"Who's coming?" I ask Alice when we're alone. "Do you know?"
She shakes her head. "No idea. I haven't seen a Royal in years."
"You've seen one?"
She giggles. "Yes, of course. They're not mythical creatures. They make their appearances when needed… usually when discipline needs to be delivered."
"What do they look like?" It comes out as a whisper, even though I don't mean it to.
Alice smiles while she curls the end of my hair. "Like us," she says with a sigh. "Only way more pretentious. Some of them even wear crowns." She rolls her eyes and rakes her fingers through my long hair.
Alice takes her time twisting loose pieces and pinning them to the back of my head, leaving me with a bouncy, half up-half down hairstyle.
"Too bad you weren't chosen to be an Esthetician," I tell Alice, gliding my fingers through the silky curls. "You always make me look so pretty."
"That's because you're already pretty, Belle." Alice winks before turning her attention to the clothes.
Alice explains we're expected to wear what's typical in Court 4, but I beg her not to dress me in something as revealing as last night's gown. She nods with a smile.
Alice snaps, using her magic to pick us a few options for today.
"Let's just hope it's not Alec," Alice says as she dresses herself in a fancy purple sundress.
"Why?"
She shakes her head, grimacing. "He's the one who doubled up on Edward's strikes."
Glancing at the few dresses on the bed, I ask, "double? I've never heard of such a thing."
"Yeah, well, Alec is very… cruel."
I pick the powder blue midi dress. The scalloped edges tickle and make my pale skin look more sun kissed than normal.
"What did he do to get a double strike?"
"Fucked Mrs. Hale," Alice says nonchalantly, turning in the mirror to look at her dress from the back. "Do you think I'm too fat for this?"
I shake my head at her absurdity. "Of course not," I scoff at her question before prying. Last night, the nightmare, everything he shared… it all comes back. Her sly smile, her cunning eyes, the way she reached into his pants as he sat motionless. "A double strike for that? I mean, what did she get if he got that kind of punishment?"
Alice shrugs. "I'm not really sure. Honestly, I think more went into it, Belle. I don't think he got a double strike for just that."
Maybe Alice knows more than she's letting on. "Then what?"
She catches my eye in the mirror, there's a spark of curiosity, but her face gives nothing away. "I'm really not sure," she says easily. "Have you asked Edward? He seems to open up to you about—"
A knock on the open door cuts her off. When Alice answers, Edward stands in the doorway dressed in a pair of pressed khaki shorts and a loose, long-sleeved button up. Towel-dried hair looks darker but still chaoti. He's freshly showered and shining so brightly it hurts to look directly at him. He exudes a warmth in rays that glow off of him.
All thoughts point to the same realization: Edward is the sun.
"Dad needs you," he says to his sister.
Alice turns to me and shrugs. "I'll see you down there."
I nod a response and watch Edward closely. He just stands there until Alice's footsteps sound on the steps. Edward walks in then, closing the distance. Hands in his pockets, head down. He looks shy.
"Asking Alice questions about me?" he asks, looking at me through his lashes And then he smiles, his shoulders relax, and he lifts his head. "It's probably not the best choice."
"Why's that?" I ask, hands clasped in front of me.
He looks me over. His eyes start on my bare legs, moving up to my waist, my neck, my lips, and hen my eyes. And then he's walking past me, opening the balcony doors, and sitting on a chair out there.
"Would you like to join me?" he asks.
I sit in a chair across from him. The sun shines down, making it harder to see, but it feels good on my skin. He's quiet in front of me and also in my head. He invited me out here, so he could talk first.
"Alice only knows what my parents think is best for her to know." He speaks in riddles I don't understand.
"Edward, I don't know what that means."
"I know," he says honestly. "I find this very difficult, so please forgive me. Confiding in others, opening up… it is not my strength. My parents only know because I was a minor at the time it happened, and they got to the letter from the Royals before I did."
I want to reach out to him, place my hand on his knee, offer him solace in his discomfort, but I don't. Last night was a turning point, but I feel like we're on a merry-go-round with no destination.
"I do not want to talk about the details of what happened. You saw enough last night to infer. Do you agree?"
"Yes," I say hoarsely. The memories, the feelings, the way he looked when he pulled me into his room.
"I was punished for things beyond my control as well as some irresponsible actions on my end. After it happened, I rebelled worse than I had been. I made some comments I should not have, and I was disciplined accordingly." Edward doesn't shy away from the honesty. He maintains eye contact even through his truth. "There are different levels of strikes. Typically, strikes are reset. The kind I received… they are permanent."
"How many do you have?"
"Two permanent."
"And how many are you allowed?"
"Three."
I swallow hard against his words. "And what happens if you get three?"
"Expulsion."
"Edward," I start, my gaze blaring at him. What Jane mentioned about being expelled and going before the Judge… it haunts me.
He takes in my fear and worry. He hears my apprehension.
And then he smirks.
"Are you worried for me, Belle?" he teases.
In any other situation, his tone and smirk would give me butterflies. This time, the butterflies make me sick.
"Yes," I tell him honestly.
His eyes bore into mine, but there's no malice. "Why?"
I can't answer him. There are no words. Why am I worried for him? I don't know.
Of course, I know, but I don't want him to know I know.
He breaks eye contact with me in my silence.
"We better head down," he says softly, standing, offering me assistance from my chair.
I take his hand willingly, and he holds it as we exit the balcony, into Alice's room, until we reach the threshold. When I step into the hallway, Edward lets me go.
"One more thing," he says quietly. His eyes burn into mine, but it's gentle. It's warmed honey and soothing. "I am not the sun. I am the moon." It confuses me at first, and my brows slowly knit until I realize he's referring to my earlier, private thought. His smirk tells me it wasn't so private after all. My head dips in a blushing embarrassment. Edward touches my hair, wraps a tendril around his finger, and glides his hand up to my cheek, where he grazes the backs of his fingers against my skin before they drift to my chin. In the openness of the hallway, Edward's fingers lift my face so that our eyes find each other's. It's one of the most intimate, vulnerable moments I've shared with someone. "You are the sun, Belle."
Edward lets me go again, a smug smile playing on his face.
There's been a change about him—an honesty he's realized. I don't want this moment to end. I want him here, with his fingers on my face, in my hair, pressed into my—
"Keep your wits about you. The Royals will prey on your weakness," he warns.
"And what's that?" I ask, curious for his answer.
Edward grins. It's soft, not teasing, but recognizing.
"Compassion." Before I can argue, Edward presses the lightest kiss to my cheek, steps back, and smiles. "Good luck, Lovely."
With a snap of his fingers, he vanishes.
I have no idea where he goes, and I wonder if he'll be joining us at all.
Downstairs, Alice helps her dad set out fruit trays on the patio. They walk around with smiles while I have a pit of ornery bees in my stomach. How is everyone so calm?
Carlisle walks over to me and places a hand on my shoulder. "A visit doesn't mean something bad has or will happen," he tries to assure.
It doesn't work.
And at the stroke of noon, as we stand together on the patio, a commotion sounds from the top of the grand staircase Alice led me down on our first day in Court 4.
A tall man with shiny black hair glides down the steps so slow it's like he's testing each one before walking on it. Three men accompany him; one flanked on either side and another in the back. They dress in all black, have black hair, and wear black sunglasses. He sizes up each of us. First Alice, Esme, Carlisle, and then me.
His smile spreads jovially as he stands before us.
"My sweet, lovely Belle," he says gleefully. One of those words doesn't seem to be a coincidence. He must know about my and Edward's… friendship. "So wonderful to finally meet you. I am Aro Volturi." He holds out his hand limply, and just as I go to shake it, Carlisle steps forward.
Carlisle takes his hand, bows, and kisses the back of Aro's hand. Esme and Alice follow. Lastly, I do as the other three do.
"It seems as though we are missing one integral piece of this fascinating puzzle," Aro says, looking around baffled.
"Edward will be joining us later," Carlisle explains calmly. "Please, come sit."
Aro sits at the head of the table and engages Esme in a friendly conversation about how she keeps up with the house.
"Delicious lunch, flourishing flowers, happy family," Aro says, glancing around. "Why, I should bring you back to Court 1 with me and put you right to work. Didyme does not care to do even half of what you do."
Esme smiles, but I can tell it's pained. "I'm sure Madame Volturi busies herself with charity work and a host of other important duties, Your Highness."
Aro tsks and shakes his head. "Nonsense, Esme. I do believe we are on a first-name basis after the mess with Edward."
Carlisle straightens at the mention of his son. Alice sits unmoving to my left. I'm somewhere in the middle, as confused as ever.
"Of course," Esme says thickly.
Aro laughs suddenly. and it truly frightens me. "We are not here to discuss previous matters, however!" he announces loudly. "I'd like to discuss this issue with Royce and how best to keep our girls safe. It does seem as though Royce King possesses some strength that our newest tracker, Jasper, cannot handle."
Alice seethes next to me, and I place my hand on her thigh to ground her. Aro sure knows how to get under her skin.
"Yes, of course. That is our main concern as well," Carlisle responds.
"And Belle," Aro calls, turning his attention to me. "What's your take on this?"
My throat runs dry, itchy, nervous. I swallow, but it's jagged. "I'm concerned for my family and friends. I would be devastated if anything happened to them."
"Yes, I am sure. How else do you feel?" he asks, turning to Carlisle.
He stiffens as Aro places his palm on Carlisle's bare arm. Skin to skin, Aro grips firmly.
"She's fearful Alice will lose her Mate. She's terrified Jasper will end in demise. She's worried for her family in Court 6," Carlisle says robotically as he keeps Aro's eye contact. He spills the truth but not of his own volition. "She's concerned for—"
"Enough," Aro says, removing his hand.
He's using his magic.
Carlisle puts his hand under the table and sits back, momentarily glancing at his daughter before looking over at me.
"I'd like to speak with Belle privately." A thorn bush grows in my throat as I try to swallow. "You needn't be afraid," Aro explains with a knowing smile.
Aro points to one of the men as he stands. The guard grabs his hand and escorts him to the entrance of the garden. I find myself standing and walking to meet him. When I peek back at the family sitting at the table, Alice's eyes show the most worry I've ever seen.
~!~
Aro and I walk silently in the garden for many minutes. He runs his pale, manicured fingers over rose-red flowers before he claps and turns his attention to a bush growing beautiful purple buds.
"Delightful!" he exclaims, turning to me. "These do not grow in Court 1. Didyme will love this."
"Who is that?" I ask softly.
"Didyme is my Mate."
"Oh."
"Tell me what frightens you," he says, plucking a flower and turning to me.
"About what?"
"Anything," he says, "but particularly with the Royce situation."
"I don't want Jasper to get hurt."
"And you think he will?"
"It seems like Royce is very strong and cunning. Why hasn't Jasper been able to finish tracking him and… end the hunt?" I ask.
"You are correct," Aro explains. "Royce has other abilities which make this difficult for all involved. Please be assured he will not harm you."
"What about my family and friends?"
He smiles. "From what I've been told, they will be fine."
"Who told you?"
Aro eyes me with a sly smile. "I do believe you know my niece."
I look away and think. His niece?
"Her name is Jane," he explains.
My face lights up. "Yes, she was my field observation teacher. Today was to be my last day with her, but you arrived."
Aro nods. "Jane has spoken very highly of you. She notes how aware you are. We, in Court 1, are very thrilled to see how you will flourish."
"Thank you," I whisper. "So, Jane knows my friends and family will be safe?"
Aro nods and shrugs. "Something of that sort, but that is all I will answer to that question. Some matters are private; I'm sure you understand." Aro glances over intentionally. "But please ask me any other question you may have. I will answer honestly," Aro says, walking slower as we round the corner to where Edward brought me last night.
Is this a coincidence, or are we here on purpose? How much does Aro know?
I think heavily, wondering what I want to know.
A sly smile spreads across my face. "Are Jasper and Alice indeed Soul Mates?"
Aro stops, turns to me, and studies my face. It's firm and bold but so unnaturally smooth and clear. Nervously, I look away.
What a stupid question. What was I thinking? How could I—
Aro throws his head back and laughs forcefully. "You can ask me, a Royal, anything, and you choose to ask something so trivial about your friends?"
Humiliation lights up my cheeks. I feel ridiculous.
"Edward was right," Aro says slyly. "You are extraordinary." Edward's words from last night, our shared tenderness, and the openness between us play through my mind. What does Aro know? He's goading me, fishing for something, but I don't give it to him. When I don't respond, he ends the silence. "Jasper and Alice are indeed Mates."
Contentment replaces embarrassment as Aro speaks.
"But you must not speak of it to them. We cannot meddle," he explains.
I nod in understanding. "I understand."
"You are born with many Mates, Belle. I'm not sure if the stories have been twisted, but what I said is the truth. You get to pick who you Mate with. If you do not choose to, that is when the Royals step in and choose for you. We do not, however, choose at random. If you do not choose before you turn twenty-one, the Royals assign you a Mate based on compatibility. We write the names on a piece of paper and send them to your homes. You still have free will in this world, Belle. Please do not forget that."
Aro spins a web and casts it over me. Had I said something to someone for him to think that I don't believe this? Maybe being paired with Alice and her radical ideas have given the Royals ideas of their own.
"Thank you for explaining," I say easily, smiling at him. Aro gives me no feeling, and it's weird. I can't tell if I trust him or not, and there's absolutely a level of suspicion, but things haven't quite aligned.
"Would you like to know who your Soul Bond will be?" Aro asks.
"No," I answer without thinking.
"Surprising," he says, stopping us at the entrance to where Edward brought me last night. The tall trellis, the pergola spewing flowers, Edward's sanctuary. "Tell me about Edward," he says, reaching to grip my arm.
His palm connects with my bare skin, and I speak without thinking. Honest words fly from my mouth. It's a rush of adrenaline.
"He helped me with my foot. He says our magic has bonded. I can speak to him in my mind. He's misunderstood. He—"
"Misunderstood how?"
"What happened with Mrs. Hale. It wasn't his fault—"
Aro's eyes lighten, but he tightens his grip on my arm. "How do you feel about him."
"I enjoy being near him," I answer, speaking just as robotically as Carlisle had. "He makes me feel exceptional."
Aro smiles. "Yes, We are aware."
When he releases my arm, I can breathe again. Gasping for air, my hand on my chest, I glance up at him.
"If you knew, then why did you ask?"
Aro loses the smile on his face. "So you understand We are all-knowing."
We stare at each other intently as I ask, "can you hear when we talk in our minds?"
Aro grins. "We cannot. Isn't that fantastic? A magic that We cannot control." Aro begins to walk again, hands grazing over flowers just as he did minutes ago, away from Edward's haven. "You two have created quite the division in Court 1."
"Why?"
"Half forbid what they cannot control. Half…" he trails off.
"The other half what?" I ask.
Aro glances at me. "The other half are curious what will transpire."
"Are you going to hurt him?" I whisper.
He scoffs. "Of course not. Edward's skills are far too remarkable to extinguish. He's magnificent, don't you agree?"
I ignore the latter. "And if he's expelled?"
Aro pauses and studies me intently. "We would greatly appreciate it if you would prevent that from happening."
"Me?" I ask, taken back. "How would I stop that from happening?"
"Edward listens to you—"
"He does not—"
"I understand you are from Court 6 and have never met a Royal, but it is seen as obscene to interrupt one when they are speaking," Aro says forcefully. I look away shamefully. "Let us return," he says more for the guard than me.
~!~
Aro asks to speak with Carlisle and Esme alone when we return. Alice and I make our way to her bedroom and sit on the lounge chairs on her balcony. It's reminiscent of earlier with Edward, but I'm glad it's Alice right now. She doesn't mind holding me, hugging me, and gripping my skin to make me feel grounded.
"What did he want?" Alice asks, placing her hand on my knee.
I think back to Aro's honesty about Alice and Jasper being mates, but I don't say anything. Instead, I let her know what he said about Jasper and Royce, Jane, and Edward. It's embarrassing, but I admit it all.
"That scares me," Alice says. "They don't like what they can't control. What happens if—"
I cut her off before she can spiral. "I don't know, Alice. I'll have to talk to Edward."
Alice does something surprising—she nods. Previously, she's always given me a look, a warning glance, a raise of her brow. Now she's compliant. Maybe it's because of nerves, fear, or lack of understanding… but Alice simply agrees.
"Talk to Edward about what?" Edward asks from the doorway, stepping onto the balcony and sitting on a chair in front of us.
He sits with his back to the sun, so I have to squint to see him.
"Don't you already know?" Alice asks.
Edward shakes his head. "My magic is not nearly as strong when a Royal is near. I could only hear bits and pieces."
"Where were you?" I ask him.
He looks over at me. "Court 5," he says easily.
"Why?" Alice asks, sitting up. "Is Jasper okay?"
He shrugs. "Why don't you go see for yourself?"
Alice sort of gasps before she flees from the balcony, through her room, and down the stairs. We know when she's found him by the sound of her scream.
I can't help but giggle and shake my head.
"Tell me," Edward says softly, dragging his chair closer to where I'm sitting. His voice quieter than before, and I wonder if he doesn't want to take the chance of anyone hearing. And then he places his hand on my knee, much like his sister did, and squeezes gently. His palm splays naturally, and the length of his fingers curls around my knee and rests against my exposed thigh. He's warm, and heavy, and soft against my skin.
I peel my eyes from our joined skin and tell him the truth. Well, mostly. I leave out the part where Aro says he listens to me and how they're requesting I keep him out of trouble. Something in my gut tells me it's best he's kept in the dark about that. If he hears me, reads my thoughts, or senses my nervousness around the topic, he doesn't mention it.
Edward takes it all in. He watches my mouth as I speak. He grips my knee tighter, his fingers make dips in my skin as he presses harder, and he listens to every word I speak, and I've never felt more heard; more understood; more seen in my entire life.
"Typically, if a track drags on this long, they end the hunter themselves. Aro stating Royce has abilities that complicate things has me on edge."
"Can't you hear him?" I ask.
He shakes his head. "I cannot read Aro. His guards, yes, but they don't know anything. I cannot hear your thoughts regarding Aro, either. Anything you talked about with him, I cannot hear. Same with my parents, sister, or friends. Their words are off-limits."
"Is everything okay?" I ask Edward.
He shrugs. "I'm honestly not sure, Belle."
I respect his honesty, and when he suggests we head down to be with Alice and Jasper, I agree. The ghost of his hand against my lower back sends soft shivers down my spine.
"He's going to ask us to dinner," Edward says before we make it downstairs
"He is?"
Edward nods. "Wear the red one."
"Red what?"
He smiles. "You'll see."
~!~
Jasper looks the exact same, but the frown on his face hurts me.
"I'm more than sorry, Belle," he tells me, wrapping me in his arms.
"For what?" I ask.
Edward's leaning his shoulder against the arched doorway, hands in his pockets, his ankles crossed in a relaxed stance. We make eye contact across the way. Eyes so green they steal the breath from my chest.
"I don't know why he keeps getting away," Jasper says it in such a way that makes me realize just how much he's beat himself up over this.
I shake my head and look away from both Edward and Jasper.
"How's your arm?" I ask, looking down.
Jasper pulls up the sleeve of his shirt to display a thin brace supporting his arm from his elbow to his wrist.
"It's good. I consulted with a doctor in Court 4 today, and I'll be having a procedure done next week to expedite the healing."
"Expedite the healing?" I say aloud, brows furrowed.
"Yes. It cuts the healing time by ninety percent. I have to wait for the bone to set first."
"And who can do this?" I ask.
"Edward—"
"Yes, he told me, but who else?" I ask, turning to Edward.
"Court 3 is the only one who has the machine," Edward says.
"Do you think he may be working with—" I stop myself from saying it. All eyes are on me as they piece together the puzzle. I'm one step ahead of them, and panic runs rampant under my skin.
Jasper nods along with whatever his brain says. He's been on the battlefield; he's the only one who knows just how bad Royce has been injured and then cured in such a short period of time.
"It does make sense," Jasper whispers so that our guest can't hear. "There's no other way for him—." He stops himself as well.
Alice's eyes meet mine, and she knows.
"You think a doctor—" Alice starts, but Edward cuts her off.
"Let us discuss this later," he whispers.
Jasper and Alice nod, holding hands as they make their way from the room to the patio when her parents call for them.
Edward moves closer to me in their absence. He smells sweet like fruit but warm like—
"I hear you, but I can't make sense of it. It's like your thoughts are jumbled." His fingers ghost over the skin of my arm. He wants to touch but won't. I don't know if it's because Aro's here, or Jasper and Alice, or maybe his parents. Whatever the reason, I almost lean into his touch before stopping myself. It's like we're in our own warzone trying to figure ourselves out. He draws my body to his like a magnet. Edward whispers the next part, "while he is here, please text me your thoughts."
I can't help but scoff.
"All of them?" I ask as he steps away to follow his sister and Jasper out of the room. "Even the dirty ones?" I tease.
His intensity turns softer. There's a playful smirk lighting up his face. "Especially the dirty ones."
~!~
Aro invites us all to dinner, just as Edward expects. And by invite, I mean he makes it known our attendance is required. It's not nearly as fancy as the dinner from last night, but we're still required to dress up.
I beg her to make it as plan as possible. When she doesn't argue, I know she's worried. I grab her hand in reassurance and smile softly. My face tells her everything will be okay.
But is that the truth? I have no idea.
And then she shows me a red dress and a black dress. Both are identical, but my fingers touch the red as I remember Edward's earlier comment.
"How long have you been planning this outfit?" I ask Alice. How had Edward known?
She shrugs. "I knew Aro would invite us to dinner—it's what the Royals do when they pay citizens a visit."
I nod with a smile. Edward must've somehow heard Alice's thoughts about the dinner outfit. He wanted me in red. He wanted me in this red dress.
Alice and I are hand in hand when we walk down the steps where everyone's gathered.
Aro's talking with his guards in a hushed whisper. Esme and Carlisle lean on each other in a silent strength. And Jasper and Edward look anywhere but at each other.
When we walk arrive in identical dresses, knee length, tighter than I'm comfortable with, with a slight ruffle on the bottom, both Jasper and Edward stare openly. Jasper goes to Alice, his hands on the black fabric of her dress as I pull at the red fabric of mine. It's too tight, too revealing, and too obvious it was made for Alice's body type and not mine. I asked for plain, and this definitely is, but it's still racier than I'm comfortable in.
Everyone's coupled up save for Edward and me, and it's a little weird. He walks closer, a smile softly tugging at his lips. Edward places his lips close to my ear, sucking the air out of the room at this very moment. His lips barely graze my skin, but the second they do, my heartbeat triples and the blood in my veins turns to lava.
"It's customary to bow before a Royal prior to dinner," he whispers, then removes his lips from my ear.
Edward walks over to Alice, easily making me think this reaction is in my head.
I watch as she nods to whatever he's whispering.
Jasper steps away when Edward tries to remind him as well. Apparently, no improvements have been made to their relationship. Forgetting our encounter the best I can, I smile mournfully in hopes that one day that will change.
"I see our two beautiful ladies have arrived. Are we ready?" Aro asks.
We nod and step outside. A very long vehicle has pulled up, and a tall gentleman stands in front of us. Before I can blink, he opens the door, and we all cram inside.
Not counting the train, I've been in a vehicle less than a handful of times in my life, and never has one been this long. I'm squished between Alice and Carlisle for the short trip, but I don't mind. It could be worse—I could be squished against Aro.
Luckily, Edward entered the vehicle just after Aro did, placing him to Aro's left. Those two talk conversationally about research and learning in Court 3, but I zone them out the second they start talking about research designs.
My thought: you're boring. You could put me to sleep with all this research talk. I smile when I slip my phone back into the small clutch Alice picked.
Inside the restaurant, we're led to a private room upstairs reserved solely for Royals. A large round table draped in a lace table covering sits before us. One large chair with a tall back, fancy armrests, and decorated in velvet sits at the table surrounded by smaller, less fancy versions.
Aro sits in the large chair, and the guards kneel to bow one by one, kissing his hand. Carlisle, Jasper, and Edward follow suit. Aro then switches his hand from his right to his left, which I find peculiar.
Esme, Alice, and I assume the same position, kissing his hand.
"Now that we're done with the formality," he says with a sigh, "please be seated and enjoy. I would like to discuss business, but only after we're sufficiently gorged."
There is no ordering, no waitress, no questions. Along the walls of the room are tables where workers plate food and bring them to the table. We eat chicken, fish, and pork. Potatoes, vegetables, and soups. By plate three, I think I might die.
Aro excuses himself and the guards, inviting the men outside for a cigar.
Carlisle nods apprehensively; Jasper and Edward decline. Esme squeezes Carlisle's hand tightly as he kisses her cheek and follows them outside onto the private balcony. There are limited windows in this room, but I can see the sky from the small opening when Carlisle leaves.
Blues and oranges tonight.
Alice and Jasper stand, excusing themselves for a private moment.
Edward is busy on his phone.
"Why did he switch hands?" I ask Esme, remembering the peculiar moment before dinner.
"It's customary when citizens are not Bonded that the lips of men and women do not touch. That includes the hand. So, because you four are still single, Aro used both hands tonight."
I nod in understanding. Edward says nothing, still focused on his phone. When I pull mine out, there's a message.
Research is hardly boring, Belle. My thought: red looks brilliant on you.
Instant butterflies. If he could read me right now, my thoughts would give me away for the umpteenth time. I briefly wonder if he realizes just how deep my feelings go.
Do you mean my dress or my skin? My back is so sore from this sunburn. Alice wouldn't help me with sunscreen. She told me my back was too pale and needed to match my legs and arms.
He smirks at something before his fingers press onto his phone.
My phone dings.
He looks right at me.
Next time, I will help you. A woman's back should only be sore for one reason.
My mouth hangs agape as I read his innuendo. He's been flirty and silly with me before but never raunchy. And when I look up at him, a bubble of giggles escapes my mouth. He laughs now too.
It looks good on him. A wide smile with teeth so perfectly white and straight. It reaches the intensity of his eyes which squint from his laughter. His eyes meet mine, and there's a shift. The feeling is different. We can no longer hear each other, and there's both annoyance and relief in this fact, so we stare at each other differently now. Memorizing each other's expressions, waiting for a smile to lift or fall. Contemplating what it means when he licks his lips or blinks slowly. Wondering why his pupils have dilated. Laughing together at Edward's attempt at a dirty joke.
He looks brilliant with his smile, the tiny dimple, and the crinkles of happiness at his eyes.
"Edward Cullen," I mock-scold, still smiling higher than the sky.
"Belle…," he whispers, trailing off.
I glance at the table and notice we're alone. Esme must have quietly excused herself. No one is even in this room.
His hand reaches over and grips my fingers in his palm. He holds my hand in his so gently, caressing the skin and tickling my insides.
"Belle, I do not know your last name," he says simply.
Bright eyes capture mine again. They twinkle like the stars in this Court's sky. I give him a look of entertained confusion. He doesn't know my last name?
"Didn't Alice tell you? Or haven't you heard in someone's thoughts?" I ask.
He shakes his head. "In the beginning, I tried to hear as little about you as possible. I didn't understand it all. Now … now that you've consumed me, I'd like to know … more."
"More?"
He shrugs. "Friends know more about each other, right?"
I scoff. "Like what?"
"Favorite color, or book, or food. Simple things."
"Green—"
"Not now," he says quietly, his thumb rubbing softly against my knuckles. "It should be organic."
I nod in understanding. "My last name is S—"
Aro opens the door and claps his hands excitedly. "Who's ready for dessert?"
Edward retracts his hand from mine and stands at his seat. I follow suit.
"Nonsense," Aro waves Edward off, sitting in his throne-like chair. "Enough with the formalities. Let us eat and discuss."
When everyone is again seated, the waitstaff sets plates of sweets around the table.
"Cookies, ice cream, cheesecake, eclairs, tarts, coconut cake, macaroons," Esme whispers, explaining what each food item is named.
Edward starts with a thin piece of cheesecake, Alice plates herself a piece of cake, and Aro just about slops one of everything onto his plate. I wonder how he stays so thin.
Since I liked Esme's cheesecake so much, I decide to start with that. Edward watches as I take bite after bite. It's unnerving, but I feel electric under his stare. The weight of his glance, the way his eyelashes blink, and the sparkle of excitement all send heated fury through my skin and into my bones. It feels like we're the only ones in this room full of people.
…Until Aro interrupts.
"You girls will be leaving for Court 3 tomorrow," Aro starts. "Royce has not been caught by the tracker, Jasper, nor any other tracker in our Courts. I'm not going to lie; his extreme allusiveness has Us enamored," Aro states simply, further clarifying that Royce isn't working alone. "Very few times in our history has a hunter managed to escape multiple trackers more than once. However, your safety is my utmost concern," Aro states, turning to me. "Please don't confuse my curiosity with Royce as anything more than that. He will be eliminated at first sight, ensuring your safety. Because of this matter, you girls will be staying with a host who can keep a close eye on your whereabouts and safety. Someone who can protect you at will. We will not take another chance like what happened in Court 7. So, with that being said, Edward has graciously agreed to open his home in Court 3 to guarantee your safety."
Alice and I both glance over at Edward, who nods at Aro.
"I have prepped the house as you have asked," Edward says to Aro.
Just how long has Edward known of this plan?
"Wonderful. Alice, I think it's in your best interest to also take a daily dose of Woodrose for your safety. Jasper will be staying in Court 3 until his surgery. We cannot take any chances. I have notified U5 of your leave, Jasper, and I will see to it you are not penalized because of it. Edward, your main concern consists of fixing Jasper and the safety of your sister and her friend. If they go somewhere other than their fieldwork, you go with them. Understood?"
We all nod dumbly.
"Questions?" Aro asks.
"What about his family?" I ask quietly.
"His family?" Aro repeats, face contorted in confusion.
"Royce's family. They live in Court 5. Could they be helping?" I ask, trying to figure out as much as I can. Taking every ounce of information Aro will give.
Aro shakes his head. "They would be signing their death certificate."
It doesn't necessarily answer my question, but I don't press.
"And my family?" I ask, nervous about bringing it up again because of what happened earlier. But I need to ensure their safety. "What about them in Court 6? If Royce wants me, he'll do whatever it takes to—"
"Your family is protected."
Again, Aro doesn't elaborate, but this is something I don't bite my tongue on.
"How? If anything happens to them, I—"
"I have a plant in every Court. I assure you, sweet Belle, your family is protected."
Aro must have someone like Jane in every court. Who in Court 6 would be a Royal plant?
"Can we get some answers about what happened in Court 7?" Alice asks. "I mean, some big ogre of a man almost murdered me. Everyone I talked to from Court 7 cringed at his name. Why were we paired with this family?" The more she talks, the angrier she becomes.
Aro turns slowly to Alice. Irritation colors his face, but when he speaks, it doesn't show. "The Forge's have a history of abuse. Many years ago, their daughter went missing, and the townspeople suspected foul play. We met with them individually, used our own magic, and determined nothing of the sort happened. Because of the incident that occurred during your stay, among some others, Mr. Forge has since been eliminated."
"Eliminated?" Alice asks. "You mean you killed him?"
Edward's face freezes, and Jasper practically stomps on her toes in a cue for her to shut up. But it's too late. The accusations have been spoken.
"Actually, Dear Alice, the Pepperline did a fine job of that. We merely finished the job."
I killed him. I did that. I placed the Pepperline in the sunlight. I made their house explode. I killed him.
Under the table, Edward's foot on top of mine registers just enough to keep me from spiraling. He moves it behind my ankle and pulls it, catching my leg between both of his. Two warm, strong legs squeeze mine, pinning me in place.
"Mrs. Forge?" I ask, pain laced in my voice.
"She was punished for lying about her husband's condition on the Host application but is otherwise alive and well," Aro says simply. "If there are no further questions, I will be off."
Edward unravels his legs from mine, and we stand and say our farewells. When it's my turn, Aro grips my hand with both of his.
"I am so looking forward to seeing you flourish. Remember our previous conversation, Belle," he says, emphasizing my nickname. The conversation about Edward. Keeping him safe. Out of trouble. Compliant.
My eyes meet Edward's when Aro releases my hand. He stands taller than anyone in this room, his throat bobbing with a swallow, his lips set firmly in an unmoving line. To know he's kissed such few girls makes me want to kiss him now.
And the thought puts me in a chokehold.
I want to kiss him.
I want his lips on mine. His breath on my face. His hands in my hair. His tongue in my mouth.
If he's so sure there is no bond, what's the harm? This level of attraction is unlike anything I've ever felt. Not with Mike, who I convinced myself I was in love with, and definitely not with Jake.
My heartbeat quickens as I step back, breaking eye contact, and allowing others the chance to bid Aro farewell. My hand touches my throat, my fingers against my lips. So many images assault my mind of Edward pressed against me with lips so close I can taste his breath.
I slip into the restroom to rinse my hands with cold water, erase my thoughts, and clear my head.
"You okay?" Alice asks, standing near me. She must've followed me in.
"Alice, I—"
She turns me and pulls me in. "What's wrong, Belle?" she asks with concern. "Is it Aro?"
I shake my head and blow out a long breath. "No, it's your brother."
Alice's face momentarily falls before she nods. "I know," she says effortlessly. "I know, Belle."
And when she hugs me, it's not with irritation or anger or upset. She holds me close because she, too, is unsure.
"Don't kiss him," she whispers in my hair.
A memory of the exact words plays in my mind… When Edward took me to his office here in Court 4… When she whispered the same thing to me on the phone.
"Alice," I say slowly. "What do you know?"
She shakes her head, eyes full of concern. "I can't say," she says sadly, looking down. Her perfectly arched brows draw together before she looks back up at me. "It's not about not wanting you two together, not anymore anyway," she says honestly. "You're my best friend, and he's my brother. If you want to hang out, do… stuff," she pauses with a shutter, "… I won't get in your way. But please don't kiss him," she tells me again.
Alice lets me go, freshens me up, and smiles. She's different now. Before, she didn't even want me to talk to Edward. Now she doesn't care if we do stuff? Before I can ask her to elaborate, she clears her throat.
"Now put on a smile, go out there, and have fun. We're going out for the last night in Court 4. I'm going to show you my favorite past time." Her smile brightens the room, but I steel feel stuck in this tornado of confusion.
Before she can leave, I quickly decide I can't go on without answers. We're already too complicated.
When she goes to walk by, I grip her wrist and show her my memories. Edward's flirtation, his eyes as they sparkle down at me, the way I look for him wherever I am, our late-night calls, when he kissed my hand last night. I show her how I feel for her brother without making a sound.
Alice smiles small and nods. "I know," she whispers. "I've known before you have known."
"I'm sorry," I tell her.
"Please don't be. I love you both," she answers with a smile. "Just don't kiss him, and you'll both be fine," she tells me softly.
"I won't," I promise her, but I don't even know why. What if I do kiss Edward? What if he kisses me? What if I like it?
Alice and Edward don't seem to have a hateful relationship, and I briefly wonder why she wants to keep us separate. She doesn't mind my small crush on him… but it's not small, and we both know it. But, out of every unbonded male in all these Courts, what are the chances he will be my Soul Bond?
And then I think something even crazier.
Would it be so bad to Bond with someone like Edward?
~!~
Alice and I walk hand in hand to the edge of town. There's a place everyone keeps calling 'the club' just down the street, sandwiched between two brightly lit diners, and a line of young, Court 4 citizens line the sidewalk. Music and deep beats reverberate outside.
If it's this loud outside, it must be deafening on the inside.
It is, I hear in my head.
Turning quickly, I glance at Edward. His eyes are on mine, his face expressionless.
How long have you heard my thoughts again? I ask.
Awhile.
And what exactly have you heard? I won't allow myself to think about the bathroom conversation with Alice in the restaurant.
His face finally gives in as his lips curl into a small smile. That you hate the shoes you are in. The cobblestone sidewalks hurt your feet. Your thighs are burning. You are trying to get out of going here. You—
Okay, okay, I get it. And my thighs aren't burning from exertion; they're burning from rubbing together. Just wanted to make that clear.
A soft laugh sounds behind me. Chaffing happens to everyone.
Not you, I argue, rolling my eyes. Chaffing happens when you have fat thighs.
He's quiet in my mind now. No explanations, no thoughts, no arguments. I wasn't looking for anything in particular, and maybe I'm just tired, but it's a little awkward now.
The last thing I said to him was I have fat thighs. What a win for me.
Once inside, we're ushered to a secluded section with a round booth. To the right is a bar, to the left is a private dance floor. I wonder how we got lucky enough to be placed in such an area. The lights are dim, the room only lit by the strobe lights and under glow of the booths. I trip trying to find my footing on the floor, but Jasper's there to catch me. Pulling me up, smirking at my clumsiness, he simply shakes his head with a laugh.
"It's easier when you use both legs to walk," he teases innocently, guiding me by my elbow to out booth.
Edward nods to a table across the room. I take note of the few guys, but it's mostly girls. Beautiful girls that are barely dressed. They have long hair, pretty smiles, and thighs that don't rub together. I bet their thighs don't chafe.
"I'll be back," Edward says to us before glancing over at Jasper. He nods to Edward. There seems to be an unspoken understanding between the two.
Alice immediately wants to dance, but I'm afraid I'll look like an idiot. When I tell Alice no, she pouts and asks if I'll drink with her at least. When I agree to this, she beams happily and orders from the person who comes to our table.
Alice and Jasper talk about something I don't quite pay attention to. My focus is more on the bodies crowding the dance floor, the beauty of every single person in this building, and a couple kissing passionately against the wall to my left.
The couple doesn't bother me as much as some of the others who sneer openly at them. They must really love each other. I should be so lucky to find someone like that.
Drinks are set down in front of us, and Alice and Jasper suck me into a conversation about their old friends from high school. Alice giggles at old jokes and when Jasper brings up her past. Alice, it turns out, used to be quite obstinate.
I feign shock with a gasp. "No, not Alice!"
Jasper's laugh is as wild as his eyes. He claps me on the back and smiles wide. It's the first time since the Royce thing started that he relaxes.
Our night is filled with laughter and fun, so much so that I nearly forget about her brother across the room. He hasn't spoken to me in person or in my mind, and after my first drink, I stopped looking over at him.
After a while, through many giggle fits, I come to realize that I am drunk.
It's only happened a handful of times in my life. Last night's dinner with the Cullen's was one of them, but this drunk is different. It's freer, lighter, and more fun.
Maybe that's just Alice.
She pulls me from the booth, grabs my hand, spins me around, and sings at the top of her lungs to a song I don't know. Alice never makes me feel weird or awkward, though. She's the truest friend I've ever had.
We spin and twirl and fall into each other with giggles and laughter for a handful of songs before making our way back to the table. Not once did I care about the thoughts of others. Alice says it's the drinks, but I think it's the way she allows me to be free around her. Her silliness matches my own.
Scooting in next to Alice, I notice Edward for the first time in a while. He's still across the room in a booth facing us. He talks to a male, but a few girls are hanging all over him. While he pays them no mind, he does nothing to push them off or away from him.
I hate the feeling that courses through me. It's muddy and thick and queasy. When a blonde trails a hand through Edward's hair as he talks stoically to the male nearest him, the sudden urge to rip her arm off soars through me as quick as lightning.
It's jealousy.
Just then, Edward's eyes lift to mine, and piercing green glows even in this darkened room.
"Is this seat taken?" a voice from above asks.
He's tall, dark-skinned, and handsome. Amber eyes glow just as vibrantly as green, but they aren't the same.
"No," Jasper calls for me. "It's not taken."
Alice sends Jasper a glance before moving over to make room with an apologetic smile.
"I'm Laurent," he says.
"Belle," I answer back.
I'm not used to this—attention from strange men—but luckily, he's easy to talk to. I find out he's from Court 5 but learning at U4. He's ecstatic to hear I'm from Court 6 and learning at U5. He tells me about his mom being from Court 7 but Bonding with his dad from Court 5. Laurent asks me question after question, and it's an easy conversation, but there's nothing here.
No butterflies, no attraction, no likelihood of this continuing.
And when he slides closer, his arm around my shoulders, panic rises in my throat. My blood thickens. I can't quite hear anything, and my vision distorts.
"I do believe you are in my seat," Edward calls loudly over the music.
Laurent looks up. "The seat wasn't spoken for."
"And now it is."
Laurent retracts his arm from my body, and I slowly come to. Panic is swallowed back down like hot bile. He slithers out of the booth and shoulder checks Edward on the way.
"You should fucking hear half the shit these men are thinking," Edward says irritably, shoving himself into the booth.
All three of us glance at Edward.
"About Alice and Belle," he clarifies. "Absolutely disgusting, vile, degrading thoughts."
"Like what?" Alice asks, intrigued.
Edward shakes his head, and Alice scoffs in annoyance. She rolls her eyes and turns to Jasper.
"Come on, Jasper. Let's dance."
Jasper begrudgingly follows Alice onto the crowded dance floor, and Edward and I are left alone.
"Sorry," he tells me. "I had to be centrally located in order to hear everyone's thoughts just in case."
"In case what?"
"Anyone had knowledge about Royce or intel regarding hunters."
"Hear anything good?" I ask.
His face serious as he turns to look directly at me. "Just how many men in here want to fuck you."
I gasp at his words. It's the most vulgar use of the term he's ever used around me.
"Sorry," he says, scrubbing a large hand over his face. "It's very overwhelming to hear explicit thoughts about anyone, Belle. They were giving play-by-plays on getting you out of here, into their cars, back to their homes. Some couldn't even wait that long. Some were going to talk you into getting down on your knees in the bathroom." Anger and disgust spits from his mouth as he blows an irritated breath from his lungs right into my face.
"On my knees?" I ask, pausing briefly to remember the time Jake asked that of me. I told him no, claiming it to be reserved for marriage, so the thought of doing it to a stranger puzzles me. "Y-you mean like—" but Edward doesn't let me finish the thought.
"Yes," he says simply, looking around before his eyes fall onto mine. "You do not have to be married. Many strangers do that often," he clarifies for me for some reason. "Laurent's magic is to persuade. His thoughts…" Edward trails off.
"His thoughts what?" I ask.
Edward doesn't answer, so I do something I absolutely regret. I pull it from him. The memory. Edward's memory of Laurent's thoughts.
It starts with Edward in the booth talking to a guy about medical at U3, a girl's hand running up through his hair. Annoyance swirls around, but he does nothing. And then his head snaps up, and his eyes fixate on us across the room. Alice and Jasper, me and Laurent… his arm snaking around my shoulders, his eyes staring down my dress at my breasts.
And then the thoughts.
She must taste like gold. I can smell her from here. How can I get her out of here. If I press my hand on her shoulder a little harder, she might fall for me. She's so fucking sexy. I'm going to make her scream. I need her sucking me off right now. If I just move in a little closer… that's it, give in to it.
And then Edward shoved himself out of the booth and stalked over. The memory ends abruptly when Edward grips my wrist and whispers, "stop."
"Sorry," I stutter, sitting back against the cushioned booth. He doesn't let go. Long fingers splay against my skin like velvet.
"If you pull any more memories, Belle, you are going to regret it. Men are filthy. Their thoughts are degrading. You should not be privy to them."
We sit in a comfortable silence as Edward looks around, making sure we're safe. A slower song starts. The bass is deep, and I watch as Jasper pulls Alice close. Their bodies touch so intimately it feels wrong to watch, but I can't look away. His hand rests on her lower back, guiding her closer. Her hands wrap around his neck as she leans back. His lips attach to her neck, her jaw, her ear.
Anywhere but her lips.
I sigh in jealousy. What a thing to feel. I yearn so deeply for a connection like theirs. To have someone's hands on my hips, their lips on my neck, and moans of pleasure in my ear.
"Is that what you wish to be?" he asks lowly, eyes still glancing around the room.
"What?"
"Desired."
I'm silent for a moment but nod with a heated blush. "Is that so wrong?" I ask.
He shakes his head. "But can't you see, Belle? You already are."
"I don't want to be thought of by men as an object to lay with. I want to be desired as Jasper desires Alice. Not just her body, but her mind, her soul, her presence. I want the heat and electricity with every touch. I want to crave the mind as much as I crave the body. I want it all, not just a quick lay."
"You want to be Bonded," he explains.
"Is that so bad?" I defend.
Edward shrugs. "The way you make it sound? No."
"Is that not what you wish, Edward?" His voice comes out breathier than the other words.
"I wish for those things as well."
"Do you wish to be Bonded?"
Edward stares at me for a moment or two before looking away.
I wish to live in a world where it is our choice who we fall for, Belle. Not a piece of paper with a name on it.
Edward definitely has a point, so I nod in agreeance.
But if you find a girl you like, won't you kiss her to see if there's a bond?
To on lookers, we're two people sitting silently in a booth. To us, we're two people sharing secrets in our minds, away from the prying ears of the Royals. This is an honesty just between us.
I should not have to kiss her to see if we're Bonded. It should just occur. It should be my choice.
Is that why you won't kiss anyone?
I will not kiss anyone because I will not play their game. We are not pawns. They cannot control us.
I understand his sentiment, but I push again.
What if you fall for a girl you really like? Will you not kiss her then?
It would be a disservice to her and me both. Let's say I fall for a girl, and she feels the same. We kiss, and there's nothing. Does that mean our feelings are worthless? Two humans who both love each other, but because there's no Bond, it's pointless. She and I both like each other, so do we then separate, regardless of our true feelings for each other, just because there's no Bond?
Aro. Aro. Aro. Aro. Aro. His name plays over and over in my mind.
Those are all good questions, Edward. I don't know the answer to them. I've only kissed two boys, and only one was on purpose. I've never Bonded. What I do know is that every married couple I have ever met has been one thousand percent in love with each other. Whether they met organically or their name was sent on a piece of paper. What is your plan when you get that letter from the Royals with your future wife's name?
He looks at me sadly. It's at this moment I realize his fingers are still wrapped delicately around my wrist. He's not quite holding my hand, but it's close enough. And when he looks up, sentiment and emotion trapped behind green eyes, Edward looks so somber it's a struggle not to cup his cheek in my palm and wish away all the worry and hurt that plagues him.
What choice do I have, Belle?
"You guys ready?" Jasper asks. "Alice is trashed, and I'm exhausted. We've got an early morning ahead of us."
Edward never tears his eyes from me.
Eventually, I nod at Jasper and scoot out of the other side of the booth.
"I'll take Belle home and come back for you two," Edward says.
He grabs my arm and snaps. We're back in my room, the only light coming from the bedside lamp. Memories of last night rain over me. His hands on me, his lips against my skin, the tickle of something as he stood so close I could feel his intensity.
"You have more beauty and intelligence in you than all of those girls in that club combined, Belle," Edward says suddenly. "Please do not ever feel jealous or inferior to them."
Of course, he heard me. Of course, he could feel my jealousy of those beautifully petite women.
"And you are quite mistaken," he says, backing away from me. A smile spreading across his face. "You do not have fat thighs."
I scoff and roll my eyes. "How would you even know? You've never seen them."
"Then show me," he challenges, the smile spreading wider.
"Goodnight, Edward."
He laughs brightly before snapping his fingers and disappearing.
One thing is for sure, though. Tonight, I fall asleep with his words coursing through me. They live inside me now. Deep in my marrow, through the blood being pumped into my heart, like tattoos in my mind.
He shows me a kindness like no other man has before.
I dream of him for the first time tonight.
a/n: As ALWAYS, thank you to everyone who takes the time to read and review. I cannot say it enough- your reviews make it all worth it and really motivate me to write faster! I read each and every one of them, so thank you! Very curious to hear your thoughts on this chapter about Aro, his conversation with Belle, and the Royce situation. Next chapter... Court 3!
eepwrites on Instagram for inspiration pics!
Very big thank you to Fran for beta-ing. She has been a huge help with these long chapters!
Also- The Song to Story Challenge brought to you by It All Started with Twilight (facebook group!) has a new prompt for our May Challenge. Submissions will be accepted through May 31st!