PREVIOUSLY: Alice's eyes softened. "I know his behavior may seem confusing, but please give him a chance. Things can finally turn out well for once."

Bella hugged Alice tightly and said, "I will try, Alice. I will try..."

Alice whispered, "You will not be disappointed," in return.

Chapter Ten

In the dining hall, Edward sat at the head of the table and Bella sat directly to his right. They were just beginning to dine on the first course.

"How are you this evening?" The king asked Bella.

"I am doing fine," she answered.

"And our little ones?"

Bella smiled warmly. "They are quite well."

"Have you felt them move yet?"

"I've felt small flutters here and there. I'm only a couple of weeks pregnant, the kicking won't start until later on."

"Ah yes, I recall Irina…" He coughed. "Never mind."

"Irina?" She inquired curiously.

"Just forget it," Edward spat harshly.

Bella rolled her eyes. "And so it begins."

"What are you talking about?" He asked with annoyance in his voice.

"I should have known your facade would wear off. It seems impossible for you to have one civil conversation with me."

Edward raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?"

"Yes! I'm sorry that this has happened to us; I know that you despise me." She said, in a dejected tone.

"You think I despise you?"

"Am I wrong?"

Edward wiped his mouth with a napkin then stood up. He towered over Bella and looked down at her sullen face. Her brown eyes were glistening with unshed tears. He cupped her face and rested his forehead against hers.

"Oh Bella, you could not be more wrong." A lone tear slid down Bella's cheek and Edward kissed it away.

He picked up her small hand and placed it against his chest.

"My heart has been broken for a long time now. When Irina betrayed me, I banished the idea of ever having a family. I apologize for lashing out at you. This isn't a facade Bella, I am truly trying to change my ways; but as you can see, old habits die hard." He stroked her knuckles, waiting patiently for her to say something.

"So, you don't hate me?" She asked in a small voice.

Edward laughed quietly. "Silly woman, I promise, I do not hate you."

"What happens now? Would you want me to live here in the castle? I could go back home if you'd like?"

Edward pulled Bella onto his lap and wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Nonsense. I want you live here, with me," he said, while nuzzling her neck.

"I would like that. I'd also like to spend more time with you before the babies are born. When you aren't too busy of course."

"Of course," he smirked.

"I cannot believe I'm having two kids," she sighed happily.

Edward kissed her forehead lovingly. "We're having two kids," he corrected her.

She gazed into his eyes and saw a plethora of emotions: fear, nervousness, but above all, she saw pure happiness in them.

Alice was reading in her bedroom, her back against her husband's chest, when a certain feeling took hold of her. Jasper heard her intake of breath and immediately became concerned.

"Darling, are you alright?"

She kissed his jaw and smiled against his neck.

"Everything is just fine, my love."

WHAT DID YOU THINK? I love to hear from you all. :)

Btw, I don't have any kids, so I'm sorry if I get any of the pregnancy information wrong!