Author's Note: This is pre-Twilight, shortly after Esme was changed. Also, I'd like to add that this isn't AU, and I do still ship Edward/Bella- at this point in the series, Edward hasn't met her yet.
I know what you're thinking.
Edward snorted, but Esme just folded her arms and raised one eyebrow. He was always able to read thoughts, but body language occasionally threw him off. Right now, he guessed that Esme was saying, "Don't play dumb with me", but he wasn't positive. Even though he knew he could be misinterpreting her look, the implications of that message scared him.
"I know what you're thinking, too," he said aloud, trying to sound tough, but his voice wavered.
And I just wanted to say I'm really sorry, she continued. I never meant to barge into your life, or to ruin anything for you.
"There was nothing to ruin," Edward said. He realized that he sounded pathetic. He didn't want to break down in front of Esme. Esme was competition. He was supposed to stand firm and face her instead of letting his guard down.
That may be so, she acknowledged, and Edward found himself feeling angry. I still felt rude. You had a life, and I clearly disrupted it. I'd offer to leave, but I don't want to go, and I don't know where else I would go.
"I know," he replied. "You can't just go back into the world. It would be too much of a risk. And I know you... want to stay with him," he finished. His throat felt tight. And with you. I hope this doesn't embarrass you, Edward, but I've always wanted a child. When my baby died, I was completely destroyed. You know how much. Edward, I want to be a mother to you.
Edward groaned, and Esme's regret and apologies filled his head. I shouldn't have said that, I'm so sorry, Edward listen, I'll leave-
"No," he growled. "Stay. Please," he added in a softer tone. "I just need some time to adjust."
I'm more than willing to give you time, she replied. Edward, I'm sorry that this had to happen. But if you ever need to talk...
"I know," he replied. "I'm going to go for a drive." Edward knew that the open road would help him clear his mind. If he drove fast enough, maybe he would be able to forget everything.
Esme seemed to understand, too, because she stopped him as he was going out the door. "Wait!" she called. "Be safe."
Edward nodded, and then, rolling his eyes for effect, said, "Yes, Mom."