Chapter 15 - The Locket

Edward

It had been a week since I last spoke to Bella. Day after day, rain drenched the land and kept us away from the meadow. I missed being able to talk to her. I missed the questions she would ask me. I even missed the way her eyes would narrow whenever she was annoyed by something I said.

When this morning rolled around with no end to the rainy weather in sight, I decided there was only one way to remedy the situation.

I would invite Bella to my house.

It was a potentially risky move. I confessed to Carlisle what Bella means to me only last week. That information was soon relayed to Esme, who has been on Cloud Nine ever since. Esme had spent so long worrying I would never fall in love, she doesn't care that the person I fell for is human. Now she speaks as though it's only a matter of time before I get down on one knee and spring a proposal on the girl with the silent mind. I reminded Esme that she may be getting her hopes up for no reason. Many hurdles stand between Bella and myself. Nothing is for certain. For example, Bella may regard me as merely an acquaintance.

"Nonsense. Of course Bella feels the same way. She's a smart girl," Esme insisted.

I ignored her extreme optimism. Just because Bella is intelligent and uses coupons when she shops doesn't mean she will ever love me in return. Esme refuses to see any downside to what's going on. In her mind, everything has a satisfactory solution and everyone lives happily ever after. That's why I chose to bring Bella to the house while Esme and Carlisle were gone. I was concerned Esme might smother Bella with questions and make her uncomfortable. Like, asking what wedding venue Bella would prefer - indoor or outdoor? Esme has a habit of jumping the gun too quickly when she's excited... and she hasn't been this excited in years.

She really shouldn't be, though. I'm unsure how I should handle this delicate situation.

I am a vampire. Bella is human. I am putting her at great risk just by interacting with her. Wouldn't it be best for me to keep my distance and remain only as the boy who sees her occasionally in the meadow? At least I would still have a place in her life - however small of a place that may be.

Or, should I say to hell with the consequences and do as I please for once in my long existence? I could hide what I am, tell her how I feel, and leave the decision of what to do next completely up to her. Even if she doesn't care for me at all, I would finally know where I stand.

Then there's the third option. I could step into the shadows and disappear from her life. She would be safe, and I would be miserable.

So many options, so many ways my heart might break in two. Which is astounding, because before I met this girl, I was certain I had no heart at all.

I suppose I should count my blessings for now and just live in the moment. What began as an awful day has transformed into a nearly perfect one. This morning on my way to school, I had been playing AC/DC on the car's sound system. It wasn't excessively loud, but it did attract some attention. One of the residents of the rural road I often travel was outside collecting their newspaper when I passed by. They marched inside to their phone and called the police station to report a noise complaint. Chief Swan immediately seized the opportunity of catching me breaking the law. Of course, what was going on came as no surprise to me. I heard him coming a mile away. I parked outside of town and transferred my cassettes to the trunk of the car. Weeks ago, I created a hiding spot back there to store my "musical contraband". I had a feeling he wouldn't think to check the spare tire compartment, and I was ultimately proven correct. He had no choice but to let me go scot-free. The grin on his daughter's face once she saw what I had done made the entire ordeal worthwhile.

It was that smile which pushed me to invite her to my house today. I had to see it again.

The lone stumbling block to my plan came this afternoon. I waited until the parking lot cleared of vehicles before meeting Bella. This was to keep the nosy students ignorant of our meetings. It's none of their business what we do. But as I was securing her bike to the back of the car, I picked up on the thoughts of someone close by. I recognized the mental voice of the custodian of the school. He was busy cleaning a classroom which faces the parking lot. When he glanced up from his work, he caught a glimpse of Bella's figure disappearing into my car. This was exactly what I had been hoping to avoid. My only comfort was knowing that the custodian prefers keeping to himself. At least none of the blabbermouths at school will ever know.

As I lead Bella towards my bedroom, I look over my shoulder every so often. Her eyes are flying all over the place. She stares at our paintings on the walls of the Cullen house. She admires the crystal chandelier hanging in the foyer. When we reach the staircase, she grips the railing so hard that her knuckles turn as white as my marble skin. If she thinks she is at risk of falling down the stairs, she must not know me very well. Though, I suppose I can't fault her. I haven't made it easy for anyone to get to know me. But, frankly, she has been just as difficult. Every time I believe I've figured out this girl, Bella pulls something new from up her sleeve.

For instance, today she has proven her singing voice is just as alluring as everything else about her. It's soft, with a twist of huskiness to hold your attention. Keep in mind, this is the same person whose blood sings to me like no other.

A singer who can actually sing.

How appropriate.

Then there was the discovery that she hasn't always led such a lonely, sheltered life. Evidently, her mother was something of a music aficionado and often sang to her daughter. And here I had assumed Bella's musical knowledge consisted only of songs I had shown her during these past few weeks. So, in my ignorance, I thought I would be clever today when I played Bella something on the piano. I would declare my feelings for her... but in a way where she would never guess the truth.

The song Dream A Little Dream Of Me had been stuck in my head as of late. The reason is because Bella hasn't said my name in her sleep since the day we danced in the meadow. That's six long, long nights of silence from her end. It had me wondering if I had been banished permanently from her dreams. The very idea sunk me into a depression. As I played the song for her, I concentrated on the words and wished I could voice them out loud. But then I heard an angel's voice singing the words I couldn't say.

Bella not only knew the song, she sang it flawlessly.

What a strange, incredible girl.

Her footsteps are light behind me as we climb the stairs. Once it's time to switch to the staircase leading to the third floor of the house, I mention to her that I'm the only person who stays on that level. I sense a slight hesitancy in her movements. Nevertheless, she marches on without comment.

I swing my bedroom door open and allow her to enter first. My shoulder leans against the doorway while I watch her. She spins like a top in the middle of the room, eyes absorbing everything she sees like a sponge. She takes note of the white carpeted floor, the limited amount of furniture, and finally, the wall devoted entirely to my music collection.

Her eyebrows attach themselves to her scalp. "My god, Edward. How many cassettes do you own?"

I shrug a shoulder. "I stopped counting after I passed the 300 mark." If she believes this is a lot, I'm afraid to tell her about my vinyl record collection. It's much larger than this since I began collecting them not long after my newborn phase ended. Most of my records are stored up in the attic because I don't have enough room to display them here.

Bella makes a beeline to the wall and browses the shelves. Her fingertips brush over the plastic cassette cases as she walks. "You have so many. What happens when you want a certain album? Is it even possible to find it?"

"I have a system. They're sorted by genre. Then, alphabetically by artist name and album title. Mixed tapes I've made myself are on the far right."

"Oh. So it's kind of like the Dewey Decimal system at the library."

"Yes. It's similar, but not exactly."

She studies the collection for a few steps more and turns in my direction. A sly smile plays on her lips. "You have enough cassettes to open your own music store. I think this is becoming an obsession for you, Edward."

I bask in the warmth of her smile. "It's more than just an obsession now," I reply in a lowered tone.

Bella is normally so observant, I fear she will see the longing in my eyes. Thankfully, the objects in my bedroom are distracting her just enough to save me. A change in light from outside soon draws her attention. Her curiosity is dragged towards the large sheet of glass overlooking the backyard. She comes to a stop and gasps. "Whoa. The forest is right outside of your window. I think you've got the best view in the house."

I leave the doorway and take up position a few feet to her left. "I think so too." I give the world on the other side of the glass a cursory glance. "Nearly every time I look out this window, I discover something else to amaze me."

"Really? Like what?"

"Well, I just noticed this yesterday." I dip my head forward. "See that tree? The one that looks like it's about to tip over?"

"Do you mean the tree standing over there?" Her finger points at a medium-sized oak a couple of dozen feet from the house.

"Yes. That's the one."

Bella aims a skeptical brow at me. "OK...and what's so special about it? It doesn't even have leaves on it anymore. It's dead."

I give a half-hearted smile. "Sometimes even dead things have a little life left within them. Try taking a closer look. There's a good-sized hole in it at around mid-way up."

She inches closer to the glass and squints through the rain. Her head soon jerks to attention. "Something's moving in there."

"Actually, there are several somethings in that cavity. It's a family of Western Screech Owls. There's two adults and at least two nestlings. They must have hatched in the last couple of days."

"Oh, yeah. They're those little cotton puffballs, aren't they?" I quietly confirm her remark. She observes the family of owls a few seconds more before backing away from the window. "That really is amazing," she says, almost in a sigh.

Her hands are crossed behind her back as she returns to examining my room. She moves from one area to another with slow, careful steps. Once she completes a full circle of the room, she twirls around like a tornado. The skin between her eyebrows wrinkles in confusion.

"Where's your bed?"

What a potentially awkward question to ask a being who has no use for such a thing. Fortunately, I was prepared for this.

"I needed the extra space for my music collection and decided a bed would only get in my way. Besides, I don't like having a lot of useless furniture collecting dust. The less, the better in my opinion." I stroll across the room and come to a stop at my black leather couch. "This is my substitute."

Her little nose crinkles. "You sleep on a couch? At least tell me it has a pull-out mattress."

"No. It's just a couch. Though, to me it's as comfortable as any bed." A rock slate feels no different in my opinion, but at least I'm telling her the truth to a certain extent.

She eyes me doubtfully.

I almost smile. "You don't believe me?"

"Oh, I believe you, all right. It explains why you're so grumpy at school. What do you get? Two? Maybe three hours of sleep before your back starts hurting you?"

"The couch isn't as bad as you're making it out to be." I pat the back of it. "Come sit down and try it for yourself."

Bella exhales loudly before marching over to the couch and plopping down. The cushions mold themselves to her body. She looks like an angel floating on a cloud.

"So... what's your verdict?" I press.

Her mouth pinches together. She mumbles out her response. "You're right. I guess it is pretty comfortable."

I cup my hand around my ear. "Would you mind repeating that first thing you said again? I couldn't hear you," I tease.

The beginnings of a glare flashes in her eyes, which is always amusing to behold. I've missed seeing those glares this past week.

"I said, you're right," she says sarcastically.

"You sound surprised for some reason. I'm usually right. You're just too stubborn to admit it."

She shakes her head at me in exasperation. "Wow. You better watch out when we leave, Edward. I don't want that big head of yours getting stuck in the doorway."

"I'll try to be careful," I deadpan.

She glances straight ahead. "I can guess the other reason why you went with the couch instead of a bed."

"Is that so?"

"Yep."

"Enlighten me then."

She nods at what's in front of us. "The TV. You can't bring a bed this close, but a couch is fine." She looks up at me. "I didn't know you were a couch potato. Do you watch a lot of TV?"

"No. There's only one thing I watch with any regularity other than the evening news. Unfortunately, the Forks Cable Company chooses not to offer it." I slip a hand into a pocket as I study her face. "I'm going to go out on a limb and say you've never watched MTV before."

"I've heard of it but never actually seen it for myself," she confirms.

"Would you like to?"

She huffs a humorless laugh. "Of course I would. Will I ever see it? Not likely."

I crouch down in front of the TV and open the cabinet underneath it. Row after row of VHS tapes are exposed. I grab one, pop it into the VCR, and hit Play. The TV flickers to life. An astronaut stands on the surface of a lunar landscape. The flag on the left side of the screen displays a logo in bold, ever-changing colors.

"You recorded MTV," Bella utters in wide-eyed reverie.

I nod my head. "I had the good sense to record a few tapes worth of it over the years - usually because I had something to do during the evening and didn't want to miss the premier of a new music video. Now I'm especially glad that I did. I'd rather watch these old tapes occasionally than nothing at all."

Bella sits at one end of the couch and I at the other. The VJ on the screen quickly finds a way to irritate me. The man flaps his gums for three minutes straight and then sends the segment into a large block of commercials. I fast forward through it. This is absurd. MTV should play more music videos. The channel won't last for long if they don't.

I hit play once the commercials are over and monitor Bella's reaction. She barely blinks during that first music video. She smiles like a child on Christmas morning through the second. It pleases me very much to think she's enjoying herself. Then we reach the third music video and things take a different turn. Her upper lip curls with a look of revulsion and remains there until the video ends. She's the first person I've ever met who appears to have some sort of a problem with Hello by Lionel Richie. Everyone loves him... except for Bella, evidently.

"What's the matter?" I ask.

Her mouth moves almost reluctantly. "Nothing really. I liked the song. It was great. But the video..."

I pause the tape. "What's wrong with it?"

"Well, the guy..."

"Lionel Richie," I remind her.

"OK. Lionel was supposed to be in love with the blind girl in the video, right? That's sweet and all, but the stuff he does is way out of line. Instead of trying to have a conversation with her like a normal person, he just follows her around and stares a lot. She eats lunch, he's watching her. She walks down the hall, he's watching her. She goes to ballet class, he sneaks in and watches her in there too. And she doesn't even know he's there! That's kind of...creepy."

I shift in my seat. This is getting too close for comfort. If she thinks that's bad, how would she react to what I've been doing lately? I follow her around without her knowledge every single day. The times I can't follow her physically, I watch her through the minds of those in her general vicinity. And let's not forget that I sit outside of her house at night and listen to her sleep talk for heaven's sake. I think between Lionel's character in the music video and myself, what I've done is far worse.

"Perhaps Lionel had a good reason for following her," I blurt out. "Like...for safety purposes."

"Safety purposes?"

"Yes. The blind girl may have been in trouble and he was looking out for her." For example, a crazed vampire could be on the loose and threatening to kill her. You never know.

Bella gives me the side-eye. "All it showed was the girl walking around some college campus. That doesn't sound dangerous to me."

I hold up a finger to enhance my point. "Exactly. The video was so focused on her, it never showed what was happening outside of the frame. Danger could have been stalking her and she would have never known. So, isn't it conceivable that Lionel knew about the trouble she was in and wanted to protect the woman he loves? Even if it came at the cost of making him appear 'creepy', as you so eloquently put it?"

Bella forms a tiny frown. "Maybe." She sounds thoroughly unconvinced.

In panic, I unpause the VCR and pray to all that is holy she won't realize how closely our own lives mirror that of what I just said. That's All by Genesis appears on the TV. Bella becomes enthralled by the video and doesn't dwell any further on our previously awkward conversation. I let loose a relieved breath of air and sink my back into the couch, suddenly feeling a thousand years old.

Thank you Phil Collins. I hope you are awarded a Grammy for the helpful diversion you provided me with on this day.

Minutes pass. Video after video comes and goes. Bella curls her legs underneath herself as she watches. One aspect about her I admire is her ability to immerse herself into the moment. She oohs over Cyndi Lauper's florescent-orange hair and eccentric clothes. She sighs at a duet. She giggles softly at the aluminum foil used to make the set look "futuristic" in the I Ran video by A Flock of Seagulls. Her enthusiasm has me feeling as though I'm watching MTV for the first time.

One song in particular captures her attention. Her head bobs from side to side with the beat.

Oh Mickey, you're so fine

You're so fine you blow my mind, hey Mickey

"Hey Mickey," she sings along.

I let out a groan. "Oh dear God. Not you too."

Bella tears her eyes away from the cheesy video of cheerleaders dancing on a plain white sound stage. "Hmm?"

I wave a hand towards the TV. "This song. It's a novelty. There's no depth to it. It's mindless bubblegum pop. Yet here I find you singing along to it. Why?"

"Because it's a cool song." She says this as though it's obvious.

I sigh. "You sound just like my sister."

"Is it the same one that likes Madonna?"

"Yes. Her name's Alice."

Bella smiles. "She obviously has good taste then. Better than even you, maybe."

I lean in conspiratorially and drop my voice to a lower pitch. "Perhaps you're right. But let's not ever tell her that, shall we? Alice's ego is bad enough as it is."

"If it's even half as bad as yours, I guess I'll have to agree."

I look up at the ceiling and imagine Alice listening in to the current conversation. Her psychic skills give her great advantages over others of our kind, a fact she isn't ashamed to brag about on a regular basis.

"You have no idea," I say wearily.

We slip back into companionable silence. Outside, the rain comes down in sheets. Bella is too intrigued by what she sees on the TV to notice. I take advantage of the situation and allow my eyes to soak in every detail about her. Tiny chin. High cheekbones. Eyelashes so thick that they look like fans made of lace. Her neck fascinates me the most. It's long and graceful, with silky smooth skin. Back when the weather was colder, her neck lay hidden under layers of sweaters and coats. Now it's exposed and driving me mad. I picture myself leaning in closer and sliding a finger along its length. Although her potent scent burns my throat, the thought of placing my cool lips at her collarbone creates a different fire. The kiss would be a simple, chaste one by today's standards.

Yet, it would mean the world to me.

I rise from the couch and flee to the far side of the room without attracting attention. I remove the picture frame concealing my wall safe and put in the combination. Sitting in the very back is an ordinary box. It's wooden and several years older than I am. I find what I'm looking for in less than a second. I walk at a calmer pace back to the couch and stand in front of Bella, partially blocking her view of the TV. She looks at me with faint surprise.

"What are you doing up?" she wonders.

"Let me see your hand."

Her eyes narrow with suspicion. "Why?"

"You'll see in a moment. Just do it."

She huffs as though I'm asking her to scrub the floor with a toothbrush. Then she holds out her hand. I drop a small metal object into her opened palm. She stares at it.

And stares.

And stares.

"It's a necklace," she says after an eternity.

"Actually, it's a locket. It was my mother's. She wore it often before she passed." Although my memories from my human life are scarce, I do recall seeing this necklace hanging from my mother's neck. She always kept it with her...until the Spanish Influenza took her life.

Bella's finger traces the subdued spiral design on the gold. "I can see why. It's beautiful."

"It is. And I want you to have it."

Her startled face shoots up, mouth already moving. "What? No, Edward. I can't take this."

"Yes you can. I have no use for it. It's just been sitting around for years. You'd be doing me a favor if you took it off my hands."

She twists her mouth. "But...but wouldn't you rather save it for - you know - when you get married? I'm sure your future wife would love to have this."

I look to the floor. "I doubt marriage will ever be in the cards for me." After a brief pause, I force myself to make eye contact again. "My mother liked collecting jewelry, and now I have more of these trinkets than I know what to do with. I've given most of it away to my sisters and Esme, but no one wants this locket. Esme prefers pearl necklaces. Alice only wears rings and bracelets. And my sister Rosalie won't touch anything that doesn't have at least one precious stone jutting out of it somewhere. So you see, if you won't take this humble locket, no one ever will."

I sit down beside her and pry it open like a book. "It's empty," she observes.

"It hasn't always been. My mother once carried a lock of my father's hair inside of this."

"Why hair and not his picture?"

"I don't know - though I do have a theory. My father traveled a lot on business, which I'm sure was hard on my mother. We had photographs she could have used, but I think carrying around a clipping of his hair felt more personal. It was like having a part of him with her at all times."

"And it helped her?"

"I suppose it did." I snap the locket closed. "My mother was a sentimental woman. She would want this to go to someone of a similar mind. I think you fit the bill. Find something important to you - like something of your mother's - and put it inside."

Bella gives a serious look. "Edward, I still think you should keep this."

"Why? Do you not like it?"

"I already said it's beautiful. But-"

"Good. Then take it. I insist."

She falls mute and chews the inside of her cheek. "Are you sure?"

"Yes. What would I do with it? Wear it to school tomorrow?"

She fights back a smile. "I guess not." Her eyes switch from my face to the locket, and then back again. "OK. Thanks."

"You're welcome." She gathers her hair to the side and tries to clasp the gold chain around her neck. She is unsuccessful. "Do you need help with that?" I say after a few failed attempts.

She nods her consent and turns her back to me. I take both ends of the chain and unite them without touching her skin. The metal falls to the nape of her neck. A fresh blast of her scent fans over me. Venom fills my mouth. I swallow it back.

"There. All done," I announce.

She rotates around to face me. It's just as I had envisioned. That locket belongs on her neck. The pendant rests at the exact spot I had wished I could place my own lips.

It's the safest kiss I can ever give her.

The room is engulfed in loud static, breaking the spell. Our heads snap in the direction of the TV. The VHS tape must have ended. I grab the remote and turn it off. We enter an odd period of quiet. I go to ask her a question.

"Are you-"

"Do you mind if-" she says at the same time. We simultaneously clamp our mouths shut. Her eyes drop down to her fidgeting hands.

"I'm sorry. You go first," I say.

"Um. I was wondering if maybe you could show me how to dance some more. We didn't really get a chance to finish the other day."

For the first time in ages, I grin. I tamp it down before Bella notices. I'm glad Esme wasn't here to see my reaction. She would have dragged out the camera and taken evidence that I can indeed convey happiness on occasion. No one would have believed it otherwise.

"We can do that if you want," I reply, using a measured tone. "Would you like something to eat before we get started?"

"No thanks. But I guess I am a little thirsty."

"All right. What would you like for me to get for you?"

Her mouth purses in thought. "Do you have any soda?"

I have no idea. I haven't stepped foot in the kitchen since we moved in last month.

"I'll go and check." I jump up from the couch but come to a halt after only a few steps. "Would you mind finding something in my music collection while I'm gone?"

"Sure. What do you need?"

"To your right are the mix tapes. One of them is labeled 'Dance Mix, Volume Three'. When you find it, put it into the tape deck and give it a listen. It should give you a good idea of what I want us to work on today."

"OK. I think I can handle that," she says.

I leave the room and head down to the kitchen. It takes some digging to find a six-pack of soda in the pantry. I send Esme a silent thank you for buying a variety during her weekly shopping excursions. In the meantime, I hear Bella moving around two floors above me. A plastic cassette case is opened. The stereo is turned on. As I pop the top of the soda can and pour the Coke into an ice-filled glass, she presses the Play button. I hear a bass drum, a throbbing electric keyboard, and a familiar crooning voice.

Ooh baby, I'm hot just like an oven

I need some lovin'

And baby, I can't hold it much longer

It's getting stronger and stronger

I almost crush the glass in my hand. This was not what I had requested Bella to put on.

I move like lightning up the stairs, completely ignoring the fact I should walk at human speed. It's reckless behavior, but I have a valid excuse. This is an emergency.

I have to stop that tape.

And when I get that feelin'

I want sexual healin'

Sexual

Healin', oh baby

I throw open my bedroom door and stalk across the room. My finger smashes the Stop button on the stereo. The seductive music immediately dies. Bella stands nearby, her cheeks the brightest shade of red I have ever seen on a human. It looks as though every drop of blood in her body has gathered there. I rip the cassette out of the tape deck and examine it. Then I grab the case it came out of and compare the two.

I almost growl at what I find.

This is the sultry mix tape Emmett once begged me to make for his and Rosalie's forty-fifth wedding anniversary. It consists of Marvin Gaye, Barry White, and similar artists who specialize in putting you and your partner "in the mood". Somehow that cassette ended up inside of my innocent Dance mix case. I can take a wild guess on how that came to be. Emmett borrowed some tapes of mine a few weeks before he left for his trip abroad. He must have been careless and put the cassette into the wrong case.

And because of his carelessness, I inadvertently asked Bella to play a mix tape meant for putting the moves on someone.

What must she think of me? The only things missing from this scenario are dozens of lit candles and rose petals scattered on the floor. No wonder she looks horrified.

When Emmett returns to us next year, I swear I will make him pay for this. Perhaps I'll detach his limbs from his body and throw them someplace high - let's say, on top of the roof. It would be hell to retrieve them from way up there. He would have to climb up the side of the house using only his teeth. That should prove to be sweet revenge.

I slap on a tepid smile and shake the cassette in my hand. "Sorry about that. Wrong tape. My brother borrows my things sometimes and doesn't always return them to their proper place." I hand Bella her drink.

She takes a tiny sip and avoids looking at me directly. "I-it's fine," she mumbles. She doesn't sound entirely convinced by my explanation.

You had better stay in France if you know what's good for you, Emmett, I quietly seethe. Otherwise, your limbs may end up on top of Mount Everest.

Bella and I choose not to speak while I search for the dance tape I originally had in mind. I find it in a case marked '50s Doo-wop, further proving how irresponsible my brother can be when it comes to borrowing other people's belongings.

I put in the correct cassette into the stereo. The wail of a single electric guitar fills the awkwardness surrounding us. Bella's eyes connect with mine. "Found it," I declare.

Bella sets the glass of soda hesitantly on a table and goes to stand in the middle of the room. "So," she drawls out. "What exactly are you teaching me today?"

My fingers snap along to the music as I edge in closer to her. "I'm going to show you another way to dance to a fast-paced song."

More guitars join in, as well as the thunderous sound of drums. Soon, we hear the distinctive voice of the lead singer of The Clash.

Darling you got to let me know

Should I stay or should I go?

"OK. What will I have to do?" Bella asks.

"I think you mean, what will we have to do? I'm teaching you a simple swing dance. It's perfect for school functions and weddings. It's not too complicated."

Her eyelids stretch open to their limits. "I thought we were going to do more of what we did the other day. Like, dancing separately?"

I arch my eyebrow. "Why would I teach you something you already know? It's time to move on. But don't worry. I know you can do this."

I hold out both of my hands. It's up to her if she wants to take them. After a moment's deliberation, her hands slip into mine. Her eyes dart to where we are joined. "Edward? Maybe you should turn the thermostat up. Your hands are cold."

And just like that, I am once again reminded of how different we are.

"That isn't necessary. They're always cold," I say, my confidence now thoroughly shaken.

"Why? Are you sick?"

"I'm definitely not sick. This was just how I was born. But, I can assure you that I'm perfectly fine." I was also born with blood-red eyes and a nearly indestructible body, however I suppose I'll keep that information to myself.

Bella's mouth tilts downwards. What is she thinking now?

I'm too afraid to ask.

"Come on. Let's get started," I encourage. If I can get her to dance right now, hopefully it will make her forget about strange cold hands and my vague explanations.

A wave of unease flows over her. "But I don't know what to do," she admits softly.

"I promise this is easy. Just let me lead and you'll do fine. All right?"

She nods before answering. "OK," she breathes out.

"Now, start by marching in place."

Her face drops. "Marching?"

"Yes. Marching." After a moment of additional frowning on her part, Bella's feet move up and down in place. Our hands stay locked together. Her skin is unbelievably warm and soft. "Good," I say in praise.

"I feel like an idiot," she mutters.

"Bear with me a little longer and then you'll move to the next stage."

She grumbles to herself but keeps going. Once I feel she has accustomed herself to the rhythm, I ask her to take a step backwards while keeping her left foot in place.

"Now, take a step forward with the same foot," I say. She follows my instructions exactly. "Back, and forward. And back, and forward," I chant. I silently appraise her skills. Her posture is impeccable. Her footwork is improving the more she practices. She's doing remarkably well for a beginner. So the next time she takes a step backwards, I do the same and mirror her movements.

Our bodies come together and push apart in time to the music. A thrill travels up my body.

I am dancing with Bella.

Really dancing.

Of course, I've danced with others over the years. Esme. Alice. Rosalie. The Denali sisters. Carmen. It was all done in the name of harmless fun, mostly during times of family celebrations. But this is different.

I have never felt so alive.

The song doubles in tempo. I increase the pace of our steps. Bella follows along almost perfectly. "Would you like to try a move that's a bit harder?" I ask her.

"I guess. What is it?"

I answer the question with my actions. My right hand drops from her grasp. She appears confused until I lift my other arm above her head and spin her around. Her footsteps become hesitant and uncertain. "Back, and forward," I remind her. She nods and corrects her footwork.

Should I stay or should I go now?

Me entra frio por los ojos

Should I stay or should I go now?

When I reach to spin her again, she recognizes what I have in mind. She doesn't falter this time. Her spin is exquisite. The loveliest of smiles graces her face. I gaze at her with pride. It's amazing how well she is doing. Suddenly, I get the urge to try something new. I've never done this move before. Not with anyone.

Without warning, I grab her around the waist and dip her backwards. The ends of her long hair touch the carpet.

"Eek!" she squeals.

That stunned look on her face is priceless. I can't help but chuckle.

I expect Bella to scowl and go off on me for taking her by surprise. She has chastised me several times for doing much less than this. Instead, her heart skips a beat. Not a word of outrage passes over her lips.

This isn't like her at all.

"What's wrong? Did I hurt you?" I rush out.

She swallows. Then she slowly shakes her head. "I'm fine, Edward. It's just...I don't think I've ever heard you laugh before."

I'm unsure of how to respond - so I don't. There's no way I can properly explain how I haven't felt the desire to laugh much until now.

I pull her back into a standing position. The Clash song ends and another begins. It's much softer, and much slower. A piano accompanies a woman's raspy voice.

Turn around

Every now and then I get a little bit lonely and you're never coming 'round

Turn around

"Do you want to stop?" I ask Bella.

She nibbles on her bottom lip and shakes her head again. "No. Let's keep going. I guess I'd better learn how to dance to something like this too."

"Yes. You make a good point. That little party you're going to isn't too far off now, is it?"

"Nope. Just a couple more weeks," she says.

"That's what I thought." I step in closer. "Put your arms around my neck."

"Both of them?"

I nod in confirmation. "It's how most people slow dance nowadays."

Bella's arms wrap around me. My hands fall to her waist, bringing us closer than ever before. She follows my lead and our bodies rock from side to side. Her blood continues its siren song, but the faint scent of soap and the unique scent of her skin also invades my senses. A voice inside my head demands that I bring her closer. I'm not sure of its intentions. So, I keep my composure and maintain a few inches of space between the two of us. But even with that safety precaution set into place, I am grateful for this opportunity. Tomorrow is uncertain. I don't know what I will do. Today, however, I can hold Bella and pretend the world is our oyster. I can dream that I am just an average boy in love with an extraordinary girl.

And I need you now tonight

And I need you more than ever

And if you only hold me tight

We'll be holding on forever

I peer down into a pair of dark reflecting pools, round and seemingly bottomless. Bella feels small and delicate in my hands. I'm not sure I can let go when the time comes.

"Nice song," she whispers up to me.

My head moves up and down dumbly. "I agree. I like it a lot."

At the song's end, we keep swaying. Another song comes on, much like the one before.

"See? Slow dancing is easy," I voice gently.

Bella's eyes remain pinned to my face. "I guess it is...but I don't think I've gotten the hang of it yet."

"We should keep going then, if it's all right with you. I'm sure Todd will appreciate the extra effort you're putting into learning how to dance."

"Todd?" She blinks hard. Then her eyelids flap open. "Oh! Todd." She bobs her head up and down several times. "You're right. This is good practice...for when I'm dancing with...Todd."

"Yes. Very good practice," I murmur.

As she gazes up at me, I hear a car's tires crunching down the gravel driveway outside. I also pick up on two familiar minds. Esme is driving. Carlisle is the passenger.

They're home much earlier than I had anticipated.

"I just think if you're going to run around town before dark, you should at least put on a rain jacket and galoshes," she says.

"Why?"

"Because that's what a human would do under the same circumstances. Don't you want to fit in?" Esme parks the car and opens the door. A gush of wind passes through. "What if during your patrol you run across someone who needs help? Do you really want to disgust them with your filthy, muddy clothes? How embarrassing! The least you could do is..." Her words die on her tongue.

Oh my, she thinks in awe. Freesia.

Carlisle's thoughts run a similar course. Their gazes cross. "Do you smell that?"

"I do."

"What do you think this means?"

Esme's amber eyes light up. "Don't you see? Edward brought Bella home! He's finally come to his senses and stopped dragging his feet!" She prepares to jump out of the car and take off running into the house.

Carlisle grabs her by the elbow. "Honey, we should probably walk at a human pace. The girl might be watching."

"Hmm? Oh. You're right." Esme smooths down her hair. "How do I look?"

"Perfect, like always. Why?"

"Because I want to create a good impression on Bella."

"Again, why? You've met her before, haven't you?"

"Yes, but that was different. She was a stranger then. Now she's Edward's mate. That makes her practically family." They exit the car. She maneuvers herself behind her husband and gently pushes him towards the back door. "And I expect for you to change out of those nasty clothes and into something nicer before she sees you. I don't want her to think the patriarch of the family can't keep himself clean."

The two of them quietly enter the house. Carlisle grabs a kitchen towel and wipes the mud from his brow. Esme sneaks into the living room to search for signs of Bella and me. She tracks our scent from the piano to the foot of the stairs.

Carlisle pokes his head into the room. "Where do you think they went?"

Esme quickly connects the dots. Her hand flies to her mouth to cover her gasp. "I can't believe it. Edward brought a girl up to his room!"

Carlisle smiles. "Incredible. Another teenage milestone crossed. And it only took eighty-three years for him to get around to doing it."

Two floors above them, I continue dancing with Bella but manage to roll my eyes without her noticing. I'm eternally grateful that she is unaware of what my family is saying down there.

Esme slaps playfully at Carlisle's chest. "Stop that. I think it's sweet. He was waiting for the right person to come along." She takes note of the slow, love song playing on the stereo. Out goes a dreamy sigh. She gazes curiously up the stairs. "I wonder what they're doing up there?"

"Well, honey, when a sexually repressed vampire loves a human girl very much-"

I lower my voice to a pitch Bella cannot hear. "One more word and you are dead, Carlisle."

He laughs to himself. "Technically, I already am. But I'll try to shut up for now."

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A/N-

Songs used in this chapter-

Hello by Lionel Richie. Beautiful song... strange music video. Just watch it and you'll see. Can someone please explain why the blind lady presented Lionel with a clay sculpture of himself at the end? Was it a Stalker Achievement Award?

Mickey by Toni Basil. The head "cheerleader" of this music video was Toni Basil, world-famous dance choreographer and singer of this one-hit-wonder. Did Toni choreograph the entire music video herself? You bet your sweet pom-poms she did.

Sexual Healing by Marvin Gaye. Right after this song was released, a million babies were conceived. That was the power of Marvin's seductive lyrics. (OK. I may have exaggerated a tiny bit about that million babies thing, but I'm sure it's not too far off.)

Should I Stay Or Should I Go by The Clash. A love song by a punk rock group? Yes. It happened, and it's awesome.

Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler. Did you know this was originally titled "Vampires In Love"? The guy who wrote the song was working on turning the story of Nosferatu into a musical, but the project eventually fizzled out. In the '90s, he did manage to write his own vampire musical and included it. So, a happy ending, I guess?

Next Chapter- Everything's going great. Nothing could go wrong now, right?

Right?!

Thanks for reading. :-)