A/N : I wanna thank you all so much for your reviews! They really make my day!I know I said this would be the chapter that the Cullens would adopt Bella, but while I was writing it I decided to split it into two chapters. There was just too much for one chapter, and I didn't want to leave things out. So, in this chapter they will talk about adopting Bella, and vote.
Alice also gets a vision that makes her very happy. I hope you all like this chapter, and I'm going to update the other one as soon as I can. That will definitely be the chapter that the Cullens adopt Bella, and then they can finally take her home. Please review! And enjoy!
Disclaimer: SM owns it all.
POV'S:Rosalie, Edward, Alice.
Rosalie's POV.
Bella would be asleep for the next couple of hours, so we went back to our hotel. I didn't want to leave her, though I knew it was necessary.
As we walked through the darkening hallways of the small hospital, my mind wandered back to the last couple of days. How everything had changed so completely, including I.
The moment I had laid eyes on her everything had shifted. I loved her. I couldn't deny that. I had loved her already before she had woken up.
I thought back of that daily routine where I brushed her hair every morning, and Alice changed her clothes. I looked forward to that part every day. I didn't want let go of her. I wanted to brush her hair every day, forever.
I wanted to talk to her, and care for her. I wanted to touch her, and hold her in my arms. I wanted to be her mother, so I could love her and spoil her, and treat her like the miracle she was.
I needed to have her with me. She could be my second change. The change to be a mother, which was taken away from me when Royce and his disgusting friends had destroyed my life.
When Carlisle had found me, dying in the streets, and had changed me into what I am today. At the time I had resented Carlisle for his intented kindness, but I didn't feel that way anymore.
If Carlisle hadn't changed me I would never have found Emmett. I would never have known the love of a true soulmate, the love of a family.
Yes, over time my resentment had turned into gratitude. I was grateful that I got to spend eternity with the love of my life, and with the rest of my family, but there was always something missing.
The longing to have a child, to be a mother. Every happy moment spent with Emmett was overshadowed by the realization that I would never be able to have that.
That I would never be able to give him that. And suddenly Bella came into our lives. She wasn't the baby boy I had always dreamed of having, but she was a true miracle.
She was a gift sent from heaven. She was the most beautiful human child I had even seen. She was like the daughter I had never had.
We didn't look alike, but I kept seeing the similarities between us. I looked at her beautiful brown curls and thought of Emmett. I saw her wide, inquisitive eyes, and was reminded of my own.
Her adorable small button nose, and her sweet and innocent smile, and the lovely way in which she blushed when she realized we were all looking at her. She was everything beautiful, and suddenly I was fantasizing about Bella between Emmett's and my daughter.
I had never felt this happy in my entire existence. Not when I was human and started gaining attention. Not when I thought I would get everything I had always dreamed off by getting engaged to Royce. Not even when I had found Emmett. Never.
I had wanted to ask Carlisle and Esme if we could adopt her, but I was afraid they would say no. We were a family of vampires after all, eternally damned, and Bella was human.
She would grow up, go to college, find a human mate, get married, have children of her own, and would continue to grow older. She would die at some point. I flinched away from the very thought. She would have a life, and that was no less than she deserved.
She deserved everything. And we would always be frozen in the state we are now. Never getting older, never moving forward.
And then there was of course another problem. She was human and she had blood running through her veins. What if we'd harm her in any way, even unintentionally.
I couldn't bear that if that ever happened. But I couldn't push away my feelings, and even though it was probably selfish, like Edward had shouted at me in the cafeteria mere hours ago, I wanted to have her with me. I didn't want to think of Bella being adopted by strange humans. I wanted to be the one to give her happiness and love. I wanted to be the one to see her grow up.
When Alice had said that she could come and live with us, it had felt like my dead heart was about to start beating again. Alice had foreseen her future in that moment- I knew it.
She'd had that smug and confident look on her face ever since. Edward had probably seen it too, the way he had been glaring at her. Had Alice really seen a vision of Bella living with us? Could it be possible that my dream of having a child would come true?
No, I shouldn't be thinking that. What if the others wouldn't want her to live with us? What if she didn't want to live with us? I shouldn't get my hopes up, but I couldn't totally supress my hopes either.
I hadn't really spoken that much to her since she had woken up. After my fight with Edward this afternoon I didn't want to give him more incentive to yell at me, not with Bella there in the room.
I wasn't afraid of Edward. He was always aggravated and annoyed about something, and after sixty years of the same behavior I couldn't care less.
I had seen the way he was with her from the beginning. He had trouble leaving her too, even more than the rest of us, and he had been holding her hand ever since she had woken up.
I didn't have Jasper's gift, but I knew he felt the same way the rest of us did. But Edward would be Edward, and he would do anything to get things the way he wanted them to be.
He would throw a tantrum, sulk for days, and argue his case until our heads spun... Anything to make things go his way. And being the first son of the family, Carlisle and Esme had always respected his opinion. More than often they would take his side. But whatever he was about to throw at us, I couldn't let that happen this time. I needed Bella in my life, and he wasn't going to take that away from me.
Surely he must see the differences himself. The way he was with her, and how she had changed everything completely. The way the others were feeling about her. Even I could see that.
I knew Esme felt the same way about Bella as I did. She wasn't just my second change, she was Esme's as well. She had unleashed her motherly nature on Bella the moment she had woken up.
I had wanted to do the same thing. And I knew Carlisle had seen this too. I had seen it in his eyes. The way he'd been looking at Esme when she had seated herself on the edge of Bella's bed, soothing her and smoothing her hair back repeatedly. And it was obvious to see Alice had warmed to her as well. She wanted Bella in her life just as much as Esme and I wanted it, though probably not as a daughter.
Alice had never really thought about having children, since she knew vampires couldn't conceive and she had no memories of her human life at all.
She didn't really know what she was missing. I envied her on that point. I wished I were able to stop thinking about that, and to stop feeling the pain whenever I did think of it.
Even Jasper was drawn to her. He wasn't as out of control with her as he was with most humans. I could see it was so much easier for him to resist when he was around her.
Maybe it was also because he could feel everything we felt. I couldn't be sure how the others felt around her of course, but my happiness should have been enough for him to be grinning like an idiot the entire time.
Emmett was always enthusiastic about everything, and I knew he saw the differences in me, and how happy I was, though I tried to hide it.
Yes, she had changed everyone and everything by stumbling into our lives. She couldn't possibly be aware of the changes she had caused.
She truly was a miracle.
I suddenly realized that my thoughts hadn't been interrupted by a growling Edward, even though I had been thinking of all the things that had annoyed him from the start of this bizarre week.
He was probably trying to think of ways to circumvent the future Alice had seen in her head. I didn't exactly know what she had seen, but I doubted he could change it.I could't imagine why anyone would bet against Alice, she saw the future after all.
We reached the small, cheap hotel that Alice had booked for us when we first got here. Normally the shabby, closet-sized rooms would have irritated me, but it was close to the hospital, and therefore close to Bella. Emmett slipped his hand into mine as we entered the lobby and waited for the elevator. A few seconds later it rattled to a halt, and we all entered.
We were a silent party as the elevator rose noisily, each us of absorbed in their own thoughts. Carlisle and Esme let the way to their room, and I started to prepare myself mentally for what was about to come.
Our kind usually didn't live with this many together, and at moments like these it was easy to understand why. In a group like this, with such strong and disparate personalities, sometimes it was necessary to discuss things in a calm, seated manner.
At home, Carlisle preferred to use the dining room for such conversations, since we didn't need to use it for it's intented purpose.
I had a feeling it wasn't going to make much difference this time.
At times like these I was even more grateful I had Emmett standing next to me. These kind of heated conversations did nothing for my self-control, and more often then not I ended up shouting or worse, but Emmett was always laid back.
It helped me to stay calm, having him beside me. He didn't need to have Jasper's gift to calm me down. His presence alone was enough.
And his unwavering support. It made me feel more confident as I stepped into the room with the others and seated myself next to Emmett on one of the sofas.
The tension in the room was tangible, the silence dragging while everyone waited for Carlisle to start. If I could feel the tense atmosphere in the room, I hated to think how Jasper felt at the moment.
Right on cue I felt a feeling of calm spread through me, as if he had just read my thoughts. It didn't calm me as much as I'd hoped. I stared at Carlisle, anticipating and also fearing a little bit, what was about to come. The only one who didn't seem worried about the upcoming conversation was Alice. She still had that same smug and over-confident look on her face, as she also waited for Carlisle to begin.
After a few seconds he took a deep breath and looked up to the rest of us from the head of the room, where he was seated next to Esme,
holding her hand. '' Alright, '' he began slowly. '' There are a few things we need to discuss. '' He seemed to choose his words carefully, trying, I presumed, to keep the conversation peaceful.
'' Alice, '' he continued after a minute. '' Perhaps you could start by telling us what you've seen, so we're all on the same page. ''
'' I saw Bella living with us, '' she stated simply, as if this was the most obvious thing in the world, but I felt the hope I had been suppressing mere moments ago flare in my like the flame of life.
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Edward's POV.
Rosalie wasn't precisely right. The fact that I hadn't lashed out at her yet for her inappropriate thoughts, wasn't just because I was thinking of ways to circumvent Alice's nightmarish future.
It was part of it, definitely, but there was more. First of all, losing my temper before the conversation had started wouldn't do me any good. They were already anticipating that, especially Alice and Rosalie, and their defensive attitude would just be that much stronger by the time we would reach the hotel, and that wouldn't help my case.
No, it would definitely be more sensible to to discuss my views on the matter in a calm and thought-out manner. I couldn't guarantee that I wouldn't loose my temper when the conversation started, of course.
Their thoughts already left me seething. Rosalie's in particular. It wasn't that I didn't understand her feelings. Though I couldn't really empathize -I had never really thought about having children,I had never pictured myself as a father - I could sympathize.
I had seen it with Esme, too, and Rosalie was right on that part. She wasn't the only one saw Bella as her second chance.
I could hear it in Esme's thoughts as well. Even though her thoughts weren't much different from Rosalie's, they still didn't aggravate me the same way hers did.
Alice's confidence on the other hand was beyond infuriating. She wasn't worrying about the upcoming conversation at all. As if nothing anyone could say or do would make a difference.
She was thinking about all the things she wanted to buy for Bella, and how she would decorate her room. She was still arguing with herself whether blue would be the best color for Bella.
My mind involuntarily pictured Bella in a blue room, and the blue dress Alice was thinking of buying her.
Yes, that color would look amazing on her. I shook my head angrily to banish the unwelcome thought. This was the second reason why I hadn't lashed out at anyone yet. The biggest reason.
Their thoughts were secondary to my own. There was a war going on in my head, and this, above all, was driving me insane.
The rational part of me was listing all the reasons why Bella shouldn't live with us. The most important of them was of course that we were a family of vampires. It was ridiculous to even consider such a thing. She was a human child. It would be dangerous for her to be around us.
Even though her scent was still weak now, because she was a child, she still was a temptation to any of us.
Not just Jasper, but anyone of us could lose our self-controle and end up hurting her or worse. Well, Carlisle would probably never have such a lapse in controle, but he was one vampire against six if that ever happened. It wouldn't be safe for her. And then there were a lot of other things to consider that they were obviously forgetting.
We don't age, we can't go out in the sunlight, we never eat or drink anything, we never sleep, and our skin is ice-cold and hard as stone.
I was sure she had already discovered the last one, since she had been holding my hand ever since she had woken up. She didn't seem to flinch away from my icy, stone hands. She seemed oddly comforted by them. Maybe there was something wrong with her brain after all.
And if she came to live with us, she would notice all the other things, too. It would be obvious after a while.
All these things were reason enough not to adopt her. She deserved so much better than growing up in a house full of vampires. Monsters who would risk her life just by being around her.
Yes, that was my rational part speaking, but there was another part arguing with my common sense. My feelings for this little human girl. The secret desire to have her with me.
The longing to turn around this very moment and run back to her. To hold her hand again, to caress her soft skin again when tears would fall on her rosy cheeks.
To feels her warmth, to soothe her, to be intoxicated by her very presence. I despised myself for having these feelings. That part of me was just as selfish as Rosalie was.
The part of me that ached at the thought of never seeing her again. I wasn't even sure if I would be able to do that. The thought of Bella living with other humans, far away, and never seeing again was definitely painful. But it was also what was best for her. A normal life with other humans. Would I be able to stay away from her if that happened? Or would I be watching her from the shadows, making sure she was okay, unable to let her go?
Your protective nature is going into overdrive, Edward. Jasper's thoughts suddenly hit me, and I turned my head to glare at him. He wasn't bothered by my antagonism and continued.
You're already wanting to protect her. You can't deny your feelings, Edward. I felt a growl building up in my chest, and turned my head away from him, trying to block him out.
But he was right, of course. I couldn't deny my protective feelings for Bella. They made me angry, but they also cleared my head. That's right, I wanted to protect her, and the best way to do that was to make sure she was safe and happy.
I couldn't let my selfish feelings corrupt my judgement. My irrational longing to be close to her could possibly be fatal to her. That would never happen.
We were already in Carlisle's and Esme's room at this point, and everyone was seated beside their significant other. I took a random seat somewhere in the room, not really paying attention to it. Everyone was waiting for Carlisle to start, and the tension was reaching a boiling point.
'' Alright, '' he began slowly. He was afraid of my temper, and Rosalie's as well. I could hear it in his thoughts. I wanted to let him know that there was no reason for his worries, but I couldn't.
He was probably right. It seemed highly likely that one of us at least would lose our temper. I knew what I wanted to say, and I had listened my arguments. I would make them see reason.
'' Alice, '' he continued. '' Perhaps you could start by telling us what you've seen, so we're all on the same page. '' He turned his head to look at her, but I knew he was watching everyone's reactions.
Alice's words didn't take me by surprise at all - I had already seen her visions in the hospital after all - but they still infuriated me.
'' I saw Bella living with us, '' she said calmly. There was not a doubt it her mind. She was completely sure of this course, and she was calm and confident when she informed the rest of us of the visions she'd had. She started describing exactly what she had seen, and I concentrated on everyone elses thoughts. At first there was shock. No, it wasn't shock.
It was surprise, I suddenly realized. Carlisle was trying to keep an open mind, and wanted to listen to everyone's views on the matter.
I tried not to listen to Rose's thoughts. I knew what I would hear, and I didn't want to be pushed over the edge so early on. Even though I tried not to listen.. still, I knew.
I switched to the minds of the others before I would lose my temper. Emmett was thinking of Rose. I suddenly noticed that his thoughts were very similar to Carlisle's.
He, too, had seen the difference Bella had made. Jasper was skeptical, but he would never go against Alice. If Alice had seen this future, it would happen. His confidence in Alice annoyed me.
But there was more. I thought he would be averse to the idea, since he's the one who struggles the most with our lifestyle. It would be so much harder for him to controle himself.
But he didn't share these worries for once. He was happy that Bella's scent didn't seem to be that strong, and that he was able to be around her.
But the most important thing of all, for Jasper anyway, was that everyone seemed so much happier with Bella around. He would know, of course. I heard a conclusion forming in his mind, and I quickly skipped to Carlisle's in the hope I would hear something rational. My hopes weren't high. And yes, his thoughts lived up to my non-expectations.
I had heard a part of his thoughts already in the hospital. He had seen the change Bella had made. He had seen how happy Esme was around her. Her motherly feelings resurfacing, and healing her ancient wounds.
It made him consider the possibility, and besides that, he loved having her around as well. I couldn't hold it in any longer, and I jumped up, furious.
'' Carlisle, tell me you're not seriously considering this! '' I half-shouted at him, pacing the room in frustration.
'' Edward, '' I heard him say, trying to calm me down. '' This is a big decision, and I believe that everyone deserves a say in this. ''
'' Yes, this isn't just about you, Edward! '' Rosalie snapped at me, and I turned around to glare at her. About me? Of course it wasn't about me. It seemed I was the only one who wasn't thinking of himself at the moment. How could she say such a thing to me!
'' What?'' I growled at her, unable to say more in my fury.
'' This isn't just your decision, '' she clarified.
'' I'm thinking about what's best for her! '' I spat at her. '' You should all do the same! Don't be so selfish, Rosalie! '' I saw that she wanted to jump up from her seat as well, but Emmett put his hand on her shoulder. To calm her down, or to restrain her if necessary. Perhaps both.
'' Shut up, Edward, '' Emmett said suddenly, his voice hard and serious. It was rare for Emmett to be this serious, no matter what the problem was. I took me by surprise for a minute, but then I turned back to Carlisle. '' Carlisle, I beg you to see reason, '' I half-pleaded, half-growled at him.
'' Edward, please listen to what the others have to say, '' Esme said suddenly. I looked at her then and I saw her unleash the full force of the motherly feelings. I couldn't argue with Esme.
I closed my eyes, and let out a heavy sigh. '' Please, sit down, '' she said again in that same tone. I groaned in frustration. She knew that I would do whatever she wanted if she used that tone with me. I walked back to my seat, teeth clenched and my hands still balled up in fists.
'' Alright, '' Carlisle said the moment I was seated again, eyes closed and my body tense.
'' I think the best way is for everyone to have a vote. ''
I exhaled heavily, trying to stay calm in this ridiculous situation.
'' Alice, '' Carlisle said. '' Do you think we should adopt Isabella Swan? ''
'' I have seen her living with us, '' Alice began. '' Strange humans and foster systems aren't a part of her future. She belongs with us. It's what's best for her. My vote is yes. ''
Carlisle nodded, and said, '' Jasper? ''
'' I won't contradict Alice, '' Jasper began, taking Alice's hand in both of his and smiling at her. '' Besides, I can feel the change she has made. Everyone's so much happier with Bella around.
It's a nice feeling. '' He smiled again, remembering everyone's feelings the last couple of days. '' She has changed this family in a postive way.
My vote is yes. ''
Alice bounced up and down in her seat, and pecked him on the cheek. Carlisle nodded again, and turned his head. '' Emmett? ''
Emmett still had his hand on Rosalie's shoulder, and the moment Carlisle had spoken his name he looked down at her. She was slightly more composed than a few minutes ago.
The positive votes of the others seemed to both calm her down, and give her confidence. This wasn't going anywhere good, I knew it.
A huge smile spread across Emmett's face, and he looked back at Carlisle. '' She's too cute! '' he boomed. '' I vote hell yeah! '' Rosalie smiled up at him, and I heard Alice giggle at his words.
'' Rosalie? '' Carlisle asked.
I knew what her vote would be, and her vote would make four out of seven. This was insane. Rosalie seemed to choose her words carefully.
'' I love her, '' she said after a minute, smiling. I saw a look of utter adoration light up her face when she thought about Bella. '' I know that I'm probably being selfish, but I can't help it.
I love her, and I want her with me. I don't know what will happen in the future. I don't know if she will leave us, and go on with her life once she's grown up, but I'm willing to take that chance.
Even if I can only have her around for a couple of years, it's still worth it. I need to have her with me. My vote is yes. ''
'' Esme? '' Carlisle said, turning around to look at his wife.
'' I vote yes, '' she said simply, smiling up at her husband.
Carlisle and I were the only ones with a vote left. I knew he hadn't asked me yet, because he already knew my answer. Carlisle was quiet for a few seconds, thinking about his answer.
Not about his vote, he had already made his choice. He turned slowly toward me. I had closed my eyes again. I always knew that I was fighting a losing battle.
'' Edward, '' Carlisle said slowly, willing me to look at him. '' My vote is yes, as well. ''
The desperate fury overwelmed me again, and I shot out of my seat for a second time.
'' No! '' I growled, pacing the hotelroom again. '' Have you all lost your minds? ''
'' Edward! '' Esme gasped, but I ignored her.
'' We're vampires! '' I spat at the room at large.
'' You don't say? '' Emmett said sarcasticly. I threw him a glare and continued.
'' It's not safe for her. She's human, we could harm her. She deserves a normal, and happy life. With humans. That's what's best for her! Do you honestly think she would want to live with us if she knew the truth? ''
Alice shot out of her seat, and glowered at me. '' You think you know it all, Edward, but you don't! How do you know what she wants? You can't even read her mind! I'm the one who sees her future, and I know what's best for her. Like I said, strange humans and foster systems aren't a part of her future. She belongs with us! That's what's best for her. ''
'' Have you ever thought about what would happen if others find out about her? Have you seen that? '' I spat at her. Do you think the Volturi would let her live? A human who knows about us? Because that's what's going to happen if we adopt her. We can't keep it a secret from her, she'll notice at some point that we're not aging, that we don't sleep, that we don't eat, and that we never go out in the sunlight. ''
I had felt a shudder in the room when I mentioned the Volturi. No, they hadn't thought about this, just as I thought. They hadn't thought this through at all. But they thought about it now. I could hear their thoughts.
Edward is right. The Volturi won't be pleased when they find out. Maybe we should think about this some more. Jasper was wavering. My arguments made sense to him.
They will never touch my baby in a million years. Over my pile of ashes! Rosalie's thoughts on the matter wouldn't change, I could see that. She would fight for what she wanted, and I secretely had to admire her courage, and the fierce love she felt for Bella. If we hadn't been a family of vampires, Bella would have been blessed with a mother like Rose.
We can handle the Voluri. I'm sure they're not all that. They can bring it. I'll show them the meaning of strength! I rolled my eyes at Emmett's thoughts. Nothing ever upset Emmett, and the prospect of a fight excited him. Even if it was against the Volturi.
No, Edward is right. This is dangerous for Bella. But I want her with me. She's my second change. We have to find a way to make this work. Esme's thoughts were full of concern. I had expected no less. But there was also the same fierce edge I had heard in Rose's thoughts. Esme wasn't as aggressive as Rosalie, but she would fight for Bella, too. Her protective mother instinct taking over.
Aro is an old friend. I'm sure he would understand if I explained it to him. He would definitely listen. Carlisle put his faith in the old bonds he had with the Volturi, and was convinced they would listen to him, and accept the situation. He always put too much faith in people. Thinking better of them then they deserved.
No! My vision is wavering. Edward what have you done! Damn you! I could see the blurry visions in Alice's mind. The visions hadn't disappeard yet, but they weren't as solid as a moment ago.
I suddenly felt a flicker of hope, maybe I could convince them after all, but at the same time I felt the ache again. I tried to push my selfish side away again.
'' No! '' Alice said, jumping up again, and glaring at me. '' Yes, the Volturi won't be pleased, but I'm sure we can explain it to them. Strike a deal, something! '' She gave me a fierce look.
'' Again, strange humans aren't a part of her future. She's supposed to be with us, I can feel that. She belongs with us. It's what's best for her! She'll be safe with us. We can protect her, and we can give her everything she wants. We can handle the Volturi! ''
'' And what about my other arguments, Alice! '' I growled again. '' Do you think she'll want us after she finds out the truth? Because she will at some point! ''
Carlisle interrupted our conversation. '' There are definitely a lot of things to consider, '' he mused. It wasn't in a way that made me feel I was winning. Not at all.
It was Emmett who spoke next. '' Why don't we just tell her, and then she can decide if she still wants to live with us. ''
Six heads turned to look at him. All of them reflected my own expression. Every face was incredulous, and looked at Emmett like he just ate a ton of human food.
'' What? '' he said, a little defensively. '' It's that problem solved, isn't it? Either way. ''
'' What if she decides she doesn't want to live with us? '' Jasper said. '' Humans aren't supposed to know about us, and then there will be a human who just happens to know everything. ''
'' I don't think you have to worry about that, '' Emmett said, grinning now. '' She's only a little girl, remember? Who would believe her? Every child has a wild imagination. ''
'' I don't think that's going to be a problem, '' Alice suddenly said, calm and confident again. I could see it in her mind; the visions were solid again, and I could see what she meant.
There was a new vision of Bella while she listened to us as we told her the truth. Esme and Carlisle crouching down beside her bed while she still held my hand, telling her the story of our family. She seemed to accept it. She didn't even look frightened. What was the matter with this girl? She should be screaming, and begging us to leave her alone. But she didn't. She said she still wanted to live with us. I could hardly believe what I was seeing. This had to be some sort of joke. We were a family of monsters, and this didn't even seem to bother her.
Even though this was definitely a terrible thing, for her, I felt a sudden swell of hope myself. She still wanted to hold my hand, she still wanted to be close to me. She knew I was a monster, but it didn't seem to matter to her. The selfish part of me took over for a minute. I thought of Alice's vision where Bella sat beside me while I played the piano, and for a moment, it made me happy that she was there.
In my future. In all our futures. I tried to clear my head. This was still a terrible thing. It would still be dangerous for Bella to be around us. She still deserved so much better.
'' What do you mean, Alice? '' Rosalie asked, pulling me back to our present conversation. '' Do you mean she won't tell anyone? ''
'' Even better! '' Alice said, smiling brightly. '' We have nothing to worry about. My visions are clear again. Bella is going to live with us. ''
I felt the strength to fight slipped away from me. I had been fighting a losing battle from the beginning. Not just because I was the only one who was opposed to the idea, but mostly because I wasn't entirely opposed to the idea. The rational part of me had wanted to fight for the lost cause. To protect Bella from a life with monsters. That part had wanted to give Bella a normal future, the future she deserved.
But that horrible selfish monster in me wanted Bella close. He had wanted to vote yes along with the others. He wanted to embrace the future Alice had seen.
He wanted nothing more than to be with her right now. I had been fighting a losing battle, because I had been fighting with myself.
'' Alright, '' Carlisle said after a minute. '' Everyone please sit down again. ''
This was it. Carlisle had heard everyone's side, and he had made a decision. He didn't have to tell me what that decision was, I already knew.
Yes, the strength to fight had definitely slipped away from me. I knew what Carlisle was about to say and I didn't have it in me to be angry anymore, because that horrible selfish monster had won. I knew it.
'' All of you have had your say, and there are a lot of things to consider, '' he began. '' It seems obvious that most of you are willing to adopt Bella and make her a part of our family. But I do think that Edward had a point when he said that Bella would find out about us eventually. I think we shouldn't wait for that to happen. Bella deserves a fair say in this as well, since it's her future, too. I propose that we observe Bella some more for a few days, and if she wants to live with us we tell her the truth. If, after that, she still wants to live with us, I will call
Child Services and tell them that we will be adopting Bella. ''
Carlisle's word was final, and I couldn't argue with him anymore.
'' Now, '' he continued, his tone lighter. '' On a more practical note. Some of you will need to hunt. We spent a lot of time in a hospital full of wounded humans, and I don't want to take any risks. Esme, I suggest that you take the kids hunting tomorrow. ''
'' Carlisle, '' I interjected. Carlisle held up his hand to silence me.
'' Edward, '' he said. '' You and I will go hunting the day after that. Together. I know what you are about to say, and that way Bella won't be left alone. '' Besides that, I want to talk to you about a few things, he added silently.
'' But Carlisle, '' Rosalie said. '' I don't want leave Bella. I didn't get to spent a lot of time with her yet. ''
Carlisle smiled at her before he spoke again. '' Rosalie, you will have plenty of time with her, I promise. But it is necessary, and you don't want to take any risks around her do you? ''
'' No, '' she sighed.
'' Cheer up, Rosie, '' Emmett said, throwing an arm around her shoulder and pulling her close. '' We have the whole day with her when we get back! ''
She gave him a weak smile, and nodded. The fact that the others wanted to adopt Bella as well, had calmed her down immensely.
'' Alright, '' Carlisle said again. '' I think that's everything. ''
I stood up, and walked toward the door without saying anything. I felt oddly empty inside. The fighting strength had completely vanished, though my worries were still a part of me. I wanted to get away from them. I needed to clear my head.
Edward, everything is going to be fine, sweetheart, Esme thought as she watched me walking away.
They all thought I would go to my room, or that I would run away. Alice saw where I was going, but she tried to block her smug thoughts. I was grateful for that.
I closed the door behind me, and hurried out of the hotel. It was already passed midnight, and this little town was fast asleep. I was grateful for that, too. It allowed me to cross the streets at vampire speed, and I reached the hospital in no time. I rushed over to Bella's room, meeting no one on the way, except the receptionist when I entered the hospital.
She didn't say anything when I entered, familiar with our constant presence. When I reached Bella's room I silently opened her door. I didn't want to wake her up.
I walked over to the side of her bed, and sat down on the same chair I had sat in the last couple of days. For a while I just listened to her steady heartbeat and her even breathing.
I couldn't supress my worries as they swirled around in my head. I had wanted a better life for her. A better future. Not a future with monsters, but a future like a fairy tale. I knew it wasn't realistic, but it was what she deserved. She deserved a happy ending, and a full and wonderful life. That seemed an impossibility now.
The selfish part was happy that we got to keep her. That I didn't have to give her up, and that she would be close to me where I could protect her, and care for her. But how could I ever deserve such an angel? She was too good, too precious. I had felt that way since the moment I had laid eyes on her, and I still didn't understand my feelings for this little girl.
What had she done to me? What had she done to everyone in my family? Jasper was right, she had changed our family in a positive way. She couldn't possibly be aware of it.
Everyone was happier with Bella around. There was life, and hope, and love. I felt it, too. I had wandered around aimlessly for so many years, and suddenly there she was.
In just a few days Isabella Swan had become the uninvited focal point of my existence. I couldn't wrap my head around my own emotions. I didn't understand them at all.
'' Edward, '' Bella mumbled suddenly, pulling me out of my reverie. I looked up at her, expecting to find her big, brown eyes staring at me. But her eyes were still closed, and her breathing was still even. She was still asleep.
'' Edward, don't go, '' she mumbled again.
I had frozen in place, unable to do anything but stare at the little girl in front of me. Yes, she was definitely asleep. If my heart hadn't been dead, it would have pounded so furiously my ribs would have cracked. Bella talked in her sleep, and she was dreaming of me! She didn't want me to leave. She wanted me to stay with her. I felt the venom sting in my eyes, but no tears would ever appear.
I couldn't cry of course, but if I could have cried, I would have. I tried to understand the emotions that coursed through me, but it felt like I was drowning in them.
I drowned in them for a long time, and when I finally resurfaced I was sure that my selfish side had won the war. The fighting strength had disappeared already, but if there would have been any left, it would have crumbled to dust at the moment her unconcious words hit me. Alice's visions would remain solid as a rock. I knew it, and secretely I was happy about that.
Watching this little girl mumble in her sleep, telling me to stay with her, had healed my heart before I had realized it had been broken.
All my worries about her future were still a part me, but right now, I let my selfish side enjoy this precious moment without any interference from reality.
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Alice's POV.
I was happy to see that my visions were solid again. There had been a moment of doubt when Edward had mentioned the Volturi. I had to admit that I was worried about that too. I hadn't seen how the Volturi would react, and what the outcome of that conversation would be. They would find out at some point. It was unavoidable. But there had to be a way to make it all work.
The most important thing now was that my visions of Bella's future with us were clear again. Bella was definitely going to live with us, there was not a doubt in my mind.
Edward had argued with us, but I knew he wasn't being totally honest. It was true, he worried about her future and thought she deserved better than living with vampires, but there was a part of him that wanted Bella with him as well. He couldn't fool me. I had seen the way he was with her the last couple of days, and it was obvious, but I saw where he was going know.
The others would probably think he went back to his hotelroom, or that he would run away to clear his head as he often did, but I knew better. I saw him at the hospital, beside Bella's bed.
He just couldn't leave her alone for too long. He would come to terms with this situation I was sure of it.
Oh, Bella was really going to live with us! I was so excited about it. I couldn't wait to go shopping for her, and to decorate her new room. I wanted to play dress-up with her, and do her hair.
She was going to have so much fun with us! She would be my little sister, and we could be friends! We could go shopping together, and go to a spa. My head was spinning with all the possibilities.
And Esme and Rosalie would have a daughter. Esme saw all of us as her children, but this was different. Bella was a little human girl. She needed to be taken care off.
And Rosalie, who couldn't use anyone as a substitude, would finally get what she always wanted. I could see the glow on her face. She was happier than I had ever seen her before.
Carlisle would make a great father for Bella. He was already a father to us, just like Esme was our mother, but just like Esme, he would get the change to actually raise a child.
Jazz and Em would get the little sister they had always wanted, but never had. They could act like big brothers, protect her, and play with her. I knew they were excited about that.
I had seen it in my vision. Jazz and Em playing with Bella while the rest of us watched them. They had looked so happy in that moment. We all did.
Then there was Edward. I knew he had been opposed to the idea of Bella living with us, but he wanted her around nevertheless. He cared about her. Perhaps more than the rest of us did.
But I couldn't see him acting as a brother. His feelings were somehow different than Jazz's and Emmett's feelings for her. I definitely couldn't see him acting like a parent.
No, it would be Esme, Carlisle and Rose who would act as her parents. I had seen that in my visions. It was strange. I hadn't given it much thought before, but now that I was I couldn't place it. His relationship with Bella was different. It already was. She clung to him more than anyone else, and she didn't like to be away from him either. They were definitely close, that much was obvious. I was still pondering over this new dilemma when a new vision suddenly hit me.
Bella stood on a front porsch somewhere. She was a lot older than she was now. She looked about sixteen years old. Every inch of the surroundings was covered in snow, and she wore a thick coat. She was watching the snow, and suddenly turned around. Her eyes were full of wonder, and a blush covered her cheeks. '' Thank you for coming, '' she whispered smiling,and she dropped her gaze to look at her feet.
This vision was immediately followed by another vision.
Bella stood in a living room next to a big christmas tree. This seemed to be a few months later. She looked about seventeen years old now. She was wearing a midnight blue dress, and watched as someone approached her. She was blushing again, and twisted a lock of her hair in her fingers. She shuffled her feet shyly as someone stepped closer to her.
It was Edward, smiling at her in a loving way. '' You look so beautiful, '' he said, adoration clear in his eyes. She blushed again, and dropped her gaze. He put his hand under her chin, and lifted her face. '' I love you, Bella, '' he whispered, and then reached forward and kissed her gently. Bella put her arms around his neck, and kissed him back. The christmas scene a perfect picture of love and happiness. When they broke apart she whispered, '' I love you, Edward. '' They looked at each other, overwelming love clear on their faces, and smiled.
Then the visions were gone, and I was back in Carlisle's and Esme's hotelroom.
'' Wow, '' I blurted out, still processing what I had just seen. '' Wow! '' I half-screamed this time. I shot out of my seat and started jumping around, clapping my hands.
This was the best vision I had ever had! Everyone suddenly fell into place. Everything made sense now. I didn't know if my previous thoughts had somehow called these visions to my attention, but that didn't matter now. Edward and Bella would fall in love. Everything was so clear to me now, and this had nothing to do with a decision anyone had made. No, falling in love wasn't a decision. It was faith. Destiny. Of course Edward didn't seem like a brother or a parent. He wasn't supposed to be either of them. He was supposed to be her mate!
They were destined to fall in love with each other. Yes, this was definitely the best vision I had ever had! I was still jumping up and down, clapping my hands and squealing at the top of my lungs.
I would probably wake up half the hotel, but I didn't care about that. I was too happy!
'' Alice, what is it? '' Jasper asked urgently, rushing over to my side.
'' I just had a vision! '' I announced, still bouncing around the room. I saw Rosalie rolling her eyes at me from the corner of my eye.
'' Tell us, '' Jasper said, watching me as I danced around him.
'' It's the best vision I ever had! '' I squealed again.
'' Is it about Bella? '' Rosalie asked suddenly, standing up.
'' Yes! ''
'' Well, tell us! '' she prompted, impatient. I was still dancing around the room, clapping my hands, a huge smile on my face.
'' Jasper, '' I heard her say, slightly irritated. Jasper chuckled and sent me some calming waves. I flitted to his side, the huge smile still plastered to my face.
All eyes were on me now, waiting for me to tell them this wonderful news.
'' Edward and Bella are going to fall in love! '' I squealed, unable to stay calm long enough. I started clapping my hands again.
'' What? '' Rosalie blurted out. '' But she's six years old! That's disgusting! ''
'' Not now, obviously! When she's older! ''
Emmett suddenly barked out a booming laugh, and was gasping for air in a matter of seconds. Lucky for him he didn't need the oxygen. He slammed his fist on the couch, still laughing uncontrolably.
'' Are you sure about this, Alice? '' Carlisle asked, stepping closer to the rest of us.
I nodded excitedly, and clutched Jaspers arm.
'' Oh, this is wonderful! '' Esme exclaimed, smiling brightly. '' He deserves to be happy. I can't believe it. Carlisle, isn't this the best of news? ''
Carlisle smiled brightly at her, and planted a loving kiss on her forehead. '' It is indeed. ''
Rosalie didn't look pleased at all.
'' Rose, you'll have plenty of time with her, '' Jasper suddenly said, sensing her emotions. '' This won't happen for at least another ten years, right Alice? ''
'' I'm not entirely sure when this will happen, '' I answered. '' But I think you're right. Bella looked about seventeen years old in my vision. ''
'' See, Rose? '' Jasper said, probably trying to calm her down with more than just words. '' Plenty of time. ''
Rosalie sighed, and smiled a little. '' I'm sorry. That was selfish. I really am happy for Edward. Are you going to tell him? '' she asked me.
I considered that for a moment. '' No, not know. Let him get used to the idea that Bella will be in our lives first. ''
'' You want to keep this a secret from him? '' Emmett said, a little more composed now. '' How the hell are we going to do that? He's a mind-reader, remember? ''
'' Just don't think of those visions whenever he's around, '' I said, frowning now. '' We probably can't keep it a secret for long, but we have to try for now. You know how he is. We don't want Edward to get all... Edward, '' I finished lamely. They all seemed to understand though.
'' Yes, he would probably go insane, and run away or something, '' Rosalie said, a half-irritated, half-amused look on her face. '' Like the coward he is. ''
'' Rose, '' Esme chided gently. And then she sighed. '' This isn't going to be easy. ''
'' It'll be fine, Esme, '' Carlisle said, pulling her a little closer and smiling at everyone. '' But I think Alice is right. Try to keep your thoughts away from that future for now. Adopting Bella, and taking her home with us is our first priority. ''
Everyone agreed with that, and Emmett starting laughing again. '' Poor Edward, still no game. But I guess ten more years wouldn't seem that long to him. ''
He suddenly made a face, probably trying to imagine a time-span like that without any '' game ''. Yes, Emmett wouldn't last a week. I giggled when I saw his pained expression.
'' How do we keep our thoughts away from that? '' he suddenly asked. '' That's impossible. ''
'' No, it's not, '' I said sternly. '' And you will give it your best effort Emmett. I don't care how you do it, just do it. Think about baseball, or wrestling, or sex, or whatever. Whatever works for you. Anything but that future. ''
He was frowning again, and then he suddenly seemed to realize that everyone was looking it him. '' Hey! '' he shouted, a little indignant. '' Why are you all staring at me. ''
'' Because you're the one who's probably going to slip up, '' Rosalie said, throwing him a look.
'' Awh, not fair! ''
Esme suddenly laughed, and hugged him. '' Just give it your best effort, sweetheart. ''
Everyone was laughing now, and the tense atmosphere that had been present during our previous conversation had vanished completely.
I was so excited about everything. I thought the best news would be that Bella would be living with us, but this exceded all expectations. I was happy for Edward, he deserved to be happy. And I couldn't wait to 'till they would fall in love. I didn't want to miss a moment of it!
'' Alright, '' Carlisle suddenly said. '' Esme, kids, time to go hunting. I will go to the hospital again in an hour or so, and check on Bella. We promised to be there when she would wake up. ''
'' Don't worry about that, Carlisle, '' I said, suddenly recalling where Edward had gone to. '' Edward is already there. ''
Everyone looked at each other then with meaningful looks. Yes, keeping this a secret, even if it was just for a while, was going to be a challenge.
I really hope you like this chapter. Like I said, the Cullens will adopt Bella in the next chapter, and after that they can finally take her home! Please don't forget to review! The story is still wide open, and suggestions are always welcome! I will update the next chapter as soon as possible!
