Disclaimer: All characters, settings and original plots are the property of Stephanie Meyer. The author is in no way associated with this story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Summary: This story begins after the conclusion of Eclipse. Newly engaged, Bella and Edward explore the physical and romantic boundaries of their relationship.
A/N: Thank you again for everyone who reviewed my latest chapter. I know I took a long time to get this new one out to you folks and for that I apologize. My school work has piled up and I needed to spend the weekend working on it. I hope it was worth the wait. I do appreciate everyone who takes the time to let me know what they think. I will try and publish the next chapter sooner rather than later. Enjoy and keep on reviewing!
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La Lune: Chapter 10
Heading down the staircase with Edward, my mind is on who I'm about to meet. Yet another vampire is entering my life. Other than the Cullens, none of them were pleasant additions. This one is a mystery, even to Edward. Although no one has said it, I know that all the Cullens are curious to know why William chooses to live alone. My experience with vampires is limited, but most of the other vegetarians I've heard of choose to live with others. They are small in number, isolated from most of their kind. It makes sense that they'd want to live in groups. So why does William wander the world with no one to share life with?
As we round the corner into the front room I can see the beautiful faces of the entire Cullen family. Seeing their perfection reminds me of how plain and simple I must look next to them. Emmett is the first to notice our entrance.
"Nice of you two to finally join us," he jokes, "been busy... experimenting?" I silently curse my human shortcomings as my face begins to turn red. Why oh why can't some things stay secret? Edward's arm is around me in an instant. His touch instantly provides me with the comfort he intended it to.
"Emmett." Carlisle's voice is curt and firm, his face lined with disappointment. His look is a reminder of things I would rather not be reminded of. I can still picture Emmett's face clearly, standing in Edward's doorway, interrupting what had been a very good afternoon.
"What?" he insists shrugging his shoulders. "I'm not the only one who's happy that Edward is finally giving all his muscles a good workout." Alice and Rosaline's quiet giggles fill the room. Emmett is obviously the only one with the courage to say what everyone else is thinking. Before I even know it's happening, Jasper is desperately trying to hold back an enraged Edward. He's growling deeply and his eyes are dark black. It's times like these I remember how scary Edward can be.
"Emmett," Carlisle's voice booms, "that's enough!" He's place himself between Edward and Emmett. "I have made my wishes clear. Do I need to repeat them?"
"No," Emmett says, backing away. He knows a lost battle when he sees one. "Look" he states, walking toward Edward, "I'm sorry. I just couldn't resist."
"That much is apparent," Edward growls. He's still fuming and Jasper is still holding him back. I don't think a simple, insincere apology, will do it.
"Edward," I whisper, placing my hand softly on his chest. "William will be here soon and you need to calm down." Edward's eyes refuse to meet mine. His jaw is tense with anger. Being as gentle as I can be, I use my hand to turn his face to meet mine. Finally, I can see his beautiful eyes. Their colour is becoming lighter. Good... he's starting to calm down. "Edward... please." The power of that little word – please – is astonishing. The stress drains from his body and Jasper is finally able to stop restraining him.
"Thanks Bella," Emmett laughs. I can feel frustration start to surface. As if he actually thinks I did that for him!
"As for you," I snarl, whipping my head around to meet Emmett's gaze. "This is the last time I bail you out. Next time, you're on your own. I doubt Edward will have any trouble keeping his promise."
"What promise?" Rosalie questions.
"Something about Emmett being the first vampire eunuch," I mutter.
"Nice," Jasper says, laughing out loud. His amusement lightens the mood immediately as everyone, but Emmett, joins in the fun. I'm glad to see a small smile break across Edward's face.
"Oh yeah... laugh it up," Emmett mumbles. "Just wait until it's your manhood on the line."
"Emmett, just drop it okay," Rosalie sighs, completely unimpressed with the entire episode.
"Thanks Rosalie," I explain, sending a warm smile her way. She is the last person I'd expect to come to our defence.
"Don't thank her Bella," Alice giggles. "All she cares about is keeping Emmett's so-called manhood intact." It's Rosalie's turn to growl as she sends a look of venom towards her sister.
"All right everyone, that's enough." Esme's melodic voice is heard for the first time since Edward and I came downstairs. "William will be here momentarily and I would very much like to introduce him to my family and not a bunch of squabbling children."
It's easy to forget that Esme is a mother when you look at her. She is only a few years older than most of the other Cullens, but her presence demands respect. Seeing all the Cullen children bow their heads in shame tells me one thing - what Esme demands, Esme gets.
"He's here," Alice interrupts, turning her attention to the front door. Seconds later, three clear knocks echo through the Cullen home. The sounds of his knocks send butterflies to my stomach. With all the excitement I have almost forgotten why we are all in the front room together in the first place.
Carlisle rises to his feet and straightens his suit jacket. The gesture is completely unnecessary as he, like the rest of the Cullens, looks flawless all the time. I'm instantly disappointed when I look down at my own appearance. My jeans are twisted, my shirt crumpled. My look is telling of my previous actions. Looking over at Edward causes a huff to leave my mouth.
"What's wrong?" he whispers.
"I look awful," I snort, attempting to smooth down my shirt with my hands.
"You look radiant as always," he insists, stopping my actions with his hands. His touch sends chills throughout my entire body. My eyes flutter shut as I take in the feeling of our contact. My brief moment of pleasure is cut short as I hear Carlisle's voice enter the front room.
"And this is my family," he states proudly gesturing to us all. I take this chance to examine the newcomer. Like every other vampire I've seen, he is stunning. His rich auburn hair is shoulder length, with a natural wave to it. His vegetarian eyes are striking, yet kind. He's older than Carlisle. He must have been in his late forties when he was changed. His age doesn't change his extraordinary appearance - in fact it graces him with a wisdom someone younger could never have.
"And this is my future daughter in-law, Bella." Carlisle's introduction pulls me out of my dazzled state. I blush as I meet William's eyes. His face says it all – I was staring at him and he knows it.
"It's nice to meet you," I state with conviction, trying to hide my embarrassment as I extend my hand in greeting. His hand feels like marble, cool and firm.
"The pleasure is all mine Bella," he says warmly, as his other hand wraps around mine. His voice has a distinctly British flair to it. I didn't realise he was from England. "I have heard much about you." Knowing he's just been with the Denali clan I can only imagine what they had to say about me.
"My friends in Denali have wonderful things to say about all of you. Thank you so much for welcoming me into your home."
"We are happy to have you," Carlisle responds. "It is not often that we have... welcome guests."
"Ain't it the truth," Emmett laughs heartily. While the others join in the hilarity, Edward looks unimpressed. I'm sure he's remembering all of our close calls with the past vampire 'guests' we've had. Those are memories I would rather not have.
"You can relax Edward," Alice sighs. "Bella was perfectly fine then and she'll be fine now." Her reassurances are falling on deaf ears.
"A positive experience remember," I mutter under my breath. Edward smiles as he turns to face me. His exquisiteness captures me in entirety. My breath hitches in my throat and my pulse increases. I give my head a shake to rouse myself from my dazzled state. Perfect timing Bella.
"Does he always have this kind of effect on you?" William asks with a chuckle. For the third time today I am flush with humiliation.
"Why don't we have a seat in the living room where we can all be more comfortable." Carlisle suggests, gesturing us all to follow him.
"Yes let's do that," Esme agrees, walking alongside her husband. "We would all love to hear your stories William. I'm sure you have a great many to tell... if you wish."
"That would be lovely Esme. It seems we all have tales to share."
***
Hours later, Edward, William, Carlisle, and I are still in the living room. The rest of the Cullens have dispersed themselves throughout the house. Most of the story telling had been on our part, and most of it had to do with me and the many problems that arose because of me. Come to think of it, William had said very little about himself.
"It seems your life here has become rather colourful since Bella entered it," William responds as Carlisle finishes telling him about our experiences with the Volturi.
"That much is true," Carlisle chuckles, glancing Edward's direction. "But my son wouldn't have it any other way." I can feel a gentle squeeze on my hand as Edward confirms his father's sentiment.
"I am surprised the Volturi let you go," William admits, directing his gaze towards me. I feel yet another squeeze, but I know the emotions behind this one are quite different.
"Well," I start to explain, "we did have to strike a deal with them."
"Not much of a deal if you ask me," Edward mumbles through clenched teeth.
"You know it's what I want too," I reply in an attempt to reassure him. I have to hope that one day he will be okay with my decision to become an immortal. I quickly shake off the feeling that he doesn't want to spend the rest of his life with me. We have yet to discuss my change like two adults. Maybe it's time we did.
"We have given them our word that Bella will be turned," Carlisle explains to William.
"I see," William muses, "a decision that Bella is content with, but you are not Edward?"
"I understand the necessity of it," he explains, flashing me a remorseful look, "I just wish there was another way."
"The Volturi are so tiresome," William sighs, suddenly looking weary. "They insist on meddling in affairs that are none of their business. They are acting as if this situation is a novel one."
"Isn't it?" I ask in surprise. "I mean, vampires don't usually make a habit of hanging out with their food do they?"
William's fatigue is dissolved by the most magnificent smile I've seen him don since arriving. "I have traveled the world... many times over. Although it is not common, I have met others of our kind who have chosen a human lover."
I turn to look at Edward just in time to see his jaw fall in shock. Until this moment we thought our story was an original one – one of a kind. Our own twisted version of Romeo and Juliet – although I'm still banking on a happy ending.
"You honestly thought you were the only one Edward?" William questions, smirking slightly.
"I think we all did," Carlisle responds, recovering from the shock of the news before Edward or I can. "There are... complications with relationships like theirs."
"That is true," William concedes, "but they are nothing that cannot be overcome. "
"You sound like you're speaking from experience," I point out, still in disbelief from William's revelation.
"You're very observant Bella," he smiles. "My first relationship, after I was changed, was with a human woman. It was many years ago, but I remember the experience vividly."
Edward remains oddly silent by my side. I'm starting to understand why he wants to hear my thoughts so badly. I would give anything to know what he's thinking right now. He turns slowly to face me with a wide grin.
"I think you and I should have a chat later Edward," William continues. "I could answer any questions that you may have."
Edward's continuing smile tells me that this was exactly what he was hoping for. If William has been in a relationship with a human before, who better to get advice from?
"I would appreciate all the help I could get. Although," Edward replies, brushing my cheek with his hand, "things are going better than either Bella or I had anticipated." He pulls me in for a quick hug as a flush rapidly spreads over my face. I know Edward loves my blush, but I really hate having every emotion I feel plastered across my face.
"Well I'm definitely not going to miss this when I'm a vampire," I note gesturing to my face. "That's for sure."
"I have met many people who have wished to become like us," William assures, "but I doubt their reasons are the same as yours. Most are drawn to the power and the promise of eternal life. Not the most admirable of motives."
"A life with Edward is all I want," I respond. I'm blushing again, but I don't care this time. "And I don't want to keep getting older than him either," I admit honestly. "I know this is what I want, so what's the point in waiting?" I can hear Edward sigh in response to my declaration.
"You don't wish for the same thing?" William questions, obviously confused by Edward's reaction.
"I never want to be apart from Bella," he declares passionately. "I just wish that she didn't have to trade her soul for a life with me. It hardly seems a fair bargain." I'm not surprised by his answer, but I am disappointed. As much as the physical aspects of our relationship have been a success, so far, I have yet to convince Edward that he is not the monster that he thinks he is.
"You truly think there is no place in heaven for our kind?" William responds with a frown. Something in his expression tells me that he's thought about this subject before.
"Do you?" Edward exclaims. His response isn't in distain but in genuine curiosity. Perhaps he saw the same thing in William's face that I saw.
William shuffles in his seat slightly, uncrossing his legs. He takes a long, deep breath before speaking. "Before I was turned I was a priest in England. I lived in a time where religion was a devote way of life - not just for me, but for all the people in my village. The beliefs, like life, were simple. Everyone was descended from Adam and Eve, people had souls and other beings did not... well, you see where I'm heading with this."
William inhales deeply a second time before continuing with his tale. "After I was turned I had truly believed as you do Edward - that I was damned. But as an observer of the world, there is one thing that I have learned in my years. As our understanding of life expands, so must the beliefs that we govern our lives by. As a former priest, I have struggled with this question for decades."
"And what conclusion have you come to?" Carlisle asks. I'm practically on the edge of my seat, listening to every word that William is saying. As a practitioner of science and medicine, I can only imagine how fascinating this conversation must be for Carlisle.
"I don't want to use the word conclusion," William smiles. "The world continues to change. I will never say that this will be my final word on the subject. I know things now that I could never comprehend when I was a priest. I'm certain the next three hundred years will provide as many insights as the last did. My beliefs have evolved and will most likely continue to evolve."
Crossing his legs once again he turns to face Edward. "I can't tell you what to believe. Only you in your heart can know that. But I can tell you that life cannot be divided into those with a soul and those without a soul as simply as it once could." His hands come to rest on his chin, as if pondering what to say next.
"I have to believe," he continues, "that good people, immortal or not, have a place in heaven. I would like to think that when I'm finally unable to walk this fine earth that I will be going there myself."
"As a priest... you really think you have a soul?" Edward questions, "that you will go to heaven?"
"A former priest," William laughs. "Of course I cannot be certain of what will happen to me after I die, but I can hope... and believe, that it will be a good thing."
"But we're already dead," Edward snaps in frustration.
"I see," William replies calmly. "And if you were alive, would you have a soul?"
"Yes of course," Edward responds. Out of the corner of my eye I can see Carlisle grinning, apparently seeing where this argument is heading.
William shifts his position to face Carlisle. "How would you define life Carlisle, medically speaking of course?"
"Life is characterized by the capacity for metabolism, growth, reaction to stimuli and reproduction," Carlisle rhymes from memory, "medically speaking."
"You see," Edward responds sanctimoniously, "we cannot reproduce or grow."
"Edward," Carlisle sighs, "reproduction is simply the ability produce new individuals of the same kind. You know this. You may not like the way in which we reproduce, but we still have the capacity."
"And growth does not have to mean physical growth," William adds to Carlisle's argument. "We have the capacity to grow, on intellectual and spiritual levels, just as humans do."
Edward is shaking his head side to side - he's not buying it. "Your argument is..."
"Is perfectly sound," I interrupt in frustration. "I love you Edward, but you can be so stubborn sometimes. You just refuse to see that you are a good person – a good soul."
His only response is to place his head in his hands. I take his lack of response as a good thing. I wrap my arms around his waist and pull him close to me. "Can't you see that I will have a good life with you, that you won't be damning me?"
Lifting his head slowly, his eyes finally meet mine. The emotions I see there are vast: frustration, love, confusion and even defeat. "I honestly don't know what to think," he whispers. "I didn't expect to be so well challenged."
"Maybe you need a challenge every now and again," I chuckle.
"I've had my fair share since you entered my life," he responds, cupping my cheek, "and my father is right... I wouldn't have it any other way."
"Edward, it's getting late. Perhaps it's time you took Bella home." Carlisle is right. As much as I would love to stay, I should be getting home before Charlie has a coronary.
"Will I see you tomorrow Bella?" William questions.
"You can count on it."