Chapter 10
BPOV
I moan and close my eyes in bliss. "This tiramisu is so good. I don't know what you did to it to make it about ten times better than any other tiramisu I've ever tried but please don't ever ever stop," I mumble out around another bite of the decadent dessert.
Sulpicia looked on in amusement as Gianna grinned and I shoveled down my treat.
"I pity you Sulpicia. You never had chocolate. That is like a sin, no person should have to go without trying chocolate. And chocolate and espresso and the cheese-cream stuff I can never remember the proper name for- is like someone chipped off a piece of heaven and it dropped through the sky and landed on my plate. If I could temporarily change your taste-buds back so you could try this if only once I would because it's amazing."
"I'm glad you are able to enjoy it for me, Bella," Sulpicia says before speaking to Gianna quickly in Italian. Gianna laughs and chatters back at her but I'm too busy scraping the last of the cream off my plate to really care. Suddenly my plate is removed from before me and replaced with another with more tiramisu. I squeal happily before glancing up at Gianna. She smiles at me.
"Eat Isabella, you are much too thin. With enough tiramisu we can hopefully fatten you up some."
I happily take another bite. "I worked at an Italian café, you know," I say conversationally. "That's where I ran into Caius, of all the things I was assigned his table to wait upon." I shake my head in continued amazement as to how my luck likes to screw with me.
"Tiramisu was the best selling dessert item on the menu. It was torture to work there. Not only did the other waitress' despise me (most of them thought I was a drug addict what with the Xanax and all), but one of the managers was such a pervert. Which is probably why I was able to get the job, not that it paid well. Anyways, the tiramisu. I would come in and we would cut some pieces to put on display and it would sit there and look like a little piece of salvation and call out to me 'Bella! Eat me! Eat me! I'll make you feel better and I taste sooooo good.' But see we had to pay for the tiramisu, even as a waitress, and I couldn't afford a $10 dessert if I wanted to also have a meal that day. And so every day I would go in and see the tiramisu and it would taunt me and I'd have to resist and instead hand it out to people that would only eat half of the piece, or scrape off the cream. It was like sacrilege, and torture all in one."
I eat a couple more bites before saying "Sorry, I know I'm rambling but as I'm sure you can tell it's been a very long time since I was able to afford to eat well let alone indulging in sweet things."
Gianna tuts with her tongue as she cleans up the kitchen. "If I had know you were so thin I would have made more food. Lady Athenodora just said to make food for a girl, so I did, but you obviously need more. I can take out the recipes that use the real cream and butter. My grandmother's old Italian recipes and we'll have you healthy in no time. I promise. For now how would you like gnocchi for dinner?"
At this I blush. I'm not used to someone acting like a mother hen towards me and part of me is uncomfortable by the way Gianna acts. Another part of me though is basking in the attention and I can kinda tell Gianna enjoys being able to feed me. "Gnocchi sounds lovely Gianna, thank-you," I say. I take another bite of my dessert and sigh again at the texture, swaying slightly in bliss. "So good," I murmur to myself.
"What is good, Isabella?" is suddenly asked in a jovial voice right behind me. I jump and swallow, quickly whipping around. Choking I see it is only Aro who has arrived along with Marcus. From what I can tell everyone in the kitchen is now glaring at Aro (though Gianna does so more subtly). Gianna pushes a glass of water in front of me and I gulp it coughing in between sips.
Once I finally regain my breath I look up to see Marcus standing protectively close while glaring at Aro- who looks sheepish.
"My apologies, Isabella," Aro says.
"It's ok. Just try not to startle me when I'm eating. I enjoy my ability to breathe. As for your previous question, Gianna has highly unutilized and undervalued Tiramisu making skills. And since none of you can enjoy it I've been eating your portions too."
"Well it is good then that you are here or we never would have realized what a wonderful skill Gianna has. I'm sure Gianna will make you whatever you wish," Marcus replies to me, glancing over to Gianna as he says this. Gianna nods enthusiastically.
"Yes, Master Marcus. Give me a couple weeks and we'll put some weight on her skinny little frame." This of course causes me to blush bright red and attempt to change the topic.
"So how did the meeting go?" I ask lightly. With the exception of Gianna, the entire room seems to freeze.
Marcus finally moves to sit next to me, examining my face likely taking notice of my still reddened eyes from crying earlier. "Jane decided to exhibit the traits she kept from her human age and seemingly decided that she required more attention. We had to deal with her and then remind the guard that we do not appreciate them acting out. I apologize for how long it took, sweet," Marcus explains holding one of my hands.
I nod in response, eating the last bite of my dessert before turning to him fully. "That explains the little jealous snit Jane was in earlier than. And no need to apologize- work is work, I understand," I say shrugging slightly.
"You are unharmed? Jane did not injure you?" Marcus asks me watching my face for my reaction intently.
"Oh! No, I'm fine Marcus. She just ran her mouth a bit and glared, she didn't even touch me. Not even a bruise I promise," I answer touched by his concern. Marcus watches me a moment more before nodding once sharply as if confirming himself.
Aro frowning out of the corner of my eye catches my attention, so I turn to see that Sulpicia is holding his hand. Information exchange, just what I don't feel like speaking about, especially with Marcus slightly on edge from what I can tell.
"Um, Athenodora mentioned that there was a piano somewhere, could you show me, Marcus?" I ask attempting to ignore the fact that someone else now knew what happened with my father. Earlier I logically understood that my story is going to spread like wildfire through the Volturi family but the reality of it is a bit more disconcerting.
"I do not believe it has been tuned yet, but I will gladly show you where the music parlour is, dearest."
And with a quick wave to Sulpicia and Gianna, I successfully put off having to talk anymore about my issues for the day.
MPOV- Night
It has been a day of revelations. Sulpicia had pulled me aside earlier- while Bella ate dinner- detailing exactly what had occurred to my little mate that ended in the loss of her father. I have not asked Bella about it, and from Sulpicia's belief that she is ashamed, I will not unless she wishes to speak about the incident. It is difficult for me to grasp completely why Bella feels such shame for what occurred to her. She did as her father asked and defended herself exceptionally well for someone with little experience with combat. I do believe that part of the issue is that she holds herself to such high standards and that she blames herself for her father's death. My mate holds a very low view of herself and harbours much guilt; something I shall attempt to work with her on.
Temporarily I have taken up residence in one of the nearby human rooms next to Bella's. I believe it likely that her night terrors will bother her again tonight and I wish to be close by without her feeling like I am crowding her. I've brought some books to entertain myself with but I found that mostly I have instead been listening to Bella's heartbeat, and the slight movement of Afton who guards outside her door.
Suddenly there are a series of vampire footsteps and the door to the room I inhabit opens. "There you are Marcus!" Aro exclaims. "Why are you hiding in quite possibly the most boring and drab room in this castle- excluding the dungeons, but those are supposed to have that air of gloom."
Behind him Sulpicia and Athenodora enter their elbows linked in companionship, and thus I stand while they enter out of courtesy. Caius follows behind the two, and looks as though he has been dragged along at the urging of his wife. I would not be surprised if she somehow manipulated his attendance, as she is wont to do.
"If you are going to be spending any time here Marcus, we really are going to need to do something about this room. Aro's right, I had no idea how drab the human quarters are. Though these are not as outdated as your rooms. The workmen are coming to work on Marcus' suite in the next two days correct, Sulpicia?" Athenodora asks as she sits on the bed. Sulpicia joins her nodding, and I too resume my seat.
"Yes, so if you want anything out of your rooms you need to move it tomorrow. Anything you're going to use over the next three to four weeks. I can supervise the guard moving the rest into temporary storage afterwards."
I look at the two women before me and raise my eyebrow at them. "I thought it was only my bath that needed to be updated."
"We looked it over, and decided you really needed the whole thing modernized. We're keeping some things the same, but at the very least the majority of your furniture needs to be re-upholstered and the bath needs to be gutted and made habitable for a human," Sulpicia says.
"Plus, Bella needs things like a vanity and more closet space. It'll be nice Marcus, we're keeping both of you in mind," Athenodora adds.
I lean back against the desk chair I'm sitting in. "I can live anywhere, as long as it is comfortable and suitable for her I care little for what you do," I state.
"And that is why we've not bothered to show you the design plans, Marcus," Athenodora chirps, dragging Caius over onto the bed so she can lean against him as she speaks.
I merely nod and then wait. One of them will eventually bring up the reason they have all decided to descend upon me as a horde.
"Right, there are multiple things Isabella revealed to us today that needs to be addressed," Aro says getting down to business. "What would you like to cover first, brother: the fact Isabella clearly does not understand what it means to be your mate and that she is actually part of this family, or that it was the Cullens that introduced her to the vampire world and then abandoned her?"
I froze for a split-second taking in the two differing but equally infuriating pieces of information.
"Aro!" Sulpicia yells at her husband. "We have had enough distress today- you did not need to tell your brother in that way. Sit down and keep quiet before you aggravate poor Marcus so much that he quite rightly removes some of your limbs."
"Those are the issues though my love, and he looked as though he was aggravated by us disturbing him-" Aro protests. I meanwhile am starting to growl quite loudly in displeasure. Not exactly a civilized reaction but I figure few are going to blame me at this point.
"Aro, shut up before I give Sulpicia advice on resisting your charms for the next year. Like the both of us taking a vacation and not telling you where we're going," Athenodora says. Aro promptly sits down sulking beside Sulpicia who just glares at him sternly.
"It's not as bad as Aro just made it seem, Marcus," Sulpicia states turning to me.
"I am attempting to remain patient, Sulpicia but if details are not revealed soon I may have to take it out on your husband."
"Calm, Marcus. Bella just doesn't fully understand how serious your mating with her is."
"How so?" I ask sharply.
"I told her about the upcoming trip to Florence earlier and she basically said she wasn't going to be able to afford it, she was worried about how she was eventually going to be able to leave the country without legal entry, and that she didn't want to intrude on a family tradition."
I sigh and lean over pinching the bridge of my nose in dissatisfaction. "I am at a loss," I admit, "Will one of you explain to me how being told she would be provided for and that she completes me is not clear enough?" I ask with reigned in frustration.
"Marcus," Athenodora says gently, "take a step back mentally for a moment and remember that Isabella has not only completely been independent for years, but that she was highly responsible in both her father and mother's homes. In addition to this you need to take into account the pressure on modern women to support themselves. I know it is hard to fully grasp but women from developed countries are expected to support not only themselves but sometimes even their entire family. They are looked down upon as being lazy, stupid, gold diggers, a burden, or weak-minded if they do not at least partially contribute to the household income. It is very much a generational trend, and I would think something that Bella who has had responsibilities far beyond what she should have to deal with even within her culture as well as being the child of a single mother has very much ingrained. The definition of being provided for to her likely means room and board."
Aro speaks next, seemingly not able to keep himself silent anymore. "I earlier reached the conclusion that Isabella also possesses trust issues. She told you herself that the Cullen boy abandoned her in the woods, her mother sold her out, her father died, and the mutant canine pack forced her to leave her home town despite having family friends among their members. From her conversation with Sulpicia one can also extrapolate that she has not made any other connections since taking up residence in Seattle. We will likely have to work to convince her that we are not going anywhere."
I am silent for the moment while I remember my conversation with Bella in the garden. She had seemed concerned and had asked about the strength of my skin, and later after my explanation overly joyful. If she is as frightened of being left alone once more as Aro thinks she is (and sadly for those of us trying to contain Aro's ego, he is usually correct about such things) then her questions and emotions were quite possibly influenced not merely by curiosity but also by worry about my vulnerabilities. I am glad that I was unknowingly able to settle her fears but it pains me that she was frightened about such a thing and did not feel as though she could simply ask me.
"I will speak to her and we shall need to work on it. Hopefully the upcoming trip to Florence will help some. Now, someone explain to me how we know it was the Cullens that were the ones that introduced Bella into our world."
"Bella spoke of an Edward during our chat earlier today. Based on our possible candidates the only Edward is Carlisle's son. That they are all animal drinkers would explain how she got so close to them. The question is how are we going to handle the matter?"
"As much as I despise the option, I suggest we wait it out," Caius says. "Carlisle is not an overly ambitious vampire, and he would not arbitrarily introduce a human to our ways without very good reason. He has seen for himself how we have dealt with rule breakers when he stayed with us." Caius twines his fingers and looks at us each contemplatively.
"Therefore, even if we are sure that it is the Cullens that abandoned Isabella there had to have been a pressing reason as to why Carlisle allowed it. He knows the consequences of his coven's actions should he be found out, and yet has done so anyway. The explanation could be simple of course, but I suspect that there is something more going on for Carlisle to take such a risk."
"I agree," Aro states next, not looking nearly as dejected from his earlier scolding courtesy of his wife as I would have preferred. "We will of course still exact revenge on behalf of Isabella, and they have broken the laws, but we require more information before going forward. There are still too many unknowns at work here. We must be cautious as the Cullen Coven is well liked by many and we do not want to go into a situation where we will be made disadvantaged."
I stiffly nod. "Very well, though I am reluctant to agree and leave this matter even longer without some form of retribution, we must know the answers to the questions we pose before asking them or some unknown factor may look incompetent and therefore weak. Just know that I truly am planning on enjoying the suffering young Edward has to look forward to by my hands. Possibly the others as well."
Aro tilts his head irritatingly at me, I simply stare back. "You would already seal his fate, brother? Where is the devotion to justice you once carried so strongly?"
I hiss at him leaning forward. "My sense of justice is alive and burning Aro. Whatever else this boy may have done he did abandon my mate by herself in the middle of the woods after which it poured and she became hypothermic. A vampire would easily hear a young human woman stumbling after them, and a gentleman no matter his age or disagreement would escort her back to her door. Edward Cullen acted like a coward, and justified himself by destroying a large part of Isabella's self-confidence. She fears to trust because of his actions and words. Ignoring all other crimes he may or may not be responsible for he most certainly is guilty of these sins. Do not even attempt to convey to me that you would not do the same if it was Sulpicia in my mate's predicament."
"May I?" Aro asks reaching for my hand. I sigh and give in placing my hand within reaching distance. Aro gladly grasps my fingers enough to get the last couple days programmed into his head.
After a moment of concentration he releases me and I move back into the position I was in before. He too retreats back to his seat upon the bed, shaking his head slightly. "I see what you mean," Aro states quiet but serious after seeing what thus far has occurred between Bella and myself. "I only jest, Marcus, in attempt to lighten such heavy conversations," he admits to me in that same weary severe tone. Such admittance is about as close to a sincere apology as my brother gives.
"You have my support on retribution rights to young Edward, for I would lust for such in your place. I'm sure Caius agrees?" he asks, not demanding my other sibling's compliance but guessing that he likely felt the same. Caius nods sharply, meeting my eyes. He then looks away pressing his lips quickly but firmly against Athenodora's brow. Caius- much like myself in previous years- does not tend to speak unless called for, but though we are quiet we still feel quite strongly for our loved ones.
"So now that that's settled (not that anyone was really going to usurp your revenge-rights Marcus, really) I believe that Bella should also spend more time with the rest of us. I don't want her to feel that she only has a connection to us through you, Marcus. Like the idea that we care for her as herself rather than as an extension of you, Bella your mate. I'm thinking maybe board games. We have some good board games laying around here somewhere don't we?" Athenodora questions, completely overriding any leftover somberness from before with her exuberance.
"As long as she is not overwhelmed I am sure that would be acceptable Ath-" I begin to reply when I stop abruptly. Bella's heartbeat is increasing rapidly and she is beginning to get restless in her sleep. The rest of my family has frozen as well and we are all listening to the sounds of one small human female across the hall.
It is not long before I begin to hear her muttering nonsensically and moan in distress. Standing I silently bow slightly in leave to the rest of my coven before making my way out the door of the small room. It is time to sit vigil and hopefully manage to shield my mate from her own mind once again.
MPOV
I sit and watch my Bella as she finishes her morning meal. Last night was not as bad as the one before for her, but I can tell that sleep does not come easily to her. I can only hope with time that too will improve for her.
I patiently wait until it seems as though she has finished entirely before I speak to her, knowing how important it is for her to gain weight. However, she seems to be eating more than before since visiting Gianna yesterday, which I cannot help but be grateful for. We will have to make sure we actually change the woman.
"Are you finished, sweet?" I ask calmly.
"Yep. Gianna really is a wonderful cook," she comments gathering the dishes together.
"I am glad you're enjoying your meals," I say waiting for her to finish. Once she settles again she turns to look at me wide chocolate eyes waiting for me expectantly. I feel myself begin to harden at how sweet, beautiful and innocent she looks, before ruthlessly pushing the thought away.
"There is someone I would like you to meet, Bella." She nods and grabs an oatmeal coloured sweater which she pulls on over her thin t-shirt.
"Sure," she replies agreeably.
We walk comfortably beside one another at her pace, and I make sure to watch her footing as the uneven stone floors seem to increase the rate of her clumsiness.
I open the door for her at my study and as directed Afton is waiting inside for us. At her entrance he stands in respect.
"Bella, sweet, this is Afton, I briefly mentioned him before," I comment, closing the door behind me.
"I remember. The only guard to survive Sulpicia's wrath after the Alexandrian Library burnt down," she replies which causes Afton to groan melodramatically.
"And Afton, this is Isabella, my mate," I introduce unnecessarily. He knows very well who she is by this point, but like many things my words are asked for by protocol and for Bella's comfort in the situation I say them anyways.
"It's lovely to meet you," Bella says quietly nodding her head in greeting. For all that she has been through I have picked up on the fact that she remains quite distanced until comfortable with a vampire- a good trait to have frankly in this world, though it saddens me what caused such a action to become necessary in her.
Afton slowly reaches for her hand kissing her knuckles politely before releasing her, and I direct her to a seat.
"It is my honour to meet you as well Isabella. It is a disgrace that you have heard of me only in such a shameful context."
Bella sits and I join her on the small couch before Afton follows and takes a place opposite us.
"I was still quite young at the time, and toward the back of the group so I was spared the majority of Lady Sulpicia's rightful anger about the incident. It really was such a dreadful loss all of that knowledge."
Bella nods before glancing at me seemingly unsure what to say so I pick up the strain of conversation.
"Heidi has been demoted, sweet and I cannot trust your safety to her anymore. She usually gets on well with humans which is why she was originally chosen, but due to recent circumstances she has been reassigned. Afton has been with the guard the longest of any member and has decided he would like to pass on the running of the guard's day to day activities to Demetri who he has been training as his second. He is going to be your personal guard," I explain to her.
Normally so much would not be said in front of a guard member but Afton has gained our trust over the millennia. He has always been hardworking, forward thinking and obedient, not to mention an excellent leader of the guard during his time in the position. He has also saved Aro's life in battle before, which has earned him much respect from the Volturi as a whole.
"Alright," Bella replies uncertainly. I glance at Afton for him to take the explanation hoping this will allow her to bond with him on some small level.
"It is my privilege to be chosen as your guard Isabella. Only the most trusted of the guard earn such positions to watch the family personally. Renata is assigned as Lord Aro and Lady Sulpicia's bodyguard most often due to her gift, whereas Corin and Alec are usually charged with Lord Caius and Lady Athenodora. Lord Marcus'" he gestures to me "when he leaves the castle has been off and on guarded by me as well as my mate Chelsea who due to her gift of bond tying tends to mesh well with him."
I nod in confirmation to this statement, and am pleased that he has left out that Jane often joined Renata in protection of Aro and Sulpicia. Needless to say, the one that will take her position will be required to go through a selection process created with higher ruthlessness.
"Renata is the physical shield, right?" Bella questions.
"That is correct. She requires touch to activate it however so she is often seen literally hanging onto Aro's robes," I explain.
Afton picks up after me after seeing my cue once more for him to speak. "Alec whom you've met briefly cuts off the mind from all other senses with the use of a creeping fog, whereas Corin is especially stealthy. She has the ability to still be fully seen, yet blend into the background as it were. As long as she is not standing directly in front of you, she will go unnoticed. Often she can 'pull' someone into hiding with her, which is highly useful as well."
Bella nods again, nibbling her lip in thought. "So based on all the others chosen, you have a gift as well?" she asks hesitantly as if afraid she is wrong or possibly insulting someone. I really must speak to her today about being my mate.
"Yes," Afton answers, "Other than being quite good at staying alive now that I am so old, I am able to appear as though I am in two places at once."
"That sounds useful," Bella comments "distract in one place act in another." She pauses for a moment before adding, "You're good at card tricks aren't you?"
I laugh and Afton looks astonished before he bellows with laughter as well. Bella has an uncomfortable smile on her face, obviously wondering if the joke is on her.
"It continues to astound me, Bella how observant you can be and then how you make these jumps of logic," I state trying to impress upon her that I am merely surprised by her continuing ability to guess the correct answer despite the odds against it.
"I am actually quite fond of slight of hand games," Afton admits to her causing Bella's smile to become less strained.
"Afton is well known amongst the guard for his pranks. It is also a bit of a running joke that Chelsea, his wife and mate, is the only one patient enough with him to endure the same card tricks more than once."
Bella sincerely smiles for a moment. "My mother went through a phase where she wanted to learn magic tricks. I would spend hours with her watching her try them until she got it correct. The amount of times I found cards down the couch still boggles me," she offers.
Afton grins back at her, "Well then, sometime we'll have to see which ones you already know?"
They continue to speak and I must say I am pleased. Afton's playful attitude seems to set Bella at ease which is more that I was hopeful for. Yes, I am sure I have made the correct choice in who to guard Bella.
BPOV
"I hope you do not mind sitting with me for a little while, Isabella," Aro says from his nearby chair in Marcus' study. Marcus had said that he had a small errand in town that he needed to attend to and Aro had shown up soon after he departed.
"It's fine, Aro. I'm sure you have better things to do though, please don't feel like you need to sit with me. Marcus already has Afton outside the door."
Aro shakes his head and waves his hand through the air, "Nonsense Isabella, I am not here to watch you as if you are an unruly child. Though if you wish to mix up Marcus' desk papers I will not inform him that it was you who did so."
I snort lightly at this, tucking my socked feet up underneath me to keep warm. "No, you wouldn't have to though would you? If I were of such a mind to do so, he'd be able to smell that it was I that had done it," I reply raising an eyebrow at the vampire across from me.
"You have caught me!" Aro says melodramatically and without a hint of remorse- instead he actually sounds quite pleased. "However, dear Isabella I do believe some light-hearted mischief might do you good. You are so serious all the time. Why I am an ancient aristocratic vampire and I believe I have more fun than you."
I shrug awkwardly in response. "I am a boring person except for my habit of attracting trouble. I prefer sedate and calm environments. Besides with mischief someone always gets stuck cleaning up the ensuing mess." Yes, I'm being a little cynical, but after yesterday and all that happened with Jane and my conversation with Sulpicia I just want to rest. I'm emotionally wrung out and fun requires effort. Plus I'm on edge today. You'd think with the fact that I made it through yesterday and all the upheavals that occurred without a massive break-down I'd be getting better but I know better than to think that. Yesterday happened to be a good day, today is a bad one. This is just the way it works." I take a deep breath, and then continue, "Often if I make it through a situation without having a panic attack I have a less intense but longer struggle on my hands the day or so after. Kind of like how your body is weak after being attacked by a virus. You're not sick anymore but you're still weak and achy and tired a lot.
"I do not think you are nearly as unexciting as you believe yourself to be, my dear. Instead, I would not be surprised if you merely need to be comfortable enough in your surroundings to be able to enjoy yourself. Plus, you are with us now- we have guard members to do any required cleaning, Isabella," Aro teases me gently.
I shrug again looking out the window, "Possibly I suppose," I give in not wanting to be contradictory, "I have not been truly comfortable for a long time." I have come pretty close though when I am with Marcus though, I admit to myself. I sometimes manage a level of peace with him that I haven't achieved for many years.
"And the medication takes that unease away?" Aro questions, genuinely curious if I can believe his tone. I turn to him in response. No one but the doctor that prescribed the Xanax soon after I started taking it has ever been interested in how the medication affects me other than that it calms me down.
"No," I say, shocking him, "it doesn't take it away."
Aro's brow is furrowed now as he looks at me, his head tilted slightly. "Do you need a higher dosage or a different medication then?"
I shake my head negatively again, realizing I am going to likely have to explain myself. "Have you ever read someone's thoughts that had an anxiety disorder, Aro?"
"No I have not Isabella, I tend to avoid touching any disturbed individuals unless necessary. It is unsettling and I can block the thoughts of the humans I feed from by only touching them with the minimum of contact while focusing on the flavour of their blood. May I inquire as to why you ask?"
I nod thinking about how best to word this. "Medication does not solve my problem. In my case it doesn't take the panic or the anxiety away. The pills I take merely make it so I can think a little more rationally during my panic. Lower my anxiety enough that it is not so insurmountable as a sheet of vertical ice I must over come but instead merely a mountain. Many people don't realize that it is still a battle with the aid of medication. Unlike physical illness or disease the pills don't heal me. They don't make everything better or positive. They just make it so that I can function. I've gotten quite good at appearing as though everything is perfectly fine. I am able- once I reach a level where I can think rationally- to distract myself or push away the issue for periods of time. The length of time I can push away the anxiety or stress inducing event, the longer I can avoid thinking or dwelling on it the better I am. Eventually I sometimes forget the incident entirely, or it decreases in importance and thus in the amount it affects me, or I am able to finally logically dismiss it, but it is rarely the Xanax that fixes it."
"I see," Aro says contemplatively, "So the Xanax merely allows you the opportunity to adjust your thought process and emotions in such a way that the stressor is not as important as it was previously."
I nod in confirmation, "It basically takes me out of the pure panic mode I'm in and allow me to think clearer, or allows me to stop myself from getting myself into such a state. I mean the stuff does help, it's certainly not me doing all the work myself. It just doesn't make the issue disappear. See ideally the idea is to take the medication until I am through the difficult period of my life. When I supposedly am in a peaceful time my anxiety will be lessened naturally and my system won't be constantly stimulated by anxiety inducing scenarios. Essentially I won't require as much to stay stable and can wean myself off the medication slowly. But my life has never reached a period of peace long enough for me to even contemplate such a thing. And to be honest, I can't make it through the day without it, and I would rather take them everyday for the rest of my life than have the constant worry that everything I do or experience or even think about is going to set me off. Of course the fact I take medication and rely on it so heavily seems to put others on edge."
"How does that possibly put others off, Isabella? I am not put off, you explained yourself quite clearly," Aro states a hint of agitation to his tone.
I nibble my lip studying him for a moment. "I'm not positive of course but I think it is a multitude of factors. Firstly, no one ever asks how the medication affects me. Everyone assumes that it either fixes the issue or takes all the pain away. I also think it is the stigma of it. That like recreation drug addicts, I use it without facing my problems. That I am weak to require it, and maybe I am, but I cannot see myself functioning well without it. There is also fear. People fear the idea that their own minds could betray them in such a way. They don't understand how I can't control the way my mind automatically switches to such tension and stress- especially when it makes no logical sense. And most do not want to understand- as they say, ignorance is bliss."
"Well then I thank-you for explaining it to me, Isabella. You should be aware that vampires do not last as long as our family has by living under that model- instead ignorance usually leads to painful dismemberment and turning to ash."
I nod a bit awkwardly, a tad uncomfortable with the truth of that statement. "I can understand that I suppose. Knowledge is power and all that." I pause a moment before I decide to just go ahead and say it. "Though I wouldn't be surprised if you just like knowing everyone's dirty secrets, Aro," I say shyly teasing.
Aro grins with a mixture of joy and mischief at me. "Oh my dear, you are quite correct in your assessment. I am rather fond of puzzles, and secrets are usually the most delicious pieces of them. It is rather one of the things that enchants me so much about you, Isabella. I have met multiple shields throughout my life- not many mind you but a fair number, and yet they were only physical in nature. Never have I met anyone that could completely block my gift, leaving behind a black slate as it were. Your silent mind confounds and intrigues me. And you say that some vampire gifts do in fact work on you?"
I nod hesitantly, not really wanted to speak about the other vampires I have met that are gifted. "Yes. Most do not seem to but some that affect my physical body have affect."
Aro claps his hands once, "Indeed most interesting. Of course as a human I do not expect further knowledge of your own mind needed to identify the likely intricacies of the reasoning behind your impenetrable thoughts. Maybe later. In the mean time, my beautiful wife mentioned that you require more medication?" he asks lightly.
I nod looking down at my shoelaces. I'm not ashamed of needing the pills, but rather that I need to rely on someone else to perform the simple task of retrieving them for me.
"Very good. We actually are scheduled to meet with one of our suppliers this evening, so write out the chemical name, any specifications and how many tablets you prefer and they will get them for us within the next few days. All of the information I believe is on your original pill bottle if I remember correctly, yes?" Aro asks redundantly gesturing with his hands. I nod compliantly though thinking about this scenario. Because I am not going to see a doctor apparently, I won't be receiving a real prescription. If I don't have a real prescription I'm not receiving my medication from a pharmacy. Ergo, the pills I'll be receiving will be obtained somehow illegally.
It's not the breaking of the law that has me a little offset- I can certainly understand how cutting out actually meeting a doctor lowers the chance of my discovery within the country or notice from the government- however, the source of the Xanax and the way they are obtained is something that bothers me.
Aro is watching me closely head ever-so-slightly tilted to one side in observation as I think. I'm fairly sure he knows my mind is going a mile a minute and from the expression on his face he seems to be wondering what I am thinking about. Aro is more curious than some children I've met, which is actually quite amusing to me, especially as I don't particularly find my own thoughts all that profound or interesting.
"Well, when Marcus reappears he shall escort you to the meeting this evening."
I go to open my mouth before pausing, not quite sure how to portray my feelings without accidently insulting Aro. "You don't have to answer, Aro but may I ask you a question?"
Aro smiles at me brightly crossing his leg over the other, resting his folded hands in his lap. "Of course, my dear! Though I will not tell you everything (one must have some secrets you know) you may certainly ask me any enquiries that you have," he states exuberantly paying close attention to me.
"Is… is anyone going to get hurt in order for me to get my meds? And you trust your supplier to get the correct thing right? It's just some drugs can really mess humans up more than normal and-"
Aro cuts me off with a couple waves of his hand through the air until I stop speaking. "Do not be so stressed Isabella, you queries are perfectly relevant. There is no need to defend yourself. Now as to the first question, though as you extrapolated the Voturi supplier is not a legal entity, there will be no need for violence when money works much faster and with more subtlety. Slip some into the right hands and everything will go smoothly. Secondly, the Cosa Nostra and the Volturi do many things for one another. They bring us blood in different forms, and we use each other to launder money in addition to corpse disposal. The Cosa Nostra is one of our main sources for identification documentation and covering vampire crimes. In return however they sometimes borrow one of our guard members for various tasks such as assassination, high profile theft, etc. Their very lives are in our hands during such times and they are well aware of the fact. They will not mistake your medication for another substance I assure you. They value their lives too greatly to make that sort of mistake."
I nod a few times with a short "Okay, thanks," in reply. The realization that the Volturi are sometimes the vampire equivalent of the mob in their dealings is off-putting. I mean logically I understand, it makes clear sense from a strategic stand-point but the ease at which Aro spoke of it- like assassination and body disposal was as common as the changing weather- that finally made their danger potential set in. The only comforting things I've received from this conversation are that no one is going to die over my Xanax, I won't overdose on an unknown substance, and that I can plan on Aro not sugar-coating the truth. At all.
Aro nods in such a way that I can almost hear the "Good, now everything is fixed to my satisfaction" in the action. He then proceeds to take a book seemingly at random from the bookshelf behind Marcus' desk and begins to read. Taking that as my cue, I turn back to the text that was previously occupying me.
Some minutes pass before Aro moving to open the door catches my attention. Looking up a blonde and light blue blur becomes Athenodora who happily skips into the room holding a small mountain of boxes and packages.
She bustles forward and it takes me a moment to see another limby female vampire with dark blonde hair carrying a larger mound. The guard (for who else would they be if they are willing to carry Athenodora's things?) places the items neatly beside the chair beside where I am sitting as Athenodora has just made herself quite comfortable there.
"It's mail day! And I come bearing gifts. I love mail day, it's like receiving presents only knowing whatever you are getting is guaranteed to be something you'll like- because you picked it out yourself! Oh, thank-you for your help, Corin. That will be all for now, you are dismissed for the time being," Athenodora chimed to me before turning to the guard.
Corin bowed and left the room, but Athenodora had already turned her enthusiastic attention back at her target- me.
"Now, I just picked some things that I thought you may like, and I believed would look lovely on you but if you don't like anything for whatever reason at all we can send it back. It's just like having the boutique come to you! Aro, why are you still standing? Either sit and admire my taste and how lovely Bella will look in the garmets or leave. You loom so distractingly dear brother it is quite concerning."
Aro laughs gleefully at this clapping his hands once in mirth. "Oh you do entertain me Athenodora dear, but I believe I shall take my leave. I do not doubt your exquisite taste and so whatever Isabella chooses will be delightful. It will be a surprise worth waiting to be unveiled I think. Have fun, dears," he says before sweeping out of the doorway securely closing the heavy wooden door behind himself.
"Athenodora, how much did you buy!" I ask staring in horror at the sheer amount of parcels she was pushing towards my chair.
"Oh not that much Bella, just some basics and a couple pretty things that caught my eye. Here open this one first!"
I sit staring at the bubble wrapped mailer before I look up at the crazy blonde vampire beside me. "This is all too much Athenodora. I-"
"No, no, no, no!" Athenodora sternly says interrupting me. "No guilt. I have bought you nice things because I want to and that's it. You deserve to feel good about yourself and having clothing that makes you feel beautiful is a good step forward. If you genuinely don't like everything I've ordered I'll send it all back or donate it or something, but you have to at least look at them first!"
I blink at her for a moment after she finishes scolding me and reluctantly nod. Unlike with Alice, Athenodora seems to want to dress me as a way of making me feel better rather than because she disapproves of my normal clothes. That's something at least, and she does look so hopeful and happy about all the things she's bought.
Resolving myself to 'dislike' most of the things I open up the package in my lap. Moving tissue paper and ripping off tape I slowly reveal beautiful blue silk that flows over my hands. My resolve promptly dies as I hold the garment up.
In my hands is a beautiful silk and crinoline cocktail dress with a peacock feather design. It's in a stunning seafoam blue with a strapless sweetheart neckline and a sheer yellow layer inbetween two seafoam layers providing contrast. I instantly loved it.
"Oh Dora," I sigh, "It so gorgeous. I don't have a bra I can wear with it as it's strapless but it's really nice."
"Intimates need to be tried on in person so I left them for later, but not to worry. We'll get you kitted out! I'm so pleased you like it, I thought that the colour would look so lovely with your complexion and hair colour. Plus the style is pretty but still quite young so you can wear it on a night out. Now do you want to look at another dress or something else?"
All in all Athenodora completely blew my mind with all the things she bought. She has been completely fine with me telling her that I don't like the cut or colour or style of something. Unlike with Alice, Dora just shrugs and tosses the item into a discard pile. After more than a hour later I am sitting here with 7 new shirts, 2 sweaters, 1 pair of shorts, 2 dress pants, 4 skirts, 3 dresses and 2 pairs of yoga pants; because according to Athenodora yoga pants are not only a comfortable gift from god they also bring out the best in one's ass. Yes she told me that and no I had no idea how to respond.
Currently though we are arguing over footwear. The 3 pairs of flats that she picked out were lovely (as are some of the other pairs of footwear that she bought for me previously) but the heels are a no go for me.
"No, Athenodora I just can't! I don't do high heels. The last time I wore heels I fell in them and broke my ankle along with receiving a concussion. Then about a month later I tripped over the damn things in the hall and re-broke the ankle before it was completely healed. I donated them to charity the next day. I wear things like running shoes, or hiking boots, or if I'm going fancy ballet flats, because high heels and me are mortal enemies and our meeting can only end in a disaster of epic proportions. The shoes are lovely and I'm sure they'd look great on, but my proximity to them is likely to lead to my death or permanent paralysis," I say only semi-joking at the end.
Athenodora pouts and is about to say something when the door of the study opens and Marcus comes through.
"We will be required then to remove all of the atrocities from your presence then. Athenodora, I am afraid we must burn all your high-heeled footwear for Bella's safety; Sulpicia's as well. I will let you break the news to her," Marcus says in a serious tone before giving me a wink. Glancing over at Athenodora I see her mock- pouting and gaping in horror.
"But Marcus, my brother! You shall have to explain to my husband why some of his favourite shoes to witness me in must be sent into the pyre and I will leave you responsible for convincing Aro he needs to remove his 16th century court heels from his wardrobe. I do not think he will part with them willingly!"
Covering my mouth I giggle at the two of them only pausing when Marcus comes over and kisses my forehead. Automatically I lean into him, wrapping my arms around his waist in welcome. For a split second he seems surprised at my move, but before I can even think about backing away he leans and lifts me into a proper hug and I readjust my arms over his shoulders and around his neck instead.
"Hello, dearest," he greets holding me tightly, and I feel secure despite the fact my legs are hanging uselessly beneath me above the ground.
"Hi," I reply suddenly shy.
"I see Athenodora has introduced you to her online shopping addiction," Marcus comments, tracing the fingers of his one hand down my spine.
Athenodora makes a sound of protest, but Marcus ignores her and sits in the chair I recently occupied, easily rearranging me as he does so, so that I end up sitting sideways on his lap.
After squeaking a little in surprise at my suddenly new position (damn speedy vampires) I settle a bit, resting my head on Marcus' conviently placed shoulder. The cool that radiates up from his skin through his shirt is actually quite soothing at the moment.
"It is not an addiction, it's a hobby. One you and your brothers all fully support Marcus I would like to remind you. Aro was all like 'We need someone to understand this new finagled inter-net-web thing' and Aro was too lazy to figure it out himself, and Sulpicia was busy with her charity auction and Caius was suspicious of anything new like always and you were blank-faced and completely uninterested and so I got volunteered for the position. So after all that hard work of learning the intricacies and the minute details and convincing Caius that he really could use the internet for business I found a nifty way to entertain myself and cut down on the running around work that the guard used to do."
"I am not sure that the guard having more time on their hands is a good thing-" Marcus states semi-seriously before throws a wadded up shirt from the discard pile our way. Marcus of course grabs it well before it can hit his head, and a good second before I instinctively flinch, not at all perturbed by Athenodora's throwing something at him.
"Shush, you," she scolds playfully. "Or I'll tell the workcrew to paint your entire rooms neon orange."
I shudder in revulsion at the thought. "I suggest you indulge her habit Marcus," I advise, "Not only does Dora have excellent taste and an uncanny ability to guess the correct sizes for a person- I don't think I can visit you in your rooms if I am in fear of my eyes shriveling up and burning in response to neon walls."
Marcus chuckles lowly causing his chest to vibrate pleasantly against me, which makes my breath catch.
"Very well then, Athenodora, you have won; I am ever so grateful for your superb online shopping abilities," he states just the smallest thread of sarcasm mixed into his tone. I try to stifle my giggles in his shirt, but I don't think I'm succeeding all that well.
"Sure, laugh it up," Athenodora says lightly. "You'll change your tune, brother when you see Bella in all the wonderful things we got her."
At this I nod and look up at Marcus slightly "Dora bought me so much, but I really do like what she picked out. Don't know where or when I'll wear it all- and I certainly don't want to imagine how much it cost- but it is nice to have new clothes."
Marcus angles his head slightly before pressing his lips to my forehead almost reverently. "Then I am truly glad for Athenodora's hobby," she states simply before looking over at her. Athenodora is grinning and preening playfully at us.
"May I ask why you're having workmen in your rooms Marcus?" I question once Athenodora stops and begins to sort out return labels with items in the discard pile.
"I felt they needed to be spruced up a bit," Marcus comments. Athenodora huffs out a laugh at his reply causing me to look at her.
"Spruced up is an understatement. He's getting them completely renovated because they haven't been updated since the early 1700s. Don't listen to him Bella, we've given up on including Marcus in design decisions long ago. Sulpicia and I are in charge of the entire project. If you want you can help us pick out tiles and shower heads and things. With how much needs to be done we can use all the help we can get!"
I glance up at Marcus who with twitching lips shrugs not contesting Athenodora's words at all which makes me smile again. "Sure I'll help. Not sure how much use I'll be I'm willing to try."
Athenodora smiles blindingly at me and nods happily. "Excellent. Now is there anything else we need to go over? I'll have someone take your things to your room Bella so just leave them here."
I rack my brain for a couple seconds knowing that there was something earlier that I wanted to bring up but I can't remember it off the top of my head. Then suddenly it hits me.
"Um, Aro said I should attend the meeting with the Cosa Nostra this evening and I honestly have no clue what's appropriate to wear. Or how to act or anything." The more I think about this the more anxious I get which causes me to think about the situation more creating a vicious little circle of tension and worry.
"Not a problem, Bella. I'll lay out an outfit for you alright?" Dora asks perkily, but with a gently undertone. She seemingly has picked up on my sudden batch of nerves.
Marcus notices as well and is soothingly running his fingertips along my spine again.
"Aro should have waited until I was present before convincing you that your attendance is necessary. It is not, if you do not wish to attend, dearest," he says underlying displeasure in his tone.
"But I need more pills," I protest quietly, a desperate edge to my words. Marcus brushes back my hair from my face so that he can see me better.
"If you decide you are unable to go to the meeting just make a note with all the details and I will bring it. I do not want you to distress yourself, sweet."
Athenodora then pipes up drawing both of our attentions towards her. "It's really not as bad as it seems, Bella. The only members of the Cosa Nostra that will be there are high ranking ones and they're always on their best behaviour. They'll be like five of them total. I've been to a supply meeting before for some of the things I needed for the bat caves. They'll stare at you a bit, and answer when you speak to them but for the most part they are strictly business and will ignore you," she reassures.
"Athenodora is correct, my Bella. There is very rarely violence at these meetings. In addition I will be there by your side the entire time, and Aro will be present as well. I will also post Afton in the room, if you wish." Marcus pauses letting his words sink in, still gently rubbing my back.
"It is your choice, sweet. However, I would like to say I think you will feel better if you attend. Then you will know without doubt that the information they receive is correct, which is something I believe will make it so you do not worry as much, yes?"
I nod, admitting to both myself and him that that is totally something I would start worrying about as soon as I handed him the piece of paper with the information for my medication on it.
"I guess I can try," I say not exactly sure this is a good decision but it seems to be the best one available at the moment.
"You'll be fine, honey. And if things go badly we'll hunt down a whole bunch of alcohol and get you so drunk you'll not remember any of it in the morning," Athenodora says brightly gathering up the couple of garments she's keeping from what she ordered for herself.
I laugh weakly. "Let's leave that option as a last resort, but I'll keep it in mind," I say. Dora shrugs as if to say 'suit yourself' and leans in placing an affectionate kiss on my cheek.
"You'll be fine, take one of your pills before you go to meet them just to keep your anxiety down and everything else will take care of itself,' she advises me before sweeping out of the room with her goodies.
Turning a little to look at Marcus easier, I sit up straighter. "Is there anything I should know? Things I shouldn't say or do?"
Marcus leans back to see me better, then trails the backs of his fingers along my jawline. "Just be polite, Isabella. Athenodora was correct in what she said, mostly they'll be strictly business. Follow my lead and everything will go smoothly. I will not let you fail, my mate."
I swallow hard. "I don't want to be a burden though," I whisper. "I don't want you to feel like you have to watch me in case I screw up." Marcus suddenly grips my chin and gently forces my eyes up to meet his. I hadn't even realized I was no longer looking at him.
"Isabella I want you to listen carefully to me. You are my mate, and I'm fairly sure that you do not understand the connotations of that- which is no fault of yours, however I want you to remain quiet until the end. I want you to take everything in as a whole and then I will answer any questions you have alright?"
I nod jerkily a little worried I've done something to upset him.
"You will never be a burden to me, Isabella. Nothing you say or do or feel will change that, your very presence is a gift to me." He pauses for a second cupping my face in his hands.
"When we are together my entire being relaxes and exudes joy. Nothing literally nothing has affected me as much as you do by being in the same room as me. Your very presence eases centuries of pain and worry. That is exactly what a mate does- they take the hurt of the years and they erase it. You make my existence worth living, Isabella. For that there is nothing I can give you that can compare."
I open my mouth to speak but he gently shakes his head and places a finger over my lips. "Not yet sweet, soon I promise," he says and I nod again. His one hand moves to cup the back of my head his thumb brushing over the pulse on my throat.
"Male vampires are more chaotic by nature. It takes us longer get our bloodlust under control and our instincts tend to be more intense. Athenodora and Sulpicia both believe it has something to do with the venom's reaction with testosterone. Having a mate settles some of the violence in our personalities, but like most aspects of life it doesn't disappear but changes focus. We are protective and possessive. I see you Bella and all the pain you've been through and our mating bond screams at me to help you. To care for you always and ensure you want for nothing. To support you, cherish you, and shield you from anything harmful- even yourself. It is my responsibility and privilege to teach you and love you until the day I burn or the end of eternity." I couldn't have interrupted him at this point if I even wanted to. I'm fairly sure my eyes are wide and my mouth is slightly open as I stare at him.
Isabella you are the single most important person to me. I will never leave you, sweet. If I must tell you every day that I love you I will, until you believe it and then I'll continue reaffirming it so you shall never doubt me."
Tears are streaming down my cheeks and silently I grab his free hand wanting to make sure he's real and not just a figment of my imagination.
"Forever? R..really?" I stutter out.
Marcus leans forward so that our foreheads touch. "Yes, dearest. When you're ready I'll change you and hold you through the burn. I will be by your side through your newborn year and then when you're stable enough I will ask you to marry me. Forever and always, Dear One, I promise."
Taking a couple deep breaths I try to get my fluctuating emotions under control. Leaning back I use my sleeves to wipe the tears from my face, idly thinking Sulpicia really was onto something by carrying a handkerchief.
Once I feel a little more put together I reach forward and hug him again. He returns it, burying his nose into my hair.
"I love you too, Marcus," I mumble. "I haven't known you long but with you I feel safe and happy again. With you it's okay to be myself, which is something I've never felt before. It scares me how quickly I've opened up to you but it's as though I've known you my entire life. Everything just seems… right."
"The bond is supposed to feel like that, my Bella. Nowhere else are mates more content than with each other. Watch Aro and Sulpicia or Caius and Athenodora the next time we are all together. Mates gravitate to one another and it can be intimidating at first, but it's meant to be. Try not to over think it, sweet."
I make an affirmative noise basking in the feeling of being so close to someone who cares about me. After a few minutes I instinctively move up and peck Marcus on the lips.
Realizing what I just did my cheeks flush bright red. Marcus looks at me chuckling lowly no doubt at my expression. He's smiling at me in a way that looks slightly wicked and playful at the same time. "I haven't even given you your gift yet, dearest, will I get a proper kiss then?"
I blush harder and shrug averting my eyes. Marcus laughs harder and his lips brush my temple before I feel him moving a bit. Looking up I see that he's removing a velvet jewelry box from his overcoat. It's black and fairly large, providing quite a contrast against his pale fingers.
"This is what I needed to pick up today. Open it," Marcus urges, pressing the box into my hands. Glancing up at him the wicked playful smile is still there but something more serious has taken up residence too.
Lifting the top the hinges creak a little before the piece inside is revealed. Nestled in black velvet is a silver-gold swan with it's wings spread. About three inches across its head is poised back and high- breast thrust forward proudly. Where one would expect to see feather details for the breast to match the wings is instead a crimson stone heart that seamlessly blends into the swan's body shape. On the heart is an old fashioned capital 'V' with gold detailing. The entire thing makes me catch my breath.
"Marcus, it's beautiful, you shouldn't have," I say tracing my finger along the line of the swan's neck.
"I am going to spoil you Isabella, whether you like it or not," he says his voice firm but still playful. "I knew as soon as you said your full name that this piece was meant for you," he says, causing me to look up at him once more.
"I needed to get the enamel engraved with the V for the Volturi which is where I was today. You are part of our family now, Bella. I never want you to forget that the Volturi name is yours now and all the support and backing that you have. However, I do not wish you to forget where you came from either, dear one. I thought the white-gold swan fitting."
Nibbling my lip I ask "Will you help me put it on?" Marcus grins widely nodding and so I twist and try to pull up my mass of hair off my neck. A small weight settles on my chest and a moment later Marcus' gentle hands remove my own from my hair allowing it to tumble down again.
I turn back to face him and he runs his thumb along the edge of one of the swan's wings other fingers skimming my collarbone. The sensation causes me to gasp a little which draws Marcus' attention back to my face.
"So beautiful, my sweet," he comments before I feel my chin tilted and his lips meet mine.
Our kiss is soft and sweet. He cups my neck and kisses gently along my bottom lip before repeating his kisses along the top. He doesn't mind when I suck on his bottom lip for a bit or when I move forward and slide my hands into his hair I accidently bump my teeth into his. Instead I can hear and feel him laughing momentarily.
He removes his lips from mine kissing up my jaw while I gasp for air before he stops by my ear. "There's no rush, sweet, just relax and enjoy the kisses for what they are, alright?"
I nod shakily and move my legs a bit so I'm straddling his upper thighs and more comfortable. He helps me settle, steadying my waist as I move, one hand remaining on my lower back the other back to my neck as he kisses me again.
His lips kiss deeper this time and I follow his lead feeling close to euphoric. Nothing else seems to matter with him kissing me. Lightly nipping my lips or sucking gently it continues and my hands are tight in his hair all the while his other hand is steady and reassuring on my lower back.
I lean into a particularly deep open mouthed kiss, and I rock forward on his lap. I encounter a lump with the crotch of my jeans, which a split second later I realize must be his erection. I gasp.
Marcus remains unphased however, and merely grabs my waist pulling me slightly away from him but still on his lap quite comfortably. We continue for a bit and part of me is pleased that I've caused such a reaction in him but I know I don't want to go beyond kissing right now. Before I can even think about going farther, Marcus starts to ease off, peppering kisses on my face. I giggle and he smiles at me widely after I stop and attempt to catch my breath.
I lean my head on his shoulder again, breaths of air puffing onto his neck when a thought occurs to me.
"Will the rest of your family be alright with you giving me this?" I question softly tracing the V on the breast of the swan.
"They already know, sweet. Everyone is pleased that you are joining our family. They all have managed to form quite thick bonds to you in the short time you've been here."
I look up surprised, "Even Caius?"
Marcus brushes back some of my hair over my shoulder. "Yes, Bella, even Caius. I know he hurt you, dearest but you have no reason to fear him anymore. He is glad you have bonded with me, he just does not wish to frighten you and so keeps his distance. He also has little interaction with humans and so he does not know how to treat you. Caius will warm up with time, it took him a while with Sulpicia and Didyme too."
I nod, feeling a little better that it isn't just me that he has avoided.
"Now," Marcus begins, "Have you eaten today?"
AN: This is the chapter that just would not end! There were just more and more scenes I felt needed to be included and then somehow I ended up here.
I put I think the most of myself into this chapter than I have into anything for years, so please be gentle. It was a difficult portion to write but I'm pleased with the overall result I think. Despite all the many delays and this coming about 5 days late to you all.
If you are curious as to what Sulpicia asked Gianna during the Tiramisu scene she was wondering what was wrong with Bella and why she was rambling. Gianna in reply explains that she's just hyped up on sugar and she'll calm back down in a bit.
I want to thank everyone that reviewed last chapter. All your ideas and thoughts were very much appreciated and so inspiring. I can only hope my story continues to live up to expectations.