Prologue
When you're a vampire, you give up so much, and sometimes gain so little in return for what you become.
I sometimes forget that Edward had to face nearly a century alone. He gained a new father, and soon after a new family, but he also gained so much loneliness (even as many girls were throwing themselves at his feet).
I faced only a span of months without him in comparison, and it was torture; the worst experience of my life. Time seemed to stop and then seep by slower and slower during that year when he left me…Edward and I promised to never leave each other again. Death seemed a more viable option to the pain a separation like that would cause.
But now there are things even beyond our control, and I am forced to make a decision that I swore to never even think about.
Renesmee is growing steadily, and Jacob will keep her safe.
I have to do this alone, and Edward cannot follow.
I will destroy the Volturi.