Disclaimer: I own nothing.

CH 22

Bella's laugh was now my favorite sound in the whole world. While she had been human, her heart was the metronome to my life. I had been so attuned to that familiar thrum back then, and yet, it held no comparison to the sound of her voice as a vampire. Her laughs sent warm shivers down my spine. Never had I been affected by someone so easily.

I was still wrestling with my guilt but I couldn't deny the elation I felt knowing I would never have to let her go again. She had plainly stated that she wanted me around. What a fool I had been to leave her.

We agreed to see each other the next day. It was a measure in self-control to allow her to leave the house and not follow her. I didn't want to completely start over, but I wanted to respect her wishes as much as possible. Whatever she needed, I would be. Right now, she needed a perfect gentleman who could get to know her gradually. I owed it to her to take things seriously—to take things slow.

Quite soon after she left, Esme and Carlisle appeared, clearing having the go-ahead from Alice that it was safe to return home. We spent the majority of the evening discussing the conversation between Bella and I. I was thankful they were there. I was able to talk aloud some of my thoughts and concerns with them giving sympathetic and sincere feedback. Esme suggested I respect the idea of starting over, but warned me not to completely close myself off. She reminded me of her first meeting with Carlisle after her transition. There had been no courting period—they simply knew what they were for each other and settled naturally into that life. Her worry was that I would try to mask my emotions and confuse Bella further. I had to acknowledge the fact that she had a point. I vowed to try to be as honest as possible, while remaining true to our agreement.

Carlisle suggested I take her around for a tour of the town and surrounding areas the next day. Alice called as soon as he made his remark and confirmed that would be the plan for the day. I had to love my sister for her tenacity at achieving her goals. She was ruthless and clearly wanted Bella and I to be together. I smiled to myself, grateful she was on our side. Betting against Alice was a futile endeavor.

That night, for the first time in what felt like year, I composed. Esme drifted into the room, eager to hear me play.

I've always loved hearing him. The emotion he brings out of every piece of music is inspiring.

She looked over at me and gave me a warm smile. I shifted into a new melody, chords coming into my brain unbidden. Her expression shifted.

I don't recognize this one.

"Is this something new, Edward?" she asked aloud.

I nodded as I continued, my fingers moving gracefully to allow the music in head come to life. Esme's face clouded with emotions. Her heart was full knowing that I was composing again. I instantly felt proud, knowing I had made her happy.

She and I sat in the drawing room for the rest of the evening, me playing my piano while she listened.

By dawn, Carlisle and Esme had retreated to their room. I was once again alone. I tried to give them some semblance of privacy by distracting myself with recollections from my day with Bella. The way her hair shone in the light when I first opened the door. The scent of her and the way it made me instantly feel both relaxed and excited. The way her body looked in the simple jeans and blouse. The shirt a shade of deep blue that Alice had no doubt chosen to compliment Bella's skin perfectly. Her expressions as I told her how much she meant to me and the light in her eyes as we made plans to see each other again.

It was a slow form of torture, knowing I would have to wait to see her today. If I had my way, I'd race to wherever she was and tell her the deal was off—we had to be together, no matter what. Whatever plans she had made with my siblings could wait. We'd been apart too long already due to my own senselessness.

Despite these impulsive thoughts, my own sense of propriety and my desire to get to know her was stronger. I had promised her we would start over and intended to be on my best behavior.

In the midst of my think, a text came through from Alice.

Meet Bella in the commons at 3. It'll be overcast so you should be okay. Make sure you are not late!

I won't be late, Alice.

Better not be. She will think you have changed your mind if you are.

I understand. Thank you for everything you did to get us here. Any tips?

I thought you would never ask! :D

…?

After you take her around town, a trip to Taughannock Falls would be a good idea. She'll need some convincing but it'll be worth it. I promise. My lips are sealed beyond that!

Thanks, Alice.

Go get her, brother!

I set my phone down, smiling like a love-struck fool. I was more eager than ever to see her again.

I was on my way to wait for Bella on a bench in the commons around 2:45. I knew better than to defy Alice and didn't want to risk Bella assuming the worst. I caught two familiar scents as I walked through the outdoor area, following the trails to a few local shops. Inside, I could see Bella smiling and laughing with Rosalie.

Seeing her unguarded and relaxed with Rosalie, of all people, brought me pleasure. In my heart, I knew Bella and I belonged together. The unexpected bonus of this was how seamlessly she seemed to have intertwined herself with my family. In my absence, they had taken care of her better than I could have asked for.

Rose caught me staring and nudged Bella while angling her face towards the window where I stood. Bella smiled, turned back to Rose, said something and began walking out of the store towards me. Rose's thoughts were extremely loud, warning me to take care of her. I nodded back to her to let her know I had heard.

I did miss you, asshat.

I smiled back at her and moved to open the door for Bella. She looked radiant. Her smile was more guarded than the one she had graced me with last night when she left, but I was certain she would feel more comfortable as our time progressed. I started walking and asked how her day was.

She giggled sweetly before replying, "It was long for me. I felt like I was waiting for something all day."

I chuckled and told her that it had been the same for me. Before I could think too much about what was acceptable, I reached out for Bella's hand. She looked up at me with a hopeful expression and reciprocated the gesture.