It was around one in the morning when Edward quietly pushed open the door to the master bedroom to wake his father. He had been concerned about them, since Carlisle woke in the night, seeming more confused than ever, Yet, when the cooper haired vampire reached the bed, he was fast asleep, his head tucked under Esme's chin. Even in her sleep, the matriarch's hand traced lazy comforting circles across her husband's back. The oldest son gently tapped his father, rousing him a bit. The doctor peered over his own shoulder, blinking a few times, before glaring at the young man.

"What time is it?" Carlisle furrowed his brows.

"Almost, three. We need to get going if we're going to get the answers you need," Edward chuckled, reading the patriarch's mind, "Don't worry, we'll only be gone a day. And when we return, you'll be able to put her mind at ease. She's worried, you know."

His father's gaze fell, "I do know. And she needs to know."

"They all do," the son smiled, 'So let's get going."

"You really couldn't have picked a later time?" the doctor chuckled, "You know, some of us need to sleep now."

Edward rolled his eyes, as threw a changes of clothes at Carlisle. Esme stirred slightly in her sleep, glancing at the clock at her bedside table, then back at them. She pouted slightly, before her husband leaned forward placing a tender kiss on her forehead and whispering quiet 'I love you's' in Italian.

"Where are you going?" Esme yawned sleepily, "If I'm not allowed to leave, you certainly aren't allowed to either."

"It's the trip I spoke to you about," Edward began, "He'll be back soon. I promise."

His mother glared at him, like she had done the previous day, but soon relented as her eyes began to fall. Carlisle reached down, and pulled the blankets up to her neck.

Edward had nothing for the trip and told Carlisle it was only going to be for a day. He didn't exactly tell his father how long of a day it was going to be until he handed him his passport. The doctor's face was blank as he sat in the passenger seat of the Volvo. And he didn't need for him to speak to know that his father wasn't exactly thrilled for the adventure. However, he wasn't objecting either, since he had always trusted Edward's judgment. He soon fell asleep against the window for the entire two hour drive to Seattle.

"England," Carlisle's mouth gapped as he sat in the airport terminal, "You're taking me back to my homeland. For what? An hour long dinner at a pub?"

His son chuckled, "You'll see. I think it'll help everyone understand what's been going on."

"I doubt that," the doctor shook his head, as they boarded the flight, "Your mother thought I was absolutely bonkers last night."

"Did you even try explaining it to her?" the copper haired vampire asked.

The blond man nervously ran his hand through his hair, "I couldn't find the right words. But, I'm sure my sleep in this babbling didn't help."

"No," Edward began to laugh again, "Not at all! But out of everyone in the family Esme would be more apt to believe you most."

"You wouldn't have, if you couldn't read my mind," his father settled himself in the seat near the window.

"True," the son smirked, "but, there wasn't going to be a day where I couldn't read your human thoughts. I know it's selfish but being able to relive everyone's memories with them has become sort of a guilty pleasure of mine."

"Knowing you," Carlisle sighed, buckling a seat for the nine hour plane ride, that doesn't surprise me in the slightest."

"So, do you like it?" A lopsided grin's spread across the younger man's face, "Having his memories back?"

"I do," the doctor smiled back.

The trip went by quicker than expected, especially for Carlisle slept almost the entire way. When they reached Landon, Edward had a car waiting for them. It was almost nine in the evening when they reached their final destination, just outside of the city. It was a small flat, but didn't look at all familiar to the blond man.

"Just follow my lead," Edward whispered as he stood on the front porch.

A lovely older woman answered the door and she quickly ushered them inside. Edward immediately thanked her for meeting with him and his brother on such short notice. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Carlisle arch and eyebrow. They hadn't use the brother cover story since before Esme head join the family.

"It's no problem," she smiled cheerfully, "The museum is just so glad they found the rightful owners."

It was then that she pulled out a rather large box of preserved writings and artwork. She handed Carlisle one of the pieces and it looked oddly familiar. Then in the corner he recognized it, his own signature.

"Where were these found?" he asked, with tears forming in his eyes.

"At our summer home," she grinned, "It's been in my family for generations. It's out in the countryside and was originally owned by my great…great… Oh, however many greats, grandfather John and his wife Hilde. I'm lucky, my families has kept well documented history since they escaped Puritan reign back in the 1600s."

"John and Hilde", the doctor's mouth twitched into a bittersweet smile.

"When we dug up the crumbling mausoleum, we didn't expect to find artwork in the mystery grave," she put a tiny stone marker and placed it on the table.

The blond man ran his fingers over the age description. It read, 'Hear lies Lisle. Beloved brother. Better friend.' And indescribable feeling washed over Carlisle as he looked over things from his life. The life he had to leave behind. He's smirked as he read through his writings and was in awe held up all of his old drawings, Remembering a time that he had long forgotten about, yet was so much a part of him.

"Yes," the homeowner began, "Lisle has always been a family mystery until Edward called. We had no idea the woman in these pictures with his wife," she placed a small folder in Carlisle's hands, "We thought she was made up since he never used her name in his writings. This is the collection the museum chose display."

The doctor opened the cover and saw what he had sketched. It was the most detailed picture of his Esme, a woman who at this point in his life he had only seen in his dreams. A frequent visitor that brought him joy in his darkest hours. A lovely maiden that he had search for. A lover he feared he would never meet. And fuzzy dream that he didn't believe could be reality, until he saw her in a small hospital outside of Columbus, Ohio. And even then, he couldn't quite place why he was so drawn to her.

"If you read the letters," she turned the page, "He always refers to her as his beloved and esteemed, E. That's how they chose the name for the woman pictured and the collection. The Esme."

"You know," Edward smirked looking to his father, "I think Lyle would've really loved that name. Thank you so much for letting us keep these in our family."

"Oh," the wonderful woman almost jumped in excitement, "I can't let you leave without the best piece. It's a small oil painting, but it's so beautiful."

The homeowner quickly uncovered the small canvas before them. Both Carlisle and Edward's mouths fell open in shock. This painting alone, along with all of the doctor's writings would surely be enough to explain the strangeness in his dreams. The copper haired vampire reached out and touch every face in the photo. Beside him the blonde man sighed in relief, as years of guilt and pain were washed from him.

The entire flight home Carlisle clutched his former belongings to his chest, still unable to comprehend that his two best friends had buried the fruits of his mind when they couldn't locate his body. For that he would be forever grateful. He couldn't wait to share these treasures with his family and explain to each of them the importance they played in his life. The doctor flipped through his manuscripts finding pieces for each of them to read. He spent hours sorting his works, remembering exactly what his life was like, and for the first time in a long time, Carlisle truly felt human.

Beside the blond man, Edward grinned happily, as he read bits and pieces of the letters through his father's mind. He wasn't exactly sure how he had discovered that Carlisle's odd dreams were ones he had had in his human past, but he was certainly glad he took the time to research. The copper haired vampire felt as though he had finally paid Carlisle back for the years of resentment and rebelliousness. And through the entire journey back home, the father and son, sat in peaceful silence, knowing how deeply the other cared.

However, that quietness was shattered the moment they arrived home to find the entire family still awake and sitting in the living room. Much to Edward's surprise it was Esme who scolded him for being so late. No, she immediately embraced Carlisle, picking up where they had left off that morning. It was little Renesmee who stamped her foot, and scolded her father for keeping Dr. G out so late. The copper haired vampire picked her up.

"You," she pointed at him, "You said you'd be home in 24 hours, but it's been 26. Do you know how worried we've been?"

"You were worried?" Edward knitted his eyebrows together, as he met his mother's gaze.

"No," Esme shook her head, "I knew you'd return him to me safe and sound."

"I was worried!" Nessie shouted in her English accent, "Do you know how many I have for you Dr. G? Like what was it like growing up in the puritan faith! And why do you talk to funny? Did the chocolate damage your voice?"

"What?" the doctor chuckled, "No, lovey, I'm just English. This is how we sound where I came from! That's where we went today!"

"You…you went to England?" Bella blinked her lashes.

"Why'd you go all the way across the pond?" Jasper smirked.

"Carlisle will show you," Edward motioned for the family to follow him into the living room.

An excited smile spread across the doctor's face as he handed each of his children a sheet of paper. He turned to Edward, allowing him to begin.

"My first son," the young man started, "A boy with slight cynicism and a gift of music. He brings humor to my life and beautiful melodies. We are similar in our ways of thought, but different inaction. Yet, he is always understanding. More often than not we speak in wordless communication. He doesn't need the words to listen. I wonder if under his unruly, ruddy, hair his mind is able to read the thoughts of others."

"What's going on?" Alice knitted her brows together.

"Pops? Did you write that?" Emmett looked to his father in curiosity.

"Rose," Edward looked to his sister, ignoring the other's questions, "You read yours next."

Rosalie nervously nodded, unfolding the slip of paper, "My oldest daughter," she began, "is a girl of great beauty and great sadness. Caring but temperamental. Smart and cunning. Many days I fear she may always dislike me. We share the same blonde hair, and pragmatic thinking, but she will never admit it. In that sense she is headstrong like her mother. However, she is forever loyal to our family, only wanting to uphold our best interests. And for that I'll forever be grateful." The blond turned to her husband.

Emmett hesitantly opened his letter, "My second son and third child is a giant, nearly reaching the height of his older brother. No doubt one day he will tower over us all. He is a jovial spirit with booming laughter and mop of curly brown hair. He works hard at all he does and never ceases to smile. He brings joy and excitement to a family who tends to fall too easily into silence. Although his demeanor is more than often pleasant, I know he would always fight to defend his family."

"Jasper," Carlisle grinned, "You go, then Alice."

"Of course," The soldier nodded, "My fourth child and final son. He is quiet and when he speaks, others listen. All know that his words are of the utmost importance. Despite his solitude, he is welcoming in his own way. Best described as a scholar, he is the one that would pass best as my own child, if not for our ages. He has a fascination with war and no doubt will lead army's one day. But he is not cold, he feels everything deeply and his secretly sensitive soul is safe within the confine of our family."

"My fifth child, and second daughter," Alice stated reading excitedly, having been patiently waiting her turn, "Is a blithe, spritely little thing, whose short dark tendrils make her seem almost fae-like. An utter joy to be in the presence of, for the child has nothing but love for those around her. She is boisterous like her second brother, but in a way unique to herself. She is never wrong and knows far more than this world can comprehend. Her sense of adventure is high and her curiosity is unmatched, and for that I cherish her all the more."

"Bella," Edward nodded in her direction, "Your turn."

A blush rose in the brunette's cheeks, as she inhaled deeply, "My sixth child and third daughter. An almost silent babe. Her large brown eyes in a constant observation of the world around her. New to this family and our ever chaotic life, she adapts quickly and with great strides. She has taken to the eldest of the boys and dare I say it, has helped him find his place among us. Her quiet disposition is calming and wonderful. With her our family seems nearly complete," Bella's eyes fell to Carlisle, "Nearly?"

"Mom," Edward ignored his wife, and turned to his mother. She had discovered what was going on half way through Emmett's letter, "You're last."

Carlisle's blue eyes bashfully looked up at Esme. They were full of adoration for his wife. She smiled, unfolding the brittle pages, "My Beloved and Esteemed, E," large tears were already beginning to form in her eyes, "Why must you always be gone when I wake? Where dost thou go? Canst thou give me just one letter more? A clue to your name or where I mine eyes might meet yours in the light of day? Father told me that I must choose. Choose between the bride he has picked for me or leading his raids. The decision was easy. I chose the raids. Alas, it goes against mine own nature, yet I will not settle for a maiden if it not be you. I am on my knees dear love, give me a sign as to who you are. My friends believe I have gone mad in searching for you. Other believe you must be a fairy or sprite come to torture my lonesome soul. Yet, I know that you have come to love me. To be my bride. To live this life I so often dream of with you and our children. Tis all I desire my beautiful, E. Until you are safe in my arms, I will never end my relentless search. All my love, your faithful servant, Carlisle."

"I guess you can say I had a bit of intuition when it came to choosing who to turn," the doctor scratched the back of his head as his wife enveloped him in a tight embrace, "Perhaps part of me always knew I'd have to create the family I always longed for."

"Dad's more than a writer," Edward smiled warmly, "He's also quiet the artist. I figured we could forego the semi-nude sketches of mom, and skip right to the painting."

"So dad drew mom naked and you're NOT going to show us?" Emmett boomed, "Damn pops, what happened to Mr. Son of a Preacher? You do this Titanic style or what?"

"From memory," Carlisle wiggled his eyes brows, "I hadn't met your mother yet, remember?"

"Hot!" the largest Cullen extended his hand for a fist bump.

"Nice," Jasper uncharacteristically jumped in.

Rosalie cleared her throat, "I think we're supposed to see a painting."

On the small canvas was a beautiful oil painting. It seemed like an old familiar photograph. Although they were dressed in a 17th century style, it was clear that each person in the family was accounted for. The children ranged in ages corresponding to when they would enter Carlisle's life. Edward stood beside their father with a small toddler sized Bella in in his arms. Emmett was slated between his parents, arms neatly tucked behind his back. Rosalie stood behind a seated Esme her had resting on her mother's shoulder. At the matriarch's feet sat Alice and Jasper, who looked to be around Renesmee's age. It was beautiful, yet eerie to see what they would have looked like as a normal human family.

Nessie was fascinated by the entire story. She was drawn to knowing more about the life her grandfather once lived, but especially the dreams he had. She wiggled her way on to his lap and gently pulled on the collar of his shirt. And for the first time in what felt like forever, Dr. G pulled away from Nana.

"My turn now, right Dr. G?" Nessie beamed, her little hands waiting to accept her own letter.

Carlisle swallowed hard as the entire room went silent. He began to rub small circles on her back, "Well, Renesmee you…you don't have a letter, love. I didn't turn you remember. You were born."

"Oh!" her little eyes went wide, "That makes sense. Then I must be the baby in Nana's belly then! I wouldn't have a letter because I wasn't born yet!"

The entire coven glanced back at the painting. They had been so focused on the faces, they hadn't even noticed painting Esme's blousy attire, with her had resting gently on top of her rounded tummy.

"It's going to work," Alice looked from the painting to Carlisle, "Bella's letter said nearly complete. It means you've dreamt of yours and Esme's baby!"

"So the chocolate has to work!" Rose clutched her heart, "All of your other writings were right!"

"Does that mean I'm not the baby in nana's belly?" the little girl sighed in frustration.

"I'm sorry honey, it's not you," Edward scooped up his daughter, "That's going to be one pf your friends."

"So my friend is in the family painting, but I'm not?" Renesmee folded her arms.

"No, not this one," Carlisle turned to her, "But you'll be front center for the next one. Promise?"

"Promise," Nessie softly grinned.