Author's Note: I've been in a bit of a slump the past while but I've finally been able to drag this chapter out of myself! I was really anxious to get it right, I didn't want the whole magic discussion to come off weirdly stiff and scripted. I know a lot of my readers have been excited for this moment, so I hope I've done it justice! And I know there wasn't much of it, but I promise this isn't the last time the Cullen's will be exposed to the oddities of the Wizarding world! Lastly, I know Edward's room doesn't usually have a bed. But I can't get the image out of my head of him having this cool nook to read and listen to music in. He hides there and blasts music in his headphones when he needs to get away from everyone else. ;P
Chapter 25 – Dinner with the Cullens
We ended up stopping at The Lodge. Edward begging to make our little date official – dinner and all. I gave in, of course, even though this particular spot was not my favorite of the sparse selection available in this podunk town.
However, the moment we sat down at our booth towards the back of the tiny establishment I realized my mistake; everyone, and I mean everyone, was staring.
Why did everyone stare in this town?
While our relationship was still fairly new, it seemed to me like it had already been a lifetime. Being with Edward felt so natural, instinctual – so right. Still, it seemed the game of phone had already gotten around to the entire populace of Forks.
Why was I still surprised at how adept small town folk were at spreading local gossip?
Really, it wasn't much different from Forks High – or even Ilvermorny, for that matter.
Everyone knew everyone's business there.
I squirmed under their scrutiny, and stared down at my menu, refusing to meet any of the curious eyes. And why did this stupid restaurant have to be so packed? Why did everyone in this tiny town go to the same place every single Saturday like it was on a list of requirement when they moved here? Number one, go to The Lodge every Saturday – no exceptions. Number two, know everyone's names and their business. Number three, especially the Chief's daughter – she hates it – so gobble up every tiny bit of gossip you can, and please make it as awkward as possible for her!
"They aren't saying anything particularly interesting," Edward whispered over his own menu as he glanced at me with a small smirk. Sometimes it felt like he could read my mind...
I shot him a glare and he laughed. "What are they saying, exactly?" I asked, unable to hide my curiosity. If they were going to talk about me I had the right to know what they were saying!
He opened his mouth to respond but Mary, I read on her name tag, stepped up with a big smile, "Bella! How are you dear?"
"Uh, I'm fine." I smiled.
"And who is your friend?" She raised her eyebrows expectantly.
You know exactly who he is and what he is to me!
No doubt Charlie had already clued in everyone here, he stopped in every single lunch break. I didn't enjoy her prodding. But I wasn't going to be rude.
"This is Edward Cullen, you know, Dr. Cullen's son."
"Oh! Yes, of course..." She hesitated, clearly frustrated I wasn't giving her the deets she wanted. "how lovely. Dr. Cullen is a wonderful contributor to our little town."
Edward smiled dashingly, always the charmer, "He greatly enjoys his work." His velvety voice waft around our tiny space.
Mary dazed, blinking a few times before blushing and pulling out her pad and pen from the little apron around her waist. "Yes, indeed – uh, d-did you two decide, then?"
I looked back down at the menu, I hadn't even really looked at it, so distracted by the spectacle that my life had become – I said the first thing my eyes landed on, "I'll take the veggie burger and fries." I couldn't believe they even had a veggie burger option, sometimes small town places surprise you with their attempts at progressiveness.
"And to drink?"
"Er... Dr. Pepper."
She nodded, "And you, darling?" She didn't exactly say it flirtatiously, but something about the term of endearment irked me. Edward didn't seem much happier, although, he was still charming and pleasant in his reply.
"I'll just take a garden salad and water." He smiled.
Mary left, informing us our food would be out soon and then went around to check the other patrons.
"Are you actually going to eat that salad?" I teased lightly.
He glared at me now, still smiled, "this isn't the first time I've ever had to pretend to eat – I bet you wont even be able to tell where I'm putting the fork fulls."
"Is that a challenge?"
He laughed, "Yes."
I nodded, knowing he probably would fool me. He had nearly a hundred years of practice at his human charades. "So I do believe you owe me a rundown of the rumor mill."
"Hm, yes, I did say that, didn't I?" He paused for a moment, listening, probably hearing the conversations as if he was right there. Unlike the hum of noise I heard with my boring, human ears. "Mostly curiosity and surprise, nothing new. The group at the large table near the front seems the most informed." He covertly tilted his head towards them, "I think they are a few of your fathers deputies."
I glanced towards said table, yes, I was pretty sure I knew some of them. Most the local deputies, dispatchers and office staff, I'd guess. "What are they saying?"
"Your father, it seems, did a background check on me." He grinned, even though I found nothing humorous in this revelation.
"He did what?!" I whispered urgently.
Edward held his hands up, "He found nothing – there is nothing to find – for my whole family. We have a squeaky clean trail left behind us for any humans who get too nosy."
"He still shouldn't have done it, your just a kid! Well – as far as he knows."
Edward shrugged, "He's your father – he's just looking out for you, and it seems he walked away pleased so it wasn't all in vain. Anything to get me on your father's good side is a worthy effort, no?" He asked, tilting his head.
"I suppose," I grumbled, I appreciated Charlie's attempts at keeping me safe. To be honest, it was more than Renee ever did but it still felt strange to be taken care of.
Our food arrived and I ate quickly. As promised, Edward performed his own form of magic by avoiding my eyes that were trained on his every move.He was good. I really couldn't detect where – or what – exactly he was doing. The Cullen's were better at integrating than even some wizards. No wonder they've been able to live under the human populace nose without the slightest of detection.
"You are good," I laughed, as we finally left the stuffy restaurant, "it was like magic."
He chuckled as he held open my door, "Decades of practice." He said dismissively and bolted to his side. He was lucky we were out of eye shot of anyone, if he kept moving like that.
"Will you stay again tonight?" I asked timidly once we were outside my house.
"If that's what you want," He mumbled, looking down at me as he brushed some hair behind my ear, "I should go home for a few hours, though. We need to prepare for our special guest."
I groaned and pushed my face into his chest.
"What's wrong?"
"What if they don't like me?"
He shook his head, "So you're more worried being liked than being in a house full of vampires?"
I glared at his chest, "You don't scare me, stop expecting to."
He sighed, lifting my chin up to meet his gaze, "They already like you – most of them, at least."
"Rosalie?" I asked hesitantly.
"Yes, she is one of them," He frowned, "but you don't have to worry about her. She's taken it upon herself to be absent for your visit."
"Oh no, I don't want to cause any issues – "
"You aren't causing anything." He interrupted sternly, grabbing my face with both hands and staring into my eyes intently. "Rose has her own demons and issues to work though. You just remind her of them – "
"But – " He put a finger over my mouth before continuing without even a slip of his cadence.
"But that doesn't mean it's your fault, okay? Rose struggles with our life the most out of the family. She always has, even before you came into the picture. It doesn't help that it's me who's brought you in so if anything, know that Rose is mad at me, not you." He kissed me before I could reply, wrapping his arms around my torso and holding me close. "Just don't stress, okay? They are truly excited to finally meet the girl who has changed me so much."
I lifted an eyebrow, "Changed you?" I asked dubiously.
"You have no idea," He smiled, "but I should really go. Text me when the coast is clear."
"Okay." I nodded, feeling a sadness form in my gut at the thought of him leaving. But I knew I couldn't keep him from his family all the time. He rubbed his thumb over my cheek before getting into his car and driving off.
I spent the rest of my afternoon finishing my homework from the week. As much as I loved learning, I was finding the muggle education system left something to be desired. I guess that was to be expected. I went form learning about dragons, potions and defensive spells, to trigonometry and badminton. It just didn't quite tickle my fancy the way learning in the wizarding world did...
I was also slowly realizing that my time here in Forks was becoming a bit pointless. While I wasn't in a hurry to start my career, and I was enjoying my time with Charlie and now Edward – I didn't really see this going anywhere. I'd need to talk to my parents eventually and tell them that I still planned to live, primarily, in the wizarding world.
Charlie showed up around 5 p.m. with a good haul from fishing, I don't think I'd ever consumed so much seafood in my life. I grimaced to myself as I watched him haul it into the spare freezer, I would not miss that, for sure.
Surprisingly, Charlie helped me cook dinner and we talked about the week as we worked. Once dinner was made we did something we never did, sat in front of the TV and ate while watching a movie. It was really nice, to be honest, and I felt content as I climbed the stairs to head to bed.
Once I dressed for bed and was in my room, I texted Edward that he could come whenever. Hareton flew into my room a few minutes later with a mouse grasped in his claws. I shooed him into his cage as he tried to drop the carcass onto my bed and he hooted in indignation.
"Don't you dare, mister.!" I eyed him sternly, "Why didn't you eat that outside, anyways?"
Hareton blinked slowly at me before he swooped down and began swallowing the mouse whole.
"Ew!" I laughed, turning away to give him some privacy and to save myself from having to witness the sight.
Just as I sat on my bed, Edward leaped in through my window, landing silently. "Ew, what?" He asked with a head tilt.
"Geez, Edward!" I squeaked, "Can you act a little more human?" I blew out a large breath as I held a hand over my chest.
He laughed and then whipped his head around as Hareton squawked loudly and he puffed his chest up at him. Edward held up his hands and backed away as Hareton flew out of his cage and plopped down between him and I, clearly ready to defend me if Edward made another move closer.
"Hare! Be nice!" I said sternly as I pointed a finger at him, "Edward is a friend, okay? Not a threat. I know he's scary," I threw a glared at Edward before looking back, "but he's going to be around so you better get used to him, okay?"
If this was any normal animal, I'd sound absolutely insane speaking to Hareton like this. but wizarding owls were surprisingly intelligent and clever. Hareton finally turned and looked at me after giving Edward a long, intense glare; his large, amber eyes softened and he gave me a single, sharp hoot of understanding. I sighed in relief and stretched out my hand to scratch him affectionately under his beak. Hareton gave me another hoot before turning and flying back out the window. I couldn't blame him not wanting to be around Edward, that relationship would take time to forge.
Edward chuckled, "You have a very effective guard dog." and joining me on my bed,
"Yeah, sorry, he's got a bit of an attitude." I laughed.
Edward shrugged, "It's natural for animals to fear us."
"Well, he should be better after a few more introductions. Wizarding owls are rather clever."
"We'll be best friends before you know it." He smirked and then tackled me playfully, pushing me into the mattress and kissing me soundly.
The next morning Edward left early to change and 'arrive' to pick me up in his car. I took that time to have breakfast with Charlie, who surprisingly, was not going fishing today. He'd been asked to go down to La Push for the day and agreed without question. Ever since dinner on Friday he'd been a little weird anytime I brought up Billy so I was surprised he wanted to spend his day there. I decided I'd have to talk to Jacob about his odd behavior, clearly there was some sort of history between the life-long best friends and I suspected, from the context on Friday, that it had something to do with the Cullens.
I was in my room tearing apart my closet when I heard my phone chirp. I groaned and turned to check it, thinking it was Edward telling me he was on his way; but I was surprised to see a text from Alice.
A: Wear the blue blouse!
How in the hell did she – oh! Whatever!
B: The silky one?
A: Yes – it's perfect. And the flowy, khaki color skirt with the bow that ties in the front.
B: Really?
I hated skirts and dresses. Said skirt was given to me by some distant relative last Christmas. I'd never even worn it.
A: Yes, trust me – It will drive Edward CRAZY!
Well, if that was the case...
B: Okay. Anything else?
A: High ponytail, tuck the blouse in, I'm not even going to try and convince you to wear heels, but please consider the black flats you have! Can't wait to spend the day with you! See ya soon!
Half an hour later I heard a knock at the front door. Charlie was already gone, I went half way down the stairs and Alohomora the door before yelling, "Come in!" knowing it was Edward. I'd peeped out my window and spied his Volvo in the driveway.
He came in with an eyebrow raised and then his face morphed to surprise as his eyes landed on my form, "Wow," He breathed as he stared dumbly up at me as I continued down the stairs slowly.
So Alice was right. I smirked.
He met me at the stairs and wrapped his arms around my waist, "Have I mentioned how much I like that color on you?" He asked huskily, picking me up and kissing me passionately,
And I forgot to breath – again.
He let me down, holding me steadily as I was still encased in his arms and let me catch my breath. He dropped his head into the crook of my neck and began a trail to my jaw, which wasn't really helping me catch my breath – not that I was complaining.
"Ready to leave?" I squeaked as he continued to assault my jugular.
"Mm. I'm reconsidering our plans for the day, I think."
"Edward, that wouldn't be very nice! I suspect your mother has been preparing for my arrival all week."
"She has," He mumbled as he met my lips, kissing me hungrily again. "Or, more precisely, for nearly seventy years. She just didn't realize it yet." He smiled against my lips.
I laughed, "Ah, yes, the perpetual bachelor."
He smirked, "It was not intentional, I just didn't know what I was waiting for, until now."
My stomach fluttered and I felt my face heated up. He finally released me and sighed, "But yes, we should get going – Alice nearly ripped my head off for keeping you away all weekend."
"Lead the way, then." I sighed as I pulled on my traveling cloak and slipped my wand into the hidden pocket.
The Cullen house was, like nearly everything to do with them, intimidating. Even the drive there a lot – the house itself was outside the city limits and set far back into the forest. Their driveway alone was at least a few miles long. The home was a large, old looking, three story mansion that looked to be expensively renovated. The inside was just as spectacular; light, open and tastefully touched with a modern flare. The back walls of the house were entirely windows, with an incredible view of a winding river. Their backyard was something to die for, I mused, as I eyed the well maintained garden. For vampires, they seemed very, well, human. Even the vampires I learned about at school were described as very Dracula-esque. I was beginning to think that nearly everything I learned about other sentient beings at school were merely thinly veiled derogatory jabs made by single-minded, old fart wizards.
"This is so... light and open," I breathed.
"Not enough coffins and cobwebs?" Edward asked grinning as he held my hand. We were stood a few feet in the entryway as I scrutinized the space. Which was easy to do, there were hardly any walls or rooms on the first level, mostly open concept with only a few doors near the stairs; one of which I guess lead to the garage, I shivered at that, wishing I could not let Rosalie's blatant hatred bother me. "Ready to met everyone?"
I peeked up at him, "I guess so..." I mumbled nervously. He smiled reassuringly, and squeezed my hand lightly.
And then we were not alone. Carlisle, who I'd met before at the hospital, stood at the top of the stairs with a woman, who I assumed was Edward's mother; a caramel haired woman who, although young, exuded a strong motherly aura.
They descended the stairs, remarkably graceful and poised as they went, before stopping a few feet from Edward and I.
"Carlisle, Esme, this is Bella." Edward said with, if I wasn't mistaken, a bit of pride as he gestured with his hand.
"Bella, it is a pleasure to welcome you into our home." Carlisle smiled warmly, his voice was smooth and gentle – comforting.
"It's good to see you again, Dr. Cullen."
"Oh, please, call me Carlisle."
I bit my lip, "Okay, Carlisle, then." He chuckled as his eyes twinkled.
Esme moved forward with unbridled excitement, her face was soft and warm, for a vampire and I could see she'd added rouge to the apples of her cheeks which made her face even more welcoming.
"Bella, it is so very nice to finally meet you!" Her voice was somehow even warmer and comforting. I could already tell I was going to love this woman – she reminded me of Cole's mother – who I adored. "I'm Esme, Edward's mother."
"It's really good to finally meet you, Esme."
She beamed, eyes bright as she grasped my hand kindly; then turned towards Edward, standing on her toes she kissed him lovingly on the cheek. He smiled at her as she lowered herself back onto the floorboards. The fleeting, yet meaningfully look between them made me think they were having some silent exchange.
"Where are Alice and Jasper?" Edward finally asked, but it was unnecessary because they were already coming down the stairs. Alice was, nearly literally, floating down and Jasper was much more reserved in his movements as he followed her.
"Bella!" She squeaked once she'd landed from the stairs and then danced towards me at vampiric speed, engulfed me in a tight embrace. "Oh! You do smell nice – I never noticed before."
I thought Edward's eyes were gonna fall out of his head as he stared at his sister in astonishment. I laughed and felt my face heat up. "So I've been told... "
The others laughed nervously and Jasper stepped up, still staying a few feet away, "Hello, Bella." He spoke in a distinct southern drawl.
"Hello, Jasper." I said a little awkwardly, the space he left between us made me feel a little odd. I rushed out my next statement to try and ease the tension, "It's lovely to meet you all – you have a beautiful home."
"Thank you," Esme beamed even brighter somehow, "We are so glad that you came."
I wondered vaguely where Emmett was, knowing Edward mentioned he would be here but didn't want to bring it up as maybe he'd decided to keep Rosalie company instead. I glanced around the room as my nerves flared a bit at the thought of the remaining Cullen's and my eyes landed on an object I'd somehow missed on my first study of the first level: a large grand piano on a raised platform in a window lined room off the entrance.
Esme noticed the shift of my focus and asked, "Do you play?" inclining her head towards the beautiful instrument.
I laughed, "No, my mother tried, I had no patience for it." I shook my head, "Is it yours?"
"No," She laughed, lifting an eyebrow and momentarily glancing towards Edward, "Edward did not tell you he was musical?"
"He did not," I turned and glared at him, he looked away guiltily. "I guess, I should have known, though."
Esme tilted her head in confusion.
I shrugged, "Edward seems to be good at everything." I stated plainly. I assumed all vampires were just naturally talented like that. I mean – they had forever to perfect any skill.
To my surprise, Jasper burst out a laugh. I smirked at him, enjoying the sudden change in his usually very serious features. And honestly I knew I probably sounded a little ridiculous.
"I hope you haven't been showing off. It's rude, Edward." Esme chided, giving Edward a very disapproving-mother look.
"Maybe a bit," Edward laughed and then Esme's face softened at the sound. They shared another fleeting, meaningful look like from before. I guess these were interactions I should get used to seeing.
"Well, play for her!" Esme said encouragingly, tilting her head towards the piano again.
"You just said showing off was rude," Edward muttered, but he turned and strode towards the piano, grabbing me by the hand as he went. He eased me onto the bench and sat down beside me.
He looked at me and rolled his eyes. I chuckled and just smiled encouragingly. He might be annoyed but I was intrigued, why didn't he tell me about this little talent?
Esme ruffled his hair as she walked by with a smug smile on her face and then when I glanced back once more the room was empty.
"Where'd they go?" I asked, surprised.
"Giving us some privacy," He said quietly as he stared at the keys for a moment before his fingers began to move fluidly over them, and the room filled with a complex composition that I didn't recognize. It seemed almost impossible that only one set of hands were working away at the ivory. Even the musical performances I'd seen at school were not as impressive as this was, since the students there used magic to help them create intricate and elaborate pieces.
"Do you like it?" He asked a few minutes later, glancing down at me from the corner of his eye. He didn't stumble or waiver at all in his playing as his attention was split. Show off, I thought, feeling stupidly jealous at the ease vampires could do, well, anything.
I blinked after realizing his meaning, "You wrote this?" I gasped.
He nodded and smiled, "It's Esme's favorite,"
I just raised my eyebrows and nodded, and listened as the song played through before slowing and transforming into a whole new melody. I listened carefully, the notes bringing some hint of familiarity to the forefront of my brain – I knew this one, but where from? I then detected the melody of the lullaby that Edward had been humming every night and my eyes widen, "Wait! I know this!" I looked at him in awe.
His smiled grew wider, "Yes, I'm sure you do. You inspired this one," He said softly.
"what?!" I whispered as my eyes grew even wider and I stared at him, he just chuckled and continued through to the end of the song. The final note reverberating throughout the space sorrowfully. It was an unbearably sweet tune – and completely ridiculous if he was being truthful. A whole song, inspired by me? I don't think anyone had ever done some something so incredibly sweet for me, I felt speechless as that set in.
"Thank you," I finally murmured, "that was very sweet."
He smiled and lifted my hand to his lips, kissing my fingers gently, "Would you like to see the rest of the house?" I nodded and he stood, keeping my hand securely in his as he lead the way towards the stairs.
After the tour of the house and subsequent stop into Carlisle's office to get a brief lesson on his long and interesting history. We ended up in the last space at the very top corner of the house: Edward's room. The room faced the south wall, and encased in large, floor to ceiling windows. You could see the river winding below and the wild forest that stretched out over the Olympic Mountain range. I was surprised at how close the mountains were – his view was definitely my favorite of the whole house.
His room was fascinating, to be honest. It didn't have a traditional bed like the other rooms, but there was a built in daybed of sorts; set slightly into the wall, encased in large, fully stocked bookshelves. I glanced through the shelves, there were hundreds of CD's and records stuffed within along with the expected assortment of books. There were guitars of all kinds hung on the other available walls and an expensive looking speaker system that ran throughout the entire room; speakers set into the walls along the ceiling. Near the large glass wall there was a squishy arm chair and a stack of books next to it. And on the wall nearest the door there was a desk with journals, various stationery and a sleek, white laptop of which I vaguely recognized the logo. At the far end of the room, near a set of glass doors that lead out to a balcony was an en suite. The furnishings here were more warm toned than the rest of house and the walls were a off-white and cool tone. The drapery, bedding and large plush rug were in varying shades of gold and burnt orange.
I glanced towards the door where Edward stood, watching me as he leaned on the door frame. "This looks cozy," I said, pointing towards the den-like bed area. It was like something out of my childhood dreams, honestly. Little Bella would have loved curling up in there, fairy lights hung, wrapped in a soft blanket; cuddling up with Anne of Green Gables and falling in love with Gilbert Blythe. "May I?" I asked, though, I was already climbing up into the golden pool of pillow soft bedding.
He chuckled before following after me, grabbing me around the waist as he swooped in, I shrieked as he pulled me against him and held me in a firm, tight embrace. "You like it?" He asked huskily.
I hummed, "I think it's my favorite part of the house," I whispered as I grinned up at him.
His eyes darkened and he glanced down at my lips before descending on them. I wrapped my arms around his neck and laced my fingers through his soft locks. Massaging his scalp as we continued our slow make out session. And then he did something I'd never heard him do before, although, it was unmistakable what it was: a low purr. I smiled, giggling against his lips and he chuckled throatily, palming his way from my hips to my thigh.
And then there was a quick knock at the door, "May we come in?" Alice chimed as I heard her push the door open without a reply. Edward groaned and I laughed. I didn't have siblings but I was already enjoying the banter and unapologetic interruptions – for now, at least. I must have thoroughly snogged; red faced, lips swollen and hair mused. I'd be more embarrassed if I wasn't still coming down from the high of it. "Well, aren't you two adorable," She smiled, quirking an eyebrow meaningfully at me before calling, "Jasper – come look at the lovebirds. Aren't they sweet?" Rocking back and forth on her feet as her tiny frame loomed over us from the opening of the den.
Jasper walked eagerly into our view – his face was strange, funny, almost befuddled. I wondered what changed his mood so drastically from earlier. He was a strange vampire, at least, compared to the Cullen's. He didn't speak, though, only allowing a lopsided, dopey grin to form on his face before he nodded.
Edward chuckled as he looked at Jasper, "Is there something you wanted, Alice?" He asked giving her an annoyed look.
She shot him a dirty look right back, "Yes – actually, Edward, there was. Emmett is downstairs and he would like his chance to meet our guest. And Esme wanted me to inform you that dinner will be ready soon."
He sighed, "Okay, we'll be down shortly." Alice nodded, flashing me a winning smile and then danced out of sight.
Jasper lingered, taking almost comically slow steps back towards the direction of the bedroom door. I heard Alice's voice chime from somewhere, "Jazzy!" and then heard the click of the door finally being closed.
I leaned back and looked at Edwards face, he was smiling slightly, almost smugly. "What the hell was that about?" I asked.
He looked at me, "What was what about?"
"Jasper," I whispered, for some reason.
He looked surprised, "Oh. Well... Jasper has an interesting gift, Pathokinesis. He can feel and influence others emotions." and then he smiled again.
"Oh," I said dumbly, not sure how that answered my question.
Edward chuckled and then crawled over me until he was right in front of my face, "He was a little drunk, you see, off our love." He murmured and I swooned as his honey breath wafted over me. He took advantage of my daze and kissed me passionately – it took me a moment to register what was happening before I responded, wrapping my arms around his neck again and pulled him closer.
"We really should head downstairs before Emmett comes barreling through the wall, he's getting impatient."
"Right," I cleared my throat, "because I'll be able to function after that!"
He smiled crookedly and climb out of the bed, pulling me with him as we headed for the stairs.
Emmett was, surprisingly, very enthusiastic at meeting me. I wasn't sure what I expected, blatant animosity? Avert silence? I don't know – but the idea of meeting him was nearly as frightening as it was at meeting Rosalie. So his huge bear hug, joyous smile and booming laugh caught me completely off guard.
We all sat at their large dining table, plates full of some delicious smelling pasta dish in front of us; and for some reason, they all insisted on 'eating' with me. I tried to convince them, even begged but Esme reassured me that it was no trouble and that they wanted me to feel comfortable.
I wasn't sure which would be more comforting, them pretending or just staring at me while I ate – actually, maybe Esme had a point, now that I thought about it.
So all throughout our 'meal' I tried my hardest to catch them in their act of being human. But, not surprisingly, I couldn't find anything odd. They all appeared to be eating and enjoying their meal.
Once dinner was finished, we all moved to the living room. Edward and I occupied one love seat, Carlisle and Esme on another and then Jasper, Alice and Emmett took up the large sofa. I once again felt a twinge of sadness at the empty spot next to Emmett but he seemed completely at ease and not bothered by his partner's absence.
For the next hour or so Carlisle, mostly, questioned me about myself, my life and the magical world. I told them how I learned of my magical abilities. How I was thrown into this whole new, exciting world. Described the old, magical castle of Ilvermorny, it's founding and history. I briefly described our lessons and classes, and the general comings and goings of a wizarding student.
The Cullen's seemed completely spellbound by the time we moved to the large kitchen island in their equally large and well stocked kitchen. I wondered vaguely if this was the first time they'd even used the space. Why even bother having all this? I guess it would have better resale value with it included...
Esme began the kettle as she pulled out a container full of delicious looking cookies and placed them in the center, gesturing for me to help myself. For someone who didn't eat, Esme was an incredible cook and baker.
Esme was just settling a cup of tea in front of me when Edward chuckled and we both looked towards him.
"Care to share with the class?" I asked with a smirk.
He shook his head, "Just something Emmett thought," He glanced towards his bear of a brother who now had a smirk of his own.
I lifted my eyebrows in question and Emmett's boisterous laugh filled the room.
"I was just thinking," He indicated the wall behind me and I turned to see their backdoor that lead to the back garden. I tilted my head and gave him a incredulous look, completely confused at what he was getting at. "Oh, well, you know – like how people think we're allergic to garlic. – it's hilarious!"
I stared at him blinking, feeling like I was missing something obvious. I glanced around at the rest of the Cullen's and, save Edward, they all seemed just as lost as I was.
Edward sighed, "What my idiot brother is trying to say," He ducked Emmett's fist that swung for his head effortlessly, "is how ridiculous a trope broom flying is."
I looked again at the door, now noticing the broom hung on the wall next to a dustpan, mop and vacuum. Now it was my turn to burst out laughing – which slowly rippled out to the rest of the Cullen's who seemed tense of my reaction.
Emmett grinned, "Where do they get this shit, ya know?"
I shook my head, holding my stomach as it clenched and tears filled my eyes at the irony of the situation. "No – the funny thing is... it's not wrong!" I choked out, pulling myself together long enough to see the confusion on all their pale faces.
After a beat Edward smirked, "Are you saying you do fly on brooms?" He chuckled, eyeing me with a raised brow.
"It's actually a hugely popular pastime." I bit my lip as I looked around at them all.
"You're kidding?"
"Completely serious." I grinned.
Emmett jumped up and snagged the broom from the wall, "Show us!" He boomed as he shoved the tool in my surprised hands.
"What – I can't!" I giggled, "First of all, it has to be specifically made and enchanted to work and second, I don't fly, if I can avoid it."
"Why not?" Emmett asked with a surprising amount of disappointment.
"Trust me, I can barely walk straight on solid ground... flying and me just don't mix."
They looked curiously at me, hearing the deeper meaning behind my words. I smiled as I recounted my first embarrassing experience with flying. "In first year, you learn to fly and when I did, I couldn't even get the broom to do the first command. UP!" I did the motion and smiled wider, " Literally just hand over and command. It just shook and wobbled for so long – and then it finally did what I wanted... except it went to my face instead of my hand and broke my nose!"
Emmett boomed with laughter and I giggled despite the traumatic experience. After that day the flying instructor went slower with me than the other students, which would have been even more embarrassing if it wasn't essential. I learned the basics necessary and then was allowed to sit out of anything that required more coordination or talent.
Later that night Edward returned me home by Charlie's requested time. I asked hopefully if he'd be staying with me again, already feeling dependent on his presence to sleep soundly. He kissed me softly, before brushing his thumb over my cheek bone and telling me he had some homework he needed to do and other affairs his family expected of him. I tried not to pout as I nodded and begrudgingly made my way into my house alone.
As I lay in bed a while later I pulled the hoodie I'd snagged from Edward into bed with me and snuggled it against my face. Enjoying the whirl of his scent that still clung to its fibers and drifted into a surprisingly comfortable slumber.