Thank you for waiting. And a special thanks to my Beta that edits my work. Please enjoy the chapter.

One day had passed. I had taken care to pack my things and pass the news on to my sisters. When the time was right, I pulled my sisters to my side and explained that I was to marry Mr. Edward Cullen and that he wanted all of us to move into his manor.

They were not as surprised as I thought they would be. Although, in all fairness, Jane and Grace were far too young to truly understand. Mary was hesitant towards the idea, but was content to cooperate and pack up her belongings.

As I put the last few items in my trunk, I heard soft footsteps behind me.

"Isa?"

I turned around and smiled. "Mary. What is it?"

"I'm scared," she whispered.

My eyes widened a bit in concern. "What is it?" She shook her head a little, retreating away from my gaze. "Mary," I pleaded, "please tell me. Why are you scared?"

"What if Mr. Cullen does not like us? What if he tries to send us away? Will you leave us?"

I shook my head vehemently, capturing her into a warm embrace. "No. No. Don't think that way. I would never let that happen. You know I love you too much to be apart. I could never be separated from my sisters." I smiled down at her. "Mr. Cullen has promised that you will enjoy life in the manor with me. We will be together."

"But what if he hates us?"

"He won't. And anyways, you will have me. I won't leave you. For anything." She wrapped her small arms around me and buried her head in my chest. I tried to soothe her, gently running my fingers through her hair. "You will be safe. I promise. We will have a new life together. Your happiness will contribute greatly to mine."

"I will try to be," she mumbled.

I laughed. "I thought you always wanted a fine house. A new dress. Funds to shop for ribbon to put in your pretty hair."

She lifted up and looked at me. "Yes. But not if I lose you, Isa. I would rather stay here with you and Alice if we could be together forever."

I smiled dearly at her. "You will be happy to know Alice is coming with us as well. Don't you see? We are staying together. All of us. We will be in a safe home and not have to toil for mere necessities."

"And you love him?" She asked me, innocently.

It was the very question I had asked myself many times. Did I love Edward Cullen? I could not deny I had feelings for him, but was it love or was it merely appreciation for all he had done for me and my family?

"Mary. It's really complicated. I care for him."

"Then I will try to as well." She said with a small smile, but I could tell she was still not completely comfortable.

"Thank you. You know your feelings and comfort mean everything to me." She hugged me again.

I could hear Alice's boots as she approached us and looked up. She put a hand on Mary's shoulder. "Mary, love, let's finish packing. I'll help you fill your trunk."

Mary slowly pulled away and left with Alice. I was thankful Alice was so comfortable with my sisters. I knew in my life to come, there would be times when my attention would be divided between my sisters and Edward. At least she would be there to comfort them.

I shut my trunk with a hard slam.

Jacob showed up bright and early the next day with a warm smile. He was dressed superbly, as always.

"Good morning, Mrs. Cullen."

Mrs. Cullen. "Please, Jacob. It's Miss Swan for now. We are not married yet."

"I figured you would prefer Miss Swan, but for the sake of my place and respect to you, I didn't want to assume without your permission."

"Consider your permission granted." It felt a little weird talking to Jacob in such a manner. "Jacob," I said, "I didn't mean for that to sound condescending in any way. I just meant that I would prefer to be addressed by my name until it is legally changed."

Jacob studied me. "Miss Swan. Please. You are the new mistress of the Cullen estate. It is your right to state your wishes to your employees."

"You are not my employee, Jacob. You are more like a friend. A friend who just happens to wait on me and who shows me understanding as I embrace this new life."

"I am pleased you see me as someone you feel comfortable with and can trust, but I am still your employee, Miss Swan. My job is to ensure your safety at all times. Although I carry out many other tasks for Master Cullen, he has entrusted me with your security, and I take that duty with all seriousness."

I smiled at him. "I'm grateful. Thank you."

He nodded once in response. "I have brought two carriages and a few of the staff to help you with your luggage."

"Oh. Yes. Thank you."

"Is everything packed and ready? May they take it now?"

"Yes, it's all packed. It's all by the door in our room. We will bring it down."

"No need." Jacob walked to one of the carriages and called for a few men. As he walked back to me, he smiled. "Please, Miss Swan, gather your sisters and take the first carriage. All is arranged for your comfort and a safe journey. I will handle your belongings and make sure they are safely transported to the estate."

I acknowledged him with a nod. I had never been treated so delicately before, like a cherished piece of china. It was refreshing compared to the dry and harsh life I was used to leading. Was it wrong to indulge just a little? It seemed almost unfair I was given such a life so quickly. In fact, it seemed almost too good to be true.

I promptly went up to my room to collect my sisters. I helped them dress warmly, tightened their boot strings, and helped them into their jackets. Alice then joined us, wrapping a shawl around her shoulders.

I tightened their little bonnets and they giggled when I playfully pinched their cheeks. Alice helped me with my shawl and we were ready to go.

"Thank you," I said, putting my arm around her.

"Take one last look at our horrid, tasteless room," she giggled.

"I shall miss the lack of space and creaking floors," I joked.

"Oh yes. Very much. But we have this place to thank for bringing us together. Just think, if it weren't for this place, we would never have met."

"True," I smiled at her.

Jacob stood patiently at the door, his hands behind his back and head down.

"We should go," I said. Jane and Grace each grabbed one of my hands and we walked past Jacob. Alice wrapped her arm around Mary and rubbed her shoulders as they followed closely behind.

"Miss Brooke?" I heard Jacob say. We all stopped, and I looked back between Alice and Jacob.

"Yes, Sir. That's me."

Jacob nodded. "Pleasure to meet you. I understand you are to be Miss Swan's lady's maid."

"Yes. I am. She asked me, and I am happy to do so."

"I hope you find the manor to your liking. I look forward to seeing you settled."

"Thank you," she said confidently. "I'm sure I will love my new position."

Once we were safely in the carriage, we were off to our new home. The carriage was warm and well stocked with cushions and fur blankets. Alice and I laughed as we watched my sisters wrap them around their necks and pretend to be women of status. I bit my lip as I struggled to hold back a few tears. Never would I have imagined that I would be taking my sisters to such a home. A home where they would have food every night, a warm bed, an education, and above all, safety. And I even had a new best friend to accompany me. It was all so surreal.

"Isa? Are you sad?" little Grace asked, looking up at me.

I shook my head, wiping the corners of my eyes. "No. I'm happy. I'm really happy. I can't wait to show you your new home."

"Is it big?" She asked.

"Very," I answered.

Eyes wide, she gasped. "We might get lost!"

"I wouldn't let that happen." She smiled as I tickled her side.

When we arrive at the manor, I lose my breath. It looked like the entire staff was assembled out front. I closed my eyes and hid behind one of the curtains in the carriage. "Oh, my goodness," I whispered.

"Bella, it's ok."

"Why are they all out there?"

"To greet you, I suppose. It's not unusual to have the staff greet the new mistress of the home."

"I am not the new mistress. Not yet. We are not even married."

"Well, perhaps they are under orders from Mr. Cullen. Either way, it is important you greet them and behave like you are the lady of the house. Your first impression must demand respect. No looking down at the ground."

I sighed as I grabbed my sisters' hands.

"That's a lot of people," Mary whispered. "Are they really all out there for us?" She looked up at me.

"I guess," I replied.

"Miss Swan?" I jumped a little at a voice I had never heard before. A distinguished-looking man opened the door to the carriage. "My name is Bailey Howard. I'm the butler and tend to Master Cullen. It is an honor to finally meet his bride-to-be."

"Good morning Mr. Howard," I said.

He offered with a quick bow. I was hesitant to respond, having only been used to Jacob and Lisa. "Please, call me Bailey."

He did not let my apprehension hinder his manners. "And these beautiful girls must be your sisters. Welcome. Welcome. We are pleased to have you here."

Mary smiled at him.

"I know it may look a bit daunting, but the staff is excited to meet you. We are all happy to welcome you to the home."

I looked at Alice and took a deep breath. I didn't feel fit or dressed for such an introduction. Bailey helped each of my sisters out of the carriage and then, finally, it was my turn to exit. I took his hand and slowly got out, trying to gain control of my nerves as I looked out at the many faces awaiting my presence.

Alice took my sisters' hands and waited for me to walk first.

"The staff awaits you," Bailey said with a small smile.

I slowly walked forward, Alice and my young sisters trailing behind me. I swallowed hard and then remembered what Alice said earlier. Don't look down at my boots. Hold my head high. I was soon to be the mistress of a grand home now.

It felt strange when I came face to face with the staff. Normally, I was the one to bow my head.

But there they were, their heads bowed slightly at my presence. When I passed by, the maids curtseyed as they uttered, "Mistress."

The man servants, two, uttered the same greeting. I had to pinch myself several times. I must be dreaming. How could I have been begging for laundry not so long ago?

"Thank you," I said softly.

My eyes landed on Lisa and we shared a mutual smile.

"Miss Swan, Lisa would be happy to show you and your sisters to your rooms so you can settle in. Miss Brooke, you may follow me."

I looked at Alice, a little scared that she would be leaving my side. But she gave me a reassuring smile and delivered the little hands of my sisters into mine.

"Bye Alice," Mary said.

"I'll see you soon," she whispered as she turned to follow Bailey.

"Ladies, gentleman, back to work please. There's much work to be done," Bailey said. He gave me a short bow and then left with Alice.

Lisa approached us with a warm smile.

"Good morning." Jane walked up to her and took her hand. Lisa beamed at me. "Please, follow me." Gaily adding, "Mistress," as she passed with Jane.

I laughed a little at the silly title. I don't think I would ever get used to it. She led us into the fine, decadent house and up the stairs. I still couldn't believe it would soon be my home.

When we reached the top, it was familiar, but I was used to taking a more indirect route to my workstation. As I looked around, I could recognize the way to Edward's office.

Lisa led us in the opposite direction, down a very long hallway. I gripped Mary and Grace's hands tighter as we stopped at a large wooden door.

"This is your room," Lisa told Mary. I was reluctant to let go of her hand. We had always stayed in the same room. All of us. It would be strange not to have them by my side. But I suppose, there were a lot of new things I must get used to.

"Go on. Have a look. See how you like it." I smiled as I encouraged her, hoping my fear wasn't visible. Afterall, this would be our new life.

She looked up at me with both excitement and trepidation in her eyes. Lisa opened the door and motioned her inside. She walked slowly in and over to the bed. She ran her hands across the soft blankets and smiled back at me.

"This is mine?" She asked. I nodded.

"Do you like it?" Lisa asked. "Your trunk will be up soon, so you will have your things." Mary nodded.

"I like it. But will Isa be far?"

"No," Lisa said, "just a little bit down the hall. Until she is married, of course. Go ahead and get settled. I'll have some tea and sweets brought up for you and have a bath prepared so you can freshen up." She smiled.

"I'll be back soon," I said to Mary. She seemed content, though, wandering around her new room in awe.

I grabbed hold of young Jane's hand, who was beginning to roam herself, and we followed Lisa to the next door.

"The Master thought, since they are still quite young, your two littlest sisters could share a room till they are older. We have plenty of rooms to accommodate them when the time is right."

"Jane and Grace. Those are their names," I said to Lisa, as I realized they had not been properly introduced. "Mary is the oldest."

Lisa nodded. "Yes Mistress."

The title caught me off guard, again. I hoped she did not feel I was scolding her. I only wanted her to know their names.

Jane and Grace were happy enough with their new room. And I was happy that my sisters' rooms were next door to each other. I would soon share a room with Edward. At least they would have each other close by.

Finally, Lisa walked me further down the hall. "The Master said you would want to be as near to your sisters as possible until the wedding." She stopped in front of another wooden door and opened it.

"The Master insisted you have your own room."

"Why? I could stay with Mary. Just until the wedding. I really don't need much. Honest."

"Just following orders. Of course, the Master will be home soon. I'm sure you can take it up with him." She smiled at me.

The room was beyond anything I could imagine. It had a beautiful gold chandelier that hung high from the milky ceiling. Sheer white curtains lined the large floor to ceiling windows but were pulled back just enough to catch a glimpse of the view.

There was a small sitting area for guests with a china set on the wooden center table. In one corner sat a working desk with a vase of fresh white flowers and a lamp.

It was a whole suite. I wandered into my actual bedroom where there was a large king size bed. I touched the fine embroidery on the blankets of my bed. I couldn't believe I was in a place like this. Off to the side, there was a fireplace with a mantle that held a silver clock.

I made my way into a bathing room and sucked in a deep breath. It was huge. A large white tub sat next to a big window with its curtains pulled back. It was so glorious. So rich. It also looked very new. These sorts of things, were only for the truly rich as it was only recently invented to accommodate the wealthy. As I turned around there were mirrors of all sizes that lined the walls. One that sat hung over a sink, and two horizontal mirrors across from each other. It allowed me to see all sides of myself, which was not much to look at. I felt quite out of place in the outfit I wore.

There was a closed door near the far corner. So naturally, I opened it with curiosity. A gigantic garment closet presented itself with huge mirrors, and a chandelier for lighting. It was wide, and open and very empty, except for my luggage that I requested to unpack myself.

I smiled. It was like a fairy tale. How could Edward possibly afford all this? It was almost unreal that there were people like me that lived in poverty while people like him lived in places like this. And this was only one room in his massive manor. I could not wait to explore the rest. What else would I do with my time while he was away, anyhow?

I was thankful, at least, that Edward's personal room was on the other side of the manor. We lived on complete opposite sides and would not run into each other easily.

"How do you like it?" Lisa asked.

"More than I deserve," was all I was able to say.

"Just what you deserve," She responded. "The Master will be pleased you find it to your liking. Now, I'll leave you to settle in. Perhaps before dinner, and after you are refreshed, you would like a tour. A lady should know her home."

I agreed. With the wedding quickly approaching, and perhaps a baby not too long after, it was best if I learned the house well while I could. Lisa left after bowing.

Once alone, I went to take a seat on the small couch in the sitting room to rest. I had not even noticed I fell into a deep sleep.

I felt a warm hand on my stomach and stirred slightly. It startled me a bit. "Edward?" I mumbled. My eyes slowly opened, and Alice's face came into view.

She smiled down at me.

"Hmm?" I said slowly sitting up.

"You fell asleep," she whispered. "I brought up some tea for you."

"Oh. Thank you." I swung my legs around and landed them on the floor. "I guess I was more tired than I thought."

Alice put her hand on my shoulder. "Glad you got some rest."

"Needed it, I suppose. How did you settle in? Are your chambers comfortable? If you don't like it, you can always come and stay with me in my room. I wouldn't mind. And I wouldn't let anyone stop you."

Alice bashfully smiled. "Oh no. My room is wonderful, actually. Better than I expected. I have my own space, and an indoor water closet in the hall. It's very comfortable and the staff is very kind. They made me feel right at home. I don't miss my old job at all. They also gave me new garments to wear. I feel spoiled to be honest."

"Me too," I laughed. "It's too much. Can you believe people actually live like this?"

"You live like this now. You have to get used to it."

"I know. It's just still so overwhelming."

"I understand. Believe me. I do. But your sisters are adjusting well. They seem to like their rooms. I just checked on them. I told Mary to unpack her trunk before she ate her sweets. Jane and Grace couldn't keep their eyes open. They are sleeping."

"Thank you, for looking in on them."

"Are you hungry? I could bring up some refreshments before dinner. Or I could-"

"No. Actually, I would really like to clean up a little."

"Ah. A bath?"

"Um. I was just thinking about washing my face, but a bath would be nice too."

"I can run you one. The nice thing is Master Cullen has one of the few luxuries that many homes lack: running water. It will be easy to run you a quick bath."

"I can do it, Alice. Really. You are my friend. No need to wait on me so carefully."

She laughed. "Bella. You should get used to me waiting on you. The Master expects me to. And if I don't, I'm really not doing my job here, am I?"

"You just being here with me is plenty. You help me keep my sanity."

"At least let me unpack your trunk."

I nodded with a small smile. As she did so, I went into the bathroom to brush my hair down. I looked at my dress and felt I should wear something more presentable.

I really didn't have any nice dresses other than my mother's blue velvet one. Edward has already seen that dress. Perhaps I should go out and buy just one more. I didn't want to wear the same dress all the time. All my other clothes were really unsuitable now.

"Alice," I said.

"Hmm?" She said from inside the closet.

"Would you mind coming to town with me? Perhaps tomorrow. I would like to get a new dress. I only have one that is suitable and it's my mother's dress. I would like to have a dress of my own."

"I would love to. A nice dress would suit you."

"Just one. I don't want to spend too much. But to have two presentable dresses would be nice."

"We can go down to the tailor shop. They will take your measurements and make you any type of dress you want. They have a whole book of designs to choose from. I think it will be fun. Maybe we should take the girls down too. They will need new dresses as well."

"I suppose you're right."

After a short but glorious bath, Alice helped me into my mother's blue dress and escorted me down to dinner. My sisters were washed and dressed as presentably as they could be. As I looked at them, I realized how much they really did need new dresses. At such a grand table, they looked like impoverished children. There seemed to be so much to do to assimilate into my new life.

It was odd sitting at the table without Edward, but it was nice to see my sisters with me in such a large dining hall. I always felt a little guilty that my sisters could not enjoy the wonderful meals Edward's staff prepared, but that was all behind me now.

There were many laughs at the dinner table as I watched them eagerly fill their tiny mouths and listened to the excitement about their new rooms. Nothing made me smile more. Of course, they were even more excited when I told them I planned to take them to town for new dresses. They had never been fitted for dresses before by anyone other than me. Our mother used to make all our clothes by hand, and after her death I used the skills she taught me to continue the work mending tears and using old and donated fabric to create new dresses for them.

Going to a tailor would be a very new and wonderful treat for them.

I saw my sisters off to bed, tucking them in and kissing them goodnight. Alice trailed behind me as I made my way to my room.

She helped me into my nightgown. She fought me on brushing my hair and putting it into a braid, but, in the end, she gained the upper hand.

"There," she said, once finished.

"Thank you, Alice. But I wish you wouldn't spoil me so. I don't wish for anything to be different between us. I'm no better than you."

"I never said you were. But you did hire me as a lady's maid and that is what I will be for you. A friend too, though. Always. I do this sort of work, anyhow." She said with a smile.

"Well I haven't forgotten how to dress and care for myself yet."

"I know. But I have my duties. And I don't mind doing them for you Bella. Honestly, I enjoy it. As a bonus, it keeps me around you, and I enjoy all our conversations."

I got in bed and pulled the covers around myself. "You always know what's best. You are a good and kind friend. My dearest friend."

She smiled softly. "And you're mine. Get some sleep. I'll see to your sisters before I go to my chambers."

I nodded. "Thank you."

I laid my head down on the soft pillows and inhaled the fresh clean scent of lavender. It was more than I deserved. I still felt so unworthy of such luxuries.

I was born to toil for necessities and struggle for little luxuries. It was strange not having that same anxious feeling in the pit of my stomach over money and food.

My engagement to Edward had already given me so much. So much I didn't deserve or even earn yet. And yet, he had taken care of everything I could possibly imagine or want. Not only for me, but also for my sisters and dear friend Alice.

I closed my eyes and I could see him. His grey eyes, his hair, his lips. My mind drifted then to his scent, the smell of honey and pine. The feel of his warm arms around me, holding me close when we rode on his horse. The feel of his lips on mine, sharing our first kiss after dinner in the light of the glowing fire.

Sleep found me quickly.

"Isabella," a voice whispered. I knew that voice. "Isabella."

"Edward?"

His face appeared before me. "Isabella," he said, cupping my chin and lifting it up so my eyes met his. I felt butterflies inside me at his touch. I leaned forward and closed my eyes as our lips touched.

"Edward," I said. "You are back."

"I will always come back to you."

"Why? Why do you-"

"Shhh." He tilted his head and placed a kiss on my neck. I sucked in a breath as he did so, enjoying the feel of his warm lips on my tender skin. I looked down, avoiding his gaze when he pulled back a bit. It was my natural habit. "Don't, don't hide your face from me." he whispered.

"Habit," I whispered as I met his silvery eyes once again. His eyes ignited something within me. A spark. A feeling of belonging.

"Say it," he said to me. "Say what you are feeling."

I opened my mouth, but no words came out. He lowered his head, his gaze becoming more intense.

"Isabella." I closed my eyes, feeling his thumb caress my bottom lip. "Isabella," the voice got louder. "Isabella."

My eyes opened with a start, the illusions of my dream disappearing in an instant. I blinked twice trying to regain my bearings. Lisa was over me, smiling.

"Good morning, Miss Swan. I'm sorry I shook you. You sleep like the dead," she giggled.

I sighed. What was this man doing to me? I felt him. Like he was really right there in front of me. It felt so real. I almost regretted waking up. Almost.

I sat up and stretched. "Sorry, I must have been really tired."

"No need to apologize, Miss Swan. You may sleep as long as you wish. I only woke you in case you wanted some breakfast. Alice told me you planned on going out today for a little shopping. I think that's wonderful. It will be nice to get out and get some fresh air." She opened the curtains to let the sunlight in.

"Where is Alice?" I asked.

"She is seeing to your sisters. They have already eaten their morning porridge and fruit. Yours is on the table, if you are hungry." I didn't want Lisa to think I didn't appreciate her being there to wake me. I was happy to see her and really did appreciate her. She and I certainly had a bond, but not the same bond I shared with Alice.

"Oh. Thank you. Thank you for waking me, Lisa. I didn't mean anything ill by asking for Alice."

"Of course. And think nothing of it. I know she is your dear friend and I hold no ill feelings. Would you like me to get you anything else?"

I shook my head. "You have already done so much. Thank you. I can take over from here."

"It's no trouble at all, Miss Swan. It's been so long since we have had a mistress, it is nice to tend to a lady again." I really didn't see myself as a fine lady yet. I was still the same Isabella Swan.

"Well. I appreciate everything."

She smiled. "Jacob arranged a credit for you at the shops in town, so there is no need for you to worry about payments."

"We really don't plan to get much. Just a few things."

"It's not my place to tell you how much or how little you should get, nor to monitor you. You can do as you please. If you won't be needing anything right now, I'll leave you to the morning."

"I'm okay, thank you."

She nodded once and left. Alone now, I push back the covers and swing my legs around, letting my feet touch the floor. My stomach let out a soft growl as I made my way to the breakfast that had been laid out for me. I picked up a grape and popped it into my mouth. The juices of the ripe fruit brought a smile to my face. I grabbed a strawberry and walked over to bask in the warm sunlight pouring in from the windows.

So, this is how the rich awoke every day. What a complete difference from my normal morning routine. I wrapped my arms around my waist, closed my eyes and sighed contentedly. It was all too good to be true.

Once I was dressed, I wasted no time in meeting up with my sisters who were dressed and ready themselves. Alice was pleased to attend our happy outing, offering to carry our purchases. I told her that would not be necessary. I did not intend to make her our pack mule. I wanted her to feel like she was still the close friend she is.

When we arrived at the tailor shop, nothing could contain the gleeful smiles from all my sisters. After our measurements were taken there was no end to the many types of designs that were presented before us.

"Only one dress each," I reminded them, trying, and failing, to look stern.

"They need at least two," Alice whispered to me. Mary smiled at me with hope as she overheard Alice's words. I raised one brow with a smirk. I supposed it wasn't too bad to spoil them a little. This was an entirely new experience, after all.

"Alright," I said in a low voice, and was nearly knocked over by the loud cheer that erupted from the girls.

Each of my sisters and I got one dress to take home, after small adjustments were made, and one special dress that would be made from scratch. After finishing with the dressmaker, I found myself also buying new shoes and ribbon to match their dresses. I had never had the means to before. Alice was convinced it was not a lot, but I was beginning to feel uncomfortable and started second-guessing the purchase. The fact that our expenses were being covered by Edward made me feel all the more guilty. In the end, Alice convinced me everything was necessary.

I told Alice to pick out some ribbon she would like as a thank you for joining us. She refused at first, but I insisted. That night, we had another fine dinner together.

As I brushed my hair before bed, I thought about Edward. He should return soon. He promised to be home in three days and tomorrow would be the third day. I waited for Alice to say goodnight to me, but it was so long I began to think she was not coming. I decided to climb into bed and make myself ready for sleep.

Just as I was about to fall asleep, I heard a soft knock. Alice poked her head in. "Sorry. May I come in?"

"Of course, you can. Please." She came in bashfully.

"I'm sorry. I was reading stories to the little ones. I'm amazed that they can stay up so late after such a day of activities.

"They are asleep then?"

"Yes."

"Thank you, Alice. I missed our talking tonight."

"Me too." She sat on the bed next to me. "The staff are all in an uproar about when the Master will be back."

"Maybe tomorrow. If all goes according to plan."

"That's what some of the staff were saying. Are you happy he will be returning?" She smirked at me.

"I suppose. I mean, it will be good that he is home to run things as he sees fit. It is still his home, not mine."

"It very well may be yours. The staff see and treat you as the new mistress."

"I know. But I'm not. Not until we are wed."

Alice turned me around, so she could braid my hair. "I'd say the wedding is as good as done in their eyes." She sighed and paused before she spoke again. "Do you want to marry Mr. Cullen?"

"It's all moving so fast. I didn't think it would happen so quickly."

"But?" She asked.

A part of me really wanted to open up to Alice. To tell her that our marriage was really a contract of sorts. What I personally wanted or whether I loved Edward or not, did not have any bearing on our marriage. It was my sisters. Their wellbeing was all I cared about. Luxuries afforded by my marriage to him were nice, but it meant the world to me that my sisters would be taken care of.

"Yes. I do. I will marry him."

She gave me a tight lipped smile as if she were waiting for me to continue. But I did not. I simply turned away. "A fine match in marriage then." She put the brush down on my nightstand, slightly disappointed at our lack of intimate conversation. She must have known I was holding something back. "I better head up to my chambers. Long day tomorrow."

I wanted to ask her to stay longer, but I wanted her to get her rest. She did so much for me and my sisters today, I could not be selfish and keep her up. "Good night, Alice. And thank you for coming with us today."

"Of course." She gave me an almost reassuring hug. "You know, whatever happens, I'm still your friend and you can tell me anything. I will keep your thoughts as private as my own. I won't tell a soul. I just want you to be happy, Bella. I mean, don't get me wrong, this place is amazing, very beautiful. But I want you to be happy."

"I'm sure I will be," I whispered. "You are my one good friend, Alice. I hope you know that. And normally, I wouldn't have any hesitance sharing all my thoughts with you. It's just that I still don't have my thoughts right in my own head. So, I can't share what I don't understand. I hope that makes sense."

She smiled again. "Lay down. I'll admit, it's a lot to take in all at once. You're tired. Get some rest." She fluffed the pillow behind me and tucked the covers comfortably around my body. "You will figure it out eventually. I imagine this is what all ladies go through before they are wed to a man."

I felt other ladies must have at least gotten to know the men they were marrying before they rushed into such a commitment. But according to Edward, our circumstance was more the norm, since he believed my notions of romance were silly and childish.

I laid down once Alice left. It was so peaceful and comfortable here in a warm soft bed without the anxieties of waking up to work my fingers to the bone just to put food on the table. I must have fallen asleep, but I heard a soft knock at my door that woke me in the dark of night.

Another knock on my door.

"Who is it?"

The knob turned and in peeked Mary holding a small lit candle. She had a worried expression on her little face. Quickly I pushed my blankets back and put my feet onto the floor. "What is it Mary? What's wrong? Come in, come in."

"W-we couldn't sleep." I looked to the doorway to find Jane and Grace peeking through.

"Come here," I said softly. Each of my three sisters filed into my room. I scooted over so they could snuggle into the bed next to me and wrapped my arms around them. "You should have come to me sooner. You know I could never turn my sweet sisters away."

Mary laid her head on my shoulder. "I had a dream. About father. I was so scared. I had a dream he was so sick, he died. There was nothing we could do."

"Shhhh. Hush now. It's alright. You shouldn't worry about such things. Everything will be fine from now on."

"What if Mr. Cullen changes his mind and decides he does not like us anymore? Will we go back to live in that awful place?"

"No. No, that won't happen. I will take care of you, as I always have. Lay down. Close your eyes. And don't think such thoughts." I stroked her hair gently. Jane laid down on my other shoulder while Grace laid down on my lap. I started to sing them a lullaby, as I comforted them.

"Will you tell us a story?" Grace asked. "Like mother used to tell us?"

I told them the story of Cinderella. It was a common one that mother used to tell me when I was a little girl. It would give me happy dreams of my prince charming coming to rescue me. Now it was their turn to dream.

Grace and Jane fell asleep quickly, but Mary kept her little eyes open the whole time I told the story. At the end she smiled and whispered, "It is like you and Mr. Cullen. Mr. Cullen is your prince."

I chuckled at the comparison. "Our marriage is not a fairy tale, Mary."

"But he rescued you. We would still be living in that scary place. He came and took us away."

"I don't have two evil step-sisters. I have three wonderful sisters that I love dearly." I smiled back at her.

"Mr. Cullen is prince charming," she breathed out as she snuggled into me and closed her eyes. She fell fast asleep on my shoulder.

Edward. My prince charming? Hardly. He certainly seems to be honoring his end of the deal, but I knew it would take time for me to fulfil my end. Soon I would share a bed with him, and I would no longer be pure and untouched. My body would belong to him. For the time being, I suppose, I was in a sort of fairy tale. At least until after the wedding. There was no telling how monstrous he could be behind closed doors.

I had seen how cruel he could be the first day we met, and even at the factory. I did not think the short amount of time we had known each other could change him so quickly. I was sure he could put on a fine charade and act every part of being a gentleman, but what lurked behind his curtain of chivalry was yet unknown to me. Once I became rightfully his, there would be no need for him to even be civil. Afterall, monsters don't usually come out during the day. They hide away till cover of night to have their way with their prey.

I would have to assume the position of a good, loyal wife, fulfilling all his needs and, ultimately, provide him with a child. A son, to be exact. I place my hand over my belly. I had heard how painful childbirth could be. And some did not survive. It scared me to think that I would have to soon journey down the same painful and treacherous road so many others traveled before without reaching their destination.

I suppose there were worse ways to die, if I was meant to. I closed my eyes and found sleep once again.

I am working on the next chapter. Should have it up soon. Please, all your feedback is welcomed!