55

The girls tear into their gifts like it's Christmas morning, and their boyfriends sit close by and watch them have their fun. Charlie gives everyone a signed copy of his new book, and Renee just rolls her eyes and continues passing out presents.

Alice just about pierces my eardrums when she opens a box with a fancy name that starts with the letter "B' on it, revealing a nice purse. I don't want to know how much the thing costs. She sits back with a happy smile, the bag on her lap, and runs her fingers over the butter soft leather while Angela launches into the first of her many questions she has for the chief of state.

Renee is patient with her, explaining everything in detail until Charlie points to a giant gift bag sitting close by.

"Oh, Edward!" Renee exclaims, plopping the bag in front of me. "We got you a little something too."

I've never been good at accepting gifts, but even I can't help but laugh at the contents.

Three things happen at once. The tips of my ears burn in embarrassment. Jane hisses, and Bella growls, moving to stand behind me.

"I'll rip your head off without a second thought," she threatens.

Alec places a hand on his sister's shoulder and shoots me an apologetic look. "I think it's time for us to go now." He shakes my hand and turns to Charlie. "It was nice seeing you, old man. Thanks for the copy of your book; I can't wait to check it out." He kisses Renee on the cheek. "We'll see you in the morning."

He moves on to the boys, pausing when he comes to Ben. "Cheney? Benjamin Cheney?"

"Yes, sir," Ben stutters out.

"Your application passed by my office the other day. We've recently let a few bleeders go and prefer long-term vegetarians, so there won't be any temptation. Expect a call soon from our HR department."

"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir."

"Sorry, Bella. Sorry, Edward." Jane laughs halfheartedly. "To be honest, Edward's donations haven't hit the market yet. For selfish reasons, obviously."

Bella growls again, and if her father wasn't sitting across from me, I'd be turned on.

The vampire twins leave, and I open my gift with a snort.

Poop emoji pajamas, a thermos, socks, and even a hat.

I turn to Bella. "I'm never living this down, am I?"

"Never." She giggles.