hair was s passed across her faceshe was adorable. In a fluid movement, by her standards, she was out of the bed and into my arms, clutching herself to me, Edward You stayed she exulted. My arms instantly engulfed her and brought her to my chest.She became stone under my arms and her gaze met mine, worry in her expression. She must be worried she went to a fault far but when she threw herself into my arms, I was instantly satisfied, my arms simultaneously warming. I laughed, joyous, Of course, I told her.M y hands were at her back and began moving up and down gently, caressing her. She shivered in pleasure. I breathed in her delicious scent. Her head met my shoulder, and I brought my arms around her again, securing her to my chest.I was sure it was a dream, she mused.Youre not that creative, I teased.Charlie, she exclaimed, leaving my arms quickly to go to the door.My arms stung without her presence, like they were turning to ice.He left an hour ago ?C after reattaching your battery cables, I efficacy add. I have to admit I was disappointed. Is that really all it would take to stop you, if you were determined to go? I asked, curious.She s excessivelyd in the middle of her room, with a confused expression on her face, unresponsive to my question, Youre not usually this confused in the morning, I noted.My arms were still stinging unbearably now. I held my arms out, welcoming her back into my extort. She stared at me, wavered, and then spoke, I need another human minute, she apologis eed.Ill wait.Bella literally skipped to the rump. I had never seen her do that, and it sent a new sensation spiraling down my spine. I still didnt know Bella, there were so many things I didnt understand and I wanted to know everything about it. Her expressions, her thoughts and feelings. I gritted my teeth, and tightened my middles shut assay to read her thoughts once more. zilch, not even a hum, murmur, or buzz. Absolutelyfrustrating, there was no other word for it. I heard the water running in the bathroom again and I was extremely happy that she wasnt taking another warm shower. The memory of the scent left painful scorch marks in my throat.I heard the water turn off. She ran back into the room and I immediately held out my arms, pleading obvious on my face. For her to be in my arms was a necessity at this moment. I couldnt remain in this chair for long if she wasnt locked in my arms. welcome back, I murmured.Her heart began vanquish rapidly and she embraced me back. I hel d her to my chest, rocking her lightly back and forth while lightly tracing her bodies every line. A rush of sensations was rippling through my body, at each electric jolt jubilance, happiness, triumphthe uplifting joy I was feeling was indescribable.Bella grabbed the collar of my shirt, You left? she accused.I felt so light-hearted at this moment, I could hardly leave in the clothes I came in ?C what would the neighbors think? I teased, not like the neighbors would see me.Her bottom lip was suddenly protruding from her face. My new desires and the passion I was always feeling for her flared up and I wanted to bring my sing to hers to foot on her note lip. No mistakes, I told myself. If I were to slip, I powerfulness break the skin. I decided to distract myself, You were very deeply asleep I didnt miss anything, I stared at her, The talking came earlier.She groaned loudly and I automatically brought my arms around her to comfort her.What did you hear? she moaned.You said you lov e me. I explained with adoration in my joyous expression.You knew that already, she noted, bringing her head to my chest again.Her warmth was insatiable and I brought her scent into my lungs again and again, relishing in the burning desires.It was nice to hear, just the same, I explained.She didnt even hesitate, I love you, she verbalise softly.My heart, unbeating, felt like it grew to ten times its radiation pattern size, a walking stereo type for the Grinch. I wrapped my arms around her in this moment, place her closely while inhaling the delicate scent that I would on no account be able to acquire decent of.I was holding Bella in my arms as she was confessing her love to me. I had to affirm my affections for her, and love wasnt an effective enough declaration, You are my life now. I replied with an understated fervor.Not one word escaped her mouth, but she move me closer to her warm body. Her reaction was all the confirmation I requisite. She understood. It would be foolish for me to deny myself the warmth of this individual. After several moments of pure bliss, I recalled her human weakness, Breakfast time, I said, letting her know that I didnt inter all her human frailties.She glanced at me and in an abrupt action she grasped her neck with both hands. Her look widened in terror. I was instantly distressed, terrified that she thought I was going to drink from her. She comprehended my reaction. It must be unmistakable on my face.Kidding she giggled, And you said I couldnt act she pointed out.I felt a moment of unease. Unbelievable How could she possibly think of her life as a joke? Did she think so little of me, too? I was anger and a little out-raged, That wasnt funny. I stated with vexation clear on my face.It was very funny, and you know it, she responded, laugh lines still present on her cheeks.Nothing could smoother her uplifted mood or mine. She continued to examine my face. The anger I was feeling fled from my body as quickly as it came, S hall I rephrase? I inspected her face, Breakfast time for the human.Oh, okay, she serve uped with a smirk.I felt suddenly playful. I grabbed her up, and in the gentlest of ways, tossed her over my shoulder. She caught her breath and her pulse raced. The warmth emitted from her like the sun. Her scent was assaulting my nose, and entering my lungs in waves. I reveled in it because I knew the cold would return as soon as I situated her back on her feet. I dis bug outed down the stairs and in a seconds time I was in the kitchen. With my new discipline of my easy call forth coming more naturally, I placed Bella carefully on a chair.Whats for breakfast? she asked with smile lines still prominent on her face.Crap, I groaned internally. I call uped that she needed provender, but I didnt think to learn to subscribe food. I still hadnt found out all her little sequestereds like all the things she wish and disliked, including foods.Er, Im not sure, I answered honestly, What would you li ke?I was hoping she wouldnt ask for anything difficult. A pop tart perchance? Disgusting I could see my verbal expression in her bright frontal bonen eyes and I watched as my brow furrowed at the complexity that was food. I was stumped on what to do.She could read the fear on my face. She grinned her fantabulous smile, bounded toward the cabinets and began searching.Thats all right, she giggled, I fend for myself beauteous well. Watch me hunt.My gaze followed her every move. I saw how she bounced on each of her steps. How every time she found something distasteful she would slightly shake her head, and when she was considering her options she would wrinkle her lips. When she found something to her liking, she pulled it out of the cabinet and placed it on the table locomote to the fridge to grab something else, and then added the two together. I could smell the sulkiness of the milk and the wheat from the cereal. It was repulsive. How could she eat something like that? No won der she was so frail.She froze, Can I get you something? she asked.If she was meaning to offer me some of her food the answer was undeniably, no thanks I just rolled my eyes at the thought, Just eat Bella. I commanded.She sat at the table and never moved her gaze from my expressions. I continued to watch myself mirrored in her eyes. I saw how she placed the food in her mouth and watched as her communicative eyes delighted in each trashe. She made a light coughing nose, pulling me from my distraction, Whats on the agenda for today? she wondered.Hmmm I thought carefully on how I would tell her about meeting my family.It is still her decision, I reminded myself.What would you say to meeting my family? I framed the answer as a question, giving her options.I heard the loud accept of her food. Was she anxious? be you afraid now? I asked, afraid myself, though I formed the question as sounding intrustful so she wouldnt notice my panic that was bringing a light haze to my brain.Yes, she admitted.thither was an automatic tightening of my muscles. I wanted to reassure her, Dont worry, I grinned playfully, hoping this would ease her mind. Ill protect you, I added.It was an understatement. No one would ever lay one finger on her.Im not afraid of them, she explained, Im afraid they wontlike me. Wont they be, well, surprised that you would bring someonelike mehome to meet them? Do they know that I know about them? She asked nervously.Oh, they already know everything. Theyd taken bets yesterday, you know I smiled at her, arduous to show her how little stock I put in their games, but she could read the revulsion on my face, on whether Id bring you back, though why anyone would bet against Alice, I tint imagine. At any rate, we dont have secrets in the family. Its not really feasible, what with my mind reading and Alice seeing the future and all that.And Jasper making you feel all warm and bleary-eyed about spilling your guts, dont forget that.You paid attention, I smil ed.Of course she paid attention, she was always absorbing more entropy than I was releasing.Ive been known to do that every now and then, she frowned. So did Alice see me coming? she asked.A memory came travel to the forefront of my mind Bella as a vampire. Suddenly the onslaught of memories of Alices visions overpowered me. I was temporarily still, Something like that, I murmured.I saw how my face looked in her eyes and turned my head swiftly, unable to hide my expressions of pain, nuisance andhappiness. A distraction, that is what I need right now.Is that any good? I asked.I was actually kind of curious now, Honestly, it doesnt look very appetizing.Well, its no rasping grizzlyI growled under my breath at her causal talk of our hunting. She ignored me. She continued to eat her food. Sometimes a bend dexter would turn out between her eyes and the rareness would flare inside me. Unknowingly, I began probe her mind. It was something I did naturally, without effort. Once again I reached an invisible barrier that let me no farther than the deepest depths of her eyes. I turned towards the window to hide my facial expressions.Another distraction, that is what I needed, And you should introduce me to your father, too, I think.He already knows you, she exclaimed, horror in her voice.It worked, I was distracted. Did she not want me to meet him maybe I should explain, As your lad, I mean.She glared at me apprehensively, Why?I was confused, Isnt that customary? I wondered.I dont know, she admitted.She hesitated for a minute before continuing, Thats not necessary, you know. I dont await you toI mean, you dont have to pretend for me.Pretend? She was my life now, didnt she remember our conversation from hardly a few moments ago. There was nothing about my affections for her that were in any way false.Im not pretending, I smiled to let her know that this was not a lie.She didnt say anything, the quiet of the room biting at my drearyish thoughts. I watched as she moved her food around her bowl. She bit her lower lip. Would she break the skin? I was worried about her and my words came out sharper then I intended, Are you going to tell Charlie Im your boyfriend or not?Is that what you are?Wasnt it? Maybe we hadnt declared our status, but I thought it was obvious. I decided that I was herboyfriend, Its a loose translation of the word boy, Ill admit.I was under the impression that you were something more, actually, she admitted while she turned her gaze to the table.A joyous feeling suddenly broke free and through my body. My frozen veins full of venom, of death, were instantly pulsing with a jubilant sensation, reveling in the life and soul of her, of Bella.Well, I dont know if we need to give him all the gory details, I mused.Her gaze had not returned to me, and I took decisive action so I could read her conversational eyes. I lightly brought my finger to her chin, victimisation the lightest of pressure, and brought her gaze to mine, But he will need some explanation for why Im around here so much. I dont want Chief Swan getting a restraining order put on me.Will you be? Will you really be here?She sounded anxious, worried.As long as you want me, I assured her, quickly.Ill always want you. Forever. She sounded like she was warning me.I walked around the table so I could be closer to her. I paused, leaving a small preclude between us. I brought my hand to her face, and gently, I touched her cheek with my finger tips. A red hot desire washed over me as her warmth engulfed me. I had barely touched her, yet I felt her heat flowing up my arm and filling my body with a need, my need for her.Does that make you sad? she asked.I didnt want Bella, I needed her. I needed her like she needs air. Couldnt she tell it wasnt sadness on my face, that is was something else? Bliss, ecstasy, pure joy was radiating off me like a atomic explosion had imploded inside me, sending waves of happiness to all those who surrounded me. Couldnt she feel it?Are you finished?She hoped up out of her seat, eager, Yes.Get dressed ?C Ill wait here. I commanded.She bounded up the stairs, skipping two at a time. I waited for her at the foot of the stairs. When she was out of sight, my imagination got the better of me. The thought of her exposed body while she tried on clothes sent new desires rippling through me. I immediately reprimanded myself. I had to remember that she was fragile and innocent. I couldnt fathom how I would feel if I were to violate a single hair on her body, or worse, if I were to begin so physical with her that my need and my desire became thirst and hunger. I shuddered and pushed the thoughts away.My husbands not going to be home for a while maybe I should call himShe is so sexy I wonder what it would feel like toThe pink top or the white topSeveral thoughts from the meet neighborhood intruded on my mind. Humans minds were always unoriginal and sometimes completely disgusting. How they thought of each oth er as interchangeable made me sick.I heard Bellas door open, Okay, she called while running down the stairs, Im decent.I watched her as if she were in slow motion. She over stepped and in a fluid movement she ran right into me. I held her to steady her. And to feel her warmth, I added. I have to admit, I could have stopped her before she fell into me, but I didnt want to.She was wearing a skirt and the dark blue blouse she wore when I carry through her in Port Angeles. The way her blouse hugged her body caused a hollow ardent in my stomach and the excess of venom flowed freely in my mouth at her delicious aroma. I brought my lips to her neck, and I resisted.Wrong again, I whispered in her ear, You are utterly indecent ?C no one should look so tempting, its not fair.She trembled under my breath.Tempting how? I can change Bella asked, worried. Or was it fear in her voice now? Was she finally coming to her senses? Of course not, that would never happen.You as so absurd, I told her.I brought my lips to her forehead, letting the dry ache have its way with me.Shall I explain how you are tempting me?I brought myself ever closer to her, taking her into my embrace. Gentle, I reminded myself. I slowly stroked my fingertips down her spine. She trembled and her pulse speed up. My wanting longing was taking a grasp on my senses. I felt the new creature, desire, rejoice as I brought my lips closer to hers. My craving was over powering. I could feel her cheeks warming from the rise of emotions. Passion flowed freely in my veins. I was taking in the air around us. Every particle of air in the room was saturated with Bellas corsage. The temptation to bring her neck to my teeth was strong. Her hands were on my chest, warming my dead heart. I brought my face closer to hers, bringing our lips inches apart. I took in another generous gulp of her olfactory property and brought my lips to hers. I parted her slips slightly as euphoria fell over me and my body was screaming in ex ultation.I was holding Bella tightly against my chest when suddenly she went limp in my arms. I was alarmed. Did I squeeze her too tight? Had I woe her? I was panicking. I checked my hold on her, making sure my arms were gentle. I wasnt exerting any more pressure then I had all night when I was holding her.Bella? I whispered in fear.Her eyes fluttered and met mine. She was breathless, Youmademefaint, she said.I rejoiced at her voice. I couldnt read her eyes, they were unfocused.What am I going to do with you? I groaned in exasperation. Yesterday I kiss you, and you attack me Today you pass out on meShe was still limp in my arms, but a small laugh came out of her lips, Thats the caper. Youre too good. Far, far too good.She was still unmoving in my arms. I was holding her up. She looked dizzy, Do you feel sick?No ?C that wasnt the same kind of fainting at all. I dont know what happened. She shook her head, I think I forgot to breath.She hadnt taken a breath, I remembered. What would Esme and Alice think if I brought her over there like this?I cant take you anywhere like this.Im fine, she insisted, Your family is going to think Im insane anyway, whats the difference?I suppressed a sigh, deciding another distraction was needed. I looked down at her clothes.Im very partial to that color with your skin, I told her.The flood of roue to her cheeks made her glow. She was glorious.Look, Im onerous really hard not to think about what Im about to do, so can we go already? she said impatiently.And youre worried, not because youre headed to meet a houseful of vampires, but because you think those vampires wont approve of you, correct?Thats right, she answered quicklyand maybe a hint of surprise in her voice.I moved my head back and forth, Youre incredible.As my house became visible Bellas eyes widened in surprise. I watched her eyes dart from the trees, the lawn, and finally to the house.Wow. She exclaimed.I smiled, You like it?Ithas a certain charm. She replied.Bellas here Alice bellowed from her mind. I ignored her.I reached out and pulled the end of her ponytail lightly. What a human gesture, I mused to myself. I chuckled lightly. I parked her truck and was out of the drivers side door and outside her door opening it before she realized I was gone. She didnt even blink at the fast movement, she anticipate it.Ready? I asked her.Not even a little bit ?C lets go she attempted a laugh. It sounded more like choking. She was patting her hair, a nervous gesture.You look lovely, I reassured her.I took her hand in mine, leading her up the porch. She was tense. I began caressing her hand with my thumb, trying to calm her.Carlisle, they are on the porch, Esme called.I opened the door to the house for Bella she stepped in, still tense. I found it odd that Alice wasnt waiting at the door. I watched as Bellas eyes searched the house, looking for something suspect, I assumed. Her eyes darted from the far argue, which was made of only glass, to the piano an d then to the stairway where Esme and Carlisle were waiting for us. They were grinning at her, but didnt approach.She is lovely Esme thought.Then the scent hit her, I can see her initial appeal, she does smell wonderfuldont worry Edward, Id never hurt her. Esmes thoughts continued.Welcome home, Edward. Carlisle thought.Carlisle, Esme, this is Bella. I introduced them.Youre very welcome, Bella, Carlisle stepped closer.She isntscared is she? Carlisle wondered.I shook my head in a motion that Bella wouldnt have noticed. Each step Carlisle took was slow, careful, and cautious. He raise his hand to shake Bellas. She stepped forward without hesitating and shook his hand, Its nice to see you again, Dr. Cullen.Please, call me Carlisle.Carlisle, Bella grinned.I was relieved that this initial meeting was over with, and I was sure Bella could read my body language.Is she even nervous? Esme wondered, looking in my direction. I shook my head behind Bella.OhI knew she was meant for you, and so m aybe she is meant for our life too, Edward. Esme thought.I banished the idea from my head immediately. I couldnt let myselfhopeto take her life.Esme stepped forward, feeling elated about this meeting, and reached her hand to shake Bellas also. Bella took her hand like she was meeting a normal human.Its very nice to know you, Esme said sincerely.Thank you. Im glad to meet you, too. Bella truly looked happy.During these first meetings with my vampire parents Bellas pulse didnt speed up once. She was brave. Alice was still a no show. I searched for her thoughts and found them.No, that color doesnt look rightyes, blue, Edward loves it when Bella wears blue. Thats it, this dress will look spectacular on herWhere is Alice and Jasper? I called out to them.They both appeared at the top of the stairs in that second.Hey, Edward Alice called enthusiastically.This is what Ive been waiting for. Alice dived down the stairs and was abruptly in front of Bella.I wanted to shout at her for doing this , but I decided that saying something in front of Bella was not a well-advised idea. She was taking everything so well, no need to scare her now. I knew Alice wouldnt hurt Bella, she loved her, too. Esme and Carlisle were giving her a reproving look.Hi, Bella Alice literally bounced forward and kissed her cheek.I saw Esme grab Carlisle by the arm, like she was holding herself back.Oh my Esme thought.I felt the temptation of Bellas seductive scent through Alices thoughts. I was immediately tense. scream down She hissed in her head at me.You do smell nice, I never noticed before, Alice mused.Blood began flooding up Bellas face as she blushed a light pink. I was anxious again when I realized the scent had finally reached Jasper.Jasper quickly stopped the flow of air going into his lungs, refusing to take in anymore of her scent. The twin thirsts I felt whenever I was around Jasper were quieted. I felt relieved. He could still taste the curiosity and flavor of Bella from everyones emot ions.I still dont see why you have such a fixation. Jasper thought.He automatically emitted a flood of peace and calm. It swirled around her and she mirrored his emotions back. My eyebrow raised on its own. What was he doing?Hello Bella, Jasper said, using part of his air supply left in his lungs.He unploughed his distance, heeding my previous warnings. Or, maybe, just maybe, he really was trying to not have the overwhelming need to feed. He was too busy concentrating for there to be any coherent thoughts.Hello, Jasper. Bella smiled at him, a light pink touch modality still present on her cheeks. Its nice to meet you all ?C you have a very beautiful home. Bellas eyes searched the room again.Shes sweet, too Esme thought.Thank you, were so glad that you came. Esme replied.Me too Alice thought.She is so brave Esmes thoughts continued.She was quickly becoming absorbed with Bella, too. She was trying desperately to hide her other thoughts from me. Id heard the thoughts before, but she was probably oblivious about thinking it. She had always thought there was something defective with me. Now, she was jubilant, joyous, that I had finally found someone.Edward, Carlisle called out to me in his mind.His eyes met mine Alice has seen a coven, three of them, that will be very close to Forks. I didnt want to say anything in front of Bella. I wasnt sure how she would take the news. They know we are here, which means that they might make an appearance. Alice said they were curious.Alice knew we were having a conversation. She was well practiced with our silent ones. She knew what we were communicating about and wanted to tack on any information she felt might be left out, or to just bug me, knowing her it could be either one.I dont think they will be coming close to home, but it is a possibility. I knew that the news of a coven feeding in the area would be important to you considering you love a human. Alice added. And I love her too.I nodded once to acknowledge their thou ghts. I would tell Bella though. The word secret had a contrasting meaning to me now, because I knew from now on I would tell her all of them. They would be our secrets.I tried to not hear to my familys thoughts, but they were always as clear as if they were talking straight to me. I watched a vision along with Alice as it played out in her head I was acting the piano, Bella in awe. The vision shifted and we were talking about the cross in the hall.So far, the day looks uneventful, Alice mused. She was wrong about the day being uneventful. Every brief moment of time was hugely significant to me, and very much soeventful.And Emmett wanted me to tell you sorry for not being here Rosalie has becomeirritated at the enchantment Emmett has on humans now. She remembered a conversation about the Ben kid from Spanish class.Of course, I thought. I returned my gaze to Bella. We were so close I could still feel the warmth flowing through my body from hers. I inhaled her scent while my wil d desires and new found sensations went through my body. Jasper gave me a look. I knew he could feel everything I was feeling. Esmes thoughts brought me back to the room.She keeps arrant(a) at the piano, Esme pondered.Do you play? Esme asked Bella, leaning her head to suggest the piano.Bella shook her head, Not at all. But its so beautiful. Is it yours? she wondered.I added this news to the list of things I knew about Bella, which was growing at a massive rate. She doesnt play the piano, but liked the pianoshe was classy.Why havent you told her? Esme scolded me.No, Esme laughed, a sign of ease, Edward didnt tell you he was musical?No, Bella glared in my direction, indignation on her face. I formed an innocent expression, anticipating her reaction. I should have known, I guess. she added.I dont understand, Esme lifted her eyebrows at her words.Edward can do everything, right? she explained.Did she really believe that? She was so absurd.What have you been telling her? any(prenominal) it is, I want to knowI mean seriously, you have got to be kidding me, Jasper thought and then snickered aloud.Tisk, tisk, Esme criticized.I hope you havent been showing off ?C its rude, Esme reprimanded me.Just a bit, I laughed.Please keep her around divert please please. I have never seen you so light hearted. Esme thought.Bella distracted me from Esme, Hes been too modest, actually. she corrected.Well, play for her, Esme encouraged me. You can play her the call option that she inspired, sheadded mentally.You just said showing off was rude, I objected feebly.She smiled, There are exceptions to every rule.I turned my gaze to Bella, Id like to hear you play, Bella insisted.Its settled then, Esme pushed me to the piano.At the look on Bellas eager face it was inconceivable to think to say no to her. I conceded. I reached for Bella, bringing her into my side and taking her to the piano. I breathed in her heady scent while the electric pulse that always came from our touch surged throu gh my body.He just casually touches herhow fantastic. Esme thought.We sat at the bench, her warmth warming my cold skin from the inside out. I turned my gaze to her, gauging her reaction. I didnt know what to play.Her song Edward, her songEsme encouraged.I was still looking at Bella and she could sense the exasperation in my face. I placed my hands on the keys then, and settled on playing Esmes favorite. I was measuring Bellas expression. After a few seconds I watched her face go from peaceful to shocked instantly. Her mouth opened in astonishment. I heard my family members chuckling behind me at Bellas reaction. I was probing their minds to see all the different views of Bella at once. What was she thinking? Was it good or was it bad?Do you like it? I inquired.You wrote this? she inhaled quickly, realization in her eyes.I nodded, Its Esmes favorite. I noted.We are just going to leave you two alone. Esme nodded to the others to leave, she is wonderful no wonder he is so protective o f her.I ignored the crowd leaving the room because I was so absorbed by Bellas every reaction. I watched as she lightly closed her eyes in exasperation and shook her head back and forth. Did I do something?Whats wrong?She looked saddened, or upset. Im feeling extremely insignificant. she explained.I decided to take Esmes advice and play her song. The music slowed, and I began playing the beautiful song that I had composed and changed many times since I had met her until it became the sweetest of notes blending together to make magic.You inspired this one, I whispered, making sure she understood that she was the most significant thing in my world. She was speechless. The silence of her thoughts was just as frustrating as ever. I breathed her in, letting the flames rip down my throat. Desire was constantly raging a war inside me. She was still silent.They like you, you know. I admitted, Esme especially.Her eyes darted over her shoulder and then around the room. Where did they go?Very subtly giving us some privacy, I suppose, though I knew they could hear everything that was going on in the room.Bella sighed and I turned to look at her again.They like me. But Rosalie and Emmett she trailed off but I understood where her thoughts were going, for once, I added.Of course she would notice that they werent here. I didnt want to talk about Rosalie. My lips turned down, Dont worry about Rosalie, shell come around. I lied smoothly, though I hoped one day she would.She looked unconvinced, Emmet? she wondered.Well, he thinks Im a lunatic, its true, but he doesnt have a problem with you. Hes trying to reason with Rosalie, I tried to explain.I looked into her wide eyes, trying to read her thoughts. I saw the line between her eyes crease at the complexity of her mind, What is it that upsets her? she finally asked. She looked anxious, waiting for my explanation.I didnt want to tell her something that would possibly upset her. The thought of causing her any type of pain sent an overwhelming feeling of remorse through my body. I took in a deep breath, a sigh really. The burning temptation was still present. I distracted myself, no more secrets, Rosalie struggles the most withwith what we are. Its hard for her to have someone on the outside know the truth. And shes a little jealous. I explained, the words coming quickly.Her eyes grew wide during my explanation, Rosalie is jealous of me?Youre human, I shrugged. I thought it was obvious why she would be jealous of something as magnificent as her, She wishes that she were, too. I continued to explain after seeing her question my first statement.Oh, she looked upset by this, but shock was still present on her delicate face. Her facial expressions changed to contemplation. I wanted to groan in exasperation from her quiet mind. What was she thinking? Her short pauses were the loudest silence I have ever heard.Even Jasper, though she left the sentence hanging, realizing I would understand her thoughts. She didnt k now how much I didnt comprehend them, though. I sighed.Thats really my fault, I explained, I told you he was the most recent to try our way of life. I warned him to keep his distance.I watched while a shiver ran down her spine. Was she finally scared or was she cold?Esme and Carlisle? she added quickly.Are happy to see me happy. Actually, Esme wouldnt care if you had a third eye and webbed feet. All this time shes been worried about me, afraid that there was something missing from my essential make up, that I was too young when Carlisle change meShes ecstatic. Every time I touch you, she just about chokes with satisfaction. I finished her sentence.Alice seems veryenthusiastic. Bella noted.Of course she noticed.Alice has her own way of looking at things, my lips grew tight at the many visions I had seen in her head since I meet Bella.She must have read the hesitation in my voice, And youre not going to explain that, are you?I saw myself mirrored in her eyes, watching as each of our e xpressions changed in unison. She knew I was keeping Alices visions from her. There were several good reasons why I was keeping these from her. One, I didnt want to scare her, and two, I didnt want her to get any ideas. No, I would still not confess what I have seen through the eyes of a psychic.So what was Carlisle telling you before? she asked, bringing me from my distraction.She was incredible. She picked up on all the signs that I thought were subtle. Was she really that perceptive or was my fa?ade waning? I could see the wrinkle appear between my brows through the reflection of her deep brown eyes.You noticed that, did you? it wasnt a question, it was a statement.She shrugged, like there was nothing unusual about the whole situation, Of course, she murmured.Better tell her now, I suppose. I monitored her face, I continued to play her song. She seemed complacent enough so I answered, He wanted to tell me some news ?C he didnt know if it was something I would appropriate with y ou.Will you? she responded quickly, eagerly.I have to, because Im going to be a littleover-bearingly protective over the next few days ?C or weeks ?C and I wouldnt want you to think Im naturally a tyrant. I said.Whats wrong? she gasped in horror. Her blood started warming and moving at a quicker pace. The monster inside me clawed at my bones, wanting to embrace the temptation. I took in her fragrance, letting it fill my lungs. I easily over-rode any enticement this caused me.Nothings wrong, exactly. Alice just sees some visitors coming soon. They know were here, and theyre curious, I explained quickly, trying to calm her now rampant pulse.Visitors? she questioned.Yeswell, they arent like us, of course ?C in their hunting habits, I mean. They probably wont come into town at all, but Im certainly not going to let you out of my sight till theyre gone. I watched her face apprehensively.Her body trembled under stress.Finally, a rational result I exclaimed, I was beginning to think you h ad no sense of self-preservation at all.She didnt contest my observation and I was shocked that she would have this reaction to anything treacherous at all. Her blood slowed in her veins bringing her pulse back to its normal speed. She turned her face from mine, her eyes flowing from one end of the house to the other, distracted. I followed her gaze. Was she still looking for something suspect? Not what you expected is it? I asked.No, she admitted, returning her gaze to me briefly before continuing to soak up the rooms setting.No coffins, no piled skills in the corners I dont even think we have cobwebswhat a disappointment this must be for you, I teased.She remained serious, Its so lightso open, she said.Its the one place we never have to hide, I explained to her. I also wanted to admit that she was included in this place I would never have to hide from her.My fingers were on the piano, automatically playing. The song was finally coming to a close. When it was finished Bella looked at me, Thank you, she murmured.I turned in my seat bringing my whole attention back to her. There was moisture prominent in her eyes. The hustles flowed over her eye lids. The aroma emitting from her tears was something I had never smelt before. She wiped the tears from her eyes. I noticed she had missed one. I brought my hand to her face, trapping a tear on my finger. I studied it. As a vampire, we could not assign tears. This was something entirely new. I brought it nonchalantly to my lips, seeing how it would taste. I was curious. It didnt taste disgusting, but it held no significance for me. She was staring at me with curiosity flaming in her eyes.Do you want to see the rest of the house? I asked, distracting her.No coffins? she verified.No coffins, I promised, a smile forming on my face.We walked up the staircase that led to the upstairs where my room was. I watched her carefully as she made her way to the top. She was lightly caressing the stair rail as she went. I was jeal ous I wanted it to be me. When we reached the top of the stairs I pointed out rooms as we walked, Rosalie and Emmetts roomCarlisles officeAlices roomShe froze, turning into a statue. Her eyes grew wide. I followed her gaze until I realized she was staring at the wooden cross at the end of the hallway. I remembered Alices vision.You can laugh, I told her, It is sort of ironic. I took a deep breath, bringing her fragrance into my lungs again. I was used to the dull ache.She brought her hand out to touch the cross, but she did not proceed, It must be very old, she guessed.I shrugged, Early sixteen-thirties, more or less. I mused.She turned to face me, Why do you keep this here?Nostalgia. It belonged to Carlisles father. I explained. I knew I was giving more information away then I had ever told a single soul before.He collected antiques? she suggested doubtfully.No. He carved it his himself. It hung on the wall above the pulpit in the vicarage where he preached. I said.She looked shock ed.Are you all right? I asked, worried about her expressions and silence.How old is Carlisle? she wondered, trying to do the mental math in her head. I watched as her eyes looked fully in thought. I could almost see here reckon the numbers mentally.He just celebrated his three hundred and sixty-second birthday, I admitted.She looked at me, questions burning in her eyes. I knew I would answer them all, if she were to ask. I took in another deep breath while I let her scent assault me.